4th-Generation Citroen C3

The all-new, fourth-generation Citroen C3 marks the true beginning of the French carmaker's new era in the age of electrification, and being a back-to-basic hatchback with budget-friendly pricing, it's a good compact to start with.

2024 Citroen e-C3

Starting at 14,990 Euros plus additional costs, the all-new fourth-generation Citroen C3 brings Citroen back to being a humble French carmaker even under the thumb of Stellantis. Being the first model to proudly wear the new Citroen logo from the OLI Concept, it truly is a new start.

2024 Citroen C3

The fourth-generation Citroen C3 is the first model to bear the new Citroen logo. However, its design conveys a different message. With styling inspired by the OLI Concept, the C3 resembles a crossover more than a city car, especially with its black cladding on the side and rear. The C-shaped headlamps make the car look like a Rubik's cube, which seems to be a French expression of style. Mind you, the all-new C3 uses most of the bits and bobs from today's Peugeot 208 and Opel/Vauxhall Corsa rather than the new platforms Stellantis introduced a long time ago because it's too early to tell.

2024 Citroen C3 interior

The all-new Citroen C3 has a completely redesigned interior layout that adopts the brand's C-Zen lounge concept. It features a squarish steering wheel, a head-up display (HUD), a sat-nav touchscreen, and automatic air conditioning in MAX variants. The low-cost YOU variant has conventional climate control knobs and a smartphone holder, which is useful for those in the Gig Economy. In terms of space, the C3 has 310 liters of boot space, which is more than adequate for today's thrift store purchases.

2024 Citroen C3

The fourth-generation Citroen C3 is available in petrol and electric versions. The petrol version provides the most enjoyable driving experience, owing to its 1.2L HN09 PureTech engine, which generates 101 PS of power and 205 Nm of torque. When paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox, this engine propels the C3 from 0 to 100 kph in 10.6 seconds and achieves a top speed of 183 kph. In terms of fuel economy, the petrol-powered C3 achieves 5.6 L/100 km combined based on WLTP standards.

The e-C3's electric powertrain has a 44kWh Lithium iron phosphate battery and an electric motor that powers the front wheels. It produces 113PS of power and 120Nm of torque, which enables it to go from 0 to 100kph in 11 seconds and reach a top speed of 135kph. The e-C3 has a range of 326km and takes less than 30 minutes to charge to 80% at a 100kw public charging station.

Although not the most fun to drive on the straights, its city-friendly handling and the signature Citroen Advanced Comfort suspension made the all-new C3 civilized and user-friendly in the real world. As for safety, the all-new C3 features a wide range of safety tech such as rear parking assist, Active Safety Brake, Active Unintentional Line Crossing Alert, speed sign recognition, and the MAX-exclusive reversing camera.

From its OLI-inspired exterior design, minimalist interior, a choice of petrol and electric, user-friendly driving feel, and loads of safety tech, the all-new fourth-generation Citroen C3 truly is the new start for the French carmaker and has the right to wear the new Citroen logo. Welcome to the subtle side.

Photo: Citroen

11th-Generation Honda Accord (CY2)

The Honda Accord is a major contender in the executive midsize sedan class. Still, with the competition officially extinct, the all-new Honda Accord CY2 is the only executive midsize sedan you can buy now.

2024 Honda Accord

Priced at 5,449,400 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, which is cheaper to own than the Lexus ES, the all-new Honda Accord CY2 is the only front-wheel-drive executive midsize sedan you can buy now and because it's available only in e:HEV hybrid powertrain, it's either this or nothing. Sorry, but this is the new normal.

2024 Honda Accord

One look at the all-new Accord and you can easily mistake it for a Ford Taurus on the front and a Lincoln Continental at the back, giving the impression of a New Yorker ready for work. It's no wonder why the Honda Accord is one of America's best-selling vehicles in ages and this all-new look delivered such an impression.

2024 Honda Accord interior

Typical "new normal" Honda interior is implemented in the all-new Accord CY2 judging by the long vents splitting the dashboard into half, the Google-powered 12.3-inch Honda CONNECT display, and the unique Experience Selection Dial that adjusts the temperature, volume, clock, and lighting with a single knob. It's unorthodox but for speedo boys behind the wheel, this gimmick is proof that car designers have lost it. Apart from that, it even comes with an 11.5-inch HUD, USB-C ports, heated seats, a rear door sunshade, a wireless charging port, and a BOSE Premium Sound System. Asked about the trunk space, it's good for up to four golf bags and the rear seats can be folded down for more.

2024 Honda Accord

The Honda Accord CY2's e:HEV hybrid powertrain consists of a 147PS 2.0L petrol engine mated to two electric motors with 184PS power output, resulting in a combined system output of 207PS, and with the CVT, it has 23.8km/L of fuel economy based on the WLTC Mode standards. This is a minor improvement compared to the previous model.

