Mazda Premacy Hydrogen Rotary Engine –Tokyo Show Preview

Along with the Taiki Sports Coupe Concept (see here), Mazda will also take the wraps off the Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid at the Tokyo Show (Oct. 24). The vehicle’s rotary engine is powered by energy produced when hydrogen combines with oxygen in the air to emit only clean water. However, thanks to Mazda’s hydrogen/gasoline dual-fuel system, the driver can switch to gas when hydrogen runs out. The hybrid system employed for the hydrogen rotary engine converts energy from hydrogen combustion into electricity that powers the electric motor. Mazda officials support that, compared to the RX-8 Hydrogen RE, the new Premacy doubles its run on a full tank of hydrogen from 100 km (62 miles) to 200 km (124 miles). According to the Japanese carmaker, the 5-seater Premacy will be available for lease solely in Japan from early 2008. -Press release after the jump

New Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid

Compared with the Mazda RX-8 Hydrogen RE, the new Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid yields 40% better output, resulting in enhanced acceleration performance and an extended hydrogen-fueled range of about 200km, or twice that of the RX-8 Hydrogen RE. Seating capacity is also increased to give accommodation for five adults along with greater luggage space. The hydrogen rotary engine is changed from a longitudinal to a transverse layout and its intake/exhaust resistance and combustion efficiency are improved to yield high output across a wide range of engine speeds. The hybrid system employed for the hydrogen rotary engine efficiently converts energy from hydrogen combustion into electricity that powers the electric motor. Thanks to progress in electric drive technology, the system realizes high energy-efficiency and a quick response allied with low fuel consumption. Acceleration kicks in the instant you hit the accelerator, creating a direct feeling of power.

Mazda Taiki: Tokyo Show Concept Previews New 1.6-liter Rotary Engine

To our misfortune, Mazda won’t exhibit a pre-preview version to the RX-7 successor at the Tokyo Show later on in October. Well at least not something that comes close to a production version. Agreed; Mazda may support that the Taiki Concept reflects one possible direction for the front-engine, rear-drive sports car of the future, but this is way too far ahead of our time.

The Taiki is the forth concept in the Nagare design theme flowing the in the footsteps of the Nagare, Ryuga, and Hakaze concept vehicles. Even more importantly though, the Taiki introduces Mazda’s next generation Rotary Engine dubbed 16X. Compared to RX8’s RENESIS unit, the 16X features an enlarged capacity (1.6-liters instead of 1.3-liters), a direct injection system and aluminum side housing. -Press release and more pics after the jump

Mazda Taiki

Mazda Taiki reflects one possible direction for a future generation of Mazda sports cars aimed at helping create a sustainable society. The fourth concept car in the Nagare design series, Mazda Taiki further evolves the “flow” theme to establish a breathtaking presence that clearly distinguishes it as the next in the series, and which visually expresses the atmosphere – called taiki in Japanese – that wraps the Earth in its protective mantle.

The basic proportions begin with the stretched coupe form of a front-engine rear-wheel-drive layout, the short overhangs, and the liberating feel of an all-glass canopy. The challenge to create “a design that visually expresses the flow of air” was inspired by the image of a pair of Hagoromo – the flowing robes that enable a celestial maiden to fly in Japanese legend – floating down from the sky.

Inspired by Japanese koinobori – the decorative “climbing carp streamers”– the notion of creating an Air-tube became the concept word for the interior design. In accordance, from the dashboard and seats down to the door trim, the interior space creates the dynamic sensation that the flow of the wind is being visually depicted.

Centering around the performance rotary engine sports packaging that is synonymous with the Mazda name, technologies introduced for the Mazda Taiki include the next-generation RENESIS (rotary engine 16X), which sets new standards for environmental and driving performance, a front-engine rear-drive layout, a unique 2-seat configuration, and Mazda’s rotary sports package, which conveys an image of lightness. The effect integrates the design theme perfectly to realize outstanding aerodynamic performance.

