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  • “Alphard-style SUV” is out ! The world premiere of the new SUV “Palisade” with too much face! Announced in the US with a 5m class body .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “An “”Alphard-like SUV””? The world premiere of the “”Palisade,”” a new SUV with an ora-facial appearance! 5-meter class body unveiled in the U.S.
    Monday, April 18, 14:10

    Features a large front grille with a strong sense of push
    　Hyundai Motor Co. unveiled a new model of its top-of-the-line Palisade SUV at the New York Motor Show 2022, which opened in the United States on April 13, 2022.

    A powerful-looking SUV of the Alphard class! The new Palisade, with its 5-meter class body, is unveiled for the first time! View in pictures

    Hyundai’s new “”Palisade”” model

    　Palisade is a new model of large SUV in 2018, presented at the Los Angeles Motor Show 2018.

    　With body dimensions of 4980 mm (length) x 1975 mm (width) x 1750 mm (height), the Palisade is sold not only in the United States but also in South Korea and Southeast Asia, where Hyundai’s headquarters are located.

    　The new Palisade, which has undergone minor changes, features an updated front face.

    　The front grille now features a “”parametric shield”” inside the company’s “”cascade grille”” design, which gives it both a powerful design and a premium feel.

    　The design of the grille portion extending to the lower portion of the front face is reminiscent of the large front grille on Toyota’s Alphard.

    　The daylight design shines vertically, creating a more imposing atmosphere. The skid plate also features a new design.

    　A “”dark version”” of the XRT model is also available, featuring a dark front grille, black roof rails, black leather seats, and other black-toned equipment.

    　The interior with three rows of seats is equipped with a ventilation function for the second-row seats and a heating function for the third-row seats to ensure comfort. The wireless phone charging function has been enhanced from a maximum of 5W to 15W.

    　The engine is a 3.8-liter V6 engine with a maximum output of 295 hp, mated to an 8-speed AT. The drive system is available in 2WD or 4WD, and the 4WD version has a “”Tow Mode”” added to the driving mode.

    　Olabisi Boyle, Vice President of Product Planning and Mobility Strategy at Hyundai Motor North America, commented, “”This car has an attractive design and features that are befitting of Hyundai’s top SUV.

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

  • | |

    Honda announces “new face SUV” ! “It’s completely different from Vezel!” What is the reaction in Japan to the new tough face “HR-V”?

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Honda announces a “”novel face SUV””! Totally different from the Vezel!”” What is the reaction in Japan to the tough-looking new “”HR-V””?
    4/18(Mon) 11:50Distribution

    The HR-V is back in North America! What is the response at dealerships and on social networking sites?
    　The Honda “”Vezel”” has been sold overseas under the name “”HR-V”” in Europe, Asia, and North America.
    　
    　In North America, the HR-V will undergo a full model change as a new SUV based on the brand’s Civic (11th generation model). In Japan, Europe, and Asia, the Vezel (HR-V) is based on the Fit, but in North America, it will undergo a unique evolution.
    　
    　In this context, what kind of response has it received from Japanese users?

    [Image] “”It’s already a different person!”” The name “”HR-V”” is the same, but…! See two cars that look too different (26 photos)

    Is this a Honda car? Has something changed in design taste? What is the new “”HR-V””?

    　Honda of America will release new images of the new HR-V on April 12, 2022.

    　In addition to the front design and other previously released images, the rear gate opening and some interior features have also been revealed.

    　The design of the new HR-V is innovative and dynamic. The front grille is particularly distinctive, with a complex design that asserts its presence.

    　The overall body design is based on curves, with wavy, fluid character lines that create a sense of luxury. The headlights are large and L-shaped, giving a cool and simple impression.

    　The luggage space can be arranged fully flat to the second row of seats, so even large or long items can be loaded.

    　The new HR-V is scheduled to go on sale in the summer of 2022, starting with North America.

