FYI: Masa Chiba’s Garage Unveils Unique Creations in Japan’s Automotive Scene
In the picturesque settings of Chiba Prefecture lies a hidden gem for automotive enthusiasts—X Point Import. Owned by the passionate Masatsugu Chiba, also known as Masa, this humble garage has emerged as a beacon for those seeking innovative automotive transformations.
A Chance Meeting and a Shared Passion for Cars
A chance encounter in May introduced me to Masa, the brain behind the impressive FD3S Mazda RX-7 showcased at Wekfest Japan. Photography plans in Meguro Ward fell through when the RX-7 owner couldn’t make it. Instead, Masa and I spent time chatting about our shared passion in cars near Nakameguro Station. This impromptu camaraderie featured vivid talks about dream machines, with Masa showcasing his exquisite Honda S2000 and his innovative EK Civic build.
Intrigued by his projects, I soon found myself traveling to the serene countryside of Chiba to capture the essence of Masa’s work and explore X Point Import firsthand, a small but distinctive Japanese garage nestled in an industrial area.
Inside X Point Import: A World of Custom Creations
Established in 2011, Masa’s garage started with an exclusive focus on car audio, electronics, and tuning parts imports. However, Masa found his true calling in K-swap modifications, heavily drawing inspiration from the thriving USDM culture in Japan. His adventurous spirit first manifested in a K20A engine swap within his 1993 CB Accord, a bold move inspired by the dynamic American car scene.
Fast forward, and X Point Import is a haven renowned for exceptional K-swaps and other USDM-inspired modifications, with a particular affinity for Hondas. Yet, a Mitsubishi Eclipse resting there hints at the diverse creative potential within the garage.
Among the impressive array of custom builds, the EK Civic emerges as a standout marvel. Masa ingeniously transformed a conventional 4-door EK sedan into a 5-door EK hatchback—a model Honda never actually produced. The transformation involved meticulously merging a sedan with elements from an EK 3-door hatchback, resulting in a captivating bespoke vehicle.
Engineering Feats and Ambitious Projects
Under the hood of this customized Civic lies precision engineering: a USDM-spec D16Y8 engine, enhanced with a Rywire Motorsport Electronics wiring harness, Skunk2 intake manifold, PLM header, MPC D-Series fuel rail, and Hasport motor mount.
Masa’s innovation doesn’t end there. He’s currently working on an EG Civic featuring a K20A engine and a 6-speed transmission sourced from the JDM CL7 Accord Euro R. His motivation is simple yet profound: the sheer joy and challenge of creating something extraordinary.
More Exciting Projects on the Horizon
Keep an eye out for future features on two additional captivating builds from X Point Import, including the celebrated FD RX-7 and a yet-to-be-revealed surprise addition.
Experience the fusion of creativity and technical prowess at X Point Import, where Masa’s vision reshapes automotive expectations.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
