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    Toyota Alphard Custom Grille: 7 Bold Features That Make This 6 Million Yen Minivan Stand Out

    Toyota Alphard custom grille Toyota Alphard 2023.12.07(Toyota Alphard) by RAI STAR   Toyota Alphard Custom Grille: A Striking Luxury Minivan With Serious Presence Toyota Alphard custom grille upgrades continue to attract attention in Japan’s premium minivan scene, and this standout build by SUPERIOR is a perfect example of why. Based on the third-generation Alphard, this…

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    Subaru New Crosstrek (XV) VS Honda New Vezel Thorough Comparison

    The new Subaru Crosstrek (XV) vs. the new Honda Vezel – In-depth comparison
    Comparison of competing models.

    Subaru fully remodeled the Crosstrek (former Japanese model name: Subaru XV) and unveiled the Japanese prototype for the first time in the world on September 15, 2022, which will be launched in 2023. Honda fully remodeled the new “Vezel” and announced on April 22, 2021 and released on April 23, 2021. We compared the competition based on the specifications of the competing models.

    About the specifications of the new Subaru Crosstrek
    As the successor to the “SUBARU XV,” the Subaru “CROSSTREK” name has been unified globally. The new “CROSSTREK” SUV further accentuates the distinctive design of the previous model and has a more refined dynamic quality. In addition to the new-generation EyeSight system, a wide-angle monocular camera has been adopted for the first time in a Japanese version to achieve high safety performance. The collision safety potential of the Subaru Global Platform, which has been highly acclaimed in previous models, has been further enhanced by incorporating the latest knowledge and technologies, such as a full inner frame structure, expanded application of structural adhesives, and increased rigidity of suspension attachment points. For frontal collisions, a collision sub-frame has been added that extends the bumper beam to the outside of the vehicle. In a collision against a vehicle, not only the collision safety of the own vehicle but also the performance to protect the occupants on the other side (compatibility) has been improved. As with the Legacy Outback, a new frontal collision test, MPDB (Mobile Progressive Deformable Barrier), has been introduced to evaluate compatibility based on the assumption of an actual frontal collision. The Subaru STARLINK, a connected function not found on the previous generation XV, is adopted.

    Exterior Design

    The high hood position gives a sense of thickness and expresses muscularity. Sharp front grille bars and LED headlamps give the front mask a nimble and intrepid image. Full LED high and low beam lamps and LED cornering lamps are adopted for the first time on a Subaru. 18-inch alloy wheels are adopted on the high-end grades. A total of nine exterior colors are available, including the new Offshore Blue Metallic and Oasis Blue.

    Interior Design

    The instrument panel design is simple yet expressive, with a multi-layered, multi-material structure that makes the most of the textures of each material. The center console’s upper surface has been raised to express a sense of envelopment and quality, and its operability has been improved. In addition, the interior is designed to be user-friendly, with a full range of storage space. The higher grade comes with fabric (silver stitching). The standard grade has tricot (silver stitching). Leather seats are available as a factory-installed option. A new 11.6-inch center information display with a large screen has been adopted to greatly enhance smartphone connectivity. Subaru’s first “Digital Multi-View Monitor” that synthesizes images from four cameras and displays a 360° view of the vehicle’s surroundings.

    Adoption of new-generation EyeSight
    Triple camera (stereo camera unit + wide-angle monocular camera) is adopted for improved performance. The new stereo camera unit significantly increases the angle of view to approximately twice that of the previous model. The image recognition software and control software have been improved to enable recognition of a wider and more distant range. In addition to the windshield-mounted type, a lens hood was adopted to prevent accidental contact with the lens. A wide-angle monocular camera (a first in the Subaru Japanese market) is newly adopted to recognize motorcycles/pedestrians at a wider angle than the new stereo camera when driving at low speeds. It expands the situations that can be handled by the pre-crash brake and achieves the best performance as the previous generation EyeSight.

    Specifications of the new Subaru Crosstrek
    The gasoline model 1.6L horizontally opposed 4-cylinder DOHC engine used until the XV has been eliminated. 2.0L horizontally opposed 4-cylinder DOHC engine
    FB20 direct-injection engine + motor-assisted “e-BOXER” model.

