Showing posts with label japanese. Show all posts
Showing posts with label japanese. Show all posts

Monday, March 11, 2024

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
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
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
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
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.

Friday, March 8, 2024

My FH5 Log: Summit Assault

Let's face it. The world's gone mad these days and so has the motoring world, where three superpowers clash for supremacy. America, Europe, and Asia are all locked in for a motoring world war.


Like I said in the past, the Chevrolet Corvette, the Porsche 911, and the Nissan GT-R are the most dominant names in the world of sports cars because of their heritage, performance, and racing pedigree that made them the global superpowers feared and respected the world over. 





Here in Forza Horizon 5, I am already familiar with the motoring superpowers in their current state; the C8 Corvette Z06, the GT-R NISMO, and the 992 911 GT3.

The 911 GT3, in its 992 spec, is known for its race-inspired aerodynamics, performance, and the naturally-aspirated 4.0L flat-six engine that begs to be revved. The C8 Corvette Z06, meanwhile, is the Republican's answer to the 911 GT3 because of its naturally aspirated V8 engine, C8.R-inspired dynamics, and sleek aerodynamics. Lastly, the GT-R NISMO is no doubt the king of GT-Rs. Enough said.




To unleash their true worth in performance and dynamics, the three motoring superpowers have been gathered for a summit, a Summit Assault to the top of the caldera. Let's find out which of them is the real superpower here. Roll the tape.


And now the results...

C8 Z06 - 3m.04.101s
GT-R NISMO - 3m06.386s
992 GT3 - 3m03.333s


So, the Germans have won the battle, but the war continues because the motoring superpowers will keep improving and fighting until the endgame. The more you know.


EPILOGUE


Having satisfied with the motoring superpower trio, it's time to reward themselves for all the hard work they've done.




Our 992 911 GT3 had its tensions MAXED with Little Miss Dorothy West plastered over it. I still had the old 911 992 GT3 with Sala in it but for my Dorothy-fied 911 GT3, I've tinkered it to be mated with a 6-speed gearbox. Did you know that the 992 911 GT3 is offered with the choice of either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed PDK?




For the C8 Z06, well, you can't go wrong with it with a dash of Red Flash and Sophy Hojo in it. Fast and sexy, just like the car itself.




The Nissan GT-R NISMO is no doubt one of the most formidable 4WD supercars in ages but for now, it's got Sion Todo's name all over in the spirit of Let's ¡Go! Get it? Let's i-Go! That's Sion's line.




With their respective makeovers done, the legendary trio is setting off to EventLab re-enactments of fictional racetracks from famous racing games in history. Let's roll the tapes.




What a WonderPri World, they said.




Global superpowers are forever known for changing world history with influence, be it for better or worse, and it's the same thing for the world's best sportscars. The Corvette, the 911, and the GT-R fought themselves for true world domination but in the end, it was a stalemate because other global superpowers were trying to prove their worth just like them.

Yes, the United Nations of speed and power ain't really united just like the United Nations itself, and as long as the sources of power remain, the clash for world domination will continue.

GET READY FOR THE NEXT BATTLE!

Thursday, February 29, 2024

Nintendo Switch Pokémon Scarlet-Violet + The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero Super Music Collection

 

Nintendo Switch Pokémon Scarlet-Violet +
The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero
Super Music Collection

Launched in late 2022, Pokemon Scarlet/Violet welcomed players to the Paldea Region, a vibrant landscape where players are free to decide what will their Paldean adventure be from the moment they become academy students. Accompanied by the legendary Koraidon/Miraidon, players explored the Paldea region by all means while uncovering the biggest secret lurking in the underbelly of this region.

At long last, the original soundtrack from the Pokemon Scarlet/Violet games has arrived. This six-disc mega compilation features all of the background music heard not just in the main game but also in The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero chapters; The Teal Mask and The Indigo Disk, as well as the epilogue.

From the time you've begun your Paldean escapade with your starter, the showdown against Paldea's top gym leaders, the clash against Team Star, bringing down Titan Pokemons in search of mysterious ingredients, exploration to Area Zero, saving Ogerpon from the so-called Loyal Three in Kitakami, battling Blueberry Academy's finest trainers, your return to Area Zero for one last encounter, all the way to your encounter with the mythical Pecharunt, this soundtrack has it all. It even comes with a 36-page booklet that highlights the game's Paldean adventures.

