kuruma

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    The Jimny 5-door model has been eagerly awaited by many users

    ByChathura Chanuka

    New Suzuki Jimny 5-Door Announced! When will it go on sale in Japan? Hint: “Elimination of 80,000 orders backlog” How soon?

    The Jimny series has an order backlog of 80,000 units in Japan…how long will it take to eliminate it?
    　The Suzuki Jimny has been the talk of the town recently, with the announcement of the Jimny 5-door.

    　The 5-door model has been eagerly awaited by many users, and there are high expectations for its launch in Japan.
    　
    　In the midst of all this, it seems that hints regarding the introduction of the model in Japan have been revealed.

    Is this the Jimny 5-door? And also the unexpected 4-door goods? See the real thing!

    When will the new Jimny 5-door, which was unveiled in India for the first time in the world, be introduced in Japan?

    　The Jimny 5-door had its world premiere at AUTO EXPO 2023, which was held near Delhi, India, from January 12, 2023.

    　It has been announced that it will be launched not only in India but also in Australia, and the timing of its launch in Japan, its home country, is attracting a lot of attention.

    　Some of Suzuki’s top management have expressed their desire to introduce the car to Japan at an early date, but here comes a shocking piece of information.

    　On January 27, 2023, a meeting was held in Hamamatsu City with Suzuki’s sub-agents and business dealers.

    　According to the attendees, President Toshihiro Suzuki said, “The current backorder of the Jimny series in Japan has reached approximately 80,000 units. Unless this backorder is resolved, there will be no launch of the Jimny 5-door in Japan,” he stated.

    　The Jimny and Jimny Sierra were explosive hits upon their launch in 2018, with delivery times exceeding a year during the same year, which was exceptional.

    　The long delivery times have not been resolved since then, and in January 2019, Suzuki announced that it will expand the production line at its Kosai plant.

    　As a result, the number of Jimneys produced in Japan will be increased to 7,000 units, approximately 1.5 times the previous number, and delivery times were expected to be shortened, but the long delivery times continue as usual.

    　Recently, delivery times have varied by region, with users being informed that it takes over a year in Tokyo and approximately seven months in the Kansai region.

    　Dealers in the Kansai region have just been informed that “production and delivery of the Jimny Sierra is proceeding at a rapid pace in preparation for the launch of the 5-door in Japan in the fall of 2022,” so President Toshihiro Suzuki’s announcement is likely to cause a major stir not only among users but also throughout the industry.

    　However, it is said that Suzuki has long been aiming to achieve delivery of the Sierra within 7 months, which is the borderline for 5-door sales in Japan, so it is not likely to be after the complete delivery of all 80,000 units.

    　The majority of the Jimny industry believes that 2023 to 2024 is the launch date for the Jimny 5-door.

    　Considering the freshness of the model and the growing demand for outdoor vehicles in Japan, a Japanese introduction by the end of 2024 may be just around the corner, given the market situation.

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    Toyota Hiace Taxes are low but insurance and gasoline costs are surprisingly high

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Toyota “Hiace” Taxes are low but insurance and gasoline costs are surprisingly high! How about a family car?

    Is there any disadvantage of the popular “Hiace”?
    　The Toyota Hiace, a popular commercial vehicle, is often used as a vehicle for transporting people and cargo in the construction and logistics industries, and is favored for professional use.
    　
    　On the other hand, it is also popular for transporting tools for hobbies, and an increasing number of people enjoy dressing it up with custom parts.

    A little bit of a badass makeover! Modellista-spec “Hiace” is too cool!

    The Toyota Hiace is popular for both commercial and personal use.

    　The Hiace is often used for private use or as a family car due to its advantages such as low taxes and high resale value since it is a commercial vehicle, but what are the disadvantages of the Hiace?

    　Because the Hiace is registered as a small cargo vehicle, the annual automobile tax is as low as 16,000 yen.

    We often hear people say, “Since taxes are low, isn’t voluntary insurance also low?” However, in the case of the Hiace, the amount of insurance varies greatly depending on the age of the driver and whether or not vehicle insurance is required.

    　The fact that the Hiace is a popular vehicle type, there is a risk of theft, and the mileage increases due to its use as a cargo vehicle, all of which contribute to the increase in the voluntary insurance premiums.

    　Among these, the vehicle insurance policy that guarantees against “theft” raises premiums, and a major point is whether or not to purchase vehicle insurance when using the vehicle as a family car. Although it depends on conditions, direct-type automobile insurance quotes indicate that there can be a difference of approximately 30,000 yen per year with or without vehicle insurance.

