Honda Cars : Acura's new CVT Transmission Explained | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION
The ILX Hybrid features as standard a Continually Variable Transmission (CVT) – a first for
Acura. The CVT delivers excellent low-end acceleration matched with relaxed low-rpm cruising
along with offers smooth and predictable gear ratio transitions. By helping the engine and
electric motor operate in the most efficient range, the CVT provides a fuel efficiency benefit
superior to that of a conventional automatic transmission with fixed ratio gears. It also allows
for greater efficiency during regenerative braking by smoothing deceleration.

The transmission can be controlled by a straight-gate console-mounted shifter or via a steering
wheel paddle shifter system that works whenever the transmission is in either of its two
automatic modes. When the paddle shifters are used, the transmission offers a choice of
seven fixed ratios.

Automatic Modes
The transmission can be operated in two different fully automatic modes with the console mounted
straight-gate shifter. The D mode is ideal for most driving situations, and combines
fuel efficiency with smooth operation and responsive power when needed. The S mode is for
more performance-oriented driving, and features more aggressive transmission mapping to
keep engine rpm higher for greater acceleration and response.

Whether in D or S mode, special transmission logic programming allows the use of the steering-
wheel-mounted paddle shifters. When the driver operates the steering wheel-mounted
paddle shifters while in Drive, the transmission responds to the driver’s shift command by selecting
one of the available seven fixed ratios, and then returns to its normal fully automatic
Drive mode if further paddle shift inputs are not made within a short time. This special logic
makes it easy for the driver to command a quick downshift without leaving the convenience of
Drive mode.

S Mode
When in S mode, use of the paddle shifters puts the transmission into full manual mode that
remains until another mode of operation is selected with the console-mounted shifter. The
paddle shifters allow the driver to select among seven fixed gear ratios. When in manual
mode, if the engine redline is reached the ILX will automatically shift to the next gear ratio to
avoid engine damage. It will also shift down to an appropriate lower gear ratio if necessary.

L Mode
When the transmission is in S mode, simultaneously pressing and holding the upshift and
downshift paddles on the steering wheel places the transmission in L mode. In this mode, the
operation of the integrated electric motor is altered to increase the charge rate of the lithiumion
battery.

Honda Cars : Autoguide.com 2013 Acura ILX Sedan Review | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

2013 Acura ILX Review
ILX delivers style, luxury and choice
By Colum Wood, Apr. 19, 2012
Acura has long been a pioneer in the compact premium category. There was the Integra and RSX, seemingly axed just before the segment started to go mainstream. Meanwhile, for the more European-minded Canadians, the Honda luxury division continued to sell the Civic-based EL and then CSX a vehicle that has helped inform just what a successful and modern small luxury car needs, and what it needs to avoid.

For starters, Acura promised the ILX would not just be a rebaged Civic and by all accounts the ILX is entirely unique. It does share the same platform, though it's roughly two inches wider and has a lower overall roof height by about two inches as well. Giving the car a more stylish shape, the down side is reduced interior headroom a problem exacerbated by the standard sunroof.
Style-wise the ILX fits the bill for the segment. Acuras toned-down front beak blends in with the angled headlights and there are just enough additional sharp edges to give this maturely styled sedan some personality. The aluminum trim around the windows also says it's a premium model in a way that's stylish, but not flashy.

There's a noticeable line that runs across the car and bulges at the back to give this front-driver a rear-drive look. Out back, a strong similarity to the Lexus IS is undeniable, although for a car that's targeted at the Gen Y youth crowd, the lack of any visible exhaust pipes is a letdown.

It's Definately NO Civic on the Inside

Inside the ILX is just as unique, if not more so. In fact, if you hadn't been told, it would be hard to detect the Civic underneath.

Monotone cabins (black leather is standard on the 2.4) look a bit simple, though in true Acura fashion there's no shortage of buttons. One button that can't be missed is the shiny red ignition, which comes standard on all models, as does keyless access.

