kuruma

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    The Toyota Hiace is now synonymous with van-controlled campers

    ByChathura Chanuka

    How much does the Toyota “Hiace Camper” cost per year? We asked a real owner about the maintenance cost!

    How much is the maintenance cost of VANCON?　We asked the owner directly!
    　As the popularity of outdoor activities has skyrocketed in recent years, overnight stays and campervans have been attracting a great deal of attention.
    　
    　Among these, bancons boast a high share of the camper market, but what are the actual maintenance costs of a bancon?

    Are there various specifications? See actual Hiace camper vehicles!

    The Toyota “Hiace” is now synonymous with van-controlled campers, but what are the actual maintenance costs?

    　There are two types of camper types: “cab conversion (cab-con),” in which a truck or other vehicle is equipped with living space in its bed, and “van conversion (van-con),” in which the interior of a commercial van or minivan is furnished with furniture and bedding.

    　There are also “mini-campers” based on easy-to-manage mini-cars, and camping trailers that can be towed by your own car.

    　In the camper market, van-con campers based on the Toyota Hiace and Nissan Caravan are particularly popular, but some users are concerned about maintenance costs.

    　While some users are attracted to the appeal of VANCONs and are considering purchasing one, many others are concerned about the high maintenance costs associated with campervans.

    　So what are the maintenance costs of actually owning a VANCON?

    　For the purposes of this article, we assume that there are five items that must be paid when owning a vehicle: taxes, gasoline, voluntary insurance, maintenance, and vehicle inspections. This calculation does not include items that are likely to change depending on circumstances, such as parking lot fees and loan repayment costs.

    　The first payment that must be made is the automobile tax. Since most vans are classified as special-purpose vehicles with a license plate 8, this is 24,600 yen per year. This is a lower tax amount than that of a regular 3 license plate van.

    　The following optional insurance policy uses as a guide the six grades that apply when the insurance is purchased for the first time.

    　The base vehicle will be a 2023 Toyota Hiace Super GL 2800 with an annual mileage of less than 5,000 km.

    　Other conditions are that the age of the named insured is 40, the color of the driver’s license is blue, and the only person covered by the guarantee is the insured who fills in the form, the annual voluntary insurance premium is approximately 50,000 yen.

    　As for the next gasoline cost, let us first assume that the car is owned as a second car for pleasure and that it is driven 300 km round trip once a month.

    　The fuel consumption of the Hiace is 12.4 km/L in WLTC mode, so assuming that the price of diesel fuel is 150 yen/L, the annual cost is approximately 44,000 yen.

    　So far, it can be said that there is not much difference from the base model, but are there any costs incurred because it is a van-controlled vehicle?

    　A man who actually owns a van-con based on the Hiace says the following about this point: “As for maintenance and inspection costs, they are the same.

    Although the interior of the vehicle is designed as a camper, the basic structure of the vehicle is the same, so there are no special costs involved.

    　On the other hand, there are maintenance and upkeep costs for the interior.

    　Compared to a regular car, a van-con is equipped with a refrigerator, lithium-ion battery, air conditioner, etc. separately.

    　I would estimate about 100,000 yen per year for their replacement and maintenance costs.

    　VANCONs have been attracting attention amid the recent outdoor boom, and it seems that not only are they as easy to handle as regular cars, but their maintenance costs are also not significantly different, which is a major factor in their popularity.

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    The shocking Suzuki Jimny Truck is real

    ByChathura Chanuka

    I want this!” The shocking Suzuki “Jimmy Truck” is real! In addition to the 5-door version, a pickup version with a cargo bed is available at NZ dealers.

    Truck version exists in addition to the 5-door!
    　The Suzuki Jimny series of compact four-wheel drive vehicles has been sold in 199 countries and has sold a total of more than 300,000 units since its introduction in 1970.
    　
    　The “truck version” of the Jimny, which has a cargo bed in the back, is being sold by a Suzuki dealer in New Zealand, and has become a hot topic on social networking sites.

    Actually, it exists! Shocking “Jimny Truck” with rear disconnection .

    A “Jimny Flat Deck” for sale by a New Zealand Suzuki dealer.

    　The current Jimny is the fourth generation model, introduced in 2018. Both the regular minicar model and the smaller Jimny Sierra model with an enlarged body and 1.5-liter engine are both available as three-door models.

