Tanaka Heavy Industries (田中重工業) | NEW THREAD! | FEATURED: 2019-Present TANAKA AZALEA

I kinda ruined an Aventis. Period correct ruined.

Tanaka_Aventis_(AC02)_-1500_D(M)_Kyusha.car (121.1 KB)


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Tanaka’s 80s Monster, the 1986-1989 Tanaka X4




1988 Tanaka X4 Street with the ultra-rare 1988-only Sunburst Yellow

In the early days of the FIA Group B Rally, the Aventis Lupino Evolution was quite competitive with its AWD system and its powerful turbocharged I4 engine. However, the competition was getting stronger and soon, mid-engined AWD rally cars dominated the competion. The Aventis Lupino Evolution wasn’t just going to cut it. But actually, the plans of a supercar was actually first started in the late 70s with a secret codename “Akuma”. But Tanaka wasn’t ready to put their money into that car yet. But since Tanaka was falling behind and became less competitive, they resumed project “Akuma” and with the help of Tanaka Motorsports or TAMO, they launched the all-new 1986 Tanaka X4 in the 1985 Tokyo Auto Show. The public were jaw-dropped by this car. It looks exotic, it is very fast, its full of technology, and it was very expensive. In 1986, its MSRP was $73000, which translate in 2020 money (in USD), $173,650.


The Tanaka X4 is a mid-engined AWD supercar. The homologated production car is called the Street It is powered by a 2.8 litre twin-turbocharged V6 (RX28MPEFI-A1 T) producing 366HP and 324lb-ft of torque. Power is transferred to all 4 wheels via a 5-speed manual transmission and a mechanical LSD. There are 2 choice of rim options design, you can have the turbine design or the turbofan design, both options are 17-inches alloys with sport compound tires wrapping around them. The rear tire size is 260mm and the front tire size is 220mm. Brakes are vented of course. To be as aerodynamic as possible, they put a fully clad undertray underneath the X4. The interior is made out of leather with aluminium bucket seats to save weight and a standard cassette player with AM/FM radio, although an entertainment system delete option was available. There is a variable hydraulic power steering, but no traction aids. The result of all of this? 0-60mph in only 4 seconds dead and its top speed is 176mph.


1986 Tanaka X4 Street with the turbine rim option




1986 Tanaka X4 Group B rally car “Blank Canvas”

Tanaka offered factory race teams with the X4 rally car to compete in the 1986 FIA Group B rally. These white unpainted rally cars were the “Blank Canvas” as factory teams can paint the cars and give them a livery, and change suspension settings as they wish. Changes from the street car include a slightly bigger turbocharger and intercooler setup running more boost and AR ratio, and a straight-pipe exhaust system which enable the X4 rally car to have 534HP and 428lb-ft of torque. Of course, the ride height was higher and the suspension setup is softer. Rally lights are now added on the bumper of the X4. A big front splitter and a gurney flap was added to increase downforce. In terms of the interior, it was stripped down ever further to save more weight. Extra mudflaps on the front were added. The tires are changed to thicker rally tires.


This is a technology display of what Tanaka is capable of. Its AWD system since then made its way into the Aventis wagon AWD, the Calgary compact SUV, and in 2005, the 5th generation Tanaka Courser, and even more models after that. The X4 would also be the predecessor to the legendary Akuma supercar in the next century. While this was meant to compete in the 1986 season, unfortunately it only participated in 2 events before the FIA Group B category got cancelled. But it did make Tanaka very competitive in the rally. Only 350 units were ever made from 1986-1989, with 200 of those as 1986 model year. But its legacy lives on as one of the ultimate Tanaka vehicle of all time.

Drive it!

Tanaka X4 Street: Tanaka_X4_(XX01)_-_Street.car (87.6 KB)

Tanaka X4 Rally Car “Blank Canvas”: Tanaka_X4_(XX01)_-_1986_Group_B_Rally.car (88.5 KB)

A little note regarding the blank canvas Tanaka X4 rally car

I would like to connect with the community together with this car. The no-liveried X4 served as a blank canvas for all of you to put your livery on it. Please showcase your liveried X4 rally car here (and make sure to clone car trim before posting it here for other to enjoy so that it wouldn’t overlap with the original car.) So enjoy the X4 rally car and take your time and be creative. Thank you!