    　A representative of a Honda dealership in the Tokyo metropolitan area said, “”We have heard from customers who often visit our dealerships that the new HR-V is coming out, but…”” He added that there has been no significant response beyond that.

    　A Honda dealer in the Chubu region says, “”Many customers think that domestic and overseas models are different, so we don’t receive many inquiries about overseas models.

    　Thus, there does not seem to be much response to dealers, but various opinions about the new HR-V can be seen on social networking sites.

    　Looking at SNS, there are many positive comments such as “”I like the aggressive design,”” “”It smells like a good car…,”” “”I wish it was sold in Japan,”” “”It’s a candidate for my next car,”” and “”I want one! Some people even said, “”I want one!

    　On the other hand, there are also negative opinions such as “”It was good in the sketch stage,”” and there seems to be a division of opinion about the design.

    　In particular, opinions about the characteristic grille were very numerous, with comments such as “”The big grille has settled down…,”” “”A modest grille is good,”” “”The grille design is not so good…,”” and “”Is the grille in the wrong position? Various voices have been raised.

    　Furthermore, “”I wonder which countries it will be sold in?”” There are also many who are concerned about future trends, saying, “”If it’s based on the Civic, it’s going to be expensive.

    　Although details are not clear, the new HR-V is scheduled to be sold globally, starting with North America.

    　Its introduction in Japan will be “”within 2022?”” There are rumors of a “”name change,”” but the truth is not yet known.

    　However, since the Civic-based C-segment SUV is one of the most popular sizes, it is likely that a certain amount of demand can be expected if the model goes on sale in Japan.

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

  • |

    “If you have cruise control …” Voices of further demand for the new Toyota “Hiace” ! What is the evolution of the 18th year?

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “More Demands for Toyota’s New Hiace “”If only it had cruise control…””? What is the content of the evolution in the 18th year?

    Evolution since 18 years! What are users’ reactions to Toyota’s new Hiace?
    　Toyota announced and released a partially improved model of the “”Hiace”” (van, wagon, commuter) on April 13, 2022. What kind of reactions have users shown to this improvement?

    Evolution after 18 years! Toyota’s new “”Hiace”” is here! See the improved specifications and more in these images .
    What are users’ reactions to the partially improved, new Toyota Hiace?

    　The first generation Hiace was introduced more than 50 years ago in 1967. The current model (200 series Hiace) is the fifth generation, which was introduced in 2004.

    　It is one of the top class among small commercial vehicles with 4 license plate numbers in terms of cargo space, and has achieved a spacious interior, making it popular not only as a commercial vehicle but also as a private car.

    　Recently, as the need for overnight stay in a car tends to increase, some users are customizing the Hiace to their own specifications.

    　The Hiace, which enjoys support from such a wide range of customers, has been partially upgraded this time with “”parking support brake (for front and rear stationary objects)”” as standard equipment, which contributes to preventing mis-steps.

    　In addition, the diesel engine models have improved fuel economy and are now eligible for eco-car tax reductions, along with “”achieving the 2015 fuel economy standard +15%.

    　The Super GL (van) and GL (wagon) grades also feature LED front fog lamps as standard equipment, while the Well Cab and TECS (factory-installed special purpose vehicle) grades have been upgraded in the same way as the base model.

    　The price (including consumption tax) of the partially upgraded Hiace ranges from 2,392,100 yen to 4,190,600 yen.

    　What kind of reactions have been seen from Internet users to the 200 series Hiace, which has been on sale for nearly 20 years since its launch?

    　One of the most common opinions expressed was the desire to equip the car with “”radar cruise control.

    　This function assists the driver in keeping a safe distance from the car ahead within a set speed range while detecting the car ahead while driving.

    　Even when driving long distances and encountering traffic jams, the system assists the driver in accelerating and braking, thereby reducing driver fatigue.

    　Regarding this feature, some people have said, “”I wish it had cruise control…”” “”I think the general public would buy more cars if it had this feature! Many people said, “”I definitely want follow-up cruise control.””

