kuruma

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    A luxury minivan that surpasses the Alphard! Super sib specification that emphasizes “black feeling” appears in Toyota “Granace”! Shakotan specification rendering of large minivan is cool .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “A luxury minivan that surpasses the Alphard! Toyota’s “”Granace”” now comes in a “”black”” version with a “”black”” look! Rendering of a large minivan with a shakotan look is very cool!

    Black tone makes all the difference! Low-down Customization of the Gran Ace
    　Toyota’s large minivan, the Gran Ace. With an overall length of 5300mm, it is larger than the company’s luxury minivan, the Alphard.

    Super cool! View 57 images of Toyota’s “”Gran Ace”” with a more chic and black look.

    　Car designer Nikita Chuicko has created and posted a rendering of a custom version of the Gran Ace with a lowered ride height and black exterior trim.

    Rendering of a custom version of Toyota’s largest minivan, the Gran Ace, with its ride height lowered and grille and other decorations blacked out (photo: kelsonik)

    　The Gran Ace is a large minivan introduced in Japan in 2019 as the Japanese version of the Granvia and Majesty, the upscale versions of the new Hiace (not yet introduced in Japan) that have already been announced and released overseas.

    　With a body size of 5300 mm (length) x 1970 mm (width) x 1990 mm (height) and a wheelbase of 3210 mm (height), it is even larger than the Toyota “”Alphard”” body size of 4945 mm (length) x 1850 mm (width) x 1935 mm (height).

    　It has a luxurious exterior and interior that combine presence and a sense of high quality, and its second and third rows of seats are equipped with large leather captain’s seats, among other features.

    　Nikita Chuicko has released a rendering of a custom version of such a Grand Ace with its ride height lowered.

    　In addition to lowering the Gran Ace, silver and chrome painted parts such as moldings framing the grille, door handles, and door mirrors have been replaced with black ones.

    　On the feet, wheels with a larger diameter and thinner spokes compared to the factory wheels are installed, which are also black.

    　The car has been receiving a lot of comments on social networking sites, such as, “”Stylish! I love it!”” and “”I love this!”” (Editor’s translation).

    * * * * * * * * * *

    　Nikita Chuicko creates renderings of all kinds of “”what if”” cars that do not yet exist in reality, such as the Toyota Century SUV, and posts them on his social networking sites. Nikita Chuicko also creates renderings of customized cars.

    　Nikita Chuicko’s renderings are, of course, unrealistic, but some of the lowered Gran Ace customizations are real, and some of them look even lower than these renderings. Also, Toyota North America has a “”Night Shade Edition”” that blackens the grille and other parts of Toyota vehicles, so it is not completely out of the realm of possibility that a similar customized vehicle will appear in the real world.”

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    Toyota launches new SUV “Corolla Cross” with large grill!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota’s New Corolla Cross SUV Adopts Large Grille and String of Pitches! Australian specs go on sale

    Front face equipped with a large trapezoidal grille
    　Toyota’s Australian subsidiary launched a new compact SUV, the Corolla Cross, on October 12, 2022. The Corolla Cross is currently on sale in Japan, but it will be introduced there with a different face than in Japan.

    Appearance with a rugged face with a trapezoidal grille! View 21 images of the Toyota Corolla Cross Australian specifications.

    Toyota “”Corolla Cross”” to be introduced to the Australian market

    　The Corolla Cross is an SUV with its world premiere in Thailand in 2020, and will be launched in Japan in 2021. It will be rolled out globally, not only in Asia, but also in the United States and Europe.

    　The appearance, including the front grille, will differ depending on the market. In Thailand and Europe, a trapezoidal front grille will be used, while in Japan and the U.S. (2023 model year/hybrid vehicle), the face will be characterized by a thin front grille and a large lower grille.

    　Unlike the Japanese version, the Australian version will be presented with the front grille design that was unveiled for the first time in the world in Thailand.

    　The power unit will come in two types: 2-liter gasoline and hybrid (2-liter gasoline + motor). The gasoline version will be available in 2WD only, while the hybrid version will be available in 2WD or 4WD.

    　Advanced equipment includes the new-generation Toyota Multimedia System, the first Toyota-branded vehicle for the Australian market.

    　This system will feature a large 8-inch touchscreen display, smartphone connectivity (Apple CarPlay wireless connectivity and Android Auto wired connectivity), and DAB+ digital radio.

    　The new Australian version of the Corolla Cross will start at A$33,000 (about ¥3.02 million) for the gasoline version and A$35,500 (about ¥3.25 million) for the hybrid version.”

