Honda Cars : 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid Spyshots | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

By Alex Nunez

Toyota was busy introducing all flavors of the 2012 Toyota Camry to the media earlier this week, but since all that stuff's embargoed, there's not much to tell. Yet. But what isn't under embargo is this collection of spy photos showing the 2012 Camry Hybrid in its birthday suit while shooting a television commercial.

The new Camry's familiar roofline communicates practicality overall, but the updated sheetmetal has more crisp lines, with new fascias fore and aft. The hybrid's grille treatment apes that of the facelifted Highlander Hybrid, and yes, those headlights are indeed the ones Akio Toyoda teased a few weeks ago.

In a nutshell, it's still a conservative look, but decidedly less frumpy than before. Now, let's see what changes Toyota's made below the surface to bring the Camry in line with the current midsize family-sedan competition.

Image Credit: KGP Photography

Source (with alot of pic's!);
http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/30/this-is-the-2012-toyota-camry-hybrid/

Honda Cars : European Market 2012 Civic and CR-V to be built at Honda’s UK Plant | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Honda announced today that it will manufacture the new Civic hatchback and the next generation of the CR-V SUV at its Swindon plant in the UK.

The five-door hatchback version of the new Honda Civic, which we previewed earlier today (see here), is designed exclusively for Europe and will only be built in Swindon. The Civic was first introduced in 1972, and is now in its ninth generation. It will be revealed at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

Production of Honda’s European compact-sized hatchback will commence in late 2011, and sales will begin in early 2012. Like the current generation, it bears no resemblance to the US model. However, Honda has also patented the sedan version of the Civic in Europe so it could be offered alongside the hatch.

As for the European market version of the new CR-V, which was unveiled a few days ago as a concept model, it will go on sale in the fall of 2012. The production version will probably have little -if any- differences from both the concept and the US model that will reach showrooms by the end of the year.

In addition to the announcements concerning the manufacturing of the new Civic and CR-V at Swindon, Honda also revealed that production at its UK plant that had been disrupted due to shortage of parts after the March 11 earthquake and Tsunami in Japan will return to normal levels in September.

Source;
http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2011/07/european-market-2012-civic-and-cr-v-to.html

Honda Cars : Euro 2012 Honda Civic Ride and Drive | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Honda Cars : Statement Regarding Forthcoming White House Fuel Economy Announcement by John Mendel, Executive Vice President of Sales for American Honda | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

07/27/2011 - TORRANCE, Calif.

Honda is proud to have actively worked with the Administration as they developed their proposed national fuel economy and greenhouse gas emissions standards. Honda embraces this challenge, which will be good for our customers and for the environment, and we welcome the competition we will have with other automakers that will result from these new standards.

- John Mendel, Executive Vice President of Sales, American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

Source;
http://www.hondanews.com/channels/corporate-headlines/releases/statement-regarding-forthcoming-white-house-fuel-economy-announcement-by-john-mendel-executive-vice-president-of-sales-for-american-honda

Honda Cars : More details emerge about the 2012 Honda CR-V | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

The 2012 Honda CR-V Crossover Concept’s solitary image has been leaked by Honda to build buzz around Honda’s most popular Crossover. Along with that, Honda has also slipped in a few details about the Crossover that prospective 2012 CR-V buyers would be very eager to know. For the Indian car market of course, Honda will launch the 2012 CR-V sometime later next year, even as the international launch of this car is scheduled for later this year.

The 2012 Honda CR-V will be lighter and feature a more fuel efficient. Lighter also could mean faster. So, expect the 2012 Honda CR-V to be quicker off the block than the current version. This apart, the 2012 Honda CR-V will also continue to feature a diesel engine for the European market, which is something Honda India will be seriously contemplating for India, considering the plastering the petrol version is now getting from the likes of the Toyota Fortuner and the Chevrolet Captiva.

The 2012 CR-V is also touted to arrive with new interiors that will be more versatile and spacious. Honda also has added a “more accommodating” tag to the Honda CR-V’s interiors and whether this means an addition of two more seats at the rear to take the seating capacity of the Crossover to seven adults, is something we still need to wait and watch. Other than this, the 2012 CR-V will also feature a lower cargo area at the rear for easier access.

Meanwhile, here's what Honda America’s Executive Vice-president for Sales, John Mendel has had to say about the upcoming 2012 Honda CR-V.

The 2012 CR-V Concept introduces the exterior styling for the more sophisticated and dynamic design of the upcoming production model. Long considered the benchmark for packaging and user-friendly design in the small SUV segment, the all-new CR-V will offer an added dimension of style, amazing interior versatility and Honda’s latest technologies for convenience and refinement.

Source;
http://www.indiancarsbikes.in/cars/honda-crv-46040/#more-46040

Honda Cars : 2012 Honda CRV Sketch | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Well here's a sketch with the direction that Honda was going with the 2012 Honda CRV, even though we have an official concept image already released it's nice to see the raw idea.

Source;
http://visions-autos.sport24.com/645027/Honda-CR-V-2012/

Honda Cars : 2012 Acura CSX Rendering | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Considering everything that a 2012 Honda Civic EX-L has now (Navi, Leather, Power Seat....) I'm not sure what they're going to do in the price point that this car needs to be....
The Acura CSX is not only an entry level compact luxuary car but also a smallest car from Acura offering.First generation arrive in 2005 as a rebadge version of 8th gen Civic.This car is not much popular but at least got resemble among Honda/ Acura fan.

The all new CSX is in developing and will arrive around march 2012.As they say.The car will be get more excitement in order to gain more interest from the customer that not a hard core Honda/ Acura’s fan .

The CSX replacement will build from the 9th gen Civic that arrive in late 2011 but According to Mag-x the new car will have more different from Civic more than the car it replace.Expect a newly build front and rear bumper,new design and more sharp headlight and Acura brand’s grille.

The new car (codename 2TA) will get similar size to the new Civic.Expect 4540 mm long X 1750 mm width X 1445 mm height.The prefered engine will be newly introduce petrol 4 cylinder 2.0 liter and expect a Hybrid IMA petrol 1.5 liter engine will be offered at later date.Also in pipe line is current petrol 2.4 liter that will improve power and fuel economy.

Source;
http://autoten.com/2011/07/19/rendering-of-2012-acura-csx-a-compact-luxuary-sedan-based-from-civic/

Honda Cars : Edmunds.com Announces True Cost to Own(R) Award Winners: Honda and Ford Vehicles Shine | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

SANTA MONICA, Calif., Jul 25, 2011 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Honda Motor Co. won five categories in the 2011 Lowest True Cost to Own(R) Awards, given by Edmunds.com, the premier online resource for automotive information. The awards name the 2011 model year cars and trucks in 23 categories that offer the lowest True Cost to Own(R) (TCO(R)), which is the projected ownership cost over a five-year period.

The 2011 Honda Accord earned victories in two categories: Coupes $25-$35K and Sedans $20K-$30K. Honda's other award winners are the Honda Civic Hybrid (Hybrids), the Honda Ridgeline (Large Light Duty Truck) and the Honda Pilot (SUV $35K-$45K).

Ford Motor Co. also had a strong showing in this year's awards, with Edmunds.com recognizing the Ford Ranger (Compact Truck), the Ford Flex (Wagon Over $35K), the Ford Fiesta (Sedan Under $20K) and the Ford Transit Connect (Van/Minivan).

