Showing posts with label toyota. Show all posts
Showing posts with label toyota. Show all posts

Wednesday, January 17, 2024

My GT7 Log: Reiwa no Super GT fighters

The Super GT 2024 season will see a matchup like no other in the Reiwa era. It's a clash between the Toyota GR Supra, the Nissan Fairlady Z RZ34, and the Honda Civic Type R FL5. Here in GT7, I'm driving their road car equivalents predicting which car will win the 2024 season.


But first, let's get to know about these Reiwa-era JDM sports cars.


With the design borrows inspiration from the FT-1 Concept, the GR Supra shares most of the engines from the BMW Z4 G29 such as the 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo engine and the 3.0L BMW TwinPower Turbo engine for the range-topping RZ variant producing 340PS of power and 500Nm of torque. All of the engines are mated to an 8-speed Steptronic gearbox.

In the spring of 2020, the GR Supra's 3.0L BMW-derived TwinPower Turbo engine on the flagship RZ variant was boosted by 47PS, resulting in a 387PS power output. In addition, the updated GR Supra features a revised chassis consisting of lightweight aluminum braces, front and rear bump stops, and new damper tuning.


The Nissan Fairlady Z RZ34 features an eclectic mix of design cues inspired by past models as well as a cutting-edge interior featuring a GT-R-derived steering wheel, the signature triple pod cluster, and race-inspired gauges. Under the hood, the previous model's 3.7L VVEL engine was replaced by the VR30DDTT 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo engine derived from the Skyline 400R. It produces nearly 400HP of power and 475Nm of torque while mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 9-speed AT. It features optional launch control for the first time in a Z car and a mechanical LSD.

Apart from the performance it delivers, the RZ34 Fairlady Z features new monotube shocks, new front geometry, rear suspension tuning, and another first for the Z car, electric power steering. It even features increased rigidity and available sports brakes.


Based on the 11th generation Honda Civic hatchback, the FL5 Civic Type R eschews the obvious styling from its predecessor in favor of a more subtle approach while retaining the triple exhaust setup from the FK8. For the first time since the FD2, the FL5 Civic Type R is back to being a Japan-made hot hatchback.

It runs on the same K20C1 2.0L VTEC Turbo engine as the previous FK8 but it's been boosted to produce 330PS of power and 420Nm of torque while mated exclusively to a 6-speed MT.

From the improved suspension setup, electronically controlled dampers, improved braking performance, and new Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires built exclusively for this car, it smashed the Suzuka Circuit's FF lap record in 2:23.120 and recently, the Nurburgring Nordschleife's FF lap record in 7:44.881.

The FL5 Civic Type R became the 2022-2023 Japan Performance Car of the Year winner.


Taking the idea from both Best Motoring and Hot Version, I decided to compare these three Reiwa-era JDM sportscars around Tsukuba Circuit and engage the one-lap time attack rite of passage, predicting which of these three has the potential to win the 2024 Super GT season.




In their road car guises, the RZ34 is the most powerful of the three but the FL5 is the dark horse because although it's the least powerful, boasting 325hp power output, it's the lightest of the three, making this comparison truly one-sided. Anyway, no time for jibber-jabbers. It's time to find out which of the three has the potential to win the 2024 Super GT season. Roll the tape.


And here are the results...

GR Supra - 1m05.227s

Z RZ34 - 1m05.767s

Civic Type R FL5 - 1m05.706s

The FL5 Civic Type R truly is the dark horse of the three. It barely defeated the Nissan Fairlady Z RZ34 by a crust but it's razor-thin slower than the GR Supra. The result is too close to call.


Based on my experiment, my prediction for the 2024 Super GT season will be a close call with the GR Supra expected to win the 2024 season. I'm not sure which GR Supra Super GT car will be but it's everyone's game. The Civic Type R FL5 is proven to be the dark horse of the three and I expect its Super GT equivalent to deliver razor-thin results compared to the other two. Both the GR Supra and the Fairlady Z RZ34 nailed titles but with the arrival of the Super GT Civic, will it be the first to win a Super GT title for the Honda Civic?