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    Coming out next year? “Century Cross” attention also “Alphard” standardized? Is the new “Crown” popular? An active driver talks about “the car that the president likes”

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Next year? Century Cross”” attracts attention. Will “”Alphard”” become a standard model? Is the new “”Crown”” also popular? What is the “”president’s favorite car”” as told by a current driver?

    You have to be an executive driver to know what it is? What is a popular executive car?
    　Presidents, executives, bank presidents, and other so-called “”bigwigs”” of large companies usually have their own “”executive drivers”” and a “”president car/officer car (VIP car),”” which is their exclusive courtesy car.
    　
    　Different companies generally utilize different models of these cars, but what models are popular?

    Coming out next year? Toyota “”Century Cross”” is so cool! Top-end specifications of sedans & SUVs in images .

    What kind of cars does the president like? Which models are the most popular show cars? Rumor has it that the “”Century Cross”” will appear in 2023? (Photo: theottle)

    　Routes from home to the office, from the office to a dinner party, from a business trip to the office, etc., vary, but basically, the executive car is used for transportation within the range that can be traveled by car.

    　A car that carries corporate executives in the back seat is sometimes called a “”show car”” (or “”show driver””), meaning a car with a driver.

    　Mr. A, who actually works as an executive driver in Tokyo, says, “”I pick up the driver when he returns to the airport from his business trip, or take him to and from the office to the building where the meeting is being held, or I drive a completely different route depending on the day.

    　There are a wide variety of executive cars, depending on the company and the executive.

    　For example, the most commonly used executive cars are the Toyota Century and Crown, the Lexus LS, the Nissan Cima and Fuga, the Mercedes-Benz Maybach and the BMW 7 Series, and many other models are used. The reality is that the model used varies depending on the characteristics of the company.

    　Furthermore, even within the same company, different models are often assigned according to titles, such as president, vice president, and senior managing director.

    　In other cases, a company may have several executive cars, and each executive can travel in the model that he or she wants to drive.

    　Although there is no specific definition of executive cars, there seems to be a trend toward popular models, but what models will be popular as executive cars in 2022?

    　Mr. A mentioned above says, “”A wide range of models are being utilized,”” and then goes on to talk about popular models as executive cars as follows.

    In the case of relatively ‘serious’ companies such as banks, the LS, Crown, and Cima tend to have the highest usage rates, in that order.

    　The Century, which is generally associated with the image of an executive car, is used by many large, partially listed companies.
    　
    　As can be seen, the LS, Crown, and Cima are the most commonly used executive cars.

    　Mr. A also says, “”Recently, the Executive Lounge of the Toyota Alphard, which has a spacious interior, has been widely used.

    　The Executive Lounge, the highest grade of the Alphard, is one of the most comfortable cars in the market.

    　The second-row captain’s seat in the seven-seater version has a special seat called the “”executive lounge seat.

    　In addition to the electric reclining and extendable electric ottoman, the seats are equipped with features such as air blowing from the seat surface and back, and heated seats for comfort in any season.

    　A dedicated table and power outlet are also included, so electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers can be used while charging.

    　Models such as LS, Crown, and Cima are often utilized as executive cars and can be said to be truly royal road models, but the fact that Alphard is being utilized more and more these days suggests that more and more executives are seeking “”comfort”” over “”safety.

    * * *

    　In addition, more and more people are using SUVs such as the Lexus “”LX Executive,”” Mercedes-Maybach “”GLS,”” and Rolls-Royce “”Cullinan”” these days, suggesting that the SUV boom may be coming for show carriers as well.

    　Furthermore, the new Toyota Crown, which became the 16th generation in July 2022, launched the Crown Crossover, which combines a sedan and SUV, and the Crown Sedan is scheduled to be introduced as a series in 2023.

    　According to several presidents and executives, “”We are considering the new Crown Crossover”” and “”We want the Crown Sedan when it comes out next year.

    　Furthermore, overseas, virtual tuner Theo Throttle posted a rendering of the Century Cross, an SUV version of the Century, which caused quite a stir.

    　Rumor has it that the Century Cross will be released in 2023, and if it does appear, it may become synonymous with a new show car.”

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    Is “Hybrid Vehicle Profitable” a Fairy Tale of Reiwa? What is the truth compared to Toyota “Noavok / RAV4” gasoline specification .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Is the “”benefit of a hybrid car”” a fairy tale of 2022? The Truth about Toyota’s “”Noavok/RAV4″” Compared to Gasoline-Fueled Models

    Comparison by “”new car price,”” “”gasoline price,”” and “”price at the time of sale
    　There are “”gasoline-powered”” and “”hybrid”” cars available in the same model, and there is a price difference between the two powertrains, but which is the “”better buy””?
    　
    　Let’s compare them with the popular Toyota minivan “”Noah/Voxy”” and SUV “”RAV4″”.

