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Nissan released a new SUV “Kicks” with “increased power and 4WD”! How did you evolve with your first MC?
“Nissan’s new Kicks SUV with “”more power and 4WD””! How has it evolved in the first MC?
New “”Style Edition”” Grade Now Available
Nissan launched the all-new KIX with minor changes on July 19, 2022. This will be the first minor change for the KIX, but what aspects have evolved?Nissan has launched the new “”KIX””! What is the evolution of the SUV with 4WD setting? View in pictures .
Nissan’s KIX, a Compact SUV with Minor Changes
The KIX retains its active design, but the center console and shift lever have been redesigned. The center console is now a floating type, emphasizing a more advanced atmosphere.
The Two Tone Interior Edition has a new beige interior color in addition to the current orange tan.
The new Style Edition grade also features a rear combination light integrated finisher and a dark chrome grille finisher, while the interior color is a subdued brown.
As advanced equipment, the “”Intelligent FCW (Forward Collision Warning),”” the first of its kind for a compact SUV, is standard on all grades. Millimeter wave radar mounted in front of the vehicle detects the distance and relative speed of vehicles in front of two vehicles and alerts the driver with a display and alarm if the vehicle is deemed dangerous.
In addition, the “”Intelligent Around View Monitor”” and “”Intelligent Room Mirror”” are standard equipment on the higher grades.
The e-POWER electric powertrain installed has evolved to the second-generation version with approximately 5% higher motor output and 7% higher maximum torque.
The e-POWER is not only more powerful, but also quieter with less frequent engine starts at low speeds and smoother operation of the e-Pedal Step, which allows acceleration and deceleration to be controlled simply by accelerating the gas pedal. The new “”e-Pedal Step”” is equipped with a 2WD transmission.
In addition to the 2WD model, the e-POWER 4WD model, an electric 4-wheel drive system, is newly available. The system not only improves driving performance by precisely controlling the driving force with electric power, but also enables cornering as desired on winding roads and improves ride comfort in urban areas.
Prices for the minor-changed Kicks (including consumption tax) start at 2,798,400 yen for the 2WD model and 3,061,300 yen for the 4WD model.
Now here’s a quiz.
Which genre of electric vehicle is the aforementioned e-POWER electric powertrain generally classified as?
1] Series hybrid
2] Parallel-type hybrid
3] Electric vehicle (BEV)
3] BEV (BEV) * * *
The correct answer is [1], “”series-type hybrid.
The series hybrid refers to a hybrid system in which the engine generates electricity and the motor drives the tires.
In addition to e-POWER, Daihatsu’s “”e-SMART HYBRID”” mounted on the “”Rocky”” also falls under the series-type hybrid.
*Quiz source: Kuruma Meister Test”
Toyota’s Hilux Champ Roars into Tokyo Auto Salon 2024, Igniting Excitement with Potential Entry into Japan
ByPawaniIn a surprising move, Toyota showcased its upcoming model, the Hilux Champ (IMV 0), at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2024 held at Makuhari Messe in Chiba Prefecture. The Hilux Champ, with a total length exceeding 5 meters, generated significant buzz among auto enthusiasts at the event. This unveiling left many wondering about Toyota’s strategy behind displaying a model that has yet to be released in Japan.
The Hilux Champ, initially announced in Thailand on November 27, 2023, is the first in the IMV series, designed to stimulate the economy in the Asian region. This model stands out with its optimal blend of quality and affordability, making it accessible even in developing countries. In Thailand, the Hilux Champ is set to be priced between 459,000 baht (approximately 1.9 million yen) and 577,000 baht (approximately 2.4 million yen). It offers various configurations, including short and long wheelbases, along with three power units: 2-liter and 2.7-liter gasoline, and 2.4-liter diesel.
Although primarily targeted for commercial use, the Hilux Champ’s versatile flat deck, equipped with bolt holes, allows for various mounting options, making it equally suitable for leisure activities. The showcased vehicle featured a long wheelbase with a 2.4-liter diesel engine, providing a glimpse into its potential applications. The interior exudes a nostalgic charm with vinyl seats and simple resin-covered panels reminiscent of the early Land Cruiser 70 model.
Notably analog in its human interface, lacking even a tachometer, the Hilux Champ offers a refreshing simplicity appreciated by older generations while presenting a new and attractive aspect for younger drivers. Toyota’s decision to exhibit the model at the Tokyo Auto Salon stems from a desire to gather diverse opinions from Japanese users, exploring the feasibility of introducing the Hilux Champ in Japan.
Toyota representatives explained, “Although we have not yet decided on its introduction in Japan, we would like to collect a variety of opinions from Japanese users by displaying it here. Your feedback will serve as valuable input in considering Japan’s requirements concerning power units, size, and more.” Acknowledging safety and exhaust gas regulations as potential challenges for certification in Japan, Toyota remains open to addressing these concerns.
