Author: Chathura Chanuka

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    “A few months behind Japan …?” The new SUV “Outlander PHEV” 2023 specification is unveiled for the first time in the United States! Released locally in the latter half of 2023 .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “A few months later than Japan…?”” New SUV “”Outlander PHEV”” 2023 Specification Unveiled for the First Time in the U.S.! To be launched locally in the second half of 2023

    New Outlander PHEV Combines Mitsubishi’s Electric Vehicle Technologies
    　Mitsubishi’s U.S. subsidiary has unveiled the Outlander PHEV (2023 model year), a plug-in hybrid version of the Outlander, at the Twin Cities Auto Show 2022 (May 14-22) in Minnesota.

    Launched in the U.S. a few months later than Japan…? What is the new “”Outlander PHEV”” like? Mitsubishi’s latest SUV in 28 images.

    　In the U.S., the 2023 Outlander PHEV has been announced for release in late 2022.

    　The current Outlander is Mitsubishi’s flagship SUV, equivalent to the fourth generation globally (the first generation was sold in Japan as the Airtrek).

    　The current Outlander, a gasoline-powered model, went on sale in the U.S., Canada, and other markets in April 2021 ahead of other markets, while the current Outlander PHEV, a plug-in hybrid model, went on sale in Japan in December 2021 (the gasoline model has not been introduced).

    　It was also launched in New Zealand in March 2022, and the current Outlander PHEV will be introduced in the U.S. later in these countries.

    　The 2023 Outlander PHEV is the result of Mitsubishi’s expertise in electric vehicles.

    　It is equipped with a twin-motor 4WD system consisting of front and rear motors with increased output, and Mitsubishi’s unique S-AWC integrated vehicle dynamics control system as standard equipment. 7 drive modes are available to ensure a safe and comfortable drive regardless of road conditions.

    　The Outlander PHEV is also the first Outlander PHEV with a third-row seat.

    　Mark Chaffin, president and CEO of Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA), commented on the current Outlander gasoline model, which is already on the market, saying, “”Despite facing global supply shortages, the Outlander is hitting home runs, setting new sales records every month.

    　And of the 2023 Outlander PHEV, which will be introduced in the second half of 2022, he said, “”When it goes on sale in the U.S., the car will take its place as Mitsubishi’s flagship model.

    　It will be the most advanced and best equipped vehicle ever sold. It is the perfect combination of a quiet, clean EV with the range and ease of refueling of a gasoline-powered vehicle.”

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    Finally coming out ! Nissan’s 4th generation new “X-Trail” new information announced! Introduced to Australia with 4 grades .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Finally out! Nissan Announces New Information on the New Nissan 4th Generation X-TRAIL! 4 grades to be launched in Australia!

    Ti-L grade with leather seats and other luxury features
    　Nissan’s Australian subsidiary announced on May 16 of the same year information on the new Extrail, which is scheduled to go on sale locally in the second half of 2022, including grade development and the engine to be installed.

    Finally! Nissan’s new “”XTRAIL”” to be launched in Australia soon! Expectations are high with the announcement of details! View in pictures

    　The new Nissan xtrail (Australian specifications) is said to be being prepared for launch, but what kind of latest SUV will it be?

    The new Nissan xtrail (Australian spec)

    　The fourth generation of the new xtrail will be launched as the xtrail in the Chinese market in 2021 after its sister model, the Rogue, goes on sale in the U.S. in 2020.

    　Meanwhile, as of May 2022, Australia and Japan are among the markets where the third-generation xtrail will continue to be sold.

    　The new XTRAIL, which has been announced for launch in Australia, will be available in the ST, ST-L, Ti, and the top-of-the-line Ti-L grades, starting with the base grade.

    　The ST comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights/tail lamps, roof rails, high beam assist, rear parking camera and sensors, and an 8-inch display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

    　In addition to the ST features, the ST-L offers ProPILOT with Lane Keep Assist, privacy glass, fog lights, digital around-view monitor, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, synthetic leather upholstery, sliding rear seats, front parking sensors, and 40:20:40 split rear seats.

    　The aluminum wheels are also upgraded to 18 inches.

    　The Ti adds leather upholstery, 19-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, LED turn signals, a smart rear view mirror, three-zone climate control, and an electric rear tailgate.

    　The display on the instrument panel will also be upgraded to a 12.3-inch touchscreen with navigation, a 10.8-inch head-up display, 12.3-inch digital meters, and wireless phone charging.

    　Luxury features on the Ti-L include a heated steering wheel, BOSE 10-speaker sound system, full Nappa leather seats with memory seat function, rear sunshade, hands-free rear tailgate, and remote engine start.

    　Standard preventive safety features on all models include rear cross-traffic alert, collision damage reduction brakes with bicycle/pedestrian detection, and a lane departure assist system.

    　The cargo area features dual luggage boards (ST-L and above grades). According to Nissan’s Australian subsidiary, the cargo area can be arranged in 16 different ways.