This is a must-have for those who have fully completed their Paldean adventures.

Pokémon LEGENDS Arceus Super Music Collection

 

Pokémon LEGENDS Arceus Super Music Collection
Pokémon LEGENDS Arceus Super Music Collection

Launched in January 2022 for the Nintendo Switch, Pokémon LEGENDS Arceus uncovers the origin story of the Sinnoh Region, which used to be known as the Hisui Region. As a new recruit of the Galaxy Expedition Team, players freely explored the sights and sounds of the Hisui Region while incorporating new ways to catch and battle Pokemon.

The original soundtrack of Pokémon LEGENDS Arceus is finally here, giving Pokemon fans a chance to listen to all of the background music from the game with this four-disc compilation. It even comes with a 28-page booklet that highlights The Arceus Chronicles.

If you've enjoyed making history in the Hisui Region, this soundtrack is for you. Just don't let the Alpha Pokemons get in your way from listening to this historic compilation fresh from a distant past.

Nintendo Switch Pokémon Sword-Shield + Expansion Pass Super Music Collection

 

Nintendo Switch Pokémon Sword-Shield
+ Expansion Pass Super Music Collection

Launched in late 2019 for the Nintendo Switch, Pokemon Sword and Shield brings players on a memorable journey across the Galar region, where they can capture new Pokemon, battle trainers, master the Dynamax phenomenon, and uncover the secrets of Zacian and Zamazenta.

After a long wait, the original soundtrack of the Pokemon Sword and Shield has finally arrived, and this four-disc OST features background music heard not just in the Sword and Shield but also in the Expansion chapters such as The Isle of Armor and The Crown Tundra. 

This soundtrack has everything from the moment you picked your Galar starter, your final battle against Leon, a showdown against Mustard in the Isle of Armor, and the capturing of Calyrex in The Crown Tundra. It even comes with a 24-page booklet that takes you behind the scenes on the making of the Galar Region.

This is a must-have for every Pokemon fan who has fully experienced the entire Galar adventure from the start to The Crown Tundra.

Friday, February 23, 2024

Ultraman Blazar The Movie: Dai Kaiju Shuto Gekitotsu

Ultraman Blazar, Gento Hiruma, and SKaRD are back for their final mission as they are on a race against time to avert armageddon, whatever it takes.

Ultraman Blazar The Movie:
Dai Kaiju Shuto Gekitotsu

Ultraman Blazar The Movie: Dai Kaiju Shuto Gekitotsu (Giant Monster Clash in the Capital) is set moments after the series finale, and in this true final mission for Blazar and SKaRD, a powerful monster Gongilgan is causing havoc across downtown Tokyo. With lives at stake, Gento Hiruma and the entire SKaRD task force are facing the inevitable, and as time runs out, they are throwing whatever means necessary to prevent an all-out armageddon.

Packed with suspense, thrills, action, drama, plot twists, and the usual Blazar shenanigans that speak louder than his now-famous battle cries, it is the proper sendoff to Blazar's story. Although it was jammed with mixed reactions since last year's TV series, it's more than enough to Plus Ultra to the very end.

With this movie, it's officially case closed for Ultraman Blazar, but the Ultraman New Generation universe will continue. We don't know who and what but watch for it.

Thursday, February 22, 2024

THE IDOLM@STER MILLION ANIMATION THE@TER START THE DREAM

Aired on TV Tokyo from October to December of 2023, The IDOLM@STER Million Live! TV series is the origin story of the 765 MILLION STARS as Mirai Kasuga, Shizuka Mogami, and Tsubasa Ibuki take their first steps toward becoming idols of 765 Production just like the legendary 765PRO ALL-STARS.

As a way of saying thanks for watching the Million Live anime series, a two-disc music album has arrived, featuring songs heard from the show.

THE IDOLM@STER
MILLION ANIMATION THE@TER
START THE DREAM

START THE DREAM is the two-disc compilation of songs as heard from The IDOLM@STER Million Live! TV series. 

From the moment the trio stepped inside 765 Productions to the 765 LIVE THEATER's grand opening, a grand total of 23 songs will leave you hooked with memories of enjoying the TV series from the pilot to the series finale.

