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    Yavai! Toyota’s “Tough face SUV” released! What is the reaction of the new face “RAV4” with a novel “gorigori” body color.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Ya! Toyota’s “”tough-looking SUV”” is on sale! How is the response to the new face “”RAV4″” with its novel “”gory”” body color?

    GORI GORI BLACK is badass!”” Some say “”GORI GORI BLACK is bad!
    　The Toyota RAV4, which underwent a partial makeover on October 4, 2022, has been given a special edition “”Adventure “”OFFROAD package ll”” with an exclusive “”GORI GORI BLACK”” paint job.
    　
    　What kind of feedback has been received from dealers and social networking services regarding this special edition model, which further emphasizes the off-road image?

    Here’s Toyota’s idea of an “”awesome-looking SUV””! See the various black actual vehicles!

    The “”GORI GORI BLACK”” naming scheme is awesome! Toyota has released a special edition version of the RAV4, the “”Adventure “”OFFROAD package II.””

    　The grade system has been revised in this partial improvement, with the “”RAV4 PHV”” being set as the “”Z”” grade of the RAV4.

    　In addition, the “”Toyota Safety Sense”” with expanded functions and a display audio system compatible with the connected navigation system have been adopted.

    　However, the most talked-about feature of the new model is the special edition Adventure “”OFFROAD package ll”” based on the “”Adventure”” model.

    The most distinctive feature of the Adventure “”OFFROAD package ll”” is the bumpy, low-matte texture of the special paint applied to the front bumper and door mirrors.

    This special paint, called “”GORI GORI BLACK paint,”” further emphasizes the RAV4’s off-road image.

    　What kind of feedback has been received from users of the Adventure “”OFFROAD package ll””?

    　A representative from a Toyota dealership in Tokyo had the following to say.

    The RAV4 has always been a popular model, but we have received a lot of inquiries about the partially improved RAV4.

    　Many customers who choose the RAV4 prefer a wild image, and the Adventure model has been particularly popular, but the special edition Adventure “”OFFROAD package ll”” has an even wilder exterior design, and I get the impression that customer interest is quite high. The special edition Adventure “”OFFROAD package ll”” has an even wilder exterior design, and we have the impression that customers are quite interested in it.

    　Also, Toyota’s SUV lineup consists of many “”urban”” models, and customers seeking a “”tough SUV”” tended to concentrate on the RAV4.

    　On the other hand, for those seeking a tougher SUV than the RAV4, the Land Cruiser series is the next choice, but many customers have had difficulty reaching them due to size, price, practicality, and other factors.

    　In this respect, the Adventure “”OFFROAD package ll,”” which retains the RAV4’s conventional appeal while enhancing its wild image, seems to meet the needs of our customers.

    * * * * *

    　Furthermore, looking at SNS, along with favorable comments such as “”GORI GORI BLACK is too cool,”” there are many comments about its excellent name, such as “”GORI GORI BLACK’s naming is awesome.

    　On the other hand, there were also comments such as, “”It’s interesting, but I’ll get tired of this kind of design soon,”” and “”It looks like it’s just a tacked-on design,”” indicating that the gimmicky specifications have divided tastes.

    　Many people at dealerships and on social networking sites are concerned about the delivery date of the RAV4.

    　According to the person in charge, “”As of now, the gasoline-powered model will be available from January to February 2023, and the hybrid model will be available in June 2023.

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

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    Toyota launches new SUV “Corolla Cross” with large grill!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota’s New Corolla Cross SUV Adopts Large Grille and String of Pitches! Australian specs go on sale

    Front face equipped with a large trapezoidal grille
    　Toyota’s Australian subsidiary launched a new compact SUV, the Corolla Cross, on October 12, 2022. The Corolla Cross is currently on sale in Japan, but it will be introduced there with a different face than in Japan.

    Appearance with a rugged face with a trapezoidal grille! View 21 images of the Toyota Corolla Cross Australian specifications.

    Toyota “”Corolla Cross”” to be introduced to the Australian market

    　The Corolla Cross is an SUV with its world premiere in Thailand in 2020, and will be launched in Japan in 2021. It will be rolled out globally, not only in Asia, but also in the United States and Europe.

    　The appearance, including the front grille, will differ depending on the market. In Thailand and Europe, a trapezoidal front grille will be used, while in Japan and the U.S. (2023 model year/hybrid vehicle), the face will be characterized by a thin front grille and a large lower grille.

    　Unlike the Japanese version, the Australian version will be presented with the front grille design that was unveiled for the first time in the world in Thailand.

    　The power unit will come in two types: 2-liter gasoline and hybrid (2-liter gasoline + motor). The gasoline version will be available in 2WD only, while the hybrid version will be available in 2WD or 4WD.

    　Advanced equipment includes the new-generation Toyota Multimedia System, the first Toyota-branded vehicle for the Australian market.

