The Vehicle Roadworthiness Certificate compartment in the front passenger door and the Mini Trash Box that proved so popular on the first series are retained. The lid on the Mini Trash Box can now be fitted to the bottom, allowing it to be used to hold CDs and other small items. The Mini Trash Box may also be attached to the front passenger seatback using the MPU system described above.



5) Better environmental performance

The new eK retains the powertrain configurations from the first series - the naturally aspirated 3G83 3-cylinder SOHC engine (intercooler/turbocharged on the eK Sport R) mated to one of three transmissions (5-speed manual, 3- and 4-speed automatics) - with changes focused on improving environmental performance.

- Emissions
The use of a new high-performance catalytic converter sees all naturally aspirated engine models earn 4-star ratings with emission levels that are 75% lower than Japanese 2005 Emission Regulations. Turbo models earn a 3-star rating with emissions that are 50% lower.

- Better fuel economy
Overall mileage has been improved with the use of a torque converter adding a lockup mechanism on 4-speed A/T models (2WD), allowing high-volume trim levels to meet the Japanese 2010 Fuel Economy Standards (3-speed A/T 4WD eK Wagon models and eK Sport R excluded). The 5-speed manual gearbox eK Wagon M qualifies for 2006 Green Vehicle Tax exemption with mileage that is 10% better than the standards.



6) Better safety performance

- The new eK is the first in its category to use LED tail and brake lights. With a faster activation time and more visible than bulb lights, the LED units help to reduce rear end crashes.

- The new eK follows the i and the Outlander in adopting the use of neck impact reducing front seats, giving improved rear impact safety performance.

- Pedestrian protection performance is improved as a result of raising the height of the engine hood and of changes made to the shape and configuration of engine auxiliary devices to secure the necessary space under the hood.

- As one the first series, the new eK uses anti-trapping power windows, a brake pedal fitted with a mechanism that limits rearward displacement in a crash event and an impact absorbing steering column.
 
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