This is a real must-have for IDOLM@STER fans who watched the Million Live anime series last year and here's hoping for more from the 765 MILLION STARS.

TRACK LISTINGS:

Disc1
01:Dreaming!
02:ロケットスター☆
03:海風とカスタネット
04:フェスタ・イルミネーション
05:チョー↑元気show☆アイドルch@ng!
06:バトンタッチ
07:Sentimental Venus
08:瑠璃色金魚と花菖蒲
09:ハミングバード
10:オレンジノキオク
11:catch my feeling
12:Star Impression
13:トワラー
14:Unknown Boxの開き方
15:REFRAIN REL@TION
16:Brand New Theater!

Disc2
01:We Have A Dream (Anime ver.)
02:Thank You! (Acoustic ver.)
03:Snow White
04:READY!! (Anime ver.)
05:G線上のアリア
06:Gift Sign
07:READY!!(M@STER VERSION)

Sunday, February 18, 2024

Mitsubishi Triton (LC2T)

The Mitsubishi Triton returns home in its third-generation model and it's shaped up to become the best Triton ever made.

2024 Mitsubishi Triton
2024 Mitsubishi Triton

Starting at 4,980,800 Yen plus additional costs, which makes it nearly a million more expensive than its main rival, the Toyota Hilux, the all-new, third-generation Mitsubishi Triton, fully imported from Thailand, is the comeback Mitsubishi Motors desperately wanted since the discontinuation of its coolest vehicles ever made, the Pajero and the Lancer Evolution.

2024 Mitsubishi Triton
2024 Mitsubishi Triton

Beginning with the styling, the all-new Triton draws inspiration from the XRT Concept, incorporating its Beast Mode design tough enough to tackle Hokkaido's worst if you're into that. From the rough roads of Hokkaido to the bustling streets of downtown Tokyo, rest assured that this muscular styling is as salty as the salty spitoon, not a super weenie.

2024 Mitsubishi Triton
2024 Mitsubishi Triton interior

Inside, the all-new Triton is one of the most spacious in its class because the truck is one of the largest in its class. 

Most importantly, most of the interior's contact points are heavily emphasized on grip comfort and sturdiness, making it more dramatic to flicker about. The dashboard is packed with a fully automatic air conditioner with left and right independent temperature control and an available touch screen sat-nav lifted from the Outlander PHEV, more comfortable front seats, and other improvements to make the new Triton's interior more utilitarian and luxurious than the first one.

Asked about the seat material, the entry-level GLS uses fabric while the range-topper GSR uses leather with orange stitching.

The cargo bed is now wider and longer compared to the old model and it has a 2×4 lumbar attachment, 4-piece cargo bed hooks, a wide rear bumper cover, and a bed liner for the GSR model, making it suitable for business and leisure at a steady rate.

2024 Mitsubishi Triton
2024 Mitsubishi Triton

Built on a newly developed ladder frame with significantly increased rigidity compared to the conventional model, as well as front double wishbones, improved rear leaf springs, extensive use of high-tensile steel, and Super Select 4WD-II and Easy Select 4WD systems, the all-new Triton is fully prepared to tackle through the world's most punishing roads, all in the name of playing dirty with its improved off-road capabilities.

Powering the all-new Triton is a brand new 4N16 2.4L clean diesel engine that produces 204PS of power and 470Nm of torque, making it more powerful than the Toyota Hilux. Mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox, the fuel economy is 11.3kmpl based on WLTC Mode standards, slightly less economical than the Hilux, just so you know.

The third-generation Triton features numerous safety features such as including Forward Collision Mitigation, Blind Spot Warning with Lane Change Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control, Active Stability Control, traction control, Hill Descent Control, and Hill Start Assist.

After 12 years of void, the Triton is finally back home with a vengeance and this comeback is what Mitsubishi Motors truly needed. With its bravado looks, gripping interior, new diesel engine, improved offroad capabilities, and host of safety features, there's no doubt that this will be the best Triton ever made by a long shot.

If you want a Japanese pickup truck, it's either the Toyota Hilux or the Mitsubishi Triton. That's it.

PRICE LIST:
GLS - 4,980,800 Yen
GSR - 5,401,000 Yen

AVAILABLE COLORS:
White Diamond, Graphite Grey Metallic, Jet Black Mica, Blade Silver Metallic (GLS only), Red Solid (GLS only), and Yamabuki Orange Metallic (GSR only).

