March 2012

Honda Cars : The most realistic rendering of 2013-2014 Toyota RAV4 | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Unknown | 2:20 PM
March 2012
March 2012

Tip of the hat goes to www.woodyscarsite.com for giving me the idea for searching this pic out....
The Mag-x of Japan is agian post latest rendering of the next generation Toyota RAV4.The rendering is based on Mag-x spyshots photos of the car while testing in Japan.Altrough the new car cover with heavy camouflage,Autotintrends can see some lines and light’s shape.The same source also post the computer generate image and Autotintrends can see that this rendering is most realistic we have seen until now.

The car will fallow styling of the current 3rd generation that not look too sporty and too conservative.The headlight’s shape is look similar of what wee seen in Land cruiser and Fortuner.The front grille have aluminum place horizontal like we have seen in some trim level of new Toyota Vitz/Yaris.The shoulder line is more sharper than current car.The roof line look slope and rear side’s window look very similar to current Nissan Qashqai.

The fourth generation RAV 4 wheelbase will have 2660 mm long (Compare to current generation of 2560 mm in short wheelbase version and 2660 mm of LWB). Overall size expect at 4500 mm long and 1815 mm wide and 1660 mm hight .The SuzukiFan’s website have reported that next Toyota Rav 4 will be longer but reduce to single model.

The new car (Codename 410A) will powered by block 3ZR-FE),4cylinder 2.0 liter and block 2AR-FE),4cylinder 2.5 liter petrol engine.While european version will carry on the 2.2 L 2AD-FTV turbodiesel I4 and the 2.2 L 2AD-FHV D-CAT turbodiesel I4.The car will goes one sale in Japan at november 2012 and rest of the world in 2013

Source;
http://autointrends.com/2012/02/02/the-most-realistic-rendering-of-2013-2014-toyota-rav4/


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Honda Cars : Honda Introduces Solar Hydrogen Station on Saitama Prefectural Office Grounds | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Unknown | 7:20 AM
March 2012
March 2012

FCX Clarity Used in Electric Vehicle Testing Program to Serve as Mobile Electric Generator

TOKYO, Japan, March 27, 2012 - Honda Motor Co., Ltd. unveiled a Solar Hydrogen Station on the grounds of the Saitama Prefectural Office. The initiative is part of the Electric Vehicle Testing Program for Honda’s next-generation personal mobility products with Saitama Prefecture, in which Honda, Iwatani and Saitama Prefecture collaborate to build. In a further initiative, Honda has equipped the FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle with an outlet to function as a 9kW power source. Since the FCX Clarity uses a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen to produce power with zero CO2 emissions, with its new outlet, the vehicle will be able to serve as a zero-emission mobile electric generator.


This is the first installation in Japan of a total system to produce, store and dispense hydrogen with ZERO CO2 emissions. A high pressure water electrolysis system, uniquely developed by Honda, produces hydrogen. With no mechanical compressor, the system is nearly silent and highly energy efficient. Using Solar and grid power, the system is capable of producing 1.5kg of hydrogen within 24 hours which enables an FCX Clarity to run approximately 150km or 90 miles. Honda aims to further develop the system to offer clean energy sources for the home in the future.


Source;


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Honda Cars : Car and Driver: A look at the 2013 Honda Accord | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Unknown | 7:13 AM
March 2012
March 2012

What It Is: The ninth generation of the longest-running 10Best winner. Unlike many of  its mid-size competitors, the Accord will continue to be offered as a coupe and a sedan. Slightly smaller and lighter than the current Accord, the new version also will have softer lines and more cohesive styling.

Why It Matters: This Accord will be as important to Honda as anything it’s done in the past decade. Will it be able to beat the growing range of exceptional mid-size competitors? Will it have the magic feel of previous Accords? Will Honda get its size right? Will it deliver Honda-style innovation and fuel economy? The new Accord needs to answer these questions in the affirmative.

Platform: The new Accord likely  will be based on an updated version of  the current car’s architecture.

Powertrain: While many mid-size competitors are dropping their six-cylinder options, the Accord will offer a revised and more powerful version of its familiar 3.5-liter V-6 with cylinder deactivation. But the bread-and-butter Accord will be the four-cylinder model. Direct injection helps the 2.4-liter four make at least 181 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque, with improved fuel economy. A six-speed manual will be offered; the automatic will be a CVT. A plug-in-hybrid version will couple a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with a 161-hp electric motor.  A 6-kWh lithium-ion battery  will offer 10 to 15 miles of city driving range and will recharge in less than four hours using a standard 120-volt outlet. Three selectable modes will allow the hybrid driver to choose among fully electric, hybrid, and “direct drive,” which decouples the electric motor for more efficient cruising.

Competition: Chevrolet Malibu, Ford Fusion, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Nissan Altima, Toyota Camry, Volkswagen Passat.

What Might Go Wrong: The conservatively styled and engineered Civic has us wondering if the Accord will suffer the same fate. After seeing the new Accord coupe in concept form at the Detroit auto show in January, the threat of dullness remains.

Estimated Arrival and Price: The two- and four-door Accords arrive this fall. Pricing is expected to remain in the $20,000-to-$30,000 range for the vast majority of the lineup. A well-equipped hybrid and a loaded V-6 model will crest $30,000.

Source;
http://www.caranddriver.com/features/2013-honda-accord-future-cars


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Honda Cars : Honda Named Automotive “Brand of the Year” in Harris EquiTrend Poll | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Unknown | 7:08 AM
March 2012
March 2012

Honda has had a rough go as of late, with reduced sales in 2011 due to production shortages as a result of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan. Prior to that, there were criticisms of the new 2012 Honda Civic.

None of that, however, has phased consumers it would appear, with Honda being named the full line Automotive Brand of the Year in the latest Harris EquiTrend Poll. Measuring brand leadership in a total of 127 different categories, Harris Interactive surveyed 38,529 U.S. consumers aged 15 and older.

Ranked second overall is Toyota, another Japanese automaker that’s had its share of bad press over the past few years. This would seem to indicate the long term reputation of each of those brands hasn’t been affected by these most recent events.

In third place is Ford Motor Company, which topped the list last year followed by Chevrolet, then Honda, Toyota and Nissan. For 2012, Chevrolet has dropped two spots to fourth, while Nissan remains in fifth place.

In terms of luxury automotive brands, Mercedes-Benz tops the list followed by BMW and then Lexus.

Source;
http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2012/03/honda-named-automotive-brand-of-the-year-in-harris-equitrend-poll.html


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Honda Cars : Acura Will Debut New RLX Flagship Sedan in NYC [New York Auto Show] | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Unknown | 6:29 AM
March 2012
March 2012


by Justin Berkowitz of Car and Driver

Acura’s next flagship sedan will likely be called RLX, and is expected to debut next month at the New York auto show. The company hasn’t made an official announcement yet, but two signs point to RLX as the replacement badge for RL. First, Acura VP Jeff Conrad may have told Wards that RLX is the new name; when asked, Acura representatives declined to confirm whether the Wards quote was accurate. Second, the company has applied to trademark the name RLX with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Neither is dispositive, but taken together, we’re pretty convinced.

The RLX is set to replace the aged and out-classed RL, but will follow a similar formula. Like the outgoing RL, the RLX will feature all-wheel drive and a V-6 engine. This time, however, Acura’s range-topper will use a clever hybrid system to drive the rear wheels with electric motors. The setup should prove to be lighter and continue to offer rear-axle torque vectoring.

With the RLX replacing the RL, the TL will be the last car in the Acura lineup with a two-letter name. We’ve been told that Acura will offer just three sedans in the future—the new ILX and RLX will be two of those, meaning that either the TL or the TSX is likely to bite the dust. Given its two-letter name, the TL might be the more likely candidate, but Acura is currently in the process of trademarking TLX. We’ll just have to wait and see.

Source;
http://blog.caranddriver.com/acura-will-debut-new-rlx-flagship-sedan-in-nyc-new-york-auto-show/#more-79160


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Honda Cars : Honda promotes American managers in push to revive U.S. market | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Unknown | 7:17 AM
March 2012
March 2012

By ALAN OHNSMAN / Bloomberg News

Honda Motor Co. was the first Asian carmaker to build autos in the U.S. and is the most dependent on the market. Now it's also putting more non-Japanese in key roles.

