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    Nissan Magnite Takes a Bold Turn with the Exclusive Red Edition: Unveiled on January 24, 2023

    ByChathura Chanuka

    In an exciting move, Nissan’s South African division has introduced a captivating twist to their compact SUV, the Magnite. Enter the “Red Edition,” a special variant that promises to turn heads and ignite driving passions. Officially announced on January 24, 2023, this edition embraces an eye-catching red-themed design, adding an extra layer of allure to the already distinctive Magnite.

    The Magnite, originally unveiled globally in India on October 21, 2020, belongs to the competitive B-segment compact SUV category. Its appeal lies in its blend of stylish aesthetics, compact yet robust stance, and exceptional functionality.

    Measuring in at 3994 mm in length, 1780 mm in width, and 1572 mm in height, the Magnite stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Toyota’s “Raize,” a notable contender in Japan’s automobile market. This newcomer’s dimensions are even more compact than Nissan’s KIX, a model launched in Japan in June 2020. With an overall length under 4 meters, the Magnite earns the distinction of being Nissan’s smallest SUV model.

    It’s important to note, however, that as of January 2023, this captivating compact SUV isn’t available for purchase in Japan.

    Beneath the hood, the Magnite Red Edition boasts a spirited 1.0-liter inline 3-cylinder turbo engine, churning out an impressive 100 hp and 160 Nm of peak torque. Drivers can opt for either a CVT or a 5-speed manual transmission.

    Distinct from the standard model, the “Red Edition” showcases a range of unique enhancements. Notably, red accents grace both the exterior and interior, creating a cohesive visual theme. These vibrant red touches artfully accentuate the vehicle’s distinctive curves and lines, capturing attention from all angles. Enhancements include sporty red brake calipers, exclusive badges and graphics, as well as a chrome garnish on the tailgate. Buyers can choose between two elegant body colors: Onyx Black and Storm White.

    The interior of the Magnite Red Edition is a feast for the eyes, adorned with red accents throughout. A striking red-toned dashboard and LED scuff plates harmoniously complement the ergonomic cockpit design. Technophiles will appreciate the 8-inch touch infotainment system, seamlessly integrating smartphones via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

    Safety and convenience remain paramount, with a suite of driver assistance features such as ABS, EBD, traction control, vehicle dynamic control (VDC), hill start assist, hill descent control, and cruise control.

    Commenting on this exciting release, Stephan Hersbruck, Nissan South Africa’s Director of Marketing, expressed enthusiasm, stating, “We are thrilled to introduce the Magnite Special Edition to our customers. Our aim was to infuse the design with the thrill and passion for adventure that our customers seek in their driving experiences. The Red Edition enhances the already robust demand for the Magnite, representing an evolution for the tech-savvy youth.”

    Limited to a production run of 600 units, the special edition Magnite Red Edition is available exclusively in South Africa. With a starting price of 298,300 rand (approximately 2.26 million yen), it offers a tantalizing proposition for those seeking a blend of style, innovation, and driving excitement.

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    Despite New Model Releases, Nissan FAIRLADY Z and X-TRAIL Orders Suspended, Impacting Nissan’s Lineup

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Orders for the FAIRLADY Z and X-TRAIL have been suspended despite the release of the new models! What are Nissan salesmen selling to survive?There’s actually a model that could be the savior of Nissan salesmen!
    　Nissan has announced many new models for 2022. The new Sakura, a light EV, the new xtrail equipped with the new generation e-POWER and the four-wheel drive system named e-4ORCE, and the new Fairlady Z (RZ34 model) and the new Serena, which have appeared with changes comparable to a full model change, make for a year of new model rush! The year was a rush of new models.

    　
    　However, due to the worldwide parts supply delays as typified by the semiconductor shortage, orders for the new FAIRLADY Z were suspended early on, as were those for the new X-TRAIL. Orders for the Aria and Leaf electric vehicles have also been halted, and the frustrating situation of not being able to sell cars even if one wants to continues.What are Nissan dealership salespeople selling in the midst of the order suspensions?The interior is of the highest quality! See the Z-xtrail Sakura’s too-awesome interior in .Even Nissan, in the rush for new models, is limited in the number of cars it can sell!When we spoke to a salesman at a Nissan dealership in the Tokyo metropolitan area, he told us, “”The Fairlady Z is not a mass-market model to begin with, so it was not that big of an impact, but the suspension of orders for the new x-trail, which is supposed to be the mainstay of sales, was quite hard on us. The initial orders were strong, so I hope it will not dampen them. ……””.

