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    It’s like a “moving designer’s mansion!” What is the best indoor space? The “”Hiace Overnight Car”” equipped with a sofa and wood furniture is amazing!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “It’s like a “”designer’s apartment that moves! The “”Hiace Overnight Car”” equipped with a sofa and wood furniture is amazing! What is the best interior space?

    What is an exquisite interior space with real wood used from top to bottom?
    　The new coronavirus and other factors have caused rapid changes in our daily lifestyles, and the “”van lifestyle”” is now becoming popular.
    　
    　In this trend, there are custom Hiace vans that create a space that is just like a home.

    Isn’t this a stylish condominium? The interior space with a sense of luxury is amazing! See the actual vehicle!

    Real wood from top to bottom! Interior space that looks like a luxury designer’s apartment (Image courtesy of NACS)

    　The van lifestyle refers to a style of enjoying free time in the great outdoors, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, with only the things you really like packed in your car.

    　This style, which seeks spiritual rather than material wealth, has become a major movement, especially in Europe and the United States.

    　The “”Sonoma”” model based on the Toyota Hiace (DX grade/standard body and roof) is developed by the Hiace custom store “”NACS”” to realize such a casual van life.

    　A NACS representative explains the development process as follows.

    In developing this model, we referred to the “”VAN LIFE”” style that is becoming a worldwide movement, especially in Europe and the United States.

    　In doing so, we decided to use the Hiace, which is easy to use in domestic road conditions.

    　In Sonoma, natural solid wood is used for the flooring, and the roof is also wood as standard equipment, creating a cozy space surrounded by wood from top to bottom.

    　The vast luggage space, which opens up when the table and chairs are lowered, is equipped with high-quality iron shelving furniture and storage, allowing you to create your own space, free of any restrictions on its use.

    　Iron shelving refers to a combination of wooden furniture and iron, which instantly enhances the interior atmosphere and creates a stylish space.

    　Major features include rear flooring installation (natural walnut), butterfly-type 3-seat bench seat, iron shelf blanket storage box, cargo area camping table and chairs (2 each), wood-style roof (with LED downlights) and panel, etc. as standard.

    　Also optional are electrical components such as a sub-battery system, external AC100V (with cord), 100V outlet + DC12V socket + additional USB port.

    　In addition, there are construction-related features such as side-step flooring, vibration damping, and thermal insulation.

    It is like a “”designer’s apartment that moves! The “”Hiace Overnight Model”” equipped with a sofa and wood furniture is amazing! What is the best interior space?

    What are the particulars and repercussions of “”Sonoma”” for casual van life?
    　What aspects of Sonoma were particular to its production? The person in charge of the project had the following to say.

    The use of real wood, iron, and carefully selected fabrics allows you to enjoy the texture of the real thing, which is one of our main points.

    　In addition, the luggage space mat has four independent legs, so it can be taken outside and used as a table and chairs.

    　Unlike a van-con based on a regular Hiace or other van, the equipment is kept to a minimum, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors and the camper in a middle position between the two.””

    Customizable to your own interior space! The “”Hiace”” has an interior space that looks like a luxury designer’s apartment (image courtesy of NACS).

    　In addition, the fabrics are of high quality, allowing you to enjoy not only the casual atmosphere but also the texture of the real thing.

    　What are users saying about Sonoma, which has been on the market for about three years? The person in charge of the Sonoma project had the following to say about the response.

    We have received a great number of inquiries about Sonoma since it was first launched, due in part to the outdoor lifestyle boom.

    　The fact that there are eight different fabrics to choose from has also been well received. Users seem to be able to purchase the product in their own unique combination of styles.

    * * * *

    　In this way, Sonoma is both authentic and casual.
    　
    　The specifications are different from those of conventional Hiace-based campers, and may be a good match for those who want to express their individuality.”

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    Mazda SUV New “MX-30” Released in November! Electronic shift changes operability from 2,640,000 yen .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “New Mazda MX-30 SUV to Go on Sale in November! Electric shift system changes operability, starting at 2,640,000 yen

    Button Positions on Shift Knob Changed
    　Mazda announced on October 20 that it will revamp its MX-30/MX-30 EV MODEL compact SUV and launch it in early November 2022.

