Nissan NV200 VANETTE
The Birth of the Golden Nissan Qashqai: A New Arrival Shines in the Automotive World
Gleaming and Radiant! Nissan Introduces the “Golden Qashqai” – A Shining Tribute to the Best-Selling SUV
Could the Gilded Nissan Qashqai Be the Crown Jewel of Sales?
In a groundbreaking announcement on January 5, 2023, Nissan’s European arm unveiled a remarkable feat: their Qashqai crossover SUV had clinched the title of the UK’s most sought-after vehicle in 2022. This marked a historic moment as it became the first domestically produced model to dominate the annual sales chart in a span of 24 years.Golden Qashqai.To mark this triumphant milestone, Nissan crafted a resplendent, gold-clad version of the Qashqai, aptly named the “Golden Qashqai.”
Bathed in a Lustrous Gold Finish.The Qashqai stands as Nissan’s acclaimed crossover SUV, renowned beyond the borders of Japan. It’s worth noting that only the inaugural generation graced Japanese shores under the moniker “Dualis.”The present third-generation iteration, introduced with grandeur in Europe on February 18, 2021, measures 4425 mm in length, 1835 mm in width, and 1625 mm in height. This places it squarely within the compact SUV category, akin to the Toyota Corolla Cross in the Japanese market.
The foundational underpinning is none other than the CMF-C platform, a collaborative creation borne from the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance.Designed at the Enchanting Nissan Design Europe.The exterior aesthetics, painstakingly conceived at the Nissan Design Europe establishment nestled in the heart of Paddington, London, showcase a commanding V-motion front grille and boomerang-shaped tail lamps, both hallmark symbols of the Nissan identity. A fluid character line gracefully meanders from the front to the rear, imparting a sense of motion.
The Power at Heart
Under the hood, the Qashqai offers a variety of powertrains. There’s a mild hybrid variant housing a 1.3-liter engine, paired with either a CVT or a 6-speed manual transmission. For those yearning for electrification, an e-POWER model featuring a 1.5-liter engine series hybrid system presents an alluring choice.
A Factory of Triumph
Since its debut appearance back in 2007, the Qashqai has been diligently manufactured at Nissan’s illustrious Sunderland plant in the United Kingdom. According to the esteemed automaker, this stalwart vehicle has voyaged to the far corners of the globe, amassing an impressive shipment tally of approximately 3.8 million units.
A Glorious Reign
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) in the UK has bestowed upon the Qashqai the distinguished honor of being the best-selling car of 2022. The figures speak volumes: an astounding 42,704 Qashqai units gracefully left dealership lots throughout the year, with a notable 3506 units finding new homes in the month of December 2022 alone.
A Year of Triumph
While the Qashqai has long held its fort atop the UK sales rankings across three generations, 2022 etched an unprecedented chapter in its saga, crowning it as the ultimate ruler of an entire year’s sales.
A Gilded Ode to Excellence
To immortalize this remarkable accomplishment, a bespoke Qashqai has been meticulously enrobed in a shimmering gold exterior, a tribute to the dedicated workforce of 7,000 Nissan employees who call the UK home.
Praising the Achievement
Sharing his thoughts on this momentous achievement, Andrew Humberstone, Nissan’s UK Managing Director, declared, “The Qashqai is an embodiment of Nissan’s excellence, perfectly showcased to our UK patrons.”
He continued, “We are elated by the Qashqai’s resounding success over the past 16 years. This is an eloquent salute to the brilliance exhibited by Nissan’s exceptional design, engineering, production, and sales teams across the UK.”
New Toyota Prius is already on display!
Toyota’s Latest “Prius” Grabs Attention as Users Marvel at New Features and Design
The much-anticipated debut of Toyota’s fifth-generation Prius, unveiled to the world on November 16, 2022, has sparked widespread enthusiasm among auto enthusiasts. With a comprehensive makeover and enhanced functionality, all part of the “Hybrid Reborn” concept, the new Prius is drawing significant attention.A real-world model of the upcoming Prius has found its temporary home on the first floor of Hankyu Men’s Tokyo in Yurakucho, captivating visitors from December 26 to January 10, 2023, just ahead of its official release.
Users who’ve had the chance to witness this exhibit firsthand have flooded social media with their thoughts and impressions. Let’s take a closer look at some of their reactions.Among the resounding endorsements, one user exclaimed, “The exterior and interior are exquisitely cool! Just got a chance to take a ride in the new Prius—it’s like stepping into a new era.” Enthusiastic riders shared their impressions, signifying an exhilarating leap forward in design and technology.
