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    Toyota “Alphard” is on sale! The number has doubled in the 7th year since its appearance ! The reason is thanks to “Estima” and “Vellfire”?

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota’s “”Alphard”” is selling like hotcakes! Seven years after its debut, the number of vehicles has unexpectedly doubled! Is it because of “”Estima”” and “”Vellfire””?

    Doubled from 2015, when sales were on the scale of 44,000 units! To 95,000 units in 2021
    　Toyota’s luxury minivan, the Alphard, sold about 95,000 units last year in the year 2021. The monthly average is approximately 7,900 units. Considering that the current model sold approximately 44,000 units in 2015 when it debuted, sales have more than doubled.
    　
    　In the 2021 sales ranking of passenger cars excluding mini cars, the Alphard came in a respectable fourth place, while low-priced compact cars occupied the top spots. Let’s take a look at its sales trend.

    Super luxurious! The Toyota Alphard, priced at over 15 million yen, is awesome!

    (Left) Toyota “”Alphard”” / (Right) Toyota “”Vellfire

    　The Alphard was fully remodeled in January 2015 and became the third generation of the Alphard. In the same year of 2015, 44,366 units were sold (all figures are according to the Japan Automobile Dealers Association).

    　Its sibling, the Vellfire, which was introduced at the same time, sold 54,180 units in 2015, exceeding the Alphard.

    　The two Alphard/Vellfire models combined totaled 98,546 units, approaching 100,000 units per year.

    　A minor change implemented at the end of December 2017 reversed the market share of the two models.

    　The following year, 2018, the Vellfire sold 43,130 units. In contrast, the Alphard recorded 58,806 units.

    　The minor changes include updated advanced driving support functions and design modifications to each model, particularly the front mask.

    　The new Alphard’s popular aero grade has been modified, making it more intrepid. The shape of the distinctive front grille itself has not been changed significantly, and the modifications can be considered a normal evolution.

    　In contrast, the new Vellfire takes an aggressive stance, and the popular aero grade in particular has more chrome parts, giving the impression of increased flamboyance.

    　The strength of its luxury feel is one of the main attractions of the L-class minivan, but it is clear from the sales trend that the users’ evaluation of the minor change was heavily tilted in favor of the Alphard.

    　After this, the Vellfire will face further headwinds.

    　In May 2020, Toyota effectively merged its four dealer channels (Toyota, Toyopet, Corolla, and Netz) so that all Toyota vehicles can be purchased at all Toyota stores.

    　In the past, Honda, Nissan, and other automakers also used a multi-channel system.

    　However, as each company became more efficient and their dealerships were consolidated, Toyota was the last example of a multi-channel system and sibling models.

    Toyota “”Alphard”” is selling like hotcakes! Seven years after its debut, the number of units has unexpectedly doubled! The reason is thanks to “”Estima”” and “”Vellfire””?

    The popularity of the Alphard has surpassed that of the Vellfire after a minor change in December 2017.
    　The Alphard and Vellfire are the two remaining representatives of these Toyota siblings.

    　The Alphard was sold exclusively through Toyopet stores, while the Vellfire was sold exclusively through Netz stores, creating a sales competition between the two channels.

    　Toyota’s aim was to prevent customers from leaving the company for other manufacturers by offering two options to compete with each other under its own brand name.

    　The Vellfire sold 36,649 units in 2019 before the sales channel merger and halved to 18,004 units in 2020.

    　In contrast, the Alphard grew to 90,748 units in 2020, compared to 68,705 units in 2019. Compared to 2015, when it was approximately 44,000 units, this represents a doubling of growth.

    Annual sales volume of Toyota’s Alphard and Vellfire [2015-2021/ researched by Japan Automobile Dealers Association].

    　With the popularity of the Alphard increasing following a minor change at the end of 2017, even Netz dealers, which had been selling the Vellfire exclusively, were able to recommend the Alphard to their customers, which appears to be a major reason for the increase in market share.

    　It could be said that Toyota was able to absorb the significant decline in Vellfire sales (approximately 54,000 units in 2015) without losing it to other companies.