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2005-2010 Tanaka Courser (CG05)



2005 Tanaka Courser GT to the left and 2008 Tanaka Courser ALTECH to the right

After the discontinuation of the 4th generation Courser in 2004, the 5th generation was launched in the 2004 Geneva Motor Show for the 2005 model year. There are few innovations with this generation which includes all-wheel-drive as standard and an electronic LSD system. In terms of the body, this generation was made slimmer since the previous generation had complains from their customers that their Coursers were too wide. In terms of styling, Tanaka implemented their H-grill bar pattern (only used on Tanaka’s sports cars) on the front with a “smiley” front fascia to correspond with Tanaka’s normal passenger cars’ design language. In the rear, clear taillights were used, just like any sporty Tanaka models in the 2000s. The targa-top that the previous generation had were also discontinued for this generation. Another change from the previous generation is that the Courser no longer uses Inline-6 engines. Instead, it uses the VS-Series V6 engine.

This is the GT trim. It uses the 3.7 litre turbocharged V6 (VS37DI-A1 T) producing 476HP and 423lb-ft of torque. Power is transferred to all 4 wheels through a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed computer-controlled automatic transmission and an electric LSD. The rims equipped are 19-inch 5-spoke alloy rims with 230mm wide sport compound tires wrapping around them. Brakes are vented disks. For the interior, the Courser is filled with premium leather interior with heated seats as standard. The Courser also comes with a premium SatNav system. Power steering is still a variable hydraulic system. Dampers are adaptive with 3 modes (comfort, normal, sport), and anti-roll bars are semi-active. Sunroof is standard. The Courser GT (with manual transmission) weighs 1670kg, accelerates from 0-60mph in only 3.8 seconds, has a top speed of 196mph and can do 28.7mpg.

This is the GT-L trim, the luxurious version of the GT. This version was introduced in 2006. The computer-controlled automatic transmission is now standard. Other changes includes new 20-inch alloy rims, a slight chrome accent on the front bumper and luxurious leather seats with massaging heated seats.


This is the ALTECH trim, introduced in 2008. This is a most hardcore version of the Courser. Its VS37DI-B1 T engine produces 562HP and 460lb-ft of torque. Changes include a new body kit, a carbon fiber roof, a rear spoiler, wider magnesium 6-spoke rims with 250mm wide sport compound tires, lighter bucket seats with carbon fiber trim, active sway bars and lowered, sportier & stiffer suspension setup. The transmission choices are either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed sequential transmission. This Courser (with a 6-speed sequential transmission) weighs 1680kg, accelerates from 0-60mph in only 3.5 seconds and has a top speed of 200mph.

There is also a Track Package available for the Courser ALTECH. Changes to this include the deletion of the rear seats, carbon ceramic brakes, longer gear spacing, a larger rear spoiler and a revised undertray which produces downforce. This enabled the Track Package to reduce the weight from the normal ALTECH to 1583kg, accelerate faster now in only 3.3 seconds and a reduced top speed of 195mph (due to increased drag).

The 5th generation Courser was discontinued in 2010 with the arrival of the 6th generation. This generation sold quite well for its first few years, then sales starting from mid-2007 tanked due to the global financial crisis that year.


Drive it!

Tanaka_Courser_(CG05)-ALTECH.car (86.4 KB)
Tanaka_Courser
(CG05)
-ALTECH_Track_Package.car (86.4 KB)
Tanaka_Courser
(CG05)-GT(A).car (63.7 KB)
Tanaka_Courser
(CG05)-GT-L.car (72.2 KB)
Tanaka_Courser
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-GT(M).car (63.7 KB)

19 Likes

Head-turning styling and headline-grabbing performance would have made the 5th-generation Courser an icon of the 2000s - and a sought-after modern classic today.

Handsome styling and seems to be a Good car.

2003-2008 Tanaka Celesta (CF03)


The Celesta was Tanaka’s full-size luxury sedan, and this 3rd generation was introduced for the 2003 model year. The Celesta uses the same basic platform as the Crezta executive sedan and the Aquila compact executive sedan (basically a RWD alternative of the Azalea mid-size sedan). While both of them have a V6 as their top-of-the-line engine choice, the Celesta featured a 5.0 litre V8 (FL50DI-A1) producing 371HP and 336lb-ft of torque as its only engine option.


