Author: Chathura Chanuka

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    It looks like a “fashionable cafe”! Toyota “Hiace” equipped with a “luxury bed” Comfortable full-flat specification “Car overnight custom” .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “It looks like a “”fashionable café””! Toyota “”Hiace”” equipped with a “”luxury bed”” and a comfortable “”overnight stay customization”” with a full-flat bed

    What kind of car is the Santa Rosa “”Catalina”” Hiace complete car?
    　The Hiace, Toyota’s commercial van, is popular not only for work but also for outdoor activities and other hobbies.
    　
    　Among them, there is a model called “”Catalina”” by Santa Rosa, which is developed by NACS, a company that specializes in customizing the Hiace. What are its features and specialties?

    A stylish cafe-spec Hiace! What is the interior space like? See the actual car!

    Stylish cafe spec! Toyota “”Hiace”” complete car (Image courtesy of NACS)

    　Catalina is based on a “”Hiace Van Super GL,”” a vehicle registered with a 4 license plate number.

    　What were the particular points of the Catalina that made it such a special creation?

    　The person in charge of NACS explains the points of particularity as follows.

    The bed kit installed in Catalina has six bed mats that can be laid out at two different heights, so it can be used not only as a sleeping space but also effectively in a variety of layout patterns.

    　The bed kit can also be used as a dinette mode (table) by arranging the mats above and below.

    　Specifically, when all the bed mats are placed on the upper level, the bed can be used as a full flat bed while carrying a large amount of luggage or high objects, and when the center two bed mats are placed on the upper level and the remaining four mats on the lower level, it can be used as a table and chair.

    　The beds will be finished in antique duchesse leather and walnut wood, and will fit perfectly into the storage spaces on either side.

    　The flooring is easy-to-maintain cushion flooring material, and there are 15 floor designs and five fabric colors to choose from, allowing customers to select the one they prefer,”” continued the aforementioned representative.

    　Customers can choose from 15 different floor designs, ranging from natural wood grain to hard concrete, including wild oak, black wood grain, and white painted wood.

    　There are also a total of five fabric colors available: two in Signature, two in Nestgrace, and one in Duke Brown Leather.

    　What kind of feedback has Catalina received from users?

    The Catalina is one of the most frequently ordered custom-completed Hiace vehicles in the Santa Rosa lineup.

    　We receive inquiries and purchases from people of all ages because it is a vehicle that is easy to use in situations other than the outdoors.

    * * * *

    　In addition, the second seat can be folded down to create a large luggage space, and the outstanding load capacity unique to the Hiace is another attraction.”

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    “Good sense!” Many in favor of changing the car name to the new Subaru “Crosstrek”? There is also a voice that is more friendly than “XV”.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Good taste!”” Many Favor Changing the Name of the New Subaru “”Crosstrek””? Some say it is more familiar than “”XV

    Subaru to Rename the Crosstrek: What Do You Think?
    　Subaru has announced the world premiere of its new SUV, the Crosstrek, in September 2022.

    　This new Crosstrek is the successor to the company’s XV. The name “”Crosstrek,”” which was previously used overseas, will be used globally, and the Japanese version will also be renamed.

    Is it wilder than the XV? Check out the interior and exterior of the new Crosstrek in these photos!

    　We conducted a survey to find out what users think about the new Crosstrek.

    Crosstrek”” is a combination of crossover and trekking

    Crosstrek”” is the name of the car used overseas. What do you think about the unification of this car name in Japan instead of the conventional XV? 67.5% of the respondents answered “”Yes,”” 12.5% answered “”No,”” and 20.0% answered “”Don’t care either way.

    　Respondents commented, “”I think the name ‘Crosstrek’ is cool,”” “”Whether it’s Impreza or Crosstrek, it has a nice sound. I think it has a good sense of coined words.”” Many respondents had a favorable impression of the car name Crosstrek.

    　In addition to comments such as “”I think it is more familiar than alphabet car names,”” and “”Crosstrek is easier to remember, so I prefer this one,”” there were also comments such as “”It is a natural trend considering that other manufacturers are also unifying their car names in their global strategies. It would have been better if they had done it earlier.

    　Crosstrek is a coined word combining the words “”crossover”” and “”trekking,”” and is said to express the desire for people to be able to go anywhere from urban to outdoor and enjoy activities as casually as trekking.

    　Originally, the XV was positioned as the entry model of the Subaru SUV lineup, and its moderate size and stylish design have made it popular among casual city drivers and female users.

    　The name change to Crosstrek in the new model will make it even friendlier and more like a partner.

    　On the other hand, respondents who preferred XV said, “”I guess it’s a matter of familiarity. Personally, I liked the name XV,”” and “”XV was so well known in Japan that I don’t think it would be a good idea to change it now.

