kuruma

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    Honda unveils the new “Fit RS”! Revived for the first time in about two and a half years and renewed with a new design! To be announced in fall 2022.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Honda’s New Fit RS Revealed! Revived after 2.5 years and renewed with a new design! To be unveiled in the fall of 2022

    New Fit Features Design Changes and a New Driving-Focused RS!
    　On August 5, 2022, the new Fit (4th generation) was previewed on our website.
    　
    　The most noteworthy point is the revival of the “”RS”” sports grade, which was available in the 2nd and 3rd generation models, in the current 4th generation model.

    This is what we have been waiting for! Expect “”Driving”” with the revived RS! See the newly designed interior and exterior in person!
    Is this design…good? The “”RS is back”” after an absence of about 2.5 years! All eyes are on the new “”Fit””!

    　In this minor model change, each type such as “”BASIC, HOME, and LUXE”” has been renewed with a neat new design, while maintaining the Fit concept that allows users to choose according to their lifestyles and life stages.

    　The “”CROSSTAR,”” which incorporates a SUV taste, has a design that emphasizes crossover-like features.

    　The “”e:HEV”” two-motor hybrid system, which is installed in the CROSSTAR, delivers increased motor output and improved accelerator response for a more powerful ride.

    　The RS, which returns to the market for the first time in almost two years, features a sporty design and a focus on driving quality.

    　The Fit RS was first introduced in the second generation. The specifications at the time included a 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine combined with a CVT/5-speed AT/5-speed MT (6-speed MT for later models), as well as a special suspension.

    　A minor change in 2012 brought the RS lineup with a 1.5-liter i-VTEC + IMA (the hybrid name at the time).

    　The third generation was fully remodeled in 2013. At that time, the RS was available with 1.5-liter direct injection DOHC i-VTEC combined with CVT (with paddle shifters) or 6-speed MT.

    　In the current fourth generation, launched in 2020, the RS was not offered in the initial lineup, and a new sporty type, the NESS, was newly established.

    　However, with this minor change, the NESS type has been discontinued and the RS type is back, featuring a special front grille, front and rear bumpers, rear spoiler, and other design features that give the car a sporty impression.

    　The RS is available in gasoline and hybrid versions, with only 2WD drive system. The e:HEV is exclusively equipped with a deceleration selector and a drive mode switch to meet the user’s “”driving preference.

    * * * * * * * *

    　The new Fit is scheduled for a minor model change in the fall of 2022.

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

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    RS revives, Honda Fit improved version pre-released on website.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “RS Returns, Honda Fit Upgraded Model Revealed on Website in Advance Friday, August 5, 2022, 11:30 a.m.

    New Honda Fit e:HEV CROSSTARNew Honda Fit e:HEV RSHonda Fit RSPrevious Honda Fit NESS Conventional model
    The Honda Fit is bringing back the driving-oriented “”RS”” grade!　On August 5, Honda released information on the Fit, which is scheduled to undergo a minor model change this fall, on its website in advance.

    The minor model change maintains the Fit’s concept of allowing customers to choose the model that best suits their lifestyle and life stage, while the “”BASIC,”” “”HOME,”” and “”LUXE”” grades have a more neat design, and the “”CROSSTAR”” grade has a more crossover-like design. The “”CROSSTAR”” version has a more crossover-like design. The conventional “”NESS”” model is dropped.

    In addition, the “”RS”” model is newly available, focusing on sporty design and driving quality. The “”RS”” is the name of a sports grade that has been available on several Honda models, and was also available on the Fit from the beginning of the second generation (October 2007), but was not available with the full model change to the current generation, making its return after a gap of two and a half years.

    The newly available RS features an exclusive front grille, front and rear bumpers, and rear spoiler, giving it a sporty look. The RS e:HEV also features a deceleration selector and a drive mode switch as exclusive equipment, responding to the model’s focus on driving performance.

    With the minor changes, the e:HEV two-motor hybrid system is said to have increased motor output and improved accelerator response.

