Toyota Crown Athlete G TRD Sportivo scale model... in pink colour!!!

Now that's a truly special model! This is a Toyota Crown Athlete G TRD Sportivo model in pink colour, definitely one of the most impressive models in my collection (!!!) which now consists of more than 285 models :-)

Nissan Fairlady Z (Z32) / 300ZX scale model!

My first ignition model was a Nissan Skyline 2000 GTS-R R31, bought last year, and I was really amazed by the quality and finish of the actual model. Also, it was very difficult to find the R31 and back then, it was the only model missing from my Skyline collection.

A few days ago, I came across with this beautiful version of the Fairlady Z (Z32) by ignition model, and although I already did have the Z32 in my collection (earlier post), I couldn't resist...! I am very glad that I bought it as it is truly a fantastic model!!!

Subaru Legacy scale models!

Some very nice Subaru Legacy models, among other goodies, arrived today straight from Japan!!!

Subaru Legacy Outback

When it comes to cars, I have to admit that I am fed up with all the "premium" German models that promise to be near perfect, but fail in so many areas... I really miss my Honda Civic FD1!

The only car that really excites me is the new Lexus NX, but due to the lack of a diesel engine (the hybrid comes with a 2.5L engine which is not a good idea due to the taxes involved), I started looking for a all-wheel drive car with some off road capabilities. 

I checked out the new Nissan X-Trail and although it's a great value of money, it just doesn't work for me. It lacks any excitement and I decided that it is not my cup of tea. Then I started wondering which cars I used to like a lot as a kid. Well, it was the Mitsubishi Galant and Subaru Legacy. And then it came to me... Legacy + off road capabilities = Outback!!!

I visited my local Subaru dealer this week and it didn't take long to decide. If I could afford buying a new car, it would be the one!!! Nice presence, simple yet elegant design, good quality, good ergonomics and it does feel very robust. It's difficult to describe it, but it has been a long time since the last time I sat in a car and I had the feeling that this is a well made car!

I really respect Subaru for choosing their own path when it comes to engineering. That makes me wanting a Subaru even more, as I would definitely like to try the boxer diesel engine coupled to the Lineartronic gearbox :-)

Lexus LS L-Select program: Escape Journey

There many beautiful items produced in Japan that unfortunately are not available outside the country. The same implies for the L-Select customization program available for the Lexus LS.

As part of the L-Select program (more info), there are six ‘worlds’ from which to choose the look and feel of your interior. Those "worlds" are the Presidential Suite, Escape Journey, Japanese Modern (my personal favourite), Royal Therapy, Wild Beauty and Passionate Spirit. The most distinct ones are definately the Escape Journey and the Passionate Spirit and although they may seem as extreme at first glance, the craftmanship and colour combinations are simply amazing.

The Escape Journey (more info) in particular conjures the image of a Mediterranean style yacht. The Marine Blue (マリンブルー) leather on the dashboard is spread in such a way that reproduces the scene of a steering cruiser aiming at the horizon (Kajiwokiru 舵を切る)! The aluminium trim also conjures the image of how the water reflects light.

Source of photos: Luxury TV

Source of price list: kotakunのページ

Scoop: Lexus NX

The new Lexus NX will go head to head with BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA. It is expected to revealed in autumn, during Tokyo Motor Show, and sales should start at some point in 2014 for an estimated price of 3,500,000 yen.

Power is expected to come from a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, badged NX 200t, and a 2.5-liter engine coupled with Lexus' hybrid system, badged NX 300h.

New Honda NSX Concept GT Car Debut!

Scoop: New Honda Fit (Jazz)

Mag-X has released a rendering of the upcoming new Honda Fit (Jazz). Of course, a hybrid version will be available and according to the same source, it will achieve a fuel economy of 36.5 km/l.