Cars

9 Awesome Toyotas Everyone Forgets About

One of the most interesting and impressive Toyotas that often goes unnoticed is the Mega Cruiser. It can be considered as the Japanese version of the Hummer. Initially designed for military purposes, the Mega Cruiser quickly gained popularity among civilians. Measuring over 16 feet long and 7 feet wide, this truck had enough space for six people and could carry up to 1,650 pounds of cargo. Due to its impressive capabilities, it was commonly used as a remote rescue vehicle. Emergency services also developed several units for their operations. However, many buyers were drawn to the Mega Cruiser simply because it was the largest and most capable off-road truck ever produced by a Japanese manufacturer.

Although the Mega Cruiser was officially sold only in Japan, it can now be found in various international markets where all-terrain trucks are highly sought after. Russia, Australia, and the United States are among the most common countries where these trucks are exported. However, owning one does not come cheap. When it was first launched in 1995, the Mega Cruiser had a price tag equivalent to $233,000 in today’s money. Even today, when they occasionally appear for sale, they can still command a similar price. Production of this SUV continued until 2001, and a total of just over 100 civilian Mega Cruisers were manufactured during that time.

Reviews

2023 Toyota Prius Review: A Stylish Hybrid

There is a strong argument that suggests all new vehicles should be hybrids. The Prius, although not the only hybrid option available, offers the convenience of saving gas without requiring any significant changes to driving habits. You don’t need to plug it in, which makes it extremely easy to use.

What sets the 2023 Prius apart is its attractive design. It is a hybrid that catches your attention. I even found myself turning my head to look at one as it passed by, and I was already driving a Prius myself!

Starting at under $28,000 (plus destination charges), the Prius feels like a fantastic deal. Even the higher-spec $35,000 Limited model is competitively priced considering its features. For those with an interest in electric vehicles and access to parking and charging facilities, the Prius Prime, with its plug-in hybrid drivetrain, offers additional benefits. Nevertheless, there is plenty to appreciate in a stylish and practical car that is fuel-efficient and reasonably priced.

Cars, News

Tesla Started It, But This Common Car Feature Is Infuriating Owners

Owners of Tesla cars aren’t just frustrated with the confusing design of the door handles, but also with malfunctions caused by unforeseen design flaws, such as failure to function properly in cold weather. However, it is becoming increasingly evident that these issues are not unique to modern door handles. As car designs become more technologically advanced, other problems are arising.

According to Frank Hanley, senior director of auto benchmarking at J.D. Power, the automotive industry is experiencing a wide range of quality problems, something that has not been seen in the 37-year history of the Initial Quality Study (IQS). While new vehicles offer exciting and innovative technology, they often fail to fully satisfy their owners. The introduction of new or unfamiliar technology in cars results in more problems as it is implemented on the road. Furthermore, vehicles now face issues that were not present in previous decades, such as software bugs.

The latest U.S. Initial Quality Study conducted by J.D. Power reveals that the most significant increase in reported problems is linked to features, controls, and displays, with infotainment systems having the second-highest number of issues. Other frustrations mentioned by drivers include audio systems, car horns, and inadequate cupholders. Door handles also rank high on the list of complaints. It is worth noting that seven out of the top 10 models with the most problems related to door handles are electric vehicles, suggesting that it is not just Tesla’s door handles that are causing frustration among electric vehicle manufacturers. While electric motors may represent the future of automobiles, many drivers would prefer door handle designs to remain rooted in the 20th century.

Cars, News

Washington May Require Tesla’s EV Charger

Tesla’s NACS charger has gained recognition for its superior charging capabilities compared to the CCS connector. This is not just Tesla boasting about its product, but rather a genuine advantage. One commendable feature of Tesla’s charging network is its extensive coverage and seamless integration with its vehicles. In contrast, other charging stations can be troublesome and cumbersome to use. Tesla has even made the design specifications for NACS chargers available for free, encouraging wider adoption of this efficient technology.

The current state of charging infrastructure is inconsistent and inconvenient for EV owners who simply want a quick charge. Implementing a standardized requirement at the state level could greatly improve the situation and transform the public charging landscape from its current chaotic state.