    　In addition, since the Hiace is one of the most vulnerable vehicles to theft, some said, “”I want it if it is not stolen,”” and “”I hope the ability to avoid theft is improved.

    * * *

    　In addition, although the new Hiace (300-series Hiace) has been announced and released as a model for overseas markets in 2019, its release in Japan is not yet planned.

    　For this reason, some users are looking forward to a full model change, such as “”The design of the 200 series Hiace is about 20 years old, but when will the new model be released?

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

  • |

    Toyota’s new SUV “bZ4X” is really “subscribing only” ! What are the merits and precautions? Some people are worried about “Prius PHV” .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota’s New bZ4X SUV is Unexpectedly “”Subs Limited””? What are the advantages and cautions? Some people are worried about “”Prius PHV

    　Toyota will officially unveil the bZ4X, the first model in the bZ series of its new EV strategy, on April 12, 2022, with sales to begin on May 12 of the same year.

    Emphasizing power & sportiness! Toyota “”bZ4X Custom Model”” Too Cool! View the actual vehicle in 83 images.

    　With this announcement, it is clear that the service will be offered only through the “”KINTO”” subscription service, but what exactly is the use of this service?

    Subscription-only! What are the benefits of the new Toyota bZ4X?

    　KINTO is a subscriber program that includes in the monthly fee the cost of using the car, such as car insurance, taxes, and maintenance fees, in addition to the new vehicle itself.

    　KINTO subscriptions are already available for popular Toyota models such as the Corolla Cross, RAV4, and Noah/Voxy.

    　The new bZ4X model features an exclusive plan, which includes auto insurance, wear and tear replacement, vehicle inspection, and breakdown repair, as well as bZ4X-only services.

    　The bZ4X is available for up to a 10-year contract, with the first four years covered by a subsidy (in principle, an amount equivalent to the subsidy is deducted from the monthly fee); from the fifth year onward, the monthly fee will be reduced in stages each year, and if the car is sold after the fifth year, the cancellation fee will be zero yen.

    　In addition, 70% of the drive battery capacity is guaranteed for 10 years of the contract period or until the mileage reaches 200,000 km.

    　In addition, connected services such as T-Connect basic service, connected navigation system, and digital key are included in the contract.

    　In addition, the monthly usage fee includes registration processing fees, automobile tax by type, weight tax, and automobile tax environmental performance rate.

    　On the other hand, because it is a subscription contract, smoking, pets, vehicle modifications, and competition driving are prohibited.

    　KINTO is available for a variety of Toyota vehicles in addition to the bZ4X, but what exactly are the benefits of using KINTO? The staff at Toyota dealerships explains this as follows: “”Using KINTO is a great way to get a better price for your car.

    The use of KINTO includes not only the car itself but also optional insurance and taxes, so the customer only needs to pay for gasoline and parking.

    　The only difference is that, unlike in the past, when a customer purchases a car, the car can be used as the customer’s car, and if the customer has a residual value loan contract, the customer can get the amount back.

    　However, in the case of a KINTO contract, the customer is only borrowing the car.

    　Another staff member at a dealership explains the key points of using bZ4X as follows.

    When considering the use of bZ4X, charging facilities are a major factor.

    　A hybrid car can run on gasoline alone, but the bZ4X is a 100% EV vehicle, so it is important to be able to recharge the battery near your home or in your own parking space.

    　Some of the customers who inquired about the bZ4X were wondering whether to choose the plug-in hybrid Prius (Prius PHV) because it is the first time for them to use EVs.

    　Also, since the number of vehicles for sale on May 12 is limited to 3,000, we recommend that you apply as soon as possible.

    * *

    　The price of the KINTO contract is scheduled to be announced on May 2, and the response from users may change as soon as the official price is announced.

    Kuruma News Editorial Department
    “

  • | |

    “It’s not like Honda!” The innovative design of the new “HR-V” is a surprising evaluation ! Which do you prefer, the Japanese “Vezel”?

