Author: Chathura Chanuka

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    Toyota’s new Vitz unveiled for the first time is Suzuki OEM

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Toyota’s new “Vitz” unveiled for the first time is “Suzuki OEM”! What is the Suzuki Celerio with MT and under 900,000 yen?

    Is Toyota’s New Vitz an OEM of Suzuki’s Celerio?
    　On January 26, 2023, Toyota’s South African subsidiary unveiled the all-new Vitz, which will be introduced in 2023, at the company’s SOMI.

    The new Toyota Vitz and Suzuki Celerio, back after a three-year absence

    　Although detailed information about the new Vitz, including its size, has not been released, Toyota explains that it is the successor to the Agia, an A-segment compact car sold in the same market.

    　On the other hand, some foreign media reports indicate that the new Vitz is an OEM model of the Suzuki Celerio. What kind of car is the Celerio?

    Suzuki’s Celerio (above) and Toyota’s new Vitz (below) shown at SOMI

    　SOMI is an exhibition organized by Toyota’s South African subsidiary, where the company’s business plans and a number of new models scheduled to be introduced in 2023, including the Mirai, Crown, and Lexus UX EV, were presented.

    　Among them was the new Vitz, which is scheduled to be introduced in the second quarter of 2023.

    　The Vitz is a compact car that was once sold in Japan, and its first generation model was introduced on January 13, 1999, followed by the second generation in 2005 and the third generation in 2010. In the same year, the car underwent a full model change and was renamed to the globally-unique “Yaris.

    　The new Vitz, whose name will be revived in South Africa for the first time in three years counting from 2020, is an A-segment compact car. Toyota’s South African subsidiary explains that it is the successor to the Agia, an A-segment compact car sold in the same market.

    　On the other hand, some overseas media have reported that it is an OEM model of the Suzuki Celerio, and in fact, a comparison of the exteriors shows that the Vitz and the Celerio share the same exterior except for the emblems.

    　The Suzuki Celerio is the flagship model of Suzuki’s Indian subsidiary Maruti Suzuki, which has been well received for its compact body and spacious interior and cargo space since its launch in India in 2014.

    　The current model is the third generation model, introduced in 2021, and is exported not only to India but also to Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa.

    　The exterior has a striking look with intrepid headlights and an aggressive front grille, and the body has a dynamic shape with intonating curves.

    　The interior has been redesigned to provide more legroom by improving the layout of the seats and other parts, further enhancing comfort while ensuring ample cargo capacity.

    　The powertrain is powered by a 1.0-liter inline 3-cylinder dual-jet engine with maximum output of 66 hp and maximum torque of 89 Nm. The body size is 3695 mm (overall length) and 3695 mm (overall width).

    　The Celerio’s body measures 3695 mm (overall length) x 1655 mm (overall width) x 1555 mm (overall height), making it a very compact car comparable to the Passo, a Toyota vehicle sold in Japan.

    　The price of the Celerio (Indian specifications) starts at 535,000 Indian rupees (approximately 840,000 yen).

    　Although details of the new Vitz have not been made public, foreign media reports that there will be no major changes from the Suzuki version, and that the specifications will be almost identical.

    　In addition to the new Vitz, the Starlet, an OEM model of the Suzuki Baleno, is also being rolled out in South Africa, and there have been cases where the name of the car used in Japan has been reissued and used.

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    Too Comfortable Hiace From natural wood interior to home air conditioner

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Too Comfortable “Hiace”! From natural wood interior to “home air conditioner”! Three “Hiace Camping Cars” attracting attention from the “Overnight in a Car” crowd!

    The Hiace is not just for “work”! 3 Hiaces that stay overnight in the car
    　The Toyota Hiace is a commercial one-box van that is used all over Japan, and many “camping cars” have been produced to take advantage of its spacious interior.
    　
    　In this issue, we will introduce three of the latest Hiace campers that will be exhibited at the Japan Camper Show 2023 (JCS2023) to be held at Makuhari Messe (Chiba City, Chiba Prefecture) from February 3 to 6, 2023.

    Not Just for “Work”! Photos of the “Osha” Interior “Hiace”

    Work cars get a “stylish” makeover! The photo shows the new “Lexby Solan” camper, a Toyota “Hiace Van” equipped with home air conditioning.

    Equipped with home-use air conditioner! New camper “Lexby Solan

    　Lexby, a company that manufactures and sells campervans, will unveil its new model, the “Lexby Solan,” at the JCS 2023 venue.