    How are the differences in appearance? View 42 photos of Toyota’s Noah/Voxy and RAV4.

    Toyota’s popular RAV4 SUV model, which underwent a partial makeover on October 4, 2022 (Photo: RAV4 Adventure hybrid model)

    　It has already been 25 years since the first generation Toyota Prius, the world’s first mass-produced hybrid car, was introduced in 1997.

    　Hybrid cars have become so commonplace in Japan that “”hybrid-only”” vehicles such as the Prius, Toyota Aqua, Nissan Note, and the new Extrail are not uncommon.

    　Therefore, the question that arises when buying a car nowadays is whether to choose a hybrid car or not.

    　If it is a hybrid-only car, it is still a hybrid car, but many cars sold today have both an engine and a hybrid version.

    　In this case, it is difficult to decide which one to choose.

    　For example, if you have a “”clear intention”” such as “”I want to drive a hybrid car next time for sure,”” or “”I want to drive a hybrid car now because I will not be able to drive an engine car in the future,”” you will not have to worry about it.

    　The answer was surprisingly simple.

    　All you have to do is compare the “”difference in new car price,”” “”gasoline price,”” and “”price at the time of sale”” between engine cars and hybrid cars.

    　Specifically, the difference at the time of purchase, including tax benefits, the cost of gasoline saved by switching to a hybrid, and whether the resale value of the car will pay for itself when you dispose of it.

    　Here, “”feeling,”” including preference, should also be taken into account to make an overall decision.

    　Regarding popular cars that are set to be engine-powered and hybrid vehicles, we would like to consider which one to buy, focusing on the long-term expense of 5 years and 50,000 km driving.

    　The calculation methods and comparison criteria will be as follows

    —–

    1. Difference in new car prices

    　Prices include consumption tax. Grades are assumed to be the same for both cars as much as possible, and if there are differences in equipment, these are also taken into account.

    　In many cases, hybrid cars receive preferential treatment in terms of “”weight tax”” and “”environmental performance discount,”” so the actual price at the time of purchase is also taken into account.

    2. Gasoline cost (fuel cost required for 5 years and 50,000km driving)

    　Fuel economy is assumed to be 80% of the catalog fuel economy (WLTC mode fuel economy) for both engine and hybrid cars, and the unit price of gasoline is calculated at 169 yen for regular and 179 yen for high-octane.

    3. price at time of sale (resale value at 5 years and 50,000km on the road)

    　Refer to the final payment of the “”residual value set loan”” (5-year plan) announced by each manufacturer on their official Web sites.

    —–

    　In this article, we will compare the Toyota Noah/Voxy, a middle-class minivan, and the Toyota RAV4, a middle-class SUV, to see whether you should buy the gasoline or hybrid version of each.

    Is the “”hybrid car is good for you”” a fairy tale in 2022? What is the truth revealed when comparing Toyota’s “”Noah Voku/RAV4″” with gasoline-powered models?

    Noah/Voxy is a “”hybrid car to buy””.
    　Since its full model change in January 2022, the Toyota Noah/Voxy middle minivan has become so popular that there is a long waiting list for delivery.

    　Let’s compare and contrast whether you should buy the gasoline or hybrid version of the popular minivan.

    (The photo shows the Toyota “”Noah”” hybrid model.

    1. Difference in new car prices: Hybrid models are approximately 350,000 yen (about 180,000 yen higher in real terms).

    Noah S-Z gasoline model (2WD): 3,320,000 yen

    Noah S-Z hybrid (FWD): 3,670,000 yen

    　The price difference is approximately 350,000 yen, but the Hybrid S-Z comes standard with a 100V 1500W power outlet worth 40,000 yen and a tax benefit of approximately 130,000 yen, so the actual price difference at the time of purchase is reduced to “”approximately 180,000 yen.

    2. Gasoline cost (fuel cost required for 5 years and 50,000km driving): Hybrid car is 245,000 yen cheaper.

    S-Z gasoline model (2WD): Catalog fuel economy: 15.0km/L (WLTC mode fuel economy) → Practical fuel economy: 12.0km/L

    S-Z hybrid model (2WD): Catalog fuel economy: 23.0km/L (WLTC mode fuel economy) → Practical fuel economy: 18.4km/L

    　The gasoline cost for 5 years and 50,000km is 704,000 yen for the gasoline vehicle and 459,000 yen for the hybrid.

