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    Harrier’s top-of-the-line PHEV is too cool

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Toyota “Harrier” Why is the hybrid more fuel-efficient? What is the value of choosing the highest-end PHEV, which costs about 1 million yen more?

    Harrier Hybrid” vs “Harrier PHEV
    　Nowadays, most new models are hybrids, and more and more plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) are also being added to the lineup.
    　
    　In this context, Toyota will add a PHEV to its Harrier luxury SUV in October 2022. Originally, a hybrid version of the Harrier was available, and one wonders how it will differ from the PHEV. How exactly is it differentiated?

    Harrier’s top-of-the-line “PHEV” is too cool! View photos of interior and exterior

    Toyota “Harrier PHEV” equipped with an exclusive mesh grille

    　The powertrains currently available in the Japanese market include a conventional internal combustion engine, a hybrid that uses both an engine and a motor powered by a dedicated battery, and a battery-electric vehicle (BEV) that covers 100% of the driving power. PHEVs are positioned between hybrids and EVs.

    　Recent hybrids have a full range of features, including an “EV mode” that runs on battery power and the motor, but PHEVs are designed to further enhance this feature by allowing the battery to be charged directly from an external plug. By more actively using motor-driven EV driving, fuel consumption can be further reduced.

    　Comparing the Harrier’s hybrid and PHEV, they have the same body size and the same type of engine, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder. However, there is a slight difference in specifications: the hybrid’s engine delivers 178 hp/221 Nm, while the PHEV’s delivers 177 hp/219 Nm.

    　What are the other differences?

    　First of all, the hybrid has a choice between 2WD and 4WD (E-Four/Electric 4WD). Those who prefer fuel economy over rough road drivability, or those who want to enjoy a lightweight crossover-like ride thanks to the 80kg weight reduction, can choose 2WD, while those who want SUV-like characteristics and peace of mind even in bad weather can choose E-Four.

    　On the other hand, the PHEV is only available in E-Four, probably because the PHEV is positioned as the highest grade of Harrier and 4WD is more suitable for transferring the 306 horsepower of the entire system to the road surface without difficulty.

    　Let’s compare the fuel economy performance (WLTC mode) in the catalog. The 2WD Hybrid achieved 22.3km/L and the 4WD Hybrid 21.6km/L, which are quite low fuel consumption.

    　The PHEV, on the other hand, is slightly less fuel-efficient than the hybrid at 20.5km/L, but it is still above its class. Why is the PHEV less fuel efficient than the hybrid, even though they have the same engine?

    　The answer lies in the vehicle weight: the hybrid weighs between 1620 and 1690 kg, while the PHEV weighs 1950 kg, a difference of about 300 kg.

    　The PHEV is also heavier due to the plug-in hybrid system and larger drive battery, which affects fuel economy, but despite the weight difference, the PHEV achieves a fuel economy of 20.5 km/L, which is nothing short of amazing.

    　In addition, the PHEV is capable of 93 km of EV driving, which seems to make up for the difference in fuel economy.

    Toyota “Harrier” Why is the hybrid more fuel-efficient? What is the value of choosing the highest-end PHEV, which costs about 1 million yen more?

    What are the differences in interior and exterior design?
    　The interior and exterior design of the Harrier hybrid and PHEV are somewhat different.

    　The Hybrid has a horizontal black front grille, while the PHEV has a glossy black painted mesh grille.

    　The PHEV has blacked-out sides of the dora mirror and rear roof spoiler, and smoked chrome moldings on the rear bumper. In addition, four body colors are available, including “Gray Metallic,” which is exclusive to the PHEV.

    Toyota Harrier PHEV Interior

    　In addition, the interior of the PHEV features dark red piping ornamentation with a metal mesh texture from the instrument panel to the door trim. The seat upholstery is genuine leather like the top grade “Z Leather Package” of the regular Harrier, and is equipped with power seats.

    　The driver and front passenger seats are heated and ventilated in the same way, but the PHEV also comes with heated rear seats, making it a fully equipped top-of-the-line Harrier.

    The PHEV is equipped with heated rear seats and other features that make it a top grade Harrier.