    　In addition to adopting the latest CMF-C platform, the car is equipped with a 2.5-liter engine with maximum output of 184 hp and maximum torque of 245 Nm. The towing capacity is said to be 2 tons, an increase of 500 kilograms over the previous model.

    　The 4WD system offers a choice of five driving modes to suit road conditions. Hill Descent Control is also available on the 4WD model.

    　Adam Patterson, Managing Director of Nissan Australia, commented, “”The new Extrail is packed with features that continue the xtrail’s history of excellence for the next generation of families in Australia.

    Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)”

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    “What should I sell …” Toyota’s popular cars such as Harrier Sienta have stopped receiving orders ! Delayed delivery causes new problems.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota’s popular cars such as Harrier and Cinta have stopped receiving orders. Delayed delivery of cars causes new problems

    Popular cars are all late for delivery and there are no cars to sell!
    　Recently, all manufacturers have been experiencing delays in the delivery of new cars.

    　The cause is said to be a “”semiconductor shortage,”” but in fact there is a more complicated background: developers at manufacturers say that “”the supply of various items, such as wiring harnesses (which transmit electrical signals), paint, and resin parts, has been delayed.

    Toyota has launched a 1.65 million yen EV! I can afford this! You can use it!
    Orders for the popular “”Harrier”” have stopped! Why?

    　One manufacturer in particular that has been notably delaying deliveries is Toyota. We spoke to a Toyota dealership to find out.

    Delivery times are generally long now, with an increasing number of models taking up to six months to arrive. Moreover, orders for about 10 models, including the Crown, Harrier, and Sienta, have been suspended.

    　In addition to the delivery delays, why have orders even been suspended? A staff member at a dealership continues, “”The reason for the suspension of orders is that the full range of models has been suspended.

    The reason for the suspension of orders is that we will be implementing full model changes and improvements.

    　The Crown and Sienta are nearing full model change, and the Prius will undergo a full model change between the end of 2022 and 2023.

    　The Harrier, RAV4, and Corolla Touring will undergo improvements and minor changes.

    　Due to the long delivery times these days, if we receive orders for these models, when they are delivered, they will be the next model or a model after the improvements, and we cannot reveal the details, so we have stopped taking orders.””

    　For example, the next Prius will be available from the end of 2022 to 2023, so normally, as of May 2022, when this paper is being written, the last model is being sold.

    　However, if we assume that the delivery time for the Prius is eight months, then if you sign a contract in May 2022, the car will not be delivered until January 2023.

    　At that stage, the next model will have already been switched to the next model, but that information cannot be disclosed as of May 2022. This is why orders are being suspended.

    　This situation is detrimental to all users, dealers, and manufacturers.

    　The suspension of orders means that the model is not sold, so users are limited in their choices.

    　A dealer describes the current situation as follows.

    Harrier, Sienta, Prius, Corolla, and RAV4 are all Toyota’s main products. Since orders for these products have been halted, dealers are feeling like, ‘What should we sell ……?

    　Especially for the Crown, we have many corporate customers, and we sometimes have to replace vehicles to meet their needs, such as closing accounts.

    　If we can’t deliver the vehicle when the customer needs it, there is a concern that they will buy a Mercedes-Benz or other vehicle.

    　Much of the demand for new vehicles now is based on switching vehicles. Most users trade in their previous vehicle for a new one. The timing often coincides with the expiration of vehicle inspections for the vehicle being traded in.

    　Then, if the delivery date of the new car is longer than expected, the car to be traded in will be due for inspection before the new car is delivered.

    　This means that the customer will have to wait for the new car to be delivered, and will have to have the car re-inspected, which will require extra time and expense.

    Orders for popular Toyota models such as the Harrier and Cinta have been halted. Delayed delivery of vehicles has caused new problems.

    The way new cars will be released may change in the future
    　Looking ahead, delivery delays due to shortages in the supply of various parts are unlikely to end. This is because overseas, city blockades due to the new coronavirus and other problems are still continuing.

    　If delivery delays and order stoppages continue for a long time, there will be concern that users will purchase rival vehicles from other companies with shorter delivery times, as mentioned in the dealer’s comment.

    　In response to this, dealers commented, “”It seems that the method of releasing new cars will be slightly changed in the future. We will ask that information related to new models sent out by manufacturers be communicated to dealers earlier than in the past, and the start of business negotiations will be moved up. This is because this will allow us to shorten the period during which we stop accepting orders completely.

    Toyota’s Sienta, which is said to be nearing a full model change

    　Certainly, if the situation continues where “”orders have been closed but there is no information about the new model that will be fully remodeled,”” users who wish to purchase the car will feel uneasy.

    They may even make the decision, “”Rather than wait for the appearance of a car whose actual status is unknown, let’s settle for a car that is already on the market at this point in time.

    　It is understandable that manufacturers would move up the start of orders, but in such cases, manufacturers need to provide dealers with as much detailed information as possible.

