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

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 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

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

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

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

For Sale - NISSAN - NOTE (2011/12) - Al Ain Japan - Nissan Car Dealer

For Sale - NISSAN - NOTE (2011/12)

The Nissan Note is a mini multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) produced by the Japanese manufacturer Nissan since 2004.

Changes to Nissan Note include:

• redesigned head lamp, engine hood, front grill, front bumper
• coloured/gun metallic front grille on G/X series models
• smoke plated front grille on sporty series models
• 3 new colours (blue turquoise titan pearl metallic, frost green titan metallic, amethyst grey pearl metallic) for total of 10 body colour choices
• new seat and door trim options sand beige, black, carbon black (with red stitching)
• sand beige interior includes colour scheme change
• 2-link meter (LCD odometer, trim trip meter with fuel consumption display) as standard equipment
• sporty series (15RX/15RS) includes white meter
• dimpled leather-wrapped 3-spoke steering wheel with red stitching (standard in 15RX)
• rear centre arm rest with 2 cup holders (standard in 15G, 15G FOUR, 15RX)
• water spray seats (standard in 15G, 15G FOUR)
• cold terrain vehicles include 4-wheel drive as standard equipment
• driver seat seat belt reminder as standard equipment
• 2-wheel drive models with HR15DE engine and Xtronic CVT transmission passed JC08 model fuel consumption and emission tests

Plus navi HDD models are based on 15G, 15X, 15G FOUR, 15X FOUR, with:

• exclusive HDD navigation system (7-inch wide VGA display, touch panel, VICS(multi-FM), music stocker, iPod control, CD player, Electronically tuned AM/FM radio, 30GB hard drive)
• Green-tinted UV-blocking windshield glass with top shade
• 2 rear speakers (standard in 15G, 15G FOUR)

Note Rider is a version of Nissan Note with:

• exclusive front bumper and bumper grille, front grille, side sill protector, rear tire protector
• Euro suspension (2WD models)
• exclusive 15-inch brilliant aluminium wheels with 175/60R15 81H tires
• exclusive naming emblem, seat floor and door trim floor, leather-wrapped 3-spoke steering wheel
• 4 speakers
• exclusive finisher in black (sterling finisher, centre cluster finisher, instrument upper box)
• exclusive sport muffler by Fujitsubo (Autech option)
• exclusive sound system + iPod adapter + exclusive speaker (Autech option)
• choice of 4 body colours (white pearl (3-coat pearl) (#QX1), diamond silver metallic (#KY0), twilight grey pearl metallic (#K21), super black (#KH3))

Note Rider performance spec is a version of Nissan Note Rider with:

• increased engine power by 7 PS (5 kW; 7 hp) and 0.8 kg·m (8 N·m; 6 lbf·ft)
• exclusive strut tower bar (front)
• tunnel stay
• YAMAHA performance damper (front)
• exclusive tuned suspension, Bridgestone Potenza RE-01R 185/55R15 81V tire, sport muffler by Fujitsubo, naming emblem, car speed sensing electric power steering, aluminium pedal

Source: Nissan Car Dealer

Used Car Dealer in Japan - Al AIn Japan

Al Ain Japan (Pvt) Ltd is a Japanese company , which is the leader in sales and export of Japanese and European used cars , for more than 16 years, we have shipped our cars to many countries around the world with some of our most important markets being; Africa, The Caribbean, Europe, Oceania, Asia, The Middle East, and North and South America. Our agents and customers around the world offer local support for all of our sales and shipments throughout each region .

Al Ain Japan exports wide variety of Japanese Used Cars around the world such as Cars , Vans, Trucks, SUV's , Mini-Vans, Buses, Tourist buses and Machinery . We purchase our vehicles from Auctions as well as from main brand dealers with a wide-spread selection of models and colors .

Al-Ain Japan is the forefront name amongst all the Japanese Used Car exporters and they proudly boast a vast variety of used cars which they have been exporting out to countries around the globe. They are pioneers of Japanese Used Cars exports, selling their goods throughout Asia, Africa, Europe, and Caribbean etc. The car auction industry is the biggest business going successfully in and around Japan. Al-Ain Japan were proud that they were in the members list of almost each and every auctions occur in Japan including USS used car system solutions, TAA Toyota Auto Auctions, ARAI arai Auto Auction, NAA Nissan Auto Auction, HAA Hanathen Auto Auction and JU groups.

Al Ain also has trusted membership in JUMVEA, Export Bureau and Yokohama Chamber of Commerce. Al-Ain Japan purchases the stocks from the biggest dealers of Japanese Used Cars and gather’s even minute information about the particular stocks. Each and every vehicle is taken photographs from different angles as possible covering the entire views from all sides. Vehicle prices are decided on the conditions of vehicle mostly prices will be standardized prices according to the auction standards of international used car dealerships. Al-Ain Japan the biggest competitor of used cars in Japan along with many leading Japanese Used Cars dealers. 

