Pepsi Refresh Shot

Posted on April 20, 2014 | Last updated February 22, 2025

This is a review of Pepsi Refresh Shot, a caffeine-enhanced version of Pepsi Cola.

Although it is not an energy drink, it was released during the second wave of energy drink popularity with double the usual amount of caffeine, and became a beloved long-standing product primarily sold in vending machines.

Pepsi Refresh Shot

Manufacturer	Suntory
Country of Origin	Japan
Price	200 JPY
Flavor	Cola
Total rating	★★★☆☆

Author information Author: Energy Drink-kun

In 2001, while living in the United States, I encountered energy drinks through the dance scene and was deeply impressed. After returning to Japan, I found that energy drinks were considered novelty beverages, so I established a comprehensive website in 2013 to share the true appeal of energy drinks. As an energy drink enthusiast, I began drinking them seriously again, collecting over 7,000 varieties of energy drinks from various countries. I am also active as a critic and expert, receiving media interviews.

Pepsi Refresh Shot Flavor

The flavor of this Pepsi Refresh Shot is just like regular Pepsi Cola, bringing a little happiness with its sweet taste and carbonation after a long time. As clearly stated on the front with "Caffeine Enhanced," it contains double the caffeine of regular Pepsi Cola. However, the amount is only 38mg, so it's not that much higher. Other than that, the ingredients and flavor are nearly the same as regular Pepsi Cola.

The can's indescribable sparkly feel gives off a strong sense of tackiness.

Was There Any Reason to Make It Smaller?

The can design is blue, giving a fresh vibe, but the contents are just regular Pepsi Cola.

At 200ml for 100 yen, many people might choose to buy a 350ml Pepsi Cola for the same price. You can even get a 500ml bottle at the supermarket for around 100 yen, so it might have been better if this had been a more extreme version of Pepsi Cola.