    　This system will feature a large 8-inch touchscreen display, smartphone connectivity (Apple CarPlay wireless connectivity and Android Auto wired connectivity), and DAB+ digital radio.

    　The new Australian version of the Corolla Cross will start at A$33,000 (about ¥3.02 million) for the gasoline version and A$35,500 (about ¥3.25 million) for the hybrid version.”

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    Coming out next year? “Century Cross” attention also “Alphard” standardized? Is the new “Crown” popular? An active driver talks about “the car that the president likes”

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Next year? Century Cross”” attracts attention. Will “”Alphard”” become a standard model? Is the new “”Crown”” also popular? What is the “”president’s favorite car”” as told by a current driver?

    You have to be an executive driver to know what it is? What is a popular executive car?
    　Presidents, executives, bank presidents, and other so-called “”bigwigs”” of large companies usually have their own “”executive drivers”” and a “”president car/officer car (VIP car),”” which is their exclusive courtesy car.
    　
    　Different companies generally utilize different models of these cars, but what models are popular?

    Coming out next year? Toyota “”Century Cross”” is so cool! Top-end specifications of sedans & SUVs in images .

    What kind of cars does the president like? Which models are the most popular show cars? Rumor has it that the “”Century Cross”” will appear in 2023? (Photo: theottle)

    　Routes from home to the office, from the office to a dinner party, from a business trip to the office, etc., vary, but basically, the executive car is used for transportation within the range that can be traveled by car.

    　A car that carries corporate executives in the back seat is sometimes called a “”show car”” (or “”show driver””), meaning a car with a driver.

    　Mr. A, who actually works as an executive driver in Tokyo, says, “”I pick up the driver when he returns to the airport from his business trip, or take him to and from the office to the building where the meeting is being held, or I drive a completely different route depending on the day.

    　There are a wide variety of executive cars, depending on the company and the executive.

    　For example, the most commonly used executive cars are the Toyota Century and Crown, the Lexus LS, the Nissan Cima and Fuga, the Mercedes-Benz Maybach and the BMW 7 Series, and many other models are used. The reality is that the model used varies depending on the characteristics of the company.

    　Furthermore, even within the same company, different models are often assigned according to titles, such as president, vice president, and senior managing director.

    　In other cases, a company may have several executive cars, and each executive can travel in the model that he or she wants to drive.

    　Although there is no specific definition of executive cars, there seems to be a trend toward popular models, but what models will be popular as executive cars in 2022?

    　Mr. A mentioned above says, “”A wide range of models are being utilized,”” and then goes on to talk about popular models as executive cars as follows.

    In the case of relatively ‘serious’ companies such as banks, the LS, Crown, and Cima tend to have the highest usage rates, in that order.

    　The Century, which is generally associated with the image of an executive car, is used by many large, partially listed companies.
    　
    　As can be seen, the LS, Crown, and Cima are the most commonly used executive cars.

    　Mr. A also says, “”Recently, the Executive Lounge of the Toyota Alphard, which has a spacious interior, has been widely used.

    　The Executive Lounge, the highest grade of the Alphard, is one of the most comfortable cars in the market.

    　The second-row captain’s seat in the seven-seater version has a special seat called the “”executive lounge seat.

    　In addition to the electric reclining and extendable electric ottoman, the seats are equipped with features such as air blowing from the seat surface and back, and heated seats for comfort in any season.

    　A dedicated table and power outlet are also included, so electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers can be used while charging.

    　Models such as LS, Crown, and Cima are often utilized as executive cars and can be said to be truly royal road models, but the fact that Alphard is being utilized more and more these days suggests that more and more executives are seeking “”comfort”” over “”safety.

    * * *

    　In addition, more and more people are using SUVs such as the Lexus “”LX Executive,”” Mercedes-Maybach “”GLS,”” and Rolls-Royce “”Cullinan”” these days, suggesting that the SUV boom may be coming for show carriers as well.

    　Furthermore, the new Toyota Crown, which became the 16th generation in July 2022, launched the Crown Crossover, which combines a sedan and SUV, and the Crown Sedan is scheduled to be introduced as a series in 2023.

    　According to several presidents and executives, “”We are considering the new Crown Crossover”” and “”We want the Crown Sedan when it comes out next year.

    　Furthermore, overseas, virtual tuner Theo Throttle posted a rendering of the Century Cross, an SUV version of the Century, which caused quite a stir.

    　Rumor has it that the Century Cross will be released in 2023, and if it does appear, it may become synonymous with a new show car.”

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    Introducing a luxury minivan similar to the Toyota “Alphard”! Will the “luxury minivan” become a “global trend”?

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “A luxury minivan similar to Toyota’s “”Alphard”” is now available! Pros and cons of the new “”Red Flag HQ9″”! Will the “”luxury minivan”” become a “”global trend””?

