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Revolutionary Third-Generation Nissan Qashqai Debuts, Redefining Style in China’s SUV Market
Nissan is gearing up to introduce an exciting new addition to its lineup, with the eagerly anticipated third generation of the “Qashqai” midsize SUV set to make its debut in China. This marks a significant move for the model, which has previously been known as the “Dualis” in the Japanese market. The revamped Qashqai promises to bring a fresh wave of style and innovation to the SUV segment.
Having already achieved considerable success in Europe and other international markets, the Qashqai has been a global SUV project for Nissan since its inception in 2006. In Japan, it was marketed as the “Dualis” but was discontinued in 2014 without undergoing any major changes.
In contrast, markets outside Japan witnessed a model evolution, with the second generation launched in 2013. Serving as a midsize SUV sibling to the Rogue (known as “Extrale” in Japan), the Qashqai has steadily evolved to meet consumer demands. A significant milestone was reached in 2021 when a comprehensive overhaul introduced the e-POWER model variant to the lineup, enhancing its appeal.
While the European market experienced the transition to the third generation, the previous model remained in circulation in the U.S. (branded as “Rogue Sport”) and China. However, this pattern is about to change as the fully remodeled Qashqai prepares to grace the roads of China.
Information sourced from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of the People’s Republic of China reveals insights into the third generation Qashqai’s design and specifications. The exterior design largely mirrors the version available in European markets, but subtle differences such as rear bumper design, reflector count, and the presence of the “Dongfeng Nissan” emblem indicate its manufacturing origin – a collaboration between Dongfeng Motor and Nissan.
Remarkably, the third generation Qashqai will be produced at Dongfeng Nissan’s plant, signifying a shift from its previous exclusive production site. The powertrain is set to feature a HR13DDT 1.3-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine generating 155 horsepower. This engine variant is also present in other markets, being part of the mild hybrid lineup alongside the KH5T 1.5-liter inline 3-cylinder turbocharged engine.
Nissan’s ambitions for the Chinese market extend beyond this model alone. The company has plans to introduce a range of e-POWER models, including the Qashqai e-POWER, capitalizing on the success of the Sylphy e-POWER. With a commitment to introducing six e-POWER models by 2025, Nissan’s dedication to electrification is evident.
The official launch date for the new Qashqai remains under wraps, but all signs point to an imminent announcement. Given its anticipated appearance at the Kohshinbu event, speculations point toward an official unveiling at the Shanghai Motor Show in April 2023. The Qashqai’s popularity in China, with higher sales in 2021 than in Europe, raises anticipation about how the new model will be embraced by Chinese SUV enthusiasts. The stage is set for Nissan’s latest offering to carve a lasting impression in the Chinese automotive landscape.
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First look at the 5-seat Toyota RAV4 Truck
In the realm of automotive innovation, the Toyota RAV4 has long been a global favorite. With annual sales touching an impressive 400,000 units, its popularity, especially in the North American market, remains unwavering.
Bridging the Past and the Future
Amidst this iconic lineage, a new chapter has emerged – a page that’s off-spec and exhilaratingly different. The Toyota Tokyo Automobile College, famed for its technical prowess, seized the spotlight in January 2023 with the unveiling of their ambitious creation: the “RAV-road Pickup.”
Gone is the roof that defined its predecessors. This new rendition defies convention with a roofless design that dares you to traverse the uncharted paths. As the curtains lifted, the RAV-road stood as a testament to audacity, with rugged features that underscore its off-road pedigree.
A Journey Back in Time
Cast your mind back to 1994 when the first-generation RAV4 shook the automotive landscape. An era dominated by 4WDs with frames for the off-road enthusiast was suddenly shaken by the RAV4, which introduced the world to a new breed of vehicles – the crossover SUVs. It was the dawn of a revolution that reshaped the way we perceive SUVs.
Fast forward to today, where the fifth-generation RAV4 continues the legacy. Born in 2019, it boasts an SUV design that seamlessly blends performance on both paved roads and treacherous trails. Initially available in gasoline and hybrid variants, the addition of a plug-in hybrid model in 2020 further expanded its allure.
