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    The Prius is known for being the world’s first mass-produced hybrid car

    Car parts company, M’s Speed, has released a computer-generated image of their anticipated aerodynamic design for the new Toyota Prius. The Prius is known for being the world’s first mass-produced hybrid car, with the current model being the 5th generation. The new model boasts a sleek and sporty design, with a low center of gravity and 19-inch wheels. The interior is also advanced and sporty. The new Prius will come with three powertrain options, including a 2.0-liter engine with a hybrid system that can produce 193 horsepower and a plug-in hybrid system that can achieve 223 horsepower and accelerate from 0-100km/h in 6.7 seconds.

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    Nissan unveils “new SUV” for the first time in the world! New “Kicks” to be announced on July 1st Is there a possibility that a super cool “custom specification” will be introduced?

    “Nissan’s “”New SUV”” World Premiere! New “”Kicks”” to be unveiled on July 1; Possibility of introducing the super cool “”custom version”” Tai?

    What can we expect from the teaser image?
     Nissan’s Thai subsidiary has announced that the new Kicks e-POWER compact SUV will be unveiled locally on July 1, 2022.

    Nissan Announces New Kicks! See the first 36 images and more .
     The announcement will be streamed live on the official YouTube.

    Teaser images of the new “”Kicks”” unveiled in Thailand

     Since late June, Nissan’s Thai subsidiary has been releasing teaser images on its official SNS. Expectations for the new model’s appearance have been growing.

     As of June 30, teaser images of the new model show a metal front protector, door mirrors, and decorations around the fog lamps that differ from the standard model.

     Since there are many points in common with the “”AUTECH”” version of the Japanese-spec Kicks, it is expected that not only improved specifications and equipment, but also an AUTECH version will be added to the Thai market.

     The aforementioned YouTube presentation will be held at a facility in Thailand’s Central World shopping mall, and will be broadcast from 5:30 p.m. (local time) on July 1.

    * * *

     The current Kicks was launched in 2020. From the beginning, the Japanese version has been developed as an imported vehicle produced at a factory in Thailand.

     Therefore, it is possible that some of the improvements made to the Kicks produced locally in Thailand will eventually be reflected in the Japanese version.”

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    Reviving Legend Mitsubishi’s Powerful Pajero Sport Set to Return After 6-Year Hiatus

    Rumors swirl as Mitsubishi hints at a potential resurrection of the iconic “Pajero” moniker, dormant for six long years. Speculation is rife following the recent global debut of the revamped Triton in Bangkok, Thailand, on July 26, 2023, marking the first complete overhaul in nearly a decade. With sales slated to commence in Japan on February 15, 2024, enthusiasts eagerly anticipate whether this signals the return of the revered SUV nameplate.

    The Triton, undergoing a comprehensive redesign, shares its platform with the overseas “Pajero Sport,” a mid-size SUV harking back to its predecessor, the mighty Pajero. As the Triton receives a long-awaited facelift, enthusiasts wonder if its SUV counterpart will follow suit. To shed light on this, we delved into interviews and insights.

    The Pajero Sport, embodying the robust off-road prowess and durability synonymous with the Pajero lineage, blends functionality with comfort. Originally introduced in Japan as the “Challenger,” it stands as a testament to Mitsubishi’s commitment to quality and performance.

    Presently, the Pajero Sport series, in its third generation since its 2015 inception, continues to evolve. The recent unveiling of the “2024 model” in Thailand on March 18, 2024, showcases refined powertrains, updated exteriors, and refreshed interior aesthetics. With dimensions measuring 4840mm in length, 1815mm in width, and 1835mm in height, it boasts an imposing presence among its Japanese SUV counterparts.

    Exterior enhancements, including a redesigned hexagonal front grille and robust bumpers, underscore Mitsubishi’s signature rugged design philosophy. Inside, the cabin exudes luxury, accentuated by plated embellishments and a new black/burgundy two-tone color scheme.

    Under the hood lies a potent 2.4-liter 4-cylinder diesel turbo engine, featuring a cutting-edge electronic common rail injection system. Generating an impressive 184 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque, it pairs seamlessly with a 6-speed automatic transmission, ensuring dynamic performance on and off the road.

    Echoing enthusiasts’ hopes, discussions with Mitsubishi insiders suggest a potential overhaul for the Pajero Sport, mirroring the Triton’s transformation. A key developer revealed plans to leverage the Triton’s platform for a new SUV variant. Diesel regulations and safety standards, previously obstacles, have now been surmounted with the Triton’s compliance, paving the way for expanded market reach.

