Author: Chathura Chanuka

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    Chocolate Planet Nagata & Panther Mukai, drive in the rain with Honda “S660”! Experience the new “Vezel” etc.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Chokopura Nagata and Panther Mukai drive in the rain with Honda “”S660″”! Experience the new model “”Vezel”” and more!

    Driving Honda’s S660 together
    　The YouTube channel “”Mukai Nagata no Kuruma Onsen Channel”” featuring Shohei Nagata of the comedy duo “”Chocolate Planet”” and Toshi Mukai of the comedy trio “”Panther”” has been updated.

    What kind of mini car is the Honda “”S660″” that Chokopura Nagata and Panther Mukai experienced? See in pictures .

    The “”#7 -Choose a car with HONDA? It’s the Vezel! #8 -Akiruno with the S660? In the two videos titled “”Drive My Car,”” two people rent the company’s S660 mini-open car at a Honda dealership and go for a drive to experience a tent sauna.

    Honda’s S660 light convertible

    The “”S660″” concept car was exhibited at the Tokyo Motor Show, followed by the production model in March 2015. It was described as the second coming of the “”Beat,”” the light open car of yesteryear, and garnered much attention, but its production was discontinued in March 2022.

    　In the aforementioned video, Ms. Mukai, a paper driver, heads to Honda Cars Tokyo Chuo Koenji, which offers sales, inspection, maintenance, and rental services, in order to find a car that is easy to drive.

    　At the store, Nagata-san and Mukai-san experienced the S660, as well as the Vezel, Fit, and N-BOX Custom.

    　They were excited to see the S660 with a manual opening/closing roof, and when Ms. Mukai explained that the price of the Vezel (Z grade) they experienced was approximately 3,157,000 yen (including factory-installed options and consumption tax, the same below) and the Fit (HOME special edition Maison) was approximately 2,498,100 yen, she said, “”I can buy one with a lump sum”” and “”I can get one with a month’s work. He was also recorded saying, “”I can buy it if I work for a month.

    　Later, the two rented an S660 and went for a drive with Mr. Nagata driving.”

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    It’s natural to wait for half a year for the new Harrier / Vezel ! 3 superHarrier popular latest SUVs that you want to get quickly with a used car .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Waiting six months for the new Harrier/Vezel is the norm! Then there’s always “”older used cars””! 3 Super Popular Latest Model SUVs You Can’t Afford to Miss

    Current model cars are all over the place! You can find a lot of used cars! 3 popular models of the newest current models

    　Due to delays in parts supply overseas and the shortage of semiconductors caused by the Corona disaster, delivery dates for new cars continue to be delayed significantly.
    　
    　On their official websites, automakers are busy responding to these delays by announcing estimated factory shipment dates for various models as “”six months or more”” or “”contact a dealer for more details.
    　
    　On the other hand, if you visit major used car information sites, you can search for popular models that are facing long delivery times, and you can also find many “”registered unused cars”” or so-called “”new used cars”” with mileage of less than 500 km and in the same condition as new cars.
    　
    　Even the latest models, for which there is a long waiting list for delivery, “”can be found quite well if you look for used cars! Here are three popular SUVs of the current model.

    I want one after all! View photos of the extremely popular Harrier, Vezel, and Jimny

    　A longtime vehicle stockist at a major used car dealership in the Tokyo metropolitan area told us the following: “”I’ve been looking for a new used car for a long time, but I’m not sure I can find one.

    There have always been a certain number of so-called “”new used cars”” in circulation. Most of them are new cars that have been registered with a license plate number and immediately given away in order to meet the sales volume quota of new car dealers.

    　In recent years, there are even specialty stores that deal exclusively in such “”registered unused cars.

    In other words, the purchasing route has been firmly established to keep a certain number of vehicles available.

    　In fact, a search for the latest models on a used car information website turns up a large number of inventory hits from specialty stores specializing in registered unused cars. Specialty dealers are located throughout Japan, so it is a good idea to further narrow down the search to nearby areas.

    　In this case, we looked at the three most popular and newest models, which continue to have long delivery times. The search criteria are as follows

    1. year: less than 1 year old (2021 to 2022)
    2. Mileage: within 5,000 km
    3. latest model (old models are excluded)
    4. no repair history

    (Data based on editorial research as of May 11, 2022)

    * * * * * * * * * * * *

    Current models can be found here and there! Toyota “”Harrier

    　Toyota’s high-end SUV “”Harrier”” has been on an early waiting list for delivery when it is fully remodeled in June 2020 with the Corona disaster. New car prices (including consumption tax) range from 2.99 million yen to 5.04 million yen.