Opt for tan leather on the 2.0-liter model and the lower dash section matches the seats, with sweeping faux-aluminum dividing the lighter section below from the black top. The combo makes for a cabin that feels equal with European models priced well-above the ILX and there's no cheesy faux-wood to be found.

Despite being an entry-level model, craftsmanship is top notch, although, understandably, all the materials aren't what you'll get in a $50,000 sedan.

Starting at $25,900, when compared to the more affordable Buick Verano (at $22,585), the interior of the ILX makes a strong case for the extra expense.

Standard goodies inside the cabin include dual-zone climate control, Bluetooth and illuminated controls on the leather tilt and telescopic steering wheel. Between the two gauges there's a small multi information display, which does look a tad dated. There's also a sizable 5-inch full color display that sits atop the center of the dash.

Opting for the Premium Package ($3,300) brings a multi-view back-up camera, full leather, an 8-way power adjustable driver's seat with two-mode heated front seats, an upgraded 360 watt 7-speaker audio system and an Active Sound Cancellation System to keep your ride sounding smooth. An optional Technology Package ($2,200 more), which oddly isn't available on the 2.4-liter, adds an 8-inch display with excellent graphics (unlike many past Acura units).

There is but one issue with the interior, and it continues to be the lack of headroom, with the section where the A-pillar meets the roof blocking a good chunk of the view out the front.

THREE ENGINE OPTIONS
Behind the wheel the ILX can be a rather different machine depending on the engine choice. Base models get a low-tech single overhead cam 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine based off the 1.8-liter in the Civic. Power is up slightly with 150 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque, an increase of 10 hp and 20 lb-ft from the Honda. Of note, Acura Senior product planner Lee DaSilva says the power rating isn't that important anyway as the car is targeted at Generation Y consumers that put more priority on looking good over going fast.


Direct-injection is notably absent, something promised as a part of the brand's new Earth Dreams Technology initiative – though the ILX does require premium fuel. Offered with a 5-speed manual as standard, a 5-speed automatic is optional. Again, we're surprised that Honda hasn't moved on to 6-speeds, especially for Acura branded products, although it's hard to fault the unit's smoothness. To help get the most out of the small powerplant Honda has made the transmission sensitive to throttle inputs, meaning it will drop gears quickly rather than hold on to lower gears as a way to achieve better fuel economy numbers.

As for those numbers, Acura quotes 24 mpg city and 35 highway, besting the 21/32 rating of the Verano by a significant margin. On paper, the Verano's 180 hp rating might seem much more impressive, however, it's important to remember that with a curb weight that's between 300 and 400 lbs more than a base ILX, any performance gain is erased.

Unfortunately Honda's new 2.0-liter is a buzzy powerplant and while that can be seen as slightly more engaging, it's also rather crude.

PERFORMANCE MODEL SHOULD BE PASSED-BY
Those looking for more power can opt for the 2.4-liter borrowed from the Civic Si, but shouldn't. It makes 201 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque and gets 17-inch wheels with low profile tires plus a defeatable traction control system. Like the Civic, it leans too much in the corners though it will hold on and tracks true.

It is significantly more luxurious and stylish than the Honda, though slightly less of a raw performance machine. At $29,200 it'll also cost you roughly $7,000 more and for that price the TSX is a better all-round option.

HYBRID OPTION
For those who favor fuel economy over performance, Acura is also offering an ILX Hybrid starting from $28,900. Again, using a powertrain borrowed from the 2012 Civic, under the hood is an electric motor mated to Honda's 1.5-liter gasoline engine. Total system output is rated at 111 hp and 127 lb-ft of torque with a 39-mpg city rating and a 38-mpg highway rating and a combined 38 mpg. That's well off the Civic Hybrid's 44-mpg average, and falls short of the Lexus CT200h as well, with its 40/43/42 mpg rating.