    What does the revamped Mazda MX-30 SUV look like? View 18 images
    　What kind of improvements have been made to this model, which features a unique and fashionable design, such as the adoption of double-swing doors?

    Mazda MX-30 Upgraded Model

    　Both the standard and EV models have been redesigned with new body color variations.

    　A new two-tone color scheme with a black “”framed top”” from the A-pillar to the top of the rear quarter panel is now available in three color combinations: Soul Red Crystal Metallic, Jet Black Mica, and Zircon Sand Metallic.

    　Piano black pillar garnish, D-pillar chrome & MAZDA logo, and 18-inch dark aluminum wheels have been changed from optional to standard equipment on all models.

    　On the interior, the shift knob (electric shift) button has been changed from the right side to the back side for improved operability.

    　The standard model (mild hybrid model) grade development has been reviewed, and two new grades, “”Industrial Classic”” and “”Modern Confidence,”” are available.

    　For the EV model, badges have been added to the front fenders on the exterior. The back door badge design will also be changed.

    　In terms of functionality, a 1500W AC power supply in the luggage compartment and a 150W AC power supply in the front console have been added for improved convenience. The power supply is standard on the EV Highest Set and optional on the EV and EV Basic Set.

    　The “”V2H (Vehicle to Home)”” function is standard on all grades.

    　Prices (including consumption tax) start at 2.64 million yen for the standard model and 4.51 million yen for the EV model.

    * * * *

    　The MX-30 is equipped with a double swinging door named “”Freestyle Door””. Together with the strongly reclined C-pillar, the highly specialized design is also one of the appeals of this model.

    　Now here is a quiz.

    　Which of the following cars was actually equipped with the double doors?

    1] Mazda “”Demio

    2. Nissan “”Cube

    3. Toyota “”bB

    4] Honda Fit

    The correct answer is Toyota “”bB”” in [3].

    　The correct answer is [3] Toyota “”bB””.

    　The first-generation bB included a model called the “”bB Open Deck,”” which featured a folding door on one side only.

    　It attracted attention as a very unique model, adopting a pickup truck style with a cargo bed in the latter half of the body.”

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    One unit is OK for daily use and sleeping in the car! As easy to drive as the Prius! Toyota Hiace camping car on sale!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Easy to drive, as easy to drive as a Prius! Toyota “”Hiace”” Camper on Sale!

    Based on the easy-to-handle Hiace standard body
    　Dream Drive Inc. has released the Toyota Hiace camper “”TAMA”” on October 21, 2022.

    Easy to drive and super stylish! The Hiace camper “”TAMA”” is super cool!

    　Based on the standard body of the Hiace, the TAMA is easy to drive and maneuver like a regular car.

    Toyota “”Hiace”” based camper “”TAMA

    　Driving a large camper requires some getting used to, but the Hiace with its flat side body is easy to drive, and the minimum turning radius of the standard Hiace body is 5m (2WD model).

    　The minimum turning radius of the Hiace standard body is 5m (FWD model), not much different from that of a Toyota Prius, and even those who are not comfortable driving a large camper can use it on a daily basis with ease. The standard-body Hiace can also be used in multi-level parking garages.

    　This is the perfect camper for one owner, with high mobility for daily use and satisfying weekend van life, and no difficulty in maneuvering on narrow roads.

    　Solid wood is used sparingly to create a comfortable interior space. More than 1,000 combinations of furniture colors and seat fabrics are available.

    　With a seating capacity of 6 passengers and sleeping capacity for 2 adults + 2 children, families can go on a camper trip together.

    　The space from the rear of the driver’s seat to the back door can be expanded to a fully flat space. Additionally, the rear seats can be turned toward the rear of the camper and the angle and height of the table can be rotated and adjusted for use in dining mode or as a comfortable workspace.