    　The “”estimated factory shipment date”” listed on Toyota’s official Web site indicated a delivery time of more than six months from the time of its launch.

    　When we checked again in early May 2022, it said, “”Please contact the dealer for details,”” and there is no clear statement such as “”six months or more”” like other models.

    　A search of major used car information sites using the aforementioned criteria yielded approximately 390 hits for the current model Harrier.

    The lineup includes the “”S,”” “”G,”” and “”Z”” grades, as well as the “”Leather Package”” with leather interior.

    　There is also a model equipped with the expensive factory-installed option of a “”dimming panorama roof”” (price including consumption tax: 198,000 yen) and the “”MODELLISTA”” aero parts set that costs about 300,000 yen as a dealer-installed option.

    　With so much to choose from, it is almost as good as a new car.

    ●We also found a top-of-the-line grade that is currently under order suspension! Honda “”Vezel

    　Honda’s compact SUV “”Vezel,”” which underwent a full model change in April 2021, also attracted attention due to its long delivery time after its debut.

    　The 1.5-liter gasoline engine model and the e:HEV hybrid model that combines the same engine and motor are available. New car prices range from 2,279,200 yen to 3,298,900 yen.

    　As of early May 2022, Honda’s official website states that “”gasoline-powered vehicles: approximately six months / e:HEV: six months or more,”” and among them, the highest grade “”PLaY”” is “”temporarily unavailable for orders due to a delay in parts supply.

    　A search of used car information websites also turns up as many as 500 units of the new VESEL.

    　Like the Harrier, each grade is available, and among them, we can see several PLaYs lined up, which are difficult to get even if you want one now.

    　The new car price of PLaY is 3,298,900 yen, but many of them are priced at 3,500,000 yen or more.

    　Some unused cars with mileage of less than 100km are listed at 4,349,000 yen, about 1,000,000 yen higher than the new car price.

    　This may indicate that there are many enthusiastic users who “”want one right away, even if it is a new car.

    New cars are still waiting for several years! Suzuki’s “”Jimny”” is also available for older model used cars.

    　The Suzuki Jimny is not the latest model, but it is representative of the popular SUVs for which long waits for delivery have become the norm.

    　The current model (4th generation), a 660cc displacement mini car with a full-fledged four-wheel drive system and excellent rough road drivability, was introduced in July 2018.

    　The model is sold worldwide, including exports, but due to its limited production scale compared to other mass-market vehicles, it has taken more than a year from the beginning to be delivered.

    　A search for this model also shows more than 870 used cars.

    　The price of a new Jimny ranges from 1,485,000 yen to 1,903,000 yen. Although several used cars can be found that are cheaper than the price of a new car, the central range of volume is between 2,000,000 yen and 2,500,000 yen, suggesting that many users want a car with a short delivery time, even if it costs a little more.

    The latest New York City, New Jersey

    　We found that even for the latest new models for which there is a waiting list for delivery, there are many used cars in circulation that are almost equivalent to new cars.

    　The person in charge at the used car dealer mentioned above told us the following about what we need to pay attention to in this case.

    The most important thing is to compare the price with a detailed estimate of a new car of the same condition. You need to consider not only the price of the vehicle itself, but also the total price including registration fees and other costs.

    　In some cases, even if the actual car is equipped with dealer options such as navigation systems and floor mats, they are not included in the estimated vehicle price. If you check each item in detail, you may find that a used car is more expensive.

    　The important thing is to weigh the advantage of having the car immediately available and whether or not you can agree on the difference.”

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    Honda “ZR-V” appears in China … its identity is the successor to the Vezel in North America.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Honda ZR-V Revealed in China…Its Identity is North America’s Vezel Successor2022, Wed, May 11, 18:00

    Honda ZR-V (China specs)New Honda HR-V (North America specs)
    On May 10, Guangqi Honda Automobile, a Chinese joint venture between Honda and Guangqi Group, unveiled photos of its new SUV, the ZR-V.

    Honda plans to launch the ZR-V in the European market in 2023, making it a C-segment SUV that will sit between the HR-V (the Japanese equivalent of the new Vessel) and the CR-V in Honda’s lineup. The powertrain will be the e:HEV hybrid, further expanding Honda’s lineup of electric powertrain vehicles in Europe.