    * * *

    　While Subaru has changed from a symbolic car name using only letters of the alphabet to a coined word, Mazda has globally unified its car names using letters and numbers.

    　For example, “”Demio”” is “”Mazda2,”” “”Axela”” is “”Mazda3,”” and “”Atenza”” is “”Mazda6,”” and so on.

    　Furthermore, the SUV series has adopted vehicle names such as “”CX-3,”” “”CX-30,”” “”MX-30,”” “”CX-5,”” “”CX-8,”” and “”CX-60.

    　While most of the car names are in accordance with the law, the two-seater convertible “”Roadster”” will not be unified with the overseas name “”MX-5″” because the name is very familiar in Japan.”

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    too radical? Explosive selling SUV “X-Trail” What is the slightly “overdone” specification that was in the successive models .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Too extreme? What are the slightly “”excessive”” specifications of successive generations of the hot-selling SUV XTRAIL?

    Unique equipment not found in the current model, including a model with a sports engine
    　On July 20, 2022, the fourth generation of Nissan’s XTRAIL SUV was unveiled, marking the first model change in nine years. It has become popular with orders for more than 12,000 units in the first two weeks since its launch.
    　
    　The XTRAIL, which pioneered the popularity of SUVs, has pursued “”toughness”” since the first generation model and added “”quality”” to the current model, but previous models also had specifications that could be considered extreme.

    What is the shiny and bright “”Hyper Roof Rail””? Check out the successive generations of the XTRAIL with 45 images.

    The Nissan XTRAIL, with its “”tough specs”” and aggressive design (image: 2nd generation)

    　The first-generation XTRAIL was launched in 2000, targeting outdoor sports enthusiasts in their 20s and 30s, and was equipped with a high-performance 4WD system based on the concept of “”comfortable and fun for four people, a usable 4WD vehicle for 2 million yen.

    　The “”washable luggage board”” and water-repellent seats, which allow passengers and their playthings to be used without worrying about getting them dirty, were also promoted in commercials, and many people may remember the scene where people enjoying marine and winter sports loaded their dirty tools straight into the vehicle.

    　In the first generation model, the “”tough tool feel”” was further enhanced through improvements, and in the 2003 minor change, in addition to the seats, the ceiling and floor were waterproofed so that they can be wiped with water, making them more resistant to hard use.

    　While most cars are normally waterproofed only in the seats and luggage compartment, this is a very rare case where the floor and ceiling are also fully waterproofed, and in a sense, can be considered “”extreme.

    　In addition, “”Hyper Roof Rail”” was made available as an option on the exterior (later made standard equipment on some grades). By equipping the roof rails with driving lamps that are linked to the high beams, this system enhances visibility at night by illuminating the road ahead from a higher position than with ordinary lights.

    　It is rare to have such driving lamps as standard or optional equipment in a factory-installed vehicle, making it unique among Japanese SUVs.

    　The first generation model also featured a new “”GT”” grade in 2001. The new grade boasted 280 horsepower and 31.5 kgf/m of torque by adding a turbo and variable valve timing mechanism to the SR20 sports engine, which was also used in the Silvia sports car.

    　However, the 2nd and 3rd generation XTRAIL models were not equipped with a gasoline turbo engine, but were revived in the 4th generation (all models with VC turbo and e-POWER).

    * * *

    　In 2007, the second-generation XTRAIL was introduced. The waterproof interior and Hyper Roof Rail were carried over as optional equipment, and pictures of adults getting into the car after having serious fun and getting covered in mud, and with the Hyper Roof Rail driving lights on, were used in advertisements, establishing the identity of the xtrail.

    　For the second generation, a model equipped with a clean diesel engine (20GT), which combines high performance with outstanding environmental performance, was also made available. The 2-liter diesel engine “”M9R”” complies with the “”Post New Long-term Emission Regulations”” and delivers maximum output of 173 PS and maximum torque of 36.7 kgf/m. Initially available only with a 6-speed manual transmission, a 6-speed AT was later added. * * * The first and second generation XTRAIL was launched in 2000, targeting outdoor sports enthusiasts in their 20s and 30s, with the concept of “”a 2 million yen usable 4WD car that is comfortable and fun for 4 people””.

    　　In the first generation model, the “”tough tool feel”” was further enhanced through improvements, and in the 2003 minor change, in addition to the seats, the ceiling and floor were waterproofed so that they can be wiped with water, making them more resistant to hard use.

    　While most cars are normally waterproofed only in the seats and luggage compartment, this is a very rare case where the floor and ceiling are also fully waterproofed, and in a sense, can be considered “”extreme.

