Autoblog Tokyo Motor Show http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog Tokyo Motor Show http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/favicon-v5.png Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Jeff RossThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[Lexus to debut small hybrid CUV at 2014 Geneva Motor Show]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/lexus-to-debut-small-hybrid-cuv-at-2014-geneva-motor-show/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/lexus-to-debut-small-hybrid-cuv-at-2014-geneva-motor-show/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/lexus-to-debut-small-hybrid-cuv-at-2014-geneva-motor-show/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

2013 Lexus RX 350 F Sport - front three-quarter view

Following rumors that Lexus has been working on a small crossover to slot below the RX (pictured), Automotive News Europe reports that the production-ready CUV will bow at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show next March. Later this year, Lexus will preview this new crossover by way of a concept car at the Tokyo Motor Show in November.

According to the report, this new crossover will be a hybrid, and will ride on the smaller architecture that underpins the Toyota RAV4. Specific details have not been confirmed, but AN states that the entry-level CUV will be powered by the same 2.5-liter gasoline-electric drivetrain found in the Lexus ES 300h. Since Toyota will evidently be taking the time to hybridize the platform, we can't help but assume that it will eventually build a second-gen RAV4 EV.

Either way, with the small luxury CUV segment heating up, Lexus is likely smart to offer a player in this space. Until now, there has not been a Lexus crossover below the RX, and this new model will compete with other new players in the class including the BMW X1 and Audi Q3.

Lexus to debut small hybrid CUV at 2014 Geneva Motor Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Apr 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> genevageneva 2014geneva motor showlexuslexus crossoverlexus rxtokyotokyo 2013tokyo motor show Fri, 05 Apr 2013 14:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20531617/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20531617/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/05/lexus-to-debut-small-hybrid-cuv-at-2014-geneva-motor-show/20531617/article-detail.xml 20531617 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/01-2013-lexus-rx-350-f-sport-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/01-2013-lexus-rx-350-f-sport-review.jpg <![CDATA[Struggling Tokyo Motor Show shifts gears, pitches itself as tech show]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/12/struggling-tokyo-motor-show-shifts-gears-pitches-itself-as-tech/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/12/struggling-tokyo-motor-show-shifts-gears-pitches-itself-as-tech/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/12/struggling-tokyo-motor-show-shifts-gears-pitches-itself-as-tech/#comments Filed under: , ,



Organizers for the Tokyo Motor Show have a problem on their hands. Ever since the financial crisis, the biannual auto show has been enduring a downturn. Though 2011's attendance of 842,600 visitors was an improvement of 37 percent over 2009, the overall trend is downward from 1.43 million visitors in 2007. The height of attendance for the show was in 1991 when the 15-day exhibition ushered in 2.02 million patrons. The show later shrunk to 13 days, then to ten, in response to shrinking demand.

So what's an auto show to do? According to an Automotive News report, the answer is to remake itself. The theme for Tokyo Motor Show 2013 has been announced as, "Compete! And Shape a new future." According to the press release provided, "The theme represents the desire to have visitors experience a future that doesn't yet exist anywhere and is shaped by vying values, such as beauty, technology, and dreams."

Part of that effort is the Smart Mobility City project, displaying high-tech methods of how cars can connect to one another. Japanese carmakers are looking to be the leader in the interconnectedness of cars in the future. Features like smart electric grids and interactive infotainment systems are among these technologies. According to the Japanese Automobile Manufacturers (JAMA), "Passions that thrive on cars, motorcycles, and their technologies, are brought together in a friendly competition to shape the future."

Perhaps this direction is the one the Tokyo show must take in order to regain relevancy, in the midst of shows like Shanghai and Beijing increasing in popularity. The Tokyo expo has been struggling for relevance not just with show patrons, but also with foreign automakers, who have been increasingly unwilling to debut concepts and new models - or even buy displace space at all - in a market where consumers don't buy many foreign-branded autos.

The 43rd Tokyo Motor Show will be held November 22 through December 1, 2013.

