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    No way Toyota’s new SUV!What is a face kit tailored to “Corolla cross like RAV4” .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota’s new SUV? What is the “”LOVECROSS”” with the powerful hexagonal grille and Obafen? What is the face kit that makes it “”Corolla Cross like RAV4″”?

    Is this the “”Corolla Cross,”” a cool face kit reminiscent of the RAV4!
    　Toyota has a number of urban SUVs that are being marketed globally, including the Yaris Cross, C-HR, Corolla Cross, and Harrier.
    　
    　Among them, a face kit that looks like a fusion of “”Corolla Cross”” and “”RAV4″” has appeared.

    What’s this? Is this the new Toyota SUV?”” Images of the actual “”Lovecross”” with a nice, powerful grille!

    What the heck is this? Could this be “”Toyota’s new SUV?”” No, this is a kit of the “”Corolla Cross”” with a “”RAV4″” face!

    　The Corolla Cross made its world premiere in Thailand on July 9, 2020.

    　It is being rolled out globally in Asia, South America, and North America, and was launched in Japan on September 14, 2021.

    　There are two major front faces of the Corolla Cross depending on the country or region, and the “”RAV CROSS Face Kit”” dares to make the design “”RAV4-like””.

    　A representative of EXIZZLE-LINE, the distributor of the RAV CROSS Face Kit, said, “”The RAV CROSS Face Kit is the first face kit to be developed for the actual Corolla Cross car.

    When I first saw the actual Corolla Cross on the street, I had the impression that it was too mild, and I thought that it could be made even cooler, which was the initial impetus for its production.

    　We also developed it because we thought we could make more use of the base grade’s cosmetic appeal and more user-friendly size than the Toyota RAV4.””

    　The following is a brief description of the special features of the face kit.

    One of the points we focused on was reducing the number of bumps on the lower bumper skid plate to three to balance the narrower width of the Corolla Cross compared to the RAV4.

    　Another is that the size of the grille was also adjusted for volume by making it a little taller compared to the RAV4.

    　Another point of attention was to give the face a slightly edgier shape than the RAV4.

    　We also focused on a design that does not compromise safety features such as Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), pre-crash sensors, and clearance sonar, as well as differentiation with the trendy “”TOYOTA”” logo emblem.

    * * *

    　What kind of feedback have you received from users of the RAV CROSS face kit?

    We have received many inquiries since the announcement.

    　Toyota dealers have also approached us and asked us to order them as demo cars for their stores, and we have even received requests to buy a car in the same color and install it.

    * * *

    　Incidentally, in addition to the RAV CROSS front face kit at a suggested retail price of 203,500 yen, the RAV CROSS over fender kit is available at a suggested retail price of 49,500 yen.
    　
    　The over fender does not require any modification to the vehicle and can be installed without changing the vehicle dimensions, and can be installed over the stock fenders.”

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    Toyota’s new SUV “bZ4X” to further expand sales!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota’s new SUV “”bZ4X”” to further expand sales! Application Fee Halved and Fee Revised: Will it Become a Familiar Presence?

    Fees Revised as Applications Reopen
    　KINTO, a Toyota vehicle subscriber service provider, announced on October 26, 2022, that it has revised its rates for the Toyota bZ4X, a dedicated subscriber vehicle.

    The new Toyota bZ4X with novel design.

    　In addition, the company also resumed accepting applications on the same day, which had been suspended due to a recall report.

    　The bZ4X is the first model in Toyota’s “”bZ Series”” of electric vehicles (EVs), but what are its features?

    　The bZ4X concept model made its world premiere at the Shanghai Motor Show 2021 on April 19, 2021, and the details of the Japanese version were revealed on October 29 of the same year.

    　The bZ4X was then released in Japan on May 22, 2022 as a KINTO-exclusive model, but a recall was reported on June 23 due to a problem with a hub bolt, and on October 6, an investigation into the cause and a decision to take countermeasures were made, leading to the resumption of KINTO application acceptance.

    　The initial leasing cost of bZ4X has been significantly reduced with the recent price revision.

    　First, the application fee (including consumption tax, same below) has been halved from 770,000 yen to 385,000 yen.

    　The monthly fee for the first four years of the 10-year contract period was originally 107,800 yen, but has been reduced to 106,700 yen (for FF specifications). The price has been reduced by 13,200 yen per year.

