Toyota Esquire

For the first time, the current-generation Toyota Voxy and Noah minivans have spawned a triplet to their family and for this triplet, it can be summed up as a fancier version of these two as well as its fancy name to call it Esquire (エスクァイア).

2015 Toyota Esquire

As expected, the brand new Esquire is based on the recently launched Toyota Noah and Voxy minivans, which they were launched since January 2014, although I'm not a hundred percent sure if this is the replacement to the stagnant Isis minivan but contrary to the rumors, the new Esquire, like the latest Noah and Voxy vans, is powered by a 2.0L 3ZR-FAE engine and the hybrid model with the 1.8L engine connected to an electric motor and nickel metal battery. Details on what's what about that will be explained later but first, let's examine the design.

Of course, this new Esquire van differentiates it from the Noah and Voxy vans because while the Noah is a bit more of a soccer mom fave and the Voxy is all about being a sporty minivan, the Esquire features a luxurious look that balances between them although one will notice the overgrown grille that looks like it came from the Crown Majesta flagship. Fancy, isn't it?

2015 Toyota Esquire interior

2015 Toyota Esquire interior

Because the new Esquire is related to the Noah and Voxy, you can expect the same interior layout as seen from these two and depending on the model, the new model can seat up to seven or eight people around you and while it may not be as luxurious as the big brothers, the Alphard/Vellfire and the Estima, the Esquire isn't half bad at all when it comes to spacing, although I would personally go seat at either the front or at the second-row because I still have strong hatred for third-row seats. With all three rows of seating present, there's still enough room for your grocery shopping but when you have more than just groceries, say your stuff you've bought from the garage sale, these seats can be folded for extra luggage. There's also a secret storage at the back but on hybrid models, you'll store less than what the petrol models have due to the battery that occupies it. Bummer but the secret storage is not bad at all judging when you want to store something not even your junior would know.

Just like the Noah and the Voxy, the new Esquire is benefitted from its class-leading interior dimensions thanks to its 1,400 mm cabin height, 360mm of ground clearance, 2nd row 810mm captain seats with Super 4-way Sliding Mode, and 500mm of rear floor (for 2WD models). Also, the sliding doors can be opened at 805mm wider, more than any other JDM minivans in its class. 

2015 Toyota Esquire

Now, the most important aspect for the Esquire; the performance. Because the powerplants were the same as from the Noah and the Voxy, the Esquire comes with a 2.0L 3ZR-FAE engine and the hybrid model with the 1.8L engine connected to an electric motor and nickel metal battery. On the hybrid model, combined power output is 136PS and fuel economy of 23.8km/L, calculated in JC08 Mode standards. As noticed, that's 7.8kmpl more than the Serena's, making it an excellent travelling companion if you want to go from one prefecture to another. For the 2.0L petrol variant, it produces 152PS of power and 193Nm of torque. It even comes with the idling stop system that cuts off the engine when stop and then starts it again when on the move. Fuel economy is 16.0km/L, again, calculated in JC08 Mode standards. Although this family-mover is not half bad, the suspension is not quite suited for a luxury-esque minivan like the Esquire especially when the suspension setup consists of struts on the front and torsion beams on the back, perhaps you really can't tell why this new model feels a bit...cheap.

Prices start at 2,622,857 Japanese Yen (around $27,000), which is more expensive than its Noah and Voxy siblings, but while the Noah is available at Corolla dealerships and the Voxy at Netz dealerships, the new Esquire is available exclusively at Toyota and Toyopet dealerships across Japan so you have a choice between those three.

Available colors: White Pearl Crystal Shine, Silver Metallic, Black, Sparkling Black Pearl Crystal Shine, Bordeaux Mica Metallic, Ocean Mint Metallic, and Dark Violet Mica Metallic.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Mazda Flair (2015 minor model change)

2015 Mazda Flair

2015 Mazda Flair Custom Style

Following with the launch of the 2015 Suzuki Wagon R facelift which includes its brand new fuel-saving "S-ENE CHARGE" feature that propels its fuel economy up to 32.4kmpl, beating the likes of the Daihatsu Move and the Mitsubishi eK Wagon, it looks like the Mazda equivalent, the Flair, won't be far behind because, like the Wagon R it was based on, the 2015MY minor minor change sees the Flair, along with its Custom Style model, receiving the same S-ENE CHARGE feature.

2015 Mazda Flair interior

2015 Mazda Flair Custom Style interior

If you're new here, let me get this straight; S-ENE CHARGE is basically an improvement of the ENE-CHARGE and it takes  full use of the lithium-ion battery and the Integrated Starter Generator while joining forces with the improved R06A engine. The ISG provides a motor assist during acceleration and during deceleration, it stores some of its electric power.

With S-ENE CHARGE, the 2015 Flair's fuel economy has improved to 32.4km/L on the JC08 Mode scale.

