Author: Chathura Chanuka

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    “Multi-function mirror” appears in Nissan’s popular compact “Note”! Released from NISMO on October 25th .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Multifunctional Mirror”” for Nissan’s Popular Compact “”Note””! On Sale from October 25th from NISMO

    Improved Visibility of Indicators for Vehicles with BSM
    　On October 25, 2022, Nissan Motorsports & Customizing, which handles Nissan’s Nismo brand products, released an improved version of its Multifunction Blue Mirror for the Note and Note Aura for vehicles with BSW (rear-side vehicle detection warning).
    　
    　Shipments are scheduled to begin in late November.

    The Note “”armed”” with aero parts is so cool! Check out NISMO accessories with images
    NISMO”” parts make the Nissan “”Note”” even cooler!

    　Multi-function blue mirrors (hereafter referred to as “”blue mirrors””) are one of NISMO’s accessories, and are high-performance mirrors available for various Nissan models.

    　The blue mirror is attached to the standard mirror with double-sided tape. The mirror surface is blue with a multi-layer coating, giving a sporty impression and preventing dazzling by following cars at night.

    　The “”NISMO”” logo is laser-engraved on the lower part of the mirror surface, providing an accent point.

    　In addition, the curvature of the mirror itself has been modified to provide a wider rearward view than the standard mirror, and the mirror surface has been coated with a hydrophilic coating to help ensure visibility in the rain.

    　The new product for the Note with BSW (rear-side vehicle detection warning) improves the visibility of the indicator display that indicates an approaching vehicle.

    　The product is applicable to all models of the Note (E13) with BSW and the Note Aura (E13). The price (including consumption tax) is 26,400 yen.”

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    Luxury minivan “Alphard” monopoly “Wait!” Many voices of expectation for the revival of Honda’s new “Odyssey”

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Alphard’ Exclusive Luxury Minivan “”Wait and See!”” Many Expect Honda’s New Odyssey to Make a Comeback

    Much anticipation for the revival of the venerable Odyssey minivan brand!
    　The Odyssey, which was at the top of Honda’s three-row minivan lineup, has regrettably ceased production following the closure of Saitama Manufacturing’s Sayama Plant at the end of December 2021.

    A Japanese version of the new “”Odyssey””? The “”too gorgeous”” new “”Elysion”” on pre-sale in China .

    　In the midst of all this, we have received information that Honda is secretly considering the introduction of a high-end minivan once again.
    　
    　Many Honda fans are voicing their expectations on social networking sites.

    Is this the new Japanese version of the Odyssey? Honda’s new Elysion luxury minivan, which underwent minor changes in China in December 2021

    　Honda discontinued production of the Odyssey at the end of December 2021.

    　The Odyssey is a “”well-established”” minivan brand with a history of more than 25 years since the first model in 1994, and the last model introduced in 2014 will be the fifth generation.

    　Although the Odyssey continued to be listed on the official website for more than six months after production ended, the website quietly ended in September 2022, and the vehicles in stock are believed to have been cleared out.

    　Currently, Toyota’s Alphard dominates the high-end minivan market, and for this reason, there are many requests for Honda to revive the Odyssey.

    　In the meantime, rumors are circulating that the Elysion, a high-end Odyssey model that continues to be produced in China, may be introduced to Japan as the new Odyssey in 2023.

    　The Chinese version of the Elysion is a new model that underwent minor changes in December 2021.

    　It is based on the Odyssey, which ended its domestic production at the very same time.

    　The body size of the Elysion is 4951 mm (length) x 1842 mm (width) x 1711 mm (height) with a wheelbase of 2900 mm.

    　It is a 7-seater with a second captain’s seat, and its powertrain combines a 2-liter Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine and a highly efficient and powerful 2-motor hybrid system.

    　The interior layout follows the specifications of the current Odyssey, which underwent minor changes in 2020, and includes a 7-inch full LCD instrument panel, a large 10.1-inch center display, and gesture control power sliding doors.

    　In addition, the seat materials are even more luxurious than those of the Odyssey, and an electric double sunroof, which was not available in Japan, is also available.

    　As of the end of October 2022, there has been no official announcement from Honda, but there are rumors that the Odyssey will appear in Japan in 2023, so we are waiting with great anticipation.