    　Proceeding with negotiations and orders based on vague information will cause anxiety for both users and dealers.

    　For example, unless a system is in place that allows dealership staff to test-drive prototypes and explain in detail the differences from conventional models, the accelerated start of orders will not only lower customer satisfaction, but also lead to an exodus of customers to other companies.

    　In the new sales method, it will be important to “”minimize the disadvantage of negotiating without a car on display or for test drives.

    　Product development will also change. In the past, we have aggressively used parts with high functionality and low cost, but in the future, stable supply will also become important.

    　In the unlikely event of a supply shortage, the versatility of the product will be questioned to determine whether it can be substituted for another company’s product or whether it can be adapted to the situation.

    　Delays in deliveries due to the new coronavirus will change various aspects of the automotive industry, from vehicle planning, development, and manufacturing to the way the vehicles are released.

    　Moreover, the timing of the event coincides with the wave of electrification, which may be an ordeal unlike anything we have experienced before.”

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    Even if Honda “CR-V” is discontinued, the new “ZR-V” will be released! Why are Honda’s SUV names often “○ R-V”?

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Honda “”CR-V”” production may be discontinued, but the new “”ZR-V”” is on its way! Why are there so many “”0R-V”” SUV names for Honda?

    Does Honda have too many “”0R-V”” SUVs?
    　The CR-V, Honda’s mid-size SUV introduced in 1995 for the Japanese market, will be discontinued in August 2022.

    First look at the new Honda SUV to be introduced to replace the CR-V! Check out the “”00R-V”” Honda SUV in pictures!

    Coming to Japan! Honda’s new “”ZR-V”” made its world premiere in China!

    　The CR-V, whose first generation was a hit as a pioneer of the light XC genre, saw its sales suspended for about two years in the middle of its fourth generation, before the fifth generation (current model) made a domestic comeback in 2018.

    　However, with the SUV boom, all manufacturers introduced SUVs, and the CR-V was buried among them, and unfortunately, it disappeared from the domestic market.

    　With the CR-V’s demise, Honda’s only SUV will be the Vezel, but this is only temporary. In fact, a new SUV, the big brother of the Vezel, is expected to debut before the end of 2022.

    　Although the name of the Japanese version of the model has not been revealed, the new HR-V, which was unveiled in North America, is expected to be introduced.

    　The same new SUV will also be introduced in China and Europe as the new ZR-V. Based on the current Civic, it is likely to be powered by a turbocharged engine or e:HEV hybrid, although the power unit will vary depending on the country or region.

    　Looking at Honda’s SUVs, we notice that many of them have “”00R-V”” vehicle names, such as CR-V, HR-V, and ZR-V.

    　According to Honda’s public relations department, “”Starting with the CR-V, the name has been unified as Honda’s SUV brand since then. The ‘R’ has a different meaning depending on the model, but the ‘V’ stands for vehicle.””

    　CR-V is said to be an acronym for “”Comfortable Runabout Vehicle”” and HR-V for “”Hi-rider Revolutionary Vehicle.

    　These are the only two “”0R-V”” models sold in Japan, but if you look overseas, you will find several “”0R-V”” models bearing other letters of the alphabet. What kind of models are there?

    BR-V

    　The BR-V is a crossover SUV, the prototype of which made its world premiere at the 2015 Indonesia Motor Show, and was launched in Asian markets such as Indonesia and India. The name comes from “”Bold Runabout Vehicle.

    　The current model is the second generation, launched in January 2022, and is a three-row, seven-seat model featuring a powerful SUV-like appearance.

    UR-V

    　The UR-V is the flagship SUV of Dongfeng Honda, which manufactures and sells Honda vehicles in China.

    　The current model will be launched in June 2020, with a larger body size than the CR-V, a sleek coupe-like style, and an elegant interior.

    WR-V

    　The WR-V is a compact SUV based on the third-generation Fit and was launched in Brazil in 2017.

    　It was developed at Honda R&D Brazil based on user needs in South America. It offers a tough yet urban SUV design, high utility, and spacious interior in a compact body size.

    XR-V

    　The XR-V is a compact SUV developed by Dongfeng Honda, a joint venture company in China, for the same market.

    　Two types of engines are available: a 1.5-liter naturally-aspirated engine and a turbocharged engine, with no hybrid available.

    Advanced features such as “”Honda Connect”” and “”Honda Sensing”” are available.

    The FR is not an SUV, but it is an FR with a small engine and a large cargo area.

    　Although not an SUV, there was also an “”FR-V”” model.

    　This is the European name for the EDIX, which was introduced in 2004 as a unique minivan.

    　The EDIX/FR-V was a “”3-by-2″” model with two rows of three seats to accommodate six passengers, and all front and rear seats could slide independently, allowing for a variety of arrangements.

    　A diesel engine was also available for the European version, and a 6-speed manual transmission model, which was not available in the Japanese version, was also lined up.

    Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)”

  • Which strongest van do you prefer? Toyota faction and Nissan faction have a great debate on SNS! Insatiable battle between Hiace and caravan .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Which is the most powerful van for you? Toyota and Nissan factions are having a huge debate on social networking sites! Insatiable battle between Hiace and Caravan!

    Commercial Vans “”Hiace”” and “”Caravan”” What are the voices comparing both vehicles?
    　The Toyota Hiace, which underwent a partial makeover on April 13, 2022, and the Nissan Caravan, whose diesel version underwent a minor change in April of the same year.
    　
    　Both vehicles represent commercial vans, and there are many voices comparing such two vehicles on SNS. What are the charms of each model?

    Image] Similar or not? No similarity? Let’s compare the differences between the “”Hiace”” and the “”Caravan,”” which are strong rivals (23 photos).

    (Top) Toyota Hiace / (Bottom) Nissan’s new Caravan

    　On April 13, 2022, Toyota announced a partially improved model of the Hiace (van, wagon, commuter).

    　The commercial van that is compared to the Hiace is the Nissan Caravan.

    　In October 2021, the Caravan also underwent minor changes, including design changes and functional improvements, with the gasoline-powered version leading the way. In April 2022, the diesel model also underwent minor changes.

    　On social networking sites, there are many comments comparing the two vehicles, such as “”If I had to choose between the Hiace and the Caravan, the Hiace is easier to drive”” and “”I prefer the Caravan to the Hiace.

    　So what are the differences between these two vehicles? In this article, we will compare both the Hiace (Van/Super GL/FWD/Standard width/Standard roof) and the Caravan (Van/Premium GX/FWD/Standard width/Standard roof) mainly in terms of luggage space and engine.

    　The body size of the Hiace (standard width/standard body) is 4695 mm (overall length) x 1695 mm (overall width) x 1980 mm (overall height).

    　The body size of the CARAVAN (standard width, standard body) is almost the same: 4695 mm (overall length) x 1695 mm (overall width) x 1990 mm (overall height).

    　Although these two vehicles are similar, is there any difference in luggage space, which is probably the most important point of concern for a commercial van?

    　The luggage space of the Hiace is 3000mm long (1855mm when rear seats are in normal position, 1975mm when rear seats are slid forward, and 2470mm when rear seats are folded) x 1320mm high x 1520mm wide.

    　The cargo area of the current Hiace, which was introduced in 2004, was developed with the aim of achieving the largest cargo area efficiency in its class at that time.

    　The engine-direct cooling fan was replaced with an electric fan. In addition, by placing the radiator in the front nose and bringing the engine position to the front to the utmost limit, one of the largest cargo floor lengths in the 1-ton cab van class (as of 2004) has been realized.

    　On the other hand, the luggage space of the current Caravan (the “”NV350 Caravan”” at the time of its debut), which was introduced in 2012, is 3050 mm (cargo space length) x 1325 mm (cargo space height) x 1520 mm (cargo space width).

    　Despite the fact that the body size itself is almost the same for both vehicles, the later Caravan has further trimmed down the space to further increase the luggage space.

    　The Caravan’s luggage space is expanded through a seat arrangement in which the second-row seats are folded forward, which increases the cargo capacity by approximately 250 kg. Nissan explains that the length of the cargo space can also be used to load a long stepladder.

    　Even with the second-row seats up and the vehicle’s five-person capacity, two mountain bikes and other large leisure equipment, such as snowboards and boots, can be loaded.

    　In the higher grade Caravan, the second row seats can be split independently to the left and right, a feat not possible with the Hiace, which has integrated second row seats on both sides. As mentioned above, in terms of cargo height and cargo space length, the Caravan is only slightly higher than the Hiace in terms of numerical values.

    　However, in terms of actual cargo access and efficiency, the Hiace, with its large-opening back doors, seems to be unbeatable.

    　On social networking sites, there are various comments depending on the way of loading and the user’s purpose, such as “”Caravan has wider cargo space than Hiace,”” “”Caravan has wider cargo space and is more convenient,”” “”Hiace has wider cargo space when the rear is not folded down,”” and “”Hiace can make effective use of space in the end. The following are some of the comments received.

    Which is the strongest van for you? Toyota and Nissan factions are having
    What are the differences in engine performance between the Hiace and the Caravan?
    　Let us now compare the engine performance of the two vehicles.
    　
    　Many people on SNS are comparing the two vehicles based on engine performance, saying, “”The Mitsubishi engine in the new Caravan looks more comfortable than the Hiace’s,”” and “”I wonder if the Hiace’s engine performance is better…

    　The Toyota Hiace’s engine lineup consists of the 2-liter “”1TR-FE”” and 2.7-liter “”2TR-FE”” gasoline models and the 2.8-liter “”1GT-FTV”” diesel turbo diesel model.

