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    Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV new model, expansion of EV mode cruising … to be released in the US in the latter half of 2022 .

    “New Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV to Expand EV Mode Range…To be Launched in the U.S. in the Second Half of 2022
    Larger gasoline tank expands cruising range when used with engine

    Latest twin-motor 4WD system
    New generation “”Dynamic Shield”” introduced

    Tuesday, May 17, 2022, 7:30 p.m.
    Mitsubishi Motors’ U.S. division unveiled the U.S. version of the new Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV at the Twin Cities Auto Show that opened in Minnesota on May 14.

    ◆Larger gasoline tank expands cruising range when used with engine
    The new Outlander is said to feature the premium quality, tough performance and innovative technology expected from Mitsubishi Motors, in addition to the company’s new design direction.

    Positioned as Mitsubishi Motors’ flagship, it is the most fully equipped vehicle the company has ever developed, the company boasts. The new Outlander PHEV has a larger battery storage capacity, which extends the EV mode cruising range. The larger gasoline tank also extends the cruising range when the engine is used together.

    The engineering base has also been renewed. It uses a platform newly developed by the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance. It uses Mitsubishi’s unique “”S-AWC”” system derived from Rallye.

    ◆The latest twin-motor 4WD system
    The new Outlander PHEV adopts the latest twin-motor 4WD system with one drive motor in each of the front and rear. The motors are more powerful than those of the previous model, and the system takes advantage of the motors’ high responsiveness and the ability to control the front and rear motors with high precision to optimally distribute the driving force to the front and rear wheels according to road surface conditions and driving conditions. This is combined with S-AWC, an integrated vehicle dynamics control system, to achieve the best possible driving performance in terms of running, turning, and stopping.

    S-AWC stands for “”Super All Wheel Control. In addition to Active Stability Control (ASC) and ABS, S-AWC integrates Active Yaw Control (AYC), which uses the brakes to control the left and right wheels, with Mitsubishi Motors’ proprietary four-wheel control technology. The latest S-AWC adds brake control of the left and right wheels to the rear wheels as well, whereas previously only the front wheels were controlled. This reduces the load on the front wheels more than before and enables the four wheels to draw out their tire capacity in a balanced manner.

    In addition, seven different drive modes are available, which can be selected according to road conditions and driving style. The “”NORMAL mode”” is the basic mode, which is optimal for normal driving on paved roads, while the “”GRAVEL mode”” balances maneuverability and drivability on unpaved or wet paved roads, and the “”SNOW mode”” stabilizes vehicle behavior on slippery surfaces such as snowy roads. In addition to the “”GRAVEL mode,”” which offers a balanced driving performance on slippery roads such as snowy roads, and the “”SNOW mode,”” which stabilizes the vehicle’s behavior on slippery roads such as snowy roads, the “”POWER mode”” is for when powerful acceleration is required, and the “”ECO mode”” is environmentally friendly and economical.

    ◆Introduction of the new generation “”Dynamic Shield
    The concept of the new model is “”majestic””. Based on this, it is said to be a reliable SUV with significantly upgraded styling, road performance and high quality. With the launch of the new Outlander, Mitsubishi Motors aims first to increase sales in the North American market and then to achieve global growth.

    The new Outlander is the fourth generation model. The exterior features muscular fenders, bold proportions, and 18-inch aluminum wheels (20-inch wheels are optional). The brand’s new generation “”Dynamic Shield”” front mask and new design language were also first introduced on the new Outlander.

    Body dimensions are 4710 mm long, 1862 mm wide, 1748 mm high, and 2706 mm wheelbase, making it 15 mm longer, 51 mm wider, and 38 mm taller than the previous model. The wheelbase is 36 mm longer.

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    Toyota Corolla Cross converted into RAV4

    At the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023, a remarkable automotive transformation stole the show, breathing new life into familiar designs with innovative body kits that reimagined the front-end aesthetic.

    Behold the “LoveCross” – Where Corolla Cross Meets RAV4 Power

    Among the array of awe-inspiring exhibits, the spotlight shone on the “RAV CROSS” creation by EXIZZLE-LINE, a captivating blend of the Toyota “Corolla Cross” and the formidable essence of the Toyota “RAV4.”

    EXIZZLE-LINE, hailing from Ishikawa Prefecture, is a visionary enterprise specializing in the conception, fabrication, distribution, and sale of original body kits for Japanese vehicles and a spectrum of bespoke components, including custom wheels.

    The Tokyo Auto Salon showcased EXIZZLE-LINE’s latest marvel, the “RAV CROSS,” a proud testament to their in-house brand “RIVAI OFFROAD.”

    The “RAV CROSS” on display showcased a Toyota Corolla Cross that embraced an entirely fresh frontal identity, channeling the unmistakable aura of the renowned RAV4.

