The Hyundai Nexo demonstrates Hyundai’s dedication to producing environmentally friendly vehicles. It has a starting price of just over $60,000 with an array of features and technologies that make it an attractive hydrogen fuel cell option. Its aerodynamic exterior design not only enhances its sleek and stylish appearance but also contributes to its overall efficiency.
The Nexo’s hydrogen fuel cell system includes an electric motor, providing 161 horsepower to its front-wheel drive system. The highlight is the hydrogen fuel tank that allows it to travel up to 380 miles on a full tank. At its premium price point, it offers a luxury and premium quality interior as standard.
A variety of tech features, including one of the most advanced driver-assistance systems, are available to enhance safety and convenience on the road. Like other comparable SUVs, the Nexo offers ample cargo space in all configurations, providing plenty of room for all your storage needs. However, due to the limited availability of hydrogen fueling infrastructure, improvements are crucial to unlock the potential of the Hyundai Nexo.
To provide up-to-date and accurate information, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and authoritative sources, including Car and Driver, Car Figures, Department of Energy, and EPA.
(Prices sourced from official automakers’ websites)
The Hyundai Nexo was actually built to compete with the Hyundai Ioniq 5, and the Kia EV6. Although the Ioniq 5 model with the most range does 51 miles less than the Nexo’s Limited trim, its priciest trim costs $6,785 less than the Nexo’s base trim. For $45,950, you can get a Kia EV6 with a 310-mile range.
10Improvements In The Hydrogen Fuel Cell Infrastructure Needed To Boost Sales
As a result, Hyundai has struggled to sell the Nexo, moving just 430 copies in 2021, dropping to 408 examples in 2022, and selling only 196 copies this year until October. This emphasizes the need for improvements in the hydrogen fuel cell infrastructure. With governments and industry stakeholders working together to expand the network of fuel stations with incentives to spur the growth of FCVs, the true potential of hydrogen will come out as a viable alternative fuel source.
The Fiat CR.42 Falco jet, powered by a Fiat A.74 RC38 14-cylinder radial engine with 840 horsepower, had a top speed of 274 mph. However, compared to other fighter planes of the time, such as the Hurricane, Messerschmitt, and Spitfire, its top speed was not impressive. The one-off version CR.42DB was able to reach 323 mph, which still holds the Guinness record for being the fastest biplane ever.
Despite being a biplane, which was considered obsolete during that period, Rosatelli, the designer of the Falco, introduced some advanced aerodynamic modifications. One notable change was the smaller size of the lower wing, which made the plane more agile and difficult to hit.
However, there were some questionable design choices as well. The Falco was built to be light, weighing less than 4,000 pounds. But this was achieved by excluding features such as armor and a working radio, which meant that pilots had no means of communication or coordinating attacks.
Furthermore, the early versions of the plane were armed with only two forward-facing Breda SAFAT machine guns, which were effective against older, wood and canvas-covered planes from World War I. However, they were not as effective against the more advanced armor and metal used in the newest fighter aircraft.
Despite these limitations, a total of 1,819 Falco jets were built between 1939 and 1944. While the majority were used by Italy, other countries like Croatia, Germany, Hungary, Sweden, Belgium, and Spain also operated them. One notable achievement was when a Luftwaffe-piloted Falco shot down a P-38 Lightning over Croatia in February 1945, possibly marking the last biplane victory. Today, only four surviving Falco jets are known to exist.
The Chinese automotive industry has come a long way from producing cheap imitations of foreign vehicles to developing its own high-quality products. Hongqi is one such brand that has gained recognition for creating some of the finest Chinese cars. However, collaborations with Asian, European, and North American automakers are still prevalent in many cases.
The featured car, known as the Hongqi H5, can be seen in the gallery below and in the attached video by Wheelsboy. This may be the first time you’ve heard of this brand, but one important fact to note is that it is China’s oldest passenger car manufacturer. Currently owned by the FAW Group, it gets its name from the Chinese words meaning “red flag.” Positioned as a mid-size sedan, the H5 is below the company’s flagship model, the H9.
During Climate Week NYC, Volvo announced its decision to cease the production of diesel vehicles by early 2024. This move indicates the rapid changes occurring in both the automotive industry and consumer demand in response to the climate crisis.
