Mitsubishi 2011: A New Generation of The World’s Best Selling Car
Mitsubishi Motors is the first car maker in Japan to engage in mass-production. It has been around for quite sometime now. In fact, the first Model A vehicle was made in 1917. Just a few years shy of being a century ago. Naturally, its focus was the Japanese market, and in the process, it has manufactured the 500, Colt and Debonair way back in the 1960s. Because of it quality vehicles, Chrysler utilized Mitsubishi for the production of compact and fuel-efficient vehicles intended for the U.S. market. Thus, it produced the Colt, a compact car such as TOYOTA SPACIO, and Ram50, a pick up. Both were marketed in the U.S. using the Dodge brand. Because of the success it has enjoyed, it was encouraged to venture into the U.S. market. This eventually materialized on September 21 when it introduced its models, all geared for the U.S. consumers.
Mitsubishi Motors’ stay in the U.S. is marked by several milestones.
In 1985, it has introduced several vehicle models, to wit: Starion, Cordia, Trevia, Mighty Max and Montero. While they have unusual names, at least back then, consumers still recognized their value. In fact, it has sold 5,000 units across 20 states with the intervention of 83 dealers. Clearly, it has worked its way into the psyche of the buyers.
The advent of the Mirage (compact) and Galant (mid-size) in 1983, has entrenched Mitsubishi Motors as among car manufacturers who build fast cars. Mirage is understandably accepted as speedy, considering its compact design and the fact that it comes with turbocharged power. Recognition for Galant came in later, when in 1988, it became a worthy competitor in the World Rally Championship. It is no wonder then that both cars won awards in 1989. Mirage was part of the 10 Best List of Car and Driver while Galant was acclaimed by Motor Trend as Import Car of the Year.
In 1986, the partnership between Chrysler and Mitsubishi Motors was solidified with the opening of Diamond Star Motors in Normal, Illinois. It was considered as the most sophisticated manufacturing facility. This is by reason of the utilization of robots for the production of the vehicles. Worthy of note is the fact that it is now wholly-owned by Mitsubishi.
A couple of years later, 1988, its headquarters, with an astounding 25.5 acre area, was opened in Cypress, California. This is where its concept vehicles are made.
In 1989, the Eclipse was made. It was instantly popular and has earned critical acclaim. The Eclipse 1990 model became part of the 10 Best list of the Car and Driver for four years in a row. In 1991, 3000 GT was introduced. This was acclaimed by Motor Trend as Import Car of the Year.
1992 brought about the release of the second generation Montero, which also delivers in terms of performance at is the winning vehicle for that year’s Dakar Rally. Also, during that year, Lancer Evolution made the scene in the area of World Rally Championship. In 1995, the retractable hardtop convertible was re-introduced. This paved the way for other car manufacturers to emulate. 1996 saw the Lancer Evolution and Tommi Makinen win the first of its four consecutive World Rally Championship titles. It was also the unveiling of the Eclipse Spyder – a topless Eclipse.
In the year 2003, Lancer Evolution has reached the U.S. market. It remarkable features was given due recognition by Sport Compact Car. The next year, 2004, saw the launching of the all-new Galant. And in 2005, the new Eclipse was introduced. It is characterized as powerful, elegant and affordable.
Clearly, there is no end to Mitsubishi Motors’ drive to achieve excellence in the manufacturing of its vehicles. Design after design, model after model, considerations for comfort, power, technology and affordability are always taken into account. it is no wonder that it has acquired a loyal following - those who clearly recognize that they will get the best vehicle possible from this japanese used cars maker.
The Honda Cr-V The Most Popular SUV in the World for Good Reasons
The Honda Cr-V is the Japanese automaker’s first self –designed SUV. It is a compact crossover vehicle, its basic design derived from the Honda Civic in answer to the consumers’ clamor for a sport-utility vehicle. It was introduced in 1996 and was put on view for the first time in the United States at the 1996 Chicago Auto Show with TOYOTA CORONA PREMIO. After a strong sales performance against fellow Japanese rival Toyota RAV4, it was marketed to the US in February 1997.