    　As for the price, the top-of-the-line hybrid model “Z Leather Package (E-Four)” is 5,148,000 yen (consumption tax included, same below), and the plug-in hybrid “Z (E-Four)” is 6,200,000 yen, with a difference of 1,052,000 yen.

    　Incidentally, the Harrier is also available in gasoline form, with the highest grade “Z Leather Package (E-Four)” priced at 4,538,000 yen.

    　The hybrid model can be driven with the same sensation as the conventional gasoline engine model, and offers high fuel efficiency and high power, while the PHEV model is about 1 million yen more expensive and weighs about 300 kg more, but has a special interior and exterior, equipment, and can be charged externally, making it more like an EV.

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    The wild new Hiace in vivid vitamin colors is unveiled for the first time

    ByChathura Chanuka

    The wild new “Hiace” in vivid “vitamin colors” is unveiled for the first time! Bunk beds and “overnight stay” specifications realized in response to requests, even the interior is “tough finished”!

    Tough interior material is “blue denim” tailoring!
    　Camper manufacturer RECVY (Seto City, Aichi Prefecture) unveiled the Hobbycle Overlander W KAIHARA model at the Japan Camper Show 2023 (JCCS2023), held at Makuhari Messe (Mihama-ku, Chiba City) from February 3 to 6, 2023.
    　
    　This new camper is based on the Toyota Hiace, but its greatest feature is the use of 100% cotton Japanese denim fabric for the interior seat material.

    Tough interior is “denim specification”! View 26 photos of the Lexby “Hobbycle Overlander W”.

    Intense both outside and inside! The new Lexby “Hobbycle Overlander W KAIHARA Model” camper based on the Toyota Hiace (wide middle-roof vehicle).

    　Up until now, RECBY has offered two models in the Hobbycle Overlander series of Hiace campers: the “Hobbycle Overlander” based on a super-long body, high roof model with an overall length of 5380mm x width of 1880mm, and the “Hobbycle Overlander” based on a long body, standard roof model with an overall length of 4690mm x width of 1695mm. The “Hobbycle Overlander IV” was a long-body, standard-roof model with an overall length of 4690 mm x 1695 mm and an overall width of 1695 mm.

    　However, in response to requests from users for a model in between the two models, the Hobbycle Overlander W, based on a long wide-body, middle-roof vehicle measuring 4880 mm (L) x 1880 mm (W), was newly added to the lineup and was first shown at JCCS2023.

    　The interior is insulated, the second seat is a high-back seat (REVO seat that can be arranged as a bed or facing each other), and the rear bunk bed is configured in the same way as the other series. The seating capacity is for five passengers and sleeping capacity for two to four.

    　Exhibited for the first time at JCCS2023 was the “KAIHARA model” featuring denim material for the seats and bed interior, which attracted much attention from visitors, along with a special paint job in bright vitamin colors and custom parts made by JAOS.

    　The interior fabric was made by KAIHARA (Hiroshima Prefecture). The denim fabric, also known as “KAIHARA blue,” is used by a wide range of famous brands from the world to fast fashion, and boasts a 50% share of the domestic market.

    　The “selvedge denim” commonly seen in vintage denim is used. It is made of 100% cotton and has passed flame retardant tests in consideration of use in campers.

    　A representative of the JCCS2023 site, Lexby, said, “Denim is treated with a two-wash process.

    The denim is a very special material that has been washed twice, and it has been well received by visitors.

    　The Hobbycle Overlander W KAIHARA model is priced from 5,023,000 yen to 5,325,400 yen including consumption tax.

    　In addition to the denim interior version, customers can also choose from Lexby’s original interior version finished with a combination of green canvas and black suede sewing.

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    Suzuki’s Jimny 4-door with a roof that pops open

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Suzuki’s “Jimny 4-door” with a roof that pops open. What is the stylish box that has been completely reproduced?

    The Jimny 5-door is the talk of the town… but what is an item that looks like a 4-door, no way!
    　The Suzuki Jimny is the fourth generation of the Suzuki Jimny, which was introduced in 2018.
    　
    　It is still supported by a wide range of users, but new Jimny goods have been released.