Featured

Car News That Mattered This Week (June 19-23): Updates On Maruti Invicto, Facelifted Kia Seltos Reveal, Spy Shots And More

This week’s major highlights include information on upcoming models from Maruti and Kia, as well as some interesting spy shots.

This past week of June revolved mostly around the news on upcoming models like the Maruti Invicto premium MPV and facelifted Kia Seltos compact SUV. During the same week, Mercedes-Benz brought back its SL roadster namelate in India after more than a decade. Aside from these, we also had an update on Tesla’s plans for India. Let’s have a quick overview of what mattered that week.

Maruti Invicto Bookings Open

The Toyota Innova Hycross-based Maruti Invicto is all set to be launched on July 5, and ahead of that, the carmaker has also opened its order books for the MPV, but in a limited capacity. Maruti has also released a new teaser of the Invicto, giving a glimpse of its interior. Additionally, some spy shots of the MPV at a dealer’s stockyard have also surfaced on the internet for a better look at the exterior design.

Kia Seltos Facelift Debut Date Confirmed

Kia’s best seller, the Seltos, is due for an update since it went on sale in August 2019. Now, we have the confirmation of its debut date in India. Also, customers can pre-book the facelifted Seltos at select Kia dealerships.

First Hyundai Exter Rolled Out

Hyundai has started series production of the Exter micro SUV at its Tamil Nadu based manufacturing facility in India. The bookings for the micro SUV are already underway, and it will go on sale in July.

Tesla Affirms India Plans

After meeting the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, Tesla boss Elon Musk has confirmed that their EVs will be heading to India with major investment plans. Tesla is also readying up a new entry-level EV, which is likely to be called the Model 2.

Kia Carnival No Longer On Sale

After spending almost three years in the market, the Kia Carnival has now been discontinued in India. The Carnival sold here was already a previous generation model which was based on an old platform. 

Ola Gigafactory Construction Begins

Ola has started the construction of its Gigafactory in India, in an initiative to localise the production of EV batteries in the country. The company is ambitious about the timeline to finish construction and begin operations. 

Spy Shots This Week

This week’s spy shot stories include the test mule of the Tata Safari’s facelift with new interior details. The facelift of the Kia Seltos has also been spied from inside for the first time. Internationally, we get a revealing peek at the Maruti eVX prototype on test for the first time.

Mercedes AMG SL 55 Roadster Launched In India

The iconic Mercedes-Benz brought its SL convertible moniker returns to India after a gap of  almost 11 years. Launched exclusively in the performance guise,  the Mercedes AMG SL 55 Roadster is the only open top offering from Mercedes in India after the E Class cabriolet.

2024 Toyota Vellfire Unveiled

In international news, the new Toyota Vellfire has made its debut with an all new design and feature improvements. The new Vellfire is also expected to make its way to India soon as the luxury MPV is fairly popular here. We have detailed 5 of the key improvements that the new Vellfire gets over the existing model.

Read More on : Seltos diesel

Featured

Hyundai Exter SUV Begins Production Ahead of Launch


The first Hyundai Exter model to start series production is completed in the new khaki exterior paint option

  • Hyundai is now accepting bookings for the Exter for Rs 11,000.

  • The micro SUV will be launched on July 10.

  • The exterior features include H-shaped elements in the headlights and taillights, as well as roof rails.

  • It comes with a sunroof and digitized driver display compared to the Grand i10 Nios.

  • It shares the same petrol and CNG powertrains as the Grand i10 Nios.

  • Prices are expected to start from Rs 6 lakh (ex-showroom).

The Hyundai Exter has taken a step closer to its launch as it enters series production at the carmaker’s manufacturing facility in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu. The first model produced is finished in the unique khaki color option. Hyundai is already accepting bookings for the micro SUV for Rs 11,000. Here’s everything you need to know about the Hyundai SUV:

A Bold Design

The Exter will be Hyundai’s new entry-level SUV. It has a bold look and features a typical boxy appearance, characterized by chunky wheel arches, body cladding, and roof rails. Other distinctive exterior elements include H-shaped LED DRLs and taillights, large skid plates, and chrome surround for the projector headlights.

