Author: Chathura Chanuka

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    why? Is there a “Skyline GT-R” that exceeds 100 million yen? What is the reason why the best R34 is traded at a high price .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Why? Skyline GT-R”” worth over 100 million yen? Why are the top R34s sold at such high prices?

    Why the Nissan “”Skyline GT-R (BNR34)”” aka R34 has a record high price in Japanese car history
    　The “”Wild Speed”” movie series continues to be a huge hit around the world.
    　
    　The late actor Paul Walker, who played the main character Brian O’Connor, was known as a big car enthusiast in his private life.
    　
    　The Nissan “”Skyline GT-R (BNR34),”” which Paul Walker actually drove, is now being sold.

    The most amazing R34 in the world! See the actual Skyline GT-R, worth over 100 million yen!

    A truly exquisite car… The “”R34 Skyline GT-R”” actually driven by Paul Walker is priced at over 100 million yen (Photo: HiveAuto Group).

    　Since the first film in the series was released in 2001, nine full-length films, known as the “”Fast Saga,”” and many related films have been released to date.

    　The appeal of the Wild Speed series is its flashy car action.

    　In particular, many domestic sports cars from the 1990s and 2000s have appeared in the series, leading to a domestic sports car boom in the U.S. The Wild Speed series is also one of the most popular.

    　One of the most popular cars in the Wild Speed series is the R34 Skyline GT-R of the main character, Brian O’Connor.

    　Its beautiful body painted in bright “”Bayside Blue”” and dynamic performance have attracted many fans who have seen the movie.

    　Such a special S-R34 Skyline GT-R is now being sold in the United States.

    　It is being sold by Hive Auto Group, a used car dealership in San Diego, California, and is listed under the title “”2001 NISSAN MOTOREX R34 V SPEC II.

    　In principle, there are no overseas specifications (left-hand drive version) for the R34 Skyline GT-R, so it is necessary to clear various problems in order to allow the car to run in the United States.

    　Under such circumstances, “”MOTOREX”” imported a very small number of Skyline GT-R (R34) in a condition that allowed them to be driven on public roads in compliance with U.S. regulations.

    　But what makes this R34 Skyline GT-R truly unique is that most of its 21,000 miles (33,800 km) to date have been built by Paul Walker.

    　This particular car was featured on a poster by the U.S. tire manufacturer BF Goodrich in the early 2000s, with its “”Bayside Blue”” body and gold graphics and stripes.

    　The heart of the car is an RB26DETT, which is combined with a NISMO carbon air inlet pipe and a Greddy intake manifold.

    　The transmission is a 6-speed manual transmission, and the suspension is equipped with TEIN electronically controlled variable dampers.

    　Other notable features include a Trust stainless steel exhaust pipe and a Sparco 4-point harness.

    　Regarding this R34 Skyline GT-R, “”Hive Auto Group”” explains, “”This R34 GT-R is not like most, and only serious buyers should inquire about it.

    　The price is said to be “”negotiable,”” but as of June 9, it is estimated to be $850,000 (approximately 113.6 million yen).

    　As for the R34 Skyline GT-R, there was an example of a like-new “”V SPEC II Nur”” that sold for approximately 60 million yen in the past.

    　However, the R34 Skyline GT-R being sold this time is much more than that, and if the deal goes through, it is expected to be sold at one of the highest prices in the history of Japanese cars.
    　
    　* * *

    　Paul Walker passed away in a car accident in 2014, but he still has many fans and is a legend among domestic sports car fans.

    　The R34 Skyline GT-R that Paul Walker actually drove is expected to fetch over 100 million yen.

    　In 2023, “”Wild Speed X,”” the tenth film in the Wild Speed series, is scheduled to be released.”

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    Toyota’s “Hilux Surf Van-dwelling specification” that is too serious is amazing! The ultimate self-custom! What is a comfortable way to spend .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota’s “”HILUX SURF Overnight Car”” is too serious! The ultimate customization! How to spend a comfortable night
    6/11 (Sat) 11:50

    Too luxurious! What is the reality of a longed-for overnight stay in a “”Hilux Surf””?
    　With the demand for outdoor activities and the Corona disaster, attention has been focused on overnight stays in cars, which can be enjoyed relatively easily regardless of location.