We were impressed to get 40 mpg during out test drive, however, Honda's rather rudimentary Integrated Motor Assist hybrid system is unbecoming of a premium car with a start-stop system that's abrupt and sometimes stutters off a start. Honda also didn't do much to hype the hybrid aspect with few dedicated info screens in the car. It does, however, come with an ECON button that dulls throttle input to ensure high mpg numbers.

On the highway it's quiet and smooth with a soft ride thanks to new two-stage reactive dampers found in all models. All ILX models also get an Active Noise Control system that uses the car's audio system to block you from hearing noises outside the car. Acura claims it's capable of reducing up to 10 decibels of sound.

THE VERDICT
While many have left the compact premium segment in recent years, with the demise of cars like the Volvo S40, much of what is left or has been introduced is limited to niche segments; being hatchbacks, hybrids or rear-drive coupes. That said, Acura has a huge opportunity to make premium compacts a mainstream category.

The Buick Verano is now competing in the same space, but Acura has an advantage thanks to its history in the segment and a brand image that doesn't scare younger buyers. Notably more expensive than the Verano, sitting in the ILX will convince you it's worth it.

A well-rounded car, the ILX offers luxury for less and is certain to also deliver brand qualities like reliability and durability. What is lacking, however, is a more engaging driving experience, once a hallmark of Acura vehicles.

The car's strongest feature, and the one that will get consumers into Acura dealerships is something luxury buyers crave choice. Along with the attraction of driving luxury for under $30K, unlike any of its rivals the ILX offers the ability to pick a conventional gasoline option, a performance version and a hybrid all in a sensible and stylish 4-door package.

LOVE IT
+Good looks
+Interior worthy of premium badge
+Solid standard features
+Conventional packaging with lots of model choice

LEAVE IT
-Pricing could be more attractive
-Compromised headroom
-2.4L version Irrelevant
-Hybrid system could be more refined

Source;

http://www.autoguide.com/manufacturer/acura/2013-acura-ilx-review-1971.html

Honda Cars : Honda Goes Hybrid With the Acura RLX | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

By David Dandy
Tokyo based automakers, Honda Motors, want to increase sales for their new Acura, and they are taking the green road to reach their goals. The Acura is Honda’s premium brand, and their new sedan will make use of two electric motors and a V-6 gasoline engine.

The RLX, as its being called, will be the replacement of their RL sedan. The new model will go on sale early 2013, according to company representatives at the New York International Auto Show. The RLX employs a n3.5-liter gasoline engine which, in combination with the electric motors and lithium-ion battery pack, packs a 370 horsepower punch and gets about 48 kilometers to the gallon in combined city and highway driving, Honda said.

How does it stack up against the current RL model? The RLX’s fuel economy is 50% better than the current RL, which averages 20 mpg.

Sales of Acura cars in America peaked at 209,610 vehicles in 2005 but had dropped down to 123,299 last year. Honda wants the brand to sell 180,000 cars and trucks in 2012, a 46% increase in sales.

Source;
http://www.ecoautoninja.com/eco-hybrid-vehicles/honda-goes-hybrid-with-the-acura-rlx-56768/

Honda Cars : 2013 Acura ILX - 2012 Chicago Auto Show Video | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Honda Cars : Acura Debuts 2013 RDX and All-New ILX Sedan at Chicago Auto Show | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Sporty styling, new technology and efficient powertrains are highlights
02/08/2012 - CHICAGO
Following up on its blockbuster appearance at this year's Detroit auto show, Acura today unveiled production versions of two new vehicles at the Chicago Auto Show. A completely redesigned 2013 Acura RDX crossover sport utility vehicle and the all-new 2013 Acura ILX luxury compact sedan were shown. Both new Acura models are scheduled for launch in the Spring.

"We are excited to be launching these two new luxury models as the gateway of Acura's revitalized product lineup," said Jeff Conrad, vice president and general manager of Acura. "As we embark on our second 25 years as a premium luxury-performance automobile brand, we are excited about the role these two vehicles will play in welcoming a new generation of luxury car buyers to the Acura brand."

