kuruma

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    Stunning 2Door Toyota Prius Concept Unveiled:Bold Design Sparks Massive Buzz

    ByPawani

    The Toyota Prius, renowned as Toyota’s flagship hybrid model, saw its fifthgeneration release in November 2022. Recently, Indian artist Vishnu Suresh captured the automotive world’s attention by unveiling a custom rendering of the new Prius on his official YouTube channel.

    This artistic rendition, titled Toyota Prius Shooting Brake 2024 Concept, reimagines the Prius as a striking two door coupe wagon. It features a wide body with prominent front and rear fenders and a sleek, lowered silhouette, embodying the European shooting brake style. The glossy Bordeaux color enhances its elegance, while black accents on the sporty front bumper and bonnet add a dynamic flair. The rear design includes dual square mufflers and a racing inspired diffuser, maintaining the iconic Prius design while introducing bold new elements.

    The Prius, first launched in 1997 as the world’s inaugural mass produced hybrid car, has evolved significantly. The latest model combines environmental performance with a captivating design and exhilarating driving experience. Built on the second generation TNGA platform, it boasts a lower center of gravity and larger 19 inch tires for enhanced style and performance. The powertrain options include a 1.8 liter or 2 liter engine with a hybrid system (HEV) and a 2 liter engine with a plug in hybrid system (PHEV), with the 2 liter HEV model producing up to 193 horsepower.

    Vishnu Suresh’s rendering has sparked widespread admiration online, with users praising its design and potential. Known for his imaginative car customizations across various brands like Volkswagen, Skoda, and Toyota, Suresh’s work, while often fantastical, inspires real world customization possibilities.

    The future might just see a Prius transformed into this visionary concept, as customization shops worldwide continue to bring such creative renderings to life.

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    Toyota Unveils Revolutionary 5-Seater Hiace: Sleep Comfortably Anywhere

    ByPawani

    The Tokyo Outdoor Show 2024, held at Makuhari Messe (Mihama-ku, Chiba City) from June 28 to June 30, 2024, featured a variety of vehicles suited to outdoor and leisure activities. Among them, custom car shop STEALTH exhibited a 5 seater Hiace that has been customized for sleeping in.

    The first generation Hiace appeared in 1967. It is a representative commercial vehicle that has been loved for a long time as Toyota’s one box type commercial van. The current model is the fifth generation (200 series) that debuted in 2004. With its large luggage space and easy to use functions, the Hiace is not only used for commercial purposes but has also gained tremendous support from individual users who enjoy sleeping in their cars and outdoor activities in recent years.

    Stealth has customized such a cargo use Hiace into a passenger car for sleeping in. A Stealth representative explained the details as follows: This is the first time we have exhibited the actual Hiace car sleeping wagon. The main feature is that the structure of the 4 number cargo Hiace has been modified to a 5 number 5 seater passenger car. The rear of the vehicle has been equipped with a bed kit, side chest, flooring, etc. to make it a ‘sleeping in the car’ specification.

    The base is the high end grade “Super GL” (standard body) of the Hiace van for individual users. The Super GL’s original bench seat is equipped with an original seat slide rail that can move 600 mm forward and backward and is registered for passenger use. An optional three seater original bench seat can also be installed, and when the seat is folded down, it becomes a flat bed space of up to 3000 mm together with the rear bed kit, ensuring space for two adults to sleep comfortably.

    If the bed kit is removed, a more spacious luggage space is created, allowing you to store long items and load bicycles and motorcycles. In addition, it is equipped with a convenient side chest that can store portable batteries and refrigerators. It is said that it can also store a simple shower and water tank.

    The actual car exhibited this time is based on the earth color package that was just newly introduced in January 2024, so the combination of the exclusive stylish body color beige and black bumper also attracted the attention of visitors. In addition to the Hiace, Stealth also develops car camping wagons for the Nissan Caravan.

    The Stealth Hiace is already on sale, and when asked about the price, the aforementioned person in charge said, We will give you a quote based on the custom specifications you require, so please contact us. In addition to the Hiace sleeping in car specification, Stealth also exhibited a model customized with an outdoor style based on the Toyota Probox.

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    Revolutionary 2024 Suzuki Fronx: 10 Incredible Features of This Compact SUV

    ByPawani

    Suzuki will release a new compact SUV, the Fronx, in the fall of 2024. We had the chance to test drive the new Fronx on a closed course. The conclusion is that it is a compact SUV that drives very well.

    What Kind of Model is the New Fronx?
    The car has been developed as Suzuki’s global strategic vehicle, which means it has been tailored to perform on European roads, where the average speed is incomparably higher than in Japan, including highways and mountain roads.