    　In addition, electric vehicles, which are becoming Nissan’s new image leader, have also been difficult to sell due to the suspension of orders for the Aria and Leaf, as well as the fact that the new Sakura is already too popular to meet the 2022 subsidies and the 2023 subsidies have not yet been finalized. The company said.Although orders for the Leaf have recently resumed, the price of the “”e+”” model equipped with a high-capacity battery has increased by more than 1 million yen, and many users who have been waiting for the resumption of orders are now forgoing purchases or switching to low-mileage used cars.

    　Orders for the long-awaited new Serena, which was launched at the end of 2022, are currently brisk, and gasoline models that were sold in advance can be delivered in February 2023, which is a fairly short delivery time for a new model considering the current climate.However, many people are waiting for the e-POWER model, which is scheduled to go on sale in the spring of 2023, and at the time we spoke with them, they told us that they were struggling with the fact that they could not read delivery dates because they had not yet started entering order information.

    　Most car salespeople are paid by the car sales incentive system, but in fact, the “”car sold”” is counted only when the license plate number is attached to the car. In fact, however, the “”car sold”” is counted only when the car is numbered, so no matter how many orders you receive, if the delivery of the car is delayed due to production delays, it will not be reflected in your paycheck.The saviors of these distressed Nissan salespeople are the Note and Note Aura, which have enjoyed steady popularity.The Note, which has replaced the March as Nissan’s leading compact car, and the Aura, its high-end model, are both relatively well-stocked at dealerships, and new orders for these two models can be delivered in 1.5 to 2 months, making them a good choice for users who want a car as soon as possible. This is a great advantage for both users who want a car as soon as possible and salespeople who want to deliver cars as soon as possible.

    　However, due to the unstable global situation, we do not know how long this situation will continue. If you are in need of a vehicle that will be delivered early, you may be able to find one with good conditions by visiting a Nissan dealer at the time of the first sale.

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    Nissan is airing an original commercial for its new light EV “Sakura” in collaboration with SILENT.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Get ready for the highly anticipated conclusion of the captivating drama “SILENT” tonight! Keep an eye out for the stunning lineup of Nissan vehicles that add an extra layer of realism to the show’s compelling narrative. The final episode of “SILENT,” airing on December 22, 2022, marks the culmination of the emotional journey of its protagonists, portrayed by the talented Haruna Kawaguchi and Ren Meguro (Snow Man).

    The heart of the story revolves around Tsumugi Aoha, portrayed by Haruna Kawaguchi, as she reunites with her long-lost high school love, Sou Sakura, portrayed by Ren Meguro. The tale weaves a poignant yet heartwarming love story that has captured the attention of viewers everywhere.

    One of the automotive stars of the show is the captivating pink “March,” an attention-grabbing vehicle driven by Sou Sakura’s mother, Ritsuko, played by Ryoko Shinohara. This Nissan “March” makes a striking appearance in pivotal moments of the drama. It is a vehicle that symbolizes a journey back in time, as it’s set in a scene from eight years ago, specifically 2014. To accurately capture that era, the production team opted for the third generation “K12” model (2002-2010) rather than the more contemporary fourth generation (2010 to August 2022). This choice not only resonates with the period but also enhances the portrayal of a typical family car of that time.

    Social media buzzed with admiration for the meticulous attention to detail in the show’s production. Comments ranged from remarks about the authenticity of the aged headlights on the mother’s March to the nostalgic presence it brought to the scenes. The car itself managed to encapsulate not just the era but also the essence of a regular household.

    As the narrative progresses, we witness the passage of time through Ritsuko’s changing car choices. Eight years later, when she accompanies Sou to the train station, her vehicle of choice has evolved to a Nissan “Note.” This time, it’s not the current model (introduced in 2020) but its predecessor, the second-generation model (2012-2020). A striking, vivid red color graces this new addition to her automotive journey.

    The seamless transition from the March to the Note was noted by many viewers, who praised the realistic decision, with comments such as “March evolved into a Note” and “From a Nissan March 8 years ago to a Nissan Note today, even the model changed!” This change in vehicle reinforces the show’s commitment to authenticity and the passage of time.

    One distinctive aspect of “SILENT” is that it is generously sponsored by Nissan, which allows for the unobstructed display of their emblem on the featured vehicles. Unlike some shows where car emblems are hidden, “SILENT” proudly showcases the Nissan emblem on its automobiles, underscoring the collaboration.

    Even the background vehicles make a statement, as an astute viewer might spot a Nissan Serena minivan parked at a roundabout. Although an e-POWER variant not available in 2014, this Serena still adds an extra layer of Nissan’s presence to the scene.