    Successive generations of the Fit have pursued the necessary safety performance and usability to make the car comfortable to use in a variety of everyday situations. According to Honda, the conventional model has been well received for its Honda SENSING, an advanced driving safety support system that is standard equipment on all models, as well as for its spacious interior, comfortable visibility, and ease of use.

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

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    Honda Vezel new model equipped with a large screen 9-inch commercial navigation system, Kanak releases installation kit

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Canac Releases Installation Kit for New Honda Vezel with Large-Screen 9-Inch Commercial Navigation System2022/8/3 (Wed.) 21:30
    Image after installation.

    Image after installationInstallable sizeParts configurationHONDA VESEL
    Canac Planning has released the “”TBX-H012″” installation set that enables installation of an after-market 9-inch car navigation system on the new Honda Vezel at dealers and car accessory stores nationwide.

    The new Vezel has been transformed into a next-generation model. This product allows users to select and install a 9-inch car navigation system of their choice. The included panel has a grained matte finish to minimize reflection on the windshield. In addition, by using a commercially available steering wheel remote control adapter, steering wheel switches can also be used with some car AV systems (confirmation required).

    The new product consists of a panel, bracket, sub-bracket, connector (24P), antenna conversion cord, etc. Applicable to VWZEL audio-less models (including models with the special package for navigation system installation) from April 2021 onward. The price is 26,400 yen.

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

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    Toyota New “RAV4” Partially improved car when to come out!? “Large navigation & liquid crystal meter” has been announced in Europe

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota’s new “”RAV4″” partially redesigned model to be released anytime soon! Large navigation system and LCD meters have already been announced for the European market
    Still no announcement in Japan! Partially redesigned “”RAV4″” model revealed in Europe

    　On June 22, 2022, Toyota’s European subsidiary announced the 2023 model of the RAV4 SUV series. This partially upgraded model features new all-digital combination meter panel (all-digital combi meter) and large center display, as well as improved Toyota Safety Sense, an advanced driver assistance function, among other functional changes.
    　
    　Production of the new RAV4 for Europe will start in the third quarter of 2022 (June to September 2022), but as of the end of July, no announcement has been made in Japan. What will the Japanese version be like?

    “”The interior has changed!”” Interior and exterior photos of Toyota’s new RAV4 partially redesigned model .

    The photo shows the new Toyota RAV4 Hybrid 2023 model that has been partially redesigned in Europe.

    　The 12.3-inch all-digital combination meter offers four display modes: “”Casual,”” “”Smart,”” “”Sport”” and “”Tough. It is also said to be capable of switching between three different layouts.

    　The center display also features a new 10.5-inch multimedia touchscreen.

    　The current RAV4, with the exception of the base “”X”” grade, is equipped with a 9-inch display audio system, and it is likely that the multimedia system will be updated to the latest version as its size increases.

    　The new Noah/Voxy released in January 2022 has a “”Display Audio Plus”” with a 10.5-inch display that is compatible with the connected navigation system, and it is assumed that it will have similar features.

    　In addition to these features, the European specifications also include enhanced Toyota Safety Sense functions and a new body color.

    　In terms of body colors, Platinum White Pearl is newly available for all models except the Adventure grade, while the Style grade (not available in Japan) comes in a two-tone color combination of Midnight Black Metallic and Platinum White Pearl.

    * * * *

    　The delivery date information posted on Toyota’s official website (“”List of Estimated Plant Shipments Based on Production Delays”” as of July 19, 2022) explains that many models are currently experiencing production delays due to the spread of the Corona infection and a worldwide shortage of semiconductor parts.

    　The page lists the estimated factory shipment dates for each model, and the delivery date for the RAV4 is “”Please contact your dealer for details.

    　For other models, for example, “”Voxy”” says “”6 months or more from the time of order/ Delivery time varies depending on the grade and specifications, so please contact the dealer for details. Some Passo models clearly state “”about three months from the time of order,”” while others, like the RAV4, state “”Please inquire.

    　It is unclear whether this is due to the fact that a partial improvement of the RAV4 is scheduled to follow, or whether there are other reasons, but the timing of the announcement and scheduled release of the partial improvement in Europe coincides with that of the RAV4 in Japan.