    Many say it looks like the Alphard! Some predict a “”global luxury minivan boom”” in the future
    　On August 13, 2022, China FAW’s luxury car brand “”Red Flag”” unveiled a new luxury minivan “”HQ9″” in China.

    Does it really look like it? Comparison of the new Hongqi top-end minivan “”HQ9″” and Toyota’s “”Alphard”” in 79 images.

    　The HQ9 is a luxurious minivan with an overall length of over 5 meters and a large front grille, but it has been receiving a lot of feedback on social networking sites, such as “”It looks like an Alphard.

    　Red Flag is the top luxury car brand of China’s long-established automaker, China FAW, which was established in 1958. Among them, the “”L5,”” which is the symbolic sedan of the Red Flag brand, can only be purchased if it meets the criteria after being investigated for criminal records, antisocial ties, social status, social contribution, economic strength, and relatives, making it similar to the Toyota Century in the domestic car market.

    　Red Flag announced the HQ9 as the company’s first minivan on August 13, 2022. With a body size of 5222 mm (overall length) x 2005 mm (overall width) x 1892 mm (overall height) and a wheelbase of 3200 mm (overall length), it is a large minivan exceeding 5 meters in length.

    　The powertrain is a 2-liter inline 4-cylinder turbo engine + 48V mild hybrid system, mated to an 8-speed AT.

    　The front face is characterized by a large, vertical grille with a red center decoration, which is typical of a Red Flag vehicle, and a large number of chrome decorations.

    　The price is estimated to start at 400,000 yuan (about 7.9 million Japanese yen).

    * * * *

    　Various opinions about the new HQ9 have been gathered on social networking sites.

    　The most common are: “”Did you put an Alphard and an Elgrand together?”” The most common opinions about the new HQ9 are that it resembles the Toyota Alphard, such as “”The face looks like an Alphard,”” “”The headlights are completely Alphard,”” and “”I thought it was the next model of Alphard.

    There are also many opinions that expect that the popularity of the Alphard in China will lead to the growth of luxury minivans like the Alphard into a globally trending category in the future, such as “”The Alphard has been a hit and is trending worldwide,”” and “”The popularity of the Alphard in China is amazing.

    　There were also many opinions expressing concern about Chinese products, such as “”I’m worried about durability,”” “”It’s going to break down all the time when it gets old,”” and “”I want to buy a place where I can feel safe,”” indicating the low level of trust in Chinese products in Japan.

    　On the other hand, there were many comments such as, “”This is exactly what I mean by ‘majestic. I have a feeling that this is a great car,”” and “”I think the interior and exterior are both at a very good level,”” etc. Some people said that they liked the interior and exterior design of the HQ9, and we can sense the possibility that demand can be expected even if the model is introduced in Japan.

    　Some people seem to have realized that China poses a threat to their products, saying that “”Chinese products are already at the same level as Japanese products”” and “”I’m rather worried about the future of Japanese cars.

    * * *

    　While “”the luxury minivan market is growing,”” a few people expressed their expectations for the next model of Nissan’s “”Elgrand,”” the original model of this genre, saying, “”I look forward to seeing how the original large minivan, the Elgrand, will turn things around.

    　There were also comments such as, “”I wonder if Porsche or Maserati will launch a luxury minivan in the near future,”” and others speculated that following the SUV trend, “”luxury minivans”” would become a trend and that automakers from other countries would also introduce luxury minivans.

    　In addition to the topic of the HQ9 itself, various opinions were expressed about “”Chinese products”” and “”luxury minivans. It seems that people are paying attention to how the luxury minivan will change in the automobile market in the future.

    　HQ9’s “”Red Flag”” brand, which has created such a buzz, is also being developed in countries other than China, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Norway, and will land here in Japan in 2021. The first model to land in Japan is the H9 sedan, which has a showroom in front of Namba Station in Osaka.

    　There is no word on the introduction of the HQ9 in Japan, but perhaps one day we will see it in Japan.”

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    Exploding like a rugged SUV!Toyota’s main SUV “RAV4″‘s “Nudge bar specification” is cool What is the item set in Australia .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “The “”Nudge Bar”” version of Toyota’s flagship SUV, the RAV4, is a cool item set to be released in Australia. Toyota’s flagship SUV, the RAV4, has a cool nudge-bar design.

    SUV-like Burst of Style! A cool collection of items
    　The current Toyota RAV4, now in its fifth generation, will go on sale in Japan in April 2019 after its world premiere in North America in March 2018. It has become one of Toyota’s mainstay SUVs, not only in North America and Japan, but also in various other markets.

    The “”RAV4,”” bursting with ruggedness, is super cool! The wild “”Edge”” is also a cool Australian version.

    　The RAV4 is also sold in Australia, and there are items that enhance the SUV-like appearance of the vehicle as local dealer options. What kind of parts will be available?