    Honda plans to introduce the ZR-V not only in Europe but also in China. The photo released by Guangqi Honda Automobile shows the new HR-V itself, which American Honda Motor Co. plans to launch in North America this summer as the successor to the existing Vezel.

    The new HR-V for North America differs significantly in appearance from the Japanese version of the new Vezel. The front mask of the new HR-V has a honeycomb grille with a large opening in the center. At the rear, the garnish characteristic of the new Vezel is not equipped, and the tail lamps are also exclusively designed.”

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    Will Nissan’s “new SUV” finally come out ! “Movement” ants on the official website! Full model change over 8 years is the new “X-Trail” coming this summer?

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Nissan’s “”New SUV”” finally out? There is “”movement”” on the official website! Full model change over the past 8 years, the new “” X-TRAIL”” will appear this summer?

    Even Nissan’s official website officially states “”only a few left””! Full model change coming soon?
    　As of early May 2022, an announcement regarding the production status of the Nissan X-TRAIL has appeared on the official website (Japanese version).
    　
    Does this announcement really indicate the arrival of the new X-TRAIL?

    This is the new X-TRAIL! See the actual car displayed ahead of time at Nissan headquarters!

    Coming Soon! Has there been any movement on the new “” X-TRAIL””? When will it be fully remodeled in Japan? (Images show the new Extrail Chinese specifications)

    　In June 2020, the new X-TRAIL (overseas name: Rogue), the fourth-generation model, will make its world premiere in the United States, and after that, it will be successively introduced in various countries and markets.

    　In April 2021, the new X-TRAIL was unveiled at the Shanghai Motor Show under the name “”New X-TRAIL”” with the same interior and exterior as the Rogue, and its local launch began in the second half of the same year.

    　Therefore, it is expected that the new EXTRAIL to be launched in Japan will be fully remodeled with a design similar to the new Rogue in the U.S. and the new X-TRAIL in China.

    　The exterior design of the new Rogue (new Extrale) will feature Nissan’s signature design elements such as a floating roof and an evolved V-motion grille. The unique headlight shape and U-shaped body side highlights are also distinctive.

    　The interior varies by grade, with either leather or quilted semi-aniline genuine leather seats as standard equipment. The interior is designed to be more user-friendly, with storage space under the center console.

    　In addition, the U.S. version features a 10.8-inch full-color head-up display, a 12.3-inch digital dashboard gauge cluster, and a large 9.0-inch floating touchscreen display that can be combined to show the driver a variety of information .

    　The powertrain for the U.S. version includes an improved 2.5-liter gasoline engine from the previous generation model (181 hp, up 11 hp). The Chinese version is also equipped with a 1.5-liter inline 3-cylinder VC turbo engine with a maximum output of 204 hp, which is known to vary depending on the country or region.

    　In addition, the new xtrail (Chinese specifications) was exhibited at the Nissan Global Headquarters Gallery (Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture) on December 2, 2021, which suggested that its introduction to the Japanese market was imminent.

    　However, in Japan, Nissan’s home country, no official announcement regarding the full model change of the new Extrail had been made as of early May 2022.

    　In such a situation, as mentioned above, the official Extrail website (Japanese version) showed the following statement on the top page.

    Some specifications, grades, and colors may not be available due to production reasons. Please contact your local dealer for details.””

    　This kind of announcement can be seen in similar cases before partial improvements, minor changes, and even before a full model change.

    　In this case, it is stated as “”for production reasons,”” so it is possible that the announcement is due to the recent delay in parts supply. However, considering the aforementioned movements in other countries and the display in Japan, the possibility of production adjustment in preparation for a full model change is becoming stronger.

    　After such announcements, teasers (advance announcements) regarding model changes are sometimes made. At this point, there are no teasers for the new (4th generation) X-TRAIL, but Nissan dealers in the Tokyo metropolitan area say, “”It is said that the new Extrail will be released around this summer.

    　Extrail fans and Nissan fans have been waiting for the new Extrail. Its unveiling may be soon.”

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    Alphard fans like “Golden Pika” ! Gold special specification car is also the third! Looking back on the history of the “Alphard” Type Gold “” series .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Alphard Fans Love “”Gold Sparkles””! The gold special edition is now in its third series! A look back at the history of the Alphard “”Type Gold”” series

    Still selling like hotcakes 7 years after its debut! A Look Back at the History of the Special Edition Vehicles that Support the Alphard’s Popularity
    　On April 27, 2022, Toyota will introduce the “”S”” TYPE GOLD III, a special edition version of the L-class luxury minivan “”Alphard”” with gold accents throughout, which will go on sale on May 13.
    　
    As the name “”Type Gold III”” suggests, this is the third special edition model to bear the “”Type Gold”” name.
    　
    　Let’s take a look back at the history of the Type Gold series, the “”gilded”” Alphard that continues to be loved by users.

