kuruma

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    Bigger than Alphard! What kind of minivan is the new 10-passenger & over 5m “Staria”? Launching new specifications in Malaysia.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Bigger than the Alphard! What kind of minivan is the new Staria, fully equipped for 10 passengers and over 5 meters? New Specs to be Introduced in Malaysia

    A 10-seater version is coming to the Malaysian market!
    　Hyundai’s Malaysian subsidiary has launched a 10-seater version of the MPV (minivan in Japan) Staria locally.

    Huge Body and 10-Seater Spec in a Row! New MPV “”Staria”” novel body in 44 images

    　It will be introduced in Malaysia following the 7-seater model (Staria Premium), but what kind of MPV is it?

    Hyundai’s MPV Staria

    　The Staria has a body size of 5255 mm (length) x 1995 mm (width) x 1990-2000 mm (height) (Korean specifications). It is larger in length and width than the Toyota “”Alphard”” (4945mm-4950mm in length x 1850mm in width x 1935mm-1950mm in height, Japanese specifications), which is available in Japan and Malaysia.

    　The exterior features a streamlined silhouette that was designed with inspiration from a spaceship. The interior is characterized by a sense of openness due to the large glass area, which was inspired by the traditional Korean architectural style called hanok.

    　It also features a wide range of variations, including the Staria Premium, a luxury version that can be used to transport VIPs, and a commercial van version.

    　The car will make its world premiere on March 17, 2021, and will go on sale in the Korean market on April 19 of the same year. It was also rolled out in the Oceania market and some European markets, and was introduced in the Malaysian market on October 27 of the same year, starting with the 7-seater Staria Premium.

    　The standard version of the Staria (10-seat version) was announced for the Malaysian market on October 27 of the same year.

    The 10-seat version will be available in three grades: “”Light,”” “”Plus,”” and “”Max,”” and will be priced between 179,888 ringgit and 209,888 ringgit (approximately 5.6 million yen to 6.5 million yen). Incidentally, the Staria Premium will be set at 366,788 ringgit (approximately 11.4 million yen).”

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    Finally, Toyota’s new “bZ4X” will be resold! “Recall problem” solved! Was the cause “hub bolt and wheel”? “Delivery waiting priority” will be resold sequentially from October 26.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Finally, the new Toyota bZ4X will be re-released! Recall Problem”” Solved! Was the cause “”hub bolts and wheels””? Resale of the new bZ4X will begin on October 26, with priority given to those waiting for delivery

    The new “”bZ4X”” will be resold! What was the cause?
    　Toyota announced the resale of the new bZ4X on October 6, 2022.
    　
    　On June 23 of the same year, a “”recall requesting the suspension of use”” was reported, but what countermeasures and improvements have been made for this resale?

    Finally, the resale has resumed! The new futuristic Toyota SUV, the “”bZ4X”” .

    Toyota’s new “”bZ4X”” to be introduced as the first model in the bZ series

    　The new bZ4X is the first model in Toyota’s new “”bZ Series”” EV strategy, which was announced on April 12, 2022 in the Japanese market and launched on May 12 of the same year for lease through the subsk KINTO.

    　Initially, applications for 3,000 units were accepted from May 12 as the first phase, followed by the second phase in early fall and sequentially thereafter, with production and sales of 5,000 units planned for the first year.

    　The Z grade (FWD and 4WD) was the only grade available, with 18-inch or 20-inch tires, a standard roof and panoramic moonroof as a package, and a reference price (including consumption tax) of 6 million yen for the FWD and 6.5 million yen for the 4WD.

    　As a car, the e-TNGA, a platform jointly developed with Subaru exclusively for BEVs, is adopted for the first time by Toyota to achieve a low center of gravity and high rigidity, resulting in an attractive driving experience. The X-MODE, Subaru’s 4WD technology, is adopted for the first time in a 4WD vehicle by Toyota, and Grip-Control is also included as a new function of the X-MODE.

