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    Toyota’s Hilux updated to look like a Tacoma

    ByChathura Chanuka

    A powerful face-lift! Toyota’s “Hilux” updated to look like a “Tacoma”! What is the “Tacomax” with “TOYOTA” logo grille and Obafen?

    Toyota’s “Hilux” to be upgraded to Toyota’s “Tacoma”?
    　At the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023, held over three days from January 13 to 15, 2023, many body kits were exhibited that transformed the impression of the front face of the car as if it were no longer a separate vehicle.

    Toyota “Hilux” with American “Tacoma” face! View images of “Tacomax”

    　Among them, EXIZZLE-LINE exhibited the “Tacomax,” which transformed the Toyota “Hilux” pickup truck into the face of the “Tacoma,” a large truck for overseas markets.

    Tacomax” which changed Toyota’s “Hilux” into the “Tacoma” face

    　Exisl Line, which develops, manufactures, distributes, and sells original body kits for Japanese cars and various custom parts such as wheels, exhibited “Tacomax” from its original brand “RIVAI OFFROAD” at Tokyo Auto Salon 2023. The Tacomax is a vehicle that can be used as a Hilux.

    　The Tacomax is a front-face conversion of the Hilux into a Tacoma-style vehicle from the same manufacturer.

    　The Hilux has a long history as a pickup truck, with its first model introduced in 1968. The current Hilux is the eighth generation, which made its return to the Japanese market in September 2017 after a 13-year absence, and is a global model sold in about 180 countries and regions.

    　The Tacoma, on the other hand, is Toyota’s pickup truck for North America and other overseas markets, with a body size of 5728 mm (L) x 1910 mm (W) x 1793 mm (H), which is larger than the Hilux (5340 mm (L) x 1855 mm (W) x 1800 mm (H)).

    　Based on the Hilux, the Tacomax is a custom car with a “rugged” Tacoma-like appearance.

    　The exterior is equipped with the “Tacomax Front Face Kit,” a face kit that integrates the front bumper and front grille, as well as the “Tacomax Over Fenders,” which add to the toughness of the vehicle.

    　In addition, the vehicle on display is equipped with the “Agemassi” lift-up suspension to raise the vehicle’s height, and side step bars, external wheels, and off-road tires have been installed to enhance its driving performance.

    　In addition, a roof light has been added to the roof carrier, and work lights have been installed in front of the A-pillars to give the vehicle a more authentic off-roader feel.

    　The cargo bed is also loaded with an active cart system, and is fully equipped with side tarps, storage, a roof tent, and other heavy-duty equipment for outdoor use.

    　The Tacomax Front Face Kit (for later models) is priced at 203,500 yen including consumption tax, and the Tacomax Over Fenders are 141,900 yen.

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    Suzuki’s Jimny Overnight Staying in a Car Officially Approved

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Suzuki’s “Jimny” Overnight Staying in a Car Officially Approved! The “5-door version” of the light SUV is expected to be added to the lineup!

    Even the less than 4-meter-long “Jimny” can sleep overnight in a car!
    　Suzuki’s full-fledged four-wheel drive vehicle “Jimny” is characterized by its small body size, which is rare in the world, but it is said to be able to “stay overnight in a car” thanks to its skillful seat arrangement.
    　
    　Suzuki has proposed this capability in its genuine accessory catalog.

    What has changed with the “5-door” model? Photos of 3-door and 5-door Jimny

    Small but… “Sleepable”! The photo shows the 5-door version of the Suzuki Jimny, unveiled in India on January 12, 2023.

    　A look at the Suzuki Jimny/Jimny Sierra genuine accessories catalog reveals a photo of an unfolded shrug (sleeping bag) on the passenger side of the car with the back door open.

    　The Jimny has a nearly flat floor surface when the passenger headrest is removed, the seat is folded back, and the rear seats are folded forward.

    　The length of the cargo area is also secured at about 180 cm, so even a compact Jimny can accommodate a large adult to stay overnight in the car.

    　The same arrangement can be made on the driver’s side, but since the steering wheel and other parts protrude toward the front, the actual cargo space is a little shorter.

    　However, a person up to 170 cm in height can lie down in this arrangement, so even though it is the minimum space required, up to two people can sleep in the left and right seats combined.