    　In addition to round headlights and an edgy square exterior, safety performance has been improved by offering Suzuki Safety Support, an advanced driving support system.

    　A long-body 5-door model was introduced at the Auto Expo 2023 held in India in January 2023. Since there were many requests for that configuration, it became a major topic of conversation on social networking sites when it was unveiled to the public.

    　In addition, the “Jimny Sierra Pickup Style,” a pickup truck based on the Jimny Sierra, was displayed at the Suzuki booth at the 2019 Tokyo Auto Salon.

    　At that time, too, many people said, “I want one! I want it!” and “Make it commercially available! and “Make it commercially available!

    　Thus, it seems that there is a demand for various variations of the Jimny other than the regular 3-door model.

    　In this situation, Suzuki dealers in New Zealand are selling the Jimny Flat Deck, a pickup truck based on the Jimny Sierra (JB74), created by Cowper Trucks, a company that handles custom trucks and other products.

    　On the exterior, the wheelbase was extended by 8 inches, the rear of the Sierra doors and beyond were cut cleanly, and only the front seats were changed to a single cab version. Even the rain gutter moldings, which would have been difficult to do, have been cleaned up.

    　A “half-back” version with no change in wheelbase is also available, giving customers a choice of two types of practical cargo beds.

    　Various comments about the Jimny Flat Deck have been posted on social networking sites.

    The comments on social networking sites were “This is interesting. I’ve seen a Sierra with the rear of a (light truck) Cali in a magazine, but this is nice too…” “I want to order a Sierra and buy a light truck too, so I want this! Some users seem to appreciate the fact that it is being handled by an authorized dealer and that it is boldly cut yet beautifully finished.

    　Although not officially sold in Japan, Jimny pickups are also being made in Japan.

    　Neosteel in Kumamoto Prefecture and Kohei Factory in Shizuoka Prefecture have built light trucks based on the previous generation (JB23).

    　Neosteel’s Jimny pickup has typical agricultural specifications and was created in response to requests from local farmers who wanted to farm with a cool car.

    　On the other hand, the Kohei Factory’s Jimny truck has a design reminiscent of the once famous Suzuki “Mighty Boy.

    　It is a vehicle that can be driven in fashion rather than as a practical vehicle.

    　The current Jimny has been requested in a variety of body types, and in addition to the Indian 5-door, a pickup version also exists overseas, and it seems that there are many models overseas that Japanese Jimny fans would also like to see appear.

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    The blazing fast CR-V with over 800 horsepower

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Honda unveils the world premiere of the “new bombastic SUV” with 800 horsepower! CR-V” equipped with powerful wing and wide body is unveiled

    The blazing fast “CR-V” with over 800 horsepower
    　On February 28, 2023, Honda Performance Development (HPD), a subsidiary of U.S.-based Honda Motor Company that develops vehicles and technologies primarily for racing, unveiled the new CR-V Hybrid Racer.

    Powerful wing and wide body! The new “CR-V Hybrid Racer,” which looks extremely fast, is shown.

    Honda Performance Development unveiled for the first time in the world the new 800-horsepower CR-V Hybrid Racer.

    　Since its founding in 1993, HPD has developed high-performance racing parts and programs for Honda and its luxury car brand Acura in North America.

    　HPD has announced the CR-V Hybrid Racer, a competition vehicle for the NTT IndyCar Series, based on Honda’s flagship SUV, the CR-V, in North America.

    It was built in collaboration with engineers from the U.S. Honda Automotive Development Center (ADC) and designers from American Honda’s North American Auto Design Division.

    　The development code for the CR-V Hybrid Racer was “The Beast. The exterior of the CR-V Hybrid Racer lives up to its name with a “wild” design. The base CR-V has been lowered to an extreme degree, and the body has been widened to give it a wider and lower stance.

    　It also has a huge under spoiler and a diffuser rear wing, giving it the appearance of a racing car. It also has a nostalgic look reminiscent of the IMSA GT racing cars of the 1980s and 1990s and the Group B cars that competed in the World Rally Championship.

    　The exterior of the car is wrapped in a one-of-a-kind blue and red wrapping designed by senior exterior designer Lili Melikian.

    　The graphics are inspired by the hybrid powertrain, radiating from Honda Hybrid Blue to Honda Racing Red, symbolizing the dual nature of the drivetrain,” said Lili Melikian of the wrapping.