    Luxurious but affordable! The “”Type Gold”” series of the Alphard special edition models, which are also highly affordable.

    Toyota New Alphard Special Edition S “”TYPE GOLD III”” [2022].

    　The current Alphard is the third-generation model that underwent a full model change in January 2015.

    　The initial monthly sales target was 3,000 units, but orders received in the first month after its debut amounted to approximately 20,000 units.

    　Combined with the 22,000 orders for its sibling, the Vellfire (target: 4,000 units), the total order volume was an astounding 42,000 units, making it an incredibly popular model.

    　Special editions are generally added when sales have settled down, but the following July 2016, a special edition of the Alphard “”TYPE BLACK”” with exclusive gold emblems was added.

    　Minor changes were made as early as December 2017. The changes were extensive, including a second-generation version of the Toyota Safety Sense advanced driving assist function and detailed changes to the interior and exterior design.

    　From the time of this minor change to the present, the basic design has remained unchanged.

    * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

    　In May 2020, the “”S”” TYPE GOLD special edition was finally added.

    　Based on the “”S”” grade (2.5-liter gasoline FWD and 4WD/Hybrid E-Four, each with seating for seven passengers), the special gold emblem is complemented by an exclusive front grille with smoked chrome and black metallic paint, smoked chrome hood molding, smoked chrome trim, front bumper molding, and back door garnishes. The front bumper molding, back door garnish, and high-brightness painted 18-inch aluminum wheels dress up every detail.

    　The interior also features exclusive seat upholstery that combines perforated ultra suede and synthetic leather. The leather-wrapped steering wheel has a metal wood finish, and the roof and pillars are blackened.

    　The model also comes with a variety of specification improvements, including three-light LED headlights, LED sequential turn lamps, and a smart entry + push start system that adds a power back door, accessory outlet, and welcome power slide door functionality. The price at the time of release (including consumption tax) is 4,000 yen (including consumption tax).

    　Prices (including consumption tax) at the time of launch range from 4,240,000 yen to 5,040,000 yen. Compared to the base S, the price ranges from 332,000 yen to 241,000 yen higher.

    * * *

    　In May 2021, the following year, a special edition S “”TYPE GOLD II”” was launched in conjunction with partial improvements accompanied by specification changes.

    　In addition to the same decorations as the previous model, sunburst gold wood-grain panels and gold spattering decorations were added throughout the interior to increase the interior splendor.

    　Prices at the time ranged from 4,240,000 yen to 5,088,400 yen; the price difference with the S (gasoline model/no “”S”” available for the hybrid) was reduced to 255,000 yen.

    　The next year, in May 2022, a special edition model was newly introduced, the “”S”” TYPE GOLD III.

    　The “”TYPE GOLD III”” features a gold meter ring, further enhancing the gold look and feel.

    　The seats are upholstered in a new combination of suede-like material “”Blanc Nove II”” and synthetic leather.

    　Safety features have also evolved with the addition of a blind spot monitor and parking support brake (for vehicles approaching from behind) as standard equipment.

    　The price has increased slightly from 4,306,000 yen to 5,154,400 yen compared to the past two models, and the price difference with the S (gasoline model) has increased to 321,000 yen.

    * * *

    　The current Alphard, which set a sales target of 3,000 units per month at the time of its launch, sold 6,699 units in April 2022, almost seven years after its debut (according to the Japan Automobile Dealers Association), and its momentum is showing no sign of slowing down.

    　The steady popularity of the Type Gold series is undoubtedly the main reason for the Alphard’s strong sales volume.”

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    Toyota “Alphard” face “new minivan” announced! Introducing the high-end “iMAX 8 EV” with a powerful grill to China from the former rover!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Alphard Fans Love “”Gold Sparkles””! The gold special edition is now in its third series! A look back at the history of the Alphard “”Type Gold”” series

    Still selling like hotcakes 7 years after its debut! A Look Back at the History of the Special Edition Vehicles that Support the Alphard’s Popularity
    　On April 27, 2022, Toyota will introduce the “”S”” TYPE GOLD III, a special edition version of the L-class luxury minivan “”Alphard”” with gold accents throughout, which will go on sale on May 13.
    　
    As the name “”Type Gold III”” suggests, this is the third special edition model to bear the “”Type Gold”” name.
    　
    　Let’s take a look back at the history of the Type Gold series, the “”gilded”” Alphard that continues to be loved by users.

