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Experience 6 Incredible Variants of Honda’s High-Quality Fit From Luxurious to Sporty
ByPawaniIn recent years, even compact cars are increasingly being equipped with luxurious interiors. Among them, Honda’s flagship compact car, the Fit, stands out with its high quality and versatile interior.
The first generation Fit was released in 2001. It quickly became a flagship model, highly acclaimed for its stylish design, low floor, spacious interior space, and ease of use. The current model is the fourth generation, released in 2020. While retaining the spacious interior and ease of use brought about by the low floor FF platform, it has improved four “comforts”: visibility, ride comfort, seating comfort, and ease of use. The design has also been completely revamped from a stylish atmosphere to a simple and modern one.
In addition to the usual gasoline engine, the powertrain includes Honda’s unique two motor hybrid “e:HEV”, as well as the advanced driving assistance system “Honda Sensing”. A minor change was made in October 2022. This update included refreshing the interior and exterior design, improving engine output, enhancing Honda Sensing functions, and adding a sporty “RS” grade.
The body size ranges from 3995-4095mm in length, 1695-1725mm in width, 1515-1570mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2530mm. Unlike previous models where differences in equipment divided the lineup, the current Fit shares basic equipment across all models. The coordination of the interior and exterior allows users to choose what suits their taste and lifestyle.
There are five types in the regular lineup, with a special edition vehicle added in December 2023, bringing the total to six variations:
HOME: The mid range model features a prime smooth instrument panel and a combination seat of woven fabric and prime smooth. It offers a simple design with a natural texture. Additionally, a “light gray” interior option is available, featuring ultra suede and prime smooth combination seats for a modern and pleasant touch.
BLACK STYLE: This special edition features a black toned interior with glossy piano black panels on the steering switch, shift lever, cup holder, and other decorative areas, creating a mature and calm space. Combined with black exterior parts, it gives a bold impression.
LUXE: The top of the line model is equipped with luxurious genuine leather seats, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The “Light Brown” option unifies the front and rear seats, instrument panel, steering wheel base, center console, and front armrest in beige, giving it a bright impression. Special details such as black piping on the headrests and shoulders of the seats, quilting and perforation on the backrest and seat center, and brown seat belts create a high quality space. The exterior features chrome decoration and special 16 inch wheels for a touch of glamour.
RS: This sporty model enhances its sportiness with special aero parts and specially tuned suspension. The interior matches the sporty exterior with a gray base and yellow stitching.
CROSSTAR: Featuring a tough exterior that stands out outdoors, this model has water repellent fabric seats that resist dirt even in outdoor settings.
BASIC: A simple yet functional model that provides all essential features.
The Fit’s price (including consumption tax) ranges from 1,655,500 yen to 2,748,900 yen.
Honda’s Fit continues to impress with its blend of luxury, comfort, and versatility in the compact car segment.
Nissan’s new “X-Trail” is dedicated to hybrids! What are the advantages and strengths of the increasing number of “hybrid SUVs”?
“Nissan’s New xtrail to be Exclusively Hybrid! What are the advantages and strengths of the increasing number of “”Hybrid SUVs””?
What in the world is a hybrid x SUV?
Nissan’s popular SUV, the Nissan xtrail, has undergone a full model change and is now in its fourth generation model. Moreover, the platform has been completely redesigned this time, making it an exclusive model for Nissan’s series-type hybrid, e-POWER.The new XTRAIL’s custom cars are too cool! View 32 photos of the EXTREME X, AUTECH, and NISMO.
The fact that the XTRAIL, which used to be equipped with a clean diesel engine and boasted tough driving performance, has become a hybrid-only model shows that hybrids are now mainstream even in SUVs.
Nissan’s new xtrail, now a hybrid-only model
On the other hand, for XC-based SUVs with a strong off-road orientation, diesel engines, which offer both high torque and good economy with light oil, are still very popular.
Let us examine the appeal of “”hybrid SUVs”” from various angles to see if hybrids are suitable for SUVs in the first place.