    Australian-spec RAV4 (with accessories)

    　The RAV4 sold in the Australian market is available in 2-liter gasoline, 2.5-liter gasoline, and 2.5-liter hybrid versions.

    　Different specifications are also adopted, such as the fact that the 2-liter gasoline version is only available in 2WD, and the grade with a face equivalent to the “”Adventure”” grade of the Japanese version is named “”Edge””.

    　In this context, the “”nudge bar”” exists as a dealer option for the RAV4 for Australia. The aluminum nudge bar is designed to perfectly fit the face of the RAV4 and protect the body from external impacts. It also functions similarly to the Bull Bar and Kangaroo Bar.

    　It is available in two colors, silver and black. The airbags are also designed to work properly.

    　Incidentally, other parts to protect the body, such as headlight covers and hood protectors, are also available as dealer option parts. Both are made of acrylic and are fully protected against road debris.

    * * * *

    　Because the RAV4 is suited for rough roads and outdoor activities, optional parts such as the nudge bar look even better.”

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    Is “Hybrid Vehicle Profitable” a Fairy Tale of Reiwa? What is the truth compared to Toyota “Noavok / RAV4” gasoline specification .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Is the “”benefit of a hybrid car”” a fairy tale of 2022? The Truth about Toyota’s “”Noavok/RAV4″” Compared to Gasoline-Fueled Models

    Comparison by “”new car price,”” “”gasoline price,”” and “”price at the time of sale
    　There are “”gasoline-powered”” and “”hybrid”” cars available in the same model, and there is a price difference between the two powertrains, but which is the “”better buy””?
    　
    　Let’s compare them with the popular Toyota minivan “”Noah/Voxy”” and SUV “”RAV4″”.

    How are the differences in appearance? View 42 photos of Toyota’s Noah/Voxy and RAV4.

    Toyota’s popular RAV4 SUV model, which underwent a partial makeover on October 4, 2022 (Photo: RAV4 Adventure hybrid model)

    　It has already been 25 years since the first generation Toyota Prius, the world’s first mass-produced hybrid car, was introduced in 1997.

    　Hybrid cars have become so commonplace in Japan that “”hybrid-only”” vehicles such as the Prius, Toyota Aqua, Nissan Note, and the new Extrail are not uncommon.

    　Therefore, the question that arises when buying a car nowadays is whether to choose a hybrid car or not.

    　If it is a hybrid-only car, it is still a hybrid car, but many cars sold today have both an engine and a hybrid version.

    　In this case, it is difficult to decide which one to choose.

    　For example, if you have a “”clear intention”” such as “”I want to drive a hybrid car next time for sure,”” or “”I want to drive a hybrid car now because I will not be able to drive an engine car in the future,”” you will not have to worry about it.

    　The answer was surprisingly simple.

    　All you have to do is compare the “”difference in new car price,”” “”gasoline price,”” and “”price at the time of sale”” between engine cars and hybrid cars.

    　Specifically, the difference at the time of purchase, including tax benefits, the cost of gasoline saved by switching to a hybrid, and whether the resale value of the car will pay for itself when you dispose of it.

    　Here, “”feeling,”” including preference, should also be taken into account to make an overall decision.

    　Regarding popular cars that are set to be engine-powered and hybrid vehicles, we would like to consider which one to buy, focusing on the long-term expense of 5 years and 50,000 km driving.

    　The calculation methods and comparison criteria will be as follows

    —–

    1. Difference in new car prices

    　Prices include consumption tax. Grades are assumed to be the same for both cars as much as possible, and if there are differences in equipment, these are also taken into account.

    　In many cases, hybrid cars receive preferential treatment in terms of “”weight tax”” and “”environmental performance discount,”” so the actual price at the time of purchase is also taken into account.

    2. Gasoline cost (fuel cost required for 5 years and 50,000km driving)

    　Fuel economy is assumed to be 80% of the catalog fuel economy (WLTC mode fuel economy) for both engine and hybrid cars, and the unit price of gasoline is calculated at 169 yen for regular and 179 yen for high-octane.

    3. price at time of sale (resale value at 5 years and 50,000km on the road)

    　Refer to the final payment of the “”residual value set loan”” (5-year plan) announced by each manufacturer on their official Web sites.

    —–

    　In this article, we will compare the Toyota Noah/Voxy, a middle-class minivan, and the Toyota RAV4, a middle-class SUV, to see whether you should buy the gasoline or hybrid version of each.

    Is the “”hybrid car is good for you”” a fairy tale in 2022? What is the truth revealed when comparing Toyota’s “”Noah Voku/RAV4″” with gasoline-powered models?

    Noah/Voxy is a “”hybrid car to buy””.
    　Since its full model change in January 2022, the Toyota Noah/Voxy middle minivan has become so popular that there is a long waiting list for delivery.