    　The interior is completely different from the production car, with spartan racer specs that only include full bucket seats and a racing steering wheel.

    　The hybrid powertrain consisting of a 2.2-liter V6 twin-turbo engine and motor mounted on the rear side of the car is said to deliver a maximum output of approximately 800 horsepower. Mated to this is an XTRAC 6-speed transmission with paddle shifters.

    　The suspension uses the front suspension and front brakes used in the Acura NSX GT-3 Evo22 developed by HPD, and the rear suspension and rear brakes used in the Dallara IR-18.

    　David Salters, president and technical director of Honda’s U.S. subsidiary and Acura’s North American racing division, had this to say about the car

    The CR-V Hybrid Racer is a racing car ‘beast’ in CR-V ‘sheep’s clothing,’ our ‘electrification lab’ for the brilliant men and women of HPD and Honda to investigate how far they can go with electrification, hybrid technology and 100% renewable fuel.

    　This car embodies Honda’s fun-to-drive spirit, demonstrates electrification, and shakes up our automotive roots and racing heritage.”

    　The CR-V Hybrid Racer will make its public debut at the season-opening Firestone Grand Prix of the NTT IndyCar Series in St. Petersburg, Florida, March 3-5.

    　In addition, it will be on display at several INDYCAR events, including the April 14-16 Acura Grand Prix in Long Beach, CA, and will be deployed in multiple locations, including on-track demonstrations.

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    Toyota’s Next Model Alphard Coming Soon

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Toyota’s Next Model “Alphard” Coming “Soon”? Many are calling for a “better ride”! What “evolution” is needed in the overwhelmingly popular “minivan”?

    Many are calling for a “better ride” in the next model of the Alphard
    　Toyota’s luxury model “Alphard” boasts overwhelming recognition in the Japanese minivan market. The current model is the third generation model, which was introduced in 2015. Eight years have passed since its debut, and rumors of the next model’s arrival have been circulating on social networking sites and various media.

    What will happen to the next model? See various Alphard models including the past generation, the gorgeous “Royal Lounge,” and the “Truck Version”

    　We conducted a survey on social networking sites to find out what users want from the rumored next-generation Alphard.

    New “Alphard” to be launched in 2023! What will happen to the luxury orientation in the completely redesigned 4th generation?
    　The Alphard is a popular minivan that consistently ranks high in sales volume rankings, despite being a luxury vehicle with even the entry-level model costing over 3.5 million yen. Its first generation model was launched in the market in 2002 as the “Alphard G/V” after being redesigned from its predecessor, the “Granvia/Grand Hiace.

    　The second generation followed in 2008, and from this point on, the G of the Alphard G/V was the second generation Alphard and the V was the first generation Vellfire.

    　Then, in 2015, the model was fully remodeled for the second time as the Alphard and for the first time as the Vellfire, giving birth to the model currently on sale.

    　The current Alphard has evolved into an even more luxurious car by adopting “luxury” and “heroic” as its concepts.

    　The top grade “Executive Lounge” is designed to “create a space of higher quality hospitality with a sense of luxury and comfort,” and the second row seats have been made as comfortable as those in the first class of an airplane, thus meeting the needs of show car drivers who have been served by sedans in the past. This concept was adopted to meet the needs of show car buyers, which had previously been served by sedans.

    In addition, the exterior and interior of both the Alphard and Vellfire have undergone major changes in the 2017 minor remodeling.

    　The current model of the Alphard will be eight years old in 2023, and there is talk on social networking sites and in some media that the next model will be introduced soon in terms of the model change cycle.

    　We conducted a survey on social networking services to find out what users are looking for in the next model of Alphard.

    　In the survey, we asked, “What kind of evolution do you want in the next model of Alphard? The survey asked the question, “What kind of evolution would you like to see in the next generation Alphard?” We asked the respondents to choose from 11 options (multiple answers allowed), including “a rear-seat-oriented grade that can transport VIPs,” “more powerful, sports car-like driving performance,” “more comfortable ride,” and “improved fuel economy.

    　The results showed that “more comfortable ride” was the most popular choice at 52%, indicating that users are seeking a higher quality ride.

    　Also, “improved fuel economy” was followed by 40%, indicating dissatisfaction with the current model’s fuel economy of 9.9-14.8km/L (WLTC).