    Nissan takes this opportunity to further connect with the audience by presenting an original commercial featuring their latest light EV, the “Sakura.” This collaboration with “SILENT” enhances the relevance of the drama by having Mako Yokoi, played by Souko Fujima and Tsumugi’s best friend, experience the unique acceleration and “ProPilot Parking” support system of the new Sakura EV. A sentimental touch is added when she exclaims “Tsumugi!” towards the film’s end, a treat for fans of the show.

    The serendipity of Ren Meguro’s surname, “Sakura,” aligns perfectly with the promotional efforts for Nissan’s new Sakura EV, tying the actor’s name to this exciting new automotive innovation. As the drama reaches its conclusion, the synergy between “SILENT” and Nissan has created an unforgettable and immersive experience for viewers.

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    Exciting: Nissan Sakura and LEAF EV Prices Surge by Up to 21% Amid Global Demand

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Nissan’s New Mini “”Sakura”” Resumes Orders & Price Increases up to 7% “”LEAF”” also gets new price! What are the revised prices?EV “”LEAF”” and “”Sakura”” prices revised On December 22, 2022, Nissan announced that it will resume accepting orders for its “”LEAF”” and “”Sakura”” electric vehicles (EVs) on the same day that it had temporarily suspended accepting orders, and that it will also revise prices in light of soaring global raw material and distribution costs.

    That’s a sofa! A sense of quality you wouldn’t expect from a minicar! Nissan “”Sakura”” Interior Space in 76 Images Nissan’s new minicar Sakura The Leaf debuted in 2010 as the world’s first mass-produced EV, and the current second generation was introduced in 2017.Initially available only in a 40kWh battery version, the variation was expanded in 2019 with the addition of the LEAF e+, equipped with a high-capacity 62kWh battery, with cumulative global sales reaching 500,000 units in 2020.

    　The price to date (including consumption tax; same below) is 3,709,200,000 yen. The new price ranges from 4,081,000 yen to 5,834,400 yen, a 10 to 21% increase over the previous price of 3,709,200 yen to 4,805,900 yen (including consumption tax; same below).The price of the LEAF AUTECH has also been revised to 4,444,000 yen to 5,616,600 yen.Sakura is a new minicar that just debuted in June 2022. In addition to the small-turn performance unique to minicars, it offers unparalleled quietness, powerful and smooth acceleration, a refined design, and a comfortable interior space. Sales were brisk, but orders have been suspended since the end of October.

    　The new price ranges from 2,493,700 yen to 3,040,400 yen, a 3-7% increase from the previous price of 2,333,100 yen to 2,940,300 yen.The eK Cross EV, Mitsubishi’s minicar model that is a sibling to the Sakura, will also see a price increase of 5-6%, and will be available from February 1, 2023, at between 2,546,500 yen and 3,080,100 yen.

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    Nissan made a “retro wood grain SUV”! Light blue squishy fashionable specification The new “Aria Surf Wagon” explodes with individuality.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Nissan has created a “”retro wood-grain SUV””! New “”Aria Surf Wagon”” in light blue with cool and stylish specifications explodes with individuality!

    Nice wood paneling on the sides of the body!
    　On October 28, 2022, Nissan of America announced the outline of its exhibit at the SEMA Show 2022, the world’s largest customized car show, announcing that it will exhibit six concept cars and a racing car, the Nissan Z GT4, among others.

    Retro and stylish with wood-grain panels! Full view of the Nissan Aria Surf Wagon Concept SUV
    　Among the concept cars, the Aria Surf Wagon Concept is a model finished in a retro surf wagon style. This fully customized model is based on the Aria, a familiar model in Japan, but what features does it have?

    Aria Surf Wagon Concept, a custom version of Nissan’s Aria (concept car)

    　Aria is a new SUV-type EV that Nissan unveiled for the first time in the world on July 15, 2020.

    　It adopts the silhouette of a coupe SUV with the C-pillar laid wide, and also achieves surprisingly short overhangs thanks to a newly developed EV-specific platform. The exterior is simple, yet expresses power and modernity.

    　This is the Nissan EV of the new era, to be rolled out not only in the Japanese and U.S. markets, but also globally.

    　In this context, the Aria Surf Wagon Concept is based on the Aria (US specifications, 2023 model year) and tailored to surfer specifications.

    　The sides of the body are covered with wood panels, and the 20-inch wheels, painted in light blue, are eye-catching.

