Author: Chathura Chanuka

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    World premiere!Toyota’s president makes a surprise run with a “two-wheeled hydrogen engine vehicle” based on the “Ninja H2”! Towards the first step in initiatives that transcend the barriers between motorcycles and automobiles.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “World premiere! Toyota President Makes Surprise Ride in Ninja H2-Based “”Two-Wheeled Hydrogen Engine Vehicle””! The first step in an initiative that transcends the boundaries between two-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicles

    Kawasaki and Toyota Working on Hydrogen Society! Off-Road Four-Wheeled Vehicles for Research Unveiled
    　On September 3, 2022, Kawasaki Motors unveiled a research off-road four-wheel vehicle (hereafter ATV) equipped with a hydrogen fueled direct injection engine for motorcycles at the Super Taikyu Series Round 5 in Motegi, Japan.
    　
    　The unveiling was a surprise, with ROOKIE Racing’s Morizo (Toyota President Akio Toyoda) driving the vehicle during a demonstration run.

    Transcending the Boundaries of Manufacturers! Dream motorcycle hydrogen engine car is so cool! See the real car!
    Kawasaki Motors unveiled a research off-road vehicle equipped with a hydrogen fuel direct injection engine for motorcycles.

    　The engine unveiled is based on the 998cc inline four-cylinder supercharged engine used in Kawasaki’s Ninja H2 and has been modified with direct hydrogen fuel injection.

    　The body is based on an ATV sold in North America and other markets, but the layout has been significantly modified to accommodate a hydrogen fuel tank and fuel supply system.

    　The exterior is striking with its silver body color, blue wheels, and suspension.

    　In terms of the actual research and development, Yoshimoto Matsuda, deputy general manager of Kawasaki Motors’ Technology Division, said, “”We are very pleased with the new engine for motorcycles, and we are very proud of it.

    The reason why the Ninja H2 engine was mounted on an all-terrain vehicle (ATV), despite the fact that it is a motorcycle engine, is because it is a research and development project, and we had to cut the frame of the Ninja H2 engine and mount it on the ATV in order to accommodate the various testing equipment.

    　In the process of development, we have only just begun to develop the abnormal combustion, but when we first found abnormal combustion, we were unexpectedly happy.

    　However, we are overcoming issues such as control of abnormal combustion, fuel supply at high RPM range, high temperature of various components, as well as safe operation due to handling of hydrogen, with technical support and parts supply from companies and organizations that are leading in their respective fields.””

    　TOYOTA GAZOO Racing President Tsuneji Sato also had the following to say about the unveiling.

    We have been trying to understand the load placed on hydrogen engines in the passenger car domain,”” he said.

    　Passenger cars use a wide range of engines, from low to high RPM. On the other hand, commercial vehicles use low RPM engines, and motorcycles use high RPM engines.

    　For this reason, the development of hydrogen engines will be promoted by being able to cover the phenomena that occur in hydrogen engines regardless of whether they are two-wheeled or four-wheeled vehicles and regardless of the genre of the engine.

    　I think the unveiling of the motorcycle hydrogen engine is a big step forward in our efforts to realize a hydrogen society and carbon neutrality.

    Kawasaki Heavy Industries President Hashimoto and Morizo (Toyota President Akio Toyoda) A surprise demo run immediately following this!

    * * *

    　Kawasaki Motors, Suzuki, Denso, Toyota, Honda, and Yamaha will use this baby carriage as one of the research materials for the “”hydrogen fuel engine for motorcycles and other small mobility vehicles”” to achieve carbon neutrality.

    　Morizo’s drive was conducted without the knowledge of anyone involved. Morisso’s “”Can I take a look?”” led to a surprise demo run as he sat in the driver’s seat.”

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    Full throttle with Toyota’s “fastest specification”! The amazing new “GRMN Yaris” A dream showdown that makes professionals smile!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota’s “”Fastest Specs”” in Full Throttle! The new “”GRMN Yaris”” is still amazing! A dream matchup that brings smiles to the faces of professionals!

    Pros Blast Off on the Circuit in the New GRMN Yaris!
    　On September 2, 2022, during the practice day of “”Super Taikyu Series Round 5, Motegi,”” professional drivers had a slugfest using the new “”GRMN Yaris,”” a fully tuned model of Toyota’s “”GR Yaris.
    　
    　What kind of model is the new GRMN Yaris, Toyota’s fastest specification?