    Subaru Fully Remodels the XV as the All-New “Crosstrek” Announced for September 15, 2022
    Subaru unveiled the Japan-specification prototype of the all-new CROSSTREK for the first time in the world on September 15, 2022. The new model, the third generation of the CROSSTREK, will feature the “CROSSTREK” which has been used in different markets…

    About the specifications of the all-new “Vezel
    The fully redesigned “Vezel” is based on the fourth-generation “Fit” and inherits its predecessor’s “center tank layout” based on Honda’s unique M-M concept. While maintaining the compact body size, easy handling, and versatile seating arrangements, the exterior proportions have evolved to be more powerful and beautiful. The headlights feature “LED sequential turn lamps (flowing indicators). Honda Sensing” is standard equipment on all models. As can be seen in the photo, the rear of the car has a sleek coupe form. The overall length, width, and height are 4,340 mm, 1,790 mm, and 1,590 mm, respectively, and the wheelbase is 2,610 mm, making it a 3-number size SUV.

    The VEZEL features a panorama roof (with Low-E glass), a liberating sunroof, two-tone exterior colors, tricolor decorations, and a hands-free access power tailgate with a reserved-close function.

    The interior panels have a horizontal, linear design based on the HMI (human-machine interface) concept, which reduces eye movement, arranges controls along the line of flow, and improves visibility. The instrument cluster is the same 4.2-inch or 7.0-inch instrument cluster used in the new Accord, Insight, and other models. The interior front seats feature new-generation “body stabilizing seats” newly developed for installation in high-end sedans, which provide soft and comfortable seating that reduces fatigue even after long hours of driving, and an “auto brake hold” function that allows the driver to take his or her foot off the brake pedal while the vehicle is stopped. The “Auto Brake Hold” function allows the driver to take his/her foot off the pedal while the vehicle is stopped and release the brake pedal when the accelerator pedal is depressed, making it useful in traffic jams and other situations. The “telescopic and tilt steering mechanism” allows drivers of all sizes to drive in the best position. The “parking brake system” is adopted. The center display features the “9-inch Honda CONNECT Honda Display. It is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Honda CONNECT,” an in-vehicle communication module exclusively for Honda vehicles, is installed. It features “Honda Digital Key” that substitutes a smartphone for a key, “Honda App Center” and “In-car Wi-Fi” that allows users to purchase data communication capacity in the car and enjoy connecting to the Internet.

    The 1.5L i-VTEC engine + “i-MMD (e:HEV)” of the two-motor hybrid system is adopted, which achieves WLTC mode fuel economy of 24.8km/L. The “e:HEV” offers a choice of three different driving modes: NORMAL, SPORT, and ECON. In addition, different degrees of deceleration can be selected when the accelerator is turned off in the D-range, B-range, and deceleration selector.

    Click here for information on the new Vezel
    Honda’s new Bezel fully remodeled with e:HEV to be launched on April 23, 2021

    Also read

    Honda’s new Bezel fully remodeled with e:HEV, to be launched on April 23, 2021
    Honda will fully remodel the Vezel and launch it on April 23, 2021 with an announcement on April 22, 2021. A teaser was also released along with the…
    Subaru’s new “Crosstrek” vs. Honda’s new “Vezel” body size comparison
    The “Crosstrek” is larger, with overall length + 140 mm, width + 10 mm, and height – 10 mm. The Yaris Cross has a wheelbase of +60 mm.