    Luxurious but affordable! The “”Type Gold”” series of the Alphard special edition models, which are also highly affordable.

    Toyota New Alphard Special Edition S “”TYPE GOLD III”” [2022].

    　The current Alphard is the third-generation model that underwent a full model change in January 2015.

    　The initial monthly sales target was 3,000 units, but orders received in the first month after its debut amounted to approximately 20,000 units.

    　Combined with the 22,000 orders for its sibling, the Vellfire (target: 4,000 units), the total order volume was an astounding 42,000 units, making it an incredibly popular model.

    　Special editions are generally added when sales have settled down, but the following July 2016, a special edition of the Alphard “”TYPE BLACK”” with exclusive gold emblems was added.

    　Minor changes were made as early as December 2017. The changes were extensive, including a second-generation version of the Toyota Safety Sense advanced driving assist function and detailed changes to the interior and exterior design.

    　From the time of this minor change to the present, the basic design has remained unchanged.

    * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

    　In May 2020, the “”S”” TYPE GOLD special edition was finally added.

    　Based on the “”S”” grade (2.5-liter gasoline FWD and 4WD/Hybrid E-Four, each with seating for seven passengers), the special gold emblem is complemented by an exclusive front grille with smoked chrome and black metallic paint, smoked chrome hood molding, smoked chrome trim, front bumper molding, and back door garnishes. The front bumper molding, back door garnish, and high-brightness painted 18-inch aluminum wheels dress up every detail.

    　The interior also features exclusive seat upholstery that combines perforated ultra suede and synthetic leather. The leather-wrapped steering wheel has a metal wood finish, and the roof and pillars are blackened.

    　The model also comes with a variety of specification improvements, including three-light LED headlights, LED sequential turn lamps, and a smart entry + push start system that adds a power back door, accessory outlet, and welcome power slide door functionality. The price at the time of release (including consumption tax) is 4,000 yen (including consumption tax).

    　Prices (including consumption tax) at the time of launch range from 4,240,000 yen to 5,040,000 yen. Compared to the base S, the price ranges from 332,000 yen to 241,000 yen higher.

    * * *

    　In May 2021, the following year, a special edition S “”TYPE GOLD II”” was launched in conjunction with partial improvements accompanied by specification changes.

    　In addition to the same decorations as the previous model, sunburst gold wood-grain panels and gold spattering decorations were added throughout the interior to increase the interior splendor.

    　Prices at the time ranged from 4,240,000 yen to 5,088,400 yen; the price difference with the S (gasoline model/no “”S”” available for the hybrid) was reduced to 255,000 yen.

    　The next year, in May 2022, a special edition model was newly introduced, the “”S”” TYPE GOLD III.

    　The “”TYPE GOLD III”” features a gold meter ring, further enhancing the gold look and feel.

    　The seats are upholstered in a new combination of suede-like material “”Blanc Nove II”” and synthetic leather.

    　Safety features have also evolved with the addition of a blind spot monitor and parking support brake (for vehicles approaching from behind) as standard equipment.

    　The price has increased slightly from 4,306,000 yen to 5,154,400 yen compared to the past two models, and the price difference with the S (gasoline model) has increased to 321,000 yen.

    * * *

    　The current Alphard, which set a sales target of 3,000 units per month at the time of its launch, sold 6,699 units in April 2022, almost seven years after its debut (according to the Japan Automobile Dealers Association), and its momentum is showing no sign of slowing down.

    　The steady popularity of the Type Gold series is undoubtedly the main reason for the Alphard’s strong sales volume.”

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    Introducing Naoko Ken’s favorite Toyota “Alphard”! Great success as a “dressing room substitute” Camaro, mini and other itineraries .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Naoko Ken introduces her favorite car, the Toyota Alphard! She also talks about her history with Camaro, Mini, and other cars.

    　Singer Naoko Ken made a guest appearance on the talk variety show “”Ogiyahagi’s Car History: NO CAR, NO LIFE! (every Saturday at 9:00 p.m.) She introduced her favorite car, the Toyota Alphard, and also revealed her car history.

