Acura & Honda to field six models at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb

Acura and Honda have announced plans to field a variety models in seven classes at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb which kicks off on June 29th.

Honda declined to go into specifics but confirmed plans to enter a Fit EV in the electric vehicle class and a Fit B-Spec racer in the Exhibition class. The company will also enter an S3700 in the Time Attack class, a first-generation Acura NSX in the Open class, a CBR600RR motorcycle in the Middleweight class and a TRX450 in the 450 ATV class. Last but not least, Romain Dumas will compete in the Unlimited class with a Honda-powered Norma.

According to Honda Performance Development President Art St. Cyr, "Pikes Peak presents us with a unique opportunity to showcase Honda's diverse product lineup and to energize Honda fans around the world, as we work to further strengthen Honda's presence in racing at all levels." St. Cyr went on to say "Our associates will be working hard between now and race day to prepare this diverse field of race vehicles and showcase the Honda Racing Spirit."

Source: Acura

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 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

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

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

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

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

Toyota Car Exporters - Al Ain Japan

This generation of Camry saw even greater differentiation between American market (and Japanese domestic market) Camry, and the Asian market Camry. The Asian Camry has a larger body size targeted at a higher end market, priced just below entry-level German luxury models.The same Asian Camry is also sold as the Toyota Aurion in Australia, fitted with a 3.5-liter V6 to compete against large Australian sedans like the Ford Falcon and Holden Commodore. The standard Camry (similar to American / Japanese market models), fitted with smaller four-cylinder engines continue to be sold alongside the Aurion in selected markets. Between 2006 and 2010, the Daihatsu-badged Altis model sold alongside the Camry in Japan. The Daihatsu differed only in badging, with no cosmetic changes.

 

Toyota Camry

The XV40 Camry was introduced at the 2006 North American International Auto Show alongside a hybrid version and went on sale in March 2006 for the 2007 model year.

Power comes from a choice of four and six-cylinder engines. For 2010, power was increased to 169 horsepower, versus the 158 from 2007 to 2009. Power locks, stability control, and traction control were also made standard for 2010. The 2.4-liter 2AZ-FE I4 engine was carried over and produced 158 horsepower (118 kW). It came with a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. The 3.5-liter 2GR-FE V6 in contrast came with a new six-speed automatic and produced 268 horsepower (200 kW). The Camry was facelifted in 2009 for the 2010 model year with a redesigned fascia, taillights, and an all-new 2.5-liter 2AR-FE four-cylinder engine with a new six-speed automatic transmission. The 2.5-liter engine produces 169 horsepower (126 kW) for the base, LE, XLE models, and 179 horsepower (133 kW) for the SE.

The XV40 series Camry is the first in which the Camry has been available as a gasoline/electric hybrid. The Camry Hybrid utilizes Toyota’s second-generation Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD) and a 2AZ-FXE four-cylinder with 110 kilowatts (150 hp) in conjunction with a 30 kilowatts (40 hp) electric motor for a combined output of 140 kilowatts (190 hp).

Source: Toyota Car Exporters

Kia Car Dealers

According to a recent report, Kia is considering several new versions of the Soul.

Details are limited but Used Car Dealer is reporting the company could offer a coupe that draws inspiration from the Trackster concept which debuted at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show. The company is also rumored to be mulling a high-performance variant with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that develops 250 bhp (186 kW).

The new generation is 15.24mm wider (1800mm) and has a 20.3mm longer wheelbase (2570mm), while maintaining the same height (1610mm). It also has a 60.9mm wider opening for the lift gate and will be available in seven new exterior paints, including Inferno Red and Solar Yellow.

It will be offered in three trim levels: Base Soul, Soul Plus and Soul Exclaim with the entry-level model featuring power windows and door locks, 6-speaker sound system, telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth, SiriusXM and optional 16-inch wheels, remote keyless entry and cruise control.

Soul Plus adds 17-inch alloys, auto headlights, UVO eServices, Rear Camera Display, floor console stowage box with arm rest, along with optional goodies like 10-way power adjustable driver's seat, leather/heated steering wheel, leather gear shift knob, ventilated front seats, panoramic sunroof, fog lights, Infinity audio system and string-LED front speakers.

Soul Exclaim packs 18-inch wheels, fog lights, projector headlights, front LED positioning lights, rear LED lights, high-gloss piano black center console, cooled glove box and optional HID headlights, Supervision Cluster screen, automatic climate control and front speaker LED mood lightning.

It remains unclear when additional variants could arrive but Kia recently introduced the Soul EV at the 2014 Chicago Auto Show. Several months before that, the company unveiled the SUV Styling Pack with piano black paint - on the bumpers, wheel arches and side skirts - to create the illusion of plastic body cladding.

Source: Used Car Dealer

2015 Jeep Renegade small SUV unveiled with quirky yet cute looks

Jeep recently unveiled the 2015 Renegade at the Geneva Motor Show, so X-Tomi Design has created a rendering of an SRT variant.

Drawing cues from the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8, the Renegade has an aggressive front bumper with black accents and metallic air intake surrounds. The crossover also has a blacked out grille, body-color side skirts and sporty alloy wheels.

