Next RAV4 to replace JDM Vanguard - hybrid version on the cards

SUV sales in the States are dropping and the current RAV4 hasn't been left unaffected. Fuel efficiency is one of the most important factors nowadays, as the price of the petrol has been significantly increased worldwide, and therefore, Toyota plans to bring out a lot of hybrids (earlier post). Therefore, Toyota plans to replace the 3.5 L V6 engine of the current model with a hybrid version equipped with a 2.5 L petrol engine.

Currently, the are two versions of the RAV4 in Japan, as a longer version called Vanguard ヴァンガード is being sold as well, but this is about to change since the new model will be offered only in one. The length of the next-gen RAV4 is going to be 4,500 mm, which between the length of the current RAV4 and Vanguard. According to Mag-X, the next-gen RAV4 will make its debut in October 2012.

Toyota FT-86 / Subaru 216A: Debut at 2011 Tokyo Motor Show, sales start in April 2012

President of Fuji Heavy Industries Mori Ikuo, has already confirmed that the Scoobi version will be revealed at the end of 2011 (earlier post), and rumors have suggested that both versions (detailed post) will make their debut at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show.

Well, it seems that Mag-X claims the same and according to the report, sales are expected to start in April 2012!

Next Toyota Crown coming next year

The next-gen Toyota Crown (クラウン) is under development and from I could make out of the Japanese text (Mag-X), Toyota is working on a hybrid system for its FR sedan model featuring two clutches. Toyota aims to reduce the price of the hybrid version by ¥ 1,000,000 (the current model costs ¥ 5,400,000), making the hybrid version the leading one in the Crown family.

Of course, the hybrid version will not only have an advanced version of the THS (current system shown above), but also the current V6 engine found in the hybrid will be dropped and a 2.5 L straight four will be used. The new Crown, which will use the new platform of the next-gen Lexus GS, will be launched in September 2012.

Development of new Lexus GS back on track

The development of the new Lexus GS had been frozen last year and thus, the original target of hitting the markets in August this year has been postponed. Toyota was affected by the reliability issues of the Prius (including brakes, engine valve springs etc) and therefore, priority was given in the resolution of the quality problems.

It seems though that Lexus has started again developing the new GS, which is now heading for a launch in August 2012. The new car will be rear wheel drive and according to Mag-X, it will ride on a new platform. In terms of styling, initial reports suggest that the four-lamp design will continue to be present, although there are some concerns as to whether  buyers will get tired of the same theme over three generations.

Lexus wants the new GS to be sporty and to be able to compete with the premium German models, which means that a lot of work has to be done in the interior. Also, there is going to be a new interface for all the electronic toys inside.
 

The new GS will not grow anymore, measuring 4,830 x 1,840 x 1,450 (mm), and the base model is likely to be powered by a 2.5 L V6 engine.

ADAC crash tests Mitsubishi i-MiEV

The first production EV, the Mitsubishi i-MiEV, has been crash tested by ADAC in Germany. When performing such a test, passive safety is not the only concern, since EVs use high-current drives with a voltage of 200 to 400 volts, and thus the safety of the electrical systems is also important.

Although it didn't score perfect marks, there was some deformation in the footwell, there were no major problems noted. The i-MiEV went through 64 km/h frontal and rear impacts.

Toyota develops new SUV smaller than RAV4!!!

Toyota is about to make a comeback in the compact SUV segment, as the RAV4 has grown up a lot since the first-gen model. Toyota has been left with a gap at the moment, and the same applies for Suzuki with the Escudo (aka Vitara). It's only Nissan that has an SUV for every need and Toyota wants to catch up with that.

The new compact SUV will be powered by a 2.0 L engine, and it will be also available as a hybrid with the powertrain being based on the 2AR type. Since it's not going to be a hybrid only, I suspect that it will not carry the Prius badge.

The images published by Mag-X are coming from Toyota (!) and they were shown during a design review. The specific design proposal has a panoramic sunroof and overall, it looks very aggressive with all those edges and slim headlights. To be honest, the side view reminds me Audi's Q5.

Of course, pricing will be crucial for the success of the model and the entry level version, powered by the 2.0 L petrol engine, could cost as little as ¥ 1,600,000. The hybrid version will cost more, probably around ¥ 2,400,000. Of course, don't get ready to place an order yet, since it will take a while until it goes into production, which will happen in the summer 2012. The design is still under development and the final decision is expected to be taken later this year. Toyota may show a concept version at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show this year.