    　Gasoline costs 245,000 yen less for the hybrid.

    3. price at the time of sale (resale value at 5 years and 50,000km mileage): Hybrid vehicle sells for 147,000 yen more

    Gasoline-powered car: 1,394,000 yen

    Hybrid car: 1,541,000 yen

    　Hybrid cars can be disposed of at a price 147,000 yen higher.

    * * *

    　When closing the balance sheet, it seems that Noah/Voxy can pay off the price difference at the time of purchase even if the mileage is low, as the real price difference at the time of purchase is small.

    　Unless there is a circumstance where you really dislike hybrids, we conclude that you should choose a hybrid for Noah/Voxy.

    Is the “”benefit of a hybrid car”” a fairy tale of 2022? What is the truth revealed when comparing Toyota’s “”Noah/Voxy/RAV4″” with gasoline-powered models?

    RAV4 was “”Hybrid Vehicle is More Expensive
    　The RAV4, Toyota’s medium-class SUV that just underwent a minor change on October 4, 2022, has been available in 2-liter gasoline and 2.5-liter hybrid versions since its introduction.

    　From 2020, the 2.5-liter hybrid will have its drive battery increased by about 10 times, and a plug-in hybrid, which can also be used as an electric vehicle if it has a recharging environment, will be available as the flagship model.

    The photo shows the special edition RAV4 Adventure “”OFFROAD package II”” that was added to the RAV4 when it underwent a partial makeover on October 4, 2022.

    1. New model price difference: The hybrid model is 619,000 yen (492,000 yen more expensive in real terms).

    RAV4 Adventure gasoline model: 3,684,000 yen

    RAV4 Adventure”” hybrid model: 4,303,000 yen

    　The price difference is 619,000 yen, but the hybrid has a tax benefit of 127,000 yen, which reduces the price difference to 492,000 yen in real terms at the time of purchase.

    2. Gasoline cost (fuel cost required for 5 years and 50,000km driving): Hybrid vehicle is 171,000 yen cheaper.

    RAV4 Adventure gasoline model: WLTC mode fuel economy: 15.2km/L → practical fuel economy: 12.2km/L

    RAV4 Adventure hybrid: WLTC mode fuel economy: 20.3km/L → practical fuel economy: 16.2km/L

    　The gasoline cost required to run 50,000km in 5 years is 693,000 yen for the gasoline vehicle and 522,000 yen for the hybrid, resulting in a gasoline cost of 171,000 yen less for the hybrid.

    3. price at the time of sale (resale value at 5 years and 50,000km mileage): Hybrid vehicles sell for 229,000 yen more

    Gasoline-powered car: 1,363,000 yen

    Hybrid car: 1,592,000 yen

    　Hybrid cars can be disposed of at 229,000 yen higher.

    * * *

    　Now let’s close the accounts for RAV4.

    　The hybrid car will cost 92,000 yen more than the RAV4, and in the case of the RAV4, the difference between the gasoline car and the hybrid will not pay off.

    　However, considering that the RAV4 hybrid vehicle has a 2.5-liter engine, and its dynamic performance is much higher than that of the 2-liter gasoline vehicle, we can consider that “”considering the difference in dynamic performance, the difference of 92,000 yen in the balance sheet is cheap.

    　Also, if you sometimes drive on rough roads such as off-road courses, the 4WD RAV4 gasoline vehicle has the advantage of “”downhill assist control,”” which maintains a slow, constant speed like a person walking on steep downhill slopes.

    Therefore, in the case of the RAV4, it is advisable to consider a hybrid as a basic model and a gasoline vehicle depending on how the vehicle is used.

    * * *

    　Considering the above estimation, when you are torn between an engine car and a hybrid car for the same car, you can often get your money’s worth in the long run.

    　In addition to this, gasoline prices have recently become stable at high levels.

    　If you are going to use your car for practical purposes, the basic conclusion is that you should use a hybrid car (……).

    　At the same time, we applaud the efforts of automobile manufacturers who have lowered the price of hybrid cars so much that the difference can be repaid in the long run.

    　However, if you are a person who seeks taste in cars, engine cars are also attractive. This point should also be kept in mind.

    　In fact, according to social networking sites, there are many people who say, “”Hybrid cars pay for themselves in terms of cost, but engine cars feel better.

    　On the other hand, there are those who say that hybrids are smoother and quieter.

    　When choosing a car, it is necessary to consider these overall points.
    “

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    Will it attract as much attention as the “Alphad Truck”? Production of “Toyota 86 fastest specification” ! What is “GT3 style” custom made by students.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Will it attract as much attention as the “”Alphard Truck””? Toyota 86 Fastest Specification”” is produced! What is the “”GT3-style”” customization by students?

