Author: Chathura Chanuka

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    “What’s this cool car ? ” Makoto Okunaka fell in love with Suzuki “Jimny” at first sight and reported the delivery!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “What a cool car!”” Makoto Okunaka reports that he fell in love with Suzuki “”Jimny”” at first sight and took delivery of the car!

    So crazy about “”Jimny”” that she has given it a nickname
    　Actress and former member of idol group PASSPO☆, Makoto Okunaka, updated her official YouTube channel and introduced the Suzuki “”Jimny”” that she purchased.

    Makoto Okunaka fell in love at first sight! What’s the cool look of Suzuki’s “”Jimny””? View in pictures.

    Suzuki “”Jimny”” (current model, 4th generation)

    　In the first half of the video, Mr. Okunaka says that he had wanted a car for about two years.

    　He was considering various options for a big purchase, but when he happened to see a Jimny while he was out, he said to himself, “”What a cool car! and fell in love at first sight. He decided to buy it.

    　He chose the “”XL”” grade and black body color (Blueish Black Pearl 3). When he saw the black Jimny at the dealership, he thought it was “”shiny and cool.

    　In the latter half of the video, he introduces the Jimny that was delivered to him. He nicknamed it “”Jimko,”” and liked the ruggedness of the speedometer area while operating the fuel filler lever at the foot of the car and the window open/close button on the center console.

    　This Jimny was the most expensive purchase Okunaka has made in his 28 years of life. At the end of the video, he asked for viewers’ advice on recommended parts and customization to make his Jimny life more enjoyable.

    　Viewers commented, “”I didn’t expect to buy a Jimmy,”” and “”Oh my God! It’s a Jimny! In addition to such surprising comments as “”I recommend customizing the seat cover,”” and “”You should add an auto-charging phone holder,”” they also gave their recommendations.

    * * *

    　The current Jimny, the fourth generation, was introduced in July 2018. It has attracted attention not only for its full-fledged rough road performance but also for its retro appearance, and it continues to be popular, with a trend toward long delivery times.”

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    Why is Toyota “Hiace” camper dominant? The reason why it is selected as a custom base rather than “caravan” .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Why are Toyota “”Hiace”” campers predominant? Why are they chosen over “”Caravan”” as a custom base?

    The “”Hiace”” is Hard to Break! Is absolute durability the secret of its popularity?
    　With the rise of the outdoor boom, attention to “”campervans”” is rapidly increasing!

    Gothic, retro, and outdoor style! Campervan Customization of Hiace and Caravan is Hot!

    　There are various models from mini cars to large van campers, and even if they are not complete cars equipped with beds, sinks, toilets, etc., “”camper customs”” that are fully equipped for overnight stays are also popular.

    Toyota “”Hiace”” popular for both commercial and passenger use

    　One of the common features of van-based campers is that the Toyota “”Hiace”” is overwhelmingly used.

    　The Hiace, the first generation of which was born in 1967, has a history of more than 50 years as a cab-over type van/wagon.

    　The current model (H200 series) debuted in 2004, and although its contents have evolved through three minor changes and partial improvements almost every year, the platform and other core parts have remained unchanged for nearly 20 years, making it an extremely long-selling model.

    　Originally developed as a commercial vehicle, the Hiace was designed for durability and load carrying capacity, and it has become popular not only for commercial use but also as a passenger vehicle because of its suitability for outdoor hobbies such as fishing and surfing, and for carrying equipment for camping.

    　On the other hand, the Nissan “”Caravan”” is a rival to the Hiace. The first generation model was born in 1973. The current model is the fifth generation, which was introduced in 2012, and minor changes were made to the gasoline model in October 2021 and the diesel model in February 2022.

    　Since it was introduced even after the current Hiace, it is a newer model, and has achieved environmentally friendly fuel efficiency standards, so it is not inferior in terms of vehicle perfection.

    　The Caravan and the Hiace have almost the same equipment and vehicle rating, and there is not much difference in price, so why is the Hiace overwhelmingly favored as a base for campers?

    　We interviewed Mr. Y, an industry insider who owns a Hiace himself.

    The strength of the Hiace is its overwhelming durability. When you customize it, you upset the overall balance of the vehicle, and it is prone to some kind of trouble, but the Hiace still has absolute reliability in that it is hard to break.