    　Let’s compare and contrast whether you should buy the gasoline or hybrid version of the popular minivan.

    (The photo shows the Toyota “”Noah”” hybrid model.

    1. Difference in new car prices: Hybrid models are approximately 350,000 yen (about 180,000 yen higher in real terms).

    Noah S-Z gasoline model (2WD): 3,320,000 yen

    Noah S-Z hybrid (FWD): 3,670,000 yen

    　The price difference is approximately 350,000 yen, but the Hybrid S-Z comes standard with a 100V 1500W power outlet worth 40,000 yen and a tax benefit of approximately 130,000 yen, so the actual price difference at the time of purchase is reduced to “”approximately 180,000 yen.

    2. Gasoline cost (fuel cost required for 5 years and 50,000km driving): Hybrid car is 245,000 yen cheaper.

    S-Z gasoline model (2WD): Catalog fuel economy: 15.0km/L (WLTC mode fuel economy) → Practical fuel economy: 12.0km/L

    S-Z hybrid model (2WD): Catalog fuel economy: 23.0km/L (WLTC mode fuel economy) → Practical fuel economy: 18.4km/L

    　The gasoline cost for 5 years and 50,000km is 704,000 yen for the gasoline vehicle and 459,000 yen for the hybrid.

    　Gasoline costs 245,000 yen less for the hybrid.

    3. price at the time of sale (resale value at 5 years and 50,000km mileage): Hybrid vehicle sells for 147,000 yen more

    Gasoline-powered car: 1,394,000 yen

    Hybrid car: 1,541,000 yen

    　Hybrid cars can be disposed of at a price 147,000 yen higher.

    * * *

    　When closing the balance sheet, it seems that Noah/Voxy can pay off the price difference at the time of purchase even if the mileage is low, as the real price difference at the time of purchase is small.

    　Unless there is a circumstance where you really dislike hybrids, we conclude that you should choose a hybrid for Noah/Voxy.

    Is the “”benefit of a hybrid car”” a fairy tale of 2022? What is the truth revealed when comparing Toyota’s “”Noah/Voxy/RAV4″” with gasoline-powered models?

    RAV4 was “”Hybrid Vehicle is More Expensive
    　The RAV4, Toyota’s medium-class SUV that just underwent a minor change on October 4, 2022, has been available in 2-liter gasoline and 2.5-liter hybrid versions since its introduction.

    　From 2020, the 2.5-liter hybrid will have its drive battery increased by about 10 times, and a plug-in hybrid, which can also be used as an electric vehicle if it has a recharging environment, will be available as the flagship model.

    The photo shows the special edition RAV4 Adventure “”OFFROAD package II”” that was added to the RAV4 when it underwent a partial makeover on October 4, 2022.

    1. New model price difference: The hybrid model is 619,000 yen (492,000 yen more expensive in real terms).

    RAV4 Adventure gasoline model: 3,684,000 yen

    RAV4 Adventure”” hybrid model: 4,303,000 yen

    　The price difference is 619,000 yen, but the hybrid has a tax benefit of 127,000 yen, which reduces the price difference to 492,000 yen in real terms at the time of purchase.

    2. Gasoline cost (fuel cost required for 5 years and 50,000km driving): Hybrid vehicle is 171,000 yen cheaper.

    RAV4 Adventure gasoline model: WLTC mode fuel economy: 15.2km/L → practical fuel economy: 12.2km/L

    RAV4 Adventure hybrid: WLTC mode fuel economy: 20.3km/L → practical fuel economy: 16.2km/L

    　The gasoline cost required to run 50,000km in 5 years is 693,000 yen for the gasoline vehicle and 522,000 yen for the hybrid, resulting in a gasoline cost of 171,000 yen less for the hybrid.

    3. price at the time of sale (resale value at 5 years and 50,000km mileage): Hybrid vehicles sell for 229,000 yen more

    Gasoline-powered car: 1,363,000 yen

    Hybrid car: 1,592,000 yen

    　Hybrid cars can be disposed of at 229,000 yen higher.

    * * *

    　Now let’s close the accounts for RAV4.

    　The hybrid car will cost 92,000 yen more than the RAV4, and in the case of the RAV4, the difference between the gasoline car and the hybrid will not pay off.

    　However, considering that the RAV4 hybrid vehicle has a 2.5-liter engine, and its dynamic performance is much higher than that of the 2-liter gasoline vehicle, we can consider that “”considering the difference in dynamic performance, the difference of 92,000 yen in the balance sheet is cheap.

    　Also, if you sometimes drive on rough roads such as off-road courses, the 4WD RAV4 gasoline vehicle has the advantage of “”downhill assist control,”” which maintains a slow, constant speed like a person walking on steep downhill slopes.