    What is the “”TOYOTA86 GT STANCE”” that pays homage to the GR GT3 Concept?
    　The “”Tokyo Auto Salon”” is the most popular event for car enthusiasts at the beginning of the year, where a variety of custom and tuning cars are exhibited every year.
    　
    　In 2023, the event is scheduled to be held at Makuhari Messe (Chiba Prefecture) from January 13 to 15, and a custom car from an automotive college in the same prefecture is expected to attract a lot of attention.

    Is this an “”86″”? Mysterious Black Machine Production! Look at the custom cars being built alongside the Alphard trucks!

    Is this an 86? The “”TOYOTA86 GT STANCE”” looks kind of awesome! (Images courtesy of the Japan Automobile College)

    　The Tokyo Auto Salon, which was born in 1983 out of the magazine “”OPTION,”” is a major event for the tuning industry in Japan, in addition to car manufacturers announcing their new cars in conjunction with the Auto Salon.

    　The Nihon Automobile College (commonly known as NATS) in Chiba Prefecture has been exhibiting at the Tokyo Auto Salon since 1997, and every year students in the customization course there create custom cars as part of their assignments.

    　In the past, students have created various custom cars, such as the “”COSMO VISION”” based on the Mazda Roadster, the “”NATS R35 Road Star”” based on the Nissan Fairlady Z Roadster (Z33) with the appearance of the GT-R (R35), and the “”NATS JIMNY”” based on the Suzuki Jimny Sierra. The company has introduced various custom cars to the world, such as the “”kimun kamy.

    　For the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023, the company will also produce a Super Dury truck based on the Toyota “”Alphard””.

    　In parallel with this, a custom car in the style of the Toyota GR GT3 Concept based on the Toyota 86 will be produced.

    　The GR GT3 Concept is a racing-only vehicle concept car that was unveiled for the first time in the world by TOYOTA GAZOO Racing (TGR) at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2022.

    　The GR GT3 Concept is an attractive car that promotes “”driver-first car-making and is the GT3 customer’s choice at the pinnacle of customer motorsports,”” according to TGR. We have unveiled the GR GT3 Concept in order to promote driver-first car manufacturing and to provide an attractive car that customers of the GT3, the pinnacle of customer motorsports, would choose.

    　The TOYOTA86 GT STANCE will be built with the GR GT3 Concept in mind, which is a glimpse of Toyota’s seriousness.

    　In the finalized drawing released by NATS, we can see that in addition to the headlight design that is conscious of the GR GT3 Concept, aero parts for the front and sides and large-diameter aluminum wheels will be installed.

    　Nevertheless, the shape from the roof to the tail end retains the aspect of the 86.

    　In addition, images of the car in the process of being built show that it has been disassembled and that new panels are being added.

    　A NATS student explained the background behind the creation of the TOYOTA86 GT STANCE as follows: “”To begin with, a GT car is a car that can be driven on public roads.

    The students at NATS explained the background behind the creation of the TOYOTA86 GT STANCE: “”To begin with, GT cars cannot be driven on public roads, but we wanted to create a GT car that conforms to safety standards and can be driven on public roads.

    　This is a public road-accessible version of the GT3 concept car that was exhibited by TOYOTA GAZOO Racing at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2022.

    　The silhouette is a tribute to the GT3, with a touch of originality.

    　He also talked about the difficulties involved in the process of completing the TOYOTA86 GT STANCE as follows.

    The front end was extended to create a long-nose silhouette, and the accompanying layout changes in the engine compartment were very difficult.

    　In addition, the front pipe frame, piping, and harness extensions were all new to us, which was also a challenge.

    　In addition, the base car “”86 (DBA-ZN6)”” was prepared and manufactured as a joint industry-university project with the local Toyota Corolla Chiba.

    　In addition, we are aiming to complete the production with the support of many after-parts and custom parts manufacturers.

    * * * *

    　The custom cars produced by NTAS students are completed by students enrolled in the customization course over a period of about a year in preparation for the Tokyo Auto Salon, and since the final goal is to obtain a license plate number, the cars can be driven on public roads.

    　In early 2023, we may be able to see the numbered TOYOTA86 GT STANCE.

    Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)”

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    Cyber sense is amazing! Pop and cute “2-seater EV” explosion! Renault brand Mobilize Duo unveiled in Europe .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Cyber-inspired! Pop and cute “”2-seater EV”” is born! Renault Brand Mobilization “”Duo”” Unveiled in Europe

    Eco-friendly small EV that anyone can drive has an 80’s-90’s pop feel
    　Mobirise, a Renault Group company, announced on October 10, 2022 the launch of the Duo, a small EV with front and rear seating for two, which will be offered by the end of 2023 on a subscription or long-term lease basis.
    　

