Toyota Yaris Cross Thailand Toyota NeToyota New Yaris Crossw Yaris Cross 2023.11.22( Toyota yaris Cross) by RAI STAR Toyota Yaris Cross Thailand: A Stylish Compact SUV Creating Big Buzz Toyota Yaris Cross Thailand has quickly become a hot topic among SUV fans, especially after Toyota’s Thai subsidiary revealed the model along with a striking…
Toyota Unveils 2nd-Gen new C-HR with Positive Power 2023.11.21( Toyota CH-R) by RAI STAR Toyota C-HR 2nd Generation Debuts With Bold Design and Electrified Power Toyota C-HR 2nd generation has officially arrived, opening a new chapter for Toyota’s stylish compact SUV. On November 15, 2023, Toyota’s German subsidiary revealed the all-new second-generation C-HR,…
“In a dazzling display of automotive opulence, Toyota’s luxury subsidiary, Toyota Auto Body, has unveiled the Vellfire Spacious Lounge Concept at the Japan Mobility Show 2023 (JMS2023). This ultra-luxurious version of the Vellfire has garnered significant attention, leaving car enthusiasts eagerly anticipating its potential commercialization.
Premium Comfort and Exclusive Design
The Vellfire Spacious Lounge Concept is touted as a “”top-of-the-line minivan”” that redefines luxury travel. Boasting hospitality equipment and functions aimed at providing unparalleled comfort, it offers a capacious environment for passengers. The vehicle’s distinctive feature is its removal of the third row of seats from the commercially available Vellfire model, creating an exclusive two-row seating system for four individuals.
Tailored for VIPs and Executives
Designed with the utmost attention to detail, the dedicated rear seat emphasizes seating comfort, targeting a clientele that includes car owners, company executives, and politicians. The interior features curtains between the first and second rows, creating a serene atmosphere and offering privacy for individuals changing clothes. The second row provides approximately 500mm more space than the 3-row, 7-seater version, complemented by a floor tray for luggage storage and a refrigerator. Handmade special carpets add an extra layer of luxury to the interior.
Technological Advancements for the Mobile Executive
In a nod to the modern executive, the Vellfire Spacious Lounge Concept includes a display for web conferences, ensuring productivity on the go. Smartphone holders, tables, and power supplies are seamlessly integrated into the interior, providing convenience for busy professionals. Built-in speakers in the headrest enhance the audio experience, allowing passengers to immerse themselves in realistic and high-quality music.
Social Media Buzz and Anticipation
The Spacious Lounge Concept has sparked significant interest on social media platforms. The “”Precious Metal”” body color has become a talking point, with users praising its aesthetics. Comments such as “”This color is nice”” and “”It’s great for seating 4 people at this size”” reflect the positive sentiment surrounding the model. Some enthusiasts have even compared it favorably to Lexus’ luxury minivan, predicting high demand upon its commercial release.
Future Commercialization and Unique Exterior Color
The Toyota Auto Body booth staff revealed that the exterior color, “”Precious Metal,”” is not present in the current lineup in Japan, adding an extra layer of exclusivity to the concept. They expressed a strong desire to incorporate the Spacious Lounge Concept into the lineup as soon as possible, heightening anticipation among potential buyers.
Potential Synergy with Vellfire PHEV
Interestingly, the Vellfire Spacious Lounge Concept shares its platform with the Vellfire PHEV (plug-in hybrid) model showcased during the announcement of Toyota’s new Century on September 6, 2023. This dual unveiling hints at the strong potential for the Spacious Lounge concept to materialize into a commercial reality, providing consumers with an eco-friendly yet lavish driving experience.
As the automotive world eagerly awaits further developments, the Vellfire Spacious Lounge Concept stands poised to make a significant impact on the luxury minivan market, offering a harmonious blend of sophistication, comfort, and cutting-edge technology.
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Mazda Unveils Refreshed Mazda 2 Hybrid, Striking a Balance Between Familiarity and Innovation
Introduction:
In a surprising turn of events, Mazda’s German subsidiary recently announced a revamped version of the Mazda 2 Hybrid, the company’s smallest compact car. The unveiling generated a significant buzz on social media platforms, with mixed reactions to the changes made to this Toyota Yaris-based model.