    　It is also equipped with a lowered suspension, and the roof rack can carry two 7-foot (2.1 m) surfboards.

    　The Aria Surf Wagon Concept’s appeal lies in the fact that it is based on the latest EV and has been converted to specifications with nostalgic side wood panels.

    * * * *

    　The Aria is not only an EV with zero emissions, but also a high-performance vehicle that is described as a “”monster that possesses wisdom.

    　The four-wheel control system installed in the 4WD version is a system that can control the torque of each of the two electric motors mounted on the front and rear wheels separately.

    　Now here’s a quiz.

    　Which of the following is the correct name of the four-wheel control technology installed in the 4WD version of Aria?

    1] e-4WD

    2] ATTESA E-TS

    3] e-4ORCE

    4] Intelligent 4×4

    * * * *

    　The correct answer is [3] e-4ORCE.

    　e-4ORCE contributes not only to excellent traction performance by controlling the torque of the front and rear motors, but also to improved ride comfort by adjusting the amount of regeneration to reduce the vehicle’s sink rate during deceleration.

    　It is also mounted on the new 4th generation “”EXTRAIL”” 4WD version for Japan.”

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    The latest SUV is a West Coast custom with “fashionable” wood panels!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Latest SUV gets a West Coast custom with “”Osha”” wood paneling! New Nissan “”Aria”” with “”retro”” surfer specs blasts off in North America!

    Woody Wagon”” tells the story of its owner’s lifestyle
    　October 28, 2022 – Nissan North America, Inc. will exhibit the Aria Surf Wagon Concept concept car at the 2022 SEMA Show, which will be held from November 1 to November 4 in Las Vegas, USA.
    　
    　The Aria, the latest crossover EV, has been customized with wood panels and other features to create a retro atmosphere.

    Retro beach style is too “”fashionable””! Nissan Aria Surf Wagon Concept in 25 Photos

    Nissan’s new crossover EV, Aria Surf Wagon Concept, a concept car customized in a retro woody wagon style [Exhibited at the 2023 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, USA].

    　The Aria Surf Wagon Concept was customized by South Carolina-based Tommy Pike Customs.

    　The first thing that catches the eye are the wood paneling-like decorations wrapped all over the body sides, which give the latest Aria a retro look reminiscent of a West Coast-style woody wagon.

    　The roof is fitted with a custom roof rack that holds two 7-foot surfboards.

    　Underfoot, the ride height is lowered by a lowered suspension, and 20-inch smooth wheels with nicely polished chrome center caps are paired with white ribbon tires.

    　Nissan describes the Aria Surf Wagon Concept as “”a retro design California-style surf ‘woody’ wagon reworked with the latest technology in the electric Aria.

    　Nissan also introduces this customization as a proposal for EV owners to express their own lifestyle.

    * * * *

    　In addition to the Aria Surf Wagon Concept, Nissan’s booth at the 2022 SEMA Show will also feature an electrified Sunny Truck and two custom Fairlady Z models.”

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    Nissan “sedan end” one after another …! Only the 9th year “Skyline” remains! Who buys skylines now?

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Nissan “”Sedan End”” one after another…! Only the 9-year-old “”Skyline”” remains! What kind of person buys a Skyline now?

    Only “”Skyline”” Remaining Nissan Sedan
    　With the discontinuation of the “”Fuga”” and “”Cima”” at the end of August 2022, the “”Skyline”” is the only sedan that Nissan will sell in Japan.　

    This is the most powerful Skyline! 400R”” with over 400 horsepower in real life!

    　It has been 9 years since the current Skyline was introduced, but who would buy it now?

    The most powerful Skyline ever! The 405-horsepower “”400R

    　The Skyline has been loved by many users for more than 60 years since its first generation appeared in 1957.

    　The current Skyline, the 13th generation, was launched in 2013 with the Infiniti batch. It was then changed to the Nissan batch for a big minor change in 2019.

    　At this time, it continues to evolve with the addition of the “”400R,”” the first ever 400-plus horsepower version, and “”ProPilot 2.0,”” the first Japanese car to allow hands-off driving on highways.

    　However, as of 2022, nearly nine years will have already passed since its debut, and the Skyline’s current situation cannot be said to be a safe one, as it is noticeably older than its rivals in many areas.

    　In addition, as can be seen from the fact that the “”Sylphy”” and “”Teana,”” as well as the aforementioned “”Fuga”” and “”Cima”” have been discontinued in Nissan’s sedan lineup, the declining popularity of the sedan itself is also a headwind for the Skyline.

