Bravo!

The Nijigasaki High School Idol Club has introduced the Monthly Songs project, similar to Aqours' monthly birthday song singles. Each month, one of your favorite members will have the opportunity to shine. For the December edition of the Nijigaku Monthly Songs project... Yes. It's Zhong Lanzhu taking over.

Bravo!

Zhong Lanzhu, played by Akina Homoto, takes over the December edition of the Nijigaku Monthly Songs project with her featured song "Bravo!" The final installment includes this featured track and the additional song titled "Seabird".

The Nijigasaki Monthly Songs collection is now complete. Be sure to collect and listen to each one. Which one is your favorite?

2026MY Lexus RZ

First launched two years ago, the Lexus original EV, the RZ, has been updated for the 2026 model year. However, you won't find anything outside of it because most of the major changes come from within.

2026 Lexus RZ

Now starting at 7,900,000 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the Lexus RZ was made even better. No, you won't find any changes outside except for the fact that the range-topper model, the RZ550e F SPORT, features a two-tone exterior paint.

2026 Lexus RZ interior

The interior of the RZ models, including the front-wheel-drive RZ350e Version L and the 4WD RZ500e Version L, remains unchanged. It features a conventional steering wheel, rotary shift selector, compact air conditioning, digital rear-view mirror, a 14-inch touchscreen with voice activation, and USB-C connectivity. The RZ accommodates up to five passengers and is designed for VIP transport rather than as a people carrier. It offers 522 liters of boot space with the rear seats up and up to 1451 liters when they are folded down, along with features like a hands-free power back door and a hidden deck board for utility.

The RZ550e F SPORT introduces the One Motion Grip yoke steering wheel, which aims to reduce stress and enhance driver engagement, making it a noteworthy feature despite being controversial.

2026 Lexus RZ

2026 Lexus RZ

The EV powertrain and the dynamics are heavily revised in this latest Lexus RZ update. The lower front suspension was trimmed down for weight-saving measures while implementing new internal parts in the hub bearing and repositioning the steering gearbox. In the case of the RZ500e and the RZ550e F SPORT, the DIRECT4 has been revamped for better traction and stability performance.

Combined with the revamped suspension setup, the revised DIRECT4 system, and the RZ550e F SPORT-exclusive One Motion Grip steer-by-wire system, the dynamics have never been so alive.

The electric vehicle (EV) powertrains have been recalibrated thanks to a new 77 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The front-wheel-drive RZ350e produces 167KW of power and boasts a driving range of 733 km. In contrast, the all-wheel-drive RZ500e and RZ550e F SPORT models feature an additional 167KW electric motor at the rear. In terms of driving range, the RZ500e can travel up to 629 km, while the RZ550e F SPORT can cover 582 km.

Another exclusive to the RZ550e F SPORT is the controversial new Interactive Manual Drive, which allows the driver to engage its 8-speed Manual Mode, giving them a video game-like experience while going behind the wheel. Fake gearshifts are nothing new for an electric car like this, but this cheesy feature can surely come in handy.

2026 Lexus RZ600e F SPORT Performance

To enhance the RZ's electric performance, a limited edition RZ 600e F SPORT Performance was introduced in very limited quantities. Priced at 12,165,000 Yen, plus additional costs, it is based on the RZ550e F SPORT variant but features unique aerodynamic updates and an extra 13 kW of power, bringing its total to 313 kW.

Like before, the Lexus RZ features a wide array of advanced safety features such as a Pre-Collision System, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert and Lane Tracing Assist, Lane Change Assist, Driver Monitor, Proactive Driving Assist, and more.

With major updates underneath and the addition of the RZ550e F SPORT with fake gearshifts, the Lexus RZ is becoming more razor-sharp than ever. With this one, Lexus's road to electrification definitely won't have its last word. This is what the Lexus RZ should have been from the start.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Sixth-Generation Toyota RAV4

The sixth-generation Toyota RAV4 is the first RAV4 model to be made within the Reiwa era; the previous model, launched in April 2019, is the last Heisei era RAV4. Long story short, but here we are, the forefather of the crossover SUV boom has been regenerated for touring in mind.