    　In addition to the pursuit of aerodynamic performance and weight reduction of the body and units, the X-MODE is equipped with heat pump air conditioning, seat heaters, steering wheel heaters, and radiant heaters for the front seat passengers’ feet (a Toyota first) to reduce energy consumption other than for driving.

    　These efforts have resulted in a power consumption rate of 128 Wh/km and a driving range per charge (WTLC mode) of 559 km for the FWD model and 540 km for the 4WD model.

    　The charging environment is compatible with high output recharging in various regions of the world, with DC quick recharging at 150 kW, enabling recharging to 80% of charge level in 30 minutes.

    　The Japanese version is equipped with a DC external power supply function (V2H/V2L) that can be connected to a power feeder to supply high-output power to residences and home appliances during emergencies such as outdoor activities and disasters.

    　In addition, the “”roof solar panel”” can be set to generate electricity equivalent to 1,800 km of driving range in one year (in-house estimate), contributing to cruising range, and also enabling charging in parking lots where charging stations are not available, as well as in emergency situations such as disasters.

    　The new bZ4X was introduced to lead Toyota’s full-scale mass-production EVs, but as mentioned above, a “”recall for discontinued use”” was reported on June 23.

    　The defects include the possibility that the hub bolts used to attach the tires may loosen due to repetitive sharp turns or braking, resulting in abnormal noise when the vehicle is driven in this condition, and in the worst case scenario, the tires may fall off. Approximately 2,700 vehicles (approximately 100 in Japan and 2,600 overseas) were affected.

    　On October 6 of the same year, the recall was reported to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism after an investigation into the cause of the problem was completed and the details of the measures to be taken were determined. The measures include replacing the hub bolts on all new bZ4X models with countermeasure products and replacing the disc wheels with good quality ones for some destinations, as well as adding a note on hub bolts in the owner’s manual as a reminder.

    　Specifically, the hub bolts that fasten the wheel, brake rotor, and hub bolts together were loosening even when the vehicle’s driving force (force in the direction of tire rotation) was applied to the bolts at the specified torque.

    　In response to this problem, the hub bolts have been replaced with newly designed hub bolts with washers for all vehicles to improve and stabilize the force of the bolts, and for some destinations, the hub bolts have been replaced with wheels that have been manufactured to a higher quality to prevent slippage.

    　Masahiko Maeda, Toyota’s executive vice president and chief technology officer, had the following to say about the new bZ4X recall.

    The reason it has taken so long since the recall was reported in June is that it took time to verify a variety of factors, including whether the design specifications were correct, whether the quality of the product was acceptable, how each part was procured, and the measurements of each part,”” said Masahiko Maeda, Toyota’s executive vice president and chief technology officer.

    　It also took a lot of time to develop a new hub bolt with washer as a countermeasure after the cause was identified.

    　The hub bolts are not a problem unique to battery EVs, but rather a common factor in vehicles that generate high torque.

    　Production resumed on October 6. For the KINTO, we are planning to resume orders on October 26.

    The KINTO is scheduled to resume orders on October 26.

    　The recall also applies to the Subaru Solterra, a sister model of the new bZ4X, and priority will be given to those who are already waiting for delivery.

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

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    Honda announces new sports hatchback! Resurrected for the first time in two and a half years with a powerful grill! Go to “Fit RS” setting in My Chain .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Honda Announces New “”Sport Hatchback””! Revival after 2.5 years”” with a powerful grille! Fit RS”” to be launched as part of the MyChange

    The Revival of the “”RS”” What has changed in the new “”Fit””?
    　Honda will launch the facelifted “”Fit”” compact car on October 7, 2022.

    The new “”Fit RS”” with a powerful grille has arrived! See its fast-looking full image!
    The long-awaited new “”Fit RS”” is here! What are the features of the sporty Fit?

    　Since the current, fourth-generation Fit was launched in February 2020, it has been highly acclaimed for its ease of use in daily life and excellent driving performance based on the idea of “”being close to people’s lives.

    　In this minor change, the design of each type has been changed to further accentuate their individuality, and a new “”RS”” type has been newly added with a focus on driving quality.