A Unique Creation
Enter the RAV-road, the dazzling offspring of the Toyota Tokyo Automobile College’s ingenuity. This exhibition starlet, showcased at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023, took the concept of off-road to a whole new level.
This isn’t just a pickup; it’s a statement. The RAV-road retains the heart of the RAV4 but has been meticulously crafted into a pickup configuration, a blend of the familiar and the daring. Its hybrid 4WD system guarantees torque-laden performance, and with a raised ground clearance, it’s primed for off-road escapades.
Gaze upon its powerful presence, accentuated by sizable bumper guards that lend an air of untamed spirit. A subtle yet significant shift – the muffler’s new home beside the right rear tire – adds to the symphony of innovation.
Inside Out: A Whole New Perspective
In an era of conventional pickups, the RAV-road rewrote the script. While most pickups partition the cabin and cargo area, the RAV-road shatters expectations. The front seats remain ensconced within the cabin, but the rear seats, open and unsheltered, provide an exhilarating connection to the elements.
A Left-Hand Drive Enigma
An enigmatic detail surfaced at the exhibition – a left-hand drive orientation. The RAV-road stands out not only for its audacious design but for its distinctive driving configuration. A chance occurrence, as shared by the Toyota Tokyo Automobile College, yet a defining feature of this creation.
Challenges Overcome: From Vision to Reality
Behind the scenes, the journey from concept to reality was no easy feat. The transformation from a RAV4 base to the awe-inspiring RAV-road posed challenges. With meticulous care, the body was reshaped, reconnected, and reimagined. The vehicle’s exterior was a canvas, painted with Kansai Paint’s water-based gold hue, a labor-intensive task that bore fruit in the form of a resplendent finish.
A Symphony of Dedication
The efforts of about 40 students over three months culminated in the birth of the RAV-road. From September 2022, their unwavering dedication resulted in a work of art, a vehicle that harmonizes lifting prowess and aesthetic finesse.
A Glimpse into Tomorrow
Though forbidden on public roads, the RAV-road’s wheels have graced the campus of Toyota Tokyo Automobile College, affirming its capability beyond the exhibition stage. Beyond the RAV-road, the college’s repertoire extends to the “J-Jet 90,” a drifting car inspired by the Toyota “Mark II,” and the restored 1978 Toyota “Chaser” named “Beautiful Wild.”
As we gaze upon these automotive creations, conceived by the brilliance of tomorrow’s minds, it’s evident that they will ignite the passions of car enthusiasts for years to come. The RAV-road is more than a truck; it’s a glimpse into a future where audacity drives innovation.
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New Nissan Serena No Way Shakotan
In a bold move, Nissan has ushered in a wave of innovation for 2022 by presenting refreshed editions of their much-loved models: Serena and x-trail. Taking center stage at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023, held from January 13 to 15, 2023, were concept vehicles showcasing the evolution of both these iconic cars.
Behind this remarkable transformation stands Nissan’s in-house AUTECH division, renowned for its prowess in the art of customizing and enhancing Nissan vehicles. Drawing from the distinctive AUTECH customization brand, the brand-new iterations of Serena and x-trail epitomize a novel approach to their presentation.
A prime example of this novel approach is the revamped “Serena AUTECH Customized,” which is an embodiment of premium sportiness. At first glance, one is captivated by the dot-patterned front grille and signature LEDs casting a soothing blue radiance, evoking an air of refined quality.
The lower sections of the body have been meticulously adorned with bespoke metallic elements, masterfully creating the illusion of a lowered center of gravity and an expansive stance. This design choice not only lends the vehicle a sporty aesthetic but also emphasizes its stability by enveloping the signature LEDs in a metal finisher.
Turning the spotlight to the wheels, the Serena AUTECH Customized opts for impressive 18-inch wheels, a significant upgrade from the standard 16-inch ones. Complementing this is a suspension system that brings the vehicle closer to the ground by a margin of 30 mm, thereby forging a sleeker connection between the tires and the body. The outcome? A minivan that seamlessly blends sportiness with sophistication.
On a divergent note, the EXTRAIL AUTECH Customized pivots its focus towards the interior. While the base model, the EXTRAIL AUTECH, boasts a selection of sumptuous black leather seats, the exhibition model flaunts a captivating transformation with pristine white leather seating. Reminiscent of the famed “Mode Premier” seen in the third-generation EXTRAIL, this opulent white interior radiates luxury and grandeur.