    　However, car seats are not constructed flat in order to hold the occupants’ bodies while the car is in motion.

    　Therefore, the sleeping area will be uneven, but the genuine accessory catalog provides a 20 mm thick “relax cushion” to make it easier to sleep on.

    　The cushion material is made of urethane, so it can flexibly cope with the unevenness of the seat and can be rolled up and stored when not in use.

    　With a length of 210 cm and a width of 54 cm, it is large enough for an adult to sleep on. 2 sets can be used for the driver’s seat and the passenger’s seat.

    　Other items for overnight stays in the car include a “privacy shade (with mesh)” that blocks out light and sight lines while allowing ventilation, and a “car tarp” that can be attached to the roof.

    　Using the minimal-sized Jimny as a tent will make for a very efficient camping experience.

    　On January 11, 2023, Suzuki unveiled the world premiere of the new Jimny 5-door at the Auto Expo 2023 motor show in India.

    　Based on the overseas version of the Jimny (known as the “Jimny Sierra” in Japan) with a 1.5-liter engine, the new model has been converted to a 5-door version and its body size has been extended.

    　While the overall length of the overseas version of the Jimny (Jimny Sierra) is 3645 mm, the new Jimny 5-door has an overall length of 3985 mm, a difference of 340 mm (both excluding the overhang of the rear tires).

    　The difference in wheelbase is also just 340mm compared to the previous 3-door model.

    　It is assumed that the additional rear doors are used to increase legroom and cargo space.

    　While there are likely to be changes in details such as the construction of the rear seats, the seat arrangement method basically follows the 3-door style, so the extended interior length may make it easier to stay overnight in the car.

    　As of January 2023, there is no mention of the new Jimny 5-door being launched by Suzuki in Japan, but there has been a great deal of excitement on social networking sites, especially among Suzuki fans, and we are very much looking forward to its introduction in Japan.

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    A new addition to its original SEDONA series of custom vehicles based on the Toyota Hiace

    ByChathura Chanuka

    I want to live here” level! The “stylish” Hiace with “overnight stay specifications”! SEDONA’s new series “SUNRISE” to be unveiled in Japan on February 3

    The most minimalist new model in the popular “SEDONA” series
    　Workvox (Kyoto, Japan) will unveil the “SEDONA” model, a new addition to its original “SEDONA” series of custom vehicles based on the Toyota Hiace, at the Japan Camper Show 2023 to be held at Makuhari Messe (Chiba, Japan) from February 3 to 6, 2023. SUNRISE” will be unveiled for the first time.

    Stunning natural wood osha interior!” SEDONA” new model

    The face is also “kawaii!” The new series “SUNRISE” of the Hiace custom car “SEDONA. Retro masks are available as an option.

    　The SEDONA series is an original brand launched by Workvox, a company that designs, develops, and produces vehicles for various scenes in daily life, play, and work, such as campers, mobile offices (mobile office vehicles), and welfare vehicles, based on the concept of a van-life lifestyle. This is an original brand launched by Workvox, a company that designs, develops, and produces vehicles for use in various situations in daily life, play, and work.

    　Up to now, three models based on a consistent concept have been on sale: “type III,” “type IV,” and “LAKESIDE.” The Sunrise is a new model launched in 2023, a van featuring a stylish interior with plenty of natural wood.

    　The Sunrise combines the design concept of the Lakeside (seating capacity of 3 passengers), one of the most popular models in the Sedona series, with the usability of the type III (seating capacity of 6 passengers).

    　The base model is a basic Hiace “DX Long Van” with a 4-number standard body and standard roof measuring 4695 mm (L) x 1695 mm (W) x 1980 mm (H), available in 2WD gasoline, 2WD gasoline, and 4WD diesel.

    　Like the other Sedona series, the Sunrise has a fashionable interior atmosphere with real solid wood (original pine) used all over the ceiling, which is a major feature.

    　The original furniture, with a relaxed design of iron wood and white tones, is equipped with a mini table with power supply facilities, with specifications that allow you to stand your smartphone or tablet on it and enjoy it with your favorite decorations and decorations, and a storage space with a door for small accessories is also provided.