This is the 5.0 C, the base model of the Celesta. The FL50DI-A1 V8 engine is standard like mentioned above. Standard features include a 6-speed advanced automatic transmission, 19-inch monoblock 5-spoke alloy rims with 220mm wide medium compound tires, vented disk brakes, a fully-clad undertray, luxurious interior filled with leather on dashboard and armrest, wood trimming, leather heated seats with massaging function (in the rear only), BOSE speakers and subwoofer setup, luxury AM/FM radio with SatNav function, 4-zone climate control (2 for front seats and 2 for the rear), electric power steering, ABS+TC+ESC traction aids, adaptive dampers (with 2 modes: comfort and sport) and sunroof. The Celesta 5.0 C is able to get to 0-60mph in 6.07 seconds, a top speed of 193mph (limited to only 155mph), and achieve an average of 24.5mpg. Back in 2003, the Celesta 5.0 C costs $71200.


This is the 5.0 L, the top-of-the-line model of the Celesta. Changes from the 5.0 C includes 20-inch 10-spoke alloy rims with 230mm wide medium compound tires, hand-made interior with a permanent center console on the rear. a remote for the rear entertainment screens, rear and rear-side curtains for the window, an air suspension system for even greater comfort, an additional sunroof for the back and chrome side mirrors. The Celesta 5.0 L is able to get to 0-60mpg in 6.43 seconds, and achieve an average of 22.7mpg. Back in 2003, this costs $88200, quite the cost jump from the 5.0 C.

The Celesta was only sold in Japan bearing the Tanaka brand name. Outside Japan, they were sold as Auxio, Tanaka’s luxury brand. Production ended in 2008. Although sales were decent, critics thought that the Celesta looked too conservative.

11 Likes

A nice-looking car even as an Auxio, but why the strange tire sizes? Road cars should have tire widths that aren’t exactly divisible by 10, although race cars do - and I’ve seen the same problem on the Courser.

At any rate, a high-performance version of the CF03 Celesta would be a worthwhile addition to the range - but even without one, it’s still a worthwhile alternative to American and European equivalents.

1 Like

Huh, I didn’t know about that. Thanks for the feedback anyways.

As much as I like Tanaka in general, I must say that this one sadly looks even more basic than the contemporary Lexus LS. Though it’s not a poor design, just doesn’t look as high end as it’s supposed to be.

Also, Aquila :eyes: CSR123 - Slightly Super Saloons (THE FINALS) Honestly it’s not really an issue for me, but I thought it’s worth letting you know, as I’m gonna develop that :wink: (and in many months I had this idea I didn’t come up with any less obvious name)

1980-1984 Tanaka Crezta (CE01)



1981 Tanaka Crezta 2500GT shown

With Haruto Tanaka getting older, he discovered a new market for a car which is comfortable for old people, and prestigious for a businessmen. He started plans to make a large sedan. After several years of planning and development, the 1st generation Crezta was released in 1980. The Tanaka Crezta is a large executive saloon which are sold in Asian countries, but are also exported into Europe. Being Tanaka’s largest sedan, the only engine configuration is a 2.5 litre Inline 6 (ET-Series), the same engine as the one used in the original 1st generation Tanaka Courser, but with lower displacement to respect Japan’s under 2.5 litre tax bracket.


This is the 2500GE trim, the base model of the Crezta. It uses the ET25MFI-A1 engine producing 154HP and 147lb-ft of torque. There are 2 transmission options which applies to most trims of the Crezta, the 4-speed manual transmission and the 4-speed automatic transmission. Front and rear disk brakes are standard. The rims are steel rims with hubcaps on them with hard long-life tires. The interior is made of standard cloth with a standard AM/FM radio and an 8-track player. Hydraulic power steering is standard. 0-60mph takes 9.78 seconds, achieves a top speed of 134mph, and achieves an average of 19.0mpg (specs taken from the 2500GE with the 4-speed manual transmission).


This is the 2500GL trim, a more equipped version of the 2500GE. Changes from the 2500GE includes a front fog lights, new hubcaps, premium leather interior and wood trimming and a variable hydraulic power steering. 0-60mph takes 9.9 seconds, achieves a top speed of 134mph, and achieves an average of 18.4mpg.