    We are eagerly awaiting the arrival of the new Odyssey in Japan in 2023.

    　There have been many reactions to the rumors of the revival of the new Odyssey on social networking sites.

    　Honda fans have voiced their eager anticipation for the new Odyssey, with comments such as “”I can expect a lot,”” “”I’m happy if it’s true,”” “”I’m looking forward to it,”” and “”I think I’ll buy one.

    　On the other hand, there are also some cool comments such as “”It may not be able to compete with the Alphard unless it is more robust”” or “”It will not sell unless it is taller (like the Alphard)””.

    　Also, there are some who, in response to the discontinuation of the model, are saying, “”Oh, no! I’ve ordered another car…”” Some users also said that they had already ordered another car.

    　Some users are puzzled by Honda’s response, saying, “”Honda’s response seems to be too perfunctory”” after having announced the discontinuation of the model once before.

    　In any case, with Toyota almost completely dominating the market for luxury minivans, there are many who are looking forward to the return of the new Odyssey as a competitor.”

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    Toyota offers a discount of 380,000 yen! Subscribing fees will be revised upon the resumption of sales of the new EV “bZ4X” Acceptance starts on October 26 .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota discounts 380,000 yen! Subsc. fee revised for resumption of sales of the new EV “”bZ4X””, acceptance to begin on Oct. 26.

    Application Fee Halved, Monthly Fee Also Reduced, Corporate Customers Can Sign Up
    　KINTO, a Toyota vehicle subscription service provider, announced on October 26, 2022 that it has revised the subscription plan fees for the new bZ4X EV.
    　
    　New applications for the revised subscription plan will be accepted from the same day.

    A milestone for mass-produced EVs! See the interior and exterior of Toyota’s futuristic bZ4X in 33 photos.

    More Affordable? Toyota’s “”bZ4X”” with revised subscriber fees

    　Toyota’s bZ4X is a new EV announced on April 12, 2022, and available for lease through KINTO, a subscription service (“”SUBSC””), from May 12 of the same year.

    　The bZ4X is a full-scale mass-produced EV that uses the “”e-TNGA”” platform co-developed with Subaru to enhance driving performance while achieving a cruising range of 559 km per charge (2WD model, WLTC mode).

    　However, Toyota reported a recall on June 23. The hub bolt that attaches the tire may loosen, and in the worst case scenario, the tire may fall off, leading to a “”stop use”” requirement for users.

    　On October 6, approximately four months later, after an investigation into the cause of the problem and the determination of countermeasures, another recall was filed and the hub bolts were replaced, among other measures.

    　Following the June recall, lease sales were temporarily suspended, but sales resumed on October 6, 2022, following the resolution of the problem.

    　KINTO has changed its fee structure to coincide with the resumption of sales.

    　New applications for the new fee structure will be accepted from October 26, 2022, the same day as the announcement. Corporate customers can also apply for the new plan, instead of only individuals.

    　When bZ4X was introduced, the subscription fee was 107,800 yen for the first four years, but it has been reduced to 106,700 yen, a decrease of 1,100 yen.

    　The application fee required at the time of signing a contract has also dropped significantly. The application fee, which was set at 770,000 yen at the start of the subscription, has been reduced to 385,000 yen, half the original price.

    　In addition, the monthly fee can be further reduced up to the fourth year when applying the “”CEV subsidy”” granted by the government when purchasing a clean energy vehicle or subsidies set up by local governments.

    　There is no change from the start of the subscriptions in that the fee structure includes a gradual reduction in the monthly fee from the fifth year onward, as well as the cost of car insurance, maintenance, and vehicle inspections and checkups.

    　Future delivery dates are scheduled to begin in late January 2023 for new subscriptions starting October 26, 2022, with production commencing in late January 2023 or later, and delivery of the vehicle in approximately one month.

    * * *

    　Although the “”bZ4X”” was fully loaded, unexpected problems occurred. There were calls to suspend its use, and some people voiced their concerns on social networking sites.

    　While placing priority on resolving the problem, the company will offer substantial discounts when sales resume, and by adding corporate customers to the scope of its service offerings, expectations are high for how far it will be able to increase sales volume in the future.