2026 Toyota RAV4

The all-new, sixth-generation Toyota RAV4 starts at 4,500,000 Yen plus additional costs. What you get is a completely new take on the forefather of the crossover SUV boom that focuses more on touring in mind while delivering the same RAV4 experience carried over from its predecessors.

2026 Toyota RAV4

Beginning with the exterior, the all-new model features a boxy silhouette akin to one of its big brothers, the Toyota Land Cruiser 250, while incorporating the current hammerhead look that Toyota shamelessly stole from Ferrari for today's models. The rear view, meanwhile, can be easily mistaken for the Nissan X-Trail, one of its key rivals. 

The basic Z model is styled to look like the Toyota Crown SUVs, while the Adventure model features a more rugged design and a hexagonal front face to make its tough statement.

2026 Toyota RAV4 interior

2026 Toyota RAV4 interior

Inside, the all-new RAV4 features a new center stack, shift-by-wire system, 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, and others. Although it's still as spacious as before, the all-new RAV4 comes with a new rear seatback that can be folded flat to increase cargo space and the optional hands-free power liftgate with expanded detection area for better convenience.

With tech as its core, the all-new RAV4 is the first Toyota to be powered by the Arene software development platform. Powered by AI, the new multimedia system delivers enhanced connectivity, navigation, and security tools with a faster processing rate than before.

2026 Toyota RAV4 GR SPORT

The all-new RAV4 is built on the same TNGA-K unibody platform as the previous model but is now exclusively available in an e-Four Hybrid 4WD configuration. It features the A25A-FXS 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder engine, which is paired with two motor-generators via a planetary-type continuously variable transmission (CVT) and a nickel battery. This powertrain delivers a total output of 240 PS and achieves a fuel economy of 22.9 km/L based on WLTC mode standards.

In addition to its EV mode, the all-new RAV4 comes with a Drive Mode Select that includes TRAIL mode and SNOW mode. It also introduces a new Electronically-Controlled Brake system, which enhances performance on rough terrain.

By 2026, a more powerful RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid (PHV) and the first-ever RAV4 GR SPORT will be added to the lineup, boasting over 300 PS of total power output.

Thanks to its Arene software, the advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) in the all-new RAV4 have been significantly improved. Arene supports the latest Toyota Teammate systems, including a new generation of Toyota Safety Sense, which features Front Cross Traffic Alert, enhanced Lane Change Assist, an updated Pre-Collision System, and over-the-air (OTA) software updates, among other advancements.

The all-new sixth-generation Toyota RAV4 continues its over three-decade legacy while incorporating a wealth of innovative features to ensure practicality for the long journey ahead. While some aspects may be controversial, the RAV4 effectively balances tradition with modernity. This is what the new normal looks like.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Sixth Generation Suzuki Wagon R (2026MY facelift)

Currently on sale for eight years, the sixth-generation Suzuki Wagon R has gained a minor change for the 2026 Model Year, proving that this kei car is still in business and it's still leading in terms of efficiency.

2026 Suzuki Wagon R

Starting at 1,430,000 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the facelifted sixth-generation Wagon R is a clear reminder that you don't count this one out yet because this latest update is packed with revamped styling, interior, and fuel efficiency that can make today's Daihatsu Move look like a millennial's cellphone.

2026 Suzuki Wagon R interior

The new Wagon R features a front design that resembles the current Solio, while the rear lamps have also been updated. Inside, it introduces a new steering wheel and a revised center instrument display, all while preserving the same level of space and comfort as the previous model. However, the boot space is limited to just one suitcase when the rear seats are in use. Folding down the seats will create more room for items, such as those for a garage sale and other belongings.