    　Maximum output is 136ps for the gasoline 1TR-FE, 160ps for the 2TR-FE, and 151ps for the diesel 1GT-FTV; maximum torque is 182Nm for the gasoline 1TR-FE, 243Nm for the 2TR-FE, and 300Nm for the diesel 1GT-FTV.

    　The gasoline engine is equipped with Dual VVT-i (continuously variable valve timing system for intake and exhaust) to achieve both high output and low fuel consumption.

    　In addition, the diesel engine’s fuel efficiency was improved in April 2022 with partial improvements, and together with the “”achievement of the 2015 fuel efficiency standard plus 15%,”” it is eligible for the eco-car tax reduction program.

    　In contrast, Nissan’s new Caravan has three types of engines: 2-liter “”QR20DE”” and 2.5-liter “”QR25DE”” gasoline models, and 2.5-liter “”4N16″” diesel turbo diesel model.

    　Maximum output is 130ps for the gasoline QR20DE, 147ps for the QR25DE, and 132ps for the diesel 4N16; maximum torque is 178Nm for the gasoline QR20DE, 213Nm for the QR25DE, and 370Nm for the diesel 4N16.

    　The Caravan’s gasoline engine is an inline 4-cylinder that accelerates powerfully even when heavily loaded, and its quietness is achieved through the use of a balancer shaft that suppresses the engine’s unpleasant humming noise at high speeds.

    　The performance of the gasoline engine, however, is slightly higher than that of the Hiace in terms of both output and fuel economy.

    　On the other hand, the new diesel engine loaded in the new Caravan offers smoother acceleration performance and quieter operation.

    　The catalog fuel consumption is 11.3km/L (WLTC mode), which is the same as the diesel engine of the Hiace, but the maximum torque of the Caravan is higher than that of the Hiace, and the Caravan with its torque may be the perfect choice for transporting heavy loads.

    * * *

    　The Toyota Hiace and Nissan Caravan are compared as the same commercial van, but each has many unique attractions.

    　Vehicle prices (including consumption tax) for the Hiace range from 2,192,000 yen to 4,118,000 yen for the van, 2,886,000 yen to 3,994,000 yen for the wagon, and 3,221,000 yen to 3,747,000 yen for the commuter.

    　The Caravan ranges from 2,412,300 yen to 4,275,700 yen for the van, 3,095,400 yen to 4,097,500 yen for the wagon, and 375,300 yen for the microbus.

    　Each of these improved models has just been released. Comparison by price as well as design and performance will be one of the deciding factors in the purchase.”

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    Honda’s new “CR-V” has been unveiled for the first time ! The 6th generation has been completely redesigned into a “stylish SUV”? Wake that appeared on the Chinese government site .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Already Honda’s new “”CR-V”” premiered! Is the 6th generation completely revamped into a “”stylish SUV””? Why it appeared on a Chinese government-affiliated website?

    For real!!! The next “”CR-V”” pre-release! Stylish SUV now?
    　Honda’s CR-V crossover SUV.
    　
    　In Japan, the current model was introduced in 2018, but sales will end in 2022, according to an announcement from the dealership.
    　
    　Meanwhile, Honda of America had announced that the next CR-V will be equipped with a new hybrid system on April 14, 2022.
    　　
    　And now, images and specs of what appears to be the next CR-V have been released via a Chinese government agency.

    [Image] This is the preliminary design of the new CR-V! See the stylish “”Vezel””-like real car in photos! (22 photos)

    Is this the next CR-V, the 6th generation? A stylish SUV? (Image source: Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of the People’s Republic of China, commonly known as the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology)

    　This information was revealed on the website of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of the People’s Republic of China (commonly known as the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology).

    　The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MITI) is the Japanese equivalent of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC).

    　Therefore, the system allows us to know in advance what kind of cars will be announced based on the information posted by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce.

    　The vehicle revealed this time is believed to be the next CR-V.

    　The first-generation CR-V was developed in 1995 using the platform of the Civic (EK model), and eventually became a bestseller, selling 237,847 units.

    　It has since become popular in countries around the world, and is now a very popular vehicle that sells significantly more in the U.S. and China than in its home country of Japan.

    　The current 5th generation CR-V was first introduced in the US, China, and Southeast Asia in 2016, and two years later, in 2018, it made its way to Europe and Japan.

    　Now, the next model of the CR-V, which is very popular in the world’s two largest auto markets, the US and China, will be the sixth generation, and is expected to be announced during 2022.

    　The design and some specs of the model that is expected to be the next CR-V have been revealed in the information submitted to the Ministry of Industry and Credit without waiting for the official announcement of the sixth-generation CR-V. What kind of car will it be?

    　First, the exterior design follows that of the current Vezel, which was introduced in 2021.

    　The entire design is composed of straight, simple lines, and a more refined hexagonal grille sits at the front than before.

    　On the rear, on the other hand, while the Vesel features the recent trend of straight taillight design, the next-generation CR-V, like the current model, has vertical taillights that are independent of each other on both sides.