    　The “”BASIC”” model is a basic model with a simple and personal touch, while the “”HOME”” model offers design and comfort that fits in well with daily life. The shape of the front nose has been changed for a cleaner look and the position of the upper grille has been raised.

    　In addition, the HOME and LUXE models have evolved a more elegant design with a horizontal chrome decorative line running across the top of the grille.

    　For the CROSSTAR, the front, side, and rear garnishes, which are exclusive to the exterior, have been changed to a silver color. The design is more like Tough Gear, emphasizing the crossover character of the vehicle.

    　Meanwhile, the sporty “”RS”” model is back, replacing the previously available “”NESS”” model.

    　The sporty exterior is emphasized with an exclusive front grille, front bumper, side sill garnish, rear bumper, rear spoiler, and aluminum wheels.

    　In addition, the RS’s exclusive suspension, which has been thoroughly refined to reduce body sway on rough road surfaces, was adopted to achieve both a high quality, exhilarating ride and the enjoyment of maneuvering the car in a variety of situations where driver operation and the car’s behavior are in harmony.

    　The RS is available in gasoline and e:HEV models. e:HEV models offer a deceleration selector with four levels of deceleration force when the gas pedal is released and three drive mode switches (NORMAL, SPORT, and ECON) to meet the driver’s particular driving needs.
    A total of 13 body colors are available, including the new “”Slate Gray Pearl”” exclusively for the RS and CROSSTAR. The two-tone colors are exclusive to the CROSSTAR.

    　Prices range from 1,592,800 yen for the BASIC (gasoline model/FFWD) to 2,664,200 yen for the LUXE (e:HEV model/4WD), and 2,346,300 yen for the newly introduced RS (e:HEV model/FFWD), with gasoline model prices to be announced on November 10.”

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    Popular small SUV “Rocky / Raize” hybrid or gasoline car which one to buy? It is difficult to recover the price difference with “fuel consumption”!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Popular small SUV “”Rocky/Rise”” hybrid or gasoline vehicle? Difficult to recoup the price difference in “”fuel economy””!

    Daihatsu “”Rocky”” and Toyota “”Rise”” with two major powertrains available
    　The Daihatsu Rocky and Toyota Rise compact SUVs, which debuted in November 2019, continue to enjoy steady sales.
    　
    　In November 2021, the newly developed 1,2-liter “”e-SMART”” hybrid and 1.2-liter gasoline models will be replaced as the mainstay of the lineup, further solidifying the lineup.
    　
    　There is a price difference of approximately 300,000 yen between the hybrid and gasoline models. Which is more popular and which is more affordable?

    Which one is your favorite? Compare Daihatsu’s “”Rocky”” and Toyota’s “”Rise”” in 15 images.

    The Rocky/Rise with a new engine lineup for the 2021 model year [Photo: Daihatsu “”Rocky PremiumG””].

    　Rocky and Rise are compact SUVs developed mainly by Daihatsu.

    　Based on Daihatsu’s new-generation development concept “”DNGA”” (Daihatsu New Global Architecture), a new platform and engine have been developed to achieve a high level of all aspects, including handling, stability, and advanced driving support functions.

    　Packaging is kept to less than 4 m in length, within the 5-number size range, which is easy to handle in Japan’s narrow streets, while still providing a spacious interior and cargo space.

    　On the other hand, the exterior of the vehicle is characterized by a powerful SUV-like appearance that gives the impression of its small size.

    　According to a survey by the Japan Automobile Dealers Association (JDA), the Rise ranked fifth in new vehicle sales ranking by brand in the first half of 2022 (January to June, 2022) with 45,380 units sold.

    　Rocky is also ranked 27th with 10,808 units sold, indicating that both brands are showing stable sales in their third year of debut.

    　When the Rocky/Rise debuted in 2019, it was equipped with a 1-liter inline 3-cylinder turbocharged engine, offering both dynamic performance equivalent to a 1.5-liter engine and eco-friendly performance with a catalog fuel economy of 18.6 km/L (2WD, WLTC mode fuel economy).