    Limited to 500 units… See the real-life images of Toyota’s fastest spec “”GRMN Yaris,”” which is too rare!

    Toyota’s “”Fastest Specification””! What is so amazing about the new “”GRMN Yaris””?

    　The GR Yaris is a model that has been trained and developed under extreme conditions by participating in various motorsports events such as the Super Taikyu series and the All Japan Rally Championship.

    　The GRMN Yaris, which made its world premiere on January 14, 2022, was born from Morizo’s (Toyota President Akio Toyoda) desire to “”deliver to our customers a car that evolves speedily and in accordance with their needs in the field of motor sports. The new car was born from the desire of Akio Morizo (Toyota President Akio Toyoda) to “”deliver to our customers a car that evolves speedily and in accordance with people in motorsports.

    　The features of this car are the various trial-and-error customizations that he learned from his motorsports experience, such as strengthening the rigidity of the body, reducing the weight by approximately 20 kg, lowering the center of gravity by reducing the vehicle height by 10 mm, and improving aerodynamics by widening the overall width by 10 mm.

    　The car is also equipped with a mechanical LSD that has been repeatedly broken and repaired to improve performance, a cross gear-ratio transmission, and a set of low final gears.

    　In addition, professional drivers have driven this model to improve braking power, grip, cornering, and tracking performance, making it “”a car that can be driven faster with greater peace of mind.

    　The GRMN Yaris, available in a limited edition of 500 units, comes in two types: the “”Circuit Package”” and the “”Rally Package.

    　The ROOKIE Racing team (Sasaki and Ishiura) that competes in the “”Super Taikyu Series”” and the No. 7 team (Lopez and Kobayashi) and No. 8 team (Hartley and Hirakawa) that competes in the aforementioned WEC will battle it out in the “”GRMN Yaris”” this time. The project was to battle it out using the GRMN Yaris.

    　Morisso explained the background of this project as follows.

    The WEC teams are active around the world, and ROOKIE Racing is active in Japan, so the fans are divided into two categories.

    　So, what if we use the same car and have a showdown so that each fan can understand the other? Wouldn’t that be fun? That was the idea.

    　The actual car used was the GRMN Yaris Circuit Package, with a carbon fiber (twill weave CFRP) rear spoiler, side skirts, and lip spoiler.

    　The suspension features BBS 18-inch wheels exclusively for the GRMN, 18-inch brakes, and Bilstein damping force-adjustable shock absorbers, all designed with an awareness of how fast the car can run on the circuit.

    　As for the actual project, the ROOKIE Racing team (Sasaki and Ishiura) won the race, but despite their various handicaps, each driver enjoyed the showdown itself and the driving of the GRMN Yaris, while also enjoying the serious competition that they were not afraid to lose.”

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    It’s like a “light” “Alphard!” What is the reaction of Daihatsu’s new “Tanto Custom” users?

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Like a “”light”” Alphard! The powerful grille emphasizes the sense of “”pushiness””! What is the reaction of Daihatsu’s new “”Tanto Custom”” users?
    Saturday, September 3, 7:10

    A Strong Sense of Push! What is the New Daihatsu Tanto Custom?
    　On August 22, 2022, Daihatsu released advance information on the all-new Tanto Custom.
    　
    　This minor change reveals the revamped Tanto Custom, but what has been the reaction from users?

    Image: It looks like a “”mini-Alphard! See the real car of the powerful new “”Tanto Custom”” in pictures!

    The front grille is so cool! What are users’ reactions to the all-new “”Tanto Custom””?

    　The first generation “”Tanto”” model was launched in 2003, establishing a new genre of mini super high wagon.

    　Since then, it has been Daihatsu’s mainstay model supported by a wide range of users through the introduction of pillar-in-door “”Miracle Open Door”” and power sliding doors on both sides.

    　The Tanto Custom’s appearance has undergone a major change with this minor remodeling.

    　The headlights are sharper than before, the front grille is more powerful, and the design has a stronger sense of pushiness, with chrome decorations in some places.

    　The official website has released preliminary information on the actual Tanto Custom in the image color of violet.

    　So, what is the reaction of users to this renewal?

    　Since the design has changed so much compared to the previous model, some have commented, “”It looks like a different car! The new Tantocasum’s design is a big change from the previous model, and some users have commented, “”It looks like a different car!

    　Some users also used the following expressions: “”It looks like a Voxy,”” “”It looks like a Lexus,”” “”It looks like a mini Alphard,”” “”It looks like an omikoshi,”” and so on.