Equipped with the R06D 660cc petrol engine, the Wagon R's fuel economy is a class-leading 25.1km/L for the 5-speed manual FF variant and 24.2km/L for the CVT FF variant. Coupled with the mild hybrid setup and the CVT, it gets 25.1km/L of fuel efficiency as well. Such class-leading fuel efficiency proves that the Wagon R is still the leader of the pack. The only sad news is the deletion of the turbo variant. Boo.

The updated Wagon R's safety features now come with the Dual Sensor Brake Support II, as well as improved safety features.

Despite sacrificing its turbo variant, which is a real bummer for us, the updated sixth-generation Suzuki Wagon R, with its new style, interior, and improved fuel economy, reminds us that it's still leading the business.

Available Colors: Silky Silver Metallic, White, Pure White Pearl, Bluish Black Pearl 3, Denim Blue Metallic, Nocturne Blue Pearl, Lucent Beige Pearl Metallic, and Velvet Dark Red Pearl.

Photo: Suzuki Motor Corporation

Peleliu: Guernica of Paradise

First serialized in Hakusensha's Young Animal Comics, the story of Peleliu comes to life on the big screen, where one soldier's dream becomes an arduous struggle for survival.

Peleliu: Guernica of Paradise

Starring Rikito Itagaki and Tomoya Nakamura, the movie adaptation of the Peleliu manga brings the life and struggle of a soldier named Tamaru to life on the big screen.

Set a year before the end of the Second World War, Tamaru, a Japanese soldier, was an aspiring manga artist who was assigned to write down the final, heroic scenes of his fallen comrades for their bereaved families as a "merit clerk". That is, until the Japanese forces were outnumbered by the US forces invading Peleliu. For Tamaru, the Peleliu island he set foot on becomes a living hell. 

True to the manga's roots, don't let their cuteness fool you; this movie depicts the life-and-death struggle of a young Japanese soldier on the island of Peleliu. The storytelling is more than enough to give viewers the emotions worth the box of tissues because, let's be honest, you can really cry in moments that showcase the dramatic color of this movie adaptation.

If you want to watch an anime movie that will make you cry, consider this adaptation of the Peleliu manga. Be sure to have a box of tissues or a handkerchief nearby.

Cho, Toutoi LOVE/New Black

Because today's Hasunosora Girls' High School Idol Club is an eight-member unit, a different sub-unit approach was implemented, meaning the unit was split into two teams. 

The team, comprising Rurino Osawa (CV: Kanna Kan), Sayaka Murano (CV: Kokona Nonaka), Kosuzu Kachimachi (CV: Fuuka Hayama), and Ceras Yanagida Lilienfeld (CV: Miu Miyake), will be known as "Ruri&To", while the other, comprising Hime Anyoji (CV: Rin Kurusu), Kaho Hinoshita (CV: Nozomi Nirei), Ginko Momose (CV: Hina Sakurai), and Izumi Katsuragi (CV: Amane Shindo) will be known as "PRINCEε>ε>".

This latest Hasunosora single is the first for the two shuffle teams ready to make their statements.

Cho, Toutoi LOVE/New Black

For this new single featuring Hasunosora's two shuffle teams, the former will perform two new songs, such as "Cho, Toutoi LOVE" and "Hey Say Gals!!!!", while the latter will perform the other two, such as "Nεw Black" and "IcHiGo milK love".

These new songs truly showcase how the two shuffle teams make their statements, and you should too. Expect more to come for Hasunosora's two shuffle teams.

Subaru Solterra (2026MY Facelift)

The Subaru Solterra, the Subaru version of the Toyota bZ4X all-electric crossover, has gained its minor change following the Toyota bZ4X's facelift a few moments ago. Let's find out how much improvement this revised version has.

2026 Subaru Solterra

2026 Subaru Solterra

Starting at 5.17 million yen plus additional costs, the updated Subaru Solterra is all about reintroducing to the public the Subaru equivalent of the recently facelifted Toyota bZ4X, which is now available for private ownership. Compared to the Toyota equivalent, the updated Solterra features an updated front face that is crisp and fresh compared to the pre-facelift version. At the back, what a surprise. Subaru ditched the logo in favor of the SUBARU lettering, just like every Subaru model made from the 1990s.

