Author: Chathura Chanuka

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    Toyota “Yaris Cross” sports muffler “High Power Spec L II” released HKS .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “HKS releases “”High Power Spec L II”” sports muffler for Toyota’s Yaris Cross

    Muffler for “”Yaris Cross”” Achieves Reduction of Exhaust Resistance and 30% Weight Reduction Compared to Stock
    　Automotive aftermarket parts manufacturer HKS (HKS) released the “”High Power Spec L II”” sports muffler compatible with the Toyota “”Yaris Cross”” hybrid model on Tuesday, June 14, 2022.

    A closer look at the “”High Power Spec L II”” mounted on the Yaris Cross!

    High Power Spec L II”” mounted on “”Yaris Cross

    The “”High Power Spec L II”” uses thin-walled stainless steel materials for the pipes and silencers, making it approximately 30% lighter than the factory muffler, and the straight structure is said to have achieved a significant reduction in exhaust resistance.

    　The muffler also has a straight structure that significantly reduces exhaust resistance.

    　The price is 88,000 yen (tax included). The product is not compatible with gasoline models, cannot be installed in 4WD models, and has not been tested for compatibility with vehicles equipped with Modellista’s customized rear spats.

    Kuruma News Editorial Department”

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    It’s a bit different! Toyota “Yaris” evolved into a black handsome man! Special limited edition car is now available in Thailand .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “A Different Taste! Toyota’s Yaris Evolves into a Handsome Black Man! Special Limited Edition Car Now on Sale in Thailand!

    Special Edition Model to Commemorate 60th Anniversary of Toyota’s Thai Subsidiary
    　On June 1, 2022, Toyota’s Thai subsidiary announced the 60th anniversary special edition of the locally produced Yaris compact SUV to commemorate the 60th anniversary of its establishment in Thailand.

    Asia’s Handsome Man! View of the Toyota “”Yaris”” Special Edition for the 60th Anniversary of its Thai Subsidiary

    Toyota “”Yaris”” Special Edition to Commemorate 60th Anniversary in Thailand (Thai spec)

    　The Yaris for the Thai market has a completely different body design from the Yaris for the Japanese, European and North American markets.

    　The exterior of the 60th Anniversary Special Edition features a two-tone black roof, a newly designed front spoiler, and an exclusive 60th Anniversary model emblem on the side. The feet will feature new gray 15-inch aero wheels.

    　The interior is specially designed with red stitching on the seats and armrests, and the 60th anniversary emblem is engraved on the headrests.

    　The price of the Yaris 60th Anniversary Special Edition in Thailand is 709,000 baht (approximately 2.7 million yen).”

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    “Corolla Cross not yet in Japan !” Black new face! New Corolla Limited car released in Thailand .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Corolla Cross, not yet in Japan! New face in black! New Carollo Cross Limited Edition on Sale in Thailand

    Dignified black grille! Special Edition Black 2-Tone Model is Launched!
    　On June 1, 2022, Toyota’s Thai subsidiary announced the 60th anniversary special edition of the Corolla Cross, a locally produced compact SUV, to commemorate the 60th anniversary of its entry into Thailand.
    　
    　The model is dressed up with black exterior decorations and a special interior.

    “”Different face!”” Photos of the new Corolla Cross Thai Toyota 60th Anniversary Commemorative Model

    The face is different from Japan’s!”” New Toyota Corolla Cross compact SUV, Thailand’s 60th Anniversary Commemorative Model [Thai specs].

    　The special edition of the new Corolla Cross (Thai spec) has been given special interior and exterior decorations.

    　The exterior features a two-tone color with a black roof. The glossy black grille is decorated with chrome plating.

    　Black decoration has also been added to the side mirrors and tailgate, and gray 18-inch alloy wheels have been newly adopted.

    　In addition, silver LED projector fog lamps and 60th anniversary emblems are mounted on the sides.

    　The interior is also specially designed with red stitching on the seats and upholstery, and the 60th anniversary emblem is engraved on the seat headrests.

    　In addition, a special key for the 60th anniversary car and an Apple AirTag with a key chain are also available.

    　The front mask design differs greatly from the Japanese version of the Corolla Cross, and there are many special interior and exterior decorations that make this car a must-see.

    　The selling price of the new Toyota Corolla Cross 60th Anniversary Special Edition in Thailand is 1,224,000 baht (about 4,704,000 Japanese yen).”