Next Generation RENESIS (Rotary Engine 16X)

In developing the next-generation RENESIS, Mazda made a thoroughgoing revision of engine dimensions including the trochoid rotor housing, adopting a longer stroke and larger displacement of 1600cc (800cc x 2) aimed to raise thermal efficiency and boost torque at all engine speeds. By employing the Hydrogen RE design policy of a direct injection system and aluminum side housing, as well as various other measures, we are further promoting the rotary engine’s merits of light weight and compact size.

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X: Full Press Release & High-Res Image Gallery

Prior to the Lancer Evolution EVO X’s public debut at the 2007 Tokyo Show at the end of October, Mitsubishi issued a more detailed press release and new image gallery (first media kit was released in April –click here). Once again and even though the EVO X is available for order in Japan, Mitsubishi didn't release horsepower and performance figures. However, a leaked brochure in August (click here) reveals that the EVO X’s new lightweight 2.0-liter turbo engine delivers 276 HP at 6.500 rpm and a maximum torque figure of 422 Nm (311 lb.ft) at 3.500 rpm. The ’08 EVO X will carry a price tag in Japan ranging from 2,997,750 to 3,750,600 ($26,100 – 32,600 or €18,300 -23,000). Models fitted with the Twin Clutch SST transmission are due to be launched towards the end of November. Sales of the EVO X in Europe, USA and the rest of the world will begin in mid 2008. –Press release & Image gallery after the jump

MC launches Lancer Evolution X new-generation high-performance 4WD sedan

-Advanced technology drives superior road performance: driving pleasure plus safety-

Tokyo, October 1, 2007 — 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.

* Lancer / Lancer EX in overseas markets.

I . Lancer Evolution X walkaround

1. Model lineup

Sporting the S-AWC and Twin Clutch SST and other cutting-edge automotive technology as well as a more comprehensive functional and convenience equipment specification, the GSR trim level (also available with a 5-speed manual transmission) leads the new Lancer Evolution X lineup. The lineup also continues to offer the RS competition base model, with a less comprehensive and simplified equipment specification to reduce weight to a minimum.

To meet customers' wide-ranging expectations in a high-performance sports sedan, the GSR trim level is available with the following option packages:

High Performance Package	:	Raises the bar a notch further in terms of driving performance.
Stylish Exterior Package	:	Adds classy dressup elements to the exterior.
Leather Combination Interior	:	For a more uptown and comfortable interior.

Also available is the Premium Package that combines all these packages and adds 18-inch BBS lightweight alloy wheels to meld the ultimate in performance with a classy and quality appearance.

2. Exterior

The exterior is crafted with sophisticated and aggressive styling to give the low-and-wide squat stance body an aerodynamically clean profile that flows liquidly from the inverted-slant nose over the roof to the tail end, using wind-tunnel proven aero parts.

· Molded around the inverted-slant nose and trapezoidal grille, the aggressive and powerful front fascia features larger air intake openings and new ducting for superior engine cooling and aerodynamics and leaves no doubt as to Lancer Evolution X's high performance.

· The engine hood air outlet and fender vents effectively exhaust heat from the engine compartment. Together with the engine hood air scoop that supplies cooling air to the turbocharger these elements give vivid accent to Evolution X's exterior looks.

· The oversize rear spoiler — standard on the GSR — uses a twisted-section wing panel with different attack angles at its ends and in the center portion to match the airflow over the body surface.

· A large undercover rectifies underbody airflow for better aerodynamics and also improves drivetrain cooling. The underside of the rear bumper employs a diffuser design that helps to exhaust the underbody airflow more effectively and also adds a distinguishing touch to the rear view.

· The Stylish Exterior Package option uses a chrome finish for the front grille lattice and beltline molding, body color-keyed fender vents and adds fog lamps to give the exterior a touch of uptown elegance.

· The GSR trim level is offered in a lineup of five body colors designed to strongly project a functionally aesthetic image and including a vividly sporty Red Metallic and a new classy and deep-hue Phantom Black Pearl. RS is offered in two body colors, including White Solid which is exclusive to this trim level.

3. Interior

The interior design places emphasis on functional and operational elements to encourage and allow the driver to concentrate on operating his machine while at the same time realizing levels of comfort and quality that expected in a new-generation sports sedan.