    　In addition, the kitchen is equipped with a deep sink to minimize splashing, a 40-liter refrigerator, and storage. An FF heater, ventilation fan, and side awnings are also available as options.

    * * *

    　TAMA’s price (including consumption tax) starts at 5,750,000 yen. The model is available with standard roof or high roof, 2-liter gasoline or 2.8-liter diesel engine. The vehicle will be registered as an 8-number car.

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

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    “Affordable price” Nissan launches latest SUV “Kicks e-POWER”!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Affordable’ Nissan throws its latest SUV, the Kicks e-POWER, on the streak! Launched in the Sumi market starting at approx. 4.17 million yen

    Differentiating some equipment from gasoline-powered models
    　Nissan Mexico announced the local launch of the new Kicks e-POWER on October 20, 2022.

    Nissan’s new Kicks e-POWER in a row! In Pictures

    Mexican-spec Nissan Kicks e-POWER

    　The introduction of this model has been previously announced, and like the Japanese-spec Kicks e-POWER, it will be produced at a plant in Thailand and imported to Mexico.

    　The new KIX e-POWER will be differentiated from the existing gasoline version (Mexican version) by a new shift lever, drive mode selector, e-POWER badge, electrically foldable side mirrors, and other features.

    　The drive motor of the e-POWER series hybrid system onboard the Kicks delivers a maximum output of 134 hp and a maximum torque of 207 lb-ft.

    　The car will also be equipped with a full range of preventive safety equipment, including intelligent emergency braking (with pedestrian detection), intelligent cruise control, intelligent around-view monitor, and cross-traffic alert.

    　Prices for the Mexican-spec Kicks e-POWER range from 555,900 Mexican pesos (approximately 4.17 million yen) to 594,800 Mexican pesos (approximately 4.46 million yen).

    　Jose Román, President and General Manager of Nissan Mexico and Nissan Imports, commented on the local introduction of the Kicks e-POWER as follows.

    The Kicks e-POWER is a vehicle designed to facilitate the transition to electric vehicles, making them more exciting and affordable for everyone.

    　I am confident that this will be a milestone in the history of mobility in this country.”””

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    First equipped with an advanced large digital meter! Toyota’s new “Corolla Cross” will appear in Europe in the fall of 2022!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “First to feature advanced large digital meters! New Toyota Corolla Cross to Debut in Europe in Fall 2022!

    Equipped with the latest hybrid system and preventive safety package
    　On October 21, 2022, Toyota’s European subsidiary announced the new “”Corolla Cross,”” a C-segment SUV, which will be sequentially released in the European market starting in the fall of 2022.

    Large grille is dynamic! The European Corolla Cross, so different from its Japanese counterpart, is so cool!

    Toyota’s new Corolla Cross (European specifications)

    　The Corolla Cross is positioned as a model that will support Toyota’s sales in the highly competitive European C-segment, with the goal of selling 400,000 units annually by 2025, equivalent to a 9% segment share.

    　Toyota also aims to become “”carbon neutral”” and plans to have 80% of its new vehicle sales in Western Europe be hybrids and plug-in hybrids and 10% be zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) by 2025.

    　By 2030, the company aims to have 50% of its sales in the region be ZEVs and to make Toyota’s production plants carbon neutral, with the goal of having 100% of new vehicle sales be ZEVs in five years.

    　In this context, the new Corolla Cross is the first Toyota to feature a fifth-generation hybrid system that delivers more torque, more power from the electric motor, and a more efficient driving experience.

    　Powertrains include a 1.8-liter hybrid and a 2-liter hybrid. To match the driving scene in Europe, the throttle is set so that the driver’s throttle operation and the car’s acceleration are coordinated more naturally.

    　Both the 1.8-liter hybrid and 2-liter hybrid are available in FWD (front-wheel drive), while the 2-liter hybrid is also available in AWD, with a more powerful rear electric motor for improved cornering and starting performance on low-grip surfaces.

    　The 1.8-liter hybrid will initially be sold only in Israel and Turkey.