    　With an overall length of 4,695 mm x width of 1,695 mm x height of 1,980 mm, it is an 8-number model based on a standard body and standard roof vehicle with a relatively compact body size among the Hiace models.

    　The standard-body Hiace is equipped with a lithium-ion battery, FF heater, 19-inch TV monitor, solar panels, and other features.

    　The interior is also designed to be easy to transport with pets, and features a bright interior tone to complement pets, as well as materials that are resistant to water, friction, and claw marks.

    　The Lexby Solan is available in gasoline (2WD/4WD) and diesel (2WD) models, with a seating capacity of six passengers and sleeping capacity of three.

    Flagship with luxurious and stylish interior! Exclusive Artisan Type 2

    　K-WORKS, a camper builder that develops and sells the Hiace, Mitsubishi Delica D:5, Suzuki Every, and other camper models, will be exhibiting a number of camper models at JCS2023.

    　Of particular note is the “EXCLUSIVE ARTISAN Type-2,” a camper based on the wide-body, middle-roof Hiace Wagon GL.

    　This flagship model, which K-WORKS describes as “a camper that embodies the concept of ‘everything in one vehicle,'” is fully equipped with the latest high-capacity lithium-ion sub-battery with a maximum capacity of 510 Ah, air conditioning, solar panels, and other items highly demanded by users.

    　The fashionable interior tailoring with a vintage taste, including pure domestic furniture made of solid natural wood, is also attractive.

    　It features a wide range of space that can be used not only for play, but also for work, such as a mobile office, and even as a shelter in case of emergencies.

    SEDONA’s new “SUNRISE” series

    　The SEDONA series of Hiace campers is an original brand launched by Workvox, a company that designs, develops, and produces campers, mobile offices (mobile office vehicles), and welfare transportation vehicles.

    　Three models, “type III,” “type IV,” and “LAKESIDE,” are already on sale, and the new “SUNRISE” lineup (seating capacity: 6 persons/2 sleepers) will be unveiled for the first time at JCS2023.

    　The main feature of this model is its fashionable interior atmosphere with real solid wood (original pine) used all over the ceiling.

    　The bed size is 2,700 mm (length) x 1,200 mm (width) and can accommodate two sleeping adults.

    　Based on a standard 4-number body with a standard roof, the design concept of the Lakeside (seating capacity for 3), one of the most popular models in the series, and the usability of the Type III (seating capacity for 6) are combined to create the most minimalist design, without a sink, water tank, or the like.

    　As mentioned above, the above three models will be exhibited at the Japan Camper Show 2023 (JCS2023) to be held at Makuhari Messe from February 3 (Friday) to February 6 (Monday), 2023.

    　At the event, more than 300 of the latest campervans sold by campervans builders from all over Japan will be on display, as well as a comprehensive outdoor and leisure event introducing “travel,” “pets,” “dining,” “disaster prevention,” “outdoor activities,” “entertainment,” and more.

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    The new Ultimate Toyota C-HR has arrived

    ByChathura Chanuka

    The new “Ultimate” Toyota C-HR has arrived! The appearance of the “Ultimate” grade is a premonition of the arrival of the “next model”? New Model Launched in France

    The Ultimate and Last? Ultimate Grade to Appear in the 2023 C-HR
    　On February 1, 2023, Toyota’s French subsidiary announced the introduction of new “Dynamic Ultimate” and “Design Ultimate” grades for the 2023 C-HR, replacing the existing “Dynamic” and “Design” grades, respectively.

    The last current model “C-HR”? The “Ultimate” grade of Toyota’s new “C-HR”.

    　It appears to be a model with more standard equipment in addition to the previous “Dynamic” and “Design” grades.

    The Last of Us? Toyota’s 2023 C-HR Dynamic Ultimate

    　The C-HR is a car that was unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in September 2014 as a concept model, the TOYOTA C-HR Concept, and later made its official debut as a coupe-style compact SUV in December 2016.

    　As of December 2022, it is also sold in Japan, and a minor-changed model with exterior improvements such as enlarged front air intakes will be released in 2019.

    　The body size is 4385-4390 mm (overall length) x 1795 mm (overall width) x 1550-1565 mm (overall height), giving it an easy-to-manage size.