    　It is the most minimalist model in the Sedona series, with no sink or water tank.

    　The second row of butterfly seats with a sliding mechanism that can be extended to the front or rear can accommodate up to six passengers.

    　In addition to the creation of a bed that makes maximum use of the vehicle’s interior space, a variety of other arrangements are possible, including a dinette mode for sitting facing each other and a transport mode for maximum loading capacity.

    　The bed size is 2,700 mm (length) x 1,200 mm (width) and can sleep two adults.

    　The Sedona Sunrise will be priced from 4,726,700 yen (gasoline, 2WD) including consumption tax, and will be available with a wide range of mounting options such as vibration damping and insulation, a sub-battery system, a roof rack, and a classic front mask with round eye lights.

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    Toyota unveils the all-new Vitz for the first time in the world

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Toyota unveils the all-new Vitz for the first time in the world! Car name “after 3 years” is back? Adopting a rounded body, to be launched in South Africa in 2023

    Toyota “Vitz” to return after 3 years
    　On January 26, 2023, Toyota’s South African subsidiary unveiled its design direction, business plans, and new models coming in 2023 at the State of the Motor Industry (SOMI) hosted by the company.
    　
    　Among them was the new Vitz.

    Cute roundness? The new Toyota “Vitz” unveiled in South Africa and previous Vitz models

    Toyota’s new “Vitz” unveiled in South Africa

    　At the State of the Motor Industry (SOMI), new models scheduled to be introduced in 2023, including the Mirai, Crown, Urban Cruiser, and Lexus UX EV, were presented along with the business plan of Toyota’s South African subsidiary, and historic models such as the 2000GT were also introduced. The event also introduced historic models such as the 2000GT.

    　Among them was the new Vitz, which is scheduled to succeed the Agia compact car sold in the same market.

    　The Vitz is a compact car that was once sold in Japan. Its first generation model was introduced on January 13, 1999, followed by a full model change of the second and third generations in 2005 and 2010, respectively, but sales were discontinued in 2020, to be succeeded by its successor, the Yaris.

    　The new Vitz, whose name will be revived in South Africa after a three-year absence, is an A-segment compact car. According to Toyota’s South African subsidiary, it is scheduled to be launched in the second quarter of 2023.

    　Its exterior design is simple. It is rounded overall, giving it a sense of loveliness.

    　Underfoot, it is equipped with black wheels, which are large in diameter for a compact car, giving it a sporty impression.

    　Detailed information on the new Vitz, including pricing, has not yet been disclosed, but we will keep an eye out for further information.

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    Suzuki to unveil the new Jimny as early as next year

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Suzuki to unveil the new Jimny as early as next year! Look out for the mysterious “”5-slot grille”” silhouette! More Electric Vehicles in Europe

    Introduction of “”Jimny EV”” in Europe?
    　On January 26, 2023, Suzuki announced its growth strategy for fiscal year 2030 in achieving a carbon-neutral society.
    　
    　The company revealed a part of its product lineup to be introduced in Japan, Europe, and other markets, and it has been suggested that a car that is believed to be an EV version of the “”Jimny”” will be introduced in the European market.

    Suzuki presented a “”smell image””? What is the “”Jimny EV””-like silhouette? See in pictures

    Jimny-like”” silhouettes in the planned product lineup

    　Suzuki has stated that it aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 in Japan and Europe, and by 2070 in India.

    　With this goal in mind, Suzuki has announced plans for product development in Japan, India, Europe, and other overseas markets where the company is focusing its efforts, starting with Japan by FY2030.

    　In Japan, Suzuki will first introduce a light commercial battery EV in FY2023, followed by six models by FY2030, including a compact SUV and a minicar.

    　In Europe, battery EVs will be launched in FY2024, and the EV lineup will be expanded to include SUVs and B-segment vehicles, with five models to be rolled out by FY2030.

    　Furthermore, in India, the company plans to launch battery EVs announced at the Auto Expo 2023 held in January 2023 in 2024, and to roll out six models by FY2030.

    　The disclosed documents show silhouettes of the cars that the company says it plans to introduce in each market.