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Not Honda-esque! Surprising evaluation of the novel design of the new “”HR-V””! Which do you prefer to the Japanese “”Vezel””?

    Japan’s Vezel vs. North America’s HR-V: Which Do You Prefer?
    　The new HR-V for North America, first unveiled by Honda of America on April 4, 2022, has become a hot topic of conversation.

    “”Is this really a Honda car?”” The wild HR-V is so cool! How is it different from the fashionable Vezel?

    　The Vezel is the SUV sold by Honda in Japan, but its predecessor is the HR-V, which was introduced in 1998.

    The new Honda HR-V for North America

    　The current Vezel is the second generation, fully remodeled for 2021, and the same model as the Japanese Vezel in Europe and other markets is available overseas as the HR-V.

    　The HR-V in North America, on the other hand, has evolved on its own, and now a new model is being introduced.

    　The Vezel and the HR-V are closely related, and we conducted a survey of SNS users regarding these two vehicles.

    The question was, “”Which do you prefer, the Vezel for Japan or the HR-V for North America?”” 45.1% of respondents chose the Vezel for Japan, while 54.9% chose the HR-V for North America.

    　Although the HR-V for North America outperformed the VWD, many respondents were interested in the new HR-V, which is more SUV-like, saying that the HR-V looks more powerful and SUV-like, and that it has a spaciousness that is typical of SUVs.

    　As for the design, the new HR-V’s innovative and strong-accented design, which is different from previous Honda models, was well received, with comments such as, “”The design doesn’t look like a Honda,”” “”The North American version has more originality and luxury,”” and “”It pursues a newer Honda.

    　Other comments focused on practicality, such as “”The body size is expected to be slightly larger, so we can expect even more interior space than the Vezel,”” and “”The rear door knobs are placed on the doors and seem to be easy to use.

    　The knob on the rear door of the Vezel is located at the top of the rear of the door near the C-pillar and is not easy to recognize at first glance.

    　Often used on compact models, this door knob was incorporated in the Vesel because the styling of the Vesel was intended to resemble a two-door coupe, and it is integrated into the stylish design.

    　Other comments about the new HR-V included, “”I am concerned about the fact that the base model is a ‘Civic.

    　The new HR-V is an SUV based on the 11th generation Civic, which was introduced in 2021. Honda describes the new HR-V as “”a manageable size that is spacious and practical enough to enjoy a variety of activities, yet nimble enough to drive around town.

    　On the other hand, those who support the Vezel have expressed their appreciation for the clean styling of the Vezel, such as “”the Vezel is more stylish,”” and “”simple and elegant is the Japanese Vezel, which is common with the European model.

    * * *

    　Although more people preferred the new HR-V in this survey, some had negative impressions of the novel design of the front grille, saying that it is “”too big and the design is too clunky”” and “”the grille is too assertive.

    　The new HR-V is scheduled to go on sale in North America in the summer of 2022, and will be sold globally outside of North America.

    　It will be interesting to see if it will be introduced in Japan as well.”

  • | |

    “How much is the price? The new CX-60 is here!” Many voices compare with “RAV4” & “Outlander”? What is the difference between you and your PHEV rivals?

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “How Much Does It Cost?”” The new CX-60 is here!”” Many compare it to the RAV4 and Outlander? What are the differences from PHEV rivals?
    Sunday, April 17, 10:10

    Mazda CX-60 Compared to Rivals…What Are Some Voices Saying?
    　The new Mazda CX-60 crossover SUV made its Japan premiere on April 7, 2022.
    　
    　The new CX-60 is available with several powertrains, with PHEV attracting the most interest.
    　
    　What other SUV and PHEV rivals are out there, and how do they compare?

    How do Toyota, Mazda, and Mitsubishi differ? How do Toyota, Mazda, and Mitsubishi differ from each other? (50 pictures)

    Mazda’s newly introduced new “”CX-60″” PHEV model has been compared to the RAV4 and Outlander.