In the past, diesel-powered cars made up the majority of Volvo’s sales in Europe, as was the case for many other car manufacturers up until 2019. Electric vehicles had a minimal market share at that time. However, the situation has now completely shifted. Currently, most of Volvo’s vehicles either utilize fully electric technology or employ a plug-in electric hybrid powertrain.
Toyota, one of the world’s largest automakers, produces over 10 million vehicles per year and offers a wide range of models.
The Toyota Century is the most luxurious Japanese car, exclusively sold in Japan to top officials and the Japanese Royal family.
The Century is handcrafted in its own factory by skilled craftsmen using special processes to perfect the body lines, doors, paint, and assembly.
Toyota is one of the largest car manufacturers globally, producing over 10 million vehicles annually. They offer various models, from hatchbacks to SUVs, catering to a wide range of customers. Toyota has implemented the Kaizen method of assembly, ensuring excellent quality control and making the Lexus luxury brand popular for its well-built cars. However, Toyota takes luxury a step further with its ultra-luxurious vehicle, the Toyota Century.
The Toyota Century is renowned as the most luxurious Japanese car in the world. It is exclusively sold in Japan and reserved for top officials and members of the Japanese Royal family. Unlike regular Toyota models, the Century is manufactured in its own factory, known as the East Japan Higashi-Fuji plant. This factory operates without assembly lines or complicated machinery, focusing on craftsmanship and attention to detail to build the most luxurious Toyota vehicle.
The Toyota Century’s Body Lines Are Finished By Hand
The Toyota Century distinguishes itself with its strong body lines, which run the entire length of the vehicle. Unlike other manufacturing processes that utilize machines, the Century’s body lines are perfected by skilled craftsmen using a hand-finishing process called Kichomen. This meticulous method involves the use of special hammers, shaping tools, and power sanders to shape and refine the body lines to achieve the desired angle and flawless finish. Only a few craftsmen, with years of experience, are qualified to perform this task.
The Front And Rear Doors Are Purposely Misaligned
To maintain the alignment of body lines, particularly when luxury materials and accessories are added, the Toyota Century deliberately misaligns the front and rear doors during assembly. When the doors are finally assembled and the weight of the added luxury components pulls them down, the misalignment corrects itself, resulting in a seamless alignment of the body lines. Furthermore, the Century’s doors have the tightest gaps in Toyota’s lineup, with only 3.5 millimeters of space. Each door is carefully measured to ensure precise alignment.
The Paint Finish Must Reflect Like A Mirror
The Toyota Century offers four color choices, with black being the signature color. Achieving a flawless paint finish on the Century involves a unique and time-consuming process. The vehicle is coated with seven coats of black paint, each followed by wet sanding to ensure a smooth surface. This meticulous process is repeated three times, with each coating requiring 90 minutes of wet sanding. The Century factory workers even learn traditional Japanese lacquerware production techniques to master the art of achieving a perfect mirror finish. The entire paint process takes about a week to complete.
Every Part Is Assembled With Precision
Unlike mass production assembly lines, the Toyota Century is assembled by hand with complete accuracy. Experienced craftsmen utilize their skills, intuition, and senses during the installation process to ensure perfect assembly. Special attention is given to details like the Center Tower Console and exterior roof moldings, which are installed meticulously. The design of the exterior moldings prevents water from flowing sideways and ensures a seamless flow from front to back. Every part of the Century is meticulously measured, checked, and installed with precision.
Toyota Century Inspection: Cars Can Still Fail
Every Toyota Century undergoes a rigorous final inspection to guarantee the highest level of quality. The paint inspection is crucial and involves checking for reflection under fluorescent lights and artificial sunlight to ensure the car looks elegant in all conditions. Toyota pays meticulous attention to quality, even providing a History book for each car, documenting every inspection and supervisor involved in the process. These records are stored at the Higashi Fuji plant, highlighting Toyota’s commitment to detail and customer satisfaction.
The Toyota Century, with its exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail, is surprisingly affordable for such a luxurious vehicle. Priced at just over 25 million yen ($180,000), the Century offers a steal for its price compared to other European luxury brands. It remains an exclusive, hand-built vehicle for the ultra-wealthy in Japan.
Japan has long been the land of innovation in the auto industry, continually producing gems revered by all and sundry. And even though Japanese automakers joined the sports cars race late, in the 60s, they’ve done a lot for the category. For a long time, high performance and artistic styling in sports cars were a preserve for European automakers.
