Author: Chathura Chanuka

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    Toyota’s New Crown Revamped in Crossover Style

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Why the drastic design change? The Surprising Reason for the Complete Revamp of Toyota’s New “”Crown/Prius

    How to keep Crown going in the midst of the sedan slump?
    　There are two types of full model changes. The first is a “”keep concept”” that follows the conventional line, and the second is a “”concept change”” that even changes the character of the vehicle.
    　
    　In the 20th century, when cars evolved rapidly, there were many concept changes. This is because the spaciousness of the cabin and acceleration performance have gone through a process of evolution and entered a period of stability, while the contents of the car, such as environmental performance and safety, have been enhanced.
    　
    　For this reason, even when a full model change is implemented, the basic size and style of the body remain the same. This trend can be seen in Toyota’s Noah/Voxy and Nissan’s Serena, which have recently undergone full model changes.

    Ride Height Agaeshige! The new off-road spec Crown is amazing!

    Toyota’s New “”Crown”” Revamped in Crossover Style

    　However, the new Toyota Crown and the new Prius, which will be introduced in 2022, have undergone rare and drastic changes in vehicle concept and appearance. The two models shared a common problem: a sharp decline in sales.

    　In 1990, the Crown had the highest number of registrations in Japan, reaching 208,016 units; the average monthly volume was about 17,300 units, but in 2021 it will be about 1,800 units, due in part to the Corona disaster. Over the past 30 years, sales of the Crown have dropped to one-tenth of its previous level.

    　As for the Prius, the third-generation Prius had the highest number of registrations in Japan, with an average of 26,300 units per month in 2010, and 26,500 units in 2012 after the Great East Japan Earthquake. In 2021, the number of registered Prius cars will be approximately 5,000, which means that the number of registered Prius cars has decreased to one-fifth of its peak.

    　Now, let us consider the reasons for the decline in sales of Crown and Prius. First, for the Crown, there is the shrinkage of the sedan market.

    　Sedans were the best-selling category in Japan until around 1990, when the Crown was sold in the largest numbers, but since the mid-1990s, minivans such as the Toyota Estima, Honda Step Wagon, and Serena have been selling well.

    　Furthermore, in October 1998, the light car standard was changed to the same content as now, and 16 new light car models were launched by various companies at about the same time. As a result, the best-selling category has changed since 2000, with 39% of new cars sold in 2022 being minicars, while sedans/wagons/coupes accounted for only 7% of new cars sold.

    　As sedan sales declined, one option was to discontinue the Crown, as was done with the Toyota Mark X and Premio/Allion, but since the first generation model was launched in 1955, it was decided to keep it as a traditional model.

    　Instead, the category must be changed as the sedan market is shrinking. In addition, the previous Crown was sold mainly in the domestic market with limited production, and we wanted to sell the new model overseas as well, which is why we developed the new Crown into an SUV.

    　Moreover, there is a concern that sales will not increase with only one model, so multiple body types are available. Considering the demand for a changeover from a conventional model, we also developed a rear-wheel-drive sedan, which has a different drive system from that of the SUV.

    　The development of a sedan into an SUV will drastically change the design and character of the vehicle, but we wanted the users of the conventional model to inherit the new model to some extent, so the first phase of the new Crown is a crossover that combines a sedan and an SUV with trunk space in the rear. This model will serve as a bridge between the new and old Crowns.

    　However, the model with the most potential for sales will be the upcoming Crown Estate, which will also be equipped with a third row of seats to accommodate multiple passengers. Thus, the new Crown will survive by offering several SUVs in the best-selling category, including the Crown Sport.
    Why the drastic design change? The Surprising Reason for the Complete Revamp of Toyota’s New “”Crown/Prius

    What is the value of Prius other than being a hybrid-only car?
    　On the other hand, the reason why the Prius has been selling less is because hybrids have become the norm for the majority of Toyota vehicles.