    　While some users commented on the new front face, saying, “”I like this face better than the current one,”” “”It looks cool! On the other hand, some users said, “”I don’t think the grille and headlights match,”” “”It looks tacky,”” and “”I don’t like the glare…”” The pros and cons of the new Tanto Custom are largely divided.

    　The new Tanto Custom is already available for advance orders, and some users have already reserved their cars.

    * * *

    　With this minor change, Mazda also announced the addition of the “”Tanto FUNCROSS,”” a new lineup with a stronger outdoor orientation.

    　Both models are already available for advance orders and are scheduled to go on sale in the fall of 2022.”

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    Nissan SUV “Kicks” latest model appeared! Available in 3 grades with an elegant body.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Nissan SUV “”Kicks”” Latest Model Debuts in the U.S.! Three grades with a sleek body, starting at about 2.8 million yen, to be released in the U.S.
    Friday, September 2, 17:40

    Nissan Launches 2023 Model Year
    　On August 31, 2022, Nissan’s U.S. subsidiary launched the 2023 model of its Kicks crossover SUV.

    The latest Nissan Kicks model is here! See images of the U.S. version, which is slightly different from the Japanese version

    Nissan “”Kicks”” 2023 model (U.S. specifications)

    　The 2023 model will be available in three grades: S, SV, and SR, with Nissan Safety Shield 360 as standard equipment on all grades. Fuel economy is 31 mpg city (13.2 km/L), 36 mpg highway (15.3 km/L), and 33 mpg combined (14.0 km/L).

    　The Kicks S comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen audio system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, three USB ports, and push-button start.

    　The Kicks SV adds 17-inch alloy wheels, silver-painted roof rails, intelligent cruise control, and an 8-inch touchscreen audio system.

    　The Kicks SR adds stylish parts such as black painted roof rails, exterior mirrors, a dark chrome front grille, and unique seat fabrics. In terms of features, the SR features LED headlights and fog lamps, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, automatic climate control, and an intelligent around-view monitor.

    　The SR is also available with a premium package that adds a Bose audio system (8 speakers), heated front seats and steering wheel, and NissanConnect service.

    　Local prices are $20,290 for the Kicks S, $22,150 for the Kicks SV, and $22,850 for the Kicks SR.”

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    “X-Trail Sisters” Nissan Gotsu SUV Already Evolved!New “Rogue” Appears! It looks tough but has the latest features! Released in the US from about 3.8 million yen .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Nissan’s SUV, the “”sister of the xtrail,”” has already evolved! The new “”Rogue”” is here! Tough face but the latest in features! On sale in the U.S. starting at about 3.8 million yen!

    　On August 30, 2022, Nissan’s U.S. subsidiary launched the 2023 model of the Rogue SUV.

    The newest sister vehicle to the Extrale! Nissan Rogue 2023 model in 34 images.

    　The current Rogue will be positioned as the sister model of the Extrale sold in Japan.

    Nissan “”Rogue”” 2023 model year

    　The first generation of the Rogue was introduced in 2007. Currently, the third generation, which will be announced in 2020, is undergoing a series of minor changes, with the 2022 model adding a new 1.5-liter variable compression turbocharged engine to improve power and fuel economy.

    　The latest 2023 model, now available, offers the most safety features in its class and Nissan Safety Shield 360 as standard equipment on all grades.

    　NissanConnect, an 8-inch touchscreen (9-inch on some models) with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and LED exterior lights are also standard.

    　In addition, ProPilot Assist, an advanced driver assistance technology available on the SV and higher grades, assists the driver with steering, acceleration, and braking when driving in a single lane on highways.

    　The Pro Pilot Assist with Navigation Link (standard on the Platinum grade and optional on the SL grade) adds the ability to actively adjust vehicle speed using data from the navigation system before a curve or highway exit.

    　Four grades are available, starting from the lower end: S, SV, SL, and Platinum. Each is available in FWD and AWD.

    　Prices in the U.S. range from $27,360 (approximately 3.8 million yen) to $38,640 (approximately 5.3 million yen).”

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    Honda to announce “new SUV” soon.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Honda to Unveil “”New SUV”” Soon? Pre-announcement of Derivative Vehicle to Finally Introduce the Second-Generation Vezel to the Chinese Market

    The second generation of the Vezel, the original family of the Vezel, is finally being introduced in China.
    　Honda’s popular compact SUV “”Vezel””, the second generation of which was announced in Japan in February 2021.