Expect the 2024 Super GT season to be as close as the elections, if you catch my drift. With the GR Supra expected to dominate the 2024 season as well as the Honda Civic's wild-card performance, it's going to be the tightest season ever. Get your popcorn ready because it's going to be a long fight.

Tuesday, December 26, 2023

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
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
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
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
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

Wednesday, November 29, 2023

Toyota Land Cruiser 70 (2024MY Minor Change)

The GOAT in the Land Cruiser history, the 70 Series, returns for the 2024 Model Year, and it's here to stay as the heavy-duty class of the Land Cruiser lineage.


2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 70
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 70

Starting at 4.8 Million Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the reborn Toyota Land Cruiser 70 is the ultimate no-nonsense JDM offroader for those who believe that today's offroaders are too posh for them or they can't afford to buy a Jeep Wrangler. Whatever the reason, it's here to stay and ready to roll, ripping through the toughest places in Japan.


2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 70
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 70

Although it's still as good as it was nearly four decades ago, the Land Cruiser 70 features a new front face with a grille that spells TOYOTA on it as well as three horizontal slats below the grille, a tribute to earlier models. Even with a new look, it's still the Land Cruiser 70 the world knows.


2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 70
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 70 interior

2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 70
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 70 interior

The familiar interior has been revamped with a new instrumental panel, a new steering wheel, a new cup holder design at the center console, USB-C ports, a rear monitor at the room mirror, and new switches below the dashboard, keeping this ancient offroader updated for the new normal. It still seats up to five people and comes with foldable second-row seats for added boot space for your essentials. Better be overprepared rather than underprepared, some say.


2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 70
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 70

Unlike the previous model nearly a decade ago, the 2024MY Toyota Land Cruiser 70 is powered only by a 1GD-FTV 2.8L common-rail turbodiesel engine mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox. It produces 204PS of power output and 500Nm of torque while the fuel economy is 10.1km/L based on WLTC Mode standards.

Being an old-school offroader with a ladder frame, the Land Cruiser 70 is packed with front coil springs, rear leaf springs, Downhill Assist Control, VSC and Active Traction Control, an electronic differential lock, hill-start assist control, a part-time 4WD system, and a dual-mode automatic locking hub. Although it's still not suitable for your Tokyo trip, it's still a classic offroader fit to tackle through the path to Mt. Fuji or crawl through the end of the mountain road ahead of someone. That's off-road ingenuity, the Land Cruiser way.

The ancient Land Cruiser 70 Series now comes with Toyota Safety Sense with a suite of intelligent safety features including Lane Departure Alert, Road Sign Assist, Pre-Collision System, and others.

It's great to have the Land Cruiser 70 back in the lineup as the heavy-duty member of the Land Cruiser family and this remastered classic is ready to tackle the challenges of the new normal, something that a modern offroader couldn't think of. If you're looking for an offroader but can't afford a Jeep Wrangler, the remastered Land Cruiser 70 is the one for you. It's still the GOAT.

Available Colors: Beige, Super White II, and Attitude Black Mica.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Tuesday, November 14, 2023

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
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
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
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
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.

Thursday, November 2, 2023

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
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
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
2024 Toyota Crown interior

2024 Toyota Crown
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
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

Friday, October 20, 2023

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
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
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
2024 Lexus LM interior

2024 Lexus LM
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
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

Friday, October 6, 2023

Toyota Crown Sport (SH36)

In the summer of 2022, Toyota kicked off the new era of the Crown brand with the Crossover variant with the prospects of having the Crown brand expanded with a sports version, a sedan version, and an estate version soon. For 2023, the sports version of the 16th generation Crown range takes center stage.

2024 Toyota Crown Sport
2024 Toyota Crown Sport


The Crown Sport is the second part of the four-part 16th-generation Crown lineup and with prices starting at 5.9 million Japanese Yen plus additional costs, it's more expensive to own than its Crossover equivalent. So, how about a quick dive into the second cour of the Reiwa era Crown lineup?