The quintessential AUTECH brand elements, including blue stitching and accents, have been thoughtfully incorporated into this refined white leather design.
Moreover, both the Serena AUTECH Customized and the x-trail AUTECH Customized share a subtle touch known as “dark spattering,” a feature akin to that found in some high-end automobiles. This unique finish, while retaining its darker hue, dances with light in various ways, resulting in an opulent sparkle that contributes to an unparalleled sense of luxury.
In a masterstroke of innovation and design, Nissan’s revitalized Serena and x-trail models bear testament to the AUTECH division’s commitment to pushing boundaries and redefining driving experiences. As these captivating concepts make their mark at the Tokyo Auto Salon, they offer a tantalizing glimpse into the future of automotive elegance and dynamism.
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Toyota Alphard is now a full-fledged SUV
Toyota Alphard 2023.08.31 (Toyota Alphard) by RAI STAR In a surprising revelation at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023, an automotive extravaganza held at Makuhari Messe in January, a remarkable crossover minivan has taken center stage. Dubbed the “Agephard,” this innovation reimagines Toyota’s Alphard as an SUV with an elevated ride height that defies convention,…
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New Toyota Prius in 8 stylish colors
In a highly anticipated release, Toyota has finally introduced the latest iteration of its iconic hybrid vehicle, the “Prius”. Set to redefine the hybrid driving experience, the fifth-generation Prius comes adorned in a diverse range of eight captivating body colors, allowing drivers to truly personalize their ride. Surprisingly absent from this spectrum is the classic “Silver” hue that has long been associated with the Prius.
The cornerstone of this release is the innovative concept of “Hybrid Reborn,” a vision that seeks to harmonize an emotionally compelling design with an enthralling driving experience, encapsulating the essence of Toyota’s commitment to excellence.
Retaining its signature “monoform silhouette,” the new Prius now boasts a lower center of gravity and sleeker proportions, rendering it not only visually captivating but also performance-driven. Inside, the “island architecture” approach creates a spacious and unrestrictive atmosphere, perfectly complemented by an ergonomic cockpit designed for focused driving, while still exuding a sporty flair.
The rejuvenation is not confined to aesthetics alone; every facet of the new Prius has undergone a remarkable transformation from its predecessor. Unveiled to the world in November 2022, the vehicle garnered immense attention for its comprehensive revamp, both in terms of exterior styling and interior comfort and functionality.
Among the eight captivating body colors, two newcomers—dubbed “Ash” and “Mustard”—elevate the Prius palette. “Ash” presents a neutral gray infused with a subtle mica tint, crafting a nuanced appearance. On the other hand, “Mustard” boasts a subdued yet distinct metallic yellow, creating a texture that selectively catches the light.
The latest Prius arrives in three distinct grades: G, Z, and the KINTO-exclusive U grade. The Z grade is the standout, offering a splendid choice of six colors: from the pristine “Platinum White Pearl Mica” and the sophisticated “Attitude Black Mica” to the vibrant “Emotional Red II,” versatile “Ash,” unique “Mustard,” and deep “Dark Blue.”
The G grade boasts an enticing selection of four colors, excluding the vivid red and deep blue, while the U grade presents five options, leaving out only the “Mustard” shade. For corporate customers, the “X” grade is on offer, featuring a more limited palette. This grade offers solely “Super White II” and the highly sought-after “Silver Metallic,” a color that has become synonymous with the Prius.
It’s worth noting, however, that the “Silver Metallic” option is exclusively available for the corporate “X” grade in the Japanese market. With the global debut generating substantial interest, the market response to the diverse color range remains to be seen as the new Prius officially hits the sales floor.
As the hybrid scene continues to evolve, Toyota’s Prius stands as a steadfast symbol of innovation and environmental consciousness. Looking ahead, Toyota enthusiasts can also anticipate the plug-in hybrid variant’s impending launch, scheduled for March 2023. While details regarding the body color options for the plug-in hybrid remain under wraps, anticipation is undeniably building for yet another groundbreaking addition to the Prius family.