    　Looking back at the spread of hybrids, around 2010, when the third-generation Prius became a big hit, Toyota hybrids were mainly some high-priced cars such as the Crown, SAI, and Harrier, but when the first-generation (predecessor) Aqua was launched in 2011, compact models began to increase, and now the minivan “” Hybrids are now available for the Sienta, Noah/Voxy, and the best-selling SUVs Yaris Cross and Corolla Cross.

    　Hybrids are no longer an uncommon feature, and the Prius’ value as a “”hybrid-only”” vehicle has diminished, resulting in lower sales.

    Sporty new “”Prius”” model

    　After all, there was a way to discontinue the Prius, but the first-generation model was the world’s first mass-produced hybrid. Like the Crown, it is a traditional car with a high level of recognition, and it was decided to keep it.

    　The Prius is a hybrid-only vehicle, where fuel economy is important, and the appearance of the five-door hatchback with a reclined rear gate is also an important feature of the Prius, so losing this feature would make the Prius look less like a Prius.

    　Therefore, the new Prius further accentuates the appearance with the front window and the rear gate laid down, and has been developed into a 5-door coupe style to symbolize and refine the Prius-like features.

    　In addition to the 1.8-liter power unit, a powerful 2-liter unit was added to the 1.8-liter unit, increasing its dynamic performance and making it a hybrid specialty car.

    　In the WLTC mode fuel economy competition, the Yaris Hybrid X, which is compact and lightweight, is no match for the Yaris Hybrid X’s 36 km/L. Instead, we focused on the high instantaneous power of the motor drive and smooth and quiet acceleration, which are considered the characteristics of hybrids other than low fuel consumption.

    　One of the reasons for the creation of the new Crown is the lack of similar models in Toyota. The Crown Crossover is an SUV with a sedan body, so it is different from and does not overlap with the Harrier and RAV4, which use the same platform.

    　The same goes for the new Prius. Toyota today does not have a 5-door coupe-like vehicle with an overall height of 1430mm. Instead of being unsatisfactory in terms of ease of getting in and out of the car, the exterior looks sleek and cool.

    　In other words, the new Crown and the new Prius were commercialized because they fit into a “”vacant”” part of Toyota’s lineup and may attract customers that conventional Toyota cars could not attract. The two models have much in common.

    　What is interesting is the popularity of both cars. Normally, this can be determined by the number of registrations, but nowadays, delivery of new cars is delayed due to the shortage of semiconductors and other factors, so the data does not provide an accurate measure of popularity.

    　So I asked the dealers about the new Crown, and they replied as follows.

    The new Crown has been a big hit with customers who have been reluctant to purchase a new model. However, with the new model, there is a tendency to hold off on purchases, and there are not so many customers for the conventional model.

    　Instead, customers who use SUVs such as the Harrier and RAV4 are paying attention. Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, and others are also trading up, and customers who have never shown interest in Toyota vehicles, including Crown, are now showing interest.

    　In May 2020, Toyota shifted to a sales structure in which all dealerships in Japan handle all of its vehicles. Previously, only Toyota dealers handled the Crown, while the Harrier and Alphard were handled by Toyopet dealers, but now all cars can be purchased at any dealership.

    　This led to a shift to the Harrier and Alphard for the previous generation Crown, reducing the number of registrations, but the new model has conversely caused a shift from Harriers and RAV4s to Crowns.

    　The following is what a staff member at a dealership had to say about the reaction of Prius users.

    The new Prius has increased the number of customers who value the cool exterior. This is why we are seeing customers switching from European cars, and we are seeing customers who are different from those who used to come to our dealerships.

    　For these new customers, powerful 2-liter engine cars are popular, but customers who are switching from conventional Prius cars say that a 1.8-liter engine is sufficient.

    　Yet the only 1.8-liter models available are the “”X”” for corporate customers and the “”U”” for KINTO (fixed-price car leasing) customers. I would like to see a full lineup of 1.8-liter engine vehicles that are less expensive.