    　The monthly fee will be reduced by an amount equivalent to the subsidy provided by the national and local governments on a monthly basis until the fourth year, making the monthly fee more affordable.

    　Incidentally, while KINTO had previously limited bZ4X users to individuals, the company is now offering bZ4X to corporations in conjunction with the fee revision.

    　It can be said that bZ4X has become more accessible through this service revision.

    * * * *

    　The bZ4X is a new EV jointly developed by Toyota and Subaru, and is the first model to adopt Toyota’s “”e-TNGA”” EV-specific platform.

    　The model will be introduced in the United States, Europe, China, and other countries around the world, with production taking place in Japan and China.

    　Now here is a quiz.

    　Which of the following is the correct production plant for the bZ4X in Japan?

    1] Motomachi Factory

    2] Tsutsumi Plant

    3] Toyota Motor Kyushu Miyata Plant

    4] Subaru Gunma Manufacturing Main Plant

    The correct answer is [1] Motomachi Plant.

    　The correct answer is [1] Motomachi Plant.

    　Motomachi Plant is located at 1 Motomachi, Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture.

    　The Motomachi Plant is also responsible for the production of the “”Soltera,”” a Subaru version of the bZ4X, as well as the “”MIRAI,”” a fuel cell vehicle, and the “”GR Yaris,”” a full-scale 4WD hot hatch.

    *Source of quiz: Car Days”

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    Is it similar to Toyota “Alphard” & Lexus “LM”? Pros and cons for the appearance of the new “M8” minivan with a powerful grill in “China”! Could it be a threat to Japanese manufacturers?

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Similar to Toyota’s Alphard & Lexus’ LM? Pros and cons for the new “”Chinese”” minivan “”M8″” with a powerful grille! Could it be a threat to Japanese automakers?

    Does it still resemble the Lexus “”LM””? New Large Minivan “”M8
    　On August 23, 2022, Guangzhou Automobile (GAC) announced the new large minivan “”M8″” of its own brand “”Trumpchi”” in China.

    Similar to Toyota “”Alphard”” & Lexus “”LM””? Compare with the new “”M8″” in 68 images.

    　This huge minivan with an overall length of over 5 meters and a luxurious large front grille like the Lexus “”LM”” has attracted a variety of responses on social networking sites.

    The new Trumpchi “”M8″” (left) with the Lexus “”LM”” (middle) and Toyota “”Alphard”” (right)

    　GAC is an automobile manufacturer based in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China, with its origins in Guangzhou Public Automobile Repair Factory, a bus repair shop established in 1954. It is the fifth-largest seller in China in terms of sales volume.

    　And the M8 is a large minivan developed by GAC under its own Trumpchi brand, which was introduced in 2017. It is the brand’s largest three-row, seven-passenger minivan, and was originally named GM8 when it was first released, but was renamed M8 starting with the 2021 model year, which was unveiled at the Shanghai Motor Show in September 2020.

    　With the first full model change, the M8 is now in its second generation.

    　The M8 is available with a choice of three powertrains: a 2-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine, a hybrid, or a plug-in hybrid.

    　The hybrid model is equipped with a special Toyota 4th generation THS-II optimized for the 4B20J2 2-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine developed by Guangzhou Automobile.

    　With a body size of 5193 mm (length) x 1893 mm (width) x 1832 mm (height) and a wheelbase of 3070 mm (height), it is even larger than the Toyota Alphard (length of less than 5 m), which is similar in appearance.

    　The exterior has an overall luxurious look with extensive use of chrome parts.

    The huge and luxurious front grille, reminiscent of the “”LM,”” the Lexus version of the Alphard sold in China, is eye-catching, and the huge U-shaped rear combination lights at the rear are distinctive.

    The interior is just as luxurious as the exterior, with a huge LCD monitor placed in the center of the dashboard and ambient lights that give the impression of advanced technology.

    * * * *

    　Various opinions about the new M8 have developed on social networking sites.

    　The most common opinions are that it resembles the Alphard and LM, such as “”It looks like the Alphard and LM added and divided by two,”” “”It is strongly influenced by the LM,”” and “”It looks so similar that you would think it is the sister car of the Alphard.

    　It is also apparent that there is a segment of the population that is tired of the huge grille design of today’s minivans, with comments such as, “”The front design of recent minivans makes me sick to my stomach,”” and “”There are too many cars that are too ornate.

