Author: Chathura Chanuka

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    The large digital meter has a great futuristic feel! Toyota’s new “RAV4” equipped with the latest multimedia! Appeared in Go .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Large Digital Meter Gives an Amazing Sense of the Future! Toyota’s new “”RAV4″” with the latest multimedia! Now in Australia!

    Equipped with the latest multimedia system
    　On November 22, 2022, Toyota’s Australian subsidiary unveiled an improved version of the RAV4.

    Gutsy-looking “”RAV4″” – Near-future inside! The latest digital meters are so cool!

    　The revamped RAV4 features the latest generation multimedia system from the Corolla Cross compact SUV, as well as an enlarged touch-screen display on some models.

    Toyota RAV4 equipped with the latest multimedia (Australian specifications)

    　The new multimedia system offers improved functionality with shortcut buttons located on the driver’s side and two panels that display a wealth of information in an easy-to-understand manner, much like a smartphone or tablet device. In addition to the wired Android Auto, the system is now compatible with the wireless Apple CarPlay.

    　The entry-level GX and GXL models feature the same 8.0-inch touchscreen display, while the high-end XSE, Cruiser, and Edge models have a larger 10.5-inch display.

    　The multi-information display has been improved in conjunction with multimedia, with the GX and GXL changing from a 4.2-inch to a 7.0-inch display, while the XSE, Cruiser, and Edge have a 12.3-inch full-width digital meter cluster display.

    　In particular, the 12.3-inch meters can now be customized with four different visual designs and three different layouts to suit the driver’s preference.

    　In addition, “”Toyota Connected Services,”” which offers a variety of safe and convenient functions, is standard on all models. Connected services include remote vehicle monitoring, emergency assistance, and wireless vehicle software updates using the built-in data communication module (DCM). The Connected Services will also include a smartphone application, “”my

    　In addition, the “”myToyota Connect”” smartphone application provides access to a wealth of vehicle information, including locking and unlocking doors and windows, cruising range, fuel level, and vehicle location, and notifications can alert owners if users forget to operate the vehicle.

    　Additionally, the system now automatically notifies emergency services if a roadside collision is detected; the SOS button can be used to manually initiate a call to emergency services; and the vehicle location service can be used by authorities to locate a vehicle in the event of theft.

    　On the safety front, active safety features have been enhanced, including an expanded pre-crash system that provides occupant protection at intersections and increased visibility from the road surface.

    　The “”intersection right-turn assist function”” detects oncoming traffic and oncoming pedestrians on either side of the intersection when turning right at an intersection, and provides an audible warning and, if necessary, automatic braking, while emergency steering assist has been added to safely steer the vehicle in the lane while avoiding obstacles.

    　In addition, a back-guide monitor with dynamic guidelines has been adopted for all models, the resolution of the digital rear camera has been greatly improved, and the panoramic view monitor mounted on the Cruiser and Edge has been upgraded with an under-floor view that overlays a composite image of the terrain beneath the vehicle body with a transparent image of the vehicle body. The Panoramic View Monitor on the Cruiser and Edge has been upgraded to include an Under Floor View, which displays a composite image of the terrain beneath the vehicle body overlaid with a transparent image of the vehicle body.

    　In terms of functional improvements, the RAV4’s power tailgate has been made easier to operate, opening in 1.7 seconds and closing in 2.8 seconds for greater convenience.

    　All but one of the interior USB Type-A ports have been replaced with USB-C ports, and all switches and displays now feature white lighting. In addition, two ceiling-mounted microphones have been upgraded to improve natural voice recognition.

    　Exterior changes include LED projector headlamps on gasoline models to improve visibility when driving at night.

    　A total of nine body colors are available, with “”Frosted White”” replacing the previous “”Crystal Pearl.

    * * * *

    　Prices for the improved RAV4 in Australia range from A$36,550 to A$55,150, or approximately 3.42 million to 5.17 million Japanese yen (as of November 24, 2022).

    　Sales will start in December 2022 in the local market.”

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    Subaru “Revorg” and “WRX S4” are less likely to be stolen with relay attack countermeasures! Improved model announcement .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Subaru ‘Levorg’ and ‘WRX S4’ Less Likely to be Stolen with Relay Attack Countermeasures! Improved Models Announced

    Enhanced anti-theft measures!
    　On November 24, 2022, Subaru announced the partially improved models of the station wagon “”Levorg”” and the sedan “”WRX S4″”.

    2.4-liter turbocharged for blast-off speed! Subaru “”Levogue”” & “”WRX S4″” with Extreme Driving Performance .
    Subaru “”Levorg”” with Enhanced Anti-theft Measures

    　Fully remodeled in 2020, the Levogue is a performance wagon that inherits Subaru’s Grand Touring DNA of “”farther, faster, more comfortable, and safer”” and further evolves the three values of “”advanced safety,”” “”sportiness,”” and “”wagon value”” in an innovative way.