A wealth of other sentiments followed suit. One user, pleasantly surprised, shared, “The legroom is unexpectedly spacious,” while another chimed in, “It exudes a sense of luxury that surpassed my expectations.” The intricate design and embellishments garnered praise as well. “The design and decorations are spot on!” noted a user, while another appreciated its practicality: “With its low height, it seems like a prime choice for passengers, backed by solid performance.”
The exhibited vehicle, a 2WD hybrid (HEV) model in the fetching ASH color, had also made an appearance at the Hakone Ekiden earlier in the year. Despite the mixed reception the new Prius initially received upon its global premiere, the consensus among users who’ve seen the showcase model is overwhelmingly positive.
The event, in collaboration with “Safari” magazine, is set to tour several cities, providing more opportunities for enthusiasts to get up close and personal with the new Prius. Here are the upcoming dates and locations:
December 26, 2022 – January 10, 2023: Hankyu Men’s Tokyo, 1F main base
Vehicle on display: HEV (2WD), color: ASH <1M2>.
January 7 – 9, 2021: Yurakucho Marion Center Mall
Vehicle on display: PHEV (2WD), color: MUSTARD <5C5>.
January 14 and 15: Grand Front Osaka, Knowledge Plaza, North Bldg. 1F
Vehicles on display: HEV (2WD), color: ASH <1M2> / PHEV (2WD), color: MUSTARD <5C5>.
January 21 and 22: JR Gate Tower Event Space (Nagoya, Aichi)
Vehicles on display: HEV (2WD), color: ASH <1M2> / PHEV (2WD), color: MUSTARD <5C5>.
As the public’s fascination with the upcoming Prius continues to grow, this exhibit offers a unique opportunity to appreciate firsthand the evolution of this iconic hybrid vehicle.
Mitsubishi will unveil its new light crossover Delica Mini
In the realm of compact four-wheel drive vehicles, the “Jimny” has long held its place as a prominent contender. However, Mitsubishi aims to rekindle memories and create waves with its anticipated crossover, the “Delica Mini,” set to be unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023 in January. This announcement inevitably brings back recollections of the iconic “Pajero Mini,” a vehicle that first graced the roads in 1994.
The echoes of the past resonate as we delve into the history of the Pajero Mini, a compact SUV that continues to linger in enthusiasts’ minds even a decade after its production ceased in 2013.
“Evoking Nostalgia: A Look Back at the Pajero Mini and the Upcoming Delica Mini”
The mere mention of Mitsubishi’s forthcoming “Delica Mini” immediately transports many to the days of the Pajero Mini, a compact SUV that embodied the rugged spirit of its larger Pajero sibling. The Pajero Mini’s design elements, including its robust tires, two-door configuration, rear side-opening back doors, and meticulous details, all echoed the Pajero’s iconic attributes, lending it an identity that resonated with its prestigious moniker.
Emanating the essence of its namesake, the Pajero Mini wasn’t content with just appearances. Emphasizing its off-road capabilities, Mitsubishi equipped it with a built-in ladder frame structure and the innovative “Easy Select 4WD” system. A freewheel mechanism graced the front differential, while an auxiliary gearbox enhanced its prowess on rough terrains, solidifying its reputation as an adept adventurer.
Uncompromising in its dual-purpose nature, the Pajero Mini also demonstrated on-road comfort, distinguishing itself as a lighter city SUV when compared to its counterpart, the Jimny. This adaptability garnered widespread appreciation, positioning it as a personal companion capable of tackling any scenario with ease.
Under the hood, the Pajero Mini sported an unprecedented 4-cylinder, 5-valve turbo or 4-cylinder, 4-valve naturally aspirated engine – an engineering marvel for a compact vehicle. Its diversity extended to an array of editions, including the distinctive “Skipper” and “Duke” models, each with its unique flair, such as the Jeep-like vertical grille and street-inspired embellishments.
The Evolution of a Legend
The Pajero Mini’s legacy continued with the introduction of the “Pajero Junior” in 1995, a smaller version boasting a 1.1-liter engine and over fenders. This, alongside its companions, formed the “Pajero 3 Brothers,” expanding the Pajero family’s horizons.
