Author: Chathura Chanuka

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    Bilstein to release genuine sports B6 damper for RAV4 .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Bilstein to Release Stock Shape Sport B6 Damper for RAV4 on Monday, April 11, 2022 at 12:15 p.m.

    Abe Shokai, an authorized Bilstein distributor, will release the factory-installed Sports B6 damper for the Toyota RAV4 (gasoline 4WD, MXAA54) on April 30.

    The new product was developed to match the stock springs. Both front and rear are equipped with Bilstein’s signature gas-filled mono-tube damper, which can generate stable damping force even over long periods of use. The front damper is an inverted type with high rigidity and generates damping force from low speed operation range to achieve linear response to steering operation.

    The rear damper controls the way the damping force hits the bump rubber and strokes flexibly to ensure a comfortable ride for the rear seat occupants, and the synergistic effect with the front damper provides both stability and comfort when driving on highways.

    Priced at 70,400 yen for the front and 27,500 yen for the rear, the total for one vehicle is 195,800 yen. However, if the front struts are not traded in, a separate 17,050 yen per strut is required.”

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    Honda HR-V new model, different from Japanese Vezel .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “New Honda HR-V is different from Japan’s Vezel…North American Specs [Detailed Photos] April 9, 2022, 1:00 PM

    On April 4, American Honda Motor, Honda’s U.S. division, unveiled photos of the new HR-V (equivalent to the Vezel in Japan). It is scheduled to go on sale in the U.S. market this summer.

    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. The rear is not equipped with the new Vezel’s distinctive garnish, and the tail lamps are also exclusively designed.

    Wide LED headlights and taillights emphasize the new model’s athletic stance. The sculpted surface of the rear hatch and functional tailgate spoiler are said to accentuate the sporty proportions.

    The new HR-V is based on the new Civic, the 11th generation of the model. In this respect, too, it differs from the new Vesel for Japan. The new Vezel is based on the platform of the Fit.
    “

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    Eclipse Cross, Mitsubishi original “S-AWC” standard equipment , US 2023 model .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Eclipse Cross with Mitsubishi’s unique S-AWC as standard equipment…U.S. 2023 model year [Detailed Photos] 12:30, April 8, 2022
    On April 5, the U.S. division of Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) announced the 2023 model year of the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross (Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross).

    All models for the 2023 model year are 4WD and come standard with S-AWC, which is based on electronically controlled 4WD that distributes torque optimally to the front and rear wheels, Active Yaw Control (AYC), which enhances turning performance by adjusting the braking force of the front left and right wheels, and ABS & It is Mitsubishi’s unique technology that coordinates Active Stability Control (ASC).

    For the 2023 model year, the LE, SE, and SEL grades feature newly designed 18-inch aluminum wheels. The top-of-the-line SEL grade upgrades the side under-trim to a body-color finish, while the SE grade adds a silver front bumper garnish.”

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    Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, “S-AWC” standard equipment on all 4WD models , US 2023 model .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, all models with 4WD and “”S-AWC”” as standard equipment…US 2023 model year
    S-AWC”” for enhanced cornering performance based on electronically controlled 4WD
    U.S. version is 1.5-liter turbo only
    Tomtom Connected Navigation

    On April 5, Mitsubishi Motors’ U.S. division announced the 2023 model year of the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross (Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross). The local base price is $25,795 (approximately 3.2 million yen).

    ◆S-AWC, which enhances cornering performance based on electronically controlled 4WD
    For the 2023 model year, all models are 4WD, with S-AWC as standard equipment. The 2WD (FWD) model available for the Japanese version will not be offered for the U.S. market.

    S-AWC is based on electronically controlled 4WD that distributes torque optimally to the front and rear wheels. It is Mitsubishi’s proprietary technology that coordinates Active Yaw Control (AYC), which enhances turning performance by adjusting the braking force of the front left and right wheels, with ABS and Active Stability Control (ASC), which control braking force.

    For the 2023 model year, the LE, SE, and SEL grades feature newly designed 18-inch aluminum wheels. The top-of-the-line SEL grade upgrades the side under-trim to a body-color finish, while the SE grade adds a silver front bumper garnish.