Photo: Mitsubishi Motors Corporation

Wednesday, February 14, 2024

How to dress as Liko or Roy

Today is Ash Wednesday but because of the latest Pokemon anime series, let's rename it Liko & Roy Wednesday because of the show's two main characters. 

To recall, the Pokemon Horizons anime series centers on two youngsters, Liko and Roy, as they set off on a globe-trotting adventure as members of the Rising Volt Tacklers, an intrepid group of brave adventurers led by Friede. Together, they unravel the secrets and save the day from the wrath of a shadowy group of evil-doers called the Explorers.

As anime convention season draws near, the call to cosplay has spiked and your interest in dressing as either Liko or Roy has been answered because today, I'll teach you how to dress as Liko or Roy from the Pokemon Horizons series.

Pokemon 2023 series


How to dress as Liko

  • Start with semi-long black hair and a hairpin shaped like...you know what that symbol is. HINT: It's the same symbol in the first and original hat Ash wore in the old Pokemon anime.
  • With the hair sorted, work on her outfit. She wore a bluish short-sleeved coat, a white T-shirt, and dark blue shorts with buttons. The yellow fanny pack is an optional accessory, although it's hard to find one shaped like Liko's.
  • White running shoes and white socks are a must.
  • OPTIONAL: A Poke Ball toy and a Sprigatito plush. Seriously, a Poke Ball is a necessity to prove that you're dressed as Liko.
How to dress as Roy
  • Beginning to the top, Roy has a black cap with a red hairdo stuffed. To replicate it, you'll need a black cap, paint the cotton red, stick it, and that's your lot.
  • For the outfit, Roy wears a black vest, a red T-shirt with short white sleeves, and brown shorts. Snag those clothes for your cosplay project but be warned, replicating the insignia from Roy's T-shirt can be nerve-wracking. Consult a T-shirt expert first.
  • For the footwear, Roy wears sandals. Any sandal would work.
  • OPTIONAL: A Poke Ball toy and a Fuecoco plush. As expected, a Poke Ball is a necessity to pass as Roy.
...and there you have it. How to dress as Liko or Roy from the Pokemon Horizons series. Dressing as one of the main characters makes you feel like you're part of the Rising Volt Tacklers, huh? Nidothing approves and so does every Pokemon fan everywhere.

Good luck!

Friday, February 2, 2024

Jujutsu Kaisen Senka Souran

The megahit anime series, Jujutsu Kaisen, has arrived at your fingertips with a tag-team fighting game where you can play as your favorite characters.

Jujutsu Kaisen Senka Souran
(PS5)

Jujutsu Kaisen Senka Souran
(Nintendo Switch)

Jujutsu Kaisen Senka Souran (Cursed Clash) is a fighting game based on the hit TV series where players get into tag-team brawls with their favorite characters.

Senka Souran features your favorite Jujutsu Kaisen characters such as Satoru Gojo, Yuji Itadori, Nobara Kugisaki, Megumi Fujishiro, Panda, Kento Nanami, and others. Each character has their own unique fighting styles and how you master them is entirely up to you. Best of all, they can be personalized to suit your tastes.

This game allows players to battle online either VS or co-op. The co-op part is where you and the others will team up against powerful enemies, especially in rush battles and survival battles.

As you enjoy kicking butts, Senka Souran features a Picture Drama mode where you will relive moments from the TV series first season as well as the movie Jujutsu Kaisen 0.

Fanatics of the megahit TV series got what they truly deserved, a cursed video game that is cursed enough to get you hooked for more because...this is Jujutsu Kaisen. Everybody loves this show and they're looking forward to playing as their favorites in this game. Are you cursed enough?

Friday, January 26, 2024

TEKKEN 8

Tekken is back in its most explosive installment welcoming new and returning players back to The King of Iron Fist Tournament. Ready for another balls-to-the-walls brawl with TEKKEN 8?

TEKKEN 8

TEKKEN 8 is the latest installment of Bandai Namco's hard-hitting TEKKEN franchise and the first for the latest generation of consoles, the PlayStation5 and the Xbox Series X|S. All bets are off as this newest installment showcases the Tekken franchise at its peak performance.