    “

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    It’s like a “moving designer’s mansion!” What is the best indoor space? The “”Hiace Overnight Car”” equipped with a sofa and wood furniture is amazing!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “It’s like a “”designer’s apartment that moves! The “”Hiace Overnight Car”” equipped with a sofa and wood furniture is amazing! What is the best interior space?

    What is an exquisite interior space with real wood used from top to bottom?
    　The new coronavirus and other factors have caused rapid changes in our daily lifestyles, and the “”van lifestyle”” is now becoming popular.
    　
    　In this trend, there are custom Hiace vans that create a space that is just like a home.

    Isn’t this a stylish condominium? The interior space with a sense of luxury is amazing! See the actual vehicle!

    Real wood from top to bottom! Interior space that looks like a luxury designer’s apartment (Image courtesy of NACS)

    　The van lifestyle refers to a style of enjoying free time in the great outdoors, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, with only the things you really like packed in your car.

    　This style, which seeks spiritual rather than material wealth, has become a major movement, especially in Europe and the United States.

    　The “”Sonoma”” model based on the Toyota Hiace (DX grade/standard body and roof) is developed by the Hiace custom store “”NACS”” to realize such a casual van life.

    　A NACS representative explains the development process as follows.

    In developing this model, we referred to the “”VAN LIFE”” style that is becoming a worldwide movement, especially in Europe and the United States.

    　In doing so, we decided to use the Hiace, which is easy to use in domestic road conditions.

    　In Sonoma, natural solid wood is used for the flooring, and the roof is also wood as standard equipment, creating a cozy space surrounded by wood from top to bottom.

    　The vast luggage space, which opens up when the table and chairs are lowered, is equipped with high-quality iron shelving furniture and storage, allowing you to create your own space, free of any restrictions on its use.

    　Iron shelving refers to a combination of wooden furniture and iron, which instantly enhances the interior atmosphere and creates a stylish space.

    　Major features include rear flooring installation (natural walnut), butterfly-type 3-seat bench seat, iron shelf blanket storage box, cargo area camping table and chairs (2 each), wood-style roof (with LED downlights) and panel, etc. as standard.

    　Also optional are electrical components such as a sub-battery system, external AC100V (with cord), 100V outlet + DC12V socket + additional USB port.

    　In addition, there are construction-related features such as side-step flooring, vibration damping, and thermal insulation.

    It is like a “”designer’s apartment that moves! The “”Hiace Overnight Model”” equipped with a sofa and wood furniture is amazing! What is the best interior space?

    What are the particulars and repercussions of “”Sonoma”” for casual van life?
    　What aspects of Sonoma were particular to its production? The person in charge of the project had the following to say.

    The use of real wood, iron, and carefully selected fabrics allows you to enjoy the texture of the real thing, which is one of our main points.

    　In addition, the luggage space mat has four independent legs, so it can be taken outside and used as a table and chairs.

    　Unlike a van-con based on a regular Hiace or other van, the equipment is kept to a minimum, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors and the camper in a middle position between the two.””

    Customizable to your own interior space! The “”Hiace”” has an interior space that looks like a luxury designer’s apartment (image courtesy of NACS).

    　In addition, the fabrics are of high quality, allowing you to enjoy not only the casual atmosphere but also the texture of the real thing.

    　What are users saying about Sonoma, which has been on the market for about three years? The person in charge of the Sonoma project had the following to say about the response.

    We have received a great number of inquiries about Sonoma since it was first launched, due in part to the outdoor lifestyle boom.

    　The fact that there are eight different fabrics to choose from has also been well received. Users seem to be able to purchase the product in their own unique combination of styles.

    * * * *

    　In this way, Sonoma is both authentic and casual.
    　
    　The specifications are different from those of conventional Hiace-based campers, and may be a good match for those who want to express their individuality.”

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    Mazda SUV New “MX-30” Released in November! Electronic shift changes operability from 2,640,000 yen .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “New Mazda MX-30 SUV to Go on Sale in November! Electric shift system changes operability, starting at 2,640,000 yen

    Button Positions on Shift Knob Changed
    　Mazda announced on October 20 that it will revamp its MX-30/MX-30 EV MODEL compact SUV and launch it in early November 2022.