    　The Hiace has several characteristics in terms of usage and customization: users who use it for work as a commercial vehicle, those who prefer a sporty exterior finish with aero equipment, and those who want camper specifications place more emphasis on the interior.

    　The Hiace’s absolute durability and the depth of its ability to meet a wide range of needs make it the choice for campers, as it offers a high degree of flexibility.

    　Mr. Y also says that the long model cycle of the Hiace works to the advantage of the aftermarket, which produces a large number of custom parts.

    Pro stores make their living by developing original parts, so it is natural for them to make parts that sell well.

    　If the parts they have developed no longer fit due to frequent model changes, they will not be able to recover their development costs.

    　Inevitably, a model with a long model cycle can accumulate more know-how and parts can be developed more easily.

    　In other words, the longer model cycle of the Hiace allows for greater customization and parts development.

    　If so, the Caravan, which has been on the market for 10 years, also has a sufficiently long model cycle, but its market popularity, including resale value, is affected by this. The resale value of the Hiace is also quite strong.

    The Hiace is very popular and can be expected to have good resale value, and its model cycle is also long. It is not that the Caravan is inferior, but if the performance and new car price are the same, people will choose the more popular model as a base for customization.

    　And since stores develop parts mainly for popular models, as a result, custom parts for popular models are available in abundance, which further increases the value of the vehicle, creating a virtuous cycle.

    Why is the Toyota Hiace camper predominant? Why are they chosen as a custom base over the “”Caravan””?

    What are the essential items for a Hiace camper?
    　In the past, customization of the Hiace tended to focus on the exterior, such as lowering the vehicle and installing aero parts, but recently, camper specifications that are almost stock on the exterior and customize the interior with particular attention to detail are becoming popular.

    　In fact, about one-third of all complete camper models (vehicles sold fully customized) are based on the Hiace van, and even if they are not complete models, the current mainstream is to equip and customize them to be ideal for overnight stays and outdoor activities.

    A Hiace camper that can comfortably stay overnight in a car (Toy Factory)

    Complete camper models are still expensive, some costing more than 10 million yen.

    　Although they can’t afford to spend that much money all at once, more and more people are choosing their favorite parts, finishing them off piece by piece, and finally creating the camper specs they are aiming for”” (Mr. Y, an industry insider).

    　According to Mr. Y, an “”FF heater”” is an indispensable item for a camper-spec Hiace to make overnight stays in the car comfortable.

    　The FF heater is a separate heater that can be operated even when the engine is turned off and can share fuel from the car’s fuel tank.

    　In campgrounds, where the temperature often drops dramatically even in winter, this equipment is essential for a comfortable nighttime stay in the car.

    The key to camping is how to construct a cold and hot weather system to ensure a comfortable stay in the car.

    　In an auto campground with a secure power supply, it is not possible to keep the engine running all the time in the wilderness, so an FF heater, which keeps the car warm enough to spend the night in short sleeves, is an indispensable piece of equipment for overnight stays in a car.

    　In addition, a refrigerator and microwave oven are also useful for camping. However, the problem with refrigerators is that they run 24 hours a day and consume a lot of electricity, but cooking at camp is a big event. However, cooking at camp is a big event, and they definitely want to have this equipment to keep the food fresh and the beer cold.

    Another piece of equipment I would like to see is a “”flat bed. Basically, the Hiace is positioned as a van for cargo loading and a wagon for transporting people with four rows of seats, but even in a van, the stock seats are not completely flat, even when arranged.

    　Many people have equipped their vans with flat beds, which provide a completely flat floor surface.

    　Recently, there are box-type beds that are also designed for storage, so they can both organize luggage and provide a comfortable sleeping space inside the vehicle,”” says industry insider Y.

    　Incidentally, many campers have obtained “”number 8 (special-purpose vehicle),”” which is said to be cheaper in terms of taxes, but there is little merit in spending so much money on a camper custom as to install a complete set of equipment necessary to change the registration.

    　The Hiace is a sturdy and spacious vehicle, so it can be used as a camper without much work.

    Personally, I recommend the combination of a diesel engine and 4WD, which has low fuel costs and high fuel efficiency, because you may have to drive on rough roads depending on where you camp.