    　In addition, the 1-liter turbocharged engine has been made a 4WD-only engine for the 2021 partial improvement, and two newly-developed powertrains are available for the 2WD model.

    　The first is a newly developed 1.2-liter inline 3-cylinder naturally aspirated gasoline engine.

    　The first is a newly developed 1.2-liter in-line 3-cylinder naturally-aspirated gasoline engine with improved combustion efficiency for better fuel economy and improved acceleration performance at low speeds, making it easier to handle.

    　The e-SMART Hybrid is a series hybrid in which the highly efficient 1.2-liter engine is used exclusively for power generation and is driven 100% by a motor.

    　The e-SMART Hybrid is designed with an emphasis on easy handling at low and medium speeds, and its simple structure makes it possible to be installed in the compact Rocky/Rise.

    　Prices for each 2WD model, including consumption tax, range from 1,707,000 yen to 2,039,000 yen for the Rise’s 1.2-liter gasoline model.

    　The Rise’s e-SMART Hybrid model ranges from 2,163,000 yen to 2,328,000 yen.

    　This is the cheapest model among SUVs equipped with a hybrid system (excluding mini cars).

    　Comparing the Rocky/Rise 2WD models among the same grades, the difference ranges from 306,000 yen to 289,000 yen.

    　According to Daihatsu’s public relations department, the latest sales ratio of the Rocky is 60% hybrid vehicles compared to 40% gasoline vehicles. The hybrid seems to be very popular, regardless of the price difference of about 300,000 yen.

    　So which of these two types is actually the better value for money?

    Which is a better buy, the hybrid or gasoline-powered version of the popular small SUVs “”Rocky/Rise””? Difficult to recoup the price difference in “”fuel economy””!

    300,000 yen price difference cannot be recouped by fuel economy alone, but the difference “”isn’t just that.””
    　Now let’s compare the value for money of the Rocky/Rise 1.2-liter gasoline and e-SMART hybrid vehicles.

    　The average retail price of gasoline nationwide as of September 20, 2022 is 169.7 yen (regular gasoline / consumption tax included), according to the Agency for Natural Resources and Energy, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

    　Based on this, we calculate the gasoline consumption for a 50,000 km trip and the fuel cost at that time, using the catalog fuel efficiency value (WLTC mode fuel efficiency).

    The hybrid is the focus of much attention, but the best value may be found in the 1.2-liter gasoline model [Photo: Toyota Rise Z Gasoline (2WD)].

    　The Rocky/Rise e-SMART Hybrid model has a catalog fuel economy of 28.0 km/L.

    　The gasoline bill is calculated to cost approximately 303,035 yen for 50,000 km.

    　In contrast, the catalog fuel efficiency of the Rocky/Rise 1.2-liter gasoline vehicle is 20.7 km/L.

    　The gasoline cost for 50,000 km is approximately 409,903 yen.

    　The difference between the e-SMART Hybrid and the 1.2-liter gasoline vehicle is approximately 100,000 yen. Even if the distance is doubled to 100,000 km, the difference will be approximately 200,000 yen.

    　This is only a rough estimate based on a simple calculation, but it is clear that it is not easy for a user with a long driving distance to recover the price difference of the e-SMART Hybrid vehicle, which is about 300,000 yen higher.

    　It can also be said that the gasoline-powered vehicle’s fuel economy is also excellent enough.

    　Of course, the beauty of hybrids is not just their high fuel economy. It is also nice to be able to experience the quality that comes with the price difference.

    　By taking advantage of the characteristics of the motor that produces high torque from low speeds, the e-SMART Hybrid’s responsive and smooth driving feel and quietness are sure to be felt.

    　The difference is significant for the owner, and will increase the satisfaction of ownership.

    　When choosing between the two powertrains, it is advisable to visit a dealership to compare and experience the characteristics of each before making a decision.

    * * * *

    　Toyota’s compact SUV lineup includes the Yaris Cross, which is available with a hybrid system.

    　This model is the HYBRID X (2WD) starting at 2,284,000 yen, which is also in the same price range as the Rocky/Rise e-SMART Hybrid models.