    　In fact, even the Toyota Crown, a leading Japanese sedan that has often been compared to the Skyline, has undergone a major change in its image by being reborn as a crossover model in its new 16th generation model, which will be released in September 2022.

    　Under these circumstances, the Skyline continues to struggle, with recent monthly sales of only 100 to 200 units.

    　Furthermore, the recent parts shortage has also put a damper on the situation, and as of September 7, 2022, new orders for Skyline hybrid vehicles have been suspended because the number of orders has reached the planned quantity. In addition, orders for gasoline-powered vehicles have also been temporarily suspended.

    　According to a Nissan dealership official, “”Orders for gasoline models are scheduled to resume by mid-September,”” but the future remains uncertain.
    　
    　The situation is such that the very existence of the Skyline, a model with a long history, is in jeopardy.

    Nissan “”Sedan Termination”” One after another…? Only the 9-year-old “”Skyline”” remains! What kind of person buys a Skyline now?

    Who is Buying a Skyline Now?
    　On the other hand, although the absolute numbers are small, there are certain trends among current Skyline buyers.

    　A Nissan dealership official said the following.

    A Nissan dealership official said, “”It is true that the Skyline is not doing well in terms of sales volume, but it is one of the few Japanese sporty cars.

    　However, as one of the few Japanese sporty sedans, many customers are interested in the Skyline because of its appealing driving performance.

    　With the recent introduction of the 400R, a sports grade equipped with a specially tuned V6 twin-turbo engine, the Skyline’s driving performance seems to be attracting more and more attention.

    　This may be due to the fact that sporty sedans equipped with large-displacement gasoline engines have become rare in recent years.

    　In fact, when the 400R was announced, many people said, “”For the first time in Skyline’s history, it has more than 400 horsepower! The Skyline is back! The strongest Skyline ever!”” The 400R became a big topic of conversation, and its sales volume rose sharply.

    The appearance of the driving “”400R”” attracted the attention of the younger generation, but… what now?

    　In addition, sedans have a lower center of gravity than SUVs and minivans, making it easier to achieve a sporty driving style, and the four-door design makes them practical enough for practical use.

    　Therefore, sedans can satisfy the needs of users who cannot enjoy sporty driving in SUVs and minivans, but lack the practicality of a 2-door coupe.

    　In addition, with the recent trend toward electrification, pure gasoline-powered domestic sedans are becoming less and less common.

    　In fact, in the categories of “”domestic sporty sedan,”” “”displacement over 3000cc,”” and “”gasoline-powered car,”” the Skyline is almost the only choice.

    　The above-mentioned dealer’s story suggests that the Skyline has become the recipient of such needs.

    * * *

    　With the changing trends among users and the automobile industry, the position of the Skyline has changed drastically compared to the past.

    　On the other hand, looking at the world, there are still many markets where sedans are popular, and the Skyline (sold as the Infiniti “”Q50″” in some markets) boasts strong popularity.

    　Since the Skyline has been developed as a global mainstay from the beginning, one of the major attractions of the Skyline is that it is still in the top class even after nearly nine years since its launch.

    　However, considering the current situation, we cannot deny the possibility that the next Skyline, like the Crown, will undergo a major image change.

    　At the very least, it is certain that electrification will become even more essential than it is now.

    　In this light, there may be only a short time left to enjoy the gasoline-powered Skyline.

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

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    Why are there so few “commercial vans” represented by the Hiace? Only Toyota/Nissan/Daihatsu manufactures .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Why are there so few models of “”commercial vans”” represented by the Hiace? Why only Toyota, Nissan, and Daihatsu manufacture them?

    What is the Current Situation Surrounding Commercial Vans?
    　There is a wide variety of passenger cars available in Japan, with domestic models alone numbering around 150.

    　However, there are only a few commercial vans, and excluding OEMs, Toyota offers only the Hiace and Probox, Nissan offers the Caravan, NV200 Vanette, and AD (orders will be temporarily suspended at the end of August 2022), and Daihatsu offers the Granmax Cargo.

    “”Hiace”” with a “”Gila face””? Or the ultra-luxurious “”Caravan””? A look at premium popular vans.

    Toyota’s “”Hiace”” boasts overwhelming popularity among commercial vans.

    　OEMs supplying other companies are also limited to a small number of small/ordinary commercial vans.

    　Daihatsu supplies the Granmax Cargo to Toyota as the “”Town Ace Van. Mazda offers the Bongo Brawny Van (based on the Hiace), Bongo Van (Grand Max Cargo), and Familia Van (Probox) manufactured by Toyota and Daihatsu, but other companies do not offer light/regular commercial vans.