    Honda to Introduce the New Vezel in China: A Look Ahead at Its Actual Vehicle
    　The first generation model, which is the predecessor of the original model is still being sold in China, except for its sister models and electric vehicles, and is now expected to finally undergo a full model change.

    Will the original “”2nd generation Vezel”” finally be introduced to the Chinese market? (Image source: Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of the People’s Republic of China, commonly known as the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology)

    　The first-generation Vezel was first introduced in Japan in 2013.

    　Based on the third-generation Fit, the body was developed with the concept of appealing the usability of an SUV while still being sporty, and has been developed as Honda’s global strategic SUV along with the CR-V, which is one generation above it.

    　In Japan, it is called the “”Vezel,”” but in North America and Europe, it is sold under the name “”HR-V.”” The “”Vezel”” was once known as the “”HR-V,”” but it is now called the “”Vezel.

    　Speaking of the HR-V, there was once a car called the “”HR-V”” in Japan in 1998, which ended its sales after only one generation.

    　This was an SUV with a rather strange shape that used the platform of Honda’s compact car “”Logo”” (the successor to the Fit), and although the design may have been too new, it was discontinued in 2006 as an unpopular car in Japan.

    　The second-generation HR-V in North America became a popular model with sales of approximately 150,000 units (U.S. + Canada) in 2021, and sales were terminated.

    　The third-generation HR-V announced in the US in April 2022 is the same model as the Civic-based ZR-V (Japanese name).

    　On the other hand, the Vezel has been developed in the Chinese market with a strategy different from the aforementioned.

    　In China, the Vezel has been deployed not only as the sister model “”XR-V”” based on the Vezel, the “”VE-1″” of the China exclusive brand “”Ideon”” and the “”X-NV”” and “”M-NV”” electric vehicles of another China exclusive brand “”Simei”” but also as the “”CDX”” of the Acura brand, etc. The Vezel itself has a high level of versatility. The second-generation Vezel will be launched in the Chinese market in 2021.

    　The second-generation Vezel was launched in Japan in February 2021 and is also sold in Europe and Southeast Asia. In China, the e:NS1 and e:NP1 were announced in October 2021, ahead of the full model change of the original Vezel.

    　The e:NS1 and e:NS1 will be manufactured and sold by Dongfeng Honda Automobile, a joint venture with Dongfeng Motor, and Guangqi Honda Automobile, a joint venture with Guangzhou Automobile, respectively.

    　It is common for automakers with multiple joint ventures in China, such as Honda and Toyota, to release the same car in a sister-car relationship, giving each company a different design and name.

    　In addition to these models, the Chinese market also includes the Inspire/Accord, Civic/Integra, Envix/Clyder, CR-V/Breeze, UR-V/Avancia, Life/Fit, and Elysion/Odyssey, which are marketed by Dongfeng Honda Motor and Guangqi Honda Motor, respectively. Dongfeng Honda Automobile and Guangqi Honda Automobile, respectively.

    　In other words, before the full model change of the original Vezel, which Guangqi Honda Automobile is in charge of, and the sister model XR-V, which Dongfeng Honda Automobile is in charge of, pure electric models using the same body were rolled out by both joint venture companies first.

    　Then, on August 28, 2022, the second generation model of the XR-V, sister to the Vezel, officially went on sale in China.

    　The front grille has a honeycomb mesh grille with chrome decorations, giving it a sportier look.

    　The chrome grille is an original XR-V grille that differs from the chrome grille available as an option on the Vezel for the Japanese market. The horizontal lower grille has wavelength-style decorations on some parts, giving it a playful atmosphere.

    Honda will soon unveil a “”new SUV”” or a derivative vehicle first, finally introducing the second-generation Vezel to the Chinese market.

    Finally the original Vezel is introduced to the Chinese market? What specifications will it have?
    　In China, the Vezel and its derivatives have been sold independently, but now there is a move to introduce the second-generation Vezel, the original Vezel, to the Chinese market.

    　This information was revealed on the website of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of the People’s Republic of China (commonly known as the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology).

    The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MITI) is an agency that handles the business of Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC), and in China, automobile manufacturers are required to submit information on new models to MITI before manufacturing and selling them.

    The information released to the public includes photos of the vehicle and detailed specifications.

    　The exterior is basically identical to the second-generation Vezel sold in Japan, with the only difference being the “”Guangqi Honda”” emblem on the back.