New Subaru Legacy coming in 2014

Hmm, it seems that 2014 will be a busy year for the Japanese car manufacturers... According to Mag-X, Subaru is planning to introduce the all-new Legacy in May 2014. Unfortunately, I cannot make much sense out of the text, except from the dimensions, which are (length x width x height) 4,770 x 1,785 x 1,535 (mm).

Lexus SC to be back

The production of the Lexus SC 430 has stopped and Lexus has been left without a sports coupe model in its lineup. Since Lexus faces tough competition in the States, from MB, BMW and Audi, such a model is a vital one.

So, most likely we will see it in 2014, according to Best Car magazine, and as per Lexus' practice, two versions will be available, badged as SC 450h and SC 460. I hope that Lexus will use a different benchmark this time, as BMW did with the new 6 series.

New Supra may not be dead... yet

As with the NSX successor, there have been a lot of rumours during the last few years about a new Supra. Well, there are still rumours coming from Japan that the FT-HS concept, which was a study showing how the new car could look like, may not be the end to this story. After all, Toyota wants to go after Nissan and the new Z, which is coming in 2013 (earlier post), may face some strong competition from Japan...!

RX-8 successor likely to hit the markets in 2014

Latest rumours coming from Japan suggest that the RX-8 successor, which is very likely to be called RX-9, is going into production in 2014. As already posted, the 16X Wankel engine under development is 30% more fuel efficient that the RX-8's engine and expect it to produce around 300 ps.

More info about Toyota Prius C

Yesterday, I posted some info about the upcoming production version of the Prius C Concept (earlier post), which was shown at the Detroit Motor Show, and now I've some more info from the latest BC issue.  BC claims also that the Prius C will achieve a fuel efficiency of 44.0 km/L and the dimensions mentioned are exactly the same as the ones published by Mag-X.

From what I could make out of the text, Toyota will use a modified version of the current hybrid system, in order to reduce the cost and maintain the proven reliability. The car will be able to accommodate four adults and as you can imagine, don't expect any thrills with just 76 ps and 11.7 kgm of torque. It is expected to cost around ¥ 1,590,000.

Dream garage...!!!

Now, this is perhaps every man's dream!!! One day, I would like my garage to look like this... with different cars though!!! 

More photos after the jump!

Aston reveals first launch editions of iQ-based Cygnet

Well, it's not only Gazoo and MN having a play with Toyota's iQ, but also Aston Martin with its version called Cygnet (シグネット). To celebrate the commencement of production in April 2011, the new Aston Martin Cygnet will be available in two special launch edition models, White and Black. Both will be available with either the standard manual or optional CVT automated transmission and each will be produced for a strictly limited time. Prices are starting at £30,995!

According to the press release, "Cygnet Launch Edition White brings together a serene exterior; finished in Snow White paint with a mix of silver mesh, chrome brightwork and White Diamond turned alloy wheels. The interior of the White edition features seats hand trimmed in Pearl white leather with perforated Alcantara inserts, complemented by satin chrome. On the exterior, Aston Martin’s attention to detail is exemplified with the iconic wings badge appearing in matching white.

In contrast, Cygnet Launch Edition Black features Magic Black metallic paint with a specially developed deep sea green effect, offset by matt black louvers and chrome brightwork. Inside, the seats and dash are finished in pure black full grain leather, perforated in a specially-developed diamond pattern. Dark chrome accents adorn the cabin, while the wings badges are rendered in black throughout.

Both Cygnet Launch Editions also come with a bespoke Bill Amberg five-piece luggage set, especially designed for and tailored to Cygnet. Available in a contemporary combination of black leather with technical fabric, the set comprises glove box bag, removable door pocket bag, holdall, garment bag and a collapsible tote bag."

More photos after the jump!

Toyota Prius C coming in November 2011

Expect the production version of the Prius C Concept (earlier post) to be revealed in November 2011, with total dimensions (length x width x height) of 3,800 x 1,690 x 1,500 (mm). Since aerodynamics play an important role, the target Cd value is 0.27 and an improved version of the THS-II hybrid system will be fitted. A newly developed 1.5 L engine using the  Atkinson cycle will enable the new model to achieve a fuel efficiency, under the 10.15 mode, of 44 km/L.

[Source: Mag-X via CarSensor]

Minor changes for Nissan Murano in Japan

Nissan has announced some minor changes for the Murano in Japan, which will be released on February 3, with a slightly changed front grille, new 20" aluminium wheels and a new exterior colour.