    　At this time, Honda, Mitsubishi, Subaru, and Suzuki do not offer light/medium commercial vans.

    　On the other hand, light commercial vans are available in a wide variety of models. Suzuki has developed and produced the Every and Spacia-based models, while Daihatsu has developed and produced the Hyzet Cargo and the Atley, and OEMs have also developed their own.

    　Suzuki’s Every is supplied to three manufacturers as Nissan’s NV100 Clipper, Mazda’s Scrum Van, and Mitsubishi’s Minicab Van, meaning that of the eight domestic manufacturers that handle passenger cars, four sell the same vehicle if Suzuki, the supplier, is included.

    　Daihatsu’s Hyzet Cargo is also supplied to three manufacturers as Toyota’s “”Pyxis Van”” and Subaru’s “”Sambar Van,”” and Honda, which has no OEM relationship, develops and produces the “”N-VAN”” on its own.

    　Returning to light/regular commercial vans, the number of models, including OEM vehicles, is currently small.

    　The Hiace is by far the best-selling model, followed by the Caravan. However, the sales gap is large, and although the number of registered Caravans has increased compared to the past, it is still less than half that of the Hiace.

    　And Daihatsu Granmax Cargo & Toyota Town Ace vans are produced by Astra Daihatsu Motor in Indonesia. Due to the impact of being imported vehicles, even before the issue of the new coronavirus arose, delivery dates were significantly delayed depending on the timing of the contract.

    　Commercial vehicles are often required to be delivered in a short period of time due to corporate activities, and some dealers say that the Town Ace is difficult to sell because of its unstable delivery schedule.

    　In addition, vans with wagon-like bodies, such as the Probox and AD, are also experiencing lower sales. In this situation, the market for small/standard commercial vans has essentially become a market for the Hiace and Caravan, with no other vehicle types able to enter the market.

    Why are there so few models of “”commercial vans”” represented by the Hiace? Why only Toyota, Nissan, and Daihatsu manufacture them?

    Two Reasons for the Low Number of Commercial Van Models
    　There are two reasons behind the dearth of commercial van models. First, commercial vans, including small/ordinary vehicles, are thin-margin products.

    　Because of the overwhelmingly long mileage of commercial vans, which carry cargo, dealers say that it is not unusual for a Hiace to run 300,000 to 400,000 km, requiring durability that cannot be compared to passenger cars.

    　Although the price is a little higher for this reason, there is not much profit to be gained by manufacturers and dealers.

    　For this reason, Mazda and Mitsubishi used to develop and produce light/regular commercial vans on their own, but Mazda began to introduce OEMs and Mitsubishi has stopped handling them.

    　The second reason why the market for small/regular commercial vans became the market for the Hiace and Caravan was the improvement of the light commercial van product line.

    　The 1998 changes to the light vehicle standards brought the body size to its current size and increased the load capacity.

    　For example, the cargo length, width, and height of the HiZet Cargo Deluxe are 1915 mm, 1270 mm, and 1250 mm, respectively, while the Granmax Cargo GL, a small commercial van, measures 2045 mm x 1495 mm x 1305 mm.

    　Although the Granmax Cargo is wider, the difference is only 130 mm in terms of cargo length, so many users consider the light commercial van, the HiZet Cargo, to be sufficient.

    　Moreover, it is not unusual for a single corporation to own several vehicles for business use. In such cases, the low maintenance cost of a light commercial van is also a big advantage.

    　If only one vehicle is owned, the economic burden of a light/regular commercial van is small, but if three or more vehicles are owned, the difference can be significant. A light commercial van with a small body is also advantageous when parking in a warehouse.

    　However, light commercial vans are more profitable than small/ordinary commercial vans. As a result, OEM vehicles have become popular, as mentioned above.

    　The total of the four sister vehicles, Every + NV100 Clipper + Scrum Van + Minicab Van, will reach an average of approximately 8,000 units reported per month from January to August 2022. The Hyzet Cargo + Atley + Sambar Van + Pixis Van are also approximately 8,200 units.

    　Since the Suzuki Spacia, the second largest selling minicar, is approximately 7,900 units, the Every and Hyzet Cargo boast an overwhelming scale when it comes to the total number of vehicles produced, including OEM vehicles.

    * * *

    　The number of models of small/ordinary commercial vans and light commercial vans is also much smaller, because it is a tough world of thin profit margins.

    　To put it another way, we have a lineup of products that are extremely affordable for users and firmly support Japan’s logistics industry.

