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    A DIY Jimny exhibition is attracting attention from the older generation

    A “DIY Jimny” exhibition is attracting attention from the older generation. The Suzuki Jimny has been popular since the release of the current model in 2018, with an average wait time of one year for delivery. The article explores the various ways that people customize their Jimnys, with many opting for off-road modifications. One particular Jimny, belonging to a user named Koin, is showcased with various customizations.
    Older generations are eagerly awaiting! The “”DIY Jimny”” exhibit! The car that looks like a life-size plastic model is amazing… What are the details that made it so special? Koin’s Jimny Sierra, customized with off-road racing specs, engine, suspension, etc., was the center of attention. The other is Norrie’s military-style custom vehicle based on the concept of a fictional British Special Forces vehicle. What they have in common is the DIY spirit that is unique to Jimny. Since the Jimny can be purchased for less than 2 million yen, it is believed that middle-aged and older drivers can budget more for customization than for other vehicles.”

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    Unveiling Toyota’s Second-Generation C-HR: 3 Exciting Powertrain Options!

    Toyota has unveiled the highly anticipated second-generation C-HR, marking a significant update to their compact SUV lineup. The original C-HR, known for its innovative design, gained widespread attention when it was introduced in 2016. On June 26, 2023, Toyota Europe took the wraps off the all-new C-HR, becoming the first region to showcase the second-generation model.

    The first-generation C-HR, launched in Japan at the end of 2016, paved the way for similar-sized SUVs in Toyota’s lineup, including the “Rise,” “Yari Cross,” and “Corolla Cross.” However, the C-HR stood out with its distinct design and sporty driving characteristics. In the 2019 facelift, Toyota expanded the C-HR’s offerings by introducing a CVT transmission alongside the existing 1.8-liter hybrid and 1.2-liter gasoline turbo options. They also introduced a sports-grade variant called the “GR Sport,” which was developed by TOYOTA GAZOO Racing. The GR Sport boasted a unique appearance with features like a sporty front bumper, large grille opening, under guard, and large fog lamps. Inside, it featured a GR genuine leather-wrapped small-diameter steering wheel, metallic dark silver-coated instrument panel decoration and door inner garnish, and exclusive sports seats. To enhance the driving experience, a tunnel brace was added under the front floor, improving body rigidity and steering response. The C-HR GR Sport also featured exclusive 19-inch tires and suspension tuning for enhanced driving performance.

    While the first-generation C-HR included a 6-speed manual transmission and the GR Sport variant, there has been speculation regarding the sporty elements in the second-generation model unveiled in Europe. Unfortunately, the current information does not mention the inclusion of a 6-speed manual transmission for the new C-HR. However, Toyota has been actively developing manual transmission mechanisms for electric vehicles, aiming to offer driving enthusiasts the traditional “enjoyment of driving” even in electric models (BEVs). This development indicates that Toyota is pioneering sporty SUVs and leaves open the possibility of manual transmission being adopted in future C-HR iterations.

    Regarding the design of the second-generation C-HR, it retains the coupe-inspired style of its predecessor but introduces sharper elements. The front face, inspired by the “hammerhead” motif used in recent Toyota models, adds a touch of aggression and style. The dynamic and condensed form is emphasized by short overhangs and the option for large wheels, which can go up to 20 inches. Aerodynamic efficiency has also been a focus, with careful attention given to optimizing airflow around and through the vehicle.

    The powertrain options for the new C-HR include two hybrid variants (1.8-liter and 2.0-liter) and a 2.0-liter plug-in hybrid model. While there is no specific mention of the transmission type, it is likely that Toyota will opt for an electric continuously variable transmission (CVT), similar to their other electric vehicles. The driving dynamics have been enhanced through the redesign of the suspension, brakes, and steering, ensuring intuitive acceleration performance and control to complement the new powertrain options. Extensive testing on various roads, weather conditions, and even on circuits at Toyota’s European test center was conducted to achieve the ideal balance in driving dynamics.

    Toyota has also introduced the GR Sport Premiere Edition for the second-generation C-HR, building upon the success of the first generation. The GR Sport Premiere Edition showcases sportiness with its G mesh pattern grille and newly designed 20-inch aluminum wheels, among other distinctive features.