    Jimny 4-door? The novel item that can be opened with a snap has been renewed. See the real thing.

    I want this…maybe? Attention was paid to every detail. Wet tissue case that looks like a Jimny 4-door has been renewed.

    　Face, a company that designs and sells car-shaped goods, will release a new wet tissue case that replicates the Jimny on February 6, 2023.

    　By reproducing even more details from the previously released Jimny Sierra, the case has been finished to look more like a Jimny and less like a wet tissue case.

    　The size is 285mm (L) x 145mm (W) x 135mm (H) and weighs 658g. It can smoothly hold up to a standard bag of wet wipes or wipes (15cm x 8.5cm x 6cm).

    　In addition to the addition of the license plate, inspection sticker, and inspection sticker, the tires and over-defenders have been newly reproduced to match the Jimny.

    　You can enjoy the large and powerful details in approx. 1/12 scale, and you can even push the tires by hand to make them run.

    　The hood can be removed. Inside is a small compartment for keys and other small items, as well as wet tissues, a spice container and a planter.

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    The new Prius launched from hybrid vehicles

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Why is there a price difference of more than 1 million yen between the new Toyota Prius and the base model? What are the different specifications of the “”base”” and “”top-end”” models?

    Toyota’s New “”Prius”” – What is the 1 million yen difference in price?
    　Toyota launched the new Prius (hybrid model) on January 10, 2023.

    　There are four grades in the lineup, but what is the difference between the low-priced grade and the highest grade?

    Toyota’s new Prius, a million yen price difference! A comparison of the two models, the “”base and top grade.””

    The new “”Prius”” launched from hybrid vehicles

    　The new Prius is available in four grades: the top-of-the-line “”Z”” grade, the standard “”G”” grade, the “”U”” grade exclusively for the “”KINTO”” subscription service, and the basic “”X”” grade for corporate customers.

    　Prices range from 2,750,000 yen to 3,920,000 yen, with a difference of more than 1,000,000 yen between the lowest and highest grades.

    　First of all, the highest grade Z is available in a choice of six body colors, including ash and mustard.

    　Unlike the other grades, the interior color can be selected from black or red, with the red color having a sportier design.

    　The seats are equipped with an 8-way power sporty driver’s seat with synthetic leather upholstery, driver’s seat position memory (with 2 memories), driver’s seat auto slide-away, heated front and rear seats, and ventilation for the front seats.

    　Other exterior features include LED accessory lamps, front lower grille, and rear bumper lower decorations, while the interior features a satin chrome shift knob and a wireless charger for wireless smartphone charging.

    　The powertrain is a 2-liter hybrid with a choice of 2WD or E-Four. Fuel economy is 28.6 km/L for the 2WD model.

    　The luggage space is 410 liters, which is enough space for two suitcases.

    　As for safety features, Toyota Safety Sense, an advanced driving support function package that includes collision damage reduction braking, as well as parking support brakes for front and rear stationary objects, vehicles approaching from behind, and pedestrians in the rear, and a panoramic view monitor are standard equipment.

    Why is there a price difference of more than 1 million yen between the new Toyota Prius and the base model? What are the different specifications of the “”base”” and “”top-end”” models?

    What are the differences in the equipment of the “”low-priced grade””?
    　On the other hand, the X grade, which is available as a business grade, offers a choice of two body colors: silver and white.
    　
    　Incidentally, the silver color is only available on the X grade.

    New Prius

    　The interior is black, the instrument panel is painted silver in various places, and fabric upholstery is provided for the seats.

    　Seat functions include a 6-way manual driver’s seat (front/rear sliding, reclining, seat up/down) and a 4-way manual front/rear sliding/reclining passenger seat with entry seat functions, but it is quite simple compared to the Z grade.

    　The powertrain is powered by a 1.8-liter engine and achieves fuel economy of 32.6 km/L in WLTC mode (in 2WD mode).

    This difference in powertrain is one of the reasons for the price difference.

    　As for safety features, the basic model comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense, but some features, such as blind spot monitoring and support for approaching vehicles in the vicinity, are available as factory-installed options.