This is the 2500GX trim, one of the highest spec version of the Crezta. Changes from the 2500GL includes a two-tone paintjob (secondary colour applied on the bumper), slightly different hubcap design, a sunroof, chrome rear license plate holders, a premium AM/FM radio and an 8-track player with a higher-quality sound system and more airbags. 0-60mph takes 10.1 second, achieves a top speed of 134mph, and achieves an average of 18.1mpg.


This is the Tanaka Crezta 2500GT, the sportiest, fastest and craziest version of the Crezta. Who would want to make a fast grandpa car? Well the crazy engineers over at Tanaka did. Tanaka thought that they could make a car which executives would drive that is fast and exciting, but in a more mature way. It features the ET25MFI-A1 T engine producing 230HP and 220lb-ft of torque. Changes from the 2500GX includes a front lip, a rear ducktail spoiler, Hakka foldable fog light covers, a 5-speed manual transmission (4-speed automatic transmission also available), 16-inch alloy rims with medium compound tires, bigger disk brakes, a semi-clad undertray, and a sportier suspension setup. 0-60mph takes only 6.91 seconds, achieves a top speed of 148mph, and achieves an average of 18.3mpg (specs taken from the manual version). The 2500GT produced a reputation as this car can outrun Ferrari 208s and beat a Porsche 911SC on the quarter mile. It is the sleeper sedan of the early 80s.

When equipped with the right parts catalog from TAMO (Tanaka Motorsports) like this one, the 2500GT is able to get from 0-60mph in only 6.55 seconds and achieve a top speed of 159mph which is almost as fast as a Ferrari 400 and a Lamborghini Silhouette. But this one is kinda modified so its not really that fair… How did TAMO decide to make a parts catalog for this car? Well it started off with the normal 2500GT. They felt that it has a potential to be even faster than it already is. So, they made performance parts for the Crezta which includes a bigger exhaust, wider 16-inch CWS mesh rims, a new ball bearing turbo, a bigger exhaust and a slight ECU retune. This makes the 2500GT more responsive and slightly more powerful. While it is not able to beat the latest exotics of the era, it still gave them a run for their money.


The 1st generation Crezta suffered from one flaw, its fuel efficiency. The Crezta is very thirsty, proabably due to using an engine that was meant for the Courser. But other than that, the Crezta met its sales target which allowed it to make another generation of it.

Gallery


Just 2 pics only soz

Drive it!

2500GE
Tanaka_Crezta_(CE01)-2500GE(M).car (63.4 KB)
Tanaka_Crezta
(CE01)_-2500GE(A).car (63.0 KB)

2500GL
Tanaka_Crezta_(CE01)-2500GL(M).car (65.1 KB)
Tanaka_Crezta
(CE01)_-2500GL(A).car (65.1 KB)

2500GX
Tanaka_Crezta_(CE01)-2500GX(A).car (67.9 KB)
Tanaka_Crezta
(CE01)_-2500GX(A).car (67.9 KB)

2500GT
Tanaka_Crezta_(CE01)-2500GT(M).car (69.2 KB)
Tanaka_Crezta
(CE01)_-2500GT(A).car (69.2 KB)

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I’m pretty sure this car should use medium tires, as they increase confort and are common on this size of car. Also, the name could use some rethinking, this toyota cresta with a Z sounds painfull. I’ve left some tips about naming on the tutorials topic. Other than that, beautifull design!

1996-2002 Tanaka Silver (SCS03)


From left-right: Tanaka Silver GT, Tanaka Silver GT Spec R, Tanaka Silver ALTECH

90s kids will remember these cars. The Tanaka Silver is Tanaka’s compact RWD sports car which competes against the Toyota Celica and the Nissan Silvia. This 3rd generation was introduced for the 1996 model year. It was powerful, lightweight, agile, fun-to-drive and affordable.


This is the GE trim, the base model of the Silver. For those who have a really tight budget, this is the car for them. The GE uses the FS20MPEFI-A1 Inline-4 engine producing 183HP and 140lb-ft of torque. It is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission or an alternative 5-speed automatic transmission. It has an open differential. It is equipped with a 15-inch 7-spoke alloy rims with medium compound tires. The brakes are vented disk brakes. The interior is made of standard cloth with some plastic on the dashboard, and an AM/FM radio with a basic cassette player. Windows are manual so you have to crank them to open them up. Power steering is variable hydraulic. ABS system is standard. While being the base model, Tanaka did not sacrifice driving experience and sportiness for cheapness (see the vented disk brakes and variable hydraulic power steering). The GE with the manual transmission only weighs 1172kg, does 0-60mph in 7.51 seconds, achieves a top speed of 160mph and achieves an average of 33.4mpg.