However, when some Japanese creations hit the market, they more than stirred the waters. From the groundbreaking Datsun S211, Honda S500, and Toyota 2000GT of the 60s to the game-changing Nissan GT-R R32, Acura NSX, and Mazda RX-7 of the late 80s and 90s, Japan has been a force to reckon with on all fronts in the automotive world.
Today, Japanese cars get the respect they deserve. And even though the Land of the Rising Sun is a long way from dethroning industry heavyweights like Porsche and Ferrari, it has shown true potential for producing track-focused cars. Modern Japanese sports cars like the Nissan GT-R NISMO, the Lexus LF-A, and Toyota GR Supra are performance icons, building on the successes of their predecessors. Here are some things that you ought to know about Japanese sports cars.
Front 3/4 shot of three Nissan Skyline GT-R R34s parked
This goes without saying. Yes. Having a Japanese sports car, or any car made in Japan whatsoever, doesn’t make it a JDM car, even though it was probably manufactured and assembled in Japan. Confusing, right? On the contrary, this concept is easy to get. JDM simply stands for Japanese Domestic Market. JDM cars and parts are exclusively made for sale in the local Japanese auto market and are designed to meet Japan’s laws, regulations, and market demands.
JDM sports cars are primarily popular for their difference in price compared to USDMs, exclusivity, culture, and sometimes quirky features and modifications. They can attribute most of their success to the entertainment scene, featuring in magazines such as Super Street, movies such as The Fast and the Furious,and video games such as Need for Speed and Forza Motorsport. The most popular JDM sports car among gearheads and enthusiast alike is probably the Nissan Skyline GT-R R34, which will soon be street legal and a worthy import.
9Used Japanese Sports Cars Hold Their Value
Toyota
A shot depicting all Supra generations
Japanese cars, in general, can be hailed for their reliability. And it’s this culture of creating highly dependable vehicles that make some used Japanese sports cars highly valuable. Take used cars made in the 80s and 90s, during JDM’s golden age, for instance. The nostalgia in some of the gems from this era, like the Nissan Skyline “Godzilla,” Mazda RX-7, and Toyota Supra, will never fade away.
Cars from this era represent the epitome of Japanese car culture and street racing. From robust engines to stick shifts and sequential twin turbos, these sports cars, and some from the early 2000s, are the dream driver’s cars and worthy collections. It’s no wonder some MKIV Supras go for over $100,000 on the used car market, a recent example on auction sold for $190,000.
8Japanese Sports Cars Feature Some Of The Most Reliable Engines
If a manufacturer makes reliable cars, you can as well expect them to make an engine to match. And this is true for most Japanese sports cars. Cosmetics and exclusivity may curve out status symbols, but they are not everything. Most buyers just need a vehicle with an engine that can run with minimal mishaps. And maybe run past 100- or 200,000 miles. If an engine can check this basic requirement and add high performance into the picture, all the better.
Legendary engines like Nissan’s RB26DETT and Toyota’s 2JZ GTE featured a robust build that makes them reliable. These popular engines favor swaps and tunes and can comfortably accommodate more power with a few modifications. However, the most reliable of engines from this era is Honda’s C30A engine that came with the Acura NSX. It featured V-TEC technology, making the engine fuel efficient at low revolutions and more potent at higher revolutions.
MkIV SupraFront 3/4 shot pf two MkIV Supras parked
Japanese automakers have made and keep making cars that you can count on. Industry heavyweights like Toyota take the automotive manufacturing process seriously and put their heart into their products. Toyota’s tradition and approach to manufacturing are customer-centric. The cars from their plants need to meet safety, durability, and reliability requirements first before leaving the assembly line to ensure buyers get the highest quality products.
Other Japanese manufacturers also fall in line in terms of producing high-quality sports cars since the principles of kaizen apply almost everywhere. Manufacturers like Honda, Subaru, and Mazda continue to build dependable cars, and it’s not hard to see some of their old timers in the used car market. Mazda even does an exceptional job at offering well-built sports cars with impressive styling that seems way below the asking price.