2024 Toyota Crown Sport
2024 Toyota Crown Sport

Beginning with the exterior, the design is highly debatable because when the Crown Sport's design concept was showcased following the launch of the Crown Crossover back in the summer of 2022, the coupe crossover styling was macho indeed from top to bottom until Ferrari stole the Toyota Crown Sport's looks for their Purosangue. Long story short but like the chicken and the egg, it's hard to say which one came first, whether it's this or the Ferrari Purosangue. Either way, the styling is highly debatable indeed.

2024 Toyota Crown Sport
2024 Toyota Crown Sport interior

While it's hard to explain about the exterior styling that caused a row between Toyota and Ferrari, the interior works just like its Crossover equivalent. 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. While it can accommodate up to five people, the 397-litre boot space capacity means it's less spacious than the Crossover. Still, the hands-free power liftgate, tonneau board, and an AC100V・1500W accessory outlet are some of the nifty features the Crown Sport offers if you're in the mood for outdoors.

2024 Toyota Crown Sport
2024 Toyota Crown Sport

At launch, the Crown Sport is offered with a 2.5L A25A-FXS Dynamic Force hybrid powertrain bolted to a nickel-metal battery and a CVT, resulting in a total power output of 234PS of power output and 21.3km/L of fuel economy based on WLTC Mode standards. By the festive season, a PHEV variant will be offered later.

With its TNGA-K platform, Dynamic Rear Steering, VDIM, and E-Four, along with the front MacPherson struts and rear multilink suspension setup, the Crown Sport behaves like a luxury crossover even while on either tarmac, gravel, or snow. It can be configured in three driving modes; ECO, NORMAL, and SPORT.

Although it doesn't behave like the Purosangue crossover that stole its looks, the Crown Sport soothes your brow all the way home. It even features Toyota Safety Sense with the available Proactive Driving Assist, Toyota Teammate Advanced Driver, and Advanced Park for added levels of safety worth noticing.

Calling it a poor man's Purosangue is out of context because of the styling the Ferrari Purosangue stole it from, but the Toyota Crown Sport is business and leisure without explanations. It really is the second cour of the Reiwa era Crown lineup worth checking out and the connection continues.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Friday, September 29, 2023

My GT7 Log: The other GR hot hatch

The Toyota GR Yaris is the closest thing you can get from its WRC-winning rally machine counterpart because of its rally-honed performance and dynamics that are deemed unrivaled even in the midst of the new normal. No one dared to take on the GR Yaris and this is why this super hot hatch is a class on its own.


As a matter of fact, the GR Yaris wasn't the only super hot hatch that emerged from the skunk works of Toyota Gazoo Racing. In fact, there's another hot hatch that belonged to the same bloodline as this, only bigger...


So, care to guess what that other GR hot hatch is?


What about now? Any takers? Well, there's only one answer...


This is the first-ever Toyota GR Corolla, the other super hot hatch from Toyota Gazoo Racing and you can drive one in Gran Turismo 7 right away.


So, what's it all about the GR Corolla? Based on the E210 Corolla Sport, the GR Corolla features a wider exterior design, improved aerodynamics, and better rigidity. Using the same G16E-GTS 1.6L 3-cylinder turbocharged engine from the GR Yaris, it's been boosted to produce 304PS of power and 370Nm of torque while mated exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission. As for fuel economy, it's good for 12.4km/L based on WLTC Mode standards.

Just like the GR Yaris, the GR Corolla comes with the GR-FOUR active torque split 4WD system with a Torsen LSD for better cornering and stability on either tarmac, gravel, or snow.

For those who demand more for the GR Corolla comes the hardcore MORIZO Edition, which was named after the alias of Toyota boss Akio Toyoda, who is also the company's master test driver. The MORIZO Edition removes rear seats for weight-saving measures and uses a unique close-ratio transmission and final gear setup, increased turbo boost, unique forged wheels, and monotube suspension dampers.

When it was launched in Japan in December 2022, the GR Corolla was limited to 500 units, 70 for the MORIZO Edition. Therefore, a lottery system was implemented for those who were willing to purchase.


Yes, the GR Corolla is by no means one of the highly-anticipated models of last year following a series of cryptic teasers scattered throughout typical Toyota car photos, if you know what I mean. All those cryptic clues led to the unmasking of the most practical five-door super hot hatch in the world. You better thank Toyota for this one.