    　On social networking sites after the information release, many people have voiced their expectations for the new CX-60, saying things like, “”The CX-60 is so cool, I’m curious about it,”” and “”I can’t wait to see the real car too much.

    　Among these models, the Toyota RAV4 PHV, the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, and the Lexus NX 450h+ are among the SUVs and PHEVs in the lineup of Japanese automakers.

    　In particular, since the RAV4 and Outlander are expected to be close in price range and target group, we will mainly look at what people are saying about these two vehicles.

    　On social networking sites, we see voices comparing each, such as “”I can’t decide whether to buy my car, RAV4 or CX-60,”” and “”I was going to get the Outlander, but the CX-60 is so much better.
    　
    　As for the exteriors, some commented, “”The front face of the RAV4 is so cool and rugged,”” “”The exterior of the new Outlander is aggressive but also elegant,”” and “”The exterior of the CX-60 looks very foreign,”” each with a positive opinion.

    　The RAV4’s exterior wears a sporty and elegant look with black as its precious color, and features a front grille that gives the impression of a powerful push and large wheels that seem to show off the robustness of the suspension.

    　The exterior of the Outlander is attractive with its diamond color series that gives a hard, crisp impression, while the sharp headlights and dynamic shield that expresses a sense of security and power are inclusive.

    　The new CX-60 is designed with elegance in its simplicity, as if born from the concept of “”beauty through subtraction,”” and while retaining the “”formality”” typical of SUVs, it has a subtlety like a work of art that beautifully reflects the surrounding landscape. The interior is designed with a simple yet elegant design.

    　As for the interior, some of the customers commented, “”I love the tan color of the CX-60’s interior! The CX-60’s interior is very nice, but the Outlander’s interior is more luxurious and has better sound insulation, which is my favorite””.

    　The RAV4’s interior is all black, which gives it a sporty and tight impression, but the red stitching in various places gives it a playful design.

    　The Outlander, on the other hand, has a horizontal design that runs through the instrument panel, and the steering wheel and shift knob are made of genuine leather, giving the interior a sense of attention to quality.

    　The interior of the new CX-60, the higher grade “”Premium Modern,”” uses fabrics that take into account changes in light not only during the daytime but also with the changing of the seasons, and the stitching is made of natural wood to express Japanese kakari-nui, giving a sense of oneness with nature.

    　In addition, the “”Premium Sports”” model adopts a two-tone color of tan and black, which gives a sense of quality and intelligence, just like a sports car.
    　
    　Incidentally, how are equipment comparisons being made on SNS?

    　On social networking sites, many people are saying “”If I get used to the latest equipment in the RAV4, I may not be able to drive any other car,”” “”The speakers in the Outlander are really nice,”” and “”The equipment in the CX-60 looks pretty good,”” indicating that they are attracted to each car.

    　So what are the differences in PHEVs?

    　The RAV4 PHV delivers a maximum system output of 306 hp from its 2.5-liter engine and front and rear motors, with 0-100 km/h in 6.0 seconds and excellent acceleration.

    　WLTC mode fuel economy is 22.2 km/L, and the EV driving range is 95 km when fully charged. The Outlander can only be charged normally, and a full charge takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes with AC200V/16A, and approximately 27 hours with AC100V/6A.

    　The Outlander’s 2.4-liter engine and front and rear motors deliver a maximum system output of 252 hp and WLTC mode fuel economy of 16.6 km/L, ensuring an EV driving range of 87 km when fully charged.

    　The new CX-60 can be charged either normally or quickly, with normal charging (AC200V) taking approximately 7.5 hours and quick charging taking approximately 38 minutes to charge to 80% capacity.

    　The new CX-60, on the other hand, combines a 2.4-liter engine with a motor to achieve a maximum system output of 327 hp, with WLTC mode fuel economy yet to be announced.