    　In addition, “”Hyper Roof Rail”” was made available as an option on the exterior (later made standard equipment on some grades). By equipping the roof rails with driving lamps that are linked to the high beams, this system enhances visibility at night by illuminating the road ahead from a higher position than with ordinary lights.

    　It is rare to have such driving lamps as standard or optional equipment in a factory-installed vehicle, making it unique among Japanese SUVs.

    　The first generation model also featured a new “”GT”” grade in 2001. The new grade boasted 280 horsepower and 31.5 kgf/m of torque by adding a turbo and variable valve timing mechanism to the SR20 sports engine, which was also used in the Silvia sports car.

    　However, the 2nd and 3rd generation XTRAIL models were not equipped with a gasoline turbo engine, but were revived in the 4th generation (all models with VC turbo and e-POWER).

    * * *

    　In 2007, the second-generation XTRAIL was introduced. The waterproof interior and Hyper Roof Rail were carried over as optional equipment, and pictures of adults getting into the car after having serious fun and getting covered in mud, and with the Hyper Roof Rail driving lights on, were used in advertisements, establishing the identity of the xtrail.

    For the second generation, a model equipped with a clean diesel engine (20GT), which combines high performance with outstanding environmental performance, was also made available.

    　The 2-liter diesel engine “”M9R”” complies with the “”Post New Long-term Emission Regulations”” and delivers maximum output of 173 PS and maximum torque of 36.7 kgf/m. Initially available only with a 6-speed manual transmission, a 6-speed AT was later added.

    * * *

    　The first and second generation XTRAIL had specifications and models that pursued “”toughness”” and “”speed”” that could be described as extreme.

    Among them, “”toughness”” was accepted as the identity of the XTRAIL, and has been carried over to the 3rd and 4th generation current models. It continues to evolve while improving safety equipment and fuel economy.

    　The fourth generation of the XTRAIL is the first in its history to offer “”high quality,”” and expectations are high for how it will coexist with toughness in the future.”

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    New colors for the “Osha Small SUV”! Mazda “MX-30” will be released in early November with grade development and equipment review .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “New colors for the “”stylish small SUV””! Mazda MX-30 to Go on Sale in Early November with Revised Grades and Equipment

    Mazda Revamps from Mono-Grade to 3-Grade EV Model Features Equipment Useful in Disasters
    　On October 20, 2022, Mazda announced that it has upgraded the MX-30 compact SUV and its EV version, the MX-30 EV MODEL.
    　
    　Pre-orders for the improved model began on the same day, and its launch is scheduled for early November.

    “”Osha Interior”” is now standard! Check out the upgraded Mazda MX-30 compact SUV .

    Mazda’s upgraded MX-30 with new “”Zircon Sand Metallic”” paint

    　The MX-30 will make its debut at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show. It is the third product in Mazda’s new generation of products, and in addition to the MX-30 with mild hybrid powertrain (hereafter referred to as “”standard model””), the MX-30 EV Model (hereafter referred to as “”EV model””) is Mazda’s first mass-produced pure EV model.

    　This compact SUV is similar in size to the CX-30, but is distinguished by its “”Freestyle Door,”” a rear door that opens in a double-swinging motion.

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

    　A two-tone color scheme is now available, with the “”framed top”” from the A-pillar to the top of the rear quarter panel, which is a distinctive feature of the MX-30’s exterior, now black. The combination is available in Soul Red Crystal Metallic, Jet Black Mica, and Zircon Sand Metallic.

    　On the exterior, the previously optional piano black pillar garnish, D-pillar chrome and MAZDA logo, and 18-inch dark aluminum wheels are now standard equipment on all models.

    　The interior has also been improved, with the shift knob button moved from the right side to the rear side for easier operation.

    　In addition, the standard model grade lineup has been significantly revised.

    　Instead of only one base grade, two new grades, “”Industrial Classic”” and “”Modern Confidence,”” are now available, making it easier for users to choose according to their needs.

    　The set options, which were previously available in multiple types according to preference, are now standard equipment in the two new grades.

    　For the Industrial Classic, some of the “”Utility Package”” and “”Basic Package”” that were previously available as set options are now standard equipment.

    　The interior is now based on brown, with electric seats, driver’s door mirror and room mirror with automatic anti-glare function, front door glass with infrared and ultraviolet rays cutting function, and synthetic leather on the doors, knee rest pads, and seat sides.

    　In addition to the equipment of the Industrial Classic, the Modern Confidence is now standard with the “”Interior Package”” selection. The gray seat upholstery and the synthetic leather seat sides are white, giving it a premium look.

    * * * *

    　On the exterior, the EV model features additional badges on the front fenders and a new badge design on the back door.

