I often ask myself why Asian manufacturers don't try to establish a stronger visual identity. I wish I could know at first glance to which brand a Japanese car belongs. You can always tell a BMW (although you can't tell it much). Toyota and other Asian manufacturers seem to be going through a continuous struggle to find their identity. Every new model is a step forward– in a different direction. They're caught in fast shifting currents of contemporary design, just trying to keep their heads above water. Toyota has a chance to establishing a distinctive, brand-specific beachhead with the third generation Avensis, due for launch next year. I'd like to see a major departure from the traditional Toyota design. Honestly? I don't think it's going to happen. Photos of test vehicles show a more dynamic and ascending side line, big head lights curved along the corners and a new grille. To me it looks already dated. Maybe they are saving the "cool stuff" for Scion.
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You can always tell a BMW
Yes, it invariably looks ugly!
That Avensis looks exactly like the new Honda Accord. As japanese brands go, Lexus has a quite distinct (if too smooth) design, and so does Mazda. Both have consistency across their range.
Wow – that is generic… who did their design Acme?
I think Lexus might be the first Japanese brand to truly find its own design language with the “L Finesse” styling on its latest models. It is unique, non-derivative, and yet still distinctly Japanese.
I can’t really criticize the looks; it is a far better rendition of the flame-surfaced, aero-egg 3-series that sits in my driveway. I do think that Toyota is developing a design vernacular that is quite decent. Last week I saw a LS460L and a new S550 parked nose-to-tail and was really struck with the idea that the Lexus has far more presence than the big Benz. The Benz is just lumpy by comparison.
Lexus has a design language.
Mazda does, and a pretty strong one if you exclude the rebadged fords.
And Nissan has one, but its not as strong.
I think its mostly Toyota and Honda that don’t. But they don’t necessarily NEED one.
I believe that Mazda has styling that is recognizable.
Wow, this looks professional . well done. Even proportions are ok. But I believe Next Avensis will evolutionize its predecesssor, not photoshop Camry elements.Send me your email address, I will send you some pics of the car I am working on, in real life.
I have to admit Lexus are working something out with the L-Finesse. Mazda’s Zoom-Zoom is also pretty strong. But this is happening unfortunately with only two of the many Asian manufacturers…
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