Subaru isn't currently planning a BRZ STi

Subaru's Australian division has announced the company isn't working on a BRZ STi or another performance-oriented model in collaboration with Subaru Tecnica International (STi).

Sad news for those who were waiting for a turbocharged BRZ or at least an STi-prepared version of the rear-wheel drive coupe as Subaru isn't planning a hotter model. What's even worse is they aren't currently developing other performance models, following the introduction of the WRX STi. Speaking of the WRX STi, it seems the hatchback might not happen after all even though Subaru said they will consider it to meet U.S. demand.

Getting back to the inexistent BRZ STi, the reason why it won't happen is due to limited resources which have to be targeted to improving global sales, according to Subaru Australia managing director Nick Senior. However, some distributors are still lobbying for hotter versions but for the moment an STi model is not being prepared.  

Source: Al Ain Japan

Toyota reveals significant facelift for Yaris

Toyota has released a couple of images with the facelifted Yaris set to go on sale in the following months, following some brochure scans which surfaced the web in March..

Essentially a rebadged Vitz, the European-spec Yaris will be built in France and launched this summer. Additional information is limited, but the car will feature a 6.1-inch touchscreen display and three different engines: a 1.0-liter VVT-i, a 1.33-liter dual VVT-i and a 1.4-liter D-4D diesel. 

The Yaris has received a major styling change as the front fascia is now derived from the all-new Aygo with the large trapezoidal lower grille combined with the upper one to create an "X" shape. While on the smaller Aygo the LED daytime running lights sit next to the fog lights, on the facelifted Yaris these have been integrated within the darkened headlights.

Photos of the Yaris' rear have not been provided but most likely the changes will carry over from the JDM-spec Vitz with the updated taillights, altered license plate area and a mildly tweaked bumper. They also prepared new alloy wheel designs along with a revised interior cabin packing the latest version of the Toyota Link infotainment system.

The changes are skin deep as the face-lifted Yaris now benefits from a modified suspension to provide better handling and comfort while the noise levels have be reduced. Engine lineup will be taken from the pre-facelift variant, including the hybrid powertrain.

A full reveal should occur in the following days.

Source: Toyota Car Dealer in Japan

Infiniti announces 2015 QX80

Infiniti has introduced this week at New York Auto Show the facelifted 2015 QX80 together with a new range-topping Limited trim level.

Joining the refreshed Q70/Q70L on Infiniti's stand in NY is the updated QX80 full-size SUV featuring tweaked full LED headlights and taillights, a revised front grille, two new alloy wheel choices and three fresh paints. On the inside there are two new finisher colors along with two color schemes while the Tuscan Burl trim was replaced with darker Mocha Burl.

The biggest change is the addition of a high-end Limited trim which comes with three unique exterior paint schemes, bespoke 22-inch dark alloys, smoked headlights & taillights and a special Truffle Brown interior finish combining brown, black and silver leather with wood appointments and trim. Other updates include dark-finished upper and lower grille surround, side vents, roof rails, fog light surround, side mirror caps, door handles and crossbars.

Slated to arrive in dealerships this fall, both the 2015 Infiniti QX80 and QX80 Limited will be powered by a V8 5.6-liter delivering 400 bhp (298 kW) and 413 lb-ft (559 Nm) delivered to either the rear wheels or both axles through a seven-speed automatic transmission.

Source: Car Dealer in Japan

Infiniti Q70 & QX80 facelifts to debut in New York

The New York Auto Show has revealed Infiniti will showcase the facelifted Q70 and QX80 on April 17th.

 

 

The show declined to go into specifics but said the 2015 Q70 will have a "fresh look" with changes to the front and rear ends. There will also be a new long-wheelbase model, named the Q70 L, which will provide more than five inches of additional legroom.

Engine options will apparently carryover as they are slated to include a 3.7-liter V6 with 330 bhp (246 kW) and a 5.6-liter V8 with 420 bhp (313 kW).

Likewise, the 2015 QX80 have revised styling inside and out. There will also be a new range-topping Limited model that features "special leather soft-touch and seating surfaces, unique new open-pore wood trim throughout, as well as dark-accent trim on the exterior."

Source - Al Ain Japan

2015 Nissan Murano unveiled with Resonance

Nissan has unveiled the 2015 Murano, ahead of its debut at the New York Auto Show.