A pivotal moment arrived in 1998 with the fully remodeled second generation. While preserving the essence of the original, this iteration embraced a refined aesthetic, accentuated by square headlights and thoughtful enhancements. A plethora of stylistic variations, including a more road-oriented 2WD version and the eye-catching “Lynx” model, catered to diverse preferences.
The Pajero Mini’s journey took a new turn in 2008 when Mitsubishi embarked on an OEM partnership, providing the “KIX” to Nissan, which found its way into the market as the “KICKS” in 2020. Notably, the Pajero Junior’s successor, the remodeled 1998 version, assumed the name “Pajeroio,” standing independently with its distinct identity.
A Bittersweet Farewell and Lingering Hopes
Tragically, stringent safety standards paved the path to the Pajero Mini’s discontinuation in 2013. Mitsubishi’s endeavors to meet evolving safety norms faltered, and the cherished compact SUV bid adieu. Subsequently, Mitsubishi left a void in the realm of robust light SUVs, leaving the Jimny to dominate the landscape.
In 2019, even the venerable Pajero four-wheel drive model ceased domestic sales, vanishing from the Japanese market entirely. However, the world’s newfound love for outdoor adventure endures, as evidenced by the popularity of vehicles like the Suzuki Hustler, Daihatsu Taft, and the ever-endearing Jimny.
In light of this outdoor renaissance, the call for the Pajero Mini’s revival grows stronger. Enthusiasts yearn for a compact SUV that can conquer rugged paths with prowess, much like the anticipated Delica Mini, while carrying forth the Pajero legacy.
Although whispers of its return tantalize enthusiasts, Mitsubishi’s lips remain sealed on this matter. The anticipation lingers, but until the official word arrives, enthusiasts across the globe will remain eager, hopeful, and ready to welcome the Pajero Mini back to the spotlight.
Superb Skyline GT-R was found in Australia!
In an electrifying discovery for auto enthusiasts, a pristine Nissan Skyline GT-R V-Spec II (BNR34 model) has emerged from the shadows in Australia, captivating collectors and enthusiasts alike. This high-caliber vehicle, part of the second generation of Nissan’s Skyline GT-R lineup, recently commanded a staggering sum of ¥24,350,000 at auction.
The Skyline GT-R V-Spec II, colloquially referred to as the R34 V-Spec II, is a coveted gem within the R34 lineage, consistently commanding prices exceeding ¥20 million at auctions. This particular specimen, boasting a remarkably low mileage of just 2,745 kilometers, exemplifies the pinnacle of GT-R excellence.
Hailing from the 10th generation of the Skyline family, the R34 was unveiled in January 1999 as a successor to the R33. With a more compact footprint than its predecessor, the R34 presented an enhanced agility and athleticism, setting the stage for the GT-R’s enduring legacy.
Upon its debut, the R34 was offered in both standard and V-Spec variants. The V-Spec variant, short for “Victory Specification,” distinguished itself with a track-inspired exterior and a heightened driving experience compared to its standard counterpart. Noteworthy features of the V-Spec model include bespoke aerodynamic components, finely tuned suspension, and an active limited-slip differential (LSD) system.
In August 2000, Nissan introduced the V-Spec II variant, featuring subtle yet impactful refinements. A standout innovation of the V-Spec II was its adoption of a carbon-fiber engine hood with NACA ducts, aimed at optimizing aerodynamics. This groundbreaking move marked the R34 as the first mass-produced car to integrate such technology. Aluminum pedals, an enhanced body kit, and a reinforced suspension further contributed to the V-Spec II’s prowess.
Under the hood, the R34 V-Spec II boasts a twin-turbocharged 2.6-liter inline 6-cylinder RB26DETT engine. This powerhouse generates a robust 280 horsepower and a maximum torque of 40.0 kgf-m, delivering exhilarating performance on demand.
The spotlight fell on November 22, 2022, when a remarkable R34 V-Spec II graced the Australian exhibition scene. Originating in Japan, the vehicle had journeyed to Australia, where it was presented to discerning buyers in an unregistered state, having only accumulated a mere 2745 km on its odometer.
A distinctive attribute of this particular unit is its rare “Sparkling Silver” exterior paint, a hue that was reportedly applied to only 348 V-Spec IIs produced by the factory. The interior and exterior of the vehicle stand testament to meticulous care and maintenance, mirroring its limited usage. Notably, the car has been equipped with enhancements including a WedsSport catalytic converter, GReddy turbo timer, Nismo speedometer, and cold-weather specifications, adding a layer of exclusivity to an already extraordinary offering.