2026 Subaru Solterra interior

While the exterior design's been revised to keep it fresh for its potential owners, it's the new interior layout that makes a statement. Pity that Subaru canned the option to have a yoke in it (boo...), but amid the dashboard changes, the boot space is still good for 452 liters with the rear seats present.

2026 Subaru Solterra

The EV powertrain gets a shakeup for the recent facelift. The front-wheel-drive ET-SS features a 73kWh battery with 224PS of power and 746km of driving range. The alpha of the range is the 4WD ET-HS with the same 73kWh battery but with an extra electric motor, producing a powerful 342PS and 687km of driving range.

The shakeup of the Solterra's powertrain is thanks to its new eAxle with silicon carbide semiconductors for greater efficiency and higher power while also being lighter and more compact.

For a car that weighs over two tons, the Solterra behaves like a normal crossover daily thanks to its Rack and Pinion steering, front struts, rear double wishbones, and ventilated disc brakes. It's not an enjoyable ride as expected, but it feels nice to drive and downright as regular as a regular show.

In terms of safety, the Solterra is packed with safety features such as Pre-Crash Safety, Blind Spot Monitor, and Advanced Park, among many others.

So, there you have it. If you want a Toyota bZ4X but your nearest dealership is a Subaru, the updated Solterra is your bet. With its updated EV powertrain and crisp design, the new Solterra is about taking a different approach to its familiar formula.

Photo: Subaru Corporation

Super Formula 2025 - Round 10 - FINALE

The 2025 Super Formula season concludes at Suzuka Circuit for the season finale, and as expected, it's a three-race finale to compensate for the recent cancellation of the final race at Fuji due to foggy conditions. With the title battle heating up between Sho Tsuboi, Ayumu Iwasa, and Kakunoshin Ohta, this is an event fans will remember forever.

In the first part of the season, Ayumu Iwasa narrowly defeated Tomoki Nojiri and Igor Fraga. In the second part, Igor Fraga achieved his first Super Formula victory by overcoming Tadasuke Makino and title contender Kakunoshin Ohta. Finally, in the last race of the season, Ayumu Iwasa secured his status as the 2025 season champion by beating Ren Sato and Kakunoshin Ohta.

Screengrab from Super Formula

As Iwasa was crowned Driver's Champion, the DoCoMo Team Dandelion Racing were crowned Team Champion, and Igor Fraga was named this season's Rookie of the Year.

This concludes the 2025 Super Formula season. See you next year.

Scarlet (2025 film)

Mamoru Hosoda, the visionary behind the animated classic Mirai, returns with his latest work, which is going to be a must-watch anime movie of the season.

Scarlet (2025 film)

Mamoru Hosoda's latest masterpiece, titled "Scarlet", made its debut at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival, where it attracted significant attention. Set in the Medieval Times, the story follows Princess Scarlet, who, after failing to avenge her father's death, is plunged into the underworld, a realm inhabited by wandering souls. There, she meets a young man named Sai, a nurse from modern-day Japan. As she learns that Claudius, her uncle and the man who killed her father and seized her kingdom, is lurking in the underworld, Princess Scarlet must choose between vengeance and justice.

Another visionary masterpiece in the making since Mirai, Scarlet showcases a unique storytelling approach that blurs the lines between time and personal loyalty, as well as the path between vendetta and justice. This originality makes it feel like a blend of The Lord of the Rings anime movie, The War of the Rohirrim, and the universe of Makoto Shinkai. The film is gripping, emotional, and intense, revealing the true essence of this latest Mamoru Hosoda masterpiece.

If you loved Mirai, you should check out Scarlet. It's one of the must-watch anime movies not just for the entire autumn season but for the entire year 2025.