2013 Acura ILX
The 2013 Acura ILX compact sedan is an all-new model that is positioned as the gateway into the Acura brand. The primary target customers for the new ILX are Generation Y-- successful 20 and 30-somethings moving into the luxury car ranks but looking for high-value propositions in their purchases.

"First-time luxury buyers tend to place a high value on exterior styling, affordability and environmental issues, and that's what we have created with the new Acura ILX," said Jon Ikeda, head of the Acura Design Studio. "The strategy behind this new model is to position ILX as the first opportunity for many young buyers to enter the luxury market."

Sleek and sporty, the ILX combines luxury, performance and efficiency. While maintaining a strong emphasis on stylish and aerodynamically efficient exterior design, the ILX features a large and airy greenhouse that provides excellent outward visibility. As a five-passenger luxury sedan, the ILX combines compact proportions with a spacious passenger interior and ample cargo space-- perfect attributes for young professionals on the go.

The ILX will feature three advanced, sporty and efficient powertrain choices, including Acura's first-ever gas-electric hybrid. The entry-level ILX will be powered by a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine producing 150 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 140 lb-ft of torque at 4,300 rpm. Paired with a Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission, the ILX 2.0L has an EPA estimated* city/highway fuel economy of 24/32 mpg.

For those who seek a more dynamic driving experience, the ILX can be equipped with a 2.4-liter engine with an output of 201 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 170 lb-ft torque at 4,300 rpm. Mated to a close-ratio, six-speed manual transmission, the ILX 2.4L has an EPA estimated* city/highway fuel economy of 20/29 mpg.

Marking the debut of Acura's first ever hybrid model, the ILX Hybrid makes use of a 1.5-liter inline engine and an Integrated Motor Assist® electric motor. Paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), the ILX 1.5L Hybrid has an EPA estimated* city/highway fuel economy rating of 35/38 mpg.

The hybrid drivetrain uses the gasoline engine as the primary power source, while an electric motor provides additional power when needed. A lithium-ion battery pack is used to capture and store electricity for the 20 horsepower electric motor. Together, the gasoline engine and electric motor produce 111 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 127 lb-ft of torque between 1,000-3,000 rpm. During braking, the gasoline engine deactivates and the electric motor acts as a generator to recharge the battery pack. At a stop, the 1.5-liter engine can enter idle-stop mode to save fuel and reduce emissions. The engine remains off until the brake pedal is released.

The ILX chassis utilizes advanced MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension systems, along with new Amplitude Reactive Dampers. The dampers operate in two distinct performance parameters to simultaneously provide superior ride comfort and precision handling. In addition, Motion Adaptive Electric Power Steering is used for excellent steering feel and improved fuel efficiency. The result is a chassis with a high level of refinement, confident handling and a nimble and sporty driving experience.

The ILX will feature a high-quality, well-appointed interior that is smart, spacious and sporty. It will offer a number of new, high-value features including a standard Keyless Access System with smart entry and pushbutton start, along with Pandora® internet radio interface and SMS text message function for smart connectivity with the world.

As with all Acura models, the ILX will have a long list of standard features, multiple trim levels (a Premium Package and Technology Package), and excellent standard safety features-- including Acura's acclaimed Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, front, side and side-curtain airbags, 4-channel anti-lock brakes and Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®). Although yet to be tested, Acura anticipates that the ILX will achieve top crash safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS.

The available Premium Package features leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, an upgraded 360 watt stereo system, a rear view camera and an Active Sound Cancellation system to make for a quieter cabin.

Building on the Premium Package, the available Technology Package adds Acura's award winning ELS Surround® audio system and a full complement of relevant technologies, including AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System, Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting™, and AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ with radar image maps. The navigation system makes use of a hard disk drive (HDD) with 60 gigabytes of storage capacity-- including 15 gigabytes that can be specifically allocated for music storage. With the available Premium or Technology Package, a new multi-view rear camera is used.