The other automotive brands receiving at least two awards were Chevrolet and Cadillac.
"One of the key factors that pushed many of this year's award winners over the top was their free maintenance plans, which can save car owners hundreds or even thousands of dollars over a five-year period," said Danny Zhou, senior director of data products and operations at Edmunds.com. "The 2011 Volkswagen CC, for example, edged past its closest competitors in the Sedan $30K-$40K category in large part because it offers free maintenance for three years or 36,000 miles."

To calculate the Lowest True Cost to Own(R) winners, Edmunds.com uses an algorithm that takes into account depreciation, interest on financing, taxes and fees, insurance premiums, fuel, maintenance, repairs and any federal tax credit that may be available. In order to estimate certain mileage-dependent costs, Edmunds.com assumes that vehicles will be driven 15,000 miles per year. Only vehicles launched during the period from July 29, 2010 to April 14, 2011 were considered for the 2011 awards.

To see the full list of all 23 winners this year, please visit the award page at http://www.edmunds.com/car-reviews/2011-lowest-cost-to-own.html .

Consumers can learn more about Edmunds.com's True Cost to Own(R) (TCO(R)) before they buy their next car at http://www.edmunds.com/tco.html .

About Edmunds.com, Inc. ( http://www.edmunds.com/help/about/index.html )
Edmunds.com Inc. publishes Web sites that empower, engage and educate automotive consumers, enthusiasts and insiders. Edmunds.com, the premier online resource for automotive information, launched in 1995 as the first automotive information Web site. Its mobile site, accessible from any smartphone at www.edmunds.com , makes car pricing and other research tools available for car shoppers at dealerships and otherwise on the go. InsideLine.com is the most-read automotive enthusiast Web site. Its mobile site, accessible from any smartphone at www.insideline.com , features the wireless Web's highest quality car photos and videos. AutoObserver.com provides insightful automotive industry commentary and analysis. Edmunds.com Inc. is headquartered in Santa Monica, California, and maintains a satellite office in suburban Detroit. Follow Edmunds.com on Twitter@edmunds and fan Edmunds.com on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/edmunds .

Source;
http://www.marketwatch.com/story/edmundscom-announces-true-cost-to-ownr-award-winners-honda-and-ford-vehicles-shine-2011-07-25?reflink=MW_news_stmp

Honda Cars : Honda's new Home Power Generation | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

The New Honda: Cars, Bikes and …. Home Power Generation

Posted by Stephen On Friday, July 15th, 2011

The idea of what they are calling “co-generation” doe not get as much publicity as the latest Honda bike or car launch, but on July 14th Honda’s Yamada made it clear that company leaders want to see electricity co-generation technology products become a third pillar for Honda’s business, on par with their car and bike retail divisions.

So the first thing you are probably wondering is, well, what on earth is this “co-generation” thing they are talking about anyway? Well, to put it in a nutshell, it refers to domestic electricity generation using a combination of a gas engine and solar panels. Interest has focused on this type of technology in the wake of the earthquake that left so many homes without power, as well as the on-going crisis at the Fukushima nuclear reactor and Prime Minister Kan’s recent call for a nuclear-free Japan. Analysts are expecting this market to boom.

Now, while it is true that Toyota also has other seemingly-unrelated businesses, such as home builder Toyota Home, within its corporate group, Toyota’s primary focus is quite clearly on producing automobiles. So for Honda to be considering such a radical change of corporate strategy as putting this new business on par with their automobile and bike businesses is a very bold move.

So why do it? From Honda’s point of view, this technology also neatly dovetails with their future plans for alternatively powered vehicles. After all, if fuel cells and batteries in EVs or plug-in hybrids require a power source. What better than if you could generate your own power at home for both your household appliances and your vehicles? And once a system is in place to sell power back to the grid, it will give businesses and private individuals a way of participating in the energy generation business and thus paying down the cost of their investment and their own power usage quicker.

Source;

http://integrityexports.com/2011/07/15/new-honda-cars-bikes-and-home-power-generation/

Honda Cars : 2012 Honda CRV Test Mule involved in Accident | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Don't hear of this very often, but it's funny how the Honda get's hit by a Toyota....
Follow this link for the full story and more pic's (orig. source via www.autoblog.com);

http://www.notcot.com/archives/2011/07/the-car-accident.php

Honda Cars : 2012 Honda Ridgeline Sport Package Revealed | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

The 2012 model year brings a new trim level and some visual revisions for Honda's Ridgeline truck. The new trim is optimistically called Sport -- it doesn't entail any sporty performance upgrades, but does bring aesthetic modifications to make the Ridgeline look a little cooler.

The key word for the Ridgeline Sport is black, as the color is applied to the head-, fog-, and taillight bezels; the mirrors; door handles; unique honeycomb grille; and 18-inch wheels. It's a cool look, but we wonder whether the Sport label is truly justified by what's essentially just a collection of blacked-out body parts. From what we can tell, the Sport will sport much of the same equipment as a typical Ridgeline RT model.

New duds aren't limited to this black-on-black model, as Honda will graft a new grille design onto every 2012 Ridgeline. There are no pictures of the non-Sport model, but our money says the Ridgeline will score the same chrome-slat grille design as the 2012 Pilot.

The 2012 Ridgeline is said to boast improved fuel economy; the 250-hp 3.5-liter V-6 engine will probably remain unchanged while the five-speed automatic transmission could be swapped for a six-speed unit, like that used on the Acura MDX, which rides upon a similar platform. The truck is currently EPA-rated at 15/20 mpg (city/highway). The new Ridgeline (and the Sport variant) goes on sale this November.

Source;

http://www.trucktrend.com/features/news/2011/163_news110725_2012_honda_ridgeline/index.html

Honda Cars : 2012 Honda Pilot Revealed | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Honda’s big three-row SUV, the Pilot, is slated to receive a slew of updates for the 2012 model year. The Japanese automaker has released a single photo of the 2012 Pilot, showing the mild changes for the new year.

Visual tweaks for the 2012 Pilot mainly consist of a smoother, more aerodynamic front fascia. Honda says the interior and dashboard have been restyled, and that the Pilot scores upgraded entertainment and navigation systems. For now, we haven’t been granted a look inside the car, so we’ll likely have to wait some time to check out the interior upgrades.

Honda promises that the new Pilot will be more fuel-efficient than the current model, which scores just 17/23 mpg (city/highway) with front-wheel drive or 16/22 mpg with all-wheel drive. It’s unknown whether the economy increase will be attributed to the more aerodynamic styling or revisions to the Pilot’s drivetrain. The 2011 model features a 250-hp 3.5-liter V-6 engine and a five-speed automatic transmission. Our guess is a six-speed gearbox has been added, seeing as the Acura MDX — a mechanically similar vehicle which rides upon the same architecture — gained such a transmission for the 2010 model year.

With the boxy Element essentially put out to pasture, the Pilot is now Honda’s slowest-selling SUV. Slow is a somewhat relative term: 102,323 buyers took home a Pilot in 2010. Look for the revamped 2012 Honda Pilot will go on sale this September.