    In summary, the second-generation C-HR brings a fresh design with sharper elements and an updated powertrain lineup, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid options. While the current information does not mention the inclusion of a 6-speed manual transmission, Toyota’s ongoing development of manual transmission mechanisms for electric vehicles suggests the potential for its adoption in future iterations. With its commitment to delivering an enjoyable driving experience, Toyota continues to position itself as a pioneer in the sporty SUV segment.

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    Toyota has released the fourth generation of its luxury minivan the Alphard

    Toyota has released the fourth generation of its luxury minivan, the Alphard, on June 21, 2023. The previous model had shifted towards a more luxurious car line, becoming a high-end minivan with a high demand not only in Japan but also in China and Shanghai. The new Alphard aims to create a space where all passengers can feel comfortable and grateful towards each other, with improvements in basic performance such as quietness during driving and fuel efficiency, as well as design and interior space. The exterior design is described as “forceful” and the new model has already gained popularity.

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    New Suzuki Jimny 5-door is officially unveiled!

    Finally, the new Suzuki Jimny 5-door is officially unveiled! What has changed with exclusive equipment? Thorough explanation of the details!

    We’ve been waiting for it! What are the features of the Jimny 5-door?
     Finally, the new Suzuki Jimny 5-door has made its debut.The world premiere was held by Maruti Suzuki (Suzuki’s local subsidiary in India) at the AUTO EXPO 2023 in India.This is the interior and exterior of the Jimny 5 Door! See the official Suzuki images that everyone has been waiting for .

    Here it comes! The new Jimny 5-door has finally made its world premiere in India!Production of the Jimny will begin in India in November 2020, with exports to Africa and Latin America.After that, it was decided to deliver a long body (3-door?) version of the Jimny for the Indian Army, and the civilian version of the Jimny, the Jimny 5-door, was expected to follow.The author also caught wind of its existence around 2019 and has informed this site several times, but it was difficult to grasp it as a reality.

     In the Japanese market, many people were holding off on buying a Jimny Sierra or Jimny waiting for the 5-door to appear, and many users may have been numb to the fact that it did not appear easily.From the latter half of 2021, a lot of information about the Jimny 5-door began to appear, mainly in the foreign media, and it was certain that it would be announced at AUTO EXPO 2023, the first large-scale auto show in 2023.

     There was a lot of speculation about the specifications of the Jimny 5-door, and I was also expecting some variation in the power unit, but after opening the door, I found that it is a very legitimate model.

     First of all, the body size has been extended by 340 mm in both length and wheelbase. The wheelbase is the same width as that of the Sierra, and the height is 10 mm lower than the Sierra at 1,720 mm.

     The three angles have been reduced to 24 degrees only for the ramp breakover due to the lengthening.However, the ground angle has only been reduced by 4 degrees, so it does not seem that the rough road drivability has worsened that much.
    The power unit that has been the focus of attention is the K15B 1.5-liter straight-4 engine, a slide from the Sierra. The output is 104.8ps/134.2N/m, a slight improvement over the Sierra. The gear ratios may also have been revised.

     The powertrain is also diverted, and a part-time 4WD with a sub-transfer is used.

     Like the Jimny Sierra, the transfer is switched by a manual lever, and a brake LSD traction control system is included to support diagonal stacks.Finally, the new Suzuki Jimny 5-door is officially unveiled! What has changed with exclusive equipment? Thorough explanation of the details! What’s the difference between 5-door and 3-door? What are the small but surprising parts & points of concern?
     Of course, the chassis is the same, with a ladder frame structure and front and rear 3-link rigid-axle suspension.

     However, the photo of the ladder frame presented at the show shows that a new cross member has been added behind the conventional X-member, indicating that the ladder frame has been sufficiently reinforced to cope with the increased weight. The propeller shaft is also thicker than that of the short-body model.One exterior difference from the Jimny Sierra can be seen in the front grille, which is now decorated.It has a glossy paint finish and chrome around the vertical slit openings.Incidentally, a new red body color has been added to the Indian version.

