Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[REPORT: Detroit Three call Japan's cash-for-clunkers program unfair]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/report-detroit-three-call-japans-cash-for-clunkers-program-unf/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/report-detroit-three-call-japans-cash-for-clunkers-program-unf/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/report-detroit-three-call-japans-cash-for-clunkers-program-unf/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The U.S. Car Allowance Rebate System (a.k.a. 'cash-for-clunkers') program was a short-term boon for automakers participating in our market. Sales went up, inventory went down and nearly 700,000 vehicles that would likely have otherwise ended up on used car lots were destroyed. And since the U.S. is essentially a free market where automakers around the globe are allowed to participate, Japanese and European automakers benefited from the program as well. In fact, Japanese automakers fared even better than their U.S. competitors, as Toyota, Honda and Nissan are said to have surpassed their market share with the program. A reported 319,000 of the 677,000 vehicles sold via cash-for-clunkers were from Japanese companies. But while the U.S. C4C program took place in a free market where everybody is able to participate, critics are complaining that the new Japanese program is anything but equal opportunity.

Japan is considered by many to be the world's most insular auto market, and its $3.7 billion government clunker program makes U.S. autos ineligible for government assistance. According to The Detroit News, the program, which the Japanese government is using to spur sales (which are down 17 percent versus 2008 levels), provides cash rebates of up to $2,830 for customers who turn in vehicles 13 years or older. Car buyers who don't turn in a vehicle can still get over $1,100 toward the purchase of a new vehicle. An estimated 87 percent of all Japanese vehicles are eligible for the program, while zero vehicles from General Motors, Ford and Chrysler will be eligible.

The DetNews is reporting that Motown automakers have written a letter to the Deputy U.S. Trade Representative calling for action on a matter that was called "another example of Japan continuing efforts to discriminate against imported vehicles." Carol Guthry of the U.S. Trade Representative told the newspaper that the government is working to resolve the issue, adding "our position remains that changes are necessary to give U.S. vehicles greater opportunity to qualify under Japan's program."

While we're not exactly import/export experts and we don't have any experience with foreign relations, we're thinking it's about time Japan treated foreign automakers in the Land of the Rising Sun with the same level of equality that its automakers receive elsewhere in the world. What do you think? Have your say in 'Comments.'

[Source: The Detroit News | Image: Yoshikazu Tsuno/AFP/Getty]

REPORT: Detroit Three call Japan's cash-for-clunkers program unfair originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 10:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>C.A.R.S.c4cCar Allowance Rebate SystemCarAllowanceRebateSystemCarol GuthryCarolGuthryCARScash for clunkersCashForClunkerschryslerdetroit threeDetroitThreefordgmimportexportjapanjapanese cash for clunkersJapaneseCashForClunkersprotectionismtarifftarrifftrade protectionismTradeProtectionismFri, 11 Dec 2009 10:32:00 EST<![CDATA[DTM cars to run in Japan's SuperGT series?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/dtm-cars-to-run-in-japans-supergt-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/dtm-cars-to-run-in-japans-supergt-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/dtm-cars-to-run-in-japans-supergt-series/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Germany's DTM series is presently contested by just two automakers, Mercedes-Benz and Audi. In an effort to increase manufacturer participation, global reach, and television audiences, Autosport reports that DTM's overseers to be talking to Japan's Super GT series organizers about a tie-up. The GT500 class includes Honda, Lexus, Nissan, and a single Aston Martin DBR9.

The talks are centered around letting the cars race together, not DTM and Super GT actually coming together. The hurdles would be rationalizing the specifications: GT500 racers employ a different construction, as the series doesn't mandate spec electronics, tire, gearbox, differential, fuel, and brake suppliers as in DTM. However, Super GT does have its own way of creating parity and close racing, using restrictor plates and pit stop regulations.

If the two can find a way to come together, it might encourage BMW to join the series and bring its American Le Man M3 to the party. The Munich marque has resisted DTM, saying it isn't interested in a series so heavily focused on Germany. Don't get any hopes up, though - the Super GT management said they don't see the link-up as "a matter for the very near future."