    　The body size is 4703 mm (length) x 1866 mm (width) x 1690 mm (height) with a wheelbase of 2700 mm.

    　Incidentally, the current model for China is 4621 mm (length) x 1855 mm (width) x 1689 mm (height) x 2660 mm (wheelbase), which means that the next model will be 82 mm longer and have a 40 mm longer wheelbase.

    　The slightly larger body compared to the current model is expected to provide more interior space and cargo space with sales in the U.S. and China in mind.

    　As for the powertrain, it is described as “”L15BZ”” with 190hp output, which is one of the derivatives of Honda’s L15B inline 4-cylinder VTEC turbo engine.

    　Currently, only the 240 TURBO model equipped with the L15BT, a derivative of the L15B, is available for China.

    　The next CR-V will also be powered by the L15B engine, and the “”240 TURBO”” emblem is visible on the rear, indicating that it is the same as the current model, at least as far as the turbo model is concerned.

    　Then, like the current model, a hybrid model and a plug-in hybrid model (already introduced in the Chinese market) will probably continue to be introduced.

    Already the first public showing of the new Honda CR-V! Sixth generation to be completely revamped into a “”stylish SUV””? Why it appeared on a Chinese government website?

    Where does the CR-V stand in the Chinese and North American markets?
    　The CR-V arrived in China in 2004. At one point, it was the “”best-selling SUV in China”” for five consecutive years, and by 2020, cumulative sales in the Chinese market alone will exceed 2 million units, and its unstoppable momentum is a testament to the deep-rooted support for the CR-V.

    　In 2019, a sister model, the Breeze, will be launched. Honda has established two joint ventures, Dongfeng Honda Automobile and Guangqi Honda Automobile, of which the CR-V is manufactured and sold by Dongfeng Honda Automobile and the Breeze by Guangqi Honda Automobile.

    　Automakers with multiple joint ventures in China, such as Honda and Toyota, generally release the same car as sister models, giving each company a different design and name.

    　Besides the CR-V and Breeze, Honda has similar sister cars such as the Envix/Clyder, Civic/Integra, XR-V/Vezel, UR-V/Avancia, Life/Fit, and Elysion/Odyssey, in the order of Dongfeng Honda and Guangqi Honda, respectively.

    　With Dongfeng Motor’s CR-V transitioning to its next model, Guangqi Honda Automobile’s Breeze will also soon have its next model announced.

    　The next model is expected to be announced and released in the U.S. prior to China.

    CR-V Sport Hybrid e+, a PHEV version of the current model (for the Chinese market)

    　The CR-V is a very popular model in the U.S., selling nearly 400,000 units every year, and is close to Toyota’s RAV4 (407,739 units for the RAV4 and 361,271 units for the CR-V in 2021).

    　Also interesting is the “”Stolen Car Ranking”” in the U.S., where the 2020 CR-V is in 9th place with approximately 12,300 units stolen (up 22% from the previous year).

    　The Civic is also at the top of the list, with the 2000 model being the most commonly damaged in both situations.

    　While 180,377 units were sold in China in 2021, the current model has not performed well in its home country and Japan, where the end of sales of the current model has been announced.

    　This makes it understandable that the next model will also be conscious of the U.S. and China.

    　As mentioned above, on April 14, 2022, Honda of America announced its plan to expand the number of hybrid models among its main models.

    　At that time, the company announced that it would further increase the ratio of hybrid vehicles in its mainstay models, and announced that the next models of CR-V and Accord, which are the main sales models in this market, would be equipped with a hybrid system that offers the best performance in its class. Honda’s focus on the CR-V is evident.

    　We will continue to watch how Honda’s new SUV strategy will make its presence felt in these increasingly competitive small SUV markets in China and the US.”

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    Do you want a “mini Alphard”? 3 selections of “light wagons” with a powerful grille .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Want a “”Mini Alphard””? Three “”light wagons”” with a powerful grille and a gruff face

    Not to be outdone by the Alphard! Three Minicars Boasting a Smug Front Grille
    　On May 13, 2022, Toyota released the “”S “”TYPE GOLD III, a special edition of its luxury L-class minivan, the Alphard. This special edition model is even more powerful and luxurious with gold emblems and other features, and is expected to further increase its popularity.
    　
    　While the Alphard’s large, heavily designed front grille is a major feature, small light cars with large grills that are as powerful as the Alphard are also gaining strong popularity.
    　
    　In this issue, we will present three “”cool”” light cars with a “”big grille glare.

    At a glance, it looks like an “”Alphard? Let’s compare light wagons with big grilles!

    Suzuki Spacia Custom

    Is it a mini Alphard? Suzuki’s Spacia with an overly large grille.

    　The mainstream minicar is now the super high wagon model.

    　It is tall and has plenty of interior space. With sliding doors on both sides of the rear seats, they are easy to get in and out of, and are gaining popularity among families.

    　The Honda N-BOX has been the most popular kei super high wagon for several years, but the Suzuki Spacia is in second place.