    　And, as a camper customizer, you can start with what you can afford and work your way up, and you can even go with a stock exterior.

    　I think the secret of the Hiace’s popularity is such a wide range of options.

    * * * * * * * * *

    　The Hiace, which boasts durability that does not break down even after a long drive and stable popularity in the used car market, can be fully enjoyed even without customization, and there is also the fun of customizing it by combining the abundant parts released from the aftermarket in your own way.

    　If you are considering purchasing a Hiace camper, we recommend that you try renting one.

    　If you are considering purchasing a Hiace camper, we recommend that you try renting one. You will be able to see what you need and what kind of customization you would like to do.”

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    Yuji highly rated the innovative design of Toyota’s new SUV “bZ4X” as “sexy” ! Camping experience.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Eugene highly praises the innovative design of Toyota’s new bZ4X SUV, calling it “”sexy””! Camping Experience

    Eugene Experiences the Allure of the New bZ4X!
    　The company’s official video showing the appeal of the new SUV-type EV Toyota “”bZ4X”” has been uploaded on YouTube.

    Eugene reacts to the innovative design of Toyota’s new bZ4X SUV! See the interior and exterior in 35 images.

    Toyota’s new “”bZ4X”” to be introduced as the first model in the bZ series

    　In the video, TV personality Eugene, who is known for his love of cars, introduces the appeal of the car, including going camping in it.

    　In the video, filmed using the new bZ4X with a license plate number, Eugene gives a general comment on the car, calling it “”interesting.

    　He says that because it is an EV, it has a futuristic design with no large grille on the front (so-called “”grille-less design””).

    　Eugene also commented on the rear design, saying, “”It’s pretty much the view I like. The slightly larger hips are a bit cool and sexy.

    　He also expressed his surprise when he drove the car, saying, “”The problem with EVs is that they pick up road noise, but it’s really quiet (when driving).

    　He also commented that he was “”comfortable”” driving on rough roads at the campsite, and introduced the use of an electric kettle to make coffee, taking advantage of the external power supply capability, as a way to enjoy camping that only EVs can provide.

    * * * *

    　The new bZ4X is an SUV-type electric vehicle jointly developed by Toyota and Subaru.

    　It adopts a dedicated battery EV platform. A low center of gravity and high rigidity enable smooth and at-will driving performance.

    　It is equipped with a large-capacity, large lithium-ion battery and achieves high dynamic performance thanks to its high output.

    　The 4WD model adopts Subaru’s four-wheel drive technology “”X-MODE”” and is equipped with “”Grip-Control””, a new feature of X-MODE that enables driving at a constant speed while stabilizing the vehicle even on rough roads (FF models are also available in addition to the 4WD models). (FF models are also available in addition to 4WD models).

    　The vehicle’s aerodynamic performance and lightweight body and unit reduce energy consumption other than for driving, resulting in an electric power consumption of 128 Wh/km and a driving range per charge (WTLC mode) of 487 to 559 km.

    　In particular, to reduce power consumption for heating in winter, the car is equipped with heat-pump air conditioner, seat heater, steering wheel heater, and radiant heater for front seat occupants’ feet.

    　In addition, a “”roof solar panel”” is available, which contributes to cruising range by generating electricity equivalent to 1,800 km of driving distance in one year (in-house estimate).

    　It is equipped with the latest pre-crash safety, radar cruise control, and lane departure alert functions to support safe driving in various situations, as well as “”Advanced Park”” to assist with parking.

    　The vehicle is available for lease exclusively through Toyota Rent-A-Lease dealers and Toyota Mobility Service (Tokyo region) for corporate customers, and through the “”KINTO”” subscription service for individuals.”

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    How to operate “innovative shift”? Toyota’s new SUV “bZ4X” installed and the topic “dial shift” commentary video released .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “How to operate the “”Novel Shift””? Dial Shift””, a hot topic in Toyota’s new bZ4X SUV, is explained in an explanatory video.

    How do I operate this thing?”” Video to solve the “”How do I operate it?
    　Toyota’s new EV “”bZ4X”” has adopted the “”dial shift”” system for the first time, and four videos have been uploaded on the official YouTube site.