Continue reading Struggling Tokyo Motor Show shifts gears, pitches itself as tech show

Struggling Tokyo Motor Show shifts gears, pitches itself as tech show originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Oct 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> connectivitysmart mobility citytechnologytokyotokyo motor showtokyo motor show 2013 Fri, 12 Oct 2012 18:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20347357/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20347357/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/12/struggling-tokyo-motor-show-shifts-gears-pitches-itself-as-tech/20347357/article-detail.xml 20347357 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/tokyomotorshow_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/tokyomotorshow.jpg <![CDATA[Next Subaru WRX previewed by Advanced Tourer concept]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/18/next-subaru-wrx-previewed-by-advanced-tourer-concept/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/18/next-subaru-wrx-previewed-by-advanced-tourer-concept/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/18/next-subaru-wrx-previewed-by-advanced-tourer-concept/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Subaru Advanced Tourer Concept - live from 2011 Toyko Motor Show

There was nary a peep of discontent about the looks of the Subaru Advanced Tourer concept revealed at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show. But when everyone was clamoring for Scooby to transfer the Advanced Tourer's looks to a production vehicle, never once did people ask for that transfer to be foisted on the WRX. A report in Motor Trend, though, says that's what's happening: the concept "was actually an early look at the next-generation Subaru WRX."

MT's sources said the front end Advanced Tourer's front end will go onto the WRX, with other aspects of the concept made more aggressive to suit the personality of Subaru's rally-ready racer. And if the concept also presages the next WRX's dimensions, then you can expect the next-generation sedan and hatchback to be larger (though in truth we don't anticipate a big gain in footprint).

Notice the name "Impreza" hasn't appeared anywhere in our discussion yet. Subaru is reportedly dropping the name in an attempt to get more 'Likes' for the WRX by making it more approachable, so the next model will relinquish its association with the Impreza line and be more performanced focused even as it is receives a better interior and is morphed into a "more-mature sporty grand tourer." Engine choices are still being debated for the car due in 2015; the rumored options include 1.6-liter and 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinders and a hybrid version of the 1.6-liter.

Next Subaru WRX previewed by Advanced Tourer concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 May 2012 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2015 subaru wrxadvanced tourer conceptimprezaimpreza wrxsubarusubaru advanced toursubaru wrxtokyo 2011tokyo motor showwrxwrx sti Fri, 18 May 2012 16:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20240705/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20240705/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/18/next-subaru-wrx-previewed-by-advanced-tourer-concept/20240705/article-detail.xml 20240705 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/subaruadvwrx_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/subaruadvwrx.jpg <![CDATA[VW bringing Passat Alltrak to New York as a concept [w/poll]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/02/vw-bringing-passat-alltrak-to-new-york-as-a-concept-w-poll/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/02/vw-bringing-passat-alltrak-to-new-york-as-a-concept-w-poll/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/02/vw-bringing-passat-alltrak-to-new-york-as-a-concept-w-poll/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



Volkswagen is bringing its diesel-powered Passat Alltrack to the States after all. But don't get too excited - it's only coming in the form of a concept car at the New York Auto Show. At least, for now.

We last saw the Alltrack at the Tokyo Motor Show in November where VW announced that it would offer the all-wheel-drive wagon in the UK with two versions of the 2.0-liter turbo-diesel inline-four. The engines are rated at 138 and 168 horsepower, the smaller of which is available with a manual transmission.

Despite the fact that the Tokyo show car was a full-on production model, VW is calling the New York-bound Alltrack a concept to presumably gauge the U.S. public's perception. If Americans seem open to the Alltrack, it would be a welcome alternative to the pricy Audi Allroad and granola-flavored Subaru models.

Check out our Tokyo Motor Show gallery below, and scroll down for the official press blast. Be sure to tell us if you think the Passat Alltrack should come to the states in our poll, as well.


View Poll

Continue reading VW bringing Passat Alltrak to New York as a concept [w/poll]

VW bringing Passat Alltrak to New York as a concept [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Apr 2012 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> alltracknew yorknew york 2012new york auto showpassatpassat alltrackvolkswagenvw Mon, 02 Apr 2012 09:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20206112/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20206112/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/02/vw-bringing-passat-alltrak-to-new-york-as-a-concept-w-poll/20206112/article-detail.xml 20206112 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2012-vw-alltrack-concept1-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2012-vw-alltrack-concept1-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Honda EV-STER headed for production]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/15/honda-ev-ster-headed-for-production/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/15/honda-ev-ster-headed-for-production/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/15/honda-ev-ster-headed-for-production/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Honda EV-STER

Combining electric propulsion with a performance orientation is a delicate balance. Tesla managed to pull it off to some success. Audi has toyed with the idea with its E-Tron concepts. And some have been experimenting with bringing F1's KERS regenerative braking system to road-going sports cars.