Minor Changes, Major Impact:
Originally introduced in 2021 as a straightforward rebranding of the Toyota Yaris, the Mazda 2 Hybrid has undergone a facelift, capturing attention with its refreshed design. The latest iteration showcases alterations to both the front and rear, incorporating Mazda’s distinctive aesthetic. The compact dimensions, measuring 3940mm in length, 1745mm in width, and 1500mm in height, position the Mazda 2 Hybrid as one of the smallest Mazda vehicles in the European market.
Exterior Transformation:
The exterior enhancements include a redesigned bumper and grille conceptualized by a European design studio, giving the front fascia a distinctive Mazda appearance. The rear features a body-colored liftgate garnish, setting it apart from its Toyota counterpart. These changes aim to strike a balance between maintaining the originality of the Mazda brand while inheriting the efficiency of the Toyota hybrid platform.
Interior Upgrades:
Inside, the Mazda 2 Hybrid boasts an enlarged display, contributing to a more modern and sophisticated atmosphere. These interior updates align with Mazda’s commitment to providing a comfortable and technologically advanced driving experience.
Efficient Hybrid Powertrain:
Under the hood, the Mazda 2 Hybrid features a hybrid powertrain combining a 1.5-liter inline three-cylinder gasoline engine with a 92-horsepower output and an 80-horsepower electric motor. The total system output reaches 116 horsepower, enabling acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.7 seconds and a top speed of 175 km/h. This environmentally conscious choice aligns with Mazda’s commitment to sustainability.
Enhanced Safety Features:
The driving support system, “i-Activsense,” has been updated with new functions, including the Proactive Driving Assistant (PDA) and the Emergency Driving Stop System (EDSS). These additions enhance safety and comfort, particularly at low speeds and during emergency situations.
Diverse Trim Options:
The Mazda 2 Hybrid is available in five different grades, ranging from the base “PRIME-LINE” to the highest grade “HOMURA PLUS.” Prices start at 24,990 euros for the PRIME-LINE and 32,890 euros for the HOMURA PLUS, with deliveries scheduled to commence in March 2024.
Mixed Reactions on Social Media:
Social media platforms witnessed a spectrum of reactions to the revamped Mazda 2 Hybrid. While some users praised the updated design, calling it “really nice” and expressing belief in its appeal, others voiced concerns that the Yaris resemblance persisted, dubbing it the “Mazda version of the Yaris.” There were also calls for Mazda to prioritize original car development over OEM collaborations.
Conclusion:
Mazda’s decision to refresh the Mazda 2 Hybrid demonstrates the company’s commitment to evolution and adaptation in the competitive European market. As the compact car segment continues to evolve, only time will tell if this marriage of Mazda’s design language and Toyota’s hybrid technology proves to be a winning combination.
HKS’s Prius Comfort Kit 2023.11.07(Toyota Prius) by RAI STAR HKS Prius Comfort Kit Brings a New Level of Ride Comfort to the Toyota Prius HKS Prius Comfort Kit is the latest suspension upgrade designed to improve the driving experience of the new Toyota Prius 60 series. Released by HKS on September 26, 2023, this…
On September 29, 2023, Toyota’s German subsidiary made an exciting announcement as they started accepting reservations for the highly anticipated “new C-HR.” This latest addition to Toyota’s lineup is a striking compact SUV that is set to turn heads with its innovative features and unique design.
The C-HR has an interesting history, stemming from the original “TOYOTA C-HR Concept” unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in September 2014. It was later introduced in December 2016 as a “coupe-style compact SUV,” boasting a design closely resembling the initial concept model. It quickly gained popularity in Japan and became a sought-after choice among SUV enthusiasts. However, the first-generation C-HR’s journey in Japan is coming to an end, with production and sales scheduled to conclude in late July 2023. As for the second-generation “new C-HR,” currently announced and exhibited overseas, including in Germany, details about its availability in Japan remain uncertain, and it is expected to be an exclusive overseas model.
The world will get its first look at the new C-HR in Europe on June 26, 2023. The compact SUV boasts a body size of 4,360 mm in length, 1,830 mm in width, and stands at 1,558-1,564 mm in height, making it notably compact for an SUV. The exterior design is inspired by the “C-HR Prologue” concept car released in December 2022, presenting a bold and daring appearance that Toyota describes as a “concept car that can be driven on public roads.”