YES! to Tomorrow

The Nijigasaki High School Idol Club has introduced the Monthly Songs project, similar to Aqours' monthly birthday song singles. Each month, one of your favorite members will have the opportunity to shine. For the November edition of the Nijigaku Monthly Songs project, Setsuna Yuki's here.

YES! to Tomorrow

Setsuna Yuki, voiced by Coco Hayashi, takes over the November edition of the Nijigaku Monthly Songs project with her featured song "YES! to Tomorrow". The penultimate installment includes this featured track and the additional song titled "think of you"

Next time...Zhong Lanzhu.

KYOJO CUP 2025 Season Summary

For the first time in the KYOJO series' eight-year history, the Japanese all-female rookie racing series, held mostly at Fuji Speedway, was transitioned from prototype racing to formula racing.

The decision to switch to formula racing stems from growing concerns about the participation of Japanese women in motorsport. Since the cancellation of the now-defunct W Series' Japanese leg—originally scheduled to take place alongside the F1 Japanese Grand Prix three years ago—there have been increasing worries that the ongoing F1 Academy series may not feature a Japanese driver or might not be held during next season's Japanese Grand Prix and in the foreseeable future. 

Given these circumstances, the organisers of KYOJO felt that transitioning to formula racing was their only option. This move serves as an opportunity to send a message to the motorsport world: female drivers in Japan, whether local or foreign, deserve a chance to be part of all-female racing events.

The formula machine used in the 2025 KYOJO series, codenamed KC-MG01, is equipped with a turbocharged 1.4-liter engine that generates 176 horsepower. It also features a 12 kW hybrid system and is paired with a Sadev 6-speed paddle-shift transmission. The vehicle adheres to FIA F4 regulations regarding performance. In terms of suspension, it utilizes a double wishbone design with pushrods and adjustable anti-roll bars. The braking system is comprised of AP Racing 2-piston radial mount calipers and ENDLESS brake pads. Additionally, the car is outfitted with OZ Racing wheels and Bridgestone racing tires.

The 2025 KYOJO CUP season is packed with new and returning faces in the grid. A few foreign drivers are joining in the action, such as popular Asian-American racer and content creator, Hana Burton, as well as Thailand's Sitarvee Limnantharak, China's Zhao Yun Qing, and Kelsey Pinkowski from the United States.

Screengrab from KYOJO

The 2025 season kicked off last May 10-11 as a support race alongside the Inter Proto Series for Rounds 1, 3, and 5. Rounds 2 and 4 were support races that took place within the Super Formula 2025 season calendar.

Winning four out of five races, Rio Shimono, the driver of the #86 Dr.Dry with Team IMPUL KC-MG01, emerged as the 2025 season champion, holding her head high. In Round 2, Miki Onaga secured victory over Aimi Saito and Shimono.

With the successful transition of the KYOJO CUP from the VITA-01 to the KC-MG01, this Japanese all-female racing series has sent a strong message to the world: female drivers in Japan, whether local or foreign, deserve opportunities to participate in all-female racing events, particularly in the F1 Academy. While there's still more to achieve, we hope that the 2026 season will bring even more excitement to the new era of KYOJO.

Nijigasaki High School Idol Club Kanketsu-hen Chapter 2

The Nijigasaki finale trilogy continues with the second part, and this time, the girls are heading to Kansai for the next phase of the School Idol GPX.

Nijigasaki High School Idol Club
Kanketsu-hen Chapter 2

Set shortly after the first film, the second chapter of the Nijigasaki High School Idol Club finale trilogy follows the girls as they travel to the Kansai region. Setsuna Yuki, Ai Miyashita, Karin Asaka, Rina Tennoji, Shioriko Mifune, and Mia Taylor are participating in the Kansai leg of the School Idol GPX, a competition where school idols from across Japan compete to become "the most popular school idol at the moment."

Unlike the first film, the second installment is set to bring intense drama by delving into the challenges faced by the featured idols. It raises more questions for fans who eagerly anticipate seeing the other members showcase their new songs. This chapter includes Mia's confrontation with her sister Chloe Taylor, Setsuna Yuki's quest for self-discovery and the true meaning of loyalty, and introduces a shadowy masked vigilante who seemingly appears out of nowhere. Overall, this second chapter delivers a gut-wrenching emotional experience.