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    Is the ultimate Toyota “Alphard” an ant? I expected “GR Sports” with TOYOTA logo and mesh grille!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Is the ultimate Toyota “”Alphard”” an option? Predicting a “”GR Sport”” with TOYOTA logo & mesh grille!

    If… the Toyota “”Alphard GR Sport”” were to be released, would you like this design?
    　The Toyota Alphard is by far the most well-known and popular minivan in the Japanese minivan market.
    　
    　We have made a prediction as to what the design of the Alphard GR Sport version would look like.

    I Wanted a GR-Faced Alphard Like This! See the predicted images that match unexpectedly!

    TOYOTA logo is a nice touch! Predicted GR Sports based on Toyota’s Alphard (aero version) (Produced by Hundreds of Cars)

    　The current Alphard, the third generation introduced in 2015, was developed based on the concept of a “”large-space luxury saloon,”” and as the concept suggests, it is now a “”coveted”” luxury minivan.

    　The design includes a front face with a strong presence, and the interior has the feel of a luxury lounge.

    　Even for a minivan, it does not skimp on driving performance, with a double wishbone suspension system in the rear, and the introduction of high-tensile steel sheets and structural adhesives to strengthen the body rigidity and provide a comfortable ride.

    　In recent years, it has been performing well in terms of sales despite being a luxury minivan, recording the No. 1 sales volume in the minivan genre, and the installation rate of Modellista’s genuine aero parts is also high.

    　On the other hand, the GR brand has been making its presence felt in recent years.

    　Under the GR brand, GR parts, GR sports, GR, and GRMN specifications are available for each vehicle.

    　In minivans, GR Parts are available for the new Noah/Voxy (and GR Sport for the previous generation).

    　In addition, the previous generation Alphard had the G’s brand, which can be said to be the original GR.

    　In this context, the current Alphard has been on the market for seven years and is generally considered to be at the end of its model life.

    　However, as of June 2022, in addition to the former standard (X/GF) and aero (S/SC/SR “”C package””) versions, the Alphard grade now includes the top-of-the-line “”Executive Lounge”” and the special “”S TYPE GOLD III”” are the only available special editions.

    　Of course, it may seem nonsensical to set up the GR brand, which is filled with motorsports know-how, on a luxury saloon, but we dared to adopt the existing GR brand design for the Alphard.

    　The chrome front grille, which maximizes the Alphard’s presence, uses the TOYOTA emblem and mesh grille used on the “”Land Cruiser 300 GR Sport””.

    　For wheels and brakes, 19-inch forged aluminum wheels adopted for the “”GR Supra (RZ grade)”” have been installed.

    　In addition, the minimum ground clearance has been lowered to impart an overall sporty impression.

    * * *

    　The GR brand has been announced with the “”GRMN Yaris,”” which will be the highest-end model in 2022, the long-awaited “”GR Corolla”” in the Corolla series, and the “”GR Sport,”” with the addition of a manual transmission version.

    　There is also talk of the addition of the “”Aqua GR Sport”” and “”Yaris Cross GR Sport”” to the lineup, and it appears that a variety of body types will be available in specifications that allow the driver to enjoy the pleasure of driving a car.

    　In this context, it is unlikely that the current Alphard will be equipped with the GR brand, but we hope that the next Alphard, which is said to be introduced in 2023, will have it.”

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    Can you sleep with Toyota “Comfortable SUV”? “Yaris Cross Van-dwelling specification” for “single bedroom”! What was your impression of actually sleeping?

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Can you sleep in Toyota’s “”Comfortable SUV””? The “”Yaris Cross Car Overnight Specs”” for a “”one-person bedroom!”” What do you think of the actual sleeping experience?

    Now a Standard? How comfortable is the “”Yaris Cross,”” an SUV that stays overnight in a car?
    　With the recent rise in popularity of outdoor activities, more and more people are enjoying camping and overnight stays in their cars.
    　
    　In particular, many people are familiar with overnight stays in a car, which can be enjoyed in relatively unlimited locations with a minimum amount of camping equipment.
    　
    　In this context, can the Toyota “”Yaris Cross”” provide a comfortable overnight stay in a car?

    With just a few modifications, the Yaris Cross can be made into a car with overnight stay specifications! See the actual Yaris Cross in photos!

    Stay overnight in Toyota’s compact SUV “”Yaris Cross””! How to spend a comfortable night in a car? What’s it like to actually stay overnight in a car? (Images courtesy of Yaris Cross.)

    　The Yaris Cross is classified as a “”compact SUV”” with overall length 4180 mm x width 1765 mm x height 1590 mm.