Honda, for its part, tried to nail it down with the CR-Z, which was supposed to be a hybrid sport-hatch, but like the Lexus CT 200h, it ended up lacking in the "sport" part of the equation. Which is why this latest development has caught our attention.

Just a few weeks ago at the Tokyo Motor Show, Honda showed off a tempting little package called the EV-STER. The concept spoke of a zippy little ride around town, all on electric power. Now, reports are indicating that, based on positive feedback from the show, Honda has already decided to green-light the project and put it into production. Sources suggest it will be ready sometime in the new year ahead, and could offer a more conventional gasoline engine in addition to the electric powertrain.

Of course none of this is to say that Honda would bring the production EV-STER to the North American market, but we'll be excited if it gets built at all.

Honda EV-STER headed for production originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Dec 2011 17:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> ev-sterhondahonda ev-ster Thu, 15 Dec 2011 17:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20128994/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20128994/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/15/honda-ev-ster-headed-for-production/20128994/article-detail.xml 20128994 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/honda-ev-ster-concept-5_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/honda-ev-ster-concept-5.jpg <![CDATA[VW Cross Coupé concept presages 2014 Evoque rival [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/13/vw-cross-coupe-concept-presages-2014-evoque-rival/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/13/vw-cross-coupe-concept-presages-2014-evoque-rival/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/13/vw-cross-coupe-concept-presages-2014-evoque-rival/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



Turns out the Volkswagen Cross Coupé concept shown off at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show may be a smoke signal for an impending new product. And apparently the reaction was positive enough to the integrated grille and sloping hindquarters that the picaresque four-door crossover could inspire a production version within three years.

VW execs believe CUVs will continue to grow in popularity, and that as they do, customers will want perhaps more car-ish variety in their styling, with more muscle and sportiness. According to Autocar, this vehicle wouldn't come alone, either, with "several variants" being pledged if this one does see the light.

The concept itself was done with that in mind, seeing as it sits on the transverse matrix architecture that will support the next Golf and Audi A3. When we saw the concept in person, we couldn't help but notice the production touches like partsbin window switches and seat rails, so we had a strong feeling that we were looking at a thinly disguised new model (though the hybrid powertrain will likely be a thing of the distant future).

Check out a video of the Cross Coupé on the stage in Tokyo after the break.

Continue reading VW Cross Coupé concept presages 2014 Evoque rival [w/video]

VW Cross Coupé concept presages 2014 Evoque rival [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Dec 2011 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> cross coupécross coupecross coupe concepttokyotokyo 2011tokyo motor showvolkswagen cross coupevw cross coupe Tue, 13 Dec 2011 18:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20125544/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20125544/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/13/vw-cross-coupe-concept-presages-2014-evoque-rival/20125544/article-detail.xml 20125544 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/vwcrosscoupeproduction_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/vwcrosscoupeproduction.jpg <![CDATA[How Nissan trains its "Miss Fairlady" show stand models]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/how-nissan-trains-its-miss-fairlady-show-stand-models/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/how-nissan-trains-its-miss-fairlady-show-stand-models/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/how-nissan-trains-its-miss-fairlady-show-stand-models/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Miss Fairlady

Maybe you've seen My Fair Lady - the musical story of an ordinary girl turned into someone altogether more elegant. Now meet Miss Fairlady.

Borrowing the name from the original JDM version of the Nissan Z, Miss Fairlady is the Japanese automaker's program for training its show-stand attendants. As might be expected, the program follows traditional Japanese values like the importance of appearance, manners and pride in one's employment.

Perhaps most importantly - and counter to most car show models we've encountered at other automakers' show stands - a Miss Fairlady is well-versed in everything about the company, from its senior executives to the products they're there to promote, so they're prepared to answer your questions instead of tilting their head in confusion. Follow the jump to watch and see these beautiful spokesmodels get schooled.