This is the GS trim, a sportier version of the GE. It uses the FS20MPEFI-B1 engine producing 191HP and 144lb-ft of torque. Other changes aside from the engine includes a sunroof, front fog lights, 15-inch 10 twin-spoke rims, standard cassette player, shorter gear spacing, power windows and mirrors, an additional ESC system on top of the ABS system for additional safety, and a sportier suspension setup. The GS with the manual transmission weighs 1221kg, accelerate from 0-60mph in 7.26 seconds, achieves a top speed of 161mph and achieves an average of 30.4mpg.


This is the GT trim, the entry-level turbocharged Silver. It is equipped with the FS20MPEFI-A1 T turbocharged I4 engine producing 244HP and 211lb-ft of torque. It is mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic. Other changes from the GS trim includes a new rear spoiler, a viscous LSD, 16-inch 5-spoke alloy rims with wider sport compound tires, sportier suspension setup and a new third-brake light position. The GT with the manual transmission weighs 1284kg, accelerates from 0-60mph in 5.84 seconds, achieves a top speed of 171mph and achieves an average of 34.7mpg.


This is the GT Spec R trim, a sportier version of the GT trim. The GT Spec R was introduced in 1998. Changes from the normal GT trim includes a new front bumper, new side skirts, new rear wing, a hood scoop for additional cooling, a mechanical LSD and a slight tweak to its suspension setup. Performance-wise, its slightly faster. It weighs 1300kg, accelerates from 0-60mph in 5.7 seconds, achieves a top speed of 172mph and achieves an average of 34.6mpg. Basically, people only get this to have a GT with some body kit. The GT Spec R is only available with the 6-speed manual transmission.


This is the ALTECH trim, the most hardcore version of the Silver. It was introduced in 2000, a celebration of the new millennium. ALTECH took the Silver GT Spec R and transformed it to this. It uses the FS20MPEFI-B1 T engine producing 272HP and 220lb-ft of torque. It was only available with the 6-speed manual transmission. Other changes from the GT Spec R includes a front lip on the front bumper, a rear diffuser and a rear wing, 17-inch 5 twin-spoke alloy rims with wider sport compound tires, switched the rear bench seats to 2 separate semi-bucket seats with front seats made from aluminium with suede covering the seats, and stiffer and sportier suspension setup. All these meant that the Silver ALTECH weighs 1318kg, accelerates from 0-60mph in 5.59 seconds, achieves a top speed of 172mph and achieves an average of 31.0mpg. All this made the Silver ALTECH one of the best handling and most fun-to-drive Tanaka ever made, and it is the peak of Tanaka’s 90s era.

Sadly, Tanaka announced that the 3rd generation Silver and its nameplate will be discontinued in the end of 2002. This is the end of the RWD Tanaka sports cars as the Akuma in 2003 and the Courser in 2005 became AWD, or so we thought with the introduction of the Raikan in 2011. But that’s for another time…


Drive it!

Tanaka_Silver_(SCS03)-GE(M).car (73.3 KB)
Tanaka_Silver
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Tanaka_Silver_(SCS03)-GS(M).car (73.7 KB)
Tanaka_Silver
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Tanaka_Silver_(SCS03)-GT(M).car (77.1 KB)
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Tanaka_Silver_(SCS03)_-_GT_Spec_R.car (81.5 KB)

Tanaka_Silver_(SCS03)_-_ALTECH.car (88.0 KB)
(^VERY RECOMMENDED TO DRIVE IN BEAM.NG DRIVE, QUITE KEYBOARD FRIENDLY!!!)

14 Likes

Probably the Silver is a future classic that should be bought now before prices are skyrocketing. It ticks most of the boxes for being sought after when people with fond memories of the model are getting nostalgic and has gotten the time and money needed for an entusiast vehicle.

I have no choice but to agree with you - as one of the most sought-after analog modern classic performance cars, and one that has rightfully earned its fame through countless TV, movie and video game appearances, the last (and best) of the three generations of Silver deserves its stellar reputation among enthusiasts. I reckon the reason for an imminent increase in its used prices is that many examples were sacrificed for drift, drag and circuit racing long ago, leaving very few clean, stock examples left around the world. Oh, and it’s the best looking version of the Silver by far - did I mention that it looks best in silver, as its name suggests? With its sound underpinnings, it’s bound to be a top performer among cars in its price range, and that sleek body on the outside is just icing on the cake.