Not only the fuel economy that stands out from the rest but it's loaded with safety features such as the very clever Radar Brake Support, a special feature that prevents unintended acceleration, a big issue that was faced with millions of drivers in history, an Emergency Stop Signal that warns drivers from behind, ESP, and so much more.

Prices start from 1,166,400 Japanese Yen up to 1,737,720 Japanese Yen. Customers can even afford one with or without S-ENE CHARGE but just like the Wagon R, there are differences to these models because on the normal Flair, you can afford an entry-level model with a 5-speed manual gearbox exclusive to this model while on the Flair Custom Style, the 660cc turbocharged engine is available exclusively for that model.

Dismissed.

Photo: Mazda Motor Corporation

Suzuki Wagon R - Fifth Generation - 2015 facelift

Two years ago, the Suzuki Wagon R reached its fifth generation and this generation set the new standards for Japan-only kei cars thanks to the implementation of ENE-CHARGE. With numerous rivals trying to outdo its fuel economy, this Wagon R always find a way and because Suzuki wants to be the most fuel-efficient carmaker in the world, they have a brand new attempt that will have its rivals puzzled into submission.

2015 Suzuki Wagon R

2015 Suzuki Wagon R interior

Well, here it is and at first glance, it looks nearly identical to its pre-facelift model except that now, the 2015 Wagon R now comes with its new secret weapon; S-ENE CHARGE.

What is S-ENE CHARGE? Basically, an improvement from the ENE-CHARGE, the newly developed S-ENE CHARGE takes full use of the lithium-ion battery and the Integrated Starter Generator while joining forces with the improved R06A engine. The ISG provides a motor assist during acceleration and during deceleration, it stores some of its electric power.

The idling stop system has also changed. Within 13kph or less during deceleration, the engine automatically switched off and it has the capability to quietly restart the engine thanks to the implementation of the ISG. The unintentional engine restart is suppressed by implementing a brake stroke sensor.

Thanks to the new fuel-efficient technologies, the 2015MY Wagon R sets a new fuel economy of 32.4kmpl. I repeat, the fuel economy for the 2015MY Wagon R is now improved to 32.4kmpl. Suzuki fans take note of it because it's now more fuel efficient than its rivals like the Mitsubishi eK Wagon, Daihatsu Move, or the Honda N-WGN.

2015 Suzuki Wagon R Stingray

2015 Suzuki Wagon R Stingray interior

It's not just the fuel economy that the latest version stands out from the rest, it's the safety that is on par with any other kei car because the Wagon R has a host of safety features, including the very clever Radar Brake Support system that stops without the driver asking to do and you might think you are going to hit something. If this doesn't work, it's yours to blame, not the car. Be advised.

Also, it comes with a special feature that prevents unintended acceleration, a big issue that was faced by millions of drivers in history, an Emergency Stop Signal that warns drivers from behind, ESP, and so much more.

The new 2015 Wagon R starts at 1,078,920 Japanese Yen for the base model while the stylish Stingray model starts at 1,461,240 Japanese Yen. Customers can even afford one with or without S-ENE CHARGE but there are differences to these models because on the normal Wagon R, you can afford an entry-level model with a 5-speed manual gearbox exclusive to this model while on the Stingray, the 660cc turbocharged engine is available exclusively for that model.

Available colors (Wagon R):  Crystal White Pearl, Mysterious Violet Pearl, Silky Silver Metallic, Bluish Black Pearl 3, Innocent Pink Pearl Metallic, Urban Brown Pearl Metallic, and Fizz Blue Pearl Metallic.

Available colors (Wagon R Stingray): Crystal White Pearl, Phoenix Red Pearl, Mysterious Violet Pearl, Bluish Black Pearl 3, and Steel Silver Metallic.

Photo: Suzuki Motor Corporation

Nissan Elgrand E52 (2014 Minor Change)

2014 Nissan Elgrand

2014 Nissan Elgrand

The Nissan Elgrand E52 has been around for about three-to-four years since its debut in August 2010 and although it's now a front-wheel drive minivan, it's the most luxurious minivan ever made. It's the Nissan Fuga of the minivans...well, as a theory.

Now, the KING OF MINIVAN gets even better than ever and in theory, it's the most intelligent flagship MPV yet because some say, it's been loaded with...so how about some 47 second science to explain more about the new minor change for the E52 Elgrand?

2014 Nissan Elgrand interior

2014 Nissan Elgrand interior

For the brand new model, the E52's face now featured an new grille which is almost as big as a man while the headlamps were kinda heavily inspired from the facelifted Nissan Serena C26. On the rear view, the trademark rear lamps had gotten all chromed up. What bothers me that all the most luxurious updates only occurred on the top-end HIGHWAY STAR models while the entry-level 250XG doesn't so it stays the same. Anyway, while the HIGHWAY STAR model is the main focus here, let's continue...