    　Its compact body makes it easy to maneuver, and even those who are not very good at driving large vehicles can drive it with ease.

    　The cargo space is 820 mm (cargo space length) x 1400 mm (cargo space width) x 732 mm (cargo space height) (when the deck board is in the upper position) for five passengers, and the cargo space capacity is 390 liters.

    　Furthermore, by folding down the rear seats, the cargo capacity expands to 1102 liters. In addition to providing enough space for two bicycles, the upper deck board provides a flat floor surface on which people can lie down.

    　The cargo area is also equipped with a “”flex belt”” that can be used to secure larger items such as cooler boxes and containers to prevent them from moving while the vehicle is in motion, making it safe even on roads with curves or poor road conditions.

    　How did users who actually stayed overnight in Yaris Cross feel about the comfort of the vehicle?

    　Yarikronist (@pUsV7LqJIw0TFHL), who enjoyed a two-day and one-night stay in a car during Golden Week in 2022, said the following.

    This time I traveled alone to neighboring prefectures. The weather was good, and I had always wanted to stay overnight in a car, so I decided to take on the challenge.

    　To stay overnight in the car, I bought a sunshade (all around), a folding table to fill in the gaps, a mattress, a lantern, etc. I was alone so I decided to stay flat and stretch my legs.

    　Since I was alone this time, I was able to stay in the car flat and have enough space to stretch out my legs, which made for a comfortable overnight stay. I am satisfied.””

    　In the case of Yarychronist, the rear seats were folded down to make the floor flat, and a mattress was placed on the floor to create a bed space.

    　In addition, since there was a gap between the rear seats, he placed a table that matched the height of the floor in that area to fill in the gap.

    　On the other hand, the YARIKRONIST also said, “”Considering the size of the car, I felt that it would be a bit difficult for more than two people to relax in the car,”” and those who wish to stay overnight in a car with more than one person should consider this option.

    The Yaris Cross is a trendy mini-van that is available in a wide range of sizes.

    　Compared to trendy minivans and minivans, the Yaris Cross is not as roomy.

    　However, it is possible to stay overnight in a car comfortably enough if you put some ingenuity into it, such as making effective use of the space by filling in the gaps as Mr. Yarikuronist did.

    　Improving comfort through ingenuity and DIY is one of the most enjoyable aspects of staying in a car.”

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    Honda’s new SUV “CR-V” has been completely redesigned to emphasize “clean face” !Compare the new face announced in the United States with the current model .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Honda’s new CR-V SUV has been completely redesigned to emphasize its “”clean face””! Comparison of the new face with the current model announced in the U.S.

    New CR-V Evolves into a Sporty, Cleaner Design
    　On May 24, 2022 (local time), Honda’s U.S. subsidiary unveiled for the first time in the world part of the exterior design of the new sixth-generation CR-V, which is scheduled for official unveiling this summer.
    　
    　How has it evolved from the current 5th generation CR-V? We compared the new and old CR-Vs.

    “”New image!”” Comparing old and new Honda CR-V photos

    (Left) Honda CR-V (5th generation, current model) / (Right) New CR-V (6th generation, 2023 model) [both North American specifications].

    　These images show the front of the new CR-V, centering on the headlights, and the rear, centering on the tail lamps.

    　The body side shape, front and rear overall design, and interior and instrument panel were not disclosed.

    　With such limited information, let’s compare the new and old CR-Vs.

    　First of all, the more distinctive feature of the front is the new model’s larger hexagonal grille.

    　The inside of the opening is also decorated with a honeycomb structure (hexagonal beehive structure).

    　In addition, the grille is black without chrome decorations in the disclosed specifications, which is a feature that strengthens the powerful and tough impression typical of SUVs.

    　The current CR-V also has a hexagonal grille, but the upper part is covered by a continuous bar shape from the headlights, dividing the grille into two sections. The addition of chrome decorations gives the grille a rather cumbersome appearance.

    　Comparing the new and old CR-Vs again, the new model has a cleaner overall image.

    * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

    　How about the back view?

    　The common feature of both the new and old models is the L-shaped rear combination lamps that run horizontally and vertically.

    　This is derived from the fact that since the first-generation CR-V introduced in 1995, successive generations of CR-Vs have used vertical rear combination lamps.

    　Furthermore, from the current model (5th generation), which was introduced in 2016 (Japanese version will be introduced in 2018), the vertical shape was arranged in an L-shape while retaining the vertical shape, and it is evident that the new 6th generation CR-V has also inherited it.