Source;
http://rumors.automobilemag.com/honda-shows-redesigned-2012-pilot-promises-improved-interior-63103.html

Honda Cars : 2012 Honda CR-V Concept - Official Image and Info | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Honda calls it a concept, but this is the next CR-V.
BY JUSTIN BERKOWITZ, PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBERT WHITLEY, KGP PHOTOGRAPHY, AND THE MANUFACTURER July 2011

Honda has released a picture of the concept version of its next-generation CR-V, and it looks, well, pretty much like we expected based on recent spy photos. The vehicle seen here is, as is typical with Honda’s concepts, a loosely disguised version of the production car.

That’s not to say that when the fourth-generation CR-V arrives at dealerships some time in late 2011, it will be festooned with some of the concept’s more colorful design elements. Items like the smoked-out headlights, prominent front skid plate, gargantuan wheels, and polished black lower trim likely will remain the domain of the show car. Otherwise, though, what you see here is what we’ll get.

Despite a relatively significant change in the CR-V’s design—it’s major by Honda’s conservative standards, at least—the new car will be mechanically similar to the one it replaces. Front-wheel drive definitely will again be standard, with optional all-wheel drive returning to the menu, too. It’s doubtful that Honda will make any major changes in the engine department from last year’s car, meaning that buyers will probably get a 2.4-liter inline four good for about 180 hp. Unlike the 2011 CR-V, which had a five-speed automatic transmission, the new model is likely to receive a six-speed unit. If Honda does go this route, you can expect a modest boost in fuel economy over the current CR-V’s 21 mpg city/28 highway for front-drive models and 21/27 for those with AWD.

While the CR-V has never fully roused the enthusiast’s soul, it has always been one of the more involving small crossovers to pilot. (Pun intended as an excuse to post a link to the face-lifted 2012 Pilot, which Honda also announced.) At the same time, the CR-V has been one of the more practical and easy-to-use small utes, too, a factor we’re sure is of higher importance to most of the people with one in their driveway. (There are a lot of those people: 227,760 CR-Vs were sold in the past 12 months alone.) We don’t expect those traits to change with this next-gen model, although we’ll have to wait until Honda decides to show us the production model to find out for sure.

Source;
http://www.caranddriver.com/news/car/11q2/2012_honda_cr-v_concept-official_image_and_info

Honda Cars : MotorTrend: First Drive: Honda Fit Shuttle Hybrid | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Not for our market....yet?....
Super-Sized Honda Is a Better Fit for Families
July 21, 2011
By Peter Lyon
Photography by Holiday Auto Magazine

Like much of Japan's industry, Honda's operations were massively disrupted after the March earthquake and tsunami, and new model launches were delayed. The super-sized Fit's debut was knocked back three months, and production temporarily relocated from the earthquake-damaged Saitama plant near Tokyo to Honda's Suzuka plant some 250 miles to the west. Now that things are back on track, we had a chance to take the Shuttle for a spin.

Based on the current model Fit's platform, with its superb center tank layout and low, flat floor, the Fit Shuttle is basically a Fit with a bigger, heavier body. It also inherits the 1.3-liter hybrid and 1.5-liter gas engines. In Japan at least, all models come with Honda's continuously variable transmission.

Some 20 inches longer than the current Fit, roughly 0.6 inches taller, and 154 pounds heavier, the Fit Shuttle employs the bolder, more substantial-looking nose from the U.S.-spec Fit. As you'd expect, the new Shuttle offers more head and legroom, and significantly more luggage space. While the increased space is its main reason for existence, the new Shuttle also delivers a better interior with higher-quality materials and trim, especially in the area of dashboard plastics. Honda is targeting customers downsizing from sedans, but still looking for acceptable ride quality and better quality and comfort levels than most small minivans. On those points the Shuttle delivers.


It delivers on the road, too, thanks to its proven hybrid IMA 1.3-liter i-VTEC engine, which generates 88 hp at 5800 rpm and 88 lb-ft of torque at 4500, while the electric motor produces 13 hp. Surprisingly, Honda engineers have managed to achieve mpg numbers that should match or beat the U.S.-spec Insight's roughly 40/43 city/highway (the same as its smaller, lighter Fit brother) by employing strategic aerodynamic revisions and friction reduction measures. These modifications make the Shuttle feel adequate but not quick, with a 0-60 mph time in the 10-second range. One aspect that impressed was the Shuttle's newfound quietness. Specially developed pile carpet, including synthetic inserts into the wheel wells and underbody, has significantly lowered the amount of noise and vibration reaching the cabin. You can hardly hear the engine laboring when pushed, or the CVT revving high to get the car up to speed.

Since the Shuttle went on sale last month in Japan, some 80 percent of customers have opted for the hybrid, which makes a lot of sense considering the post-earthquake mood here and the desire to save energy after the ensuing power cuts. However, Honda also offers a 1.5-liter gasoline model that delivers 117 hp and 106 lb-ft. For those looking for a Fit that has the get-up-and-go to propel five adults and their luggage, we'd recommend gas-powered Shuttle. That's not to say the hybrid doesn't cut the mustard. It does -- just not as well. The 1.5 jumps from 0-60 mph in around 8.5 seconds and delivers strong torque from as low as 2000 rpm. This for us was the pick of the crop, and it still delivers roughly 30 mpg combined.


On the road, the Shuttle has the Fit's sporty feel and handy road manners, combined with a more stable level of ride comfort. Its steering response is not quite as direct as the base Fit, but it still delivers good weight and channels ample feedback to the driver. Our only real gripe with the car was with its air conditioner, which periodically turned the compressor off to save fuel, then blowed hot air whenever it flicked into fuel efficiency mode at idle.

One Honda source we talked with suggested the Shuttle is being considered for export by mid-2012, with the U.S. as a long shot. A more likely scenario, however, would be for Honda to wait until the next-generation Fit lineup rolls out in 3-4 years before deciding on any U.S.-market launch. "We cannot send a soon-to-be-obsolete Fit, even if it's a bigger, more practical car," the Honda official told us. Stay tuned.

Source;
http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/hatchbacks/1107_honda_fit_shuttle_hybrid_firist_drive/index.html

Honda Cars : Feature Flick: 2012 Honda Civic Song the Next Big Hit? | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Karla Sanchez on July 21 2011 6:00 AM

Honda wanted to give its new 2012 Civic its 15 seconds of fame, while also giving music hopefuls a shot of getting theirs too. Back in June, the company announced the Sounds of Civic Facebook contest where aspiring musicians had to submit a song about the Civic. The contest came to a close earlier this month and a winner has been announced.

Jonatan Barahona won over Honda Civic Facebook fans with an original song about the Civic titled, “Forever.” Barahona went down the sentimental path in creating his song and video, focusing on how spacious the rear seats of the Civic are and all how all the roominess contributes to bringing people together.

All types of situations take place in the back seat of the Civic: a pregnant woman and her partner are rushed to the hospital, a recent grad and his family continue with the celebration, girls with their shopping bags have a blast and compare what they bought after a day of shopping, and skateboarders and their boards fit in just fine.

On top of becoming an internet star, the winner also received a 2012 Honda Civic, which will help him get to the 2011 Honda Civic Tour where he will perform live in Los Angeles.

Source;
http://rumors.automobilemag.com/feature-flick-2012-honda-civic-song-the-next-big-hit-61965.html

Honda Cars : Toyota Window to the world - multimedia system | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Wow....