    　They are essential and reliable vehicles for a small number of elite customers.”

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    The curtain rises on the 40-year history of the Nissan March! Neither the Yaris nor the Fit can compete! 4 memorable models of super long-established compact cars .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Nissan “”March”” 40 years of history! Neither the Yaris nor the Fit can match it! Four Memorable Models of the Super Venerable Compact Car

    A look back at Nissan’s long-established March compact car brand, which lasted 40 years and four generations.
    　At the end of August 2022, several newspapers and other media reported the end of production of the Nissan March.
    　
    　The March is a long-established brand with a 40-year history, which is significantly longer than any other Japanese compact car, and has lasted for four generations. Let’s take a look back at the successive generations.

    Image] Only four generations in 40 years: “”Which one is your favorite? A look at the 68 photos of the “”March”” of past generations that bring back too much nostalgia.

    In 2002, just as the Carlos Ghosn administration was beginning, Nissan’s third-generation (K12) March (2002-2010), with its distinctive rounded styling and wide variety of colors, attracted a lot of attention, especially among female users.

    First-generation “”MARCH”” [K10 model / 1982-1992]

    　The first-generation March, launched in October 1982, made a spectacular debut as a hatchback model in the liter car class (referring to models with an engine displacement of around 1 liter), smaller than the “”Sunny”” and “”Pulsar”” compact cars of the time.

    　In addition, Nissan solicited car names from the general public in advance, and used the top idol of the time, Masahiko Kondo (nicknamed “”Match””), as its image celebrity to market the model as “”Match’s March””. Nissan put a lot of effort into this model.

    　At first, only a 1-liter 3-door model debuted, and later a 5-door model was added. The March Super Turbo, a double-charged model equipped with a supercharger and turbocharger, and other variations were added to the lineup.

    Second-generation “”MARCH”” [K11 model / 1992-2002]

    　The second generation March, which underwent its first full model change in 10 years in 1992, was developed with the aim of expanding sales not only in Japan but also in the European market, a fierce battleground for compact cars.

    　In addition to winning several awards, including the Japan Car of the Year Award and the Good Design Award, it was the first Japanese car to win the European Car of the Year Award, and has been highly acclaimed in Japan and Europe.

    　In addition to the three-door and five-door body types, the March lineup includes the March Box, a wagon body, and the March Cabriolet, a convertible model, as well as the March Bolero, a retro-design custom model by Autec Japan (now Nissan Motor Sports & Customization). The “”March Rumba”” was also actively developed as a variation of the original model.

    　Like the first generation, this model was produced for approximately 10 years, and has become a long-seller, maintaining even more stable sales volume than the first generation.

    Third-generation “”March”” (K12 model / 2002-2010)

    　The third-generation K12 March, which was introduced in 2002 after the business alliance with Renault, was based on the jointly developed Alliance B platform.

    　It was characterized by its distinctive rounded design, and attracted much attention as a model that symbolized the new era of Nissan under the soon-to-be-appointed Carlos Ghosn administration.

    　From its debut, it has been available in a wide range of colors, with colorful new colors added with each product improvement, and has been a topic of conversation for a long time, attracting support mainly from women.

    　Following the second generation, the retro-masked “”March Lafite”” and “”March Bolero”” were added, as well as the “”12SR,”” a sports model with a tuned engine, and the “”Micra C+C,”” an open model with a hard-top roof, and many other derivative models were born.

    The end of the 40-year history of the Nissan March! Neither the Yaris nor the Fit could match it! Four Memorable Past Models of the Super Venerable Compact Car

    End of sales in Japan with the 4th generation? However, there was a “”5th generation”” for Europe!
    The 4th generation “”MARCH”” [K13/2010-2022]

    　The 4th generation, which underwent a model change in 2010, combined a newly developed V-platform with a fuel-efficient 1.2-liter inline 3-cylinder engine with an idling stop system.

    　The most significant news was that it was the first model to be produced overseas. The Japanese version was made at Nissan’s Thai plant.

    　Production continued for 12 years until 2022, making it the longest-selling March model of all time.

    　The “”March NISMO,”” a full-fledged sports model that replaced the previous generation’s 12SR, and the retro-style “”March Bolero”” are also derivatives of the March, as they have been for many years.

    The first-generation (K10) Nissan March made its debut with much fanfare and promotion, partly because it was a “”liter car,”” a new genre of car.

    　Although the March’s production has been discontinued as reported by newspapers, as of early September 2022, there has been no official announcement from the manufacturer. On Nissan’s official website, the March is still being sold.