    　Also, similarly to the front, the specifications of the new CR-V unveiled this time are almost completely devoid of the chrome decorations in the center and bumper areas that are present on the current model, giving it a sportier look.

    　Comparing the tailgate, the current model looks a little high-backed due to the peak above the license plate number, while the new model’s center of gravity is lowered by lowering the apex of the shape, giving it a clean and uncluttered appearance.

    　According to Honda’s U.S. subsidiary, the new CR-V will be officially unveiled in North America in the summer of 2022.

    　We can’t wait to see the overall design of the new CR-V.”

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    Toyota unveiled the amazing “Hilux Custom Specification” for the first time! What is the true identity of the 3-inch vehicle height down .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota unveils the amazing “”HILUX CUSTOM SPEC”” for the first time! What is the true nature of the serious specification with 3-inch ride height reduction?

    This is cool! A custom version of the Hilux!
    　As of 2022, the only new pickup truck sold in Japan is the Toyota Hilux.
    　
    　Looking overseas, pickup trucks are sold by various manufacturers, with several models in different body sizes.
    　
    　Among them, a one-make race of Hilux is being held in Thailand, and one of the Hiluxes has been shown in Japan.
    You can’t see it in Japan! Special “”Hilux”” is amazing! See the real car in photos!

    So cool! The actual car on display was the “”Hilux One-Make Race Spec.

    　This special Hilux was displayed at the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing booth at the “”Super Taikyu Series Round 2 24-Hour Race (Fuji Speedway).

    　Various races are also held in Asia, for example, the “”TGR VIOS Cup”” in the Philippines and the “”TGR Festival VIOS Challenge”” in Malaysia, using the Vios, a compact car that Toyota sells in Asia.

    　And in Thailand, the “”Toyota HILUX One-Make Race”” is held. This race is limited to amateur racers and only HILUXs can participate, and is said to be a popular summer festival-like event.

    　The HILUX that participates in this one-make race is on display, and its modifications are also very serious.

    　The Hilux is globally available in several cabs (2-door and 4-door), but the regulations require the use of a double cab (Z-Edition) for the one-make race.

    　On the exterior, over fenders add oomph, TRD straight + mufflers are installed, and the footprint is lowered 3 inches with TRD lowered suspension, as well as 17-inch TRD wheels on Yokohama Advans.

    　The interior features a 6-point roll cage, 4-point seat belts, full bucket seats, and a sports steering wheel.

    　The powertrain is a modified 2.4-liter diesel engine combined with a special sub-ECU and a 6-speed manual transmission plus reinforced clutch.

    * * *

    　Users who saw the actual car at the event said, “”I compared it with the GR Sport (which is placed next to it), but it has a different coolness,”” “”The lowered Hilux is also cool! and “”I’d like to drive it, even though it’s too big for Japan.

    　The one-make race version of the HiLux, which cannot be seen in Japan, attracted a lot of interest, with many people taking pictures of it.”

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    Citroen C5 Air Cloth, bold change in facial expression … Improved new model to be released in Europe in June

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Citroen C5 Aircross Gets a Bold New Look…Improved New Model to Go on Sale in Europe in June
    New design language introduced for the front

    New generation “”Advanced Comfort Seats
    e-Toggle”” switch replaces conventional shift lever

    Citroen announced on June 7 that it will launch the upgraded Citroen C5 Aircross SUV in the European market in June. The base price in the home country of France is announced to be 27,450 Euros (about 3.87 million yen).

    ◆New design language in the front
    The Citroen C5 Aircross SUV, upgraded (European specifications)
    A new design language was introduced to the front. Newly designed headlights, grille and bumper replace the respective curves with more structured lines. The transformation of the front end aims to give the vehicle a more vertical, modern and distinguished look and to make it easier for the driver to recognize the front left and right sides of the vehicle.

    Underfoot, the vehicle is equipped with newly designed 18-inch diamond-cut aluminum wheels. At the rear, the taillights are changed to a three-dimensional design. Body dimensions are 4500 mm in length, 1840 mm in width, 1670 mm in height, and 2730 mm in wheelbase, with a minimum ground clearance of 230 mm.

    A wide range of customization options are available. Four new color packs aim to assert character and elegance. bumps in Gloss Black, Dark Chrome, Bronze, and Energetic Blue. A two-tone black roof and black roof bar with a shine finish are also available.