Featuring a roster of returning favorites such as Kazuya Mishima, Jin Kazama, Xiaoyu, Lili, Asuka, and others, as well as newcomers such as Victor Chevalier and Reina, it's all about fighting who's the favorite and, best of all, all of them can be personalized with various costumes and accessories you bought or unlocked.

This is just the start because post-launch, expect new and returning characters joining in the action soon, as well as special guest appearances that remain a secret until announcement. Be prepared.

Tekken 8 features new areas to interact with other players online, with the use of customizable avatars. You create your own and then jump into various modes such as Arcade Quest and Tekken Fight Lounge, interacting with other players as you please. You can even do a shoutout while in the middle of a fight as well. 

The Ghost Battle mode from the previous installment has evolved with the new Super Ghost Battle mode, an endless mode where an AI will memorize every move as you progress. You better need to step up if you want to rack up some cash and unlockable items for your characters. Best of all, you can even challenge other players' ghost data. A great way to warm up before taking on Online Battles.

If you get bored with all the bruising, you can play a game of Tekken Ball with either a CPU opponent or a buddy.

This new installment welcomes players to its Story Mode titled The Dark Awakens. In this explosive story mode, fans will witness the climactic showdown between Kazuya Mishima and Jin Kazama. The bloody father and son conflict has reached its endgame and it's going to be an edge-of-your-seat thriller until the finale.

With a roster of new and returning characters, new ways for player interactions, the father-and-son endgame story, the new Super Ghost Battle feature, and the return of Tekken Ball, TEKKEN 8 is the most explosive installment built for the new generation of consoles and once enjoyed, you can't stop demolishing the competition by all means necessary. This game is truly a show of force and with your friends' ghost data and rankings all over, what are you waiting for?

GET READY FOR THE NEXT BATTLE!

The beginner's guide to the Pretty Series

With the recent announcement of the new Pretty Series installment titled Himitsu no AiPri, it's about time the Pretty Series returned after over a year since the Waccha PriMagi! series finale. In celebration of the newest installment, let's take a quick history lesson about the Pretty series.

Pretty Series


The Pretty Rhythm Saga (2010-2014) - The Pretty Series saga began on July 15, 2010 with the arcade game titled Pretty Rhythm Mini Skirt. Made by Takara Tomy and developer SynSophia, this arcade game pits players in the role of Prism Stars, performing Prism Jumps, and collecting Prism Stones.

While the one that started it all made a slow start, the folks from Takara Tomy wanted to do more with the Pretty Rhythm saga, and with that, a TV anime titled Pretty Rhythm Aurora Dream was made. Aired in TV Tokyo on April 9, 2011, for 51 episodes, this anime is the fruit of Japan-Korea collaboration thanks to Japan's Tatsunoko Production and South Korea's Dong Woo Animation. The TV anime is all about Aira, Rizumu, and Mion in their quest to take on the prestigious Prism Queen Cup.

As Aira Harune's journey to become Prism Queen is completed, Mia Ageha takes the baton as the star of the next Pretty Rhythm story; Dear My Future. Aired in TV Tokyo on April 7, 2012, for 51 episodes, Dear My Future centers on the rivalry between Prizmmy☆ and the K-Pop group PURETTY. Believe it or not, there are real-life versions of the groups as seen in the anime. There's even a live-action segment featuring Prizmmy☆ as well.

As Mia Ageha's road to Grateful Symphonia is well and truly over, Naru Ayase steps to the spotlight in the third and final chapter of the Pretty Rhythm saga, titled Rainbow Live. Aired in TV Tokyo on April 6, 2013, it features an original storyline unlike the previous two. It's about Naru, An, and Ito, who are working together at the Prism Stone Shop while trying to take good care of a mysterious girl named Rinne.

Although the Pretty Rhythm saga ended, the story continues with the KING OF PRISM spinoff films featuring male characters from the Pretty Rhythm saga. They even got a 2019 anime show as well showcasing the rise of the boys who would be Septentrion.