Continue reading How Nissan trains its "Miss Fairlady" show stand models

How Nissan trains its "Miss Fairlady" show stand models originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> auto showauto show modelsfairladyjapanese modelmiss fairladymodelingmodelsnissanspokesmodelspokespersonvideo Mon, 12 Dec 2011 14:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20126093/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20126093/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/12/how-nissan-trains-its-miss-fairlady-show-stand-models/20126093/article-detail.xml 20126093 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/miss-fairlady_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/miss-fairlady.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #259]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/06/autoblog-podcast-259/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/06/autoblog-podcast-259/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/06/autoblog-podcast-259/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,

Tokyo highlights, 100-million small blocks, Hyundai MPG flap, Honda Crosstour sales

autoblog podcast

Episode #259 of the Autoblog Podcast is here with Chris, Dan, Chris Paukert and Zach this week. Topics include highlights form the Tokyo Motor Show, the dust-up about fuel economy between a consumer group and the Hyundai Elantra, Honda's position on the Crosstour and Civic in the face of disappointment, and General Motors reaching the 100-million mark with small block V8s. Your questions and comments power the end of the 'cast, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. We've embedded our Q&A module after the jump for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #259:
In the Autoblog Garage
2012 Volkswagen Passat 3.6 SEL
2012 Mazda CX-9
2012 Fiat 500C
2012 Toyota Prius V

Hosts: Dan Roth, Chris Shunk, Zach Bowman, Chris Paukert
Runtime: 01:18:21
Get the podcast
[UStream] Listen live on Mondays at 10PM Eastern at UStream
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[MP3] Download the MP3 directly

Feedback
Email: Podcast at Autoblog dot com
Voicemail: 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763)

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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #259

Autoblog Podcast #259 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Dec 2011 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 500500cautoblog podcastcrosstourcx-9elantrafeaturedpassatprius vtokyo motor show Tue, 06 Dec 2011 17:32:00 EST Autoblog Podcast #259Autoblog01:18:21 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20121762/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20121762/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/06/autoblog-podcast-259/20121762/article-detail.xml 20121762 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #259 LIVE]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/05/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-259-live/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/05/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-259-live/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/05/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-259-live/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Autoblog Podcast

We record Episode #259 of the Autoblog Podcast tonight, and you can drop us your questions via our Q&A module below. Check out our discussion topics or chime in to help determine what else the crew chats about this evening. Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes if you haven't already done so, and if you want to take it all in live, tune in to our UStream (audio only) channel at 10:00 PM Eastern tonight.

Discussion Topics for Autoblog Podcast Episode #259
[UStream] Interact LIVE at UStream - 10PM Eastern on Monday, December 5, 2011
[iTunes] Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes
[RSS] Add the Autoblog Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator

Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #259 LIVE originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Dec 2011 16:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> accord crosstourautoblog podcast topicscrosstourgm small blockhyundaihyundai fuel efficiencypodcastsmall blocktokyo motor show Mon, 05 Dec 2011 16:10:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20121069/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20121069/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/05/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-259-live/20121069/article-detail.xml 20121069 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Honda CEO disappointed by Crosstour sales, vows to make it successful]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/05/hondas-iwamura-disappointed-by-crosstour-sales-vows-to-make-it/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/05/hondas-iwamura-disappointed-by-crosstour-sales-vows-to-make-it/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/05/hondas-iwamura-disappointed-by-crosstour-sales-vows-to-make-it/#comments Filed under: , , ,



In a roundtable with reporters at an event related to the Tokyo Motor Show, Tetsuo Iwamura, President and CEO of American Honda, told us that he's been surprised by the Crosstour crossover's slow sales:

"In the case of the Crosstour, I'm really disappointed because that's a nice car, [with] very beautiful styling, and it gives very good driving performance as well as packaging. But yet, we went a bit too far."

The five-door CUV has been struggling since it went on sale as a 2010 model. Through November, Honda has sold just 16,679 units this year - down nearly 36 percent from the 25,927 units tallied by this point in 2010. Honda had initially projected annual sales of 40,000 units.

Iwamura confided that, in retrospect, launching the CUV branded as the Accord Crosstour was probably a "misstep," so the company subsequently shortened its moniker to Crosstour in order to give the vehicle more of a standalone identity. In our 2009 First Drive article, we praised the Crosstour's solid driving dynamics but criticized it for awkward styling, poor packaging and visibility, a short options list and premium pricing.