[Source: Autosport | Image: Alex Grimm/Bongarts/Getty]

DTM cars to run in Japan's SuperGT series? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwdtmgermanyjapanjapan super gtJapanSuperGtmotorsportssuper gtSuperGttouring cartouring car challengeTouringCarTouringCarChallengeTue, 08 Dec 2009 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Return of Paperboy? Honda unveils Bicycle Simulator]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/return-of-paperboy-honda-unveils-bicycle-simulator/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/return-of-paperboy-honda-unveils-bicycle-simulator/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/return-of-paperboy-honda-unveils-bicycle-simulator/#commentsFiled under: , ,



You remember Nintendo's Paperboy, right? Back in Triassic era of videogames, you had to deliver the day's print to the right house while not getting run over by a car or taken out by a tire. Not exactly the most direct way to learn bicycle safety, but it was fun. A more efficient way to stay safe on a bicycle is Honda's new simulator, which aims to teach two-wheeled folks better on-the-road safety.

Traffic fatalities have fallen in Japan but bicycle fatalities have apparently risen, with teens and older riders the biggest victims. The majority of the problems apparently stem from breaking traffic rules, so the simulator allows riders to learn the ways of the asphalt without getting clobbered by a Daihatsu, and provides both learning and a "rider evaluation session" after the demo.

Honda is accepting pre-orders now, and the simulator will go on sale in Japan starting next February. For the full scoop, check out the press release after the jump.

[Source: Honda]

Continue reading Return of Paperboy? Honda unveils Bicycle Simulator

Return of Paperboy? Honda unveils Bicycle Simulator originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bicyclegadgethondajapansimulatortechMon, 23 Nov 2009 08:29:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Honda likely to build Fit in the U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/19/report-honda-likely-to-build-fit-in-the-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/19/report-honda-likely-to-build-fit-in-the-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/19/report-honda-likely-to-build-fit-in-the-u-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Honda Fit Sport - click above image for hi-res gallery

What goes up, must come down. And in this situation, Japan's yen has gone up when compared to our dollar -- about eight percent since August. And with the yen's rise in value, the profitability of low margin cars like the Honda Fit goes down. Built in Japan, with the yen up, the strong-selling Fit isn't making Honda any money. That's bad.

What if, like 80 percent of all other Hondas sold in the US, the Fit was manufactured right here? Well, that would certainly bring costs down and move Fit-related profits right back up. This switch could happen sooner than later, as Honda sales are down 25 percent over the first nine months of 2009, while Fit sales are only down 12%.

Honda president Takanobu Ito said the change from Japanese to American production a "highly likely possibility." Ito noted that Honda likes the current manufacturing ratio of 80 percent US/20 percent Japan, but says that more hghi tech models (such as hybrids, maybe even sports cars) should come from Japan while the more basic, Fit-like stuff gets built here. Makes economic sense, no?


Gallery: Review: 2009 Honda Fit Sport


[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

REPORT: Honda likely to build Fit in the U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Oct 2009 16:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FitHondaHonda FitHondaFitHybridJapanTakanobu ItoTakanobuItoMon, 19 Oct 2009 16:33:00 EST<![CDATA[JDM Retrofuturism: Mitsuoka launches updated New Viewt]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/19/jdm-retrofuturism-mitsuoka-launches-updated-new-viewt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/19/jdm-retrofuturism-mitsuoka-launches-updated-new-viewt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/19/jdm-retrofuturism-mitsuoka-launches-updated-new-viewt/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Mitsuoka Viewt -- Click above for high-res image gallery

You know that unique thing that Mitsuoka does? If not, see for yourself. And here's another example of it: the new Viewt. Originally introduced in 1993, the Viewt is a Nissan Micra underneath what kind of resembles a Jaguar MkII shell. The latest version of the Viewt underwent some slight changes to ensure compliance with Japanese safety regulations, such as integrating the bumpers into the front end panels.

We consider it a testament to Mitsuoka's designs that a shrunken, ill-proportioned Jaguar clone that sits on a Nissan microcar isn't the strangest thing the company has done. To see more of it, check out the gallery of high-res images below.