Equipment Onboard

Hyundai has revealed some notable features of the Exter, such as a dual-camera dashcam, cruise control, an 8-inch touchscreen, digitized driver display, single-pane sunroof, and wireless phone charging.

The Exter’s safety features include six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), hill assist, 3-point seatbelts, seatbelt reminders for all seats, and a reversing camera.

Powertrains On Offer

Since it is based on the same platform as the Grand i10 Nios, it shares its powertrains with the latter. It is equipped with a 1.2-liter petrol engine (83PS/114Nm) paired with either a 5-speed manual transmission or an AMT. The same engine will also be offered with an optional CNG kit, mated to the 5-speed manual transmission only.

Related: Hyundai Exter Has These 5 Additional Features Over The Grand i10 Nios

Launch, Price And Competition

The Exter will be available for sale on July 10, with prices expected to start from Rs 6 lakh (ex-showroom). It will compete with the Tata Punch, Citroen C3, and Maruti Fronx, while also taking on the Renault Kiger and Nissan Magnite.

Featured

Toyota Innova Hycross Enters Malaysia As Innova Zenix


The Malaysian-spec Toyota Innova Zenix gets the same powertrains as the India-spec Toyota Innova Hycross

  • The Innova Zenix is offered in only one feature-rich variant.

  • Gets the same design inside and out, save for an all-black cabin theme.

  • Features on board include a 10-inch touchscreen, a panoramic sunroof (hybrid only) and ADAS.

  • Prices range from RM 165,000 to RM 202,000, equivalent to Rs 28.96 lakh and Rs 35.45 lakh.

  • India-spec Innova Hycross is priced from Rs 18.55 lakh to Rs 29.99 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

Six months after entering the Indian market, the Toyota Innova Hycross has made its way into Malaysia, although rebranded as the “Innova Zenix.” While it has retained the powertrain options found in its Indian counterpart, Malaysian buyers are treated to a fully loaded variant. Here are the variant-wise prices of the MPV in the Southeast Asian nation:

Variant

Price

Petrol

RM 165,000 (Rs 28.96 lakh)

Strong-hybrid

RM 202,000 (Rs 35.45 lakh)

Same Design Formula

The Malaysian-spec Innova Zenix has the same design language inside and out as its Indian counterpart, including the same 18-inch alloy wheels, LED lighting, and honeycomb pattern for the grille. That said, it gets an all-black cabin theme, which we expect to find in the upcoming Maruti Invicto.

The Malaysian-spec petrol-powered Toyota MPV is available in an 8-seater layout while the hybrid variant can be had in only the 7-seater version.

A Similar Features List

Toyota is offering the Malaysia-spec Innova with a 10-inch touchscreen, 8-way powered driver seat, panoramic sunroof (hybrid variant only), a 7-inch digital driver’s display, and paddle shifters.

Safety kit includes a 360-degree camera, front and rear parking sensors, six airbags, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). The ADAS suite consists of adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane departure assist.

The India-spec Innova Hycross offers all the kit mentioned above in its top variant too.

Also Read: You Will Have To Wait For Up To 8 Months For A Toyota Innova Hycross

Identical Powertrains

As mentioned earlier, the Malaysia-spec model also gets the choice of two petrol powertrains as the India-spec Innova Hycross. They are a 174PS 2-litre naturally aspirated unit, and a similar engine with the strong hybrid system rated at 186PS. The former gets a CVT option, and the latter comes with an e-CVT gearbox.

Premium Innova MPV At Home

The India-spec Toyota Innova Hycross is available in six broad variants, priced between Rs 18.55 lakh and Rs 29.99 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). Its only direct rival will be the upcoming Maruti Invicto, while continuing to be a premium offering over the likes of the Kia Carens and Toyota Innova Crysta.

Also Read: Ola Gigafactory For Its Own Battery Cells Now Under Construction

Read More on : Innova Hycross Automatic

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Maruti Invicto’s Clearest Images Yet Surface Online Ahead Of Launch


The Maruti Invicto will share its features and powertrain with the Toyota Innova Hycross

  • Based on the Innova Hycross, the Maruti Invicto has some visual differences.

  • Maruti is accepting bookings for the MPV for Rs 25,000.

  • New images reveal a revised grille with chrome slabs, tri-piece LED elements in the taillights, and different alloy wheels. The variant badge on the tailgate is missing.