    　However, with the production delays not improving, it is possible that the launch date will be postponed. We will continue to wait for the latest information.”

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    Mitsubishi Motors Outlander Strong Domestic Sales Increase for Second Consecutive Year First Half of 2022

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Mitsubishi Motors Posts Second Consecutive Year of Sales Growth in Japan on Strong Outlander Sales July 29, 2022 (Fri.) 14:00

    Mitsubishi Delica D:5
    Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) announced on July 28 its preliminary production, domestic sales, and export results for the first half (January-June) of 2022. Domestic sales increased 2.9% to 45,178 units, marking the second consecutive year of positive growth.

    Registered vehicle sales were up sharply, rising 30.2% to 25,350 units, due in part to strong sales of the Outlander PHEV. Sales of mini vehicles were down 18.8% to 19,828 units. Domestic market share was 2.4%, up 0.4 points from the same period last year.

    Global production was 469,940 units, down 8.8% from the same period last year and the first year-on-year decline in two years. Domestic production was down 11.8% to 197,666 units, and overseas production fell 6.4% to 272,274 units. This was the first year-on-year decline in both categories in two years.

    Exports were down 17.4% to 95,863 units, the fourth consecutive year of negative growth.”

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    Honda to revive the new Odyssey to compete with the “Alphard” Will the new “Elysion” for China be introduced domestically next year .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Honda to Revive New Odyssey to Compete with Alphard; New Elysion for China to be Introduced in Japan in 2023

    Alphard”” is being considered for introduction in Japan? Considering Introducing the New “”Elysion”” in Japan?
    　Honda has terminated production of its high-end Odyssey minivan at the end of December 2021, following the closure of its Saitama Works Sayama plant. With Toyota dominating the popularity of the high-end minivan “”Alphard,”” there have been many requests for Honda to revive the model.
    　
    　The “”Elysion,”” a higher-end model of the Odyssey that continues to be produced overseas, may be introduced to Japan as the new Odyssey in 2023.

    “”More luxurious than the Alphard! Introduction in Japan is imminent! View 53 interior and exterior photos of Honda’s top-of-the-line minivan, the Elysion.

    Honda’s new Elysion luxury minivan, minor-changed in China in December 2021 [Chinese specifications].

    　The Odyssey is a high-end model that occupies a higher position than the Freed and Step Wagon in Honda’s three-row minivan lineup.

    　It is a well-established brand with a history of more than 25 years since the first model in 1994, and the current model, introduced in 2014, is the fifth generation.

    　Although a full six years have passed since its debut, it was just refreshed in November 2020 with a fairly major minor change that redesigned the interior and exterior.

    　In the following year of 2021, 21,148 units (average monthly sales of approximately 1762 units) were sold, and the sudden announcement of the end of production was met with lamentation from many Honda fans, as the car had been enjoying stable popularity.

    　As of the end of July 2022, the Odyssey new car introduction page still remains on Honda’s official website.

    　However, the page still says, “”*Some types and colors may not be available. Please contact the sales company for details.”” It seems that only vehicles produced during 2021 are being sold from stock.

    　Of course, Honda is also taking measures to end Odyssey production.

    　The Step Wagon, a medium-class minivan that will be fully remodeled in May 2022, will be offered in the “”Spada Premium Line,”” a high-end version with a chrome exterior and higher quality seat materials to accommodate Odyssey replacement users.

    　However, according to Honda officials, there are many requests from users to revive the high-end minivan.

    　Therefore, it appears that Honda is secretly considering the introduction of a high-end minivan once again.

    　The popularity of the Toyota Alphard, a high-end minivan, is also said to be a driving force behind this.

    The current Odyssey (Odyssey) is actually a high-end minivan.

    　In fact, a model with almost the same specifications as the current Odyssey (minor-changed version) is still being produced at a local joint venture company in China, Guangqi Honda Automobile (Guangzhou, Guangdong Province).