6You Get High Performance At An Affordable Price
Acura
Front 3/4 shot of a 2019 Acura NSX cruising
Did you know that a Honda can actually smoke a Ferrari? Yes. During its debut, the 1991 Accura NSX was built to beat the Ferrari 328 and proved to be the better roadster in terms of speed and driving dynamics, all at a much lower sticker price. Today, modern Japanese sports cars still keep this competitive spirit alive. Therefore, it’s unsurprising that the new Accura NSX, the legendary Nissan GT-R NISMO, and Lexus LFA can give heavyweights like the Lamborghini Huracan and Ferrari F8 a run for their money.
These top-of-the-line Japanese sports cars may not be labeled as affordable but are better priced than their competitors. Price, however, should not be a deterrent factor when it comes to these cars since even some basics like Nissan 350/370Z or Subaru WRX STi offer impressive performance, all while being pocket friendly. And don’t forget, most are tuner-friendly as well.
5Japanese Sports Cars Were The First To Feature 4WS
There’s a lot that the modern auto industry owes to Japanese innovation, from lean manufacturing systems and improved oil filtration to microchip and navigation systems. But perhaps one of the most significant innovations concerning steering and handling is the four-wheel steering system. The 1988 Honda Prelude Si was the first mass-production sports car sold in the United States to feature this technology, but Nissan’s HICAS system on the JDM 1985 Nissan Skyline GT-R R31 came earlier.
Though the system wasn’t well received when it debuted, it’s starting to re-emerge in marques such as Cadillac, Ferrari, Audi, BMW, Lamborghini, BMW, Porsche, etc., developing their own 4WS systems. Due to the associated complexities and high costs, we are yet to see the day when this system will be a standard feature in all sports cars. However, the many advantages of 4WS systems, such as improved steering response and stability, outweigh the cons.
Front 3/4 shot of a tuned Mitsuoka Orochi depicting a bosozoku-style front splitter
Not every manufacturer is a fan of modern designs in vehicles. And this is what makes the car culture in Japan different. From tuners and DIYers to manufacturers, there’s a sport scar hailing from this island that either looks like it’s out of place or out of space. Consider the bosozoku cars, for instance. The styling features long front splitters, long exhausts, wide fender flares, and other modifications unique to Japan.
Japanese manufacturers are also fond of creating attention grabbers sports cars with unconventional designs. A good example is Mitsuoka Motors. Mitsuoka’s Orochi, which borrows its name from a mythical eight-headed dragon, is nothing short of weird. This JDM sports car is built on the platform of a Honda NSX and runs a 233 horsepower 3.3-liter V6 Toyota powerhouse. However, it gets most of its attention from its “ugly” design rather than its performance.
3Japanese Sports Cars Have High Tuning Potential
Subaru
Front and rear 3/4 shot of a Subaru BRZ tS and Subaru WRX STI Type RAparked
Tuning is in the DNA of Japan’s car culture, and, in a good way, their sports cars are always on the receiving end of it. Tuning is a thing initially more associated with car owners inclined towards making stock engines perform at their peak. In Japan, the availability of affordable and quality aftermarket performance parts and the creation of easy-to-work-with sports cars is what led to the growth of legendary tuning houses like Trust, BLITZ, and Smokey Nagata’s Top Secret.
Most sports cars from this island, even modern iterations, are highly tunable. It’s easy to squeeze more power from a Subaru WRX STi, Mazda MX-5 Miata, Nissan Z, Mitsubishi Lancer Evo, or Honda Civic Type R with a good investment in the necessary software and parts. Considering that aftermarket car parts manufacturers and tuning shops are in their numbers, finding a fair bargain shouldn’t be a challenge.
Take some time and watch Formula DRIFT or RedBull’s Drift Masters European Championships. You won’t take long before noticing that Japanese sports cars like the Toyota GR86 and Nissan Silvia are staples in these competitions. Drifting as a technique in motorsports traces its roots back to Japan with the “father of drifting,” Kunimitsu Takahashi but is more associated with the “Drift King,” Keiichi Tsuchiya.
Fast-forward to the 21st century and drifting has graduated from being a technique into a motorsport discipline. The Japanese cars had a good time perfecting this art and keep the fire burning(or tires smoking) to this day. When your Japanese sports car meets requirements such as being RWD, lightweight, and good weight distribution, there are chances it can make a great drift car with some modifications. Just make sure not to drift on a public road or private parking lots to avoid colliding with authorities.
