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    The Birth of the Golden Nissan Qashqai: A New Arrival Shines in the Automotive World

    ByPawani

    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.”

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    New Toyota Prius is already on display!

    ByPawani

    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.

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    Mitsubishi will unveil its new light crossover Delica Mini

    ByPawani

    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.

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    New Toyota Prius Drives on Public Roads with a License Plate

    ByChathura Chanuka

    In a groundbreaking move, Toyota’s latest innovation, the new “Prius,” has taken to the public roads of Japan with an official license plate, captivating the entire nation with its revolutionary design. The historic event took place during the renowned “Tokyo Hakone Ekiden,” a beloved New Year’s tradition that garners widespread attention across the country.
    Toyota’s involvement in the Hakone Ekiden has seen the automaker provide an array of vehicle models for the event over the years. On November 16, 2022, the spotlight shifted to the brand-new “Prius,” marking its global debut and becoming the very first registered vehicle to grace the public streets.

    All eyes were fixated on the Prius, a model that has consistently pushed the boundaries of automotive innovation. With its novel design both inside and out, this incarnation of the Prius made history by becoming the first Japanese-licensed vehicle to navigate the nation’s roads.

    The Hakone Ekiden, tracing its origins back to 1920, was gearing up for its 99th edition in 2023. The event’s structure includes the participation of the top 10 member universities from the Kanto Student Athletic Federation, which are seeded from the previous year’s competition. Additionally, 10 schools that successfully advance through the qualifying round in October, along with the Kanto Student Union, form a collective of 21 teams that partake in the race.

    Comprising 10 sections and covering a total distance of 217.1 kilometers, the ekiden race weaves its way between Tokyo’s Yomiuri Shimbun and Hakone’s Lake Ashinoko, making it the most extensive student long-distance relay race. Since 2003, Toyota has been an integral part of the Hakone Ekiden, supplying a diverse fleet ranging from compact cars to SUVs. Since 2011, the company has exclusively provided all the event’s vehicles.

    Historically, the Hakone Ekiden has witnessed surprise appearances by vehicles such as the “Century GRMN,” “Gran Ace FCV,” and even the pre-release “bZ4X,” generating considerable excitement among automotive enthusiasts. Although Toyota has not established definitive criteria for the vehicles it offers, it is noticeable that models released the year prior to the event often take center stage.

    In the 99th Hakone Ekiden of 2023, Japan witnessed the inaugural appearance of the new Prius, now in its fifth generation, on its public roads. Dressed in the striking “ASH” body color and bearing a white license plate reading “Toyota 300 Mutsu 65-78” in support of the event, the new Prius embodied the brand’s concept of “Hybrid Reborn,” merging enchanting design with captivating performance.

    This new Prius iteration retained the distinctive mono-form silhouette that characterized its predecessors but embraced a wider and lower stance complemented by sizable tires, resulting in an eye-catching design that resonated universally. Garnering international acclaim, the design’s “cool” factor transcended borders, solidifying its status as a global trendsetter.

    Under the hood, the new Prius embraced a range of powertrains, including 1.8-liter and 2-liter hybrid options driven by the fifth-generation hybrid system, alongside a 2-liter plug-in hybrid variant. Built upon the second-generation TNGA platform, this iteration aimed to deliver an exhilarating driving experience that keeps drivers yearning for more.

    While the hybrid model was set to hit the market during the upcoming winter, the plug-in hybrid model was scheduled for release in the spring of 2023, leaving the Hakone Ekiden attendees and onlookers with a tantalizing glimpse of Toyota’s future offerings. The unexpected appearance of the new Prius garnered significant attention from the spectators lining the route, further solidifying the model’s iconic status in the automotive world.