  • The interior of the Maruti Invicto will have a black theme instead of the tan upholstery found in the Toyota MPV.

  • The Maruti Invicto is expected to come with a 2-liter strong-hybrid powertrain.

  • Features that are expected to be included are a 10-inch touchscreen, dual-zone AC, and a 360-degree camera.

We are just 10 days away from the launch of the Maruti Invicto, which is based on the Toyota Innova Hycross. Bookings for the MPV are currently open for Rs 25,000, and the launch is scheduled for July 5. Before the price announcement, the uncamouflaged model of the premium Maruti MPV has been spotted again, providing a clearer look at its design.

Any Visual Changes?

The Maruti MPV, which was spotted in a white shade, shares a similar design to the Innova Hycross, with the main difference being the tweaked grille. The Invicto now features twin chrome slats and a thick chrome underlining. The spotted model seems to be a lower variant of the Invicto as it lacks fog lamps and a panoramic sunroof, which are available on the top-spec Innova Hycross.

The Invicto also comes with a different set of alloy wheels, while the overall profile remains the same. At the back, the LED taillights feature a tri-piece element, similar to other modern Nexa offerings. Apart from the inclusion of the ‘Invicto’ moniker, the rest of the rear profile remains unchanged. The Invicto also lacks the variant badge that is found on its Toyota sibling.

Differences Inside The Cabin

As is typical of Maruti Nexa cars, the Invicto will have an all-black cabin theme (confirmed in one of its latest teasers). We don’t expect any other changes between the interiors of the two MPVs.

Maruti is also expected to include features from the Hycross, such as a dual-zone climate control, a 10-inch touchscreen, a digital driver’s display, and an ottoman function for the second-row captain seats.

In terms of safety, the Invicto is expected to have up to six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), front and rear parking sensors, and a 360-degree camera. However, the spied Invicto model does not seem to have ADAS (advanced driver assist systems) like its Toyota counterpart.

Also See: Maruti Suzuki eVX Electric SUV Testing Begins, Interior Details Seen Too

Strong-hybrid Only

If reports and dealer sources are correct, the Invicto will only be offered with the 184PS 2-liter strong-hybrid powertrain from the Innova Hycross. It will come with an e-CVT gearbox and offer a claimed mileage of 21.1kmpl.

However, this sighting contradicts an earlier report that stated the Maruti Invicto would be offered as a single fully loaded variant for booking. It is possible that the rebadged MPV will simply rearrange the equipment list from the Toyota MPV to lower its price.

Prices And Rivals

If the Invicto is offered as a hybrid-only model, Maruti is expected to price it starting from Rs 22 lakh (ex-showroom). Its direct competitor will be the Toyota Innova Hycross, while it will be positioned higher than the Maruti XL6 and Kia Carens in the MPV category.

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Featured

Would You Buy This Maruti Suzuki Jimny Rhino Edition?


The Rhino edition has been introduced in Malaysia with the SUV’s three-door version, limited to just 30 units

  • The Maruti Jimny Rhino edition only receives visual changes and there are no alterations to the features or powertrain.

  • Highlights of the Rhino edition include a vintage mesh grille, more cladding, decals, and the ‘Rhino’ badging.

  • The all-black interior remains unchanged, except for more premium foot mats.

  • It is equipped with the same 1.5-liter petrol engine with 4WD as the India-spec model.

  • The launch of the Maruti Jimny in India is expected in the future, with the possibility of other limited editions.

The Maruti Suzuki Jimny is available as a three-door model in various international markets. It is particularly popular in Malaysia, where it has received a stylish Jimny Rhino Edition. While the changes are purely cosmetic, its unique appearance is quite appealing. The ‘Rhino’ name is associated with Suzuki’s off-roading club, which consists of Jimnys and older Grand Vitaras.

Exterior Design Changes

The Jimny Rhino features an old-school grille with ‘Suzuki’ lettering instead of the logo. The mesh grille is surrounded by a dark chrome panel that also houses the round headlights. The front bumper has been slightly modified with new sturdy cladding.