    ◆The U.S. version is only available with the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine.
    The U.S.-spec model is equipped only with a direct-injection 1.5-liter inline 4-cylinder gasoline turbo engine. The Eclipse Cross PHEV, an electric model available in the Japanese version, is not available in the U.S.

    The suspension features a larger rear damper shaft to improve ride comfort. The rear suspension crossmember has a double vibration-isolating structure. The suspension has been optimized for more precise and stable handling in everyday situations and maneuverability on slippery surfaces.

    On the safety front, all models are equipped with the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) with pedestrian detection and Lane Departure Warning (LDW) as standard equipment. Automatic High Beam (AHB) assist headlamps and rain-drop sensitive wipers are now available on the LE, SE, and SEL grades, while Blind Spot Warning (BSW) with Lane Change Assist (LCA) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) are standard on the SE grade and above. The company is also offering a new product, the “”Mazda Mazda RX-8″”.

    ◆TomTom Connected Navigation
    The “”Smartphone Connected Navigation”” system allows the use of Google’s Android Auto and Apple’s CarPlay simply by connecting an Android smartphone or iPhone to the USB port, in addition to route guidance and other functions using the built-in map. The display screen has been enlarged to 8 inches for ease of viewing and operation.

    The “”connected navigation”” system includes TomTom maps and real-time traffic services. TomTom’s Connected Navigation is the first in-car navigation system in the automotive industry. TomTom is working with “”what3words”” to provide drivers with innovative addressing technology, even when offline.

    what3words is a very simple way to communicate location information. The world is divided into 3 meter squares and each is assigned a unique 3-word address. what3words No app, data, or smartphone connection is required to enter or navigate a what3words address. what3words complements TomTom’s navigation and helps users get where they are going. Apple “”CarPlay”” and Google “”Android Auto”” are standard on LE and higher grades.”

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    Front strut tower bar for Nissan Kicks from Blitz .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “BLITZ Adds Front Strut Tower Bar for NISSAN KIX

    Tuning parts manufacturer BLITZ has added a model for the front of NISSAN KIX to its BLITZ STRUT TOWER BAR series currently on sale.

    Customized New Product Information Wednesday, April 6, 2022
    BLITZ STRUT TOWER BAR for NISSAN KIX Front
    Tuning parts manufacturer BLITZ has added a front model for NISSAN KIX to its “”BLITZ STRUT TOWER BAR”” series currently on sale.

    This product uses a 50mm wide, 15mm thick hollow structure aluminum shaft to achieve lightweight and high rigidity strut tower bar. It improves the vehicle’s dynamic performance by reducing body distortion during cornering and braking and allowing the suspension to perform at its full potential.

    The shaft portion is blasted and then coated with a special black coating to achieve a textured look that is more scratch-resistant than normal black. In addition, the 50mm wide shaft makes its presence felt in the engine compartment. In addition, the shaft center section is laser-engraved with the BLITZ logo for durability and high quality feel.

    The bracket part is designed exclusively for each car model with BLITZ’s know-how to achieve high strength. The red metallic paint contributes not only to strength but also to dress up the engine compartment.

    It is also compatible with BLITZ’s electronically controlled coilover kit “”DAMPER ZZ-R SpecDSC PLUS”” to prevent interference with the motor, and can be installed at the same time.

    BLITZ STRUT TOWER BAR for Front
    Applicable model: NISSAN KIX (P15, 2020/06-)
    Price: ¥17,050 (tax included)

    Inquiries: Blitz Support Center tel. 0422-60-2277 (10:00-17:00 Mon-Fri)

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

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    Honda HR-V new model is Civic base, larger than Japanese Vezel .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “The new Honda HR-V is based on the Civic and larger than Japan’s Vezel…North American specifications
    Exclusive exterior that differs from the Vezel

    Large glass area for driver visibility

    Responsive engine and newly designed independent rear suspension

    Latest “”Honda Sensing”” as standard equipment
    Honda HR-V new model (North American specifications)
    On April 4, American Honda Motor, Honda’s U.S. division, unveiled photos of the new HR-V (equivalent to the Vezel in Japan). It is scheduled to go on sale in the U.S. market this summer.