    　Although there has been no official announcement from Toyota regarding the next-generation Alphard, as mentioned above, it has become a popular car, and there are many users who are paying attention to it.

    　Some media reports say that it may be introduced in the middle of the year 2023, but the exact date is unknown. It will be interesting to see what happens in the future.

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    Nissan to Raise Prices of Note and Note Aura Starting in May

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Nissan to Raise Prices of “Note” and “Note Aura” Starting in May

    Nissan to review some factory-installed options
    　On February 27, 2023, Nissan announced that it will raise the prices of the compact cars “Note” and “Note Aura” and sell them at the new prices starting in May.

    The new “Surf Green” color is elegant! View 18 images of the evolved Nissan Note and Note Aura.

    Note AUTECH CROSSOVER

    　The company says it will revise prices in light of the global rise in raw material and logistics costs. The new prices (including consumption tax) for each grade are as follows

    Note (FWD)
    X: 2,249,500 yen
    AUTECH: 2,592,700 yen
    AUTECH CROSSOVER: 2,625,700 yen
    AUTECH CROSSOVER + Active: 2,669,700 yen
    Passenger swivel seat: 2,359,500 yen

    Note (4WD)
    X FOUR: 2,508,000 yen
    AUTECH FOUR: 2,851,200 yen
    AUTECH CROSSOVER FOUR: 2,884,200 yen
    AUTECH CROSSOVER FOUR + Active: 2,928,200 yen
    Passenger seat swivel seat: 2,618,000 yen

    Note Aura (FWD)
    G: 2,699,400 yen
    G leather edition: 2,783,000 yen
    NISMO: 2,981,000 yen
    Passenger seat swivel seat: 2,809,400 yen

    Note Aura (4WD)
    G FOUR: 2,957,900 yen
    G FOUR leather edition: 3,041,500 yen
    G FOUR leather edition: 3,041,500 yen, G FOUR leather edition: 3,040,500 yen

    　The price increase is 38,500 yen each for the Note X and X FOUR, 45,100 yen each for the Note Aura G, G leather edition, G FOUR, and G FOUR leather edition, and 72,600 yen for the NISMO.

    　In addition, in order not to affect the delivery date of the car, some factory-installed option configurations will also be reviewed, such as the development of set options that remove the wireless charger.

    　The AUTECH series, NISMO, and the passenger seat swivel seat are treated as NMC AUTECH.

    　Pricing for the Note S grade, which is not included in this announcement, will be announced later.

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    This new camper is based on the Toyota Hiace long body

    ByChathura Chanuka

    The “Hiace” is too “comfortable”! First public showing of “Soran,” an “osha” overnight car equipped with “home air-conditioning

    Compact standard body with “home air conditioner” installed
    　Camper manufacturer Lexby (Seto City, Aichi Prefecture) unveiled its new model “Lexby Soran (hereafter, Soran)” 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” long body, standard roof model, and its most distinctive feature is the use of a home air conditioner in the rear of the interior.

    No longer a “home”? See the too-comfortable “Hiace” camper in photos

    A “home” no longer just a “home”? New Camper “Lexby Solan” Equipped with Home Air Conditioner

    　The recent camping and overnight stay boom has led to the development of a variety of campers, and all companies are striving to improve functionality and comfort when the engine is turned off.

    　Some of the Hiace-based campers have been equipped with home air conditioners for the super-long and wide body models, which have relatively ample space, to greatly improve comfort when staying overnight in a car during the summer months.

    　The new camper Sorun, which appeared in this context, is unique in that it is based on a standard-body, standard-roof model with an overall length of 4695 mm x width of 1695 mm x height of 1980 mm, a relatively compact body size among the Hiace models.

    　While maintaining the compact body, the rear windows of the SOLAN have been replaced with “extension panels” that extend outward from the vehicle.

    　The air conditioning unit is installed in the expanded space, and the “Van Cool Device,” which combines a lithium-ion battery and a high-performance inverter, is installed in the compact standard body.

    　The bright colors of the interior are impressive. It is stylish to look at, of course, but it also has other purposes.

    　Lexby explains as follows.

    The bright tone of the interior, which is not seen in our conventional products, is calculated to show off pets.”