A side profile shot of a Mazda MX-5 Miata parked by the roadside
Japanese sports cars have some of the lowest maintenance costs over the course of ownership. To many, owning a sports car remains a dream they fear could quickly turn into a nightmare because of the associated costs. And this is true for most sports cars and the reason why most remain on the higher end of the price scale, targeting wealthy clients. However, Japanese sports cars do not, for the most part, fit the “high maintenance” description.
Besides being a hub for the most reliable car brands in the world, Japan also produces sports cars that are not only easy to own but cheap to maintain. An excellent example of a low-maintenance Japanese sports car is the Mazda MX-5 Miata. CarEdge estimates that it may only cost you about $5,761 in repairs and maintenance within your first ten years of owning a Miata, which is pretty affordable, to say the least.
Japan has long been the land of innovation in the auto industry, continually producing gems revered by all and sundry. And even though Japanese automakers joined the sports cars race late, in the 60s, they’ve done a lot for the category. For a long time, high performance and artistic styling in sports cars were a preserve for European automakers.
However, when some Japanese creations hit the market, they more than stirred the waters. From the groundbreaking Datsun S211, Honda S500, and Toyota 2000GT of the 60s to the game-changing Nissan GT-R R32, Acura NSX, and Mazda RX-7 of the late 80s and 90s, Japan has been a force to reckon with on all fronts in the automotive world.
Today, Japanese cars get the respect they deserve. And even though the Land of the Rising Sun is a long way from dethroning industry heavyweights like Porsche and Ferrari, it has shown true potential for producing track-focused cars. Modern Japanese sports cars like the Nissan GT-R NISMO, the Lexus LF-A, and Toyota GR Supra are performance icons, building on the successes of their predecessors. Here are some things that you ought to know about Japanese sports cars.
Front 3/4 shot of three Nissan Skyline GT-R R34s parked
This goes without saying. Yes. Having a Japanese sports car, or any car made in Japan whatsoever, doesn’t make it a JDM car, even though it was probably manufactured and assembled in Japan. Confusing, right? On the contrary, this concept is easy to get. JDM simply stands for Japanese Domestic Market. JDM cars and parts are exclusively made for sale in the local Japanese auto market and are designed to meet Japan’s laws, regulations, and market demands.
JDM sports cars are primarily popular for their difference in price compared to USDMs, exclusivity, culture, and sometimes quirky features and modifications. They can attribute most of their success to the entertainment scene, featuring in magazines such as Super Street, movies such as The Fast and the Furious,and video games such as Need for Speed and Forza Motorsport. The most popular JDM sports car among gearheads and enthusiast alike is probably the Nissan Skyline GT-R R34, which will soon be street legal and a worthy import.
9Used Japanese Sports Cars Hold Their Value
Toyota
A shot depicting all Supra generations
Japanese cars, in general, can be hailed for their reliability. And it’s this culture of creating highly dependable vehicles that make some used Japanese sports cars highly valuable. Take used cars made in the 80s and 90s, during JDM’s golden age, for instance. The nostalgia in some of the gems from this era, like the Nissan Skyline “Godzilla,” Mazda RX-7, and Toyota Supra, will never fade away.
Cars from this era represent the epitome of Japanese car culture and street racing. From robust engines to stick shifts and sequential twin turbos, these sports cars, and some from the early 2000s, are the dream driver’s cars and worthy collections. It’s no wonder some MKIV Supras go for over $100,000 on the used car market, a recent example on auction sold for $190,000.
8Japanese Sports Cars Feature Some Of The Most Reliable Engines
If a manufacturer makes reliable cars, you can as well expect them to make an engine to match. And this is true for most Japanese sports cars. Cosmetics and exclusivity may curve out status symbols, but they are not everything. Most buyers just need a vehicle with an engine that can run with minimal mishaps. And maybe run past 100- or 200,000 miles. If an engine can check this basic requirement and add high performance into the picture, all the better.
Legendary engines like Nissan’s RB26DETT and Toyota’s 2JZ GTE featured a robust build that makes them reliable. These popular engines favor swaps and tunes and can comfortably accommodate more power with a few modifications. However, the most reliable of engines from this era is Honda’s C30A engine that came with the Acura NSX. It featured V-TEC technology, making the engine fuel efficient at low revolutions and more potent at higher revolutions.