    　The powertrains of the C-HR sold in France are all hybrids. In addition to the 1.8-liter engine version with a maximum output of 122 hp, the GR SPORT model is equipped with a 2.0-liter engine version with a maximum output of 184 hp.

    　The new “Dynamic Ultimate” and “Design Ultimate” grades added in France replace the existing “Dynamic” and “Design” grades.

    　The Dynamic Ultimate grade retains the price of the Dynamic grade, but now comes with a variety of standard equipment, including rain-drop sensitive windshield wipers, anti-collision radar, keyless entry, and heated front seats.

    　Compared to the Design, the Design Ultimate now comes standard with two-tone colors and new 35-inch alloy wheels.

    　The Dynamic Ultimate is priced at 27,750 euros (approximately 3,930,000 yen) and the Design Ultimate at 30,200 euros (approximately 4,270,000 yen).

    　Speaking of the C-HR, on December 5, 2022, Toyota’s European subsidiary unveiled the C-HR Prologue, a concept car that foreshadows the next C-HR model.

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    The long-awaited Jimny 5-door is available in a wide variety of colors

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Many people want the new “Jimny 5-door” in “vivid red”? Some even declared “I’ll buy it when it comes out” because of the “flashy color” that has never been seen in Japan! What is the reaction on SNS?

    The new “Jimny 5-door” in “vivid red” is well-received? Some people declared, “I’ll buy it as soon as it comes out.
    　Suzuki’s Indian subsidiary, Maruti Suzuki, unveiled the world premiere of the new Jimny (5-door version) at the Auto Expo 2023 in New Delhi, attracting a lot of attention.
    　
    　Among them, the body color that is not available for the Japanese 3-door model “Jimny Sierra” is available, and many opinions have been posted on social networking sites.

    The long-awaited “Jimny 5-door” is available in a wide variety of colors! What colors other than the vivid red? See in pictures

    People want a “Red Jimny”!

    　The Jimny was introduced in 1970 and is a compact, full-fledged four-wheel drive vehicle characterized by its ladder frame and part-time 4WD system with an auxiliary transmission in the compact body of a mini-car.

    　The second generation model, sold from 1981 to 1998, added the regular Jimny Sierra model with an enlarged body and engine in addition to the mini-car model, which was also sold overseas.

    　In 2018, the current, fourth-generation model was introduced, with a square design that seems to be returning to its roots, as well as safety features appropriate for the modern age, such as the Suzuki Safety Support advanced driving assist system.

    　The series has been sold in 199 countries to date, with a cumulative total of more than 300,000 units sold.

    　The current Jimny has a 5-door model, which has been highly requested by users in Japan for its convenience and other features, and was introduced at Auto Expo 2023 in India.

    　The main feature of the new Jimny 5-door model is that it is a 5-door version with an additional rear door at the rear, and features a special rear seat and interior.

    　Many Jimny fans and four-wheel drive vehicle fans expressed their delight on social networking sites, and the “Jimny 5-door” became a trending topic on Twitter at one point.

    　Maruti Suzuki’s official website has already posted a catalog of the new Jimny 5-door.

    　Looking at the body colors, it appears that there will be five monotone (single-color) colors and two dual-tone colors with a black roof, for a total of seven colors, and red, which is not available on the Japanese Jimny Jimny Sierra, will be available.

    　The “Sizzling Red” color in the lineup is a slightly darker red that emphasizes the tough image of the Jimny series. It also appears to be the only one available in both monotone and dual-tone options.

    　This was commented on social networking sites as “I like the red color! It matches the Jimny Long.” “Jimny red is so cool!” “I want to see the Jimny 5-door red! I wonder what it looks like in real life. I want to see the red Jimny 5-door. I wonder what it will look like in real life.

    　Some also commented, “Jimny 5-door, red also looks different from the previous Jimny, which is attractive.

    　Some also commented, “The Jimny 5-door is available in red, you know I want one! I’ll buy it as soon as it comes out. I’ll buy it. I’ll buy it!” Some users seemed to be more motivated to buy the car after seeing the red color, and some even declared that they would buy it as soon as it goes on sale in Japan.

    　On the other hand, there were also some users who said, “It’s not fair to offer red in India! There’s a 5-door Jimny in red too? It’s too bad they don’t plan to sell it in Japan.” Some users lamented the fact that it has not been announced whether or not it will be sold in Japan, while others envied the fact that red is not available for the Jimny and Jimny Sierra models currently on sale.