Honda Cars : 2012 Honda CRV Illustration | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Well, this looks alot like all of the 'spy photo's' running around.... Good find Burlapp! This is a good look for the CRV, I like it.
Source;
http://www.burlappcars.com/2011/07/2012-honda-crv.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+VinceBurlappCarPage+%28Vince+Burlapp+Car+Page%29

Honda Cars : WorldCarFans: 2012 Honda CR-V spied hot-weather testing | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Next-generation of Honda's CR-V SUV will have new front and rear fascias and a bigger boot area

Our spy photographers have caught the upcoming next-generation 2012 Honda CR-V doing some hot-weather testing in Death Valley, USA.

The CR-V prototypes spotted here come in different colors including blue and black, some of which are hauling trailers to test the CR-V's towing capabilities.

The camo is only covering the front and rear ends, so we expect substantial changes to the front and rear fascias in terms of bumpers and headlight clusters. Also, the car's roof looks lower and the rear boot area between the B- and C-pillars appears to be little longer than on the current generation.

This SUV seems about ready to go to production and the 2012 Honda CR-V is expected to debut sometime later this year.

Source: http://www.worldcarfans.com/111071835004/2012-honda-cr-v-spied-hot-weather-testing#ixzz1SUUHv300

Honda Cars : MotorTrend: Subaru Impreza Going it's Own Way | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

July 14, 2011 / By Peter Lyon
Illustrator: Holiday Auto Magazine

Remember the drama around removing the "Skyline" prefix from the GT-R when the all-new supercar debuted in late 2007? Well, it looks like nomenclature surgery is about to happen again, only this time Subaru is doing the separating. That's right, the Impreza and famed WRX -- joined at the hip since 1992 -- are going their separate ways.

While the new production Impreza debuted at this year’s New York Auto Show, the next WRX will take a completely different path of development and will not surface until 2014. We know this because Subaru president Ikuo Mori said at a recent shareholder’s meeting: “We will launch a new sporty car in 2014.” The WRX is that car.

In the past week, we have learned from a source just how different the new WRX will be to the Impreza, employing totally different components.

This image, revealing how one artist sees the new WRX, depicts a new coupe model with a shorter wheelbase and heavy-duty bodywork It's important to note that this is just one vision of the new car, it may turn out to look much different. Our source also tells us Subaru bosses haven't decided if the WRX name will survive. For the time being, we'll refer to it as WRX.

“Apart from a few nuts and bolts, every part on the WRX will be unique. Even the engine and body. Obviously the WRX’s platform will be inherited from the new Impreza, but it will be radically modified and significantly shortened,” says our source.

From now on, the Impreza will be the company's core model, boasting a fuel-efficient, naturally aspirated 2.0-liter boxer engine. The car's wheelbase has been slightly lengthened, while the A-pillar has been brought forward to maximize interior space and comfort levels. At this point, it is unclear if Subaru will attempt an Impreza-based performance model to bridge the gap until the new WRX arrives, but it appears unlikely.

"Up until now, the Impreza and WRX used many common parts, which translated into entry-level Imprezas that were over-engineered," the source continued. The basic chassis and suspension had to employ certain parts needed for the WRX. That drove costs up, and many entry-level customers did not want or understand the significance of such high-tech parts, stresses our insider.

The WRX, on the other hand, will employ the very best from Subaru's parts bin, starting with an updated version of the company's rally-proven AWD system and a turbocharged boxer engine.
"The first thing you must understand about our all-new WRX is that we have developed it from the ground up to win in motorsports events. That's why we have focused so heavily on weight issues, not to mention a shorter wheelbase that permits faster, more precise turn-in. Marry that to our proven AWD system, and we think we have a winner," explains our source.

If you look at the Sebastien Loeb's multiple-championship-winning Citroen C4 in the World Rally Championship, you can see where Subaru is coming from -- or going to. They want to build a WRX that can beat the Citroen while still offering driving enthusiasts something special for their garages. The company has pulled out of WRC, but with the new WRX, a return looks possible. Above the WRX, Subaru will still offer a low-production flagship STI, a model our source calls a "race car for the road."

"Obviously the rally model will be based on the top-of-the-line STI car, but unlike previous Impreza WRXs, this new WRX will be more hard-core and less forgiving on bumpy road surfaces," adds our source. Collaboration with Toyota on the FT-86 project also seems to have something to do with the direction of the new WRX and STI. "If the truth be known, we were able to focus so deeply on the motorsports element with the new WRX because we developed a sister car with the Toyota FT-86. Bosses gave us permission to go all out because that car exists," says our insider.

Our source also revealed what is going on in the bowels of Subaru's R&D. On the short list for the WRX’s powerplant is a turbocharged 1.6-liter boxer pumping as much as 270 hp, and a twin-charger system involving a supercharger is being tested as well. The car’s body is rumored to be a little bigger than a Toyota Yaris, while its tread width is said to expand significantly. As for the STI, we are told that the flagship will also employ the WRX’s 1.6-liter boxer turbo, but that the engine will be reworked to generate upwards of 300 hp for motorsport competitiveness.

Subaru bosses see the new WRX initially competing in domestic rallies and gymkhanas, but they are also targeting Europe's World Touring Car Championships as well as the long-awaited return to the WRC.

Bottom line? Get used to saying Subaru WRX (most of us enthusiasts do, anyway). Expect unprecedented levels of AWD handling and performance at a bargain price -- the vehicle should land in showrooms in roughly two years in the $26,000-$29,000 range.
Source;
http://www.motortrend.com/future/future_vehicles/1107_subaru_wrx_to_go_its_own_way/index.html#ixzz1STGTg5Jq

Honda Cars : Chouteau Clerk Mistaken For Casey Anthony Attacked With Minivan | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Wow, you've got to be kidding me.... sorry, not automotive related but I just couldn't help myself, follow the link and you'll see the news footage....
Chouteau Clerk Mistaken For Casey Anthony Attacked With Minivan: "An Oklahoma woman believes outrage over the Florida murder case almost cost her her life"

CHOUTEAU, Oklahoma -- An Oklahoma woman believes outrage over the Florida murder case almost cost her her life. The 26-year-old says a crazed woman tried to kill her because the woman thought she was Casey Anthony.

It happened in Chouteau last Friday night, July 8, 2011, just days after the Casey Anthony verdict.

Sammay Blackwell hopes she never hears this again:
"You look like Casey Anthony, I'm like 'okay,'" she said.

Blackwell doesn't think it's funny after what happened last week.

Blackwell works at a convenience store in Chouteau and said Shireen Nalley came in that night around 10 p.m. and looked strange, very suspicious, then left after buying gas.

"I just couldn't keep my eyes off of her," she said.

Sammay got off work at 10:30 that night and walked out to her car, which was parked on the other side of the building, and got inside.

"Began to back out and looked and I could tell she was staring directly at me; I could almost see the whites of her eyes," she recalled.

"I proceeded to pull out of the parking lot, and she was right behind me," Sammay said.
Blackwell drove a few miles and says Nalley suddenly rammed her van into the back of Blackwell's truck.

"I said, 'Oh my God, help me,'" Blackwell told News On 6.

She then pulled into a parking lot to get away.

"She hit me again, causing my vehicle to flip two and a half times, landing on the driver's side, and I just laid there playing dead," she said.

Blackwell's mother says she'll never forget her daughter's reaction.

"I got to her, she was crying, she was shaking, she says, 'Mama, this lady thinks I'm Casey Anthony and she tried to kill me," her mother said.