    　Some respondents also commented, “”People in Japan and China both like the glitz and glamour,”” inferring that the tastes of minivans sold in Japan and China are the same because many minivans have similar designs.

    　On the other hand, there are a certain number of people who prefer the design of the M8, such as “”Well, I like the design”” and “”It’s honestly cool.

    　There are also those who feel threatened by the M8, such as “”If it is cheaper than the Alphard in Japan, its position may be turned upside down.

    * * * *

    　While a variety of opinions about the M8 were expressed, there were also some who said that the M8 would be acceptable as long as its durability could be cleared: “”If it doesn’t break down, then it’s an option.

    　As for Chinese cars, FAW’s luxury car brand “”Red Flag”” is currently being officially imported to Japan, and BYD has begun to develop EVs, and more recently, the “”Hongguang MINI EV,”” the best-selling electric car in China, is expected to be introduced to Japan, according to some In addition, it has been reported in some newspapers that the Hong Kong MINI EV, China’s best-selling electric vehicle, may be introduced to Japan.

    　It seems that Chinese cars are gradually invading Japan, and it will be interesting to see if minivans like the M8 will also be introduced to Japan in the future.

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

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    A new special edition car added to the popular Toyota “tough system” SUV “RAV4” The feature is “gorigori black” !

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “New Special Edition Added to Popular Toyota “”Tough”” SUV “”RAV4″” Features “”Gory Black””!

    　On October 4, 2022, Toyota has partially upgraded its popular RAV4 SUV with the new Adventure “”OFFROAD package II”” (Adventure “”OFFROAD package II””), which further improves the specifications of the previously popular special edition model. package II,”” which further improves the specifications of the popular special edition model.
    　
    　The differences from other RAV4 series models as well as the base Adventure grade are explained.

    Emphasis on the “”black”” look! Toyota “”RAV4″” Special Edition “”Gorilla Black”” in 16 photos

    Toyota’s popular RAV4 SUV special edition “”Adventure ‘OFFROAD Package II'”” [on sale October 4, 2022].

    　The current RAV4 (5th generation) was born in April 2019.

    　In fact, the model before it (3rd generation) disappeared for almost 3 years in Japan after sales ended in 2016.

    　However, it has grown to be a very popular model globally, and has achieved the No. 1 SUV sales record in North America, among others.

    　The 5th generation, which appeared in the midst of all this, was completely redesigned, starting with the platform that would serve as the foundation for the new model.

    　The newly developed 4WD system “”Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD”” was adopted to improve both on-road and off-road driving performance, making it a full model change with a lot of effort.

    　Toyota explains that the exterior design reflects this duality, combining active strength with urban sophistication.

    　The “”RAV4 Adventure”” grade symbolizes the off-road image emphasized by the fifth-generation model.

    　The Adventure grade features an aggressive front grille, front skid plates, a front bumper that emphasizes the lifted ground clearance, and front fog lamp bezels.

    　Exclusively designed large-diameter 19-inch aluminum wheels and enlarged wheel arch moldings also emphasize the powerful suspension.

    　Exclusive body colors for the Adventure include Urban Khaki, a newly developed color, and Ash Gray Metallic, also a newly developed color, is available on the roof.

    　In this way, the RAV4 Adventure is clearly differentiated from other models.

    　When it debuted in 2019, it was only available with a 2-liter “”Dynamic Force”” gasoline direct injection engine + 4WD, but a 2.5-liter hybrid + E-Four was added in a partial upgrade in December 2021.

    New special edition added to the popular Toyota “”tough”” SUV “”RAV4″” Features “”Gory Black””!

    Expensive? Cheap! Adventure Special Edition “”Off-Package II”” is 200,000 yen more expensive than the base model
    　The Adventure, which symbolizes the current RAV4, has grown into a mainstay grade in sales, supported by its strong character.

    　Due to its popularity, the Adventure special edition “”Adventure “”OFFROAD package”” was already available in October 2020.

    The new Toyota RAV4 special edition “”Adventure ‘OFFROAD package II'”” features exclusive “”GORI GORI BLACK”” paint on the front bumper, door mirrors, front and rear skid plate sets, etc. The most distinctive feature of the Adventure “”OFFROAD Package II”” is the exclusive “”GORI GORI BLACK”” coating on the front bumper, door mirrors, and front and rear skid plates.