    　In addition, the Elysion, with more advanced interior and exterior specifications, is also produced at the joint venture Dongfeng Honda Automobile (Wuhan City, Hubei Province).

    　The Elysion was once sold in Japan from 2004 to 2013 as a top-end minivan that ranked above the Odyssey, but with the introduction of the current Odyssey, it is no longer in production in Japan.

    　The Chinese version of the Elysion, on the other hand, has just undergone a minor change in December 2021.

    　With an overall length of 4951 mm x width of 1842 mm x height of 1711 mm and a wheelbase of 2900 mm, the 7-seat version has a 2-liter Atkinson cycle gasoline engine combined with a highly efficient and powerful 2-motor hybrid system as its powertrain.

    　The interior layout follows the specifications of the current Odyssey, which underwent minor changes in 2020, and includes a 7-inch full LCD instrument panel, a large 10.1-inch center display, and gesture control power sliding doors.

    　The Step Wagon also offers more luxurious seat materials than the Odyssey, and an electric double sunroof, which was not available in Japan.

    　Now that a higher grade is available for the Step Wagon, it would be more impactful to launch the Elysion with increased luxury as a new model rather than reintroducing the Odyssey with the same specifications as before.

    　At this point, it is unclear whether the right-hand-drive version will be produced in China and imported, or whether it will be produced again at Honda’s production facilities in Japan. In any case, it seems very likely that the new Elysion will be introduced in Japan.

    　As for the naming, it is being renamed the Odyssey, which has been successful in Japan, and is being renamed the “”revival of Honda’s high-end minivan. We expect the new model to be introduced in 2023.”

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    First scoop on the next-generation Suzuki “Swift”! Adoption of new rear door and clam-style hood?

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “First Scoop of the Next Suzuki Swift! New Rear Door & Hamaguri Style Hood?
    Prototype of the next generation Suzuki Swift (Scoop photo)

    The full model change of Suzuki’s popular compact hatchback, the Swift, appears to be approaching. The scoop site Spyder7 has obtained an exclusive scoop of a prototype vehicle of the next model.

    The first generation Swift was introduced in 2000 as a crossover-style compact car, using body panels from the “”kei”” minicar. Since then, it has been upgraded as a global model, and the sporty “”Swift Sports”” has also gained popularity in Japan and overseas. The current 4th generation model was launched in 2017. The next model is expected to be introduced in 2023, marking the first full model change in six years.

    The prototype vehicle, code-named “”YED,”” has a fully camouflaged body with unknown details. The front end reveals a “”clam-shell”” hood and some of the slim headlights. The bumper also reveals wide oval air intakes on the lower part of the bumper.

    From the side of the body, the roofline is slightly more sloped than before. Even so, the Swift-like silhouette seems to have been maintained. The biggest change is the position of the rear seat door handle, which was embedded in the C-pillar but is now located on the side of the door. The rear window is more trapezoidal in shape. Also visible are some of the newly designed LED taillights and reflectors mounted on the lower rear bumper.

    The next model will also adopt Suzuki’s lightweight and highly rigid “”Heartect”” platform, and will be equipped with a 1.2-liter inline four-cylinder plus mild hybrid powertrain. The Swift Sport is expected to combine a 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine with an ISG 48V mild hybrid system.

    The world premiere of the next Swift is expected in 2023. The Swift Sport is expected to appear around six months to a year after that. As cost performance is one of the selling points of the Swift/Swift Sport, the price of the next model is also a matter of concern. We will keep you posted as soon as we get further information.”

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    Powerful grill is aggressive! Toyota launches new SUV “Corolla Cross” in Europe! Start accepting orders in Italy.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Aggressive with a powerful grille! Toyota Introduces the New Corolla Cross SUV to Europe! Orders Start in Italy

    Corolla Cross lands in Italy!
    　Toyota’s Italian subsidiary announced that it will start taking orders for the new Corolla Cross on July 25, 2022.

    Equipped with a dynamic large grille! The European-spec Corolla Cross is hot!