    　The WRX S4, on the other hand, will be completely renewed in 2021. The WRX S4 is a model that symbolizes Subaru’s AWD performance, combining outstanding driving performance with the practicality of a 4-door sedan, with refined dynamic performance, handling stability, quietness, and ride comfort.

    　The latest improvements to the Levorg and WRX S4 include the addition of a function that automatically turns off the headlamps/interior lights when the driver forgets to turn off the headlamps/interior lights.

    　In addition, a smart key sleep function and motion sensors have been installed as countermeasures against “”relay attacks,”” which have become a problem in recent years as a method of vehicle theft by abusing the smart key function.

    　In addition, the operability of the lighting switch has been reviewed and changed from one position for “”Vehicle Width Lights/Tail Lights & OFF”” to two positions for “”Vehicle Width Lights/Tail Lights”” and “”OFF””.

    * * *

    　Prices (including consumption tax) range from 3,102,000 yen to 4,829,000 yen for the Levorg and from 4,044,000 yen to 4,829,000 yen for the WRX S4.”

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    The popular reason for the popularity of the explosively selling Toyota “Alphard” is the “luxury feel unique to minivans?”

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota’s Alphard is selling like hotcakes, and its popularity is due to the minivan’s unique sense of luxury. What do users think is the reason for its continued popularity?

    Why is Toyota’s “”Alphard”” so popular?
    　Toyota’s luxury minivan “”Alphard”” is a model that has gained popularity among a wide range of users, and is often seen on the streets.

    　What are the reasons for its continued popularity? Even after several years have passed since the current model went on sale, various opinions are still being expressed on the Internet.

    The “”too luxurious interior and exterior”” of the once over 15 million yen version of the hot-selling “”Alphard”” is amazing! See it in the real car!

    Why is the Toyota “”Alphard”” still so popular 7 years after the current model?

    　The current Alphard, the third generation model, was introduced in 2015.

    　It was developed with the keyword “”large-space luxury saloon”” with the aim of creating a new concept of a luxury car not seen before.

    　The exterior of the Alphard is particularly eye-catching, especially the large front grille with chrome decoration that is integrated with the lower grille and thickened vertically, giving the Alphard its unique strength.

    　The design has a powerful appearance that is reminiscent of the “”ora ora face”” of the Alphard.

    　The body size is 4935mm-4950mm (overall length) x 1850mm (overall width) x 1935mm-1950mm (overall height), which, combined with the exterior design, gives it an eye-catching sense of size.

    　The interior, especially the top-of-the-line Executive Lounge model, offers a high quality space not found in other minivans.

    　The seats feature exclusive Executive Lounge seats, which are as comfortable as sofas, and are equipped with a power ottoman with a 140 mm extension/retraction mechanism, comfort heated seats, ventilated seats, and a retractable table. Comfort and convenience are also pursued.

    　The grade lineup is rich in variation, with prices ranging from 3,597,000 yen to 7,752,000 yen, with a wide range in the price range.

    　Even now, seven years after its launch, the Alphard continues to attract a great deal of support, ranking in the top 10 in the Japan Automobile Dealers Association’s (Jidosharen) ranking of new car sales for the six-month period from April to September 2022, coming in 8th place.

    　So, why has it gained the support of so many users? Users on the Internet have a variety of opinions about this.

    　First of all, one of the reasons for its popularity was a user’s opinion that “”it is probably the strongest simply because there are no rivals in this class.

    　The Nissan “”Elgrand”” is often cited as the Alphard’s rival, but recently its sales volume has fallen far below that of the Nissan “”Elgrand,”” which is one of the reasons why the Alphard is in a unique position of strength.

    　In addition, many family members expressed their support for the Alphard because of its ample space that only a minivan can provide, such as “”I feel it is a good car with a spacious interior and a comfortable ride,”” and “”It is convenient to carry a large group of people, including children and children’s friends.

    　In addition, there is also the opinion that “”it is easily chosen as an official vehicle.

    　Recently, there are more and more opportunities to see Alphard in the city, and it is not only for private users, but is also treated as a cab or corporate vehicle.

    　In the past, sedans tended to be the choice for luxury cars, but the shift to “”luxury cars = minivans”” is underway, thanks to the spacious interior and comfort unique to minivans, in addition to the ride quality.

    　One of the reasons for this shift is that the concept of luxury-oriented cars has changed dramatically with the recent change in values and times.

    　On the other hand, some say that “”many people have preconceived notions and assumptions”” about the Alphard.

    　In particular, because of its size and visual appeal, some people have a negative image of the Alphard, such as “”the Alphard is very intimidating”” due to the influence of bad driving by a small group of users.

    * * *

    　The Alphard can be said to be a model that still attracts a lot of support from various factors seven years after its debut in 2015.

    　With rumors that the model will be fully remodeled in 2023, it will be interesting to see what the future holds for the Alphard.”

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    Nissan completely redesigned the new minivan “Serena” for the first time in six years! “Elgrand” class presence will be released for the first time on the 28th!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Nissan’s New Minivan “”Serena”” Completely Revamped for the First Time in Six Years! First public showing of the “”ElGrand””-class presence on the 28th! What is the response from dealers?