    　We still don’t know the exact sales of the new Crown and the new Prius, but we are taking on the challenge of building new cars to survive.

    　Recently, all manufacturers have been discontinuing an increasing number of models, with sedans at the top of the list, but it seems that serious consideration of survival will create new avenues of activity.

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    Suzuki’s surprise announcement following the unveiling of the new Jimny 5-door

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Suzuki’s surprise announcement following the unveiling of the new Jimny 5-door ? No way, Suzuki will introduce the “New Jimny” or “BEV” to Europe!

    What’s that? Isn’t this a Jimny? Look at the mysterious silhouette!
    　The long-awaited Suzuki Jimny 5-door made its world premiere in India on January 12, 2023.
    　
    Two weeks later, on January 26, an announcement was made suggesting that the Jimny will be converted to an EV.

    Not a Jimny 5-door…but a 4-door? Nice mysterious Jimny item! See the real thing!

    It was truly a surprise… the world premiere of the new Suzuki “”Jimny 5-door!”” Two weeks later, the “”Jimny EV”” is hinted at

    　Around the end of 2022, there has been a lot of talk about Suzuki’s HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) and BEV .

    　Suzuki’s current production vehicles are mainly mild hybrids, and the only full hybrid (strong type) is the Solio series, which has an image of not being able to ride the wave of electrification of cars.

    　In the midst of this situation, the company announced its “”Product Plan to 2030″” at a briefing held on January 26, 2023.

    　There, the company stated that it would introduce six BEVs to Japan by FY2030, with the first model to be rolled out during FY2023. The BEVs that Suzuki has created for Japan include silhouettes of the Wagon R series, the Escudo, the Hustler, and the Every, which are believed to be the first BEVs to be launched in Japan.
    　
    　In addition, the company plans to launch five BEVs in Europe by FY2030, with the first model to be rolled out by the end of FY2024. The most noteworthy of these was the inclusion of a silhouette that could be identified as a “”Jimny””.

    　As for the Jimny, as mentioned above, the Jimny 5-door has been announced in India.

    　Before that, however, some media reported that an HEV might be added to the lineup. However, there was no mention of it at the AUTO EXPO 2023 conference.

    　However, right after the conference, the announcement of Jimny’s electrification was made.

    The Jimny is a genuine off-road four-wheel drive vehicle, a rarity in the world, with a ladder frame structure, rigid axle suspension, and a traditional part-time 4WD mechanism with sub-transfer.

    　To ensure high rough road durability and durability, an elaborate mechanism is employed despite the vehicle’s price of less than 2 million yen in Japan.

    　However, the robust but heavy structure and 4WD with a sub-transfer certainly make it difficult to match with a hybrid system.

    　Even if the company were to use its current mild hybrid system, various questions arise, such as how it would be controlled in 4WD low.

    　What about BEVs?

    　A fully electric vehicle would free us from the need to consider the engine/motor combination (control).

    　Also, if the space around the ladder frame is used well, it is not impossible to install a large-capacity battery.

    Suzuki’s surprise announcement following the unveiling of the new “”Jimny 5-door””? No way, Suzuki will introduce the “”New Jimny”” or “”BEV”” to Europe!

    What will be the Jimny’s traditional drive system?
    　What we are interested in is the drive system, but it may not be 4WD as it currently is, and with a sub-transfer.

    　When we think of 4WD in EVs, the e-4ORCE system used in Nissan’s Aria comes to mind. This system is a two-motor system with a motor on each of the front and rear drive wheel axles, but it seems like a mismatch when used in the Jimny.

    　Of course, it might be possible to place the motors in the Jimny’s front and rear differentials, but that would complicate the control system and increase weight.

    　According to leaked reports, the Jimny EV is said to be aiming for a battery capacity of 25 kWh or more and a cruising range of 300 km WLTC, which would make weight reduction and battery placement more important for the ladder frame structure of the vehicle.

    　It is the author’s expectation that the current Jimny’s drivetrain and the position of the fuel tank will be used to create a more practical (longer range) EV layout.