    ◆ Exclusive exterior that differs from the Vezel
    The HR-V was unveiled at the New York Motor Show 2014 in the spring of 2014 as a North American version of the Vezel. As for the Vezel, a new model has already been launched in Japan and other markets, but the conventional model is sold in the United States.

    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. The rear is not equipped with the new Vezel’s distinctive garnish, and the tail lamps are also exclusively designed.

    Wide LED headlights and taillights emphasize the new model’s athletic stance. The sculpted surface of the rear hatch and functional tailgate spoiler are said to accentuate the sporty proportions.

    ◆Large glass area for driver visibility
    The new second-generation HR-V will feature a low, horizontal beltline, long hood hood, large grille, wide tread, and smooth roofline.

    Large glass areas provide excellent visibility for the driver, thanks in part to door-mounted side mirrors and low fenders. To achieve a cleaner, more luxurious exterior, the roof sides are joined using “”laser braze”” technology, a type of brazing, eliminating black molding components. In addition, the windshield wipers are now hidden under the hoodline when normal

    The new HR-V boasts a level of sophistication that is enhanced by significantly improved dynamics and powertrain responsiveness, allowing it to be driven with confidence.

    ◆Independent rear suspension with newly designed engine that excels in response
    The new HR-V is based on the new Civic, the 11th generation model. In this respect, it is also different from the new Vesel for the Japanese market. The new Vezel is based on the platform of the Fit.

    The new HR-V has a larger body size, longer wheelbase, and wider tread than the previous model. According to American Honda, it is sporty and distinctive, yet agile in urban handling, while having the interior space and practicality for weekend driving. It is also said to be a compact SUV with a more responsive engine and a newly designed independent rear suspension.

    The new HR-V aims to capture younger customers who are buying their first personal vehicle and customers who are driving a Honda-branded vehicle for the first time, and to once again improve its position as a segment leader.

    ◆The latest “”Honda Sensing”” as standard equipment
    The new HR-V will be equipped with the latest Honda Sensing as standard equipment. Honda Sensing for the new Civic features Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keeping Assist, and other functions, as well as Traffic Jam Assist. The new HR-V is expected to adopt a similar Honda Sensing system.

    Among them, Traffic Jam Assist is a function that assists driving in traffic jams. When driving at low speeds on highways, the system reduces the driver’s driving load by maintaining the distance between vehicles while adjusting to changes in speed of the vehicle in front and assisting the driver’s steering operation to keep the vehicle near the center of the lane. Cameras and millimeter-wave radar are used to detect the lane and the vehicle in front.

    The new HR-V will be available in grades such as Sport and EX-L. Body colors will include Urban Gray Pearl, Milano Red, and Nordic Forest Pearl.

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

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    Two types of harmonic drive kits for Subaru Levorg from Blitz .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Blitz Introduces Two Kinds of Ride Height Adjustment Kit for Subaru LevorgWednesday, April 6, 2022 9:30 PM
    Front: 31mm down / Rear: 33mm downBritz DAMPER ZZ-R SpecDSC PlusBritz DAMPER ZZ-R SpecDSC Plus
    On April 5, BLITZ, a tuning parts manufacturer, started selling the “”DAMPER ZZ-R”” and “”DAMPER ZZ-R SpecDSC Plus”” coilover kits for the Subaru “”Levorg”” (VN5/VNH, from November 2021).

    The DAMPER ZZ-R is a mono-tube coilover kit with full-length adjustment and 32-level damping force adjustment. It balances driving performance and ride comfort, and can be used in various driving situations from street to circuit.

    Aluminum upper mounts, lock seats, and brackets (in some cases) are used to achieve both high performance and light weight. The φ44 large-diameter piston, which is unique to the mono-tube design, is used to suppress the delay in damping force, resulting in supple running comfort and tracking performance. In addition, the cartridge can be overhauled ahead of time, allowing for smooth handling and replacement of consumable parts.

    Priced at 259,600 yen including consumption tax.

    DAMPER ZZ-R SpecDSC Plus is a coilover kit that combines a full-length adjustable suspension with electronic damping force adjustment. This kit also balances driving performance and ride comfort, and can be used in various driving situations from street to circuit. The high-performance bipolar (2-phase inverted) control motor has achieved a 17% downsizing and 5% speed-up compared to the previous model.