As tensions continue to rise dramatically, this movie reveals the authentic essence of the Kansai region, featuring Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe. We can expect fans to flock to the locations highlighted in the film, creating a lively buzz around this "touring" experience. For LoveLivers, this is what tourism looks like, and the movie is sure to generate a lot of excitement.

From tensions to tourism, the second chapter of the Nijigasaki finale trilogy is a must-watch of the season. Those who enjoyed the first film last year can look forward to continuing with this latest installment.

Great to have you back, girls. Bring it on!

OPEN THE G☆TE!!!

Do you miss Liella? Their latest single has arrived in anticipation of their 7th live concert coming this February 2026.

OPEN THE G☆TE!!! (Liella! version)

OPEN THE G☆TE!!!
(Liella! 2nd-3rd Generation version)

"OPEN THE G☆TE!!!" is the latest single from Liella! from Love Live! Superstar!! It was released in anticipation of their 7th live concert next year, giving fans something to enjoy while they wait. The single includes two covers: one featuring the entire group and the other showcasing the 2nd and 3rd generation members. Many Love Live! fans tend to overlook these earlier members, often thinking of Liella! as just a five-member group. However, the unit has now expanded to include 11 members.

No matter which cover you choose, you will be greeted by two new songs you can only listen to, such as "OPEN THE G☆TE!!!", performed by the entire Liella! girls, and "High Motivation", performed by the Liella! 2nd and 3rd Generation members.

If you missed Liella, it's best to check out their latest single. That's all you need to do.

My GT7 Log: Know Your Legends - Honda RA272

Let's get to know about the legendary cars that are hard to get in Gran Turismo 7's Legend Cars, not only because of their extreme rarity that appears once in a blue moon, but also their outrageous price tag that takes almost forever to save one. Today, let's get to know about the Honda RA272, the race car that gave Honda its first-ever F1 race win.

The Honda RA272 is a Formula 1 car from the 1965 season, known for being the first Japanese vehicle to win an F1 Grand Prix at the Mexican Grand Prix with Richie Ginther driving. It featured a 1.5-liter V12 engine producing 230 horsepower, the highest output of its era, with a unique sound and high performance. The car had an aerodynamically advanced aluminium monocoque chassis and double wishbone suspension, weighing just 498 kg, which gave it an impressive power-to-weight ratio. Although it initially exceeded minimum weight regulations, improvements were made during the season to enhance handling.

Let's give the RA272 a quick lap around Goodwood to prove the legend is real. Roll the tape.

It did it in 1m20.416s.

Thanks to the RA272, Honda became synonymous with F1 racing.

What other hard-to-get legendary cars should I drive next? Stay tuned for more.

A quick three-decade history of the Honda CR-V

The CR-V, Honda's first true crossover SUV, celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2025. With six generations throughout its history, let's take a quick look back at three decades of the Honda CR-V.

2025 Honda CR-V e:FCEV

1st Generation (1995-2001) - The first CR-V was one of the first compact SUVs with a car-like ride and handling, offering the practicality of an SUV without sacrificing comfort. It also featured front-wheel drive (FWD) with an optional all-wheel drive (AWD). The CR-V's tall stance and distinctive styling made it stand out from the crowd. It also offered an innovative rear seat design and spacious cargo space.

2nd Generation (2001-2006) - The second generation of the vehicle features a more modern and aggressive design, along with enhanced interior space and safety features, such as side-curtain airbags. Additionally, the use of higher-quality materials has improved the overall feel. The revised all-wheel drive (AWD) system contributes to better performance. The vehicle has grown slightly in size, resulting in increased interior room and cargo capacity.