    　However, a small note on the website states, “”Some specifications, grades, and colors may not be available due to production reasons,”” suggesting that something will be done in the future.

    　It is expected that the company will continue to sell the product for a while until the pre-produced inventory runs out.

    The car is expected to continue to be sold for a while until the pre-production stock runs out.

    　Although the March is reportedly discontinued in Japan, its successor, the 5th generation (K14 model), was launched in 2017 as a car exclusively for Europe.

    　While both successive models have inherited the March’s character with their cute styling, the 5th generation is characterized by sharp styling starting with the V-motion grille. The wide and low form gives it a unique sporty image.

    　It is interesting to note that in Europe, the March has been consistently referred to as the “”Micra”” rather than the “”March”” since the first generation.”

  • | |

    Nissan posts next-generation “Skyline GT-R”! Should “R36 type” pay homage to the past? Astonished by the model rendering that is a hot topic on SNS! what kind of design

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Nissan posts the next-generation “”Skyline GT-R””! Should the “”R36 type”” pay homage to the past? Astonished by the model renderings that are all over the social networking sites! What kind of design is it?

    Wouldn’t it be nice to have an upcoming “”GT-R”” like this one?
    　The Nissan “”GT-R (R35),”” introduced in 2007, is the company’s proud sports car that succeeded the Nissan “”Skyline GT-R.
    　
    　However, since 15 years have passed since its appearance, many people are asking, “”When will the next model be released? Will there be a next model? and “”When will the next model come out?
    　
    　In the meantime, a rendering of the next-generation “”Skyline GT-R (R36)”” has been posted on social networking sites, and it has become a major topic of conversation.

    Could this be the next-generation “”GT-R””? Homage to the second generation! Look at the R36 design!

    R32 + R33 + R34 + R35 = Birth of the R36! Predicted rendering of the next-generation “”Skyline GT-R”” is hot! (Photo Thanks: Avante Design & Roman Miah)

    　The “”GT-R,”” once a high-performance grade of the Skyline series, has existed as a coveted model and as the leader of Nissan’s image.

    　The history continues with the first generation “”Hakosuka”” and “”Kemmeri,”” the second generation “”R32,”” “”R33,”” and “”R34,”” and the third generation is the aforementioned GT-R (R35).

    　The first model, the Skyline GT-R, was set in the third generation (Hakoska) in 1969. This was followed by the second generation model based on the Kenmeri in 1973.

    　After a long time, the 3rd generation (R32) appeared in August 1989, the 4th generation (R33) in January 1995, and the 5th generation (R34) in January 1999, and these three models are called the second generation.

    　And the sixth generation (R35), which was introduced in 2007, is still the current model as of 2022, and continues to evolve every year.

    　In 2022, the latest model (2022 model) was released, but orders were closed because the number of orders quickly reached the planned sales volume.

    　On the other hand, on social networking sites, there were various rumors such as, “”Will the 2022 model be the last GT-R? The next GT-R will have to be electric?

    　The rendering posted on SNS was created by Avante Design and Roman Miah.

    　At the time of posting, Roman Miah commented as follows

    The idea behind this concept is to showcase a vision of the 2023 Nissan *R36* Skyline GT-R, a car that will be the first of its kind in the world.

    The idea behind this concept was to recreate the iconic Skyline design cues and arguably Japanese styling of the past with the future of the GT-R in mind.

    　Working with Avante Design, we developed the concept which involved over 6 months of work and at least several hundred hours of design, development and 3D modeling. Hope you like it!””

    　Looking at the multiple images posted, the body itself is based on the R35, but the front face is somewhat reminiscent of the R34.

    　In contrast, the rear design is reminiscent of the R33 with its angular body shape, although it uses different large round tail lamps like the R34.

    　In response to this post, international users commented, “”Great,”” “”It’s a good idea to lead the old look to the new model,”” and “”Oh my God! I would 100% buy one if it looked like this.”” “”I want to install this R36 body kit on my R35! There were many praises for this kit.

    　The R36 has also become a hot topic on Japanese social networking sites, with comments such as, “”It’s so cool. The front is 34, but the rear is 35.”” “”The face is 34 ass 33, but the whole body is 35, so in a way, I think it’s the right blend of old generation elements as a successor,”” etc.

    * * *

    　In reality, Nissan has not made any official announcement regarding the next generation GT-R, but since the “”Fairlady Z”” has undergone a full model change to the 7th generation model, the “”GT-R”” brand, which also represents Nissan, is expected to be succeeded in some form.”