    When I actually got behind the wheel, I found that the car had good footwork and could comfortably and safely drive through the test course, which was full of deep corners and ups and downs, almost like a mountain road.

    Even though it’s an SUV, you don’t feel the high center of gravity, which is impressive and makes you want to keep driving it forever.Suzuki’s driving is well known for its solid handling even in the “Swift”, a very ordinary compact car, and I was able to confirm that the new Fronx, which shares the same platform, has also inherited those merits. I was a little surprised that it would run so well.What gives you a sense of security is the car’s stable behavior and ability to trace the cornering line exactly as intended.

    However, compared to the Swift, the nimbleness when starting to turn is slightly subdued, while the movement when cornering feels solid, and as a result, the new Fronx gives the impression of driving a larger car that is more stable.By the way, even when switching from FF to 4WD, there is not much difference in handling. This is probably because 4WD is a viscous coupling type, so it runs as FF except when there is a difference in rotation between the front and rear wheels.

    However, compared to FF, 4WD vehicles tend to feel a bit more jolts over bumps in the road, so if you’re considering buying a 4WD, it might be best to check this out on a test drive first.

    As far as I could tell from driving on the test course, the ride quality of the FF was quite good, and the 4WD was only a little noticeable compared to that. Overall, I’d like to point out that the ride quality of the 4WD is by no means bad.

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    Toyota’s RAV4 The 6 Year Journey of an Ultra-Popular SUV with Bold Design and Powerful Performance

    ByPawani

    The first generation of the RAV4 was released in 1994. Its off road capability as a crossover SUV and rugged design have made it popular for outdoor use. The current fifth generation model was released in April 2019. The body size is 4600mm-4610mm in length, 1855mm-1865mm in width, and 1885mm-1890mm in height, almost the same size as the company’s Harrier.

    The exterior as a whole is based on the design theme of a “cross octagon” in which a geometric octagon is rotated 90 degrees and fitted into place. In addition, large diameter tires with a lift up effect are used, giving it both strength and sophistication that suits the city. On the other hand, the interior space has a luggage space of 580 liters, making it suitable for any scene, including outdoor use.

    In terms of driving performance, the top grade of the gasoline engine model is equipped with the world’s first system, the Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD, which controls the front and rear torque distribution and the torque of the rear wheels independently on the left and right. This expresses the RAV4 concept of 4WD that combines the strength of an SUV with meticulous consideration for usability. In addition, all vehicles are equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, a safety feature that includes various systems such as pedestrian detection and following the vehicle ahead.

    In addition to the gasoline model with a 2.0 liter inline 4 cylinder engine, a hybrid model that combines a 2.5 liter inline 4 cylinder engine with a motor is available, and a plug in hybrid model was added in June 2020. The drive system is available in 2WD and 4WD for the gasoline and hybrid models, and 4WD for the plug in hybrid model. The gasoline model is equipped with a continuously variable transmission “Direct CVT,” and the hybrid and plug in hybrid models are equipped with an electric continuously variable transmission to achieve powerful driving.

    The RAV4 is full of such charm, but due to a shortage of parts, orders for all grades were suspended at each dealership from summer to autumn 2023. It seems that some stores have resumed sales, but what is the current situation at dealerships?

    A Toyota dealership representative in the Tokyo metropolitan area said the following: RAV4 sales stopped around the fall of 2023, and sales resumed in March 2024. Sales have now resumed in the form of made to order production, but the countdown to the end of production is underway. I have heard that the end of made to order production this time is not due to a shortage of parts. Therefore, it may be due to the release of a new model.

    A Toyota dealer in the Kansai region also said: Our store temporarily stopped made to order production from around August 2023, and resumed it at the end of 2023. You can currently place orders, and there is no countdown to the suspension of orders yet. Last time, sales were suspended due to a shortage of parts, but this time, sales may be suspended because a new model is being released. Also, since the current RAV4 is a model that debuted five years ago, some users are thinking, ‘If there is a possibility that a new model will be released soon, I’ll wait until then.

    As such, the timing of the resumption of sales varies depending on the dealer, but it seems that the countdown to the suspension of orders for the RAV4 has begun again. Last time, sales were suspended due to a shortage of parts, but this time, orders may be suspended in preparation for the release of a new model. Regarding the release of the new model, detailed information has not been released by dealers, but attention will be focused on future developments.

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    Toyota’s Stunning New Hiace 5 Powerful Features and Bold Earth Color Package

    ByPawani

    Toyota’s “Hiace Van” is a standard commercial van that has also become popular among individual users. A new type of Hiace with a stylish exterior has been released, and it has received a great response on social media.