    Naoko Ken introduced it as her favorite car! What kind of luxury minivan is Toyota’s “”Alphard””? See in pictures

    　Ms. Ken says about driving, “”It’s a lot of fun. I love it,”” she said with a big smile. I fall asleep when I get in the back (rear seat). I don’t fall asleep when I’m driving.

    　While revealing that he is not fond of traveling by train or airplane, he commented that he will also travel by car on his national tour. He said that he eats meals in the car at service areas, and explained that his Alphard serves as his “”dressing room.

    　Ken’s Alphard is the current 3rd generation model.

    * * * * * *

    　In the program, Ken was shown driving a “”Hillman Minx,”” a car that his father, who was a car enthusiast, used to drive, which was manufactured by Isuzu in partnership with Rootes Motors (UK) as a complete knockdown production.

    　He also shared that he was 31 years old when he got his driver’s license, while also revealing that he owned a Chevrolet “”Camaro Z28″” (2nd generation) and other cars in his 20s.

    　He also mentioned that he owned a BMW and Mercedes-Benz cars in his late 20s and 30s, and that one of the cars he owned in his 30s was a Rover “”Mini.

    　The second part of “”Ogiyahagi’s Car History: NO CAR, NO LIFE!”” in which Ken will appear as a guest will be broadcast on May 15 at 9:00 p.m.

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

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    Honda “Vezel” big brother “new ZR-V” to be released in Europe in 2023! New SUV debuts all over the world.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “New ZR-V, Brother of Honda’s Vezel, to be Launched in Europe in 2023! New SUV to debut successively around the world

    　Honda’s European division announced on May 10, 2022 that the new SUV will be named the ZR-V and will go on sale across Europe in 2023.

    It will be launched in Japan! The new Civic-based SUV “”ZR-V”” is hot!

    　The new ZR-V is a C-segment SUV positioned between the HR-V (Japanese name: Vezel) and CR-V sold by Honda in Europe.

    　The European version of the new ZR-V is equipped with the e:HEV hybrid powertrain. This will expand Honda’s electric vehicle options.

    * * *

    　Honda had announced that it plans to sell the new ZR-V globally, with different model names and equipment specifications for each region.

    　The first announcement on April 4, 2022 was for North America, with the model name “”HR-V.”” The HR-V is a crossover SUV that was once sold in Japan, but has undergone a unique evolution in North America, and the second generation model will be released in the summer of 2022.

    　Furthermore, on May 5, it made its world premiere in China as the new ZR-V. On May 10, it was announced on Honda’s official Twitter page that this new SUV (model name not yet announced) will be released in Japan by the end of 2022 (the image posted on Twitter is the new HR-V for North America).

    　The new HR-V (North America) and the new ZR-V (China and Europe) are SUVs based on the current Civic (11th generation).

    　Regarding the power unit, specifications for the new HR-V for North America are not known, but the Chinese version will likely be powered by a 1.5-liter turbo engine, while the European version will be powered by the e:HEV hybrid. The Japanese version, according to Honda, will also have the e:HEV, and may have a turbo and hybrid lineup.”

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    “It’s OK even if it’s 130,000 yen higher!” With the Hiace’s luxurious specification “explosive sales”, Nissan also newly established the highest grade of 160,000 yen higher .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Nissan also offers a new top grade of 160,000 yen higher than the previous one, thanks to the “”explosive sales”” of the Hiace’s luxurious specifications.

    New Caravan Targets Vigorous Demand from “”Individual Users
    　Nissan’s Caravan has been cited as a competitor to Toyota’s popular Hiace commercial van, which enjoys deep-rooted popularity.
    　
    　Nissan made minor changes to the Caravan in October 2021 in an effort to steal market share from the Hiace.
    　
    　Among other things, it has attracted attention for its new top-end grade, which is aimed at individual users.

    [Image] The more luxurious one is selling like hotcakes! Comparing the Highest Grade of the Hiace and Caravan in Photos (18 Photos)

    (Top) Toyota Hiace Special Edition “”Super GL “”DARK PRIME II / (Bottom) Nissan’s new Caravan GRAND Premium GX

    　In October 2021, Nissan made minor changes to its commercial van, the NV350 Caravan, and renamed it the Caravan.

    　The diesel engine model was added in February 2022, and went on sale in late April.

    　The minor changes include interior and exterior design changes and the adoption of new body colors to improve the quality feel, as well as enhanced performance of advanced driving support functions, making it eligible for the “”Support Car S (Wide)”” program.

    　Another major news is that the new Caravan is equipped with a newly developed diesel engine, combined with a multistage 7-speed automatic transmission to achieve both quietness and smooth acceleration.