With all the suspense killing me, it's time to find out how much of a super hot hatch the GR Corolla is when compared to its little brother, the GR Yaris.



I've selected Bathurst as the playpen for the two GR hot hatches and as always, the one with the fastest lap time is the winner of this comparison. I know that the GR Corolla is the most powerful of the two but the GR Yaris is smaller and lighter, making the sibling strife one-sided. Up to me to find out which of the two super hot hatches is the best. Let's roll the tape.


And now, the results...

GR Yaris - 2m42.113s

GR Corolla - 2m40.546s

Talk about a nearly two-second gap between the two GR hot hatchbacks even though they have the same 1.6L turbocharged engines and the same GR-FOUR 4WD system, but in the end, it seems the most powerful hot hatchback from Toyota stands at the top.


Despite bearing a commoner's name, the GR Corolla managed to join the ranks of the list of Reiwa-era JDM sports cars spearheaded by the GR Supra thanks to its high-performance characteristics unheard for a Corolla. This car has proven worthy of bearing the GR badge and such anticipation really paid off with big dividends.

Case Closed.

Wednesday, September 6, 2023

Toyota Century (SUV) GRG75

Since 1967, the Century has been the pinnacle of the Toyota heritage as it was made in honor of the centennial birth of its founder, Sakichi Toyoda. For over five-and-a-half decades and three generations of the flagship saloon, the Century ultimately represents Japanese culture from the halfway point of the Showa era to the dark ages of the Reiwa era. A new era demands a new kind of Century.

2024 Toyota Century (SUV)
2024 Toyota Century (SUV)

In addition to the flagship saloon, Toyota launched the crossover spin-off of the Century lineage, turning the Century marque into a sub-brand under Toyota's wing. The Mark of Suzaku continues to shine now with two wings beyond the skies.

2024 Toyota Century (SUV)
2024 Toyota Century (SUV)


Starting at 25,000,000 Japanese Yen (about 250,000 US Dollars) plus additional costs, the SUV version of the Toyota Century is considered the least costly alternative to its main rival, the Rolls-Royce Cullinan but because this is nearly five times the price of the Land Cruiser 300, the SUV version of the Century has unanimously dethroned the Land Cruiser as the flagship SUV of Toyota but don't count on it just yet because while the Land Cruiser is known for taking on the beaten path, the SUV version of the Century is made to cater the most prolific VIPs, especially Japanese politicians, with its legendary comfort and luxury inherited from its sedan counterpart.

While the styling is heavily mistaken for the Cullinan, the familiar Century elements are implemented including its signature phoenix badge at the front. Because the SUV version of the Century is genuinely bespoke, clients can personalize it any way they want as well as choose their own doors, either traditional or sliding doors. Yes, really. Such bespoke personalizations are possible at select Toyota dealerships that are certified "Century Meister".

2024 Toyota Century (SUV)
2024 Toyota Century (SUV) interior

Checking the handcrafted interior, Toyota wasted none of its precious time and resources tailoring the insides from top to bottom until it reached its desired client wishing it was his or her kind of Century before setting off. Onto the driver's side, the functionality works like today's Toyota Crown, meaning it has a 12.3-inch TFT instrumental panel, a Display Audio Plus with smartphone connectivity, heated steering wheel, HUD, digital rearview mirror, wireless charging port, USB-C ports, and others.

The passenger side is where the out-on-a-limo experience comes into fruition as the VIP can take advantage of its ultra-luxurious features, including the world premiere of the rear full-flat mode exclusively on the Century SUV, letting the crocodiles sleep while their drivers are driving them back to their fancy mansions. Long day, isn't it. And that's not all, with the special devices mounted on the rear seats as well as the rear entertainment system and other ultra-luxurious goodies, including a mini-refrigerator to cool their drinks, this is a first-class crossover fit for high-rollers and right-wing politicians alike.

Space-wise, the SUV version of the Century is good for up to 340 liters of boot space, making it good for dealing with nearly all walks of life the rich and powerful can't get enough of.