    　The Spacia is characterized by a wide range of variations to meet the diverse needs of users.

    　In addition to the standard model, there are three types available: the SUV-style “”Spacia Gear”” and the “”Spacia Custom,”” which is the focus of this report.

    　The Spacia Custom is a “”custom”” version with a large chrome front grille, lower under grille, and LED headlights.

    　The “”Custom”” version features a large chrome front grille, a lower under-grille, and LED headlamps. The “”Custom”” version is a complete change from the calm and gentle Spacia, and has a style so powerful that even the Alphard would be surprised to see it in the same car.

    Will a commercial version be on the market anytime soon? Daihatsu “”Atrey Premium ver.

    　At the Tokyo Auto Salon 2022 held in January 2022, Daihatsu exhibited the “”Atley Premium ver.”” as a reference exhibit, a custom version of the “”Atley”” light commercial van that had just undergone a model change in December 2021.

    　While utilizing the simple front shape of the production version of the Atley, it was fully covered in silver plating, giving it the look of a luxury minivan.

    　Daihatsu has announced that the Atley Premium ver. is a “”customized car”” created for the show, but rumors are circulating on social networking sites that it may be made into a commercial model.

    　The big grille may become a trend in the world of light commercial vans in the future.

    The fact that it is not so glaring is the margin of champions! Honda “”N-BOX

    　For seven consecutive years, Honda’s “”N-BOX”” light super-high wagon has continued to hold the record for the No. 1 position in light car sales.

    　While the mini super high wagon was initially introduced by various companies with models featuring an adorable form to gain sympathy from mom users, the N-BOX, both the first and current models, appeared with a unique form that emphasizes squareness.

    　The design, which foreshadows a spacious interior, is uncluttered and has attracted wide support from men and women of all ages.

    　Like its rivals, the N-BOX Custom, a custom version of the N-BOX, is also available in the lineup.

    　However, the front design of the current N-BOX Custom does not look as glaring or intrusive as other companies’ models, and is characterized by its simplicity.

    　This seems to be the same philosophy shared by the company’s Step Wagon SPADA and Odyssey Absolute minivan custom grades.

    * * * *

    　The forms of light super-high wagons and light one-box vans, which combine a narrow vehicle width with a tall stature, tend to be slender and unreliable.

    　However, the large Alphard-style grille has the effect of eliminating this appearance of instability.

    　The reason why users are favoring light vehicles with large grilles may be not only because of the sense of power and forcefulness, but also because of the stable atmosphere, which is not unlike a light vehicle in a good sense of the word.”

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    Honda’s new “Odyssey Sports” announced! A black-faced minivan with a total length of over 5m is on sale in the US! What is the design different from the Japanese glare face “Alphard” .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Honda Announces New Odyssey Sport! Black-faced minivan over 5 meters long launched in the U.S.! What is the different design from Japan’s girly-looking “”Alphard”” and other models?

    New Odyssey “”Blackface”” Will Be the Next Trend!
    　On May 12, 2022, Honda’s U.S. subsidiary (Honda of America) announced the addition of a black-face “”Sport”” model to the Odyssey (2023 model year).
    　
    　In Japan, the glaring and powerful face designs of the Toyota “”Alphard”” and other models are favored, but will the trend change in the future?

    The era of cool face rather than smug face! Photos of the new Honda Odyssey .

    Honda’s new Odyssey Sport

    　The new Honda Odyssey Sport adopts a cool style, with the grille, moldings, and lamps all decorated in black.

    　It is a large minivan manufactured exclusively in the U.S., and its base model itself is different from the Japanese Odyssey.

    　It combines a 3.5-liter V6 engine with cylinder deactivation and a 10-speed automatic transmission to achieve a maximum output of 280 hp and excellent fuel economy.

    　The chrome moldings on the standard model are integrated into a gloss black finish on the new “”Sport”” model, giving it a sporty image, as the name suggests.

    　The new “”Sport”” also features Honda’s own cool color, “”Sonic Gray Pearl,”” which has the look of a “”solid color”” without metallics or pearlescence.

    　Honda has always taken a negative stance toward the so-called “”flashy, smug”” front mask.

    　The Odyssey for the Japanese market, which underwent a minor change in November 2020, has a much larger front grille, but the chrome surface is thinner and less shiny, resulting in a less flashy design.

    　The new Step Wagon, which will undergo a full model change on May 26, 2022, is similarly similar, with two types of front designs available for each variation, both of which promote a simple line.

    　This is in stark contrast to the Step Wagon’s rivals, the Toyota Noah and Voxy, both of which have just undergone a full model change in January 2022, and both of which have inherited the same flashy, smug look as the Alphard.

    * * *

    　The Sienna, a large minivan sold in North America, China, Korea, and other markets, has a bold grille design with a large opening, but the chrome decoration is kept to a minimum. In particular, the sporty “”XSE”” grade has as little chrome decoration as possible.