    The new Serena, what’s on everyone’s mind?
    　On November 24, 2022, at around 3:00 p.m., Nissan announced on its official SNS that it will hold a presentation of the new Serena on November 28, starting at 2:00 p.m. “”The presentation of the new minivan will be broadcast live,”” the company said.
    　
    　It had already been announced that the new Serena would undergo a full model change, but what kind of response has it received from dealers?

    This is the new Serena’s impressive design! View the released images

    The new Serena features a powerful grille on the level of the ElGrand! Mysterious three-tiered vertical lights are impressive! Nissan’s New Serena to be Unveiled on November 28, 2022

    　Nissan released some information about the new Serena on November 11, 2022. At that time, the company revealed that it plans to fully remodel the car in the near future.

    　The current Serena is the fifth generation, launched in 2016, and more than six years have already passed since its launch.

    　According to data released by the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, even in FY2021, which can be considered the model’s final year, it had shown solid sales, ranking 11th among all domestically registered cars.

    　Information released on November 11 reveals a partial design of the front face, with a row of small lamps that appear to be vertical three-tiered headlights.

    　In addition, the second-generation “”e-POWER”” powertrain and the “”ProPilot 2.0″” advanced driver assistance system are mounted, indicating that Nissan’s latest technologies have been assembled.

    　Some of the information about the Serena has been disclosed, but there are various opinions on SNS, such as “”I want to see the full picture as soon as possible,”” “”I’m curious, but it looks expensive…”” and “”I’m not sure how much it will cost. I’m curious about it, but it looks expensive.

    　So, what points are users actually paying attention to? A dealer in the Tokyo metropolitan area said the following.

    We have received a great number of inquiries about the new model, which has finally made its debut.

    　We have already received a large number of orders for the gasoline-powered model, for which we have begun taking pre-orders.

    　Customers who are interested in purchasing the new Serena seem to be focusing on the e-POWER’s high level of safety and performance in reducing the burden of driving.

    　Another Nissan dealer in the Kansai region said the following.

    In the first half of 2022, Toyota’s Noah/Voxy and Honda’s Step Wagon will undergo a full model change one after another.

    　At that time, dealers had not yet received information about the new Serena, and some customers switched from the current Serena to other models.

    　However, now that the new Serena has been introduced, we are receiving inquiries from users of other minivans.

    　The recent trend of super short delivery times has also had an impact on the number of customers switching from other companies, as a Nissan dealer in the Chubu region stated.

    We have received some inquiries about the new Noah/Voxy, because the delivery time is getting longer, and we have heard that it is faster to order the new Serena when orders start coming in than to wait for the new Noah/Voxy.

    　We cannot say for sure that the new Serena will actually be delivered earlier, but if you place your order at the start of the order process, we can schedule the delivery to a certain extent.

    　Some people on social networking sites are concerned about the delivery date of the new Serena, saying, “”It looks like it will take a long time,”” or “”I want one, but I’m not sure if it will be delivered too late….

    　The aforementioned dealership in the Tokyo metropolitan area says, “”For gasoline models, it will probably be December to January 2022, and for e-POWER models, it will be around spring 2023.”

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    Toyota “Hiace” on Lamborghini face? Equipped with the explosive “Century Engine”! The world’s strongest “Haintador” appears in South Africa!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota’s “”Hiace”” with Lamborghini face? Equipped with the blazing fast “”Century Engine””! The world’s most powerful “”HYNTADOR”” is coming to South Africa!

    Crazy Hiace with a V12 engine!
    　The Toyota Hiace, one of Japan’s most popular commercial vehicles, is also a global model that is used all over the world.
    　
    　It seems that there is an overseas model of such a Hiace with an Aventador face and a Century engine.

    What’s this? The Hiace with Aventador face is amazing! See the actual car with Century engine in 25 images.

    This is amazing! An Aventador-faced Hiace is born! A monster machine with a Century engine! (Images courtesy of James Lederinghuis)

    　The Hiace, known as a synonym for commercial vehicles, is also popular as a base vehicle for custom vehicles, and has long been used as a base for camping cars.

    　Meanwhile, in South Africa, a country far away from Japan, a user has made a surprising “”magical modification”” to the Hiace, which has become a topic of conversation on the Internet.

    　In South Africa, the Hiace is sold under the name “”Quantum”” and is mainly used as a standard cab vehicle.

    　James Redelinghuys, a South African cab rental company, decided to create a crazy custom Hiace that no one had ever seen before in order to market his company.

    　James began by purchasing a base Hiace.

    　In March 2017, he succeeded in acquiring a stock-bodied Hiace with a 2.7-liter gasoline engine.

    　The 2TR-FE engine in this Hiace is one of Toyota’s most reliable engines, which is also used in the Hilux, Hilux Surf, and Land Cruiser Prado.