    This is amazing! See the actual car of “”HILUX SURF overnight stay specification”” in photos!
    　Some users are using Toyota’s “”Hilux Surf”” to stay overnight in their cars.
    　
    　How do they spend the night in their Hilux Surf?

    This is amazing! Enjoy a real overnight stay in a Toyota “”Hilux Surf””! (Image courtesy of Yushuke)

    　Many people who frequently spend the night in their cars or who want to enjoy a full-fledged overnight stay in their cars often build DIY cars for overnight stays.

    　Many of them are using SUVs, which can be driven on rough roads in the mountains, along mountain streams, or by the sea, without any concern.

    　SUVs with high minimum ground clearance and the ability to clear a variety of road conditions are the perfect models for outdoor activities.

    　Some people are using Hilux Surfs to stay overnight in their cars.

    　The Hilux Surf is a Toyota SUV born in 1983. The fourth-generation model was sold in Japan until 2009, and the fifth-generation model is currently available only in overseas markets.

    　Although the Hilux Surf has been withdrawn from the Japanese market, many people on social networking sites are taking advantage of its large and tough body and turning it into a DIY overnight vehicle.

    One such person is Yushuke (@overflag0311), who has been enjoying overnight stays in his beloved 3rd generation Hilux Surf (N180 series) by adding various customizations.

    　Yushuke says that he usually stays overnight in his car, “”Basically, I stay overnight by myself or with my girlfriend. So how did he come to stay overnight in his Hilux Surf?
    　
    I have always enjoyed spontaneous trips, driving, and fishing, so I often drove my car to faraway places.

    　This unpredictable nature of my travels often caused a bottleneck in coordinating hotel and campsite reservations and other accommodations.

    　In addition, when camping, tents are large pieces of luggage, and it takes time to assemble, dismantle, and clean them, so we also started overnight stays in cars to eliminate these problems.

    　Thus, the advantages of staying in a car are that you don’t have to worry about finding a place to stay even when you are out of town unexpectedly and that it is easier and more enjoyable than camping.

    　In addition, Yushuke has always loved riding in cars and customizing them, and he says that “”overnight stays in a car are the perfect hobby for me”” in order to spend meaningful time with his car.

    Toyota’s “”Hilux Surf Overnight”” is too serious! The ultimate customization! How to spend a comfortable night

    How do you comfortably stay overnight in a car with a Hilux Surf?
    　Yushuke-san’s Hilux Surf has a variety of convenient goods for overnight stays in his car, such as a perforated board that serves as a blindfold and for storing small items, and a blindfold for the back door that utilizes a plastic-dan material.

    　Other features include a curtain rail and rod holder, and seat covers with molle (storage for outdoor and survival goods).

    　Yushuke also uses military-style shrugs, inflator mats, pillows, etc. when sleeping, and to improve sleeping comfort, he has devised multiple layers of sponge mats and mats that can cover the rear seats from the luggage.

    The rear window of the back door of the Hilux Surf can be opened and closed to create an open space as well (image courtesy of Yushuke).

    　Finally, Mr. Yushuke gives his impressions of sleeping in a Hilux Surf as follows: “”Compared to a minivan, the height of the car is much higher.

    Compared to minivans and other vehicles, the high vehicle height means that the interior is undeniably narrower, but I am able to stay overnight in the car without any particular stress.

    　Also, since the rear window of the back door of the Hilux Surf opens and closes, I can sleep with the rear facing the ocean or lake and the window open, which gives me a very open feeling.

    The car is a very liberating experience.

    　Even if we use the term “”overnight stay in a car”” in a nutshell, there are various ways to spend the night, depending on the model and customization used and the “”gear”” prepared.

    　One of the most enjoyable aspects of overnight stays in a car is how to make the most of the limited space inside the car.”

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    Turbo x e-POWER is a different dimension !Nissan “Qashqai” that runs on electricity is now available! Reservation starts in France from about 5.43 million yen .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Turbo x e-POWER is another dimension! Nissan “”Qashqai”” Running on Electricity! Reservations start from about 5,430,000 yen in France

    Electric Powertrain “”e-POWER”” Introduced for the First Time in Europe
    　On June 7, 2022, Nissan’s French subsidiary began taking orders for the Qashqai e-POWER crossover SUV.

    Cool looking guy! Nissan’s Qashqai e-POWER SUV in pictures!

