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This 1980s Isuzu Impulse Sportscar Was an Innovative, Pioneering Vehicle that Blazed a Trail for the Future of Performance Cars.
In the 1980s and 1990s, Japanese sports cars were all the rage, and Isuzu attempted to make a name for themselves with the Impulse, a sports coupe that featured performance technology ahead of its time. Designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, the Impulse was an answer to the success of brands like Toyota and Nissan. The first generation Impulse was launched in 1983 and was initially a success, with 13,000 units sold.
However, the second generation Impulse, which debuted in the late 1980s, was not as well received. Isuzu’s partnership with General Motors led to a front-wheel-drive hatchback/wagon version, which sacrificed the rear-wheel-drive charm of the original. The model was also plagued by poor brand recognition, lackluster marketing, and a weak dealership network in the United States.
The Impulse faced strong competition from other Japanese sports cars, including the Mazda RX-7, Honda Prelude, and Toyota Celica. Furthermore, the 1990s saw a burst of the economic bubble in Japan, which forced Isuzu to cease production of cars, including the Impulse.
The second generation Impulse sold only around 13,000 units over three years, and ultimately represented the end of Isuzu’s automotive production. Despite its innovative technology and sleek design, the Impulse failed to gain popularity, marking a disappointing chapter in Isuzu’s history.
Thailand’s government is considering introducing a trade-in program to rev up its ailing automotive industry.
The Thai government is considering a trade-in scheme with carmakers to revitalize the country’s declining automotive sector. The scheme would allow consumers to trade in their used vehicles for a reduced price on a new one, with the aim of improving the sector’s competitiveness and reducing environmental waste. The Thai auto sector is significant, comprising 10% of the country’s GDP, but has been suffering since the pandemic.
The scheme is being pushed by industry leaders, including Toyota, which has been discussing an “End of Life Vehicle” scheme with the government. The proposal is still in its early stages, but if approved, it could benefit the sector by increasing sales for automakers, promoting the purchase of newer, more environmentally friendly vehicles, and creating new employment opportunities in the country’s recycling industry.
However, the proposal is pending finalization, as it involves multiple government agencies. The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) and the private sector are working together on the proposal, but it has not yet reached the finance ministry. The scheme could be a game-changer for the country’s car market, stimulating the market and driving investment in the sector, according to the vice president of Thailand’s Used Car Association, Suwit Chobpradu.
The Wuling Hongguang Mini EV, BYD Song Plus, and Denza D9 are set to arrive in February 2025.
According to the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA), a total of 1.397 million passenger vehicles were sold in China in February 2025, a 26% increase compared to the same period last year, but a 22% drop compared to the previous month. Here is a summary of the top-selling models in each segment during the period from February 3rd to March 2nd:
Sedans and Hatchbacks:
- Wuling Hongguang Mini EV (31,222 units sold)
- BYD Seagull (28,223 units sold)
- Geely Geome Xingyuan (24,831 units sold)
- BYD Qin Plus (23,310 units sold)
- Tesla Model 3 (20,870 units sold)
- Volkswagen Lavida (17,635 units sold)
- BYD Qin L (16,937 units sold)
- Nissan Sylphy (15,555 units sold)
- Volkswagen Sagitar (14,134 units sold)
- Volkswagen Passat (13,959 Units sold)
SUVs:
- BYD Song Plus (18,911 units sold)
- BYD Song Pro (15,826 units sold)
- Toyota Frontlander (12,862 units sold)
- Geely Xingyue L (12,775 units sold)
- Changan CS75 Plus (12,646 units sold)
- Toyota RAV4 (12,504 units sold)
- Tesla Model Y (12,265 units sold)
- Toyota Corolla Cross (11,373 units sold)
- BYD Yuan Plus (11,083 units sold)
- BYD Yuan UP (10,799 units sold)
MPVs:
- Denza D9 (96,625 units sold)
- Toyota Sienna (4,851 units sold)
- Voyah Dreamer (3,539 units sold)
- Buick GL8 (3,129 units sold)
- BYD Xia (3,082 units sold)
- Toyota Granvia (2,339 units sold)
- GAC Trumpchi M (7,791 units sold)
- GAC Trumpchi M (6,279 units sold)
- Arcfox Kaola (1,190 units sold)
- Wuling Jiachen (965 units sold)
Overall, the data suggests that new energy vehicles are dominating the Chinese market, with many models in the top 10 rankings. The Wuling Hongguang Mini EV, BYD Seagull, and Geely Geome Xingyuan were the top-selling sedan and hatchback models, while the BYD Song Plus and Song Pro took the top two spots in the SUV segment. The Denza D9 was the best-selling MPV.