The PriPara saga (2014-2018, 2021~) After the end of the Pretty Rhythm saga,  the folks of Takara Tomy prepped up what it seems to be the second generation of the Pretty series. It's called PriPara and it aired on TV Tokyo in the Summer of 2014 and lasted for three seasons, four if you count Idol Time PriPara of course. This anime series centers on the life and times of Laala Manaka, a little girl who wants to be the best PriPara idol. Together with Mirei Minami and Sophy Hojo, they became SoLaMi Smile and they fought their way against the best idol teams of PriPara, especially Dressing Pafe consisting of Dorothy, Reona, and Sion, Tricolore, and Gaarmageddon, among many others. PriPara is a huge win for the people behind it and such success prompted the show to spawn four movies and outrageous merchandising rights.

In the spring of 2017, the next chapter of PriPara begins with three new main characters penning the final pages of this saga. Titled Idol Time PriPara, it's all about Yui Yumekawa, whose fateful encounter with Laala Manaka changed everything following an accident. With Nino Nijiiro and Michiru Kouda joining alongside, the MY☆DREAM trio made the best closure to this saga.

Although the PriPara TV series is finished, the story continues with Idol Land PriPara. First announced in December 2020, it was originally slated to be released in the spring of 2021 until it became subject to long gestation and delayed launch dates. It was released on August 17, 2023. It is the second official PriPara app game after the defunct PriPuz puzzle app game. This app game also features an original anime series set moments after the events of Idol Time PriPara. It introduces new characters such as Amari Katasumi, Mario, and Pololo, among others.

The Kiratto PriChan years (2018-2021) - Aired in TV Tokyo since April 2018 for three seasons, Kiratto PriChan is set in a world where fame comes from social media just like in the real world. It's about a group of girls who called themselves the Miracle☆Kiratts who are striving to become the best PriChan idols above the rest. For three seasons, we watched Miracle Kiratts taking on big challenges such as heated competition with rival teams such as Meltic StAr and Ring Marry, the jewel idol competition, saving the world, the road to the Queens Grand Prix, and saving the world...again, while they do what they do best; showcasing the world that they're the best PriChan sensations ever known.

PriMagi (2021-2022) - Waccha PriMagi! is the fourth installment of the Pretty Series that revolves around the lives of Primagistas striving to become the best of the best. The show is about Matsuri Hibino, a middle-schooler who dreams of being the best just like her idol, the legendary Jennifer Sumire Sol.

AiPri - After over a year of void, the Pretty Series has returned with the newest installment coming to TV Tokyo this April 2024. Titled Himitsu no AiPri, the new series stars Minori Fujidera as Himari Aozora and Sae Hiratsuka as Mitsuki Hoshikawa. For the first time in Pretty Series, the animation sequences were provided by OLM, the studio behind the Pokemon and Yo-Kai Watch anime series, while South Korea's Dongwoo A&E returned to cooperate for it.

Himitsu no AiPri

Welcome back, Pretty Series! The world can't wait for the franchise's comeback show this April.

My Top 10 ICE-powered JDM Executive Midsize FF Sedans

The third-generation Mazda 6 will go down in history as the last JDM D-Segment front-wheel-drive saloon to be powered by internal combustion and with production ending this April, this race is now sadly extinct due to the never-ending rise of crossovers and SUVs.


The third-generation Mazda 6 is the last JDM FF
executive midsize saloon to be powered by internal combustion


As this species is set to be extinct in the springtime, it's time for me to jot down my top 10 JDM executive midsize front-wheel-drive sedans powered by internal combustion.


10) Sixth-generation Toyota Camry - At the end of 1996, the Camry Gracia was launched in sedan and estate variants. The Gracia is the luxury alternative to the Camry and it served as the replacement for both the Camry Prominent and the US-built Scepter. With the fifth-generation Camry's production ending in the summer of 1998, the Camry Gracia took its place and it was known as the sixth-generation Camry when it was facelifted in 1999. This is the last Camry to have a V6 engine offered in the Japanese market. A year later, Daihatsu sold the Toyota Camry as the Altis.

9) Suzuki Kizashi - Originally meant to be a US-exclusive model, the Suzuki Kizashi went on sale in Japan in the fall of 2009. With styling inspired by the three concepts, the Kizashi is powered by a 2.4L petrol engine producing 188PS while mated to a CVT with Manual Mode. The Kizashi is the last Suzuki sedan offered in Japan and production ended in 2015.