    Adoption of “”Novel Shift”” Unexpectedly! What kind of SUV is Toyota’s new “”bZ4X””? Interior and exterior images

    　The shape of the dial shift lever is very different from the straight type, gate type, and other common shift levers, but the video shows how to move from “”P (parking)”” to “”D (drive)””, from “”D”” to “”R (reverse)””, from “”D”” to “”N (neutral)””, and select from each range to “”P The following is an example of how to move from “”P”” to “”D””.

    　For example, to switch from “”P”” to “”D,”” after checking the current shift position display, firmly depress the brake pedal, press the dial shift, and turn it to the right.

    　Confirm that the shift position display has been switched and you are done. The dial shift will automatically return to its original position, but the shift change has been completed.

    To switch from “”D”” to “”R,”” depress the brake pedal, push the dial shift, and turn it to the left. To change from “”D”” to “”N””, depress the brake pedal and push it.

    　To select “”P”” from each range, make sure the car has come to a stop by continuing to depress the brake pedal, then press the “”P position switch”” on the dial shift to complete the process.

    * * *

    　The new bZ4X is an SUV-type EV jointly developed by Toyota and Subaru. It is also marketed by Subaru as the new “”Solterra””.

    　A dedicated battery EV platform is adopted. A low center of gravity and high rigidity have been achieved to realize smooth and unrestricted driving performance.

    　In terms of the interior, Toyota adopted not only a dial shift system but also “”top-mounted meters”” for the first time. The meters are positioned so that they can be seen through the top of the steering wheel, reducing the driver’s eye movement.

    　The “”roof solar panel”” is a unique feature of the EV and contributes to the cruising range by generating electricity equivalent to 1,800 km of driving distance in one year (in-house estimate).

    　In addition, to reduce power consumption for heating in winter, the car is equipped with a heat pump air conditioner, heated seats, heated steering wheel, and radiant heaters for the front seat passengers’ feet.

    * * * *

    　Regarding the purchase method, the new Subaru Solterra can be purchased with the usual methods such as cash lump sum or loan, while the new Toyota bZ4X is a lease-only vehicle.

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    Bigger than the Alphard! Toyota “Sienna” unveiled for the first time! “Anniversary specification” is set in the United States for a minivan with a total length of over 5 m .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Bigger than the Alphard! Toyota’s Sienna Debuts in the U.S. Anniversary version of the over 5-meter-long minivan will be available in the U.S.

    Commemorative 25th Anniversary Edition Celebrates 25th Birthday
    　On May 19, 2022, Toyota Motor Corporation of America announced that the new Sienna (2023 model year) large-size minivan has a “”25th Anniversary Edition”” to celebrate its 25th birthday.

    Bigger than the Alphard! See the actual car, a stylish minivan over 5 meters in length!

    Sienna, the Huge Minivan Bigger than the Alphard, Celebrates its 25th Anniversary with the “”25th Anniversary Edition”” in the U.S.

    　The special edition version of the new Sienna is based on the sporty XSE model, and adds the luxurious interior features of the Limited model.

    　In addition, the model is equipped with exterior and interior features exclusive to the 25th Anniversary Edition.

    　Production of this model will be limited to 2,525 units, making it a “”must-have minivan”” according to Toyota of America.

    　The current Sienna, the fourth generation model debuting in 2021, is a hybrid-only model.

    　This hybrid-only strategy paid off as the Sienna became the best-selling minivan in the U.S. market in 2021, accounting for 35% of the minivan segment.

    　Against this backdrop, the new 25th Anniversary Edition adopts the exterior design of the base XSE model.

    　It features powerful front and rear bumpers, dark-colored 20-inch wheels, and a more sport-tuned suspension, all of which emphasize the sporty taste of the XSE.

    　The 25th Anniversary Edition includes the XSE Plus Package, which includes roof rails, premium audio with JBL speakers and navigation, wireless charging, and a 1500-watt power supply.

    　In addition, the rear emblem, floor mats and smart key case feature a special “”25th Anniversary”” design.

    * * *

    　The Sienna has been sold mainly in the U.S. until now, but with the 4th generation, it is gradually transforming into a global model, with sales also starting in Korea, China, and other countries.

    　Although it has not been introduced to the Japanese market, its design was well received when it was displayed as a reference exhibit in the past, and it is possible that a minivan with a stylish design may appear in the Japanese market in the future.