Initial production Cr-V’s was produced in only one trim known as the LX. The 2.o liter straight 4 B20B engine powers it. The engine’s outside appearance is identical to the 1.6 L Integra, but with a bigger 84mm bore designed to produce more power.
The Cr-V make use of a Dual Hydraulic Rear Differential that drives the front wheels on ordinary driving conditions, and seamlessly shifts power to the back wheels when necessary without the driver doing so. This system called Real Time 4WD, is synchronized with the ABS braking system, with the 4WD automatically turning off when brakes are applied.
The engine was replaced in 1999 by the 2.0 liter B20Z that produced more power as an answer to complaints that the previous engine’s power is insufficient for the Cr-V’s 3,200lb weight. Units with automatic transmission were provided with an overdrive cancel button that locks the transmission to the first three gears when climbing.
The next generation Cr-V was fully redesigned and fitted with the newer K24A1 powerhouse. The SUV was able to retain its fuel economy despite the increase of power because of the new engine’s i-VTEC system. McPherson struts and a rear end reactive-link dual wishbone improved driving comfort. A popular magazine awarded the honor of Best Smaller SUV category to the Cr-V for the years 2002 and 2003.
The Cr-V was upgraded in 2005 with bigger wheels replacing the previous 15. Other changes included better headlights, clear lenses on the taillights, and a redesigned grille and front bumpers. The interior changes included mounted audio controls on the steering wheel and an outside monitor for the temperature. The engine also received an upgrade by incorporating a newer type of throttle while the 4WD system was improved to set-off faster on loose traction conditions. Safety was also enhanced with the introduction of ABS, Electronic brake force distribution, side airbag and side airbag with sensors. Protection in case of a rollover was also enhanced with many new features being added and helping to protect the driver as well as the passengers.
A redesigned Cr-V using the latest K-series 2.4L 4-cylinder engine was introduced in 2006. The manual transmission was removed from the US market. A rear lift gate was fitted eliminating the back door mounted spare tire. The 2006 Cr-V is also lower, wider and shorter than the previous models. Center rear seat pass –thru, a feature unique from other SUVs was also utilized.
Navigational aide that includes an audio system and rear backup camera was also introduced by Honda as an option. An iPod jack was also offered as an add-on accessory. The Honda Cr-V became one of the ten best selling second hand cars of the year in 2007, beating rivals like Escape, Tahoe and RAV4. It also left behind Ford Explorer as the best selling SUV in the US market, a title that Ford held for fifteen years.
The Cr-V introduces more unassuming style in its 2010 model along with a new power train and some equipment upgrades. New front design includes horizontal slat chrome grill, honeycomb designed lower front grill, new taillights and bumper. Horsepower improvements come from the new K24Z6 engine.
Honda vehicles are highly regarded by drivers worldwide because of their excellent reputation for reliability, fuel economy and quality. Honda Cr-V’s are the most popular SUV in the world for good reasons.
The New 2011 Toyota Camry, The Legend Returns, Better than Ever
People have been saying that this car is comparable to the Honda Accord and the 2010 Ford Fusion. Does the new 2011 Toyota Camry really match up against its competitors? After the unintended acceleration controversy that shook the world and made all Toyota owners paranoid, they are making a comeback in a revised and freshened form of the 2010 Camry model. Is it really better than ever?
The Camry’s supple suspension allows for you to be able to slide through the pebbly roads effortlessly; the 169 horsepower and 2.5 liter is proven to be faster than ever before, but it wouldn’t take one to notice that the difference is not too pronounced. Same thing goes for the 6-speed automatic. But it’s fuel efficient and can help save a lot of gas, and that really means a lot more to consumers than a fancy new grill. The grills were a little revised too and the hybrid got a bonus by getting larger headlamps and revised tail lamps. Hearing a lot about hybrid cars would make you assume that even the non-hybrid ones are electric when it comes to steering. It could serve as a pleasant surprise, especially if you compare it to the unnatural and queer sensations that you may get from a Corolla.