Police chased Nalley for a while and finally arrested her for assault and battery with a deadly weapon. Nalley told police she was "trying to save the children."

Source (with the rest of the article) - click on the link at the top.

Honda Cars : Want a 2012 Toyota Rav4 EV? You Won’t Be Able To Buy One | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Interesting read....
By Nikki Gordon-Bloomfield
Contributing Writer July 15th, 2011

Its one of the most eagerly anticipated plug-in vehicles to join the market in the next year or so, but the reintroduced Toyota RAV4EV won’t be available to buy, says Geri Yoza, Toyota’s National Business Planning Manager of Advanced Vehicle Marketing.

Instead, the electric SUV will be available to fleets and car sharing programs rather than individual customers.

Designed by Toyota and given an all-electric drivetrain by electric automaker Tesla Motors, many fans had hoped the 2012 RAV4 EV would pick up where the legendary 1997-2003 Toyota RAV4 EV left off.

Still considered by some electric vehicle fans as the one of the best electric cars ever made, the original RAV4 EV featured a top speed of around 78 miles per hour and a range of between 100 and 120 miles per charge.

The original RAV4 EV was leased by government agencies, fleets and private customers with some lucky customers being able to buy them at the end of their leases. Many of those cars are still working today, years later.

The rest? Returned to Toyota at the end of their lease and crushed. We’re pretty sure you’ve heard the story.

But with only leasing and large fleets being targeted, will the 2012 Toyota RAV4EV have a similar fate to its predecessor?

We really hope not. Instead, we’re hoping Toyota’s plan to offer the RAV4 EV to a limited base is something that will change as the car becomes more popular in coming years.

Since Toyota is the only major automaker planning a plugin crossover SUV for the 2012 model year, we think it would be a big mistake if the RAV4 EV remained exclusive to such a small segment of the market.

History repeating, or an insurance against a platform Toyota still doesn’t trust? Let us know in the Comments below.

Source;
http://www.allcarselectric.com/news/1063236_want-a-2012-toyota-rav4-ev-you-wont-be-able-to-buy-one

Honda Cars : TOV and Priddy: New Spy Shots! 2012 Honda CR-V! | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Out of respect for TOV and Brenda Priddy, I have supplied the link to the 3X Spy photo's;
http://www.vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=991215

Close-up: 2012 Honda CR-V!!
Honda has been doing a good job of hiding the next-generation CR-V, but today, we've finally gotten close up to a lightly disguised prototype! The biggest changes appear to be at the rear, where Honda almost looks to be taking a page from the Volvo design handbook.

It's possible that the extra space in the back is making room for a 3rd row. There seems to be some significant changes up front as well. The 2.4L four-cylinder VTEC motor should continue to be the only choice. Though we expect it to get a modest bump over the current 180hp, as well as a modest gains in fuel economy.

While the earthquake in Japan has delayed the start of production by about a month, expect the new CR-V to start rolling down the assembly line in Ohio, as well as Alliston, Ontario, in late Fall of this year.
Photo Credit: Brian Williams for Brenda Priddy & Company

Honda Cars : 2012 Honda Civic "Heritage" Video feat. Dirty Vegas | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Honda Cars : 2012 Toyota Yaris | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Nice looking redesign, glad to see that they've finally figured out that the top centre speedometer doesn't really work over here....
Toyota today announced the details for the third-generation Yaris, which went on sale today for the European market.

The new Toyota Yaris will be offered in Europe in three variants including a 1.0-liter VVT-i and 1.33-liter dual VVT-i gasoline units and a 1.4-liter D-4D diesel. It will be available in four trim-levels including T2, TR, SR and T Spirit with prices starting at £11,170 ($17,989 USD).
Besides the overall redesign inside-out, the big highlight for the 2012 Toyota Yaris includes the company’s new Toyota Touch audio system, which is standard on all Yaris models except the entry-level Yaris. The system includes a touchscreen and provides access to Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port and a rear parking camera. The Toyota Touch audio system can be upgraded to the Toyota Touch and Go system, which adds a full map satellite navigation and access to a range of connected information services.

The 2012 Toyota Yaris will come to the United States later this fall. We expect it to debut at the 2011 LA Auto Show in November.

Source;
http://www.egmcartech.com/2011/07/13/2012-toyota-yaris-unveiled-in-europe-coming-to-u-s-this-fall/

Honda Cars : Honda tops British brand reliability poll | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Japanese and Korean carmakers dominate a new list compiled by British warranty specialist MB&G of marques that have generated the fewest claims over the past year, giving an indication of brand reliability.

Honda took top spot, followed by Lexus, Mitsubishi, Toyota and Suzuki. Kia took sixth place followed by Hyundai, Subaru, Mazda and Nissan.

It is no coincidence the top 10 most reliable cars are Japanese and Korean manufactured, with many cars including Toyota, Honda and Nissan manufactured in Britain. They have had a reputation for reliability for many years, which is demonstrated by these results.

“Our survey only looks at frequency of claims and not the average value of the claim, which can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. The average claim value is affected by labour rates and parts prices and can also vary by region,” a spokeman for MB&G commented.

The average age and mileage of cars being handled by MB&G is increasing, but the corporate/SME market generally resists extending warranties beyond the one provided by the manufacturer.

Source;
http://www.advertiser.ie/galway/article/41737/honda-tops-british-brand-reliability-poll

Honda Cars : Ten Honda Manufacturing Facilities in North America Achieve Zero Waste Sent to Landfill | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Honda Motor Co. said 10 of its North American plants now send no waste to landfills and four others in the region cut scrap and trash to “virtually” nothing as the carmaker seeks to curb manufacturing-related pollution.

Honda, which claimed in 2001 that its Alabama auto-assembly plant was first in the U.S. to send no trash to landfills, aims to lead the industry in waste reduction, Ed Miller, a spokesman for the Tokyo-based carmaker, said in a telephone interview. The company isn’t aware of a competitor that’s achieved a higher level, he said.

“We now have 10 of 14 facilities that are absolute zero, and for the four that still have some there are extenuating circumstances,” said Miller, who is based in Detroit.

Those include a lack of recycling options for cafeteria waste at Honda’s Mexican motorcycle and auto plant, and a byproduct material from painting aluminum hoods at its Ohio auto plants that can’t be recycled under U.S. rules, Miller said.

Honda, Japan’s third-largest automaker, in 2010 built more than 80 percent of cars and light trucks it sold in the U.S. at North American plants, the highest proportion among Asian and European-based companies. Honda’s U.S. headquarters are in Torrance, California.

Source;
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-07-14/honda-cuts-waste-at-10-north-american-plants-to-absolute-zero.html

Honda Cars : Mugen VS Mugen | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

We drive tuned versions of Honda CR-Z and the Ariel Atom back to back in this exclusive videoBy Jack Rix June 2011

Mugen is a company that doesn’t do things by half – and lately Honda’s tuning arm has been extremely busy.

The world’s most skeletal car, the Ariel Atom has been given a power boost without the need for a supercharger. The result is a 270bhp output from its 2.0-litre Honda-sourced engine that makes it just about the fastest thing on four wheels.

Other tweaks to the £50,000 road-legal track car include firmer suspension taken from the Atom V8 and a unique colour scheme for the chassis.

Alongside the Atom Mugen we drove the CR-Z Mugen – currently a one-off tuned version of the hybrid coupe. Now kicking out 200bhp it promises Civic Type R-beating pace with excellent Fuel Economy – and as we discovered its exhaust and styling aren’t for the faint-hearted.