In the interior, there are redesigned leather seats and new door trim. Also, driver's visibility has been enhanced by using white fonts on the combi meter. There is iPOD support and the new "Carwinds Navigation" system is available.

Prices start from 2,971,500 ¥ for the 2WD 250XL model and the top-spec 350XV FOUR model cots 4,469,850 ¥.

More photos after the jump!

New Suzuki MR Wagon officially launched

Suzuki has officially launched the new MR Wagon, targeting young buyers. The new model adopts a newly developed platform and a lot of work has been done in terms of packaging in order to offer a roomy interior. Power comes from the new R06A engine (earlier post), which is coupled to a CVT gearbox and 2WD models achieve a fuel efficiency of 25.5 km/L.

Three different trim levels are available (G, X and T) and all of them are available as either FF or 4WD. G and X models get a naturally aspired version of the new engine delivering 54 hp, while the T models get a turbocharged version with a power output of 64 hp. Monthly sales target is 3,000 vehicles and prices start from 1,131,900 ¥.

• G:1,131,900 ¥ (FF) /1,249,500 ¥ (4WD)
• X:1,215,900 ¥ (FF) /1,333,500 ¥ (4WD)
• T:1,393,350 ¥ (FF) /1,510,950 ¥ (4WD)

First three production LFAs arrived in US - Part 3 of 3

More photos after the jump!

First three production LFAs arrived in US - Part 2 of 3

More photos after the jump!

First three production LFAs arrived in US - Part 1 of 3

On January 18, the first three production LFAs arrived in the US! As you can imagine, transporting the cars from Japan must be done in a special way. Each car arrives in its own container, which after going through the customs, is then delivered to a special facility in order to be unboxed.

Of course, the preparation needs time since wood chocks have to removed, the pallet has then to be taken out with the use of a forklift, and there are also other measures keeping the LFA secure, such as wheel straps which of course need to be removed.

After the car is carefully checked, it is loaded to a transporter in order to be delivered to the dealer.

Below are some facts as published by Kaizen Factor:

• Each LFAs are tested and driven by a Motomatchi Quality Control Engineer to ensure the highest quality compliance. A certificate is placed in each car with the engineer’s signature.
• Each LFA ships in its own clean container with a pink painted metal pallet designed specifically to secure the car during transport.
• Each LFA pallet is sent back to Japan after use to transport the next shipment of cars. 5 can be stacked at one time.
• The LFA is not covered in exterior plastic during transport. This is to ensure proper paint curing from the time it leaves the Motomachi Plant to its final destination.
• It takes about 7-10 days (weather permitting) for an LFA to ship from the port in Japan to the Port of Long Beach.
• All US bound LFAs will only go through Toyota’s facilities at the Port of Long Beach for de-vanning of the shipping container.
• Each LFA will be delivered by a special Lexus transporter to the new owner’s preferred Lexus dealer.
• This is the only Lexus or Toyota product that is delivered in this manner.
• LFA10 is the chassis code for the Lexus LFA. LFA10L is the designation for left hand drive models.
• Mobil 1 5w50 is the official oil for the Lexus LFA.

I have came across with some amazing photos of the three LFAs (via Kaizen Factor), so stay tuned for more posts coming!

More photos after the jump!

Lexus LFA's carbon fibre weave method

A rather unsual paint job by ARTIS (アルティス)!!!

Now, that's an unusual paint job! This 3D hologram of eeer... scratches really looks cool and it was exhibited at the Tokyo Auto Salon. The company responsible for this paint job is called ARTIS.

New 2011 EUDM Honda Civic - launch of every Civic variety within weeks of each other!

So far, we have seen spy shots of both JDM and EUDM Civics, and Honda has even presented two concepts of the USDM 9th-gen Civic at Detroit. The USDM versions will go on sale in April, and apparently, every Civic variety will be launched within weeks  of each other, according to John Mendel, executive vice president of sales for American Honda!!!

Quattroruote magazine has came up with this 'photoshoped' image, giving an impression of how the EUDM model (earlier post) could look like. Well, judging by the spy shots, the overall shape won't change much and it makes sense, since after the "revolutionary" design of the current-gen model, Honda has decided to play it safe.

According to the article, the engines are expected to be the same, meaning that the 2.2 L diesel engine will be on offer, along with the 1.8 L petrol (R18A1) one. I suspect that once again, the hybrid version will be made in Japan and thus Europe will get the JDM Civic Hybrid.