North American Chief Operating Officer Tetsuo Iwamura becomes executive vice president April 1 and No. 2 to President Takanobu Ito. His new seven-member board will manage activities from product planning to production to sales in North America. Three members will be U.S. natives, the first time Americans have held such responsibility, including Erik Berkman to lead regional product development and design.

"Honda quite literally has become a North American car company headquartered in Tokyo, and that's a horrible combination," Jim Hall, principal of 2953 Analytics Inc., an auto consultant in Birmingham, said in a phone interview. "When your headquarters isn't in your most important and biggest-volume market, you become disconnected. We can see that's what's been happening to them. This is to reconnect headquarters with their most important market."

While Honda's U.S. problems have been less dramatic than those of Toyota Motor Corp., which recalled millions of vehicles for unintended acceleration, they've been significant. Even before last year's earthquake and tsunami cut supplies, core Honda cars such as the Civic and Accord were losing ground to Hyundai Motor Co. and Ford Motor Co. models that won praise for stylish looks and fuel economy.

Growing competition spurred Honda to offer U.S. incentives that were 87 percent of the industry average in this year's first two months, according to Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey-based Autodata Corp. In 2008, Honda's discounts were less than half the average.

'Out of Necessity'
"For too long they've lived in this cocoon of 'What we're doing is good enough,' " said Maryann Keller, principal of a self-named consulting firm in Stamford, Conn. "There's a recognition that that's no longer the case, so I think they are making these moves out of necessity."

For the first time, Honda's No. 2 executive will be based at the company's U.S. headquarters in Torrance, Calif., instead of Tokyo.

"Knowing the current competitive and complicated marketplace, rapid changes in customer needs, we think it's better to put more emphasis on the American side," Iwamura said in a March 12 interview. "Production and R&D, development facilities, those can be done by investing money. Localization of the people is one of the key issues."

Toyota Moves
Honda's revenue from sales of autos, motorcycles and power products in North America was 986.2 billion yen ($12.7 billion) in the quarter that ended Dec. 31, or 51 percent of its global total. While U.S. sales of Honda and Acura autos fell to 1.15 million units last year, which was still 38 percent of the company's worldwide volume.

Toyota, too, is giving more authority to North American executives, to improve development of products for the market and avoid a repeat of the 2009-10 recall crisis.

This month, Toyota promoted Jim Lentz to chief executive officer of its U.S. sales unit, the first time that job has gone to an American.

Asia's largest automaker last week said Steve St. Angelo, executive vice president for North American engineering and manufacturing, will oversee regional production as part of his duties on Toyota's North American management committee. Ray Tanguay, chairman of Toyota's Canadian unit, is responsible for North American quality issues. Lentz will oversee regional sales, marketing and product planning.

Honda's Revamping
Toyota President Akio Toyoda has said shifting more responsibility to local managers in North America is central to his goal of restoring customer satisfaction hurt by the recalls.

Honda's U.S. car and light truck sales slid 6.8 percent last year after natural disasters in Japan and Thailand curbed output of parts and vehicles. The company's redesigned Civic also flopped in tests by Consumer Reports, which recommended previous versions, a sign that the carmaker's ills extended beyond 2011's one-time events.

For decades, products created for the U.S. came from a "synergy effect" between Japanese and American engineers, Iwamura said. Now, American engineers making product decisions for U.S. customers is the best way to increase competitiveness, Iwamura said.

"That is one of the reasons we appointed Erik as the top man of R&D," he said. Berkman, who begins his new job April 1, was traveling in Japan and unavailable for an interview.

Honda's Targets
John Mendel, executive vice president of U.S. sales, is also joining Berkman on Honda's North American management board, as is Tom Shoupe, president of the company's Alabama plant.

Honda wants to rebound this year with a 24 percent U.S. sales gain. It has made some progress, boosting sales 11 percent in 2012's first two months, led by a 45 percent jump in Civic deliveries. The company plans to release a modified Civic later this year to address concerns raised by Consumer Reports, as well as a redesigned Accord.

The company's U.S., Canadian and Mexican plants may also set a production volume record, building about 1.8 million vehicles this year.

The automaker is completing more than $690 million of upgrades at U.S. plants and is also building an $800 million factory in Mexico to produce subcompact models such as the Fit.

In January, Honda said it planned to build its Acura NSX "supercar" in Ohio within about two years. The racing-style coupe will sell for more than $100,000. The site and cost of that project hasn't been announced.

Restoring Reputation
Restoring its reputation as an industry innovator, a legacy of founder Soichiro Honda, is a bigger challenge than boosting sales and production.

"It's not just the Koreans; everyone has gotten better," Keller said. "In terms of quality and features, it's a game of equals. It's just a lot harder for Toyota and Honda to stand out."

It may be years before Honda's changes in local management are effective, said Hall of 2953 Analytics.

"It's safe to say that if they keep going the way they were going, they were heading for a decline with other guys passing them and just doing better than they are," he said. In the U.S., "the question is whether they've caught their problems soon enough to not get passed by Hyundai-Kia."

Source;
http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20120325/AUTO0104/203250305/1148/auto01/Honda-promotes-American-managers-push-revive-U-S-market


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Honda Cars : Chubu Electric, Honda Motor, Tata Metaliks: Asia Stocks Preview | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Unknown | 9:12 AM
March 2012
March 2012

Hmmm, good idea....

Below is a excerpt pertaining to Honda only....

Honda Motor Co. (7267 JT): The carmaker may build a plant at a location high above sea level in Thailand as part of flooding countermeasures, the Yomiuri newspaper reported, citing the company. The stock fell 0.6 percent to 3,160 yen.

Source;
http://www.businessweek.com/news/2012-03-26/chubu-electric-honda-motor-tata-metaliks-asia-stocks-preview


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Honda Cars : Honda's automobile unit resumes operations in Thailand | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Unknown | 9:10 AM
March 2012
March 2012

Honda Automobile Thailand (HATC) has resumed production at its plant in Ayutthaya after severe floods halted operations in early October.

HATC, a subsidiary of Honda Motor, is the last of the Japanese automobile companies to resume production in Thailand after the floods.

Toyota Motor and Nissan Motor resumed production at the end of 2011.

The floods forced hundreds of Japanese companies to shut operations, adversely affecting their earnings expectations.

Earlier this year, Honda revised down its operating income forecast for the year ending on 31 March to 200bn yen ($2.4bn, £1.5bn) from a previous forecast of 270bn yen.

The Honda factory in Ayutthaya has the capacity to produce 240,000 units annually. Limited production

A Honda Motor spokeswoman said full production would resume at the HATC unit by the second week of April.

Currently production is at about 12% of capacity.

HATC was the only car maker whose factory was completely flooded.

Honda Motor said HATC is one of its most important production centres in the Asia and Oceania regions.

"Honda was totally committed to realising the earliest possible recovery. Honda will maintain the same positioning of HATC in the future and further promote business operations in Thailand," the company said.

Source;
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-17508462


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Honda Cars : MotorTrend Looks at the 2015 Acura NSX | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Unknown | 8:54 AM
March 2012
March 2012

From the April, 2012 issue of Motor Trend
By Frank Markus
Photos Wesley Allison
Acura's 1991 NSX put an end to the era when sexy supercars could be unreliable, ill-handling, ergonomic disasters. The all-aluminum mid-engine marvel delivered laser-sharp handling and high-revving acceleration suffused with Japanese quality, while advancing the state of the production-car art with firsts like four-channel ABS, titanium con-rods, and electric power steering.

Since NSX production ended in 2005, the world has eagerly awaited its replacement. A front-engine V-10 layout was proposed and developed by Acura Design as the Advanced Sports Car Concept. Everyone involved agreed that it was cool, but it wasn't an NSX. The car you see here is.


Expected by 2015, the new NSX will employ a mid-mounted V-6, complete with titanium connecting rods coupled to a wet twin-clutch seven-speed transmission and hybridized with an electric motor driving the rear wheels. Two more electric motors will spin the front wheels, providing torque-vectoring under acceleration and braking to help the NSX turn into corners better under all conditions. This Sports Hybrid AWD system is purported to deliver big-V-8 performance with "better-than-four-cylinder" fuel economy (let's assume they're talking big turbo fours there).