In our discussion with Iwamura, we noted that while Honda continues to enjoy solid sales numbers for its longtime mainstream offerings like the Accord, CR-V and Odyssey, newer models - particularly niche offerings - have had a tougher time finding buyers (see: CR-Z, Insight, Ridgeline). Iwamura expressed that Honda is actually "quite satisfied" with sales of most of its vehicle lines, maintaining that he sees nothing systematic within Honda that has prevented the company from generating new hit models. Further, Iwamura vowed to continue development of its niche players.

In the case of the Crosstour, Iwamura pledged, "With further refinement of styling and performance, it will be a very good success, a leading model."

Honda CEO disappointed by Crosstour sales, vows to make it successful originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Dec 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 honda crosstouraccord crosstourcrosstourhondahonda salesiwamuratetsuo iwamura Mon, 05 Dec 2011 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20120800/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20120800/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/05/hondas-iwamura-disappointed-by-crosstour-sales-vows-to-make-it/20120800/article-detail.xml 20120800 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-2012-honda-crosstour-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-2012-honda-crosstour-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota considering Supra successor and sub-86 sports car]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/04/toyota-considering-supra-successor-and-sub-86-sports-car/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/04/toyota-considering-supra-successor-and-sub-86-sports-car/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/04/toyota-considering-supra-successor-and-sub-86-sports-car/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Toyota GT86

Toyota is flush with buzz surrounding the company's new 86 sports car, and that could translate into additional performance models if the vehicle's chief engineer has anything to say about it. The Sydney Morning Herald reports that Tetsuya Tada, the mind that brought the Toyota 86 to life, believes there's room in the stable for two additional sports cars. Tada is quoted as saying that while the 86 is a mid-sized sports car, he'd like to see one vehicle positioned below the boxer-powered coupe as well as an additional model slotted higher in the lineup.

The latter machine could potentially be a successor to the Supra, complete with a high-horsepower engine and rear wheel drive. Like the 86, that vehicle would be another collaborative project between Toyota and Subaru. Unfortunately, Tada is quick to say that nothing has been decided as of yet. Keep your fingers crossed.

Toyota considering Supra successor and sub-86 sports car originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 04 Dec 2011 18:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> brzgt86subarusubaru brzsuprasupra successortokyo motor showtoyotatoyota gt86toyota supra Sun, 04 Dec 2011 18:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20120314/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20120314/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/04/toyota-considering-supra-successor-and-sub-86-sports-car/20120314/article-detail.xml 20120314 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/toyota-gt86-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/toyota-gt86-628.jpg <![CDATA[In the Metal: Toyota GT 86 vs. Subaru BRZ [w/poll]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/02/in-the-metal-toyota-gt-86-vs-subaru-brz-w-poll/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/02/in-the-metal-toyota-gt-86-vs-subaru-brz-w-poll/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/02/in-the-metal-toyota-gt-86-vs-subaru-brz-w-poll/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , ,



Badge engineering is the ironic label for when a company replaces the badge or branding of a product with that of another and considers it something new. Domestic automakers like Ford, General Motors and Chrysler have been vilified for their overuse of this practice. Then again, they weren't often badge engineering rear-wheel-drive sports cars (though they've done that, too).

This week, Toyota and Subaru both revealed their own versions of a RWD sports car jointly developed between the two companies: the GT 86 and BRZ. You'd be hard-pressed to tell them apart from a distance of 30 yards, but we got up close and personal with each at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show this week and discovered that there are, in fact, subtle differences.

Since we'll be getting the also-slightly different Scion FR-S in the U.S., this exercise is really aimed at our European readers who will be offered the GT 86, but everyone's free to participate.

We've got videos of each model in the metal after the jump, and after you watch, let us know which one you prefer in the poll below.