For the top-of-the-line HIGHWAY STAR Premium model, they've added a brand new interior scheme in the form of Grand Black. Look at the seat design, it's almost as posh as a European premium saloon car. While on the subject on the interior, a few changes were occurred as well as the updated instrument cluster with a new DRIVE ASSIST DISPLAY. The third-row seating has been upgraded so that now, it can slide forward by 240mm to make room for luggage spaces. There's so many new stuff occurred in the interior but we'll leave it for now...

In the issue of safety, the new 2014 Elgrand E52 features a host of world-first features such as MOVING OBJECT DETECTION and the PEDAL MISAPPLICATION PREVENTION system. If you were wondering how does this new PEDAL MISAPPLICATION PREVENTION works, it helps detect potential misapplication and helps reduce accidents when parking.

Engine choices still feature a QR25DE engine and the high-performance VQ35DE engine mated to an XTRONIC CVT-M6 gearbox. For 2.5L models, fuel economy is around 10.8km/L while the 3.5L V6 models can achieve 9.4km/L, all calculated by JC08 Mode standards.

Available colors are Phantom Black, Brilliant White Pearl, Imperial Amber, Metal Grey, and Brilliant Silver. Prices start from 3,123,750 to 5,472,600 Japanese Yen.

Photo: Nissan Motor Corporation

Suzuki Landy (C26) 2014 Minor Change

2014 Suzuki Landy

2014 Suzuki Landy

The Nissan Serena-derived Suzuki Landy, currently on its C26 generation, gets a minor change and what can you expect on the latest minor change? To find out, let's look back at the Nissan Serena C26 minor change because just in case someone had an amnesia for no reasons. However, this is no time to looking back because here are the details:

Thanks to the Nissan Serena C26's minor change last month; Suzuki managed to borrow one of these and for the latest version it inherits what just the Serena C26 did; new headlamps, a new front grille, new alloy wheels, and new LED rear combination brake lamps with an S-shaped design. On the inside, it still looks intact to me. The 2014 Landy is available only as an 8-seater and with that, it comes with 14 seat configurations to choose from depending on the scenario the user faces.

Again, like the Nissan Serena C26 minor change, the 2014 Landy's MR20DD engine along with its smart and simple S-HYBRID system, now has an improved fuel economy of 16kmpl under Japan's JC08 Mode standards.

For added safety, the latest update now comes with Emergency Brake, Lane Departure Warning (LDW), AVM (Around View Monitor) with MOD (Moving Object Detection), Emergency Assist for pedal misapplication and Driver Attention Alert.

The entry level 2.0S model with 2WD layout starts at 2,241,750 Japanese Yen while the top-end 2.0G with 4WD starts at 2,995,650 Japanese Yen.

Photo: Suzuki Motor Corporation

3rd Generation Toyota Noah and Voxy (R80G/W)

It's time for me to throw the gauntlet as our first brand new model of the new year gets it and this time, the arrival of the all new, third generation, Toyota Noah and Voxy minivans will signal the start of the new year with new models on the horizon. Yes, these new models will spearhead the year 2014 with a bang...sort of.

2014 Toyota Noah

2014 Toyota Voxy

They're identically the same so are there any differences?

Much like the Premio and Allion saloons, the Porte and Spade compacts, and the Alphard and Vellfire flagship MPVs, both the Noah and Voxy are essentially the same cars with different outlooks to suit different tastes. They're sold at different dealerships as the Noah is sold in Corolla dealerships while the Voxy is sold in Netz dealerships (noticing the Netz badge at the front face).

The Noah is targeted for middle-aged moms and dads with kids while the Voxy is made for the younger audience in their late 20's and early 30's...or perhaps someone who has mates most likely to ask him to go out to the big city. So, you get the idea, the Noah is a family van while the Voxy is a joyrider's MPV suitable for road trips with friends.

Anyway, what's new?

2014 Toyota Voxy interior

2014 Toyota Noah interior

The brand new third-generation Noah and Voxy features a class-leading stuff, something that its rivals like the Honda StepWGN and the recently facelifted Nissan Serena C26 couldn't hold on. The sliding doors can be opened at 805mm wider, that's beyond compare than any other JDM minivans in its class. It has the lowest floor in its class by 360mm, 810mm of floor space when the second-row seats slide backwards, interior height is now 1400mm (highest in its class), lowest rear floor in its class by 500mm, there's so much to explain about its class-leading statistics.

There is now a hybrid model?

Yes, there is. Both the Noah and the Voxy now comes, for the first time, ever a hybrid powerplant. Quite intriguing but Toyota made this to make sure it has some serious competition against the S-HYBRID variant of the Nissan Serena C26. How does it stack up? Well, the updated 1.8L engine connected to an electric motor and nickel metal battery may not be quite as powerful than the Serena's but the fuel economy easily beats is because this hybrid powerplant on the all new Noah and Voxy is capable of having a fuel economy of 23.8km/L, calculated in JC08 Mode standards. You heard that right. 23.8kmpl of fuel consumption, 7.8kmpl more than the Serena's. So, there you go, families all over Japan. If you're looking for a fuel-efficient people mover that can take you places from one prefecture to another, look no further.