    　Other features include a USB port (Type-C) for charging and an accessory outlet (AC100V, 1500W) on the center console and in the luggage compartment for use in emergencies.

    　The cargo capacity is 422 liters, showing that the X grade is larger than the Z grade.

    　Comparing the Z and X grades, it is clear that the Z grade offers a wider range of features and more choices than the X grade.

    　However, it can be said that the X also has sufficient basic equipment such as safety features.

    　With the hybrid model already on sale and the PHEV model scheduled to go on sale in March, it seems that there is still plenty of Prius to talk about.

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    Super cool Toyota’s Alphard a full-fledged SUV

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Super cool! Toyota’s “Alphard,” a “full-fledged SUV,” has been praised! Almost DIY “off-road minivan” is now the talk of the town!

    Toyota’s “Alphard” Converted into an SUV Receives Praise
    　The “Tokyo Auto Salon 2023,” a custom car festival held in January 2023, showcased a large number of elaborate custom cars.

    I have never seen such a “luxury minivan” before! Toyota’s “Alphard,” now a “full-fledged SUV”

    　At the Tokyo Auto Salon, a custom “crossover minivan” vehicle, which could also be called an “Agephard,” was exhibited. This car was exhibited.

    　This vehicle has attracted a variety of comments on social networking sites.

    A custom car that could also be called an “Agephado,” a DIY conversion of Toyota’s luxury minivan “Alphard” into a full-fledged SUV.

    　The Alphard is Toyota’s world-class luxury minivan. The current model is the third generation developed under the concept of a “large-space luxury saloon,” which was introduced in 2015.

    　The model that became the ALPHARD is also based on this third generation. Not only is the vehicle extremely lifted, but it is also equipped with a bull bar, giving it a full-fledged SUV look.

    　According to the owner, Tom, the vehicle height has been increased by about 8 inches (203mm) including the lift-up kit and tires. The tires are the same size as those used on the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, a full-fledged cross-country four-wheel drive vehicle, and are large off-road tires.

    　At the front, the factory bumper has been cut and a bull bar modified from one for the Toyota Hiace has been installed, and skid plates for the Toyota Hilux have been diverted.

    　On the sides, door mirror covers and over fenders have been installed and chipping paint has been applied, and a “roof carrier,” a standard item for off-road vehicles, has been installed on the roof to further enhance the SUV look.

    　The rear of the vehicle is equipped with rear tires similar to those on a full-scale cross-country four-wheel drive vehicle such as a RANCL, and a ladder is also installed, giving the impression that it is not a minivan at all.

    　The cost of the modification, which is of interest, was approximately 1,000,000 yen, which is only the cost of parts, since it was installed as a DIY project.

    The cost of the modification is said to be about 1 million yen.

    　Although the “Agephado” has been heavily customized, it has of course passed vehicle inspections and is officially certified.

    　Various comments have been made about this car on SNS and other social networking sites.

    　The most common comments were “Cool! The most common comments on social networking sites were, “It’s cool!

    　Some people were surprised at the fact that the car was self-made, saying, “I didn’t know you could go this far with a DIY project.

    　Some also commented that the practicality of the vehicle seemed surprisingly high, saying, “It might come in handy when it snows a lot,” and “It’s nice to have an SUV with sliding doors.

    　Various comments were gathered about the ALPHARD, some of which reminded people of the Mitsubishi “Delica” in its “SUV + minivan” style, such as “It reminds me of the Delica.

    　We will keep an eye on Tom’s future plans for the Alphard, which he customized as a DIY project.

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    The RAV4 is a full-fledged crossover SUV

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Toyota’s New “RAV4” All-Four-Wheel-Drive Crossover SUV to be Launched in Brazil at 8.25 Million Yen with a Charming Interior and Improved Safety Features! With stylish interior and evolved safety features, it will be introduced to the Brazilian market at 8.25 million yen!

    All 4WD RAV4
    　On January 26, 2023, Toyota’s Brazilian subsidiary announced and launched the 2023 model of Toyota’s authentic crossover SUV, the RAV4.