    The “”Guangqi Honda”” emblem is mounted on the rear (image source: Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of the People’s Republic of China, commonly known as the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology).

    　It can also be seen that the two-tone body color, which is only available on the e:HEV PLaY grade in the Japanese version, and the panoramic roof that covers the entire roof surface are also available as options for the Chinese version.

    　While the exterior appearance is almost identical to that of the second-generation model in Japan, the powertrain differs from that in Japan.

    While this version offers both a gasoline model and a hybrid “”e:HEV”” model, the Chinese version does not have a hybrid model, but only a gasoline model powered by an L15C 1.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine manufactured by Guangqi Honda Automobile.

    　By leaving the role of the eco-friendly model to the e:NP1 electric vehicle already on sale in China, and leaving the Bezzel as a gasoline-only model, the position of each model will become clearer.

    　In this context, the China-specification model of the new Vezel revealed this time is expected to be unveiled by the end of 2022.

    　The author’s (Hiroto Kato) prediction is that some sort of announcement will be made at the “”Guangzhou Motor Show”” to be held in November 2022 in the home territory of Guangqi Honda Automobile.

    * * *

    　Honda sells a wide variety of SUVs in the Chinese market.

    　In addition to the XR-V and the Vezel, the new CR-V and its sister model, the Breeze, and the ZR-V, which carries the middle ground.

    　In addition, the company will have a presence in the increasingly competitive SUV market by offering many choices of gasoline-powered vehicles, pure electric models, and PHEVs.”

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    Submission of the next model “Skyline GT-R Custom Specification”! The V Spec II color “R36 APX” is amazing! A total of 300,000 likes for the topical rendering!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Posting the next “”Skyline GT-R Custom Specs””! R36 APX”” in V-Spec II color is awesome! Total of 300,000 likes on the hottest renderings!

    What is the Nissan “”Skyline *R36* GT-R APX””?
    　On August 19, 2022, a rendering of the next-generation Nissan “”Skyline GT-R (R36)”” was posted on Instagram, creating quite a stir.
    　
    　Later, on the 30th of the same month, a rendering of a customized version of the Nissan “”Skyline *R36* GT-R APX”” was released.

    This is… impressive! The customization of the next model “”GT-R”” is just amazing!

    This is… a custom rendering of the next-generation “”Skyline GT-R””! The response to the rendering is amazing! (Photo Thanks: Avante Design & Roman Miah)

    　Nissan’s proud “”GT-R brand”” has been passed down from the “”Skyline GT-R”” to the “”GT-R””.

    　The current 6th generation (R35), which was introduced in 2007, will be the 2022 model year, but as of August 2022, orders are no longer being accepted since the number of units ordered quickly reached the planned sales volume after its release.

    　In addition, the current GT-R has been on the market for 15 years, and although it has evolved over the years, its design is undeniably old, and some people on social networking sites are asking, “”Will the 2022 model be the last GT-R?

    　Furthermore, due to various regulations such as fuel efficiency standards and noise regulations that are getting stricter year by year, there are even rumors that “”the next GT-R must be electric? The next GT-R will have to be an electric vehicle?

    　In response, Avante Design and Roman Miah jointly posted a rendering of the “”2023 Nissan *R36* Skyline GT-R”” on Instagram, which has received a huge response, with approximately 300,000 likes in one and a half days.

    　Commenting on the rendering, Roman Miah said, “”The idea behind this concept was to recreate the iconic Skyline design cues and arguably Japanese styling of the GT-R’s forward-looking past. The actual creation of the car took more than six months.

    　Looking at the multiple images posted, the body itself is based on the R35, but the front face is somewhat reminiscent of the R34.

    　The rear of the car, on the other hand, uses different large round tail lamps like the R34, but the angular shape of the body is reminiscent of the R33.

    　While the R36 is such a hot topic, a new rendering of the Nissan “”Skyline *R36* GT-R APX”” has been posted.

    　The base model is the aforementioned R36, but it has been customized in various parts, and Avante Design has posted the following

    Avante Design commented, “”After receiving some of the previous designs by Roman Miah and feedback from everyone, we are excited to show you a track version that takes its cues from the beloved Nismo design.””

    　This APX version features several modern elements inspired by the GT-R R-50 Concept, as well as the Skyline GT-R V Spec II Nur’s limited edition body color, Millennium Jade Metallic.

