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

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

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

Suzuki Car Dealers in Japan

Several patent sketches depicting the Suzuki Authentics production version have hit the web, prior to an official launch slated for later this year.

At last year's Auto Shanghai we saw Suzuki's rather attractive Authentics concept and now they are getting ready to introduce its production sibling. Seen here are several patent sketches of the model which as you would expect will look slightly toned down and less attractive than the concept. The C-segment model will likely be unveiled next month at 2014 Auto China in Beijing before going on sale in the second half of the year.

Production will be done by the firm's Chinese joint venture Chongqing Changan Suzuki Automobile Co., LTD and in some markets it will replace the smaller SX4 Sedan, including India where the model will be commercialized as a Maruti Ciaz. Engine lineup will likely encompass a 4-cylinder, 1.6-liter gasoline engine connected to a standard 5-speed manual transmission or an optional CVT.

Auto China 2014 will be organized between 20-24 April at the China International Exhibition Center.

Source: Suzuki Car Dealers in Japan

VIA - autohome.com.cn & indianautosblog.com

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

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

Japanese Car Dealer

Toyota has released the first details about the 2014 TS040 HYBRID.

Set to compete in the FIA World Endurance Championship, the TS040 HYBRID is described as a "major evolution" of the TS030 HYBRID.

The company is keeping details a closely guarded secret but they confirmed the model has a four-wheel drive hybrid system thanks to the addition of a new Aisin AW motor/generator on the front axle. It is backed up by a rear motor/generator and a V8 petrol engine.

Little else is known about the car but it rides on a new chassis and features "advanced aerodynamics and [a] lightweight design."

The company will field two cars and they will be driven by Alex Wurz, Nicolas Lapierre, Kazuki Nakajima, Anthony Davidson, Sébastien Buemi and Stéphane Sarrazin. Mike Conway will also serve as a test driver and a reserve driver.

According to Toyota Racing team president Yoshiaki Kinoshita, "We are very much looking forward to this new season with our new car, the TS040 HYBRID. The 2014 season is an important one for TOYOTA Racing; after two years we have built up a lot of experience and now, with new regulations, all teams start from a level playing field." He went on to say "We are competing in order to test the latest hybrid technology in the most extreme motorsport environments and this has a direct influence on future road car technology. This year we will benefit from a four-wheel drive hybrid system using our proven super-capacitor storage solution and this will provide a very substantial acceleration boost."

Source: Japanese 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

BMW is currently testing M2 Coupe

A new report indicates BMW is currently testing M2 Coupe prototypes with an uprated N55 engine.

The N55 N55B30T0 engine is the same inline-six Twin-power Turbo 3.0-liter engine inside the currently range-topping M235i Coupe. However, BMW's engineers are tweaking the motor to increase its output from the current 326 HP (240 kW) to somewhere in the region of 380 HP (279 kW). The report suggests BMW is testing the engine in conjunction with both manual and automatic gearboxes.

If the M2 will see the light of production day, expect to find the newly introduced chassis tech from the M3 Sedan / M4 Coupe duo, as well as an electronically-controlled limited-slip differential (aka Active M Differential) and a quad exhaust arrangement.

Looking sporty and luxurious, the model has a distinctive front fascia with a unique grille, bespoke headlights and large air intakes. There's also subtle contours, an upward sweeping character line and L-shaped taillights.

The 2-Series is slightly larger than its predecessor as it is 72mm longer, 32mm wider and has a wheelbase that has been stretched by 30mm. This results in a more accommodating cabin that boasts additional head- and legroom as well as a larger trunk that holds up to 390 liters (13.7 cubic feet) of luggage.

The cabin is heavily influenced by the 1-Series and comes equipped with cloth seats and satin silver trim. Options include Dakota leather upholstery, brushed aluminum or fine-line stream wood trim and a 6.5- or 8.8-inch iDrive display.

As usual, the 2-Series will be offered in Sport Line, Modern Line and the M Sport trim. The latter adds an aerodynamic body kit, a revised grille and a chrome exhaust finisher. There's also a sport-tuned suspension (which reduces the ride height by 10mm) and 17-inch M light alloy wheels. The model also boasts sport seats, aluminum hexagon trim, M-brand sill plates and revised instrumentation.

A probable launch date is sometime in 2016.

Source : BMW Cars

Next-gen Toyota Aygo spied for the first time

The first official images with the second generation Toyota Aygo have been published online ahead of the model's debut tomorrow in Geneva.

 

 

Joining the already revealed 2014 Peugeot 108 and Citroën C1, Toyota's Aygo will share the platform with its French cousins but with a different front fascia as well as a unique rear end. Chances are the new Aygo will be available in three- and five-door body styles along with a retractable fabric roof as seen in the open-top versions of the 108 (TOP!) and C1 (Airscape).

Compared to the outgoing model, the new one will grow in size a little bit and will receive higher-placed taillights. Chances are the 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine will be tweaked to produce more than the current 67 bhp (50 kW) and 69 lb-ft (93 Nm) output, while fuel consumption should be lower than 4.4 liters / 100 km (53.4 mpg US or 64.2 mpg UK). There aren't any details right now about a diesel engine.

 

The trio will make use of the same three-cylinder engines sending power to the front axle through at least a five-speed manual transmission. Production of all three cars will take place in Czech Republic and it seems diesel engines won't be offered since a while ago Peugeot said it's costly to produce Euro 6-compliant diesels in Europe.

Check back tomorrow for full details.

Source : Used Car Dealer in Japan

2014 Toyota Corolla rendered as a coupe

The Toyota Paseo was the last attempt from the Japanese manufacturer to build a low-cost entry-level sports coupe. The car was stopped in 1999 and has no direct replacement at the moment.

 

X-Tomi envisions a worthy successor with his latest renderings based on the Auris hatch. The two-door four seater should rival the likes of Opel Astra GTC and the Renault Megane Coupe.

Do you think the Paseo deserves a place in Toyota's lineup?

The 2014 Toyota Corolla has lost its rear doors in this render made by X-Tomi Design.

The recently unveiled 2014 Corolla in both U.S.- and Euro-spec versions won’t win any design awards, but it certainly brings a significant improvement in terms of styling compared to its predecessors. It’s a nice surprise to see the Corolla looking fairly attractive and this could be the reason why some have already released renders with the recent versions of the eleventh generation model which originally debuted last year in Japan.

The U.S.-spec version was a source of inspiration for X-Tomi Design who envisioned the car as a coupe. Again, it’s not the best looking coupe out there but since it’s wearing the “Corolla” badge we should be more indulgent.

We don’t know if Toyota is planning a coupe version of the latest Corolla but it could be a good idea to further popularize the “Corolla” nameplate which competes with Ford’s “Focus” for the world’s most successful car moniker.

Source : Al Ain Japan