    Toyota “”Corolla Cross Hybrid”” (European specifications)

    　The Corolla Cross is positioned between the C-HR and RAV4 and is the central model in the highly competitive European C-segment SUV market. In addition to its distinctive streamlined styling, it is a practical vehicle with ample passenger space.

    　As a Corolla SUV, it also serves to strengthen the series’ lineup.

    　The Corolla Cross is powered by a 2-liter engine and a new fifth-generation hybrid system that improves both the engine and the electric motor. Total system output has been increased by more than 8%.

    　The drive system is available in 2WD or AWD (AWD-i); AWD features a powerful 30.6 kW electric motor at the rear wheels for increased traction in low-grip situations, providing a safe and secure driving experience.

    　On the safety front, the new model features Toyota Safety Sense 3, an advanced active safety system.

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

    　Two grades are available: Trend and Lounge. The Trend comes standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, full LED headlights, automatic climate control, a 10.5-inch screen, Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity, a 12.3-inch digital cockpit, a power tailgate and tinted rear windows. specifications.

    　The Lounge adds leather and fabric interior with heated seats, blind spot monitors, a panoramic roof, JBL Hi-Fi system, and a navigation system.

    　Prices in Italy range from 38,000 euros to 43,500 euros (approximately 5.31 million to 6.07 million yen), and the model will go on sale in October 2022.”

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    Why is the used price of Toyota “Corolla Cross” soaring? A new car of 3 million yen becomes a used car of 5 million yen!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Why the Used Toyota “”Corolla Cross”” Soared in Price? New car 3 million yen to used 5 million yen! What is the abnormal situation of the used car market?

    Corolla Cross is an “”anomaly”” at 5 million yen
    　The used car market has been experiencing an overall surge in market prices due to the long delivery times of new cars, and popular models are now priced at a premium that far exceeds new car prices.
    　
    The price of popular used cars is at a premium, far exceeding the price of new cars.

    The popular SUV “”Corolla Cross”” is priced at 5,000,000 yen! A look at the SUVs that are now selling extremely well .

    Used car prices far exceeding new car prices… conventional wisdom is no longer valid!

    　With the recent trend toward longer delivery times for new cars due to the lack of progress in the supply of semiconductors and various other parts, demand has increased as users who were considering new cars now also consider used cars, resulting in an overall surge in the used car market price.

    　Except for rare limited production models or those with special equipment or history, used cars rarely exceeded the price of new cars. However, such examples are now increasing.

    　The Toyota Corolla Cross is one such model, with a price tag of 4,899,000 yen at a major used car dealer as of July 22.

    　This Corolla Cross is a FWD version of the top-end “”Hybrid Z”” grade, which also comes with an optional panoramic roof and a 9-inch display audio system.

    　Although this is a 2022 model and the interior and exterior are in overall good condition, the mileage is approximately 12,000 km, so it is not a “”like-new”” car.

    　The price of a new Corolla Cross “”Hybrid Z”” with 2WD specification is 2.99 million yen, and the starting cost including options such as a panoramic roof is about 3.5 million yen.

    　According to the used car dealer’s representative, this Corolla Cross has no special equipment or history, and is just a general “”used car.

    　Despite this, the price of this car is about 1.5 million yen more than the new car price.

    　In the case of major used car dealers, the price of each car is basically determined automatically by the cost of purchasing at auctions for dealers, so the price does not seem to have been set arbitrarily for the purpose of creating a buzz.

    　In fact, several Corolla Crosses sold at another major used car dealer are priced in the low 4 million yen range, indicating that the overall market price is soaring.

    Why the used Toyota Corolla Cross soaring? New car 3 million yen to 5 million yen used! What is the abnormal used car market?

    Advantages of Used Cars Go from “”Cheap to Affordable”” to “”Quick to Get””
    　It is the balance between supply and demand that largely determines the price of used cars.

    　The Corolla Cross is a compact SUV that is popular worldwide and has recorded strong sales in Japan immediately after its launch.

    　In particular, hybrid vehicles account for the majority of sales in Japan, mainly due to their class-leading fuel economy.