The seller of this exceptional R34 V-Spec II had this to say: “The R34 Skyline GT-R is one of Japan’s most revered performance vehicles, especially in the prized V Spec II iteration. This specific vehicle, boasting documented low mileage, exhibits impeccable interior and exterior condition. We extend our recommendation to Japanese car aficionados and those who relish the art of driving.”
The focal point of attention was undoubtedly the bidding price, which surged to a staggering A$275,500 (approximately ¥24,350,000). Such a price tag underscores the rarity and desirability of the V-Spec II, confirming its status as a covetable masterpiece within the R34 realm. Enthusiasts and collectors alike are left in awe, as this remarkable vehicle blazes a trail through the annals of automotive history.
Toyota RAV4 PHEV Model Customized to Look Tough
Get ready for an electrifying jolt of toughness as Toyota unleashes its revamped “RAV4 Off-road Version,” sending shockwaves through the automotive world! The rugged reimagining of the beloved RAV4 is set to blaze a trail of excitement, and if that’s not enough, brace yourself for the unveiling of a sporty aero edition that’s sure to set pulses racing. The stage is set, the date is locked – Tokyo Auto Salon 2023 is about to be electrified!
Steering straight into the spotlight, Toyota Industries Corporation (TOYOTA) has pulled back the curtain on its exhilarating lineup, slated to take the center stage at the much-anticipated Tokyo Auto Salon 2023. From January 13 to 15, 2023, the Makuhari Messe in Mihama-ku, Chiba City will play host to this automotive extravaganza, setting the scene for three days of jaw-dropping revelations and awe-inspiring showcases.
But the star of the show, the one that’s bound to leave an indelible mark on the minds of auto aficionados, is none other than the “Custom RAV4.” This isn’t your run-of-the-mill RAV4 – oh no, it’s been pumped up with an overdose of “Gothic” flair that’s not for the faint-hearted. The “Custom RAV4” is blazing a scorching trail of style, strength, and daring design choices that will have you glued to the visuals, trying to decipher every last detail of its transformative journey.
What sets this “Custom RAV4” apart from its regular PHEV counterpart, you ask? Buckle up, because it’s a visual feast of audacious alterations, imposing enhancements, and an unapologetic attitude of dominance. Toyota Industries Corporation, renowned for its prowess in manufacturing Toyota’s finest creations, has gone all-in on this electrifying makeover. This RAV4 incarnation isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a statement, a bold declaration that elegance and toughness can indeed coexist.
Hold on tight, because the journey doesn’t end there. Toyota Industries Corporation’s expertise extends far beyond the boundaries of the asphalt. Their legacy encompasses engines that power dreams, forklifts that move industries, and automotive parts that piece together perfection. And right in the heart of this diverse legacy, the RAV4 took its first bow back in 2019, quickly capturing hearts and blazing a path towards a new era of driving.
So gear up for a spectacle that promises to redefine driving dynamics, fuse audacity with elegance, and inject an electrifying dose of strength into the world of automobiles. Tokyo Auto Salon 2023 is poised to go down in history, and Toyota’s “RAV4 Off-road Version” will lead the charge, daring you to embrace a new dimension of rugged refinement. The countdown has begun – January 13th can’t come soon enough!
Nissan Elgrand and Honda’s Odyssey are expected to be the next models.
Toyota’s popular luxury minivan, the “Alphard,” has enjoyed immense popularity among families, business users, and car enthusiasts who value its imposing aesthetics. However, with the emergence of contenders like Nissan’s “Elgrand” and Honda’s “Odyssey,” Alphard’s dominance is being challenged.
While the Alphard has maintained its stranglehold on the large-size luxury minivan segment for quite some time, the upcoming releases of the Nissan Elgrand and the Honda Odyssey raise questions about the future landscape of this market.
Nissan’s Elgrand, a pioneer in the luxury minivan category, first hit the scene in 1997. Its introduction marked a shift towards luxury in the three-row vehicle segment, which had traditionally focused on practicality. Despite its initial success, the Alphard’s later arrival managed to overshadow the Elgrand, relegating it to a secondary position. Despite this setback, Nissan remains determined to revive the Elgrand.