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

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    “Night shade” that looks black on Toyota Venza, set for Harrier US version .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota Venza “”Nightshade”” in Black Available on U.S. Version of Harrier
    Front grille trim and door mirrors finished in black

    The U.S. version is only available as a 2.5-liter hybrid + 4WD

    Optimizing battery charging by analyzing driving style

    Tuesday, May 17, 2022 07:30 AM
    Toyota Venza (equivalent to Harrier) “”Nightshade Edition
    On May 12, Toyota Motor Corporation’s U.S. division announced the 2023 model year of the Venza (equivalent to the Harrier in Japan). The “”Nightshade Edition”” is a new version of the Venza. The Venza will be a left-hand-drive version of the Harrier for the Japanese domestic market.

    ◆The front grille trim and door mirrors are finished in black.

    New for the 2023 model year, the Nightshade Edition features black front grille trim, door mirror covers, door handles, rocker panels, roof rails and shark fin antennae. The front and rear bumpers get smoked chrome moldings.

    Three premium exterior body color options are available: Celestial Black, Wind Chill Pearl, and Ruby Flare Red. The interior is accented by black trim.

    Underfoot are 19-inch gloss black multi-spoke aluminum wheels. The rear emblems are blacked out; LED fog lights are standard. A panoramic roof called StarGaze is available as an option.

    The U.S. version is a 2.5-liter hybrid + 4WD only.
    The powertrain is a hybrid + 4WD only. The 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine model and the FWD (FWD) hybrid model, which are available on the Harrier for Japan, will not be offered on the Venza.

    The new-generation hybrid system combines a highly efficient 2.5-liter inline-4 gasoline engine and three electric motors in a compact system. The “”Electronic On-Demand AWD”” system drives the front wheels with the engine and front motors and the rear wheels with the rear motors. The high reduction ratio and front and rear wheel torque distribution are precisely controlled to increase from 100:0 to 20:80. This is said to enable improved start-up acceleration and handling stability, as well as excellent fuel economy.

    The hybrid system as a whole delivers 219hp. The battery is lithium-ion. Fuel economy is expected to be 39 miles per gallon (approximately 16.6 km/liter) in combined mode.

    ◆Optimizes battery charging by analyzing driving style
    Predictive Efficiency Drive (PED) is a system that analyzes the driver’s driving style and uses a navigation system to optimize battery charging while taking into account road and traffic conditions. When the driver selects PED, the system learns the route and predicts when and where the vehicle will slow down or stop. It then informs the driver of the best time to turn off the accelerator pedal to reduce energy consumption.

    PEDs also help optimize battery charging and discharging before a hill or traffic jam. For example, when approaching a downhill, the system is designed to prepare for stronger engine braking and charge the battery more efficiently after the accelerator pedal is turned off.

    In terms of in-car connectivity, the system includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen display with nine JBL speakers, a 7-inch multi-information display (MID), a digital rearview mirror, and a 10-inch color head-up display, according to The company states.”

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    Mazda “MX-30” improves quick charging performance … 2022 model European orders start .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Mazda MX-30, Improved Fast Charging Performance…European Orders for the 2022 Mazda MX-30 Begin
    Approx. 200 km range on a single charge

    Accelerator pedal to reflect the driver’s intended acceleration/deceleration
    On May 12, Mazda’s European division began accepting orders for the 2022 model year of Mazda MX-30, the automaker’s first production EV. It is designed to speed up the charging process.

    ◆Around 200km range on a single charge.
    The MX-30 will be equipped with e-SKYACTIV, a new generation of electrification technology. The system consists of a motor, battery pack, inverter, and DC-DC converter. The motor, inverter, DC-DC converter, and junction box are designed as one unit and integrated into a high-voltage unit at the front of the vehicle. For the European version, the motor produces a maximum output of 145ps.

    The lithium-ion battery, which is located under the floor and has a storage capacity of 35.5 kWh, has a range of approximately 200 km (WLTP cycle combined mode) per charge. As a result, the quick charging time has been reduced by 10 minutes, from approximately 36 minutes to 26 minutes.

