Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, has announced the introduction of its all-new Subaru Impreza WRX STI in Japan. The new WRX STI went on sale nationwide through Subaru dealerships today.

Advancing FHI’s theme of producing the complete driver’s car and embodying the essence of total driving control, the third-generation Impreza WRX STI has debuted with complete makeovers in its design, engine, chassis and features. Benefiting from Subaru’s signature Symmetrical AWD and the Horizontally-Opposed Boxer engine, the new WRX STI is an innovative AWD sports model that delivers a combination of joy of driving and pride of ownership.

The new five-door model features not only a greatly refined engine and suspension but new mechanisms such as the multi-mode Driver’s Control Center Differential (DCCD) and multi-mode Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC). Also, the Subaru Dynamic Chassis Control Concept (Subaru DC3) has been further developed for the WRX STI in order to maximize performance and driving pleasure and to ensure high levels of driver satisfaction through total control of the vehicle.

The vehicle’s interior and exterior design expresses sophistication and refined functionality. The widened body flares give an irresistible presence, integrating function and beauty, while the interior design stresses high quality and a sporty image. In addition, the Impreza WRX STI features advancements in the areas of environment, safety, and comfort, all of which match FHI’s goal of delivering exceptional performance and enjoyable and dependable drivability with environmental considerations in all Subarus.

The first-generation WRX STI model was based on the first Impreza WRX and was developed by Subaru Tecnica International (STI), an FHI subsidiary specialized in motorsports activities. Since its introduction in 1994, the WRX STI has established a solid reputation as a high-performance sports model. In the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) that requires participants to compete with production-based models, Subaru WRX STI models have proven their credentials by bringing Subaru three consecutive Manufacturers’ championship titles from 1995 to 1997. In this context, FHI plans to submit a Group N homologation application effective as of January 1, 2008 for the new WRX STI to FIA.

The introduction of the new WRX STI has completed the full lineup of the Impreza series in Japan. The Impreza 15S, 20S and S-GT models have been available since June 2007, each offering individual strengths in performance and comfort.

News Source: http://www.fhi.co.jp/english/news/press/2007/07_10_24e.html

Mazda Motor Corporation has announced today that the Mazda Demio was named the 2008 Automotive Researchers’ and Journalists’ Conference of Japan (RJC) Car of the Year. The Mazda CX-7 also won the special “Best SUV” prize. RJC Chairman, Michio Takei, announced the two awards after the final round of balloting. 

This year’s RJC Car of the Year winner, the Mazda Demio (known as the Mazda2 overseas), is a compact car that combines distinct styling, superb handling and very competitive running costs with the fun-to-drive spirit of Zoom-Zoom. Demio received high marks from RJC for its great fuel efficiency and drivability. The new model is around 100 kilograms lighter than the previous model, and the 13C-V model grade combines Mazda’s MZR 1.3L Miller-cycle engine with a continuously variable transmission to achieve top class fuel economy of 23.0 km/L in 10-15 fuel mode.

The Mazda CX-7, the recipient of the 2008 RJC special award for Best SUV, is a crossover SUV with sporty, cosmopolitan styling. The Mazda CX-7 was highly evaluated by the RJC for its powerful and responsive driving dynamics thanks to its eco-friendly 2.3-liter direct injection turbocharged engine which is complemented by a six-speed Activematic transmission and the stable, comfortable ride quality provided by its suspension.

Mazda’s Representative Director, Chairman of the Board, President and CEO, Hisakazu Imaki, said, “We are delighted to receive these prestigious awards from the RJC. Under our product-led growth strategy, we launched the Mazda Atenza as the first of our next-generation models in 2002 and it won the RJC Car of the Year award. We’re pleased to be chosen again by the RJC for the Mazda Demio, the first new model we introduced after announcing our Sustainable Zoom-Zoom long-term technical development vision this year. We appreciate these accolades as a validation of where we are going with our products. Looking ahead, we will continue to strive to make cars infused with the Mazda spirit.”

The Automotive Researchers’ & Journalists’ Conference of Japan, a nonprofit organization (NPO), was established in April 1990 to contribute to the robust development of Japan’s automotive industry through open research and criticism. The RJC is comprised of researchers who study automotive engineering and automotive journalists. One of the organization’s activities is the annual selection of the RJC Car of the Year, Import Car of the Year, Technology of the Year and other awards.

Models eligible for the 2008 RJC Car of the Year competition came from a field of 22 vehicles launched for sale in Japan between November 1, 2006, and October 31, 2007, with an annual production volume exceeding 5,000 units. Four years have passed since Mazda last won the RJC Car of the Year for the RX-8 in 2003. This is the fifth time that Mazda has won the RJC Car of the Year award since it was established in 1991.

News Source: http://www.mazda.com/publicity/release/2007/200711/071114.html

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation announces today that it will launch the Lancer Evolution X high-performance 4WD sedan, newest of the company’s legendary vehicles, on October 1 at dealerships throughout Japan. Featuring a new platform, engine, and exterior and interior designs, the totally redesigned 2.0-liter model will carry a tax-inclusive price tag ranging from \2,997,750 to \3,750,600. Models fitted with the Twin Clutch SST transmission are due to be launched towards the end of November.

The development goal for the new Lancer Evolution X was to make the car as fast as possible, while also making it as safe to drive as possible. To that end Lancer Evolution X is loaded with the very latest in automotive engineering technology, including the S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) vehicle dynamics control system and the newly developed, power-efficient Twin Clutch SST (Sport Shift Transmission). Lancer Evolution X is a new-generation high-performance 4WD sedan that allows a new category of driver access to Mitsubishi’s dynamic driving experience by underpinning speed with control, security and safety.