    　Fully remodeled in 2021, the Qashqai is now available as a mild hybrid vehicle. A new electric powertrain “”e-POWER”” vehicle will be added to the lineup. Note that this is the first time that e-POWER will be introduced in Europe.

    Nissan Qashqai e-POWER, the first e-POWER vehicle in Europe

    　The e-POWER to be mounted on the Qashqai was developed for the European market. Electricity generated by the new 1.5-liter turbocharged variable compression gasoline engine drives an electric motor with a maximum output of 140 kW (190 hp).

    　This energy is fed to the battery, which in turn feeds the electric motor. It can be sent directly to the electric motor or to the battery and the electric motor simultaneously.

    　Since the car runs 100% motor-driven, it has a linear response. It is also ideal for users who are not ready to make the transition to EVs, as it does not require recharging like a battery EV.

    　Qashqai e-POWER is equipped with the e-Pedal Step, which allows the driver to control acceleration and deceleration using only the accelerator pedal. It offers a smoother, quieter, and more fuel-efficient drive.

    　On the exterior, the slim headlights and V-motion grille give a stylish impression, while the elongated shoulder line and 20-inch aluminum wheels on the sides of the body give a powerful impression. The “”e-POWER”” badge is also attached.

    　The interior also features a 12.3-inch multi-information screen with a Japanese faceted background motif, a 10.8-inch head-up display, and a compatible 9-inch NissanConnect display (Android Auto / Apple CarPlay compatible) .

    　It also supports the ability to seamlessly connect home and car with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.

    * * * *

    　The new Qashqai e-POWER is priced in France from 38,200 to 46,000 euros (approximately 5.43 to 6.54 million yen). It is only 1,300 euros (about 185,000 yen) more than the mild hybrid version. Deliveries in the market will begin gradually in September 2022.

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

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    What is the difference between the new “GR Corolla” and the “companion” GR Yaris? Is “ease of boarding” important for everyday riding?

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “What is the difference between the new “”GR Corolla”” and the “”peer”” GR Yaris? Is “”ease of entry”” important for everyday driving?

    The All-New “”GR Corolla”” Is Finally Here!
    　On June 1, 2022, TOYOTA GAZOO Racing (TGR) unveiled the new “”GR Corolla RZ”” (hereafter, the new GR Corolla).

    Finally! See the most powerful new “”GR Corolla”” that shows Toyota’s seriousness.
    　The “”Corolla”” series, created in 1966, boasts one of the longest histories among Toyota models. With a lineup that includes not only sedans and coupes, but also wagons and SUVs, it has been the mainstay of Toyota’s passenger car lineup and a favorite of many users.

    　And the new GR Corolla revealed this time is equipped with the GR-FOUR, a sports-type all-wheel drive system, and is a high-performance model specialized for sports driving.

    　Another model in the TGR lineup is the GR Yaris (RZ grade), which will be released in September 2020, and both models are powered by the same 1.6-liter direct injection 3-cylinder intercooled turbo engine (G16E-GTS).

    　So what are the differences between the two cars?

    　The GR Yaris has a more compact body. While the new GR Corolla measures 4410 mm in length, 1850 mm in width, and 1480 mm in height, the GR Yaris measures 3995 mm in length, 1805 mm in width, and 1455 mm in height.

    　The GR Yaris weighs 1110-1280 kg, compared to the new GR Corolla’s 1475 kg, and has a maximum output of 304 hp for the new GR Corolla and 272 hp for the GR Yaris.

    　A representative from Toyota’s GR Garage in Tokyo explains the differences between the two cars: “”Of course, there are differences in performance and design.

    Of course, there are many differences in performance and design, but what is important to our customers is the difference in doors and seating capacity.

    　The new GR Corolla is a 5-door, 5-seater, while the GR Yaris is a 3-door, 4-seater. We anticipate that this difference will be a factor to consider when making a purchase.””

    What are the differences between the new GR Corolla and GR Yaris besides seating capacity?
    　Both vehicles are hatchback types, but the new GR Corolla has doors on both the front and rear seats, while the GR Yaris only has doors on the front seats.

    　Therefore, to get into the rear seats of the GR Yaris, front seat passengers will need to get out once and shift or fold down the front seats.

