Similar Posts
Exciting Toyota Fortuner Unveiled at Gunma Parts Show 2023, Demand Surges among Japanese Car Enthusiasts
Fortuna,” the SUV that made a splash at the recent “Gunma Parts Show 2023,” has become the talk of the town in Japan. The three-day event, held from July 7th to 9th, showcased a range of exclusive automotive innovations, including the coveted Fortuner, a model that has not been officially available in the Japanese market until now.
In recent times, automakers have been catering to the diverse demands of the global market by producing models exclusively for overseas markets. Japanese automakers are no exception to this trend. Although these foreign-market cars boast unique features that would undoubtedly captivate Japanese consumers, they have seldom made their way to the shores of Japan. However, car enthusiasts have found ways to get their hands on these appealing models, resorting to purchasing them through Japanese parallel import car specialty stores.
The Fortuner has been primarily deployed in regions such as Asia, the Middle East, Central and South America, Africa, and Oceania since its inception in 2004 as part of the Innovative International Multi-purpose Vehicle (IMV) project. The first-generation Fortuner, born in 2005, shares its platform with the seventh-generation Hilux, while the second-generation, introduced in 2015, also shares its platform with the current Hilux produced in Thailand.
One of the Fortuner’s distinguishing features is its practicality, designed to accommodate the needs of regions where multi-passenger transport is standard. With three rows of seats, it offers ample space for passengers and cargo alike. The robust ladder frame, suitable for less developed road infrastructures in countries like Thailand and Australia, supports the vehicle’s sturdiness, along with its front double wishbone and rear leaf rigid suspension, setting it apart from the contemporary SUVs in the Japanese lineup.
The Fortuner’s exterior boasts Toyota’s classic “Keen look,” but the side body lines exude a sense of high space utility, offering a distinctive appearance not commonly seen in the Japanese model lineup. Measuring approximately 4795mm in length, 1855mm in width, and 1835mm in height (Thai specification), with a wheelbase of 2750mm, the Fortuner strikes a balance between size and maneuverability.
Under the hood, the Fortuner houses either a 2.4-liter in-line 4-cylinder diesel engine producing around 150 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque, or a 2.8-liter in-line 4-cylinder diesel engine churning out approximately 200 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. The powertrain options include a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic transmission for the 2.4-liter model, while the 2.8-liter model is available solely with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Some regions also offer the sporty “GR Sports” variant, featuring design enhancements like a black grille with the GR emblem, 20-inch aluminum wheels, and sporty interior touches such as exclusive seats with red stitching and GR emblems.
Enthusiasts who caught a glimpse of the Fortuner at the Gunma Parts Show 2023 were thoroughly impressed, expressing their desire for it to be officially available in Japan. Comparisons were drawn to the Land Cruiser Prado, but the Fortuner’s unique features and affordable size and price have sparked interest among potential Japanese buyers. Many believe that the Fortuner could be considered the long-awaited successor to the Hilux Surf, which was last sold in Japan in 2009. If the Fortuner were to come equipped with features like downhill assist control and an easy-to-use 4×4 switch as standard, it is likely to garner even more attention and interest.
As the exhibition was stated to be for “Japanese market research purposes,” it seems that Toyota is testing the waters to gauge the potential demand for the Fortuner in Japan. If introduced, this ladder frame SUV with its practicality and appeal is expected to resonate with Japanese consumers, and its pricing strategy will be critical in determining its success in the market. As anticipation grows, Japanese car enthusiasts are hopeful that the Fortuner will soon become a permanent fixture on Japanese roads, providing a breath of fresh air to the SUV segment and meeting the needs of adventure-seeking drivers.
“Affordable price” Nissan launches latest SUV “Kicks e-POWER”!
“Affordable’ Nissan throws its latest SUV, the Kicks e-POWER, on the streak! Launched in the Sumi market starting at approx. 4.17 million yen
Differentiating some equipment from gasoline-powered models
Nissan Mexico announced the local launch of the new Kicks e-POWER on October 20, 2022.Nissan’s new Kicks e-POWER in a row! In Pictures
Mexican-spec Nissan Kicks e-POWER
The introduction of this model has been previously announced, and like the Japanese-spec Kicks e-POWER, it will be produced at a plant in Thailand and imported to Mexico.
The new KIX e-POWER will be differentiated from the existing gasoline version (Mexican version) by a new shift lever, drive mode selector, e-POWER badge, electrically foldable side mirrors, and other features.
The drive motor of the e-POWER series hybrid system onboard the Kicks delivers a maximum output of 134 hp and a maximum torque of 207 lb-ft.
The car will also be equipped with a full range of preventive safety equipment, including intelligent emergency braking (with pedestrian detection), intelligent cruise control, intelligent around-view monitor, and cross-traffic alert.