SUVs are now booming, and Toyota’s Crown, once the king of sedans, now has three SUVs in its lineup, including a crossover SUV in the new model.
In addition, with the government-led goal of “”in principle banning the sale of new cars with gasoline engines by 2030,”” hybrid vehicles are now the mainstay of the transitional period leading up to pure EVs, and in addition to series, parallel, and series-parallel systems, there are also systems such as the mild hybrid, which is used in mini cars and other vehicles. There are systems such as mild hybrids.
So what are the biggest advantages of hybrid SUVs? We asked Mr. T, an industry insider.
He said, “”The good thing about a hybrid is that it compensates for one of the weak points of SUVs, which is poor fuel economy due to the heavy weight of the vehicle. Hybrid vehicles will also have advantages in terms of taxes and insurance.
Although the number of BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) SUVs is still small, hybrids will be the main powertrain for SUVs that are used for leisure activities and often travel long distances.
The advantages of hybrids, such as quietness and low emissions of harmful substances, are also favorable for SUVs that are often used for outdoor field trips.
In other words, hybrids are expected to successfully compensate for the disadvantages of SUVs equipped with large-displacement engines.
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With the current global shortage of semiconductors, delivery dates for attractive new vehicles are still undecided, and many people are considering used SUVs that can be driven immediately.
Since used cars are mainly models that are several years old, they are likely to choose from gasoline or diesel vehicles, but is it still a good idea to buy a hybrid SUV?
The concern with used cars is that even if you want to go after a hybrid SUV, the current used car market is dominated by models with hybrid systems that are a generation old.
We asked Mr. K, the manager of a Tokyo-based dealership that handles both new and used hybrid SUVs, about used hybrid SUVs.
He said, “”I have the impression that used hybrid SUVs are not as popular as I thought they would be, despite the fact that there are a fair number of them in circulation.
People who are looking for a domestic SUV tend to prefer newer models, and they tend to avoid “”late models”” even if they are reasonably priced.
Currently, it is better to wait for a new hybrid SUV or to go for a used car that is as new as possible, but three years from now, when the current new models start to appear on the used car market, hybrid vehicles may become the focus.
In particular, hybrid models of popular SUVs such as Toyota’s Yaris Cross, RAV4, and Harrier have a fast market cycle and may be available in a little while longer.
The new Nissan Extrail is now available exclusively as a hybrid! What are the advantages and strengths of the growing number of “”hybrid SUVs””?
Can you drive off-road in a hybrid SUV? Can it be customized?
One of our concerns with hybrid SUVs is whether they can be driven off-road. We talked to staff at a 4WD specialty store that specializes in XC and other customization to find out if hybrids can handle heavy-duty use.The answer is no. This is not a question of the performance of the hybrid system, but rather the nature of the vehicle itself.
Passenger car-based SUVs use a monocoque body and are built with priority given to on-road use. In scenes of severe impact or extreme load, body rigidity is more of a concern than suspension.
On the other hand, Nissan’s e-4ORCE and Toyota’s E-Four electronically control the front and rear torque distribution, which is superior to manual operation by humans.
They detect road conditions and speed to optimize torque distribution, making it easier for beginners to drive off-road or on snow-covered roads.
Hybrid version of the Toyota RAV4
The latest hybrid system also enables control that takes even road noise into consideration, such as actively running the engine in situations where road noise is also high on rough road surfaces.
This is because while on-road performance is important, off-road performance is also fully taken into account, so it can be said that the hybrid system more than satisfies the performance required for SUVs.
So, can a hybrid SUV be customized?
There are still very few full-scale off-roaders with a hybrid system, and few stores or manufacturers are developing parts for them.
Hybrids are very sensitive systems, so we think that light customization, such as installing exterior parts and changing tires and wheels, will probably be the main focus at this point.
Are there any concerns about the daily maintenance of hybrid SUVs? We asked a mechanic in Kanagawa Prefecture who handles maintenance and repairs for both domestic and imported vehicles.
He said, “”Hybrid SUVs are still a new genre, so I don’t have a good grasp of their durability, but I don’t think there will be any mechanical problems.