    　Another factor is the discontinuation of the Estima (sold exclusively by Toyota and Corolla dealers) at the end of 2019, which has long been loved as a representative L-class minivan.

    　Sales staff at Toyota Corolla stores in the suburbs of the Tokyo metropolitan area welcome the new model, saying, “”It is great that all stores have started handling the Alphard and that it is now selling well.

    　Not only does it greatly increase revenue because of the high price of the car, but it also prevents the loss of opportunity because until now, when a customer wanted an Alphard as a replacement, they had to refer the customer to a Toyopet dealer sales staff they knew.

    * * *

    　In 2022, seven years will have passed since the debut of the current model in 2015. It is about time to hear rumors of a full model change of the Alphard/Vellfire.

    　In April 2021, the grade system of the Vellfire will be revised, and the number of grades, which had been the same as that of the Alphard, will be integrated into only one grade, the “”GOLDEN EYES II,”” which has been promoted from the limited edition model.

    　The impact of this restructuring has been significant, with Vellfire sales plummeting to 6509 units in 2021 (an average of 542 units per month).

    　Compared to the Alphard, which sold 95,049 units in 2021, the difference is stark.

    　The Vellfire is now in a situation where it can be said to be on the verge of extinction.

    　It will be interesting to see how the long-selling Alphard will be reborn with the new model, and what will happen to the next Vellfire.”

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    “Luxury face van” unveiled ! “Caravan & Hiace” Which is more luxurious? What is the charm of genuine dress-up .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Unveiling of the “”Luxury Face Van””? Which is more luxurious “”Caravan or Hiace””? What is the charm of genuine dress-up?

    Caravan & Hiace…What’s the Appeal of the Genuine Brand?
    　On June 20, 2022, Nissan Motorsports & Customization (formerly Autec Japan) revealed details of the Caravan AUTECH, a new custom car for the Caravan.
    　
    　The Caravan’s rival is the Toyota Hiace, and its custom car, the Modellista, is also available, but what are the features of the two vehicles?

    Which one is your favorite? See the high-end customization of the Autech and Modellista specifications in photos!

    Work vans have become upscale & luxurious! The Autech & Modellista specs are so cool!

    　The Caravan has undergone minor changes to its gasoline models in October 2021 and diesel models in April 2022, and various parts of the Caravan have been revamped accordingly.

    　Further enhancing the appeal of the Caravan is the Caravan AUTECH, a lineup of vans and wagons based on a long body, standard width, and standard roof.

    　Each has different powertrains: 2-liter gasoline and 2.4-liter diesel for the van and 2.5-liter gasoline for the wagon, as well as 2WD for gasoline models and 2WD/4WD for diesel models.

    　Featuring a premium sporty interior and exterior, the Autech lineup includes the LUX mini car, Note, Serena, Extrale, KIX, and Elgrand models, as well as the electric car LEAF.

    　The exterior design of the Caravan AUTEC features a front grille with a dot pattern, signature blue LEDs, and metal front protectors to give the car a tighter face.

    　Dark metal door mirrors and back door finishers add to the gorgeous impression.

    　To meet the need for further customization, aero packages such as “”side sill protectors,”” “”rear under protectors”” and “”roof spoiler”” are also available.

    　The interior features wave-like patterns on the synthetic leather seats that are embroidered with the “”AUTECH”” logo.

    　In addition to its design, this wave pattern also has an anti-slip function that prevents the body from sliding around corners.

    　In addition, the blue-stitched steering wheel and shift knob create a chic and relaxing interior space.

    　A Nissan representative explains that the Caravan has never had the gorgeous specifications of the Hiace, and that’s why we have added the new Autech version to the Caravan.

    　Meanwhile, the Hiace has long been one of the most popular vehicles in the commercial van market, and on April 13, 2022, it underwent partial improvements.

    　The partial improvements include the addition of parking support brake (for front and rear stationary objects) as standard equipment on the Hiace (vans, wagons, and commuters).

    　In addition, diesel engine models have improved fuel economy, making them eligible for eco-car tax reductions in conjunction with “”achieving the 2015 fuel economy standard +15%””.

    　Furthermore, the front fog lamps, which are standard equipment on the Super GL (van) and GL (wagon) grades, are now LED.