    　Maruti Suzuki has stated that the new Jimny 5-door is scheduled to go on sale gradually from fiscal year 2023 and will be exported to Africa, Central and South America, and other countries.

    　No public announcement has been made regarding the development in Japan, but given the immediate buzz and the eagerness of many users for the 5-door, more and more attention is being paid to whether or not it will be sold in the country.

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    RAV4 GR Sport Launched in Spain

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Off-Road Performance is Amazing! A Sporty Grade for Toyota SUVs! New “RAV4 GR Sport” Launched in Spain

    Sporty “RAV4 GR Sport” in both design and driving performance
    　On February 2, 2023, Toyota’s Spanish subsidiary announced the addition of the GR Sport to its lineup as a sporty grade of the RAV4.
    　
    　The bold front grille of the new RAV4 GR Sport is finished with a mesh designed with the letter “G” for a three-dimensional effect, and the same pattern is used for the large, beveled fog lamps. The lower part of the bumper is dark gray metallic, emphasizing the sporty appearance.

    (Image) The gauges are futuristic! See 18 photos of the extremely sporty “RAV4 GR Sport” interior and exterior.

    Toyota “RAV4 GR Sport” added as a sporty grade

    　The rear has a gloss black border between the license plate and window for a rear view with a strong presence. The rear bumper is also fitted with a mesh with the letter “G” on it.

    　In addition, the 19-inch GR Sport aluminum wheels were designed to be lightweight and highly rigid, and the 5-twin spokes have a gloss black finish with finely machined spoke edges.

    　The interior is based on a black color scheme, creating a driving-oriented atmosphere. The seats are made of a combination of suede-like material and synthetic leather that provides a good grip and support for the body. Silver gray stitching on the seats, steering wheel, and shift lever adds a touch of elegance.

    　In addition, dark gray metallic accents on the steering wheel, air conditioner vent, and around the shift lever on the center console create a refined interior space.

    　The GR Sport features electrically adjustable front seats and a panoramic view monitor with under-floor transparency function that allows the driver to see the terrain conditions when driving off-road and to precisely control the vehicle at low speeds. In addition, a newly developed digital reverse camera provides high-resolution real-time images.

    　The 12.3-inch meters are fully digital, with sharp graphics and four customizable themes: casual, smart, tough, and sporty.

    　The display is divided into three zones, with the center section displaying frequently used information, such as advanced safety system indicators, and the left and right displays showing information such as fuel economy and audio selections, with the ability for the driver to highlight preferred information.

    　In addition, the center of the dashboard features the latest Toyota Smart Connect multimedia system operated by a 10.5-inch touchscreen. The high-definition graphics provide a sharp, clear image that is unaffected by light exposure.

    　In addition to design and equipment, the new RAV4 GR Sport has improved driving feel through suspension tuning.

    　Front and rear springs have been stiffened to improve agility and responsiveness. The suspension is MacPherson struts in the front and double wishbones in the rear, both with sway bars for a stronger structure.

    　The engine is a 2.5-liter hybrid, and the standard drive system is an electric four-wheel drive system (AWD-i). The vehicle’s hybrid system and the power of the electric motor added to the rear axle generate torque with high efficiency.

    　This system delivers a maximum system output of 222 hp. The system reduces energy loss, saves weight, and optimizes all-wheel drive under various driving conditions.

    　The RAV4 GR Sport’s AWD-i is also the first current RAV4 to feature Trail Mode, an automatic differential control system that provides maximum grip and control on slippery road surfaces.

    　Even if a wheel floats on an uneven surface, activating Trail Mode with a button on the center console allows the driver to brake the idling tire and distribute engine torque to the tire in contact with the ground to get out of a rough road.

    　The price of the new RAV4 GR Sport Hybrid in Spain is 50,600 euros, or about 7.09 million Japanese yen.

    　A vehicle equipped with a plug-in hybrid system is scheduled to be introduced in 2024.

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    Toyota Announces Production of the New C-HR

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Toyota Announces Production of the New C-HR! Expectations rise for aggressive “hammerhead face adoption”! First PHEV to be produced in Europe

    New “C-HR” to carry European electrification strategy with hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles
    　Toyota’s European subsidiary (Toyota Motor Europe) has already announced the design and powertrain of the new C-HR, the second-generation model.
    　
    　Now, new information on production has been revealed.