Al-Ain Japan website provides brand wise listing in the website where customer can easily select the category of vehicle they needed. Each vehicle has a unique chassis number where all the details were mentioned for further purchase. Al-Ain Japan website has been selling cars, vans, trucks, SUV’s, Mini-vans, buses, tourist buses and Machinery from Japan to all over the world. The vehicle quality which sold by the Al-Ain Japan are up to the standards of Ministry of international trade and industry. We are the members of all the main auctions held at Japan, supported by many leading used car dealers in Japan. The stocks that were bought were undertaken at most care as possible till the delivery is done.

Al-Ain Japan has the best dedicated service support which offers 24/7 attention on customer enquiries. Once the order is placed in website the delivery of the vehicle is expected as accurate as possible with reliability of our shipments. Al-Ain Japan which has the big network support of international used car dealers with good relationship makes us more reliable place to make a vehicle selection. Japan is the country which is continuously improvising on the used car trading. Al-Ain Japan is the website which makes the connection between different car dealers possible by purchasing and selling their used cars. Al-Ain Japan the place for all your used car dealership needs. 

Source : Used Car Dealer in Japan

Japanese Car Dealer - Al Ain Japan

A purported picture of the Mazda Hazumi concept has surfaced online.

Set to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show, the Hazumi has a striking exterior with a prominent grille that is flanked by LED-infused headlights. The concept also has front spoiler, a stylish greenhouse and massive alloy wheels. Other highlights include a black roof, a tailgate-mounted spoiler and aerodynamic side skirts.

Little else is known about the model but it previews the next-generation Mazda2. That particular car will target female buyers and spawn a Toyota variant that will go into production in the summer of 2015.

Hazumi" means "spring up" or "bound" in Japanese and the concept will provide a first glimpse at Mazda's upcoming subcompact model which will probably be shown later this year. Judging by this teaser photo, we notice Mazda has taken styling cues from the Mazda3 and Mazda6 but on a smaller scale to fit the small dimensions of the concept.

As far as the production version, the Mazda2 will target a female audience and it is believed the vehicle will ride on a shortened variant of the CX-5's platform. Expect the car to grow in size compared to the outgoing model and chances are it will spawn a crossover variant.

Also in Geneva next month the audience will get to see Mazda's newly developed SKYACTIV-D 1.5 clean diesel engine which will likely find its way under the hood of the Mazda2 as well as other small and compact models from the Japanese marque.

Source: Japanese Car Dealer

Subaru car in Japan - Al Ain Japan

Subaru is allegedly plotting a special edition BRZ but don't get your hopes up too high as it won't feature turbocharging.

Our colleagues from Car & Driver have obtained information about an upcoming Subaru BRZ special edition that will be revealed later this year. While many are waiting for Subaru to finally turbocharge the BRZ, it seems the special edition will come only with cosmetic changes such as a front lip spoiler, STI badging and bespoke alloy wheels. The kit will also include a rear wing and different side skirts to complete the exterior look.

Don't expect to find the handling tweaks implemented in the Japan-exclusive BRZ tS which also comes with a few upgrades in the braking and suspension departments. For those who can't wait anymore for a factory turbo for the BRZ, there are many aftermarket specialist willing to apply forced induction on the 4-cylinder, 2.0-liter boxer engine of the BRZ which in naturally aspirated form delivers 200 HP (147 kW).

On the outside it is distinguished by STI 17-inch black alloy wheels and a black look for the side mirrors. It will be available with a variety of body paint schemes, while the cabin is set to get two-tone leather-wrapped steering wheel and seats. Above the instrument panel it will have black Alcantara with contrast tan stitching also found at the doors' top section and on the sides of the center console.

Other upgrades worth mentioning include the aluminum pedals, STI engine button, silver accents and a carbon fiber trim on the dashboard. Subaru also used tan leather for the doors, and black leather with tan stitching on the gearbox and handbrake levers.

Scheduled to go on sale exclusively in Japan at the end of the year, the Subaru BRZ Premium Sport Edition will have a starting price of 3,034,500 yen (approximately 31,000 USD / 22,600 EUR / 19,300 GBP).

Source: Al Ain Japan

Audi Car Dealer in Japan - Al Ain Japan

Audi has announced they are now taking orders for the A3 Sportback g-tron in Germany where the model has a starting price of 25,900 EUR.

Introduced almost a year ago at the Geneva Motor Show, Audi's A3 Sports-back g-tron comes with a 4-cylinder, 1.4-liter TFSI gasoline engine outputting 110 HP (81 kW) and 200 Nm (147 lb-ft) of torque. It sounds just like a normal A3 until you hear the model can run not only on gasoline, but also on natural gas and Audi-generated e-gas. When running in e-gas mode, the vehicle is "entirely CO2-neutral."