    　As a Caravan Autechre-like presence, the Hiace is available with Modellista, which is developed by Toyota Customizing & Development.

    　The dress-up parts for the Hiace are available in several aero lineups: “”Version I,”” “”Version II,”” “”Version (Wide),”” and “”Dark Prime II.

    　Other parts that contribute to driving performance include a shock absorber set and rear brace, and 15-inch aluminum wheels with black spokes for a sporty look.

    　For the interior, a wood-grain panel set, leather seat covers, and other high-end items are available, as well as a utility frame and other items designed with user-friendliness in mind.

    　Modellista also offers a complete model of the Hiace called the “”MRT (Multi Role Transporter),”” a complete car with a flat floor and other cargo space that can be tailored to overnight stay in the car or as a hobby.

    * * *

    　Both the CARAVAN and the Hiace used to have a strong image as vehicles used for work, but recently the demand for outdoor activities, leisure activities (camping, fishing, biking, etc.), and overnight stays in vehicles has increased, and customization to meet these purposes is also increasing.

    　In addition, demand for luxury-oriented cars is also increasing, regardless of body type, and brands such as OTEC and Modellista are ideal for such demand.”

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    “Prius shift” has evolved ! What is the “electronic shift” equipped with the new Noavoku? Better than the “button shift” of the new Step WGN !

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Evolution of “”Prius-style shift””? What is the “”electric shift”” on the new Noah Vogt? Better than the “”button type shift”” of the new Step Wagon!

    Evolution from Prius-style! What is the “”Electric Shift”” on the new Noavok?
    　The new Honda Step Wagon was launched on May 26, 2022.

    　Among the most controversial features is the exclusive “”electric gear selector”” or so-called “”button shift”” used in the 2-liter hybrid vehicle “”e:HEV””.

    Which is easier to use, the new Step Wagon “”button-type shift”” or the new Noah Vogt’s “”evolved Prius-type shift””? Let’s compare and see.
    　What used to require a lever-type shift operation to change shifts can now be operated with the touch of a button.

    　While some users have a positive impression of this, saying that it “”feels modern,”” others have a negative impression, saying that they “”don’t seem to be able to get used to it.

    　In this context, Toyota’s new minivan models “”Noah/Voxy,”” which are listed as rivals, have adopted “”Electro Shiftmatic,”” or so-called “”electric shift,”” as an optional feature. What exactly are the differences?

    Evolution of Prius-style shift! Is the electro-shift in the new Noavok easy to use?

    　The electric shift became a hot topic at the time when it was installed in the second generation of Toyota’s Prius in 2003, and was also beginning to be called the “”Prius-style”” shift.

    　In this context, the new Noah/Voxy hybrid models will have a panoramic view monitor and, as an option when parking support brake (rear pedestrian) is selected, an electric shift like that of the Prius.

    The lever has an upward tapered and warped design.

    　The handle is attached at the top, and the letters “”R,”” “”N,”” “”D,”” and “”B”” appear below it, following the “”P”” button.

    　The use of the electric shift is shown on Toyota Mobility Tokyo’s official YouTube page, where, for example, the following explanation is provided for starting the car.

    “”Release the parking brake, put the car in D position while stepping on the brake pedal, take a breath, release your hand, and the car will go into D range.””

    　By changing the gearshift to the direction of the arrow indicated, and then releasing your hand, you will enter D range, which allows you to move forward.

    　In addition, when parking, the handles are not operated, but the P button is pressed to park the car.

    　To apply engine braking, such as to decelerate when the distance from the car in front is about to shorten, the driver can shift the gearshift toward the front and release his/her hand to enter B range while the car is moving. It is possible to switch to D range while the car is still in motion.

    　However, it is not possible to shift from P range to B range.

    　Like most electric shifters, the bar returns to its original position after shifting, but the design of the lever is slightly different from most electric shifters in that it has a longer handle than most electric shifters, which have a colon-shaped lever.

    　Also, by moving the range, the color of the range entered is illuminated, so it is possible to visually check which range has been entered, preventing accidental operation.