    　On the other hand, the global shortage of semiconductors and components has been plaguing the automotive industry in recent years, preventing the production of new vehicles from proceeding as planned.

    　In particular, hybrid vehicles, which require more semiconductors, tend to take longer to deliver than gasoline vehicles, and in Toyota’s case, most of its hybrid vehicles are being delivered in six months or more, or orders are being suspended.

    　Under these circumstances, the only way to get a Corolla Cross hybrid as quickly as possible is still to rely on the used car market.

    　However, since there are very few used cars for a relatively new model like the Corolla Cross to begin with, the ones that do appear on the market are literally up for grabs. As a result, the prices of used cars seem to be at a premium, far exceeding the price of new cars.

    The highest new car price for a Toyota Land Cruiser (300 series) is approximately 8 million yen, but there are models on the used car market that are priced at close to 20 million yen.

    　A used car industry insider describes the recent used car market as follows.

    A used car is basically a choice made by users who prioritize cost.

    　To put it another way, the main motivation for choosing a used car was ‘I don’t have the budget to buy a new car.

    　Recently, however, more and more users are choosing used cars because they can get them quickly.

    　Since such users do not prioritize “”buying cheap,”” the market price of a near-new car will inevitably rise. This situation is expected to continue until the supply of new cars recovers.

    * * *

    　Unfortunately, there is no prospect of resolving the shortage of semiconductors and other components, and these conditions are likely to continue for the foreseeable future.

    　Therefore, there is a great possibility that models other than the Corolla Cross will be sold at a premium price that far exceeds the price of a new car.

    　The current used car market is truly an “”anomaly”” considering the conventional wisdom, but on the other hand, there are many things in society where one can get a car quickly (and receive priority service) in exchange for paying an additional fee.

    　Until the supply of new cars recovers, the most effective countermeasure may be to adopt this attitude toward used cars as well.

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

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    Over 120,000 km after 28 years! Still, what is the finest Nissan “Skyline GT-R” that was sold for over 6.7 million .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “28 years old and over 120,000 km! Still, what is the superb Nissan “”Skyline GT-R”” that sold for over 6.7 million dollars?

    Sold for over 6.7 million yen even with over 100,000 km!
    　Collecting Cars is an auction site of the same name run by its own company, and is an auctioneer of cars from all over the world, including Sweden, Australia, and Germany.

    Over 120,000 kilometers on the odometer and sold for over 6.7 million yen! More 1994 Nissan “”Skyline GT-R”” Still Valuable

    　In June 2022, a Nissan “”Skyline GT-R (R32 model)”” was offered for sale and sold for 71,000 Australian dollars (approximately 6.78 million yen), but what kind of vehicle is it?

    Nissan “”Skyline GT-R (R32)”” with mileage exceeding 120,000 km, which sold for approximately 6.78 million yen (photo: Collecting cars).

    　Launched in 1989, the R32 Skyline GT-R is a commemorative model that marked the return of the GT-R after a 16-year absence. In recent years, the Skyline GT-R has attracted worldwide attention, and prices have skyrocketed to extraordinary levels.

    　The Skyline GT-R on display here is a 1994 model, exported from Japan to Australia in March 2022.

    　It is powered by an RB26DETT 2.6-liter inline 6-cylinder twin-turbo engine that produces a maximum output of approximately 279 hp and drives all four wheels via a 5-speed manual transmission.

    　The mileage is 123,846 km, and the exterior color is Gun Gray Metallic, which is almost original.

    　It is equipped with Nismo strut tower bars front and rear, and on the feet, 16-inch forged 5-spoke aluminum wheels with Dayton DT30s.

    　The body, wheels, and interior have light scratches and fading for its age, but there are few mechanical failures, and the radio is listed as malfunctioning only.

    　The listing area is Ingleburn, New South Wales, in southeastern Australia.

    　The auction site has 211 high-resolution images and a video of this vehicle, which shows it in considerable detail.

    　This GT-R was sold on June 23, 2022 for A$71,000 (approximately $6.78 million) after 21 bids.”