But there is a catch, right?

Yes, there is a catch because the new models start at 2,210,000 Japanese Yen, which is 26,000 Yen more than the Nissan Serena C26 and 22,000 Yen more than the Honda StepWGN. How annoying was that? And then when the 8% consumption tax rate is implemented in Japan on April 2014, that's gotta be more pain in the budget but all and all, it's a huge price to pay for a fuel-efficient MPV suitable enough to carry seven or eight people around you.

There's also a 2.0L petrol engine, right?

Yes it is. For those who think that the hybrid model is a bit...(clears throat) not your type, there's a more powerful 2.0L petrol engine offered. While equipped with a familiar Super CVT-i gearbox as similar as the hybrid model, this 2.0L 3ZR-FAE engine produces 152PS of power and 193Nm of torque. It even comes with the idling stop system that cuts off the engine when stop and then starts it again when on the move. So, the fuel economy for this 2.0L engine? 16.0km/L, as calculated by JC08 Mode standards. Just a kmpl more than the StepWGN's. Fact.

Should I buy one?

2014 Toyota Noah 

2014 Toyota Voxy

As I said earlier, both the new Noah and the Voxy are more expensive than the Serena and the StepWGN but with all that costly pricing, these new minivans are now the top of the minivan food chain because for these new arrivals, they're now lower, more spacious, more fuel efficient, more roomier, and these minivans will have high hopes for the Japanese carmaker.

But...

They're available only in Japan so back off, smugglers.

Available Colors:

Noah - White Pearl Crystal Shine, Silver Metallic, Black, Bordeaux Mica Metallic, Dark Cherry Mica Metallic, Ocean Mint Metallic, and Dark Violet Mica Metallic.

Voxy - White Pearl Crystal Shine, Silver Metallic, Black, Blackish Ageha Glass Flake, Bordeaux Mica Metallic, Ocean Mint Metallic, and Dark Violet Mica Metallic.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

2014 Nissan Serena C26 Minor Change

2014 Nissan Serena

It's a new Nissan Serena! Well sort of. Anyway, the fourth-generation Nissan Serena gets is first facelift after having been around since its 2010 debut. It maybe a worth contender in the MPV market but don't be fooled, the Nissan Serena has been a favorite among Japanese families when it comes to conveniences, fuel economy, and refinement. Now, let's get my 47 Second Science ready.

2014 Nissan Serena

On the facelifted Nissan Serena C26, the exterior design hosts a wide array of changes to keep Japan's favorite MPV updated for more. The front bumper's revised, the headlamps now looking similar to next year's Nissan Elgrand E52 facelift, a new front grille, new alloy wheels, and new LED rear combination brake lamps with an S-shaped design. On the inside, it still looks intact to me. It's still comes with a choice of a 7-seater or an 8-seater. With the 8-seater model, it comes with 14 seat configurations to choose from depending on the scenario the user faces.

2014 Nissan Serena interior

2014 Nissan Serena interior

Nissan said that the 2WD S-Hybrid model, the one with the small electric motor fitted alongside the MR20DD engine, now has improved fuel consumption and how much is it? 16kmpl in JC08 Mode standards. Aside from being more fuel-efficient than the pre-facelifted model, the Serena C26 is now made even safer with the addition of Emergency Brake, Lane Departure Warning (LDW), AVM (Around View Monitor) with MOD (Moving Object Detection), Emergency Assist for pedal misapplication and Driver Attention Alert.

2014 Nissan Serena

Because this is the S-HYBRID model, this Serena comes with an ECO Motor which controls Idling Stop and functions as an alternator during deceleration. Of course, it even comes with an Idling Stop System, which shuts down the engine when idle, and restarts in just 0.3 seconds after the brake is released.

The new 2014 Nissan Serena C26 starts at 2,184,000 Yen for the entry-level 20S model up to 3,018,750 Yen for the 20G with the "Advanced Safety Package". For recommendation, Nissan recommends the Highway Star model with the Emergency Brake option for 2,568,300 Yen, the Highway Star model with the Advanced Safety Package for 2,654,400 Yen, and for 2,927,400 Yen, the Highway Star G Advanced Safety Package. What's a Highway Star G you ask? It's the one with the 16-inch alloys on it.

Available Colors: Tiger Eye Brown, Blue Moon White Pearl, Premium Deep Coral, Rose Bronze, Brilliant White Pearl, Diamond Black, Brilliant Silver, Crystal Mist, and Solid White.

Photo: Nissan Motor Company

2014 Suzuki Solio

2014 Suzuki Solio

This is the second Suzuki vehicle to be equipped with the Japanese automaker's DUAL JET ENGINE since the Swift earlier this year. The 2014 Suzuki Solio, aside from its styling updates that makes it more of a facelift, now comes with the 1.2L K12B DUAL JET engine which produces 91PS of power and 118Nm of torque. To recall, the dual injection system on its 1.2L petrol engine works by increasing vaporization, making combustion more efficient. It channels fuel to two intake ports instead of only one per cylinder.