    　Other features include a forward-extending lip spoiler, front and rear over fenders, a ducted hood, and bronze wheels.

    　Around the rear, the GT wing differs from the base version, the four taillights have been cleared, and a diffuser has been adopted for aerodynamic purposes. In addition, the muffler was changed from a two-piece left and right muffler to a four-piece right and left muffler.

    　This APX version has received many comments from overseas users, such as “”Very nice! It’s a good idea to lead the old look to the new model. I would 100% buy it if it looked like this.”” “”I want to install this R36 body kit on my R35! There were many praises for this kit.

    　The R36 has also been the talk of the town on Japanese social networking sites, with comments such as, “”If only this were a reality! This design is amazing! The Millennium Jade has got me! The R36 is also the subject of much praise on Japanese social networking sites, with comments such as, “”If only this were a reality!

    This post is about “”R36″” and “”R36″”.

    　Many users are interested in both the “”R36″” and the “”APX version”” together in this post.

    　Although no realistic official announcement has been made regarding the next-generation “”GT-R,”” it is possible that the design of the Skyline GT-R will be incorporated, given that the new “”Fairlady Z,”” the seventh generation of the model, has adopted a design that pays homage to previous generations of the model.
    “

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    Toyota’s luxury minivan “Alphard” can be ridden for “actually 500,000 yen”! In fact, what is “resale value” that I want to care about .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota’s luxury minivan “”Alphard”” can be driven for “”practically 500,000 yen””! An unusual situation due to its popularity! What is the “”resale value”” that you should be concerned about?

    Alphard, a popular minivan, and the used car market…
    　The Toyota Alphard, synonymous with luxury minivans, is no longer unbeatable in its category.

    Super Luxury! The Toyota “”Alphard””, priced at over 15 million yen, is amazing!
    　However, as of August 30, 2022, new orders have already been stopped, and the used car market has seen the car being traded at a higher price than the new car price.

    A new Toyota “”Alphard”” can be had for practically 500,000 yen? Why is this happening?

    　The third generation of the current model was introduced in 2015, but seven years have already passed, and a full model change is expected to take place by the end of 2023.

    　Currently, due to the shortage of parts such as semiconductors and the lockdown in China, new cars are facing a serious problem of long delivery times, and it is not unusual for popular models to be delivered in close to a year.

    　The same is true for the Alphard, and it is believed that orders are being stopped because the delivery time for the current model is longer than that for the new model.

    　On the other hand, even under such circumstances, there is no end to the number of users who wish to purchase an Alphard.

    　The Alphard is available in a large number of grades, but according to a Toyota dealership representative, the “”S “”C package,”” which comes with a 2.5-liter gasoline engine, was the grade most frequently inquired about.

    The price of the “”S “”C package”” is 4,681,600 yen, which is in the middle price range of the Alphard grade lineup.

    　On the other hand, it is equipped with features that are also found on higher grades, such as 18-inch aluminum wheels with machined luster and black paint, three-lens LED headlamps, and LED sequential turn lamps.

    　The interior is finished in high-quality synthetic leather, and the second row is equipped with executive power seats.

    　However, as mentioned above, new orders are currently being stopped, and most of the vehicles in stock are already gone, so in order to obtain a current Alphard, you will have to rely on the used car market.

    　As the Toyota dealership representative said, you can see many “”S “”C package”” used cars on the used car market.

    　However, due to the recent supply shortage of new cars, used car prices have skyrocketed, and the price of the Alphard is equal to or higher than the price of a new car.

    　On a major used car website, the current Alphard “”S “”C package is priced at over 6 million yen for an unregistered new car.

    　Even those with a reasonable mileage are sold at around 3.5 to 4 million yen, indicating that high prices are maintained in the used car market. Toyota’s luxury minivan “”Alphard”” can be had for “”practically 500,000 yen””! An anomaly due to its popularity! What is the “”resale value”” that we should actually be concerned about?

    Alphard for $500,000! What’s the Reason for the Stunning Resale Value?
    　Meanwhile, according to a Toyota dealership representative, users who already own an Alphard are likely to benefit from the high resale value.

    The other day, we traded in a 2020 S “”C Package”” at our dealership, and the appraisal result was around 4.2 million yen.

    　This car had been used on a daily basis for more than 20,000 km,”” said the dealer mentioned above.

    The price of the “”S “”C package is 4,681,600 yen, and although it is a simple calculation that does not include options, this user was able to own the Alphard for only 500,000 yen over a two-year period.