However, there are some points to note that are not limited to SUVs, but are unique to vehicles equipped with hybrid systems.
In addition to the main battery, such as lithium-ion or nickel, hybrid vehicles are also equipped with an auxiliary battery, which is often forgotten.
Most of the battery problems in hybrid cars are caused by the auxiliary battery, so don’t forget to check it.
(H mechanic) “”Auxiliary batteries in gasoline cars are located in the engine compartment, but in hybrid cars they are often installed in hard-to-reach places such as under the rear seats, which often results in a higher labor cost.
The bottleneck of hybrid SUVs is that they are not gasoline-powered.
The bottleneck of hybrid SUVs is that they are more expensive than gasoline-powered vehicles, but other than that, we may conclude that the combination of SUVs and hybrids can only be beneficial.”
The Nissan Elgrand a pioneer in the luxury minivan market has been popular
The Nissan Elgrand, a pioneer in the luxury minivan market, has been popular since its debut in 1997 with its powerful 3.3-liter V6 engine and luxurious features. The second generation, released in 2002, competed with the Toyota Alphard for the top spot in the luxury minivan market. The current third generation Elgrand, released in 2010, has not undergone a full model change, unlike its rival, the Alphard. As Nissan has decreased its new car releases in the Japanese market, the future of the Elgrand remains uncertain. Meanwhile, the Alphard continues to improve its product line and dominates the luxury minivan market.
Suzuki Jimny 5-door Customized Version also unveiled for the first time in the world
Suzuki “Jimny 5-door Customized Version” also unveiled for the first time in the world! Notice the chrome and black decorations! What features does it have?
What are the custom specifications of the quietly placed Jimmy 5-door…?
On January 12, 2023, Maruti Suzuki India held the world premiere of the new Jimny 5-door at AUTO EXPO 2023 in India.
At the event, the “Kinetic Yellow” image color was the focus of attention, but there was also a model customized with accessory parts quietly on display at the event.This is rare! See a Customized Jimny 5-door! Piano Black Decorations are Cool!
The new Suzuki Jimny 5-door made its world premiere in India! What are the custom specifications that were quietly displayed?
The Suzuki Jimny 5-door has already become a hot topic in Japan as well as in India, where it was unveiled for the first time in the world.
On January 13, 2023, Suzuki’s Australian subsidiary has just announced the introduction of the model, raising expectations for the further expansion of the Jimny world.
There are several things to be expected with the Australian launch.
The first is the conversion to pickup trucks.
As is well known, agriculture is a key industry in Australia, and trucks are the national vehicle. A vehicle converted from a Jimny into a pickup truck is already on the market with Suzuki’s official approval.
Based on a 5-door vehicle with a longer frame, a single cab would make a very practical cargo bed.
The second is the availability of custom parts.
Australia is the birthplace of Overland and the country where a wide variety of 4WD parts conceived in the Outback drive were created.
Considering that numerous products have already been released for the Jimny, parts tailored for 5-door vehicles will soon be developed as well.
Speaking of customization for 5-door cars, the vehicle on display at AUTO EXPO 2023 is also worthy of attention.
This vehicle was displayed next to the yellow Jimny 5-door that made a spectacular appearance on stage, and it clearly had an aura of being different from the standard model.
The first thing that catches the eye is the front bumper.
The first thing that catches the eye is the front bumper. A skid plate-like part is attached to the lower part, and if you look closely, you can see a carbon weave-like pattern engraved on it.
Two metal-like decorative parts are attached vertically above it, giving it the appearance of an over-rider.
The combination with the normal glossy grille gives it a luxurious and heavy-duty look that has not been seen on previous Jimny models.
Striped-plate-like plastic parts attached to the front and rear corners of the body also amplify the rugged look.
These stripe-plate body guards are familiar from the old Land Rover Defender, and have existed in Japan since the 1980s. The square form of the Jimny has an excellent affinity with it.
Turning to the side, you will notice a large decal of the car name.