    　The 200 series (current model) of the Hiace has improved fuel economy compared to the previous 100 series, but it is honestly considered “bad” when considered as an ordinary family car.

    　The WLTC mode fuel economy of the “Super GL” with 2-liter gasoline is 9.2 km/L, which is half of the 18.4 km/L of the Sienta (G7 passengers and passengers), another popular Toyota family car.

    　Assuming a monthly driving distance of 500 km, the Hiace consumes about 54 liters of gasoline, while the Sienta consumes about 27 liters, a difference of about 27 liters. Calculated at 160 yen per liter of gasoline, the monthly difference in cost is “27 liters x 160 yen = 4,320 yen,” and if calculated annually, the monthly difference is “4,320 x 12 months = 51,840 yen.

    　As mentioned above, the annual automobile tax for the Hiace is 16,000 yen, and that for the Sienta with a 1.5-liter engine is 34,500 yen per year, a difference of 18,500 yen. Even if the amount reduced by the automobile tax is subtracted from the difference in the annual fuel price, the calculation shows an expense of approximately 33,000 yen more.

    　Thus, while the low automobile tax is an advantage, fuel consumption is low, and overall expenses will increase.

    　If you try to use the Hiace as a family car, you will probably have a slightly lower opinion of its ride quality. The reason for this lies in the suspension mechanism.

    　The suspension mechanism uses a double wishbone mechanism in the front, which is somewhat similar to that of a standard passenger car, but the rear suspension is a leaf spring mechanism.

    　The leaf spring mechanism, also known as a “plate spring,” is the suspension mechanism used in trucks. Since it is adopted for the purpose of ensuring stable running even when loaded with cargo, it is not comfortable for humans, and this may be a demerit.

    The base vehicle of a camper is a truck, and the base vehicle of a camper is a truck.

    　Recently, an increasing number of individuals are riding in Hiace because it can be used as a base vehicle for campers. However, since Hiace prioritizes toughness as a cargo vehicle in some aspects, it is necessary to carefully consider its merits and demerits when using it as a family car.

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    Nissan revives the Sunny or the first time in almost 40 years

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Nissan revives the “Sunny” for the first time in almost 40 years! What are the features of the “”near-future LEAF”” with sports specs & presence with Silvia engine?

    What is the Sunny with presence LEAF and Sylvia engine?
    　Nissan operates five automotive vocational schools across Japan.
    　
    　Among them, Nissan Kyoto Automobile College (Kyoto School) has unveiled in the past the “”LEAF”” with a futuristic design and the “”SUNNY”” with a retro design.

    This is amazing! The birth of the Silvia-powered “”Sunny””! See the real car at an impressive level!

    This is amazing! Nissan Kyoto School’s “”Sunny”” with Silvia engine unveiled at Osaka Auto Messe 2018

    　Nissan Automotive University Schools are located in Tochigi, Yokohama, Aichi, Kyoto, and Ehime.

    　The Nissan Automotive College’s educational policy is to “”develop human resources who can contribute to society based on education that enhances communication skills.

    　The school has sent many graduates to Nissan, Nissan sales companies nationwide, and other automobile-related companies.

    　Among them, Kyoto School is a school where those who aim to become highly-skilled automotive engineers can enjoy learning the latest and most practical technology and knowledge.

    　In April 2017, the Kyoto School also opened the Customization Department, where students are encouraged to create their own vehicles by realizing body designs based on their own free ideas.

    　In addition to students’ imagination, they create custom cars by making full use of “”maintenance knowledge and skills”” and “”sheet metal painting techniques”” they have learned up to now, as well as “”wrapping techniques”” and “”FRP processing techniques”” they learned in the new course.

    　In this context, LEAF and SUNNY customized cars were unveiled at Osaka Auto Messe 2018.

    　The LEAF, named “”RL-R,”” is a futuristic sports car based on an environmentally friendly electric vehicle with the concept of “”an overwhelming sense of presence that sets it apart from others.

    　The new model has a sleeker shape than the previous LEAF, and the rear fenders have an original pavilion design.

    　In addition, Nancan “”NS-II (285/30R18)”” tires and Work Emotion “”T7R (18-inch)”” wheels were installed on the feet.

    　The other Sunny was based on a 1970s KB10 model with the concept of “”making an old car new,”” and was equipped with the power unit and powertrain of the “”Silvia (S15). The “”Silvia (S14)”” suspension was more transplanted to this model, making it a compact car with high power output.