    Recapturing the RAV4 Essence: Elevating Corolla Cross to the RAV4 Realm

    Introduced in July 2020 in Thailand and later in Japan on September 14, 2021, the Corolla Cross emerged as a compact SUV, boasting dimensions of 4490 mm (length) x 1825 mm (width) x 1620 mm (height). It fittingly occupied a niche in Toyota’s lineup that had previously remained unexplored.

    Conversely, the RAV4’s legacy dates back to its inception as a trailblazing crossover SUV in 1994, with the present iteration representing its fifth generation introduced in 2019.

    Featuring both a metropolitan standard grade and the rugged Adventure grade, the RAV4 exudes versatility and urban poise. The RAV CROSS, a bespoke masterpiece, harnesses the rugged spirit of the RAV4’s Adventure grade and infuses it into the Corolla Cross’s DNA.

    Noteworthy Enhancements: Unveiling the RAV CROSS Transformation

    Dominating the exterior is the RAV CROSS Front Face Kit, an integration of the front bumper and grille that introduces a robust ruggedness. Notably, this kit retains compatibility with Toyota’s Safety Sense advanced driver support function, incorporating provisions for pre-crash sensors and intelligent clearance sonar.

    Adding to its visual allure, the “RAV CROSS Over Fender,” with its 9mm width extension on each side, effortlessly integrates with the factory fenders sans any alterations to vehicle dimensions.

    Amplifying performance, the display vehicle showcases the “Agemassi” lift-up suspension, exterior wheels, and all-terrain tires that enhance drivability. Furthermore, the inclusion of a roof carrier, complete with side tarps and roof lights, paints a picturesque scene ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

    For those enticed by this transformation, the RAV CROSS Front Face Kit is priced at 203,500 yen (inclusive of tax), while the RAV CROSS Over Fenders are available for 49,500 yen (inclusive of tax).

    EXIZZLE-LINE’s Bold Claim: Power Meets Practicality

    EXIZZLE-LINE’s unveiling of the RAV CROSS is hailed as “the epitome of cost-effectiveness,” transcending the boundaries of traditional vehicle upgrades. Melding a compact form akin to the Corolla Cross with the agile maneuverability of the RAV4, the RAV CROSS emerges as a symbol of extraordinary value.

    In summary, the “LoveCross” transformation bridges the gap between the Corolla Cross and the RAV4, endowing the former with a dynamic new persona. With EXIZZLE-LINE’s visionary approach, the RAV CROSS champions innovation and practicality, encapsulating the spirit of the ever-evolving automotive world.

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    Toyota Unveils Supercharged GR Yaris: A Thrilling 400HP Evolution for Spring 2024 Release

    Toyota has taken the automotive world by storm with the surprise unveiling of its groundbreaking “Super Amazing Yaris,” an evolved version of the GR Yaris, at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2024. The event, held from January 12th to 14th, showcased a multitude of vehicles at the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing booth, but it was the Super Amazing Yaris that stole the spotlight.

    Built with a focus on dominating the world of motorsports, particularly rallying, the GR Yaris had already gained acclaim for its specialized design. Now, the evolved version pushes the boundaries even further with enhanced features and performance. The 1.6-liter three-cylinder turbo engine, known for its impressive output of 200kW/370N・m, has been further fine-tuned to an astonishing 224kW/400N・m, showcasing its ability to handle high boost pressures.

    One of the notable upgrades is the introduction of the GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission (GR-DAT), an 8-speed AT that surpasses the conventional 6-speed i-MT transmission. This innovative transmission not only caters to beginners and those with limited automatic transmission experience but also offers professional racing drivers a thrilling experience with closer gear ratios and advanced features like launch control.

    The interior of the Super Amazing Yaris has undergone significant changes, with a lowered seating position by 25 mm, an adjusted steering wheel position, and a redesigned dashboard for an immersive driving experience. The exterior upgrades include a divided front bumper for easier motorsports-related repairs, a customizable rear spoiler with a separate high-mounted stop lamp, and improved operability of the parking brake for rally enthusiasts.

    Enhancements extend to improved body rigidity, a new cooling package for superior performance, and a drive mode select with detailed settings. Notably, a new circuit mode allows users to customize functions via a smartphone app, truly living up to its advanced version moniker.

    The release of the improved GR Yaris is scheduled for the spring of 2024, with the price yet to be disclosed. Toyota aims to keep it affordable while delivering a car that exceeds expectations in both performance and design. Car enthusiasts and rally aficionados alike eagerly await the chance to experience the Super Amazing Yaris on the road.