Gallery: Mitsuoka New Viewt


[Source: Mitsuoka]

JDM Retrofuturism: Mitsuoka launches updated New Viewt originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Oct 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 mitsuoka2010 mitsuoka viewt2010 viewt2010Mitsuoka2010MitsuokaViewt2010ViewtbudgeteconomyjapanmitsuokaMitsuoka ViewtMitsuokaViewtsedanviewtMon, 19 Oct 2009 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[SPOILER ALERT: Getting down to the point at the Japanese Grand Prix]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/04/spoiler-alert-getting-down-to-the-point-at-the-japanese-grand-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/04/spoiler-alert-getting-down-to-the-point-at-the-japanese-grand-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/04/spoiler-alert-getting-down-to-the-point-at-the-japanese-grand-p/#commentsFiled under: ,

2009 Italian Grand Prix - Click above for high-res image gallery

Underdogs turned front-runners. Grands prix won by six different drivers. Four teams switching their lineups midseason. A multiple world champion (quite nearly) returning to the grid. A team principal and technical director shamed into retirement. A retiring motorsport figurehead sparking a heated race for his succession, and several new teams preparing to join the grid. More so than any other in recent memory, this season of Formula One racing has been packed with excitement. But now it all comes down to three things: points, points and - you guessed it - points. Because while the championship has been in contention since the start of the season some seven months ago in Melbourne, we're now down to the final rounds where the titles will be ultimately decided.

Crossing the East China Sea from Singapore to Japan, Jenson Button held a commanding lead in the drivers' standings, and with his teammate Rubens Barrichello in second place, Brawn GP looked poised to take the constructors' crown as well. All they'd need would be another few points and they'd have it all locked up, leaving their rivals fighting over the table scraps. Follow the jump to see if they got 'em.


Gallery: 2009 Japanese Grand Prix



Continue reading SPOILER ALERT: Getting down to the point at the Japanese Grand Prix

SPOILER ALERT: Getting down to the point at the Japanese Grand Prix originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 04 Oct 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 formula one world championship2009 japanese grand prix2009FormulaOneWorldChampionship2009JapaneseGrandPrixf1fia formula one world championshipFiaFormulaOneWorldChampionshipformula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOnegrand prixGrandPrixjapanjapanesejapanese grand prixJapaneseGrandPrixsuzukaSun, 04 Oct 2009 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[<i>Grassroots Motorsports'</i> Tim Suddard picks ten future Japanese collector cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/tim-suddard-picks-ten-future-japanese-collecter-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/tim-suddard-picks-ten-future-japanese-collecter-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/tim-suddard-picks-ten-future-japanese-collecter-cars/#commentsFiled under: ,

First generation Mazda Miata - Click above to see entire list of future Japanese Collector Cars

"Everybody wants to go to the dance, no one wants to stay and clean up." So says Robert De Niro's Sam in John Frankenheimer's spy thriller/car porno Ronin. We mention the line, because it's not only well written, but nicely sums up most people's attitudes towards classic, collector cars. Yes, we'd all love a Boss 302 Mustang or a Maserati Bora, but no one wants to pay the tens of thousands of dollars it takes to procure and maintain them. But what if in the future collector cars weren't limited to American muscle or exotic Europeans? What if relatively cheap and reliable Japanese cars came to be collectors items?

Regardless of the answer, that's the exact future that Tim Suddard, publisher of both Grassroots Motorsports and Classic Motorsports, is predicting. In fact, here's what he has to say about it:
Right now Japanese cars are generally overlooked by the collector car world, but we expect that to change. A generation that grew up on Hondas, Datsuns and Mazdas is coming of age where they're after the icons of their youth. Where previous enthusiasts paid big money for the Mopars, Chevelles and GTOs that they couldn't afford when teens, we expect the same happen soon with milestone Japanese cars.
Which, if what Suddard is saying is true, means that both demand and price should increase. Which is probably... bad. Click here to see the ten cars (with captions) that Suddard claims are going to be future classics, plus our own two cents on each selection. And of course, what do you think? Also - like what you see? If you're in the Southern California area, don't miss the 2009 Japanese Classics car show this weekend