Previewed by the Resonance concept, the Murano has a bold exterior with a V-Motion front fascia, boomerang-shaped headlights and a "floating" roof. Unfortunately, the rear end is a bit haphazard as the LED taillights clash with the massive amount of black plastic which attempts to hide the D-pillar. Regardless, the model can be equipped with a panoramic moonroof, LED headlights and 20-inch aluminum wheels.

While the exterior styling won't win everyone over, the cabin boasts premium materials and a modern design. Notable highlights include "Zero Gravity" seats, wraparound wood trim and metallic accents. There's also a push button ignition, a dual-zone automatic climate control system and a 7-inch high-resolution display in the instrument cluster. Options include premium leather upholstery, heated / cooled front seats and a Bose audio system.

Power is provided by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that develops 260 bhp (194 kW) and 240 lb-ft (325 Nm) of torque. It is connected to an Xtronic transmission which can be paired to an optional all-wheel drive system.
The Murano will go on sale later this year and pricing will be announced closer to launch.

Source: Nissan

Toyota introduces a new range of fuel-efficient engines

Toyota has unveiled a new range of fuel-efficient engines that promise to achieve fuel efficiency improvements of at least 10 percent over current vehicles.

One of the engines is a newly-developed 1.3-liter petrol that runs on the Atkinson cycle which is typically associated with hybrid engines. As Toyota explains, "Use of the Atkinson cycle provides an increased expansion ratio and reduces waste heat through a high compression ratio (13.5), resulting in superior thermal efficiency." The engine has also been equipped with a distinctive intake port that creates a strong tumble flow - a vertical swirl of the air-fuel mixture - inside the cylinder. This and other innovations should enable the engine to be about 15 percent more fuel efficient than current models.

The company also unveiled a 1.0-liter engine that was jointly-developed with Daihatsu. It eschews the Atkinson cycle but has a similar tumble flow-generating intake port, a cooled EGR system and a high compression ratio. When combined with a start/stop system and "various other fuel consumption reduction technologies," the engine can be up to 30 percent more fuel-efficient than current models.

The engines will be used in several upcoming models and Toyota says we can expect a total of 14 new engine variations to be introduced by 2015.

Source:AlAin Japan

Leading Car Exporter in Japan

Lamborghini has revealed a one-off Aventador Jackie Chan Edition which will be displayed later this month at Beijing Motor Show in China.

The special Aventador is part of Lamborghini’s Ad Personam program and has received a unique titanium gray exterior paint scheme along with shiny Nero Ade alloy wheels. The interior adopts a red and black theme along with the word "Long" embroidered in the headrests and doors as a reference to the actor's Chinese name - Cheng Long.

The car will go up for auction and all the money gathered will be directed towards the China Film Institute "Jackie Chan Charity Fund" which supports the development of China's film industry. The unique supercar will probably be sold for a lot more than 7.38M yuan (about 1.2M USD) which is the Aventador's starting price in China.

 

Source: Leading Car Exporter in Japan

2015 Ford Focus Sedan

Following the introduction of the facelifted Focus hatchback and wagon in Geneva last month, Ford has revealed the refreshed Focus sedan which will be shown in public at next week's New York Auto Show.

As expected, Ford has applied the Aston Martin-inspired grille on the Focus sedan along with the restyled headlights seen on its two siblings. The front bumper has also gone through surgery and looks more refined than on the pre-facelift model while at the back there are updated taillights, a slightly modified trunk lid and bumper but the overall appearance is not that different compared to the outgoing model.

Ford has worked on the interior cabin where there's a standard rearview camera working together with either a 4.2- or 8-inch touchscreen display on the models equipped with MyFord Touch. Moreover, there are new driver assistance systems, an updated Sync system, modified seats and a tweaked center console as well as updated cup holders.

The changes are skin deep as the 2015 Focus Sedan facelift has received suspension and chassis upgrades to offer "a more connected feel to the road" and an "improved interior quietness." Ford is offering an SE Sport Package encompassing a firmer touring suspension, subtle body kit, 17-inch rims and paddle shifters for the automatic model.

In terms of engine lineup, the revitalized Focus Sedan will be available with the well-known three-cylinder 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine coupled only to a six-speed manual transmission.

The 2015 Ford Focus Sedan facelift will be showcased next week at the New York Auto Show together with the updated Focus Electric, while the Focus ST is going to be introduced later this year.

Source: Al Ain Japan

Honda Car Dealer

A new report indicates Honda will use the "HR-V" moniker in United States for its Fit-based crossover.

Honda's Urban SUV concept eventually became the Vezel crossover for Japan and now it seems the model is heading to the United States but with the HR-V name. The vehicle was reportedly shown to North American dealers at a recent meeting and Honda also filed an application for the "HR-V" name with the U.S. Patent and Trademark offices.