In terms of dynamics, the Accord CY2 features front MacPherson struts for agile handling and a rear Multi-Link that minimizes road vibration. It even comes with a Motion Management System that automatically adjusts deceleration using steering input and helps maintain the grip of the front wheels, a Deceleration Selector in the form of paddle shifters, three driving modes from ECON to SPORT, the "e" switch that engages the EV mode, and adaptive damper system that senses driving conditions and controls the optimal damping force in 1/500 second increments.

The Honda Accord CY2 features the Honda SENSING suite of safety features such as Lane Keeping Assist, Automatic Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Following, Traffic Jam Assist, Collision Mitigation System, Road Departure Mitigation, Low-Speed Brake Control, Auto High Beam, and Cross Traffic Monitor, among others.

The all-new eleventh-generation Honda Accord is now officially unrivaled with its competition officially extinct, except for the expensive Lexus ES300h as its only sparring partner. It's hard to accept such reality but still, this is the new normal and this fully-imported front-wheel-drive hybrid midsize executive sedan is prepared to take an all-or-nothing gamble by all means.

Available colors: Platinum White Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl, Meteoroid Grey Metallic, Ignite Red Metallic, and Canyon River Blue Metallic.

Photo: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

Lexus LBX

Lexus's first-ever compact crossover, the LBX, looks more like a glorified Toyota Yaris Cross but there's something more about this entry-level Lexus crossover.

2024 Lexus LBX

Starting at 4.6 million Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the first-ever Lexus LBX is ironically slightly more expensive than its big brother, the UX, but being the glorified Toyota Yaris Cross it was meant to be, the LBX prefers to keep it modest on the city streets even though it was classified as a luxury vehicle.

2024 Lexus LBX

Beginning with the design, the Lexus LBX is sized like its Toyota Yaris Cross derivative, making it easy to live with and park at its pace. With the front view reminiscent of the LM, the side view is highly reminiscent of today's Honda Fit and the rear view can be easily mistaken for an Aston Martin DBX so yes, it's classified luxury crossover from scratch but despite its luxury status, the LBX feels right at home at typical Japanese suburbs because of such sizing.

2024 Lexus LBX interior

Asked about the interior, the LBX adopts the Tazuna concept approach applied in "new normal" Lexus vehicles, giving it a more minimalist approach. Behind the wheel, the LBX features a 12.3-inch TFT liquid crystal meter, a rather flashy HUD with touch tracer operation, and a 9.8-inch touch display audio, among others. As expected on a new normal Lexus, the controversial e-latch inside door handles are present, which is good until the car battery dies, rendering these handles inoperable, and leaving you trapped. Bad mark for Lexus there.

On the spacing side, this five-seater features foldable second-row seats, giving it 330 liters of boot space for FF variants when not using a 2-tier deck board. The extra two-liter under-deck storage gives slightly more space for goodies when needed.

2024 Lexus LBX

The LBX is powered only by the 1.5L Hybrid Dynamic Force powertrain where the 1.5L M15A-FXE engine is connected to a 69kW electric motor and a Bipolar Nickel battery from the Aqua, producing a system power output of 136PS. Because all variants are mated to a CVT, the LBX's front-wheel drive variant can go up to 27.7kmpl of fuel economy under WLTC Mode standards while AWD variants get 26.2kmpl.

Running on the same GA-B platform as the Toyota Yaris Cross, the Lexus LBX behaves rather well on all walks of life even though it's a tad regular to drive on the open roads or with the AWD system that fits well on either tarmac, gravel, or snow. 

As for safety, the Lexus LBX is equipped with the evolved Lexus Safety System + and advanced parking assistance as well as Lexus Teammate Advanced Drive (Congestion Assistance), Lexus Teammate Advanced Park (with remote functionality), and Advanced Park remote functionality, among others.

It may be a glorified Yaris Cross that is slightly more expensive than its big brother, the UX, but the Lexus LBX is an entry-level crossover that prefers to be modest and down-to-earth not just on city roads but almost everywhere. Tackling through all walks of life and getting the job done is what the LBX does best, albeit not as exciting as expected, but still, it's all about keeping it plain and simple the Lexus way.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Mitsuoka Viewt story

Since 1993, the Mitsuoka Viewt has forever known as the Nissan March in a Jaguar Mark 2 clothing from the K11 model to the K13 model. When Nissan stopped making the March at the end of 2022, most observers said that this was the end of the road for the Mitsuoka Viewt. However, the Viewt's story is never done as it took a detour to the Toyota side for the new model.

2024 Mitsuoka Viewt story

This is the all-new Mitsuoka Viewt story, the newest version of the Viewt that is now based on the fourth-generation Toyota Yaris hatchback. That's right. Ever since the discontinuation of the Nissan March, its long-time host car, at the end of 2022, the Viewt's will lives on in its new host car, the Toyota Yaris. For 2.8 million Japanese Yen plus additional costs, you can now have a fancied-up Toyota Yaris if you disagree with the Yaris's sporty looks.