    What does the revamped Mazda MX-30 SUV look like? View 18 images
    　What kind of improvements have been made to this model, which features a unique and fashionable design, such as the adoption of double-swing doors?

    Mazda MX-30 Upgraded Model

    　Both the standard and EV models have been redesigned with new body color variations.

    　A new two-tone color scheme with a black “”framed top”” from the A-pillar to the top of the rear quarter panel is now available in three color combinations: Soul Red Crystal Metallic, Jet Black Mica, and Zircon Sand Metallic.

    　Piano black pillar garnish, D-pillar chrome & MAZDA logo, and 18-inch dark aluminum wheels have been changed from optional to standard equipment on all models.

    　On the interior, the shift knob (electric shift) button has been changed from the right side to the back side for improved operability.

    　The standard model (mild hybrid model) grade development has been reviewed, and two new grades, “”Industrial Classic”” and “”Modern Confidence,”” are available.

    　For the EV model, badges have been added to the front fenders on the exterior. The back door badge design will also be changed.

    　In terms of functionality, a 1500W AC power supply in the luggage compartment and a 150W AC power supply in the front console have been added for improved convenience. The power supply is standard on the EV Highest Set and optional on the EV and EV Basic Set.

    　The “”V2H (Vehicle to Home)”” function is standard on all grades.

    　Prices (including consumption tax) start at 2.64 million yen for the standard model and 4.51 million yen for the EV model.

    * * * *

    　The MX-30 is equipped with a double swinging door named “”Freestyle Door””. Together with the strongly reclined C-pillar, the highly specialized design is also one of the appeals of this model.

    　Now here is a quiz.

    　Which of the following cars was actually equipped with the double doors?

    1] Mazda “”Demio

    2. Nissan “”Cube

    3. Toyota “”bB

    4] Honda Fit

    The correct answer is Toyota “”bB”” in [3].

    　The correct answer is [3] Toyota “”bB””.

    　The first-generation bB included a model called the “”bB Open Deck,”” which featured a folding door on one side only.

    　It attracted attention as a very unique model, adopting a pickup truck style with a cargo bed in the latter half of the body.”

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    One unit is OK for daily use and sleeping in the car! As easy to drive as the Prius! Toyota Hiace camping car on sale!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Easy to drive, as easy to drive as a Prius! Toyota “”Hiace”” Camper on Sale!

    Based on the easy-to-handle Hiace standard body
    　Dream Drive Inc. has released the Toyota Hiace camper “”TAMA”” on October 21, 2022.

    Easy to drive and super stylish! The Hiace camper “”TAMA”” is super cool!

    　Based on the standard body of the Hiace, the TAMA is easy to drive and maneuver like a regular car.

    Toyota “”Hiace”” based camper “”TAMA

    　Driving a large camper requires some getting used to, but the Hiace with its flat side body is easy to drive, and the minimum turning radius of the standard Hiace body is 5m (2WD model).

    　The minimum turning radius of the Hiace standard body is 5m (FWD model), not much different from that of a Toyota Prius, and even those who are not comfortable driving a large camper can use it on a daily basis with ease. The standard-body Hiace can also be used in multi-level parking garages.

    　This is the perfect camper for one owner, with high mobility for daily use and satisfying weekend van life, and no difficulty in maneuvering on narrow roads.

    　Solid wood is used sparingly to create a comfortable interior space. More than 1,000 combinations of furniture colors and seat fabrics are available.

    　With a seating capacity of 6 passengers and sleeping capacity for 2 adults + 2 children, families can go on a camper trip together.

    　The space from the rear of the driver’s seat to the back door can be expanded to a fully flat space. Additionally, the rear seats can be turned toward the rear of the camper and the angle and height of the table can be rotated and adjusted for use in dining mode or as a comfortable workspace.

    　In addition, the kitchen is equipped with a deep sink to minimize splashing, a 40-liter refrigerator, and storage. An FF heater, ventilation fan, and side awnings are also available as options.

    * * *

    　TAMA’s price (including consumption tax) starts at 5,750,000 yen. The model is available with standard roof or high roof, 2-liter gasoline or 2.8-liter diesel engine. The vehicle will be registered as an 8-number car.