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    Nissan Kicks Joins Forces with New Balance to Introduce Exclusive Iteration of Compact SUV

    Introducing the Textured Eggy Transformation: Sneakers Step into the Automotive Realm with Nissan and New Balance’s Unique Collaboration

    Can a car embody the essence of a shoe, or can a shoe take on the form of a car? On the remarkable date of January 24, 2023, Nissan, the renowned automotive manufacturer, forges an unprecedented partnership with the iconic shoe brand New Balance, giving birth to the extraordinary “NISSAN KICKS 327 EDITION.” This distinctive variant of the popular Kicks SUV, a beloved creation of Nissan, comes swathed in the iconic design cues of New Balance’s revered “327” sneaker line.

    Behold, the confluence of automotive prowess and footwear finesse! Take an exclusive gaze upon the result of this groundbreaking synergy as Nissan and New Balance unveil the captivating special edition “Kicks.”

    For an illustrious span, from January 24 to February 1, this masterpiece of collaborative ingenuity will grace the illustrious confines of the NISSAN CROSSING showroom, nestled within the heart of Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo.

    This unprecedented “NISSAN KICKS 327 EDITION” marks the inception of an enchanting dialogue between the Nissan Kicks SUV and the New Balance footwear lineage. Reverberating with the ethos of efficiency and convenience, the Kicks SUV boasts a compact frame, tailored for effortless urban maneuvering. Beneath its hood pulses the e-POWER series hybrid system, a testament to Nissan’s pioneering technological strides. The road becomes a canvas for innovation as the ProPilot driver assistance technology orchestrates a seamless blend of human control and automated guidance.

    Curiously, the moniker “Kicks” unveils a facet of English slang, a nod to the ubiquitous “sneaker” culture. Akin to a tapestry unfurling its threads, this notion found resonance with New Balance’s “327” sneaker model. Lightweight and adhesive, these shoes traverse diverse terrains and scenarios, seamlessly converging with the Kicks’ conceptual ethos.

    Yet, the pièce de résistance of this extraordinary model lies in its crown—the roof adorned with the shoe’s pinnacle, the “shoe tongue.” Meticulously crafted, this rooftop marvel mirrors the exact texture of an authentic sneaker, an intricate homage to the heritage of footwear artistry. As elucidated by the visionary artisan steering this endeavor, the “shoe tongue” is a testament to precision and dedication.

    But this creation isn’t limited to a mere display spectacle. Beyond the confines of the showroom, the “NISSAN KICKS 327 EDITION” shall take to the bustling streets of Tokyo and Osaka, etching its presence upon the urban tapestry long after the exhibition concludes.

    In a realm where rubber meets asphalt, and where the spirit of innovation intertwines with the allure of fashion, Nissan and New Balance have scripted a harmonious symphony—a symphony resonating through the “NISSAN KICKS 327 EDITION,” an embodiment of collaborative brilliance that bridges automotive engineering and footwear finesse.

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    Exciting Toyota Fortuner Unveiled at Gunma Parts Show 2023, Demand Surges among Japanese Car Enthusiasts

    Fortuna,” the SUV that made a splash at the recent “Gunma Parts Show 2023,” has become the talk of the town in Japan. The three-day event, held from July 7th to 9th, showcased a range of exclusive automotive innovations, including the coveted Fortuner, a model that has not been officially available in the Japanese market until now.

    In recent times, automakers have been catering to the diverse demands of the global market by producing models exclusively for overseas markets. Japanese automakers are no exception to this trend. Although these foreign-market cars boast unique features that would undoubtedly captivate Japanese consumers, they have seldom made their way to the shores of Japan. However, car enthusiasts have found ways to get their hands on these appealing models, resorting to purchasing them through Japanese parallel import car specialty stores.

    The Fortuner has been primarily deployed in regions such as Asia, the Middle East, Central and South America, Africa, and Oceania since its inception in 2004 as part of the Innovative International Multi-purpose Vehicle (IMV) project. The first-generation Fortuner, born in 2005, shares its platform with the seventh-generation Hilux, while the second-generation, introduced in 2015, also shares its platform with the current Hilux produced in Thailand.

    One of the Fortuner’s distinguishing features is its practicality, designed to accommodate the needs of regions where multi-passenger transport is standard. With three rows of seats, it offers ample space for passengers and cargo alike. The robust ladder frame, suitable for less developed road infrastructures in countries like Thailand and Australia, supports the vehicle’s sturdiness, along with its front double wishbone and rear leaf rigid suspension, setting it apart from the contemporary SUVs in the Japanese lineup.

    The Fortuner’s exterior boasts Toyota’s classic “Keen look,” but the side body lines exude a sense of high space utility, offering a distinctive appearance not commonly seen in the Japanese model lineup. Measuring approximately 4795mm in length, 1855mm in width, and 1835mm in height (Thai specification), with a wheelbase of 2750mm, the Fortuner strikes a balance between size and maneuverability.