Aside from the DUAL JET ENGINE, it even comes with a regenerative braking mechanism and an idling stop system. Put all these together and you'll have class-leading fuel economy of 25.4kmpl in the Japanese JC08 driving cycle, exempting the car from all taxes.

The 2014 Solio costs from 1,382,850 to 1,903,650 Japanese Yen.

Report: http://carview.yahoo.co.jp/news/newmodel/194881/
URL: http://www.suzuki.co.jp/car/solio/index.html

Honda Fit Shuttle 2014 minor change

2014 Honda Fit Shuttle Hybrid

While the upcoming third-generation Honda Fit doesn't arrive until next month, it seems that its station wagon variant, the Fit Shuttle, which was based on the outgoing 2nd generation model, will be for a while as this supersized version gets its minor change. So, ready for another round of 47 Second Science? Let's find out...

2014 Honda Fit Shuttle Hybrid

For the 2014 minor change, both the Fit Shuttle and the Fit Shuttle Hybrid gained a new front grille which is similar to the one from the next generation Fit hatchback and same goes to the redesigned front bumper here. On the interior, Honda adopted the Grand Smooth double-stitch of the stitch made on the side of the fabric and suede combination seats. The gear lever is now wrapped in leather just in case.

In terms of equipment, the security alarm and Hill Start Assist are now standard on all grades while in the mid-ranged HYBRID model, discharge headlights are fitted while in the HYBRID Smart Selection model, paddle shifters and 15-inch allow wheels are equipped to the mix.

2014 Honda Fit Shuttle Hybrid interior

2014 Honda Fit Shuttle Hybrid interior

Petrol variants come with the 1.5L i-VTEC engine while the Hybrid models do come with the 1.3L i-VTEC engine with Honda's INTEGRATED MOTOR ASSIST or IMA. All come with CVT but some reports say that the entry-level HYBRID-C variant now has a fuel economy of 26.2km/L, making it equal to the fuel economy set by its rival, the Toyota Prius Alpha. As for pricing, the entry-level 15C is priced to 1,640,000 Yen up to 1,990,000 Yen for the HYBRID Smart Selection.

Available body colors are Pure Aqua Metallic (new color), Alabaster Silver Metallic, Polished Metal Metallic, Premium White Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl, Premium Deep Rosso Pearl, and Premium Deep Mocha Pearl.

Suzuki -Third Generation- MR Wagon (MF33S) Wit

It's been two years since Suzuki launched the third-generation MR Wagon, which I think it's the geekiest of the kei cars targeted for the geeks. Although, the front view looks kinda disappointing to me because it kinda looks like it's been in the state of panic, what's redeeming to me is the fancy gizmo on the interior called the TOUCH PANEL AUDIO in which I can do the swiping on the touch panel.

Wait a minute, if the face of the current MR Wagon wasn't quite stylish, how about adding a different kind of cocktail for the current MR Wagon? Yep, it's time to welcoming back the stylish version of the MR Wagon called the MR Wagon Wit.

2014 Suzuki MR Wagon Wit

Well, for the new MR Wagon Wit, it seems that the disappointing front view as seen on the standard model has been wiped out from its misery and now it kinda looks like an...uh...honey I shrunk the Nissan Elgrand. Really, this new MR Wagon Wit now looks like a mini-Elgrand to us? Yep, it really looks like a Nissan Elgrand to us and it seems that the new front view really wants us to play some optical illusion tricks to us. Feels like we're living in the fun house without the house prefix...and the fun. Sorry.

2014 Suzuki MR Wagon Wit

So, implementing for the 2014 model year, both the normal MR Wagon and the brand new Wit model gained Suzuki's ENE-CHARGE and ECO-COOL as implemented on last year's new Wagon R. In case you are wondering how ENE-CHARGE and ECO-COOL works, do you want me to sound like James May? If not, you know the drill. If yes, let's make it shorter, okay?

Suzuki's ENE-CHARGE provides a regenerative braking system that converts kinetic energy during deceleration into electricity stored from its lithium-ion battery, which is used to power the vehicle's electrical components while ECO-COOL is an air-conditioning system that keeps cool air flowing even when the engine was shut off by its idling stop system, relying on the fan that blows air over a cold sink in the aircon's evaporator into the cabin. Get it now? Good.

Anyway, thanks to the ENE-CHARGE and ECO-COOL, both the normal MR Wagon and the MR Wagon Wit can accumulate a fuel consumption based on JC08 Mode standards of 30kmpl. I repeat, 30KMPL. 3-0-K-M-P-L. Surprisingly, that matches the fuel consumption of the current Wagon R with ENE-CHARGE and that's not all because starting now, a turbocharged 660C DOHC VVT engine is now an exclusivity for the Wit and with the promising 27kmpl, the turbocharged Wit is about 1kmpl more than the turbocharged Spacia Custom. You heard that right.