    　The Adventure Off-Road Package is equipped with an exclusive suspension system that increases the minimum ground clearance by an additional 10mm.

    　It is paired with 18-inch all-terrain tires suitable for off-road use and special matte black painted aluminum wheels.

    　It also features bridge-type roof rails and an exclusively coordinated interior with synthetic leather seats with red stitching.

    　Sales staff at Toyota dealerships in the Tokyo metropolitan area said, “”Most of the customers who wanted the RAV4 Adventure chose the ‘Off-Road Package,'”” indicating that the model was extremely popular.

    　And on October 4, 2022, the RAV4 underwent a partial upgrade, and the popular Off-Road Package evolved into the new “”Adventure “”OFFROAD package II””. The new package includes

    　The special lift-up suspension, 18-inch all-terrain tires, and exclusive interior design remain unchanged.

    　The front bumper, door mirrors, front and rear skid plates, and other parts are painted a special “”GORI GORI BLACK”” color with a unique texture.

    　GORI GORI BLACK is an uneven, matte black color that was created by layering paint.

    　It is a tough paint that is not only visually appealing, but is also resistant to scratches.

    　In addition, an exclusive two-tone body color, Attitude Black Mica, is available on the roof side, emphasizing the black color more than the previous model and creating a tougher off-road style with an even more awesome appearance.

    * * * *

    　The price (including consumption tax) of the new RAV4 Adventure Off-Road Package II with Gory Gory Black paint ranges from 3,884,000 yen to 4,503,000 yen.

    　The price difference against the base RAV4 Adventure is 200,000 yen higher. If you are attracted by the dress-up effect and differentiation you receive from the exterior, this is a very reasonable price.

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

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    How many do you have in all? Actual vehicle release of Toyota “Hilux Digestion Vehicle”! Responding to fires and nature conservation on roadless roads! Car delivery ceremony held in Spain .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “How many cars are there in all? Toyota “”Hilux Firefighting Vehicle”” in action! Fire & Nature Conservation on Roadless Roads! Delivery Ceremony Held in Spain

    Toyota “”Hilux”” with a fire extinguishing system in the cargo bed
    　On October 26, 2022, Toyota’s Spanish subsidiary (Toyota España) announced that the Aragon State Forest Service has brought in a “”Hilux”” to update its fleet of vehicles for the Forest Fire Prevention and Extinguishing Service.

    Let’s see… how many vehicles? Looks like a Toyota “”Hilux Festival!”” Look at all the wonders!

    How many cars are there in all! Toyota “”Hilux Fire Extinguishing Vehicle”” Great Gathering!　Toyota Spain’s delivery ceremony was breathtaking!

    　The Directorate General of Forest Management in Aragón, Spain, introduced the vehicle for its Forest Fire Prevention and Extinguishing Service (INFOAR).

    　The Hilux is reliable, durable, and off-road capable, and its 4WD system and powerful, efficient engine make it the perfect work tool to overcome any off-road challenge.

    　The Hilux has proven its invincibility time and again, conquering the Arctic, the Icelandic volcanoes, the Antarctic Continent, and even winning the Dakar Rally.

    　All of the new Hiluxes will be available in white body color, with the Aragonese government logo, INFOAR, and the emergency number 112 engraved on both sides of the vehicle.

    　In addition, a fire suppression system with a pump and 400-liter tank in the cargo bed improves the initial firefighting movement.

    　The first 26 Hiluxes will be installed and will be used for fire prevention and suppression in Aragon, as well as for the work of conservation organizations.

    　Another 33 Hiluxes will be delivered by the end of 2022, but these will not be equipped with fire extinguishing systems.

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

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    The latest SUV is a West Coast custom with “fashionable” wood panels!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Latest SUV gets a West Coast custom with “”Osha”” wood paneling! New Nissan “”Aria”” with “”retro”” surfer specs blasts off in North America!

    Woody Wagon”” tells the story of its owner’s lifestyle
    　October 28, 2022 – Nissan North America, Inc. will exhibit the Aria Surf Wagon Concept concept car at the 2022 SEMA Show, which will be held from November 1 to November 4 in Las Vegas, USA.
    　
    　The Aria, the latest crossover EV, has been customized with wood panels and other features to create a retro atmosphere.

    Retro beach style is too “”fashionable””! Nissan Aria Surf Wagon Concept in 25 Photos

    Nissan’s new crossover EV, Aria Surf Wagon Concept, a concept car customized in a retro woody wagon style [Exhibited at the 2023 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, USA].