As part of their engagement with the audience, Toyota conducted a survey at the booth, inquiring about the preferred bodywork for the loading platform. The results of this survey will inform the creation of a new custom car, slated for display at “GPS2024 (Gunma Parts Show)” in July 2024.
With pickup trucks gaining popularity in Japan, particularly the Hilux and Mitsubishi Triton, the potential introduction of the even more reasonably priced Hilux Champ could spark a significant movement, especially among the younger demographic, further solidifying Toyota’s foothold in the Japanese market.
“shift lever” that has evolved in successive models of the eco-car “Prius” .
ByPawani“25 years have passed since the debut of the “”Zani-Shift””! Tracing the History of the “”Shift Lever”” Evolved by Successive Models of the Eco-Car “”Prius
The “”Prius Shift,”” synonymous with electric shifting, has also had a history of change
It will soon be 25 years since the debut of the first-generation Prius, the pioneer of mass-produced hybrid cars, in December 1997. On November 16, 2022, Toyota fully remodeled the Prius for the first time in approximately seven years.
In the history of the Prius, which spans five generations, we will trace the history of the Prius, with a focus on its particularly distinctive “”shift lever.“”Prius Shift”” was different in the past! See 72 photos of successive generations of the Prius.
The Electro Shiftmatic, a joystick-like electronically controlled shift that is often referred to as the “”Prius Shift”” .
In December 1997, the first-generation Prius debuted as the world’s first mass-produced hybrid car with the catchphrase, “”Just in time for the 21st century.
The Toyota Hybrid System (THS), a series-parallel hybrid system combining a 1.5-liter engine, electric motor, and nickel-metal hydride battery, achieved a catalog fuel economy of 28 km/L (10-15 mode fuel economy), approximately twice that of a gasoline vehicle in the same class at the time. The THS hybrid system achieved fuel economy of 28 km/L (10-15 mode fuel economy), approximately twice that of a gasoline vehicle in the same class at the time, and became a major topic of conversation around the world.
The first-generation Prius 4-door sedan body was compact, measuring 4275 mm (overall length) x 1695 mm (overall width), but the height was increased to 1490 mm (overall height) and the front and rear sections of the body were shortened to ensure a wide interior space.
Like the exterior, the interior layout was designed with the next generation in mind.
Digital meters and a 5.8-inch display were placed in the center of the instrument panel. The shift lever is a unique column-shift type that extends from the top of the instrument panel.
In addition, the center console has been eliminated and the parking brake has been changed to a foot-operated type to provide more leg room and facilitate a walk-through (side walk-through) from the left and right front seats.
The side walk-through function is common in minivans and minicars, but its adoption in a compact sedan was rare at the time.
The second-generation Prius followed in September 2003. The body style was changed to a 5-door hatchback that combined aerodynamic characteristics with interior space to improve fuel economy.
Since then, this silhouette has been inherited by successive generations of models up to the current model as a symbol of “”Prius-ness.
The body size was increased to 4445 mm (overall length) x 1725 mm (overall width) x 1490 mm (overall height). The hybrid system has also been renewed and evolved into THS II.
The THS II system combined low fuel consumption and emissions with powerful driving performance, achieving the world’s best fuel economy at the time, 35.5 km/L (10-15 mode fuel economy).
The interior is as advanced as the exterior. The center meter is positioned farther away for better visibility, while the controls are laid out in a way that makes them easy to use at hand.
This cockpit concept of “”display at a distance and operation at hand”” is one of the characteristics of the Prius that has been carried over to later models.
As part of this concept, the “”Electro-Shiftmatic,”” a joystick-like electronically controlled gearshift, was adopted.
Because it switches electrically, the shift lever is operated lightly using only the fingertips, and as an unprecedented and innovative shift lever, it symbolizes the advanced nature of the Prius.
The compact Electroshiftmatic on the instrument panel was carried over to the 3rd and 4th generation Prius, and was later referred to as the “”Prius Shift.
The Electro-Shiftmatic was later also used in the 3rd and 4th generation Prius.
The fifth-generation new Prius, which was unveiled in November, has a low, sporty form, which is a major change.
The instrument panel of the new model adopts the “”Island Architecture”” concept.
This is based on the concept of clearly separating (zoning) the background and functions (island) visually by concentrating panels and other functional controls on an island-shaped surface.
The floating instrument panel, which appears to float above the island, and the “”surround tabs”” that continuously surround the instrument panel from the door panels, are composed of a low, recessed floating instrument panel that reduces the sense of oppression from the low front window and low vehicle height.
The shift lever has been moved to the orthodox center console, in part because of the low, reclined seat position.
The shift lever and other controls are now located in a more natural and convenient position for the driver to reach, based on the island architecture concept described above.
The new Prius also uses an electric gearshift that is light and easy to operate, but the length of the shift lever has been extended to a more conventional shape, so it does not look as “”futuristic”” as in the past.
Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)”
- kuruma | autonews | Honda CR-V
Production starts with Honda’s new SUV “CR-V” with a powerful bonnet! The 6th generation is produced at 4 bases.