    The current model of the Hiace is the fifth generation (200 series) that was released in 2004. It is a long selling model that has been around for 20 years since its introduction. Like its predecessors, it is highly rated for its extremely high reliability, robustness, and loading capacity. The latest model currently on sale is equipped with advanced driving assistance features, including Toyota Safety Sense, which offers pre crash safety, as well as enhanced safety performance such as a panoramic view monitor and parking support brake.

    Improvements were made in January 2024. Some grades have been equipped with more features, and a new Earth Color Package has been added as a manufacturer option. Based on the high end grade Super GL in the lineup, which includes reclining rear seats, rear air conditioners, and chrome door handles, a special exterior has been adopted to create a tough texture. The exterior features a special matte black front grille, a bare front bumper, and a bare rear bumper, creating a rugged gear feel. The body colors include beige and urban khaki, so called earth colors that match nature and enhance the outdoor taste. The price (including consumption tax) of the Hiace Van Super GL is 3,765,500 yen, and the Earth Color Package is set at 99,000 yen.

    In recent years, outdoor leisure activities such as camping have become commonplace, and the demand for combining hobbies and work in one car has increased. As a result, the Hiace, which has been popular as a commercial vehicle, is now being chosen by individual users as well. In response to this trend, many customization parts and convenient goods for the Hiace are being developed. It is not uncommon for hobbyists to install parts to suit their own lifestyle and create their own one of a kind car.

    At some used car stores, models equipped with custom parts and painted in earth colors such as beige and khaki that stand out in the outdoors have become popular. Since the manufacturer directly set up the Hiace with such a coordinated custom model for this improvement, various comments have been posted on social media. The package has been well received by users who mainly enjoy camping and fishing, with comments such as The Earth Color Package is grea and I’m really interested in this. Others praised the blacked out front face, saying The black grille is cool, and I’m glad that the black grille is standard, while others said the color lineup matches well, saying It looks better than the standard color,Oh! This color is good,and The beige metallic looks good.

    On the other hand, some people could not hide their surprise that the manufacturer has officially released a trendy customization, saying, Finally, a manufacturer made shop customized product has been released,It must be frustrating for those who have had their car fully painted at a custom shop, and I can’t believe the manufacturer is releasing this color as a genuine product.

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    Experience 6 Incredible Variants of Honda’s High-Quality Fit From Luxurious to Sporty

    ByPawani

    In recent years, even compact cars are increasingly being equipped with luxurious interiors. Among them, Honda’s flagship compact car, the Fit, stands out with its high quality and versatile interior.

    The first generation Fit was released in 2001. It quickly became a flagship model, highly acclaimed for its stylish design, low floor, spacious interior space, and ease of use. The current model is the fourth generation, released in 2020. While retaining the spacious interior and ease of use brought about by the low floor FF platform, it has improved four “comforts”: visibility, ride comfort, seating comfort, and ease of use. The design has also been completely revamped from a stylish atmosphere to a simple and modern one.

    In addition to the usual gasoline engine, the powertrain includes Honda’s unique two motor hybrid “e:HEV”, as well as the advanced driving assistance system “Honda Sensing”. A minor change was made in October 2022. This update included refreshing the interior and exterior design, improving engine output, enhancing Honda Sensing functions, and adding a sporty “RS” grade.

    The body size ranges from 3995-4095mm in length, 1695-1725mm in width, 1515-1570mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2530mm. Unlike previous models where differences in equipment divided the lineup, the current Fit shares basic equipment across all models. The coordination of the interior and exterior allows users to choose what suits their taste and lifestyle.

    There are five types in the regular lineup, with a special edition vehicle added in December 2023, bringing the total to six variations:

    HOME: The mid range model features a prime smooth instrument panel and a combination seat of woven fabric and prime smooth. It offers a simple design with a natural texture. Additionally, a “light gray” interior option is available, featuring ultra suede and prime smooth combination seats for a modern and pleasant touch.

    BLACK STYLE: This special edition features a black toned interior with glossy piano black panels on the steering switch, shift lever, cup holder, and other decorative areas, creating a mature and calm space. Combined with black exterior parts, it gives a bold impression.

    LUXE: The top of the line model is equipped with luxurious genuine leather seats, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The “Light Brown” option unifies the front and rear seats, instrument panel, steering wheel base, center console, and front armrest in beige, giving it a bright impression. Special details such as black piping on the headrests and shoulders of the seats, quilting and perforation on the backrest and seat center, and brown seat belts create a high quality space. The exterior features chrome decoration and special 16 inch wheels for a touch of glamour.