    　In appearance, it has a blue body color with a front bumper and over fenders that have a strong presence.

    　For the suspension, Yokohama “”Advan Neova AD08 (215/45R16)”” tires and Work “”Meister (16-inch)”” wheels were used, and the vehicle was lowered by installing a coilover suspension.

    　The person in charge at the time had the following to say about these two vehicles.

    The seven students in the first year of the customization course started building the Leaf and Sunny with the goal of exhibiting at the Osaka Auto Messe, armed with the maintenance skills they acquired in their first and second years, and the sheet metal painting skills they acquired in their third year.

    　Despite the time passing by, the students never gave up and gave up their Saturdays and Sundays to work on the two vehicles, completing them and making them look stunning.

    　The Sunny won 10th place in the dress-up and tuning car contest held at the Osaka Auto Messe 2018, and was also introduced in an American magazine.

    　The Kyoto School also made a big splash at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023 with the unveiling of the “”FAIRLADY X,”” a crossover model with a “”FAIRLADY Z”” face.

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    The novel design of the resurrected Vitz is astonishing

    ByChathura Chanuka

    No way Toyota unveiled the new “Vitz” for the first time in the world! What is the reaction to the “round-eyed model” smaller than the Yaris? Why is the “Starlet” coming back to South Africa?

    Why is the “Vitz” being revived in South Africa?
    　Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM), Toyota’s South African subsidiary, unveiled the new Vitz for the first time in the world at the State of the Motor Industry (SOMI) event.
    　
    　Why is the Vitz back in South Africa?

    This is the new Vitz! The novel design of the resurrected Vitz is astonishing! See why!

    Why is the new Toyota Vitz back in South Africa? What’s behind it?

    　SOMI was an event organized by TSAM, where the company’s future business plans were revealed.

    　Also unveiled were new models scheduled to arrive in 2023, including the Toyota-branded Crown, Urban Cruiser, and Mirai, as well as the Lexus-branded UX EV.

    　One of these models is named the new Vitz.

    　Speaking of the Vitz in the Japanese market, the history of the Vitz ended after 21 years when it was unified with the global car name “Yaris” in 2020.

    　On the other hand, the new Vitz to be launched in the South African market is said to be the successor to the Agia, Toyota’s A-segment compact car sold overseas.

    　The Agia currently sold in the South African market is a small model measuring 3660 mm (length) x 1600 mm (width) x 1520 mm (height) with a wheelbase of 2455 mm, less than 4 meters.

    　Its powertrain boasts a 1-liter inline 3-cylinder gasoline engine mated to a 4-speed AT or 5-speed MT.

    　The new Vitz, the successor model unveiled at SOMI, has a rounded front face with large headlights, a curved bumper, and round fog lights. The new Vitz has a cute impression rather than the stylish design of recent years.

    　The new Vitz will follow in the footsteps of the Agia, which has already established our presence in the A-segment, and will be in showrooms in the second quarter of 2023,” commented TSAM.

    　For Japanese users who are familiar with Vitz, this is the first time in about 3 years that the car name has been revived.

    What was the reaction on social networking sites? The response on social networking sites was, “Hey, Vitz is so cute, come on out here in Japan! If it’s more compact than the Yaris, maybe it will be sold in Japan as the successor to the Passo? If it’s more compact than the Yaris, maybe it will be sold in Japan as the successor to the Passo?

    　Some people on SNS also commented, “No, this is a Passo” because of its similarity to the Passo sold in Japan.

    　The SOMI only revealed the appearance and the name of the car. It is expected that new information will be released when the timing of the launch approaches.

    　Note that the Starlet, which was once sold in Japan as the previous model of the Vitz, had its name revived in South Africa on September 1, 2020, which was the first time in 21 years.

    　The reason behind the revival of a car name that was once sold in Japan is that Japanese used cars have been exported to the African market by various companies for some time and were popular there due to their high quality, making them more familiar to local users.

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    The wild Toyota Hilux Rogue is unveiled

    ByChathura Chanuka

    The wild Toyota “Hilux Rogue”is unveiled! What customizations have been added to the “tough” Australian model?

    Unexpected “”Overseas-spec Hilux”” Customized
    　Gunma Toyota Group displayed three customized cars at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023, which was held at Makuhari Messe in Mihama-ku, Chiba City for three days from January 13 to 15, 2023.
    　
    　What kind of customized car is one of them, the “”GTG HILUX ROGUE OVERLAND,”” a customized pickup truck “”HILUX””?