MkIV SupraFront 3/4 shot pf two MkIV Supras parked
Japanese automakers have made and keep making cars that you can count on. Industry heavyweights like Toyota take the automotive manufacturing process seriously and put their heart into their products. Toyota’s tradition and approach to manufacturing are customer-centric. The cars from their plants need to meet safety, durability, and reliability requirements first before leaving the assembly line to ensure buyers get the highest quality products.
Other Japanese manufacturers also fall in line in terms of producing high-quality sports cars since the principles of kaizen apply almost everywhere. Manufacturers like Honda, Subaru, and Mazda continue to build dependable cars, and it’s not hard to see some of their old timers in the used car market. Mazda even does an exceptional job at offering well-built sports cars with impressive styling that seems way below the asking price.
6You Get High Performance At An Affordable Price
Acura
Front 3/4 shot of a 2019 Acura NSX cruising
Did you know that a Honda can actually smoke a Ferrari? Yes. During its debut, the 1991 Accura NSX was built to beat the Ferrari 328 and proved to be the better roadster in terms of speed and driving dynamics, all at a much lower sticker price. Today, modern Japanese sports cars still keep this competitive spirit alive. Therefore, it’s unsurprising that the new Accura NSX, the legendary Nissan GT-R NISMO, and Lexus LFA can give heavyweights like the Lamborghini Huracan and Ferrari F8 a run for their money.
These top-of-the-line Japanese sports cars may not be labeled as affordable but are better priced than their competitors. Price, however, should not be a deterrent factor when it comes to these cars since even some basics like Nissan 350/370Z or Subaru WRX STi offer impressive performance, all while being pocket friendly. And don’t forget, most are tuner-friendly as well.
5Japanese Sports Cars Were The First To Feature 4WS
Jacob Frey 4A via Flickr””>
Jacob Frey 4A via Flickr
Front 3/4 shot of Honda Prelude Si parked
There’s a lot that the modern auto industry owes to Japanese innovation, from lean manufacturing systems and improved oil filtration to microchip and navigation systems. But perhaps one of the most significant innovations concerning steering and handling is the four-wheel steering system. The 1988 Honda Prelude Si was the first mass-production sports car sold in the United States to feature this technology, but Nissan’s HICAS system on the JDM 1985 Nissan Skyline GT-R R31 came earlier.
Though the system wasn’t well received when it debuted, it’s starting to re-emerge in marques such as Cadillac, Ferrari, Audi, BMW, Lamborghini, BMW, Porsche, etc., developing their own 4WS systems. Due to the associated complexities and high costs, we are yet to see the day when this system will be a standard feature in all sports cars. However, the many advantages of 4WS systems, such as improved steering response and stability, outweigh the cons.
Front 3/4 shot of a tuned Mitsuoka Orochi depicting a bosozoku-style front splitter
Not every manufacturer is a fan of modern designs in vehicles. And this is what makes the car culture in Japan different. From tuners and DIYers to manufacturers, there’s a sport scar hailing from this island that either looks like it’s out of place or out of space. Consider the bosozoku cars, for instance. The styling features long front splitters, long exhausts, wide fender flares, and other modifications unique to Japan.
Japanese manufacturers are also fond of creating attention grabbers sports cars with unconventional designs. A good example is Mitsuoka Motors. Mitsuoka’s Orochi, which borrows its name from a mythical eight-headed dragon, is nothing short of weird. This JDM sports car is built on the platform of a Honda NSX and runs a 233 horsepower 3.3-liter V6 Toyota powerhouse. However, it gets most of its attention from its “ugly” design rather than its performance.
3Japanese Sports Cars Have High Tuning Potential
Subaru
Front and rear 3/4 shot of a Subaru BRZ tS and Subaru WRX STI Type RAparked
Tuning is in the DNA of Japan’s car culture, and, in a good way, their sports cars are always on the receiving end of it. Tuning is a thing initially more associated with car owners inclined towards making stock engines perform at their peak. In Japan, the availability of affordable and quality aftermarket performance parts and the creation of easy-to-work-with sports cars is what led to the growth of legendary tuning houses like Trust, BLITZ, and Smokey Nagata’s Top Secret.