    　In fact, we suspect that the new Odyssey Sport was created with the Sienna XSE as a virtual enemy.

    　However, as mentioned above, the new Odyssey Sport is even more distinguished by its thorough elimination of chrome.

    　All eyes will be on the sales competition in North America to see if the edgy black face will set a new minivan trend.”

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    Toyota RAV4’s big brother changed V6 to straight-four turbo … Highlander US 2023 model .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota RAV4’s big brother, the V6 is replaced by a straight-4 turbo…Highlander U.S. 2023
    2.4-liter straight-4 turbo outperforms 3.5-liter V6 by 17% in maximum torque

    Two types of AWD systems available

    12.3-inch multi-information display in front of the driver

    Monday, May 16, 2022, 18:00
    Toyota Highlander 2023 model year

    On May 11, Toyota Motor Corporation’s U.S. division announced the 2023 model year of its midsize SUV, the Toyota Highlander. The current Highlander is the fourth generation model and will be introduced in the spring of 2019. In the U.S. market, the SUV will be positioned above the RAV4.

    ◆2.4-liter straight-4 turbo outperforms the 3.5-liter V6 by 17% in maximum torque

    In the 2023 model year, the conventional 3.5-liter V6 gasoline naturally aspirated engine is replaced by a downsized 2.4-liter inline-4 gasoline turbo engine. It draws maximum output of 265hp and maximum torque of 42.7kgm. This is 17% more than the maximum torque of 36.4 kgm of the conventional 3.5-liter V6, while reducing the displacement by 1.1 liter.

    The new turbocharged engine, which is standard equipment on all gasoline-powered vehicles, reduces NOx and NMOG (non-methane organic gas) in exhaust gas by more than 50%. Compared to the conventional V6 engine, CO2 emissions have also been reduced. As for fuel economy, it will be the same as the conventional V6 and is expected to achieve 24 MPG (approx. 10.2 km/liter) in combined mode. To reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, a stop-and-start engine system was adopted. When the vehicle comes to a stop, the engine also stops, and as soon as the driver’s foot leaves the brake pedal, the engine restarts.

    ◆The new turbo engine has a towing capacity of up to 2.2 tons, and is equipped with Trailer Sway Control (TSC), which uses VSC to control the movement of trailers when towing campers and other vehicles.

    ◆Two types of AWD systems available
    The models with the new turbocharged engine have a choice of FWD or two types of AWD systems as a drive system. The optional AWD system can redirect up to 50% of the torque to the rear wheels when it detects front wheel slip.

    The Turbo Platinum grade offers Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD, a performance-oriented AWD system. This AWD system features drive mode switching and a disconnect function. In addition to controlling torque distribution between the front and rear wheels, this advanced system uses special couplings to distribute torque between the left and right rear wheels.

    When AWD is not needed, such as when cruising on the highway, the rear wheel disconnect function automatically de-allocates the drive torque to the rear wheels and stops the rotation of the propeller shafts to reduce fuel consumption.

    ◆12.3-inch multi-information display in front of the driver

    The Limited and Platinum grades come standard with two 12.3-inch multi-information display (MID) screens. These 12.3-inch displays feature glare-reducing screens. Both grades replace the 7-inch TFT meter screen in front of the driver with a 12.3-inch full-digital instrument cluster, and introduce four different visual modes: casual, smart, tough, and sporty.

    The 12.3-inch center touchscreen in the center of the dashboard is optional on the XLE and XSE grades. These two grades will continue to have the 7-inch TFT instrument screen as standard. The L and LE grades replace the existing 7-inch TFT with a new 4.2-inch TFT.

    For the 2023 model year, Cypress is added as a new body color. Harvest Beige and Glazed Caramel were added to the interior colors. These replace the previous Noble Brown and feature black as an accent color, the company says.

    “

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    Toyota Boshoku aims to become an interior system supplier … Adopted for Toyota bZ4X .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota Boshoku Aims to Become an Interior System Supplier…Adopted for Toyota bZ4XMay 16, 2022 4:00 PM

    Toyota bZ4X interior rear seat. 2-stage reclining (6 degrees)Toyota bZ4X door trimToyota bZ4X
    Toyota Boshoku announced on May 13 that its seats and interior components have been adopted for Toyota Motor Corporation’s bZ4X medium segment electric SUV.

    The bZ4X features sporty front seats and rear seats with a two-stage reclining mechanism that contributes to improved rear seat comfort and luggage room (cargo space) convenience.

    In addition, the door trim uses a large decorative panel at the connection with the instrument panel, while the interior parts that people touch are made of leather material. Large pockets on the door trim can hold two PET bottles.

    In addition, Toyota Boshoku will supply the ceiling, carpets, and cabin air filter.

    Starting with the bZ4X, Toyota Boshoku will expand the range of parts it develops and aims to become an interior system supplier capable of offering integrated interior planning, design, development, procurement, and production services for the entire interior.”