The Acura ILX will be manufactured (using U.S. and globally sourced parts), exclusively at the company's state-of-the-art Greensburg, Indiana plant, one of only three plants worldwide to receive J.D. Power and Associates' 2011 Platinum Award for outstanding product quality, and the top award for any factory in North America.

2013 Acura RDX
The 2013 Acura RDX, the second generation of Acura's five-passenger crossover SUV, will up the ante with a new approach to achieving both advanced performance and fuel efficiency via a new engine, transmission and all-wheel-drive system.

The 2013 RDX rides on a 4-wheel independent suspension with a MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension design. A longer wheelbase, wider track and lower center of gravity provide the foundation for the new RDX's improved handling and ride quality. New chassis technology for 2013 includes Acura-exclusive Amplitude Reactive Dampers and a new Motion Adaptive Electric Power Steering system that replaces the previous hydraulic steering. The 2013 RDX will be available in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive variants.

Standard features for 2013 RDX include bold new 5-spoke 18-inch wheels and improved 4-wheel disc brakes that include an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. Not only do the brakes provide better performance, but they also incorporate improvements to lessen brake drag for reduced rolling resistance and improved fuel economy.

Replacing the turbocharged 2.3-liter inline 4-cylinder used with the previous RDX, the 2013 RDX will now have as standard equipment a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that produces 273 horsepower-- 33 more than the outgoing model. For even higher performance and improved fuel economy, the RDX makes use of an all-new 6-speed automatic transmission with a new lock-up torque converter. The RDX also gets a new, lighter weight all-wheel-drive system that provides outstanding performance and safety with increased efficiency to achieve higher fuel economy.

With an EPA estimated* city/highway fuel economy rating of 20/28 mpg, front-wheel-drive versions of the 2013 RDX are expected to offer the best fuel economy of any gasoline-powered V-6 luxury SUV in the class. All-wheel-drive models have an EPA estimated* city/highway fuel economy of 19/27 mpg.

The RDX boasts a sleek and more aerodynamic body, evolving RDX from a sporty, compact SUV to a more formal SUV appearance with a longer, sculpted hood and styling that is more elegant and sophisticated to match the Acura philosophy of timeless, beautiful design.

Inside the 2013 RDX, new sweeping shapes, matte surface trim, and generous use of leather combine to give the RDX interior an upscale look and luxury feel that Acura customers have come to expect. Abundant use of sound deadening materials and Active Sound Control team to provide an exceptionally quiet cabin. Additional interior features, such as larger door openings, more passenger room, increased cargo volume and an available power rear tailgate make the RDX interior even more accommodating and flexible.

The 2013 RDX will receive a host of new technologies including Pandora® internet radio interface, SMS text message feature, a Keyless Access System with smart entry and pushbutton start, and a three view rear camera. An available Technology Package will provide a full complement of relevant technologies, including an Acura ELS Surround® audio system, AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System, Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting™, and AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ with radar image maps. New for 2013, an even more advanced navigation system utilizes a hard disk drive (HDD) with 60 gigabytes of storage capacity-- including 15 gigabytes that can be allocated for music storage.

Passenger safety has always been a cornerstone of every Acura model. In addition to using Acura's acclaimed Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, the 2013 RDX employs new design features and myriad high strength materials aimed specifically at occupant protection. Although yet to be tested, Acura anticipates that the RDX will achieve top crash safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2013 RDX will be produced (using U.S. and globally sourced parts) exclusively by the company's East Liberty, Ohio plant-- home to one of four of Honda plants ranked among the top five-rated assembly lines in North America in the J.D. Power and Associates' 2011 Initial Quality Study (IQS). The first generation RDX is produced at the Marysville, Ohio auto plant.

About Acura Acura offers a full line of technologically advanced performance luxury vehicles through a network of 272 dealers within the United States. The 2012 Acura lineup features six distinctive models including the RL luxury performance sedan, the TL performance luxury sedan, the TSX sports sedan and Sport Wagon, the turbocharged RDX crossover SUV, the MDX luxury SUV and the ZDX four-door sports coupe.