Gallery: Tim Suddard's ten most collectable Japanese cars

1997-2001 Acura Integra Type R1990-2005 Acura NSX1970-1973 Datsun 240Z1967-1973 Datsun 5101985-1991 Honda CRX Si

Grassroots Motorsports' Tim Suddard picks ten future Japanese collector cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Sep 2009 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>240Z510AcuraAcura IntegraAcura Integra Type RAcura NSXAcuraIntegraAcuraIntegraTypeRAcuraNsxAE86CollectorCollector CarsCollectorCarsCRX SiCrxSiDastun 240ZDastun240zDatsunDatsun 510Datsun510HondaHonda CRXHonda CRX SiHonda S600HondaCrxHondaCrxSiHondaS600IntegraIntegra Type RIntegraTypeRJapanJapaneseMazda MiataMazda RX-3Mazda RX-7MazdaMiataMazdaRx-3MazdaRx-7MiataNSXRX-3RX-7Tim SuddardTimSuddardToyotaToyota CorollaToyota Corolla GT-SToyotaCorollaToyotaCorollaGt-sWed, 30 Sep 2009 12:31:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Toyota increases 2009-2010 global sales forecast by 3%]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/28/report-toyota-increases-2009-2010-global-sales-forecast-by-3/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/28/report-toyota-increases-2009-2010-global-sales-forecast-by-3/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/28/report-toyota-increases-2009-2010-global-sales-forecast-by-3/#commentsFiled under: ,



There have been subtle signs that demand for new cars and trucks are improving. Several automakers plan to increase production over the next few months, and Toyota is no different. Reuters is reporting that the World's Largest Automaker has raised its sales forecast by 3% to 6.7 million units for the year ending March 2010. Toyota is also reportedly looking to increase production by a not-so-subtle 8% to a total of 6.45 million units. Toyota is neither confirming or denying the report, which originated in the Tokyo Shimbun daily.

Some of the reasons cited for the increased forecast and production center around incentives from governments all over the world. Here in the States, Cash for Clunkers payed a big role in Toyota's sales increase, while low emissions vehicle subsidies of up to $2,800 by the Japanese government has helped spur sales in the automaker's home market.

[Source: Reuters]

REPORT: Toyota increases 2009-2010 global sales forecast by 3% originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Sep 2009 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cash for clunkersCashForClunkersincentivesjapansales forecastSalesForecasttoyotatoyota 2009 salestoyota productiontoyota salestoyota sales forecastToyota2009SalesToyotaProductionToyotaSalesToyotaSalesForecastMon, 28 Sep 2009 08:59:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Mitsuoka to offer unique rental cars in Japan, also plans to sell in China]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/27/report-mitsuoka-to-offer-japans-most-unique-rental-cars-also/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/27/report-mitsuoka-to-offer-japans-most-unique-rental-cars-also/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/27/report-mitsuoka-to-offer-japans-most-unique-rental-cars-also/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Mitsuoka Orochi - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mitsuoka, the Japanese car company whose mission seems to be hoarding all the ugly in the entire world and using it to design automobiles, will expand into Japan's rental car market and offer its luxury range in China. Japanese drivers will be able to rent the Orochi for ¥25,000 ($279 US) from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., or for three whole days for ¥45,000 ($501 US). They can also sport the Himiko for ¥20,000 ($223 US) for those nine hours, or ¥36,000 ($401 US) for 72 hours.

The sea monster-faced Orochi will also spearhead Mitsuoka's charge into China. The company plans to display the car at next year's Beijing Auto Show, and to open dealerships in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou. We know the Chinese have occasionally fascinating taste in car design, but we can't wait to see how they receive the Orochi. Mitsuoka wants to move 35 units in its first year, and as if its looks weren't queer enough, the car is expected to cost 50% more in China than it does in Japan, where it will already set you back ¥9,345,000 ($87,287 USD). Any takers?