    　In terms of functionality, a 1500W AC power supply in the luggage compartment and a 150W AC power supply in the front console are provided. These are standard on the EV Highest set, and optional on the EV and EV Basic set.

    　In addition, the “”V2H (Vehicle to Home)”” function, which supplies battery power to buildings, is standard on all grades.

    * * *

    　The improved MX-30 model is scheduled to go on sale in early November. Prices (including consumption tax) start at 2.64 million yen for the standard model and 4.51 million yen for the EV model.”

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    Nissan “3 new SUV models” landed on the market with a bang! Starting with the new X-Trail .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Nissan’s “”Three New SUV Models”” Land in the Indian Market with a Thud! Starting with the New Extrail

    Nissan Begins Local Testing of Nissan EXTRAIL and Other Models in India
    　Nissan’s Indian subsidiary has unveiled the Extrale, Qashqai, and Juke for the first time locally on October 18, 2022.

    Nissan’s “”Three New SUV Models”” Unveiled at Once! See the local unveiling and more

    Nissan Extrale”” unveiled for the first time in India

    　Nissan also announced that it has begun local driving tests of the EXTRAIL and Qashqai in India.

    　As soon as the tests are completed, the Extrail will be introduced in the country, and other SUVs may also be introduced.

    　As for the Juke, Nissan is still in the process of evaluating its compatibility with Indian consumers.

    　Following the success of the Nissan Magnite (small SUV) in India, we plan to strengthen our focus and expertise in high-quality SUVs,”” said Frank Torres, president of Nissan’s Indian subsidiary.

    Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)” “Nissan’s “”Three New SUV Models”” Land in the Indian Market with a Thud! Starting with the New Extrail

    Nissan Begins Local Testing of Nissan EXTRAIL and Other Models in India
    　Nissan’s Indian subsidiary has unveiled the Extrale, Qashqai, and Juke for the first time locally on October 18, 2022.

    Nissan’s “”Three New SUV Models”” Unveiled at Once! See the local unveiling and more

    Nissan Extrale”” unveiled for the first time in India

    　Nissan also announced that it has begun local driving tests of the EXTRAIL and Qashqai in India.

    　As soon as the tests are completed, the Extrail will be introduced in the country, and other SUVs may also be introduced.

    　As for the Juke, Nissan is still in the process of evaluating its compatibility with Indian consumers.

    　Following the success of the Nissan Magnite (small SUV) in India, we plan to strengthen our focus and expertise in high-quality SUVs,”” said Frank Torres, president of Nissan’s Indian subsidiary.

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

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    Super cool Toyota new “RAV4” is out! New “RAV4 GR Sport” announced in Europe! How did you appear?

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “The new Toyota “”RAV4″” is out! The new “”RAV4 GR Sport”” is announced in Europe! What does it look like?

    Toyota’s RAV4 will also get a “”GR Sport”” version!
    　Toyota’s European subsidiary has announced the “”GR Sport”” version of the fifth-generation “”RAV4″” (hereafter referred to as “”RAV4 GR Sport””) on October 19, 2022 locally.

    Armed with exclusive parts! Toyota’s new “”RAV4 GR Sport”” looks cool! What’s the Full Story .

    Toyota’s new “”RAV4 GR Sport”” (European specifications)

    　The RAV4 GR Sport, which has a stronger sporty taste, is available for the hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions of the RAV4 respectively.

    　The exterior is differentiated by the addition of piano black wheel arch trim, side moldings, and back door garnish, as well as a front spoiler in dark silver for the hybrid version and gunmetal gray for the plug-in hybrid version.

    　The 19-inch alloy wheels with gloss black finish also give a fearless impression.

    　The interior features front sports seats with suede-like upholstery, the GR logo and silver stitching throughout.

    　The special suspension system is said to provide excellent handling performance.

    　The new RAV4 GR Sport will go on sale in Europe in the fourth quarter of 2022.

    * * *

    　The current RAV4 went on sale in Japan in April 2019 after its world premiere in 2018. It is one of Toyota’s leading SUVs sold worldwide.

    　So here’s a quiz for you.

    　Which of the following options describing the current RAV4 is correct?

    1] It is actually the fourth generation model in Japan.

    2. Smaller than the Toyota C-HR.

    3] Only a 2WD model is available.

    The correct answer is “”Japan”” for [1].

    　The correct answer is [1], “”It is actually the fourth generation model in Japan.

    　The first generation RAV4 was introduced in 1994. Although it has been sold from the first to the fifth generation in Europe, only the fourth generation model was not introduced in Japan.

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

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    The actual car of Toyota’s strongest “Prius SUV” is amazing! What is the behind-the-scenes production story?