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    25 years after its release the Nissan Skyline and Lancer Evo are in danger of going overseas .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    It’s hard to believe, but 25 years have passed since the debut of some iconic Japanese sports sedans in 1998. Back then, the general belief was that a car’s lifespan was around 10 years or 100,000 km, but the roads today still echo with the purr of engines from two and a half decades ago. Among these timeless machines, three stand out – the “Altezza,” the “Skyline,” and the “Lancer Evo 5.” However, these legends now face the threat of fading away, potentially being relegated to overseas garages. Let’s delve into these cars’ histories and understand why they deserve to be saved from extinction.

    The Toyota Altezza: A Modest Powerhouse

    Toyota’s “Altezza” roared onto the scene in October 1998. Despite its relatively compact size – measuring 4400 mm in length and 1720 mm in width – the Altezza turned heads with its rear-wheel-drive layout, European-inspired styling, and upscale “chronograph” meters. Under the hood, the Altezza offered a range of power units, including the spirited inline 4-cylinder “3S-GE” engine and the smooth inline 6-cylinder “1G-FE” engine. This amalgamation of power and refinement created an appealing front-engine, rear-wheel-drive (FR) sedan package, tailor-made for mature enthusiasts.

    As time progressed, the Altezza’s legacy evolved. A wagon variant known as the “Altezza Jita” was introduced, manual transmission options became available across all sedan grades, and the “L Edition” took shape as the luxury-oriented “Lexus IS” brand for North America. This evolution culminated in the transformation of the Altezza into the Lexus IS, a nameplate that continues to thrive today.

    The Nissan Skyline R34: Fearless Performance

    Nissan’s historic “Skyline” lineage, which dates back to 1957, reached its 10th generation pinnacle with the introduction of the “R34 Skyline” in May 1998. The R34 was conceived as the embodiment of a genuine sports sedan and coupe, encompassing bold design and unwavering dedication to core performance attributes: acceleration, handling, and braking.

    Powered by the NEO straight-six inline six-cylinder engine, the R34 Skyline took different forms, including the high-performance variants like the turbocharged 25GT-X TURBO and 25GT TURBO, which boasted a maximum output of 280 hp from the RB25DET engine. The following year, the ultimate “Skyline GT-R (BNR34 model)” took the stage, further cementing the R34’s legacy.

    Though the R34 Skyline bowed out to make way for the 11th-generation Skyline (V35 model) in 2001, its impact remains indelible in the hearts of enthusiasts and collectors.

    The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution V: Rally-Bred Dominance

    Mitsubishi’s “Lancer Evolution” series, conceived to dominate the World Rally Championship (WRC), hit its stride in 1992 with the inaugural Lancer Evo 1. Fast forward to January 1998, and the fifth-generation Lancer Evolution V (“Lancer Evo 5”) roared onto the stage, building on the foundation set by its predecessors.

    Sporting a wider stance and improved handling stability, the Evo 5 was armed with the “4G63” 2-liter inline 4-cylinder turbo engine, delivering impressive torque and agility. Just a year later, in January 1999, the Evo 5 was succeeded by the more advanced “Lancer Evolution VI” (“Lancer Evo 6”), marking yet another milestone in the Evolution series’ evolution.

    In recent years, a wave of nostalgia has gripped the automotive world, with the 1980s and 1990s producing neo-classic Japanese sports cars that are gaining popularity worldwide. In the United States, the “25-year rule” has granted a lifeline to these classics, allowing right-hand drive cars to be registered as “classic cars” after a quarter-century of existence.

    Enthusiasts and collectors alike are taking notice. Japanese sports cars that once roared exclusively in their homeland are now finding homes abroad. To secure your own piece of automotive history, it’s advisable to act sooner rather than later, as the used car market for these revered models is bound to soar. Let’s rally together to save these legends from fading into the past, ensuring that their engines continue to roar for generations to come.

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    Nissan is airing an original commercial for its new light EV “Sakura” in collaboration with SILENT.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Get ready for the highly anticipated conclusion of the captivating drama “SILENT” tonight! Keep an eye out for the stunning lineup of Nissan vehicles that add an extra layer of realism to the show’s compelling narrative. The final episode of “SILENT,” airing on December 22, 2022, marks the culmination of the emotional journey of its protagonists, portrayed by the talented Haruna Kawaguchi and Ren Meguro (Snow Man).