    　The developers were particularly emphatic about the addition of the top-of-the-line “”GRAND Premium GX”” grade.

    　Until now, the NV350 Caravan has also had a higher grade “”Premium GX. It was prepared in response to the Super GL, a high-end grade of the Hiace.

    　Why were the Premium GX and Super GL added in the first place?

    　Originally, the primary purpose of a commercial van was to carry cargo, and the rear seats (second seats) were usually folded down.

    　The Premium GX and Super GL, however, have larger rear seats that can accommodate three adults.

    　This is targeted at individual users such as sole proprietors in the construction industry or individuals who use their vans for hobbies.

    　On weekdays, it is used as a folding cargo van like the regular grade. On weekends, when going out with family or friends, it can be used like a wagon.

    　Toyota was sensitive to the demand for “”more luxury”” from users in response to the growing demand for the Super GL. Toyota sensed the growing demand for the Super GL and responded with a more luxurious version of the Super GL. We have been offering special editions of the Super GL with even more luxurious features for some time now.

    　Currently, we are continuing to sell the Super GL “”Dark Prime II,”” which was launched in August 2018.

    　The exterior of the Dark Prime II has been upgraded with dark chrome on the grille and other chrome decorations, and LED headlamps are now standard equipment.

    　On the interior, a leather steering wheel, leather shift knob, instrument panel, window switches, and other various parts are decorated with black mahogany wood grain, and the seat upholstery has been changed to dark gray tricot and synthetic leather with double stitching.

    　The price of the Hiace Super GL Dark Prime II, including consumption tax, ranges from 3,280,600 yen to 4,190,600 yen. It is 133,900 yen higher than the regular Super GL (in the case of the 2WD, 2800 diesel).

    　According to Nissan’s developers, the popularity of the Dark Prime II has been particularly strong in recent years, despite the price difference of more than 100,000 yen, and they honestly told us that they added the GRAND Premium GX to the Caravan in hopes of further developing demand.

    　Like its rivals, the Caravan GRAND Premium GX features a dark chrome grille and other improvements to enhance the quality feel, LED headlamps as standard equipment, and dual sliding doors and back doors with auto closure.

    　Inside, the leather steering wheel and shift knob finishers have been given a dark satin chrome finish, and the air conditioner vent has been given a copper brown finish.

    　The seat fabric has also been upgraded to a combination of Jacquard fabric and synthetic leather.

    　Prices for the new Caravan GRAND Premium GX range from 3,192,200 yen to 4,182,200 yen. It is priced 168,300 yen higher than the Premium GX.

    * * *

    　Nissan’s development staff clearly stated the purpose of this minor change with the name of the vehicle, saying, “”It is to compete with the popular Hiace.

    　This is a rare case in the passenger car genre, where rivals often exist from multiple manufacturers in Japan and abroad, where development efforts are so clearly focused on a single vehicle.

    　With the additional launch of the new Caravan equipped with a new diesel engine, the competition in commercial van sales is expected to intensify further.”

  • | |

    What differentiates you from Taycan? Porsche Panamera approaching the interior of the next model .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “What differentiates it from the Taikan? A closer look at the interior of the next Porsche Panamera Tuesday, May 10, 2022, 8:30 p.m.

    The latest information on the next model of Porsche’s Panamera sports sedan (4-door coupe) has been caught by Spyder7, a scoop site, and we wonder how it will be differentiated from the 4-door Panamera EV. We take a closer look at the interior of the Panamera, along with photos of the car’s interior that we captured.

    The first thing one notices when looking at the interior of the prototype vehicle is the absence of a shift lever. If you look closely, you will see a toggle-style shifter similar to the one on the Tycoon on the left side of the infotainment display. However, you will notice that the electric parking brake is located at the top of the prototype, whereas the Tycoon is to the right of it.

    It also features the new PCM 6.0 infotainment system and a dedicated screen in the passenger glove box. Also of note is the appearance of an image of the next-generation Panamera on the infotainment display.

    The exterior features headlights with newly developed slim four-point DRLs; the C-pillars are completely concealed. On the sides, one can see newly designed door handles and the fueling port, which has been changed from a square to a circle. At the rear, the hatchback shape is also newly designed.

    The powertrain of the next model is unknown, but it is certain that it will not be a full EV to differentiate it from the Taikan. It will probably be powered by a more powerful 2.9-liter V-6 and 4.0-liter V-8 gasoline engines with mild hybrid technology. As for the plug-in hybrid E-Hybrid, it will likely be equipped with a larger battery pack to significantly improve EV driving range.