    　In this case, it is more realistic to use one motor and front-wheel drive instead of 4WD based on rear-wheel drive.

    Comparison of the BEV silhouette (left) and the Jimny (5-door) (right), which will be introduced in Europe

    　Incidentally, the possibility of a Jimny HEV is not yet out of the question.

    　This story first came out of an interview with Suzuki Australia’s senior management conducted by the international media, who said that a Jimny 5-door and HEV would be launched in Australia in 2024.

    　Aside from the various control issues, there is no doubt that the HEV will be a hit in Japan if it becomes a reality. However, there is a possibility that this story is a misidentification of HEVs and BEVs.

    　On a serpentine note, if Suzuki launches an EV in the global market between 2023 and 2024, the long delivery time for the Jimny may be reduced.

    　This is because the current long delivery time is also said to be due to production volume adjustments caused by CAFE regulations.

    　This means that Jimny users who want to drive hard off-road will also benefit from the electric version.

    　In any case, the Jimny is suddenly making a lot of noise. First of all, we are looking forward to the launch of the 5-door model in Japan as soon as possible.

    Tomoki Yamazaki

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    Toyota Hiace with a powerful face is on display

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Toyota “Hiace” with a powerful face is on display! The design with presence is amazing! What is the charm of boxcar customization?

    　Various unique cars were exhibited at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023, which was held from January 13 to 15, 2023.

    This is amazing…! Toyota’s “Hiace” with a strong presence is unveiled! See the amazing interior and exterior!

    　Among the many custom cars on display were many based on the Toyota Hiace, but the Gibson “Grafam Gren” had a particularly strong presence.

    The Toyota “Hiace” is too powerful! What is the “GRAFAM Gren” on display?

    　Gibson, headquartered in Fukuoka Prefecture, produces and manufactures custom aero parts for the Hiace and other models at its own factory, focusing on products made in Japan.

    　According to Stork Corporation, which operates Gibson, the company’s watchword is “gratitude,” and its creed is “manufacturing products that make customers say, ‘Thank you’ and ‘I’m glad I bought it.

    　What kind of car is the GRAFAM Gren on display?

    　The base model is a Hiace 200 series (standard body, 2020 model year).

    　The exterior features the “GRAFAM Gren Body Kit,” which combines a front bumper spoiler and GT under lip (FRP/carbon).

    　The front bumper has a particularly prominent forward protruding presence, and the model on display this time comes in “Pearl White” body color.

    　In addition, the “Trinity Hydro Kit” was used to lower the vehicle height, and the red Gibson “CAMYURA 2-piece” wheels were used to emphasize the footprint.

    　In the interior, GRAFAM “DUO seat covers” with a beautiful red color are used for the seats, and Gibson “Candy Red & Leather Steering Wheel & Shift Knob Set” is also used for the steering wheel, giving it a rugged and smart finish that is impressive.

    　Other features include a Boxy ceiling panel on the roof and a “1box network speaker kit” for the audio system.

    　A Gibson representative explains how the GRAFAM Gren was created as follows: “Originally, the GRAFAM Gren was designed to be a “one-box network speaker kit” that could be used in a variety of applications.

    The GRAFAM Gren was originally inspired by the box cars that competed in the German Touring Car Championship (DTM) in the 1980s, and we wanted to create a car based on that motif.

    　Gibson, as a custom parts manufacturer that maximizes the appeal of the Hiace, produces a wide range of custom parts for the Hiace, so we used the Hiace as the basis for this project as well.

    　The most notable feature of GRAFAM Gren’s exhibit at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023 was the new wheels, which made their debut at the show.

    The person in charge said, “Originally, we had one-piece wheels, but we wanted wheels that fit the ‘Hiace over fender style,’ so we created two-piece wheels.

    　Many modern cars tend not to have pierced bolts on the wheels, but GRAFAM Gren dared to install pierced bolts in order to create a design reminiscent of old box cars.