· Seats are done by Recaro — well-known for providing excellent location, hold, and for alleviating fatigue on longer journeys — with a new full bucket front seat design. The new seats offer additional safety, accommodating the factory-fitted optional SRS side airbag; and comfort, with improved seating feeling, easier exit and entry and a less "constraining" feeling. The rear seats feature a central armrest with handy cup holders.

· Lancer Evolution X uses a small diameter steering wheel designed for smooth operation; its genuine leather wrap provides a positive and comfortable fitment to the hand. For optimum operability the S-AWC mode selector is located on the left spoke. (The selector is located on the shift lever panel on models with the factory-fitted MMCS HDD navigation system option, in which case the steering wheel spokes are used to locate the remote audio controls.)

· Lancer Evolution X uses a high-contrast instrumentation cluster providing excellent viewability. A Multi-information Display provides the driver with at-a-glance vehicle status information, including: fuel remaining, Twin Clutch SST mode, and S-AWC operating mode.

· The dashboard uses a bowed design with the center panel offset toward the driver that provides more knee space and realizes a functional and comfortable cockpit environment for the driver.

· The black interior color scheme uses silver accents on the steering wheel spokes, shift lever panel and other operating controls to impart a look that is sporty and also evoke the feeling of a precision instrument.

· The Leather Combination Interior package uses leather combination seat upholstery (genuine leather with Glanluxe^*1), doors and floor console lid trimmed in soft synthetic leather and aluminum front scuff plates. The package also boosts sound insulation, making for a classier and more comfortable interior.

*1: An artificial suede-finish leather made by Seiren Co., Ltd.

4. Powertrain

Engine

· Lancer Evolution X is powered by a new turbocharged engine that adds a high-performance turbocharger to the 4B11-type 2.0-liter 4-cylinder 16-valve DOHC MIVEC unit used in the Galant Fortis. Developing more power over the full rev range, this engine generates more torque at 422 Nm (43.0 kg-m)/3500 rpm and has better response than its 4G63 predecessor. The new engine is also lighter and returns better environmental performance.

· The application of continuously variable valve timing technology (MIVEC) to both intake and exhaust camshafts realizes valve timing optimally matched to engine speed and load to stabilize combustion characteristics and allow the engine to develop more power over the full rev range. It also improves emissions performance. Lancer Evolution X earns a 3-star rating for emissions that are 50% under the Japanese 2005 Emissions Standards levels.

· The new engine, excluding auxiliary equipment, is 12 kg lighter than the 4G63 thanks to the use of a die-cast aluminum cylinder block, head cover and chain case.

· Using a titanium-aluminum alloy turbine wheel and aluminum alloy compressor wheel, the turbocharger features a shape-optimized compressor wheel that improves boost response and increases low-end and mid-range torque.

· The adoption of a rearward facing exhaust manifold layout has, as well as improving exhaust efficiency, allowed the engine to be mounted lower, lowering the center of gravity. Other innovations have reduced intake/exhaust system losses and valvetrain friction, contributing to improved engine performance.

Transmissions

· The GSR is available with the new Twin Clutch SST 6-speed automated manual transmission that eliminates the need for a clutch pedal and provides slick, smooth shifting. Twin Clutch SST puts odd (1st, 3rd, 5th) and even (2nd, 4th and 6th) gears on separate input shafts each with its own clutch and, through tight cooperative control with the engine, switches between these clutches to realize seamless and lightning-fast shifting for feel-good acceleration. Because it uses clutches rather than a torque converter to transmit power, Twin Clutch SST allows superior power transmission efficiency with little loss of motive power and returns excellent fuel economy. Twin Clutch SST allows the driver to choose between Autoshift fully automatic shifting and Manual Shift, where the driver can change gears as with a manual transmission. A toggle switch located at the base of the shift selector allows the driver to choose between Normal, Sport and Super Sport modes for the optimum shift scheduling for a wide variety of situations ranging from driving around town to tracing a tight line on a winding road.