    Therefore, in the case of the RAV4, it is advisable to consider a hybrid as a basic model and a gasoline vehicle depending on how the vehicle is used.

    * * *

    　Considering the above estimation, when you are torn between an engine car and a hybrid car for the same car, you can often get your money’s worth in the long run.

    　In addition to this, gasoline prices have recently become stable at high levels.

    　If you are going to use your car for practical purposes, the basic conclusion is that you should use a hybrid car (……).

    　At the same time, we applaud the efforts of automobile manufacturers who have lowered the price of hybrid cars so much that the difference can be repaid in the long run.

    　However, if you are a person who seeks taste in cars, engine cars are also attractive. This point should also be kept in mind.

    　In fact, according to social networking sites, there are many people who say, “”Hybrid cars pay for themselves in terms of cost, but engine cars feel better.

    　On the other hand, there are those who say that hybrids are smoother and quieter.

    　When choosing a car, it is necessary to consider these overall points.
    “

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    Will it attract as much attention as the “Alphad Truck”? Production of “Toyota 86 fastest specification” ! What is “GT3 style” custom made by students.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Will it attract as much attention as the “”Alphard Truck””? Toyota 86 Fastest Specification”” is produced! What is the “”GT3-style”” customization by students?

    What is the “”TOYOTA86 GT STANCE”” that pays homage to the GR GT3 Concept?
    　The “”Tokyo Auto Salon”” is the most popular event for car enthusiasts at the beginning of the year, where a variety of custom and tuning cars are exhibited every year.
    　
    　In 2023, the event is scheduled to be held at Makuhari Messe (Chiba Prefecture) from January 13 to 15, and a custom car from an automotive college in the same prefecture is expected to attract a lot of attention.

    Is this an “”86″”? Mysterious Black Machine Production! Look at the custom cars being built alongside the Alphard trucks!

    Is this an 86? The “”TOYOTA86 GT STANCE”” looks kind of awesome! (Images courtesy of the Japan Automobile College)

    　The Tokyo Auto Salon, which was born in 1983 out of the magazine “”OPTION,”” is a major event for the tuning industry in Japan, in addition to car manufacturers announcing their new cars in conjunction with the Auto Salon.

    　The Nihon Automobile College (commonly known as NATS) in Chiba Prefecture has been exhibiting at the Tokyo Auto Salon since 1997, and every year students in the customization course there create custom cars as part of their assignments.

    　In the past, students have created various custom cars, such as the “”COSMO VISION”” based on the Mazda Roadster, the “”NATS R35 Road Star”” based on the Nissan Fairlady Z Roadster (Z33) with the appearance of the GT-R (R35), and the “”NATS JIMNY”” based on the Suzuki Jimny Sierra. The company has introduced various custom cars to the world, such as the “”kimun kamy.

    　For the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023, the company will also produce a Super Dury truck based on the Toyota “”Alphard””.

    　In parallel with this, a custom car in the style of the Toyota GR GT3 Concept based on the Toyota 86 will be produced.

    　The GR GT3 Concept is a racing-only vehicle concept car that was unveiled for the first time in the world by TOYOTA GAZOO Racing (TGR) at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2022.

    　The GR GT3 Concept is an attractive car that promotes “”driver-first car-making and is the GT3 customer’s choice at the pinnacle of customer motorsports,”” according to TGR. We have unveiled the GR GT3 Concept in order to promote driver-first car manufacturing and to provide an attractive car that customers of the GT3, the pinnacle of customer motorsports, would choose.

    　The TOYOTA86 GT STANCE will be built with the GR GT3 Concept in mind, which is a glimpse of Toyota’s seriousness.

    　In the finalized drawing released by NATS, we can see that in addition to the headlight design that is conscious of the GR GT3 Concept, aero parts for the front and sides and large-diameter aluminum wheels will be installed.

    　Nevertheless, the shape from the roof to the tail end retains the aspect of the 86.

    　In addition, images of the car in the process of being built show that it has been disassembled and that new panels are being added.

    　A NATS student explained the background behind the creation of the TOYOTA86 GT STANCE as follows: “”To begin with, a GT car is a car that can be driven on public roads.

    The students at NATS explained the background behind the creation of the TOYOTA86 GT STANCE: “”To begin with, GT cars cannot be driven on public roads, but we wanted to create a GT car that conforms to safety standards and can be driven on public roads.

    　This is a public road-accessible version of the GT3 concept car that was exhibited by TOYOTA GAZOO Racing at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2022.

    　The silhouette is a tribute to the GT3, with a touch of originality.

    　He also talked about the difficulties involved in the process of completing the TOYOTA86 GT STANCE as follows.

    The front end was extended to create a long-nose silhouette, and the accompanying layout changes in the engine compartment were very difficult.

    　In addition, the front pipe frame, piping, and harness extensions were all new to us, which was also a challenge.