    ◆Advanced Comfort Seats, a new generation

    Following the new C4 and C5X, a new generation of “”Advanced Comfort Seats”” has been adopted. Special foam is placed on the back of the seat fabric to improve the feeling of contact between the body and the seat. The volume of the foam behind the fabric is 15 mm to provide soft cushioning, and the seat absorbs the slight tremors of the vehicle body that can lead to fatigue.

    The Advanced Comfort seat is one of the results of Citroen’s “”Advanced Comfort”” program. In order to create a seat that softly and gently wraps the body while providing reliable support, the polyurethane foam used for the seat cushion material was researched and a proprietary high-density foam with a higher density than the industry average was adopted.

    Another feature is that the rear seat has three independent seats. This concept was introduced to ensure that each occupant enjoys the same superior comfort level. The trunk capacity ranges from 580 to 720 liters. When the rear seats are folded down, it expands to a maximum of 1,630 liters. According to Citroen, the trunk capacity is the largest in the segment.

    ◆””e-toggle”” switch replaces the conventional shift lever.

    In the center of the dashboard is a new 10-inch touchscreen that appears to float. This new larger screen, which can control air conditioning and other functions, improves ergonomics to prevent the driver from looking away from the road ahead. Air ducts are positioned below the screen and feature a new horizontal design; the 10-inch touchscreen also incorporates a navigation system.

    A customizable 12-inch digital display is located in front of the driver. It displays important information such as navigation maps and information on the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) in an easy-to-understand manner.

    A newly designed center console was also adopted. The large center console features an “”e-toggle”” switch in place of the conventional shift lever. A new driving mode switch incorporating a grip control function is also provided.

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

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    Added for Yaris Cross to sports muffler “High Power Spec L2” … HKS

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Sports muffler “”High Power Spec L2″” for Yaris Cross added…HKSJune 13, 2022, 1:00 pm

    HKS has added a new version for the Toyota “”Yaris Cross”” to its “”High Power Spec L2″” sports muffler that delivers a sporty sound, light weight, and high efficiency, and began sales on June 10, 2012.

    High Power Spec L2 uses stainless steel materials for the pipes and silencers, while achieving a weight reduction comparable to that of a titanium muffler by using thin-walled materials for each component. In the case of the newly added Yaris Cross, the weight reduction of approximately 30% (from 5.2kg to 3.65kg) compared to the factory model leads to improved dynamic performance.

    In addition, the adoption of a straight structure with no aperture improves exhaust efficiency. Sound tuning to match the car model provides a pleasant sports sound and light feeling.

    The finisher cover is made of titanium instead of the carbon material of the previous model. The blue gradation unique to titanium creates a sportier atmosphere. A replacement finisher cover is also available as an optional accessory. In addition to the standard titanium finisher cover, three types of finisher covers are available: a carbon finisher cover, which is similar to the previous model, and a Noyes Blue stainless steel finisher cover, which creates a cool visual effect.

    The price is 88,000 yen. The separately sold finisher cover costs 7,700 yen (one piece).

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

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    Imechen for a “new face” for 5 million yen! Exterior version upgrade kit for Nissan “GT-R NISMO”! Contributes to appearance and weight reduction.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Give Your Nissan GT-R NISMO a “”New Look”” for 5 Million Yen! Exterior Upgrade Kit for Nissan GT-R NISMO! Contributes to appearance & weight reduction

    　On June 10, 2022, Nissan Motorsports & Customizing Co. announced the release of the “”Exterior Upgrade Set”” for the Nissan GT-RNISMO (2022 model year) as a NISMO handled product.

    Completely renewed front end! Nissan “”GT-R NISMO”” with a 5 million yen makeover.
    Nissan “”GT-R NISMO”” Upgrade Kit Released

    　Announced this year is a set of genuine Nissan parts that upgrade the 2014-2018 models of the GT-R NISMO to the 2022 model’s exterior.

    　The lineup includes three types: the Front Bumper Facia & Hood Set (front bumper without sonar holes, for ’14 and ’15 models) includes the front bumper facia, front spoiler
    engine undercover, front bumper grille, bumper rainforce, etc.

    Hood Set (for ’17 and ’18 models)”” includes hood and air intakes. The “”Front Fender Set (for ’14-’18 models)”” includes front fenders and inner fenders.

    　The weight can be reduced by installing each set, depending on the model year.

    　The price (including consumption tax) is 3,300,000 yen for the front bumper fascia and hood set, 902,000 yen for the hood set, and 847,000 yen for the front fender set.”