    The extremely rare “”HILUX ROGUE”” is too tough! What are its features? See details in photos

    No way! Customized “”overseas specs””!

    　The first generation of the HILUX went on sale in 1968. Today, it is a global model sold in approximately 180 countries and regions.

    　The current HILUX, the 8th generation model, debuted in September 2017. In August 2020, a minor change model with a new exterior and safety features was introduced.

    　The current Hilux was customized by RV Park, the four-wheel drive vehicle customization division of Gunma Toyota Group (GTG), and displayed in the GTG booth at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023, but upon closer inspection, the details differ from the model sold in Japan.

    　GTG explained that the “”HILUX ROGUE OVERLAND”” on display is an Australian version of the Hilux, saying, “”The OVERLAND CONCEPT was tailored based on the Australian version (wide body) of the Hilux. This is the Australian version of the HILUX.

    　A closer look at the HILUX OVERLAND reveals that it is equipped with unpainted plastic over fenders, which are not found on the Japanese version, to give it a wider body, and the characteristic trapezoidal grille is also surrounded by the same unpainted plastic protector-like design.

    　In addition, the right A-pillar is equipped with a snorkel designed for river crossing, which appears to be a locally available accessory as it has the Toyota emblem.

    　Furthermore, a closer inspection of the interior reveals that it is equipped with JBL speakers, which are not available in the Japanese version, suggesting that it is based on the “”Hilux Rogue”” grade, the highest grade available locally.

    　A representative of the RV park said, “”The Australian version features these large over fenders. It has a wide tread for driving in the Australian wilderness and is equipped with a special suspension that is different from the Japanese version.

    　The Australian version has been further customized by RV Park with four IPF driving lights and bronze skid plates. The tough impression is reinforced.

    　The suspension is fitted with twin Ohlins shocks, and the wheels are TCD Asia bronze wheels. The rims are deep and complex in design, tightening the footing.

    　The cargo area, the most distinctive feature of the Hilux, is equipped with a cargo rack bearing the “”TOYOTA”” logo. In addition to an escape plate in case of getting stuck, a roof-top tent is stored in the upper section to add a touch of adventure.

    　According to an RV park representative, “”As expected, we have no plans to sell this Australian version in Japan, but depending on the response we receive, we may be able to offer it in the future.

    　The possibility of introducing the tough-looking Hilux Rogue in Japan may not be zero..

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    Toyota unveils the new Vitz for the first time

    ByChathura Chanuka

    MT also available? Toyota unveils the new “Vitz” for the first time! Is the round body one of Toyota’s smallest? Scheduled to go on sale in South Africa in 2023

    New Vitz to be Toyota’s Smallest Compact Car in “South Africa”?
    　On January 26, 2023, Toyota’s South African subsidiary unveiled the new Vitz, which will be introduced in 2023, at the State of the Motor Industry (SOMI).

    View 85 images of the new Toyota Vitz and Toyota Agia, which are back after a three-year absence.

    　Although detailed information about the new Vitz, including its size, has not been released, it is said to be the successor to the Agia, an A-segment compact car sold in the same market.

    The new Toyota Vitz unveiled at SOMI

    　Along with the business plan of Toyota’s South African subsidiary, a number of new models scheduled to be introduced in 2023 were unveiled at SOMI, including the Mirai, Crown, Urban Cruiser, and Lexus UX EV.

    　Among these was the new Vitz, which is scheduled to be introduced in the second quarter of 2023.

    　Vitz is the name of a compact car that was once sold in Japan. Its first generation model was introduced on January 13, 1999, followed by the fully remodeled second and third generation models in 2005 and 2010, respectively, but sales were discontinued in 2020. The car’s name was changed to the globally common “Yaris” after a full model change in the same year.

    　The new Vitz, whose name is being revived in South Africa after a three-year absence, is an A-segment compact car with a lovely, rounded overall design.

    　According to Toyota’s South African subsidiary, the new Vitz will be the successor to the Agia, an A-segment compact car sold in the market.

    　The current Agia was planned and developed by Daihatsu, and is an OEM model of the Daihatsu Ira. In addition to South Africa, it is also available in Indonesia and other countries outside Japan.

    　With body dimensions of 3660 mm (length) x 1600 mm (width) x 1520 mm (height), it is comparable in size to the Passo sold in Japan, and is the smallest Toyota vehicle sold in South Africa.