One of the best reviews you could ever find about Camry is how comfortable the interiors are; if you’re tired from all the partying and driving, you don’t have to suffer staying cramped in a small corner of the bar. The simple and logical controls will be helpful, and the six preset buttons perfect for joyrides and radio channel surfing. The climate controls are just right; even when it’s hot outside, you will feel like you’re in a hotel room even before you actually get there.
This new version is prettier, has better engine and has specific ports for USB, perfect for your iPods or mp3s. As for the leather upholstery and seats, there’s really nothing extraordinary about them although customers wished that there were also cup holders on the bottom of the rear doors. The quality of the material does not mean to wow you off your seat, but it will suit you well enough with split folding rear seats in case you have huge shopping bags to load. It also boasts of a tight turning radius that would be perfect for parking. Every 2011 Camry also comes with curtain side airbags. power sunroof, navigation system, and remote engine start are among the options. You can choose to avail of the power moon roof if you want a little bit of an edge to cool summer nights.
If you’re looking for the kind of development that you’ve probably seen in other models, the 2011 Camry may disappoint you. It hasn’t really changed much, but Toyota is not one to be known for innovation but for what trying to discover what actually works, and then sticking to it. The Camry is the perfect business executive and conservative car --- traditional, reliable and well, decent. A lot of people call it the best family sedan, and maybe they are right about that: it’s quiet and very easy to use. With the Camry, no one has to pretend to be some big shot movie star or rich businessman; it’s all about being comfortable without being too flashy, and sometimes that’s just the kind of car we want.
The 2011 Toyota Camry may just be a freshened version of the 2010 car that is why it lacks the creativity that we’re looking for. If you’re the type who really wants to get the most out of an all-new midsize sedan, make sure you save up for 2012; in that way, the memories of the acceleration incident will seem smaller and much forgotten, and hopefully japanese used car lovers will bring back the faith that was lost in Toyota.
Mitsubishi, the World’s Most Exciting Auto Brand
MITSUBISHI North Motors America, Inc., or more popularly known the world over as Mitsubishi, has established a legacy of manufacturing, financing and distributing high quality cars for over 30 years. From brand sedans, coupes, light trucks, crossover vehicles and convertibles, Mitsubishi has been known as one of the world’s most exciting auto brands and is not bound to stop developing more innovative offerings anytime soon.
The legendary three red diamond logos even date back a century ago. Chosen by Mitsubishi founder Yataro Iwasaki, it was actually signified by his first employer and the logo were three rhombus shapes representative of the Tosa clan. The name Mitsubishi is a combination of the words “mitsu” meaning “three”, or the three diamonds, and the word “hishi” or water chestnut and used to pertain to denote a diamond.
Mitsubishi customers all over the world would be some of the most unique and diverse in the industry. Always finding something different, something unique and innovative, these car owners would always look for something that will stand out, and the well-known manufacturer will not disappoint.
Since they began selling cars in 1981, Mitsubishi has definitely come a long way. They were able to create several innovations and technology in turbo chargers, and have gained recognition for their all wheel drive. Although they have only started to sell vehicles in 1981, they have already been producing quality cars that date back to as early as 1917. Their first was the Model A and followed by some popular more models such as the 500, the Colt and the Debonair. Chrysler in fact even partnered with Mitsubishi in creating cars for the US market. Remember the Colt compact and the Ram 50 pickup from Dodge? This was also part of that tandem. It paved the way for more opportunities for the Mitsubishi brand, and the rest, as they say, is car maker history.
In Mitsubishi’s 25 year anniversary, the company was able to honor their top 10 dealers nationwide for their support, loyalty and world class customer service for over a fourth of a decade. Because of the incomparable success of the 2008 Lancer, this prompted Mitsubishi to build on another successful line of Japanese vehicles under the Lancer accolade. The 2009 Lancer Ralliart and the well known Evo, or the Lancer Evolution was able to hit showroom floors and have been well received by car lovers everywhere. The turbo charged, intelligently designed sporty dynamics that the Lancer Evolution has given has put them a class up over other cars of its kind. The Lancer Ralliart also gives a creative spin to the Lancer and the Evo; providing a happy medium between a smooth steady ride and a great car that will help you glide towards rough and curvy terrain.