    　Although it is not unusual for a sports-type model to have two or three doors, this process may be somewhat cumbersome for those who often have more than three people in the car.

    What is the difference between the new “”GR Corolla”” and its “”peer”” GR Yaris? Is “”ease of entry”” important for everyday driving?

    　The GR Yaris also has a floor tunnel in the center of the body where the shaft passes through, and the middle section of the rear seat legroom is raised significantly.

    　This design is also seen in the new GR Corolla, but in the case of the GR Yaris, there is not much room in the rear seat legroom because the body is compact to begin with, and the middle seat was purposely abandoned to accommodate four passengers.

    　Considering these factors, the new GR Corolla is better suited for those with a large number of passengers. On the other hand, for those who frequently go out with one or two people, the compact GR Yaris may be easier to drive.

    　In addition, the two cars differ in many aspects of design.

    　The GR Yaris has a two-piece muffler, while the new GR Corolla has a three-piece muffler to reduce exhaust gas pressure. The hood of the new GR Corolla is also equipped with air ducts, giving it a wilder look than the GR Yaris.

    * * *

    　Incidentally, the new GR Corolla is now also available in a “”Morizo Edition. It is said to be a grade that President Akio Toyoda (Morizo) himself put a lot of effort into developing in pursuit of “”a wildness that attracts customers.

    　The Morizo Edition is a 5-door like the RZ, but the rear seats are completely removed, making it a 2-seater. Instead, a tower bar has been installed to provide space for four tires. It is a complete circuit driving specification.

    　According to a representative of the Toyota GR Garage in Kanagawa Prefecture, “”The new GR Corolla is scheduled to go on sale in the fall of 2022,”” and it will be interesting to see how popular the Morizo Edition will be in addition to the RZ.

    *This has been corrected due to an error in the text since the article first appeared (June 11, 4:30 p.m.).

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

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    From the Miracle Stroke Adjuster Blitz for Corolla Cross

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “MIRACLE STROKE ADJUSTER for Corolla Cross from BLITZ Friday, June 10, 2022 06:30 PM

    BLITZ Releases “”MIRACLE STROKE ADJUSTER”” for Corolla Cross to Maximize Rear Suspension Performance
    Tuning parts maker BLITZ has released the new “”MIRACLE STROKE ADJUSTER”” for Toyota’s Corolla Cross, which went on sale on June 2.

    The Miracle Stroke Adjuster can be installed together with the company’s coilover product “”DAMPER ZZ-R”” to optimize the arm position and maximize the suspension performance.

    Some vehicle inspection stations and inspectors may determine that structural modification is necessary.”

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    Toyota “C-HR” model change in the fall of 2023 ! New hybrid 4WD and BEV

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota “”C-HR”” model change in Fall 2023! New Hybrid 4WD and BEV also 2022, Fri, Jun 10, 06:00

    Toyota’s compact SUV “”C-HR”” will soon undergo a full model change. The current model was launched in 2016 as a global strategic model and was the best-selling car in Japan in a single month in 2017. What will the next model be like?　The scoop site “”Spyder7″” has caught the latest information.

    The styling of the new model is the most noteworthy aspect of the car. The C-HR has made its presence felt as a compact crossover SUV that resembles a coupe, and this concept is expected to be carried on. The design hints can be found in the 16 concept cars that President Akio Toyoda unveiled at Toyota’s “”Briefing Session on Battery EVs”” held in December 2021, and which became a topic of conversation.

    The “”bZ Compact SUV”” exhibited there is said to have a high possibility of becoming the basis for the next C-HR. In fact, considering the timing of its debut, the design should have been completed by December, and it could be said that the bZ Compact SUV was a show car-style redesign of the next-generation C-HR.

    Based on the bZ Compact SUV, we have tried to predict the production model of the C-HR.

    The unique front mask is created by the headlights, which replace the boomerang-like design of the bZ Compact SUV with a more realistic shape and a sharper look. The overall silhouette is thicker than that of the bZ Compact SUV, increasing the rear seat space. If the current model features organic curves, the next model is likely to be characterized by edgy straight lines.

    Toyota C-HR next-generation model forecast CG
    The platform is the latest version of the TNGA “”GA-C””. The powertrain is a hybrid consisting of a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder “”Dynamic Force Engine”” and motor. With the new hybrid 4WD “”D-Four,”” we can expect more than just good looks; we can also expect 4WD performance.