    　Since the engine has been the subject of many customizations, James completed the turbocharging and power upgrade in just one day, and then proceeded to customize the exterior.

    　James chose a Lamborghini Aventador-style body kit from a Japanese store called SAD.

    　However, when James saw the Hiace with the body kit, he knew he needed to install a crazier engine.

    　At first, James was thinking of using the 2JZ-GTE engine used in the “”Supra”” and other models, but he decided that this was not enough, and decided to choose the 5-liter V12 engine for the “”Century.

    　When James heard that the Century had gone to Africa, he immediately acquired the engine, twin-turbocharged it, and installed it in the Hiace.

    　James was also particular about the position of the engine.

    　The engine is usually placed in the front of the Hiace, but James decided to place the engine mid-ship, like the Aventador.

    　This means that the V12 engine sits inside the Hiace.

    　Since this crazy Hiace is only a cab, it has two passenger seats in the rear of the vehicle.

    　The driver and front passenger seats add up to a capacity of four passengers, but it is clear that more emphasis was placed on the space for the V12 engine than on the passengers.

    　The result is one of the world’s most fearsome cabs, with a top output of nearly 600 hp and a maximum torque of 700 Nm.

    　According to James, the ride is surprisingly comfortable.

    　The V12 sound produced by the two large mufflers is even pleasant.

    　The front brakes are still stock, which is a surprise to James.

    　According to James, the Hiace has enough braking performance to withstand a total weight of more than 3,000 kg, and no special customization was necessary.

    　Currently, this Hiace is available on the used car market.

    　The price is 995,000 rand (about 8,100,000 yen), but as of November 18, 2022, no user has been found who is brave enough to tame this “”raging bull.

    * * *

    　With its overwhelming durability, practicality, and economy, the Hiace is truly a treasure of the Japanese automobile industry.

    　It is precisely because of this high level of basic performance that crazy customization is possible.

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

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    “Skyline GT-R” has a full carbon body! The powerful wide body custom CG is amazing! How much will it cost?

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Skyline GT-R”” is converted to a full carbon fiber body! The custom CG of the powerful wide body is amazing! How much does it cost to realize it?

    How much will it cost… full carbon body Skyline GT-R
    　Nissan’s legendary sports car, the Skyline GT-R (BNR34 model) (“”GT-R””). Due to its popularity, it is traded not only in Japan but also worldwide, and it is not unusual for it to be sold for far more than the price of a new car.

    “”Skyline GT-R”” with a powerful carbon body! See the tremendous renderings .

    　Arnold Verghese, an Australian automotive CG artist, has released a custom rendering (CG) of the legendary Skyline GT-R with a full carbon body and wide body.

    Rendering of the Nissan Skyline GT-R (BNR34) customized with a full carbon body widebody (Photo: Arnold Verghese)

    　The 10th generation (R34) “”Skyline,”” on which the Skyline GT-R is based, was introduced in May 1998, and the GT-R was added about eight months later, in January 1999.

    　The body size was reduced from that of its predecessor, the R33, to achieve excellent footwork and athletic performance. At the time of its launch, in addition to the standard model, a “”V-spec”” version was available, a version with a more racy exterior and sporty performance.

    　The body size is 4600 mm (L) x 1785 mm (W) x 1360 mm (H) with a wheelbase of 2665 mm and a vehicle weight of 1560 kg (V-Spec II, introduced in 2000).

    　The powertrain is a 2.6-liter twin-turbo inline 6-cylinder engine (RB26DETT type) with maximum output of 280 hp and maximum torque of 40.0 kgf/m, which is the same as the R32 and R33.

    　As of 2022, the Skyline GT-R, which boasts global popularity, is sold on the used car market at prices far exceeding the price of a new car, and in May 2022, a 1999 V-spec was sold for 140,000 pounds (approximately 22.6 million yen) on Collecting Cars in the UK. A 1999 V-spec sold for 140,000 pounds (about 22.6 million yen) on Collecting Cars in the U.K., and a new, unregistered V-spec II Nur fetched 60,501,000 yen at an Internet auction in Japan in 2021.

    　This time, Arnold Verghese has boldly revealed a rendering of the Skyline GT-R with a full carbon fiber wide-body specification.

    　All exterior body panels have been replaced with carbon body panels, leaving the car in its original state. The protruding front and rear fenders, huge wings, and small, simplified side mirrors give the impression of a “”racing car.

    　The car has been described on social networking sites as “”like a raspberry”” and “”unbeatable on the race track.

    Arnold Verghese

    　Arnold Verghese has created customized renderings of sports cars such as the Toyota GR Supra and Chevrolet Corvette and posted them on his SNS.

    　The rendering created by Arnold Verghese is, of course, unrealistic, but there are several examples of full carbon body modifications, including the GT-R R35 with a full carbon body. The cost of this modification is said to be as high as 8.5 million yen, and it is clear that a large amount of money is required to “”convert”” a car to a carbon body.

    　Depending on the price of the base Skyline GT-R, it would cost at least 30 million yen to reproduce this car.”