    　I think that the pierced bolts make the car stand out and attract more attention because of the difference from other cars around it.

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    The Adventure version of the RAV4 PHEV

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Not Just a “RAV4! The “Adventure” version of the RAV4 “PHEV”! What is the new concept of “PHEV-OFFROAD PKG” with a toughness and toughness

    RAV4 PHEV with “Adventure” face?
    　At the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023, held over three days from January 13 to 15, 2023, many body kits were displayed that transformed the front face of the car into a different vehicle.

    The “Adventure” version of the RAV4 “PHEV”! PHEV-OFFROAD PKG”

    　Among others, Toyota Industries Corporation exhibited a concept model of the Toyota “RAV4” plug-in hybrid model with the front face switched to the tough design mask of the “Adventure” grade of the same RAV4.
    　
    The “Adventure” face of the “RAV4 PHEV!” Toyota Industries Corporation “PHEV-OFFROAD PKG

    　Toyota Industries Corporation is a manufacturer of engines, forklifts, and automotive parts, in addition to producing some models of Toyota cars.

    　The RAV4, on the other hand, has gained popularity as a full-fledged crossover SUV since its first generation release in 1994. The current model is the fifth generation, which was introduced in 2019. The RAV4 is a model that Toyota Industries Corporation was involved in the product development stage, including planning, design, and design, and is also involved in its production.

    　Three of the RAV4 models equipped with the plug-in hybrid system will be on display, each with a different off-road and on-road appeal that has been customized.

    　Among them, the PHEV-ADVENTURE and PHEV-OFFROAD PKG are fitted with the front face of the RAV4’s popular “Adventure” grade.

    　At first glance, it does not look strange, but as of January 2023, the RAV4 plug-in hybrid model (Z grade) has the same styling as the regular grades such as X and G. The “Adventure” grade does not exist.

    　Toyota Industries Corporation has created such a plug-in hybrid model of the RAV4 with “Adventure” grade specifications.

    　Furthermore, the “PHEV-OFFROAD PKG” not only has the Adventure specification like the “PHEV-ADVENTURE,” but also has additional lamps under the grille, mud flaps, a large roof rail and roof rack mounted on top of it, a ladder, and a water tank. The vehicle is equipped with mud flaps, large roof rails and a roof rack mounted on top of the rails, a ladder, and a water tank, enhancing its off-road flavor.

    The vehicle will be available in the future in an adventure version.

    　No official announcement has been made as to whether or not such an adventure version of the RAV4 plug-in hybrid model will actually be sold in the future, but if user demand for such a model is high, it may one day become a reality.

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    Toyota’s new Prius has a surprising trick

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Toyota’s new “Prius” has a surprising trick! Two interior colors “Black/Red” have a big “difference”!

    The difference between the two interior colors of the new Toyota Prius
    　Two interior colors are available for the high-end grade “”Z”” of the new Toyota Prius.
    　
    　There is a difference between the two interior colors. What are they?

    This part glows blue.? What is the difference between the two interior colors? Compare the two!

    What is the unexpected trick of Toyota’s new “”Prius””?

    　The first generation Prius was introduced in the 1997 model year. Since then, it has been repeatedly renewed with the times, and on November 16, 2022, the new model, the fifth generation, was introduced.

    　Under the concept of “”Hybrid Reborn,”” the new Prius has evolved into an emotional Prius with a design that makes you fall in love at first sight and a driving experience that makes you fall in love with it.

    　Among these, the high-end grade Z offers a choice of two interior colors: “”Gradient Black (hereinafter referred to as “”Black””)”” and “”Mature Red (hereinafter referred to as “”Red””),”” which is available as a free option.

    　What are the differences between the two?

    　If the basic black color is selected, black and dark gray are the basic interior colors.

    　The instrument panel stitching and seat upholstery are in a nuanced steel color, with a light beige accent color.

    　The instrument panel also features a “”blue”” illumination. The standard grade “”G”” also glows blue.