    The heart of the story revolves around Tsumugi Aoha, portrayed by Haruna Kawaguchi, as she reunites with her long-lost high school love, Sou Sakura, portrayed by Ren Meguro. The tale weaves a poignant yet heartwarming love story that has captured the attention of viewers everywhere.

    One of the automotive stars of the show is the captivating pink “March,” an attention-grabbing vehicle driven by Sou Sakura’s mother, Ritsuko, played by Ryoko Shinohara. This Nissan “March” makes a striking appearance in pivotal moments of the drama. It is a vehicle that symbolizes a journey back in time, as it’s set in a scene from eight years ago, specifically 2014. To accurately capture that era, the production team opted for the third generation “K12” model (2002-2010) rather than the more contemporary fourth generation (2010 to August 2022). This choice not only resonates with the period but also enhances the portrayal of a typical family car of that time.

    Social media buzzed with admiration for the meticulous attention to detail in the show’s production. Comments ranged from remarks about the authenticity of the aged headlights on the mother’s March to the nostalgic presence it brought to the scenes. The car itself managed to encapsulate not just the era but also the essence of a regular household.

    As the narrative progresses, we witness the passage of time through Ritsuko’s changing car choices. Eight years later, when she accompanies Sou to the train station, her vehicle of choice has evolved to a Nissan “Note.” This time, it’s not the current model (introduced in 2020) but its predecessor, the second-generation model (2012-2020). A striking, vivid red color graces this new addition to her automotive journey.

    The seamless transition from the March to the Note was noted by many viewers, who praised the realistic decision, with comments such as “March evolved into a Note” and “From a Nissan March 8 years ago to a Nissan Note today, even the model changed!” This change in vehicle reinforces the show’s commitment to authenticity and the passage of time.

    One distinctive aspect of “SILENT” is that it is generously sponsored by Nissan, which allows for the unobstructed display of their emblem on the featured vehicles. Unlike some shows where car emblems are hidden, “SILENT” proudly showcases the Nissan emblem on its automobiles, underscoring the collaboration.

    Even the background vehicles make a statement, as an astute viewer might spot a Nissan Serena minivan parked at a roundabout. Although an e-POWER variant not available in 2014, this Serena still adds an extra layer of Nissan’s presence to the scene.

    Nissan takes this opportunity to further connect with the audience by presenting an original commercial featuring their latest light EV, the “Sakura.” This collaboration with “SILENT” enhances the relevance of the drama by having Mako Yokoi, played by Souko Fujima and Tsumugi’s best friend, experience the unique acceleration and “ProPilot Parking” support system of the new Sakura EV. A sentimental touch is added when she exclaims “Tsumugi!” towards the film’s end, a treat for fans of the show.

    The serendipity of Ren Meguro’s surname, “Sakura,” aligns perfectly with the promotional efforts for Nissan’s new Sakura EV, tying the actor’s name to this exciting new automotive innovation. As the drama reaches its conclusion, the synergy between “SILENT” and Nissan has created an unforgettable and immersive experience for viewers.

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    New Toyota Prius is finally in its 5th generation!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Toyota’s iconic Prius has entered its 5th generation with a dramatic transformation that has caught the attention of car enthusiasts worldwide. Unveiled on November 16, 2022, the latest Prius redefines the hybrid experience under the banner of “Hybrid Reborn.”

    Unlike its predecessors that were celebrated for their exceptional fuel efficiency, the new Prius introduces an entirely fresh persona that extends beyond economy. While impressive fuel economy remains a cornerstone, the 5th generation model stands out with an irresistible design and a driving experience that speaks to the heart of automotive enthusiasts.

    So, what sets this new Prius apart and what’s behind its newfound appeal?