The decals sold in Japan are not in great demand by users, but there may be a market for this type of decal on 5-door cars with wide body sides.
The bottom of the door is covered by a burly door sill guard.
This part has a double structure, with one plate as a base and another plate as a guard.
The inner plate has a design reminiscent of a G-Shock, which also gives it a heavy-duty look.
An interesting feature is the door visors, which are rarely seen in Japan these days.
The design of the front and rear visors are interlocked, and the rear visor is slightly smaller to create a sporty image.
It can be said to appeal only to India, where the smoking rate is still high, but it may be useful for ventilation when staying in a car in Japan as well.
Tire covers combining piano black and chrome are another new option for the Jimny.
This type of cover is familiar from the Mercedes-Benz G-Class. This is not because of the nickname “Little G,” which is familiar overseas, but it is a custom part that fits surprisingly well.
The roof was fitted with a general-purpose carrier, but a roof rack or roof tent would have enhanced the off-road 4WD image of the vehicle.
This demo car suggests that Suzuki is aiming for a current-generation “Defender”-like customization with factory-installed options.
The Jimny 5-door will not be available in Japan for a long time yet, and it is unclear if any of these optional parts will be available, but all of them have a great chance of being released.
It seems certain that the catalog lineup, including outdoor options, will increase significantly.
The black spokes are cool! Nissan “Aura NISMO” new wheels are now available. Engine sports tuning is also on sale.
“Black spokes are hot! New Nissan “”Aura NISMO”” Wheels Now Available with Sports Tuning for the Engine
Lightweight Forged Wheels Improve Handling Performance
On May 30, 2022, Nissan Motorsports & Customization announced the release of the LM GT4S aluminum road wheels for the Note Aura NISMO in a limited edition of 100 (reference tire size: 205/50R17) as a new NISMO brand product.NISMO’s red is kicking ass! Gutsy driving Nissan “”Note Aura NISMO”” is so cool!
LM GT4S is a 6-spoke wheel made of lightweight, rigid and strong forged 1-piece. Compared to the factory wheels, each wheel is approximately 15 kg lighter, resulting in improved handling performance.
In an exclusive black color, the “”NISMO”” logo is machined and placed on the spokes.
Knurling has also been applied to the areas where the tire bead comes into contact with the wheel to prevent misalignment between the tire and wheel, which can easily occur under high-g driving conditions.
The price (including consumption tax) is 84,700 yen. Orders and shipments are scheduled to begin in August 2022.
In addition, carbon door mirror covers for the “”Note Aura”” and “”Note”” will be additionally released. The price is 49,500 yen (set of two for both sides).
* * * * *
In addition, the release of “”NISMO Sports Resetting TYPE-2″” for the Note Aura NISMO was also announced as a new NISMO brand product.
NISMO Sports Resetting is an engine tuning menu, and there are three types of products in the lineup according to different specifications: “”TYPE-1,”” “”TYPE-2,”” and “”TYPE-3.
The “”TYPE-2″” engine, which is available for the Note Aura NISMO this time, maximizes performance by changing the speed limiter and resetting various engine controls such as the air-fuel ratio, ignition timing, VTC (variable valve timing), boost pressure, and ETC (electro-tuned throttle) to achieve even sportier engine characteristics. This will maximize the performance and evolve the engine characteristics to a sportier one.
VCM tuning has been implemented to further enhance the driving enjoyment of the Note Aura NISMO, which exhibits outstanding performance even in stock form.
Five of the six drive modes have been modified to allow the driver to enjoy not only circuit driving and other sports driving, but also driving on public roads and winding roads, in a way that suits the situation.
The “”NISMO mode”” has been set to meet the needs of sports driving, and at the same time, the power generation power when using the charge mode (quick charge) has been strengthened so that powerful acceleration can be more sustained. It is ideal for driving on winding roads and mini circuits.
In D range, a setting that emphasizes gas pedal control has been implemented. It has achieved ease of speed control with gas pedal work.
In addition, the B range has been set to emphasize gas pedal response. It responds sensitively to gas pedal work, minimizing the time lag between gas pedal ON and OFF, and enhancing regenerative power during deceleration.