    This is the new “C-HR”, adopting the aggressive “hammerhead” design! See the actual car that will appear shortly at the production announcement!

    This is cool! New “C-HR prologue,” a concept model of the next-generation “C-HR” unveiled for the first time in the world by Toyota Motor Europe.

    　Toyota Motor Europe has unveiled the world premiere of the “C-HR prologue,” a concept model of the all-new second-generation C-HR, on December 5, 2022.

    　The new C-HR will be available in hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions and will strengthen the lineup of Toyota’s electrification strategy.

    　It will offer a wide range of electrification options and achieve carbon neutrality in the most competitive segment of the European car market.

    　The design of the C-HR prologue was created at Toyota’s European design and development center, ED2 (the creative center that created the current Toyota C-HR).

    　One of the most eye-catching features of the unveiled design is the front face, known as the hammerhead.

    　This is the result of a 3D architecture with various interlocking shapes and a bold lighting signature.

    　The front grille opening has been reduced in size to highlight the slimmed-down headlights, resulting in a design with a sharp, piercing, shark-like presence.

    　The diamond-cut body shape, large-diameter wheels and short overhangs give the impression of a better stance from all angles, while the interior is said to be more spacious and user-friendly.

    　Lance Scott, who will be the design director of Toyota European Design and Development, had this to say.

    Our mission was to delve deeper into the C-HR than ever before. We are really looking forward to bringing you the new Toyota C-HR.”

    TMMT will be Toyota’s first European plant to begin production of plug-in hybrid vehicles

    　And on January 30, 2023, Toyota Motor Europe revealed that the new C-HR will be produced at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Turkey (TMMT).

    　The new C-HR will be the first plug-in hybrid vehicle to be produced in Turkey, and TMMT will be Toyota’s first European plant to begin producing plug-in hybrids.

    Commenting on the production of the new C-HR and TMMT’s commitment, Marvin Cook, Vice President of Manufacturing for Toyota Motor Europe, said, “We are very pleased to announce that TMMT will begin production of the new C-HR at Toyota’s first European plant.

    We are pleased to announce that TMMT will be producing the second generation C-HR, including Europe’s first plug-in hybrid.

    　With the outstanding performance and dedication provided by TMMT’s employees, we are confident that this new C-HR will be just as successful as its predecessor.

    In addition, the start-up of our first battery assembly line in Europe is an important step in our European electrification plan.

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    The world’s first great adventure with Nissan’s Ariya

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Nissan Unveils “”Too Big to Fail”” SUV! Equipped with a wide body and extra-thick tires, it will seriously go from the North Pole to the South Pole! What are the tough specifications of the new “”Ariya””?

    The world’s first great adventure with Nissan’s Ariya!
    　On February 1, 2022, Nissan unveiled a custom model of the Aria, an SUV-type EV that it will provide to Chris Ramsey, a British explorer with whom Nissan has a partnership agreement.

    This is badass! See Nissan’s Ariya radically customized to ultra-muscle specifications

    　Nissan and Mr. Ramsey are planning the world’s first expedition from the North Pole to the South Pole, an adventure that will begin in March 2023.

    Nissan unveiled a custom version of the Ariya that will be used for the expedition.

    　The adventure will start at the North Pole and travel 27,000 km through Central and South America all the way to the Antarctic Continent.

    　Along the way, the Ariya is planned to travel through a variety of climates and harsh road conditions, from extremely cold glaciers with temperatures as low as minus 30 degrees Celsius to tropical jungles, rugged mountain ranges, and arid deserts.

    　The Ariya revealed this time is the “”e-4ORCE (4WD)”” version, customized by Nissan itself to cope with the harsh driving conditions during the expedition.

    　Combined with Nissan’s e-4ORCE electric four-wheel control technology, the vehicle created for the expedition will be able to drive over extreme terrain and reach the South Pole, according to Nissan.

    　A look at the exterior of the customized Ariya reveals bold modifications, such as enlarged wheel arches, 39-inch tires that fit in them, and a specially designed suspension, but the battery and powertrain are said to be the same as those used in production vehicles.

    　One of Ramsey’s goals for the adventure is to “”demonstrate the true capabilities of the car,”” and to that end, he will be using a standard production EV with minimal customization for the adventure.

    　In addition, renewable energy will be used to charge the Ariya used in this adventure.

    　The wind generator and solar panels mounted on the vehicle will be used to charge the EV battery during the driver’s breaks and at night, taking advantage of the strong winds and long hours of sunlight.