We asked Honda's global CEO Takanabu Ito (who started his career as an engineer working on the NSX's aluminum monocoque structure) whether he felt it was important that the next NSX still be made of aluminum. He replied what was more important was that the engineering team face as great a challenge as his did as they work to offset the new car's hybrid drivetrain mass. When asked whether he'd established a weight-to-power target for the team, his coy answer was, "I hope it is better than the first car's."


But if we assume that here again he expects to challenge his engineers to an equal extent, and we know that the first NSX matched Ferrari's 348 with 11 lb/horsepower, we can expect the 2015 car to at least match the current 458 Italia (and Lamborghini Gallardo) with around 6 lb/hp.

The sexy, show-stopping shape features Acura's softening Keen Edge design. Dimensionally, it measures 3.7 inches shorter in length on a 1.8-inch longer wheelbase, so overhangs are cropped. It's also 3.3 inches wider and 0.4 inch lower than the 2005 NSX. The concept rides on 255/35-19 front and 275/30-20 rear rubber. The low-profile headlamps are LED-based, and while there is no interior in the concept, design chief Jon Ikedo presumes the battery will package in the center tunnel, luggage compartments will be fitted fore and aft, and the fuel tank will slot in just ahead of the engine as before to preserve weight distribution as the fuel level drops. With production slated for "within three years," the shape has yet to undergo extensive computer or physical testing. Ikedo says early scale-model clays are performing well in the wind tunnel, but cautions that crash development is likely to grow the car somewhat. That development work, by the way, is all happening in the USA, and the car will be built in Ohio.


Acura claims the next NSX will represent the "ultimate expression of man-machine synergy," with driver and car working in unison, rather than the driver being taken for a ride by a highly robotized car.


Indeed a three-motor, mid-engine supercar sounds like the ideal halo car for a brand attempting to distinguish itself as delivering luxury and performance without waste or excess. It may even shake up the supercar-world order again. We just hope Ito's engineers overcome their biggest challenge: programming those electronics to deliver realistic, not robotic, road feel.



New Tech

The NSX won't be first with a hybridized twin-clutch tranny, but, unlike the Jetta Hybrid's, its electric motor connects to (we're guessing the odd) gear shaft instead of the input shaft. By releasing both clutches, more energy can be regenerated with no engine braking effect, and by connecting the motor to the (odd or even) gear with the most advantageous ratio. Under acceleration, power is transmitted through a preselected odd gear even when an even gear is in use.


2015 ACURA NSX
BASE PRICE $130,000*
VEHICLE LAYOUT Mid-engine, AWD, 2-pass, 2-door coupe
ENGINE 3.7L DOHC 24-valve V-6 + 2 front and 1 rear electric motors; 480 hp comb*
TRANSMISSION 7-speed twin-cl auto
CURB WEIGHT 3100 lb*
WHEELBASE 101.4 in
LENGTH X WIDTH X HEIGHT 170.5 x 74.6 x 45.7 in
0-60 MPH 3.0 sec*
EPA CITY/HWY FUEL ECON Not yet rated
ON SALE IN U.S. 2015

Source;


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Honda Cars : Acura to tease redesigned 2013 RL sedan at 2012 New York Auto Show | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Unknown | 8:47 AM
March 2012
March 2012

This just in – Acura will be showing a teaser of the redesigned RL flagship sedan at the 2012 New York Auto Show next week.

The 2013 Acura RL sedan will go on sale this fall.


Source;


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Honda Cars : INSANE ATTEMPT AT HUMAN FLIGHT: The MINI JOHN COOPER WORKS Countryman | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Unknown | 7:55 AM
March 2012
March 2012

Wow....


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Honda Cars : Acura shifts its focus to sensible Gen Y shoppers | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Unknown | 7:48 AM
March 2012
March 2012

With the ILX, brand aims to boost '12 U.S. sales 46%


Acura will return to the entry-luxury segment when the ILX small sedan reaches showrooms in May.


by Mark Rechtin



In addition to the new ILX small sedan and redesigned RDX compact crossover coming in spring, a tease of the redesigned RL flagship due this fall will be shown at the New York auto show in April.
Then, the volume leading TL sedan and MDX mid-sized crossover are slated for 2013 redesigns. The much-hyped NSX supercar should arrive by the end of 2014.
Six years ago, Honda Motor Co. executives decided to move Acura upscale and shelve the brand's entry-level luxury offer -- the compact RSX hatchback, which was the successor to the Integra. The timing couldn't have been worse.
In less than three years, many of Acura's competitors announced plans to offer products that fit the RSX and Integra's niches. Then the global economy collapsed and many luxury-vehicle buyers pared back their purchases.
In May, Acura will return to the entry-luxury segment with the ILX. The sedan won't remind anyone of the sportiness of the RSX or Integra, but Acura hopes it will appeal to sensible Gen Y customers.
The collapse of Lehman Brothers "changed the philosophy for luxury purchases. People are making more rational purchase decisions, taking pride in the deal they strike," said Jeff Conrad, Acura Division general manager. "Generation Y aspires to luxury, but they need a little help getting there."
The new lineup will feature four sedans, the TSX, TL, RL and ILX. There is some overlap, but Conrad said Acura has no plans to eliminate any of the four.
"We're remaking the entire lineup over the next few years," Conrad said. "Nothing goes away, and we're sticking with that. We've had a pretty strong reliance on sport-utilities and we want to bolster our sedans."
With 40,000 units of additional volume from the estimated $27,000 ILX, Acura expects its overall U.S. sales to jump 46 percent to 180,000 units this year -- up from 123,299 in 2011. If not for the Japanese earthquake and Thai flooding last year, Acura estimates its 2011 U.S. sales would have been about 150,000. So the volume jump is not as large as it would seem, Conrad said.
In the longer term, it's unclear whether Acura aims to fight head-to-head against Lexus, BMW and Mercedes-Benz.
"We want to take one year at a time," Conrad said. "We're not going to go set volume targets for future years. Everyone wants to continue to grow, but for the foreseeable future this is a pretty good level to be at."
Acura doesn't want to increase its dealer count, Conrad said. But the brand needs to improve owner loyalty.
At 45 percent, Acura customer loyalty is slightly below the industry average of 49 percent, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2012 Customer Retention Study.
According to the study, Acura doesn't really compete in the luxury segment. It mainly attracts customers from -- and loses them to -- Honda and Toyota.
"I know we're not satisfied with our loyalty numbers," Conrad said. He said retention efforts will include data mining to better understand when and how to contact existing customers.
Acura also will be more aggressive with presale marketing before redesigned products reach market. Already, 3,500 potential 2013 RDX buyers are in Acura's dealer system, waiting for the on-sale date to arrive.
On the plus side, Conrad said Acura's average customer age is two to four years younger than those of other premium brands.
Although Acura's core customers continue to be baby boomers, the brand is seeking to connect with younger buyers. In researching Gen Y -- consumers aged 19 to 31 -- Acura has discovered that "value for money" is the primary concern, replacing the baby boomers' focus on quality, reliability and fun-to-drive vehicles.
So what do the Gen Y customers covet? Connected cars, with features such as Bluetooth, Pandora and SMS text messaging. Cool engineering solutions for better performance aren't nearly so high on the wish list.
"The real key is not that we offer it, but that we offer it and put it on a vehicle and make it intuitive to use," Conrad said.
Acura will continue its appeal to Gen Y through its product placement arrangement with comic-book-movie franchise Marvel Enterprises. Already seen in Thor, Acura products will be highlighted in this summer's mutant-superhero flick The Avengers.
That should play into the cool factor that appeals to young buyers. When asked what makes a vehicle cool, Gen Y respondents said exterior styling, affordability and environmental consciousness.
"It's no secret the last few years have been pretty tough on Acura," Conrad said. "'Smart luxury' has become our internal mantra."
Source;


http://www.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120326/RETAIL03/303269988/1144/acura-shifts-its-focus-to-sensible-gen-y-shoppers


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Honda Cars : Rumored: Honda, Acura Could Adopt ZF 9-Speed Automatic By 2014 | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Unknown | 7:37 AM
March 2012
March 2012

Although most of Honda’s recent powertrain news has surrounded CVTs and dual-clutch transmissions, that shouldn’t be taken as a sign the automaker is abandoning conventional automatics altogether. In fact, the automaker will likely adopt a 9-speed automatic by 2014 at the earliest.