Prices for the Mexican-spec Kicks e-POWER range from 555,900 Mexican pesos (approximately 4.17 million yen) to 594,800 Mexican pesos (approximately 4.46 million yen).
Jose Román, President and General Manager of Nissan Mexico and Nissan Imports, commented on the local introduction of the Kicks e-POWER as follows.
The Kicks e-POWER is a vehicle designed to facilitate the transition to electric vehicles, making them more exciting and affordable for everyone.
I am confident that this will be a milestone in the history of mobility in this country.”””
- kuruma | autonews | Subaru | Toyota bZ4X
Toyota bZ4X & Subaru Solterra requests suspension of use … May tires fall off .
“Toyota bZ4X & Subaru Solterra requested to stop using…tires may fall off2022/6/23/22 17:15
On June 23, Toyota Motor Corporation notified the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of a recall of its Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra models due to the risk of tires falling off the tires, and asked users to stop using the vehicles for the time being. The affected 204 vehicles were manufactured between March 2 and June 2, 2022.
The defective part is the hub bolt that attaches the tire. The bolt may loosen due to repetitive sudden turns or braking. If the vehicle continues to be driven in this condition, an abnormal noise may be heard, and in the worst case, the tire may fall off.
As a remedial measure, all vehicles will be asked to cease use for the time being, and permanent countermeasures will be implemented as soon as they are determined.
No defects or accidents have been reported. The problem was discovered based on information from overseas markets.”
Harrier’s top-of-the-line PHEV is too cool
Toyota “Harrier” Why is the hybrid more fuel-efficient? What is the value of choosing the highest-end PHEV, which costs about 1 million yen more?
Harrier Hybrid” vs “Harrier PHEV
Nowadays, most new models are hybrids, and more and more plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) are also being added to the lineup.
In this context, Toyota will add a PHEV to its Harrier luxury SUV in October 2022. Originally, a hybrid version of the Harrier was available, and one wonders how it will differ from the PHEV. How exactly is it differentiated?Harrier’s top-of-the-line “PHEV” is too cool! View photos of interior and exterior
Toyota “Harrier PHEV” equipped with an exclusive mesh grille
The powertrains currently available in the Japanese market include a conventional internal combustion engine, a hybrid that uses both an engine and a motor powered by a dedicated battery, and a battery-electric vehicle (BEV) that covers 100% of the driving power. PHEVs are positioned between hybrids and EVs.
Recent hybrids have a full range of features, including an “EV mode” that runs on battery power and the motor, but PHEVs are designed to further enhance this feature by allowing the battery to be charged directly from an external plug. By more actively using motor-driven EV driving, fuel consumption can be further reduced.
Comparing the Harrier’s hybrid and PHEV, they have the same body size and the same type of engine, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder. However, there is a slight difference in specifications: the hybrid’s engine delivers 178 hp/221 Nm, while the PHEV’s delivers 177 hp/219 Nm.
What are the other differences?
First of all, the hybrid has a choice between 2WD and 4WD (E-Four/Electric 4WD). Those who prefer fuel economy over rough road drivability, or those who want to enjoy a lightweight crossover-like ride thanks to the 80kg weight reduction, can choose 2WD, while those who want SUV-like characteristics and peace of mind even in bad weather can choose E-Four.
On the other hand, the PHEV is only available in E-Four, probably because the PHEV is positioned as the highest grade of Harrier and 4WD is more suitable for transferring the 306 horsepower of the entire system to the road surface without difficulty.
Let’s compare the fuel economy performance (WLTC mode) in the catalog. The 2WD Hybrid achieved 22.3km/L and the 4WD Hybrid 21.6km/L, which are quite low fuel consumption.
The PHEV, on the other hand, is slightly less fuel-efficient than the hybrid at 20.5km/L, but it is still above its class. Why is the PHEV less fuel efficient than the hybrid, even though they have the same engine?
The answer lies in the vehicle weight: the hybrid weighs between 1620 and 1690 kg, while the PHEV weighs 1950 kg, a difference of about 300 kg.
The PHEV is also heavier due to the plug-in hybrid system and larger drive battery, which affects fuel economy, but despite the weight difference, the PHEV achieves a fuel economy of 20.5 km/L, which is nothing short of amazing.
In addition, the PHEV is capable of 93 km of EV driving, which seems to make up for the difference in fuel economy.
Toyota “Harrier” Why is the hybrid more fuel-efficient? What is the value of choosing the highest-end PHEV, which costs about 1 million yen more?
What are the differences in interior and exterior design?
The interior and exterior design of the Harrier hybrid and PHEV are somewhat different.The Hybrid has a horizontal black front grille, while the PHEV has a glossy black painted mesh grille.
The PHEV has blacked-out sides of the dora mirror and rear roof spoiler, and smoked chrome moldings on the rear bumper. In addition, four body colors are available, including “Gray Metallic,” which is exclusive to the PHEV.