    Chris Lam * * *

    　Julie Ramsey, wife of Chris Ramsey, commented on the announcement and the challenge: “”Our adventure is a world first that no one has attempted before. We are really excited about it.

    　We are very excited about the prospect of this adventure, which will test the driving performance and durability of the Ariya, using a production car.”

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    Young RAV4 owners are all about looks

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Why is Toyota’s “Wild SUV” so popular among young people? Buy a “RAV4” for everyday use! What are they looking for in a 4WD vehicle?

    Young RAV4 owners are all about looks!
    　Toyota’s 2019 RAV4 SUV got off to a strong start, receiving about eight times its monthly sales target in the first month after its announcement. At the same time, it was announced that “40% of buyers are in their 20s and 30s.
    　
    　More than three years after its debut, the “popularity of the RAV4 among young people” is still going strong, with nearly 50% of gasoline-powered models and nearly 40% of hybrid models purchased by people in their 20s and 30s.

    In love with the design! The gobsmacking “RAV4” is seriously cool!

    　What is the reason why the RAV4 is selling well among young people?

    Toyota’s “RAV4” is popular among young people for its rugged appearance.

    　When asked by Toyota dealership staff, they said that they have a strong impression that the RAV4 is selling well among young people in the field, and the main reason young people choose the RAV4 is because of its appearance.

    　The angular exterior design of the RAV4, which is a four-wheel-drive SUV, seems to be the deciding factor in its purchase, and most young people go to the dealership and nominate the RAV4 for purchase, rather than comparing it with other models.

    　A friend of the author (Shogo Nishikawa), who bought a RAV4 when he was 24 years old, told us, “I fell in love with its masculine and rugged look! and he said that it became his dream car when he was a college student when the current RAV4 was introduced, and that his favorite point was the front grille.

    　Thus, it seems that the RAV4’s wild design, which anticipates high off-road performance, is popular among young people.

    　However, when we asked the staff at the dealership, they told us that while there are certainly some people who enjoy outdoor activities, most of them use the RAV4 for ordinary purposes such as commuting, shopping, and leisure activities. However, the staff at the dealerships told us that although there are some users who enjoy outdoor activities, most of them use their cars for commuting, shopping, and leisure.

    　They also said that there tends to be a rather large number of single people, and they see many people choosing the RAV4 as their first new car in their lives.

    　This may be due to the fact that the hybrid model costs approximately 650,000 yen more than the gasoline model, and the Adventure grade, which has a strong off-road taste, was initially available only as a gasoline model. The Adventure grade, which has a strong off-road taste, was initially only available in a gasoline version.

    　In December 2021, a hybrid version of the Adventure grade was added to the lineup, and now both the gasoline and hybrid models are available in similar grades. The “G “Z package” is available only for gasoline-powered models.

    　The gasoline-powered RAV4 is equipped with Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD, which independently controls the torque of the rear wheels on both sides, and this is said to contribute to its excellent driving performance. The gasoline-powered version of the RAV4 features Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD, which independently controls the torque of the rear wheels on both sides, so some buyers may be attracted by its powertrain, which offers a more dynamic driving experience.

    　The RAV4’s popularity among today’s young people can be attributed to its appearance, with its aggressive SUV-like design, extensive equipment, and user-friendly features such as convenience and comfort.

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    Toyota’s HILUX with a chassis and wide body

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Toyota’s “HILUX” with a flashy wide body and shakotan specs! Customized CG that “can’t go anywhere anymore” is amazing!

    Toyota’s “HILUX” with a chassis and wide body!
    　Toyota’s pickup truck “Hilux” is sold worldwide. Indian artist Vishnu Suresh has created an image CG (rendering) of a customized version of the Hilux, including extreme lowering and a wide body, and released it on his social networking site.

    Looks really fast! Rendering of the flamboyant wide-body and shakotan spec “Hilux”

    Rendering of Toyota’s “Hilux” with wide body and chakotan customization

    　The Hilux pickup truck has a long history, with its first model introduced in 1968. The current model is the 8th generation model, which made its return to the Japanese market in September 2017 after a 13-year absence, and underwent minor changes in August 2020.