    Both the regular and fast charging ports are integrated and located on the right rear fender. An on-board AC charging cable is provided in the cargo area. The battery pack is equipped with a refrigerant cooling system that cools the battery pack. Sensors constantly monitor battery temperature and control the flow of coolant as needed. By maintaining the best possible battery temperature, even on the hottest days, the system protects the battery pack from heat-induced deterioration. Effective cooling performance is also pursued through coordinated control of the air conditioning system and battery cooling system.

    ◆Optimized EV powertrain sound
    The MX-30’s EV sound allows the driver to subconsciously recognize the amount of torque produced by the EV powertrain. 2022 model year updates have optimized the frequency. This means that the EV sound will sound more consistent with other sounds heard while driving, such as wind and road noise. The company boasts that this allows drivers to perceive the amount of torque produced by the EV powertrain in a natural way.

    The 2022 model features new interior and exterior combinations. The number of multi-tone color schemes has been increased to four. A new zircon sand color was introduced, as well as new dark gray and black interior options for the higher grades. This gives customers more choices than ever before.

    All models come standard with LED headlights with daytime running lights, a reverse camera, Mazda radar cruise control with intelligent speed assist, navigation, and a heads-up display.

    ◆Accelerator pedal that reflects the driver’s intended acceleration and deceleration
    The e-SKYACTIV system’s accelerator pedal uses Mazda’s unique electric motor torque control system to achieve the desired vehicle speed and attitude control based on the amount of both acceleration and deceleration intended by the driver. By closely monitoring the stroke and the speed of the driver’s pedal action, the accelerator pedal is said to produce G-forces that meet the driver’s expectations.

    When the driver operates the pedal slowly, the torque changes gradually, making it easier to maintain vehicle speed. In contrast, quick pedal operation produces powerful acceleration as the vehicle determines that the driver wants to accelerate. When the driver takes his/her foot off the accelerator pedal, the system monitors the speed at which the driver operates the pedal and controls the deceleration G response accordingly.

    In addition, measures to increase the rigidity of the torque transmission system, such as the power unit mount, enable smooth and stable vehicle behavior even when the motor’s torque changes from generating driving force to braking force. In addition, when the motor and brake operate coordinated control braking, kinetic energy is recovered and electricity can be regenerated without waste.”

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    Why is the legendary Nissan “Skyline” on sale in Sapporo? What is the identity of the complete reproduction specification that was given a flashy custom .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Legendary Nissan “”Skyline”” is now on sale in Sapporo. What is the true nature of the completely recreated version with flashy customization?

    An Elaborate Reproduction of a Famous Racing Car of the Past
    　A “”Silhouette Formula””-style Nissan “”Skyline””, which has been spectacularly customized, has been on display at a used car dealership in Sapporo, Hokkaido, and has become the talk of the town.
    　
    　What kind of car is this?

    Is this…the real thing? A Complete Reproduction of the Legendary Skyline! The quality of the TOMICA replica is astonishing! See the real car in photos!

    A Complete Reproduction of the Legendary “”Skyline””! TOMICA replica sold at Prime Showroom, a used car dealership (images courtesy of Prime Showroom / Office Now Co., Ltd.)

    　Silhouette Formula was originally a popular racing category in Europe and other countries. In Japan, it started as the “”Fuji Super Silhouette Series”” held as a prelude to the “”Fuji Grand Champion Race”” in 1979.

    　Although the race was based on a production car, the car was actually heavily modified and used an engine developed exclusively for the race, making it look almost like a formula car. The silhouette of the base car remained, and so it was called the “”Silhouette Formula.

    　In the beginning, the Super Silhouette Series featured cars based on the Mazda “”Savanna RX-7,”” Nissan “”Fairlady Z,”” Toyota “”Celica,”” and others.

    　In 1982, Nissan introduced machines based on the Skyline, Silvia, and Bluebird, which were in a fierce dead heat with strong rivals such as the BMW M1, and gained great popularity.

    　Against this backdrop, Nissan launched its motorsports division, Nissan Motorsports International (NISMO), in 1984 to engage in full-scale motorsports activities.

    　The Super Silhouette Series has been very important to Nissan, but the cars that competed in the series are currently housed in Nissan’s Heritage Collection and are not allowed to be seen by the public.

    　However, the Skyline that is the subject of this article is an extremely elaborate replica of a car that competed in the Super Silhouette Series at the time.

    　The base model is a late model of the 6th generation Skyline (KDR30), the so-called “”Iron Mask””.