Toyota Harrier PHEV Interior
In addition, the interior of the PHEV features dark red piping ornamentation with a metal mesh texture from the instrument panel to the door trim. The seat upholstery is genuine leather like the top grade “Z Leather Package” of the regular Harrier, and is equipped with power seats.
The driver and front passenger seats are heated and ventilated in the same way, but the PHEV also comes with heated rear seats, making it a fully equipped top-of-the-line Harrier.
The PHEV is equipped with heated rear seats and other features that make it a top grade Harrier.
As for the price, the top-of-the-line hybrid model “Z Leather Package (E-Four)” is 5,148,000 yen (consumption tax included, same below), and the plug-in hybrid “Z (E-Four)” is 6,200,000 yen, with a difference of 1,052,000 yen.
Incidentally, the Harrier is also available in gasoline form, with the highest grade “Z Leather Package (E-Four)” priced at 4,538,000 yen.
The hybrid model can be driven with the same sensation as the conventional gasoline engine model, and offers high fuel efficiency and high power, while the PHEV model is about 1 million yen more expensive and weighs about 300 kg more, but has a special interior and exterior, equipment, and can be charged externally, making it more like an EV.
Overthrow “Yaris Series”! Aiming for the top ranking in a single model “True popular car” 3 selections .
“Beat the Yaris Series! 3 “”Real Popular Cars”” aiming for the top ranking with a single car model
What are the most popular cars based on “”single model”” rather than combined series?
The Japan Automobile Dealers Association (JADA) releases a monthly ranking of new car sales to check the popularity of new cars.Better than the Yaris series! The “”Note,”” “”Roomy,”” and “”Rise”” all sell well in a single model .
The ranking is based on monthly registered car sales, but since it is based on “”brand”” by car name, Toyota’s Yaris, which is a regular at the top, includes the Yaris Cross and GR Yaris, which can be considered different models, and the Corolla includes the Touring, Sport, and Corolla Cross models as well. The Corolla also includes the Touring, Sport, and Corolla Cross models.
This can be seen as strategic branding, but it does not necessarily mean that a single model is overwhelmingly popular.
So, if we look at “”what is selling well as a stand-alone model?”” the picture changes considerably. What models are actually selling well?
Nissan “”Note”” (3rd generation), now exclusively e-POWER model
Nissan “”Note”” (3rd generation)
The Nissan “”Note”” has been reborn as a compact car with a moderately comfortable and spacious interior, and as a dedicated e-POWER series hybrid vehicle, which was installed in the previous generation.
Although classified as a compact car due to its appearance and displacement, it is a 5-door hatchback with a short nose and long deck style.
The Note has a sharp front mask that eliminates cuteness. The premium model “”Note Aura”” is also well received and has acquired universality and moderate luxury that can be driven by men and women of all ages.
With an overall length of 4045 mm x width of 1695 mm x height of 1520 mm, it fits within the 5-number zone, but with a wheelbase of 2580 mm, the rear seat passengers hardly feel cramped.
The 1.2-liter inline 3-cylinder engine for power generation and the drive motor are mounted here, and the cohesive exterior gives the car a sense of luxury that exceeds the B segment.
Of course, its low fuel consumption of 28.4km/L (WLTC mode) and its EV-like ride quality with only a motor to drive the car are also attractive.
Even though recharging facilities are increasing, those who are apprehensive about electric vehicles can still drive the e-POWER, which uses the gasoline engine to generate electricity, in both urban areas and over long distances without worry.
The “”Yaris Series”” topples the competition! Three “”real popular cars”” aiming for the top ranking in a single modelOEM cars are inherently less popular than the original…
Toyota “”RoomyNormally, OEM vehicles are not as popular as the base model, but the Toyota “”Roomy”” has become so popular that it has overturned such conventional wisdom.
The Roomy is a tall wagon that puts the Toyota badge on the Daihatsu-developed “”Tall,”” and it has been selling well since its introduction in 2016.
Toyota “”Roomy Custom””
The concept is “”1LD-Car,”” a cross between “”Living”” and “”Driving. The selling point of this car is its high practicality and spacious interior space for “”families raising children,”” which is the target of the base model, the Tall.
Daihatsu’s expertise in mini cars is considerable, as the tall wagon has become very popular among mini cars, and it has been accepted by users who think that a tall wagon looks good but a mini car is not enough for them.
The square-shaped, short-nosed body, measuring 3700 mm (L) x 1670 mm (W) x 1735 mm (H), is easy to maneuver, yet has a spacious cabin with plenty of headroom.
The 1-liter engine (69 PS) that is mounted on the 1140-kg car has a stress-free power output for four adults, and a 1-liter turbo engine is also available, allowing the driver to enjoy driving on highways with a sense of ease.