    8.25 million yen! See the new Toyota “RAV4,” a completely luxury car,
    　
    What kind of car is it?

    The Toyota “RAV4 2023” in Brazil.

    　The RAV4 is a full-fledged crossover SUV, with the first model launched in 1994; the current model is the fifth generation, which will be introduced in 2019.

    　In Japan, a partially redesigned model will arrive in October 2022 with expanded Toyota Safety Sense functionality, a display audio system compatible with the connected navigation system, and a new digital meter cluster.

    　The “Adventure “OFFROAD package II,” a special edition model with “GORI GORI BLACK” paint, which has an uneven, low-gloss texture created by applying layers of paint to the front bumper, door mirrors, and other parts, was also introduced and became a topic of conversation.

    　The new 2023 RAV4, which is now available in the Brazilian market, will be offered in a much more limited range of grades compared to the Japanese RAV4.

    　The powertrain combines a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine that delivers a maximum output of 178 hp and 22.5 kgfm with a motor that delivers a maximum output of 120 hp and 20.6 kgfm, for a total system output of 222 hp.

    　The transmission combined with this engine is an electric CVT. Four driving modes are available: Normal, Eco, EV, and Sport, and all models are 4WD.

    　The interior features high-grade genuine leather (and some synthetic leather) seats. The official website of Toyota’s Brazilian subsidiary confirms the beige interior, which is not available in Japan. The steering wheel and gear knob are also covered in leather, and the door handles have silver detailing.

    　Safety features also include a new Lane Tracing Assist (LTA). Rear Traffic Alert (RCTA) and Rear Seatbelt Alert will also remain available.

    　The price is R$322,890 (approximately 8,250,000 yen).

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    RAV4 Gets a Radical Makeover

    ByChathura Chanuka

    No longer a fighter jet? Military Toyota “RAV4″ is in a bad way. What is the most popular extreme customization?

    RAV4 Gets a Radical Makeover!
    　MARS” exhibited at Tokyo Auto Salon 2023 by KUHL JAPAN, a developer and seller of customized parts for Japanese cars, won the Grand Prix in the Tokyo International Custom Car Contest 2023.
    　
    　The Tokyo International Custom Car Contest is a competition in which visitors vote to select the number one custom car among the vehicles exhibited at the Tokyo Auto Salon.
    　

    RAV4 Gets a Radical Makeover! Fully armed Brava Mars is so cool.

    Brava Mars” based on Toyota’s RAV4

    　One Grand Prize winner and two Excellence Award winners were selected in eight categories (concept car, dress-up car, tuning car, sedan, minivan/wagon, SUV, K-car/compact car, and import car) during the show, and voting for the eight Grand Prize winners was held on the Tokyo Auto Salon official website after the show. As a result, Maz won the most votes.

    　Mars, the first model of the new “VRARVA” series, is a complete car with a near-future crossover car theme.

    　Based on Toyota’s RAV4 SUV, the VRARVA’s world view is created by mixing military tastes like an “armored car” and mechanical tastes with sharp edges that evoke images of “metal,” “steel,” and “metal. A body kit was installed on all parts except the windows, roof, and lights, resulting in a bold styling change.

    　The front design features a hood with raised headlights, an edgy hexagonal grille, and a black bumper. It creates a robust atmosphere.

    　The side styling continues the rugged and muscular image with exclusive front fenders, door panels, and side panels, and continues to the rear design, which is reminiscent of a fighter plane.

    The “Mars Complete Kit” consists of 12 body kits: “hood,” “front grille with Bulava emblem,” “front lower grille,” “front bumper (3-part),” “front fender,” “front door fender,” “side panels with Bulava logo,” Rear door fenders, rear fenders, fuel lid cover, rear bumper, and rear liftgate lower garnish are included in the price (including consumption tax, excluding paint and installation labor) of 990,000 yen for the 12-piece set.

    　The optional “roof window wings” cost 77,000 yen, the “rear garnish” 34,100 yen, and the “door mirror covers” 33,000 yen.