    　To make travel with pets, such as small dogs, even more memorable, the interior was also designed to appear bright and cheerful when commemorative photos are taken.

    　The interior materials themselves are made of water-, friction-, and claw-resistant materials, and together with the aforementioned home-use air conditioner, are designed with pet travelers in mind.

    　At the JCCS 2023 venue, where visitors with pets are allowed, a collaboration with Pepii, a pet goods retailer, was conducted to highlight the characteristics of the Soran. The exhibit, based on the concept of “a car interior space to enjoy with pets,” attracted a lot of attention from dog lovers and other visitors.

    　The Soran is available in gasoline (2WD/4WD) and diesel (2WD), and all models are registered as 8 license plates. The seating capacity is for six passengers and sleeping capacity for three.

    　The price including consumption tax ranges from 7,370,000 yen to 8,294,000 yen.

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    The birth of the retro Toyota Hiace with round eyes

    ByChathura Chanuka

    The birth of the retro Toyota “Hiace” with round eyes! A Classic Face Change! New “face-changing” custom kit on sale!

    Retro, black-faced Hiace is now available in Japan!
    　FLEX, a specialty retailer of Toyota’s Hiace, will release the Re Classic as a face change kit for the Hiace on March 1, 2023.
    　
    　Re Classic is a face change kit that can change the headlights of the Hiace (Type 4 to 7) to round eyes, and is now available for both standard and wide body models.

    TOYOTA logo is good! See 30 photos of the “Hiace” with round eyes and an osha face makeover.

    Customized Toyota “Hiace” with retro round eyes!

    　The matte black face makes use of the factory grille line, and the cute and classic round eye headlights of the original design are adopted. The design is suitable for a wide range of models. The “TOYOTA” logo on the grille is one of the key points of the design, creating a face with a strong presence.

    　The Re Classic can be installed as a full kit or as a stand-alone kit around the grille and lights, and can be installed on both new and used vehicles. The design will be the same regardless of whether or not the Toyota Safety Sense preventive safety system is installed.

    　Prices (including consumption tax and excluding installation labor) range from 176,000 to 209,000 yen for the full kit and from 48,510 to 54,285 yen for the front grille hood garnish (some genuine parts are required for Type 4 and 5 models).

    　Also, the round eye headlight cover set of two (left and right) is 23,100 yen, the round eye headlight lens set of two (left and right) is 121,968 yen, the round eye corner lens set of two (left and right) is 42,042 yen, and the LED conversion harness (required for LED headlight vehicles) is 34,650 yen.

    The LED conversion harness (required for LED headlight vehicles) is 34,650 yen.

    　In addition, the product can be combined with the “Wood Village,” a Hiace-based camper scheduled to go on sale on March 1, 2023, and the original full-length LED taillights “Classic Tail Lamps.

    　Wood Village is a camper that uses natural wood throughout to create a retro and outdoor feel. Based on the standard body DX 5-door of the Hiace, this 8-number car is compact, but offers the minimum necessary functions as a camper and excellent interior space for comfort.

    　The Classic tail lamps are based on the concept of “tail lamps that suit a retro face,” with a classical appearance and bright light from LED lights.

    　Combined with these items, it is said that more unique customization can be achieved.

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    Gorgeous and cool Nissan’s new X-TRAIL full-fledged off-road specification

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Tough as nails! The new Nissan SUV “X-TRAIL”, which is selling like hotcakes, wins the highest honor! e-POWER” is the reason for its popularity!

    Nissan X-TRAIL receives the highest honor as an SUV!
    　On February 20, 2023, Nissan’s European subsidiary (“Nissan”) announced that its new SUV X-TRAIL has been selected for the Women’s World Car of the Year (WWCOTY) 2023 category award, presented in Paris, France.

    Gorgeous and cool! Nissan’s new “X-TRAIL” full-fledged off-road specification!

    Nissan’s new “X-TRAIL”.

    　WWCOTY is an international award judged and awarded by 63 female automotive journalists, and will celebrate its 13th anniversary in 2023.

    　The new X-TRAIL won in the “Best Large SUV” category, thus earning the right to compete for the overall WWCOTY award in the future.

    　Since the first-generation X-TRAIL was launched in 2000, it has established a unique position as an SUV that puts “toughness” at the forefront, and has grown into a global model sold in more than 100 markets around the world. With cumulative sales exceeding 6.3 million units, the X-TRAIL has become a mainstay model that drives Nissan’s business.