    　The Aria Surf Wagon Concept was customized by South Carolina-based Tommy Pike Customs.

    　The first thing that catches the eye are the wood paneling-like decorations wrapped all over the body sides, which give the latest Aria a retro look reminiscent of a West Coast-style woody wagon.

    　The roof is fitted with a custom roof rack that holds two 7-foot surfboards.

    　Underfoot, the ride height is lowered by a lowered suspension, and 20-inch smooth wheels with nicely polished chrome center caps are paired with white ribbon tires.

    　Nissan describes the Aria Surf Wagon Concept as “”a retro design California-style surf ‘woody’ wagon reworked with the latest technology in the electric Aria.

    　Nissan also introduces this customization as a proposal for EV owners to express their own lifestyle.

    * * * *

    　In addition to the Aria Surf Wagon Concept, Nissan’s booth at the 2022 SEMA Show will also feature an electrified Sunny Truck and two custom Fairlady Z models.”

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    Red badge shining Honda new model “Fit RS” Sporty interior and exterior and running! What is the reason why MT cars are not set?

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “The new Honda Fit RS with shining red badge is sporty inside and out and drives well! Why is a manual transmission model not available?

    Black mesh grille for a fearless front face
    　On October 7, 2022, Honda’s compact car “”Fit”” underwent a minor change, and the sporty “”RS”” grade, which has been available on previous generations of Fit, was newly added.

    The mesh grille is so cool! Photos of the ultra-sporty new “”Fit RS”” interior and exterior

    The “”Fit RS”” Revived after a 2.5 Year Absence

    　The Fit RS, revived after a two-and-a-half-year absence, is now available as a model with even greater attention to design and driving quality.

    　The exterior features an exclusive mesh-type front grille, black front bumper, side sill garnish, and rear bumper. A rear spoiler and 16-inch aluminum wheels exclusively designed for the RS emphasize its sporty appearance.

    　The interior is also specially tailored with a three-spoke steering wheel exclusive to the RS, prime smooth and ultra-suede seats, and yellow stitching throughout the interior.

    　Incidentally, the RS in Fit means “”road-sailing.

    　In terms of driving performance, an RS-specific suspension is adopted. While the performance has been refined to suppress body swaying on rough road surfaces, it also aims to combine the enjoyment of a pleasant connection between the driver’s operation and the car’s behavior in various situations with an exhilarating ride with a high quality feel.

    　In addition, the e:HEV RS hybrid model is exclusively equipped with a deceleration selector that allows the driver to choose from four levels of deceleration force when the accelerator is released and three drive mode switches (NORMAL, SPORT, and ECON).

    　By the way, some people are disappointed that there is no MT model, which was available on the previous Fit RS, so we asked Honda about the reason for the non-installation.

    　According to Honda, it was difficult to offer a manual transmission for the RS because hybrid vehicles (e:HEV) are currently the mainstream in terms of electrification, which is advancing rapidly these days, and the current fourth-generation model originally has only a two-pedal transmission.

    　The “”NES”” grade has been eliminated in exchange for the revival of the RS.

    　The “”Basic”” grade is simple, the “”Home”” grade is standard and comfortable, the “”Luxe”” grade has a high quality feel, and the “”Closter”” grade is active and SUV-like. It seems that the “”Ness”” was a model that was difficult to sell in the market.

    　On the other hand, the RS, which was set as a sporty grade, has been receiving strong orders. It may become a mainstay grade as a new face of the current Fit.

    * * * * *

    　In this minor change, grades other than the RS also underwent design changes.

    　The Luxe’s front nose has been reshaped for a cleaner look. The position of the upper grille has been raised, and the Luxe/Home has evolved a neat design with a chrome decorative line running horizontally across the top of it.

    　In addition, the Kloster’s front, side, and rear garnishes have been changed to a silver color. The design is more Tough Gear-like, emphasizing the crossover-like character of the vehicle.

    　In addition, the motor output of the two-motor hybrid system has been increased by 14 horsepower to 123 horsepower. From the moment the driver depresses the accelerator pedal at low speeds, the car starts powerfully and smoothly like an electric car, and the driver can now enjoy a pleasant sense of acceleration with good extension.

    　The gasoline-powered model has increased its displacement from 1.3 liters to 1.5 liters to provide a spacious driving experience in a variety of everyday situations.