3rd Generation (2006-2011) - The 3rd generation had more technology, such as Bluetooth, navigation, and a more premium feel with better interior materials. The CR-V continued to offer AWD as an option, and there were safety upgrades, including standard stability control and more airbags. This generation had a sleeker, modern design, with more focus on fuel efficiency and improved handling.

4th Generation (2011-2016) - The standard features included a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a touchscreen interface. There was a greater emphasis on cabin comfort, featuring enhanced noise reduction and improved materials. The fourth generation showcased a more rounded design compared to its predecessors, and it also offered advanced safety features like lane departure warning and forward collision warning in higher trim levels.

5th Generation (2018-2022) - Recent updates to the technology features include the addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as advanced safety features now standard across all trims, such as the Honda Sensing suite. This suite encompasses adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and collision mitigation braking. The exterior design has been refined, presenting sharper lines and a more upscale appearance. The interior quality has also seen significant upgrades, and the 1.5L turbo engine strikes a good balance between power and fuel efficiency. Notably, this is the first CR-V to offer a hybrid variant and the last to be manufactured in Japan, as Honda closed its Sayama plant, where it was produced, in 2022.

6th Generation (2024-present) - Imported from the United States, the CR-V's e:FUEL CELL powertrain generates 174 PS of power and 310 Nm of torque. It offers a driving range of 600 km on a full tank of hydrogen, along with an additional electric range of 60 km. This version of the CR-V is exclusively available in Japan and can only be leased.

2026 Honda CR-V

Honda is celebrating three more decades of the CR-V, and as a token of appreciation, the company announced that the sixth-generation Honda CR-V e:HEV will be released in Japan this winter. Imported from Thailand, this model will be available exclusively in a hybrid configuration. It features the e:HEV 2.0L dual-motor hybrid system, which produces 135 kW of power and 335 Nm of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Happy 30th anniversary and welcome back again, Honda CR-V.

Autobacs Super GT 2025 Series FINALE

MobilityResort Motegi serves as the final stop for the Autobacs Super GT 2025 Series. This finale signifies the end of an era for the Honda Civic Type R-GT racing machines, as they will be replaced by Prelude race cars for the 2026 season. Additionally, it marks the conclusion of the BRZ GT300 race car's EJ engine. With many bittersweet farewells, this finale will determine the champion of the series.

Screengrab from Super GT

The #1 au GR Supra defeated the #23 MOTUL AUTECH Z and the #100 STANLEY CIVIC TYPE R-GT to win not just the race but also the Autobacs Super GT 2025 Series GT500 class champion title. In the GT300 class, meanwhile, the #5 TEAM MACH 86 wins the finale against the #61 SUBARU BRZ R&D SPORT and the #666 seven x seven Porsche 911 GT3R. However, it's the #65 LEON PYRAMID AMG, which finished 6th in this finale, that takes home the GT300 class champion title.

Congratulations to the #1 au GR Supra and the #65 LEON PYRAMID AMG for becoming Autobacs Super GT 2025 Series champions!

This concludes the Autobacs Super GT 2025 Series. See you next year.

Nissan Roox (BB5/6) and Mitsubishi eK Space/Delica Mini (BA1~6)

The tall kei minivans from the NMKV joint venture, the Mitsubishi eK Space, the Mitsubishi Delica Mini, and the Nissan Roox, have gained their full model changes. Let's find out how much these kei minivans have changed.

2026 Mitsubishi eK Space

2026 Mitsubishi Delica Mini

2026 Nissan Roox

The all-new Mitsubishi eK Space starts at 1,749,000 Yen, while the Delica Mini starts at 1,964,000 Yen, and the all-new Nissan Roox starts at 1,672,000 Yen, excluding additional costs. These new-generation NMKV kei minivans have been redesigned with new and exciting ways to please their drivers while maintaining their boxy characteristics that made them special.