    　On the other hand, if the optional red color is selected, the interior tone color is black.

    　The instrument panel and seat upholstery are in an unadorned red color. The contrast between the base color, black, and the subdued red applied to various parts of the interior is striking.

    　The red color is also used for the seat upholstery, providing a sporty and powerful accent.

    　The instrument panel also has a red illumination, and by choosing red as the interior color, the design has a more sporty feel.

    　In particular, the difference between the blue and red instrument panel illumination can be said to be enough to change the atmosphere of the interior.

    　This illumination not only decorates the interior as ambient light, but is also used for the first time by Toyota as an “”illumination notification system.

    　The system alerts the driver when the vehicle ahead of the vehicle is stopped, or when the Proactive Driving Assist (PDA) detects an active object while the vehicle is in motion.

    　Note that if the interior color is to be red, it must be specified at the time of order.

    　The new Prius lineup includes two patterns with quite different atmospheres, even when looking at the interior color alone.

    　With the PHEV model scheduled to go on sale in March, it can be said that the new Prius will continue to attract attention.

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    Toyota Hiace equipped with home air conditioning

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Toyota “Hiace” equipped with home air conditioning! New camper is now available! Pet-friendly interior also available

    What is the Hiace Camper with Home Air Conditioning?
    　Lexby, a camper manufacturer and seller, will unveil its new camper, the “”Lexby Solan”” (8 license plate), at the Japan Camper Show 2023 (February 3, 2023, Makuhari Messe).
    　
    Just like a living room! View photos of the “Hiace Camper” equipped with household air conditioning for comfortable overnight stays in the car.

    New “Lexby Solan”Camper Equipped with Home Air Conditioning

    　The Lexby Solan is a new model based on the Toyota Hiace long van, featuring an overhanging shelf at the rear of the body on the driver’s side for installing air conditioning. This was achieved in response to user requests to equip the standard Hiace with an air conditioner for home use.

    　The interior is made of water-, friction-, and claw-resistant materials. The interior is decorated in bright tones to show off the pets.

    　Air conditioning makes it possible to travel comfortably with pets regardless of the season.

    　Equipped with features such as household air conditioner, lithium-ion battery, FF heater, 19-inch TV monitor, and solar panel, the price (including consumption tax) ranges from 7.37 million yen to 7.986 million yen.

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

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    Toyota’s New Prius Seats Improve Driving Performance Just by Sitting on Them

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Toyota’s New Prius Seats Improve Driving Performance Just by Sitting on Them! What is the miracle equipment “”static eliminating stabilizing seat””?

    Improved driving performance just by sitting down! What is the “”static eliminating stabilizing seat””?
    　The new “”Prius””, the fifth generation model of the Prius, was completely redesigned for the first time in seven years on November 16, 2022, and the hybrid model went on sale in Japan on January 10, 2023.
    Will these seats improve driving performance…? Interior and exterior of the new “”Prius””

    　The new Prius is equipped with “”static eliminating stabilizing seats”” that are said to improve driving performance just by sitting on them.

    　What kind of performance does the seat have?

    Does the seat of the new “”Prius”” clean the air flow just by sitting on it?

    　The Prius was introduced to the world in 1997 with the catchphrase, “”Just in time for the 21st century.”” the Prius was born in 1997 as the world’s first mass-produced hybrid car. Four generations of Prius have been launched so far, and a total of 5.05 million Prius cars have been sold globally.

    　In 2022, 25 years after its birth, the fifth generation of the new Prius will be born. In addition to its strong points of high environmental performance, the new Prius was developed to combine “”a design that makes you fall in love at first sight”” and “”a driving experience that makes you fall in love with it””.

    　The body size is 4600 mm (overall length) x 1780 mm (overall width) x 1430 mm (overall height), and the wheelbase is 2750 mm, slightly larger than the previous generation model.

    　The exterior, while inheriting the iconic “”monoform silhouette”” of the Prius, has evolved to sportier and more stylish proportions with a lower center of gravity based on the second-generation TNGA platform and the adoption of large 19-inch diameter tires.