    The focus will be on the full electric (BEV), which will be equipped with the system of the preceding “”bZ4X”” and will make its debut.

    The world premiere of the next C-HR is expected in the fall of 2023; the BEV will likely be announced later.”

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    [Toyota bZ4X & Subaru Solterra new test drive] Mobility Solterra and comfort bZ4X .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota bZ4X & Subaru Solterra New Car Test Ride]The Solterra offers mobility and the bZ4X offers comfort…Takahito Nakamura
    260 km from Nagoya to Kanazawa in the bZ4X and Soltera

    You need to plan your trip as carefully as you would an airplane.

    Comfort of 18 inches is exquisite

    Subaru Solterra (left) and Toyota bZ4X (right). Behind them is Nagoya Castle.
    Subaru Solterra (left) and Toyota bZ4X (right). In the background is Nagoya CastleToyota bZ4XSubaru SolterraSubaru SolterraYou don’t have to go to Shirakawa-go to see old thatched housesToyota bZ4XSubaru Solterra charging quickly in the townscape
    The bZ4X and the Solterra on the 260 km drive from Nagoya to Kanazawa.
    A joint test drive of the Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra was held on a grand scale. Starting in Tokyo, the course consisted of a total of five courses in a loop.

    I was in charge of the 260-km course from Nagoya to Kanazawa, changing trains at Gujo-Hachiman along the way to test the two models. The second half was to reach Kanazawa with at least 50 km remaining. In other words, both courses require recharging the batteries at least once. Well, we could have gone the second half of the course without recharging if we pushed ourselves, but at any rate, we were allotted enough time to recharge at least once at the recharging spots marked on the course to complete the route.

    Many people are still unfamiliar with the ins and outs of electric vehicles (EVs) (myself included). This time, the manufacturer’s intention was clear: they wanted us to learn a little about the basics of electric vehicles, including the experience of charging the battery. In other words, the amount of electricity flow differs depending on the charging spot, and it differs from spot to spot. Even for the same 30-minute charge, the more electricity that flows through the spot, the more you can charge.

    In the route from Nagoya to Kanazawa, there were many charging spots with a capacity ranging from 20kw to 50kw. It was up to the driver to choose where to go, and some spots were quite far from the route, but the goal was the same for everyone. The goal is the same for everyone: a spot that is not too far off the route and has a large charging capacity. And in most cases, only one car can be recharged at a time. This means that if there is a customer ahead of you, you will have to wait. This is one of the reasons why the infrastructure for electric vehicles is said to be still insufficient. As expected, there were already passengers at the spot we were aiming for, forcing us to rethink our plans.

    You need to plan your trip as meticulously as you would an airplane.

    Now, vehicles are chosen by lottery. In my case, I first drove the FWD (front-wheel drive) model of the bZ4X, and from Gujo-Hachiman on the way, I was assigned the AWD (all-wheel drive) model of the Solterra. I have test-driven the Solterra on snowy winter roads, but this was the first time for me to drive the bZ4X.

    The basic structure of the car is the same from the framework, so there are no major changes, but there are subtle differences in flavor. The bZ4X is more oriented toward comfort and driving performance. Also, both models are available in FWD and AWD, but there are slight differences: while Toyota has a single grade, Subaru has two grades of AWD, and while Toyota has 18-inch tires as standard, Subaru has 20-inch tires as standard on the higher grades. The biggest difference is that the Subaru is sold individually while the Toyota is only available for lease through KINTO.

    So we started with a FWD bZ4X. We headed for the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway from central Nagoya. The car was about 80% fully charged. The manufacturer did not intentionally charge the battery to full capacity. However, when we checked the route, we found that we were supposed to get off the highway at Gujo Hachiman, and there were no spots along the way. The quickest way is to charge the battery at the SA on the highway, but it is too early to do so.

    The fate of electric vehicles is that they must decide where to go and check for charging spots along the route. With an internal combustion engine car, you can just go anywhere and if you run out, go to the nearest gas station…but not so with an electric car. But this is not the case with electric vehicles, which require as much detailed travel planning as airplanes. This time, we recharged our batteries at a roadside station called Rustenhorrado. The capacity is 20kw, which is small. While I was charging, two electric car users came to charge their cars, but they gave up when they saw me.