That did not stop there; Mitsubishi also helped make waves in the automobile industry by launching the Outlander 2.4 and setting what would be benchmark for comfort and versatility in the crossover SUV class. Their rich, colorful and rally inspired heritage continues to be strengthened by launching the 2009 Galant and the tag line “It’s Go Time” for their advertisements and commercials. The cornerstone of their design was inspired by the rally revolution, and continues to inspire the world over with over thousands of branches in the US and several different parts of the globe. “The World’s Most Exciting Brand” has been doing business for 30 years, even more outside of the United States, and they want to take their customers in for an exciting ride. For now, car enthusiasts everywhere are actively waiting for what Mitsubishi has to offer!
Nissan Primavera, the Family Car is Now Luxurious
Japanese car manufacturer Nissan produces the Nissan Primera, which is categorized as a big family car, for distribution to locally and in Europe.
The precursor of the Nissan Primera is the Bluebirds which is meant for the European market. It is in fact the re-branded Auster-Tanza, in the home market such as TOYOTA CORONA PREMIO.
The Bluebird was replaced in 1990 with the Nissan Primera. It was available either with the five-speed manual transmission or with the four-speed automatic transmission. As to its body, it was either saloons (four or five door) or estate (five door only). It was originally equipped with a gasoline engine. However, from 1992, a diesel engine type was made available.
Europe was the target market for the car.
There were six trim levels for the model, and they are as follows – ZX, GSX, GS, LSX, LS and L. Varying engines accompany these trims. For the ZX model, a 2.0 liter with 115 bhp engine is provided. Meanwhile, GSX, GS and LS models came with 2.0 liter and 115 bhp engine. As to LSX, LS and L, 1.6 liter engine are the standard. Although the design originally included a 1.8 liter engine, the same was not distributed to Europe.
Another facelift was made on the range in 1994. The trim levels were retained with the exception of the following: one, the L was replaced by the Equation as the entry-level trim. The Equation, unlike its predecessor, was not offered in diesel engine; two, SGX was replaced by SE; and three, SR i became part of the range in 1995.
Come late 1995, the second generation of Nissan Primera was unveiled in Japan. Its launch in Europe came thereafter in the autumn season of 1996. Multi-link suspension for both the front and beam rear distinguishes the new Primera. Just like before, the models are outfitted with either 1.6 liter and 2.0 liter gasoline engines or 2.0 liter diesel engine, for sale in Europe and UK.
Nissan Primero Camino was also launched together with the original Primera. This model was designed specifically for other dealers. Some Japanese models also featured automatic transmissions.
Meanwhile, in the U.S, Primera was sold under a different name, that is, Infiniti G20. It carries with it the modifications in the grille as well as the rear lamps. In New Zealand, Primera SMX (Limited Edition) was released. There was a period when the Nissan Primera was actually assembled therein.
Earning greater recognition, it has won in several contests from1998 to 2000. It has dual victory in the British Touring Car Championship, for the manufacturers and team categories. In fact, in honor of that victory, limited editions of the car were released by Nissan UK. Moreover, in 1999 and 2000, the British Touring Car also gained the Independent Cup.
Another facelift was provided by Nissan to Primera in the autumn of 1999. Improved specifications accompanied exterior changes. Climate control, airbags – front and side, and Xenon lamps were made available, depending on the car level availed of.
The third generation Primera was released on December of 2001. It is has been acclaimed for its great features - one that offers optimum riding comfort as well as good handling for its drivers by Japanese used car exporters. Needless to say, its enhanced physical appearance is also noteworthy. In fact, it has received several awards, such as Gold Prize in Japan’s Good Design Award and Germany’s Red Dot design award.
Through the years, what emerges as a pattern is the continuous development and effort to provide better product and services to its consumers. While functionality has always been a primordial consideration, upgrades and facelifts from time to time, as well as creation and design of the new generations of Primera, has transformed the car into a new level – one that maintains its utility and at the same time progressing to the extent that it has lent a distinctive luxurious feel to its riders.