Production of the Honda HR-V will take place at the company's Celaya assembly plant in Mexico where they also produce the 2015 Fit upon which the HR-V is based on. The model will go on sale in the second half of the year while in 2015 it will be introduced in Europe possibly with the same HR-V designation. The JDM-spec Vezel has been on sale since November last year.

The previous Honda HR-V (Hi-rider Revolutionary Vehicle) was produced between 1999 and 2006 and was available as a three- and five-door model with a 4-cylinder 1.6-liter gasoline engine delivering 105 PS (77 kW) and 125 PS (92 kW) in the VTEC version.

Source : Honda Car Dealer

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X to be axed this year

Japanese media is reporting Mitsubishi will kill the Lancer Evolution X towards the end of the year.

If we were to believe Japanese newspaper Nikkan Jidosha Shimbun (Automotive News Daily), production of the Lancer Evolution X will be terminated by the end of 2014. This decision has apparently been taken due to a decreasing demand for the hot sedan and it seems Mitsubishi isn't planning an Evolution XI at all so the model will likely be canned for good.

On sale since 1992 when the original model came out, Mitsubishi managed to deliver 92,000 units in Japan and another 154,000 units worldwide. The most recent iteration of the Evo X is a UK-only special edition called "X FQ-440 MR" which packs a respectable 440 bhp (328 kW) punch from the familiar 4-cylinder 2.0-liter turbocharged engine.

Although this latest report indicates a direct replacement is not planned, we should remind you that back in November last year there was a rumor about a hybrid Lancer Evolution but such a model is still a few years off.

Source: Al Ain Japan

Mazda MX-5 four-seater officially revealed

Mazda has made a surprising announcement on April Fools' Day by introducing a four-seater version of the outgoing MX-5.

While everyone is waiting for the all-new MX-5 to come out, Mazda decided to breathe life into the outgoing Miata by stretching its wheelbase in order to make room for two rear doors. Although you now can take the whole family for a ride, the downside is due to the added weight the car has probably lost some of its great handling abilities for which it has become so popular during its 25 years of existence.

Word on the street is that Mazda will introduce the next generation MX-5 in a couple of weeks at the New York Auto Show, possibly on April 16 during the first press day

Source: Mazda Car Dealer

Porsche Macan GTS

The 2015 Porsche Macan GTS has been spied completely undisguised.

Designed to slot between the Macan S and Macan Turbo, the GTS is heavily influenced by the latter model as it features LED daytime running lights, high-performance brakes and a four tailpipe exhaust system.

There's no word on what will power the crossover but the Macan S has a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 with 340 HP (250 kW) while the Macan Turbo has a twin-turbo 3.6-liter V6 with 400 HP (294 kW). This likely means the GTS will have an output of approximately 360-370 HP (265-272 kW). If these numbers pan out, the model will likely accelerate from 0-100 km/h in roughly five seconds

The crossover is 4699mm long, 1923mm wide and 1624mm tall which makes it 146mm shorter, 16mm narrower and 82mm lower than its bigger brother. Compared to the Q5 on which is based upon, the Macan is 70mm longer, 24mm wider and 30mm lower.

It adopts a double wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear arrangement with variable damping control and an electro-mechanical steering system, while optionally available is an air suspension. Compared to the Audi Q5, the Macan's track widths are 35mm bigger at the front and 36mm at the back, while the suspension components are unique to this model. In addition, the software and geometry have been updated to make sure the Macan is "the most agile handling in its class."

Later on during the car's lifespan there will be a new base model equipped with a 4-cylinder 2.0-liter turbo engine providing 280 HP, along with a Macan Diesel with a 2.0-liter turbo. The duo will represent the first 4-cylinder-powered Porsche models since the demise of the 968 in 1995.

The Macan S and S Diesel ride on 18-inch alloys wrapped around in 235/60 R18 front and 255/55 R18 rear tires, while the Macan Turbo gets larger 19-inch rims with 235/55 R19 and 255/50 R19 rubbers. Clients can optionally configure their car with various wheel designs in sizes of up to 21 inches.

Available at German dealers next April, the Macan S and Macan S Diesel have a starting price of 57,930 EUR and are followed by the Macan Turbo from 79,826 EUR (VAT included). UK will get the new Macan also in April at these prices: Diesel S (43,300 GBP), S (43,300 GBP) and Turbo (59,300 GBP).