· Twin Clutch SST models are fitted as standard with steering column-mounted lightweight magnesium paddle shifters that allow the driver to shift manually without taking his hand off the steering wheel.

· For drivers who enjoy having more direct control over their machine, the GSR is available with a new 5-speed manual transmission. (The RS is only available with this manual gearbox.) Benefiting from the know-how Mitsubishi Motors has accumulated in the motorsport arena the new manual gearbox features a greater torque capacity to handle the higher torque generated by the new turbocharged engine without growing in size. First to fourth gears use close ratios. 1st gear uses a lower ratio than previously for better standing acceleration while 5th gear uses a higher ratio for more comfortable high-speed cruising. The new transmission uses multi-cone synchronizer rings on all gears for smoother shifting and a more positive shift feel as well as for improved durability.

5. Chassis

Body

· Lancer Evolution X's new platform achieves significant increases in body stiffness, with gains in torsional and flexural stiffness of 40% and 60% respectively over Lancer Evolution IX MR. This results in better handling stability and crashworthiness, as well as in improved ride and in reduced vibration and noise, to realize levels of quality and comfort that befit a new-generation sports sedan.

· Lancer Evolution X's wider track and longer wheelbase not only create a more spacious living space but also bring improved stability and ride. Other factors contributing to the new model's improved handling include its lower center of gravity stemming from the lower powertrain, and better front/rear weight distribution resulting from the lower engine weight, a front overhang that is 20 mm shorter than on the Lancer Evolution IX MR, and the transfer of the battery to the trunk.

· To reduce weight and lower the center of gravity, aluminum is used in the roof panel, front fenders and the rear spoiler frame structure.

Suspension & tires

· While based on the MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension arrangement used on previous models in the series, Lancer Evolution X features a revamped suspension layout with wider tracks and 18-inch tires. Geometry optimization and greater stiffness in the mountings maximizes the contact patch and allows S-AWC to perform to its full potential as well as bringing improved straight line stability, cornering and ride.

· GSR comes standard with 245/40R18 wide and low-aspect tires on 18-inch Enkei 12-spoke high-rigidity cast alloy wheels. 18-inch BBS lightweight alloy wheels are also available as a factory-fitted option for GSR and add a distinctive custom touch with a luster finish.

· GSR comes standard with brembo 18-inch front and 17-inch rear ventilated disc brakes. The increased disc size improves stopping power and fade resistance as well as improving brake pedal feel.

· The factory-fitted High Performance Package comprises the Bilstein single tube shock absorbers and Eibach coil springs used on Lancer Evolution IX MR. It also includes brembo 2-piece disc brakes that realize a saving of 1.3 kg at each wheel and high performance tires with stiffer walls and better grip. This package brings further improvements in grip, steering response, stability and cornering.

4WD system (S-AWC)

· The GSR trim level comes with Mitsubishi Motors' own 4WD vehicle dynamics control system S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) standard. For Lancer Evolution X, Active Stability Control (ASC) has been added to the ACD^*2, AYC^*3 and Sport ABS^*4 component systems featured in previous Lancer Evolution. S-AWC uses integrated management of these systems to exert high-precision control on drive torque and brake force at each wheel to enhance cornering and stability under all conditions from everyday driving to emergency evasion; thereby producing vehicle behavior that faithfully reflects driver intent. S-AWC offers three operating modes — TARMAC for dry, paved surfaces; GRAVEL for wet or unmade surfaces, and SNOW for snow covered surfaces — allowing the driver to select the mode best suited to current road surface conditions and realize greater stability.

*2: ACD (Active Center Differential)
The Active Center Differential uses an electronically-controlled hydraulic multi-plate clutch to optimize front/rear wheel torque split and thereby produce the best balance between traction and steering response.

*3: AYC (Active Yaw Control)
AYC uses a torque transfer mechanism in the rear differential to control rear wheel torque differential for different driving conditions and so limit the yaw moment that acts on the vehicle body and thus enhance cornering performance. AYC now features yaw rate feedback control using a yaw rate sensor to more accurately determine the cornering dynamics on a real-time basis. And the addition of braking force control allows the system to realize vehicle behavior that more closely mirrors driver intent.