    　The new Corolla Cross will appeal to young families seeking a practical and versatile vehicle. The exterior design is strong, typical of Toyota SUVs, and all grades feature slim, two-light LED headlights. The Mid+ and High grades are additionally equipped with sequential turn lamps and LED light guides.

    　The wheels are silver-finished 17-inch aluminum with tool-like graphics highlighting the rims, while the 18-inch wheels feature contrasting bright machined and dark gray finishes and an intertwining rim and spokes design.

    　The interior emphasizes practicality. Large side windows and a high driver’s eye point provide a bright, open space with good visibility for all occupants.

    　The panoramic roof with electric blinds, available as an option for all grades, further enhances the sense of openness.

    　The luggage space has a wide opening and a cargo height of 720 mm, the lowest among competing models. A power back door with kick sensor is also available as an option.

    　The latest 12.3-inch full-digital combination meter, which can be personalized by the driver, is now available for the first time on a Toyota vehicle (standard equipment on all models).

    　The digital meters feature an ergonomic design that maximizes space with highly visible, easy-to-read information and intuitive operation, allowing the driver to personalize the information and other aspects of the display.

    　It also offers display modes such as casual/smart/tough/sporty, which can be easily changed using a toggle switch on the steering wheel.

    　Toyota Motor Europe was deeply involved in the development of these digital meters, and the specifications have been tailored to meet the preferences and requirements of European users.

    　On the safety front, the new Toyota Mazda6 is the first model to feature the latest generation of Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), which can be updated via Over-The-Air (wireless communication).

    　The TSS package, combined with other active driving and parking support systems, not only makes driving easier and safer, but also protects all occupants and other road users in a variety of situations.

    * * *

    　The price of the new Corolla Cross has been announced in Italy and ranges from 38,000 to 43,500 euros, or about 5,590,000 to 6,400,000 Japanese yen.”

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    No longer a “commercial vehicle”! There are also voices of pros and cons for the rough paint, “It’s cool!”.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “No longer a “”commercial vehicle””? Is the black Toyota “”RAV4″” a bit too much? The paint job is not so good, but it’s cool! Some say it’s “”cool!

    What do you think of the overly rugged RAV4 special edition?
    　A special edition of the “”Adventure,”” an active grade of Toyota’s popular RAV4 SUV, has been set for release on October 4, 2022.

    Toyota’s “”RAV4 Adventure Off-Road Package””

    　The special edition “”Adventure Off-Road Package II”” is a two-tone vehicle with “”Gory Gory Black paint”” applied to the front bumper, door mirrors, and other parts of the vehicle to create a bumpy texture by layering paint to emphasize the off-road image.

    Toyota “”RAV4″” special edition with awesome paint job

    　We conducted a survey on social networking sites to get users’ opinions about this Adventure Off-Road Package II.

    The question asked, “”What do you think of the design of the Adventure Off-Road Package II, which is available as a special edition of the RAV4?”” The majority of the respondents answered “”not good,”” with 22.6% saying “”very good,”” 25.8% saying “”fair to good,”” 19.4% saying “”not so good,”” and 32.3% saying “”not good at all,”” resulting in a divided response.

    　Negative respondents commented that “”the front bumper looks cheap”” and “”the black bumper exclusively for the two-tone looks uncomfortable because the black area is too wide,”” as well as “”it looks like a commercial vehicle.

    　On the other hand, the positive group says that the ruggedness is a favorable impression, with some saying, “”The front mask is cool,”” “”It feels powerful,”” and “”It has a good van taste,”” and the style may be irresistible to those who like it.

    　The gory black paint applied to the RAV4 Special Edition has an uneven texture and matte luster that creates a wild impression, and the layers of paint make it resistant to scuffs and scratches.

    　It can also be retrofitted to the Adventure grade. This means you can enjoy a tough gear feel like this Off-Road Package II.

    * * *

    　The RAV4 Adventure Off-Road Package II includes special equipment, such as bridge-shaped roof rails, 18-inch all-terrain tires paired with matte black aluminum wheels, and an exclusive emblem on the rear.