    　The powertrain is a 1.0-liter inline 3-cylinder engine with a maximum output of 66 hp and maximum torque of 89 Nm, mated to a 5-speed MT or 4-speed AT.

    　The maximum speed is 165 km/h and 0-100 km acceleration is 14.6 seconds (both figures for the MT model).

    　The price starts at 200,000 rand

    　Detailed information about the new Vitz has not been disclosed.

    　As mentioned above, the new Vitz is expected to be introduced in the second quarter of 2023. We will keep an eye on further information to see how it will evolve.

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    Many praise the new Skyline style design

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Is the new Nissan GT-R “cool” or “tacky”? Or is it “tacky”? Many praise the new “Skyline”-style design!

    More than 70% of users say the new “GT-R” is “Cool! from more than 70% of the users.
    　On January 13, 2023, Nissan unveiled the all-new “GT-R 2024 model” at the “Tokyo Auto Salon 2023,” a custom car festival.

    Does the new Nissan “GT-R” look like a “past generation Skyline”? Let’s compare it with actual images (60 photos).

    　The GT-R 2024 model has undergone major changes not only in driving performance but also in exterior design.

    　We conducted a survey on social networking services to find out what people think of the new model’s design.

    Skyline GT-R-like? The new Nissan “GT-R” unveiled for the first time at the Auto Salon

    　The Nissan “GT-R” is Nissan’s pride and joy, a high-performance sports car. The initial model was introduced in 2007 and has been a long-selling model.

    　The latest model is the GT-R 2024, which was unveiled at Auto Salon 2023.

    　The powertrain is the same as before, a 3.8-liter V6 twin-turbo engine with maximum output of 570 hp and maximum torque of 635 Nm, mated to a 6-speed DCT that drives all four wheels.

    　On the exterior, the design has undergone major changes. The most eye-catching feature is the front bumper, the center of which is now the same color as the body, giving it a nostalgic feel reminiscent of the “Skyline GT-R” that Nissan had developed in the past.

    　In addition, some people on social networking sites have commented that the “official photo of the GT-R 2024 model” looks very similar to “catalog photos of past Skyline GT-Rs,” and actual comparisons confirm that the composition is strongly conscious of this.

    　We conducted a survey on social networking services to find out what people think of the new GT-R, which has undergone a major design change while also placing importance on the heritage of past generations of the GT-R.

    　When asked about the design of the new GT-R (2024 model), respondents were given a choice of “very much like,” “like,” “dislike,” or “dislike very much,” with 39.4% of respondents saying they “like very much” the most, followed by 33.3% who said they “like very much.

    This means that more than 70% of the respondents have a favorable impression of the new model’s design.

    　Many of the users who responded “like” said, “I like the design that looks like the past Skyline GT-Rs,” and other comments such as, “The atmosphere that seems to be conscious of the past Skyline GT-Rs is very favorable.

    　On the other hand, 18.2% of the respondents disliked it, and 9.1% said they disliked it very much, indicating that there are a certain number of people who dislike the new GT-R.

    　Comments from those who disliked the new GT-R included, “The front fog lamps don’t match the design,” and “It has lost its power.

    　The official announcement and release of the GT-R 2024 model is scheduled for spring 2023 for the regular model and this summer for the NISMO model.

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    The black luster of the new Toyota Prius differs by grade

    ByChathura Chanuka

    The “black luster” of the new Toyota Prius differs by grade! What is the “exclusive panel” used only on the highest grade model?

    Luster” is the deciding factor for the highest grade of the new “Prius
    　On January 10, 2023, Toyota launched the new “Prius” hybrid car.
    　
    　Comparing the top grade “Z” with other grades, the exterior appearance is slightly different.

    What is the difference in “glossiness” of the new “Prius”? Subdued but different impression! See in photos

    New “Prius” – Only the highest grade has a “glossy” look?

    　The Prius was introduced in 1997 as the world’s first mass-produced hybrid car. Since then, it has been globally deployed as one of Toyota’s flagship models.

    　The current model, now in its fifth generation with the full model change, was developed under the concept of “Hybrid Reborn” with the aim of creating a car that combines “a design that makes you fall in love at first sight” and “a driving experience that makes you fall in love with it.

    　While previous Prius models have mainly touted their low fuel consumption and high environmental performance, the new model is characterized by the addition of sporty interior and exterior features and dynamic performance as new attractions.