    　Until now, a model has been said to have high resale value if the trade-in value after three years exceeds about 50% of the vehicle price.

    　However, in some cases, the trade-in value exceeds 90% of the vehicle price, although the sale is made after two years.

    　The reason behind the Alphard’s such phenomenal resale value is related to the aforementioned lack of supply of new cars, as well as the fact that the Alphard is virtually unique.

    Truly first class? Rear seat of Toyota’s Alphard Executive Lounge

    　In the category of large luxury minivans, there is no one that compares to the Alphard.

    　Nissan’s Elgrand and Mercedes-Benz’s V-Class, to name but a few, are far behind the Alphard in terms of sales volume.

    　In such a one-driver situation, there are few factors that could lower the resale value of the Alphard.

    　In the future, when information on the new Alphard gradually begins to be disclosed, the overall market price is expected to drop, but until then, the resale value of the Alphard is expected to continue to remain high for the time being.

    * * *

    　As in the aforementioned case, depending on the car model and the timing of sale, the price may be higher than expected.

    　Although it is not recommended to choose a car based on resale value alone, it is important to check the resale value of the car model when purchasing a car.

    “

  • | |

    Compact SUV “Which one do you prefer!” Re-focus on Nissan’s new “Kicks” to compete with Toyota’s popular car “Yaris Cross” .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Small SUVs “”Which Do You Like?”” Nissan’s New “”Kicks”” Receives Renewed Attention as a Competitor to Toyota’s Very Popular “”Yaris Cross

    The Yaris Cross, with its active character, and the Kicks, with its large body and practicality
    　Since its birth in August 2020, Toyota’s compact SUV “”Yaris Cross”” has become an instant hit. Its rival, Nissan’s KIX, underwent a minor change in July 2022. The unique e-POWER hybrid system has been significantly improved in performance, and a new 4WD model has also been added.
    　
    　Let’s compare these two rival compact SUV models again.

    “”Very different”” in terms of design! Rivalry! Toyota Yaris Cross and Nissan Kicks

    (Top) Toyota’s new Yaris Cross GR SPORT / (Bottom) Nissan’s new KIX e-POWER 4WD

    　The Yaris Cross is a completely new model launched in August 2020. It was developed based on the TNGA GA-B platform of Toyota’s Yaris compact car.

    　The body size is compact, measuring 4180 mm (length) x 1765 mm (width) x 1590 mm (height) with a wheelbase of 2560 mm.

    　The exterior has an active yet refined form, with a fresh design with a very strong sense of condensation.

    　In July 2022, the lineup will be further expanded with the addition of the “”Z “”Adventure,”” an exclusively designed model that emphasizes an active character, and the “”GR SPORT,”” a sporty model.

    　In contrast, the KIX will make its debut in June 2020.

    　The KIX is slightly larger than the Yaris Cross, measuring 4290 mm (overall length) x 1760 mm (overall width) x 1605 mm (overall height) with a wheelbase of 2620 mm.

    　The exterior features a double V-motion grille and floating roof, and the two-tone orange (Premium Horizon Orange) and black coloring, which emphasizes an active image, is a symbolic coloring of the KIX.

    　In 2021, the “”KIX AUTECH”” model will be added with a customized interior and exterior based on the concept of “”premium sportiness.”” On the exterior, the premium level has been increased with special metal-like decorations, a dark chrome grille with dot patterns, and gun metallic painted wheels.

    * * * *

    　Next, let’s compare the interior.

    　The Yaris Cross features a functional layout with the center section display audio system positioned at the top.

    　The higher grade “”Z”” has a dark brown interior color. The new Z “”Adventure”” grade has a black interior with exclusive seat upholstery combining saddle tan synthetic leather and tweed-like fabric, while the GR SPORT grade has sporty seats and exclusive black upholstery. The GR SPORT model offers sporty seats and exclusive black upholstery.

    　Despite its compact size, the Yaris Cross is also characterized by its attention to packaging of the cargo area. It has a square cargo space that is designed to accommodate suitcases and golf bags, and has a capacity of 390 liters for a full passenger capacity.

    　The KIX features a liberating instrument panel design and the “”X Two Tone Interior Edition,”” a two-tone color combination that is just as striking as the exterior.

    　At the beginning of 2020, only the orange-tan and black combination was available, but a beige and black pattern was added in the 2022 facelift. In addition, the new “”X Style Edition”” grade features a luxurious interior with brown tones.