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    Toyota unveils new “compact SUV” for the first time! Prius-like face adoption! Designer talks about the appeal of the “bZ Compact SUV” .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota unveils its new “”compact SUV”” for the first time! Prius-like face! Designers talk

    Why Toyota Unveiled a Compact SUV Electric Car in LA
    　The LA Auto Show, which has been held at the Los Angeles Convention Center since November 17, 2022, has been attracting many exhibits from concept EVs, soon-to-be-market EVs, and EV makers that Japan has never heard of.
    　
    　Among them, Toyota unveiled for the first time in the U.S. the “”TOYOTA bZ Compact SUV Concept,”” the third model in the bZ series, a new electric vehicle lineup.
    　
    　What are the features of this model? We spoke to a local driver about it.

    Does it look like the new Prius? See the super cool “”bZ Compact SUV”” in 23 images.

    Does it look like the new Prius? The U-shaped headlights are novel! The “”bZ Compact SUV”” unveiled to the public (Photo by Hiroto Kato)

    　The author (Kumiko Kato) visited the LA Auto Show again in 2021 to cover the show, and again, EVs were the main exhibits of each company.

    　California has had strict emission regulations since the 1970s and still has its own emission standards, which may be due to its historical background.

    　It is also known as the area with the highest EV rate in the United States.

    　In addition, Tesla, Lucid, and Livian, which are emerging EV manufacturers, were all born in California.

    　The state is also famous for its high gasoline prices, which are among the highest in the U.S., and the shift to electrification is proceeding at a strong pace in the state as a whole.

    　This trend has led to a large number of EVs being exhibited at the LA Auto Show every year, and especially in recent years, manufacturers have been exhibiting many innovative and ambitious EVs in preparation for the rapid shift to electrification.

    　The Toyota booth at the LA Auto Show was also lined with the latest hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles, including the recently announced new Prius.

    　The main attraction in this space was the “”Toyota bZ Compact SUV”” concept model.

    　The Toyota bZ Compact SUV is a concept model that is designed to be a hybrid vehicle,”” said David Christ, Vice President and General Manager of the Toyota Group.

    The bZ Compact SUV demonstrates another possible vision for the very near future of our battery electric vehicles with its aerodynamic design combined with intuitive technical features never before seen in a Toyota model.””

    　The bZ Compact SUV is also presented as a fun-to-drive EV with “”exhilarating performance”” and distinctive styling.

    　The exterior design of the bZ Compact SUV is all aerodynamic, and the sharp overhangs and smoothly sloping windshield also help keep the drag coefficient (CD value) fairly low.

    　For aerodynamic drag and aggressive styling, the four tires are placed in the corners whenever possible.

    * * *

    　The person in charge of overseeing the design of the bZ Compact SUV was at the event, so we asked him about it.

    　The person in charge is Koichi Matsumoto, General Manager of ZEV Design 2 Group, Vision Design Department, Car Development Center, Toyota Motor Corporation.

    — How is the Toyota bZ Compact SUV positioned?

    　Toyota’s bZ series is a series of electric vehicles.

    　The bZ4X is the first production model. As long as we call ourselves a “”series,”” Toyota wants to have a full lineup of vehicles, from large to small.

    　The bZ4X is a smaller model than the bZ4X, so we have given it the name “”Compact SUV””.

    　As a part of our efforts, we decided to exhibit a compact SUV at this year’s show.

    　We hope that more people will become familiar with and drive electric vehicles.

    — The Toyota bZ Compact SUV was among the 16 BEVs unveiled at Toyota’s “”BEV Strategy Presentation”” at the MegaWeb in December 2021, wasn’t it?

    　Yes, it was.

    　The concept model that was unveiled at that time has been brushed up in various areas as a prerequisite for production, and is now being exhibited at the LA Auto Show.

    　We are still in the process of planning the production version, so we are still considering various aspects. Toyota unveils its new “”compact SUV”” for the first time! Prius-like face! Designers talk about the appeal of the “”bZ Compact SUV

    What was important in the design of the bZ Compact SUV? A Direct Interview with the Person in Charge
    　The bZ Compact SUV is part of Toyota’s bZ series. Mr. Koichi Matsumoto, mentioned above, had the following to say.

    — What are the key points of the design?

    　I think what Japanese users are most concerned about when it comes to electric vehicles is the “”cost of electricity,”” in other words, the cruising range per charge.

    What happens when the batteries run out? In Japan, where the recharging infrastructure is still underdeveloped, I think this is the biggest concern.

    　I believe this is also the reason why people have negative impressions of electric vehicles.

    　Exterior design and overall silhouette also have a large impact on cruising range.

    　A design with low aerodynamic drag is a must to improve electric power costs, so we focused on this aspect.

    — The CD value seems to be quite low. How low is it?

    　Yes, it is. The value has not been disclosed, but it is in the low 0.2 range. It is very difficult to gain distance unless you aim for that level.

    The rear of the “”bZ Compact SUV”” also has an innovative design (photo by Hiroto Kato).