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

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    “Affordable price” Nissan launches latest SUV “Kicks e-POWER”!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Affordable’ Nissan throws its latest SUV, the Kicks e-POWER, on the streak! Launched in the Sumi market starting at approx. 4.17 million yen

    Differentiating some equipment from gasoline-powered models
    　Nissan Mexico announced the local launch of the new Kicks e-POWER on October 20, 2022.

    Nissan’s new Kicks e-POWER in a row! In Pictures

    Mexican-spec Nissan Kicks e-POWER

    　The introduction of this model has been previously announced, and like the Japanese-spec Kicks e-POWER, it will be produced at a plant in Thailand and imported to Mexico.

    　The new KIX e-POWER will be differentiated from the existing gasoline version (Mexican version) by a new shift lever, drive mode selector, e-POWER badge, electrically foldable side mirrors, and other features.

    　The drive motor of the e-POWER series hybrid system onboard the Kicks delivers a maximum output of 134 hp and a maximum torque of 207 lb-ft.

    　The car will also be equipped with a full range of preventive safety equipment, including intelligent emergency braking (with pedestrian detection), intelligent cruise control, intelligent around-view monitor, and cross-traffic alert.

    　Prices for the Mexican-spec Kicks e-POWER range from 555,900 Mexican pesos (approximately 4.17 million yen) to 594,800 Mexican pesos (approximately 4.46 million yen).

    　Jose Román, President and General Manager of Nissan Mexico and Nissan Imports, commented on the local introduction of the Kicks e-POWER as follows.

    The Kicks e-POWER is a vehicle designed to facilitate the transition to electric vehicles, making them more exciting and affordable for everyone.

    　I am confident that this will be a milestone in the history of mobility in this country.”””

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    First equipped with an advanced large digital meter! Toyota’s new “Corolla Cross” will appear in Europe in the fall of 2022!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “First to feature advanced large digital meters! New Toyota Corolla Cross to Debut in Europe in Fall 2022!

    Equipped with the latest hybrid system and preventive safety package
    　On October 21, 2022, Toyota’s European subsidiary announced the new “”Corolla Cross,”” a C-segment SUV, which will be sequentially released in the European market starting in the fall of 2022.

    Large grille is dynamic! The European Corolla Cross, so different from its Japanese counterpart, is so cool!

    Toyota’s new Corolla Cross (European specifications)

    　The Corolla Cross is positioned as a model that will support Toyota’s sales in the highly competitive European C-segment, with the goal of selling 400,000 units annually by 2025, equivalent to a 9% segment share.

    　Toyota also aims to become “”carbon neutral”” and plans to have 80% of its new vehicle sales in Western Europe be hybrids and plug-in hybrids and 10% be zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) by 2025.

    　By 2030, the company aims to have 50% of its sales in the region be ZEVs and to make Toyota’s production plants carbon neutral, with the goal of having 100% of new vehicle sales be ZEVs in five years.

    　In this context, the new Corolla Cross is the first Toyota to feature a fifth-generation hybrid system that delivers more torque, more power from the electric motor, and a more efficient driving experience.

    　Powertrains include a 1.8-liter hybrid and a 2-liter hybrid. To match the driving scene in Europe, the throttle is set so that the driver’s throttle operation and the car’s acceleration are coordinated more naturally.

    　Both the 1.8-liter hybrid and 2-liter hybrid are available in FWD (front-wheel drive), while the 2-liter hybrid is also available in AWD, with a more powerful rear electric motor for improved cornering and starting performance on low-grip surfaces.

    　The 1.8-liter hybrid will initially be sold only in Israel and Turkey.

    　The new Corolla Cross will appeal to young families seeking a practical and versatile vehicle. The exterior design is strong, typical of Toyota SUVs, and all grades feature slim, two-light LED headlights. The Mid+ and High grades are additionally equipped with sequential turn lamps and LED light guides.

    　The wheels are silver-finished 17-inch aluminum with tool-like graphics highlighting the rims, while the 18-inch wheels feature contrasting bright machined and dark gray finishes and an intertwining rim and spokes design.