Automotive News first reported in late 2011 that Honda was planning on launching an eight- or nine-speed automatic in the near future, but a source close to the program now tells us the automaker will use the new nine-speed transverse automatic developed by German powertrain supplier ZF.

If that gearbox sounds vaguely familiar, it should: it’s set to make its initial debut in a string of Chrysler Group vehicles over the next two years. Fiat/Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne first hinted at using/developing the transmission in late 2011. Chrysler itself has been relatively mum on the subject, but UAW officials at the company’s plant in Toledo, Ohio, have suggested the replacement for the Jeep Liberty will be one of the first applications of the transmission.

The transmission, which ZF calls the 9HP, is designed for transverse installations, making it suitable for front- and all-wheel-drive platforms. Although Honda has typically developed its own transmissions, the 9HP will be a significant departure from Honda’s existing automatics in that it utilizes planetary gearsets in order to save space (ZF says the gearbox measures 20.5 inches wide, 16.6 in tall, and 14.5 inches deep).

ZF proclaims the gearbox is capable of handling up to 354 lb-ft of torque, and can support both start/stop and hybrid drive systems. The total gearing spread is quite wide (9.84:1), and taller gear ratios in the upper range of the gearbox allegedly play a big part in improving fuel economy by 10-16 percent. The supplier claims an engine mated to the 9HP needs to run at a mere 1900 rpm in order to propel a vehicle at 75 mph.

Honda officials refrained from confirming or denying the gearbox or its future applications, noting it’s company policy not to comment on future product plans. Given every Honda and Acura model currently on the market places its engine in a transverse fashion, the possibilities are theoretically endless, but we wouldn’t be surprised if this transmission is relegated to heavier and more upscale midsize models. Models like the Odyssey and Pilot, along with the Acura MDX and TL, are all potential recepients. Presently, these models utilize Honda’s 3.5-liter and 3.7-liter V-6 engines, and produce between 253 and 270 lb-ft of torque, respectively – well within the capabilities of the 9HP.

What remains to be seen is how the 9HP will be rolled out. We know ZF should start building 9HPs within its South Carolina plant in 2013 for Chrysler, but rumor has it Honda won’t start using the transmission until 2014. If so, the next-generation Acura TL, which is expected to launch in late 2013, could be one of the first vehicles to utilize the transmission.

Source;
http://rumors.automobilemag.com/deep-dive-honda-acura-could-adopt-zf-9-speed-automatic-by-2014-118443.html


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Honda Cars : Fake car makes room for a fake ASIMO to be your fake driving companion | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Unknown | 3:28 PM
March 2012
March 2012


by Paul Miller

You know, we're realists, and we know deep down that cars in the future are going to drive themselves just fine without a humanoid robot to grab the controls and peer out of specially crafted front compartments. Even if a humanoid was doing the steering, he'd probably just jack into the car's full complement of cameras and sensors, merely using his CPU to plot a course from his comfy charging bay in the trunk. But we want to believe. Designer Derek Chik Kin Ng has come up with this Honda concept (one which we're guessing has no official collaboration with Honda) that packs a nice little front seat for your 8th gene ASIMO. The bot can hop out of the car and help you on your errands, make casual conversation as you drive, warn you of upcoming hazards, or take over controls when you're in the mood for some SpaceChess2000. Only thing he can't do? Actually exist.

Source;
http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/06/fake-car-makes-room-for-a-fake-asimo-to-be-your-fake-driving-com/


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Honda Cars : Lego Honda RA272 Race Car Pays Tribute Through Art | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Unknown | 2:57 PM
March 2012
March 2012

When it comes to historic automobiles like the Honda RA272, which was the first Japanese car to win a Formula One Grand Prix, memorabilia is hard to come by.

So what’s a fan to do? Build it of course. This Lego Honda RA272 was built by “Biczzz” and is simply a work of art. In fact, at some angles, you really have to inspect to realize it’s made out of Legos. Clearly “Biczzz” wanted to pay homage to the race car Honda used for the 1965 Formula One season, which was powered by a 1.5-liter V12 engine that had 230 hp but revved up to a screaming 14,000 rpm.

When it became the first Japanese car to win a Formula One Grand Prix, it did it in impressive fashion. Richie Ginther drove it at the Mexican Grand Prix and led from start to finish.
Projects like this make the Lego projects most people did as kids look like, well, child’s play.

Source;
http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2012/03/lego-honda-ra272-race-car-pays-tribute-through-art.html


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Honda Cars : Honda Titillating And Triumphant Returns | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Unknown | 7:19 AM
March 2012
March 2012

Honda brushes the dust off its Type R series—and not a moment too soon!
After the major earthquake in Eastern Japan, Honda has been strongly committed to resuming full operations. Unfortunately, the vehicle component plant has been hit hardest by the disaster, as has the Tochigi Research Centre—this has caused delays in the development of new cars. However, development is expected to speed up as Honda continues restoration.

Despite the inevitable delays, the schedule is not anticipated to change much—in fact, the new Freed, Freed Hybrid and CR-V’s release dates have been only slightly shifted to the end of the year. Also, Honda is likely to release several new cars from late this year until early 2012.

THE CASE FOR EUROPE
The combined effects of the recent disaster and the depressed global economy have forced automakers to re-evaluate their original plans. In Honda’s case, it is likely to continue producing mid-sized and large cars such as Accord Hybrid for the North American market. However, it might make some changes to its current compact car scheme.

A factor in Honda’s renewed sense of urgency is the state of the European automotive market. Despite Fit’s exceptional utility, appearance is not the only factor in retail success. Rather, Honda must think twice about improving its performance. Until today, Fit has been unable to beat the prolific Volkswagen Polo. Last year, the new Polo was launched with 1.2ℓ, turbocharged 1.2ℓ, 1.4ℓ and turbocharged 1.4ℓ GTI variants. On the other hand, the fuel-efficient Fit currently has 1.5ℓ and 2ℓ conventional variants and a 1.3ℓ hybrid. Honda’s smaller engines draw attention to the performance difference—not only that, Polo has a turbocharged engine and a Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG), which also enhances its drivability.

In response, a Honda insider said that the automaker was hard at work on compact and fuel-efficient 1.3ℓ and 1.5ℓ engines. Like the 2~2.4ℓ K Series engines, Honda’s new projects will have excellent versatility—all that is left is for it to overcome the development hurdles.

The same source agreed that the proposed Fit will have many of the features that popularised the legendary Type R models. Not only will it have improved performance, but will also be more enjoyable to drive. Thus Honda’s goal is to penetrate the European market with sports variants of its compacts. Not only will these cars sport more powerful and fuel-efficient engines, but more importantly, they will proudly bear the Type R badge.

Fit’s next major revamp is scheduled for 2013, which may be concurrent with the Type R’s arrival. Also, depending on the reception, a 3-door GT Fit may also be included in the Type R line-up.

HONDA’S NEXT TYPE R
The Type R name can be traced back to 2002 with the lauded NSX, during a time when Honda only had Integra, Civic and the European Accord to boast of. The automaker had strictly limited the use of the moniker, only bestowing it onto cars that boasted exceptional driveability. Though the new Type R models are expected to uphold this tradition, their actual capabilities are still unclear.

The innovative Fit is expected to receive a Type R variant. Also, the North American and European Civics will be going for major revamps this year and next year, respectively—a coupe may also be in the pipeline. A new Accord may also hit the European market next year—however, this may not be a Type R since it will only be launched in Europe while the North American model is too large to bear the name.

CR-Z is also closely watched, especially since it is slated to transform into a hybrid with a supercharged engine. However, a Honda insider disclosed that Honda may still return to the beginning: regardless of whether CR-Z’s 1.5ℓ engine will indeed receive a supercharger, it may be the next Type R. Conversely, a turbocharged CR-Z would ascend to the top of the sports car class. So just as Volkswagen developed an R variant that is distinct from its Polo GTI, the next Type R may premiere as a separate grade.

Another alternative would arrive by 2014, when the NSX successor could receive a Type R variant and become a next generation sports model with a 2.5~3.5ℓ V6 engine. Like the original NSX Type R, its successor will surely be a hit—but it has to be properly manufactured. The insider even suggests that Honda scrap the V10 plan altogether and instead focus on its alleged Type R strategy.