    VEZEL
    Crosstrek
    Specifications New VEZEL New Crosstrek
    Overall length 4,340mm 4,480mm
    Overall width 1,790mm 1,800mm
    Overall height 1,590mm 1,580mm
    Wheelbase 2,610mm 2,670mm
    Minimum turning radius 5.3-5.5m 5.4m
    VESEL
    Crosstrek
    Comparison of the new Subaru Crosstrek and the new Honda Vezel hybrid models
    Specifications New VZEL New Crosstrek
    Engine 1.5L i-VTEC engine
    + New i-MMD
    (e:HEV) 2.0L Horizontally-Opposed 4-Cylinder DOHC
    FB20 direct injection engine
    + motor-assisted “e-BOXER
    Maximum output 72kW (98ps)
    5,600-6,400rpm 107kW (145ps)/6,000rpm
    6,000rpm
    Maximum torque 127Nm (13.0kgfm)
    4,500-5,000rpm 188Nm (19.2kgfm) / 4,000rpm
    4,000rpm
    Motor
    Maximum output 80kW (109PS)
    3,500-8,000rpm 10kW (13.6ps)
    Motor
    Maximum torque 253Nm (25.8kgfm)
    0-3,000rpm 65Nm (6.6kgm)
    Transmission
    Transmission Electric
    Stepless transmission CVT (Lineartronic)
    Drivetrain 2WD/4WD AWD
    WLTC mode
    Fuel economy 24.8km/L (2WD)
    22.0km/L (4WD) 15.0km/L (4WD)
    Price (10%) 2,658,700 yen~
    3,298,900 yen – yen
    Comparison of safety technologies between the new Subaru “Crosstrek” and the new Honda “Vezel
    Both are equipped with a number of class-leading safety features to support the driver. System Equipment The new Vesel The new Crosstrek
    Collision mitigation brake system ◯ ◯
    Accident departure control system ◯ ◯ ◯ ◯
    Pedestrian collision mitigation steering
    Off-road departure control function
    ACC with traffic jam follow-on function
    Lane keeping assist system
    Car ahead departure alert function
    Sign recognition function
    Rear-end vehicle departure control function
    Automatic high beams
    Short-range collision mitigation brake function
    Blind-spot monitor
    Information may be incorrect due to pre-launch information.

    Comparison of equipment between the new Subaru Crosstrek and the new Honda Vezel
    System The new Vezel The new Crosstrek
    Auto Brake & Hold ◯ ◯ ◯ ◯ ◯ ◯ ◯ ◯ ◯ ◯ ◯ ◯ ◯ ◯ ◯
    Display audio system
    Multi-view camera system Fat
    Hill start assist
    Connected services
    The information may be incorrect because it is based on the latest automobile information and includes pre-launch information.

    One last comment
    The new Vezel is equipped with a hybrid system (e:HEV) and has excellent fuel economy of 24.8km/L under the WLTC mode, while the new Crosstrek has a fuel economy of 15.0km/L under the WLTC mode. In terms of price, the Vesel is cheaper to start. The design is hard to say, as there are different likes and dislikes, but it seems certain that the Crosstrek will become a rival model of the Vezel.

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    Suzuki’s XL7 a 3-row SUV has won the Car of the Year award in Thailand

    Suzuki’s XL7, a 3-row SUV, has won the Car of the Year award in Thailand. It is a long-wheelbase version of the second-generation Escudo and an overseas version of the Grand Escudo previously sold in Japan. The current model was reintroduced in 2020 and is comparable in size to the Toyota Corolla Cross. It has a tough and powerful design with a skid plate-like front bumper and a spacious and refined interior with versatile seating arrangements. The powertrain includes a 1.5-liter inline 4-cylinder K15B engine that produces 105 horsepower and 138 Nm of torque, with a choice of 5-speed MT or 4-speed AT transmission in Indonesia.

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    Game-Changing Toyota Alphard Crossover: Embrace 6-Inch Lift for Unstoppable Adventures!

    On June 20, 2023, Exia Co. Ltd. a renowned automotive manufacturer, introduced the world to its latest innovation – the “Alphard Crossover.” This custom car has captured the attention of car enthusiasts and adventurers alike, as it promises an unparalleled experience from city streets to off-road adventures. Developed based on the concept of “Lift Up Your Life,” the Alphard Crossover is a one-of-a-kind SUV version of the popular Toyota “Alphard” luxury minivan, making it a unique and powerful addition to the automotive market.

    The highlight of this striking vehicle lies in its extensive customization, which is based on the third-generation Alphard model. Exia has lifted the suspension by an impressive 6 inches (approximately 152mm), ensuring that the Alphard Crossover stands tall and confident on any terrain. The addition of 265-size mud tires and fender covers further enhances its rugged appearance and capability.