    　The interior emphasizes practicality. Large side windows and a high driver’s eye point provide a bright, open space with good visibility for all occupants.

    　The panoramic roof with electric blinds, available as an option for all grades, further enhances the sense of openness.

    　The luggage space has a wide opening and a cargo height of 720 mm, the lowest among competing models. A power back door with kick sensor is also available as an option.

    　The latest 12.3-inch full-digital combination meter, which can be personalized by the driver, is now available for the first time on a Toyota vehicle (standard equipment on all models).

    　The digital meters feature an ergonomic design that maximizes space with highly visible, easy-to-read information and intuitive operation, allowing the driver to personalize the information and other aspects of the display.

    　It also offers display modes such as casual/smart/tough/sporty, which can be easily changed using a toggle switch on the steering wheel.

    　Toyota Motor Europe was deeply involved in the development of these digital meters, and the specifications have been tailored to meet the preferences and requirements of European users.

    　On the safety front, the new Toyota Mazda6 is the first model to feature the latest generation of Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), which can be updated via Over-The-Air (wireless communication).

    　The TSS package, combined with other active driving and parking support systems, not only makes driving easier and safer, but also protects all occupants and other road users in a variety of situations.

    * * *

    　The price of the new Corolla Cross has been announced in Italy and ranges from 38,000 to 43,500 euros, or about 5,590,000 to 6,400,000 Japanese yen.”

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    No longer a “commercial vehicle”! There are also voices of pros and cons for the rough paint, “It’s cool!”.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “No longer a “”commercial vehicle””? Is the black Toyota “”RAV4″” a bit too much? The paint job is not so good, but it’s cool! Some say it’s “”cool!

    What do you think of the overly rugged RAV4 special edition?
    　A special edition of the “”Adventure,”” an active grade of Toyota’s popular RAV4 SUV, has been set for release on October 4, 2022.

    Toyota’s “”RAV4 Adventure Off-Road Package””

    　The special edition “”Adventure Off-Road Package II”” is a two-tone vehicle with “”Gory Gory Black paint”” applied to the front bumper, door mirrors, and other parts of the vehicle to create a bumpy texture by layering paint to emphasize the off-road image.

    Toyota “”RAV4″” special edition with awesome paint job

    　We conducted a survey on social networking sites to get users’ opinions about this Adventure Off-Road Package II.

    The question asked, “”What do you think of the design of the Adventure Off-Road Package II, which is available as a special edition of the RAV4?”” The majority of the respondents answered “”not good,”” with 22.6% saying “”very good,”” 25.8% saying “”fair to good,”” 19.4% saying “”not so good,”” and 32.3% saying “”not good at all,”” resulting in a divided response.

    　Negative respondents commented that “”the front bumper looks cheap”” and “”the black bumper exclusively for the two-tone looks uncomfortable because the black area is too wide,”” as well as “”it looks like a commercial vehicle.

    　On the other hand, the positive group says that the ruggedness is a favorable impression, with some saying, “”The front mask is cool,”” “”It feels powerful,”” and “”It has a good van taste,”” and the style may be irresistible to those who like it.

    　The gory black paint applied to the RAV4 Special Edition has an uneven texture and matte luster that creates a wild impression, and the layers of paint make it resistant to scuffs and scratches.

    　It can also be retrofitted to the Adventure grade. This means you can enjoy a tough gear feel like this Off-Road Package II.

    * * *

    　The RAV4 Adventure Off-Road Package II includes special equipment, such as bridge-shaped roof rails, 18-inch all-terrain tires paired with matte black aluminum wheels, and an exclusive emblem on the rear.

    　In addition, the minimum ground clearance has been increased by 10 mm through suspension tuning. The body is less likely to be hit by obstacles even on rough roads, and forward visibility is excellent.

    　The gory black paint is only available on the two-tone model. Bumpers on monotone models are the same color as the body, and door mirrors are black.

    　The 2-liter gasoline and 2.5-liter gasoline models are available, and all models are 4WD.”

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    Riding system “RS” revival in Honda “Fit”! It looks like a German car!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Honda “”Fit”” revives the driving style “”RS””! Just like a German car! You can also choose it for its sporty looks! Test drive report

    The Fit gets the long-awaited “”RS”” edition!
    　On October 6, 2022, the Honda Fit received a minor change. The focus of the change must be the addition (revival) of the “”RS”” model.