Gallery: Mitsuoka Orochi


[Source: Antara News]

REPORT: Mitsuoka to offer unique rental cars in Japan, also plans to sell in China originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 27 Sep 2009 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asiabeijing motor showBeijingMotorShowchinaconvertiblecoupefalsehimikojapanmitsuokamitsuoka orochiMitsuokaOrochiperformanceSun, 27 Sep 2009 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Respect Your Elders: Suzuki's Kizashi concepts spotted stacked and awaiting crusher? ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/28/respect-your-elders-suzukis-kizashi-cars-spotted-stacked-and-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/28/respect-your-elders-suzukis-kizashi-cars-spotted-stacked-and-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/28/respect-your-elders-suzukis-kizashi-cars-spotted-stacked-and-a/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Old concepts don't die, they just get thrown in a heap and stacked atop one another in some dank lot out back. Actually, we don't know where the lot is located, but we do know it appears to be holding the Suzuki Kizashi, Kizashi 2, and Kizashi 3 - important concepts that the Japanese automaker unveiled over the past two years.

We hope these aren't the final show car versions. If so, we would have thought that the car that led to the production Kizashi - a big deal for Suzuki - would have been accorded a better spot in the afterlife, like maybe a place in a museum. Or, hell, at least an auction house listing. But that's the great circle of life for you. Tip your 40 to the Kizashis that once were...


Gallery: Suzuki Kizashi 3 Concept - Live Reveal


[Source: 7Tune | Image: New Model Magazine X]

Respect Your Elders: Suzuki's Kizashi concepts spotted stacked and awaiting crusher? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>concept carConceptCaretcjapansuzukisuzuki kizashisuzuki kizashi 2suzuki kizashi 3suzuki kizashi conceptSuzukiKizashiSuzukiKizashi2SuzukiKizashi3SuzukiKizashiConceptFri, 28 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota cutting production capacity by up to 1 million vehicles?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/27/toyota-cutting-production-capacity-by-up-to-1-million-ve/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/27/toyota-cutting-production-capacity-by-up-to-1-million-ve/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/27/toyota-cutting-production-capacity-by-up-to-1-million-ve/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Japan's Nikkei has reported that Toyota is will cut production by 10% in its next fiscal year, from ten million to nine million vehicles. To do that, Japan's largest automaker is said to be shutting down an entire production line in its home country for a year-and-a-half starting next spring. There is also speculation that Toyota will shut down a production line in the U.K. as well.

The news come even as Toyota has been putting out more cars due to global scrappage schemes and incentives, and some of its products, like the Lexus HS 250h, can't be made fast enough.

If Toyota does cease production on both lines and close the endangered NUMMI plant in California, that will eliminate 700,000 cars from its annual tally - which would mean more painful measures to be taken, according to the Nikkei report. But unlike its Japanese compatriots at Honda and Nissan, Toyota is still writing in red ink, and it doesn't expect to fully turn the corner in the near term. Toyota's official statement is that it hasn't yet decided on the depth of the cuts.

[Source: Automotive News, sub. req'd | Image: Justin Sullivan/Getty]

Toyota cutting production capacity by up to 1 million vehicles? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Aug 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanmanufacturingplantsproductiontoyotaukThu, 27 Aug 2009 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Japanese oil, gas companies to tackle hydrogen fueling infrastructure]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/08/japanese-oil-gas-companies-to-tackle-hydrogen-fueling-infrastru/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/08/japanese-oil-gas-companies-to-tackle-hydrogen-fueling-infrastru/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/08/japanese-oil-gas-companies-to-tackle-hydrogen-fueling-infrastru/#commentsFiled under: ,


Toyota Highlander FCV - Click above for a high-res image gallery

A consortium of 13 Japanese oil and gas companies are collaborating in an effort to commercialize technologies enabling convenient refueling of hydrogen-powered vehicles by 2015. Coincidentally (or not), that date goes hand-in-hand with Toyota's target for selling hydrogen vehicles on the retail level.

According to the Nikkei in Japan (via Trading Markets), unnamed automakers are considering joining the group, which expects to start field-testing dozens of hydrogen refueling stations across Japan in short order. It's hoped that the oil companies can generate the hydrogen and the gas companies can use their existing pipelines and stations to transport it at a cost comparable to gasoline.