*4: Sport ABS (Sport Anti-lock Brake System)
ABS allows the driver to maintain directional control and keeps the vehicle stable by preventing the wheels from locking under heavy braking or when braking on slippery surfaces. The addition of yaw rate sensors and brake pressure sensors to the Sport ABS system has improved braking performance through corners.

*5: Active Stability Control (ASC)
The ASC system stabilizes vehicle attitude while maintaining optimum traction by regulating engine power and the braking force at each wheel. ASC elevates vehicle stability by suppressing skidding in an emergency evasion maneuver or as the result of other sudden steering inputs. It also improves traction under acceleration by preventing the driving wheels from spinning on slippery surfaces.

6. Peace of mind / Safety specifications

· Standard on GSR are driver and front passenger SRS dual-stage airbags (driver dual-stage airbag standard on RS), the inflation pressure of which is controlled to match the severity of the impact, and the driver SRS knee airbag used on the Delica D:5 and Galant Fortis. SRS side and curtain airbags are available as factory-fitted options.

· GSR comes standard with discharge headlights and the adaptive front lighting system (AFS), in which auxiliary lights turn in the same direction as the steering wheel to increase the area of road illuminated and improve driver visibility at night.

· Rain-sensitive auto wipers that adjust wipe speed and interval to rain intensity and auto light control that monitors the intensity of peripheral light, turning the headlights on or off accordingly, are factory-fitted options on the GSR.

· All models come standard with an engine immobilizer and security alarm to deter theft. (The security alarm is standard on the GSR only.)

7. Audio / Utility

· The GSR trim level is available with the Mitsubishi Motors Communication System (MMCS) as a factory-fitted option which comprises a 30Gb hard disk drive audio/navigation system with 7-inch LCD screen.

· Available as a factory-fitted option on the GSR is the Rockford Fosgate premium sound system — well received on the Outlander and other models. The system uses a 650-Watt amplifier and nine speakers to deliver awesome high-fidelity sound assisted by the use of acoustic and damping material to seal off openings inside the doors and turn them into speaker boxes.

· Available as a factory-fitted option on the GSR is a keyless operating system that allows the driver to lock or unlock the doors and to start or stop the engine without having to take the remote unit out of pocket or handbag.

· Standard on all models is the Mitsubishi Motors ETACS (Electric Time and Alarm Control System) system. The system controls the operating environment for the Comfort Flasher — a dab on the flasher stalk causes the turn signal to flash three times; very handy when changing lanes — and the headlight auto-off feature which prevents accidental drainage of the battery and other electronic systems fitted to Lancer Evolution X.

II . Sales information

1. Sales target : 4,000 units (FY2007 total)

2. Available at
:
Mitsubishi dealerships throughout Japan

3. Manufacturer's recommended retail price (MMRP

Trim level	Engine	Transmission	Driveline	MMRP
GSR*	4-cyl. 2.0-liter 16-valve DOHC MIVEC with intercooler-turbocharger	5M/T	Full-time 4WD (S-AWC)	3,495,450
		Twin Clutch SST		3,750,600
RS		5M/T	Full-time 4WD	2,997,750

N.B. Prices exclusive of recycling surcharge, insurance, taxes (but inclusive of consumption tax) and registration costs.

* Twin Clutch SST version due to be launched in late November

Suzuki Kizashi 2 Crossover Concept - 2007 Tokyo Preview

Apart from the weird looking X-Head, Suzuki will also introduce a follow up to the striking Kizashi Concept Sedan (click here) previewed at the Frankfurt Show in September at next month’s Tokyo Show. The Kizashi 2 is basically a crossover version of the original concept that takes advantage of AWD system. Differences include the higher ground-clearance and the body cladding which to be frank, doesn’t do justice to the Kizashi. Moreover, instead of using the frugal 2.0-liter diesel engine like the original concept, Suzuki equipped the crossover with a 3.6-liter V6-engine, mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox. -Image gallery and press release after the jump