2024 Mitsuoka Viewt story

In classic Viewt tradition, it mimics the Jaguar Mark 2 styling as seen from its Nissan March-derived predecessors but because this is based on the fourth-generation Toyota Yaris, there's no hiding the fact that this is actually a Yaris in a Jaguar Mark 2 attire. It's about as fancy as an anime girl in Sherlock Holmes' attire, metaphorically speaking.

2024 Mitsuoka Viewt story interior

Yes, you can expect the same interior from the Yaris as well, meaning it's nicer to live than its March-derived predecessor, probably because of the TNGA platform underneath. It seats up to five people and has up to 768 liters of boot space with the passenger seats folded down in case you're in the middle of delivery work if you're into that.

2024 Mitsuoka Viewt story

Because it's based on the Yaris, the Viewt story is powered by a choice of two petrol engines, a Dynamic Force 1.5L, and a 1.0L, and the hybrid variant is powered by a 1.5L Hybrid Dynamic Force powertrain (engine + electric motor + li-ion battery), a first for a Viewt. All variants are mated to CVT but the front-wheel-drive 1.5L variant comes with an available six-speed manual gearbox while all 1.5L variants, petrol or hybrid, come with available 4WD, giving you plenty of reasons to enjoy the Viewt story.

In terms of safety, the Viewt story is packed with numerous advanced safety features such as Pre-Crash Safety, Lane Tracing Assist, Automatic High Beam, Road Sign Assist, secondary collision brake, parking support brake, blind spot monitor, panoramic view monitor, and others.

Having the Viewt migrated from the now-defunct Nissan March to the Toyota Yaris is a difficult thing to do but this new version found itself a new lease of life in its new host. It really is the "second coming" for the Mitsuoka Viewt and it's even more livelier than before.

Available colors: Tulle Top Black Mica, Berry Purple, Pumps Red, Dressy White Pearl, Pistachio Khaki, Cut Sew Gray, Gateau Chocolate Metallic, Turquoise Blue Metallic, Terracotta Orange Mica, Beige Gilet, Coral Beige Metallic, and Washed Denim Blue.

Photo: Mitsuoka Motor Co., Ltd.

16th Generation Toyota Crown (SH32/SM30)

The true 16th-generation Toyota Crown has finally arrived and the 16th coming of the longest-running nameplate in Toyota history shows that they're not giving up the tradition even though the Crown lineage's radically adapted to the age of crossovers as hinted by the Crown Crossover and the Crown Sport models.

2024 Toyota Crown

With prices starting at 7.3 million Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the 16th-generation Crown is a radical new step to the longest-running nameplate in Toyota history. The conservative design, luxurious interior, and eco-friendly performance showcase the business end of this Reiwa Era Crown.

2024 Toyota Crown

Beginning with the design, the all-new Crown is a massive departure from its predecessors because it now adopts a fastback styling akin to the Audi A7. Fastback styling aside, the new front view is somewhat reminiscent of the Dodge Charger while the rear view reminded us of today's Ford Escape. Although the facial expressions are as slim as a coin, the all-new Crown really means business in the middle of the new normal.

2024 Toyota Crown interior

2024 Toyota Crown interior

Come to the interior, the all-new Crown looks and works just like its crossover cousins. Although adopting the minimalist stance, the driver's side is packed with noticeable techs such as T-Connect, smartphone connectivity, voice control, heated steering wheel, digital rearview mirror, and others. As a premium sedan, the passenger side of the all-new Crown truly is the business end because the legroom is slightly roomier compared to its predecessor, and when kitted with extras such as the rear seat center console, rear sunshade, and a headrest pillow, it's a proper alternative to the Audi A7. As for the boot space, it can carry up to 450 liters, and the rear tailgate, despite its fastback looks, opens like a normal sedan and it can be opened hands-free, which is an available feature.

2024 Toyota Crown

The 16th-generation Toyota Crown is offered with a choice of a fuel-cell powertrain lifted from the Mirai and the Toyota-first 2.5L Multi-Stage Hybrid powertrain. 

The fuel-cell variant is armed with the FCB130 fuel-cell powertrain connected to three high-pressure hydrogen tanks, an electric motor, and a lithium-ion battery, producing 182PS of total power output and 300Nm of torque, capable of 820km of driving range with just three minutes of hydrogen filling each time.

The hybrid variant features a Toyota-first 2.5L Multi-Stage hybrid system where the 185PS A25A-FXS Dynamic Force engine is bolted to a 180PS electric motor and a lithium-ion battery, resulting in a system power output of 245PS. Mated to a Multi-Stage Hybrid Transmission with 10-speed transmission control, the hybrid variant has a fuel economy of 18km/L based on WLTC Mode standards.