I would like to thank my dear friend, Dimitris, for providing me with this magazine scan!

Mazda to unveil Minagi concept at Geneva previewing CX-5

A couple of Mazda sketches have leaked prior the intended release date, January 19, showing an SUV concept due to be presented at the Geneva Motor Show. The concept is called Minagi and it previews the upcoming CX-5 (earlier post). Although we don't know when it goes on sale, expect the production version to be shown at the IAA in September.

Behind the scenes of the 2011 Lexus "The Hard Way" - Chain commercial

2011 Lexus "The Hard Way" - Chain commercial

Subaru considering production of Trezia STi concept

Subaru is considering the possibility of producing the Trezia STi concept, fitted with a number of STi parts (aero kit, STi tuned suspension and light weight wheels), which was presented at the Tokyo Motor Show. 

Apparently, visitors' reaction was very positive and Subaru has hired also an external company in order to conduct a research and then decide whether to make it available in the domestic market.

Mitsubishi to reveal Global Small Concept at Geneva

Following the official sketches of the upcoming global small car (earlier post), published by Mitsubishi, it has now been confirmed that the actual concept will be presented at the Geneva Motor Show. The production version is expected to be launched in March 2012, when the new plant in Thailand will start operating.

The engine is expected to have a displacement between 1.0 and 1.2 L, coupled to a CVT gearbox, and in combination with an energy recovery system and a stop/start system, it will be able to achieve an emission level of around 90 g/km.

It's still unknown whether the new small car will replace the Colt in Europe or not.

New Skyline Coupe / Infiniti G Coupe coming in 2012

A while back, Autocar reported that the new Nissan Skyline (earlier post), aka Infiniti G, has already been shown to the management. Now, a Japanse magazine has published the rendering shown, claiming that a hybrid version will be available, along with diesel engines supplied by Mercedes-Benz.

The new model is expected to launched either at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show, or at the 2012 Detroit Motor Show.

[Source: IMP-X's blog]

New Fairlady Z Z35 (390Z) coming in 2013!

In the "A glimpse of upcoming Prius V, Fit Wagon & facelifted Fairlady Z (370Z)" post, I mistakably wrote that on the cover of the latest BC issue, the facelifted Fairlady Z (Z34) was shown.

Well, the particular rendering is BC's impression of the all-new Fairlady Z (Z35), which will go into production in 2013.

[Source: IMP-X's blog]

Toyota FT-86 in GT5!

Now those are some wicked shots!!!!! Absolutely amazing!

[Source: Facebook (FT-86 concept)]

GRMN iQ Racing Concept in action!!!

Detailed info about Ariel Atom Mugen

The Ariel Atom Mugen (earlier post) was unveiled at the 2011 British Autosport Show and it's a special edition for the celebration of Ariel's 10th anniversary. Ariel, that has built 1,000 Atoms, will build just 10 of those special ones powered by the Honda K20Z Type R engine.

According to the press release, each Atom Mugen engine is stripped, measured and fully blueprinted at Mugen Europe’s Northampton headquarters. The engines are reassembled with high performance, higher compression pistons, high lift camshafts and new valve springs. A longer freeflow inlet manifold is fitted with a bigger diameter throttle body together with race grade spark plugs.  The engine also features a full baffled sump and is finished with a carbon fibre Mugen cover. 

After assembly, each engine is tested on the Mugen dynamometer and carefully run in prior to full power test. After 7 days of work on every engine they are bore scoped and inspected prior to sign off. A lightened balanced flywheel is fitted together with a limited slip differential to the close ratio Honda 6 speed gearbox prior to installation in the Atom.

More info and photos after the jump!

Nissan Elgrand Rider Premium Concept

One JDM model that I really like is Nissan's Elgrand (エルグランド) and those are some photos of the Elgrand Rider Premium Concept presented at the 2011 Tokyo Auto Salon.

More photos after the jump!

First production Lexus LFA

On December 15, 2010, production of Lexus LFA began at the Motomachi factory (earlier post). The LFA is produced by a total of 170 people, including the CFRP (earlier post) manufacturing staff. According to the press release, the CFRP technology, which was developed in-house, will be used in future Toyota and Lexus models!

The LFA is assembled by hand and consists of around 15,000 parts (a "normal" Lexus model consists of around 12,000 parts). Each LFA built will have over a 3,500-page work journal. This will be kept at Lexus and will be utilised for future reference in the case there will be an inquiry after the delivery of the vehicle.