• Lancer Evolution X’s handsome and aggressive functional design presents an intimidating and exciting aerodynamic exterior suggestive of its superior road performance. This is complemented by a functional interior that encourages the driver to concentrate fully on piloting his machine. Lancer Evolution X uses the front end design identity common to all new Mitsubishi Motors sedans (inverted-slant nose with a trapezoidal grille design) first seen on the new Galant Fortis*. As well as shouting loud the aggressive qualities that mark a high performance sports sedan, the front fascia is crafted for optimum aerodynamic performance.
• Lancer Evolution X realizes very high levels of motive and driving performance thanks to its new high-output and lightweight 2.0-liter DOHC MIVEC turbocharged engine with aluminum block, an all-new body and stiffer suspension. Despite its turbocharged pedigree the new model earns a 3-star rating for emissions that are 50% lower than the requirements of the Japanese 2005 standards. And complementing its powerful and clean road performance is the kind of a safety specification one would expect of a new-generation high-performance model: SRS dual-stage airbags for driver and front passenger, SRS knee airbag for driver and adaptive front lighting system (AFS) are all standard equipment on the GSR trim level.
• The Twin Clutch SST is a 6-speed automated manual transmission incorporating a dual automated clutch system to deliver lightning-fast, slick shifting for feel-good acceleration; while it also provides high-efficiency power transmission for outstanding fuel economy. In keeping with the higher output and torque developed by the new engine, Lancer Evolution X is offered with a new 5-speed manual transmission that delivers smoother shifting and improved shift feel for those who prefer the joys and more direct control of manual shifting.
• All Lancer Evolution X GSR models are fitted with the S-AWC vehicle dynamics control system. The system intelligently manages several component systems to regulate drive torque and braking force at each wheel, reading and reflecting driver intent in real time over a wide range of situations. This allows drivers of all abilities to enjoy sporty driving with peace of mind.

NNews Source : http://media.mitsubishi-motors.com/pressrelease/e/products/detail1682.html

TOKYO, Japan, October 18, 2007–Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced plans to begin sales in Japan of the all-new, completely redesigned Honda Fit on Friday, October 26, 2007. The Fit has gained popularity as a small car that features outstanding packaging, excellent fuel economy, and advanced styling.

 The second-generation Fit was developed following the tradition of Honda’s man maximum, machine minimum^*1 concept with the goal of creating the ideal small car for a new age. To provide values which exceed customer expectations for a small car and to set a new benchmark in the highly competitive small car segment, packaging, utility and driving performance have been further advanced with the all-new Fit.

The packaging of the new Fit is based on Honda’s innovative center tank layout, with a longer wheelbase and wider track for enhanced interior space and practicality, combined with the small-car maneuverability of a 4.7-meter minimum turning radius. The front pillar has been moved forward to create a spacious interior, while the exterior boasts exhilarating styling. An ingenious interior layout helped create a comfortable cabin with space equivalent to a mid-sized sedan. The new Fit’s practicality has also been enhanced with four-mode “Ultra Seat” and three-mode “Ultra Luggage^*2” storage spaces.

 The new Fit’s dynamic performance is made possible by a newly developed 1.3-liter i-VTEC engine that delivers maximum output of 73kW (100PS). Combined with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and newly developed torque converter, the engine provides enjoyable driving and class-leading^*3 24 km/l fuel economy^*4. The body rigidity and crash safety performance were also enhanced while maintaining weight equivalent to the previous model. Moreover, the newly designed chassis also helps achieve superior comfort and steady handling.

Newly added to the Fit lineup is a Road Sailing (RS) version which highlights a sportier and sophisticated character with a newly developed 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine and a specially designed suspension with enhanced styling and a richer feel.
Honda Fit was first introduced in Japan in June 2001. It is now being produced in six factories in five countries and sold in approximately 115 countries around the world, with cumulative sales of more than two million units^*5.

Tokyo — TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announced that it has developed a world-class driving simulator for effectively analyzing the driving characteristics of average drivers to aid in the development and verification of traffic accident-reducing active safety technology. The driving simulator, located at TMC’s Higashifuji Technical Center in Susono City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan, uses video, an acceleration simulator and other technology that allows vehicle researchers and developers to conduct driving tests that would be too dangerous to perform in the real world or that require specific driving conditions. Providing one of the world’s most-realistic simulated driving environments, it is designed to offer a driving experience that is as real as possible, so that driving characteristics can be accurately gauged. Key to this virtual reality is the use of an actual vehicle placed on a platform housed inside a 7.1-meter-diameter dome, the ceiling of which serves as a giant 360-degree concave video screen. As the driver operates the vehicle, a tilt device, vibration apparatus and other devices manipulate the dome—which has a world top-class longitudinal range of movement of 35 meters and lateral range of movement of 20 meters—under precision computer control. The result is a faithful simulation of the actual sensation of driving, including a sense of speed, acceleration and riding comfort through turns and other driving maneuvers. Sound effects make the experience even more real. Based on the Integrated Safety Management Concept, which lays out the direction of the company’s safety technology and vehicle development, TMC plans to put the driving simulator to full use in advancing R&D not only for on-board vehicle safety systems, but also for systems that support safe driving practices and integrate cars with the road infrastructure. The driving simulator will mainly be used for: 1.Analysis of driving characteristics and development of active safety technology Conducting an analysis of driving characteristics under such conditions as reduced awareness of one’s surroundings (falling asleep at the wheel and drowsiness), inattentiveness to danger (glancing from side to side and not checking that the road is safe), impaired driving (inebriation, fatigue or illness), as well as developing active safety technology for effectively reducing the number of accidents. 2.Verifying the effectiveness of active safety technology On the basis of the above, evaluating the effectiveness and sustainability of integrating driver-warning and vehicle-control systems for reducing the number of traffic accidents, so as to verify the effects of active safety technology.