In terms of performance, the A3 Sports-back g-tron needs 11 seconds until 62 mph (100 km/h) on its way to a top speed of 118 mph (190 km/h) regardless of the type of fuel used. The vehicle comes equipped with two gas tanks that carry 7 kg (15.3 lbs) of compressed natural gas (CNG) at a maximum pressure of 200 bar. The tanks have been manufactured from CFRP and when at their full capacity they weigh 27 kg (59.5 lbs).

On average, the car consumes between 3.2 and 3.3 kg of gas / 100 km which results in running costs of about 3.50 EUR / 100 km. When it runs on gas it has a range of around 242 miles (400 km) while on gasoline it can do up to 559 miles (900 km). Opt to use both types of fuel and the range increases to 807.7 miles (1,300 km).

As far as the e-gas is concerned, it is a type of synthetic methane produced by Audi at its e-gas facility situated in Werlte in Lower Saxony, Germany. Audi says that an e-gas-running A3 Sportback represents "the most environmentally friendly form of long-distance mobility."

The vehicle is equipped with an electronic gas pressure regulator capable of lowering the high pressure of the gas flowing from the cylinders. When greater performances are necessary, it can provide a high-pressure flow, while during low-speed driving it will enable a low-pressure gas.

 

Source: Al Ain Japan

Japanese Used Car Dealers in Japan

Honda spokesman told Automotive News Europe the Insight and CR-Z hybrids won't be offered in Europe anymore.

It was October last year when we heard a rumor about Honda's decision to stop selling the Insight and CR-Z models on the old continent and now that rumor is a reality. Due to a weak demand, Honda has decided to withdraw these hybrids from Europe but you can still have one since the company has a few of them left in stock.

Honda sold 62 percent less units of the Insight last year in Europe, managing to deliver just 1,242 cars. Sales of the CR-Z dropped by 66 percent to only 695 units, based on the figures released by market researcher JATO Dynamics.

As we have previously reported, the Insight has a 1.3-liter i-VTEC engine and an electric motor that enables the model to produce a combined maximum output of 102 HP (75 kW) and 200 Nm (147 lb-ft) of torque. It enables the model to return 65.7 mpg UK (4.3 L/100km / 54.7 mpg US) with CO2 emissions of 99 g/km.

The CR-Z, on the other hand, has a 1.5-liter engine and electric motor for a combined maximum output of 137 HP (100 kW) and 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque. This allows the hatchback to average up to 56.5 mpg UK (5.0 L/100km / 47.0 mpg US) with CO2 emissions as low as 116 g/km.

Europeans who would really like to have an alternative-powered Honda can grab the previous-gen Jazz but this model has also gone down in popularity, with sales decreasing from 7,500 units in 2012 to 4,500 cars in 2013. A plug-in hybrid variant of the new Jazz fit is slated for a 2015 release but Honda hasn't decided whether the model will hit European dealerships.

Source: Al Ain Japan

Honda - Al AIn Japan - Japanese Used Car Dealer

Honda has unveiled the 2014 Civic Hybrid and Civic Natural Gas.

Set to go on sale later this month, the updated models feature an "expanded view" driver's mirror, On the styling front, the sedan is unchanged while the coupe receives modified bumpers, a revised grille and new front fenders. The model also has revised mirrors and updated head- and taillights.

Additional changes are limited but the Civic Hybrid has an improved EPA fuel economy rating of 44 mpg city / 47 mpg highway / 45 combined (US).

The Civic Natural Gas, on the other hand, gains an upgraded interior with improved seats and better trim. The model also has a new range-topping variant with heated leather seats and a six-speaker audio system.

Honda declined to release performance specifications but the previous Civic Natural Gas had a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that developed 110 bhp (82 kW).  Likewise, the Civic Hybrid had a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor that developed a combined maximum output of 110 bhp (82 kW).

The Civic Hybrid starts at $24,635 while the Civic Natural Gas retails for $26,640 (both excluding a $790 destination charge).

Source: Al Ain Japan

Datsun budget sedan seen without camo in Russia

An undisguised Datsun sedan was spotted somewhere in Russia, ahead of a very possible launch later this year.

Details about the low-cost Datsun sedan are not available at this point but it is believed the model will be based on the Lada Granta which is actually based on the Lada Kalina. This platform was created by Renault in collaboration with Russian carmaker AvtoVAZ and was likely used for this sedan which will reportedly receive a hatchback derivative late this year.

It will be offered exclusively with a 1.2-liter engine linked to a 5-speed manual gearbox. The exterior design closely mirrors the Micra, while inside the typical glovebox has been replaced by a space under the dashboard. Datsun moved the handbrake and gear lever to the dashboard as a method to free up space between the front seats. They also borrowed the Micra’s door handles and AC vents.