    　The Yaris Cross Hybrid’s catalog fuel economy is 30.8 km/L (WLTC mode fuel economy) for the HYBRID X (2WD), which is even better than the Rocky/Rise e-SMART Hybrid model.

    　Applying the previous calculation, the gasoline consumption for 50,000 km on the road is approximately 275,487 yen.

    　If you value not only low fuel consumption but also the feeling of driving on a motor that only a hybrid can provide, you may need to compare the Yaris Cross Hybrid as well.”

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    After all, the “Alphard style” SUV is amazing!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “The “”Alphard-like”” SUV is really powerful! What is the striking design of the new “”09″” with a 5-meter Lancel-class body?

    A 5-meter-long SUV with an even more powerful grille!
    　Lynk & Co, a Chinese automobile brand that has not yet been introduced in Japan, has held a presentation at Fuji Speedway in Shizuoka Prefecture.

    “”Alphard-face”” SUV with a 5-meter class body! What the “”09″” looks like

    　The brand is said to be popular among young people locally, and its lineup is centered on SUVs. The “”09″” is the flagship SUV in the Lynk & Co. lineup, but what kind of model is it?

    Lynk & Co’s “”09″” SUV

    　Lynk & Co’s 09 is a large-sized vehicle with a body measuring 5042 mm (overall length) x 1977 mm (overall width) x 1780 mm (overall height) and a wheelbase of 2984 mm.

    　For reference, the Toyota “”Land Cruiser”” (300 series) sold in Japan is set at 4985 mm (overall length) x 1980 mm (overall width) x 1925 mm (overall height) and 2850 mm (ZX grade) wheelbase, and although the 09 has a lower overall height than the Land Cruiser, its overall length is larger.

    　The exterior features a large front grille, upper and lower two-tiered front lights, and flat door handles.

    　The large front grille has a vertically oriented design, which gives the face a sense of massiveness and power.

    　Compared to the Link & Co. 01, 02, 03, 05, and 06 models, the 09’s grille is the most powerful, giving it a strong presence as a flagship SUV.

    　The interior is designed like a luxury car with a large center console, a large display, and an electric shift system, giving it an advanced look.

    　As for the powertrain, a mild hybrid version (09 MHEV) will be available, and Link & Co. announced on its official social networking site that it has begun advance reservations for the 09 EM-P, a new 09 model, on September 29, 2022. This new plug-in hybrid version replaces the previously set plug-in hybrid version (09 PHEV) and delivers a maximum system output of 382 kW (approximately 519 hp) and maximum torque of 844 Nm. The product has been further enhanced.

    * * *

    　Some Chinese automakers are developing and selling large MPVs (minivans in Japan) on the level of the Toyota Alphard, and some of them have adopted large grilles like the Alphard.

    　The powerful design with a large grille may be attracting attention not only in Japan but also in the Chinese market.”

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    Feeling tough! Nissan’s new “X-Trail” comes with a full-fledged off-road specification! The custom that emphasizes “black” is cool! What is rendering of “4 × 4 Offroad Version” .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “ougher than ever! Nissan’s new XTRAIL is now available in a full-scale off-road version! The customization that emphasizes the “”black”” look is very cool! What is the rendering of the “”4×4 Offroad Version””?

    Gotta be cool! New “XTRAIL”” with full-fledged off-road vehicle specifications
    　Nissan’s mid-size SUV, the XTRAIL, will be unveiled as the fourth generation model in Japan on July 19, 2022.

    Too much “”black”” custom looks cool! Rendering of the all-new Nissan xtrail with full off-road specifications

    　Indian designer SRK Designs has created and posted a rendering of the new Nissan Extrale customized to full-blown off-road specifications.

    Rogue 4×4 Offroad Version,”” a full-scale off-road version of Nissan’s mid-size xtrail SUV (photo: SRK Designs)

    　The xtrail is Nissan’s flagship SUV; the first generation was introduced in 2000, the second generation in 2007, and the third generation in 2013. As a global model, it is sold in many parts of the world, with cumulative sales exceeding 6.3 million units.

