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Japan plans real-world diesel emissions test after companies fail

Japan's transport ministry plans to start real-world diesel emissions tests after an experiment found four models from Toyota, Nissan, and Mitsubishi that produced more nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions than the nation's rules allow, according to The Japan Times. Regulators there usually only perform emissions checks in the lab. The VW diesel scandal has everyone double-checking their figures. Diesel versions of the Toyota Hiace van, Land Cruiser Prado, and Nissan X-Trail produced up to 10 times more NOx than allowed. The Mitsubishi Delica D:5 was up to five times over the limit, The Wall Street Journal reports. There was no evidence of defeat devices in the vehicles. Mazda performed well in the experiment, though. The CX-5 passed with nearly the same results on the road and in the lab. The Demio, better known as the Mazda2, did nearly as well with only slighter higher figures in the real world than in the controlled setting. The experimenters theorized the reason for the excessive emissions was that cold weather caused the engines' software to shut off the exhaust gas recirculation to prevent damage, according to the WSJ. However, this behavior also increased NOx production. Toyota, Nissan, and Mitsubishi don't have to worry about punishment from the transport ministry because this check was just an experiment. Their models already passed the mandated lab tests, which was the only requirement, according to The Japan Times. As governments begin greater real-world emissions tests, the results suggests diesels aren't very clean. A recent check in France found models from Ford, Renault, and Mercedes-Benz that didn't perform up to the standards. Regulators in India conducted similar evaluations and ordered VW to recall over 300,000 vehicles. Related Video:

2016 Toyota Avalon gets revised equipment, sportier styling

Toyota has been known to make some sporty models. We're not sure we'd count the Avalon as one of them, but while that's not what the Japanese automaker's largest sedan is about, it has gotten a bit more aggressive – at least in the styling department – over successive generations. The current model introduced just a few years ago took things in a decidedly sportier direction, and the updated model revealed here for the 2016 model year takes it a step further. Debuting today at the Chicago Auto Show, the 2016 Toyota Avalon is an evolution of the model we already know. It features revised styling that's just a touch sportier than the model it replaces, and comes packed with updated equipment. As you can see, the reshaped lower grille gives it an incrementally more planted look, flanked by turning indicators to replace the outgoing model's foglamps. Around back are new LED taillights and a chrome bumper accent, and inside, the cabin has been retrimmed with gray accent stitching on the light gray upholstery. The new Avalon will be offered in five trim levels – XLE, XLE Plus, XLE Premium, Limited and Touring – powered by a conventional V6 engine, with Hybrid models dropping the lowest and highest of those trims. The two base models also get new 17-inch alloys, seven-inch dashboard display, new interior trim and tire pressure monitoring system. The XLE Premium gets an upgraded infotainment system with wireless charging, the Limited model gets 18-inch alloys (17 on the hybrid), automatic high beams and added safety systems, while the top-of-the-line Avalon Touring upgrades with larger 18-inch wheels and a revised front fascia as well as LED head- and daytime running lights. The revised Avalon debuts in Chicago alongside the Special Edition models of the Corolla and Camry. FIRST LOOK IN THE "SECOND CITY:" THE REFRESHED 2016 TOYOTA AVALON PREMIUM MID-SIZE SEDAN - Updated Styling - New LED Headlights and Taillights - Retuned Suspension for Enhanced Comfort - Upgraded Convenience Features - 2016 Camry and Corolla Special Editions Also Unveiled CHICAGO, Feb. 12, 2015 - - Call it a trio of firsts in the Second City as the refreshed Toyota Avalon and sporty Camry and Corolla Special Editions made their world debuts at the 2015 Chicago Auto Show. The three models rode into Chicago with a head of steam as the Avalon, Camry and Corolla are each the sales leaders in their respective segments, a first for Toyota.

Lightweight Toyota GT86 spotted on Nordschleife with carbon panels, upgraded aero

We've seen (and frankly reported on) so many rumors of more powerful and performance-focused versions of the Subaru BRZ, Toyota GT86 and Scion FR-S at this point that haven't materialized that, at this point, we're almost tired of them. Almost. But what we have here was enough to pique our jaded interests as only a carbon-bodied sports car on the Nürburgring could do.
What we're looking at is, well, we don't quite know, to tell you the truth. What we can tell is that it's a Toyota GT86 (Scion FR-S for us) wearing new wheels and a carbon-fiber hood, roof, racing-spec rear wing and subtle lip spoiler. The vents in the hood indicate that the prototype in question could be packing an upgraded engine to go with the lighter body panels and upgraded aero, and the interior (at least as far as we can see) looks pretty well stripped out.
The right-hand drive configuration tells us this is either destined for former territories of the British Empire or for the racetrack. Considering the ride height, full glass and apparent lack of roll cage, our money's on this prototype is being developed for the Japanese Domestic Market, where Toyota badges the sports car simply as the 86. We can always hope, though, that some version makes it into Scion showrooms in North America... we just won't get our hopes up too high.