As mentioned, the Type R badge has come to denote Honda’s most compulsively driveable vehicles. The time has finally come for the automaker to revisit this legendary series and to reclaim the affections of car aficionados the world over.

Source;
http://www.bestcar.sg/report-o/2011/09/titillating-triumphant-returns.html


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Honda Cars : New Hyundai Santa Fe brochure photos from Korea | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Unknown | 7:04 AM
March 2012
March 2012

The all-new Hyundai Santa Fe 2013 (Model Year) breaks cover!

Thanks to Hyundai fans and enthusiasts living in South Korea, the home land of Hyundai Motor Company, we are bringing you exclusive photos of the 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe brochure!

The leaked brochure, which hit the web today, provides us with the very first good look at the next-generation Hyundai Santa Fe CUV styling details and highlights some of the vehicle’s most notable features.

Salted to make its worldwide debut at the forthcoming New York Auto Show, the all-new Santa Fe CUV embodies a modern design called “Storm Edge” which gives the vehicle a strong and dynamic exterior appearance.

Completing the stylish exterior layout of the 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe are advanced safety and luxury features, such as knee airbag, lane departure warning system, smart parking assist system, Blue Link infotainment system and many others.

Apparently, the Korean-market Santa Fe crossover also features a revised 2.0L diesel engine, which achieves 17 km/l (or approximately 5.88 L/100km).

Stay tuned for more 2013 Santa Fe news and information coming out soon as we are closing on its official worldwide debut!

Source;
http://www.hyundai-blog.com/hyundai-santa-fe-2013-brochure


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Honda Cars : Honda to Debut 2013 Honda Crosstour Concept at New York Auto Show | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Unknown | 6:38 AM
March 2012
March 2012

A minor model change makes sense, after all the Crosstour is pretty much an Accord, which itself is going under a "full" redesign (I am told that the Accord is just an evolutionary change on the outside, but the tech will be a good jump forward).... I can't see the Crosstour looking like the vehicle below, but I like it Neal....
Photo comes from the creative imagination of Neal McDaniel from www.vtec.net....

By Ben Timmins of www.motortrend.com
The futuristic Honda Crosstour is about to get a refresh, and Honda is readying a concept car previewing the 2013 model for a New York Auto Show debut.

We should clarify a couple of things: the Honda Crosstour will turn four in 2013, which means the new car will be something of a mid-cycle refresh. The second is that Honda’s concept cars are often nearly identical to their successive production cars. When Honda says that it’s making a concept to preview the new Crosstour, it likely means that a production-looking car will be on stage at New York and the official version will hit showrooms shortly thereafter.

The new Honda Crosstour continues to face an uphill battle in the numbers: the crossover has sold just 51,380 copies since it was launched in 2009. Sales peaked in 2010 at 28,851, but dwindled since–Honda has sold just 1991 in the first two months of this year.

In hopes of broadening the car’s appeal, Honda has shifted the trim levels on the Crosstour: base models now come with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine (borrowed from the Accord it’s based on) that makes 192 horsepower and delivers 3 more miles to the gallon in mixed driving than the optional 3.5-liter V-6. It also reduces the car’s base price: an I-4-equipped Honda Crosstour (shown) starts at $28,465 with destination to the V-6 model’s $31,150.

The Honda Crosstour won’t be alone in seeing its mid-cycle refresh in New York – Toyota and Subaru will be taking the wraps off the 2013 Venza and 2013 Outback, respectively, in April as well.

Will the new Crosstour make waves in the crossover market or will it sink? We’ll have to wait and see–the concept will be unveiled on Wednesday, April 4.

Source;
http://wot.motortrend.com/2013-honda-crosstour-concept-to-debut-at-new-york-show-181875.html

Official Press Release
03/20/2012 - TORRANCE, Calif.A concept vehicle revealing the exterior styling direction of the updated 2013 Honda Crosstour will debut at a catered media reception at the 2012 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) on Wednesday, April 4. The media reception will be held from 3:45 - 4:30 p.m., at Honda's show floor booth on Level 3 of the Javits Center.

First launched in 2009, and now available with both V-6 and four-cylinder engines, the Crosstour remains one of the most versatile choices in the midsize crossover segment, earning the distinction of J.D. Power and Associates' "Highest Ranked Midsize Crossover/SUV in Initial Quality" in their 2011 Initial Quality Study SM (IQS). The Crosstour is produced1 at Honda's East Liberty Plant in East Liberty, Ohio.


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Honda Cars : Autos.ca: Comparison Test: Five compact CUVs | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Unknown | 6:58 AM
March 2012
March 2012


Review by Michael Schlee and Jonathan Yarkony; photos by Brigitte, Esmond Yau, and Jonathan Yarkony
Photo Gallery:Compact CUV comparo
Crossovers are pretty much old hat by now. Almost every manufacturer has abandoned the truck-based body-on-frame sport utility vehicle (SUV) for more advanced unibody construction, which is enough in most books to warrant slapping on the crossover utility vehicle (CUV) label. While the differences are marginal, CUVs offer the high seating position and roomy cargo area of SUVs with a more refined, car-like ride. Some even make all-wheel drive an option rather than a key standard feature. While every segment has seen the introduction of CUVs (from subcompact all the way up to full-size), compact CUVs are the second largest segment by sales (after compact cars), eclipsing even sales of large pickup trucks.
Most manufacturers are in on the segment now, but Toyota and Honda have defined it since they introduced the RAV4 and CR-V, respectively, in the mid-90s. With each generation they have gone head-to-head, leading the segment to prominence as an economical and conscientious option to large SUVs without giving up the creature comforts and utility of those practical transports.
The Honda CR-V was the eighth-bestselling light truck nameplate in Canada last year at just over 25,000, and that was in its final model year, before the introduction of this brand-new 2012 model. With this redesign, Honda again aims to raise the bar and we wanted to see if it still has the Honda mojo that sees the Civic dominate Canadian sales year after year, and the engineering that makes the subcompact Fit the darling of media, though perhaps too pricey for popular tastes.
The Toyota RAV4 is due for its own redesign very shortly, having been on the market in its current form since 2006 with only minor revisions in 2008 and a face-lift in 2011. Despite its age, Toyota sold over 21,000 RAV4s in Canada last year, thanks to variety not offered on many other CUVs, with its optional seating for seven and an optional V6 engine.
Of course, the Ford Escape is the Canadian sales champ (by almost 20K units over the CR-V), but the brand new redesigned 2013 Escape is not yet available, so we went looking elsewhere in the talent pool to see who might challenge two of the most recognized household names in the industry. We started with the Nissan Rogue, Nissan’s bestselling model after the Versa line and bestselling utility vehicle by a huge margin, accounting for 14,191 sales for Nissan in 2011. Hyundai sold a similar number of Tucsons in 2011 at 14,309, but no matter how many were sold, we would have included the Tucson, because pretty much everything Hyundai touches is gold these days; we believed the fairly fresh Tucson would be one of the strongest contenders, coming off a significant redesign only a couple years ago.
And last but not least, a brand new model from Mazda, the CX-5, using the firm’s engineering magic that gives us the brilliant MX-5, Mazda3, and Mazda5. Significantly, the CX-5 is the first Mazda to wholly incorporate its new SkyActiv technologies in every facet of vehicle design – from powertrain and chassis right down to suspension and steering – aimed at improving fuel efficiency without compromising driving fun. We had high expectations for the CX-5, because it is a new design that Mazda has had years to contemplate (while selling a rebadged Ford Escape as the Tribute), and because of Mazda’s track record for making fun, functional, and well-packaged vehicles. However, the reason we do these comparison tests is to see who comes out ahead on the road, and not simply in our preconceptions.