    　Its body size is 5340 mm (overall length) x 1855 mm (overall width) x 1800 mm (overall height), which is large among the models offered in Japan, but it is larger than the Tundra (5814 mm (overall length) x 2030 mm (overall width) x 1925 mm (overall height)) and Tacoma (5728 mm (overall length) x 1910 mm (overall height)), which Toyota offers in North America and elsewhere. It is positioned more compact than other pickup trucks such as the Tundra (length 5814mm x width 2030mm x height 1925mm) and Tacoma (length 5728mm x 1910mm x height 1793mm).

    　Artist Vishnu Suresh has released an image CG (rendering) of such a Hilux that has been converted to flashy custom specifications, including extreme lowering.

    　In the published image CG, the Hilux has been lowered so much that it is no longer possible to drive on public roads, let alone off-road.

    　In addition, wide fenders are installed to increase the width of the car, giving it an unbelievably wide and low impression from the base car, and canards, under spoilers, a huge rear diffuser, and a small rear spoiler are also installed to give it a sporty atmosphere reminiscent of a racing car. The footpegs are equipped with a large, external caliper.

    　Large-diameter external wheels and Toyo Tires’ PROXES R888R high-performance tires are used to give the vehicle a racy look.

    The car is also equipped with Toyo Tire’s high-performance PROXES R888R tires.

    　Vishnu Suresh creates customized renderings of various cars from Mercedes-Benz, KIA, Toyota, and others, and posts them on his social networking sites.

    　The renderings created by Mr. Vishnu Suresh are, of course, unrealistic, but since lowered Hilux models exist in reality, we cannot deny the possibility that such a customized model of the Hilux may one day appear in reality.

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    One of the features of the Prius is the electric shift adopted from the second generation launched

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Changes in the Prius Shift? How has the “new shift” adopted by the new Prius changed?

    How has the “Prius-style shift” changed with the new model?
    　On November 16, 2022, the new Toyota Prius, the fifth generation of the Prius, made its world premiere.
    　
    　One of the features of the Prius is the “electric shift” adopted from the second generation launched in 2003, which is also called “Prius-style shift” by some.
    　
    　In this context, the new Prius is said to have adopted a new shift, but how has it changed?

    Is the “new shift” of the new Prius easy to use? How is it really? See the actual car

    How has the “new shift” of the new Prius changed?

    　The Prius-style shift was adopted from the second generation released in 2003.

    　At the time, it was described as a novel style that “achieved a new sense of operability by lightly moving the lever with the fingertips, just like a joystick attached to a video game controller.

    　In terms of operation, the lever is basically set with “.” as the starting point, “N” in the position where it is moved to the right, “R” in the upper right corner, and “D” in the lower right corner.

    　The shift lever has arrows indicating the direction to move it to each mode, but since the shift lever returns to the “.” position after operation, it is not possible to visually confirm which mode the driver is currently in.

    　The shift position indicator on the meter panel is used to check which mode the car is currently in.

    In such a situation, the new shift used in the new 5th generation Prius is located at the end of the center console. The shape of the shift lever has also been changed to a slightly larger stick shape, with a design shaped to fit naturally in the hand.

    　This shape is similar to that of Toyota’s current Noah/Voxy and Crown models.

    　In addition, in the previous model, it was difficult to visually confirm when shifting gears, but in the new Prius shift lever, the “P” button glows, a change that makes it visually easy to understand.

    　In this way, the major changes in the new Prius shift lever are that the position of the shift lever and the shape of the hand-holding part have changed significantly, and the shift lever is now visually easier to understand.

    　On the other hand, the operation method is the same as that of the conventional Prius shift.

    　With regard to the Prius-type shift, responses to the complexity of the operation, such as “it is difficult to operate” and “it is hard to get used to,” have been observed in the previous model.

    　One factor that makes it seem complicated is that, for example, the shift position has D and R in front of and behind each other, but from the driver’s point of view, D is in front and R is in the back, which does not match the movement of the car, where D moves forward and R moves backward.

    　Some users also commented that the “B” range “would be confusing to newcomers” and that “newcomers would mistake it for reverse,” even though it originally functions as an engine brake.

    　Another factor is that the shift operation itself is very light, and the shift lever returns to its original position after each operation, making it difficult to tell by the appearance of the lever or the sensation in the hand which mode the car is currently in.

    　The new Prius hybrid model will go on sale on January 10, 2023, and has already gained the support of so many users that some dealers have already stopped taking orders for some grades.

    　It will be interesting to see what new users have to say about the new shift of the new Prius in the future.