    For outdoor enthusiasts, the Alphard Crossover boasts an array of convenient features. A bull bar, carrier, and hitch ball mount have been thoughtfully integrated to accentuate its wild appeal and practicality during outdoor activities. This vehicle’s versatility is a testament to the meticulous design, allowing it to seamlessly transition from sophisticated city driving to thrilling wilderness escapades.

    Despite the adventurous customization, Exia ensures that comfort is not compromised. The company’s proprietary lifting method ensures that the Alphard Crossover maintains a smooth and comfortable ride even in urban settings. To achieve this, Exia collaborated with the renowned parts manufacturing store, “Heartland,” which has a proven track record in lift-up customization. Safety is also a top priority, and the Alphard Crossover meets high-quality standards in both design and construction.

    Following the announcement, numerous reactions flooded social media platforms, with users expressing their excitement and admiration for the Alphard Crossover’s appearance and styling. Many enthusiasts voiced their appreciation, with comments such as “I personally love this look,” “I like the design!” and “It’s also interesting as fashion.” The vehicle’s bold and luxurious design garnered widespread attention, showcasing its potential to become a trendsetter in the automotive world.

    However, some individuals raised concerns about its off-road capabilities. As a luxury minivan at its core, there were comments expressing hesitance towards taking the Alphard Crossover off the beaten path, fearing potential damage to the pristine interior. Nonetheless, Exia has designed this vehicle to strike the perfect balance between ruggedness and elegance, catering to the demands of modern-day adventurers seeking both style and substance.

    Pricing for the Alphard Crossover, including consumption tax, starts from 5.8 million yen and ranges up to 6.58 million yen, depending on the base vehicle and customization options chosen. For those seeking a personalized and luxurious all-round minivan, the Alphard Crossover offers an enticing proposition.

    In conclusion, Exia Co., Ltd.’s Alphard Crossover stands as a groundbreaking creation, fusing the allure of a luxury minivan with the power and versatility of an SUV. Its innovative customization and attention to detail have sparked widespread interest and discussion on social media. As automotive enthusiasts and adventurers eagerly await the opportunity to experience this marvel on wheels, the Alphard Crossover is poised to make a lasting impact on the automotive landscape.

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    Red badge shining Honda new model “Fit RS” Sporty interior and exterior and running! What is the reason why MT cars are not set?

    “The new Honda Fit RS with shining red badge is sporty inside and out and drives well! Why is a manual transmission model not available?

    Black mesh grille for a fearless front face
     On October 7, 2022, Honda’s compact car “”Fit”” underwent a minor change, and the sporty “”RS”” grade, which has been available on previous generations of Fit, was newly added.

    The mesh grille is so cool! Photos of the ultra-sporty new “”Fit RS”” interior and exterior

    The “”Fit RS”” Revived after a 2.5 Year Absence

     The Fit RS, revived after a two-and-a-half-year absence, is now available as a model with even greater attention to design and driving quality.

     The exterior features an exclusive mesh-type front grille, black front bumper, side sill garnish, and rear bumper. A rear spoiler and 16-inch aluminum wheels exclusively designed for the RS emphasize its sporty appearance.

     The interior is also specially tailored with a three-spoke steering wheel exclusive to the RS, prime smooth and ultra-suede seats, and yellow stitching throughout the interior.

     Incidentally, the RS in Fit means “”road-sailing.

     In terms of driving performance, an RS-specific suspension is adopted. While the performance has been refined to suppress body swaying on rough road surfaces, it also aims to combine the enjoyment of a pleasant connection between the driver’s operation and the car’s behavior in various situations with an exhilarating ride with a high quality feel.

     In addition, the e:HEV RS hybrid model is exclusively equipped with a deceleration selector that allows the driver to choose from four levels of deceleration force when the accelerator is released and three drive mode switches (NORMAL, SPORT, and ECON).

     By the way, some people are disappointed that there is no MT model, which was available on the previous Fit RS, so we asked Honda about the reason for the non-installation.

     According to Honda, it was difficult to offer a manual transmission for the RS because hybrid vehicles (e:HEV) are currently the mainstream in terms of electrification, which is advancing rapidly these days, and the current fourth-generation model originally has only a two-pedal transmission.