In 2020, Nissan unveiled plans for the Elgrand’s revival, including a facelift that incorporates advanced safety features and the introduction of the AUTECH lineup – a bespoke variant boasting premium and sporty elements. Yet, despite these enhancements, the Elgrand faces an uphill battle against the Alphard, which has already captured the market’s attention.
Expectations for the new Elgrand are high, with enthusiasts hoping to see Nissan’s signature electrification technology and advanced driver assistance systems, such as ProPilot 2.0, integrated into the model.
Turning to the Honda Odyssey, the fifth-generation version has been on sale since 2013. Despite a minor update in late 2020, production for the Japanese market concluded at the end of 2021. However, reports suggest that a modified version of the same Chinese-produced Odyssey will be reintroduced in Japan during 2023, potentially heralding the revival of the Odyssey name in the country.
The original Odyssey, based on the Accord’s platform, boasted a low profile that contributed to its engaging driving dynamics. Unique in the minivan segment, it featured hinged doors instead of sliding doors up to its fourth generation. Its driving-focused trims captured the hearts of users seeking a distinctive minivan experience.
In contrast, the fifth-generation Odyssey was merged with the Elysion, Honda’s larger minivan model, leading to a departure from its earlier design philosophy. Although there are plans to reintroduce an Odyssey-based model from China, some speculate that aligning it more closely with the image of the Elysion would be a wiser approach, given the shift in the fifth-generation Odyssey’s characteristics.
Despite these developments, Honda has yet to officially announce a successor to its luxury minivan line as of December 2022, leaving industry observers curious about what the future holds for this segment. As Toyota’s Alphard faces challenges from resurgent contenders, the luxury minivan market remains as dynamic and competitive as ever.
Toyota Hiace is breaking the record of 18 years since its debut!
Will It Face a Revamp or Continue Its Time-Tested Journey? A Look into Three Enduring Favorites
In the ever-evolving world of automobiles, the norm is to undergo a comprehensive model overhaul after a few years of market presence. Domestically produced cars tend to experience such changes every five to six years, with some even receiving a full makeover as early as four years post-launch.
Conversely, there exists a unique category of cars that persistently remain on sale, steadily refining their offerings without resorting to complete redesigns.
2023: Evolution or Status Quo? The Tale of Three Iconic Long-Runners
For nearly two decades, Toyota’s iconic “Hiace” has been synonymous with commercial vans, etching its name into the automotive history books. The inception of the Toyota Hiace dates back to 1967, with a groundbreaking concept of Japan’s inaugural “cab-over van in a new field.” From its second iteration onward, it transformed into a commercial vehicle that melded passenger car sensibilities, paving the way for the multi-seat wagon model that serves as a precursor to today’s minivan.
Renowned for its unwavering reliability and capacious interior, the Hiace has made its mark across the globe, gracing roads in Japan, Asia, the Middle East, Oceania, Africa, Central and South America, among other regions.
Debuting in August 2004, the current model (200 series) lineup, primarily comprising commercial van specifications, boasted a complete redesign, enhancing collision safety and environmental performance when compared to its predecessor. Despite its astounding 18-year tenure without undergoing a comprehensive model transformation, it continues to evolve through a series of incremental refinements. Ongoing updates, such as subtle alterations to the front façade and augmented safety features, have kept the Hiace contemporary. The present model incorporates Toyota Safety Sense, encompassing collision damage mitigating brakes, lane departure alerts, and parking assistance, aligning itself with the safety standards of modern vehicles.
While a successor model (300 series) aimed at overseas markets emerged in 2019, its substantial body dimensions precluded its introduction within the Japanese market. Instead, a deluxe wagon variant dubbed the “Grand Ace” debuted in Japan under this lineage.
Toyota’s “Land Cruiser Prado”: A Time-Honored Titan
Among Japan’s premier full-fledged off-road four-wheel drive vehicles, the “Land Cruiser” series reigns supreme. The Land Cruiser Prado stands as the flagship wagon model within this illustrious lineage.
Unveiled in September 2009, the present iteration marks the fourth generation. In Japan, the 3-door variant was phased out, leaving the 5-door extended body configuration as the sole offering. A robust ladder frame supports the vehicle’s structure, while double wishbone suspension in the front and a 4-link rigid axle in the rear ensure exceptional rugged road durability.
At its heart, the latest model offers a choice between a 2.8-liter inline 4-cylinder clean diesel engine and a 2.7-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine. The interior configuration caters to diverse preferences, featuring two rows accommodating five passengers or three rows capable of seating seven.