    RS: This sporty model enhances its sportiness with special aero parts and specially tuned suspension. The interior matches the sporty exterior with a gray base and yellow stitching.

    CROSSTAR: Featuring a tough exterior that stands out outdoors, this model has water repellent fabric seats that resist dirt even in outdoor settings.

    BASIC: A simple yet functional model that provides all essential features.

    The Fit’s price (including consumption tax) ranges from 1,655,500 yen to 2,748,900 yen.

    Honda’s Fit continues to impress with its blend of luxury, comfort, and versatility in the compact car segment.

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    Toyota’s New Hilux Stuns with Powerful Facelift and 9 Exciting Upgrades

    ByPawani

    The Toyota’s New Hilux is a mid size pickup truck whose first generation was released in 1968. Its robust ladder frame and four wheel drive system combine excellent off road performance with reliability, and it has been highly praised around the world. The current model is the eighth generation, released in 2015. It has been reintroduced to the Japanese market for the first time in about 13 years and has been very popular. Sales in Vietnam began in 2009 as an import from Thailand, and the current lineup includes two types of diesel engines: a 2.4 liter with a maximum output of 148ps and a maximum torque of 400Nm, and a 2.8 liter with a maximum output of 201ps and a maximum torque of 500Nm. The 4WD system is a part time type, and the 2.4 liter model is also available in a 2WD model. All body types are double cab (4 doors). In particular, the 2.8 liter model is differentiated in terms of both interior and exterior. It is an “adventure” model equipped with a bare bumper guard and over fenders, and has a design that enhances its dynamic presence.

    The main improvements this time are a facelift for the 2.4 liter model. The honeycomb shaped front grille expresses strength. In the interior, both the 2.4 liter and 2.8 liter models are equipped with a 9 inch infotainment touch screen, and the 2.8 liter model is equipped with a two zone independently adjustable air conditioner, a 360 degree camera, and a blind spot warning system, improving comfort and safety. Prices start from 668 million VND (approx. 4.05 million yen) for the 2.4 liter model and 999 million VND (approx. 6.05 million yen) for the 2.8 liter model .

    The announcement of the new Hilux has already received a lot of feedback from users. One user commented on the new design, saying, “This design is really great. I think it’s a car that looks great both in the city and in nature.” It seems that the adventure model is gaining popularity, with comments such as, “The adventure model is great, and it looks like it can handle more activities such as camping and fishing,” and “I especially like the adventure model. I feel like I can go anywhere with this.” Many customers have praised the new Hilux’s design and performance, but there are also some local voices calling for improvements in areas such as price, fuel efficiency, and size, and it will be interesting to see how the company responds to this feedback.

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    Introducing the 2024 Toyota Harrier A Luxurious Revolution with 5 Must See Features

    ByPawani

    The Toyota Harrier, a renowned luxury crossover SUV, has been a symbol of elegance and sophistication since its debut in 1997. Now in its fourth generation, following a complete redesign in 2020, the Harrier continues to captivate as a toptier luxury SUV. Available with various powertrain options such as a 2.0 liter gasoline engine, a 2.5 liter hybrid, and a 2.5 liter plugin hybrid, the Harrier offers versatility with choices like 2WD and 4WD (E-Four). At the top of the range is the PHEV “Z” grade, exclusively offered in 4WD (E-Four), featuring exquisite interior and exterior details that exude opulence, priced at 6.2 million yen.

    On the other end of the spectrum lies the entry level model, the gasoline powered “S” grade, starting at 3,128,000 yen (2WD). Despite being the most affordable option, the S grade of the Harrier boasts a surprising level of equipment and luxury. The exterior design of the S grade differs from higher grades, featuring a unique triple lamp LED headlamp instead of the signature double L shaped LED daytime running lights. The front and rear bumpers are unadorned, and the 17 inch aluminum wheels sport a simple five spoke design in painted gray metallic finish. Unlike other grades with oval muffler cutters, the S grade showcases a distinctive perfect circle design.

    Moving to the interior, the S grade emphasizes simplicity by omitting unnecessary embellishments. The steering wheel is adorned with silver accents instead of satin plating found in higher grades. Basic black components adorn the center console, door switches, and open tray. The seats are crafted from standard fabric, with manual adjustments for both driver and passenger seats, contrasting with power seats in higher trim levels.

    Functionality wise, the S grade includes standard features like a regular anti glare mirror. However, for enhanced convenience and safety, buyers can opt for the digital inner mirror with front and rear recording function, a first for Toyota vehicles introduced in the Harrier. Additionally, an 8 inch display audio system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard, along with ETC2.0 installation. Safety is paramount with Toyota Safety Sense incorporated across all grades, ensuring pre crash safety measures even on the S grade.