Translated Press Release

Suzuki Kizashi 2 Concept

The stirring impression the top athlete having and, it adopted the expectation which becomes unknown overflows from inside as design expression the crossover sport wagon. You propose to the user of the wide layer where with the wide field such as the leisure from business, life is enjoyed actively. As for design two keywords, “dignity” and the “stirring impression” adopting the emotional silhouette which raises the satisfaction which uplift impression is owned to running for the axis. As for the 3.6LV type 6 cylinder engine of the sea bass maximum aerodynamic volume displacement not only strong acceleration feeling with the combination with 6 speeds AT, and at high speed regarding cruising, actualizing the running which exceeds class. In addition, you are inserting also the hybrid engine and the like which considers in environment in range of vision.

Suzuki Crosscage & Biplane Concepts - 2007 Tokyo Preview

We’re quite fine thank you, meaning we haven’t mixed our socks with our underwear -yet... The Tokyo Show isn’t only about cars; it also hosts motorcycle and commercial vehicle premiers. Suzuki on its behalf will show off two motorcycle concepts, the Crosscage and the Biplane. We found a Japanese teaser press release on both concepts but it didn’t make much sense so we can only tell you that the Crosscage uses fuel-cells while the Biplane, which incorporates a V4 engine, draws its inspiration from airplanes. -Continued after the jump

Translated Press Release

Crosscage

It is the fuel cell car which can do optimum power control by combining the air cooled fuel cell system and the advanced accumulator of simple small size light weight. Starting which fuel economy efficiency is fast low, the intelligent energy corporation of feature (England) make adopted the thing to fuel cell unit, in addition it was safe in the accumulator and the lithium ion electric battery whose environmental load is low was adopted. Not only not applying load, being simple in terrestrial environment, from the fact that it is small size lightweight, it has contributed to also the actualization of the sporty style which the sea bass seems

Biplane

The request that was included, you feel the enjoyment of the motorcycle in many people, would like to have having interest in the motorcycle " “the design proposition model which designates the joy of running by the motorcycle” as shape” is. You propose in order to have representing the common feeling which is felt from the vehicle where “, it designates the kind of image which is riding the airplane” as keyword, calls the motorcycle and the airplane and is different completely. Although it is the machine, the bosom which makes tenderness feel it forced and “the biplane” (bi- the plainness) designated modelling as design motif, it expressed the open impression of not being covered in the canopy. The engine has designed V type 4-cylinder engine in vertical ranging.

Suzuki X-Head Concept - 2007 Tokyo Show Preview

The X-Head is one of Suzuki’s many offerings at the forthcoming 2007 Tokyo Motor Show in late October. According to the Japanese carmaker, X-Head is a new type of lifestyle utility vehicle that incorporates the DNA of the Jimny and Grand Vitara. Huh? Looks more like a Jap version of the Mercedes-Benz Unimog if you ask us, but whatev; it’s not as if you’ll ever see one of these going to production. -Translated press release after the jump

Translated Press Release

“X-HEAD” is " the cross utility vehicle " of the new genre which brings the various values which until recently are not. It has high running the whole distance characteristic, the “gym knee”, “the escudo”, it has high loading characteristic, DNA “of [kiyarii]” was succeeded, functional hopefulness was had. The naming, “X-HEAD” adjusting to the life style and sense of value of the person who rides, has meant the possibility this car which corresponds to various uses becoming unknown. Being possible to combine the carrier unit which is adjusted to life style 2 adults sleeps and can stay " the camper " and in the town coolly to ride it handles, " fashion " and so on, the person who rides " you play and stimulate heart and curiosity ". In addition, supposed the rescue rescue in various road circumstances " rescue " and so on, it is possible to answer also social mission, being tough, you propose the pleasant car.

Via: Le Blog Auto , Source: Suzuki

2009 Honda Fit / Jazz: Teaser Press Release

Honda issued the first official press release on its new Fit (Jazz in European markets) through its UK arm. Strangely Honda hasn’t official let loose any images but they did invite a handful of international magazines a couple of weeks ago to test drive a pre-production model –that’s how the official pictures leaked (…) on the net.