Running on the narrow version of the GA-L platform, the 16th-generation Crown is rear-wheel-drive only, and although pointless to poke its tail out, it's about as luxurious to drive as its German competitors thanks to its multilink suspension setup and ventilated disc brakes. Judging by the way it drives, this is what the Toyota Crown truly means, especially for seasoned veterans.

As for safety, the 16th-generation Crown features Toyota Safety Sense with the available Proactive Driving Assist, Toyota Teammate Advanced Driver, and Advanced Park for added levels of safety worth noticing.

This is what the Toyota Crown of the Reiwa Era should be, a luxury saloon that's about as luxurious as the German rivals and retains the Crown tradition while keeping up with the demands of the new normal, the 16th-generation Toyota Crown is a wish granted for Crown purists who believed the Crossover and the Sport variants are treason to the Crown heritage. This is the new normal.

Available Colors: Precious White Pearl, Precious Silver, Precious Black Pearl, Precious Metal, Precious Bronze, and Massive Gray.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Lexus LM (TAWH15W)

Lexus's first-ever minivan, the LM, has arrived and those who believed that today's Toyota Alphard and Vellfire aren't luxurious enough for them should consider the fanciest equivalent if they have a massive price to pay.

2024 Lexus LM

The first-ever Lexus LM, priced at 20 million Yen plus additional costs, is no doubt the most expensive minivan in the world thanks to its ultra-luxurious features that can upset today's BMW 7-Series. Although this is basically the highest-ranked version of the Toyota Alphard it was based on, the Lexus LM is fit enough for the 1% to relax while on the move.

2024 Lexus LM

Beginning with the exterior design, the LM features an Alphard-esque side view while donning an un-Lexus front face and a rear view that proudly spells LEXUS all over. This is the first time you'll see a Lexus logo on the front face that is not in the grille since the LFA supercar from a long time ago and such appeal really means authority for the LM.

2024 Lexus LM interior

2024 Lexus LM interior

Despite its minivan looks, the Lexus LM is basically a four-seater fancy living digest because the driver's side and the passenger's side are separated by the 48-inch flat-screen monitor. Beginning with the driver's side, it's packed with the LFA-inspired instrumental panel that most Lexus models don as well as the HUD, a 14-inch touchscreen sat-nav, loads of USB-C ports, climate control, and so on.

On the passenger's side, this is where the out-on-a-limo experience kicks in because, with the special device, passengers can control the ottoman seats with the built-in massager, ambient lighting, the rear entertainment system, air conditioning, and others. Mind you, the rear monitor features a picture-to-picture experience so passengers can watch some movies while video conferencing with other businesspeople when they're out of the office, stuck in traffic, or whatever comes across them. Don't forget that there's a built-in refrigerator where they can store your refreshments as well.

2024 Lexus LM

Just like its lesser Toyota Alphard and Vellfire equivalents, the Lexus LM runs on the TNGA platform, front MacPherson struts, rear double wishbones, and ventilated disc brakes. The only powertrain is the same one used in the RX500 F SPORT Performance and the Toyota Crown Crossover. It combines the 2.4L T24A-FTS turbocharged engine with two electric motors and a nickel-metal battery, producing 371PS of system power output and while mated to a 6-speed AT, it has 13.5km/l of combined fuel economy based on WLTC Mode standards.

Because of the DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system, the LM feels different to drive compared to today's Toyota Alphard and Vellfire minivans with e-Four in it and it feels rather silly to put it on Sport Mode because that will make it a "king in its throne". Toilet finish. Speaking of toilet finish, the Lexus LM features a signature Rear Comfort driving mode that prioritizes comfort for rear passengers while on the move. Although it isn't textbook Rolls-Royce comfort, it soothes the rear passengers like a mermaid's tale all the way home.

Speaking of a mermaid's tale, the Lexus LM features the third-generation Lexus Intelligent Safety System+ (LSS+3.0) with a Pre-Crash Safety system, Front Cross Traffic Alert, Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert, Lane Change Assist, Road Sign Assist, Adaptive High-Beam System, driver monitor, Proactive Driving Assist, and others. It even comes with the Lexus Teammate Advance Drive, and Advance Park as well.

The ultra-luxurious and ultra-expensive Lexus LM is the ultimate luxury minivan fit enough for the 1% to relax while on the move. Whether you're going to Okada, Newport World Resorts, Solaire, City of Dreams, Hann, or whatever casino-resorts these minivans serve, rest assured that the Lexus LM will blow away the lesser Toyota luxury minivans such as the Alphard, Vellfire, and the GranAce from arrival to departure. Consider yourselves VIPs.

Available Colors: Sonic Quartz, Sonic Titanium, Graphite Black Glass Flake, and Sonic Agate.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Chevrolet Corvette C8 E-Ray

To the eyes of purists, the Chevrolet Corvette C8 is treason to its heritage because of its mid-engine layout and to add more salt to the wounds, the first-ever hybrid Corvette comes to life. A fitting upset to the Corvette's seven-decade history.