    　One of the five models to be introduced in the European market can be inferred to be an EV model of the “”Jimny,”” a compact full-fledged four-wheel drive vehicle, from its angular styling and “”5-slot grille”” feature.

    　The Jimny, introduced in 1970, is a compact four-wheel drive vehicle with a ladder frame and a full-fledged 4WD system with an auxiliary transmission, all in a compact body the size of a mini car.

    　The current, fourth-generation model was introduced in 2018 and features a return to its roots styling, with round headlights and a square body design.

    　At the Auto Expo 2023 held in India on January 12, 2023, the new “”Jimny 5-door”” with rear doors added to the rear of the vehicle made its debut, creating quite a stir on social networking sites when it was unveiled.

    　Although the details of each model to be introduced in each market were not disclosed in this announcement, there are indications that an EV model with the characteristics of the Jimny will be introduced as early as 2024, and expectations are high for what kind of EV models Suzuki will introduce in each market in the future.

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    The new Toyota Prius fully remodeled for the fifth generation

    ByChathura Chanuka

    In the realm of automotive evolution, the Toyota Prius has long stood as an emblem of innovation, yet its journey has been far from smooth sailing. A slump in sales during the 4th generation hinted at potential stagnation. But fast forward to the present, and behold the astonishing renaissance of the 5th generation Prius – a revival that has sparked discussions and even earned it the moniker of a “wacko” model. What lies behind this remarkable resurgence?

    A Legacy of Trailblazing: The Genesis of the Prius

    Debuting in 1997 as the world’s inaugural mass-produced hybrid car, the Prius bore the tagline “Just in time for the 21st century.” Its compact frame, fitting the 5-number size range, took the shape of a stubby yet efficient sedan. More than just a vehicle, the Prius pioneered the “eco-car” category, addressing burgeoning environmental concerns and popularizing the notion of a hybrid automobile.

    The Sequel’s Evolution: A Glimpse into the Phenomenon

    2003 witnessed the dawn of the second generation, an era of transformation. Toyota’s Hybrid System (THS) evolved into the THSII, boasting an apex above the driver’s head that gracefully tapered toward the front and back. This architectural feat not only minimized aerodynamic drag but birthed the iconic “Prius-like styling.” Simultaneously, environmental discourse crescendoed globally, with stars like Leonardo DiCaprio parading the Prius on red carpets, elevating it to an emblem of eco-chic.

    Ascension to Greatness: Pinnacle Achieved in the 3rd Gen

    In 2009, the third generation took the stage. Beyond a mere expansion in size, it flaunted a fuel efficiency of 38.0 km/L, cementing its status as a global leader. Eclipsing Toyota’s own Corolla, a 30-year sales titan, the Prius reigned supreme and became a ubiquitous presence on streets worldwide.

    Hurdles in the 4th Gen: Styling Stumbles and Fierce Competition

    The fourth generation, unveiled in 2015, marked a pivotal point. While retaining past silhouettes, it embraced a lower center of gravity, sparking a shift towards aggressive design. Yet, features like drooping headlights and vertically stretched taillights ignited divisive reactions, even sparking the “Kabuki face” epithet. Meanwhile, hybrid technology proliferated, lessening the Prius’ unique appeal. The rise of compact, fuel-efficient models like the Toyota Yaris and Honda Fit further chipped at the Prius’ prominence.

    The Revival: An Eclipsed Legacy Rekindled

    The tide turned with the 5th generation’s debut on November 16, 2022. Its acclaim was fueled by the evolution of the Toyota Hybrid System and a captivating design underscored by the second-generation TNGA platform. Under the banner of “Hybrid Reborn,” the Prius morphed into an emotionally charged vehicle, designed for enduring affection and versatile functionality.

    Insight from the Architects: Toyota’s Perspective

    Masahiko Maeda, Toyota Motor Corporation’s vice president, extolled the new Prius for its comprehensive offerings, spanning powertrains, drive systems, and grades. This expansiveness aligned with President Toyoda’s vision of the Prius as a “commodity,” a tool for achieving a carbon-neutral environment. The idea of selling Prius technology to other manufacturers transcended Toyota’s realm, becoming a beacon of environmentally-conscious innovation.