    The remaining mileage was about 300 km at the time of departure, so the first half of the journey was an easy one if one ignores the 200 km comment. Once we got off the road, a pleasant winding road continued. There are some ups and downs, but for some reason, the vehicle slows down before each corner. When the road goes downhill, it also slows down at the ups and downs. Later, I was told that the regenerative power is enhanced by sensing the slope and speed of the slope, and in the case of a corner, the camera also recognizes the speed and the corner itself to enhance the regenerative power. In the case of a corner, the camera also recognizes the speed and the corner itself to enhance the regenerative power. Well, this reduces the amount of work the driver has to do, and although it may not be appropriate to use the word, it makes the driver look even more foolish. Is this just another trend of the times?

    18-inch comfort is exquisite
    By the way, the comfort of 18-inch wheels is exquisite. The Soltera, which I rode later in the day, was equipped with 20-inch wheels, but these were a bit too much. Well, it may have much better traction in corners, but I don’t think I would want to drive an electric car that fast in the first place. I am well aware that it has tremendous acceleration power if you step on it, but its acceleration does not have the elation (mainly the sound and the acceleration you can feel) that is characteristic of internal-combustion cars. It is ridiculously fast, but I feel a sense of sadness like a sparkler.

    From Gujo-Hachiman onward, the car is a Soltera. Although it is not as comfortable as the 18-inch bZ4Z, it is equipped with features that make driving enjoyable, such as paddles with variable regenerative power. Come to think of it, this car was equipped with a Harman Kardon audio system, while the first half of the Toyota was equipped with a JBL audio system. The quietness of the car makes it a fun choice for electric cars.

    Electric vehicles still have a lot of issues to address, such as the disposal of batteries. Toyota’s approach of using subs and collecting the vehicle is likely to be less troublesome.

    ■5-star rating
    Packaging: ★★★★
    Interior/Comfort: ★★★★
    Power Source: ★★★★
    Footwork: ★★★★
    Recommendation: ★★★★

    Takahito Nakamura, AJAJ Member
    Born in 1952, Takahito Nakamura was a car enthusiast, gracing the pages of Motor Magazine at the age of four. In 1977, he entered the journalism industry and has been working as a freelance journalist for 44 years. He is also currently the president of Shofadept, a company that offers driving lessons to businesses and seniors.”

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    Nissan Kicks may make noise from the rear wheel while driving .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Nissan Kicks May Generate Rear Wheel Noise While Driving…Recall Thursday, June 9, 2022, 4:45 p.m.

    Nissan KIX Improvement Areas
    On June 9, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. filed a recall (recall and free repair) of its KIX vehicles with the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism due to a defect in the rear axle bolts. The affected vehicles are 4,736 units manufactured between May 18, 2020 and November 1, 2021.

    The affected vehicles may have rear axle bolts that secure the hubs improperly fastened, causing the bolts to loosen due to driving vibration and other factors, resulting in rattling of the components and abnormal noise. If the vehicle is continued to be used in the same condition, in the worst case, the bolts may come loose and interfere with the hub, causing the wheel to lock.

    As a remedial measure, all vehicles will have the left and right rear axle bolts checked and tightened to the specified torque.

    One defect has been reported and no accidents have occurred. The recall was reported based on information from the market.”

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    Bigger than the Alphard! Toyota announces new luxury minivan “Granvia”! Stylish minivan with a total length of over 5m is released! Sienna sister car to be launched in China .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Bigger than the Alphard! Toyota’s new luxury minivan “”Granvia”” unveiled! Stylish minivan over 5m in length revealed! Sienna sister model to be launched in China

    What is the New Granvia Announced in China?
    　A new Toyota minivan has been unveiled in China in May 2022.
    　
    　This model, which has the same name as the “”Granvia”” minivan that Toyota launched in Japan in 1995, will be marketed as a sister model of the Sienna in China.

    “”Granvia”” with an overall length of over 5 meters announced! Also see the actual “”Sienna”” with Japanese license plate number for some reason!

    Bigger than a Lancel! The new “”Granvia,”” a minivan over 5 meters in length, has been unveiled in China!

    　The new Granvia, which was officially announced this time, has been rumored to be coming for some time.