    　In Japan, the current model, the fourth-generation X-TRAIL, will be launched in July 2022, and all models will be equipped with the e-POWER series hybrid system. It is also equipped with many of Nissan’s latest technologies, such as the e-4ORCE electric 4WD system.

    　In addition to the “toughness” inherited from previous generations, the 4th generation model has acquired a “quality” that appeals to a wider range of users.

    　The X-TRAIL’s spacious interior, driving performance, and Nissan’s unique e-POWER electric powertrain were highly acclaimed, leading to its winning of this year’s WWCOTY award.

    　Makoto Uchida, Nissan’s CEO, commented on the award.

    We are delighted that the new X-TRAIL has received the highest honor. The vehicle is an icon of Nissan’s SUV heritage of more than 20 years and one of Nissan’s most successful global models.

    　It has also been built with the input of female users in mind throughout the entire design and development process, and we are delighted and proud to see it recognized in this way.”

    　As the winner of the WWCOTY Best Large SUV category, the new Extrale will now move on to the final round of WWCOTY’s overall Best Car of the Year 2023 award.

    　The Best Car of the Year 2023 will be announced on March 8, 2023, and all eyes will be on the new X-TRAIL to see if it can win further honors.

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    Toyota unveils new SUV-style Prius & Voxy for the first time

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Toyota unveils new SUV-style Prius & Voxy for the first time! Used cars will be customized to “outdoor specs” starting March 6

    Prius & Voxy now available with outdoor specs!
    　Toyota Conic Pro is launching “CORDE by ,” a business that offers new value in updated car style with various partners who have their own unique world view and value.
    　
    　In line with this, the first customized specifications of used “Prius” and “Voxy” cars have been unveiled.

    Toyota’s used cars have been given a makeover! See the changed appearance in photos!

    Minivan SUV! Toyota Used Cars Get a Makeover! VOXY URBANATURE” of the new service “CORDE by” is cool!

    　CORDE by is a new service developed by Toyota Connick Pro, a company that provides marketing services, consulting, and mobility services for Toyota and the Toyota Group, etc. The new service offers “styled cars” that easily add a unique personality and style different from existing new cars and conventional custom cars. The first project was the “Land Car” project, which was developed by Toyota Conic Pro, a Toyota Conic Pro company that provides customizability services and other services.

    　For the first project, the company collaborated with FLEX’s Renoca, which has gained popularity for its renovation of the Land Cruiser and Hiace, to develop a styled car that is in tune with the values of the current era.

    　The concept of the new style is “Urban Nature,” a concept that is being developed in an age when diverse lifestyles such as work vacations and dual lifestyles are beginning to take root,
    Toyota Conic Pro and Renoca’s product development team pursued the question, “What should be the style of a car?

    　The two models, “PRIUS URBANATURE” based on the Toyota Prius and “VOXY URBANATURE” based on the Toyota Voxy, have been developed in a style that is appropriate for the current era.

    　One example of the Prius was created under the theme of “adding a scene-less ruggedness to the city-use character that is associated with the Prius.

    　The body color of the base model is Urban Nature Gray, which blends in comfortably in both urban and natural environments, and the interior features calm dark brown leather seats.

    　In addition, a THULE 859XT roof carrier, a popular car carrier brand among outdoor users, orthodox 5-spoke wheels, and MUDSTAR all-weather all-terrain tires were installed to create a rugged yet clean balance.

    　The Voxy, for example, was created with the theme of “focusing on the utility that minivans originally have, and adding SUV-like strength.

    　The base vehicle’s body color is Urban Nature Beige, which evokes a sense of gentleness in the city and strength in nature, and the interior is dark brown with leather seats for added comfort.

    　It is made of highly durable ballistic nylon, which is safe for outdoor use, and the back seat pocket further enhances utility.

    　Furthermore, orthodox 5-spoke wheels and MUDSTAR all-terrain tires give it a rugged SUV-like image.

    　Both the Prius and Voxy have not been customized in terms of engine, transmission, and suspension, which are all related to the car’s basic driving performance.

    　The Prius and Voxy will be sold on a build-to-order basis, with orders being accepted from March 6, 2022, through Toyota USEC’s new smart store, Chiba Minato Store.