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The new Suzuki Jimny 5-door is finally out
The new Suzuki Jimny 5-door is finally out! Do you want it to go on sale in Japan? Why are users waiting for the “5-door version”?
Expectations are high for the launch of the new “Jimny 5-door” in Japan!
Maruti Suzuki, Suzuki’s Indian subsidiary, unveiled the world premiere of the new Jimny 5-door version (hereafter referred to as the new Jimny 5-door) at Auto Expo 2023 on January 13, 2023.
Kuruma News conducted a survey through social networking services to find out more about the new Jimny 5-door version. Many users have voiced their reactions to the new Jimny 5-door.Finally, it’s here! The new “”Jimny 5 door”” Suzuki’s official real car in pictures!
It’s here~! Finally, the new “”Jimny 5-door”” makes its world premiere in India!
The Jimny is a full-fledged 4WD model with a long history, with the first model appearing in 1970. With its compact body, ladder frame, and part-time 4WD system with an auxiliary transmission, it is renowned as a full-fledged four-wheel drive vehicle.
The current model was introduced in 2018. It is now a popular model that is exported to Europe and other countries around the world.
In Japan, the lineup includes the Jimny, a light four-wheel-drive vehicle with the features and driving performance of a full-fledged four-wheel-drive vehicle, and the Jimny Sierra, a compact four-wheel-drive vehicle equipped with a 1.5-liter engine.
Overseas, the Japanese name of the Jimny Sierra has been used for the Jimny, but only the 3-door version was available worldwide.
The new Jimny 5-door, which was unveiled for the first time in the world, is a new 5-door version with rear doors, and features special rear seats and interior design for the rear seats.
Compared to the conventional 3-door model, the body size of the Jimny Sierra is 3550 mm (overall length) x 1645 mm (overall width) x 1730 mm (overall height), while that of the new Jimny 5-door is 3985 mm (overall length) x 1645 mm (overall width) x 1720 mm (overall height) (Indian specifications), indicating an overall length increase of 435 mm. The overall length has been extended by 435 mm.
In addition, the exterior has evolved in various other areas.
Maruti Suzuki plans to begin sales of the new Jimny 5-door in fiscal year 2023, and plans to export it to Africa, Central and South America, and other markets.
In this issue of Kuruma News, we conducted a survey on the new Jimny 5-door through social networking services.
The question was, “”The new Suzuki Jimny 5-door was unveiled in India. The answer “”Yes”” to this question was 97.5%, indicating that many users are eagerly awaiting the release of the new model.
The reasons given by users who answered “”Yes”” included “”I have been wanting to have one,”” “”I want to buy one,”” and “”I am waiting for it,”” indicating a large number of users who have been waiting for it.
In addition, there were also comments from users who expected the five-door design to improve convenience, such as “”It looks cool and convenient,”” “”Five-door looks more user-friendly than three-door,”” and “”It has both driving ability and ease of use.
Some of the comments included, “”I can use it for family use,”” and “”I have a child who uses the rear seat, so 5-door is convenient,”” from users who want to emphasize both convenience and drivability, even for family users.
When asked about their “”thoughts on the new Suzuki Jimny 5-door”” in the aforementioned survey, many users expressed their expectations for its launch in Japan, saying, “”I’m waiting for it,”” “”I’ll definitely buy it when it goes on sale in Japan,”” and “”I want a 5-door in Japan, too.
Some of them even said, “”I’ve been waiting for it for a long, long time.
The detailed specifications of the new Jimny 5-door are expected to be revealed in the future, and there are high expectations for its launch in Japan.”
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Jimny with sliding doors exists!
Jimny with sliding doors exists! Wood interior and “Osha Car Overnight” are possible! What is the “Jimny”, a rugged-looking light van?
Jimny with sliding doors! What kind of car is “Jimny”?
At the TOKYO OUTDOOR SHOW 2023, held in conjunction with the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023 for three days from January 13, 2023, a variety of custom cars made their appearance.Among them was a custom car called “Jimny,” which looks like a combination of Suzuki’s “Every” and “Jimny,” but what kind of car is it?
“Jimny” with slides – awesome! See the actual custom car “Jim Lee” in pictures!
What kind of car is “Jimny”?