2014 Suzuki MR Wagon Wit interior

2014 Suzuki MR Wagon Wit interior

Of course, on the interior, you can still expect the same peripherals from the standard model as well as the available Touch Panel Audio which I find this gizmo to be my favorite until the Peugeot 208's touch screen struck me through but for the new Wit, having learned its lesson from its big sister, the Alto Lapin Chocolat, the interior is now sporting a two-tone color for both the seats and the panel so you can expect a fair bit of class and glamour lurking through the new Wit.

So, if the normal MR Wagon's not quite perky for the geeks, would you consider one? Well, because of all of that Holy Guacamole around here, the new MR Wagon Wit starts at around 1,290,450 Japanese Yen. Simple as that,

Photo: Suzuki Motor Corporation

Leopaul's Heaven and Hell: YOU CAN'T MEASURE A JAPANESE CAR'S TOP SPEED, SPEEDO BOY!

2013 Toyota Auris' speedo

One of the things that drives me up the wall is when everytime who wants to shop for a new Japanese-made car, they're always asking what is the top speed of a certain new Japanese car. I'm sorry what? Top speed? I'm very sorry but Japanese cars don't measure top speeds. YOU CAN'T MEASURE A JAPANESE CAR'S TOP SPEED YOU SPEEDO BOY!!! Look at their speedos, it reads up to 180kph. Even your old Supra, RX-7, Fairlady Z, or any other JDM tuners of the 90's. Their speedos always have the same limit. 180kph! Why would you bother convert it to something higher than 180kph? That's illegal, you know. There was a saying in Top Gear that goes "ownership of a rev counter is theft". Perhaps I should modify this line. Ahem...ownership of either a rev counter or a speedometer is theft! Or something like conversion of speedometers is theft. Why would the people who love to modify cars want to convert speedos like that? Is it because they want to break laws even more? Gosh I hate street racers...

Why would Japanese-made cars sold in Japan have speedos read up to 180kph while exported ones read up to either 240 or 260kph? To be efficient? Afraid not. Because of such health and safety concerns in the past, regarding the whole bosozoku trend that is proven to be a nuisance in Japanese roads, all Japanese carmakers like Toyota, Nissan, Honda, and other Japanese carmakers agreed that there is no need for passenger cars in Japan to travel faster than 180 km/h, and therefore most Japanese-made passenger cars are equipped with speedometers that only go up to 180 km/h.

Here's an excerpt found from the Toyota global website;

Why do speedometers go up to 180 km/h when the maximum speed limit on Japanese roads is only 100 km/h?

The maximum speed limit in Japan is 100 km/h; however cars need to be able to go faster in order to maintain their speed so as not to block traffic while going up hills or when carrying heavy loads or lots of people. In addition, sometimes it's necessary to go beyond the speed limit to avoid danger. That's why we make cars that are capable of traveling faster than the speed limit.

For example, it's necessary to have some flexibility in speed when cars are going uphill or carrying heavy loads or many passengers so that they can go beyond the speed limit when necessary to avoid danger.

After taking various issues into consideration, it was determined that there is no need for passenger cars in Japan to travel faster than 180 km/h, and therefore most Toyota passenger cars are equipped with speedometers that only go up to 180 km/h. The speedometers of cars used for circuit racing go up to 200 km/h. Additionally, because the speed limit varies among the various countries and regions of the world, speedometers for cars that are also sold in other countries sometimes go up higher than 200 km/h. However, even these cars are equipped with a device called a speed limiter that prevents them from going faster than 180 km/h.

Furthermore, even if we make our cars incapable of going faster than 100 km/h, it would still be dangerous for any car to go faster than the lower speed limits set for many roads.

The most important thing is for people to obey traffic rules.

Source: http://www2.toyota.co.jp/en/kids/faq/entry/6193.php

Everyday JDM cars, especially luxury minivans such as the Toyota Alphard, Honda Odyssey, and Nissan Elgrand, medium sedans such as the Nissan Sylphy (coming December), Toyota Premio, and Honda Accord, and compacts such as the Toyota Vitz, Nissan Note, and Suzuki Swift, they all have the 180kph speedo and no matter how much power you'll put it in especially the 3.5L V6-powered Mark X, 4.6L V8-powered Crown Majesta, or the 3.7L V6-powered Nissan Fuga, it always remain the same. The same 180kph feeling that all Japanese cars had.

However, there are some Japanese cars that are somewhat "exception to the rule", meaning JDM cars sold in Japan have speedos that can exceed the 180kph rule that most Japanese cars have. The Lexus IS for instance, in the past this has a speedo that reads up to 180kph but when it was facelifted several years ago, 2010 to be precise, the speedo now reads up to 260kph! There's another case with the Lexus GS...