    Despite its affordability, the S grade of the Harrier presents a luxurious ambiance with its meticulous design and thoughtful features. Initially priced at 2.99 million yen upon its 2020 release, garnering attention as a sub 3 million yen luxury SUV, a slight upgrade in 2022 has set its current price at 3.128 million yen, maintaining its allure as an accessible yet refined choice in the luxury SUV segment.

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    Honda Vezel Unveiling the 2 Most Affordable and Most Expensive Models

    ByPawani

    The Honda Vezel, a standout in the crossover SUV market, has captured attention since its debut in December 2013. The name combines “Bezel,” reflecting a gemstone’s surface, and Vehicle, symbolizing its versatile appeal.

    When the first generation was launched, it combined the convenience of a minivan, the personal feel of a coupe, and the strength of an SUV. It was also available with Honda’s SPORT HYBRID i DCD system, making it an instant hit among consumers.

    The current model, the second generation, debuted in April 2021. This iteration has further accentuated the sleek design that was popular in the first generation, while also introducing the two motor hybrid “e:HEV” system to enhance driving performance.

    Recently, an improved model was released on April 26, 2024. This update includes changes to both the interior and exterior, as well as a new powertrain configuration, ensuring the Vezel remains competitive in the market.

    In terms of specifications, the Vezel measures 4,340 mm in length, 1,790 mm in width, and 1,580 mm to 1,590 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,610 mm. The lineup includes the 1.5 liter 4WD gasoline model “G,” along with several e:HEV variants like “e:HEV X” and “e:HEV Z.”

    So, how much do the cheapest and most expensive models cost? The entry level “G” model starts at 2,648,800 yen (including tax). If purchased outright, the total cost comes to 2,863,370 yen after adding taxes and fees.

    For those considering financing, the Vezel offers various installment plans. Under the residual value plan, monthly payments for the “G” model are 42,700 yen for 36 months, 37,200 yen for 48 months, and 34,700 yen for 60 months.

    On the other end of the spectrum, the highest grade “e:HEV Z PLaY Package (4WD)” starts at 3,776,300 yen. The total cash price, including taxes and fees, reaches 3,901,700 yen.

    Monthly payments for the “e:HEV Z PLaY Package” under the residual value plan are 60,900 yen for 36 months, 53,100 yen for 48 months, and 49,500 yen for 60 months.

    As purchasing options have diversified, buying a car outright remains the most economical choice for those with sufficient funds. However, financing options like residual value loans provide flexibility, making the Vezel accessible to a broader audience.

    Whether opting for the budget friendly “G” model or the luxurious “e:HEV Z PLaY Package,” the Honda Vezel continues to impress as a versatile and appealing crossover SUV.

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    Exciting Customization Daihatsu Rocky Transformed into ‘Mini RAV4’ Draws Attention

    ByPawani

    Toyota’s “Mini RAV4” unveiled! Daihatsu’s “Rocky” in “RAV4” spec? The toughlooking, super cool “compact SUV” has sparked a stir at the event “FIELDSTYLE JAPAN 2024” held at AICHI SKY EXPO (Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture) from May 18th to 19th, 2024. This Daihatsu Rocky, dubbed the “mini RAV4,” was a standout at the venue, attracting significant attention and garnering various reactions.

    Crafted by Brat, a company under the IDOM Group and affiliated with the used car dealership “Gulliver,” this custom vehicle embodies the essence of enjoying nature like a child regardless of age, aligning with the company’s philosophy. With 11 stores nationwide, Brat specializes in customizing a range of vehicle models. The showcased model, based on the Daihatsu Rocky, boasts a striking front face resembling the Toyota RAV4, featuring a hexagonal front grille akin to its counterpart. Notably, the iconic TOYOTA letter logo, a common sight on Toyota SUVs, is prominently displayed at the grille’s center, enhancing the mini RAV4 vibe.

    Equipped with a roof rack, white letter tires, and raised by 1 inch, this customized Rocky comes with a total parts cost of 549,100 yen, excluding labor expenses. Interestingly, the parts are available for individual purchase, allowing customization based on personal preferences. This customization option extends to the Toyota Raize as well. When questioned about the motivation behind this project, a staff member expressed the desire to offer the RAV4 experience at an affordable price point. The positive reception from visitors, particularly families with children, indicates the success of their endeavor.

    This unique customization provides a glimpse into the RAV4 experience within the manageable Rocky platform. User feedback includes praises such as The RAV4’s face is great!, It’s interesting, and The mini RAV4 is nice, too.