     The color variation will probably change when the model is launched in Japan, but it seems likely that red will remain as a new image color.The interior is almost the same as the Sierra. One major difference is in one place: the audio space located in the center of the instrument panel has been enlarged and a 22.86 cm touch display has been installed.In conjunction with this, there are new control switches in the steering wheel.

    Ease of use has also increased! The new Suzuki Jimny 5-door with increased overall length.The overall impression is that there were no surprising topics.The design is not out of the realm of the world view of the Jimny, just that the body has been extended.However, looking at the rear door openings again, I am concerned that it may be difficult to get in and out of the car when they are so wide over the wheel arches.However, considering that the body has been newly extended by 340 mm, not only can four people ride in the car securely, but also the load capacity, which has been unpopular among leisure travelers, has been dramatically improved.

     Expectations are also high for the ease of sleeping in the car when it is fully flat.It is clearly better suited for leisure use than the Jimny and Jimny Sierra, and is sure to be a big hit once again, replacing the short-body models that have been difficult to obtain in the past.Although no release date or price has been announced for Japan, it is expected to go on sale in India in 2023, and is expected to be introduced in Japan in 2024 at the earliest.

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    Nissan new 4th generation “X-Trail” from about 5.3 million yen in English! Local specifications also appeared and reservations started .

    “Nissan’s New 4th Generation “”XTRAIL”” Starting at about 5.3 Million Yen in the UK! Local specifications are now available and reservations are now being accepted

    12V mild hybrid version is only available in 2WD
     Nissan’s UK subsidiary announced the local specifications of the new xtrail on September 6, 2022 (local time), and also announced that the price in the UK market will start at 32,030 pounds (about 5.3 million yen in Japanese currency). Reservations have been accepted locally since the same day.

    Nissan’s new SUV XTRAIL in a row! See the actual vehicle in 47 images.

    Nissan’s new 4th generation “”XTRAIL”” also unveiled in the European market

     The all-new XTRAIL is the fourth generation of the family-oriented SUV, which has a history of more than 20 years and has sold approximately 7 million units worldwide.

     In Japan, the new (4th generation) XTRAIL was launched on July 25, 2022.

     The new xtrail in the European market, including the one for the UK, is available in two versions: one with the e-POWER series hybrid system and the other with a 12V mild hybrid system.

     The power unit lineup differs from that of the e-POWER-exclusive Japanese version.

     The e-POWER version uses a 1.5-liter variable compression ratio turbocharged gasoline engine exclusively for power generation and runs on a powerful drive motor, delivering a maximum output of 204 hp in the 2WD version and 213 hp in the e-4ORCE version (4WD model).

     The e-Pedal Step, which provides strong deceleration force only by operating the accelerator pedal, has also been adopted.

     The 12V mild hybrid version, which is only available in 2WD, delivers a maximum output of 163 hp and is mated to an Xtronic CVT transmission.

     Advanced features include a 12.3-inch NissanConnect display screen with smartphone connectivity via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and next-generation ProPilot Assist.

     A new passive safety feature is a center airbag that deploys between the front seats.

     The new European version of the xtrail will be available in 12V mild hybrid versions from 32,030 to 42,520 pounds (5.3 to 7.1 million yen).

     Upgrading to the e-POWER (2WD) version will cost an additional 2,435 pounds (about 400,000 yen), and from there, upgrading to the e-4ORCE (4WD version of the e-POWER) will cost another 2,200 pounds (about 350,000 yen).

     In addition to the 2-row, 5-seat version, a 3-row, 7-seat version is also available as an option.

     Deliveries of the new Nissan xtrail in the UK market are scheduled to begin in October.”

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    Revamped Toyota C-HR Unleashing a Robust Personality in the New Compact SUV – 5 Key Highlights

    Toyota’s new compact SUV “”C-HR”” also has “”stronger character””! What is the difference from the “”honor student”” character of the same class “”Corolla Cross””?The “”C-HR”” emphasizes a strong personality that is competitive with its European rivals On December 5, 2022, Toyota’s European division unveiled the C-HR Prologue, a concept car that hints at the new C-HR, which will be the second-generation model. What is the difference between the two models? Strong Character!”” Toyota’s new C-HR Prologue and Corolla Cross compact SUVs in 36 photos.