    　In addition, the minimum ground clearance has been increased by 10 mm through suspension tuning. The body is less likely to be hit by obstacles even on rough roads, and forward visibility is excellent.

    　The gory black paint is only available on the two-tone model. Bumpers on monotone models are the same color as the body, and door mirrors are black.

    　The 2-liter gasoline and 2.5-liter gasoline models are available, and all models are 4WD.”

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    Riding system “RS” revival in Honda “Fit”! It looks like a German car!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Honda “”Fit”” revives the driving style “”RS””! Just like a German car! You can also choose it for its sporty looks! Test drive report

    The Fit gets the long-awaited “”RS”” edition!
    　On October 6, 2022, the Honda Fit received a minor change. The focus of the change must be the addition (revival) of the “”RS”” model.

    Sporty mesh grille! Photos of the intrepid new “”Fit RS”” interior and exterior

    The Fit gets the long-awaited “”RS”” edition!
    　On October 6, 2022, the Honda Fit received a minor change. The focus of the change must be the addition (revival) of the “”RS”” model.

    Sporty mesh grille! Photos of the intrepid new “”Fit RS”” interior and exterior .

    How is the RS different from other grades?

    Honda’s new Fit RS stands out for its sportiness

    　The RS is described in the press release as “”a type that focuses on design and driving quality,”” and features a wide-mouthed front bumper, side sill garnish, rear bumper, rear spoiler, and exclusively designed aluminum wheels. The Fit’s standard type (“”BASIC””) is a “”design with a running quality”” type.

    　The addition of a mesh grille is also a symbolic part of the RS’s styling, while the standard Fit models (“”Basic”” and “”Home””) are grille-less.

    　The interior is also exclusive to the RS, with coordinated suede seat upholstery, but even more distinctive is the steering wheel, which has a two-spoke design. While other grades have a two-spoke steering wheel, the RS has a three-spoke steering wheel with yellow stitching.

    　The steering wheel is also equipped with deceleration selectors (paddles) that allow the driver to choose between four levels of damping force when the gas pedal is turned off.

    　In addition, the drive mode switch on the lower left of the meter is also unique to the RS. The driver can choose between “”Normal,”” “”Sport,”” and “”ECON,”” which is a control mode that emphasizes fuel economy.

    　Other grades have only “”Normal”” and “”ECON,”” and the location of the switch differs from that of the RS.

    The stability of the RS’s exclusive settings is amazing!
    　The true essence of the RS is not so much its appearance as its driving performance. The suspension and other special tuning features differentiate the drivability of the RS from the RS.

    　The first thing I felt when I actually drove the car was the difference in steering feel. The power steering control is specially tuned, and as a result, the steering feels more solid than other grades.

    Honda “”Fit”” revives the driving style “”RS””! Just like a German car! It looks like a German car! Test drive report

    　I also felt that the behavior when turning was calmer. Roll speed is suppressed, and when driving on a winding road, the suspension holds firm, increasing the sense of stability of the vehicle, giving the driver the feeling of driving a car of a higher class.

    　Compared to the other grades, the response of the other grades to steering wheel operation and the sense of roll while turning give the impression of “”light and nimble”” driving, whereas the RS has a more stable body and emphasizes a solid feel.

    　Also, when the accelerator pedal is depressed, shift-up control is activated, and even though the car is motor-driven except in the high-speed range (even in the high-speed range, mechanical step shifting is not used), the engine speed drops momentarily and the driver feels as if he or she is shifting up.

    　This is a mechanism that is also incorporated in the Civic e:HEV, which was introduced earlier, but it has nothing to do with efficiency and is intended to enhance drivability.

    　When the car is set to “”Sport,”” a driving mode exclusive to the RS, the accelerator pedal becomes more responsive, and the shifting control has been modified to emphasize the sense of shifting gears more.

    　This has increased the sense of rhythm in acceleration, and the increased sense of oneness between the car and driver has made it understandably more exhilarating to step on the accelerator pedal.