    * * * * * * * *

    　In addition, the Serena, one of Nissan’s rivals, also uses an electric shift system in all grades of its hybrid models, and electric shift systems are being adopted more and more these days.

    　In the past, the lever-type shift system was the mainstream, but this is gradually changing with the passage of time.”

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    “When will it come out ?” Nissan’s new SUV “X-Trail” will be released early !

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “When will it come out? Nissan’s new SUV “”EXTRAIL”” will make an early appearance? What is the current version of the luxury “”premier”” and individualistic model that actually existed?

    What is the “”Mode Premier”” with its exclusive front bumper?
    　More than eight full years have passed since the current model of Nissan’s flagship SUV, the EXTRAIL, was introduced. The new EXTRAIL, the fourth generation model, is now on sale in some overseas markets, and its appearance in the Japanese market is also expected.

    Can’t wait for the introduction of the new Nissan 4th generation EXTRAIL! See the actual car exhibited ahead of time in 30 images.

    　On the other hand, the 3rd generation EXTRAIL is also known for being the first model to offer a 3-row seat specification and a hybrid specification, as well as a number of specifications that are treated by Autech (brought-in registration), offering a wide range of variations. What specifications have been introduced so far?

    Third-generation EXTRAIL “”Mode Premier

    　The third-generation EXTRAIL was launched in December 2013.

    　Since its launch, it has been available in 2-row 5-seat and 3-row 7-seat versions, and the “”EXTREME X”” was set as an Autech handled model.

    　The tough image of the Extrale is further enhanced. Front overriders, under covers, and large fog lamps enhance its SUV-like appearance.

    　The third-generation Extrale has undergone multiple improvements, including a minor change in 2017, but the Extreamer X has also undergone a series of improvements and has never dropped out of the lineup, and as of 2022, it continues to be listed on the official website.

    　In May 2015, a hybrid version consisting of a 2-liter gasoline + motor (2-row, 5-passenger version only) was added, and the Xtreamer X will also be available in gasoline and hybrid versions.

    　In July of the same year, the “”Mode Premier”” was introduced as an Autech model with a theme of high quality.

    　Specially equipped with an exclusively designed front bumper and stone white and black genuine leather seats, it expresses an urban and luxurious impression (specifications were partially changed in a minor change in 2017). Unfortunately, it was discontinued from the lineup midway through the model year and is no longer listed as of 2022.

    　Meanwhile, a new custom car added for 2019 is the AUTECH.

    　Under the premium sporty motto, it expresses quality and advanced features through exclusive parts with a metal finish.

    It is also characterized by the use of the iconic AUTECH blue color scheme throughout. These are also the specifications that will be posted on the official website as of 2022.

    　We expect that a wide range of specifications, including AUTECH’s custom cars, will be available for the new EXTRAIL 4th generation model that is expected to be launched in Japan.

    　Now here is a quiz.

    　The 3rd generation EXTRAIL was so popular that 11,000 units were ordered within 3 weeks of its launch in December 2013. What was the originally announced monthly sales target?

    1] 2,500 units

    2] 3,500 units

    [3] 4,500 units

    4] 5,500 units

    The correct answer is “”2,500 units”” for 【1】.

    　The correct answer is “”2,500 units”” in 【1】. As a result, orders received were more than four times the monthly sales target in less than one month, indicating the popularity of the product at the time of its launch.

    *Source of the quiz: Car Days”

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    Released “Tweeter mounting kit” for Toyota “RAV4” and “Harrier” Pioneer .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Pioneer Releases “”Tweeter Installation Kit”” for Toyota’s RAV4 and Harrier

    Car-Specific Installation Kit for High-Range Speakers for a Fuller Sound Environment!
    　Pioneer announced on June 16, 2022 that it will release a tweeter (speaker for treble) installation kit for the Toyota “”RAV4″” and “”Harrier”” in July of the same year.

    See what the dashboard will look like when installed in the “”RAV4″” and “”Harrier

    Tweeter Installation Kit for RAV4 “”UD-K302

    　Carrozzeria, a brand developed by Pioneer, offers special speakers and parts for each car model, and “”tweeters,”” which are speakers for high frequencies, are one of them. The Carrozzeria “”Installation Kit”” is also exclusively designed for each car model.