    The “”futuristic”” feeling that overflows from this car is unbearable! Check out the cyber but somehow cute “”duo”” in these 18 images.

    Do they have the cyber feel of the 80’s? Mobilize “”Duo”” with pop orange color

    　Mobilize Duo is a newly developed compact EV with two seats lined up vertically and a compact body measuring 2,430 mm (length) x 1,300 mm (width) x 1,460 mm (height).

    　The exterior design is based on a base color of gray, with orange used as an accent color throughout, and the side doors on the body open upward, featuring large windows divided into three sections.

    　The front and rear wheel houses protrude widely, and the large tires are positioned at the four corners of the body, designed to allow the car to turn in a small radius.

    　The interior is designed to combine the atmosphere of the 1980s and 1990s with the world of video games. The dashboard is shaped like a boom box, giving it a hip-hop image.

    　The design is simple and intuitive so that many users can operate it easily, and the seat is padded to retain comfort. It is also built to accommodate a folding wheelchair.

    　Meanwhile, the Duo has been designed with a full range of connected services, not only for personal use, but also for use by businesses and sharing services, and will be expandable in the future.

    　The vehicle is equipped with a keyless and ignition system that can be shared by multiple users, and real-time data transmitted from the vehicle allows for easy management of the vehicle.

    　Two types of powertrains are available. Two types of powertrains are available, with a maximum speed of 45 km/h and 80 km/h, to comply with the laws of each country.

    　It has a range of 140 km (nominal, WMTC certification pending) and is equipped with two types of connectors that allow charging at home as well as at public charging stations.

    　The DUO is designed to be environmentally friendly, in line with the Renault Group’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality in Europe by 2040. At least 50% of the materials used are recycled, and 95% are recyclable when the vehicle is scrapped.

    　In addition, the front and rear bumpers are of the same design to reduce production and repair costs, and the body panels are made of plastic material based on a thorough eco-design.

    　The Duo will be offered for private use through a subscription contract with a minimum term of three months.

    　Long-term leases will be available for companies such as car-sharing companies, and packages integrating services such as insurance and recharging will be offered.

    * * *

    　The lineup also includes the Bento, a single-seat cargo vehicle, which is a duo with a rear seat that has been converted into a trunk with a capacity of nearly 700 liters.

    　The Bento is scheduled to be offered on a long-term lease basis for corporate customers starting in 2024.

    　No mention has been made of the introduction of either the Duo or Bento in Japan.

    Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)”

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    Bigger than Alphard! A special model of the 7-seater Toyota new “Sienna 25th anniversary car” is now available! About 5.67 million yen .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Huge than the Alphard! The new 7-seat Toyota Sienna 25th Anniversary special model is now available in Ka! About 5,670,000 yen

    Sienna”” Celebrates 25th Anniversary of Birth
    　Toyota’s Canadian subsidiary has announced pricing for the 2023 Sienna on October 4, 2022. The 25th anniversary car, which is already available in the U.S., will be sold exclusively for Canada.

    Toyota’s 5-meter-long minivan “”Sienna”” has an amazing presence! View in pictures

    What is the “”Sienna,”” for which a 25-year commemorative model will also be offered?

    　The Sienna, a minivan sold by Toyota mainly in North America for overseas markets, has a body size of 5184 mm (overall length) x 1993 mm (overall width) x 1770 mm (overall height), compared to the Toyota Alphard, a luxury minivan sold in Japan, which measures 4945-4950 mm (overall length) x 1935-1950 mm (overall width) x 1935-1950 mm (overall height). and therefore exceeds the Alphard in overall length and width.

    　The first generation was introduced in 1998, and the current model, the fourth generation, was released in 2020. It is the Sienna’s first hybrid-only vehicle (2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine + motor).

    　The 25th anniversary model is only available in a 7-seat version, although both 7-seat and 8-seat versions are available.

    　Comfort features include exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels, leather seats with silver stitching, a 12-speaker JBL audio system, a wireless smartphone charging tray, heated and ventilated front seats, and a second-row ottoman seat.

    　It will also feature an exclusive emblem celebrating the 25th anniversary of its birth.

    　The Sienna 2023 model for Canada will start at $41,650 Cdn ($4.39 million), while the 25th anniversary car will cost $53,860 Cdn ($5.67 million).”