    　In addition, the “”Honda Sensing”” driving safety support system is newly standardized with Traffic Jam Assist (traffic jam driving support function) and Sudden Acceleration Suppression, in addition to the conventional functions. Blind spot information and reverse exit support are also newly added and are available as factory-installed options for each type of model.”

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    “Multi-function mirror” appears in Nissan’s popular compact “Note”! Released from NISMO on October 25th .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Multifunctional Mirror”” for Nissan’s Popular Compact “”Note””! On Sale from October 25th from NISMO

    Improved Visibility of Indicators for Vehicles with BSM
    　On October 25, 2022, Nissan Motorsports & Customizing, which handles Nissan’s Nismo brand products, released an improved version of its Multifunction Blue Mirror for the Note and Note Aura for vehicles with BSW (rear-side vehicle detection warning).
    　
    　Shipments are scheduled to begin in late November.

    The Note “”armed”” with aero parts is so cool! Check out NISMO accessories with images
    NISMO”” parts make the Nissan “”Note”” even cooler!

    　Multi-function blue mirrors (hereafter referred to as “”blue mirrors””) are one of NISMO’s accessories, and are high-performance mirrors available for various Nissan models.

    　The blue mirror is attached to the standard mirror with double-sided tape. The mirror surface is blue with a multi-layer coating, giving a sporty impression and preventing dazzling by following cars at night.

    　The “”NISMO”” logo is laser-engraved on the lower part of the mirror surface, providing an accent point.

    　In addition, the curvature of the mirror itself has been modified to provide a wider rearward view than the standard mirror, and the mirror surface has been coated with a hydrophilic coating to help ensure visibility in the rain.

    　The new product for the Note with BSW (rear-side vehicle detection warning) improves the visibility of the indicator display that indicates an approaching vehicle.

    　The product is applicable to all models of the Note (E13) with BSW and the Note Aura (E13). The price (including consumption tax) is 26,400 yen.”

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    Luxury minivan “Alphard” monopoly “Wait!” Many voices of expectation for the revival of Honda’s new “Odyssey”

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Alphard’ Exclusive Luxury Minivan “”Wait and See!”” Many Expect Honda’s New Odyssey to Make a Comeback

    Much anticipation for the revival of the venerable Odyssey minivan brand!
    　The Odyssey, which was at the top of Honda’s three-row minivan lineup, has regrettably ceased production following the closure of Saitama Manufacturing’s Sayama Plant at the end of December 2021.

    A Japanese version of the new “”Odyssey””? The “”too gorgeous”” new “”Elysion”” on pre-sale in China .

    　In the midst of all this, we have received information that Honda is secretly considering the introduction of a high-end minivan once again.
    　
    　Many Honda fans are voicing their expectations on social networking sites.

    Is this the new Japanese version of the Odyssey? Honda’s new Elysion luxury minivan, which underwent minor changes in China in December 2021

    　Honda discontinued production of the Odyssey at the end of December 2021.

    　The Odyssey is a “”well-established”” minivan brand with a history of more than 25 years since the first model in 1994, and the last model introduced in 2014 will be the fifth generation.

    　Although the Odyssey continued to be listed on the official website for more than six months after production ended, the website quietly ended in September 2022, and the vehicles in stock are believed to have been cleared out.

    　Currently, Toyota’s Alphard dominates the high-end minivan market, and for this reason, there are many requests for Honda to revive the Odyssey.

    　In the meantime, rumors are circulating that the Elysion, a high-end Odyssey model that continues to be produced in China, may be introduced to Japan as the new Odyssey in 2023.

    　The Chinese version of the Elysion is a new model that underwent minor changes in December 2021.

    　It is based on the Odyssey, which ended its domestic production at the very same time.

    　The body size of the Elysion is 4951 mm (length) x 1842 mm (width) x 1711 mm (height) with a wheelbase of 2900 mm.

    　It is a 7-seater with a second captain’s seat, and its powertrain combines a 2-liter Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine and a highly efficient and powerful 2-motor hybrid system.

    　The interior layout follows the specifications of the current Odyssey, which underwent minor changes in 2020, and includes a 7-inch full LCD instrument panel, a large 10.1-inch center display, and gesture control power sliding doors.

    　In addition, the seat materials are even more luxurious than those of the Odyssey, and an electric double sunroof, which was not available in Japan, is also available.