    Under the hood, the Fortuner houses either a 2.4-liter in-line 4-cylinder diesel engine producing around 150 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque, or a 2.8-liter in-line 4-cylinder diesel engine churning out approximately 200 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. The powertrain options include a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic transmission for the 2.4-liter model, while the 2.8-liter model is available solely with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Some regions also offer the sporty “GR Sports” variant, featuring design enhancements like a black grille with the GR emblem, 20-inch aluminum wheels, and sporty interior touches such as exclusive seats with red stitching and GR emblems.

    Enthusiasts who caught a glimpse of the Fortuner at the Gunma Parts Show 2023 were thoroughly impressed, expressing their desire for it to be officially available in Japan. Comparisons were drawn to the Land Cruiser Prado, but the Fortuner’s unique features and affordable size and price have sparked interest among potential Japanese buyers. Many believe that the Fortuner could be considered the long-awaited successor to the Hilux Surf, which was last sold in Japan in 2009. If the Fortuner were to come equipped with features like downhill assist control and an easy-to-use 4×4 switch as standard, it is likely to garner even more attention and interest.

    As the exhibition was stated to be for “Japanese market research purposes,” it seems that Toyota is testing the waters to gauge the potential demand for the Fortuner in Japan. If introduced, this ladder frame SUV with its practicality and appeal is expected to resonate with Japanese consumers, and its pricing strategy will be critical in determining its success in the market. As anticipation grows, Japanese car enthusiasts are hopeful that the Fortuner will soon become a permanent fixture on Japanese roads, providing a breath of fresh air to the SUV segment and meeting the needs of adventure-seeking drivers.

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    A compact SUV similar to the new Prius.

    A compact SUV similar to the new Prius? Toyota’s “bZ Compact SUV” with high “eco-friendliness” may be more affordable than “Prius”?

    Following the renewal of the Prius, the leading hybrid vehicle, Toyota has announced an EV compact SUV
     On November 17, 2022, Toyota unveiled the bZ Compact SUV Concept (“”bZ Compact SUV””) in the United States for the first time. It is a battery electric vehicle (BEV: electric vehicle) concept car.
     
     Its form is similar to that of the new “Prius,” which underwent a full model change on November 16, the day before, but many people seem to think that the bZ Compact SUV, which looks more practical, is better than the new Prius, which is too sporty.

    Which do you like better, the new Prius or the bZ Compact SUV Concept? Photos (25 photos)

    Toyota’s new BEV (electric vehicle) concept car, the bZ Compact SUV Concept, premiered in the United States on November 17, 2022.

     The new Prius, the first hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) to undergo a full model change in almost seven years, was created as a new-generation Prius under the “Hybrid Reborn” concept.

     Symbolizing rebirth, the new exterior design features a “wide and low”emotional form.

     Compared to the previous-generation Prius, the overall height has been reduced by 40 mm, while the overall length and width have been increased by 25 mm and 20 mm, respectively, and the tires have been enlarged in diameter, giving the car a noticeably sporty appearance, almost like a sports car.

     In order to create a packaging that can accommodate four adults, the new Prius has lowered the seat positions, and it seems that the ease of getting in and out of the car has been slightly sacrificed.

     Even on social networking sites, there were concerns early on in its debut that “it will be hard for older users to get in and out of the car” and “it may not be suitable for users who frequently carry people in the back seat.

     The new bZ compact SUV, which has appeared on the market in this context, has a similar atmosphere to the new Prius, with its “U” shaped headlights and emotional form, despite the difference between the HEV and BEV models.

     On the other hand, the SUV is taller than the Prius and has a larger cabin, so there is no doubt that it will be more practical with more interior and cargo space.

     Detailed specifications have not yet been announced, but Toyota says that it is positioned as a compact and lightweight entry model that is more compact and lighter than the bZ4X, the BEV SUV model that preceded it on the market.

     Therefore, the selling price is also expected to be kept low.

     This may be the reason why people are saying “Prius SUV? I have a feeling it’s going to sell well,” and “Looks like it would be perfect for driving in Japan.

     The new bZ compact SUV, which Toyota describes as a “concept” at this stage, is “a model under development as a compact SUV that is easy to use in everyday life.

     The timing has not yet been disclosed, but Toyota says it plans to release more information after 2023, and a production version is likely to be unveiled in the near future.

     The new bZ compact SUV, which is even more eco-friendly than the new Prius, which has been reborn as a sports car, and yet seems to be highly practical, seems to be one of the most highly anticipated models of the next generation of eco-cars.

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