Archive for October, 2009

NISSAN Fairlady Z bags Car of the Year Japan’s Most Fun Award

YOKOHAMA (Oct. 23, 2009) - Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. is proud to announce that its much-loved sports car, NISSAN Fairlady Z, has won the Most Fun Award, one of the most coveted categories of Car of the Year Japan 2009-2010.

NISSAN Fairlady Z

 

The Car of the Year Japan winners were announced at the Car of the Year Japan Special Exhibition commemorating its 30th Anniversary located at the 41st Tokyo Motor Show. Voting and final counting of votes were conducted on October 21 with the awards presented on the October 22nd, 2009. 

The NISSAN Fairlady Z celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. The car, first introduced in 1969, has gained fans worldwide for its fun-to-drive characteristic and evolving style through the years.

This is the second time the Fairlady Z series has bagged the Car of the Year Japan’s Most Fun Award since 2002-2003.

Source: http://www.nissan-global.com/EN/NEWS/2009/_STORY/091023-01-e.html

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Japanese Vehicles

Nissan Releases New-Spec Nissan GT-R

YOKOHAMA (Oct. 21, 2009) - Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today announced the release of the latest version of the Nissan GT-R, which goes on sale on December 7th at Nissan dealers nationwide in Japan. The updated GT-R receives a number of enhancements, including a revised navigation system, recalibrated suspension settings and an improved-flow catalyst system. It is scheduled to go on sale in other global markets beginning next spring.

Nissan GT-R

Since its introduction in the Japanese market in December 2007, the Nissan GT-R has gone through continuous evolution, remaining on the cutting-edge of multi-dimensional performance. The GT-R has also been acclaimed globally, winning more than 50 top awards in various categories since launch. Nissan also supports GT-R owners with exceptional after-sales service.

The latest revisions to GT-R include a new HDD-based CARWINGS navigation system with enhanced entertainment functions. A USB port with iPod®*1 connectivity allows the driver and passengers to enjoy their favorite music in the car, creating an even more pleasant interior environment. *2

Source: http://www.nissan-global.com/EN/NEWS/2009/_STORY/091021-01-e.html

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Japanese Vehicles

Suzuki launches all-new Kizashi sedan in Japan

Suzuki Motor Corporation is putting the all-new Kizashi sedan on sale in Japan on 21 October.

The Kizashi is Suzuki’s new flagship model. It offers bold, sporty styling; a refined cabin that’s the result of careful craftsmanship; equipment that reflects a focus on comfort; and exhilarating performance. Plus, it combines sporty handling with great ride comfort thanks to extensive testing and fine-tuning on roads in Europe and North America.

“Kizashi” is a Japanese word meaning “a sign of great things to come”. As the name of Suzuki’s new flagship model, it reflects the dynamic, forward-looking approach with which Suzuki takes up new automaking challenges.

Suzuki plans to launch the Kizashi in the United States after launching it in Japan.

 

Source: http://www.globalsuzuki.com/globalnews/2009/1021b.html

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Japanese Vehicles, Suzuki Motors

Toyota Brand Launches in South Korea

Tokyo — TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announces that sales of Toyota-brand vehicles began today in South Korea at five new dealerships, including three in Seoul, established by TMC’s local distributor Toyota Motor Korea Co., Ltd. (TMKR).

Now available are the third-generation “Prius” gasoline-electric hybrid midsize vehicle, the “Camry” and “Camry Hybrid” midsize sedans and the “RAV4″ crossover SUV.  TMC has set an initial combined monthly sales target of 500 vehicles and aims to increase that number to 700 vehicles beginning in 2010. 

At a press conference today in Seoul, TMC Executive Vice President Yukitoshi Funo said: “The introduction of the Toyota brand into South Korea is aimed to meet the diversifying needs of consumers in this growing market.  We intend to make every effort to contribute to South Korean society and earn a loyal following.”

To mark the launch, TMKR plans a series of social contribution activities including traffic safety workshops for elementary school students beginning in 2010.

Source: http://www2.toyota.co.jp/en/news/09/10/1020_2.html

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Japanese Vehicles

Toyota Launches Redesigned ‘Mark X’

Tokyo — TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announces the launch in Japan today of the redesigned “Mark X”, which furthers the series’ “sporty and luxurious” concept by offering enhanced quality in an authentic rear-wheel-drive sedan.

Mark X 250G S package, Relax Selection

The Mark X features a dynamic low center of gravity that is combined with powerful driving performance made possible by a new 3.5-liter V6 engine. The style and driving performance of this upscale vehicle are in tune with adult sensibilities, delivering in-touch-with-the-road steering that responds instantaneously to the driver’s every wish, stability at high speeds and a smooth comfortable ride.

In addition, the vehicle’s environmental performance is at the top of its class1. The fuel efficiency of the Relax Selection two-wheel drive models exceeds the 2010 standards by 15%, qualifying them for incentives and subsidies under the Japanese government’s taxation system for environmentally considerate vehicles.

The new Marx X, starting at an appealing 2.38 million yen, comes in a diverse lineup—standard type, sports type and premium type—to allow drivers to show their individuality.

Vehicle Outline

Rear-wheel drive package offers dynamic styling and exciting cruising

The design concept behind the Marx X is “glam tech”—combining the visual “glamour” conveyed by the vehicle with the “high-tech” expression of its modern and precise feel. The result is subtle contrast as well as a dynamic and stylish form.