    — So, the design was done with that much in mind in order to improve fuel economy.

    　Of course, many people are concerned about fuel economy in gasoline-powered cars as well, but when gasoline runs low, they can simply fill up at a nearby gas station. With electric vehicles, however, it is not so easy to recharge the battery.

    　It is especially difficult if the battery runs out of power when the car is out on the road, and recharging itself takes time.

    　We would like to reduce the negative image of electric cars by improving the cost of electricity as much as possible.

    　If there were chargers everywhere, as in Los Angeles or San Francisco, and if the entire city were to shift to electricity, there would be no problem.

    I would like to convey to users a sense of security that they can drive a car as far as a gasoline-powered car.

    –I would like to convey the message to users that they can drive as far as a gasoline-powered car.

    　This is a personal opinion, but I believe that the styling of a car needs to express its function in a clear form.

    　In the case of electric vehicles, one of the important functions is to have low aerodynamic drag.

    　I believe that it is our job as designers to give form to function.

    * * * *

    　The aggressive style of the bZ Compact SUV attracted the attention of many media who visited the booth.

    The “”wonderful design that gives a sense of dynamism even when parked,”” and “”highly finished styling that shows the precision and boldness typical of Toyota. We heard comments such as, “”It looks like it could go on the market right away.

    　Further information on the bZ Compact SUV will be announced after 2023.”

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    Hot selling even in the high price range! Why is the Toyota Alphard so popular? Has your desire for luxury increased? The reason why it is widely supported .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “High price range, but selling like hotcakes! Why is Toyota’s “”Alphard”” so popular? Is there
    Why is it widely supported?

    Why is the luxury minivan “”Alphard”” so popular?

    　Toyota’s luxury minivan “”Alphard”” is not only one of the most popular minivans in the Japanese new car market, but it is also one of the top-selling minivans in Japan in terms of new car sales volume.
    　
    　But what is the reason for its strong sales volume, despite being priced higher than other top-selling vehicles?
    Super luxurious! Like first class! A look at the interior of the 15 million yen Alphard

    Why is the high-priced Toyota “”Alphard”” so popular?

    　The current model, the third generation, was introduced in 2015.

    　The front mask features a large front grille with chrome trim, and the interior has a high-quality design that emphasizes wooden grain.

    　In addition, a double wishbone suspension system has been adopted in the rear to further improve vibration control and driving stability.

    　The price of the entry-level Alphard ranges from 3,597,000 yen to 7,752,000 yen, which is not an inexpensive price range for a Japanese car.

    　However, why is it able to rank at the top of the sales volume among many new cars?

    　A representative of a Toyota dealership in the Tokyo metropolitan area explains what users actually think of the Alphard as follows.

    One of the reasons for the Alphard’s popularity is its comfortable interior space.

    　The vast interior space of the minivan body type allows for ample room for the second and third rows of passengers.

    　The luxurious interior and exterior can also be used for formal occasions, making it a truly versatile vehicle that attracts many inquiries from corporate customers.

    　The most popular grade is the “”S “”C Package,”” which offers a good balance of equipment and price for individual customers, and the top grade “”Executive Lounge”” for corporate customers.

    　Although hybrid models seem to be more popular for both, gasoline models are also popular due to delivery time and cost performance.

    　A Toyota sales representative in the Kansai region also commented as follows: “”The current popularity of the Alphard is due to the fact that it is the most popular model in the market.

    The current popularity of the Alphard is largely due to the establishment of the Alphard brand.

    　Just as there used to be a catchphrase, ‘Someday a Crown,’ I have the impression that many customers nowadays are thinking, ‘I want to drive an Alphard.

    　In fact, some customers switch from Crown to Alphard, Noah to Alphard, and so on.

    　A person in charge at a Toyota dealership in the Chubu region explained as follows.

    The tendency of customers who buy new cars is that they want something good if they are going to buy it,”” he said.

    　Therefore, even within the same car, the specifications with better equipment (higher grade) tend to be popular, and I think that the popularity of the luxury-oriented Alphard is the best example of this.

    * * *

    　Currently, there are few models that are direct competitors to the Alphard.

    　Nissan’s Elgrand, a long-time rival, is now far below the Alphard in terms of sales volume, and with the Honda Odyssey also no longer in production, the Alphard has become a dominant force.
    High price range, but selling like hotcakes! Why is Toyota’s “”Alphard”” so popular? Is there an increase in the luxury market? Why is it widely supported?

    Why does a price difference of about 4 million yen exist for the Alphard?
    　The price range for such an Alphard is from 3,597,000 yen to 7,752,000 yen, with a price difference of 415,000 yen depending on the grade.

    　It is rare for a domestic car to have such a price difference in a single model, and this is one of the features of the Alphard.

    　The price difference of 4 million yen is equivalent to the price of one passenger car or two mini cars, but where does this price difference come from?

    　The person in charge in the Tokyo metropolitan area as mentioned above says as follows.