     The “”NES”” grade has been eliminated in exchange for the revival of the RS.

     The “”Basic”” grade is simple, the “”Home”” grade is standard and comfortable, the “”Luxe”” grade has a high quality feel, and the “”Closter”” grade is active and SUV-like. It seems that the “”Ness”” was a model that was difficult to sell in the market.

     On the other hand, the RS, which was set as a sporty grade, has been receiving strong orders. It may become a mainstay grade as a new face of the current Fit.

    * * * * *

     In this minor change, grades other than the RS also underwent design changes.

     The Luxe’s front nose has been reshaped for a cleaner look. The position of the upper grille has been raised, and the Luxe/Home has evolved a neat design with a chrome decorative line running horizontally across the top of it.

     In addition, the Kloster’s front, side, and rear garnishes have been changed to a silver color. The design is more Tough Gear-like, emphasizing the crossover-like character of the vehicle.

     In addition, the motor output of the two-motor hybrid system has been increased by 14 horsepower to 123 horsepower. From the moment the driver depresses the accelerator pedal at low speeds, the car starts powerfully and smoothly like an electric car, and the driver can now enjoy a pleasant sense of acceleration with good extension.

     The gasoline-powered model has increased its displacement from 1.3 liters to 1.5 liters to provide a spacious driving experience in a variety of everyday situations.

     In addition, the “”Honda Sensing”” driving safety support system is newly standardized with Traffic Jam Assist (traffic jam driving support function) and Sudden Acceleration Suppression, in addition to the conventional functions. Blind spot information and reverse exit support are also newly added and are available as factory-installed options for each type of model.”

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    Unleashing the Power of 12 Mitsubishis Fearless Black Outlander SUV Takes the Roads by Storm

    In an exciting announcement on December 7, 2023, Mitsubishi Motors introduced a refreshed model of its popular PHEV (plug-in hybrid) crossover SUV, the “Outlander.” The latest iteration boasts an array of upgrades, with the standout feature being the introduction of a sleek jet black color option, exuding a fearless and sophisticated aesthetic.

    One of the key enhancements is the addition of an HDMI port across all grades, complementing the existing USB Type-C and Type-A ports. This sought-after feature allows users to seamlessly connect their smartphones or tablets to the vehicle’s navigation system, enabling entertainment options like watching videos while waiting for quick charging or dropping off family members.

    Safety takes center stage with the incorporation of headlight washers and LED rear fog lights as standard features. These additions prove invaluable in adverse weather conditions, enhancing overall safety during challenging drives, such as in snowy areas or on long-distance journeys.

    The Outlander now offers a diverse palette of 12 body colors, including the striking new two-tone “Black Diamond/Sterling Silver Metallic” and the sophisticated monotone “Graphite Gray Metallic.” The special edition model, known as the “BLACK Edition,” sees a shift from the traditional “G” grade (5-seater/7-seater) to the more enriched “P” grade (7-seater). This upgrade includes advanced features like a head-up display and a premium BOSE sound system, along with improved functionality and comfort, including an electric panoramic sunroof.

    The exterior design of the Outlander BLACK Edition exudes confidence with standard equipment such as a gloss black dynamic shield, black side window moldings, and gloss black roof rails. The exclusive body color, Graphite Gray Metallic/Black Mica, is available among the five body color options for this edition. Prices for the Outlander range from 4,995,100 yen to 6,304,100 yen, inclusive of consumption tax. The regular grade hits the market on December 7, 2023, while the special edition BLACK Edition is set to launch on February 8, 2024.

    In addition to the Outlander, Mitsubishi has also made significant improvements to its crossover SUV “Eclipse Cross” in both PHEV and gasoline models. All Eclipse Cross models now come standard with smartphone-linked navigation featuring a multi-around monitor, facilitating easy and safe parking. Prices for the PHEV range from 4,094,200 yen to 4,658,000 yen, while the gasoline model is priced between 2,773,100 yen and 3,520,000 yen. The Eclipse Cross is slated for release on December 7, 2023.

    Mitsubishi’s commitment to innovation and style is evident in these updates, offering consumers enhanced driving experiences with cutting-edge features and a touch of fearless design.

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