Source: AlAin Japan

Honda Driving Support System

Honda has announced plans to begin testing their Driving Support System in Utsunomiya City, Japan.

Designed to reduce accidents and improve fuel efficiency, the Driving Support System uses traffic signal information to provide notifications to the driver.

 

 

When approaching an intersection, the system will display the recommended speed the driver needs to travel to get a green light. If the driver can't get a green light, the display will notify them to let off the accelerator. Once the car has stopped at a red light, the display will count down the time remaining until the light turns green.

Honda will begin testing the system in April and the company hopes to determine how well the system improves fuel economy and reduces CO2 emissions. Researchers will also study the effects of the system on traffic flow and traffic safety.

Source: Honda

Toyota Car Dealers in Japan

Toyota has reportedly confirmed plans to introduce the 2015 Camry at the New York Auto Show.

Details are limited but the facelifted model promises to "challenge conventional expectations of a mid-cycle model change." That's not much to go on but the President of Toyota's Calty Design Research has previously said the car will have a “more emotional, more impactful design."

Little else is known about the model but it will likely feature carryover engines including:

• A 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 178 bhp (133 kW) and 170 lb-ft (230 Nm) of torque
• A hybridized 2.5-liter four-cylinder with a combined output of 200 bhp (149 kW)
• A 3.5-liter V6 with 268 hp (200 kW) and 248 lb-ft (336 Nm) of torque. 

Source:  Toyota Car Dealers in Japan

TOYOTA - COROLLA FIELDER (2007/09) - Al Ain Japan

 TOYOTA - COROLLA FIELDER

Toyota has launched the Corolla Axio and Corolla Fielder hybrids in Japan.

On the styling front, the eco-friendly models are distinguished by a new grille, "Synergy Blue" emblems and an available Light Blue Metallic paint job.

Interior changes are more extensive and include special seat upholstery, a faux leather dashboard and a blue-accented leather shift knob. There's also a 4.2-inch multi-information display and a "nanoe" ionizer that removes pollen by releasing "particle ions embedded in minute water droplets."

Both models are powered by a 1.5-liter Atkinson-cycle engine that develops 74 HP (54 kW) and 111 Nm (81 lb-ft) of torque. It is backed up by an electric motor that has a maximum output of 61 HP (45 kW) and 169 Nm (124 lb-ft) of torque. This enables the model to have a combined output of 100 HP (73 kW) and a fuel economy rating of 3.0 L/100km (77.6 mpg US / 93.2 mpg UK) in the JC08 test cycle.

To compensate for the weight of the hybrid's battery system, engineers retuned the suspension and shock absorbers to deliver "outstanding levels of ride comfort and handling stability." The cars have also been equipped with a noise-reducing windshield and additional sound deadening material.

Pricing starts at ¥1,925,000 and Toyota expects to sell 1,000 Axio hybrids and 1,500 Fielder hybrids in Japan each month.

Source : TOYOTA COROLLA FIELDER

Ford is gearing up for the launch of the 2015 Mustang

Ford is gearing up for the launch of the 2015 Mustang by releasing new details about the car's aerodynamic styling.

Faced with the challenge of creating an aerodynamic car that embraces the Mustang's history, designers settled on a "sleek, modern and muscular interpretation of the iconic pony car."

In order to reduce drag, the 2015 Mustang is Ford's first model to feature "wheel aero curtains" that channel air from the front of the car to openings in the wheel wells. The air is then directed across the outer surface of the wheels and tires.

Looking bold and aggressive, the model has an evolutionary design with a "shark-bite" front fascia and a trapezoidal grille that is flanked by slender headlights. The pony car also has a steeply raked windscreen which blends into a classic fastback roof. Other highlights include a sculpted hood, wider rear fenders and three-dimensional tri-bar taillights with sequential turn signals.

If the coupe isn't too your liking, the convertible has a multilayer insulated cloth top that promises to keep the cabin quiet. The top also lowers twice as fast as its predecessor and has a sleeker profile when lowered.

The aviation-inspired cockpit has a familiar design but adopts higher quality materials and improved switchgear. The cabin has also been given a technological makeover as it can be equipped with Intelligent Access, SYNC, MyFord Touch, Track Apps, MyColor gauges and a new Shaker Pro audio system.