View Poll

Continue reading In the Metal: Toyota GT 86 vs. Subaru BRZ [w/poll]

In the Metal: Toyota GT 86 vs. Subaru BRZ [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Dec 2011 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 scion fr-s2013 subaru brz2013 toyota gt 86brzfr-sgt 86in the metalscionsubarutokyotokyo 2011tokyo motor showtoyota Fri, 02 Dec 2011 19:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20119743/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20119743/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/02/in-the-metal-toyota-gt-86-vs-subaru-brz-w-poll/20119743/article-detail.xml 20119743 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/subaur-brz-toyota-gt-86_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/subaur-brz-toyota-gt-86.jpg <![CDATA[We obsessively covered the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/we-obsessively-covered-the-2011-tokyo-motor-show/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/we-obsessively-covered-the-2011-tokyo-motor-show/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/we-obsessively-covered-the-2011-tokyo-motor-show/#comments Filed under:


While rumors of Tokyo Motor Show's demise continue to persist, there was enough new metal at this biennial auto show to justify our attendance. The Toyota GT 86 and Subaru BRZ alone were enough to suffer through the jet lag for you. We hope the 2013 show will be even stronger yet, if it even happens. That's two years away, though, so for now let's look back on what this year's Tokyo Motor Show had to offer.

Honda AC-X Concept Toyota GT 86
Nissan Pivo 3 2012 Subaru BRZ
Mazda Takeri Concept VW Passat Alltrack
Honda EV-STER Nissan Leaf Nismo
Subaru WRX STI S206 Subaru BRZ GT300
Honda N Concept 4 Toyota FCV-R Concept 2012 Mitsubishi Mirage
Honda RC-E Honda E-Canopy Trike Yamaha Y125 Moegi
Suzuki Regina Concept Suzuki Swift EV Hybrid Suzuki Q Concept
Mitsubishi PX-MiEV II Toyota GRMN Hybrid Daihatsu D-X
Toyota Aqua

We obsessively covered the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> tokyotokyo 2011tokyo motor show Thu, 01 Dec 2011 19:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20118009/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20118009/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/01/we-obsessively-covered-the-2011-tokyo-motor-show/20118009/article-detail.xml 20118009 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/tokyo-2011_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/tokyo-2011.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota Aqua concepts hint at Prius C possibilities]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/toyota-aqua-concepts-tokyo-2011/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/toyota-aqua-concepts-tokyo-2011/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/toyota-aqua-concepts-tokyo-2011/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



Toyota unveiled a handful of production and concept Aqua models at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show. As you may recall, the Aqua will serve as the Prius C here in the United States when it lands at the Detroit Auto Show in early 2012. The Yaris-sized hatchback will come equipped with a 1.5-liter Atkinson cycle four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, though Toyota hasn't said what we can expect in terms of total output. We do know that the vehicle's svelte curb weight and smaller engine will likely translate into Prius-besting fuel economy numbers, so buyers can look forward to over 50 mpg in the city.

The brightly-colored Aqua Kiriri Version and Aqua Piriri Version joined the production Aqua under the lights in Tokyo, giving the world a better idea of what the model could offer in terms of dealer modification. The little hatch looks sharp, and the fuel economy figures are enough to make anyone grin.

Toyota Aqua concepts hint at Prius C possibilities originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> aquaconceptprius ctokyotokyo 2011tokyo motor showtoyotatoyota aquatoyota aqua concepttoyota prius c Thu, 01 Dec 2011 19:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20117204/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20117204/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/01/toyota-aqua-concepts-tokyo-2011/20117204/article-detail.xml 20117204 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-toyota-aqua-concepts-tokyo-2011628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-toyota-aqua-concepts-tokyo-2011628.jpg <![CDATA[Gas-sipping Suzuki Regina Concept begs for production]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/suzuki-regina-concept-tokyo-2011/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/suzuki-regina-concept-tokyo-2011/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/suzuki-regina-concept-tokyo-2011/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Suzuki Regina Concept

There's something about the Suzuki Regina Concept that we like. A lot. For starters, it has a white roof. What's cool about that, you ask? Well, after Ford stole the idea from Mini for the Flex, nothing. But darn it if it doesn't look good here. With those rear fender skirts, we're actually seeing a good bit of Citroën DS in Suzuki's stylish little econobox, and as we all know, the DS is the most beautiful car of all time.

The Regina Concept, on the other hand, is just an idea for a 1,600-pound sedan that gets 75 miles per gallon. Suzuki didn't share details about the powertrain, but Autocar is reporting that the Regina Concept is powered by a turbocharged, 800-cc gasoline engine, and uses both start-stop and regenerative braking tech to achieve such lofty fuel economy.