    Seductive Design and Thrilling Drive

    The 5th generation Prius boasts an alluring design that commands attention from every angle. From its sporty, wide proportions to the lowered roofline and sleek hood, the exterior projects an aura of sophistication and athleticism. The front window’s aggressive slope reminiscent of a sports car adds to its allure.

    Unlike previous designs, the new model’s rear ditches the thin, single-light setup, embracing a stylish aesthetic that hints at a four-door coupe rather than a conventional hatchback. But the design doesn’t stop at the surface; Toyota engineers have hidden 26 discreet “Prius” elements throughout the vehicle, proving the meticulous attention to detail.

    Wheel choices further contribute to its sporty appeal, with the 19-inch wheels reminiscent of the first-generation “86,” showcasing a sporty character. Meanwhile, the 17-inch wheels sport a unique design that maintains a clean appearance, enhancing the advanced vibe. A variety of vibrant colors are available, offering a range from classic black-and-white to vibrant shades like mustard yellow and emotional red.

    Inside, the horizontal cockpit design, a hallmark of modern Toyota models, greets passengers. A sleek, visor-less LCD meter display replaces the traditional center meter, providing clear visibility and a futuristic feel. The center console layout enhances convenience, housing two types of 12.3/8-inch center displays and borrowing the air conditioner control panel design from the Crown model.

    A Driving Experience Like No Other

    Behind the wheel, the new Prius delivers a driving experience that belies its previous reputation. The development team’s innovative approach led to this transformation. Unlike the past, where certain aspects were prioritized, the new model’s development was marked by a “one-team development” philosophy, breaking down silos and fostering cross-disciplinary collaboration.

    According to Kenki Oya, the development manager, this approach, coupled with the maturation of Toyota’s TNGA platform, played a crucial role in achieving the new Prius’s exceptional driving experience. The result is a vehicle that not only meets but exceeds expectations, delivering a level of perfection that was previously unmatched.

    The 5th generation Prius is no longer just an eco-car; it has evolved into a dynamic and exciting model, captivating enthusiasts and potential buyers alike. This transition signifies a significant departure from convention, solidifying the new Prius as Toyota’s most interesting model to date.

    With the future possibility of a high-performance PHEV “GR Prius,” the excitement surrounding Toyota’s hybrid offerings continues to grow. As the automotive landscape evolves, Toyota remains at the forefront, pushing boundaries and redefining what it means to drive green.

    In summary, the 5th generation Prius has not only elevated the hybrid driving experience but has also successfully transitioned from a practical eco-car to a captivating and engaging vehicle. This transformation underscores Toyota’s commitment to innovation and reimagining the potential of hybrid technology.

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    The new Toyota Prius is blowing up with its cool looks .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Toyota’s fifth-generation “Prius,” unveiled to the world on November 16, 2022, is sparking excitement with its sleek design, although there are mixed opinions about its interior space. The latest iteration of the hybrid car takes on a sportier and more expansive appearance compared to its predecessor.

    The “Hybrid Reborn” concept underpins the fully remodeled Prius, preserving its 25-year hybrid legacy while injecting fresh elements of “eye-catching design” and “captivating driving.” The exterior design, in particular, stands out as a focal point of the new Prius.

    Notably, the exterior design builds upon the classic mono-form silhouette that has defined the Prius. The vehicle’s character lines have been refined to create a clean and streamlined profile, emphasizing a more minimalist approach.

    Compared to the previous generation, the new Prius boasts a lowered height by 40 mm and a length increase of 25 mm. Additionally, the width has grown by 20 mm, contributing to a visually striking, low-slung, sports car-inspired appearance.

    Toyota aptly describes the styling of the new Prius as an “expression of emotion and universal beauty that resonates with the senses.” The vehicle received instant praise on social media platforms upon its debut, with admirers celebrating its “emo” and “cool” attributes.

    However, some concerns were raised regarding the perceived spaciousness of the interior. Comments circulated suggesting that the lower roofline might have affected the cabin’s roominess, and a few potential buyers questioned the ease of access and comfort even before the vehicle’s release.