    Sporty mesh grille! Photos of the intrepid new “”Fit RS”” interior and exterior

    The Fit gets the long-awaited “”RS”” edition!
    　On October 6, 2022, the Honda Fit received a minor change. The focus of the change must be the addition (revival) of the “”RS”” model.

    Sporty mesh grille! Photos of the intrepid new “”Fit RS”” interior and exterior .

    How is the RS different from other grades?

    Honda’s new Fit RS stands out for its sportiness

    　The RS is described in the press release as “”a type that focuses on design and driving quality,”” and features a wide-mouthed front bumper, side sill garnish, rear bumper, rear spoiler, and exclusively designed aluminum wheels. The Fit’s standard type (“”BASIC””) is a “”design with a running quality”” type.

    　The addition of a mesh grille is also a symbolic part of the RS’s styling, while the standard Fit models (“”Basic”” and “”Home””) are grille-less.

    　The interior is also exclusive to the RS, with coordinated suede seat upholstery, but even more distinctive is the steering wheel, which has a two-spoke design. While other grades have a two-spoke steering wheel, the RS has a three-spoke steering wheel with yellow stitching.

    　The steering wheel is also equipped with deceleration selectors (paddles) that allow the driver to choose between four levels of damping force when the gas pedal is turned off.

    　In addition, the drive mode switch on the lower left of the meter is also unique to the RS. The driver can choose between “”Normal,”” “”Sport,”” and “”ECON,”” which is a control mode that emphasizes fuel economy.

    　Other grades have only “”Normal”” and “”ECON,”” and the location of the switch differs from that of the RS.

    The stability of the RS’s exclusive settings is amazing!
    　The true essence of the RS is not so much its appearance as its driving performance. The suspension and other special tuning features differentiate the drivability of the RS from the RS.

    　The first thing I felt when I actually drove the car was the difference in steering feel. The power steering control is specially tuned, and as a result, the steering feels more solid than other grades.

    Honda “”Fit”” revives the driving style “”RS””! Just like a German car! It looks like a German car! Test drive report

    　I also felt that the behavior when turning was calmer. Roll speed is suppressed, and when driving on a winding road, the suspension holds firm, increasing the sense of stability of the vehicle, giving the driver the feeling of driving a car of a higher class.

    　Compared to the other grades, the response of the other grades to steering wheel operation and the sense of roll while turning give the impression of “”light and nimble”” driving, whereas the RS has a more stable body and emphasizes a solid feel.

    　Also, when the accelerator pedal is depressed, shift-up control is activated, and even though the car is motor-driven except in the high-speed range (even in the high-speed range, mechanical step shifting is not used), the engine speed drops momentarily and the driver feels as if he or she is shifting up.

    　This is a mechanism that is also incorporated in the Civic e:HEV, which was introduced earlier, but it has nothing to do with efficiency and is intended to enhance drivability.

    　When the car is set to “”Sport,”” a driving mode exclusive to the RS, the accelerator pedal becomes more responsive, and the shifting control has been modified to emphasize the sense of shifting gears more.

    　This has increased the sense of rhythm in acceleration, and the increased sense of oneness between the car and driver has made it understandably more exhilarating to step on the accelerator pedal.

    　Compared to the Fit before the minor changes, the increased output of the motor and the adoption of shift-up control have increased the pleasure of stepping on the accelerator even when compared to standard models, but the RS seems to have taken this to a much higher level. It can be said that the RS is a sporty grade not only in style but also in driving performance.

    　By the way, some may be concerned about the ride quality of the RS, as its suspension is tuned to be stiffer. However, that worry will prove to be unfounded.

    　Certainly, there are situations where the bite feels harder than other grades, such as when driving on poor road surfaces.

    　However, it absorbs shocks well and has what is called a “”rounded corner ride”” so there is no discomfort, and although it is different from a typical Japanese compact, you can imagine that it feels like a German small car. So as a family car, there should be no complaints from the family.

    　We felt that the Fit RS is a car that we can safely recommend to anyone, not just those who like to drive. I think it is very possible to choose it for its looks.”