Moving inside the vehicle, the interior features a sporty and sophisticated finish with a high-quality feel. An exciting addition is the ambient lighting system, which not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also serves as a safety feature. The ambient light can be selected from a palette of up to 64 colors and can be programmed to change hue with the passage of time, creating a seamless transition from bright daytime colors to soothing evening tones.
The European market, including Germany, will have access to a variety of powertrain options. The German model will offer a hybrid (FF only) with a 1.8-liter engine and an electric motor, delivering a maximum system output of approximately 140 horsepower. Additionally, there will be a 2-liter engine paired with two motors in the front and rear, providing a maximum system output of approximately 197 horsepower. The lineup includes two hybrid types (FF and AWD) and a plug-in hybrid model with a 2-liter engine.
To cater to various preferences, the new C-HR will be available in three different grades: “Team Deutschland,” “Lounge Premiere,” and “GR SPORT Premiere.” “Team Deutschland” will feature both the 140hp hybrid and the 197hp hybrid, “Lounge Premiere” will exclusively offer the 197hp hybrid, while “GR SPORT Premiere” will introduce the PHEV model.
Buyers will also have the option to choose from a selection of seven striking body colors, including Marlin Gray Metallic, Platinum White Pearl, Dark Amethyst Metallic, White, Dark Turquoise Blue Metallic, Carmine Red Metallic, and Silver Metallic.
The starting prices for this exciting compact SUV begin at 38,190 euros, which is approximately 6 million yen, for the base “Team Deutschland” 140 horsepower hybrid version. On the higher end, the top-of-the-line “GR SPORT Premiere” PHEV model comes in at 48,990 euros, translating to around 7.5 million yen. With its unique design, innovative features, and a range of powertrain options, the “new C-HR” is set to make a splash in the German market and beyond. So, don’t miss the opportunity to reserve yours today and be among the first to experience this exceptional compact SUV.
In a thrilling announcement, Toyota’s UK subsidiary revealed on October 5, 2023, that they will be launching the 2024 model of the top-tier “RAV4” plug-in hybrid, known as the “GR SPORT,” in early 2024. This announcement has sent waves of excitement through the automotive industry, as Toyota continues to push the boundaries of style and performance.
A Legacy of Innovation
The RAV4 has a rich history, dating back to its debut in 1994. This pioneering crossover SUV was born from a passenger car platform and combined with a stylish and robust body design. Over the years, it has evolved into a global sensation, with cumulative sales reaching a staggering 8.12 million units worldwide by the end of 2017. The current model is the fifth generation, having made its world debut at the New York International Auto Show in March 2018, and subsequently going on sale in Japan in April 2019.
The RAV4’s appeal isn’t just skin deep; it boasts cutting-edge features, including the TNGA GA-K platform and a 4WD integrated control system. Additionally, the RAV4 is available not only as a gasoline vehicle but also as a hybrid vehicle (HEV) and a plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV), demonstrating Toyota’s commitment to environmental performance.
Introducing the GR Sport
Toyota isn’t content with resting on its laurels. In February 2023, the company introduced the “GR Sport” to the European market, a sports model that inherits the spirit of TOYOTA GAZOO Racing, a formidable presence in the motorsport world. The exterior enhancements include black finishes, a G-mesh pattern exclusive to the GR on the front grille, and 19-inch black-finished 5 double-spoke aluminum wheels exclusively for GR Sports. Underneath, a special suspension improves handling performance by tuning springs and shock absorbers to be stiffer.
The interior also receives a sporty makeover with a black finish. The seats, made of suede-like material and synthetic leather, provide excellent grip, making every drive an exciting experience. Various GR logos are strategically placed throughout the interior, enhancing the overall atmosphere.
High-Performance Lineup
In Europe, the RAV4 comes in two electrifying options. The RAV4 PHEV is equipped with a 2.5-liter plug-in hybrid system, boasting a maximum system output of 225 kW (306 horsepower). Meanwhile, the 2.5-liter HEV model offers a maximum system output of 163 kW (222 horsepower).
The latest addition to this electrifying lineup is the 2024 RAV4 PHEV GR Sport. Although it retains the familiar interior and exterior design, Toyota UK has improved the special suspension and revised shock absorber settings, enhancing the driving experience. According to Toyota, the RAV4 PHEV accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 6.0 seconds, outperforming the sports car GR86, which achieves the same feat in 6.3 seconds. This high-performance PHEV model promises an even more thrilling drive.