    The new Prius is set to hit the Japanese market in winter (spring 2023 for the PHEV model). While many enthusiasts are relying on photos and preliminary information for their opinions, true judgments should await firsthand experiences with the vehicle.

    As part of the press preview on November 16, a member of the editorial team had the opportunity to assess the vehicle’s interior comfort. With a height of approximately 170 cm, the staff member noted that despite the initial surprise from the lower seat height, the interior felt wider than expected.

    Particularly noteworthy was the ample legroom and overall comfort once seated. Toyota has meticulously redesigned the interior layout to align with the sleek and low-slung form. Adjustments include a lowered hip point for both front and rear seats, providing increased headroom, and an 8mm extension of the distance between front and rear seats.

    The front window angle was acknowledged, but the instrument panel’s design contributed to a more comfortable and less confined ambiance, enhanced by the lower seating position. While definitive conclusions on interior space remain subject to individual passenger characteristics, it’s clear that visual impressions alone can’t fully encapsulate the driving experience.

    Enthusiasts and potential buyers are eagerly awaiting the official debut of the new Prius this upcoming winter to truly gauge its interior comfort and space firsthand.

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    Nissan Note AUTECH Crossover with New Tough Parts!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Nissan Introduces Upgraded “+Active” Variant for Compact SUV “Note AUTECH Crossover” Featuring Rugged Enhancements

    Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. has unveiled its latest offering, the “”Note AUTECH CROSSOVER +Active,” a bespoke iteration of the “Note” compact car, designed by its affiliate, Nissan Motor Sports & Customize (formerly known as AUTEC Japan). This fresh lineup is set to hit showrooms across Japan from late January 2023, ushering in a new level of style and robustness.

    For those seeking an enhanced SUV appeal, feast your eyes on the revamped Note AUTECH Crossover, now available in the new “+Active” specification. This iteration comes with distinctive silver front protectors and other captivating add-ons that magnify the vehicle’s rugged charm.

    Boasting a fusion of the “”AUTECH”” brand’s signature “premium sporty” essence with the distinct characteristics of an SUV, the Note AUTECH CROSSOVER stands as a crossover-style custom SUV model, derived from the foundation of the compact “Note” car. Introduced to the market in October 2021, this model exemplifies a harmonious blend of sophistication and SUV flair.

    Beyond its exclusive exterior and interior design, which imbues the vehicle with a dynamic and opulent vibe, the Note AUTECH CROSSOVER demonstrates an elevated driving experience with its 25mm increased ground clearance, contributing to improved driving dynamics and better visibility.

    The vehicle’s dimensions, measuring 4065 mm (length) x 1700 mm (width) x 1545 mm (height), fit snugly within the confines of the compact 5-number category, enabling effortless parking even in multi-story parking facilities with height constraints.

    Elevating the appeal of the Note AUTECH CROSSOVER is the freshly introduced “+Active” grade, a variant that introduces silver front protectors and roof molding to amplify the SUV-inspired aesthetics of the vehicle.

    Pricing for this enhanced experience starts at 2,620,200 yen for the 2WD variant and 2,878,700 yen for the 4WD variant. This represents a premium of 44,000 yen over the base model Note AUTECH CROSSOVER.

    As with any Nissan offering, personalization is key. The Note AUTECH CROSSOVER +Active is available in a total of eight distinct body colors, including the exclusive AUTECH shades such as “Aurora Flare Blue Pearl/Super Black 2-Tone.”

    For those seeking to further tailor their vehicle, Nissan provides an exclusive decal kit option for the Note AUTECH CROSSOVER, featuring body side decals adorned with logos and wheel arch decals. This personalized touch comes at a dealer option price of 45,800 yen, allowing buyers to truly make the vehicle their own.