Under the hood, three different engines are available including:

• A 3.7-liter V6 with at least 300 bhp (223 kW) and 270 lb-ft (365 Nm) of torque
• A 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder with more than 305 bhp (227 kW) and 300 lb-ft (406 Nm) of torque
• A 5.0-liter V8 with more than 420 bhp (313 kW) and 390 lb-ft (528 Nm) of torque

Source: Al Ain Japan

Kia Car Dealers in Japan

The 2015 Kia Sedona / Carnival has been spied ahead of a possible debut at the New York Auto Show.

While this particular prototype is heavily camouflaged, previous spy photos have shown the redesigned minivan will have a stylish front fascia with a prominent grille that is flanked by sweptback headlights. The photos also showed the model will have a distinctive greenhouse which is slimmer at the rear than at the front.

Our spies couldn't get close enough to snap interior photos but the 2015 Sedona is expected to have a more accommodating cabin with additional passenger and luggage space. We can also expect a modern cabin with high-tech options including an infotainment system, a blind spot monitoring system and a lane departure warning system.

Despite the modest updates, the entry-level LX comes nicely equipped with air conditioning, Bluetooth connectivity and steering wheel-mounted controls. Moving up to the EX variant adds leather upholstery, heated front seats and automatic climate control.

Motivation is provided by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 269 bhp (200 kW) and 246 lb-ft (333 Nm) of torque. It is connected to a six-speed automatic transmission that enables the model to return 17 city / 24 mpg highway (US).

The 2014 Sedona will go on sale later this year and pricing starts at $25,900 which excludes an $850 destination charge.

Source: Al Ain Japan

Opel ADAM VR|46 Limited Edition announced

Opel has announced plans to offer a limited edition Adam VR | 46 in Italy.

Jointly developed with MotoGP champion Valentino Rossi, the special edition is based on the Adam Slam and features a carbon black, matte black or dull gray roof which contrasts with the metallic black, yellow, red or white body. The special edition also has black and fluorescent yellow accents as well as VR | 46 logos.

According to Rossi, "[The] Opel Adam convinced me immediately, and not only for the lines, accessories, [and] technology. I find it really fun with the possibility of being able to customize many variations, I tried so many different combinations: I do not know how many there are, but certainly enough to be able to take some satisfaction."

Measuring 3.70 meters long and 1.72 meters wide, the Adam represents Opel’s offering in the A segment and it will be offered in three trim levels: Jam, Glam and Slam.

The base version will cost 11,500 euros in Germany (including VAT) and it’s the one powered by a 1.2-liter gasoline engine with 70 hp (51 kW). There’s also a larger 1.4-liter engine offered with two different outputs: 87 hp (64 kW) and 100 hp (74 kW). Regardless of the engine choice, these are connected to a 5-speed manual gearbox and are available with the ecoFLEX technology package, including the stop/start system.

The interior cabin of the Opel Adam can accommodate up to four people, a cabin which benefits from the “Made in Germany” build quality as Opel mentions in the press release. Perhaps one of the key selling features of this petite car is the high number of personalization options available, including a starlight headliner complete with more than 60 LEDs that can recreate a starlit sky for 380 euros

Source - Japanese Car Dealer

Volvo Car Dealer

A new report indicates Volvo's brand new CMA platform will underpin the next-gen V40 and C30, along with an XC40 compact crossover.

Swedish marque Volvo has created in recent months a lot of buzz around its upcoming Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) but very few people know the company is also currently developing a Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) which as the name suggests will be used on future compact models.

Initially, Volvo wanted to team up with another automaker to work on the CMA platform but in the end collaborated with parent company Geely. A possible first candidate to ride on the newly established architecture is the V40 which is said to transform into a true wagon. The C30 successor is also an example and could turn into a five-door model dubbed C40. Last but not least, Volvo is apparently working on a compact crossover which will be sold under the XC40 moniker.

Volvo's first CMA-based products are programmed to see the light of production day in the next 3-4 years.

 

Source: Volvo Car Dealer

MX-5 Miata

Mazda has announced plans to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the MX-5 Miata at the New York Auto Show.

The next-generation model won't be on display but Mazda will showcase 15 different MX-5s. The company didn't go into specifics but promised we can expect everything from "auto show concepts to race cars to production models."

According to Mazda North America Operations CEO Jim O'Sullivan, "[The] MX-5 Miata is the quintessential Mazda and after 25 years, every vehicle in the lineup continues to feature some characteristic of MX-5: a fluid shifter, lightness on its feet, quickness around a corner, a fun-to-drive DNA." He went on to say "With all the whiz-bang technology and comfort amenities increasingly added to modern vehicles, MX-5's direct connection between car and driver still remains the standard feature that puts smiles on drivers' faces."

Source : Al Ain Japan