2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray

2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray Convertible

Starting at an epically expensive 102,900 US Dollars plus additional costs, the first-ever Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray, in coupe and convertible forms, is by no means the biggest treason to the Corvette's seven-decade heritage because this is the first time a Corvette's been hybridized and the first to have AWD a la Honda NSX.

While the styling is more of a toned version of the Z06 while the interior works and feels just like most of the C8 Corvette lineup, the E-Ray's hybrid powertrain is the most controversial feature worth noting. The 6.2L LT2 V8 engine is mated to an electric drive unit, producing a total power output of 655HP. Although awfully close to the Z06, it's more powerful than the now-defunct Honda NSX, in Type S form. Unlike the NSX, the E-Ray is one gear short, 8 vs. 9.

Thanks to its electric drive unit, drivers can engage Stealth Mode to run on electric power only for up to four miles at 45mph. Handy if you want to quietly leave your home for a little night out at the pub with your friends. That's the element of surprise, the Corvette way. 

Because this is the first Corvette in history to have AWD, it has a 0-60mph time of 2.5 seconds and a quarter-mile time of 10.5 seconds. Whilst the added punching power, the AWD system made the Corvette E-Ray capable of going places that no supercars can't and thanks to its all-season tires, there's no need to wait for summer to let it loose in the wilderness. 

You can really take it to the track even when the weather has a gloomy outlook, although you may need to wait for another summer vacation to unleash its full potential when you have the ZER Performance Package which comes with high-performance Michelin® Pilot Sport 4 S ZP summer-only tires as well as chassis tuning and other performance enhancements. Bummer but not as bummer as the fact that most Corvette clubs actually ban the E-Ray for racing on track days due to fire concerns.

Yes, the Corvette E-Ray is no doubt the most controversial Corvette ever made because of its hybrid powertrain and all-wheel-drive but despite being a treason to the Corvette heritage, this is the ideal substitute for the now-defunct Honda NSX. In fact, jealousy is an out-of-issue for the Corvette E-Ray because this car is making its appearance in the new Forza Motorsport game and it's going to be as awesome as most supercars can get.

Love it or hate it, the Corvette E-Ray is ready to strike first and ask questions never. Be prepared to want one.

Photo: General Motors

Toyota Alphard and Vellfire (H40W)

For over two decades, the Toyota Alphard served as the flagship of Toyota's minivan lineup and it has been a favorite for VIPs of the East. In its all-new form, the Alphard and its sporty equivalent, the Vellfire, are ready to tackle the new normal while doing what these minivans do best; the premium combination of style, luxury, practicality, and comfort fit for royalties.

2024 Toyota Alphard

2024 Toyota Vellfire

The Toyota Alphard and Vellfire minivans are now on their H40W spec and because they're all-new from scratch, they are no longer the luxury minivans the Easterlies are familiar with. These minivans have turned pure alpha and they're ready to strut the road in style and comfort, no doubt.

2024 Toyota Alphard

2024 Toyota Vellfire

Beginning with the styling, the all-new Alphard's front view features a mammoth T-shaped grille that can embarrass today's BMW designs and for the first time, the Alphard badging has been replaced by the Toyota logo on it, a move similar to today's Harrier and Noah. Do not worry, the Alphard emblem is now located on the side view packed with sharp-looking windows. As for the rearview, it can be somewhat reminiscent of last decade's Crown.

The Vellfire, meanwhile, features the same shape as the Alphard but with a front view that says "Honey, I grew the Roomy" and a rearview reminiscent of the Hyundai Grandeur TG, adding some dramatic flair to it, if you catch my drift.

2024 Toyota Alphard interior

2024 Toyota Vellfire interior

Both the Alphard and the Vellfire are packed with an all-new interior which is slightly longer than the previous models while maintaining the same width and wheelbase as their predecessors. They're all offered as seven-seaters with ultra-luxurious second-row seats, a prized hallmark for these minivans.

On the driver's side, it features a 12.3-inch TFT color meter with a multi-information display, color HUD, a 14-inch sat-nav, a new digital rear-view mirror, and others. The passenger side, meanwhile, features a host of luxury amenities including Toyota firsts such as the super-long overhead console, power side sunshade for rear seats, universal steps positioned at the sliding doors for easy access, one-touch seesaw switch on the sliding doors, and the world's first 5:5 split two-position space-up seats where the third-row seats can be flipped up for extra space.

2024 Toyota Alphard

2024 Toyota Vellfire

As expected, all variants have four-cylinder engines and no V6 in them. That's it and that's all. Speaking of which, in order to differentiate the Alphard and the Vellfire, the petrol variants have been specified for each minivan. 