While two mild updates have graced the exterior, predominantly focused on the frontal aesthetics, continuous improvements have bolstered both environmental performance and safety technologies. Embedded within is Toyota Safety Sense, an advanced driving aid, accompanied by parking assistance brakes. This legacy endures even after an impressive 13 years since its inaugural appearance.
Breaking Records with “Hiace”: 18 Years of Unchanging Excellence
Amidst the dynamic landscape of minivans, a market segment marked by intense rivalry, a distinct class of vehicles has prevailed against the currents of change. In stark contrast to commercial vehicles and SUVs like the Hiace and Land Cruiser Prado, minivans command a substantial market share.
Local manufacturers direct their efforts towards minivan development, fostering a crowded market. Yet, amid this array of contenders, a solitary model stands tall, untouched by the winds of complete revamp.
The unparalleled and unbeatable champion emerges: Mitsubishi’s versatile minivan, the “Delica D:5.”
Mitsubishi’s “Delica D:5”: The Reign of All-Purpose Minivans
Introduced in January 2007, the Delica D:5 masterfully combines the essence of a minivan with SUV attributes. Embracing the hallmark dual sliding doors emblematic of minivans, the Delica D:5 distinguishes itself with a 185 mm minimum ground clearance and part-time 4WD featuring a lock mode that bolsters the multi-disc clutch’s grip, endowing it with SUV-like resilience on rough terrain.
A significant facelift in 2019 embraced Mitsubishi’s “Dynamic Shield” front design philosophy. The interior underwent a complete transformation, bestowing the model with an overall air of opulence and potency, eclipsing its predecessor.
While the Delica D:5 has encountered substantial updates and engine shifts over the years, its foundational essence remains unaltered since its 2007 debut. For over 15 years, it has remained Mitsubishi’s flagship model, unfazed by the passage of time.
In an automotive realm characterized by brief production spans, a vehicle’s ability to endure over a decade on the market signifies more than mere longevity. It speaks of inherent qualities that transcend eras, exhibiting enduring performance and charm. The models showcased here boast timeless excellence, with speculation rife about forthcoming comprehensive model transformations, heightening anticipation for the much-awaited 2023 unveilings.
7 Astonishingly Luxurious Features of the All-New toyota Crown Kruger SUV”
For over six decades, the Toyota Crown has solidified its position as an emblematic luxury car on the streets of Japan. With a legacy dating back to 1955, the Crown has etched itself into the cultural fabric as the quintessential representation of Japanese automotive excellence. Yet, within this lineage of luxury, two unique variants quietly exist outside Japan’s borders, drawing curious gazes and raising eyebrows.
Gaze upon the “Crown Kruger” and “Crown Vellfire”, two remarkable deviations from the classic Crown paradigm. While the moniker suggests a direct connection, these automobiles have never graced Japanese showrooms. Instead, they flourish under the expansive sky of China, carrying the torch of luxury under the FAW Toyota Motor umbrella, Toyota’s esteemed subsidiary in the land of the Great Wall.
Leading the charge is the “Crown Kruger”, a trailblazing entry into the SUV realm for the Crown family. Debuting on Chinese soil in August 2021, the Kruger boasts an imposing stature, stretching beyond the 5-meter mark and offering a lavish tri-row seating arrangement to pamper up to seven passengers. A direct descendant of the Highlander lineage, a transcontinental presence shared with North America, the Kruger taps into the TNGA platform – a sophisticated genetic code akin to that of the esteemed “RAV4” and “Harrier” models.
The front facade is a symphony of boldness, adorned with a broad lower grille, a trio of LED headlights illuminating the path ahead. Adorning the center of the grille is the illustrious crown emblem, an emblematic symbol that’s synonymous with Crown’s grandeur.
Step inside, and tranquility embraces you. Acoustic glass and damping materials orchestrate a cocoon of silence, allowing the occupants to bask in the realm of automotive elegance. Cutting-edge technology harmonizes with the interior aesthetics – from the captivating head-up display to the expansive 12.3-inch LCD instrument panel. Navigation becomes an artform, and recognition transcends mere eyes with a facial recognition system.
Under the hood resides a hybrid powertrain, a 2.5-liter Dynamic Force engine coupled with an extraordinarily efficient motor, touting an impressive 41% thermal efficiency. The harmonious integration of this power duo extends to the E-Four electronic all-wheel drive system, promising a symphony of controlled motion.