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota’s most powerful “”Prius SUV”” is amazing! The “”Serious Customization”” is the talk of the town on SNS! What is the secret story behind its creation?

    This is the “”Prius SUV””… and it’s actually road-legal!
    　On social networking sites and the Internet, a custom car, a third-generation Toyota “”Prius”” lifted to the extreme, has become a major topic of conversation.
    　
    　What is the story behind the creation of this custom car, which can be considered a Prius SUV?

    This is… the strongest “”Prius SUV”” in history. Look at the details

    Everyone will look twice at the “”Prius SUV,”” but who might have more love for Prius than anyone else? (Images courtesy of Pista)

    　Lift-up is a customization often seen on SUVs, and its powerful styling makes it one of the most eye-catching customizations.

    　The lift-up gives a powerful impression, and the lifted Prius has become a major topic of conversation on social networking sites and the Internet.

    　The Prius is one of the cars that have been loved by many users for a long time since its birth in 1997 as the world’s first mass-produced hybrid car.

    　The third-generation Prius, on which this custom car is based, is one of the most successful Prius models in history, having been a bestseller in Japan and around the world.

    　We interviewed Pistuta (@Shunya17V), who customized a lifted Prius to give it a powerful look.

    　Pistuta explains how he customized his Prius to be so powerful as follows.

    When I first bought my Prius, I drove it as a normal car without any customization, just for transportation, because I had several other cars for pleasure.

    　However, after about a year of owning the Prius, I could no longer tolerate the stock condition, so I initially enjoyed customizing the Prius with a lowered ride height and a shakotan.

    　However, as I continued to drive it, I realized that the shakotan was inconvenient, and now I became interested in a high-lift customization.

    　So I considered switching to a Toyota “”Land Cruiser”” or Toyota “”Tundra,”” but then I thought it would be fun to lift up a Prius, so I gradually began to lift up my Prius.

    　Lifting up a car is different from shakotan because it has a higher limit, so once I started lifting it up, I couldn’t stop.

    * * *

    　Both the Land Cruiser and Tundra are tough-looking vehicles, but the overhanging fenders common to these vehicles and the extreme lift-up customization made a tremendous impact on the Prius SUV.

    Toyota’s most powerful “”Prius SUV”” is amazing in person! The “”Serious Customized Specs”” of the Augeous is the talk of the town on SNS! What is the secret story behind the production of the “”Prius SUV””?

    It’s amazing… we get into the secret story behind the production of the Prius SUV!
    　What did you focus on when creating the Prius SUV?

    What was your focus in the creation of this Prius SUV?
    　
    　We considered customizing the entire paint job, muffler, lights, and bumper, but we wanted to keep the sense of “”a lifted Prius””, so we left the car in its normal state.
    　
    　Also, the 37-inch tires are one of my favorite features, as I think there are very few SUVs in Japan that can be equipped with 37-inch tires as they are.

    A floating “”Prius””? The “”Prius SUV,”” which seems like an optical illusion, is too good to be true! (Image courtesy of Pista)

    　Thus, it is a strange custom car that “”looks like a different car from a Prius, even though it maintains the Prius body.

    　While it would certainly be eye-catching if driven in the city, the car has been spotted on social networking sites and various questions have been raised, such as “”I wonder how he gets in and out of the car,”” and “”I wonder how he does it when he has to have the car inspected.

    　Mr. Pisuta talks about the actual inconveniences caused by this Prius SUV in his daily life as follows.

    I feel inconvenienced in multi-story parking lots with low ceilings and parking ticket machines. Other than that, there are no particular inconveniences that I find surprising. Getting in and out of the car is no problem once you get used to it.

    　It may seem difficult to use a car with such a high height in daily life, but it seems that there are surprisingly few inconveniences.

    　According to Mr. Pistuta, “”Since the car is designed for everyday use, it has been customized to pass vehicle inspections.”” Despite its eccentric appearance, the car is compliant with all regulations.

    Despite its eccentric appearance, everything is said to be in compliance with laws and regulations.

    　Despite the Prius SUV’s eccentric appearance, it is said to be compliant with all laws and regulations.

    My friends and people around me are so used to seeing them that no one mentions anything about them anymore. However, people who see this Prius for the first time are either surprised or laugh.

    　I am often approached by people when I am parked at convenience stores, and among them, I am often asked about getting in and out of the car and about fuel efficiency.

    * * * *

    　You may see Pisuta’s Prius SUV while driving on public roads, as various sightings have been posted on social networking sites.

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

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    Toyota “new luxury SUV” released! 6.2 million yen top-end specification “Harrier PHEV” can recover the difference between “how many kilometers” and a gasoline car? The charm is also external power supply!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota’s “”New Luxury SUV”” on Sale! How many kilometers can the 6.2 million yen top-end “”Harrier PHEV”” recover the difference from a gasoline-powered vehicle? And its charm is its external power supply!