2026 Mitsubshi eK Wagon

2026 Nissan Roox

2026 Mitsubishi Delica Mini

For starters, the exterior design retains its boxy attributes from the previous models, but how their designs differentiate between them holds a different story. In the eK Space and the base Roox variant, it's like a mashup between the Serena's back and the front of a certain Chinese EV city car I can't mention due to search query reasons. The Roox Highway Star, meanwhile, is like a mini-me Elgrand. As for the Delica Mini, the derpiest of the three, the iconic Delica Mini design from its predecessor remains. Even with the all-new look, it's still the Delica Mini that every Japanese family loved.

2026 Nissan Roox interior

2026 Mitsubishi eK Space interior

2026 Mitsubishi Delica Mini interior

The interior of these new models is spacious, maintaining the roomy feel typical of kei minivans. The driver's view highlights a modern layout featuring a Google-powered panoramic widescreen, which has become a standard in today's vehicles. However, there are no physical buttons or knobs for adjusting the volume or changing the radio station, which may be disappointing for some. The air conditioning controls are touch panels, but the gear lever is still present. Notably, the Delica Mini includes a unique dial for selecting driving modes, allowing drivers to switch between tarmac, gravel, and snow settings.

2026 Nissan Roox

2026 Mitsubishi eK Space

2026 Mitsubishi Delica Mini

These kei minivans are powered by the same 660cc BR06 three-cylinder DOHC 12-valve engine mated to a CVT gearbox. Thanks to some slight improvements, the fuel economy is up to 21kmpl for 2WD variants and up to 18.8kmpl for 4WD variants based on WLTC Mode standards. Turbocharging is reserved for the Roox Highway Star and the Delica Mini. 

Most variants have Rack & Pinion Power Steering, front MacPherson struts, front ventilated disc brakes, and rear reading/trailing drum brakes. FF variants have rear torsion beam suspension, while 4WD variants have torque arm three-link suspension.

The eK Space, Delica Mini, and the Roox come with a wide variety of safety features from the 3D Multi-Around Monitor, e-Assist, and MI-PILOT, granting them a "Safety Support Car S Wide" credential.

With these new forms, the all-new Mitsubishi eK Space, Delica Mini, and the Nissan Roox are ready to tackle the new normal with their familiar shapes, new interiors, improved fuel efficiency, and tech. Kei car fanatics, rejoice.

Photo: Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

Ikizulive! 1st Solo Single Series

With Love Live, fans are becoming familiar with the Ikizulive girls from "IKIZULIVE! LOVE LIVE! BLUEBIRD." Here comes the next step to familiarize the members with the Ikizulive! 1st Solo Single Series.

The Ikizulive! 1st Solo Single Series is a range of solo singles with each member performing two songs and the solo version of "What is my Life?"

Polka Takahashi (CV: Honon Ayasaki) performs the songs "浅草Guilty Girlの歌" and "オドルポルカ".

Mai Azabu (CV: Rina Endo) performs the songs "Public Style" and "ひっさつマイマイモード".

Akira Goto (CV: Seri Miyano) performs the songs "いつか碧" and "ジェットスターター".

Hanabi Komagata (CV: Kokoro Fujino) performs the songs "HIBANA―火花―" and "First Ride".

Miracle Kanazawa (CV: Aiha Sakano) performs the songs "HomeRun Queen!!" and "マジカル♡レシピ・シルブプレ！"

Noriko Chofu (CV: Ria Seko) performs the songs "恋のワンタイムパスワード" and "センチメートル・ランデヴー".

Yukuri Harumiya (CV: Yuki Okumura) performs the songs "Pray for love" and "二人はいつでもHappy End".

Aurora Konohana (CV: Akane Amasawa) performs the songs "キミは夜のポラリス" and "クラリトブライト".

Midori Yamada (CV: Honoka Kotomori) performs the songs "Little Green委員会" and "LOVE♡YOU♡Save the EARTH!!"

Shion Sasaki (CV: Aoi Suzunose) performs the songs "イキタクナイevery day" and "Trick or Toxic".

Which one is your favorite? Anyway, be sure to collect or stream the Ikizulive! 1st Solo Single Series at your most comfortable time. Either way, as Love Livers, there's no other choice.