Considering that the great promise of hydrogen is its lack of tailpipe emissions, we can only hope the oil and gas companies find a way to generate the energy carrier in an environmentally friendly manner, even if it's not necessarily the most profitable solution. Sound likely?


Gallery: LA 2007: Toyota Highlander Fuel Cell



[Source: Trading Markets via Fuel Cell Today]

Japanese oil, gas companies to tackle hydrogen fueling infrastructure originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 08 Aug 2009 17:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>greenhydrogenhydrogen carhydrogen carshydrogen fuel cellhydrogen japanHydrogenCarHydrogenCarsHydrogenFuelCellHydrogenJapanjapanSat, 08 Aug 2009 17:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Exclusive Zeus gets down with Honda's new Insight]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/03/exclusive-zeus-gets-down-with-hondas-new-insight/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/03/exclusive-zeus-gets-down-with-hondas-new-insight/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/03/exclusive-zeus-gets-down-with-hondas-new-insight/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Exclusive Zeus Honda Insight -- Click above for image gallery

Japanese tuner Exclusive Zeus has done a job on the Honda Insight, so that now you can be green and still be a badass. Part of the company's GLMRS Line, the kit consists of front and rear spoilers, grille, and side skirts fabricated in aluminum - but you'll have to take care of the wheels and lowering on your own time. You can buy the pieces individually or get the whole bunch for ￥134,400 ($1,418 U.S.) unpainted, or ￥207,900 ($2,194 U.S.) painted to match your car. We're not sure about those wheels, but Zeusified Insight definitely has a certain "angry vacuum cleaner" quality going for it.


Gallery: Zeus Honda Insight


[Source: Zeus]

Exclusive Zeus gets down with Honda's new Insight originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Aug 2009 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aftermarkethondahonda insightHondaInsighthybridinsightjapanzeusMon, 03 Aug 2009 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Mazda releases 20th Anniversary Edition Miata for JDM faithful]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/31/mazda-releases-20th-anniversary-edition-miata-for-jdm-faithful/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/31/mazda-releases-20th-anniversary-edition-miata-for-jdm-faithful/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/31/mazda-releases-20th-anniversary-edition-miata-for-jdm-faithful/#commentsFiled under: , ,


20th Anniversary Mazda Miata -- Click above for high-res image

Japan gets to celebrate the 20th birthday of the Mazda MX-5/Miata with a special edition for JDM buyers only. The Crystal White Pearl Mica roadster comes in two varieties: an RS soft-top with a 6-speed manual, and a VS hardtop with a 6-speed automatic. Both cars get red-and-black heated Recaros, extra cabin padding, clear front fog lights, a strut tower brace, and (of course) the requisite splash of 20th anniversary badging. You can read about it in the press release after the jump, and check out a high-res photo by clicking the image above.


[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading Mazda releases 20th Anniversary Edition Miata for JDM faithful

Mazda releases 20th Anniversary Edition Miata for JDM faithful originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 31 Jul 2009 18:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>convertiblejapanjdmmazdamazda miatamazda mx-5MazdaMiataMazdaMx-5miatamx-5roadsterspecial editionSpecialEditionFri, 31 Jul 2009 18:33:00 EST<![CDATA[UK police replace Imprezas with Lexus IS-F cruisers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/27/uk-police-replace-imprezas-with-lexus-is-f-cruisers/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/27/uk-police-replace-imprezas-with-lexus-is-f-cruisers/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/27/uk-police-replace-imprezas-with-lexus-is-f-cruisers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Lexus IS-Force - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Objects you do not want to see in your rear-view mirror: Hungry dinosaurs, pissed-off exes holding rifles, mushroom clouds and this guy. Indeed, you're looking at a Lexus IS-Force, an IS-F that's been converted to a cruiser for police duty in the English county of Humberside, which includes the notoriously criminally minded port city of Hull. For the past few years, Humberside bobbies have been chasing baddies in Subaru Imprezas, but the AWD cars just weren't up to the task at hand. What to replace 'em with? Here's what the cops were thinking, according to Sergeant Mike Peck:

"The Lexus was tested during a 12-month period along with similar vehicles and proved itself to be ideally suited in providing a dynamically safe high performance chassis along with an electronically stable platform for the computer equipment. In the past this equipment has placed huge demands on vehicles but the Lexus IS-F easily met with our requirements. The final product provides a most formidable package and is undoubtedly one of the most advanced police vehicles in the world which in turn enables my officers to deal with the criminals who use the roads for serious and organized crime."