On the hood, there are exclusive decals that also run along the sides of the vehicle. The mudguards are red, and there is a large decal along the bottom half of the door. The side of the vehicle is equipped with additional claddings to enhance its off-roading capabilities.

The rear profile remains unchanged, except for the ‘Rhino’ logo on the boot and a similar covering for the spare wheel.

Also Read: Maruti Jimny Waiting Period Already Extends Beyond 6 Months

Few Interior Changes

The interior design remains unchanged, except for the addition of premium foot mats. It retains the same all-black theme without any upgraded features. While the Jimny in Malaysia is equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen system, the India-spec five-door model comes with a more premium 9-inch unit that includes wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay in the top variant.

No Changes To The Powertrain

The Jimny in India and Malaysia is powered by the same 1.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine with 4×4 capability as standard. In India, buyers have the option of a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission, while the three-door version in Malaysia is only available with the latter.

Also Read: Here’s How You Can Personalise Your Maruti Jimny

Heading To India?

While it is too early to say for certain, it is possible that we may see this Jimny Rhino Edition or similar limited editions in India in the future. The Rhino Edition is considered a collector’s version as only 30 units will receive this treatment. In order to make it more appealing, it is expected that there will be special editions for the five-door Jimny in the coming years. The current price range for the Jimny in India is between Rs 12.74 lakh and Rs 14.89 lakh (ex-showroom).

Read More on: Jimny on road price

News

2024 Honda CRF Models Return, Along With CB300R Naked Street Bike

Honda Racing Corporation factory team riders Chase Sexton, Hunter Lawrence, and Jett Lawrence swept the AMA Supercross championships, and now American Honda has officially announced the return of its 2024 CRF lineup. The Performance and Trail arms of the CRF family are coming back, along with the 2024 CB300R street bike.

The 2024 CRF Performance family consists of nine models, while the CRF Trail family includes four bikes. The CB300R stands alone as a street bike. Let’s start with the 2024 CRF450 lineup, which includes specific motocross bikes for different purposes.

The 2024 Honda CRF450 lineup is powered by a 449.8cc liquid-cooled, four-stroke single-cylinder engine. It features a Unicam overhead cam design with four valves. The intake valves are titanium and measure 38mm, while the exhaust valves are made of steel and measure 31mm.

The 2024 Honda CRF450R, the bike that dominated the 2023 AMA Supercross series, comes with a 44mm throttle body and Showa suspension. The 2024 Honda CRF450RWE (Works Edition) offers numerous upgrades, including a Yoshimura exhaust, D.I.D. DirtStar LT-X wheels, Twin Air air filter, Hinson clutch basket and cover, Renthal Kevlar grips, and more.

For those who prefer greater value, more off-road capability, or a street-legal version, Honda offers the 2024 CRF450R-S, CRF450RX, CRF450X, and CRF450RL, respectively.

On the trail side, riders can choose from the 2024 CRF250R, CRF250RX, CRF250F, CRF125F, CRF110F, and CRF50F. The CRF110F and CRF50F also come in white and bright color options.

The 2024 CB300R is the only street bike in the lineup, with other returning street models expected to be announced soon.

Here is a chart with pricing and availability information for the listed models:

Model Color(s) MSRP Availability
2024 Honda CRF450R Red $9,699 July 2023
2024 Honda CRF450RWE Red $12,499 September 2023
2024 Honda CRF450R-S Red $8,899 August 2023
2024 Honda CRF450RX Red $9,999 July 2023
2024 Honda CRF450X Red $9,899 September 2023
2024 Honda CRF450RL Red $10,099 October 2023
2024 Honda CRF250R Red $8,299 July 2023
2024 Honda CRF250RX Red $8,699 July 2023
2024 Honda CRF150R Red $5,399, or $5,599 for the Big Wheel version August 2023
2024 Honda CRF250F Red $4,999 September 2023
2024 Honda CRF125F Red $3,499 or $3,899 for the Big Wheel version July 2023
2024 Honda CRF110F Red, White $2,699 July 2023
2024 Honda CRF50F Red, White $1,799 July 2023
2024 Honda CB300R Matte Black Metallic, Pearl Dusk Yellow $5,149 July 2023

Pricing and availability may vary in different regions. For the most accurate information, contact your local authorized Honda dealer.

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