    The “”Carrozzeria tweeter kit”” is designed specifically for each car model. “”Combined with Carrozzeria’s compatible tweeter, it provides an optimal sound field and smooth high-frequency reproduction,”” and “”a high-quality design that blends in with the cabin”” (according to the release). The tweeter can be installed in the factory speaker installation position on the dashboard without compromising the emergency alert system’s speaker functionality.

    　Compatible models are the RAV4 from models released in April 2019 and the Harrier from models released in June 2020 (excluding models with JBL Premium Sound System), and compatible Carrozzeria tweeters are the TS-T930 and TS-T730II. Tweeter mounting brackets (left and right), conversion connectors, and adapters are included.

    　Both the “”UD-K302″” for RAV4 and “”UD-K303″” for Harrier are priced at 8,800 yen (tax included).”

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    Van-dwelling is also military style !”Hiace” “8 number” camper is now available! What are the benefits?

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Military Style for Staying in a Car! The “”Hiace”” 8-number campervan is now available! What are the advantages?

    New Regulations-Compliant Hiace Camper Now Available
    　Lexby, a manufacturer, wholesaler, and distributor of campers, has added an 8-number camper to its Hobbycle Oberlander IV lineup, which goes on sale June 13, 2022.

    You can sleep soundly in the car! Military-style”” Hiace Camper Equipped with a Kitchen!

    Hobbycle Overlander IV, a Hiace camper that can be registered as an 8-number vehicle

    　Based on the Toyota Hiace, the Hobbycle Overlander IV is a military-style camper, which is rare for a camper.

    　The conventional 4 license plate specification has been replaced by a kitchen counter, enabling registration as an 8 license plate (camper registration).

    　It is equipped with an extendable bed rail extending sliders, a bed mat with a core made of a lightweight and strong original material, and bed placement rails that can be used in three different positions, allowing for various seat arrangements.

    　The maximum bed size is 2,400 mm x 1,350 mm, making it possible to spend a relaxing overnight stay in a spacious, full-flat bed.

    　The car’s electrical system is designed to be powered by a portable battery, and the FF heater (optional) can also be powered by a portable battery.

    　In addition, military canvas-style olive green seat fabric with excellent water and UV resistance, a Shimabane-style cushion floor, and interior insulation (roof, sides, and floor) ensure a comfortable interior space.

    　Prices (including consumption tax) for the 8-number model range from 4,323,000 yen to 5,236,000 yen. There is a choice of gasoline (2WD) or diesel (2WD/4WD) models.

    * * *

    　From April 2022, the structural requirements for camper registration have been relaxed for the 8 license plate registration, under which emergency vehicles and campers are classified.

    　The new registration number 8 has the advantage of being able to be inspected every two years instead of every year after the first (two-year) inspection for the conventional number 4 registration.”

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    “Discontinued” in 2022 The history of Nissan “March” and Honda “CR-V” will be over !What will disappear further? 3 cars to be discontinued .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Production to End in 2022″” The end of the history of Nissan’s March and Honda’s CR-V! Who will disappear further? 3 cars to be discontinued

    Some once famous cars…are going out of production
    　While many new models have been introduced in 2022, there are also models that will be discontinued.
    　
    　Some of them did not sell well because they did not match the needs of the market, which changes with the times, while others are popular but will be discontinued for one reason or another.
    　
    　The following is a list of models known to be discontinued as of June 2022.

    This is the preliminary design of the next CR-V! Photos of the actual car, a stylish SUV that looks like the “”Vezel””!
    Nissan “”March”” to end its 40-year history.

    　Honda’s mid-size SUV “”CR-V”” first appeared in 1995 and was a hit as a pioneer of the light XC genre at the time.

    　After that, the current, fifth-generation model returned to the Japanese market in 2018, although sales were suspended for about two years in the middle of the fourth-generation model.

    　However, the current model disappeared from the Japanese market due to the fact that it had been struggling in terms of sales in the Japanese market and the introduction of the next model was announced in North America.

    　In addition, Honda’s application (Honda Total Care) reveals that the Insight and Shuttle will also be discontinued in the Japanese market at the same time as the CR-V.