    　The current model is the 4th generation model, which will be fully remodeled for the first time in 9 years and will be introduced on July 19, 2022. It was introduced outside of Japan before it was announced in Japan, and is known as the “”Rogue”” in North America.

    　SRK Designs has created and released a “”Rogue 4×4 Offroad Version”” rendering of the 4th generation xtrail, customized to full off-road specifications.

    　SRK Designs creates and posts on their social networking sites renderings of all kinds of “”what if”” vehicles that do not yet exist in reality, such as the next-generation Swift and a short-wheelbase version of the Toyota Land Cruiser.

    　SRK Designs lifted the xtrail, blacked out the grille, and eliminated the emblems. Instead, a large “”NISSAN”” is placed in the center.

    　The lower bumper was also redesigned, and all chrome parts, including the roof rails and side moldings, were blacked out, as well as the wheels. Off-road tires with white lettering accents have been combined to enhance the fashionable look.

    　The rendering created by SRK Designs is, of course, unrealistic, but there are actually owners who customize their xtrails to full off-road specifications, such as lifting the vehicle up and installing off-road tires, so it would not be surprising if a customized model similar to the rendering It would not be surprising to see a model customized to the same specifications as the rendering.”

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    Toyota “Alphard” look-alike? A super luxurious “American car” minivan with over 10 million yen! Pros and cons for the new Buick “GL8”! Some people want to introduce it to Japan .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota “”Alphard”” looks like? A super luxury “”American”” minivan that may exceed 10 million yen! Pros and Cons of the New Buick GL8! Some want it to be introduced in Japan!

    Does it still look like the Alphard? The New GL8 Luxury Minivan
    　On August 19, 2022, GM and Buick unveiled the new luxury minivan “”GL8″” in Shanghai, China.

    “”What…! It’s not an Alphard? Comparison of Buick “”GL8″” and “”Alphard,”” which have been talked about as looking just like each other

    　This large minivan, with an overall length of over 5 meters and a gorgeous large front grille like the Alphard, has attracted a variety of responses on social networking sites.

    Buick GL8 (left) and Toyota Alphard (right)

    　Buick is one of the automobile brands manufactured and sold by General Motors (GM) of the United States. In China, GM and Shanghai Automobile joint venture, SAIC Motor Corporation (hereinafter referred to as “”Shanghai GM””), manufacture and sell Buick vehicles.

    　The GL8 is Shanghai GM’s luxury minivan in China, first introduced in China in 1999, and has become one of the most popular models in Buick’s lineup sold in China. 1.6 million units have been sold there through the August 2022 fiscal year.

    　The new GL8, unveiled in August 2022, features a new front face design, including a grille that Buick describes as “”larger and more expressive,”” upgraded comfort features, and additional grades.

    　The powertrain is powered by a 2-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine that delivers a maximum output of 233 hp. It is mated to a 9-speed AT.

    　Body dimensions are 5219-5238 mm (overall length) x 1878 mm (overall width) x 1799-1805 mm (overall height).

    　The new GL8 is roughly divided into three grades: Avenir, ES, and Legacy, each with different exterior and interior specifications.

    　Of the three, the highest grade, Avenir, has a larger grille reinforced by unique double-layer chrome detailing and second-row seats designed to ensure business-class level space and comfort, enhancing its presence and sense of luxury.

    　Prices start at 533,900 yuan (approximately 1.065 million Japanese yen) for the Avenir, 317,900 yuan (approximately 6.34 million Japanese yen) for the ES, and 232,900 yuan (approximately 4.64 million Japanese yen) for the Legacy.

    * * *

    　Various opinions about the new GL8 have developed on social networking sites.

    　The most common opinions are that it resembles the Alphard and Nissan’s Elgrand, such as “”It looks like Alphard and Elgrand added and divided by two,”” “”Almost like an Alphard,”” and “”No, it’s totally a Toyota.