    　In addition, the base car “”86 (DBA-ZN6)”” was prepared and manufactured as a joint industry-university project with the local Toyota Corolla Chiba.

    　In addition, we are aiming to complete the production with the support of many after-parts and custom parts manufacturers.

    * * * *

    　The custom cars produced by NTAS students are completed by students enrolled in the customization course over a period of about a year in preparation for the Tokyo Auto Salon, and since the final goal is to obtain a license plate number, the cars can be driven on public roads.

    　In early 2023, we may be able to see the numbered TOYOTA86 GT STANCE.

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

  • | |

    Cyber sense is amazing! Pop and cute “2-seater EV” explosion! Renault brand Mobilize Duo unveiled in Europe .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Cyber-inspired! Pop and cute “”2-seater EV”” is born! Renault Brand Mobilization “”Duo”” Unveiled in Europe

    Eco-friendly small EV that anyone can drive has an 80’s-90’s pop feel
    　Mobirise, a Renault Group company, announced on October 10, 2022 the launch of the Duo, a small EV with front and rear seating for two, which will be offered by the end of 2023 on a subscription or long-term lease basis.
    　

    The “”futuristic”” feeling that overflows from this car is unbearable! Check out the cyber but somehow cute “”duo”” in these 18 images.

    Do they have the cyber feel of the 80’s? Mobilize “”Duo”” with pop orange color

    　Mobilize Duo is a newly developed compact EV with two seats lined up vertically and a compact body measuring 2,430 mm (length) x 1,300 mm (width) x 1,460 mm (height).

    　The exterior design is based on a base color of gray, with orange used as an accent color throughout, and the side doors on the body open upward, featuring large windows divided into three sections.

    　The front and rear wheel houses protrude widely, and the large tires are positioned at the four corners of the body, designed to allow the car to turn in a small radius.

    　The interior is designed to combine the atmosphere of the 1980s and 1990s with the world of video games. The dashboard is shaped like a boom box, giving it a hip-hop image.

    　The design is simple and intuitive so that many users can operate it easily, and the seat is padded to retain comfort. It is also built to accommodate a folding wheelchair.

    　Meanwhile, the Duo has been designed with a full range of connected services, not only for personal use, but also for use by businesses and sharing services, and will be expandable in the future.

    　The vehicle is equipped with a keyless and ignition system that can be shared by multiple users, and real-time data transmitted from the vehicle allows for easy management of the vehicle.

    　Two types of powertrains are available. Two types of powertrains are available, with a maximum speed of 45 km/h and 80 km/h, to comply with the laws of each country.

    　It has a range of 140 km (nominal, WMTC certification pending) and is equipped with two types of connectors that allow charging at home as well as at public charging stations.

    　The DUO is designed to be environmentally friendly, in line with the Renault Group’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality in Europe by 2040. At least 50% of the materials used are recycled, and 95% are recyclable when the vehicle is scrapped.

    　In addition, the front and rear bumpers are of the same design to reduce production and repair costs, and the body panels are made of plastic material based on a thorough eco-design.

    　The Duo will be offered for private use through a subscription contract with a minimum term of three months.

    　Long-term leases will be available for companies such as car-sharing companies, and packages integrating services such as insurance and recharging will be offered.

    * * *

    　The lineup also includes the Bento, a single-seat cargo vehicle, which is a duo with a rear seat that has been converted into a trunk with a capacity of nearly 700 liters.

    　The Bento is scheduled to be offered on a long-term lease basis for corporate customers starting in 2024.

    　No mention has been made of the introduction of either the Duo or Bento in Japan.

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

  • |

    Over 60 million yen? The last “Skyline GT-R” is here! Pay attention to the “V-spec II Nur”, which uses a limited number of hundreds of millennium body colors! Will it be expensive at overseas auctions .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Over 60 million yen? The last “”Skyline GT-R”” is now available! Limited edition of a few hundred “”V-spec II Nur”” with millennium body color! Will it fetch a high price at overseas auctions?

    The last “”Skyline GT-R”” appears! V-spec II Nur”” is the last of the “”Skyline GT-Rs””! Will it fetch a high price at overseas auctions?
    　Among Nissan cars, the “”Skyline GT-R (BNR34)”” (hereafter referred to as “”R34″”) is one of the most popular models.
    　
    　Among them, the V-spec II Nur, which was set up to commemorate the last R34, is scheduled to be offered at an auction to be held on November 5, 2022. What price will it be priced at?

    Will the 60 million yen class GT-R be born? See the awesome actual car with extreme specifications!

    The Nissan “”Skyline GT-R V-SPEC II Nur (BNR34)”” was priced at 60 million yen in the past, but will it be able to exceed that price this time? (Photo: RM SOTHEBY’S)

    　The R34 was introduced in January 1999. It was smaller in body size than its predecessor, the R33, and offered improved driving performance.