    　In China, before launching an automobile, it is necessary to submit a notification to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of the People’s Republic of China (commonly known as the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology), a Chinese government agency equivalent to Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications or Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, and based on the information released here, information on new vehicles scheduled for official announcement and launch within the next few months is known ahead of schedule. The new Granvia will also be released in the near future.

    　The new Granvia was also said to be coming soon, since the information was disclosed to the Ministry of Industry and Credit in March 2022.

    　Hearing the name Granvia may remind some people of the minivan released by Toyota in 1995.

    　At that time, the term “”minivan”” was not yet common in Japan. The Granvia was the first Toyota one-box model to be given a dedicated 3-number body, and was positioned as the root of the current Alphard/Vellfire, Toyota’s top-of-the-line one-box at the time.

    　Incidentally, the model using the body of the first-generation Granvia released in 1995 is still manufactured and sold in China.

    　The “”Golden Cup”” company of China’s Brilliance Automobile is engaged in licensed production of the Granvia, as well as the Hiace (H200 model).

    　It is often mistaken for a copy because of its similar appearance, but it is a legitimate model that has received permission from Toyota.

    The licensed Granvia model named “”Kaku Rui Si”” is one of the most popular models of the Kinpai brand, and in addition to the regular model, a high-end model with a more modern look, the “”Sea Lion King”” is also available.

    　Besides these, the name “”Granvia”” has also been given to the Hiace (H300 model) model for the Oceania region, the Middle East region, Vietnam, and Taiwan, which is currently sold in Japan under the name “”Gran Ace”” and has been available since 2019.
    　With the addition of the “”Granvia”” for the Chinese market, there will be a total of three Toyota models with this name.

    　The new Granvia announced for China this time is a sister model of the Sienna minivan sold by Toyota.

    　The Sienna is Toyota’s exclusive overseas model sold in the U.S., Canada, South Korea, and Taiwan, and until now has been consistently produced in the U.S. The Sienna has been in the spotlight since November 2021, when it began to be sold in China.

    　The Sienna in China is produced and sold by Guangqi Toyota Motor, a joint venture between Toyota and Guangzhou Automobile.

    　In contrast, the Granvia will be produced and sold by FAW Toyota Motor, a joint venture with China FAW.

    　When a Japanese automaker has two or more joint ventures in China, each joint venture tends to release the same model as a sister model with a slightly different design.

    　For example, Toyota has released the Corolla/Levin, Allion/Levin GT, Izois/C-HR, Corolla Cross/Frontlander, RAV4/Wildlander, Harrier/Venza, Crown Kruger/Highlander, Crown Vellfire/Alphard etc. at FAW Toyota Motor/Guangqi Toyota Motor respectively.

    Bigger than the Alphard! Toyota’s new luxury minivan “”Granvia”” announced! Stylish minivan over 5m in length revealed! Sienna sister model to be launched in China

    What are the specs of the new Granvia?
    　Rough specifications were already known from information filed with the Ministry of Industry and Credit, but the Chinese name for the Granvia, GREAT Ruizweia, was revealed for the first time with this official announcement.

    　The Granvia has the same body as the Sienna, but in terms of exterior design, the Sienna in China has the high-class front mask used by the LE and XLE grades of the Sienna for the US market, while the Granvia has the sporty, black mesh grille of the XSE grade with a The Granvia is characterized by its sporty face based on the black mesh grille of the “”XSE”” grade.

    　Turning to the rear, the original “”GRANVIA”” and FAW Toyota emblems and the same sport rear bumper as the XSE for North America stand out.

    　Other than that, it is basically identical to the Sienna. Body size is also 5175 mm (length) x 195 mm (width) x 1765 mm (height) – 1785 mm (height).

    　As for the powertrain, like the Sienna, it is exclusively a hybrid powered by a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine (A25A-FXS type).

    　Also, like the Sienna, a well-cab model (welfare vehicle) is available, in which the second-row seats face sideways to make it easier to get in and out of the car.

    Guangqi Toyota Motor’s Siena sold in China

    　In recent years, the popularity of luxury minivans has been heating up in China.

    　Globally, the Sienna has not been introduced in markets where the Alphard and Vellfire are sold, while the Sienna is sold in North America and Korea.

    　However, in China, the Alphard, Vellfire, Sienna, and Granvia show that the minivan selection is quite extensive.