    　A Honda spokesperson explains that the discontinuation of the three models is due to a review of the Japanese market trends and demand, which led to the decision to review the product lineup.

    ●Nissan March

    　The March has a 40-year history, from the first generation model introduced in 1982, through the second and third generation models, to the current fourth generation model introduced in 2010.

    　The second-generation March always ranked high in terms of annual sales volume, and the third-generation model was ranked high from the time of its launch.

    　However, sales of the 4th generation model were not as good as previous generations, falling behind the Toyota Vitz and Honda Fit, and in successive generations, it was not produced in Japan but at various plants in Thailand and other parts of the world.

    　In March 2022, the official blog of Nissan Prince Ibaraki dealers made the following announcement.

    “”Production of Nissan’s compact car MARCH will end in August 2022.

    　Since its launch, the March has been loved by everyone for many years as a “”compact car that anyone can drive”” and a “”cost-effective passenger car.

    　The March, which represents Nissan’s compact car lineup, will be discontinued in August 2022.

    　There have been rumors for some time that the Nissan Fuga will also be discontinued, but on May 16, 2022, Nissan Tokyo announced the Fuga Final Edition.

    　This will be a special edition “”Premium Select Edition”” in collaboration with Nissan Motorsports & Customization (formerly Autech Japan), and will be limited to 100 units.

    　In this way, it seems that these days Nissan often releases information from dealers before it is sent out by the manufacturer.

    　It is said that the production of the “”Cima”” and “”Skyline (hybrid vehicle)”” will also be discontinued.

    Lexus CT200h
    　
    　On March 3, 2022, Lexus announced the “”Cherished Touring”” special edition, the final edition of the CT200h.

    　The CT200h was introduced in 2011 as a hybrid-only hatchback that ushered in a new era for Lexus.

    　It has sold a cumulative total of approximately 380,000 units in about 65 countries and regions and has been well received by users around the world, but an official announcement from the manufacturer has revealed that production will end in October 2022.

    The “”Cherished Touring”” based on the “”version C”” grade has been elegantly styled by applying exclusive silver paint to the front grille and front fog lamp bezels. The interior has been given an elegant styling.

    　The interior is distinguished by crimson stitching on the black door trim and instrument panel, as well as crimson and black crimson stitching on the seats, which are exclusive to the special edition model.

    　Other standard features include a heated steering wheel and heated seats for enhanced comfort.

    　Lexus explains that the CT200h “”has been well received by customers for its class-leading fuel economy and environmental performance, agile driving performance, and dynamic, sporty styling.

    * * *

    　Every year, various models are discontinued and new models are introduced, and overall, we are planning to reorganize and downsize our model lineup.

    　Under such circumstances, it seems that some of the once great cars are forced to end production due to sales or production circumstances.”

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    Suzuki announces renewal of “Jimny”! Partially improved “5-speed MT car” and changed instrument panel layout! To be released on July 20 .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Suzuki Announces Revamped “”Jimny””! 5-speed manual transmission model with new instrument panel layout! To be launched on July 20

    Partially Upgraded 5-Speed Manual Transmission to Go on Sale July 20!

    　On June 20, 2022, Suzuki announced that it has partially redesigned its light four-wheel drive “”Jimny”” and compact four-wheel drive “”Jimny Sierra”” models.

    [Images] The “”5-door Jimny”” with overnight stay specifications is amazing! See the actual car of the most powerful customization! (40 pictures)

    Jimny & Jimny Sierra 5-speed manual transmission models now feature a “”stop-start idling stop system

    　Partial specification changes to the Jimny & Jimny Sierra include the addition of a “”stop-start idling stop system”” (activated only in 2WD mode) to the 5-speed manual transmission models.

    　In addition, the layout of some of the instrument panel switches has been changed.

    　The Jimny and Jimny Sierra qualify as “”Support Car S Wide”” promoted by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT), as well as “”Collision Damage Mitigation Braking System (AEBS2)”” and “”Pedal Mistake Prevention Device (PMPD)”” by the MLIT.