    　The grade is the “”2000RS,”” which at the time had the catchphrase “”The strongest Skyline in history.

    　The two-tone red and black color scheme, as well as the super large chin spoiler, rear wing, and various decals, which are synonymous with the Silhouette Formula, are as close to the original as possible.
    　
    　The “”FJ20ET”” engine mounted at the heart of the car, a 2000cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke inline 4-cylinder 4-valve DOHC with an additional turbocharger, has also been well maintained, and the interior has been fitted with a roll bar and the seats have been replaced with Sparco seats.

    　According to the used car dealer, they received many inquiries about this Skyline as soon as it was posted on the used car information website.

    　The price is said to be “”negotiable,”” but it is expected to be in the range of 7 to 7.5 million yen.

    　The price is about twice that of a used Skyline of the same model year, but considering its level of perfection, it may be said to be within a reasonable range.

    　Incidentally, this Skyline can be driven on public roads in this condition.

    　The Skyline can be driven on public roads in this condition.

    　The Silhouette Formula, with its bold customization, is said to have had a great impact on the customization culture.

    　Among them, the so-called “”Zakka”” custom that was popular in the 1980s is said to have been strongly influenced by the Silhouette Formula, and it is still a style with strong roots and popularity today.

    　In this sense, the Skyline Silhouette Formula replica on display at this show is sure to attract a lot of attention.”

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    Ken Naoko uses two Toyota “Alphard” cars! Introducing many comfortable functions .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Naoko Ken uses two Toyota “”Alphard”” cars! She also introduces a number of comfortable functions!

    Naoko Ken practices using two “”Alphard”” cars.
    　Singer Naoko Ken appeared as a guest on the talk variety show “”Ogiyahagi no Aikuri-henryoku NO CAR, NO LIFE!

    (Every Saturday at 9:00 p.m.) [Image] Naoko Ken is using two cars! What kind of luxury minivan is Toyota’s “”Alphard””? See in pictures

    　In the first part of the interview, Ms. Ken introduced a black Toyota “”Alphard”” as her favorite car, but in the second part, she also introduced a white Alphard as her favorite car, revealing that she uses “”two cars””. Both are the third generation of the current model.

    　Ms. Ken explained that her husband drives the black Alphard for work.

    　The white Alphard is used by Ms. Ken herself for work.

    　The white Alphard is described as an “”executive lounge,”” a high-end grade with luxurious second-row seats, and Ken also introduces features such as heated seats, a table that can be stored on the side of the seats, and an ottoman that can be raised and lowered electrically.

    　Ken also test drives the Tesla Model X, a car he has mentioned as a car he would like to drive, and talks about his feelings toward the car.”

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    Toyota’s highest grade “Alphard” annual income of about 9.34 million yen “How much” can you reach? Characteristics of people who get 10 million yen minivans.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota’s top-of-the-line “”Alphard”” at about 9,340,000 yen How much annual income “”how much”” can you afford? Characteristics of people who can afford a 10 million yen minivan
    May 18 (Wed) 11:50Distribution

    What does it cost to buy the highest grade of the Alphard?
    　The Alphard is one of Toyota’s leading minivans. It is so popular that the number of new vehicles sold has always remained at the top of the list.

    [Image] Super luxurious! There was once an “”Alphard”” that cost over 15 million yen! Look at the over-luxurious specifications! (26 pictures)

    　How much annual income is required to get the highest grade “”Executive Lounge S”” among them?

    How much annual income”” is needed to afford the highest grade of Toyota’s “”Alphard””?

    　The Alphard, which represents Toyota’s minivan lineup, is a very popular model that, according to the new car sales ranking published by the Japan Automobile Dealers Association, ranked fourth in 2021 and has always remained within the top 10 from January to April 2022.

    　The entry-level Alphard “”X”” (gasoline model/FWD/8-passenger) has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of 3,597,000 yen.

    　On the other hand, the price of the highest-end model, the “”Executive Lounge S”” (hybrid model / E-four / 7-seater), is 7,752,000 yen, a considerable difference.

    　So, how much annual income is required to afford this top-end model of the Alphard without any difficulty?

    　This time, since it is the highest-end model, we would like to add some options that can be installed, and consider the “”full-option”” condition.