    Exclusive front grille and interior decorations
    　Hybrid vehicles (HV) and plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEV) have become increasingly popular in recent years.
    　
    　Both are attractive due to their high fuel efficiency, but can they make up the difference in price compared to gasoline-powered vehicles?

    What makes Toyota’s luxury SUVs different? A photo comparison of the Harrier & RAV4 PHEVs!

    Toyota’s original luxury SUV, the Harrier, has a new PHEV! By the way, how long does it take to recoup the difference in vehicle price compared to gasoline or hybrid vehicles?

    　In 1997, the Toyota Prius was launched as the world’s first mass-produced hybrid vehicle (HV).

    　Twenty-five years later, HVs now account for more than 30% of new car sales in Japan, and have become synonymous with eco-cars.

    　In recent years, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) that can be recharged are also available, and since European automakers are also actively marketing PHEVs, the choice of imports as well as domestically produced cars is a major attraction.

    　The advantages of HVs and PHEVs are that they are environmentally and economically friendly, and because they consume less fuel, they are also environmentally and wallet-friendly.

    　On the other hand, HVs and PHEVs are almost always more expensive than gasoline or diesel vehicles of the same model or the same class of model.

    　Therefore, many users who consider HVs and PHEVs often calculate whether they can recoup the difference and decide whether or not to purchase them.

    　So, can HVs and PHEVs actually recoup the difference compared to gasoline-powered vehicles in the same class?

    　On September 28, 2022, Toyota announced the addition of the Harrier PHEV along with minor changes to the Harrier, which will go on sale on October 31, 2022.

    　With this addition, the Harrier will now have three powertrains: gasoline, HV, and PHEV.

    　The Harrier PHEV is only available as a 4WD version of the high-end Z model, so when compared to the 4WD versions of the gasoline and HV Z models, the gasoline, HV, and PHEV models will be priced at 4,238,000 yen, 4,848,000 yen, and 6,200,000 yen, respectively.

    　A difference of 610,000 yen is seen between the gasoline model and the HV, 1,352,000 yen between the HV and the PHEV, and 1,962,000 yen between the gasoline model and the PHEV.

    　However, since HVs and PHEVs are exempt from automobile tax environmental performance quotas and automobile weight tax, there is a cost advantage of approximately 150,000 yen compared to gasoline cars.

    　In addition, PHEVs can obtain a CEV subsidy (so-called “”government subsidy””) of 550,000 yen plus local government subsidies depending on the place of residence, which substantially lowers the actual purchase price. In this case, we will proceed with the simulation assuming that a subsidy of 600,000 yen (Tokyo Metropolitan Government) is obtained.

    　Taking into account tax incentives and subsidies, the difference between a gasoline-powered vehicle and an HV is approximately 460,000 yen, between an HV and a PHEV is approximately 250,000 yen, and between a gasoline-powered vehicle and a PHEV is approximately 710,000 yen.

    Toyota’s “”New Luxury SUV”” on Sale! How many kilometers can “”Harrier PHEV””, the highest specification with 6.2 million yen, recover the difference from gasoline-powered vehicle? And the charm is the external power feed!

    How long do I actually have to drive? To recoup the difference with HVs and PHEVs, you need to drive quite a few miles
    　So how many miles do you need to drive to recoup the difference?

    　Looking at the WLTC mode fuel efficiency of the Harrier gasoline, HV, and PHEV “”Z (4WD specification)”” models, the gasoline model has 14.7 km/L, the HV 21.6 km/L, and the PHEV 20.5 km/L, respectively.

    　Assuming a gasoline price of 160 yen/L, the cost to run 10,000 km is approximately 108,844 yen for a gasoline vehicle, 74,074 yen for an HV, and 78,049 yen for a PHEV.

    　Comparing gasoline cars and HVs, the difference is about 35,000 yen. To recover the difference of about 460,000 yen, a simple calculation requires driving more than 130,000 km.

    　This is not an impossible figure, but since it would take more than 10 years of driving 1,000 km every month, it may be quite difficult unless the user drives on a daily basis.

    　Next, let’s look at PHEVs.

    　In the case of the Harrier PHEV, it is equipped with an 18.1 kWh battery and is capable of 93 km of EV driving. Therefore, it is likely to consume little gasoline for daily shopping, pick-up and drop-off, and commuting.

    　Assuming that the electricity rate is 27 yen/kWh, the cost to fully charge the Harrier PHEV is approximately 489 yen.