Fifth Place – 2012 Nissan Rogue SL AWD

Something had to finish last, and in the case of this comparison test it was the Nissan Rogue. While it finished at the back of the pack in this company, that doesn’t mean that it is not a good car in its own right, as all five CUVs were strong entrants. That being said, it simply wasn’t quite as good as the others in this group. The more we drove these compact crossovers, the more we realized each had its endearing qualities and its sore spots. Unfortunately for the Rogue, its negatives exceeded the other CUVs’ flaws. So what hurt the Rogue the most? In short, it was let down most by its interior and drivetrain.
The interior of the Rogue is a bit of a conundrum. Our fully loaded SL was awash with rich-looking soft-touch materials that were only matched in the CX-5. The overall design of the interior was conservative, to a fault. Despite the great materials, the design looks dated, which makes sense considering this is the second oldest model design in the comparison test. For every great feature like around view monitor parking cameras and standard navigation, there were basic options missing, like a telescopic steering wheel and fold-down rear-seat armrest.
The front seats received much praise for their comfort, but the low placement of the tiny radio/navigation/backup camera screen made viewing it a chore. Another chore was installing a child safety seat: with solid fixed head restraints, the over-the-seat strap had to be finagled to go around the restraint and the cargo-bay LATCH anchor was covered by an unfriendly piece of plastic. Rear cargo space was useful, but at 818 litres was the second smallest, beating only the diminutive Hyundai Tucson.
Off the line, the Rogue is a solid performer thanks to its 170-hp, 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine. The problem is, to extract the full potential out of the Rogue’s engine you must dip heavily into the throttle and allow the continuously variable transmission (CVT) to hold the engine in a high-rpm thrashing cacophony. The CVT in the Rogue is nowhere close to being the worst on the market (that “honour” goes to the Compass), but it is still a CVT and many did not like it. As the only vehicle in the test with a supposedly fuel-saving CVT, it was a bit surprising that it returned the second-worst fuel consumption at an average of 11.8 L/100 km.
It is really too bad that the drivetrain and interior nuances of the Rogue weighed it down so much, since its chassis, exterior styling and rear seat comfort all scored well with the judges and placed it respectably mid-pack in those categories.

Fourth Place – 2012 Toyota RAV4 4WD V6 Limited

Many of us were expecting bigger things from the RAV4. It was the only crossover powered by a six-cylinder engine (making in excess of 100 extra horsepower over the CX-5) and, with the highest as-tested price, was one of the most generously equipped. However, when the dust settled, the RAV4 finished at the back of the pack just ahead the Nissan Rogue. It is easy to automatically point at high price and poor fuel economy as the culprits that brought this rig down in the rankings, but in reality, it was a mediocre interior, bland exterior and poor chassis that were the RAV4’s ultimate undoing.
Most of us love the RAV4’s V6 power, grunt and character. The smoothness of the engine was matched by the smoothness of the ride. Even with an extra litre over the next largest engine, the 269-hp 3.5-litre V6 returned a decent 13.0 L/100 km fuel consumption average. That’s nowhere near the frugal CX-5′s average, but it is within 1.3 L/100 km achieved by the smaller, less powerful engines found in the Tucson and Rogue.
Transmission kick-downs are lazy, steering feel is numb, and cornering ability was deemed worst of the bunch. Understandably, these crossovers are not sports cars, but the RAV4 is so disengaging to drive that the task almost becomes a chore. It is an unfortunate case of the chassis being overmatched by the engine.
The interior feels dated, yet it is useful and well laid out. Materials are predominantly a variety of hard and harder plastics and the front seats were deemed the least comfortable. Rear seat space is generous and offers great legroom, but the seat cushions were too short and placed too low in the vehicle for our expert seat-testing team. The RAV4 ties the CR-V for the largest cargo area (just over 1,000 L) but has a trump card up its sleeve: a pair of storage areas beneath the trunk’s carpeted floor panels, thanks to the missing optional third-row seat and tailgate-mounted spare tire.
When the RAV4 first appeared as a 2006 model it was at the top of its game and a phenomenal compact crossover. However, time marches on and the seven-year-old RAV4 has not. As one of our testers commented, “(The RAV4) looks, feels and handles like the senior citizen of the group.” That said, if hauling a lot of stuff or a lot of people a lot of the time sounds like you, the RAV4’s seven-seat capacity and V6 options might be its trump cards.

Third Place – 2012 Hyundai Tucson GLS AWD

“This is the sports car of the bunch,” boldly declared one tester after a turn behind the wheel of the Tucson. Fact is, it’s not that far from the truth. Phrases like ‘fun to drive’, ‘nimble handler’ and ‘makes the RAV4 feel like an old Buick’ were heard as different evaluators stepped out after their turn with the Tucson. Being the only vehicle in this test, aside from the CR-V, on all-season tires, helped amplify the Tucson’s handling prowess. As can be expected though, this ability to carve a corner has a payoff in the form of a stiff ride. Some were okay with it, while others found it too harsh. Hyundai has yet to find that magic handling with supple ride formula in this segment that makes the Honda CR-V such a joy to drive.
The Tucson tied the RAV4 for the least comfortable front seats and a few of us found excessive wind noise intruding into the cabin. Steering was stiff and crisp if not a bit artificially heavy. The gauge cluster and HVAC drew the most criticism out of the test group but were simple to operate. Despite being the smallest vehicle in the test group, rear seat room was average and impressed us with some of the most comfortable seatbacks even if the cushions felt too low to the floor.
Cargo space, at 728 L, is the smallest in the bunch, which is to be expected considering the Tucson was the smallest in the group. Strangely enough, the smaller Tucson is heavier than both the Rogue and the CX-5, which may explain its unimpressive 11.7 L/100 km fuel consumption observed during the test.
The Tucson did arrive with the lowest as-tested price. At this price point, some options were lacking, notably a sunroof and back-up camera, but all the important convenience features were present and accounted for and some nice touches, like big side mirrors, were much appreciated. Many also appreciated the Tucson’s smooth six-speed automatic and 176-hp, 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine.
When the scores were added up and people were asked their opinion on each vehicle, “good value” kept coming up when the Tucson was discussed. That is a phrase that often comes up when any Hyundai product is discussed, and it is well-deserved. The Tucson, like most Hyundai products, delivers solid value, though it still has a ways to go to catch up with our winner.

2nd Place – 2013 Mazda CX-5 GS AWD

Mazda finally has a small crossover to call its own. The all-new 2013 CX-5 replaces the long-in-the-tooth Ford Escape-based Tribute. It is the first vehicle sold in North America to fully incorporate Mazda’s SkyActiv technology, and it also reflects its new Kodo design language with attractive, thoroughly modern sheet metal. The CX-5 was the looker of the bunch and achieved the highest average rating in any category, with a 9.8 for exterior styling. One of us even went as far as to say, “It has a ‘very BMW’ look and feel inside and out.” Inside, it is much the same story with rich, soft touch materials molded into a sophisticated design packed with features not expected on a mid-level trim.
But styling is not Mazda’s primary focus with this new crossover. Fuel economy is the name of the game. Mazda introduced certain components of its SkyActiv technology in the Mazda3 earlier this year, to lukewarm reception. With the CX-5, it was applied from the ground up. The CX-5 was the third-largest vehicle in this test and featured mid-pack cargo capacity at 966 litres behind the rear seats. Despite its size, it was still the lightest of the bunch, undercutting the smaller Rogue and Tucson. It also had the smallest engine making the least output: a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder producing 155 hp with a six-speed automatic transmission programmed with fuel economy in mind.
So did it work? Yes. SkyActiv is not marketing hype (well it is that, too, so not JUST marketing hype). The CX-5 achieved an impressive 9.6 L/100 km on a test loop that featured hilly terrain and a lot of flogging from our test crew, especially by the stragglers at the back. To put it in context, the next-closest vehicle was the Honda CR-V at 10.9 L/100 km. Beyond this test route, the CX-5 achieved a day-to-day average of 8.9 L/100 km. Not bad for a 1,555-kg all-wheel-drive crossover; to further impress you, the 1,350-kg 2012 Subaru Impreza with a CVT that we drove a few weeks ago achieved 10.0 L/100 km
With the light weight and sporty disposition, we expected the CX-5 to be a great handler. Here, we were sorely disappointed. Some blamed it on the GS trim’s 17-inch wheels and soft winter tires, but the CX-5 did not have the composed feel of the Tucson or CR-V. The vehicle would push into corners and the lazy transmission and weak engine combination made exiting turns with any haste impossible. We would love to get our hands on a GT version with the 19-inch rims and all-season tires later this spring to see if this would help remedy the problem. That said, the chassis was solid and provided a smooth, compliant ride.
Coming into this comparison test, everyone had high expectations for the brand new Mazda CX-5. With its benchmark fuel economy numbers and handsome styling, many thought we had a winner on our hands. So, what happened? Well, the CR-V happened. The CX-5 is a terrific crossover, and when the five evaluators were asked which vehicle they would put their own money on, three said the CX-5, with two of the main reasons being its gorgeous looks and tremendous fuel economy.