1 Like

1997-2002 Tanaka Caprea (CCX01)

New year, new format...

Yes, for 2021, I will be posting here with new format to organize the thread better. Only posts from 2021 onwards will use this format. Oh and in the pictures, sorry about those chrome looking wheels. I set the colour to steel but apparently it shows as as chrome in photo mode. Its probably a bug so just don’t mind it. Thanks.


Overview

With the rise of demand for SUVs and crossovers in the 90s, Tanaka found the potential of the crossover market, something not as bulky or brutish as a large full-size SUV, but drives like a normal car, and has the capability and the practicality of an SUV. This is where crossovers, and in 1997, Tanaka introduced the Caprea. Using the next gen platform that will soon be used in other 2000s Tanaka models. Even though the Caprea has a 2.6m wheelbase (rounded off), the Caprea is still considered a compact crossover, just the larger one of its segment. To give an edge over its competition, an AWD system with viscous LSDs are standard, meaning even the base model can get them.

Engines

FB20MPEFI-A1
The FB-Series engine is 2.0 litre SOHC I4 engine introduced first introduced in 1995. This version is the basic naturally aspirated version producing 123HP and 125lb-ft of torque. With this new generation of engine was first used in the facelifted Aventis at 1995, and for the first time, the whole range of engine includes a VVT system as standard.

FC20MPEFI-A1
The FC-Series engine is 2.0 litre DOHC I4 engine introduced first introduced in 1997. This version is the basic naturally aspirated version producing 130HP and 124lb-ft of torque. This engine represents the next generation of engines as its innovation for this one was the low-friction cast pistons to increase fuel economy. This engine is even more efficient than the FB-Series engine mentioned above.

FC20MPEFI-A1 T
This is the turbocharged version of the normal FC-Series engine. It basically adds a turbo to increase power and torque, all while keeping the stock efficient internals, and still use 91RON fuel. It produces 170HP and 176lb-ft of torque.

FS20MPEFI-A1 T

The FS-Series engine is 2.0 litre DOHC I4 engine introduced first introduced in 1996, exclusively for the Tanaka Silver, the Tanaka Aventis ALTECH and apparently the XT version of the Caprea. Basically these FS-Series engines are the sporty 2 litre I4 engines with forged internals as standard and are higher revving and more capable than the usual FB and FC-Series economy I4 engines. This version is the turbocharged version producing 244HP and 211lb-ft of torque. The same engine was used in the SCS03 Silver GT and GT Spec R.

Trims and Equipment

XG
The XG uses the FB-Series engine. It can be paired with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed automatic transmission. The rims are 15-inch steel wheels with a 5-spoke hubcaps on it with hard long life tires. All 4 wheels have solid disk brakes behind them. The interior is made of standard cloth with some parts like the steering wheel and the armrest covered in some synthetic leather. There are 4 basic speakers with a basic AM/FM radio and a basic cassette player. A variable hydraulic power steering is standard. As for traction aids, ABS-only is standard. The manual version can achieve 31.9mpg, 0-60mph in 11.2s and a top speed of 129mph.

XC
The XC uses the FC-Series engine. It can be paired with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed automatic transmission. The wheels are 16-inch 6-spoke alloy wheels with the same hard long life tires equipped. A sunroof was implemented on the roof with a fog light on the front bumper. In addition to the ABS system, a traction control system was also implemented. As for the interior, changes include standard quality 4 speakers, AM/FM radio and cassette player. The manual version can achieve 33.4mpg, 0-60mph in 11.3s and a top speed of 131mph.

A turbocharged version was introduced in 1999 to replace the outrageous XT trim. This version was less sporty, but more for utility and daily purposes, as it has more torque and power for towing. This turbocharged manual version is able to achieve 33.9mpg, 0-60mph in 8.47s and a top speed of 131mph (limited by gearing).

