Japanese Design Becomes Cool Again, But Can It Lure You Away From The Germans?

When it comes to car design, the Japanese are literally speaking their own language these days.

The country's automakers are embarking on a major styling renaissance and digging deep into the local lexicon to describe their upcoming creations. The sensuous curves, avant-garde athleticism and high-tech Zen were on full parade at last week's Tokyo Motor Show.

The amped-up looks come as Japanese brands race to stand out on the global stage amid the commoditization of technology under the hood and an onslaught of new Asian rivals.