    　The simple yet intricate body shape is said to express “emotions that resonate with the senses” and “universal beauty” to be loved for a long time. The overall silhouette is coupe-like, with large 19-inch wheels and A-pillars that are more angled than the previous model.

    　Looking at the exterior, the top grade “Z” and the other grades have slightly different atmospheres.

    　The “U” grade, which is exclusively for the “KINTO” subscriber service, and the mid-grade “G” grade, which wears the same 19-inch wheels as the Z, have unpainted resin panels on the fender arch moldings and lower front and rear bumpers, as is often seen on SUVs and other vehicles.

    　In contrast, the Z model has these parts painted in glossy black, giving the entire exterior a glossy finish and enhancing the sense of luxury. In particular, the blacked-out area on the lower rear bumper is half the height of the bumper, making the difference even more obvious.

    　The side fender arch moldings reinforce the Prius’ wide-and-low styling, and the 19-inch wheels look more attractive. In addition, the B-pillar garnish is glossy as well, which differentiates the Prius from other grades as if it were the highest grade.

    　Since glossy panels are not available for grades other than Z, and are not available as an option, it can be said that the grade can be determined from the appearance, whether it is Z or not.

    　However, the exterior differences are limited to those areas, and all models are equipped with full LED lamps, air spats, and a rear spoiler.

    　Those who prefer the appearance of the unpainted resin panels and those who wish to customize the vehicle with aero parts after purchase may not need to stick to the glossy panels of the Z grade.

    　If you are considering purchasing a new Prius, it would be better to pay attention to minor differences, including such exterior differences.

    　The hybrid model of the new Prius will be released first, and the PHEV model is scheduled to go on sale around March 2023.

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    The Nissan MAGNITE which is not sold in Japan

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Too many sales!” A strong competitor to the small SUV “Rise”! Unreleased in Japan is “Too bad! What is Nissan’s compact SUV “Magnite”?

    Able to compete with the bomb-selling “Rise”! Nissan “Magnite” not available in Japan
    　With Toyota’s compact SUVs “Rise” and “Yaris Cross” showing strong sales, there are not many rivals from other manufacturers to compete with them.

    Small but “Cool!” Nissan “Magnite” .

    　The compact SUV that looks perfect, however, is actually available as a Nissan model exclusively for overseas markets.

    Why isn’t it sold in Japan? The Nissan MAGNITE, which is not sold in Japan, is a compact SUV with an overall length of less than 4 meters, produced in India!

    　In the annual ranking of passenger cars (excluding mini cars) for 2022 announced by the Japan Automobile Dealers Association (JDA), the Rise ranked fourth overall with 83,620 units sold.

    　Also in first place is the Yaris series (168,557 units), of which the Yaris Cross accounts for about 82,680 units sold annually, according to Toyota.

    　With Toyota’s compact SUV models thus performing well in the sales ranking, no rival models from other manufacturers can be found at the top of the list.

    　Nissan, however, is launching a compact SUV for overseas markets starting in 2021.

    　The car is called the “Magnite. It will be produced at the Renault-Nissan plant in India and exported not only to Japan but also to 15 countries, including South Africa and Indonesia.

    　The body size is 3994 mm (overall length) x 1758 mm (overall width) x 1572 mm (overall height), and the wheelbase is 2500 mm (figures are for Indian specifications).

    　Nissan explains that despite its compact size, it offers ample legroom and ample cargo space.

    　Since the Rise measures 3995 mm (length) x 1695 mm (width) x 1620 mm (height) and has a wheelbase of 2525 mm, it can be said to be almost the same except for the width, which exceeds the 5-number limit.

    　The Magnite is equipped with two types of engines: a 1-liter gasoline engine (72ps/96Nm) and a high-power 1-liter gasoline turbo engine (100ps/160Nm), available with a 5-speed MT or a CVT for the turbo model.

    　Although Nissan has not announced any plans to introduce the Magnite to Japan at this time, we are expecting the launch of the Magnite in the country amidst the steady demand for compact SUVs.

    Nissan is planning to introduce the Magnite in Japan in January 2023.

    　As of January 2023, Nissan is selling the KIX as a compact SUV to compete with the Rise and other models, but it ranks only 28th (18,066 units) in the above annual ranking.

    　The Kicks, which is exclusively available with the e-POWER hybrid system, is priced between 2,798,400 yen and 3,448,500 yen including consumption tax, which is somewhat expensive, while Toyota’s two models are available as hybrids as well as inexpensive gasoline engine models.