Pricing and Availability
The 2024 RAV4 PHEV GR Sport is priced at £48,990 (approximately 8,890,000 yen) in the UK. Toyota dealers in the UK are currently accepting orders, with deliveries scheduled to commence in early 2024.
Please note that the sporty RAV4 GR Sport will not be available in the Japanese market, but expectations are high for future offerings in Japan.
Toyota’s commitment to innovation, style, and performance is evident in the new RAV4 PHEV GR Sport. With its fearless face and extremely fast specifications, this crossover SUV is set to redefine the driving experience for enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Toyota continues to lead the way in the automotive industry, and the 2024 RAV4 PHEV GR Sport is no exception to their legacy of excellence.
Toyota enthusiasts, get ready to embrace the latest and greatest in off-road adventure with the upcoming release of the 2024 Toyota 4Runner. On October 3, 2023, Toyota North America officially unveiled the 2024 model, and it promises to be a game-changer in the world of mid-size SUVs.
The 4Runner, a vehicle with a rich heritage dating back to its introduction in 1984, has been a beloved choice for those seeking rugged capability and dependable performance. In Japan, this iconic SUV was known as the “Hilux Surf” up to the fourth generation. The 2024 4Runner represents the fifth generation and is packed with exciting updates.
Design and Features:
The 4Runner’s design has always been associated with toughness, and this latest iteration doesn’t disappoint. The 4Runner boasts a sturdy frame structure and a 4-link coil rear suspension with lateral rods and stabilizer bar, delivering excellent off-road capability.
For the 2024 model year, Toyota has introduced new colors and enhanced safety equipment. The 4Runner now comes in a variety of stylish color options to suit different tastes, making it not only a capable off-roader but a head-turner on the streets as well.
Performance:
Under the hood, you’ll find a powerful 4.0-liter V-6 engine, churning out an impressive 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth and responsive power delivery. The drive system is versatile, offering part-time 4WD, rear-wheel drive (FR), and full-time 4WD on certain grades, ensuring you can tackle various terrains with ease.
The 4Runner features advanced technologies like the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), Crawl Control (CRAWL), and Active Traction Control (A-TRAC). These systems enhance both on-road and off-road performance, ensuring that the 4Runner is ready for any adventure you throw at it.
Safety:
Safety is a top priority for Toyota, and the 2024 4Runner is no exception. All trim levels come standard with Toyota Safety Sense P, which includes essential features like emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning with sway warning, rear cross-traffic alert, blind spot warning, and a monitor. These features provide peace of mind and protection for both the driver and passengers.
Special TRD Pro Model:
For those who crave the ultimate off-road experience, the 4Runner offers a “TRD Pro” grade. This special model comes with a unique exterior design and a special suspension tuned for rough terrain. The “TRD Pro” grade also introduces a striking new dark orange color called “Terra,” which is exclusive to Toyota’s off-road lineup in North America. Additionally, the “Underground” color option is available for other trim levels.
Pricing:
While the official pricing for the 2024 4Runner has yet to be announced as of October 4, 2023, it’s worth noting that the 2023 models range from $40,155 to $54,620. With the new features and updates introduced in the 2024 model, it’s expected to offer exceptional value for the adventurous at heart.
The 2024 Toyota 4Runner is set to continue its legacy of adventure, durability, and style. Stay tuned for further updates on pricing and availability as the official release date approaches. If you’re in the market for a versatile and rugged SUV, the 4Runner should be at the top of your list.
Toyota Alphard 2023 2023.11.02(Toyota Alphard ) by RAI STAR In the automotive world, unexpected ideas often leave the biggest impression. One standout example is the Toyota Alphard Hercule Concept, an ultra-luxurious convertible minivan that captured attention with both its lavish cabin and its bold, dramatic “iron mask” front design. Since its debut in 2002,…
2024 Toyota Yaris Toyota Yaris Turbocharges Compact Car 2023.11.01(Toyota Yaris ) by RAI STAR Toyota’s Spanish division has officially unveiled the 2024 Yaris, bringing fresh upgrades to one of the brand’s most popular compact cars. Known as the Vitz in Japan, the Yaris originally debuted in 1999 and has gone through multiple generations and…