    　If the ratio of EV driving to HV driving is 1:1, the cost to drive 10,000 km would be approximately 65,314 yen, which is calculated to be approximately 43,000 yen less than a gasoline vehicle and approximately 9,000 yen less than an HV.

    　In the case of PHEV, it is calculated that approximately 165,000 km of driving is required to recover the difference with a gasoline car, and approximately 270,000 km of driving is required to recover the difference with an HV.

    　Since the distance is even greater than in the case of the gasoline car and the HV, the difficulty level to recover the difference is even higher.

    The more you drive… is a PHEV better? How many tens of thousands of kilometers would I need to drive to recoup the difference?

    　This simulation is based on purchase price and fuel efficiency, taking into account tax incentives and subsidies, and does not include vehicle weight tax, charger installation costs, maintenance costs, etc., which are paid at each vehicle inspection.

    　For example, if you use your car mostly for EV driving and mainly charge it late at night when electricity rates are low, it is more likely that you will be able to recover the difference from a gasoline car or HV.

    * * * *

    　At present, it is not easy to recover the difference with a gasoline-powered car by choosing an HV or PHEV.

    　On the other hand, there are advantages to choosing HVs and PHEVs other than direct costs.

    　PHEVs are also capable of external power supply (AC100V/1500W) for leisure, outdoor activities, and emergencies such as power outages and disasters, and as for Harrier, two methods exist.

    In the “”EV power supply mode,”” electricity can be used on the road, and power is supplied using only the remaining battery capacity without running the engine. In the “”HV power supply mode,”” the remaining battery charge is used first, and when it falls below a predetermined level, the engine is turned on to supply power.

    　Another benefit is that it reduces the number of trips to the gas station.

    　In some areas, the hassle of going to a gas station to refuel is a surprisingly heavy burden, but HVs and PHEVs can reduce the number of such trips.

    　Especially in the case of PHEVs, it is not unusual for drivers to refuel at gas stations only a few times a year when most of their daily driving is done with EVs.

    　In this sense, people who are pressed for time, such as busy businessmen, may easily feel the benefits of HVs and PHEVs.”

  • | |

    Toyota “new SUV” unveiled! “Aero specification” “RAV4 GR Sports” that seems to be fast as you see it Japan introduction? Announced in Europe.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota’s “”New SUV”” Unveiled! The “”Aero version”” of the “”RAV4 GR Sport””, which looks fast, will be introduced in Japan? Announced in Europe

    Popular crossover SUV “”RAV4″” adds sporty “”GR Sport”” grade
    　On October 19, 2022, Toyota Motor Europe, Toyota’s European subsidiary, announced the addition of the “”GR Sport”” grade to the “”RAV4″” crossover SUV.

    Exclusive exterior with “”black emphasis”” looks cool! View images of the interior and exterior of the new Toyota RAV4 GR Sport .

    　On October 4, 2022, Toyota announced a partial improvement of the RAV4 in Japan, adding a plug-in hybrid system model to the RAV4 PHV as the “”Z grade,”” which was previously an independent model, as well as the “”Adventure”” special edition model. “”OFFROAD package II”” was also announced, but the “”GR Sport”” grade was not added.

    Toyota’s new “”RAV4 GR Sport”” unveiled in Belgium

    　The RAV4 has been a popular full-fledged crossover SUV since its first generation launch in 1994. The current model is the fifth generation, launched in 2019; by 2020, cumulative sales will surpass 10 million units, making it what Toyota Motor Europe calls “”the best-selling SUV in the world.””

    　The “”RAV4 GR Sport”” announced this time is a sporty version based on the RAV4. As of October 2022, the GR Sport grade is available in five models in Japan, including the C-HR, Hilux, Prius PHV, Yaris Cross, and Land Cruiser.

    　The RAV4 GR Sport is available in hybrid and plug-in hybrid models with all-wheel drive (AWD-i).

    　Compared to the regular RAV4, the exterior is boldly styled with the addition of piano black wheel arch trim, side moldings, and back door garnishes.

    　The front features a new front spoiler with a black G-mesh pattern that matches the grille.

    　Hybrid models are finished in dark silver, while plug-in hybrid models are gunmetal gray, with different designs appropriate for different powertrains.

    　The front grille and back doors will also feature the GR badge.

    　Also on the feet are alloy wheels finished using a new ultra-precise line-cut technology. The standard 19-inch wheels have a glossy black finish with fine pinstripe detailing, highlighting the strong five-double-spoke design.

    　The sporty and refined exterior impression is also reflected in the interior, where the front seats are finished with animal-free synthetic leather bolsters and suede-like tactile materials.

    　The headrests are embossed with the GR logo, silver stitching on the seats, steering wheel and shift lever, and gunmetal trim on the doors and steering wheel for added contrast.