XT
The XT uses the FS-Series engine. It can be paired with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed automatic transmission. The wheels are wider 16-inch 8 twin-spoke alloys with hard long life tires on it. The brakes are now vented to cope with the massive increase in power. Other changes includes a hood scoop for better cooling and black plastic bumper pieces. This was only available until 1999 as 244HP might be a little too much for this car’s demographic. Nevertheless, this was the most sought after version of the Caprea (even though these are still dirt cheap economy cars). The manual version can achieve 30.1mpg, 0-60mph in 6.3s and a top speed of 146mph.

11 Likes

Wouldn’t there be a lesser 2 door sedan model along with the lupino?

Nope, there are no 2 door sedan of the Aventis. If you want a 2-door, the Lupino, a coupe, is your only choice.

2008-2013 Tanaka Azalea (AD06)


Overview

The Azalea has always been a larger alternative model to the Azalea, and it is the 2nd best selling model of Tanaka. While the Aventis was more focused on younger buyers and focused on being fun, sporty and affordable, the Azalea was targeted more towards more matured no-frills buyers who wants reliability and comfort. For this generation, it has grown a lot compared the the 5th generation of the Azalea by a lot. It gained 0.2m for wheelbase. While it shared the transverse FWD/AWD platform with the Aventis (the 2009 model) and the Caprea and other models, this is the largest one to use this platform. This design is also more mature, as well as more architectural and structured than the previous generation, with its sharp shoulder line, front bulge seperating the front lights and intakes, and the 2 front grilles.

Engine

GB20DI-A1

This GB-Series engine was first introduced in 2008 in the Azalea and the Aventis the following year. This version specifically for the Aventis and the Crezta used a direct injection fuel system rather than the more simple MPEFI system in the Aventis. This one is a 2 litre naturally-aspirated DOHC I4 engine producing 144HP and 130lb-ft of torque. This version was also made to run on 91RON fuel. Depending on the trim, fuel consumption ranges from 42.0mpg (2.0GE with manual) all the way to 39.0 mpg (2.0GX, automatic only).

GB24DI-A1

This is the largest version of the GB-Series engine. It is a 2.4 litre engine producing 171HP and 162lb-ft of torque. This 2.4 litre version is made to run on 95RON fuel. Fuel consumption ranges from 38.3mpg (2.4GL) all the way to 37.9mpg (2.4GX).

FY32DI-A1

This is the FY-Series engine. It is a DOHC V6 engine. This is the largest and most powerful engine option offered in the Azalea, The one in the Azalea was the 3.2 litre naturally aspirated version producing 263HP and 224lb-ft of torque. Depending on the trim, fuel consumption ranges from 36.2mpg (3.2GL) all the way to 35.8 (3.2GX).

Trim and Equipment

GE

The GE was the base model Azalea and it was offered with 2 different engines, the GB20DI-A1 engine or the larger GB24DI-A1 engine, both with 2 transmission options, the 6-speed manual transmission or the 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission. The rims are 17-inch steel rims with hubcaps on it, with 185 width tires wrapped around it. The interior was made of standard cloth with a basic AM/FM radio and CD-player. Two-zone climate controls are standard. Sunroof was optional.

GL

The GL is the mid-level trim. The engines offered on this trim level are the same as the GE, but the FY32D1-A1 V6 engine is added. It features 18-inch multi-spoke alloy rims (exclusive to the 2.0GL only) or a twin 5-spoke alloy rims (exclusive for the 2.4GL and the 3.2GL) with 205 width tires wrapped around it. The interior is now made of standard synthetic leather. There are standard AM/FM radio with CD-player and better speakers. It also gained front fog lights on the side intake of the Azalea. Additional safety features were added as well.


Tanaka 2.4GL shown with the twin 5-spoke alloy wheels…

GX

The GX is the highest trim level of the GX. The GB20DI-A1 engine is no longer an option on this trim level. It features 18-inch 10-spoke alloy rims. Interior was now made of premium genuine leather. 4-zone climate controls are standard on this trim level. For the exteriors, aluminium trim touches were added to make the car look more upscale.

Body Styles

The Azalea was available in 2 different body styles, the regular sedan body style and the alternative wagon body style. Both body styles are available worldwide, even in the US. Though as expected, the wagon version was not successful in the US market, though it was quite popular in Europe.


This generation of the Azalea was very successful as usual. Although the lack of a sporty version (the previous generation has a sporty AWD twin-turbo V6 version) did isolate younger and sportier buyers.