The Alphard Z variant is powered by a 2.5L 2AR-FE engine that produces 182PS of power, and 235Nm of torque. Mated with the Super CVT-i, it has a fuel economy of up to 10.6km/l for FF variants.

The Vellfire Z Premier, meanwhile, is powered by the turbocharged 2.4L T24A-FTS engine that produces 279PS of power and 430Nm of torque. Mated to a Direct Shift-8AT, it has 10.3km/L of fuel economy for FF variants.

Both the hybrid variants of the Alphard and the Vellfire are powered by a 2.5L A25A-FXS petrol-hybrid powerplant bolted to an electric motor (two electric motors if you're on the e-Four variant), a nickel battery, and CVT. With this powertrain, fuel economy is up to 17.7km/L for FF variants while e-Four variants get up to 16.7km/L.

Running on the TNGA platform, front MacPherson struts, rear double wishbones, and ventilated disc brakes, both the all-new Alphard and the all-new Vellfire behave like luxury cars with their refined silence and comfort that can please VIPs from the hot seat. In addition, both are packed with Toyota Safety Sense and Toyota Teammate for safer driving and worry-free parking worth noticing. Don't ask your boss about these gizmos.

The Alphard starts at 5.4 million Japanese Yen while the Vellfire starts at 6.55 million Japanese Yen plus additional costs.

With the all-new Toyota Alphard and the all-new Toyota Vellfire making the rounds, high rollers of the Far East are ready to double down on these new versions because of the style, luxury, practicality, and comfort worth their trip, not to mention the tech involved. Because both minivans are powered by four-cylinder engines only with the Vellfire at the top of the pack with its turbocharged 4-pot, there's no idea how to explain these minivans to the boys and girls at Okada, Newport World Resorts, Solaire, City of Dreams, Hann, or whatever casino-resorts these minivans served.

Available colors (Alphard): Platinum White Pearl Mica, Black, and Precious Leo Blonde.

Available colors (Vellfire): Platinum White Pearl Mica, and Black.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

5th-Generation Toyota Prius (WH60/65)

From its first launch at the end of 1997 onwards, the Toyota Prius is forever known as the originator of the hybrid race, and thanks to the Prius, the motoring industry is following the Prius's example, reducing carbon emissions every mile away. Built to tackle the challenges of the new normal in this unstable world, the Prius of the Reiwa Era was born, and Toyota's ringing in the new year with the fifth-generation Prius.

2023 Toyota Prius

Starting at 3.2 million Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the all-new, fifth-generation, Toyota Prius, is the newest take on the pioneering hybrid vehicle that started it all. It's built to tackle the challenges of the new normal in this unstable world we live in and being the first Prius of the Reiwa Era, it's a challenge accepted.

2023 Toyota Prius

Beginning with the design, the iconic Prius silhouette was retained in this new version while incorporating a sleek and stylish design fit for the new normal. On the front, it dons one similar to the Ferrari SF90 Stradale, which is rather intriguing because Toyota began copying the front face of modern Ferraris in cars like the bZ4x and the recent Crown Crossover. On the rear end, well, it really is even and squared to perfection. The questionable but futuristic styling really made a statement about a Prius built for the Reiwa era.

2023 Toyota Prius

The new interior signaled the end of an era where Prius speedos are positioned in the middle because, unlike past generations, the new Prius has its instrumental panel positioned to the driver's side while the touchscreen positioning is highly reminiscent of BMWs of today. The gear lever is now positioned below rather than into the dashboard and with numerous features implemented on the driver's side, the new Prius is now civilized and sensible for everyone behind the wheel. Oh, and hope you got your USB-C cables handy because there are no Type-A outlets in the new Prius. Just USB-C outlets only.

In terms of spacing, it's slightly more spacious compared to the previous model, meaning there's slightly enough room for your recent purchases from the thrift store if you catch my drift.

2023 Toyota Prius

Running on the second-generation TNGA platform while being coupled with MacPherson struts at the front and a double wishbone setup at the rear, the new Prius drives better than the previous model and it's more rigid as well, making it the Prius you would really like to drive on a daily basis. Add an e-Four system and it adds some all-weather capabilities to the new model.

Under the hood, the new Prius is offered only with an M20A-FXS 2.0L Dynamic Force engine bolted to an electric motor and a Li-ion battery. It produces up to 193PS of power output and while mated to a CVT, fuel economy is around 31.5km/L for FF models while 4WD models get up to 29.2km/L, based on WLTC mode standards. A PHEV variant will arrive later this spring.

If you're on a business trip, you can rent the 1.8L model via KINTO for 16,610 Yen per month but it's only applicable for the KINTO Unlimited plan. The 1.8L rental car has 32.6km/L of fuel economy. Should cover your sensible business trips across Japan.