We're actually a little weak-kneed at the very thought of the IS-Force's existence. 416-horsepower 5.0-liter V8s with the power to yank your license tend to have that effect. Even on crooks.


Gallery: Lexus IS-F Cop Car

UK police replace Imprezas with Lexus IS-F cruisers originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Jul 2009 15:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CopsIS-FJapanLexusLexus Cop CarLexus ISLexus IS-FLexus IS-F Cop CarLexus IS-F Police CarLexus IS-ForceLexusCopCarLexusIsLexusIs-fLexusIs-fCopCarLexusIs-forceLexusIs-fPoliceCarPoliceMon, 27 Jul 2009 15:27:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Tight Fit: Japanese bus company makes the most of its parking lot]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/video-tight-fit-japanese-bus-company-makes-the-most-of-its-par/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/video-tight-fit-japanese-bus-company-makes-the-most-of-its-par/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/video-tight-fit-japanese-bus-company-makes-the-most-of-its-par/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above to watch video after the jump

Here in the States, unless you live in a city like New York, Chicago or Boston, chances are that on any given day, parking isn't one of your bigger challenges. In smaller, more densely populated countries like Germany or the U.K., finding a spot can be a big issue, and the solution often costs a lot of money.

One motor coach company in Japan is skipping the big cash solution, and instead, it is just driving its buses over the edge. Well, at least a significant portion of them. The company has installed special rear-view cameras in their vehicles so drivers can get a terrifying inch-by-inch update on their progress as they back up to the edge of their parking lot's precipice. A small metal ridge embedded in the asphalt is the last line of defense keeping the tour buses from falling down a very steep embankment. Talk about your nerves of steel parking jobs. Hit the jump to view the video of these massive motor coaches coming inches from taking the Nestea plunge. Hat tip to Musouka!

Source: Japan Probe]

Continue reading VIDEO: Tight Fit: Japanese bus company makes the most of its parking lot

VIDEO: Tight Fit: Japanese bus company makes the most of its parking lot originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Jul 2009 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>busbusesbussesjapanparkingtour busTourBusWed, 08 Jul 2009 12:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Second That Emotion: Toyobaru re-confirmed for Tokyo Motor Show?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/second-that-emotion-toyobaru-re-confirmed-for-tokyo-motor-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/second-that-emotion-toyobaru-re-confirmed-for-tokyo-motor-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/second-that-emotion-toyobaru-re-confirmed-for-tokyo-motor-show/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

As recently as February, the Toyota/Subaru sports car was declared dead, a week later it was back on, a few weeks after that there were rumblings that it would be at this year's Tokyo Motor Show. Japan's Best Car magazine is apparently reporting that the little car will definitely be revealed in Japan. The news makes some sense, as this year's show will be well down on foreign automaker participation, so it's reasonable that local makers will want to take advantage of the dedicated attention to their wares.

Assuming the Toyobaru does show up, it will supposedly sit alongside the production Lexus LF-A and the hybrid 2011 Toyota Supra concept. Now if we could just make sure there's a new NSX there...

[Source: 4WheelsNews | Image: Best Car]

Second That Emotion: Toyobaru re-confirmed for Tokyo Motor Show? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Jul 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 toyota supra2011ToyotaSuprajapanlexuslexus lf-aLexusLf-alf-aRWDsportssubaruSubiesupratokyo motor showTokyoMotorShowtoyobarutoyotaToyotaSupraWed, 08 Jul 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Obligatory Michael Jackson Post - Rare Suzuki Love commercials]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/video-obligatory-michael-jackson-post-rare-suzuki-love-commerc/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/video-obligatory-michael-jackson-post-rare-suzuki-love-commerc/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/video-obligatory-michael-jackson-post-rare-suzuki-love-commerc/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


1982 Suzuki Love commercials featuring Michael Jackson -- Click above to watch the videos

Michael Jackson's memorial service is being held today in Los Angeles (apparently sponsored by local Land Rover dealers). For a reminder of who the man was pre-Thriller and where all of this got started, few things could be better than some Suzuki Love scooter commercials that MJ did in way back in 1982.