    One of the reasons for the price difference is the powertrain.

    　The Alphard is available in three powertrains (2.5-liter gasoline, 3.5-liter gasoline, and 2.5-liter hybrid), each with a price difference of about 500,000 yen.

    　Other than that, the specification of the second-row seats has a significant impact on the price.

    　For example, the relatively inexpensive grade has a standard bench seat in the second row, but the top grade “”Executive Lounge”” has captain seats made of premium nappa leather.

    　These captain’s seats have been highly praised as “”just like first-class seats,”” and it is no exaggeration to say that they are the most distinctive feature of the Alphard.

    　The Executive Lounge model with captain seats is not only equipped with large armrests, a 100 VAC power outlet, and a reading lamp, but also offers even higher quality interior and exterior furnishings.

    　In addition, the Executive Lounge comes standard with an advanced driving safety support system and the latest navigation system, which I think makes the price difference between the Executive Lounge and other grades.

    　In addition, many Toyota models are available in grades with limited equipment for use as rental cars. This may be one of the reasons for the large price difference.

    * * * *

    The second-row captain’s seat in the Alphard Executive Lounge is like a first-class seat.

    　Thus, the Alphard can be used as both a family car and a show car, with various grades of the same model having different characteristics, and this is reflected in the price difference of more than 4 million yen.

    　On the other hand, as of November 17, 2022, new orders for the Alphard have been suspended. According to the aforementioned representative, “”The reason is that the current delivery date situation overlaps with the arrival of the next model,”” which suggests that a full model change is planned in the near future.

    　The Alphard, which has long been a leader in the luxury minivan market, will be the focus of much attention as to what kind of model the full model change will bring.
    “

  • |

    The world premiere of Toyota’s new “Prius” flashy illumination!Custom specifications with vivid LED equipment are cool!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “World premiere of the new Toyota “”Prius”” with flashy illumination! The custom specs equipped with intense LEDs are so cool!

    Large LED Illumination gives it a strong presence!
    　On November 16, 2022, Toyota unveiled the world premiere of the new Prius, scheduled to go on sale this winter. In conjunction with this, Toyota Customizing & Development released a teaser site for Modellista brand aero parts for the new Prius on the same day.

    Fresh illumination is also adopted! World premiere of the new Prius custom specifications! View in pictures.

    New “”Prius”” equipped with aero parts by Modellista

    　The new Prius, now in its 5th generation, inherits the iconic “”monoform silhouette”” and achieves sporty proportions by lowering the center of gravity even further. The new Prius has a simple, yet intricate body shape.

    　To complement the emotional design of the new Prius, Modellista has created two series of aero parts, “”NEO ADVANCE STYLE”” and “”ELEGANT ICE STYLE””.

    　The NEO ADVANCE STYLE features large LED illumination in the front section and a three-dimensional blackout to express a dynamic presence.

    　On the other hand, the ELEGANT ICE STYLE features chrome decorations that wrap around the vehicle, creating a custom look that emphasizes high quality.

    　More details on Modellista brand aero parts for the new Prius are expected to be revealed in the future.”

  • |

    Toyota New “Prius” World Premiere! The “sporty” “fifth generation” What has evolved?

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “World premiere of the new Toyota Prius! What has evolved in the “”sporty”” 5th generation?

    It’s finally here! New “”Prius”” to go on sale this winter
    　On November 16, 2022, Toyota unveiled the world premiere of the new “”Prius,”” its fifth generation model.

    It’s finally here! A Closer Look at Toyota’s New “”Prius”” in 46 Images

    The world premiere of the new Toyota Prius

    　The Prius was launched 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.

    　The second generation model was the first to adopt the “”monoform silhouette”” that has come to define the Prius, and it achieved even better fuel economy with its advanced series-parallel hybrid system (THS II). The third-generation Prius has not only improved fuel economy, but also enhanced driving performance.

    　The current 4th generation Prius is the first to adopt the TNGA platform, which has further improved environmental performance and evolved driving performance.

    The cumulative global sales volume of the successive generations of the Prius series to date has reached approximately 5.05 million units, and as of March 2022, the amount of CO2 emissions reduced will be equivalent to more than 82 million tons.

    　In 2022, 25 years after its birth, the new Prius, the fifth generation of the series, was finally unveiled.

    　Toyota says that the new Prius was developed with the aim of creating a car that combines its strengths of high environmental performance with a design that makes you fall in love at first sight and a driving experience that makes you fall in love with it.

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

    The simple yet intricate body shape expresses “”emotions that resonate with the senses”” and “”universal beauty”” to be loved for a long time.

    　The front design, based on the hammerhead motif, combines functionality and design at a high level, while the rear design, with its thin, single-character rear combination lamps, further enhances the Prius’ advanced features.

    　Body dimensions are 4600 mm (+25 mm) in length, 1780 mm (+20 mm) in width, and 1430 mm (-40 mm) in height, with a wheelbase of 2750 mm (+50 mm) [figures in parentheses compare to the previous generation].