Being the Reiwa-era Prius, the new model's Toyota Safety System was greatly expanded and revised with the addition of the rear vehicle proximity notification and secondary collision brake. These new features, along with familiar advanced driving assistance systems offered as well as the Toyota Teammate - Advanced Park, made the new Prius safer than ever, although there might be some downsides for speedo boys behind the wheel. That's autonomy for you.

To buy, to drive, or to burn? That is the question that pops up on every customer's mind when they lock their sights on the all-new Prius. Because being the Reiwa-era Prius that tackles the challenges of the new normal, it sure knows how to be topical and current at the same time in this unstable world we live in. With climate change and rising gas prices becoming the new normal in this unstable world, the new Prius is common sense for the common good because, in the end, this will be the people's car of the new normal. The more you know.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Suzuki Landy (R90C/95C/A90C/A95C)

The Suzuki Landy is basically a Nissan Serena borrowed by Suzuki for people whose nearest dealership is a Suzuki. While waiting for the next-generation Nissan Serena to arrive, it seems the Suzuki Landy went for an abrupt full model change without waiting for the original Nissan equivalent? Why's this happening?

2023 Suzuki Landy

2023 Suzuki Landy

There's a clear explanation why Suzuki regenerated the Landy without waiting for its Nissan Serena equivalent, mainly because Suzuki stopped borrowing cars from Nissan due to Nissan's connections with Mitsubishi Motors. For this new model, Suzuki borrowed the fourth-generation Toyota Noah minivan, making it the first Suzuki-fied Toyota vehicle to be sold in Japan, although Suzuki's record of borrowing Toyota vehicles can be traced back overseas, mainly from Europe to India.

2023 Suzuki Landy interior

While seeing a Toyota with a Suzuki badge is nothing new, Japanese families will have their dibs on the first Suzuki-badged Toyota vehicle sold at home for people whose nearest dealership is Suzuki. Using the base variant of the Toyota Noah as the basis, the all-new Landy is surprisingly bigger than its Serena-derived predecessor, meaning it's a big win in the interior space as well, which fits up to seven or eight passengers. Like the Noah, the all-new Landy comes with a Power Back Door Switch, which is located on one of the slides, and the Free Stop Back Door which can be manually held in the middle position.

The all-new Landy comes with two powertrains to choose from. The M20A-FKS 2.0L Dynamic Force engine with Direct Shift-CVT produces 170PS of power, 202Nm of torque, and up to 15.1kmpl of fuel economy. The hybrid variant, meanwhile, uses a combination of a 2ZR-FXE 1.8L petrol engine, CVT, an electric motor (one for FF, two for 4WD), and a Li-ion battery. This setup promises 23.2kmpl of fuel economy based on WLTC Mode standards.

In terms of safety, the all-new Suzuki Landy uses Toyota's Safety Sense, a suite of advanced driving aids, as well as the Advanced Park feature.

With the new Landy making the switch from being a borrowed Nissan Serena into a borrowed Toyota Noah, looks like its abrupt regeneration paid off slightly big dividends in terms of space and efficiency. If you want a new Noah but your nearest dealership is the Suzuki dealership, this is the one for you.

Photo: Suzuki Motor Corporation.

Nissan X-Trail T33

After years of waiting, the fourth-generation Nissan X-Trail has arrived and this new model becomes the new standard of Nissan because, for the first time, the new model features a bold new powertrain; a combination of the second-generation e-Power and the VC-TURBO engine. So, what's it all about the all-new X-Trail?

2023 Nissan X-Trail

Starting at 3,198,800 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the all-new Nissan X-Trail T33 rewrote the crossover rules with its new powertrain the competition never saw it coming. It's the first Nissan sold in Japan to have a VC-TURBO engine while mated to the new-generation e-Power first applied on the current Nissan Note. More with that later on but first, the design.

2023 Nissan X-Trail

Beginning with the design, the all-new X-Trail features a masculine look compared to its predecessor. Sure, the sideline and the rear sight look awkwardly similar to its main rival, the Toyota RAV4, but the front view is too radical for a Japanese crossover so it's a knife edge when you best describe it.

2023 Nissan X-Trail

2023 Nissan X-Trail AUTECH

Of course, that's just the normal look for the new model because the all-new X-Trail can be specified with an adventure-oriented XTREMER-X and the custom-tailored AUTECH variant with glossier looks. Whichever X-Trail you're on, it's all business.

2023 Nissan X-Trail interior

What about the interior? Nissan says the new interior is a true "family hub" designed to provide comfort and utility for all. From a choice of five-seater and seven-seater configurations, complete with foldable rear seats, tri-zone climate control, a motion-activated tailgate, hidden storage, and tons of compartments to store stuff, it's all about practicality the Nissan way. Gadgetry? Well, let's see, you have the 12.3-inch NissanConnect display screen with smartphone connectivity, 10.8-inch HUD, USB-A and USB-C ports, sure, this crossover packs some serious gadgetry on the go. Boot space? It's good for 585 liters, which is 20 liters more than the previous model.