For media information and high-resolution photos of Acura vehicles, please visit www.acuranews.com. For consumer information, please visit www.acura.com.
*Preliminary EPA mileage estimate determined by Honda. Final EPA mileage estimates not available at the time of printing. Use for comparison purposes only.

Source;
http://www.hondanews.com/channels/corporate-headlines/releases/acura-debuts-2013-rdx-and-all-new-ilx-sedan-at-chicago-auto-show

Honda Cars : Acura confirms sub-TSX model under consideration | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Just adding to the previous post....
Honda President and CEO Takanobu Ito has already confirmed that the automaker’s luxury division is in line for a number of new hybrid offerings, but the automaker’s fuel efficient offerings could expand beyond the realm of gas-electric drivetrains.Acura already offers the 30mpg TSX, but Japanese automaker is considering another high-mileage offering. Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura division, confirmed Acura is currently considering a smaller model to slot beneath the TSX.

Conrad failed to elaborate on the smaller offering, but said the new vehicle would compete with the likes of the BMW 1-Series, Audi A3 and Volvo C30. The smaller vehicle would also help Acura comply with upcoming CAFE regulations set to take effect in 2016.

Acura’s last compact offering – the RSX coupe – ended production in 2006. Acura’s Canada division continues to sell a luxury version of the Honda Civic called the CSX, but it remains to be seen if Acura would be bold enough to sell a re-badged version of the Civic in the States.

Source;
http://www.leftlanenews.com/acura-confirms-sub-tsx-model-under-consideration.html

Honda Cars : Acura Considering Small Car, New Hybrids | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

Apart from Lexus, Japanese luxury brands still pale in comparison to their German rivals in terms of the number of models they produce and the prices they can command. Overall image in the marketplace and status on the street have likewise proven difficult to develop. That's why Acura is making a hard push specifically to boost its image and achieve 'tier 1' luxury automaker status, but in its own unique way.

While many automakers use big powerful models as attention grabbers, Acura sees fuel economy as a way to differentiate itself in what is becoming a very competitive market. Though this may come as just more frustration for dealers, who have to deal with a limited, lackluster and aging lineup, Acura is adamant that it won’t offer big rear-drive V-8 vehicles and will instead start selling more hybrid models.

Speaking with Automotive News, Acura vice president Jeff Conrad said the brand was considering adding a smaller car positioned below the TSX to take on the likes of the BMW 1-Series and Audi A3. This is a direction Lexus and Infiniti are also taking, with Lexus revealing its new model, the CT 200h, next week at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show and Infiniti confirming its compact model earlier this week. Note that neither Lexus nor Infiniti have announced plans to bring their new compact models to the U.S. market.

Conrad also revealed that there would new hybrid models though their launch could take a year or more. Acura’s first hybrid model is expected to be a gasoline-electric version of the TSX and arrive in 2011.

Source;
http://www.motorauthority.com/blog/1042879_acura-considering-small-car-new-hybrids

Honda Cars : 2011 TSX will be the first hybrid Acura | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

With the addition of hybrids to the lineup, Acura dealers are expected to cheer up after having been disheartened over the cancellation of plans for V-8s and rear-wheel-drive vehicles. Honda Motor Co. CEO Takanobu Ito confirmed that the luxury brand will get hybrid variants.

No time frame was given. It also wasn’t disclosed which models will get the technology. An Acura dealer said that a hybrid version of the TSX sedan is planned for the 2011 model year and two other hybrid models will follow soon after.

In an interview conducted at the Detroit Auto Show, Ito said that Honda still has to complete development of a hybrid system for large vehicles.

John Mendel, American Honda Motor Co. executive vice president for auto sales, explained that the plan for Acura hybrids isn’t a new one and that it isn’t a result of losing the V-8 and rear-drive vehicles that had been promised to dealers at a national meeting two years ago.