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    Future feeling up! Toyota’s new “Corolla Cross” equipped with an advanced digital meter! Released in Italy.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Up the futuristic look! Toyota’s new “”Corolla Cross”” with advanced digital meters! Launched in Italy

    Aggressive-looking Corolla Cross
    　Toyota’s Italian subsidiary announced on October 7, 2022 that it will launch the new Corolla Cross in the same month.

    Dynamic with a large grille! European Corolla Cross is so cool, so different from its Japanese counterpart!

    　The new Corolla Cross will be introduced as a model positioned between the C-HR and RAV4. In the highly competitive European C-segment SUV market, it will be launched as a model with the comfort, practicality and versatility demanded by active families.

    Toyota Corolla Cross with a different design from the Japanese version (European specifications)

    　The new Corolla Cross is the first Toyota vehicle to feature the new fifth-generation hybrid system. Based on the conventional hybrid system, it delivers more torque, more power from the electric motor, and higher driving efficiency.

    　The powertrain design has been redesigned and a new lubrication and oil distribution system using low-viscosity oil has been adopted. Efficiency and power have been improved by reducing electrical and mechanical losses.

    　In addition, the latest technological developments in lithium-ion batteries have made the new battery system more powerful and 40% lighter than before.

    　This has increased total system output by more than 8%: the 2-liter hybrid (2WD) produces 145 kW/97 hp and achieves 0-100 km/h acceleration in 7.7 seconds, while the AWD features a powerful 30.6 kW electric motor at the rear wheels for increased traction in low-grip situations and safe and This provides safe and reassuring driving.

    　In addition, the new model is the first to adopt Toyota’s latest active safety system, Toyota Safety Sense 3. Numerous improvements have been made to the system, which can now be upgraded over-the-air.

    　The Italian version of the new Corolla Cross has a different design than the Japanese version, featuring a dynamic front face with a large grille, similar to the model sold in Thailand and other countries.

    　The interior features a new 12.3-inch digital meter as standard equipment and an advanced cockpit.

    　Three grades are available: Trend, Lounge, and Lounge Lite.

    　The Trend comes standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, full LED headlights, automatic climate control, Toyota Safety Sense 3, 10.5-inch touchscreen, Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity, power tailgate, and privacy rear window. specifications.

    　The Lounge adds heated seats, blind-spot monitors, a panoramic roof, a JBL hi-fi system, and a map-integrated navigation system to the leather and fabric interior.

    　Lounge Lite has the same features as Lounge except for the JBL hi-fi system and the map-integrated navigation system.

    * * *

    　The price of the new Corolla Cross in Italy ranges from 38,000 to 43,500 euros, or about 5,360,000 to 6,130,000 Japanese yen.

    　The new Corolla Cross with the same specifications will be launched in Germany on November 25, 2022, and in addition to the 2-liter hybrid, a 1.8-liter hybrid will also be available.”

  • | | |

    Why did you make the Toyota “Alphard truck”? The “monster truck” with a total length of nearly 6m looks amazing! What is the identity of the astonishing custom car that students work on .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Why did you produce the Toyota “”Alphard Truck””? The nearly 6-meter-long “”Monster Truck”” looks amazing! What is the true nature of the astonishing custom car created by students?

    Why an Alphard Truck? A luxury minivan turned into a monster truck!
    　The Alphard is one of Toyota’s most popular models. Recently, it has become synonymous with luxury minivans.
    　
    　The Alphard has been converted into a monster truck, but what kind of vehicle is it?

    This is amazing! The finished version of the powerful “”Alphard Truck””! And look at the past “”LM style””!

    Alphard Super Duty Truck”” to be built for Tokyo Auto Salon 2023 (Image courtesy of Japan Automobile College)

    　Every year, the Tokyo Auto Salon showcases a variety of custom and tuning cars.

    　Among them, the customization department of the Nihon Automobile College (commonly known as NATS) in Chiba Prefecture has become the talk of the town for the custom cars created by its students each time.

    　In the past, the “”NATS R35 Road Star”” based on the Nissan “”Fairlady Z Roadster (Z33)”” was made to look like a “”GT-R (R35),”” and the “”COSMO VISION”” based on the Mazda “”Roadster”” was a modern revival of the “”Cosmo Sport.

    　Furthermore, a variety of custom cars will be produced, including the “”LM800T,”” which is based on the design of the Lexus “”LM300h,”” and an American lowrider version of Toyota’s third-generation “”Crown (MS50 model).

    　Among these, a super duty truck based on the Alphard will be produced for the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023, and it has been named the “”Alphard Super Dury Truck.