In the domain of pricing, the Crown Kruger gracefully assumes its throne, with a spectrum ranging from 277,800 yuan (approximately 5.45 million yen) to 352,800 yuan (approximately 6.92 million yen).
Meanwhile, meet the “Crown Vellfire”, a Chinese rendition of the iconic Vellfire, an opulent minivan that has been an indelible part of Japanese roads. Here, the journey shifts gears, for the Chinese edition embarks on a hybrid-only voyage. A 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine meets forces with an electric motor, creating a harmonious blend of power and efficiency.
Unveiled in April 2021, the Crown Vellfire, like its Kruger counterpart, showcases the crown emblem with pride, a badge that signifies its grandeur amidst China’s luxury market.
In the realm of prices, the Crown Vellfire takes its place, ranging from 847,000 yuan (approximately 1,662,000 yen) to 928,000 yuan (approximately 1,821,000 yen), echoing luxury’s worth.
But let us not be fooled. The Crown Kruger and Crown Vellfire, though under the same banner, are distinct models altogether. The name “Crown” bestows upon them the gravitas of a celebrated luxury brand in China, elevating their stature to that of a premium, cherished creation.
In this tale of automotive duality, where names bridge worlds and luxury reigns supreme, the Crown series, through Kruger and Vellfire, continues its journey beyond borders, an embodiment of luxury’s universal allure.
New Toyota Alphard is a luxury minivan that is favored by a wide range of people
The allure of the Toyota Alphard, a luxurious minivan, stretches beyond its expansive capacity for accommodating large families. Renowned as the vehicle of choice for corporate dignitaries, politicians, and celebrities seeking a journey of unrivaled comfort, the Alphard has carved a distinct niche for itself.
A Glimpse at the Rarity
Have you ever stumbled upon a fiery red Alphard, or perhaps a resplendent gold variant catching the sun’s rays? Amid the sea of whites and blacks, these anomalies are indeed rare sights. Boasting a staggering 27,308 registrations in the first half of 2022 (spanning April to September), the Alphard secured the 8th position among registered vehicles, dominating the minivan category, only trailing behind the Honda Freed (with 37,475 units).
The Symphony of Monotones
In a curious fashion, despite its premium price tag ranging from 3,597,000 yen to 7,752,000 yen (inclusive of consumption tax), the Alphard’s dominance is clear as it graces the streets. Yet, an intriguing question persists: why does this opulent minivan primarily parade around in the achromatic tones of white and black?
The Colors that Hold Sway
The figures speak volumes: scrutinizing the Alphard’s color palette between January and November 2022 reveals that approximately 60% of buyers favored white, while over 30% opted for the timeless appeal of black. This astonishingly equates to over 90% of users adhering to these two hues. Toyota dealers echo this sentiment, acknowledging that colors beyond the classic duo find few takers.
A Lesson in Assurance
Unraveling this enigma, we discover that many Alphard enthusiasts gravitate towards the familiarity of standard colors, evading the risk of straying too far from convention. Furthermore, the specter of resale value looms large, influencing their color choices. White Alphards stand out in the used car market, boasting a remarkable trade-in value thanks to their minimal depreciation over the initial two years of registration. This dual advantage stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of white and black Alphards.
The Palette: An Evolution
As of December 2022, the Alphard showcases five body colors: White Pearl Crystal Shine, Black, Sparkling Black Pearl Crystal Shine, Graphite Metallic, and Dark Red Mica Metallic. In the annals of time, there once existed another shade of white, along with a bronzed silver hue. Alas, only the quintet of best-selling colors endures, an intentional curation that perhaps deepens the allure of white and black.
Gilded Temptations
The exclusive “S Type Gold” special edition, accentuated with opulent gold trims, has etched its identity within the Alphard lineage. The third iteration of this model surfaced in May 2022, bedecked in grandeur. However, the choices remain limited in this special edition, with just one white and two black options.
An Unwavering Dichotomy
For those enticed by the prospect of owning an Alphard, the dichotomy remains unswerving: the spectrum of choice inevitably funnels down to the steadfast shades of white or black. In a world brimming with color possibilities, the allure of these achromatic tones endures as a hallmark of sophistication and prudence, etching the Toyota Alphard’s legacy into the annals of automotive history.