    * * *

    　Prices for the partially redesigned Jimny range from 1,555,400 yen to 1,903,000 yen, while prices for the Jimny Sierra range from 1,863,400 yen to 2,084,500 yen.

    　The Jimny & Jimny Sierra will go on sale on July 20, 2022.”

  • | |

    “Gira Face Van” Bomb! “Hiace exceeded !” New 1BOX “Caravan AUTECH” pre-release .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Gila Face Van”” is born! Beyond the Hiace! New 1BOX “”CARAVAN AUTECH”” Preliminary Public Appearance

    Rival “”Hiace”” doesn’t have it! New “”Caravan”” with a Custom Face Coming Soon!

    　On June 20, 2022, Nissan Motorsports & Customization (formerly AUTECH Japan), an affiliate of Nissan, announced the upcoming release of a new custom car, “”AUTECH,”” for Nissan’s flagship 1BOX commercial van, the Caravan.

    Image] “”Too powerful!”” See 17 interior and exterior photos of the new Nissan “”Caravan AUTECH”” (17 photos)

    Nissan’s new “”Caravan AUTECH

    　AUTECH is Nissan’s custom car brand based on the concept of “”premium sportiness,”” and currently offers a lineup of eight models based on the Note, Kicks, and Serena.

    　The newly announced CARAVAN “”AUTECH”” is a premium model based on the CARAVAN van and wagon (both long body/standard width/standard roof), with a unique quality added.

    　It is planned to be released as the highest grade of the CARAVAN, responding to the customization needs of the CARAVAN and its rival, the Toyota Hiace, which is becoming increasingly popular in its class.

    　Nissan Motorsports & Customizing introduces the new AUTECH Caravan as “”a premium model with the dynamic and strong presence of the Caravan, with the highest quality and attention to detail, for people who want a vehicle that is special for both their work and private lives. Prior to the launch, the company has been working on the development of the Caravan for the next six years.

    　Prior to the launch, an advance web page will be available from June 20, 2022. Nissan dealers nationwide will also begin accepting pre-orders.

    　Detailed information on the new Caravan AUTECH, including product outline and price, will be announced in the near future.

    Automotive News Editorial Department”

  • The power of the “Alphard-style SUV” has evolved ! The new “Palisade XRT” with dark face emphasis has been unveiled for the first time in the world! Announced in the US with a 5m class giant .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “The power of the “”Alphard-like SUV”” has evolved! World premiere of the new “”Palisade XRT”” with a dark face! 5-meter class giant unveiled in the U.S.

    Features large front grille with dark specs

    　Hyundai has announced the U.S. pricing for the new Palisade (2023 model year) on June 16, 2023 (local time), and also released images of the XRT, a version with a more outdoor look.

    The “”ora-facial”” SUV has evolved in terms of power! The new Palisade XRT with a 5-meter class body is unveiled for the first time! View in 71 images

    　The new Palisade is characterized by its powerful style, but what are the specifications of the XRT grade, which has even more presence with exclusive parts?

    Hyundai’s new Palisade XRT

    　The Palisade, with body dimensions of 4980 mm (length) x 1975 mm (width) x 1750 mm (height), is a three-row SUV sold not only in North America but also in Korea and Southeast Asia.

    　The facelifted 2023 model made its world premiere at the New York Motor Show 2022 in April 2022.

    　It features a large front grille with chrome trim reminiscent of the look of the Toyota Alphard, a luxury minivan, or a custom grade minicar. The chrome extends all the way to the lower grille, giving it a strong presence.

    　The engine is a 3.8-liter V6 engine that delivers a maximum output of 295 hp and is mated to an 8-speed AT.

    　The XRT grade available on the Palisade adds exclusive equipment such as skid plates, lower door garnish, and logoed roof rails for a tougher design. A dark-spec front grille will also be fitted.

    　Black H-Tex leather seat upholstery has also been adopted.

    　The HTRAC all-wheel drive system with tow and lock modes is equipped as the drive system. This system provides stable driving performance even on rough roads.

    　The new Palisade will be priced from $34,950 to $50,800 (approximately 4.69 to 6.82 million yen), with the XRT grade priced at $42,150 (approximately 5.66 million yen).”