    　The term “”duty truck”” refers to a pickup truck with two rear wheels on each side for a total of four wheels, a customization seen in North America and elsewhere.

    　The truck was built by extending the rear end of the Alphard’s body and joining the cargo area, and although the overall length has not been measured, it is expected to be close to 6 meters.

    　So why did they decide to convert the Alphard, a luxury minivan, into a super-duty truck?

    　The student in charge of the production had the following to say.

    The idea to build a duty truck came from a group of members interested in truckin’ (sporty truck customization) and American cars.

    　When choosing a base vehicle, we decided on the Toyota Alphard because we wanted to draw attention to the unexpectedness of using a familiar Japanese vehicle as a base.

    　I am certain that this will be a one-of-a-kind custom car.

    　With such a production background, what were some of the difficulties involved in creating a custom car that had never been done before?

    First of all, we had a hard time finding the right combination of strength and weight (in order to obtain official approval) by extending the body of the car, so we had to make sure that it was sturdy.

    　The cargo bed was made from panels of the current Hilux with the support of the local Chiba Toyota Group.

    　We are aiming to complete the production with the support of many other parts makers as well.

    * * * *

    　As of October 2022, the Alphard Super Duty Truck has been completed with the Alphard and Hilux welded together.

    　After further processing, the completed version is scheduled to be unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Salon to be held in January 2023.

    Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)”

  • | |

    Honda, “HV Fit RS” revival for the first time in 9 years!? New “Fit RS” released! What is the ultimate performance?

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Honda revives the “”HV Fit RS”” after 9 years! The new “”Fit RS”” is now on sale! What is the new “”Fit RS””?

    Equipped with an exclusive suspension system
    　Honda launched a minor-changed new Fit model on October 7, 2022. The sporty type “”RS”” is said to be back after an absence of about two and a half years, but what kind of specifications did the fourth-generation Fit come with?

    New “”Fit”” model with a new face is launched! More horsepower and more powerful! See the rapid “”RS”” in 29 images.

    The new “”Fit”” with minor changes (image: Fit RS)

    　The RS type of Fit has been available since the second generation model launched on October 26, 2007.

    　In addition to the special suspension, 1.5-liter engine, and 5-speed MT (CVT and 5-speed AT versions also exist), a sportier and higher quality character was pursued.

    　In addition, the second-generation Fit was additionally launched on May 24, 2012 as the “”Hybrid RS,”” offering a wider range of variations.

    　Subsequently, the third-generation Fit (launched on September 6, 2013) also featured the RS type as a gasoline model, but when the current fourth-generation Fit (launched on February 14, 2020) was introduced, the RS type disappeared from the lineup.

    　The Fit RS, which will be revived for the first time in two and a half years, will be available in two versions: a gasoline version (to be announced on November 10) and a hybrid version. This will be the first time in about nine years that the hybrid RS type has been revived.

    　The RS RS features an exclusive front grille, front bumper, side sill garnish, rear bumper, rear spoiler, and aluminum wheels to emphasize its sporty appearance.

    　The RS’s exclusive suspension, which has been thoroughly refined for performance, has been adopted to achieve both a fun-to-drive and a high quality, exhilarating ride.

    　The hybrid version also features a deceleration selector with four levels of deceleration force when the gas pedal is released, and three drive mode switches (NORMAL, SPORT, and ECON) exclusively for the hybrid version.

    　The overall powertrain of the fourth-generation Fit has also been enhanced with these improvements.

    　The hybrid version achieves a maximum output of 123 hp with a 14 hp increase in the drive motor.

    　The gasoline version uses a 1.5-liter engine with a 0.2-liter larger displacement. The maximum output is 118 hp, up 20 hp from the previous 1.3-liter engine.

    　The price (including consumption tax) of the minor-changed new Fit is set at 1,997,600 yen for the hybrid version and 1,592,800 yen for the gasoline version.

    　As for the RS type, the hybrid version will be priced at 2,346,300 yen, and the gasoline version will be announced on November 10, 2022, with no price announcement at this time.

    　Now here is a quiz.

    　The new Fit, which underwent a minor change, is now available in new exclusive body colors for the RS type and the SUV-look CROSSTAR. Which of the following colors is it?

    Slate Gray Pearl

    Premium Crystal Red Metallic

    Fjord Mist Pearl

    Rose Gold Metallic

    The correct answer is “”Slate Gray Pearl”” for [1].

    　The correct answer is [1] Slate Gray Pearl.

    　Honda describes the new Honda color, Slate Gray Pearl, which is exclusively available for the RS and CROSSTAR, as “”a modern gray that evokes the image of an early morning city with soft light shining through.
    “