March 2025 or later? Opt for a hybrid lease and make the most of your decision.
The decision between buying and leasing a car can be a complex one, and leasing has become a popular option for many. One advantage of leasing is that it doesn’t require a large down payment or the full price tag of the vehicle. In fact, Honda is currently offering a lease deal on the 2025 Honda Civic Sport Hybrid Sedan for $289 a month with a $3,399 down payment, which expires on April 30th.
Hybrid vehicles, in particular, offer impressive reliability and are a good option for those who want to stay with a gas-powered car without the need for charging. Brands like Toyota, Honda, and Hyundai offer affordable and innovative models, and lease options are available. For example, the 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid is a great choice, with a lease offer that includes a $289 monthly payment and a $3,399 down payment.
At the end of the lease, Honda provides three options: returning the leased vehicle, leasing a new one, or purchasing the vehicle at a discount. While some may assume that leasing isn’t a good option, it can actually be a hassle-free and convenient way to drive a new car. Ultimately, the decision to lease or buy a car depends on individual circumstances and goals, and leasing can be a good option for those who want a new car without the long-term commitment.
March 2025 Car Sales Report: Maruti Suzuki Edges Ahead, Hyundai and Tata Experience Decline
Here is a summary of the article in 400 words:
The Indian car market in February 2025 saw mixed results, with some companies experiencing growth while others struggled. Maruti Suzuki, the largest carmaker in India, reported a slight growth, selling 1,60,791 units, up from 1,60,271 units last year. However, its mini car segment, which includes models like Alto and S-Presso, saw a decline in sales. On the other hand, its compact car and SUV segments experienced modest growth, with sales increasing by 1.2% and 5.5%, respectively.
Hyundai and Tata Motors, on the other hand, saw a decline in sales. Hyundai sold 47,727 units in February 2025, down 5% from 50,201 units last year, while Tata Motors’ passenger vehicle sales decreased by 9% to 46,435 units.
However, Mahindra, Toyota, and Kia reported strong growth. Mahindra’s SUV sales jumped by 19% to 50,420 units, while Toyota Kirloskar Motor’s sales grew by 13% to 28,414 units. Kia India’s sales surged by 23.8% to 25,026 units, driven by strong customer demand and the company’s cutting-edge technology. JSW MG Motor India also saw a 16.3% growth, selling 4,956 units in February 2025.
According to industry experts, the mixed performance can be attributed to various factors, including economic reforms and tax changes. However, some companies have managed to buck the trend, reporting significant growth despite the challenges. The Indian car market is expected to continue to be competitive, with manufacturers relying on innovation, technology, and customer demand to drive sales.
Budget-friendly options with advanced safety features: the Maruti Alto K10, Citroen C3, and other affordable six-airbag vehicles – The Times of India
The article highlights the most affordable cars and SUVs in the Indian market that come equipped with six airbags, which is considered a crucial safety feature. The list includes:
1. Maruti Alto K10 OOMS (Optional Overall Occupant Movement with Side-Sufen): This hatchback variant is priced at around Rs 5.25 lakh (approximately $7,500 USD) and offers a total of six airbags, including dual front airbags, two side airbags, and two curtain airbags.
2. Citroen C3: This compact car is priced at around Rs 7.49 lakh (approximately $10,700 USD) and features a six-airbag setup, including dual front airbags, two side airbags, and two curtain airbags.
3. Tata Altroz: This subcompact crossover is priced at around Rs 8.25 lakh (approximately $11,900 USD) and offers six airbags, including dual front airbags, two side airbags, and two curtain airbags.
4. Honda City: This compact sedan is priced at around Rs 10.90 lakh (approximately $15,700 USD) and boasts a six-airbag setup, featuring dual front airbags, two side airbags, and two curtain airbags.
5. Toyota Glanza: This compact hatchback is priced at around Rs 7.92 lakh (approximately $11,500 USD) and comes with a six-airbag setup, including dual front airbags, two side airbags, and two curtain airbags.
These affordable options provide a range of benefits, including added safety, improved crash test performance, and reduced occupant injuries. The introduction of six-airbag variants has become mandatory in the Indian market, and these models meet the necessary safety regulations.
In conclusion, the article highlights the availability of affordable cars and SUVs in the Indian market that offer six airbags as a standard feature. These options cater to a wide range of budgets and provide a safer driving experience. With the increasing emphasis on safety, these models are likely to be in high demand in the Indian market.