    * * *
    　
    　The price range is 4,690,000 yen to 5,390,000 yen for the RAV4 and 4,621,100 yen to 5,327,000 yen for the Outlander. In addition, the NX ranges from 7,140,000 yen to 7,380,000 yen.

    　Although the price of the new CX-60 has not yet been officially announced, Mazda dealers in the Tokyo metropolitan area say that it will be in the mid 5 million to mid 6 million yen range. Therefore, it will be positioned between the RAV4, Outlander, and NX, and we hope to explain to customers the quality of the interior and exterior, performance, and other aspects.

    　Some people on social networking sites are saying that the price is higher than the RAV4 but lower than the NX, and if the PHEV is priced around 6.5 million, it will be a big winner.

    　As details of the new CX-60 become clearer, we can expect to hear more and more comparisons between these rivals.”

  • |

    Can you buy a luxury car of about 6 million yen at half price? Can you reach the new SUV even though it has a “high” voice? How to aim for bZ4X & Solterra & Aria at a good price .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Can you buy a 6 million yen luxury car for half the price? Can you afford a new SUV despite the “”expensive”” price tag? How to get a good deal on bZ4X, Sortera, and Aria?

    Seemingly expensive… but how to keep the price of new EVs down?
    　On April 12, 2022, Toyota officially announced the new “”bZ4X”” and on April 14, Subaru officially announced the new “”Solterra”” in Japan, both of which will be available for pre-order starting May 12.
    　
    　Nissan held a delivery ceremony for the first model of the new “”Aria”” on March 9, showing that new EVs in Japan are gaining momentum.
    　
    　What is the reaction of users to each of these trends and prices?

    New SUVs with novel designs may be within reach! Which of the new SUVs with innovative designs will you choose? Compare with actual vehicles!

    At first glance, EVs may seem expensive… but with subsidies, you may be able to buy one for almost half the price!

    　Many users have been waiting for the official announcement of the new bZ4X and the new Solterra, and on social networking sites, people are saying, “”Finally! and the newly announced information on price and sales methods has been attracting a lot of attention.

    　As for the Aria, the special limited edition “”limited”” model for Japan has already been released prior to the two models, and as mentioned above, the commemorative first car has been delivered to its owner.

    　The other grades will be released one after another, with the B6 (2WD) currently available for order.

    　The three vehicles are the same SUV type EV, so it is easy for users to compare them, and there have been many comments on social networking sites comparing the design, powertrain, and other aspects.

    　Now that the vehicle prices of the new bZ4X and the new Solterra have been disclosed, there have been more opinions about the prices on SNS, but what specific comments have been raised?

    　The price of the Aria is 5,390,000 yen for the B6 (2WD) model currently on sale. As for the limited editions, the B6 e-4ORCE limited is priced at 7.206 million yen, the B9 limited (2WD) at 7.408 million yen, and the B9 e-4ORCE limited at 7.902 million yen.

    　For the new Soltera, the ET-SS (2WD), ET-SS (4WD), and ET-HS (4WD) are priced at 5.94 million yen, 6.38 million yen, and 6.82 million yen, respectively.

    　The new bZ4X, on the other hand, is set at 6,000,000 yen for the Z (2WD) and 6,500,000 yen for the Z (4WD), but the only sales format is the “”KINTO”” subscription service with a fixed monthly fee.

    　Many people on SNS seem to have the impression that the new bZ4X and new Solterra are “”expensive”” in response to their prices, as they say, “”It’s a very high-end car,”” or “”If this price is the base, I can’t buy EVs anymore.

    　On the other hand, many people seem to have the impression that the Aria is cheap, saying, “”Is the Aria inexpensive in this price range? Compared to the price range of the new bZ4X and the new Solterra, more users seem to have the impression that the Aria is “”relatively affordable.

    　Some users, regardless of the model, also commented that it is difficult to know whether the price is high or low, and that it is difficult to determine the standard for price, suggesting that many users find it difficult to evaluate the price of SUV-type EVs, which are not yet common.