Most sports cars from this island, even modern iterations, are highly tunable. It’s easy to squeeze more power from a Subaru WRX STi, Mazda MX-5 Miata, Nissan Z, Mitsubishi Lancer Evo, or Honda Civic Type R with a good investment in the necessary software and parts. Considering that aftermarket car parts manufacturers and tuning shops are in their numbers, finding a fair bargain shouldn’t be a challenge.
2Some Are The Best Drift Cars Of All Time
Aral Tasher via Unsplash””>
Aral Tasher via Unsplash
Front 3/4 shot of a Nissan 350Z drifting
Take some time and watch Formula DRIFT or RedBull’s Drift Masters European Championships. You won’t take long before noticing that Japanese sports cars like the Toyota GR86 and Nissan Silvia are staples in these competitions. Drifting as a technique in motorsports traces its roots back to Japan with the “father of drifting,” Kunimitsu Takahashi but is more associated with the “Drift King,” Keiichi Tsuchiya.
Fast-forward to the 21st century and drifting has graduated from being a technique into a motorsport discipline. The Japanese cars had a good time perfecting this art and keep the fire burning(or tires smoking) to this day. When your Japanese sports car meets requirements such as being RWD, lightweight, and good weight distribution, there are chances it can make a great drift car with some modifications. Just make sure not to drift on a public road or private parking lots to avoid colliding with authorities.
A side profile shot of a Mazda MX-5 Miata parked by the roadside
Japanese sports cars have some of the lowest maintenance costs over the course of ownership. To many, owning a sports car remains a dream they fear could quickly turn into a nightmare because of the associated costs. And this is true for most sports cars and the reason why most remain on the higher end of the price scale, targeting wealthy clients. However, Japanese sports cars do not, for the most part, fit the “high maintenance” description.
Besides being a hub for the most reliable car brands in the world, Japan also produces sports cars that are not only easy to own but cheap to maintain. An excellent example of a low-maintenance Japanese sports car is the Mazda MX-5 Miata. CarEdge estimates that it may only cost you about $5,761 in repairs and maintenance within your first ten years of owning a Miata, which is pretty affordable, to say the least.
Toyota is well-known for producing durable and tough vehicles, including SUVs and pickup trucks. In fact, it can be argued that Toyota is the brand that revolutionized the American truck industry.
Before the 1990s, pickup trucks were primarily used for work purposes and were not seen as cool or desirable. However, Toyota changed this perception with the introduction of their pickup truck models like the Tacoma, which appealed to outdoor enthusiasts and people who enjoyed off-roading and exploring. While these trucks can still handle work tasks, they have evolved into lifestyle icons.
Let’s take a closer look at the history of Toyota pickup trucks to understand their legacy.
The first Toyota pickup truck entered the American market in 1964. It was called the Stout, but it wasn’t the model that continued the Toyota truck legacy. Toyota gained attention in the U.S. market in the 1970s when they imported the Hilux and rebranded it as the Toyota Pickup. This simple yet affordable truck quickly caught the attention of buyers, showcasing Toyota’s commitment to quality and reliability.
Unlike other automakers who focused on the domestic market, Toyota invested in creating a superior chassis and reliable engines for their pickup trucks. These trucks outperformed their competitors and became known for their longevity and performance.
The 4Runner Changed The Trajectory Of The Toyota Pickup
In the 1980s, Toyota made a significant impact on the pickup truck market with the release of the 4Runner. Based on the SR5 Hilux, the 4Runner created a new segment for lifestyle trucks. Seeing the success of this type of vehicle, Toyota decided to include their pickup truck models in the same category.
Kevin Hunter played a crucial role in the transformation of Toyota pickup trucks. He introduced the first Tacoma in 1995, giving the pickup a name and enhancing its width, capability, and aesthetic appeal. The Tacoma became a lifestyle vehicle that was both stylish and high-performing.
To perfect their recipe, Toyota introduced new models and variations like the TRD and Prerunner. The Prerunner, in particular, was a rear-wheel-drive version of the truck and drew inspiration from the vehicle used to pre-run off-road courses before races.
By 2004, the Tacoma was trailing just behind the Ford Ranger in sales. However, with the release of the new model in 2005, the Tacoma surpassed the competition by selling 48,000 more units than the Ford Ranger that year.
The 2005 Tacoma boasted increased power and capability. Over the years, it received safety and exterior updates, making it one of the safest and most appealing small pickups on the market.