    　The online-based sales format is said to create a car lifestyle more suited to the current era in terms of the purchasing experience, from business negotiations to delivery of the car.

    　Mitsuo Kawamura, brand director of Toyota Conic Pro, said, “CORDE by is a new way to bring together the diverse values and personalities of today’s consumers.

    In an age where diverse values and individuality are respected, we have always felt that there should be more choices in car selection and car life, just as there are in clothing.

    　By taking advantage of high-quality used cars and updating them to match your current mood and style by adding a few touches, you can enjoy your car in your own style for a long time without measuring it by its specifications or functions.

    　We hope to expand this way of enjoying cars with CORDE by.
    　As the second stage of the CORDE by project, a product plan for Toyota’s “Hiace Styled Car” is said to be underway.

    　Prior to the start of sales, an event will be held at Kashiwanoha T-SITE (Kashiwa City, Chiba Prefecture) on March 4 and 5, 2023, to see the actual PRIUS URBANATURE and VOXY URBANATURE cars.

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    The new black-colored Prius is too cool

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Delivery of the car! What do you think of the “wide and low” interior space of the new Toyota Prius? What are your real impressions after taking delivery?

    New “Prius” interior space, what do you really think?
    　The new Toyota Prius (hybrid vehicle) went on sale on January 10, 2023.
    　　
    　We have been hearing from users on social networking sites who have already taken delivery of their vehicles, and we asked SRBI/TW (@110RX1) (hereafter SRBI) about his impressions after taking delivery of his new vehicle.

    What do you think of the interior space of the new Toyota Prius, with its “wide and low form”? See in pictures!

    The new black-colored “Prius” is too cool!　Image: SRBI/TW (@110RX1)

    　The first-generation Prius was introduced in 1997, and this is the fifth generation of the Prius. Under the concept of “Hybrid Reborn,” the Prius has undergone a major facelift from the previous model, from the exterior to the functional aspects.

    　One of the most distinctive features of the new Prius is its more stylish proportions.

    　The body size of the new Prius is 4600 mm (length) x 1780 mm (width) x 1420-1430 mm (height), with a lower center of gravity than the previous model and a design that emphasizes sportiness.

    　Compared to the previous-generation Prius, the overall height has been reduced by 40 mm, while the overall length and width have been increased by 25 mm and 20 mm, respectively, and the seating positions (hip points) of front and rear occupants have been lowered to achieve an interior space that can accommodate a maximum of five passengers.

    　SRBI describes the interior space of the new Prius as follows.

    Both the driver and front passenger seats are spacious, and the console box can hold small items, so I am satisfied with the interior space.

    　The rear seats are a little narrow for three adults.

    　However, I have no complaints about the spaciousness for a parent and four children, and there is plenty of leg room, so I am satisfied with the car.

    　Immediately after the world premiere in November 2022, some people were concerned that the interior space might be too small. However, users who have actually owned one have no major complaints about the interior space, and it can be said that this model is capable of everyday use while emphasizing sportiness.

    　The new Prius purchased by SRBI is a 2WD Z grade with black interior.

    　He applied for the car on December 22, 2022, signed the contract on January 13, 2023, and took delivery of the car on February 12, 2023.

    　In addition to this, SRBI also shared his impressions after the delivery of the car as follows.

    I fell in love with the design of the new Prius, and after consulting with my wife and getting her approval, I decided to purchase the car.

    　Of course it looks cool, but I especially like the black exterior color.

    　As for the interior, I am satisfied with the high quality of the seats and the high seat sides, which give me the feeling of being wrapped up in a sports car, which is well worth the price.

    　As a point of concern, I feel that the 7-inch meter is a little difficult to see, and I would like to see it displayed a little larger.

    I would like to see a larger display.

    　SRBI has been posting various information about the new Prius on his social networking service, and he shares his thoughts as follows: “I think the new Prius has a lot of potential.

    The new Prius is equipped with a variety of safety features, such as a signal switching notification function and a vehicle departure notification system.

    　I have just taken delivery of the car and have not yet mastered its use, but I like the fact that I can change the safe driving support settings to my liking.

    　In the future, I would like to try out the safe driving support for long-distance travel, and I will continue to provide information about it on social networking sites.

    　SNS is gradually starting to see deliveries of the new Prius, and we can say that we will be seeing more and more of them around town.