The EVRY is a one-box minicar equipped with sliding rear doors on both sides, and is popular among users not only as a passenger car (EVRY Wagon) but also as a commercial vehicle, especially among delivery companies.
The Jimny, on the other hand, is Suzuki’s compact 4WD that has gained popularity among many users for its ability to handle rough roads.
The aptly named “Jimny,” which looks like a combination of these two models, was exhibited at the T-STYLE booth at the Tokyo Outdoor Show 2023.
While the Every usually has a calm front face with square headlights, the Jimry by T-STYLE is equipped with a “”Jimry Face Kit”” that includes a hood, grille, front bumper, and left and right fenders.
By also attaching the front grille, headlamps, and bumper mesh from the factory parts, the Jimny face is instantly transformed into a Jimny face.
In addition, tires, wheels, and an external grille can be optionally installed for a further image change.
Also available as options are “leather and corduroy seat covers” and an “antique bed kit.
A wood-grain system rack under the bed can be used as a table by attaching a top cover to the drawer.
The brown leather looks better than orange and is designed to provide a stylish, high quality overnight stay in a car.
At the Tokyo Outdoor Show, a folding tent that can be installed under the hood of a car was also on display.
Prices for the Jimry range from 1,965,700 yen to 2,347,400 yen for the Every Wagon base model, and from 1,354,100 yen to 1,904,100 yen for the Every Van base model. (Complete cars based on new vehicles, consumption tax included)
Optional leather and corduroy seat covers are 107,800 yen, and the antique bed kit with system rack (van only) is 308,000 yen.
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Suzuki Jimny 5-door unveiled in Australia
Suzuki Announces the Introduction of the “New Jimny 5-door” to the “Australian” market following the “Indian” market! What about Japan?
New Jimny “5-door” model coming to Australia
On January 13, 2023, Suzuki’s Australian subsidiary announced the launch of the new Suzuki Jimny 5-door in that market.What do you think of the slightly stretched Jimny Sierra? View 80 images of the new Suzuki Jimny “5-door”.
The new Jimny 5-door was unveiled on January 12 of the same year at Auto Expo 2023 in India.
Images of the new Suzuki Jimny 5-door unveiled in Australia.
The Jimny series, which includes the light four-wheel drive Jimny, is a compact 4WD vehicle that is widely used in 194 countries and regions around the world.
The current model, the fourth generation, has been on the market for four years since its launch in July 2018, but it still remains popular and is experiencing “long delivery times”.
Based on the body and frame of the Jimny minicar, the Jimny Sierra is a model that has been made into a regular car by extending its size with over fenders and other features, as well as by installing a small car engine. In overseas markets, this model is sold under the name of Jimny and continues to be active as a full-fledged compact four-wheel drive vehicle.
The new Jimny 5-door is a 5-door version of the Jimny Sierra.
The difference from the 3-door Jimny Sierra is that the wheelbase has been extended by 340 mm to add a rear door, and the rear seat legroom and cargo space have been widened.
In addition to the extended wheelbase, the exterior features additional chrome parts on the front five throttle grille, while the interior features an exclusive rear seat and upholstery.
Despite the exclusive rear seats, the overall width is the same as that of the 3-door version, and the rear seats remain the same for two passengers.
The driving performance is almost the same as that of the 3-door Jimny Sierra, with a 36-degree approach angle, 24-degree ramp breakover angle, 50-degree departure angle, and 210m minimum ground clearance, although the ramp breakover angle is slightly less than that of the 3-door Jimny Sierra.
The new Jimny 5-door will be introduced in Australia this time. Although detailed specifications and pricing have not been disclosed, it is said to have “”the same vehicle performance and engine specifications as the current 3-door model Jimny,”” and is expected to be almost the same as the one being introduced in India.
Commenting on the announcement, Michael Pachota, General Manager of Suzuki’s Australian subsidiary, said, “”We are very pleased to announce the introduction of the new Jimny 5-door.
The introduction of the new Jimny 5 door gives Australians yet another reason to love Suzuki.
With the launch of the new Jimny 5-door, we will be able to offer the extra-large Jimny that Jimny enthusiasts have long wanted.