The press release states that the new Fit will premiere at the Tokyo Motor Show on 24 October, 2007 with sales staring in Japan in January ’08. As for the UK, Honda says that plans to bring the next generation model are still over 12 months away. We also discovered that Honda has opened up a dedicated page for the Fit / Jazz on its Japanese page, but unless any of you speak the language, it doesn't help us much. -Press release after the jump, for pictures and initial info click here

Honda’s next generation Fit/Jazz to debut at Tokyo Motor Show

The next generation Fit (sold as Jazz in European markets) will debut at the Tokyo Motor Show on 24 October, 2007. The car will go on sale in Japan in January ‘08 but plans to bring the next generation model to the UK are still over 12 months away.

Five years into its model life and Jazz remains Honda’s most successful small car. Its clever packaging, space and value for money have been a winning formula ensuring global demand and increased production capability.

Since launch in 2002, over 134,399 units* have been sold in the UK, enabling Jazz to retain its top five sector position despite plenty of new product competition. In retail, Jazz has held the number one spot amongst its competitor set for the past four years, selling an average of 19,300 units each year.

The key to success

It was the styling, flexibility (let’s not forget, the magic cinema-style seats) and economy that wowed customers when the car was launched, and continues to draw new and repeat customers today.

“The fresh look of the current car is a testament to the model’s original design and has attracted a loyal customer base which we are keen to retain with an evolutionary, rather than revolutionary, approach to the next generation model,” said Tom Gardner, Head of Marketing, Honda (UK).

Customer satisfaction and Jazz’s excellent reliability have also played a major role, helping to retain customers year after year, Jazz after Jazz. Tom added: “Some of our customers are now on their third Jazz. Honda is renowned for its customer satisfaction and retention but Jazz has set a new benchmark with 60 per cent repeat purchasing in the last 12 months.

Great residuals help cost of ownership

Demand for new and used Jazz has meant that residual values are at levels normally expected from a newly introduced car – not one that’s five years into its lifecycle. After three years and an average 60,000 miles, Jazz will retain 40 per cent of its value.

“The used car performance of Jazz continues to delight us. With excellent value for money and high residuals into the bargain, the cost of ownership proposition has remained strong.”

Jazz has led the JD Power Survey supermini sector for four consecutive years, and continues to consistently win awards five years into its model life. It topped the Which? Reliability tables this year and has an unbeaten five top 5 category finishes in the Auto Express Driver Power Survey. In 2006 Jazz was awarded Best Supermini at Fleet News Awards, demonstrating its versatility across retail and corporate sectors.

Nissan GT-R: Official Site Launched, Coming To Tokyo & LA Shows

Just like Subaru did with the ’08 Impreza WRX STi (click here), Nissan launched a dedicated website for the successor to its iconic Skyline GT-R sport coupe, which will be named GT-R. The website will provide all information on the car in the forthcoming weeks, including latest news, specifications and where to buy. Nissan’s high performance sports car will be revealed at the Tokyo Show on October 24th (we really dig the countdown for blogs), but it will also be present in both the LA and Detroit Shows in November 2007 and January 2008 respectively. -Continued after the jump

According to the Japanese carmaker, the GT-R will go on sale in Japan in December with prices set at 7.8 million Yen which is about $67,900 or €48,200. The US, Europe and other major car markets will join the party in mid-2008 -yes, for the first time there will be a left hand drive GT-R.

The address for the website is www.gtrnissan.com and it’s available in six languages: Japanese, English, Spanish, German, French and Italian.

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer EVO X Ralliart – Image & Video

The site that digs the "Land Of The Rising Sun" –ok, it’s called Nihon Car, managed to capture the forthcoming Mitsubishi Lancer EVO X in Ralliart clothing at the "Motor Sport Japan 2007”, that take place in Tokyo this week. Sadly, Mitsubishi folks were more uptight than a Colombian neck-tie when it came to disclosing information. No matter, the 2007 Tokyo Show is coming in a months time -that's October 24. Till then, follow the jump to check out Nihon Car’s short video of the Mitsubishi Lancer EVO X Ralliart. -Continued

Via: Jalopnik , Source: Nihon Car