    　In addition to new car complete cars that can be built, the company says it is also possible to finish or retrofit a used car as a base.

    　For the new car complete car, customers can freely choose the grade, body color, and options for the base RAV4 (some options are not available). The price for the gasoline 2WD/X grade with black body color is 4,290,000 yen.

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    Hilux New Camper with Spacious Roof Opening and Spacious Interior Announced

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Over 10 million yen. Super Luxurious Toyota “HILUX Overnight” Model Now Available. New Camper with Spacious Roof Opening and Spacious Interior Announced!

    New Camper Based on the “Hilux” Debuts at JCS
    　Direct Cars, a manufacturer and seller of campervans, unveiled the new “BR75” campervan at the Japan Camper Show (JCS) held at Makuhari Messe (Mihama-ku, Chiba City) on February 3, 2023.

    The roof opens! See the over 10 million yen ultra-luxury “Osha Interior” Hilux Camper in pictures .

    The new “BR75” based on the Toyota “Hilux

    　The new BR75 announced at the Japan Camper Show is based on the current model of Toyota’s Hilux pickup truck, which debuted in 2017 and underwent a minor change in 2020.

    　The BR75, which is based on the Hilux, is a cab-conversion model with living space in the cargo bed, and is described as a camper in the new “SUV ADVENTURE CAMPER” category.

    　The concept is a “secret base for adults. It is said to have been designed to be an adventurous SUV camper that takes you to new destinations.

    　The exterior design was designed with an eye to blending in with the urban environment, and the base of the HILUX, with its styling familiar to a wide range of users, is used to create a silhouette that flows from the front section, which has an active look and feel.

    　While the passenger space from the front to the rear doors retains the appearance of the Hilux, the living area in the cargo area has a rounded design and is a high-roof type with living space above the roof of the Hilux.

    　In addition, a large gate in the center of the rear section opens to a shower room with a waterproof pan for washing off dirty tools. The shower room is separated from the living area by a sliding door.

    　In addition, an outdoor unit for a household air conditioner can be mounted in the undergarment at the lower rear, allowing a household air conditioner to be installed inside the cabin for a comfortable temperature.

    　The interior of the HiLux is cut off from the rear of the roof to the rear window, allowing access between the living area and passenger space.

    　The retractable roof top can be opened to increase the interior height, which is high enough for an adult to stand and walk.

    　The bench seat and table can be used as a bed when retracted, and a semi-double-size “pull-down bed” is provided in the bunk section (high roof section).

    　Equipment includes a lithium-ion battery and household air conditioning, and optional items such as solar panels and side awnings will also be available.

    　The price (including consumption tax) of the new BR75 is 12,450,000 yen for the BR75-G, based on the Hilux Z-GR Sport grade, and 10,980,000 yen for the BR75-Z, based on the Z grade.

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    Toyota Hiace with an awesome face

    ByChathura Chanuka

    There was a Toyota “Hiace” with an awesome face. What is the response to the box car that has a looming appearance? What is “Grafam Gren”?

    What is the response to the powerful face of the “GRAFAM Gren”?
    　The Toyota Hiace is synonymous with commercial vans, but it is also popular as a base vehicle for various customizations.
    　
    　The Hiace with a facelift that gives it a strong presence was on display, but what was the reaction?

    Is this the Hiace? The face makes a statement…. See the actual car with attention to detail.

    Is this… the Hiace? What are the features of the face with a strong presence?

    　In addition to being used as a base vehicle for campers (van-concrete), the Hiace has recently become popular as a vehicle that can be used for outdoor activities, overnight stays, fishing, surfing, and other hobbies.

    　Users who use the Hiace for work also customize it with various dress-up parts.

    　In this context, the Gibson “GRAFAM Gren” demo car, a body kit for the Hiace, was exhibited at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023. The base model is the Hiace 200 series (standard body, 2020 model year).

    　Various aero parts are available for the Hiace, but the concept of the GRAFAM Gren is “based on the box cars that were very successful in the German Touring Car Championship (DTM) held in the 1980s.

    　The “front bumper spoiler” and “GT under lip” on the front face of the car feature a three-dimensional design that is different from other companies’ models, and the “pearl white” body color and red wheels on the demo car further accentuated its presence.