    　A total of eight body colors will be available, including two newly developed solid color-based colors, “”Ash”” and “”Mustard,”” which give a sporty impression.

    　The interior, based on the “”Island Architecture”” concept, provides both a spacious and comfortable cockpit feel that allows the driver to concentrate on driving. The interior space is designed for intuitive operation and enjoyable driving.

    　The interior color is based on black, with coordinated decorations for the instrument panel and seat stitching. The interior color is based on black, and the instrument panel and seat stitching are coordinated to achieve both a sporty and new sense of quality.

    　The instrument panel is equipped with Toyota’s first “”illumination notification system”” that alerts the driver with a flashing illumination when an object is detected, before an alarm sounds. In addition to decorating the interior as an ambient light, the design incorporates a new feature that works in conjunction with Toyota Safety Sense.

    　In addition, an accessory power outlet (100 VAC, 1500 W) is installed at two locations: at the rear end of the center console and in the luggage compartment. The driver can select either “”EV power supply mode,”” in which power is supplied by the battery alone without starting the engine, or “”HV power supply mode,”” in which power is generated by the engine when the battery level is low. An external power supply attachment is provided as standard equipment to prevent the intrusion of insects and other contaminants into the interior during power supply and rainwater in the event of rain, enabling external power supply with the door glass closed.
    World premiere of the new Toyota Prius! What has evolved in the “”sporty”” 5th generation?

    Three types of powertrains
    　Three types of powertrains are available: 1.8-liter engine or 2.0-liter engine + hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), and 2.0-liter engine + plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).

    Toyota’s new Prius (2.0-liter PHEV prototype)

    　The HEV model, which combines a 1.8-liter engine or 2.0-liter engine and a hybrid system, uses the latest system. While achieving fuel economy equivalent to the conventional model, the HEV delivers heart-pounding acceleration and a responsive driving experience that responds exactly as the driver wants it to.

    The maximum system output of the 2.0-liter HEV model is 193 hp, 1.6 times that of the previous model, ensuring dynamic performance befitting the sporty reborn Prius.

    　In addition, the latest E-Four (4WD) is available. The adoption of a high-output motor and other measures have further improved hill climbing performance on low-mileage roads, including snow-covered roads, as well as stability when turning.

    　The PHEV model with 2.0-liter engine + plug-in hybrid system is the first Toyota model to adopt a 2.0-liter plug-in hybrid system that delivers significantly better acceleration performance and quieter operation than the previous model.

    　The combination of the highly efficient Dynamic Force engine and the high-output lithium-ion battery for drive achieves a maximum system output of 223 PS horsepower and 0-100 km/h acceleration in 6.7 seconds.

    　EV driving range is improved by more than 50% compared to the conventional model. The battery performance has been improved so that the car can cover most of its daily needs with EV driving alone. In addition, when the power switch is turned on during charging, a “”mileage mode”” is set to enable use of the air conditioner and audio system using power from an external power source, making the cabin as comfortable as if it were another room in the car.

    　In addition, the battery pack, which was previously located in the luggage section, is now mounted under the rear seat, resulting in a lower center of gravity and increased luggage space. The new Prius combines sporty driving with improved convenience.

    　For the platform, a second-generation TNGA platform has been developed and adopted with improvements to realize the emotional design and driving performance of the new Prius, resulting in a lower center of gravity and larger-diameter tires.

    　In addition, the body has been reinforced in various parts for greater rigidity and quieter operation. The improved suspension (front: MacPherson strut type/rear: double wishbone type) provides a sturdier vehicle in a straight line and more responsive and easier line tracing in corners in response to the driver’s intention. Combined with the latest powertrain, the vehicle offers captivating athletic performance.

    　The latest Toyota Safety Sense preventive safety package, which adds advanced functions and enhanced features to the advanced safety and driving support system, is standard equipment. The Advanced Park (with remote function) advanced driving support system is also available. In addition, a dedicated smartphone application can be used from outside the car to park and exit the car remotely.

    * * * * * * * *

    　The new Prius will also feature a “”panoramic moonroof”” that extends the opening width to the limit and brings a sense of openness to the interior. The PHEV is also available with a second-generation “”solar charging system”” that converts sunlight into electricity more efficiently and can generate the equivalent of approximately 1,250 km of driving range in one year.

    　In addition, an on-board drive recorder is available, utilizing the monocular camera of the Toyota Safety Sense system for the front and the rear camera of the electronic inner mirror for the rear. In addition to the clean look and feel of the cameras and wiring, the data is stored in the ECU, avoiding problems such as data corruption that can easily occur with SD cards, and securely storing important captured data.

    　The new Prius model is scheduled to be launched globally in the future, starting with Japan and gradually expanding to North America and Europe. The HEV and PHEV models are scheduled to go on sale this winter and spring of 2023, respectively.

    The price of the new Prius has not been announced at this time.

    In Japan, the new Prius will also be handled by the car subscription service “”KINTO,”” but details of the specific plan will be announced this winter.
    “