    Damping force adjustment can be changed from the interior. The damping force setting is equipped with the industry’s first “”fully automatic”” mode (Blitz Shirabe). This is a fully automatic control function that stabilizes the posture with appropriate damping force based on the number of passengers and driving conditions.

    The display is a 2.5-inch VA LCD with a reputation for contrast performance. The display is larger than that of the previous model and can display the damping force of all four wheels at all times. The rotary encoder has been adopted for more intuitive operation, and the UP and DOWN buttons have also been enlarged.

    A G-sensor is now standard equipment, and the “”map control mode”” allows fine damping force adjustment according to turning G-force, acceleration/deceleration G-force, and vehicle speed. The display can show G in real time as well as peak G, which may be useful for setting up the system.

    Damping force setting modes include 20 sets of pre-determined damping force settings, as well as auto mode and map mode, for a total of 22 modes in memory function.

    A GPS sensor kit (sold separately) enables speed-linked control, displaying vehicle speed, time, latitude, longitude, and sea level altitude from GPS.

    Price including consumption tax: 336,600 yen
    “

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    Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross standardizes “S-AWC” for all cars,2023 model announced in the United States .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Announces 2023 Model Year in the U.S….S-AWC to be Standard 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, April 6, 2022

    On April 5, the U.S. division of Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) announced the 2023 model year of the Mitsubishi EclipseCross.

    For the 2023 model year, all models are now 4WD and equipped with S-AWC as standard. The 2WD (FWD) model available for the Japanese version will not be available for the U.S. market.

    S-AWC is based on electronically controlled 4WD that distributes torque optimally to the front and rear wheels. It is Mitsubishi’s proprietary technology that coordinates Active Yaw Control (AYC), which enhances turning performance by adjusting the braking force of the front left and right wheels, with ABS and Active Stability Control (ASC), which control braking force.
    “

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    Yaris is the leader for the second consecutive year, Toyota is the top three monopoly for the third consecutive year.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Yaris tops the list for the second year in a row, Toyota dominates the top 3 for the third year in a row FY2021 New Car Registrations by Vehicle Name2022 Apr 6, 2022 4:30pm

    Toyota Yaris Toyota Roomy Toyota Corolla Cross
    On April 6, the Japan Automobile Dealers Association (JADA) released its passenger car sales ranking by name for fiscal year 2021 (April 2021-March 2022). The Toyota Yaris, which sold 191,414 units despite a 5.5% decline from the previous year, topped the list for the second consecutive year.

    In second place was the “”Roomy”” with sales of 134,321 units, up 30.3% from the previous year’s fifth place, followed by the “”Corolla”” in third place with 124,224 units, up 10.2% from the previous year, making this the third consecutive year that Toyota has dominated the top three spots.

    The Toyota Aqua, which underwent its first full model change in July last year, and the Honda Vezel, whose new model was launched in April of the same year, ranked 5th and 9th, respectively, after being outside the top 10 last year. On the other hand, Honda’s Fit, which ranked 6th last year, and Toyota’s Voxy, which ranked 9th last year, fell outside the top 10.

    FY2021 New Passenger Car Sales Ranking
    No. 1 [No. 1]: Toyota Yaris, 191,414 units (down 5.5%)
    No. 2 [No. 5]: Toyota Roomy, 134,321 units (up 30.3%, fifth consecutive year of growth)
    No. 3 [No. 3]: Toyota Corolla 124,224 units (up 10.2%, the first increase in two years)
    No. 4 [No. 10]: Nissan Note 95,521 units (up 32.9%, first increase in three years)
    No. 5 [No. 15]: Toyota Aqua 84,734 (up 76.1%)
    No. 6 [No. 2]: Toyota Rise 84,731 units (down 30.0%)
    No. 7 [No. 4]: Toyota Alphard 79,726 units (down 25.2%, first decline in five years)
    No. 8 [No. 8]: Honda Fried 73,661 units (up 0.4%, the first increase in two years)
    9th [23rd]: Honda Vezel 59,674 units (up 112.3%)
    No. 10 [No. 7]: Toyota Harrier 58,989 units (down 32.1%, the first decline in two years)

    Figures in parentheses indicate the previous year’s ranking, and figures in parentheses indicate the year-on-year change.
    “