Watch as we take both cars outside their comfort zones – testing the CR-Z on track and unleashing the Atom on public roads.

Source: http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/videos/videoreviews/269185/mugen_vs_mugen_review.html#ixzz1S0GVAUF3

Honda Cars : Natural-gas-powered Honda Civic can stay in California carpool lane | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

By JAKE LINGEMAN on 7/11/2011
Honda Civic GX drivers in California are smiling this week as they continue to have access to the high-occupancy-vehicle lane, even with just one person in the car. Even though one-occupant hybrid cars have lost access to the carpool lane, natural-gas-powered vehicles get to use it for another four years.

Beginning on July 1, yellow-stickered partial hybrids were banned from HOV areas on the highways unless they carried the mandated number of people. Natural-gas-powered cars and fully electric cars with the super-ultralow-emission-vehicle notation get a white sticker. Both the Nissan Leaf and the Tesla Roadster also fit the mold.

Demand for the natural-gas-powered Honda is up, with sales tripling over the same period last year. Owners of no-longer-exempt cars have gone to dealerships in droves trying to snatch up the remaining copies, new or used. Dave Conant, owner of Conant Auto Retail Group, told Automotive News that he found only one or two used models that were available as of last week.

Unfortunately for Honda, and for HOV-lane drivers, the 2012 Civic NGV won't be ready until the fall. It has a 1.8-liter engine capable of delivering 110 hp and 106 lb-ft of torque. It gets 31 mpg combined in the gasoline-gallon equivalent. New interior features include a multi-information display and, for the first time, navigation.

The price of natural gas historically has been about 30 percent less per gasoline-gallon-equivalent compared with gasoline.

Source;

http://www.autoweek.com/article/20110711/CARNEWS/110719982

Honda Cars : HondaJet production nears | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

GREENSBORO — The recently completed production plant at Honda Aircraft Co. sits empty except for several yellow holding carts and some blue work desks.

Before long, this 6-acre-plus building — one part of a $100 million investment — will teem with activity as several hundred workers begin building the company’s $4.5 million HondaJet.

Honda officials said the company should begin delivering the light business jets in the later half of next year, right after it secures Federal Aviation Administration certification.

“Mass production will start early next year,” Michimasa Fujino, Honda Aircraft’s president and chief executive officer, said after a tour of the company’s operation at Piedmont Triad International Airport. “It’s difficult to define when.”

It will require another 250 to 300 employees, boosting the company’s workforce on Ballinger Road to nearly 1,000.

“It changes every day,” Fujino said of the employment level, which now totals 650.

Still, they perfectly match the high-tech manufacturing jobs that local economic development officials want to attract to the area as it moves from more traditional manufacturing associated with textiles, tobacco and furniture.

“This is exactly the outcome we hoped for when we landed the Honda project here,” said Dan Lynch, president of the Greensboro Economic Development Alliance. “The project continues to grow. These are the types of jobs we have been talking about creating.”

After Tuesday’s tour, Fujino hinted that the company would not stop with HondaJet but refused to say what might follow or when.

“It’s too early to tell,” the 50-year-old engineer said. “Honda cannot sustain business by one model. Aerospace has to grow.”

That’s clear from a rare, behind-the-scenes look at Honda Aircraft.

On Tuesday, the company invited more than 40 business and aviation reporters from the U.S., Europe and Mexico to see the state-of-the art business.

“Generally speaking,” Fujino said, “Honda does not show its facilities.”

Visitors toured the company’s delivery room, where customers from around the world will pick up their jets; various testing areas; the design studio; and the telemetry room, where engineers follow the plane’s test flights.

In late December, they monitored the maiden flight of the first production-quality HondaJet.
The company made a production of the event, bringing in film crews in a chase plane and a helicopter to record the flight. Company employees stood in the cold to watch it all and cheer the pilots as they returned from the successful flight.

“It was right before Christmas,” said Stephen Keeney, the company’s senior manager of corporate affairs. “It was the best Christmas present any of us could have had.”
The flight proved that Honda could design, build and prepare a jet for FAA testing.

Tuesday’s visitors saw a video of the event, which Fujino called “a big milestone.”

The day’s activities gave officials a chance to use the airplane for show-and-tell.

Al Lawless, chief flight test engineer, talked about how easily the plane could hit 420 knots.

“We had a little extra,” Lawless said of the speed test. “Our airplane is a rocket.”

Warren Gould, chief test pilot and manager of flight operations, talked about how well the jet handled.

“We really believe the airplane is going to be a pilot favorite,” Gould said. “We have a lot of the best parts of a lot of airplanes.”

By the time the tour reached Jim Hranica, an official in the production building, he didn’t have much to show.

“We don’t have too much going on right now,” Hranica said. “We’re getting this area set up for production.”

Source;
http://www.news-record.com/content/2011/07/12/article/hondajet_production_nears

Honda Cars : Police in China changes Mercedes-Benz ML350 into Honda CR-V | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

You've gotta be kidding me....
Police in the good city of Fengchenggang in Guangxi Province re-badged their Mercedes-Benz ML350 into a Honda CR-V. There is a lot of criticism in China lately about local governments who waste taxpayers money. Police in Fengchanggang so made some changes to their 900.000 yuan ML350, a Honda CR-V only costs 200.000 yuan.

But the plan went wrong. Citizens of Fengchenggang were not to be fooled and posted pics of the Benz CR-V on the internet where ‘netizens’ had a field day ridiculing the local government as hard as they could. Best part: the police flatly denied they made any changes to their car. I guess it depends on what you call a ‘change’…

Source (via www.autoblog.com)
http://www.carnewschina.com/2011/07/08/police-in-china-changes-mercedes-benz-ml350-into-honda-cr-v/

Honda Cars : BESTCAR Front Cover: Next Gen Honda Beat Rendering | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Let's hope that if they do 'green light' something like this that we see this here in North America.

Source;

http://jp-cardesigncorner.blogspot.com/2011/07/latest-rendering-of-upcoming-honda-beat.html

Honda Cars : Osamu Suzuki Blog Bombs Volkswagen | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Interesting.... did not see this one coming....Things are not going well between Volkswagen and Suzuki. In 2009, Volkswagen invested $2.5 billion for a 19.9 percent share in Suzuki. Suzuki sent $1.13 billion back and bought 2.5 percent of Volkswagen. Suzuki netted $1.37 billion, domo arigatou gozaimasu, but then nothing happened. End of last year, Ferdinand Piech became impatient. Volkswagen stockholders asked discomforting questions at the annual meeting. Now, it turned into a war of the words. Volkswagen uses old media. The octogenarian Osamu Suzuki drops a massive blog bomb on Wolfsburg.

A month ago, Volkswagen leaked to Der Spiegel that the German-Nipponese axis is “a big disappointment.” Old prejudices were unearthed. “Suzuki wants as much modern technology as possible from Volkswagen, but is not willing to reciprocate,” wrote Der Spiegel after an obvious (but unsaid) tête-à-tête with Martin Winterkorn, who allegedly said that “the Japanese still need some training in proper cooperation.”