    　Battery capacity is one of the performance indicators of EVs. 71.4 kWh for the new bZ4X and the new Solterra, 66 kWh for the B6 and 91 kWh for the B9 Aria, and some users compare the price difference in this area of performance.

    * * *

    　On the other hand, the national and local governments subsidize the purchase of EVs.

    　For example, in the case of the Aria, the “”METI subsidy from the fiscal 2021 supplementary budget”” is 850,000 yen, the “”subsidy for clean energy vehicle introduction project”” is 420,000 yen, the “”eco-car tax reduction”” is 48,500 yen, and the “”municipal subsidy (in Tokyo)”” is 450,000 yen, for a total of 1,768,500 yen in preferential treatment. This means that a total of 1,768,500 yen in preferential treatment will be received.

    　The aforementioned Aria B6 (2WD) at 5.39 million yen would cost approximately 3.62 million yen, the new bZ4X (2WD) at 4.23 million yen, and the new Solterra ET-SS (2WD) at 4.17 million yen, making the price affordable for some people.

    　As for the new bZ4X, it is KINTO only, but the subsidy will be separately factored into the monthly usage fee.

    　In Japan, various subsidies are available for environmentally friendly vehicles such as EVs, FCVs, and PHEVs, and by making good use of these subsidies, a “”life with EVs”” may be within reach.”

  • |

    “New car is too dirty !” Toyota’s new SUV “bZ4X” has released an exciting video of dusting up! It doesn’t matter if it’s a rough road .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “New Car Too Dirty? Toyota’s new SUV “”bZ4X”” raises dust in a painful video! The new Toyota SUV “”bZ4X”” raced hard on rough roads!

    Toyota’s Latest SUV Takes to the Dirt
    　Toyota’s new SUV-type EV, the bZ4X, was officially unveiled on April 12, 2022.

    New Car Too Dirty! Toyota’s New SUV “”bZ4X”” Rides on Dirt! Watch the powerful driving scene.

    　In conjunction with this, Toyota released several videos of the new bZ4X on its official YouTube channel. In one of them, “”Battery EV Performance Off-road,”” the new bZ4X can be seen driving on a dirt road.

    　The video starts with the new bZ4X (4WD version, Z grade) in the “”Emotional Red II”” body color standing still.

    　You can see the front area where the grille-less design is adopted, and the shape of the headlights.

    　The video then shows the professional driver driving the car, showing impressive acceleration even on dirt roads, nimbly clearing corners, and turning in a steady circle.

    * * *

    　The new bZ4X is a new EV jointly developed with Subaru. The Subaru version model, the new “”Solterra”” is also reportedly scheduled for release.

    　The new bZ4X adopts Subaru-developed “”X-MODE”” 4WD control technology, which is well known for its 4WD vehicles and can be used not only for daily use but also for more than light off-road driving.

    　In addition, “”Grip Control”” has been developed as a new function of “”X-MODE.

    　Expectations are high not only for its appeal as an EV, but also for its excellent performance on rough roads, which is typical of SUVs.”

  • |

    Subscription contract for “6 million yen SUV” ! Voice of “It’s an era” in the announcement of Toyota’s new “bZ4X” Some people are concerned about prohibited matters such as “no pets”?

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Subscribe to “”6 Million Yen SUV””? Toyota’s new “”bZ4X”” announced, “”It’s the times!”” “”No pets allowed”” and other prohibited items concern some?

    How Users React to Toyota’s New bZ4X EV Subscription Sales?
    　Toyota has officially announced the new bZ4X, the first model in the bZ series of its new EV strategy, on April 12, 2022.
    The design is futuristic! Check out the new Toyota bZ4X in action with these images!

    　The announcement revealed that only subscriptions will be sold for personal use, but what are the users saying in response to this?

    Toyota’s new “”bZ4X”” officially announced! What are users’ reactions?