2013 Lexus GS350 F Sport

Back when it was launched in 2005 with a hybrid the following year, you'll notice that the previous GS' speedometer reads up to 180kph. Remember the Aristo? The Toyota Aristo? It's the executive saloon from the 90's that we all like because of the JZ engine on it. It has a speedo reads up to 180kph! Get it? You just really don't get it. Anyway, onto that new model that was launched in January 2012, wanna guess how much kph its speedo reads?180kph? Nope! It's 260kph! 

Other Japanese cars sold in Japan that were "exempted to the rule" such as the Mitsubishi Mirage (200kph speedo), Nissan GT-R (340kph), Lexus LFA, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X, Subaru WRX STi GRB/GVB, Mazda Roadster (speedo that reads up to 200kph), Toyota 86, Subaru BRZ, Lexus LS, Lexus RX (facelifted model now reads up to 240kph, more than the outgoing model's 180kph speedo), latest Suzuki Swift Sport, Mazdaspeed Axela, and that's about it.

Those Japanese cars, 180kph or not, they're not made to measure top speeds, and that means you Speedo Boy, because the JAMA means it. If something that worries you, remember the Yatabe? Yeah, it's the max speed oval test course that was made to measure top speeds but sadly it's gone a few years ago when their test course was relocated at Shirosato. Sadly, Shirosato, which is somewhere in Tsukuba, was made to measure a car's fuel economy as well as safety features, not top speeds.

Guess this ends here right now and if you're asking for a Japanese car's top speed. Just a reminder though...

YOU CAN'T MEASURE A JAPANESE CAR'S TOP SPEED, SPEEDO BOY!

That's an order.

Fifth Generation Suzuki Wagon R (MH34S)

While nearing for its 20th anniversary next year, Japan's cult favorite kei car, the Suzuki Wagon R, is now on its fifth incarnation and with all that regeneration do come with a surprise.

2013 Suzuki Wagon R

2013 Suzuki Wagon R

We heard that right ladies and gents. By regenerating the Wagon R into a completely new form, this new model now comes with the a new mild-hybrid system named "ENE-CHARGE" (short for 'energy charge') and an energy-saving electric air conditioning system dubbed "ECO-COOL". With the R06A engine combined with an electric motor/generator and a lithium-ion battery, this new ENE-CHARGE provides regenerative braking and at least some level of power assist to the internal combustion engine while it can also run certain electrical equipment. With all that technology, the new Wagon R can get up to 28.8km/l in Japan's JC08 driving cycle (67.8mpg US, 3.5lt/100km or 81.4mpg UK).

2013 Suzuki Wagon R interior

All that physics and science lesson about using hybrid-car like technology on this kei car is a bit absurd. Some people would think that they're driving a hybrid kei car but no. There's no such thing as a hybrid kei car because it's so absurd. The most fuel efficient petrol car in the world as of now was the Alto Eco with its fuel economy of 30.2km/L in Japan's JC08 Driving Cycle, which is .2km/L more than the Daihatsu Mira e:S. This story about Daihatsu vs. Suzuki is becoming a history in the making because as I observed about Daihatsu and Suzuki throwing everything they've got to become the most fuel efficient car brand in the world and since the implementation of the JC08 cycle in the autumn of 2011, things have changed. Mira e:S is once the most fuel efficient car in the world for being 30km/L but in the 2011 holiday season, it was short-lived with the arrival of the 30.2km/L Alto Eco. 

Well, that was a long story short but anyway, the all new fifth generation Wagon R's 28.8km/L fuel economy though, it was sure enough to slit the throat of Daihatsu's TNP27 Move. I should call this one the TNP28.8 because it's more efficient than the Move. Another round for Suzuki in the game of "Who's the most fuel efficient car maker in the world?"

For the pricing, well, you won't be disappointed. It's 1,109,850 Japanese Yen for the FX model and it's 1,249,500 Japanese Yen for the FX Limited. I think this new model has more value than the Daihatsu TNP27 Move's pricing so what do you get for your spare change? Your guess is as good as ours, folks.

To clarify; the normal Wagon R has two trim levels; the FX and the FX Limited. Both of them are 2WD but they can have an optional 4WD powertrain for added stability but not quite a punch indeed. Colors? Let's see...Fizz Blue Pearl Metallic, Innocent Pink Pearl Metallic, Superior White, Pearl White, Silky Silver Metallic, Bluish Black Pearl 3, Luna Grey Pearl Metallic*, and Mysterious Violet Pearl*.

*available only on FX Limited

2013 Suzuki Wagon R Stingray

2013 Suzuki Wagon R Stingray

2013 Suzuki Wagon R Stingray interior

So, what about this? The Stingray version of the new Wagon R? Of course, you get the same SUZUKI GREEN Technology I've mentioned above, well you know, the ENE-CHARGE and the ECO-COOL system as told but for style wise, this is like the Daihatsu Move Custom with a Suzuki badge on it. I mean if I park this new Stingray next to the current Daihatsu Move Custom, they look exactly the same from every angle and they both have the same 660cc Turbo engine developed exclusively for them. Of course, the new Stingray does have a turbocharged R06A DOHC VVT engine that produces 64PS of power, 12 more than the Natural Aspiration engine and the fuel economy is now dropped to about 26.8km/L.