    　The KIX AUTECH mentioned above also features leatherette seats and trim in a combination of blue and black colors and exclusive blue stitching to enhance the quality of the interior.

    　In addition, the center console layout was changed during the minor changes, and the operability and quality of the shift lever were also greatly improved.

    　Another beauty of the KIX is that it has more interior space, including rear seats, than the Yaris Cross, taking advantage of its larger body size. The cargo area has a capacity of 423 liters, which can hold four M-size suitcases.

    Small SUV “”Which Do You Like? Nissan’s New “”Kicks”” Against Toyota’s Very Popular “”Yaris Cross

    Kicks’ e-POWER More Powerful with Minor Changes
    　Let’s compare the Yaris Cross and Kicks in terms of performance.

    　The Yaris Cross offers two types of powertrains: a 1.5-liter “”Dynamic Force”” gasoline engine and the new-generation THS II, which combines the same engine with a hybrid, each available in 4WD (E-Four for the hybrid) or FF.

    　In particular, THS II boasts overwhelmingly low fuel consumption, with a maximum catalog fuel consumption of 30.8 km/L (WLTC mode fuel consumption). The THS II is also equipped with an external power supply function, allowing the use of an electrical outlet for power supply.

    　As for advanced driving support functions, Toyota Safety Sense, a preventive safety package, is standard on all models, as is Advanced Park, an automatic parking system with advanced driving support functions that also controls steering, acceleration, and braking.

    The new Nissan KIX e-POWER “”X Style Edition”” grade, added in a minor change in July 2022, features a luxurious interior with brown tones.

    　The KIX is an exclusive model for Nissan’s proprietary e-POWER hybrid system, with no gasoline engine version available.

    　The e-POWER system uses a 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine exclusively for power generation and a motor to drive the vehicle, and features a smooth and quiet ride.

    　In a minor change in July 2022, the system will be updated to the second generation. The new system is approximately 5% more powerful, with a 5% increase in motor output and a 7% increase in maximum torque. An electric 4WD model, which was not available at the time of its debut in 2020, has also been added.

    　Catalog fuel economy has also been improved by approximately 6.4% with the minor changes, with a maximum of 23.0 km/L (WLTC mode fuel economy). Although it cannot match the overwhelmingly low fuel consumption of the Yaris Cross, it is still a good enough fuel economy performance.

    　As for advanced driving support functions, all models come standard with “”Pro Pilot,”” which reduces fatigue when driving long distances on expressways and in traffic jams. In addition, the Intelligent Around View Monitor and Intelligent Room Mirror were made standard equipment on higher grades during the minor changeover.

    * * * *

    　As of mid-August 2022, sales prices (including consumption tax) range from 1,896,000 yen to 2,936,000 yen for the Yaris Cross.

    　The KIX ranges from 2,798,400 yen to 3,448,500 yen.”

  • |

    Luxurious ‘business jet’ style ‘Harrier’ debuts!Starting at about 3.6 million yen Tata joins Safari and Nexon in Mark.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Luxury “”Harrier”” with a “”business jet”” look! Tata and Safari Nexon to launch in Japan.　
    8/31(Wed) 10:40

    Two-tone “”Starlight”” color scheme to be introduced
    　Indian automaker Tata Motors announced that on August 27, 2022, the company’s Harrier, Safari, and Nexon SUVs will be available in a special edition, the #JET Edition, which went on sale locally on the same day.

    Business jet-inspired luxury Harrier! See the special car in 10 images.

    Tata’s Harrier special edition #JET Edition

    　All the three aforementioned models by Tata Motors are SUVs, with the Harrier classified as a mid-size SUV, the Safari as a slightly more advanced three-row SUV, and the Nexon as a compact SUV.

    　The special edition Jet Edition is based on the concept of a business jet, and features the two-tone exterior color “”Starlight,”” a combination of earth bronze and platinum silver (on the roof).

    　Jet-black aluminum wheels and silver skid plates (front and rear) round out the luxurious design.

    　The interior is finished in two colors, Oyster White and Granite Black, and the seats have bronze stitching for a high quality feel.

    　Prices (in Delhi) for the special edition Jet Edition will start at 2.09 million Indian rupees (about 3.63 million yen) for the Harrier, 2.135 million Indian rupees (about 3.71 million yen) for the Safari, and 1.213 million rupees (about 2.11 million yen) for the Nexon.”