2024 Toyota Century (SUV)
2024 Toyota Century (SUV)

Unlike its sedan counterpart which is basically a glorified version of the previous-generation Lexus LS, the SUV version runs on the same GA-K platform as the Crown crossover, and because comfort is the strength of the Century, it's been given comfort-oriented dynamics to make it smooth sailing. Although not as good as the Cullinan, it's more than enough to deliver the out-on-a-limo experience the big bosses can't get enough of. It also comes with spring damping control, NAVI-AI-AVS, and DRS (no, not the F1 kind of DRS). The DRS suppresses sudden changes in vehicle behavior by enabling seamless and natural handling by controlling the direction of the rear wheels in the opposite direction (out-of-phase) or the same direction (in-phase) as the front wheels, depending on vehicle speed, and reduces the minimum turning radius at low speeds (5.5m). Good enough.

Thanks to its 4WD system, the Century SUV is a decent all-rounder on and off the road, be it tarmac, gravel, or even snow. Not as good as a Land Cruiser but it's still cozy enough for a long drive to Hokkaido on a Sunday morning, going fishing.

Speaking of comfort, the SUV version of the Century runs on a PHEV powertrain where the 262PS 3.5L V6 engine is bolted to two electric motors and a Li-ion battery, not to mention it was mated to a CVT gearbox. It delivers 14.2km/L of combined fuel economy based on WLTC Mode standards and while running on electric power alone, it's good for up to 69km of driving range.

The SUV version of the Century is prepared with Toyota Safety Sense featuring a Pre-Crash Safety system, Lane Departure Alert, Radar Cruise Control, Adaptive High-beam System, Blind Spot Monitor, Parking Support Alert, and many others. It even comes with Toyota Teammate Advanced Park as well as other safety features.

In terms of safety, the Century features Toyota Safety Sense and Toyota Teammate Advanced Park among other safety features offered on this ultra-luxury crossover.

The new body type of the Toyota Century may be deemed controversial but with the SUV version joining alongside the existing sedan type, the Mark of Suzaku continues to shine now with two wings beyond the skies. The Century lineage is now a class on its own and this time, they are the ones that rose to the top of the Toyota hierarchy. Welcome to the new world order.

Available Colors: Hakkaku Precious White Pearl x Silver, Reimei Prominent Gray x Silver, Rinbou Black x Sliver, Reimei Tansai Prominent Gray, Rinbou Tansai Black, Reimei Hidata Prominent Gray x Black, and Guren Glory Red x Silver.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Tuesday, August 15, 2023

My GT7 Log: Emergency Response

Those who watched last weekend's Gran Turismo World Series Showdown Amsterdam got themselves early access to one of the new cars set to be available in the Brand Central next month and looks like they'll need to be as quick as a first responder with this one.


This is the Toyota Ambulance Himedic, a H200-spec Toyota Hiace that was converted for first responder use. It was given away to those who watched last weekend's Gran Turismo World Series Showdown, early access before it's available to purchase in Gran Turismo 7 Brand Central next month.


Based on the H200-spec Toyota Hiace, which remains in production as of now even if it was preceded by the GranAce, the Himedic high-standard ambulance is made courtesy of Toyota Customizing & Development. While it carries most of the lifesaving necessities only first responders know, the Himedic is powered by a 2TR-FE 2.7L petrol engine that produces 157HP of power while mated with an automatic gearbox.




Do you remember the story of an ambulance driver who got recruited by a racing team to become a professional driver? No? Oh wait, that was from another game but anyway, to see if the Himedic is more than just an ambulance, let's take it to Tsukuba for a quick lap. 

However, due to Japan's weather conditions, it's raining outside. Still, first responders are always ready, no matter the weather, meaning the Himedic's prepared for a wet lap. Roll the tape.


It did it in 1m35.019s (wet), meaning even in this condition, the Himedic is nearly half quicker than the Quezon City Police's response time at this place. Perhaps the Japanese first responders always arrived on the scene a half quicker than the QCPD. Huhehe...


This is Emergency Response, the GT7 way. Hope you had fun driving and personalizing the Hiace Himedic in the game.