    　The floor mats and steering wheel also feature the GR logo.

    　In terms of driving performance, the suspension has been further improved. Firmer springs and shock absorbers have been newly installed to improve handling.

    * * * *

    　Both hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions of the new RAV4 GR Sport are scheduled to go on sale in Europe in the fourth quarter of 2022.”

  • |

    Total length 6.6m! Surprised by Toyota “Alphard truck”! What was the reaction to the powerful style? Expect a custom car filled with the passion of students!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “6.6m in length! Toyota “”Alphard Truck”” is astonishing! What are the repercussions of its powerful style? Expectations for a custom car filled with students’ ideas!

    Despite mixed reactions… being able to build an Alphard truck is something to be proud of!
    　Every year, the customization department of the Nihon Automobile College (a.k.a. NATS), located in Chiba Prefecture, is the talk of the town when it comes to the custom cars they produce for the Tokyo Auto Salon.
    　
    　The customization department at the Nihon Automobile College (commonly known as NATS) in Chiba Prefecture produces a custom car every year for the Tokyo Auto Salon, and the “”Alphard Truck”” is said to be in the works for the 2023 event.

    6.6m in length, too big! The completed version of the “”Alphard Truck”” has a great presence! And look at the past “”LM style””!

    The 6.6-meter-long, too big “”Alphard Super Duty Truck”” is scheduled to be unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023! (Images courtesy of the Japan Automobile College)

    　The Tokyo Auto Salon is a festival of custom and tuning cars held every January at Makuhari Messe in Chiba Prefecture.

    　The customization department of the aforementioned Nihon Automobile College unveils a custom car with a sense of humor that surprises everyone at the Tokyo Auto Salon every year.

    　In the past, the “”LM800T,”” based on the design of the Lexus LM300h, the “”NATS R35 Road Star,”” based on the Nissan Fairlady Z Road Star (Z33 model) and made to look like a GT-R (R35 model), and the “”NATS JIMNY,”” based on the Suzuki Jimny Sierra and made into a 5-door version of the NATS JIMNY kimun kamy,”” a 5-door version based on the Suzuki Jimny Sierra, and various other custom cars have been produced.

    　Among these, several custom cars will be produced at the Tokyo Auto Salon to be held in January 2023, and one of the most notable is the “”Alphard Super Duty Truck”” (hereinafter “”Alphard Truck””), a super-duty truck based on the Toyota “”Alphard””. Alphard Truck), which is based on the Toyota Alphard.

    　At first glance, the “”Alphard Super Dury Truck”” is an unfamiliar term for a four-wheeled pickup truck with two wheels on each side of the rear wheels.

    　The Alphard Truck was built by extending the rear end of the body and connecting the cargo area, with the overall length measured at 6.6 meters.

    　Regarding the background behind the conversion of the Alphard into a super-duty truck, the student said, “”When choosing a base vehicle, we decided on the Toyota Alphard because we wanted to draw attention to the unexpectedness of the vehicle by basing it on a familiar Japanese vehicle. The idea of creating a duty truck came from a group of members interested in truckin’ (sporty truck customization) and American cars,”” he said.

    　With such a production background, what were some of the challenges involved in creating a custom truck that had never been done before?

    First of all, we had a hard time finding the right combination of strength and weight (in order to obtain official approval) because we had to extend the body of the vehicle, so we had to make sure it was sturdy.

    　For the cargo bed, we used panels from the current HiLux with support from the local Chiba Toyota Group.

    　We are also working to complete the production with the support of a number of other parts manufacturers.

    　On the other hand, the response to the Alphard truck from users has been positive: “”It has a groove that Alphard enthusiasts seem to like. I think it’s great that students can make a truck that can be driven on public roads,”” and “”The face of Alphard looks good on a truck, so I’m looking forward to seeing it.

    　Others said, “”The idea is wonderful! I think it will be a fun class for kids who like it.”” “”The students and teachers here are car lovers from the bottom of their hearts, aren’t they? The students and teachers here are car enthusiasts from the bottom of their hearts, and it’s always fun to talk with them at the Auto Salon about their love of cars through gestures. Maybe this time I should go for the first time in a while. He said, “”This kind of idea is really important.
    Young people’s car wars? It’s still okay! We also see comments such as, “”I’m sure it’s still fine!

    * * * * * * *

    　As of mid-October 2022, the Alphard truck has been lowered to the ground from the jacks, and it appears that work has begun on the rear gate area, with tail lenses and other items being installed.

    　The completed version will be unveiled at the NATS booth at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023 to be held from January 13 to 15, 2023. Other exhibits will include a “”GR GT3″” style custom car based on the “”GR86″”.”