    　Compared to the Fit before the minor changes, the increased output of the motor and the adoption of shift-up control have increased the pleasure of stepping on the accelerator even when compared to standard models, but the RS seems to have taken this to a much higher level. It can be said that the RS is a sporty grade not only in style but also in driving performance.

    　By the way, some may be concerned about the ride quality of the RS, as its suspension is tuned to be stiffer. However, that worry will prove to be unfounded.

    　Certainly, there are situations where the bite feels harder than other grades, such as when driving on poor road surfaces.

    　However, it absorbs shocks well and has what is called a “”rounded corner ride”” so there is no discomfort, and although it is different from a typical Japanese compact, you can imagine that it feels like a German small car. So as a family car, there should be no complaints from the family.

    　We felt that the Fit RS is a car that we can safely recommend to anyone, not just those who like to drive. I think it is very possible to choose it for its looks.”

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    It looks like a “fashionable cafe”! Toyota “Hiace” equipped with a “luxury bed” Comfortable full-flat specification “Car overnight custom” .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “It looks like a “”fashionable café””! Toyota “”Hiace”” equipped with a “”luxury bed”” and a comfortable “”overnight stay customization”” with a full-flat bed

    What kind of car is the Santa Rosa “”Catalina”” Hiace complete car?
    　The Hiace, Toyota’s commercial van, is popular not only for work but also for outdoor activities and other hobbies.
    　
    　Among them, there is a model called “”Catalina”” by Santa Rosa, which is developed by NACS, a company that specializes in customizing the Hiace. What are its features and specialties?

    A stylish cafe-spec Hiace! What is the interior space like? See the actual car!

    Stylish cafe spec! Toyota “”Hiace”” complete car (Image courtesy of NACS)

    　Catalina is based on a “”Hiace Van Super GL,”” a vehicle registered with a 4 license plate number.

    　What were the particular points of the Catalina that made it such a special creation?

    　The person in charge of NACS explains the points of particularity as follows.

    The bed kit installed in Catalina has six bed mats that can be laid out at two different heights, so it can be used not only as a sleeping space but also effectively in a variety of layout patterns.

    　The bed kit can also be used as a dinette mode (table) by arranging the mats above and below.

    　Specifically, when all the bed mats are placed on the upper level, the bed can be used as a full flat bed while carrying a large amount of luggage or high objects, and when the center two bed mats are placed on the upper level and the remaining four mats on the lower level, it can be used as a table and chair.

    　The beds will be finished in antique duchesse leather and walnut wood, and will fit perfectly into the storage spaces on either side.

    　The flooring is easy-to-maintain cushion flooring material, and there are 15 floor designs and five fabric colors to choose from, allowing customers to select the one they prefer,”” continued the aforementioned representative.

    　Customers can choose from 15 different floor designs, ranging from natural wood grain to hard concrete, including wild oak, black wood grain, and white painted wood.

    　There are also a total of five fabric colors available: two in Signature, two in Nestgrace, and one in Duke Brown Leather.

    　What kind of feedback has Catalina received from users?

    The Catalina is one of the most frequently ordered custom-completed Hiace vehicles in the Santa Rosa lineup.

    　We receive inquiries and purchases from people of all ages because it is a vehicle that is easy to use in situations other than the outdoors.

    * * * *

    　In addition, the second seat can be folded down to create a large luggage space, and the outstanding load capacity unique to the Hiace is another attraction.”

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    “Good sense!” Many in favor of changing the car name to the new Subaru “Crosstrek”? There is also a voice that is more friendly than “XV”.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Good taste!”” Many Favor Changing the Name of the New Subaru “”Crosstrek””? Some say it is more familiar than “”XV

    Subaru to Rename the Crosstrek: What Do You Think?
    　Subaru has announced the world premiere of its new SUV, the Crosstrek, in September 2022.

    　This new Crosstrek is the successor to the company’s XV. The name “”Crosstrek,”” which was previously used overseas, will be used globally, and the Japanese version will also be renamed.

    Is it wilder than the XV? Check out the interior and exterior of the new Crosstrek in these photos!

    　We conducted a survey to find out what users think about the new Crosstrek.