    　The interior, based on the “”Island Architecture”” concept, is spacious without an oppressive feeling, while providing a cockpit feel that makes it easy to concentrate on driving. The interior space allows intuitive operation and enjoyable driving.

    　Three types of powertrains are available: a 1.8-liter engine, a 2.0-liter engine plus hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), or a 2.0-liter engine plus plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). Of these, the HEV model went on sale on January 10, 2023.
    The new Prius has undergone such a sporty evolution, and is equipped with an “”anti-static stabilizing seat”” in the driver’s seat.

    　This new feature was first introduced in the Corolla series special edition “”50 Million Edition”” launched in November 2021.

    　By setting a surface skin with an antistatic function on a part of the seat, static electricity accumulated in and around the driver is dispersed throughout the body to reduce the amount of static charge. As a result, Toyota explains, air turbulence caused by static electricity generated during driving can be suppressed and a smooth flow of air can be achieved, contributing to stable vehicle behavior and more comfortable driving with less fatigue.

    　These seats are standard equipment in the higher grades Z and G, and optional in the U, which is a grade exclusive to the “”KINTO”” subscription service.

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    The shiny new Nissan Serena with Elgrand face is super premium

    ByChathura Chanuka

    The shiny new Nissan Serena with “Elgrand face” is super premium! The presence of the lowered Serena is amazing!

    Customize the New Serena with Genuine Accessories!
    　Nissan has exhibited the Serena Highway Star Accessory Concept as a reference exhibit at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023 (January 13-15, 2023) as a concept car for the new Serena minivan announced in November 2022.
    　
    　The SERENA Highway Star Accessory Concept is a model that complements the sophisticated new SERENA with stylish factory-installed accessories.

    Stronger push! See the “”gold Serena”” and “”low-down Serena”” pics!

    Concept car of “”Serena”” customized with genuine accessories

    　The front grille illumination, which is vertically aligned from the triple LED headlamps, and the front bumper illumination on both sides of the bumper create an advanced front face, while the front spoiler gives the vehicle a dynamic face.

    　The SERENA Highway Star Accessory Concept is also available in colors exclusive to the Auto Salon.

    　The front grille of the regular SERENA Highway Star is plastic, but the Accessory Concept is wrapped in chrome to give it the look of Nissan’s luxury Elgrand minivan.

    　In addition, the front protector with the SERENA logo has been changed from the usual chrome finish to gold shiny copper accents. The wheels are also copper, and the body is wrapped with black and copper gradient lines for a glamorous and premium dress-up look.

    　On the interior, easily removable water-repellent seat covers (for three rows) have been installed. They can be washed in a washing machine. In addition, the second row is equipped with an ottoman, which can be purchased as a dealer option, and was customized with practical accessories.

    　The Nissan booth at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023 also displayed the Serena AUTECH Customized as a concept car for the new Serena Highway Star Accessory Concept.

    　The base model, the SERENA AUTECH, is equipped with 16-inch wheels, but the SERENA AUTECH Customized has larger diameter 18-inch wheels. In addition, a lowered suspension system was installed to lower the vehicle height by 30mm, creating a sporty minivan with a strong presence.

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    Subaru Levorg 5.76 million STI complete car sold out in an instant

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Subaru “Levorg” 5.76 million STI complete car sold out in an instant! Limited edition of 500 units sold out instantly!

    500 units sold out in the morning of the first day!
    　Subaru began accepting orders for the “”STI Sports #”” special edition of the station wagon “”Levorg”” on January 26, 2023, and by the morning of the first day of accepting orders, the limited number of 500 units had been sold out.
    　
    The model, based on the “”STI Sports R EX,”” is the first special edition of the current second-generation Levorg and also the first “”STI complete car”” since the first generation model debuted in 2014.

    Too cool! Sold out in a few hours, “”Levorg STI Sport #”” See pics!