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    Toyota Hilux Revo is so cool

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Amid the vibrant automotive landscape, the spotlight gleams on the Toyota Hilux, a pickup truck that has etched its presence with a distinctive touch of opulence. With its shiny gold “TOYOTA” emblem and a flashy custom design that incorporates a captivating “low-down & huge basket,” the allure is undeniable. But what sparks the fervor behind the Toyota Hilux’s surge in popularity, particularly in the Land of Smiles?

    Toyota’s Commanding Presence in Thailand

    As of December 2022, Toyota stands unrivaled as the premier player in the Thai automobile market, reigning with an impressive 33% market share. This stronghold is bolstered by the innovative International Multi-purpose Vehicle (IMV) lineup – an assemblage of pickup trucks, SUVs, and minivans crafted on native soil. The IMV framework is the driving force behind delivering more attractive products at more accessible price points.

    Engineering Excellence Meets Thai Customization Flair

    The heartbeat of Toyota’s triumph is the Hilux, an emblem of strength and style that transcends its automotive role. The Hilux’s journey in Thailand dates back to its inception in 2004 with the seventh-generation model, the HILUX Vigo, celebrated for its fusion of passenger car comfort, SUV convenience, and unwavering durability.

    Fast forward to the current landscape dominated by the eighth-generation Hilux, the “Hilux Revo,” introduced in 2015. Underpinning its development was the ambitious pursuit of “redefining toughness.” This pursuit manifested in enhanced fuel efficiency, ride comfort, quietude, and, crucially, the robustness, powerful drive, driving performance, and collision safety that epitomize the Hilux legacy.

    Adapting to Diverse Demands

    In the Land of Smiles, the Hilux wears various hats, serving as more than just a mode of transport. A tale of dualities unfolds, where the Hilux bridges regional income disparities by becoming a hobbyist’s chariot in central hubs like Bangkok, and simultaneously assumes the role of a steadfast workhorse in provincial cities.

    The Hilux’s malleability extends to its usage. The truck’s utility canvas is splashed with agricultural transport and songtaew endeavors, where the back is crowned with expansive baskets. Yet, customization emerges as the common thread weaving through Thai Hiluxes, adorned with Modellista specifications and even engine conversions, echoing the tuning culture celebrated in its homeland.

    The Electrifying Evolution: Hilux Revo BEV Concept

    December 14, 2022, marked a monumental day on the automotive calendar as the Thai Toyota 60th Anniversary Ceremony took center stage in Bangkok. Amid the revelry, the curtain lifted on the Hilux Revo BEV Concept, heralding a new era in the Hilux narrative.

    Toyota President Akio Toyoda hailed the concept as a harbinger of carbon neutrality and a brighter global environment. The Hilux Revo BEV Concept’s bold countenance diverges from its conventional sibling, swapping the iconic hexagonal grille for an EV-inspired design, championing sustainable motoring.

    Beneath the chassis, the stage is set with batteries and motors seamlessly integrated into the ladder frame, a futuristic marvel challenging traditional powertrains.

    Unleashing the Power of Silence

    Stepping into the realm of the Hilux Revo BEV Concept, a symphony of silence envelops the senses. Unlike the diesel counterpart’s characteristic delay, the BEV Concept surges forth with an electric acceleration that defies the norm. The journey is defined by an uncanny serenity, devoid of diesel’s vibrations.

    The acceleration journey is nothing short of exhilarating, with 0-100km/h times that rival the prowess of a V8 engine. Electric power steering steps in with a refined smoothness, underscoring a dynamic handling experience.

    In a final flourish, the battery and motor, housed under the cargo bed, fortify the body’s stability, etching the Hilux Revo BEV Concept as a harmonious marriage of form and function.

    Charting the Hilux’s Future

    From a golden emblem that glimmers with pride to the dazzling innovation of the Hilux Revo BEV Concept, the Toyota Hilux’s journey through Thailand is one defined by versatility and evolution. As Thailand embraces its role as a hub for automotive ingenuity, the Toyota Hilux stands as an emblem of adaptability, a quintessential vehicle for myriad endeavors, and a harbinger of a cleaner, more electrifying future on the horizon.