In trademark Japanese commercial fashion, the spots don't all make linear sense, but they are fun to watch and there's even a making-of film. Better yet, the advertisements end with a line Jackson would still approve of: "Love is my message." Follow the jump to watch the videos.

[Sources: Japanese Nostalgic Car; TMZ]

Continue reading VIDEO: Obligatory Michael Jackson Post - Rare Suzuki Love commercials

VIDEO: Obligatory Michael Jackson Post - Rare Suzuki Love commercials originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Jul 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>celebritycommercialjapanjapanese commercialJapaneseCommercialmichael jacksonMichaelJacksonMJmopedsuzukisuzuki loveSuzukiLoveTue, 07 Jul 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Cost cutting leads Toyota to cease hosting Japanese Grand Prix]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/report-cost-cutting-leads-toyota-to-cease-hosting-japanese-gran/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/report-cost-cutting-leads-toyota-to-cease-hosting-japanese-gran/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/report-cost-cutting-leads-toyota-to-cease-hosting-japanese-gran/#commentsFiled under: ,



Toyota finances being what they are, the company is ruthlessly assessing its accounts and making cuts anywhere it deems appropriate. The latest head to roll is the Formula 1 race at Fuji Speedway, Toyota's own circuit. Opened in 1965 and host of the Japanese Grand Prix for the first time in 1976, Formula 1 returned to Fuji in 2007 and 2008, and was due again in 2010.

In spite of that, Toyota deemed the $20-to-$30 million dollars necessary to hold a Grand Prix -- a mere fraction of the money it spends on its F1 team - couldn't be justified. Said Hiroaki Kato, president of Fuji Speedway (above), trading conditions have made the race "extremely difficult."

This year's Japanese GP will be held at Honda's Suzuka as scheduled, but next year's race will need to be decided on. Honda has said it has no idea where the 2010 race will be held.

[Source: AFP via Google | Image: Yoshikazu Tsuno/Getty]

REPORT: Cost cutting leads Toyota to cease hosting Japanese Grand Prix originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Jul 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f1formula 1Formula1fujifuji speedwayFujiSpeedwaygrand prixGrandPrixjapanjapanese grand prixJapaneseGrandPrixmotorsportstoyotaTue, 07 Jul 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The wacky, wonderful world of Japanese manhole cover art]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/03/the-wacky-wonderful-world-of-japanese-manhole-cover-art/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/03/the-wacky-wonderful-world-of-japanese-manhole-cover-art/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/03/the-wacky-wonderful-world-of-japanese-manhole-cover-art/#commentsFiled under: ,

Ever roll through some sleepy burg and notice the townsfolk have painted each fire hydrant, recycling bin or park bench as its own work of art? That's one thing... but how about a whole country? Only in Japan, where the same famously zany locals fascinated with sailor costumes and neon lights on dump trucks have done it yet again. Only this time, their attention has shifted to manhole covers. Yes, manhole covers.

We don't know anything about this fad, how it began or how pervasive it is - we'd be glad to hear from you in our comment section below if you do - but from the look of the pinpointed map available at the link, it seems the craft has grown quite pervasive across the whimsical island nation. Check out a slew of our favorite examples in the gallery below, and try not to wonder how the artists didn't get run down by oncoming traffic while painstakingly completing their masterpieces.


Gallery: Japan's Manhole-Cover Art


[Source: ittemia.jp]

The wacky, wonderful world of Japanese manhole cover art originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artjapanman holeManHolemanhole artmanhole covermanhole cover artManholeArtManholeCoverManholeCoverArtsewersewer artSewerArtFri, 03 Jul 2009 12:58:00 EST