    The first Levorg complete car STI Sport .

    　In addition to a high-performance 2.4-liter horizontally opposed turbocharged engine, it features STI performance parts and other special equipment, and has been exclusively tuned to provide improved handling stability and a higher quality ride.

    　On the exterior, the front grille and door mirrors are black. The interior is black with RECARO seats and roof trim made of ultra-suede, creating a quiet appearance and a high-quality interior space.

    　The suspension features 19-inch BBS forged aluminum wheels with Super Black Hi-Luster paint and Michelin high-performance tires. A newly developed STI flexible draw tower bar, STI flexible draw stiffener, and Subaru performance transmission oil cooler are also included.

    　While the price (including consumption tax) of the standard specification Levorg STI Sports R EX is 4,829,000 yen, the STI Sports # is 5,764,000 yen.

    　Despite the 935,000 yen price difference, the car sold out in no time, indicating that there were a great many people who had been waiting for a complete Levorg car.

    　It can be said that even now, more than two years after the current model’s appearance in 2020, it is still attracting attention as Subaru’s flagship model.

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    Many people are impressed with the new Toyota Prius design and driving experience

    ByChathura Chanuka

    No more clunk brakes! Many people are impressed with the new Toyota “Prius” design and driving experience! How about the narrow interior?

    What do you think of the new “Prius” when you test drive it?
    　Toyota’s hybrid car “Prius” has been fully remodeled, and the new model, the fifth generation, went on sale on January 10, 2023.
    　
    　Based on the concept of “Hybrid Reborn,” the new Prius was developed to be an emotional car with “a design that makes you fall in love at first sight” and “a drive that makes you fall in love with it,” in addition to its conventional strengths of high environmental performance.
    　

    The traditional center meter has been eliminated! The flashy new yellow “Prius” is so cool!

    The new “Prius” looks and drives like a sports car!

    　In addition to the 1.8-liter hybrid powertrain, a 2-liter hybrid powertrain is newly available. In addition, a 2-liter plug-in hybrid (PHEV) is also available, offering the overwhelming acceleration that only a motor drive can provide.

    　The PHEV is scheduled to go on sale around March, but test drives and display vehicles of the hybrid version are already available at Toyota dealerships, and people who have seen and ridden in them have posted their impressions of the new Prius on social networking sites.

    Some people have posted on social media about their impressions of the new Prius, saying, “The exterior and interior are not Prius in a good way. I feel like the car’s character has gone up one notch.” “The new Prius mustard, so cool! It was really cool to see the test-drive car driving around town.” There were many postings about the cool exterior design and the high-quality interior.

    　Also, regarding driving performance, “The ride quality is sportier than the 50 Prius (the previous 4th generation) in terms of suspension and engine. The steering wheel and brakes feel smooth and pleasant to drive.” “Acceleration is smooth and powerful, cruising is smooth and calm, and the steering is light without being shaky. The quality of the car is very high.” “I think this is a car that does not show its true value in city driving. Just a little pressure on the gas pedal and you’re at the legal speed in no time. It’s a great car! It seems to be a car that is sporty not only in design but also in driving, with smooth acceleration and handling.

    　Also, in terms of details, some posted, “I was impressed that the feeling of crunching to a stop just before stopping has disappeared,” and “The clunk brakes are now milder.

    　With regard to practicality, “The steering wheel is comfortable to hold and the driver’s meter is fine!” I can’t even sit for a minute.” “The driver’s seat is narrow at the top and bottom, and it might be hard to get in and out of the driver’s seat,” etc. Some pointed out the poor rearward visibility and narrowness of the cabin due to the sporty styling.

    　In terms of difficulty in seeing out of the back, one commented, “The back window is too small to see out of, so a digital inner mirror is a must,” while another recommended a camera-type room mirror (available as an option on the Z grade).

    　Some people who have actually negotiated for the new Prius have written that the delivery date is “more than a year” or “undecided,” and it seems to have already become very popular.