Honda executives in Japan had an agreement to challenge top-tier luxury brands with V-8 and rear-drive models however; these plans were dropped due to the economic downturn that started in the fall of 2008.

Mendel did not provide further details but he did confirm that there will be more than one model getting a hybrid variant.

Source;
http://www.4wheelsnews.com/2011-tsx-will-be-the-first-hybrid-acura/

Honda Cars : Honda CEO Takanobu Ito announces that Acura will add a hybrid | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

During the unveiling of the CR-Z at the Detroit Auto Show, Honda CEO Takanobu Ito announced that Acura will be adding a hybrid drivetrain to its models. Ito gave no further insights as to timing or which vehicles would get the systems, but it's safe to speculate that the TSX and TL sedans would be the first recipients of the new system. However, when we spoke to Ito last fall in Japan, he did say that Honda was developing a hybrid system suitable for larger vehicles. It's not clear how much it will differ from the architecture of the current IMA mild hybrid system used in the Civic, Insight and CR-Z, but we do expect the system to come equipped with lithium ion batteries from Honda's new partners at GS Yuasa. Make the jump for a copy of Ito's comments.

PRESS RELEASE

2010 North American International Auto Show Remarks by Honda Motor Co., Ltd. President & CEO, Takanobu Ito; and American Honda Motor Co., Inc., Executive Vice President, John Mendel

Takanobu Ito

It's nice to be back in Detroit. I'm excited to be at the show this year as the entire industry continues to fight back against the difficult business conditions. Last year was the 50th anniversary of our business in America. And I want to begin by thanking our customers and the communities where we develop and build our products. This milestone would not have been possible without their support.

Ten years ago, I was working in Ohio at Honda R&D Americas on development of the first generation Acura MDX. This project led us to this Detroit show, because in 2001, our team was honored with the North American Truck of the Year award here at this show. I was also a member of the team that created the aluminum body of the original Acura NSX.

Last year, due to the business conditions and to focus on reducing CO2 emissions, we re-focused some of our product development resources. Now, I'm pleased to say that we will be adding hybrids to the Acura brand. And based on my history in developing several Acura products, I have strong confidence in our ability to advance the Acura brand.

As I look at the market today, at Honda, we have the advantage of being a very global company with strong operations worldwide, including the growing markets of China and Asia. Further, Honda has the advantage of three major business areas – including automobiles, motorcycles and power equipment products. Together, our global makeup and great product diversity provide us strength and flexibility in difficult times, helping us manage the ups and downs of any one market or product segment, while keeping Honda in the black financially.

Our three business lines also make us the leading engine producer in the world. This has provided Honda with tremendous expertise in the area of power plant technology but also a deep sense of responsibility to advance technology in order to reduce CO2 emissions that contribute to global warming.

For engineers, this is perhaps the most challenging time in the history of the auto industry. At Honda, our focus is on being at the very forefront in the area of environment and energy technologies. And we have taken up the challenge to reduce CO2 emissions through the advancement of various electromotive technologies.

We understand electric vehicle technology as well as anyone. Honda developed the EV Plus electric vehicle in the 1990s and leased it to individual customers in California. Now, we are conducting research on a short-distance battery electric vehicle as a "city commuter car." Battery technology continues to be a barrier to mass market use. But we're studying the U.S. market with a view to introducing this commuter car in the future.

We continue to believe that a fuel cell electric vehicle is the ultimate solution to reduce CO2 emissions. A fuel cell car IS a full electric vehicle. But rather than use electricity from the grid, a fuel cell vehicle generates electricity on board and refills more quickly. The development cost must come down and there must be a major expansion of the hydrogen fueling infrastructure. But make no mistake. As a vehicle, the Honda FCX Clarity is ready now. Further, Honda is unique in making long-term investments to develop the refueling infrastructure for alternative fuel vehicles.