    Crosstrek”” is a combination of crossover and trekking

    Crosstrek”” is the name of the car used overseas. What do you think about the unification of this car name in Japan instead of the conventional XV? 67.5% of the respondents answered “”Yes,”” 12.5% answered “”No,”” and 20.0% answered “”Don’t care either way.

    　Respondents commented, “”I think the name ‘Crosstrek’ is cool,”” “”Whether it’s Impreza or Crosstrek, it has a nice sound. I think it has a good sense of coined words.”” Many respondents had a favorable impression of the car name Crosstrek.

    　In addition to comments such as “”I think it is more familiar than alphabet car names,”” and “”Crosstrek is easier to remember, so I prefer this one,”” there were also comments such as “”It is a natural trend considering that other manufacturers are also unifying their car names in their global strategies. It would have been better if they had done it earlier.

    　Crosstrek is a coined word combining the words “”crossover”” and “”trekking,”” and is said to express the desire for people to be able to go anywhere from urban to outdoor and enjoy activities as casually as trekking.

    　Originally, the XV was positioned as the entry model of the Subaru SUV lineup, and its moderate size and stylish design have made it popular among casual city drivers and female users.

    　The name change to Crosstrek in the new model will make it even friendlier and more like a partner.

    　On the other hand, respondents who preferred XV said, “”I guess it’s a matter of familiarity. Personally, I liked the name XV,”” and “”XV was so well known in Japan that I don’t think it would be a good idea to change it now.

    * * *

    　While Subaru has changed from a symbolic car name using only letters of the alphabet to a coined word, Mazda has globally unified its car names using letters and numbers.

    　For example, “”Demio”” is “”Mazda2,”” “”Axela”” is “”Mazda3,”” and “”Atenza”” is “”Mazda6,”” and so on.

    　Furthermore, the SUV series has adopted vehicle names such as “”CX-3,”” “”CX-30,”” “”MX-30,”” “”CX-5,”” “”CX-8,”” and “”CX-60.

    　While most of the car names are in accordance with the law, the two-seater convertible “”Roadster”” will not be unified with the overseas name “”MX-5″” because the name is very familiar in Japan.”

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    too radical? Explosive selling SUV “X-Trail” What is the slightly “overdone” specification that was in the successive models .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Too extreme? What are the slightly “”excessive”” specifications of successive generations of the hot-selling SUV XTRAIL?

    Unique equipment not found in the current model, including a model with a sports engine
    　On July 20, 2022, the fourth generation of Nissan’s XTRAIL SUV was unveiled, marking the first model change in nine years. It has become popular with orders for more than 12,000 units in the first two weeks since its launch.
    　
    　The XTRAIL, which pioneered the popularity of SUVs, has pursued “”toughness”” since the first generation model and added “”quality”” to the current model, but previous models also had specifications that could be considered extreme.

    What is the shiny and bright “”Hyper Roof Rail””? Check out the successive generations of the XTRAIL with 45 images.

    The Nissan XTRAIL, with its “”tough specs”” and aggressive design (image: 2nd generation)

    　The first-generation XTRAIL was launched in 2000, targeting outdoor sports enthusiasts in their 20s and 30s, and was equipped with a high-performance 4WD system based on the concept of “”comfortable and fun for four people, a usable 4WD vehicle for 2 million yen.

    　The “”washable luggage board”” and water-repellent seats, which allow passengers and their playthings to be used without worrying about getting them dirty, were also promoted in commercials, and many people may remember the scene where people enjoying marine and winter sports loaded their dirty tools straight into the vehicle.

    　In the first generation model, the “”tough tool feel”” was further enhanced through improvements, and in the 2003 minor change, in addition to the seats, the ceiling and floor were waterproofed so that they can be wiped with water, making them more resistant to hard use.

    　While most cars are normally waterproofed only in the seats and luggage compartment, this is a very rare case where the floor and ceiling are also fully waterproofed, and in a sense, can be considered “”extreme.