    　Users who saw the GRAFAM Gren said, “It’s amazing to see such a powerful Hiace,” “I like the overhang,” and “Customizing the Hiace is one of its personalities, so it’s good that it has such a big impact.

    　In addition, GRAFAM Gren, which features Gibson’s unique original parts both inside and out, received a great response at this year’s Tokyo Auto Salon 2023, according to the person in charge of the project.

    We exhibited for three days at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023, and we received 10 orders in three days.

    　The most noteworthy item is the new wheels that were unveiled for the first time.

    　Originally, we had one-piece wheels, but we created two-piece wheels because we wanted to have wheels that fit the ‘Hiace over fender style.

    　We have received a variety of positive feedback from customers, such as, “I’ve been waiting for a 7-spoke deep rim type wheel,” and “This is a rare car that reminds me of the old DTM.

    　Stork Corporation, which operates Gibson and is headquartered in Fukuoka Prefecture, says, “We believe in manufacturing products that make our customers say ‘thank you’ and ‘I’m glad I bought it,'” and it seems that such feedback has indeed been received.

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    Honda to compete with Alphard New Odyssey to be reintroduced in Japan

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Honda to compete with “Alphard”! New “Odyssey” to be reintroduced in Japan! Expectations are high for imports of “China-produced cars” by the end of 2023.

    Odyssey,” which suddenly ended production at the end of 2021, will be back again!
    　The Odyssey, Honda’s luxury minivan that was discontinued at the end of December 2021, will be revived in Japan in 2023, according to reports in some newspapers and other media.
    　
    　In China, a right-hand-drive Japanese version of the Odyssey, based on the Odyssey still in production, will be imported.

    The Chinese version is exceptionally gorgeous! View 60 images of the Honda Odyssey.

    Competing against the strong rival “Alphard”? Honda’s new Odyssey, a luxury minivan that continues to be produced at Guangqi Honda Automobile in China (Chinese specifications)

    　From December 2022 to January 2023, the Odyssey’s domestic revival was reported in several newspapers.

    　The Odyssey is an upscale model in Honda’s three-row minivan lineup, positioned above the Freed and Step Wagon.

    　It is a well-established brand with a history of more than 25 years since the first model in 1994.

    　The current model (5th generation), which was introduced in 2013 and discontinued at the end of December 2021, was refreshed in November 2020 with major minor changes to the interior and exterior design.

    　New equipment includes a 7-inch full LCD instrument panel, a large 10.1-inch center display, and gesture control power sliding doors.

    　The Odyssey sold 21,148 units (monthly average: approximately 1,800 units or less) in the year 2021, immediately after the minor changes. Since the Odyssey had enjoyed stable popularity, many Honda fans were surprised at the abrupt end of production after only one year.

    　In China, however, production of the fifth-generation Odyssey continues at a local joint venture, Guangqi Honda Automobile (Guangzhou, Guangdong Province).

    　There is also the Elysion, a high-end version of the Odyssey, which is produced at the joint venture Dongfeng Honda Automobile (Wuhan City, Hubei Province), indicating the high demand for luxury minivans in the region.

    　The report on the reintroduction of Honda’s luxury minivan also mentions a specific production and introduction method, saying that the new model will be converted to Japanese specifications (right-hand drive model) on a Chinese production line and imported.

    　The social networking site seems to be already filled with excitement, with Honda fans saying “I can’t wait to see it” and “I hope it will be back soon.

    The “Honda” is expected to come to Japan from China.

    　Honda’s new luxury minivan is said to be coming to Japan from China, and it is rumored that either the Guangqi Honda Odyssey or the high-end version of the Dongfeng Honda Elysion will be imported.

    　However, as of early February 2023, there has been no official announcement from Honda. In any case, the introduction plan itself is considered to be highly credible information.

    　The current model of the rival Toyota Alphard also debuted in 2015, and rumors of a full model change have been persistent for a long time.

    　If both models are introduced at the same time in 2023, the Japanese luxury minivan market is likely to boom.