First Place – 2012 Honda CR-V Touring AWD

Anyone who thinks Honda can no longer build class-leading vehicles needs to get behind the wheel of the 2012 CR-V. All new for 2012, Honda has stepped up its game with the redesigned CR-V and has let some Acura qualities bleed through. Nearly every tester commented on how comfortable the front seats were. The gauge cluster would look at home in a luxury Q-ship and the dash design was elegant and well laid out. Despite the hard plastics, the CR-V’s fit and finish made them look far more expensive than they really were.
Welcome interior features on a vehicle in this class included a massive centre-armrest storage bin that looks big enough to fit a CR-Z in. The rear seats were deemed the most comfortable for three people and tied for first in comfort with two people. The multiple menu screens on the dashboard were customizable and allowed the driver to tailor what information they want readily available, though some complained of the quality of the screens.
Once behind the wheel, the CR-V was voted the easiest to drive. Every reviewer commented that this Honda was the vehicle they felt most comfortable driving, and when driving quickly to boot. The vehicle responds predictably in corners and despite some body roll, is easy to control. The nearly perfect ride balance between comfort and sport is unexpected in this class of vehicle and the steering wheel sends a surprising amount of feedback to the driver.
With 1,054 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats and a curb weight of 1,608 kg, the CR-V was one of the larger vehicles in this class. However, it still achieved the second-best observed fuel economy at 10.9 L/100 km. Impressive, considering the 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine makes the second-most power in this group, at 185 hp. Step on the gas from a dead stop and the Honda pulls away with surprising vigour, though power begins to taper off at highway speeds.
The CR-V is not perfect, though. Many found the new redesign to be a bit ungainly, garnering particular derision for the pinched rear side window. In what could be considered the most unfavourable comparison, more than one tester referred to this window as “Pontiac Aztek-like.” Our shortest reviewer also discovered that the front seats were a bit higher off the ground than the others, making entry into the CR-V a bit more of a challenge.
Still, the CR-V winning overall was a unanimous decision, as all five of us had it scored the highest. With a slight design refresh around the rear C-pillar, and maybe a bit more torque, the compact crossover CR-V would be darn near perfect.


Source;


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Honda Cars : Nissan Motor CEO says Datsun brand to return to Nissan | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Unknown | 6:32 AM
March 2012
March 2012

By Andjarsari Paramaditha

(Reuters) - Nissan Motor Co's revived Datsun brand will target increasing sales in Indonesia, India and Russia, the firm's chief executive told reporters on Tuesday.

Nissan plans to invest $400 million in Indonesia over the next two years, will double hiring by 2014 and triple its dealerships in Southeast Asia's largest economy to 90,000, CEO Carlos Ghosn said during a visit to Jakarta.

Nissan quit using the Datsun brand in 1981, but earlier this month a newspaper announced plans to revive the nameplate for cars and trucks for emerging markets. "It's a green car, affordable car, small displacement, high local content," Ghosn said of the Datsun. "It's going to be a generous car."

Nissan executives met Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono on Monday and said they would inject $400 million for plant expansions to double production by 2014.

Nissan appointed Kintaro Izumida as president director of PT Nissan Motor Indonesia (NMI) and PT Nissan Motor Distributor Indonesia, earlier this month, replacing Takayuki Kimura.

"The priority (for Nissan Motors in Indonesia) is for the Indonesian market," Ghosn said. "If there is any room for more capacity it will be located for the domestic (market) rather than for exports, although cost is competitive."

NMI had previously targeted sales of 60,000 units and sales growth of 7 percent, according to the company website, which also said it would open 70 dealerships by end of 2011.

NMI is the third best-selling brand in Indonesia and hopes to increase sales by launching a cheaper multipurpose vehicle (MPV) and city car suited specifically for its market.

The company's largest sales in Indonesia come from its popular family mini van Grand Livina, which accounts for 45 percent of sales. The city car lines, March and Juke, came second in line with 40 percent.

PT Indomobil Sukses Makmur, Nissan's authorised distributor in Indonesia, launched its crossover model, Nissan Juke in the first half of last year, and has sold 1,600 units per month since.

Nissan has been pushing rapidly into emerging markets, including a partnership with Ashok Leyland Ltd in India and a recently announced factory in Brazil, where it aims to triple its market share by 2016.

Nissan and its French partner, Renault SA, are also close to announcing a deal to increase the alliance's stake in Russia's AvtoVAZ, the maker of Lada cars, to aid growth there.

A resurrection of Datsun would follow a growing trend to bring back heritage nameplates, including Toyota's 86, or "Hachi-roku" sports car, Chrysler's Dodge Dart and partner Fiat's 500.
(Reporting by Andjarsari Paramaditha, Editing by Michael Taylor and Jacqueline Wong)

Source
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/03/20/nissan-indonesia-idUSL3E8EK1B920120320


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Honda Cars : No Accord & CR-V diesels for the Indian market says, Honda’s Jnaneswar Sen | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Unknown | 7:21 AM
March 2012
March 2012

For quite some time now, Honda has been selling diesel engined variants of the Honda Accord sedan and the CR-V crossover in the European market. The engine in question is a 2.2 liter, four cylinder turbo diesel unit, which in different states of tune, has been powering the Accord and the CR-V. In India though, Honda has been steadfastly avoiding the option of offering the Accord and the CR-V with the diesel engine stating that this engine is not suitable for the Indian market due to the quality of diesel available in India not matching European standards, to which this engine is said to be designed.

Here’s what Honda SIEL Cars India’s senior vice president for sales and marketing, Jnaneswar Sen has had to say about why Honda will not launch a diesel engined Accord or CR-V,
While it is technically possible to downgrade both these engines, the low volumes of the Accord and CR-V (in India) do not justify it. Also the engines for the European market have been developed taking into account the low sulphur content in the diesel there, unlike in India.
That said, the prescribed standard for ultra low sulphur diesel for most of the European Union confirming to Euro V emission norms is 10 ppm(parts per million), the ultra low sulphur available in India from 2010 confirms to 15 ppm, which is very close to the EU figure. All in all, this news would come as a dampener to many prospective Accord and CR-V buyers, who for long have been hoping for diesel engined variants of these cars. One factor however, could work in favor of the Accord and CR-V in the future.

Honda is said to be developing a more powerful version of the 1.6 liter i-DTEC turbo diesel engine with EarthDreams technology, that was recently showcased at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The more powerful version of this engine, pumping out 160 Bhp and 349 Nm is said to be aimed at replacing the current 2.2 Liter diesel engine. If that happens, Honda’s bad Indian diesel talk might not be a valid reason anymore in case the 1.6 Liter i-DTEC engine powers the 2012 Honda Civic in India as well.

For now though, Honda’s current focus seems to be on small capacity diesel engines that could power the likes of the Brio and the Jazz in the Indian market, and more importantly these cars would bring in the much needed volumes for the car maker. However, it remains to be seen how well Honda manages to adapt the under-development diesel engines to work with Indian diesel, for that would make or break the brand, highly renowned for its engine technology globally, in the Indian car market.

Source;
http://www.indiancarsbikes.in/cars/honda-accord-cr-v-2012-diesel-india-57299/


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Honda Cars : Don't call it a Comeback.... | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Unknown | 7:19 AM
March 2012
March 2012


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Honda Cars : Soichiro Honda - Short Film | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Unknown | 7:04 AM
March 2012
March 2012

Wow, is this ever well done.... check it out!


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Honda Cars : Honda Says Civic Has ‘Ammunition’ to Hang On as Top Compact Car | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Unknown | 6:17 AM
March 2012
March 2012

By Alan Ohnsman - Mar 13, 2012

Honda Motor Co.’s Civic, stung by critical reviews and tight U.S. supply in 2011, has outsold rival small cars and the company has enough “ammunition” to hold the spot, an executive said.

U.S. sales of Civic sedans and coupes rose 45 percent to 48,970 in the year’s first two months, ahead of Toyota Motor Corp.’s Corolla, a perennial challenger, and General Motors Co.’s Cruze. After supply disruptions last year, Honda now has enough North American capacity to make Civic the top-selling compact, even if that isn’t a target, said Tetsuo Iwamura, chief operating officer for North America.