    　The bZ4X was developed based on the “”Activity Hub”” concept, aiming to create an exciting car that allows all occupants to share a fun time and space.

    　For the platform, Toyota adopted the “”e-TNGA”” jointly developed with Subaru for the first time, realizing an attractive driving experience with a low center of gravity and high rigidity.

    　In addition, the battery electric vehicle (BEV) pursues safety and peace of mind, and has high power consumption performance (128 Wh/km) and a cruising range (559 km) that is sufficient for practical use.

    　Only the Z grade is available in FWD and 4WD.

    　The reference price (including consumption tax) is 6 million yen for FWD and 6.5 million yen for 4WD.

    　According to the announcement, all BEVs will be sold on a lease basis in order to eliminate user concerns about battery performance, maintenance, and residual value, as well as to contribute to carbon neutrality by managing all batteries and using them without waste, including 3R (rebuild, reuse, recycle).

    　For this reason, individual users will be offered the “”KINTO”” subscription service plan.

    　For corporate users, the bZ4X will be available for lease from Toyota Rent-A-Lease stores nationwide and Toyota Mobility Service (Tokyo region).

    　What is the reaction from users to the fact that the bZ4X is now sold on a subscriber basis rather than purchased for personal use?

    　Many users responded to the subscriber-only contract system with comments such as, “”Subscribers only…this is the times we live in,”” “”It’s smarter to rent a car,”” and “”Subscribe to a car for sale….

    　Some users seem to have a hard time imagining this, as there are few examples of subscriber use for cars they own.

    　As for the price, some users feel that it is “”too expensive…”” while others wonder “”How much would it cost with KINTO…”” or “”Would KINTO be affordable?”” The way people perceive the price differs from person to person.

    　In addition, since smoking, pets, vehicle modification, and competition driving are prohibited when using KINTO, some users said, “”It may be inconvenient for niche customers,”” or “”At least allow pets.

    　In addition, many respondents also expressed their opinions on chargers, saying, “”It is important to see how far the quick charging facilities can be expanded,”” and “”More chargers! and “”More chargers!

    　Toyota explains this in its official release as follows.

    We are also working to expand the recharging infrastructure.

    　We plan to install quick chargers at Toyota dealerships nationwide by 2025, taking into account the future progress in the spread of BEVs.

    　First, this year, we will gradually install them mainly in areas where demand for BEVs is high.

    * * * *

    　The bZ4X is scheduled to go on sale on May 12, with applications for 3,000 units accepted in the first phase, followed by the second phase in early fall, and then sequentially thereafter, with production and sales of 5,000 units planned for the first year.”

  • | |

    Too daunting !? Honda announces new “Mugen Fit”! Released in China Countdown !? Explosion of sportiness!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Too fearless! Honda announces the new MUGEN FIT! Second countdown to its release in China! Sporty and explosive!

    The Fit is loved by many users in China
    　Honda’s Chinese joint venture, Guangqi Honda Automobile, will soon launch the Mugen Fit, a new sporty model of the Chinese-spec Fit, on April 12, 2022, the company announced on its official website.

    Too much aero! Honda’s “”Mugen Fit”” with a cool look
    Guangqi Honda Automobile’s “”Mugen Fit

    　Honda has a joint venture company in China called “”Dongfeng Honda”” with Guangqi Honda Automobile.

    　Guangqi Honda Automobile sells the Fit with Chinese specifications, while Dongfeng Honda Automobile handles the Fit’s sister model, the Life.

    　Incidentally, Guangqi Honda Automobile explains that the Fit has a total of more than 1.3 million users in China. This means that the Fit is loved by many users.

    　The Mugen Fit is equipped with various aero parts from Mugen, an after-sports brand specializing in Honda.

    　A front spoiler and silver front grille have been adopted to give the car a face with a strong presence, and a flashy rear spoiler has also been adopted.

    　The design is somewhat different from the Mugen accessories for the Fit sold in Japan, with a style that emphasizes fearlessness.

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