The third-generation Tacoma, released in 2016, introduced electronic off-road features and the TRD Pro model in 2017. The TRD Pro had a more aggressive appearance and was highly capable, solidifying the Tacoma’s position as the best-selling mid-sized truck in America.
Recently, Toyota introduced the fourth-generation Tacoma with drastic updates. It is longer than ever before and for the first time, features a coil-sprung solid axle instead of rear leaf springs. The new Tacoma also includes additional off-road trims to cater to the lifestyle and outdoor market.
As the new model is still relatively new, its performance and reception are yet to be fully tested. Ford, however, is not lagging behind and has come up with the all-new Ranger to compete in this segment.
In recent years, Toyota has shown signs of moving away from its traditional roots. Stricter emissions regulations have led to downsized engines paired with hybrid systems. The fourth-generation Tacoma, for example, features a 2.4-liter turbo four-cylinder engine paired with a hybrid system.
Engine Specifications: 2024 Toyota Tacoma Hybrid
While this engine offers more power and efficiency compared to its predecessor, it may not be as reliable due to increased stress from a smaller displacement with higher power output, and the complexity of the hybrid system. This trend can also be seen in the new Tundra and Land Cruiser models.
The Real Reason Why Toyota Trucks Became So Popular
The popularity of Toyota trucks can be attributed to their focus on a lifestyle orientation in the original Tacoma model. However, it’s not the only factor. Toyota had already gained ground in the truck market due to their exceptional build quality.
Unlike other trucks of the time that used cheaper C-channel frames, Toyota trucks utilized fully boxed frames, providing greater durability and towing capacity. Additionally, Toyota engines were simple and reliable, allowing the trucks to last for hundreds of thousands of miles.
With the introduction of more appealing and versatile models, Toyota has expanded its pickup truck range to meet the evolving needs of buyers. Their reputation for building tough trucks has established a strong customer base built on trust.
The carmaker also achieved the 9-lakh sales milestone in the same timeframe
Renault has reached a significant milestone by producing 10 lakh cars in India. The company had recently achieved the 9 lakh sales mark in over 16 years of operation in the country.
In 2005, Renault entered the Indian market and introduced its first car, the Logan, in 2007. However, the sedan was sold through a joint venture with Mahindra. In 2011, Renault launched its first independent car, the Fluence. This premium sedan was followed by models like the Koleos, Pulse, Duster, Scala, KWID, Lodgy, Captur, Triber, and Kiger.
Renault and its joint venture partner Nissan plan to launch six new vehicles, including four new SUVs and two new compact EVs, by 2025.
Here’s the official statement from Renault:
Renault, the leading European brand in India, is proud to announce a production milestone of 10,00,000 vehicles in India. This achievement showcases Renault’s manufacturing capabilities and commitment to delivering high-quality vehicles to Indian customers.
Renault’s advanced manufacturing plant in Chennai has played a crucial role in this extraordinary accomplishment. With a production capacity of 480,000 units per year, the facility demonstrates Renault’s dedication to excellence and innovation. The company has made significant investments in manufacturing, technology, and talent to create a robust production infrastructure that ensures the highest standards of quality and efficiency. The Renault-Nissan alliance has committed a major investment of INR 5,300 crore to support the development of six products.
As Renault India celebrates this remarkable milestone, it reaffirms its dedication to delivering high-quality vehicles and exceptional customer experiences. All the models in the Renault range are equipped with advanced features and safety technology, along with exciting customer benefits. Renault also offers its existing owners an outstanding loyalty program, providing them with an opportunity to upgrade to a new Renault vehicle with enhanced benefits designed specifically for them. With a strong foundation, an expanding network, and a customer-centric approach, Renault is well-positioned for continued success and growth in the Indian automotive market.
Kia has emerged as a key player in the electric vehicle market with models such as the EV6 and Niro EV. However, the brand is looking to invest a colossal sum of $18 billion (along with Hyundai) to become an exclusive EV brand within this decade. Kia has claimed that its plug-in hybrids are also competitive, but an executive for the Australian market has admitted that the technology is not receiving a lot of enthusiasm from potential customers.
In a recent interview with CarExpert, Dean Norbiato, the Marketing General Manager for Kia Australia, revealed that plug-in hybrids are challenging to sell due to their complex nature, and most of the customers don’t understand it. He also accepted that PHEV technology has reached a dead end.
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