The base model, the X, costs 1,333,500 Yen while the turbocharged T model costs 1,496,250 Yen and they both come with an optional 4WD powertrain. Exclusive for the Stingray was this Phoenix Red Pearl color.

For a phenomenal kei car that is nearing its 20th anniversary next year and it slits down the TNP27 Daihatsu Move's throat, the all new Wagon R is a Japan-only kei car that represents the brand that is striving to be the most fuel efficient car maker in the world. Once again, the Daihatsu vs. Suzuki battle goes on and on and on and on until one of them will have to throw in the towel. If I said Japan-only, I DO MEAN IT so back off, idiots living from India and Pakistan. These cars are not for you. Thank You.

Photo: Suzuki Motor Corporation

Nissan Serena C26 S-HYBRID

2013 Nissan Serena C26 S-HYBRID

2013 Nissan Serena C26 S-HYBRID

2013 Nissan Serena C26 S-HYBRID

For the 2013 Model Year, all 2WD variants of the Nissan Serena C26 minivan (well except the entry level 20S variant), from normal, Highway Star, and Autech Rider, will receive the brand's newly-developed simple hybrid system called "Smart Simple Hybrid (S-Hybrid)". We know, we seen that ad featuring some guy belonged to the J-pop boy band, ARASHI.

The 2013 Nissan Serena C26 S-HYBRID has its regeneration capacity and output power of the "Eco Motor," upgraded. If you don't know what is an "ECO MOTOR", it is an alternator that is used for Nissan's Serena having an idling stop mechanism and capable of restarting an engine. They've even added a lead sub-battery in the engine room for extended energy regeneration capacity. With all that technology, the 2013 Nissan Serena C26 S-HYBRID has a fuel economy of 15.2km/L (approx 35.8mpg) under the JC08 test mode.

Prices for the Nissan Serena C26 S-HYBRID start at around 2,384,550 Japanese Yen for the 20X S-HYBRID up to 3,144,750 Japanese Yen for the Autech Rider Performance Spec Black Line S-HYBRID.

Source: http://www2.nissan.co.jp/SERENA/grade.html

Available for the 2013 model year is the special edition CROSS GEAR grade which comes with waterproof seats. It will cost about 2,584,050 Japanese Yen for the 20X Cross Gear S-HYBRID variant and 2,828,700 Japanese Yen for the 20X Cross Gear 4WD grade.

Source: http://www2.nissan.co.jp/SERENA/customize_crossgear.html

It's available now at Nissan Red Stage and Nissan Blue Stage dealerships across Japan.

Honda N BOX Plus

Last year, Honda revealed their answer to the Daihatsu Tanto and the Suzuki Palette, which is known as the N BOX. In standard and Custom variants, the Honda N BOX became the first of Honda's EARTH DREAMS TECHNOLOGY, that is that they were the first Hondas to come with idling stop function that allows the engine to be shut off automatically when stopped. Ideal to reduce carbon emissions.

2013 Honda N BOX +

2013 Honda N BOX + Custom

Here it is and this time, both the N BOX and the N BOX Custom now made it even better and daintily called the N BOX+ (Plus) and the N BOX+ (Plus) Custom. Although they may look the same as the original and still comes with new engine developed specifically for the N BOX, which is known as the S07A engine, but once you get inside, you'll be notice that there's a very unique feature that the standard N BOX doesn't.

2013 Honda N BOX + Multi Space System

The N BOX+ models come with the MULTI SPACE SYSTEM in a form of three boards that makes it very practical. First of all, you can use a multiboard as a stand where you can put something above the board and put something below the board. It can be heightened or lowered depending on your stuff you have.

Not only that, you can use it as a bed just by folding down all the seats and take advantage of this multiboard. Perfect if you want to relax during your summer break in Japan.

Then, you can fold down the rear seats and take advantage of this foldable board to store something under and you can have some space above to fit one 42-inch TV with some space below to fit your folded trolley.

Then, another foldable feature on the N BOX+ was the board where you can conveniently place your bike in a form of a SLOPE MODE. There's an available aluminum slope where you can easily put your two wheeled vehicles inside the N BOX+. What you see here was the Universal Bridge system that includes a retractable aluminum slope to make it easier to load and unload heavy items on wheels such as a small motorbike and can be easily tucked inside.

Like the original, the N BOX Plus comes with the S07A engine, in turbo of NA flavors, linked to a CVT and front- or all-wheel drive versions.

Exclusive to the N BOX+ is the 2-Tone Color Style variant that comes with a stylish two-tone color.

URL: http://www.honda.co.jp/Nboxplus/