8) Seventh-generation Honda Accord - Launched in 2002, the seventh-generation Honda Accord features a sleeker design compared to its predecessor as well as improved dynamics. It was the first to feature Honda's Internavi Premium Club service, providing drivers the fastest route to their target destination. Powering the seventh-generation Accord is a choice of a 2.0L and 2.4L mated to a 5-speed AT. The Euro-R variant is powered by a 220PS 2.0L engine mated only with a 6-speed MT. This generation marked the last time to feature the Euro-R grade. The seventh-generation Accord was exported in Europe, in the US as the Acura TSX, and in Oceania as the Honda Accord Euro.

7) Nissan Cefiro A32 - Launched in 1994, the Nissan Cefiro A32 eschews its predecessor's FR layout in favor of a stable FF layout with comfortable driving in mind. Powering the Cefiro A32 is a choice of three VQ V6 petrol engines from 2.0L, 2.5L, to 3.5L. All are mated to either a 5-speed MT or a 4-speed AT.

6) Eighth-generation Mitsubishi Galant - Launched in late summer 1996, the eighth and final generation Mitsubishi Galant is no doubt one of the best-looking executive midsize saloons at that time with the sporty 4WD VR-4 variant the most aggressive-looking. It even spawned an Aspire twin two years later. The eighth-generation Galant is the first production car to be powered by a Gasoline Direct Injection engine for improved performance and fuel economy. It won the 1996 Japan Car of the Year award.

5) Sixth-generation Honda Accord - Launched in September 1997, the sixth-generation Honda Accord incorporates the Honda DNA through this D-segment executive midsize saloon, hence the car's slogan. Joining alongside the sixth-generation Accord is its Torneo twin and both of them are powered by a choice of 1.8L and 2.0L VTEC engines. In 2000, both the sixth-generation Accord and the Torneo received a minor change and gained the sporty Euro R variant powered by a 2.2L VTEC engine mated exclusively with a 5-speed MT.

4) Honda Inspire CP3 - Debuted at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show, the CP3 Honda Inspire is powered by a J35A 3.5L i-VTEC PGM+FI V6 engine that produces a power output of 280PS and 342NM of torque. This engine comes with Variable Cylinder Management that shuts half of its cylinders. Coupled with the 5-speed AT, it has a fuel economy of 9.9km/L based on Japan’s 10-15 Mode standards. 9.6km/L based on JC08 Mode standards. Production ended in 2012, making it the last pure V6-powered Honda saloon ever made.

3) MAZDA6 (GJ) - Launched in 2012, the third-generation Mazda6, formerly known as the Atenza, is the first Mazda saloon to be powered by the SKYACTIV-D clean diesel engine mated to a six-speed SKYACTIV-MT, a first for a JDM Mazda in the SKYACTIV era. In addition, the Mazda6 is powered by a 2.0L SKYACTIV-G engine and the SKYACTIV-G 2.5T engine with Dynamic Pressure Turbo System. The Mazda6 was facelifted twice with the recent one in 2019 when Mazda decided to drop the Atenza naming in favor of the Mazda6 naming.

2) Nissan Teana J32 - Launched in 2008, the second-generation Nissan Teana is powered by a choice of a 2.5L and a 3.5L V6 engine mated to an XTRONIC CVT. Carrying over from the first-generation model, the Teana J32 comes with a signature front ottoman seat on the passenger side.

1) Nissan Teana J31 - Launched in 2003 as the replacement for the Cefiro, the Teana is Nissan's luxury premium midsize sedan that slots between the Skyline and the Cedric/Gloria sedans. While the styling is rather contemporary for a luxury sedan, the Teana's turning point is its luxurious interior which is about as cozy as the sofas and chairs you bought from the IKEA store. The Teana J31 is sold in South Korea as the Renault Samsung SM5 and SM7, and in other countries as the Renault Safrane.


It's a sad day in the world of motoring as there will be no more internal combustion-powered front-wheel-drive JDM executive midsize saloons on sale in the Land of the Rising Sun. If you want an executive midsize FF JDM saloon, you'll be going to make do with the hybrid ones. Actually, there are only two; the Lexus ES and the upcoming Honda Accord e:HEV.

Domo arigato, ICE JDM FF executive midsize sedans. They have served their purposes and now they're officially extinct because of SUVs. Although they're gone, they'll be never forgotten. 

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.