 

Production of the Datsun sedan will take place in Russia and order books will allegedly open in April. The aforementioned five-door hatchback will likely be unveiled in August at the Moscow Motor Show.

Source : Al Ain Japan

Nissan Used car in japan - Al ain Japan

Tokyo-based aftermarket specialist Impul has released a tuning kit for the Nissan March/Micra.

The facelifted March/Micra is not the type of car you would normally imagine going through the garage of a tuner but it happened in Tokyo where Impul created a wide body kit for the petite Japanese city car. Showcased earlier this month at Tokyo Auto Salon, the vehicle received a redesigned front bumper with a large spoiler lip along with bigger side skirts and a new rear bumper.

The most noticeable exterior modification is without any doubt the added rear wing but there's nothing going on in the engine department to match the aggressive looks. Other changes include vertical strips of LED daytime running lights sitting next to the fog lights in the lower front grille, as well as the tuner's RS S-05 alloy wheel set.

The base Visia model has electric front windows, remote central locking, ABS, ESP, several airbags, power steering and CD/AUX/USB. Acenta rides on 15-inch rims and comes with additional equipment such as automatic lights and wipers, Bluetooth, front fog lights and several cosmetic tweaks. The range-topping Tekna has 16-inch wheels, park assist, parking sensors, climate control, panoramic glass roof, new paint hues, keyless start, folding door mirrors and 5.8-inch touchscreen Nissan Connect media/sat-nav system.

Engine lineup includes the same 3-cylinder, 1.2-liter gasoline mill and a supercharged 1.2-liter DIG-S gasoline engine which can do 57.3 mpg US (68.9 mpg UK or 4.1 liters / 100 km) and has CO2 emissions of 95 g/km. These are mated to a standard five-speed manual transmission or an optional CVT.

It should be noted Nissan is offering hotter Nismo and Nismo S versions of the March in Japan, with the latter providing 116 HP (85 kW) and 115 lb-ft (156 Nm) from a 1.5-liter engine mated to a five-speed manual gearbox.

Source:Al Ain Japan

Subaru Crossover 7 concept revealed

Subaru has introduced the Crossover 7 concept at the Tokyo Motor Show.

Designed to preview a possible Tribeca successor, the Crossover 7 follows in the footsteps of the Outback and adopts a wagon-like design with plastic body cladding. The styling may not win everyone over but the model has also been equipped with a prominent grille and a tailgate-mounted spoiler.

As the name suggests, the Crossover 7 has a seven-seat interior that is "roomy" and "elegant." Pictures were not released but Subaru says the model has "smooth tan leather seats that will bring out the desire to go for a drive in any adult."

Power is provided by horizontally-opposed 2.5-liter engine that is connected to a Lineartronic continuously variable transmission and a symmetrical all-wheel drive system.

Source: Al Ain Japan

Volkswagen Twin-Up diesel-electric hybrid concept revealed

Volkswagen is presenting at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show the twin up! concept which adopts the powertrain from the XL1.

The twin up! concept has borrowed the diesel engine, electric motor and DSG from the XL1 which allowed it to become the most economical four-seat vehicle in Europe, managing to return 214 mpg US (257 mpg UK or 1.1 liters / 100 km) with CO2 emissions of just 27 g/km in the New European Driving Cycle.

Power comes from the same two-cylinder 800cc common-rail diesel engine from the XL1 installed transversally in the engine bay. The motor produces 47 bhp (35 kW) and 88 lb-ft (119 Nm) of torque and works together with an electric motor developing 47 bhp (20 bhp more than in the XL1) and 103 lb-ft (139 Nm). As a result of the hardware arrangement, the Twin-Up has a combined power of 74 bhp (55 kW) and 158 lb-ft (214 Nm) sent to the front axle through a dual-clutch seven-speed gearbox.

There's also an 8.6 kWh lithium-ion battery pack installed behind the rear seats and under the trunk where Volkswagen has also put the 12-volt battery for the electrical system and an 8.7-gallon fuel tank.

When running solely on electric power the twin up! can reach 37 mph (59.5 km/h) in 8.8 seconds before hitting a top speed of 78 mph. In hybrid mode it will perform the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) task in 15.7 seconds and achieve a maximum speed of 87 mph (140 km/h). Volkswagen mentions the 2,657 lbs (1,205 kg) concept can be driven on electric power for up to 31 miles (50 km).

For the first time ever in a Volkswagen model the climate functions are being displayed only in digital form thanks to an AMOLED display which allows the driver to control temperature through a central touchscreen. Also digital are the status display and user control, while the home screen can be customized according to the driver's preferences.

Source : Al Ain Japan