    　Also, “”Other Chinese manufacturers also released vehicles with an Alphard face,”” and “”The popularity of the Alphard face in China is amazing,”” etc., indicating that they feel the Alphard is popular in China, as other manufacturers also released vehicles with a design similar to that of the Alphard.

    　Furthermore, “”I didn’t think Buick would do something like this,”” and “”It doesn’t look like an American car,”” etc. There is a sense of disappointment that even though it is a Shanghai GM car, they did not expect the GL8, which has American blood mixed in, to make a car that looks like the Alphard.

    　On the other hand, “”Personally, I think it looks really cool!”” On the other hand, some praised the interior and exterior design of the GL8, saying, “”Personally, I think it looks really cool!

    　There are also comments such as “”I want it to be sold in Japan”” and “”I want it in Japan because I’m bored with all the Alphard models.

    * * * *

    　Various opinions about the GL8 were voiced, including “”It’s made in China, so you never know what will happen,”” “”The interior is super luxurious, but how long will it be able to be driven without breaking down? How long will it last without breaking down?”” “”Such a big car with a 2-liter turbo engine? There were many who questioned the quality of American cars made in China, which are unknown to Japanese people.

    　Although the actual durability of the GL8 is unknown, the fact is that the GL8 has maintained its popularity for 20 years, so there is no doubt that it has a certain reputation including “”durability.

    　It will be interesting to see how the Chinese luxury minivan market will develop in the future, where the Alphard, GL8, and other models are competing with each other.”

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    Production of Subaru “XV” to end New orders until October 16th! Completely redesigned successor model “New Crosstrek”.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Subaru to End Production of the Subaru XV: New Orders Due by October 16! Completely Revamped to the Successor Model, the “”New Crosstrek

    XV to Crosstrek, a complete renewal!
    　It has been announced that the current model of the Subaru XV crossover SUV will be discontinued.

    XV Production Ends! Too Wild to See the “”Crosstrek,”” Successor to the Tough Gear Emphasis, in 27 Images.

    　The announcement was made on the official websites of several dealerships, including Hiroshima Subaru, which will stop accepting new orders as of October 16, 2022.

    　The successor model, the new Crosstrek, made its world premiere on September 15, 2022, which means that production will end in conjunction with a full model change.

    Subaru “”XV”” to be stopped for orders on October 16, 2022.

    　The XV was created as a crossover SUV with a raised ride height of the Impreza.

    　Subaru positions the model based on the fourth-generation Impreza and introduced in 2012 as the first generation and the current model based on the fifth-generation Impreza and introduced in 2017 as the second generation, but before that, there was a model derived from the third-generation Impreza and given the name XV, which is the original model.

    　The new model will be marketed globally under the overseas name Crosstrek, and will also appear as a hybrid-only vehicle, with only a 2-liter hybrid (e-BOXER).

    　Furthermore, a major feature of this model is that it will be the first Subaru vehicle in Japan to be equipped with the new-generation “”EyeSight”” system, which improves safety with a three-lens camera consisting of two stereo cameras plus a monocular wide-angle camera.

    　This new Crosstrek is expected to go on sale in the spring of 2023.

    　The current Impreza Sport and Impreza G4 models will also be discontinued, and new orders will stop on December 11, 2022.”

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    Honda announces the new 6th generation “CR-V”! A powerful face with a three-dimensional grill!? To be introduced in China with turbo and PHEV

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Honda Announces the All-New CR-V, 6th Generation! Powerful face with a three-dimensional grille! It will be equipped with a turbo, PHEV, etc. and will be introduced in China.

    CR-V e:HEV and CR-V e:PHEV to be introduced
    　Honda’s Chinese joint venture, Dongfeng Honda Automobile, announced the new CR-V on September 28, 2022.

    Honda’s new “”CR-V”” emphasizes SUV-like features! See the gobsmacking presence
    New Honda CR-V with Chinese specifications

    　The new CR-V, the sixth-generation model, made its world premiere in the U.S. on July 12, 2022, and went on sale in the U.S. market on September 22 of the same year. This was followed by the announcement of the Chinese version.

