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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.
Unexpected Nissan “Hakosuka Truck” world premiere!
“Nissan “”Hakosuka Truck”” Unveiled for the First Time in the World! The “”Sanitra”” with a powerful face is actually a “”LEAF”” in the U.S.
Sema is on the way! World premiere of “”Hakoska Truck””-like Sanitra to be unveiled
At the SEMA Show 2022, to be held November 1-4, 2022 in Las Vegas, USA, Nissan USA will unveil several custom vehicles.
One of these vehicles will be a special “”Sunny Truck”” (hereinafter referred to as “”Sanitra””), which is rare in the world, and what features does it have?This…is a Hakosuka truck! See the actual racing-spec “”Sanitra,”” which looks so different!
Is this a Hakosuka? But something different? It’s really a “”Sunny Truck,”” but it’s got a big secret!
This Sanitra is a custom car built by Tommy Pike Customs (TPC) based in South Carolina, U.S.A., which installed the power unit of Nissan’s electric vehicle “”Leaf”” into a 1987 Sanitra.
The front face of the car is fitted with a widebody kit of the Skyline GT-R (C10), commonly known as the “”Hakosuka,”” which is one of Nissan’s most famous cars.
The body color is a custom “”46″” livery by Brock Racing Enterprises (BRE), a collaboration between Tommy Pike and Peter Brock.
At the heart of the vehicle is an electric motor and 40 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which delivers approximately twice the power and more than three times the torque of the gasoline engine used in the Sanitra. This custom car can truly be called a Sanitra EV.
In addition, in order to accommodate these components, a Nissan “”240SX (180SX North American spec)”” suspension (including front coilovers, disc brakes, and lower control arms) and rear suspension and springs for a LEAF are installed in the front.
Inside, the interior has been tweaked down to the smallest detail, with handmade interior panels and a custom user interface display designed by Clemson University.
Tommy Pike had this to say about the new Sanitra EV: “”I’m very excited about the new Sunny EV.
We bought the Sunny because we thought it was a great piece of Nissan history and heritage, especially being right-hand drive.
Converting the Sunny to an electric car and doing the unexpected by giving it the Brock Racing Enterprises livery felt like the perfect way to honor Nissan’s heritage and modern innovation.
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Nissan’s booth at the SEMA Show 2022 will feature six concept cars and the new Z racing car for the first time. In addition, Nissan will showcase models that symbolize Nissan’s past and present, including street/track performance and off-road-focused concept cars.”
Exciting 7 Aero Parts Boost New Toyota Prius Performance by 1.6x
M’s Speed, renowned for its expertise in developing, manufacturing, and selling aero parts, has set the automotive world abuzz with its recent release of the highly-anticipated product lineup and stunning images of aero parts for the new 2023 Toyota Prius. The Prius, born in 1997 as the world’s first mass-produced hybrid car, has since revolutionized the automotive industry by popularizing hybrid technology worldwide. Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2022, the Prius continues to evolve, and the 5th generation model promises to capture hearts with its alluring design and captivating driving experience.
The new Prius boasts an exterior design that effortlessly combines the iconic “monoform silhouette,” synonymous with the Prius, with the enhancements brought by the 2nd generation Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform. The TNGA platform has resulted in a lowered center of gravity, the adoption of 19-inch large diameter tires, and a sleek hammerhead design, giving the Prius a sporty and stylish edge.
Step inside the Prius, and you’ll find an interior that matches the lean and modern exterior in terms of advancement and sportiness. Toyota has spared no effort in making the new Prius a vehicle that delights both the driver and passengers alike.
The powertrain options for the new Prius include a 1.8-liter engine or a 2.0-liter engine combined with a hybrid system (HEV) or a plug-in hybrid system (PHEV). Particularly impressive is the 2.0-liter HEV model, which delivers a remarkable maximum output of 193 horsepower, a significant 1.6 times increase compared to its predecessor. Meanwhile, the PHEV model boasts a maximum system output of 223 horsepower and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 6.7 seconds.
In keeping with their reputation for excellence in aero parts development, M’s Speed has unveiled an array of seven meticulously crafted aero parts for the new Prius. The lineup includes a front half spoiler, side step, rear under spoiler, front grill garnish, rear gate spoiler, door mirror cover, and pillar panel. Each component has been carefully designed to enhance the Prius’s aerodynamics and aesthetics, ensuring it exudes an aura of sophistication and performance.