The Jimny has a cult following in Australia and will continue to attract new types of users who need more space. The launch of the new Jimny 5-door will further enhance the iconic status of this model and should remain one of Australia’s best-loved 4×4’s.””
Following its unveiling in India, the new Jimny 5-door has been unveiled in Australia, and many are eagerly awaiting its arrival in Japan as well.
However, as of January 2023, there has been no official announcement of its introduction in Japan, and some in the media have expressed despair, reporting that it will not be introduced in the foreseeable future in view of the super-delivery problem of the 3-door model.
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Mitsubishi Triton expected to be introduced in Japan
A 5.3-meter-long, burly “pickup truck” makes its Japan debut! Mitsubishi “Triton” expected to be introduced in Japan and become a good rival of “Hilux”?
Not sold in Japan… but the “Triton” was an important “global strategic vehicle” for Mitsubishi
Mitsubishi debuted a competition vehicle (rally car) based on the “”Triton”” pickup truck produced in Thailand for the first time in Japan at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023, held at Makuhari Messe (Chiba City, Chiba Prefecture) from January 13 to 15, 2023.
The Triton was imported from Thailand and sold in Japan in the past, but sales were discontinued in 2011. Will it be reintroduced?Gorgeous and cool! A good example of customization! View 41 images of the Mitsubishi “”Triton”” rally car.
An example of customization! Mitsubishi “”Triton Rally Car”” (replica), a “”rugged and cool”” Mitsubishi rally car that competes in the Asia Cross Country Rally [Vehicles Exhibited at Tokyo Auto Salon 2023]
Pickup trucks used to be lined up by various Japanese manufacturers, but as of January 2023, Toyota only sells the “”Hilux”” pickup truck.
With the recent boom in outdoor activities, pickup trucks that can casually carry leisure equipment in the cargo bed have gained support from some fans, and some enthusiasts even purchase foreign-made models through parallel imports.
The latest Triton rally version, which was exhibited at the Auto Salon, has been secretly attracting attention from core fans.
The base Triton is the latest model, which underwent minor changes in 2018, and features a square-shaped front mask with Mitsubishi’s “”Dynamic Shield”” design concept.
Although the current model is not sold in Japan, it is sold in approximately 150 countries and regions around the world, mainly in ASEAN and Oceania, but also in the Middle East, Europe, Africa, and Latin America, making it an important global strategic vehicle for Mitsubishi.
The body size is 5300 mm (L) x 1815 mm (W) x 1795 mm (H) (double cab, 4WD). It is powered by a 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder diesel turbo engine mated to a 6-speed AT or 6-speed MT.
In Thailand and other Asian countries, pickup trucks are often used in place of passenger cars, so in addition to basic performance such as load capacity, the Triton is equipped with interior and features equivalent to passenger cars, as well as advanced driving support functions.
Mitsubishi explains that the Triton also offers a comfortable ride like a passenger car.
On the other hand, as a commercial vehicle, it also offers durability in harsh environments, such as rough roads. The 4WD model also features Super Select 4WD II, which offers four driving modes for improved performance on rough roads.
The Triton on display at the show is a replica model of the T1 specification (modified cross-country vehicle) that participated in the Asia Cross Country Rally held in Thailand and Cambodia in November 2022 and won the overall championship.
According to Mitsubishi, the vehicle’s rough road drivability has been greatly improved through weight reduction, body reinforcement in key areas, special suspension, front and rear LSD, large-diameter off-road tires, and lightweight aluminum wheels.
In addition, since there are river crossings on the rally course, the vehicle is equipped with a snorkel (air intake duct) in addition to reinforced sealing.
Although this vehicle was built for competition use, it has an “”outdoorsy”” finish that could also be used as a reference for customization.
Some newspapers reported that the new Triton is being considered for reintroduction in Japan in September 2022.
When we asked Mitsubishi officials at the Auto Salon, they explained that they had not had an opportunity to introduce the latest Triton model (partially improved in 2018) in Japan, so they displayed it at the time of the overall victory, and that “”there are currently no plans to introduce (a production model) in Japan.
However, he also said, “”We are curious about the reaction of the visitors,”” and he hinted at future trends.
We hope that the new Triton will once again resume sales as a competitor to the Hilux.