The rear sliding doors have a wide opening, making it easy for children and the elderly to get in and out of the car, as well as for loading luggage.
In addition, the body shape makes it easy to park in crowded commercial parking lots, and the high seating position provides good visibility, which has helped it consistently rank high in sales rankings.
Toyota “”Rise
Like the Roomy, the Toyota Rise is a crossover small SUV that is an OEM vehicle of Daihatsu, but has recorded higher sales volume than the Daihatsu Rocky, the original Daihatsu model.
Following the “”Tanto”” light tall wagon, the “”Rise”” is a model that adopts the “”DNGA (Daihatsu New Global Architecture),”” and although Daihatsu is in charge of production, it is positioned as a joint development, with Toyota’s 4WD system being installed.
With an overall length of 3995 mm x width of 1695 mm x height of 1620 mm, it has a body size that fits within the 5-number range and is equipped with SUV-like features such as 17-inch tires.
Powertrains include Daihatsu’s 1-liter inline 3-cylinder turbo engine and the e-SMART Hybrid, a series-type hybrid added in 2021, making it a compact SUV with a focus on environmental performance.
Rise’s greatest appeal is probably its affordable price tag for an SUV. The hybrid version of the Rise is available, and it also comes standard with collision damage reduction brakes (so-called automatic brakes) and a false start suppression function, while higher grades come with even more extensive safety equipment.
Daihatsu’s ability to sell popular small SUVs at low prices can be attributed to Daihatsu’s ability to manufacture high-quality, low-priced products and Toyota’s ability to sell them.
For those who have always wanted to drive an SUV but were put off by its large size, the Rise is attractive because of its excellent environmental performance and safety features at an affordable price.
Perhaps the reason for its popularity is that it is twice as good as an SUV: it is the perfect size for city driving, but it also has the suspension of an SUV that can handle rough roads.
The number of cars that will be sold from January to June 2022 will be the same as that of the current model.
In the ranking by the Japan Automobile Dealers Association for the period from January to June 2022, the Yaris came in first (81,580 units), followed by the Corolla (79,988 units), the Roomy (65,525 units), the Note (56,948 units), and the Rise (45,380 units).
In addition to the top-ranking compact cars that are easy to maneuver, four of the five vehicles were Toyota cars, indicating that Toyota cars are immensely popular along with compact cars.
Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)”
World Debut: Suzuki Jimny 5-Door Unveiled, Marking a Historic First
ByPawaniSuzuki unveiled the new “”Jimny 5-door”” for the first time in the world! The “”long body”” with a presence of less than 4 meters in length is awesome! 1.5L version unveiled in India
Jimny 5-door model unveiled in India for the first time
Maruti Suzuki, Suzuki’s Indian subsidiary, has unveiled the world premiere of the new Jimny (5-door version) at the Auto Expo 2023 in New Delhi.What kind of model is the 5-door version of the Jimny that has long been rumored to be on the market?Finally, the world premiere of the 5-door Jimny! See the lengthened actual car!
At last! New “”Jimny 5-door”” model unveiled for the first time in the world in India.Since the first generation of the Jimny was introduced in 1970, it has been renowned as a full-fledged four-wheel drive vehicle with a compact body, a ladder frame, and a part-time 4WD system with an auxiliary transmission.The second generation model, which was sold from 1981 to 1998, was also marketed in India and other overseas markets. In addition to the regular mini-car model, a new regular car model, the Jimny Sierra, with an enlarged body size and engine, was also sold in Japan and overseas.The current model was introduced in 2018. While maintaining the same driving performance, the new model features a square design with round headlights, as if returning to its roots.The new model has a classic look, but also offers safety features that are appropriate for the modern age, such as Suzuki Safety Support, an advanced driving support system that includes collision damage mitigation braking and a false start suppression function.
The Jimny that was unveiled for the first time at Auto Expo 2023 is not a conventional three-door version, but a five-door version with an additional rear door.For some time, there have been calls for a five-door version of the Jimny series with improved comfort, load capacity, and convenience.In this context, the 5-door Jimny, which appears to be a prototype, was spotted driving overseas at the end of 2022 and quickly became the talk of the town.The body size of the new Jimny 5-door that was unveiled for the first time is 3985 mm (length) x 1645 mm (width) x 1720 mm (height).
It is a new 5-door version with rear doors, and features special rear seats and interior.The powertrain is a 1.5-liter gasoline engine mated to a 4-speed AT or 5-speed MT.Seven body colors are expected to be available, including monotone and dual-tone.Maruti Suzuki plans to begin sales of the new model in fiscal year 2023, and to export it to Africa, Central and South America, and other markets.Other details of the specifications are expected to be revealed in the future, and expectations are high as to whether the car will be available in Japan as well, as many fans have been eagerly awaiting its release.