    　In addition, the Lexus “”LM”” is also deployed there, offering a wide range of choices from family-oriented to middle-end and ultra-luxury models for VIP pickups and drop-offs.

    　In addition to Toyota, Volkswagen and Buick are also releasing high-end minivans as models sold exclusively in China, so there is no doubt that this is a class with some stiff competition.

    　The Sienna and Granvia will be officially introduced to China, where the Sienna has been popular as a parallel import for many years, with the intention of making it even more competitive in the minivan market.

    　The Granvia for China is scheduled to go on sale in the second half of 2022. Like the Sienna’s popularity, this model will undoubtedly become a popular vehicle in China.”

  • | |

    Nissan “March” is finally out of production ! 40 years of history! Nissan Compact will be inherited by “Notebook” and what will happen to the next model?

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Finally, Nissan “”March”” Production Ends! The end of 40 years of history! Nissan Compact succeeded by the “”Note”” What will happen to the next model?

    40 Years of History Comes to an End! Nissan’s MARCH, a car that has been loved for 40 years, is to be discontinued.
    　The Nissan March has been loved by many users for about 40 years since its first generation model, the K10, was launched in 1982.

    　There are rumors on social networking sites and in the street that the March will be discontinued in the summer of 2022. Will the March actually go out of production?

    Will this be the next March? See the cool new “”March”” and more in pictures!

    Nissan “”March”” to end production in August 2022, bringing the curtain down on 40 years of history…

    　The March is a long-selling model, with the first generation model (1982-1992), the second generation model (1992-2002), the third generation model (2002-2010), and the fourth generation model being launched in 2010, marking its 12th year in 2022.

    　The 4th generation model was produced not in Japan but in Thailand and other global factories, and the Japanese version was imported from Thailand, which was unusual at the time.

    　The second-generation model always ranked high in terms of annual sales volume, and the third-generation model was ranked high when it was first launched. However, with the introduction of rivals such as Toyota’s Vitz in 1999 and Honda’s Fit in 2001, sales volume lagged behind.

    　While the Vitz and Fit were undergoing a series of minor changes and improvements to introduce the latest features, the March did not receive any major improvements, and it seemed to be struggling in terms of product competitiveness.

    　A former Nissan sales staff member who used to sell the March said, “”The March has a long history as Nissan’s entry model, but with the current model, its role has shifted to minicars and the Note. In addition, as a result of cost reductions, the current model has widened the gap between it and its rivals in terms of equipment and other aspects.

    　The end of March production was first announced on the official blog of Nissan Prince Ibaraki dealers, which stated the following as of March 2022: “”Nissan’s compact car, MARCH, will be discontinued in March 2022.

    “”Production of Nissan’s compact car MARCH will end in August 2022.

    　Since its launch, March has been loved by everyone for many years as a ‘compact car that anyone can drive’ and a ‘cost-effective passenger car.

    　The March, which represents Nissan’s compact car lineup, will be discontinued in August 2022.

    　In addition, Nissan dealers in the Chubu area say, “”Currently, production has already stopped and only a few of them have the March in stock.

    　This indicates that the March, which has been in production for about 40 years, will be discontinued in August 2022, and some dealerships in some areas already have only a few vehicles in stock.

    　Since the production of March will end in August 2022, people on social networking sites are saying, “”It’s sad to see the March that used to colorfully decorate the city go away,”” “”I can’t believe March production will end…wait until I can save up enough money,”” “”Finally, the K13 March will also end production…”” and “”I’m disappointed that the March will end production… Many users seem to be disappointed with the end of March production.

    * * * *

    　On the other hand, Nissan’s Mexican subsidiary announced the new March (2022 model) on March 1, 2022, and it has become a hot topic.

    　Although the Mexican version of the March is basically the same as the fourth-generation model sold in Japan, it is more powerful, with a large V-motion grille and sharp headlights, unlike the gentle front face of the March sold in Japan.

    　On social networking sites, people are asking, “”I wonder if this model will be sold in Japan? and “”Why don’t they introduce it in Japan?

    　In addition, the fourth-generation model was sold in several regions as the Micra, and a teaser image of the BEV, which is believed to be its successor model, was held in January 2022.

    　The teaser image shows a design featuring the round eyes of the once-popular 3rd generation March, and in the near future, the long-loved March may return to Japan as an electric vehicle (EV).”