    As the automotive landscape embraces pickup-based SUVs, Mitsubishi remains poised to capitalize on this trend. The successful domestic debut of the Triton hints at a promising future for the Pajero Sport’s resurgence in Japan. Should the new Pajero Sport grace the roads in the coming years, it would mark the revival of the revered Pajero nameplate after a prolonged hiatus, setting the stage for Mitsubishi’s anticipated trajectory in the SUV market. Enthusiasts keenly await Mitsubishi’s future endeavors as the automotive giant navigates the evolving landscape.

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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”!

    “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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    Toyota’s C-HR compact SUV will be discontinued in late July 2023

    Toyota’s C-HR compact SUV will be discontinued in late July 2023. the C-HR was launched in 2016 and had a strong start in its first year, but Toyota’s expanded SUV lineup has led to an increase in competition. the C-HR’s successor No announcement has been made about the model, but some core fans are eagerly awaiting the arrival of a new model.

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    Sophisticated rugged SUV! Subaru New “Crosstrek” Wild and Good! Previously, “XV” was cuter!

    “The new Subaru “”Crosstrek”” is wild and good! Conventional “”XV”” was prettier!

    Which do you like better, the new “”Crosstrek”” or the conventional “”XV””?
     Subaru unveiled its new SUV “”Crosstrek”” (Japanese specifications) for the first time in the world on September 15, 2022.

    Too wild! Which do you like better, the new “”Crosstrek”” or the “”XV””? Compare with photos

     The new Crosstrek is a crossover SUV that will succeed the XV. The XV has been sold under the name Crosstrek overseas for some time, and the new model will be globally unified under the same name.

    The new Subaru Crosstrek, successor to the XV

     We conducted a survey on SNS about the new Crosstrek, which emphasizes wildness. What kind of response did we receive from respondents?

    The question was, “”The new Crosstrek is the successor to the XV, which do you prefer?”” 34.6% of respondents preferred the XV and 65.4% preferred the new Crosstrek, with the new model receiving more votes.

     Regarding the all-new design, respondents said, “”I feel the face is more intrepid,”” “”It is definitely more refined and not too flashy, so I won’t get bored even if I drive it for a long time,”” “”The overall design is angular and cool,”” “”It is burlier and has more of an off-road feel than the previous model,”” and “”The front grille has been enlarged, and it is more comfortable to step on. The front grille has been enlarged to emphasize the sense of stepping on the road.

     The new design, which is both stylish and wild and looks good both in town and outdoors, seems to be well received.

     The new Crosstrek expresses muscularity with its high hood position that gives the impression of thickness. The sharp front grille bar and LED headlamps give the front mask a nimble and intrepid image.

     Looking at the side, the cladding area (plastic parts) has been enlarged to give a sense of high drivability, and the body incorporating dynamic lines and shapes has been designed to be both dependable and dynamic, emphasizing the overall ruggedness of the vehicle.

     Some customers also commented, “”Previously, the XV had a strong impression of being a derivative of the Impreza, but the new model has a stronger sense of uniqueness since the Crosstrek will be launched first.

     The XV was originally introduced as a crossover model based on the third-generation Impreza, but was later added as a derivative SUV of the Impreza for two generations.

     However, the new Impreza hatchback was introduced after the SUV debuted in the new Crosstrek, indicating Subaru’s greater emphasis on the popular SUV.

     So what were the opinions of those who said they preferred the XV?

    They said, “”The XV has a prettier face,”” “”I like the front mask because it is more gentle,”” “”The XV is less ornate and has a more integrated design,”” and “”It added a nice casual and fashionable feel to the Impreza. The new Crosstrek was also a popular crossover SUV.

     Compared to the new Crosstrek, the new model had “”too many black parts (plastic parts),”” “”Too ugly. I don’t like the black mustache”” and “”I don’t like the ‘racy’ design that North American users seem to like”” were some of the comments from the XV group respondents.

    The wild design of the new Chrysler XV is also a good thing.

     The wild design is one of the topics of the new Crosstrek, but another major feature is that it is the first Subaru vehicle in Japan to be equipped with the new-generation three-lens “”EyeSight”” system, which employs a stereo camera and a wide-angle monocular camera.

    Although it does not feature “”EyeSight X,”” which provides advanced driving assistance on highways and is equipped in the Levorg, WRX S4, and Legacy Outback, the three-lens EyeSight system achieves the highest safety performance in Subaru’s history.

     Subaru aims to achieve zero fatal traffic accidents by 2030, and the three-lens EyeSight with increased safety features will be installed in various models one after another.”

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