    　The body size of the new CR-V is 4703 mm (length) x 1866 mm (width) x 1680 mm (height), and the wheelbase is 2701 mm (Chinese specifications).

    　It adopts a new design language for its exterior, with a powerful face characterized by a three-dimensional grille molding and sharp LED headlights. With horizontal character lines, the design blends in well with a variety of situations.

    　The interior features optimized angles of the A-pillars, door mirrors, and hood for excellent forward visibility, as well as full LCD meters and a 10.1-inch center display.

    　A 12-speaker Bose high-end audio system is also available.

    　In addition to the five-seat version, a seven-seat version is available for the first time for the Chinese CR-V.

    　The CR-V is powered by a 1.5-liter direct injection VTEC turbo engine that delivers a maximum output of 193 hp and maximum torque of 243 Nm. The transmission is a CVT.

    　A hybrid version (CR-V e:HEV) and a plug-in hybrid version (CR-V e:PHEV) will be added at a later date.

    　Advanced features include Honda Connect 3.0, which supports voice-activated operation, a digital key, and the Honda SENSING 360 preventive safety system.

    　The price of the new CR-V in the Chinese market will be set between RMB 185,900 and 249,900 (approximately ¥3.73 million to ¥5.01 million).

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

  • | |

    Lexus super luxury minivan “LM” is too luxurious! Looking forward to domestic introduction!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “More room than the Alphard! Lexus’ super luxury minivan “”LM”” is too luxurious! Expect its introduction in Japan!

    Lexus’ only minivan, the LM
    　Lexus, Toyota’s luxury brand, has a lineup of sedans and SUVs in Japan, as well as a coupe.

    Too luxurious for four passengers! Lexus “”LM”” is super gorgeous! Which is more luxurious than the 15 million yen Alphard?

    　There are models that have not yet been introduced in Japan overseas, with the “”LM”” minivan attracting the most attention.

    The LM, Lexus’ ultra-luxury minivan expected to be introduced in Japan

    　The LM made its world premiere at the Shanghai International Motor Show in April 2019 and has since been sold in China and other Asian countries.

    　Based on Toyota’s luxury minivan Alphard, the LM features a chrome spindle grille that gives it a Lexus face, L-shaped daytime running lights, and other features that give it a luxurious appearance and presence.

    　The body size is 5040 mm (overall length) x 1850 mm (overall width) x 1945 mm (overall height) with a wheelbase of 3000 mm. 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine LM350 and 2.5-liter inline-4 hybrid LM300h are available for each destination as the powertrain.

    　Intended to be used as a show car (a limousine in which the owner sits in the rear seat while the driver takes care of the driving), the LM has a two-row, four-passenger configuration.

    　The front and rear seats are separated by a glass screen, and a luxurious two-seater layout is adopted for the rear seats, which provide a vast private space.

    　The rear seats in the two-seater layout are equipped with large, independent left and right executive seats. In addition to a 26-inch display in front of the rear seats, a refrigerator is also provided, allowing passengers to enjoy the highest level of “”hospitality.

    　Seat foam made from low-density polyurethane is soft and comfortable, with a high quality feel and excellent support. The carefully set suspension and swing valve dampers provide outstanding ride comfort and amenity.

    　A more practical three-row, seven-passenger version is also available.

    　Although the LM has not been introduced in Japan, you may have seen it around town.

    　In addition to cases where LMs sold in Asia are imported, there are also those based on the Alphard that are transplanted by ordering genuine LM parts.

    　An LM-faced Alphard was also exhibited at the Tokyo Auto Salon, indicating that this is a highly popular customization.

    * * *

    　The Alphard and Vellfire also have a complete car called the “”Royal Lounge”” (15 million yen) with two rows of four seats, which was sold by Modellista, but production ended in December 2019.

    　In this context, there are expectations for the official introduction of a new luxury minivan, as there are rumors that Lexus will launch the LM in Japan within a few years.

    　However, it is priced at over 20 million Japanese yen in China and Thailand, and we must be prepared for it to become an extremely expensive model on par with the Toyota Century in the Japanese market.”