A car that light could be powered by a leaf blower and still be fun to drive, so we're giving this one a thumbs up. Go ahead and build it, Suzuki, because you know someone will figure out a way to put a small-block Chevy in it. Hit the jump for Suzuki's short press release.

Continue reading Gas-sipping Suzuki Regina Concept begs for production

Gas-sipping Suzuki Regina Concept begs for production originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> citroen dsreginaregina conceptsuzukisuzuki regina concepttokyotokyo 2011tokyo motor show Thu, 01 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20118730/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20118730/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/01/suzuki-regina-concept-tokyo-2011/20118730/article-detail.xml 20118730 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-suzuki-regina-concept-tokyo-2011628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-suzuki-regina-concept-tokyo-2011628.jpg <![CDATA[Suzuki debuts range-extended Swift EV Hybrid]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/suzuki-swift-ev-hybrid-tokyo-2011/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/suzuki-swift-ev-hybrid-tokyo-2011/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/suzuki-swift-ev-hybrid-tokyo-2011/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,



Suzuki hit the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show with a small flotilla of green-minded vehicles, including the Swift EV Hybrid. According to the company, most Swift buyers travel between 12 and 18 miles per day, so engineers designed this range-extended EV to cover that distance on pure electric power. A small-displacement internal combustion engine remains on hand to take over charging duties should the driver deplete the vehicle's batteries, just like in the Chevrolet Volt. Suzuki says that the design has several advantages over a traditional electric vehicle.

For starters, the system uses a significantly smaller battery than a full EV, which means the Swift EV Hybrid uses fewer resources and costs less. It also takes less time to charge than a full EV as well. While we don't expect to see this doorless wonder on the streets any time soon, Suzuki may apply the range-extender technology to production models in the future.

Suzuki debuts range-extended Swift EV Hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> suzukisuzuki swift ev hybridswiftswift ev hybridswift ev hybrid concepttokyotokyo 2011tokyo motor show Thu, 01 Dec 2011 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20118750/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20118750/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/01/suzuki-swift-ev-hybrid-tokyo-2011/20118750/article-detail.xml 20118750 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-suzuki-swift-ev-hybrid-tokyo-2011628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-suzuki-swift-ev-hybrid-tokyo-2011628.jpg <![CDATA[Daihatsu FC Case Concept is autonomous, high-tech transportation]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/daihatsu-fc-case-concept-tokyo-2011/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/daihatsu-fc-case-concept-tokyo-2011/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/daihatsu-fc-case-concept-tokyo-2011/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Daihatsu FC Case Concept

The one thing that's been missing from this year's Tokyo Motor Show are the inevitable rolling living room concepts of years past. But Daihatsu has come to the rescue with its FC Case concept.

The rolling bread box might not look like much from the outside, but inside it's packed with folding seats and a host of infotainment gadgets. Just as important is the FC's method of propulsion, a variant of hydrogen called hydrazine hydrate or N2H4 H2O (yes, we had to look it up) that's synthesized from nitrogen and hydrogen. Daihatsu says the fuel has a higher energy density and lower flammability, but more intriguing is the delivery. Hydrazine hydrate can supposedly be transported and inserted into the vehicle much like gasoline, which takes care of that pesky infrastructure situation. Couple that with some kind of autonomous driving system and it's not hard to imagine a fleet of FCs running down the highway at speed, bumper-to-bumper, cleanly and quickly delivering employees to work in 2035... or something.

Daihatsu FC Case Concept is autonomous, high-tech transportation originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> daihatsuDaihatsu FC Case Conceptfc case concepttokyotokyo 2011tokyo motor show Thu, 01 Dec 2011 17:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20118249/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20118249/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/01/daihatsu-fc-case-concept-tokyo-2011/20118249/article-detail.xml 20118249 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/01-dai-fc-case-live-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/01-dai-fc-case-live-628.jpg <![CDATA[Suzuki Q Concept is long on cute, short on range]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/suzuki-q-concept-tokyo-2011/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/suzuki-q-concept-tokyo-2011/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/suzuki-q-concept-tokyo-2011/#comments Filed under: , ,



If this year's Tokyo Motor Show is going to live up to its reputation for wacky, it's because of the Suzuki Q Concept. Looking like an oversized portable CD player rolling around on two sets of Apple earbuds, the electric Q is nothing if not cute.