    Same overall length of 4.4m class, but “”totally different characters!”” [The “”C-HR Prologue”” concept car (above) and the “”Corolla Cross”” (Japanese specifications) are “”individualistic,”” hinting at the new C-HR.The current (first generation) C-HR was launched in December 2016.Using the newly developed TNGA GA-C platform first used in the fourth-generation Prius, which was introduced the previous year in December 2015, the model’s driving performance was enhanced by maturing it on the world’s roads, especially in Europe.

     At the time, there were many stylish rivals in the compact SUV segment that placed more emphasis on design than those in the upper segments, so the Toyota Design Center in Europe, the U.S., and Japan joined forces to create an original coupe-like style with a personality that would stand out from the competition. The Japanese version will have a 1.5-liter engine and a 1.5-liter engine.

     The Japanese version is available with a 1.2-liter gasoline turbo engine or a 1.8-liter hybrid engine.Toyota explains that the new C-HR Prologue concept car, which was unveiled for the first time, faithfully inherits the DNA of the original C-HR.The bold fender shape around the wide front and rear tires and the compact-looking cabin give the car a sporty form that is futuristic, but at the same time, it also shows a strong connection with the first-generation C-HR.In fact, the first-generation C-HR was also launched commercially, following almost exactly the design of the C-HR Concept exhibited at the Paris Motor Show in France in October 2014 and the Frankfurt Motor Show in Germany in September 2015, before its launch.

     Toyota claims that the new C-HR Prologue is a similar demonstration, and suggests that this will soon be rolled out in the new (second-generation) C-HR with nearly identical styling.In addition to the hybrid version, the new C-HR will also be available as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV).Toyota’s new C-HR compact SUV also has a “”stronger character””! What makes it different from the “”honor student”” character “”Corolla Cross”” in the same class?

    Corolla Cross”” aims to “”exceed expectations with a sense of car class and ease of useThe Corolla Cross, on the other hand, is a compact SUV added in 2020 to Toyota’s global Corolla series of strategic vehicles that have been offered globally since 1966. It was first unveiled in Thailand and then rolled out globally, with its Japanese debut scheduled for September 2021.
    Comparing them from the side, you can clearly see the difference in cabin space size, etc.! [Above is the Toyota C-HR (current model) / Below is the Corolla Cross.]

     Like the C-HR, Prius, and the rest of the Corolla series, the Corolla Cross was developed on the TNGA GA-C platform.At the time of its announcement in Thailand, Toyota described the Corolla Cross as a model “”developed with the aim of achieving both a ‘sense of vehicle character (powerful appearance)’ and ‘utility (ease of use)’ that exceeds user expectations.While the C-HR is a “”strong”” character that emphasizes individuality above all else, the Corolla Cross is the exact opposite, claiming to be an “”honors student”” character.

     The Japanese version is available in 1.8-liter gasoline and 1.8-liter hybrid versions.Comparing body sizes between the current models (Japanese specifications), the C-HR measures 4385 mm (length) x 1795 mm (width) x 1550 mm (height) with a wheelbase of 2640 mm, while the Corolla Cross measures 4490 mm (length) x 1825 mm (width) x 1620 mm (height) with a wheelbase of 2640 mm.

     While they share the same wheelbase, the C-HR is lower and more compact overall.Furthermore, a comparison of the actual vehicles shows that the C-HR’s low, wide, bold form gives it a strong presence, which remains unchanged six years after its debut.On the other hand, the Corolla Cross, with its large windows and imposing styling, is more impressive than its dimensions.
    The interior of the C-HR, with its sports car-like enveloping feel, contrasts with the spaciousness of the Corolla Cross in both front and rear seating and cargo area, just like the exterior.

     Thus, it is clear that the C-HR and Corolla Cross, while using the same TNGA GA-C platform and having relatively similar body sizes in the 4.4-meter class in overall length, have been cleverly built based on completely different concepts.The timing of the new C-HR production model’s arrival has not been disclosed, but expectations are high for how it will differ from the Corolla Cross, just as the current model does.

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