    The next Panamera model is expected to debut in late 2023.”

    　Among the new cars currently on the market, the main models that fall into this range are minicars and compact cars.

    　For example, the Toyota “”Yaris”” is a good target for the highest grade “”HYBRID Z”” (2,324,000 yen).

    　The Toyota Aqua also offers the highest grade, while the Sienta, Rise, and Yaris Cross also have multiple grades to choose from.

    　If you don’t mind a hybrid, you can also consider the Corolla Sport and Corolla Cross.

    　Other manufacturers include the Nissan Note S FOUR (2,288,000 yen), the Honda Vezel G (2,279,200 yen), the Subaru XV 1.6i-L EyeSight (2,332,000 yen), the Mazda CX-30 20S (2,392,500 yen), and the Suzuki CX-30 (2,370,000 yen). Or the Suzuki Swift Sport with the camera package for all-directional monitor (2,141,700 yen).

    　In addition, for minicars, the highest grade of almost all models are in the market.

    　Thus, with an annual income of around 5 million yen, it is likely that you can select a car model that suits your taste from a certain range of choices.

    　On the other hand, it would be difficult to fit into this line of thinking for domestic cars named “”luxury”” and most imported cars.

    Can you reach the Toyota Alphard with an “”average annual income of 5 million yen”” for Japanese people? Can you even aim for a gilded spec? What is different car selection by lump sum & loan?

    Harrier or Alphard if you take advantage of a residual value loan?
    　On the other hand, what if you use a loan?

    　For an office worker with an annual income of 5 million yen, if bonuses are not taken into account, the face value of the salary is approximately 420,000 yen, and if deductions are deducted and approximately 80% is taken out, the take-home pay is about 340,000 yen.

    　Since monthly loan payments are limited to about 20% of the take-home pay, 68,000 yen per month is the maximum amount that can be paid without any difficulty.

    　Thus, a 3-year loan (36 installments) would be 2,448,000 yen, and a 5-year loan (60 installments) would be 4,080,000 yen, which is the maximum amount that can be paid including interest.

    　However, in reality, option fees will be added and interest rates will also be charged. Taking these factors into account, the entry grade “”X”” (3,597,000 yen) of the “”Alphard”” with a 5-year loan with no down payment would have a monthly payment of 59,950 yen, which would be the maximum line you can consider.

    Toyota “”Harrier”” may also be obtainable with a loan!

    　Another option is to use a residual value loan.

    　A residual value loan is a loan in which the dealer guarantees the value (residual value) remaining at the end of the contract period (generally 3 to 7 years) at the time of contract, and the user repays the amount other than the residual value in installments.

    　The percentage of the residual value in the price is called the residual value ratio, which is approximately 50% for 3 years and 35% for 5 years. The residual value percentage is renewed every few months, so it is important to check it carefully when signing the contract.

    　As mentioned above, if a person with an annual income of 5 million yen can afford a monthly payment of 68,000 yen, a car with a residual value of 50% can be considered for a 3-year loan (36 payments) for 4,896,000 yen or a 5-year loan (60 payments) for 8,160,000 yen.

    　However, since the interest rate on a residual value loan tends to be higher than that of a regular loan and the interest accrues on the entire vehicle price, the total payment amount tends to be much higher than that of a regular loan.

    　In addition, there are some caveats: there is a monthly mileage limit, and the vehicle must be returned or remortgaged and settled in cash at the end of the contract period.

    　However, with a residual value set loan, you can manage to get a Toyota Harrier HYBRID G (4 million yen), which has a relatively high residual value ratio of 55% after three years, with monthly payments of about 61,000 yen on a three-year loan.

    　And with a five-year loan under the same conditions, a higher grade of the Alphard, for example, could also be considered.

    　The residual value of the Alphard’s HYBRID SR “”C”” package (5,720,000 yen) is about 55%, but with a 5-year loan, the monthly payment would be about 52,000 yen.

    　With this amount, even with expensive options, the monthly payment can be kept within a reasonable range.

    * * * * * *

    　The simulation presented here is only an example, and the actual payment will vary greatly depending on each individual’s situation. In addition, both regular loans and residual value loans involve certain risks.

    　On the other hand, if you consider these risks with a clear understanding of them, you may be able to expand your options.

    　With the information presented in this article as a reference, you should choose a purchase plan that suits your individual lifestyle.”