Now, Osamu Suzuki fires back. He could have summoned a few trusted Japanese journos and dropped some deniable off-the-record remarks. He did not. He sat down and wrote a blog that was published in The Nikkei [sub] in the Japanese language. Suzuki uses strong language:

•“Since the companies differ in size, people of Volkswagen may develop a mistaken impression that Suzuki is placed under their umbrella.”
•“The initial basic agreement seems to falter.”
•“We learnt about Volkswagen’s technologies, but we did not find any one of them interesting enough to adopt immediately.”
•“If we are short of any technology, we have an option to ask other companies with which we benefit from technological exchanges.”

Oddly enough, the piece never made it to the English wire of The Nikkei, and a Google search tells me that it was only circulated in Japan. Here is what I believe is a faithful translation from the Japanese, uncut.

“Blog by Osamu Suzuki

Present and future of cooperation between Suzuki and Volkswagen

It has been one and a half years since Suzuki signed a partnership with Volkswagen in December 2009. Many people criticized us for being unable to announce any specific fruit of the cooperation. Let me summarize what I have in my mind.

Lately, people of Volkswagen are telling their shareholders that Volkswagen can largely influence the corporate policy of Suzuki. I feel somewhat uncomfortable with the statement because the two companies agreed to remain independent partners on an equal footing when we signed the partnership in the first place. Since the companies differ in size, people of Volkswagen may develop a mistaken impression that Suzuki is placed under their umbrella. However, Suzuki signed the agreement under the condition of being an equal partner. Thus we cannot simply accept this notion. The two companies have been having a lot of exchanges. We learnt more about Volkswagen. I assume that Volkswagen gradually developed understanding about Suzuki. As a result, the initial basic agreement seems to falter.

Does Suzuki face an immediate difficulty? The answer is “Not at all.” We learnt about Volkswagen’s technologies, but we did not find any one of them interesting enough to adopt immediately. Suzuki is working on its own green technologies. Our engineers are gaining more capabilities than I expected, and are developing surprisingly good technologies. For example, our new minicar engine that was developed for the first time after 16 years enjoys class-leading fuel efficiency in Japan. We are producing more than 200,000 units of our diesel engine, which is attracting a lot of attention, in India. Thus for the time being, particularly in critical markets like the minicar market and India, we are not in a hurry to collaborate with Volkswagen. Suzuki is also working on eco-friendly cars. One example is our original EV equipped with a standby generator, which is under development for commercialization.

If we are short of any technology, we have an option to ask other companies with which we benefit from technological exchanges. Supply of diesel engine from Fiat that was announced the other day is one example. Technology race intensifies in the auto industry. The scheme of capital participation to take control of another carmaker will no longer work. We need to remain independent to be perceived as an attractive partner by other automakers around the world. According to a recent report by a major German business magazine, Volkswagen seems to gain visibility of developing low-priced cars for emerging markets such as South America and India. I am relieved.

I assume that many of you are interested in what would happen to Suzuki’s relationship with Volkswagen. We intend to continue having dialogues in all sincerity with our partner in order to build a relationship of equality. After all, this has been the purpose of joining hands with Volkswagen. I will do my utmost to develop Suzuki into an independent and distinctive company, and measure up to our shareholders’ and users’ expectations.

I am increasingly excited in face of many challenges. Recovery from the earthquake is urgent. We have to do it NOW. I am certainly older, but I am ready to continue working hard with the employees of Suzuki.”

Source;
http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2011/07/osamo-suzuki-blog-bombs-volkswagen/#more-401798

Honda Cars : 2012 Honda Civic Si Takes On New Role As IZOD IndyCar Series Safety Car | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

TORRANCE, Calif. (July 6, 2011) – The all-new, ninth-generation 2012 Honda Civic Si Coupe will take on new duties as a Safety Car for the IZOD IndyCar Series, beginning on the weekend of the Honda Indy Toronto, July 8-10.

Already a hit with race fans through the Civic Racing Style Sweepstakes, the 201-horsepower Honda Civic Si Coupe was recently transformed by Honda Performance Development (HPD), Honda’s racing subsidiary north of Los Angeles, into an official IZOD IndyCar Series Safety Car.

Modifications to the already high-performance stock Civic Si include Sparco seats and four-point racing harnesses; an HPD high-performance brake system, with four-piston calipers, competition rotors, racing pads, and stainless brake lines; a Honda Genuine Accessory aerodynamic body kit, consisting of front, side and rear under spoilers; and Firestone Firehawk 225/40 R18 tires mounted on Enkei alloy wheels.

An exclusive graphics theme completes the conversion from a showroom Civic Si Coupe to an IZOD IndyCar Series Safety Car. The Safety Car will be driven during IZOD IndyCar Series events by three-time Indianapolis 500 champion Johnny Rutherford.

“The high-performance new Honda Civic Si is the perfect match for the IndyCar Safety Car fleet,” said John Mendel, American Honda executive vice president, auto sales. “With its larger and more powerful 2.4-liter engine and enhancements provided by HPD, it is ready to lead the IZOD IndyCar Series field at the Honda Indy Toronto and beyond.”

Unveiled in April at the New York International Auto Show, the 2012 Honda Civic features more streamlined and expressive “mono-form” exterior styling, wrapped around a spacious cabin with more style and convenience. Available new technology features include an intelligent, Multi- Information Display (i-MID), USB audio interface, Bluetooth® HandsFree Link® and a satellite-linked Navigation System with voice recognition and FM traffic.

American Honda Motor Co., Inc., was founded in 1959 as the U.S. sales and marketing subsidiary of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. Honda currently produces automobiles, motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, lawn mowers and engines at its nine major U.S. manufacturing operations, using domestic and globally sourced parts.Honda Performance Development (HPD) is the Honda racing company within North America. Founded in 1993, and located in Santa Clarita, Calif., HPD is the technical operations center for high-performance Honda racing cars and engines. HPD is the single engine supplier to the IndyCar Series and competes in prototype sports-car racing under the HPD banner in the American Le Mans and European Le Mans Series. In addition to its grassroots motorsports support programs, HPD offers race engine products from karting to pinnacle.
From Honda / HPD

Source;
http://insidetracknews.blogspot.com/2011/07/2012-honda-civic-si-takes-on-new-role.html

Honda Cars : 2012 Honda CRV Trim Levels (US) revealed on Arizona Dealers Facebook Page | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Interesting, a RES model for CRV, for those who don't know, RES = Rear Entertainment System (DVD), so, this could be Honda's first factory installed DVD going into a 5 seater or there's some kind of truth to the rumour of a 3rd row, stay tuned!
Special recognition for this find goes out to TOV member: "Gusteez"


Below are the 2012 CR-V color combinations, also posted on the dealer's facebook page:

CR-V 5DR 2WD LX
CRYSTAL BLACK PEARL/BLACK
URBAN TITANIUM METALLIC/BLACK
TWILIGHT BLUE METALLIC/GRAY
OPAL SAGE METALLIC/BLACK
POLISHED METAL METALLIC/GRAY
BASQUE RED PEARL II/GRAY
ALABASTER SILVER METALLIC/BLACK
ALABASTER SILVER METALLIC/GRAY
TAFFETA WHITE/GRAY