“When competitors shoot at the Civic, we’ll have enough ammunition to shoot back,” Iwamura said in an interview this week at Honda’s U.S. headquarters in Torrance, California. “We don’t talk about No. 1 as a goal. Always we think about having very good acceptance and high customer satisfaction.”

The car that’s been the core of Honda’s U.S. business since 1973 hasn’t led compact sales since 2002. Civic trailed both Corolla and Cruze last year, according to Autodata Corp., a Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey researcher. A year after an earthquake and tsunami damaged Tokyo-based Honda’s parts supply base and engineering center in Japan, the carmaker has ratcheted up North American output of the model 69 percent to regain sales in the U.S., its biggest source of revenue.

Honda has gained 32 percent in Tokyo trading this year, recovering most of the drop last year, when the stock fell 27 percent. It last closed at 3,100 yen.

Output Increased
Honda made 84,678 Civics at plants in Canada and Indiana in the first months of the year, up from 50,056 in the same period a year ago. Production of all Honda and Acura cars and light trucks in North America jumped 36 percent to a record 301,564, according to the company.
Civic sales fell 15 percent last year to 221,235, the lowest since 1992. Along with parts-related production delays, the 2012 Civic LX sedan failed to receive the “recommended” status its predecessors had from Consumer Reports last August. The magazine faulted the car for a decline in interior quality, choppier ride and road noise.

Higher U.S. gasoline prices are benefiting Civic, and should buoy demand for at least another four months, said Jesse Toprak, industry analyst for TrueCar.com.

“It’s got a pretty good chance of being No. 1 this year, owing to the availability and the price point,” said Toprak, who is based in Santa Monica, California. “They are a bit lucky that the fuel prices are rising now as Civic continues to be viewed generally as more gas-efficient, and a safe choice.”

Fuel Price
The average price for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline has increased 16 percent this year to $3.81 as of March 12, according to AAA, the largest U.S. motorist group. The Civic coupe has a starting price of $15,605 while the sedan’s price starts at $15,805, according to researcher Edmunds.com.

The outlook for Civic beyond July, when fuel prices may ease, will depend on updates of the car Honda plans to make to address some criticisms and competing models including Hyundai Motor Co.’s Elantra, Toprak said.

“Hyundai, in particular, has shown that it has the ability to replicate the kind of success seen with Honda and Toyota a generation ago,” he said.

Even with some unfavorable reviews for the current Civic, the car continues to attract the buyers competitors seek, said Alexander Edwards, president of the automotive division of Strategic Vision Inc., a San Diego-based consumer-research firm.

How Competitors Fare
Within the small-car segment, Civic is “still grabbing a younger, somewhat wealthier crowd,” Edwards said. The median age of its buyers is 45, compared with a segment average of between 49 and 50 years old, he said.

Volkswagen AG (VOW)’s Jetta draws a younger customer, with a median age of 41, because of its cheaper base price and Hyundai’s Elantra matches Civic with a median buyer age of 45, said Edwards, whose firm surveys 300,000 people a year for its automotive studies. Jetta’s starting price is $15,515, according to Edmunds.

The average Corolla buyer is 49, while the median age for customers of Ford Motor Co. (F)’s Focus is 53 and Chevrolet’s Cruze is 58, Edwards said.

GM’s data indicate that the average Cruze buyer is about 53, Jim Cain, a company spokesman, said in an interview.

Honda’s problems last year didn’t keep it from a top- ranking spot in terms of brand consideration, with 50 percent of people in the market for a new car saying they’d consider it, Edwards said, citing Strategic Vision data.

Inventory had a bigger impact on Civic sales last year than Consumer Reports’ review, said Iwamura, 60, who becomes Honda’s executive vice president on April 1 and will continue to lead North American operations.

“I accept their criticism very sincerely, but yet believe we’ll be able to make them once again a strong fan of the Civic,” he said.

Source;
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/print/2012-03-13/honda-plots-u-s-civic-rebound-buoyed-by-supply-abundance-gasoline-prices.html


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Honda Cars : Autoblog UK: First drive: Honda CR-Z MUGEN | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Unknown | 8:06 AM
March 2012
March 2012

Not the most flattering write up but they do it with flare.....

by Mark Nichol
Anyone that's ever played Gran Turismo will be well aware of MUGEN; the PlayStation racing game's bias towards all things Japanese is well known, and what with MUGEN being to Honda in Japan what AMG is to Mercedes, it has a special place in the game.

In the virtual world, MUGEN's in-game tuning upgrades could transform the most innocuous Japanese turdbox into a Ferrari-chasing hypercar. The natural assumption to a British gamer was that it was doing the same thing in real life, too.

When MUGEN Euro set up in Northampton in 2007, therefore, it did so with a level of credibility and mystique that extended beyond a handful of Japanese modding scene enthusiasts.

Its first fully-fledged model, 2010's £40,000 Civic Type-R MUGEN, furthered its cause. We loved it. It was (and is) the ultimate iteration of the car on which it's based, improving it in every way to create a Honda that's part family hatchback, part road-legal touring car.

This, the CR-Z MUGEN, is the difficult follow up.

The regular CR-Z is a fine car. The hybrid coupé isn't very quick, but it houses an economical petrol-electric hybrid system in an accomplished chassis, so it's fun to drive and returns 56.5mpg and 117g/km.

The CR-Z is all about balance. It's front-wheel drive, so it falls at the first hurdle in terms of being a 'pure' (rear-wheel drive) sports car, but it has lovely steering and pedal feel, enough low down punch from the electric motor to be lively, yet nowhere near enough to mess up the driven wheels in a haze of torque steer. In short, anyone can enjoy the CR-Z, and feel like a better driver for it.

Unfortunately, MUGEN - in stark contrast to its efforts with the Civic Type-R - has come along and spoiled it.

It's not a car entirely without merit - in fact, parts of it are awesome - but at times it feels like an unfinished low-budget DIY modding project. The carbon fibre lined doors of our test car, for example, had to be virtually kicked to close properly. That wouldn't happen in an AMG.

To turn the 122bhp CR-Z into the manic machine you see above, MUGEN has stripped the 1.5-litre petrol engine and rebuilt it using better parts. The torque-enhancing 14bhp electric motor stays strapped on - but a supercharger is added to the mix, endowing the car with a hot hatch-matching 197bhp.

In addition, the chassis and bodywork are lightened, partly by using carbon fibre; the dampers are replaced with five-way adjustable items; the wheels are exchanged for forged lightweight ones with sticky tyres; the brakes are upgraded; and the track is widened.

And as you can see, it also has a body kit looks like it's been designed by someone with an extensive collection of tracksuit bottoms.

The result is an altogether more serious CR-Z with a 0-62mph sprint time down from ten seconds to around six and a half.

On the road it all starts off in exciting fashion. The Recaro bucket seats strap you in tightly, and the trio of bolt-on dashboard gauges suggest this is one mean machine.

Put your foot down and the supercharger inhales audibly, which is good. Problem is, there's very little associated acceleration; the MUGEN just doesn't feel that quick.

It becomes quickly apparent that there's been an epic and over-complicated technological struggle in order to eke out too much power from an ordinarily modest petrol engine. It's sort of like entering the Grand National with a donkey wearing a small jet pack.

Driving the MUGEN slowly isn't that much fun either - it's positively uncomfortable, in fact. A stiff clutch and over-sensitive throttle combination that makes smooth take-offs difficult, and after a while the combination of a small, noisy cabin and very tight seats make the whole thing feel fairly claustrophobic.

But there is credibility in MUGEN's work. It's capable of astonishing cornering speed, especially for a front-wheel drive car, and its steering rack is sublime, with more than a hint of Porsche in terms of its directness and unencumbered feedback. And the short shift gear lever is, as usual for a Honda-derived 'box, a delight to move through the gate.

But ultimately, laying down the £23,000 or so it will take to put one of these on your drive is like paying a dentist to make your teeth more yellow. It costs £19,000 for a CR-Z Sport, and £25,000 for a Toyota GT 86. Case closed.

If only MUGEN had been given carte blanche to rip out the CR-Z's hybrid drivetrain and put in a nice, simple, high-revving petrol engine...

Source;
http://uk.autoblog.com/2012/03/15/first-drive-honda-cr-z-mugen/


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