Unfortunately, we're not getting our hopes up for a production variant as SRT CEO Ralph Gilles has previously said four-cylinder engines are in their long-terms plans but they're currently "in between great engines" so "there’s nothing available right now."

Depending on the market, the new baby Jeep is going to be sold with no less than 16 powertrain combinations encompassing four MultiAir gasoline motors, two MultiJet II diesel units and a flex-fuel E.torQ engine coupled to two manual gearboxes, one dual-clutch DDCT and the aforementioned nine-speed auto 'box.

On the inside there will be an Uconnect infotainment system with a 5 or 6.5-inch touchscreen display offering a wide array of technological goodies such as Bluetooth, DAB and HD radio, Sirius services, USB & AUX, as well as digital media broadcasting. In addition, the driver gets to play around with a 7-inch color multi-view reconfigurable display acting as the instrument cluster.

The radical-looking Renegade draws its styling inspiration from the bigger Wrangler but Jeep says it also represents a throwback to the original military jeep with its boxy shape, seven-slot vertical front grille and a high ground clearance. It has a somewhat low drag coefficient of 0.36 and will be offered in a trail-rated variant called Trail-hawk 4x4 with 17-inch all-terrain tires and a Select-Terrain system.

Jeep will also offer two open-air roof panel systems called My Sky while Moper has already created a full suite of accessories to spice up the 2015 Renegade, from roof boxes and air deflectors to door sill guards and a rear backup camera.

As a result, the Renegade's range-topping engine will likely be the 2.4-liter Tigershark four-cylinder - that produces 184 bhp (137 kW) and 177 lb-ft (236 Nm) of torque - for the foreseeable future.

Source: Used Car Dealers

Lexus Car - Al Ain Japan - Japanese Used Car for Sale

Lexus has announced plans to introduce the 2015 NX crossover at the Beijing Auto Show on April 20th.

Previewed by the LF-NX concept, the 2015 NX will slot below the RX and become "Lexus’ first entry into the growing segment of premium compact crossovers."

Additional information is limited but Toyota North America CEO Jim Lentz apparently showed an undisguised picture of the model during a presentation earlier this year. The image revealed the crossover had an IS-inspired front fascia with a prominent spindle grille and familiar LED daytime running lights that sit below the headlights.

Lexus has been coy on power-train details but the model is expected to offer a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and an all-wheel drive system

t has a twin-scroll turbocharger and a cylinder head-integrated exhaust manifold which enables the engine to be clean and frugal, while at the same time bringing a "high level of performance." Output of the engine has not been specified by Lexus says their new motor brings a fast throttle response and "exhilarating performance while demonstrating outstanding fuel efficiency."

Design-wise the Lexus LF-NX Turbo concept has received a smoked chrome trim for the corporate spindle grille and its base now has a narrow, black mesh air intake sitting above a matt chrome-finished chin spoiler. In addition, the vertical front air intakes now have a high-gloss black trim with a black mesh duct finish.

The back of the car shows a new lower bumper design with a full-width diffuser dressed in matt chrome. It also has dual chrome exhausts and new 20-inch alloys wrapped around in 255/45 ZR20 tires. Changes in the cabin are limited to the red illumination for the instruments, switchgear, door panels and roof.

The NX crossover is expected to be previewed by a concept at the Tokyo Motor Show later this year. The production model will likely follow sometime next year as a 2015 model.

Source: Al Ain Japan

The Chevrolet Camaro

The Chevrolet Camaro is going to be facing stiff competition from the 2015 Ford Mustang but fans shouldn't have to wait too long for the next-generation model as Al Ain Japan is reporting it will likely be introduced at the 2015 North American International Auto Show.

Citing sources familiar with the matter, the website is reporting the 2016 Camaro will have an evolutionary design with all-new sheet metal. One source went on to say the design is "not drastically different" and it looks like a "worked-over current-model Camaro."

General Motors rarely comments on rumors but Chevrolet spokesperson Mike Albano told Al Ain Japan "We won't discuss future product but I will tell you that any Camaro we do will have expressive design and will evoke the passion the previous-generation Camaros have done." He went on to say "[The] Camaro always has kind of moved the heart and the next generation will do the same thing when you see it on the road."

Regardless of what it looks like, the redesigned Camaro is expected to ride on the Alpha platform that underpins the Cadillac ATS and CTS.

Source:  Used Car Dealers

Nissan has announced plans to showcase a brand new sedan concept at next month's Auto China 2014 in Beijing.

Nissan has announced plans to showcase a brand new sedan concept at next month's Auto China 2014 in Beijing.

Unfortunately Nissan did not share at least a teaser photo of their new concept but they say it was developed to emphasize the firm's global design strategy as well as the "strong commitment to China" which Nissan considers as being one of its most important markets. Details about the concept are not available at this point but from what we understand it will be a follow-up to last year's Friend-ME concept and is going to represent the "Chinese digital lifestyle."

Auto China 2014 will be organized at the China International Exhibition Center in Beijing between April 20 and 29 where Nissan is going to showcase more than 20 vehicles, including the revolutionary BladeGlider concept and the Teana which will celebrate its 10^th anniversary in China.

Source: Japanese Car Dealer