CR-V 5DR 2WD EX
CRYSTAL BLACK PEARL/BLACK
URBAN TITANIUM METALLIC/BLACK
URBAN TITANIUM METALLIC/BEIGE
TWILIGHT BLUE METALLIC/GRAY
OPAL SAGE METALLIC/BLACK
OPAL SAGE METALLIC/BEIGE
POLISHED METAL METALLIC/GRAY
BASQUE RED PEARL II/GRAY
ALABASTER SILVER METALLIC/BLACK
ALABASTER SILVER METALLIC/GRAY
WHITE DIAMOND PEARL/BEIGE

CR-V 5DR 2WD EX-L
CRYSTAL BLACK PEARL/BLACK
URBAN TITANIUM METALLIC/BLACK
URBAN TITANIUM METALLIC/BEIGE
TWILIGHT BLUE METALLIC/GRAY
OPAL SAGE METALLIC/BLACK
OPAL SAGE METALLIC/BEIGE
POLISHED METAL METALLIC/GRAY
BASQUE RED PEARL II/GRAY
ALABASTER SILVER METALLIC/BLACK
ALABASTER SILVER METALLIC/GRAY
WHITE DIAMOND PEARL/BEIGE

CR-V 5DR 2WD EX-L RES
CRYSTAL BLACK PEARL/BLACK
URBAN TITANIUM METALLIC/BLACK
URBAN TITANIUM METALLIC/BEIGE
TWILIGHT BLUE METALLIC/GRAY
OPAL SAGE METALLIC/BLACK
OPAL SAGE METALLIC/BEIGE
POLISHED METAL METALLIC/GRAY
BASQUE RED PEARL II/GRAY
ALABASTER SILVER METALLIC/BLACK
ALABASTER SILVER METALLIC/GRAY
WHITE DIAMOND PEARL/BEIGE

CR-V 5DR 2WDEX-L NAV
CRYSTAL BLACK PEARL/BLACK
URBAN TITANIUM METALLIC/BLACK
URBAN TITANIUM METALLIC/BEIGE
TWILIGHT BLUE METALLIC/GRAY
OPAL SAGE METALLIC/BLACK
OPAL SAGE METALLIC/BEIGE
POLISHED METAL METALLIC/GRAY
BASQUE RED PEARL II/GRAY
ALABASTER SILVER METALLIC/BLACK
ALABASTER SILVER METALLIC/GRAY
WHITE DIAMOND PEARL/BEIGE

CR-V 5DR AWD LX
CRYSTAL BLACK PEARL/BLACK
URBAN TITANIUM METALLIC/BLACK
TWILIGHT BLUE METALLIC/GRAY
OPAL SAGE METALLIC/BLACK
POLISHED METAL METALLIC/GRAY
BASQUE RED PEARL II/GRAY
ALABASTER SILVER METALLIC/BLACK
ALABASTER SILVER METALLIC/GRAY
TAFFETA WHITE/GRAY

CR-V 5DR AWD EX
CRYSTAL BLACK PEARL/BLACK
URBAN TITANIUM METALLIC/BLACK
URBAN TITANIUM METALLIC/BEIGE
TWILIGHT BLUE METALLIC/GRAY
OPAL SAGE METALLIC/BLACK
OPAL SAGE METALLIC/BEIGE
POLISHED METAL METALLIC/GRAY
BASQUE RED PEARL II/GRAY
ALABASTER SILVER METALLIC/BLACK
ALABASTER SILVER METALLIC/GRAY
WHITE DIAMOND PEARL/BEIGE

CR-V 5DR AWD EX-L
CRYSTAL BLACK PEARL/BLACK
URBAN TITANIUM METALLIC/BLACK
URBAN TITANIUM METALLIC/BEIGE
TWILIGHT BLUE METALLIC/GRAY
OPAL SAGE METALLIC/BLACK
OPAL SAGE METALLIC/BEIGE
POLISHED METAL METALLIC/GRAY
BASQUE RED PEARL II/GRAY
ALABASTER SILVER METALLIC/BLACK
ALABASTER SILVER METALLIC/GRAY
WHITE DIAMOND PEARL/BEIGE

CR-V 5DR AWD EX-L RES
CRYSTAL BLACK PEARL/BLACK
URBAN TITANIUM METALLIC/BLACK
URBAN TITANIUM METALLIC/BEIGE
TWILIGHT BLUE METALLIC/GRAY
OPAL SAGE METALLIC/BLACK
OPAL SAGE METALLIC/BEIGE
POLISHED METAL METALLIC/GRAY
BASQUE RED PEARL II/GRAY
ALABASTER SILVER METALLIC/BLACK
ALABASTER SILVER METALLIC/GRAY
WHITE DIAMOND PEARL/BEIGE

CR-V 5DR AWD EX-L NAV
CRYSTAL BLACK PEARL/BLACK
URBAN TITANIUM METALLIC/BLACK
URBAN TITANIUM METALLIC/BEIGE
TWILIGHT BLUE METALLIC/GRAY
OPAL SAGE METALLIC/BLACK
OPAL SAGE METALLIC/BEIGE
POLISHED METAL METALLIC/GRAY
BASQUE RED PEARL II/GRAY
ALABASTER SILVER METALLIC/BLACK
ALABASTER SILVER METALLIC/GRAY
WHITE DIAMOND PEARL/BEIGE

Original Source;
http://www.vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=989754

Facebook Source;
http://www.facebook.com/EarnhardtHonda

Honda Cars : Honda CR-Z MUGEN RR Concept revealed in Goodwood | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Honda has surprised crowds at the Goodwood Festival of Speed this past weekend with a another CR-Z Concept. Following the MUGEN CR-Z Concept design study model, this second model designated "RR" represents a more race focused version.

The MUGEN CR-Z Concept RR features an exclusive body kit including a front aero bumper, front aero fenders, side spoilers, rear aero bumper, rear wing and specially developed 18-inch wheels.

Mugen makes no mention of performance specs, but we already know the MUGEN CR-Z design concept features a supercharged 1.5-liter engine and an IMA hybrid system good for 200 PS (147 kW / 197 hp) and 181 lb-ft (245 Nm) of torque. Acceleration from 0-60 mph (96 km/h) comes in at roughly 6.6 seconds.

Hopefully, when Honda releases full details we'll see a decent power output increase too.
Note: Goodwood photo shows MUGEN CR-Z Concept design study model.

Source;
http://www.worldcarfans.com/111070534696/honda-cr-z-mugen-rr-concept-revealed-in-goodwood

Honda Cars : Designer Ciprian Cooks up Ford Cobra 'Snakehead' Concept | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Wow, what a sleek design! I love the 77' Stingray rear side profile homage....
A new Ford concept has been released courtesy of designer Andrus Ciprian, dubbed the Cobra Snakehead.

The concept draws inspriation from past and current Ford models, so it fits in with the brand’s existing line up. Yet Ciprian adds some strong lines and distinctive features that make this one outstanding car.

The exterior leaves a lasting impression. Its rear end draws parallels with the first GT40′s, and the body also boasts massive wheel arches and other bold styling elements. Ford’s latest Focus model has some influence that can be seen in the front end. On the inside of the concept, two seats are divided by an excessive center console so each person gets the feel of a cockpit of their own.

To power the Cobra Snakehead, the designer suggests that a front mounted V8 would be fitting.

We hope Ford will take this concept into consideration for future models. The exterior design elements can certainly lend themselves to mass appeal, where as the interior concept may only work for some enthusiasts.

Source;
http://www.egmcartech.com/2011/07/05/ford-cobra-snakehead-concept-by-ciprian-is-a-beautiful-dream/