In “”ECO mode,”” power generation control has been made more efficient, and the gas pedal response and torque generation characteristics have been optimized.
In D range, the acceleration force at startup is set to be close to that of the original, but with a gentle acceleration feel overall. In B range, the acceleration characteristics are flatter from startup, and the regenerative power has been enhanced to further promote eco-friendly driving.
In “”NORMAL mode””, the changes to the original characteristics are kept to a minimum, and only the regenerative power in B range has been enhanced (D range is unchanged).
NISMO Sports Resetting TYPE-2 is priced at 143,000 yen (tax included) and is available at NISMO Omori Factory and NISMO Performance Center (NPC).
“Honda CR-V new model, the most powerful hybrid in history .
“New Honda CR-V, the Most Powerful Hybrid Ever…Announced in the U.S.
Tough and refined styling is pursuedSporty, modern and spacious interior
204hp of power from the entire hybrid system
Friday, July 15, 2022 4:30 p.m.
Honda CR-V new model (U.S. specifications)On July 12, Honda’s U.S. division unveiled the new CR-V SUV.
◆Tough and refined styling
New Honda CR-V (U.S. model)
Honda CR-V (new model) (U.S. specifications)
The new CR-V pursues a tough exterior design inspired by the “”Trail Sport”” of the high-end Passport SUV and other models. It features a large, upright front grille, a long hood hood, and LED headlights. A powerful horizontal beltline emphasizes the overall length, which is approximately 70 mm longer than the previous model. The overall width and wheelbase have also been extended by approximately 10 mm and 40 mm, respectively, for a stronger and more aggressive presence.The windshield pillars have been repositioned for sportier proportions and improved visibility; the base of the A-pillar has been moved backward about 120 mm, outward about 70 mm, and downward about 35 mm compared to the previous model. The company is proud to say that these changes, along with side mirrors mounted on the doors, have greatly improved visibility.
The hybrid model has aggressive styling. The front grille is a mesh design, highlighted by gloss black accents. The rear features a rectangular exhaust finisher. The exclusive lower bumper design is gloss black for the Sport grade and platinum finish for the Sport Touring. The underside of the rear spoiler is matte black for the Sport and gloss black for the Sport Touring. The aluminum wheels are 18-inch 10-spoke with Berlina Black paint on the Sport. The Sport Touring is equipped with 19-inch 5-spoke wheels painted black.
◆Sporty, modern and spacious interior
The interior reflects Honda’s new design direction of sporty and modern while using high quality materials. The new model has a longer distance between the front and rear seats, and the rear seat legroom is approximately 15 mm larger than the previous model. The rear seats have an eight-stage reclining adjustment function for enhanced comfort.
The front seats feature newly developed body stabilizer seats. This reduces fatigue on long drives. The steering wheel angle has been made sedan-like to pursue a more comfortable and sporty driving position. The center console between the front seats features the largest cup holder in its class with a 9-liter capacity.
The Sport features exclusive black moquette seats and black trim panels. The Sport Touring, on the other hand, has black or gray leather seats and piano black trim trim. The Sport and Sport Touring have a black-finished headliner and orange contrast stitching on the seats, console, steering wheel, and shift lever.
◆204hp power throughout the hybrid system
The new CR-V uses a fourth-generation two-motor hybrid system. The engine is an Atkinson-cycle direct-injection 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline. The motor draws maximum torque of 34.2kgm, 2kgm stronger than the conventional model. The entire hybrid system, engine and motor combined, achieves 204hp of power. This is an improvement of 3hp over the previous model and, according to Honda, is the most powerful in the CR-V’s history.The hybrid system offers greater refinement at highway speeds, and for the first time, the towing capacity, which is important for SUVs in the U.S. market, is up to 0.45 tons. Linear Shift Control is said to elevate the driving experience by pursuing an engine rev feel linked to vehicle speed when the throttle is fully open. The new hybrid system also improves acceleration performance in the speed range from approximately 140 km/h and up, according to the company.”