    　In addition, “”Hyper Roof Rail”” was made available as an option on the exterior (later made standard equipment on some grades). By equipping the roof rails with driving lamps that are linked to the high beams, this system enhances visibility at night by illuminating the road ahead from a higher position than with ordinary lights.

    　It is rare to have such driving lamps as standard or optional equipment in a factory-installed vehicle, making it unique among Japanese SUVs.

    　The first generation model also featured a new “”GT”” grade in 2001. The new grade boasted 280 horsepower and 31.5 kgf/m of torque by adding a turbo and variable valve timing mechanism to the SR20 sports engine, which was also used in the Silvia sports car.

    　However, the 2nd and 3rd generation XTRAIL models were not equipped with a gasoline turbo engine, but were revived in the 4th generation (all models with VC turbo and e-POWER).

    * * *

    　In 2007, the second-generation XTRAIL was introduced. The waterproof interior and Hyper Roof Rail were carried over as optional equipment, and pictures of adults getting into the car after having serious fun and getting covered in mud, and with the Hyper Roof Rail driving lights on, were used in advertisements, establishing the identity of the xtrail.

    　For the second generation, a model equipped with a clean diesel engine (20GT), which combines high performance with outstanding environmental performance, was also made available. The 2-liter diesel engine “”M9R”” complies with the “”Post New Long-term Emission Regulations”” and delivers maximum output of 173 PS and maximum torque of 36.7 kgf/m. Initially available only with a 6-speed manual transmission, a 6-speed AT was later added. * * * The first and second generation XTRAIL was launched in 2000, targeting outdoor sports enthusiasts in their 20s and 30s, with the concept of “”a 2 million yen usable 4WD car that is comfortable and fun for 4 people””.

    　　In the first generation model, the “”tough tool feel”” was further enhanced through improvements, and in the 2003 minor change, in addition to the seats, the ceiling and floor were waterproofed so that they can be wiped with water, making them more resistant to hard use.

    　While most cars are normally waterproofed only in the seats and luggage compartment, this is a very rare case where the floor and ceiling are also fully waterproofed, and in a sense, can be considered “”extreme.

    　In addition, “”Hyper Roof Rail”” was made available as an option on the exterior (later made standard equipment on some grades). By equipping the roof rails with driving lamps that are linked to the high beams, this system enhances visibility at night by illuminating the road ahead from a higher position than with ordinary lights.

    　It is rare to have such driving lamps as standard or optional equipment in a factory-installed vehicle, making it unique among Japanese SUVs.

    　The first generation model also featured a new “”GT”” grade in 2001. The new grade boasted 280 horsepower and 31.5 kgf/m of torque by adding a turbo and variable valve timing mechanism to the SR20 sports engine, which was also used in the Silvia sports car.

    　However, the 2nd and 3rd generation XTRAIL models were not equipped with a gasoline turbo engine, but were revived in the 4th generation (all models with VC turbo and e-POWER).

    * * *

    　In 2007, the second-generation XTRAIL was introduced. The waterproof interior and Hyper Roof Rail were carried over as optional equipment, and pictures of adults getting into the car after having serious fun and getting covered in mud, and with the Hyper Roof Rail driving lights on, were used in advertisements, establishing the identity of the xtrail.

    For the second generation, a model equipped with a clean diesel engine (20GT), which combines high performance with outstanding environmental performance, was also made available.

    　The 2-liter diesel engine “”M9R”” complies with the “”Post New Long-term Emission Regulations”” and delivers maximum output of 173 PS and maximum torque of 36.7 kgf/m. Initially available only with a 6-speed manual transmission, a 6-speed AT was later added.

    * * *

    　The first and second generation XTRAIL had specifications and models that pursued “”toughness”” and “”speed”” that could be described as extreme.

    Among them, “”toughness”” was accepted as the identity of the XTRAIL, and has been carried over to the 3rd and 4th generation current models. It continues to evolve while improving safety equipment and fuel economy.

    　The fourth generation of the XTRAIL is the first in its history to offer “”high quality,”” and expectations are high for how it will coexist with toughness in the future.”