    User Insights: The Love for Design

    Users laud the 5th gen Prius for a transformation beyond specifications. Unlike past considerations of fuel efficiency and functionality, attention gravitates towards the design’s emotional impact. No longer merely a vehicle, the Prius has reemerged as a personal statement, an embodiment of individuality in a world of advancing automobile technologies.

    In the ceaseless evolution of cars, the 5th generation Prius stands as an epitome of rekindling passion and defying conventional categorizations. This is a revival that has elevated the Prius from being a commodity to becoming a beloved, timeless icon that resonates with diverse sensibilities across the globe.

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    Suzuki Jimny Sierra is now a wild G-Class

    ByChathura Chanuka

    DAMD Unveils Custom “Little G. AVENTURA”: Suzuki Jimny Sierra Transformed into Wild “G-Class” at Tokyo Auto Salon 2023

    Tokyo, Japan – In a stunning showcase of automotive creativity, DAMD, a renowned custom parts manufacturer, presented the world with the “little G. AVENTURA,” a captivating custom iteration of the Suzuki Jimny Sierra, during the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023 event held at Makuhari Messe from January 13 to 15.

    The “Jimmy Sierra” gets a rugged makeover inspired by the iconic Mercedes-Benz “G-Class,” resulting in a breathtaking fusion of style and utility. Sporting a body kit that marks a significant departure from the standard model, the “little G. AVENTURA” effectively morphs the compact four-wheel drive Suzuki Jimny Sierra into a robust and commanding SUV reminiscent of a European manufacturer’s flagship.

    DAMD’s expertise shines through in the meticulous design and execution of the “little G. AVENTURA” body kit, showcased prominently at the Auto Salon. With an impressive repertoire that encompasses body kits, seat covers, and aftermarket enhancements for a variety of automakers including Suzuki, Daihatsu, and Subaru, DAMD has etched its name as a go-to destination for automotive enthusiasts seeking personalized flair.

    The Tokyo Auto Salon’s DAMD booth provided a vibrant stage for the presentation of the “little G. AVENTURA,” flanked by a lineup of demo cars that included the Jimny Sierra and Suzuki “EVRY,” both adorned with cutting-edge body kits that harmonize form and function for outdoor aficionados.

    At the heart of the showcase, the “little G. AVENTURA” proudly took the spotlight as a custom-crafted marvel. Drawing inspiration from the second-generation “G-Class (W463 model)” of the prestigious Mercedes-Benz lineage, DAMD’s body kit for this vehicle is a testament to their commitment to innovation. Enhancing both the exterior and interior, DAMD’s expertly tailored aftermarket parts infuse a touch of wildness and style into the Jimny Sierra’s DNA.

    The metamorphosis begins at the front, where the distinct contours of the regular little G. body kit blend seamlessly with the G-Class aesthetic. The addition of a sturdy steel lattice guard over the hazard lamps and headlights on the hood not only amplifies the vehicle’s rugged demeanor but also reinforces its robust presence.

    Bold painted over fenders, sleek side steps, and generously proportioned truck-like door mirrors combine on the sides to deliver a sharper, more aggressive stance than the standard Jimny Sierra.

    Emphasizing both form and function, a prototype rigid roof carrier equipped with roof lights crowns the vehicle, hinting at its adventurous spirit.

    Moving to the rear, echoes of the G-Class continue with safeguarded lights, while the presence of a meticulously designed tire cover and a rudder featuring wooden accents adds a touch of sophistication to the vehicle’s rear profile. Not to be overlooked, the tire covers and ladders themselves are prototypes that promise an even more refined final rendition.

    The interior of the “little G. AVENTURA” is a playground of innovation, showcasing newly developed classical seat covers that seamlessly blend old-world charm with contemporary aesthetics. An intriguing addition comes in the form of a Picatinny rail affixed to the A-pillar, hinting at future possibilities for mounting various accessories, from tweeters to digital cameras.

    As a testament to DAMD’s dedication to perfection, every prototype part on display with the “little G. AVENTURA” is on the cusp of commercialization, with official releases expected in the near future. Automotive enthusiasts and connoisseurs can eagerly anticipate the availability of these meticulously crafted enhancements, bringing a touch of wild luxury to their driving experience.”