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It should read “larger alternative to the Aventis”. At any rate, this is a clean and relatively simple design - one that would have sold very well in period regardless of spec.

1995-2001 Tanaka Courser (CG04)


This is the 4th generation Courser, and this is the swansong of the Inline 6 Coursers. This generation was the last to use an inline 6 engine. So, Tanaka decided to go out with a bang. All Coursers come with a turbo. The Courser was made to compete with more exotic GTs of the time and of course to fight off the Japanese competitors. Unfortunately, low sales during and after the Asian economic (just one year after it was released) turmoil at that time, the expensive price tag and no more affordable NA model meant that the CG04 Courser was discontinued in 2001, only 6 years after production started. An AWD system was also planned for this car, but at the time, Tanaka were trying to save money. However, this generation resonated the most with fans with its beautiful styling and its athletic performance. This generation also grew by a lot, especially the width, to improve its cornering ability and compensate its long wheelbase.

Trims, equipment and engines

Engine: JX30MPEFI-A1 T

The JX-Series engine was introduced in 1995 with the 1995 3rd generation Tanaka Crezta. This is the turbocharged version introduced in 1996 for both the turbocharged variant of the Crezta and this Courser GT. This is a cast iron block with an aluminium head. This turbocharged DOHC 3 litre Inline 6 produces 336HP and 321lb-ft of torque. In Japan, the actual power output stayed the same, it was only advertised to make 276HP and 321lb-ft of torque, following the Gentleman’s Agreement between Japanese car manufacturers in Japan.

Trim: GT

The GT is available with a 5-speed automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual transmission, both with a geared LSD. Tires are Dunlap sport compounds. Wheels are 17-inch 5 spoke alloys. Brakes are vented for both front and back. The interior is made of premium genuine leather and wood or optional aluminium trimming, with 4 seats made from premium genuine leather. However, a luxury leather extension package for the interior was also available. There is a premium AM/FM radio with a CD player, with 4 high-quality BOSE speakers for the best listening experience. Variable hydraulic power steering is standard. For the manual version, 0-60mph was achieved in only 5.59 seconds and a top speed of 178mph. It weighs 1508kg.

Engine: JX30MPEFI-B1 T

This is the more powerful version of the previous engine. Changes includes bigger turbos, bigger exhaust, more aggressive VVL profile, and richer fuel mixture to produce 401HP and 337lb-ft of torque. In Japan, the ALTECH version is not a version of the Courser, instead it is an aftermarket package from ALTECH, meaning the JDM Courser ALTECH is technically aftermarket. This means that Tanaka can still be involved in the gentleman’s agreement, while having a way more powerful offering from ALTECH themselves. This also means that there are some ALTECH Coursers without the body kit.

Trim: ALTECH

The ALTECH version was available from 1997 to 2001, meant to be a special limited production version of the Courser. The changes from the normal GT includes wider sport compound tires with 18-inch magnesium wheels, lighter seats with additional suede in the interior and seats, a more aggressive body kit, stiffer and sportier suspension setup, a rear diffuser and a large rear wing. All of this means that the ALTECH version weighs 1500kg, achieves 0-60mph in only 5.22 seconds, and have a top speed of 182mph. Of course, this is more expensive, and most importantly, more exclusive with only 6400 ALTECH Coursers ever produced.

Body Styles

For this 4th generation, there are 2 body styles available. There is the usual coupe and a targa roof. The Coupe body comes standard without a sunroof and is optional. The targa comes with a 2 piece roof, with an option of blank metal roof pieces or glass roof pieces. Unlike the AG03 Courser, the AG04 Courser does not have a T-top.

As you can see, the top picture is the Targa version with the optional glass roof on. The bottom picture is the Targa with the roof off. Changes from the normal coupe includes a 2 piece roof, taller rear windows, and some additional structural components to compensate for the loss of the hardtop roof. This made the car 100kg heavier. The Targa model was especially popular with customers who lived in coastal and tropical areas. Unfortunately, the ALTECH trim was never offered on the targa body.


From 1995-2001, 48879 CG04 Coursers were ever produced, making it the 2nd lowest production number behind the first generation CG01. The Courser was pulled out of the US market in 1998 and Europe in 1999, and remained to be sold in Asia until 2001. But the addition of new fans brought by the CG04, together with the introduction of video games such as Gran Turismo meant that it brought hope for Tanaka Motors to produce a new Courser.

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