It's also different, with seating that's configurable for two adults in tandem fashion, or an adult up front with two kids in the back. Or you can ditch the backseat altogether and use the space for cargo. Suzuki says the Q is part car and part motorcycle, but we think a more apt description of the 98-inch-long oddity would be part moped, part Segway.

With a range of just over six miles, the Q isn't much of a car, but it could make a nice runabout for city-dwellers. Or a stylish way to get down your driveway to get the mail when it's raining for the average American. Read the press release after the jump.

Continue reading Suzuki Q Concept is long on cute, short on range

Suzuki Q Concept is long on cute, short on range originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> conceptq conceptsuzukisuzuki q concepttokyotokyo 2011tokyo motor show Thu, 01 Dec 2011 16:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20118721/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20118721/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/01/suzuki-q-concept-tokyo-2011/20118721/article-detail.xml 20118721 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-suzuki-q-concept-tokyo-2011628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-suzuki-q-concept-tokyo-2011628.jpg <![CDATA[Yamaha Y125 Moegi is an elegant cruiser [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/yamaha-y125-moegi-tokyo-2011/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/yamaha-y125-moegi-tokyo-2011/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/yamaha-y125-moegi-tokyo-2011/#comments Filed under: , , ,



Call us jaded, but these days, there are few vehicles at the average auto show that can stop us in our tracks. Yamaha has proven there's still something to get excited about on the show floor with its Y125 Moegi. The design study has all of the grace and elegance of a bicycle with the all important element of internal combustion lifted from a small-displacement motorcycle. The 125cc fuel-injected single cylinder engine likely has just enough power to whirr you around town.

Yamaha didn't release any actual figures for horsepower or torque, but we do know the bike weighs a scant 176 pounds soaking wet. It wouldn't take much to propel the machine through the city streets. Unfortunately, it doesn't look like Yamaha has any plans to bring the sexy contraption to market. That's a shame, but it's at least good to know that the company's designers are throwing an eye towards elegance. Hit the jump to check out a video of the Y125 doing what it does best.

Continue reading Yamaha Y125 Moegi is an elegant cruiser [w/video]

Yamaha Y125 Moegi is an elegant cruiser [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> moegitokyotokyo 2011tokyo motor showy125y125 moegiyamahayamaha y125 moegi Thu, 01 Dec 2011 16:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20118711/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20118711/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/01/yamaha-y125-moegi-tokyo-2011/20118711/article-detail.xml 20118711 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-yamaha-y125-moegi-tokyo-2011628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-yamaha-y125-moegi-tokyo-2011628.jpg <![CDATA[Honda RC-E electric superbike looks like fun [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/honda-rc-e-tokyo-2011/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/honda-rc-e-tokyo-2011/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/honda-rc-e-tokyo-2011/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Honda RC-E Concept

Honda is putting the motor in the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show with the company's RC-E electric sportsbike concept. Details are scarce on the vehicle at the moment, but its clear the designers at Honda envisioned the machine as a dual-purpose track heathen and commuter. Tiny LED headlights are tucked into the front fairing, and the rear of the bike is decorated with similarly demure tail lights and turning indicators. We don't know what kind of power the RC-E develops or how it stores its power, but Honda did say that the concept rides on a 250cc chassis. We're guessing the bike's bare bones look more than a little similar to the company's recently unveiled CBR250R.

Judging from the fact that the front fascia boasts an air inlet, we're guessing there's some sort of battery-cooling system on board. While the bike is purely a concept at this juncture, there's a skinny chance the RC-E may hint to what Honda has planned for the future of the company's motorcycle design. Hit the jump to check out a video of the RC-E.

Continue reading Honda RC-E electric superbike looks like fun [w/video]

Honda RC-E electric superbike looks like fun [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> conceptelectric superbikehondahonda rc-e conceptrc-erc-e concepttokyotokyo 2011tokyo motor show Thu, 01 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20118667/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20118667/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/01/honda-rc-e-tokyo-2011/20118667/article-detail.xml 20118667 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/rc-e-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/rc-e-628.jpg -1 2