This month, we will begin operation of a next-generation solar hydrogen station at our Los Angeles R&D center. This compact system was designed for daily home refueling of a fuel cell electric vehicle. Honda engineers were able to eliminate the compressor entirely to greatly reduce the size of the system to fit in the user's garage. The potential of a solar hydrogen station is one reason a fuel cell electric vehicle is the ultimate eco-car – the best path to reduce CO2.

But in the near term, the most important approach to cut CO2 emissions is expanding the use of hybrid electric vehicles. To increase the opportunity for more customers to choose a hybrid we must be able to meet different needs with family, luxury and sporty hybrid vehicles. We will apply hybrid systems which are compact, lightweight and affordable to a wider range of products in the near future.

It won't be easy to create fun and affordable products that achieve a dramatic reduction in CO2. But we embrace this challenge. Honda is a company that loves creating new things for people. We are working in a comprehensive way dedicated to research and development of next-generation technologies in every field, to create products that bring joy to our customers and lead the way in reducing CO2 emissions.

My first assignment in the U.S. came in the early 1980s. I was a young engineer, developing the chassis for the first generation Honda CRX. You might remember it as the "pocket rocket". I remember CRX as a vehicle that demonstrated that a car can be both sporty and fuel efficient.

Times have changed, but the idea of developing vehicles that are both fun to drive and fuel efficient is alive and well.

Today, it is my pleasure to introduce, for the first time, the production version of a new sport hybrid car that further demonstrates the potential of the Honda hybrid system and our commitment to offer both fun and fuel efficiency in one dynamic package. Thank you.

Source;
http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/13/honda-ceo-takanobu-ito-announces-that-acura-will-add-a-hybrid/

Honda Cars : Temple of Vtec: Acura's "Smart Luxury" future is confirmed, and so is a sub-TSX model | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

As a followup to last week's news item about Acura's rumored adoption of the "Smart Luxury" tagline (and migration away from the previous "Tier 1" target), we have been able to confirm that this course deflection has in fact been communicated to the dealer body.

We can also confirm that Acura has told their dealer body to expect:
-a new entry-luxury model
-an "amazing flagship" model
-a line of hybrid vehicles done "the Acura way".
-NO rear-wheel-drive or V8-powered vehicles

The key drivers for this change in course are said to include the global economic crisis and upcoming 2016 federal mandates which dictate a fleet average of more than 37mpg for Honda and Acura combined. This figure represents an increase of more than 10mpg over where they currently stand.

We are told that Acura has also promised that the future model lineup will feature more differentiation (in terms of size) between models, though the pipeline's rate of introductions may slow down a bit. Acura has previously stated that the lineup would offer an MMC or FMC every 6 months for the next several years, but now they are saying an MMC or FMC "every year".

Source;
http://www.vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=868825

Honda Cars : Acura ZDX Caught in Full View | 2013 New Honda Car Reviews 0

The espionage "artists" at AutoSpies weaseled their way onto the New York Auto Show floor before the official press days kick off and snapped a singular shot of the Acura ZDX crossover ahead of its official unveiling tomorrow morning. Acura's X6-fighter looks slightly less menacing than the teasers suggested, and the silver hue does an admirable job of integrating Acura's new corporate grille into the jacked-up hatch's shape. All the official details – including production dates and drivetrains – will be revealed tomorrow at 11 AM EST, but expect the basic shape to carry over when the ZDX goes on sale this fall.

Source;
http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/07/acura-zdx-concept-caught-uncloaked-ahead-of-new-york-debut/

NEW YORK AUTO SHOW: Will Acura Announce A Hybrid Version Of The ZDX?
Although we've already spoiled Acura's ZDX surprise with the first real photos of the vehicle, one day before the official introduction, sources tell us another surprise could be coming.

Rumors keep circulating that they will announce a hybrid version at the show.

Should they?

Is it important?

Keep checking back often as we will be adding photos often to the 2009 New York Auto Show Photo Gallery of the next few days

Source;
http://www.autospies.com/news/NEW-YORK-AUTO-SHOW-Will-Acura-Announce-A-Hybrid-Version-Of-The-ZDX-42799/