    　First, “”Sparkling Black Pearl Crystal Shine,”” which is the second most popular body color and costs 33,000 yen extra, was selected.

    　Then, “”Twin Moonroof (front tilt & rear electric sliding + anti-snag function)”” (121,000 yen) and “”ITS Connect”” (27,500 yen) were added as factory-installed options.

    　Also available as dealer-installed options are a “”floor mat set (executive) with entrance mat”” (145,200 yen) and “”aero parts and muffler set (with LED) for models with the T-Connect SD navigation system”” (487,300 yen).

    TRD TF5 (high-gloss silver II) 19-inch alloy wheel and tire set with Michelin Primacy3 tires (456,500 yen), bi-color LED fog lamps (switchable) for models with the T-Connect SD navigation system (58,300 yen).

    If the “”chrome upper side garnish”” (69,300 yen) and “”chrome back door garnish”” (46,200 yen) are added, the total option price becomes 1,444,300 yen.

    　Aero parts and 19-inch aluminum wheels create a stylish and sporty exterior, and with the addition of chrome parts and LED fog lamps, the specifications are truly worthy of being called the “”King of Minivans.

    　Add to this the 43,500 yen automobile tax rebate by type, the 27,770 yen compulsory automobile liability insurance premium, and 82,280 yen in sales expenses, and the total price for taxes and other expenses comes to 142,650 yen.

    　Incidentally, since this Executive Lounge is a hybrid vehicle, it is not subject to the automobile tax environmental performance discount or automobile weight tax.

    　The total price of 1,444,300 yen for these options and 142,650 yen for taxes and other expenses, plus 7,752,000 yen for the vehicle itself, comes to 9,338,950 yen, which is the minimum price required to purchase an executive lounge of the ALPARD with full of options.

    Toyota’s top-of-the-line “”Alphard”” at about 9,340,000 yen. How much annual income “”is enough”” to afford it? Characteristics of people who can afford a 10 million yen minivan

    How much income does it take to get the highest grade of the Alphard?
    　So, how much annual income is enough to afford this Alphard executive lounge without any difficulty?

    　Generally, there is a standard that says “”the maximum price of a new car is about half of your annual income,”” and if we apply that standard to this estimate, it means that you should have an annual income of at least about 18 million yen.

    　However, according to the “”Survey of Private Sector Salaries”” published by the National Tax Agency, those earning annual incomes in excess of 15 million yen – 20 million yen or less in FY2020 account for about 1% of the total, indicating that they are very limited.

    　Although the Alphard is often purchased by corporations, it is clear that the highest grade, which is loaded with options, is a very high hurdle for individuals to overcome.

    Toyota “”Alphard”” boasts a luxurious interior.

    　Still, as mentioned above, however, the Alphard’s new car sales have remained in the top 10 from January-April 2022, indicating that it is in demand by many users.

    　One of the reasons for its popularity is its high resale value.

    　Although the residual value rate of the Alphard varies depending on the specifications, it is 55% for 3 years and 39% for 5 years, and by utilizing a residual value-setting loan, it is characterized by a sense of affordability.

    　Using Toyota’s residual value plan with 60 payments (no down payment, no bonus payment, 4.8% annual rate), the monthly payment is approximately 129,900 yen.

    　If you try to keep the monthly loan repayment amount to less than 20% of your monthly take-home pay, with 60 payments, you may be able to get an Alphard Executive Lounge with a monthly take-home income of about 650,000 yen, or about 9.6 million yen in terms of annual income.

    　Although the hurdle has been lowered a little compared to a one-time cash purchase, the “”King of Minivans”” is still a high price to pay.

    　However, residual value loans are subject to various restrictions, such as the need to return the vehicle at the end of the contract period, pay off the remaining balance in full, or take out another loan, as well as restrictions on driving mileage.

    　Therefore, it is difficult to simply compare it with a lump-sum cash purchase, but if your goal is to drive a new Alphard, it is definitely an effective option.

    * * *

    　To get an Alphard “”Executive Lounge S”” loaded with options and the “”King of Minivans,”” you will need a substantial income, even if you take advantage of a residual value loan.

    　In fact, trade-ins and down payments can actually lower the monthly payment, but in any case, it is important to choose a purchase method that fits your lifestyle and income.”