    　Initially, the R34 was offered in the “”V-spec I”” model, which featured exclusive aero parts and suspension, active LSD, and other features.

    　The “”V-spec II”” model, which was introduced with a minor change in August 2000, further featured a carbon engine hood with NACA ducts and aluminum pedals for the first time on a mass-produced vehicle.

    　Then, in January 2002, the “”V-spec II Nur”” was launched to commemorate the last R34.

    　The V-spec II Nur is a highly rare model, with only about 750 units produced, and is named after the Nürburgring in Germany.

    　The specifications are based on the N1-spec engine used as the base engine for the Nürburgring 24-hour endurance race and the Super Taikyu race in Japan.

    　In addition, the pistons and connecting rods, which are the core components of the engine, are precision-balanced to achieve a uniform weight balance, which has resulted in a more exhilarating feeling at high engine speeds. The V-spec II Nur also features an exclusive full-scale 300 km/h speedometer and a three-dimensionally molded grade name emblem.

    　The price of the V-spec II Nur at the time (excluding consumption tax) was 6.1 million yen.

    　The V-spec II Nur on display in the UK this time is said to be one of 156 cars finished in Millennium Jade Metallic, with a mileage of 61,234 km.

    　The side steps, rear underbody, and rear wing flaps have been replaced with NISMO aero parts, and a lightweight carbon fiber hood is standard equipment.

    　As seen in the photos, there are no noticeable scratches on the interior or exterior, and with the exception of the car phone kit, the car also retains its completely original condition and appears to be in good condition.

    　The underbody and engine compartment are also kept in good condition, and the engine compartment has been given a special gold paint job, which is symbolic of the N1-spec engine.

    * * * *

    　V-spec II Nur was listed on Yahoo! Auctions in 2021 as a new unregistered car and sold for 60,501,000.1 yen from a result of 1,391 bids.

    　Although the unit to be auctioned in the UK this time has a certain mileage, it may fetch more than 60 million yen due to the auction being held worldwide.”

  • |

    The current “GT-R” engine is installed in the “Showa” Nissan “Skyline” more than 35 years ago!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “35+ year old “”Showa”” Nissan “”Skyline”” with current “”GT-R”” engine! The rendering of the “”R31-type”” restomod specification is amazing!

    R31 Skyline with GT-R engine
    　The Nissan “”Skyline”” has a long history of 65 years. In this history, many memorable models and famous cars have been born, and among them, the 7th generation “”R31″” model was a major milestone.

    Nissan “”R31 Skyline”” with the engine of the current “”GT-R””! See 47 images of the Skyline lowered to a powerful wide tread.

    　Andreas Richter, a German 3D artist, has created and posted a rendering of a custom version of the R31 Skyline that has been customized with the engine from the current Nissan GT-R model.

    Custom rendering of Nissan’s R31 Skyline with a GT-R engine (photo: richter.cgi)

    　The “”Skyline”” is the model with the longest history in Nissan’s current lineup. Its first generation model was launched by Prince Motors in 1957, and the current model is the 13th generation.

    　The R31, the seventh generation model, was introduced in 1985 and is still loved by many users with nicknames such as “”7th”” and “”R Sanichi.

    　While the 4-door hardtop luxury version and the station wagon model were set up to incorporate the trends of the time, the “”GTS-R”” homologation model for Group A racing, which led to the next R32 “”Skyline GT-R,”” was set up and played a role in the subsequent development of ultra-high performance. The GTS-R is a model with many faces.

    　Andreas Richter has created a rendering of the GTS Sports Coupe, a two-door model added to the R31 lineup in 1986, with a number of out-of-the-box customizations, including engine transfers and a wider tread.

    　In Andreas Richter’s custom rendering, the engine has been replaced with a 3.8-liter V6 VR38DETT, the engine of the current GT-R model.

    　As an indication of this, the GT-R emblem is placed in the center of the grille, and the center portion of the hood has been hollowed out and replaced with a clear material so that the red head cover of the V6 engine and other parts can be seen.

    　In addition, the front section has been lowered to the extreme, and perhaps due to the redesigned bumper, there is almost no space between the car and the ground.

    　The fenders have been cut off, and the slick tires, which are too wide, completely protrude from the body. There is no doubt that the car is not compliant with vehicle inspections in Japan, at least.

    The car is definitely not inspection compliant, at least not in Japan.

    　Andreas Richter has created custom renderings of various cars with flashy aero parts, including Toyota and Porsche, and posted them on his social networking site. In the past, his aero parts for the Volvo S60 became a reality and were sold.

    　The rendering created by Andreas Richter is, of course, unrealistic, but “”restomods,”” in which an older car is modernized by replacing the engine of a relatively newer car with a newer one, do exist in the real world. It may be difficult to completely reproduce this R31 model, but it may be possible to find a car with a transplanted engine.”