Additionally, the demo car showcased by M’s Speed proudly displays a 20-inch “JJ Launcher” at the foot, adding a touch of power and athleticism to the overall appearance.
While pricing details are yet to be announced, enthusiasts and prospective buyers can rest assured that more information will be disclosed as the release date approaches. The anticipation for the new Prius and its accompanying aero parts is undeniably mounting, and car enthusiasts worldwide eagerly await the chance to experience the perfect harmony of style, efficiency, and performance that this iconic hybrid vehicle and M’s Speed’s aero parts have to offer.
As we move closer to the launch date, stay tuned for further updates on the new 2023 Toyota Prius and the exceptional enhancements from M’s Speed that promise to take this celebrated hybrid car to new heights.
New BMW X1 Triumphs as 2023-2024 Imported Car of the Year with 3 Pioneering Power Units
ByPawaniDecember 7, 2023: In a thrilling turn of events, the Japan Car of the Year Executive Committee declared the BMW X1 the winner of the prestigious “Imported Car of the Year” award for the 2023-2024 season. This recognition comes as the culmination of BMW’s commitment to excellence and innovation, marking a significant achievement for the automaker.
The BMW X1, a compact SUV (referred to as SAV by BMW), first made its debut in 2009 and has consistently raised the bar in the luxury SUV segment. The latest iteration, representing the third generation (U11 type), has undergone a complete renovation after eight years, hitting the Japanese market in February 2023. Notably, the series introduces its inaugural electric vehicle (EV) model, the “iX1.”
Setting itself apart from conventional SUVs, the BMW X1 is renowned for its exceptional on-road performance, a characteristic trait shared with BMW’s Sport Activity Vehicles (SAVs). The dimensions of the X1 stand at 4500-4505mm in length, 1835-1845mm in width, 1620-1645mm in height, with a wheelbase measuring 2690-2692mm.
The exterior boasts a striking “kidney grille” in line with BMW’s recent design trends, complemented by newly designed headlights that redefine the traditional four-lamp layout. To enhance aerodynamics, flush door handles grace the body sides.
Inside, a revolutionary large curved display integrates the meter panel and control panel, showcasing BMW’s commitment to bold digitalization. Traditional elements such as the shift lever have been eliminated in favor of an innovative UX design, providing an intuitive and streamlined operation.
The BMW X1 comes equipped with advanced features, including standard “Driving Assist” that combines active cruise control, lane change assist, collision mitigation braking with misapplication prevention, and accident avoidance assist. The connected function, “BMW Connected Drive,” offers digital key functionalities and vehicle information accessible through a dedicated app.
The lineup includes the “xDrive 20i” model with a 2-liter gasoline turbo engine, the “xDrive 20d” diesel engine model featuring a mild hybrid, and the all-new EV model iX1. All variants feature a 4WD drive system, exclusively available in right-hand drive.
For enthusiasts seeking high performance, the “M35i xDrive” from the “M High Performance Model” category is available. This top-tier model boasts a 2-liter 4-cylinder engine, delivering a maximum output of 317 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed DCT. The package includes special exterior features, high-performance brakes, and paddle shifters, offering an exhilarating driving experience. The price range for the BMW X1, including consumption tax, starts from 5.86 million yen and goes up to 7.86 million yen.
The accolade of the 2023-2024 Import Car of the Year was attributed to the BMW X1 for its exceptional dynamic quality, despite its compact size tailored for the Japanese market. The power of choice, with three distinct power units catering to different lifestyles—BEV, gasoline, and 48V mild hybrid diesel—earned commendation for their remarkable driving performance. Notably, the importers’ efforts to maintain competitive pricing within the same range, especially when subsidies are factored in, were also acknowledged and celebrated. The BMW X1 continues to be a symbol of luxury, innovation, and driving excellence in the global automotive landscape.
New Toyota “”Prius Modellista Specification”” to be Exhibited at Auto Salon 2023 .
ByPawaniShark face! New Toyota “”Prius Modellista Specification”” to be Exhibited at Auto Salon 2023
Modellista plans to exhibit three new Prius models
On December 12, 2022, Toyota Customizing & Development (TCD), a provider of customized parts for Toyota and Lexus vehicles, announced that it will exhibit “”Modellista”” brand customized cars at TOKYO AUTO SALON 2023 ( Auto Salon 2023 will be held at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023.