Source: http://www2.toyota.co.jp/en/news/09/10/1019.html

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Japanese Vehicles

Nissan Releases All-New Fairlady Z Roadster

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. announced the release of the new Fairlady Z Roadster, which goes on sale today at Nissan dealers nationwide. In addition, the Fairlady Z Coupe receives minor new model enhancements and a new “Fairlady Z 40th Anniversary” model, which marks the first four decades of the popular Nissan sports car, joins the lineup.

Fairlady Z Roadster Version ST
Fairlady Z Roadster

Based on the latest generation Fairlady Z Coupe, the all-new Fairlady Z Roadster is a two-seat convertible with a fully , automatic power-operated, soft top. Along with providing the exhilaration of open-air driving, Fairlady Z Roadster offers high performance, dynamic design and excellent value.

Like the Fairlady Z Coupe, the new Roadster model features significant improvements in performance, style and technology versus the previous Fairlady Z Roadster design. With its shorter wheelbase, reduced weight and advanced VQ37VHR 3.7-liter engine, it gives remarkably high levels of acceleration and handling, while also providing a comfortable interior with minimum wind buffeting - even with the top open.

Source: http://www.nissan-global.com/EN/NEWS/2009/_STORY/091015-01-e.html

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Japanese Vehicles

Honda to Begin Sales of Honda Bicycle Simulator Developed for Traffic Safety Education

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced plans to begin Japan-wide sales starting February 2010, of the Honda Bicycle Simulator developed for the purpose of traffic safety education. By safely experiencing the possible risks bicycle riders may face, users will improve their ability to predict risks and increase safety awareness. In addition, rider evaluation session which will follow the riding simulation will help users learn traffic rules and manners in an enjoyable way. Honda will aim for widespread use of this simulator by a range of customers including public offices, law-enforcement organizations, driving schools and educational institutions which conduct bicycle safety education programs primarily for school children and senior citizens. Honda will begin accepting pre-sale orders in November of this year.

Honda Bicycle Simulator

In recent years, the total number of fatalities from traffic accidents has declined in Japan. However, the ratio of fatalities in accidents involving bicycles has increased. Bicycle riders aged 10 – 19 in and above the age of 50 have the highest chance to get involved in an accident, and approximately 70 percent of bicycle accidents are caused by violation of traffic rules.

Source: http://world.honda.com/news/2009/c091015Bicycle-Simulator/

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Japanese Vehicles

Suzuki Exhibits at the 41st Tokyo Motor Show 2009

We are pleased to inform you that Suzuki will have a major presence at the Tokyo Motor Show 2009, which will be held at the Makuhari Messe International Convention Complex in Chiba City from 21 October to 4 November 2009. It will be organized by the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association.

At the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show, the Suzuki booth will bring together automobiles, motorcycles, power-assisted bicycles, and electric wheelchairs under an overall theme of “small cars for a big future”. As well as showing Suzuki products, it will highlight the company’s future-oriented initiatives. Visitors will see how Suzuki’s automaking spirit and technologies realize exciting lifestyle possibilities.

Source: http://www.globalsuzuki.com/globalnews/2009/1001.html

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Japanese Car

Release of the “TMAX 10th Anniversary WHITEMAX” Limited Edition Celebrating the 10th Year of the “Automatic Supersport”

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. announces the release of the “TMAX 10th Anniversary WHITEMAX,” a special edition of the automatic-transmission supersport model XP500 TMAX powered by a 500cc liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, parallel twin, 4-valve, fuel-injected engine. This model will be sold from November 10, 2009 with a limited order period. Orders will be accepted from November 1, 2009 to June 30, 2010.

The TMAX 10th Anniversary WHITEMAX takes the standard TMAX as its base and adds (1) water transfer 3D printed carbon pattern parts around the cockpit and other parts of the model, (2) wheels with two-tone coloring, (3) a two-tone seat with a sharp and sporty look and (4) a special 10th Anniversary emblem along with special white color scheme and other detail appointments to heighten pride of ownership.

The original XP500 TMAX model was released in Europe in 2000 and Japan in 2001. The combination of a 2-cylinder engine with reciprocating piston balancer and CVT transmission and a well balanced body provides a high level of sports performance to the ride that won this model a strong following as an automatic-transmission supersport model. The model continued to mature with the adoption of fuel injection, radial tires and a front double-disc brake, etc., in 2004. A model change in 2008 brought a new exterior design and new frame made by Yamaha Motor’s exclusive “CF Aluminum Die Casting” technology. The new limited-edition WHITEMAX adds the above-mentioned features to further accentuate the “comfort and sportiness” of TMAX.

Source: http://www.yamaha-motor.co.jp/global/news/2009/10/09/tmax.html3

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Japanese Motorcycles

Honda Announces the All-new Step WGN

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced the introduction of the all-new Step WGN. With the largest interior space in its class*1 and first in class*1 under-floor storage for third-row seats the all-new Step WGN offers more convenience than ever before and best-in-class fuel economy*1. The new Step WGN and Step WGN special-needs vehicle*2 go on sale in Japan today, with the Step WGN Spada and Step WGN Spada special-needs vehicle*2 to debut in Japan on Friday, October 23.

Step WGN G•L Package (FWD)
Step WGN Spada S (FWD)

This all-new fourth generation Step WGN, featuring Honda’s original low-floor, low-center-of-gravity platform, was developed around the concept of comfort for everyone and is designed to be the ultimate in comfortable minivan transportation for the entire family.

Source: http://world.honda.com/news/2009/4091009Step-WGN/

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Japanese Car

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