    　Prices for the Rise range from 1,717,000 yen to 2,338,000 yen, while prices for the Yaris Cross range from 1,896,000 yen to 2,936,000 yen.

    　These price differences seem to have had no small effect on sales.

    　One Nissan dealer in the Tokyo metropolitan area said, “In terms of price, the Yaris Cross is not as competitive as its rivals.

    We cannot beat our rivals in terms of price. In some cases, Nissan recommends the “Extrail” SUV, which is a higher class SUV, because it can be purchased for about 3.2 million yen.

    　In the case of KIX, its body size is slightly larger than that of its rivals (Editor’s note: overall length: 4290 mm), so it appeals to the fact that it has more room inside the cabin and in the cargo area.”

    　The new, less expensive and more compact Magnite may be the new model that is desperately needed on the sales floor.

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    Toyota’s New Crown Revamped in Crossover Style

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Why the drastic design change? The Surprising Reason for the Complete Revamp of Toyota’s New “”Crown/Prius

    How to keep Crown going in the midst of the sedan slump?
    　There are two types of full model changes. The first is a “”keep concept”” that follows the conventional line, and the second is a “”concept change”” that even changes the character of the vehicle.
    　
    　In the 20th century, when cars evolved rapidly, there were many concept changes. This is because the spaciousness of the cabin and acceleration performance have gone through a process of evolution and entered a period of stability, while the contents of the car, such as environmental performance and safety, have been enhanced.
    　
    　For this reason, even when a full model change is implemented, the basic size and style of the body remain the same. This trend can be seen in Toyota’s Noah/Voxy and Nissan’s Serena, which have recently undergone full model changes.

    Ride Height Agaeshige! The new off-road spec Crown is amazing!

    Toyota’s New “”Crown”” Revamped in Crossover Style

    　However, the new Toyota Crown and the new Prius, which will be introduced in 2022, have undergone rare and drastic changes in vehicle concept and appearance. The two models shared a common problem: a sharp decline in sales.

    　In 1990, the Crown had the highest number of registrations in Japan, reaching 208,016 units; the average monthly volume was about 17,300 units, but in 2021 it will be about 1,800 units, due in part to the Corona disaster. Over the past 30 years, sales of the Crown have dropped to one-tenth of its previous level.

    　As for the Prius, the third-generation Prius had the highest number of registrations in Japan, with an average of 26,300 units per month in 2010, and 26,500 units in 2012 after the Great East Japan Earthquake. In 2021, the number of registered Prius cars will be approximately 5,000, which means that the number of registered Prius cars has decreased to one-fifth of its peak.

    　Now, let us consider the reasons for the decline in sales of Crown and Prius. First, for the Crown, there is the shrinkage of the sedan market.

    　Sedans were the best-selling category in Japan until around 1990, when the Crown was sold in the largest numbers, but since the mid-1990s, minivans such as the Toyota Estima, Honda Step Wagon, and Serena have been selling well.

    　Furthermore, in October 1998, the light car standard was changed to the same content as now, and 16 new light car models were launched by various companies at about the same time. As a result, the best-selling category has changed since 2000, with 39% of new cars sold in 2022 being minicars, while sedans/wagons/coupes accounted for only 7% of new cars sold.

    　As sedan sales declined, one option was to discontinue the Crown, as was done with the Toyota Mark X and Premio/Allion, but since the first generation model was launched in 1955, it was decided to keep it as a traditional model.

    　Instead, the category must be changed as the sedan market is shrinking. In addition, the previous Crown was sold mainly in the domestic market with limited production, and we wanted to sell the new model overseas as well, which is why we developed the new Crown into an SUV.

    　Moreover, there is a concern that sales will not increase with only one model, so multiple body types are available. Considering the demand for a changeover from a conventional model, we also developed a rear-wheel-drive sedan, which has a different drive system from that of the SUV.

    　The development of a sedan into an SUV will drastically change the design and character of the vehicle, but we wanted the users of the conventional model to inherit the new model to some extent, so the first phase of the new Crown is a crossover that combines a sedan and an SUV with trunk space in the rear. This model will serve as a bridge between the new and old Crowns.

    　However, the model with the most potential for sales will be the upcoming Crown Estate, which will also be equipped with a third row of seats to accommodate multiple passengers. Thus, the new Crown will survive by offering several SUVs in the best-selling category, including the Crown Sport.
    Why the drastic design change? The Surprising Reason for the Complete Revamp of Toyota’s New “”Crown/Prius

    What is the value of Prius other than being a hybrid-only car?
    　On the other hand, the reason why the Prius has been selling less is because hybrids have become the norm for the majority of Toyota vehicles.