“Honda’s New SUV “”CR-V”” with a Powerful Bonnet Begins Production in Ka! Sixth-generation model to be produced at four locations
Prototype production will also be handled by the Canadian base
On September 22, 2022, Honda of America announced that production of the new CR-V has begun at its plant in Alliston, Ontario, Canada (HCM: Honda of Canada Mfg.).The presence of the large grille is also attractive! What does the new Honda CR-V look like? See in pictures.
The new CR-V will be produced at four plants in North America.
New “”CR-V”” to be produced at the plant
Commenting on the start of production of the new CR-V, HCM Senior Vice President Clement D’Souza said, “”Being the global lead plant for the new CR-V was a great challenge, but I am proud of the experienced team at HCM and the level of (development) teamwork that went into creating this great new model in North America. commented.
The new CR-V, the sixth generation model, made its world premiere in the U.S. on July 12, 2022, with body dimensions of 184.8 inches (4693 mm) long x 73.4 inches (1864 mm) wide x 66.2-66.6 inches (1681- 1691 mm) high.
The exterior features a low, horizontal beltline, LED-type headlights, a large front grille, and a bonnet with a strong presence.
The power units to be installed will be a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine or a 2-liter inline 4-cylinder engine + 2-motor hybrid.
Incidentally, since development of the new CR-V began in the early stages of the new Corona disaster, HCM was also involved in the creation of the development prototype. The company has been collaborating digitally with the Japanese development team, which led to the start of production this time.
Since the hood is the largest of any U.S. Honda vehicle in its category, the production and development teams worked together to increase the rigidity of the hood by increasing the thickness of the steel plates. As a result, a bold and sophisticated design was successfully mass-produced.
In addition, the use of high-performance structural adhesives was increased to enhance body rigidity. New equipment and additional training for employees were also introduced for production.
The Canadian plant is scheduled to begin production of a hybrid version of the new CR-V in October, and as a result, the production of the new CR-V in Canada is expected to account for about half of its sales.”
Toyota Alphard Aero Parts: 10 Powerful Upgrades That Transform This Luxury Minivan
ByPawaniToyota Alphard aero parts Toyota’s Alphard Unleashes 2023.12.08(Toyota Alphard) by RAI STAR Toyota Alphard Aero Parts: M’s Speed Gives the Luxury Minivan a Bold New Edge Toyota Alphard aero parts are drawing major attention after M’s Speed announced its new Powerful Aero & Shakotan Specification for Toyota’s latest Alphard. Designed for the fourth-generation model,…
Toyota Hiace with an awesome face
There was a Toyota “Hiace” with an awesome face. What is the response to the box car that has a looming appearance? What is “Grafam Gren”?
What is the response to the powerful face of the “GRAFAM Gren”?
The Toyota Hiace is synonymous with commercial vans, but it is also popular as a base vehicle for various customizations.
The Hiace with a facelift that gives it a strong presence was on display, but what was the reaction?Is this the Hiace? The face makes a statement…. See the actual car with attention to detail.
Is this… the Hiace? What are the features of the face with a strong presence?
In addition to being used as a base vehicle for campers (van-concrete), the Hiace has recently become popular as a vehicle that can be used for outdoor activities, overnight stays, fishing, surfing, and other hobbies.
Users who use the Hiace for work also customize it with various dress-up parts.
In this context, the Gibson “GRAFAM Gren” demo car, a body kit for the Hiace, was exhibited at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023. The base model is the Hiace 200 series (standard body, 2020 model year).
Various aero parts are available for the Hiace, but the concept of the GRAFAM Gren is “based on the box cars that were very successful in the German Touring Car Championship (DTM) held in the 1980s.
The “front bumper spoiler” and “GT under lip” on the front face of the car feature a three-dimensional design that is different from other companies’ models, and the “pearl white” body color and red wheels on the demo car further accentuated its presence.
Users who saw the GRAFAM Gren said, “It’s amazing to see such a powerful Hiace,” “I like the overhang,” and “Customizing the Hiace is one of its personalities, so it’s good that it has such a big impact.
In addition, GRAFAM Gren, which features Gibson’s unique original parts both inside and out, received a great response at this year’s Tokyo Auto Salon 2023, according to the person in charge of the project.
We exhibited for three days at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023, and we received 10 orders in three days.
The most noteworthy item is the new wheels that were unveiled for the first time.
Originally, we had one-piece wheels, but we created two-piece wheels because we wanted to have wheels that fit the ‘Hiace over fender style.
We have received a variety of positive feedback from customers, such as, “I’ve been waiting for a 7-spoke deep rim type wheel,” and “This is a rare car that reminds me of the old DTM.
Stork Corporation, which operates Gibson and is headquartered in Fukuoka Prefecture, says, “We believe in manufacturing products that make our customers say ‘thank you’ and ‘I’m glad I bought it,'” and it seems that such feedback has indeed been received.