Auto Salon 2023 will be held at Makuhari Messe in Mihama-ku, Chiba City for a total of three days from January 13 to 15, 2023.This… is so cool! See the aero specs of the new Prius in action!
Two new Prius Modellista specifications will be on display (Image: Toyota Mobility Parts official YouTube)
The exhibited vehicles are customized cars of the new 5th generation “”Prius,”” which made its world premiere on November 16 and is scheduled to go on sale this winter.
In addition to the two versions of the customized car that were previously unveiled on the teaser site at the same time as the world premiere of the Prius, a base model will also be exhibited, making a total of three Prius vehicles on display.
The two versions will be different from each other: “”NEO ADVANCE STYLE”” and “”ELEGANT ICE STYLE.
The NEO ADVANCE STYLE features a large LED illumination on the front and a three-dimensional blackout to express a dynamic presence.
On the other hand, the ELEGANT ICE STYLE features chrome decorations that wrap around the vehicle, emphasizing its high quality.
TCD explains that the Auto Salon 2023 exhibit will showcase both the base model and the two versions of the car, allowing visitors to experience the design of both.
Details of the aero parts for the new Modellista-branded Prius are expected to be revealed in the future.
Super cool Toyota’s Alphard a full-fledged SUV
Super cool! Toyota’s “Alphard,” a “full-fledged SUV,” has been praised! Almost DIY “off-road minivan” is now the talk of the town!
Toyota’s “Alphard” Converted into an SUV Receives Praise
The “Tokyo Auto Salon 2023,” a custom car festival held in January 2023, showcased a large number of elaborate custom cars.I have never seen such a “luxury minivan” before! Toyota’s “Alphard,” now a “full-fledged SUV”
At the Tokyo Auto Salon, a custom “crossover minivan” vehicle, which could also be called an “Agephard,” was exhibited. This car was exhibited.
This vehicle has attracted a variety of comments on social networking sites.
A custom car that could also be called an “Agephado,” a DIY conversion of Toyota’s luxury minivan “Alphard” into a full-fledged SUV.
The Alphard is Toyota’s world-class luxury minivan. The current model is the third generation developed under the concept of a “large-space luxury saloon,” which was introduced in 2015.
The model that became the ALPHARD is also based on this third generation. Not only is the vehicle extremely lifted, but it is also equipped with a bull bar, giving it a full-fledged SUV look.
According to the owner, Tom, the vehicle height has been increased by about 8 inches (203mm) including the lift-up kit and tires. The tires are the same size as those used on the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, a full-fledged cross-country four-wheel drive vehicle, and are large off-road tires.
At the front, the factory bumper has been cut and a bull bar modified from one for the Toyota Hiace has been installed, and skid plates for the Toyota Hilux have been diverted.
On the sides, door mirror covers and over fenders have been installed and chipping paint has been applied, and a “roof carrier,” a standard item for off-road vehicles, has been installed on the roof to further enhance the SUV look.
The rear of the vehicle is equipped with rear tires similar to those on a full-scale cross-country four-wheel drive vehicle such as a RANCL, and a ladder is also installed, giving the impression that it is not a minivan at all.
The cost of the modification, which is of interest, was approximately 1,000,000 yen, which is only the cost of parts, since it was installed as a DIY project.
The cost of the modification is said to be about 1 million yen.
Although the “Agephado” has been heavily customized, it has of course passed vehicle inspections and is officially certified.
Various comments have been made about this car on SNS and other social networking sites.
The most common comments were “Cool! The most common comments on social networking sites were, “It’s cool!
Some people were surprised at the fact that the car was self-made, saying, “I didn’t know you could go this far with a DIY project.
Some also commented that the practicality of the vehicle seemed surprisingly high, saying, “It might come in handy when it snows a lot,” and “It’s nice to have an SUV with sliding doors.
Various comments were gathered about the ALPHARD, some of which reminded people of the Mitsubishi “Delica” in its “SUV + minivan” style, such as “It reminds me of the Delica.
We will keep an eye on Tom’s future plans for the Alphard, which he customized as a DIY project.