    　Looking back at the spread of hybrids, around 2010, when the third-generation Prius became a big hit, Toyota hybrids were mainly some high-priced cars such as the Crown, SAI, and Harrier, but when the first-generation (predecessor) Aqua was launched in 2011, compact models began to increase, and now the minivan “” Hybrids are now available for the Sienta, Noah/Voxy, and the best-selling SUVs Yaris Cross and Corolla Cross.

    　Hybrids are no longer an uncommon feature, and the Prius’ value as a “”hybrid-only”” vehicle has diminished, resulting in lower sales.

    Sporty new “”Prius”” model

    　After all, there was a way to discontinue the Prius, but the first-generation model was the world’s first mass-produced hybrid. Like the Crown, it is a traditional car with a high level of recognition, and it was decided to keep it.

    　The Prius is a hybrid-only vehicle, where fuel economy is important, and the appearance of the five-door hatchback with a reclined rear gate is also an important feature of the Prius, so losing this feature would make the Prius look less like a Prius.

    　Therefore, the new Prius further accentuates the appearance with the front window and the rear gate laid down, and has been developed into a 5-door coupe style to symbolize and refine the Prius-like features.

    　In addition to the 1.8-liter power unit, a powerful 2-liter unit was added to the 1.8-liter unit, increasing its dynamic performance and making it a hybrid specialty car.

    　In the WLTC mode fuel economy competition, the Yaris Hybrid X, which is compact and lightweight, is no match for the Yaris Hybrid X’s 36 km/L. Instead, we focused on the high instantaneous power of the motor drive and smooth and quiet acceleration, which are considered the characteristics of hybrids other than low fuel consumption.

    　One of the reasons for the creation of the new Crown is the lack of similar models in Toyota. The Crown Crossover is an SUV with a sedan body, so it is different from and does not overlap with the Harrier and RAV4, which use the same platform.

    　The same goes for the new Prius. Toyota today does not have a 5-door coupe-like vehicle with an overall height of 1430mm. Instead of being unsatisfactory in terms of ease of getting in and out of the car, the exterior looks sleek and cool.

    　In other words, the new Crown and the new Prius were commercialized because they fit into a “”vacant”” part of Toyota’s lineup and may attract customers that conventional Toyota cars could not attract. The two models have much in common.

    　What is interesting is the popularity of both cars. Normally, this can be determined by the number of registrations, but nowadays, delivery of new cars is delayed due to the shortage of semiconductors and other factors, so the data does not provide an accurate measure of popularity.

    　So I asked the dealers about the new Crown, and they replied as follows.

    The new Crown has been a big hit with customers who have been reluctant to purchase a new model. However, with the new model, there is a tendency to hold off on purchases, and there are not so many customers for the conventional model.

    　Instead, customers who use SUVs such as the Harrier and RAV4 are paying attention. Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, and others are also trading up, and customers who have never shown interest in Toyota vehicles, including Crown, are now showing interest.

    　In May 2020, Toyota shifted to a sales structure in which all dealerships in Japan handle all of its vehicles. Previously, only Toyota dealers handled the Crown, while the Harrier and Alphard were handled by Toyopet dealers, but now all cars can be purchased at any dealership.

    　This led to a shift to the Harrier and Alphard for the previous generation Crown, reducing the number of registrations, but the new model has conversely caused a shift from Harriers and RAV4s to Crowns.

    　The following is what a staff member at a dealership had to say about the reaction of Prius users.

    The new Prius has increased the number of customers who value the cool exterior. This is why we are seeing customers switching from European cars, and we are seeing customers who are different from those who used to come to our dealerships.

    　For these new customers, powerful 2-liter engine cars are popular, but customers who are switching from conventional Prius cars say that a 1.8-liter engine is sufficient.

    　Yet the only 1.8-liter models available are the “”X”” for corporate customers and the “”U”” for KINTO (fixed-price car leasing) customers. I would like to see a full lineup of 1.8-liter engine vehicles that are less expensive.

    　We still don’t know the exact sales of the new Crown and the new Prius, but we are taking on the challenge of building new cars to survive.

    　Recently, all manufacturers have been discontinuing an increasing number of models, with sedans at the top of the list, but it seems that serious consideration of survival will create new avenues of activity.