    　As of the end of October 2022, there has been no official announcement from Honda, but there are rumors that the Odyssey will appear in Japan in 2023, so we are waiting with great anticipation.

    We are eagerly awaiting the arrival of the new Odyssey in Japan in 2023.

    　There have been many reactions to the rumors of the revival of the new Odyssey on social networking sites.

    　Honda fans have voiced their eager anticipation for the new Odyssey, with comments such as “”I can expect a lot,”” “”I’m happy if it’s true,”” “”I’m looking forward to it,”” and “”I think I’ll buy one.

    　On the other hand, there are also some cool comments such as “”It may not be able to compete with the Alphard unless it is more robust”” or “”It will not sell unless it is taller (like the Alphard)””.

    　Also, there are some who, in response to the discontinuation of the model, are saying, “”Oh, no! I’ve ordered another car…”” Some users also said that they had already ordered another car.

    　Some users are puzzled by Honda’s response, saying, “”Honda’s response seems to be too perfunctory”” after having announced the discontinuation of the model once before.

    　In any case, with Toyota almost completely dominating the market for luxury minivans, there are many who are looking forward to the return of the new Odyssey as a competitor.”

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    Toyota offers a discount of 380,000 yen! Subscribing fees will be revised upon the resumption of sales of the new EV “bZ4X” Acceptance starts on October 26 .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota discounts 380,000 yen! Subsc. fee revised for resumption of sales of the new EV “”bZ4X””, acceptance to begin on Oct. 26.

    Application Fee Halved, Monthly Fee Also Reduced, Corporate Customers Can Sign Up
    　KINTO, a Toyota vehicle subscription service provider, announced on October 26, 2022 that it has revised the subscription plan fees for the new bZ4X EV.
    　
    　New applications for the revised subscription plan will be accepted from the same day.

    A milestone for mass-produced EVs! See the interior and exterior of Toyota’s futuristic bZ4X in 33 photos.

    More Affordable? Toyota’s “”bZ4X”” with revised subscriber fees

    　Toyota’s bZ4X is a new EV announced on April 12, 2022, and available for lease through KINTO, a subscription service (“”SUBSC””), from May 12 of the same year.

    　The bZ4X is a full-scale mass-produced EV that uses the “”e-TNGA”” platform co-developed with Subaru to enhance driving performance while achieving a cruising range of 559 km per charge (2WD model, WLTC mode).

    　However, Toyota reported a recall on June 23. The hub bolt that attaches the tire may loosen, and in the worst case scenario, the tire may fall off, leading to a “”stop use”” requirement for users.

    　On October 6, approximately four months later, after an investigation into the cause of the problem and the determination of countermeasures, another recall was filed and the hub bolts were replaced, among other measures.

    　Following the June recall, lease sales were temporarily suspended, but sales resumed on October 6, 2022, following the resolution of the problem.

    　KINTO has changed its fee structure to coincide with the resumption of sales.

    　New applications for the new fee structure will be accepted from October 26, 2022, the same day as the announcement. Corporate customers can also apply for the new plan, instead of only individuals.

    　When bZ4X was introduced, the subscription fee was 107,800 yen for the first four years, but it has been reduced to 106,700 yen, a decrease of 1,100 yen.

    　The application fee required at the time of signing a contract has also dropped significantly. The application fee, which was set at 770,000 yen at the start of the subscription, has been reduced to 385,000 yen, half the original price.

    　In addition, the monthly fee can be further reduced up to the fourth year when applying the “”CEV subsidy”” granted by the government when purchasing a clean energy vehicle or subsidies set up by local governments.

    　There is no change from the start of the subscriptions in that the fee structure includes a gradual reduction in the monthly fee from the fifth year onward, as well as the cost of car insurance, maintenance, and vehicle inspections and checkups.

    　Future delivery dates are scheduled to begin in late January 2023 for new subscriptions starting October 26, 2022, with production commencing in late January 2023 or later, and delivery of the vehicle in approximately one month.

    * * *

    　Although the “”bZ4X”” was fully loaded, unexpected problems occurred. There were calls to suspend its use, and some people voiced their concerns on social networking sites.

    　While placing priority on resolving the problem, the company will offer substantial discounts when sales resume, and by adding corporate customers to the scope of its service offerings, expectations are high for how far it will be able to increase sales volume in the future.

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