2023 Nissan X-Trail

Time to uncover the X-Trail's unique powertrain that combines the 1.5L KR15DDT VC-Turbo engine and the second-generation e-POWER. For a quick recap about these two; the first one is a variable compression ratio engine that is capable of delivering an optimal compression ratio from performance to efficiency. It's a petrol engine that behaves like a diesel engine. Enough said. e-POWER? Well, this hybrid powertrain lets the electric motor do the talking while the petrol engine charges the batteries. This powertrain delivers 204PS of total power output and while mated to a CVT, the fuel economy is 19.7kmpl based on WLTC Mode standards, a tad less than the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.

Supplementing this unique powertrain is Nissan's revolutionary e-4ORCE 4WD system derived from the Ariya. Of course, you are already familiar with e-4ORCE but for those who keep asking the same question, e-4ORCE manages power output and braking performance for each wheel, making handling everywhere worth enjoyable without the drama involved.

While the e-4ORCE deserves a lot of attention, the use of the CMF-C platform, rear multilink suspension, ventilated disc brakes, and rack-and-pinion steering, the new X-Trail feels as simple and as civilized as any commoners should.

In terms of safety, Nissan's Intelligent Mobility goes full circle with the new X-Trail. From its Intelligent Forward Emergency Braking, advanced headlamp technology, and many other active safety features, it's all about being prepared for the trip.

The e-POWER VC-TURBO combination, the muscular looks, the refined interior, the tech, the Nissan X-Trail T33 had it all. Like it or not, this could be your next ride worth living.

Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

Toyota Sienta - Third Generation

For almost two decades, the Toyota Sienta is a compact MPV that caters not just to Japanese families but also to East Asian ones as demonstrated by the previous second-generation model. Now in its third generation, the all-new Sienta picks up where its predecessor left off by keeping its practical side intact for today's East Asian families.

2023 Toyota Sienta

2023 Toyota Sienta

The third generation Toyota Sienta, priced at 1.95 million Japanese Yen plus additional costs, remains its reasonably-priced status for a compact MPV fit for Japanese and Asian roads (in case someone smuggled one for keeps) while providing new ways and means to stall its occupants in an arousing manner.

Starting with the design, keen observers will say that the third-generation Sienta is a blatant ripoff of the current Fiat Panda due to its surprising resemblance. Looks like Toyota learned something from the Chinese motoring playbook about copying car designs for kicks and this is what the new Sienta looked like, a Japanese Fiat Panda clone. Nice one, Toyota. Panda clone aside, the new model is longer and taller compared to the previous model while retaining its Japan-friendly width.

2023 Toyota Sienta interior

2023 Toyota Sienta interior

While the exterior design is nothing more than a blatant copy of the Fiat Panda, the interior was heavily redesigned for user-friendliness. Some call it minimalist, others call it functional, and the all-new Sienta fits both bills greatly. On the passenger side, thanks to its slightly increased length and height, it's slightly roomier than the previous Sienta and you can have one in either a five-seater or a seven-seater. Either way, the rear seats can be folded down for various situations, for work, or for leisure.

Mind you, while the center console can accommodate a USB and USB-C cable, the rear side of the front-row seats can accommodate only USB-C cables. Hope you got the right cable while charging your gadgets.

If you're a camping enthusiast, it's good to know that the hybrid model's power supply is good for five-and-a-half days. Feel free to plug in your favorite appliances while living the outdoor life.

Under the hood, the all-new Sienta is now powered by a 1.5L Dynamic Force engine in petrol and hybrid configurations. The petrol version produces 120PS of power, 145Nm of torque, and while mated to a Direct-Shift CVT, the fuel economy is a modest 18.4kmpl. 

The hybrid powerplant with the said engine, an electric motor, and a nickel battery, promises a best-in-class 28.8km/L of fuel economy. An e-Four variant is optional for the hybrid in case you need more oomph for your travel plans.

With the TNGA platform, front McPherson strut coil springs, rear torsion beam coil springs, and front ventilated disc brakes, the all-new Sienta is still regular to drive as the previous model but who cares?

In terms of safety, the all-new Sienta comes with the most advanced driver aids offered such as the next-generation Toyota Safety Sense and Toyota Teammate with Advanced Park, making it a certified "Safety Support Car S Wide". Enough to call it the safest Sienta ever made as Toyota would say.

Although questionable for copying the looks of the Fiat Panda, the all-new Sienta is the most convenient Sienta ever made thanks to its dimensions, interior, and safety, which is astonishing for a compact MPV for its size.

Available colors: White Pearl Crystal Shine, Dark Gray, Black, Scarlet Metallic, Beige, Urban Khaki, Grayish Blue, Dark Gray/Scarlet Metallic, and Dark Gray/Grayish Blue.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation