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2009 Honda Pilot Touring Auto123 Review

[Quoted from Auto123.com]

"The family van from Honda seems to have grown somewhat. At least is sure feels that way when you have seating for up to eight and some luggage space left over. That's only on the inside. When you look at the outside, there are wheel flares that broaden front end and if you walk around to the front there is a grille that is dominated by the Honda "H". Headlights blend in with the rest of the front and below the main grille there is an opening in the front fascia that takes more air into the front."

For more on Auto123's review, visit http://www.auto123.com/en/news/car-news/2009-honda-pilot-touring-review?artid=104005

What do you think of the new Pilot? Comment!

Honda Insight

The 2009 Insight is here! It will be arriving in showrooms on Earth Day in April to be priced around $15,000 US. Fuel consumption will be around 50-60mpg and around 4.5-5.0L per 100km in city/highway. This is one of the vehicles on Toyota's radar at the moment. With similar fuel consumption, just slightly lower but with thousands less, how will Toyota keep competitive with this new hybrid? There have been reports that Toyota will keep the current Prius for a few years longer and make it cheaper to compare with the Insight. There will be two Insight models, LX and EX.

What do you think of it? A viable competitor to the Toyota Prius? Comment!

There are some road tests and reviews done on the Insight, for more, click on the links below:
http://www.autonet.ca/autos/search/newmodels/2009/01/19/8074651-autonet.html
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09029/945279-97.stm
http://www.brantfordexpositor.ca/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=1409662
http://consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com/2010-honda-insight.htm
http://www.thecarconnection.com/bottomline/honda_insight_2010?utm_source=Yahoo&utm_medium=Yahoo%2BBuzz%2BBeta&utm_campaign=Yahoo%2BBuzz%2BBeta

For the 4th Time, Honda Cuts Profit Forecast

Honda has cut its profit forecast down to an operating profit for the year to end-March of 140-billion yen ($1.6-billion U.S.), down from a record 953-billion yen last year and below its previous profit forecast of 180-billion yen. Honda has announced further cuts to production in excess of 50,000 vehicles + making total cuts to around 370,000 less vehicles on the road.

"The sales environment is changing faster than we were able to predict," Honda executive vice president Koichi Kondo told a news conference, noting that four profit warnings in a single year was probably unprecedented in Honda's history.

"We don't expect conditions in the U.S. to improve in the first half of next year, and we can only hope they will start to recover in the second half," he added.

One of Honda's UK factories is expected to close in February for an unprecedented 4 months.

Honda said it now sees losses from soured credit and falling residual values of used cars to total almost 100-billion yen this year, double what it had foreseen three months ago.

"Honda is relatively better positioned than Toyota because it has focused on smaller cars and hasn't aggressively expanded its global operations like Toyota. It also helped that the Chinese market fared relatively well," said Koichi Ogawa, chief portfolio manager at Daiwa SB Investments.

Honda Settles Odometer Suit

[Quoted from the Toronto Star]

Honda Canada is proposing to settle three class-action lawsuits with the owners of about 900,000 vehicles over allegations of inaccurate odometers that overstate mileage.

In a recent notice to customers, Honda said it will seek court approvals soon to resolve the cases by extending mileage on leases and warranties by 5 per cent and paying for repairs that would have fallen under that extra distance.

The settlement could affect owners and leaseholders of 2000 Honda and Acura models after November 14, 2000; all vehicles in the 2001 to 2006 model years for both brands and 2007 Fit subcompacts.

The number of autos that would fall under the settlement's terms could reach 900,000, the company confirmed yesterday.

Honda said in the notice that although the odometers were within the design tolerance standard of the Society of Automotive Engineers, the company agreed to settle the class action claims in "the interest of customer satisfaction."

"It has agreed to do so without any admission of liability," the company noted.

Despite meeting the standard, Honda spokesperson Richard Jacobs said the company has also improved the accuracy of the odometers in its vehicles starting in the 2007 model year.

Michael Peerless, the lawyer for a London plaintiff in one lawsuit, said yesterday it is difficult to assess how much the settlement would cost Honda but it could involve costly repairs that would fall under warranties.

"Most people are just getting an extension on their warranties but we think there will certainly be some people with very significant, legitimate cash claims," said Peerless, a lawyer for the firm Siskinds LLP.

"They will receive compensation for those claims. I spoke to a client who indicated he had replaced his transmission in the period when his warranty had expired. It takes $3,500 to do that."

In the notice, Honda used a hypothetical example of a driver of a 2000 model who leased it for three years with permissible mileage of 60,000 kilometres a year with a 15 cent per kilometre charge for any distance exceeding it.

The driver paid $600 for 4,000 extra kilometres.

But the settlement would entitle the driver for a reimbursement of $450 because of the inaccurate odometer, according to Honda.

Pending court approval, Honda said it would automatically extend the mileage for warranty and lease purposes, but claims for reimbursement will require some proof.

Honda said the company and the plaintiffs in the three suits in Ontario, Quebec and B.C. "strongly disagree" on the liability and the amount of damages.

The company would not comment on estimates of possible damages.

Settlement hearings are set for London in March, Vancouver in April and Quebec in May.

Honda owners would be bound by the settlement terms unless they opt out and file a form by May 18.

Complaints about odometer readings started in the U.S. and triggered numerous lawsuits earlier this decade that eventually led to settlements south of the border.

Canadian plaintiffs filed three claims here in 2006 including one in London where Geoffrey Butler, the owner of a Honda Odyssey minivan, bought a six-year or 160,000 kilometre warranty in 2002 but later alleged the odometer inflated mileage by 3 per cent.

Butler said in his statement of claim that as a result he did not receive the full benefit of the warranties and possible resale value.

2009 Euro Honda Accord Press Release

Honda announced the all-new Accord for Europe. Aimed squarely at challenging established premium contenders in the D-segment, Honda’s all-new Accord saloon and Tourer offer sporty styling, greater refinement and a unique package of safety systems, together with excellent dynamic capabilities. Strong environmental credentials in the form of an all Euro 5 emissions compliant engine line-up further emphasize Honda’s intent with the the all-new Accord.

Significantly wider and slightly lower, the styling adopts a more emotional, sporty motif. The ‘sharp-edged’ design, with pronounced muscular wheelarches that emphasize the car’s wider track, gives the Accord a distinctive, strong stance with a solid, planted feel. The distinctive nose and more flowing lines deliver a tauter and more athletic shape. The evolution from the previous generation Accord is even more pronounced in the case of the Tourer, where a greater emphasis on load carrying practicality has evolved into a more dynamic expression of its advanced technology, while still retaining a strong degree of versatility and practicality.

Three advanced new engines with some of the lowest emissions in their segment

The new range is one of the first to offer a complete engine line-up that will comply with the forthcoming Euro 5 emissions regulations which aren’t due to be introduced until September 2009. The exceptional environmental credentials haven’t been achieved at the cost of driving enjoyment, however, and greater frugality is matched by greater performance and flexibility.

Making its debut is Honda’s second-generation diesel engine which builds on the outstanding qualities of the award-winning i-CTDi unit to raise the bar in the diesel stakes once again. Its advanced technology and overall capabilities place it firmly at the forefront of diesel development and underpins the Accord’s claim to offer one of the strongest combinations of dynamic performance and environmental responsibility in the marketplace.

Like its predecessor, the new i-DTEC engine is compact, lightweight, refined and quiet in operation. It employs the latest piezoelectric multi-stage fuel injection technology, more efficient exhaust gas recirculation and a particulate filter for significantly reduced emissions. At the same time both power and torque levels have been increased for a sportier driving experience. Output is 10 PS greater at 150 PS/110 kW at the same 4,000 rpm, while peak torque is now 350 Nm at 2,000 rpm. The 2.0-liter i-VTEC offers similar levels of performance to its predecessor – 156 PS at 6,300 rpm – but builds on its class leading fuel economy. Key technological changes include increased diameter intake valves, further optimized valve lift and timing and increased inlet and exhaust air flow volumes. The 2.4-liter engine is more powerful, delivering 200 PS at 7000 rpm and peak torque of 233 Nm at 4500 rpm – up from 190 PS and 223 Nm. Behind the figures are a compression ratio increased from 10.5 to 11.0:1, larger diameter valves, revised valve timing, and reduced exhaust system pressures.

All three engines are matched to a 6-speed manual transmission, while both petrol engines have the option of a 5-speed automatic. NOTE: "An automatic gearbox for the i-DTEC engine will be launched in early 2009."

Manual models feature a ‘Shift Indicator Light’ or SIL which appears in the center of the rev counter. ‘UP’ or ‘DOWN’ are displayed to advise the driver of the optimum point (in terms of best fuel economy) at which to change gear; Honda tests have demonstrated fuel savings of as much as 5 per cent simply by following these commands.

The 5-speed automatic transmission now has a straight ‘P R N D S’ gate: using the steering wheel paddles in S mode provides a sequential shift mode, allowing manual shifting and gear hold.

Enthusiastic drivers will also appreciate the new Accord’s greater agility. A lowered center of gravity, a wider track and the all-new front double wishbone and rear multilink suspension with variable rate dampers, plus greater body rigidity mean that the Accord more readily reacts to driver input. Handling is more responsive and confidence-inspiring and body roll is much reduced. Speed sensitive electric power steering is standard on all models and the new axial system features a high output, low inertia brushless motor which provides excellent steering feel at higher speeds for a sense of stability and confidence. A quicker steering ratio has also been adopted in keeping with the Accord’s more agile chassis characteristics.

Complementing an armory of passive safety features is an outstanding array of dynamic systems delivering even greater security. Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) is standard across the range and is designed to assist the driver in maintaining control during cornering, acceleration and sudden manoeuvres by applying braking to the right or left hand wheels as necessary and modulating the engine torque output as required.

The new Accord also features an innovative system in which the capabilities of both VSA and the car’s Electric Power Steering are brought to bear. Called Motion Adaptive EPS, it detects instability in slippery conditions both during cornering and under braking and automatically initiates steering inputs aimed at prompting the driver to steer in the correct direction. The input is barely noticeable and control of the steering remains with the driver at all times. But this supporting steering torque is enough to prompt the driver to act intuitively and the driver’s reaction as a result is enough to regain stability or to shorten braking distances, allowing control to be maintained.

Optionally available on Executive grade on 2.2 i-DTEC and 2.4 i-VTEC is Honda’s Advanced Driving Assist System (ADAS), a suite of three ground-breaking technologies that raise safety to a new level. The first of these is the Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) which uses a camera to detect the car deviating from a traffic lane and provides steering torque when necessary, thereby reducing the burden of motorway driving while at the same time enhancing safety. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) uses a millimetre-wave radar to maintain a consistent distance to a vehicle directly in front, for more relaxed, less tiring driving. The third ADAS system is the Collision Mitigation Brake System (CMBS) which monitors the following distance and closing rate between the Accord and the car directly in front of it, warning the driver when a collision is likely and helping reduce impact when a collision becomes unavoidable. These systems complement the Accord’s passive safety features which include front seatbelt pre-tensioners and load limiters, dual stage front airbags, driver and front passenger side airbags, full length curtain airbags and ISOFIX fittings and tether anchor points for secure childseat fixture on all models. There are also front seat active headrests which are triggered when the occupant is pushed into the seat in the event of a rear impact, so causing a rigid plate to activate a link to the headrest which pushes it forward to support the head.

Progressively introduced throughout the Honda range, the Accord’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) Body Structure provides significantly enhanced occupant protection in a variety of real-world crash conditions. A front-mounted polygonal main frame is designed to prevent cabin deformation by distributing forces through multiple major load bearing pathways – and away from the passenger compartment. This is particularly important where a frontal collision occurs between vehicles of differing heights, weights or frame construction. To achieve top level, side impact safety, Honda's engineers have increased the side section of the frame and chosen different material specifications to provide the desired level of stiffness and strength for critical areas, without adding unnecessary weight. The new Accord also incorporates many of the pedestrian-protection design features already familiar from recent Honda models, including windscreen wiper pivots designed to break away on impact, energy absorbing front wing mounts and bonnet hinges alongside an unobstructed area beneath the bonnet allowing greater space for deformation.

The sporty feel of the cockpit is reflected in a fascia design characterised by a strong feeling of personal space for both the driver and front passenger. Distinctive silver trim sweeps inwards across the fascia from either side before continuing down into the center console. Stylish and highly supportive front seats have larger bolsters while a new internal structure is designed to reduce any transmission of vibration. Black with silver trim, the sporty three spoke steering wheel holds a complete suite of controls – including audio, cruise control and mobile telephone control. It is fully adjustable for reach and rake, with an extra 10 degrees of tilt adjustment compared to the previous Accord. The new Accord features ‘floating’ backlit instruments and contained within the center of the speedometer face is an LCD multi-information display showing a variety of information – controls positioned on the steering wheel allow the driver to cycle the display through multiple screens of information. A new feature is a service reminder that presents the driver with either the distance or days remaining to a required service, with an enlarged warning symbol appearing when the due date is imminent. Storage space includes two center console side pockets; a lidded storage area to side of the steering wheel; large front door pockets able to hold bottles and maps; bottle holders in the rear door panels, and a large center console box. Rather than a fold-down pocket design, the large glovebox now has an independent lid and is subdivided with a tissue box compartment as well as space secured for a manual. The lid of the center console box doubles up as an armrest and is slide-adjustable by 89 mm. Two cupholders are provided in the center console, while rear seat passengers have access to a further two contained in the center armrest, revealed when it is folded down.

2009 Acura TSX

Acura has now released the first photo of the 2009 Acura TSX sedan. It is scheduled to be on sale in spring and will be shown to the world at the 2008 New York Auto Show next month.

"The new 2009 TSX speaks clearly to the direction we are taking our Acura sedans in the future," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president for auto sales.

Now, expect to see more of that "signature" grille coming.

Spied! 2009 Euro Honda Accord Tourer

There you go. Almost uncovered.

Honda US Rebates

Honda will raise incentives in the U.S. to a record level this year to spur sales of Pilot sport-utility vehicles and other aging models amid higher gasoline prices.

The average incentive to dealers per vehicle in the U.S., Honda's most profitable market, will rise to $1,000 this year from $950 a year earlier, Chief Financial Officer Fumihiko Ike said in an interview with Bloomberg Television in Tokyo yesterday.

Honda is trying to get rid of unsold vehicles before bringing out new versions of the Pilot and the Acura TL and TSX sedans in the U.S. Honda expects profit in its current quarter to drop as a weaker dollar reduces its repatriated earnings from the U.S.

They should be able to maintain their ground there and see growth in other regions to offset at least some of the yen's strength,'' Andrew Phillips, an analyst at KBC Securities Japan in Tokyo, who has a "buy'' rating on the stock, said in an interview with Bloomberg Television.

Gasoline prices near $3 a gallon and an economic slowdown tied to the subprime mortgage crisis may push overall U.S. auto demand to the lowest in a decade.

With higher incentives, the company aims to reduce inventories in the U.S. to between 45 and 60 days of supply, Ike said. Some dealers currently have as much as a 70-day supply for some models. Honda's U.S. incentives per unit are lower than the industry average of $2,500, according to Ike.

Concerns about the subprime mortgage loan crisis are weakening confidence among consumers in the U.S.,'' Ike said. This is happening at the same time we have already expected a weak year due to our model cycle.''

Rising demand for the Fit compact and CR-V small SUV will help raise U.S. sales this year, Ike said. Honda's U.S. sales may rise 2.5% to 1.59 million units this year, according to its plan unveiled on Dec. 19. Honda forecast industry wide sales in the world's largest auto market may fall to 15.9 million vehicles from 16.1 million in 2007.

BREAKING NEWS! 2009 Euro Honda Accord/US Acura TSX Spotted!

These 2009 Euro Honda Accords were spotted on a transporter truck. As you can see, they evoke the same front ends as the teaser pictures originally posted by Honda a few weeks ago.

Not bad, it'll do good in the US, but it'll take more than that to budge the more modern-looking sedans in Europe.

Chicago Auto Show: 2009 Acura RL

The redesigned 2009 Acura RL luxury sedan made its world debut today at the Chicago Auto Show. Featuring bold, sleek exterior styling, an upgraded interior, advanced technologies and powerful new engine, the RL once again pushes the limits of performance, style, and luxury. The 2009 RL will go on-sale this spring at Acura dealerships nationwide.

The 2009 RL furthers cutting edge technology with the addition of new high-tech items including AcuraLink weather, AcuraLink Traffic Rerouting, XM Note, Active Sound Control, and Bluetooth Audio to an already robust list of features found on the previous RL. To enhance handling, new chassis technology abounds in the drivetrain in the form of an improved Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system, a revised steering system, upgraded coil springs, better performing shock absorbers, larger rear stabilizer bar, and more aggressive wheels and tires. Performance improves with the RL thanks to a new, larger 3.7-liter V-6 that incorporates the first ever SOHC use of VTEC valvetrain actuation for both the intake and exhaust valves."RL represents the very best we have to offer in terms of engineering, technology, performance, luxury and safety", said Dick Colliver, executive vice president, sales. "It's designed for a new generation of performance-luxury buyers looking to travel more quickly, more efficiently and more connected to the world around them."

For 2009, the RL will be offered in three different trim levels including RL, RL with Technology Package and RL with Technology Package Plus CMBS. All RL's receive a potent new 3.7-liter V-6 engine, Super Handling All-Wheel Drive, a Bose Surround Sound audio system, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink connectivity and a GPS-based solar-sensing climate control system. The Technology Package includes the satellite-linked Acura Navigation System with Voice Activation with rearview camera, AcuraLink Real-time traffic, AcuraLink weather, Traffic Rerouting, a rear view back-up camera, Active Front Lighting System (AFS), ventilated front seats, and a wood/leather steering wheel and shift knob. The top RL package is the Technology Package with CMBS which also includes Acura's acclaimed Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), and genuine wood instrument panel trim.

The innovation built into the new RL begins with the most powerful engine ever offered in an Acura sedan. An all-new 3.7-liter V-6 engine develops 300 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque thanks to an innovative new VTEC valvetrain system for both the intake and exhaust valves, a higher compression ratio, along with a special dual-stage magnesium intake manifold that enables the intake to function as a single- or dual-plenum manifold design based on engine operating parameters. In addition to developing improved power and torque, the RL engine meets tough CARB ULEV-2 emission standards and delivers good fuel economy. The RL's engine bay appears more upscale thanks to a new surround panel assembly that reduces visual distractions and focuses attention directly on the all-new 3.7-liter V-6 engine.

To handle the higher power of the 3.7-liter engine, a new version of the Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission is fitted to the 2009 RL. Featuring new "smart" F1®-style steering wheel mounted paddle shifters and a new straight-gate console mounted gear selector, the RL driver now has more gear control than ever before.

The RL's acclaimed Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™) system returns for 2009, but is now quicker responding and better performing.There are numerous traction advantages of all-wheel drive, yet SH-AWD™ does a key function that is not available with traditional AWD systems- SH-AWD™ utilizes torque vectoring to increase the rotation speed of an outside rear wheel during aggressive cornering to help the car turn more effectively while under power. This "yaw" function reduces the cornering load on the front tires to minimize understeer, to improve handling balance, and to escalate total cornering grip.

To further enhance handling and ride comfort, the new RL retains a fully independent suspension system with front double-wishbone and rear multi-link architecture. For 2009 the RL features higher rate coil springs, larger diameter stabilizer bars, stiffer subframe mount bushings and improved design steering rack components. To further improve handling and looks, new 18-inch diameter 7-spoke aluminum wheels are matched with more aggressive tires (replacing the previous 17-inch wheel/tire offering).

The 2009 RL's new exterior styling is not only more aggressive, but delivers excellent aerodynamics and reduced rear lift at higher speeds. The RL's more athletic style foreshadows the power concealed by the new power plenum front grille and blow-formed aluminum hood. The RL's shape is taut and athletic, and its acceleration and cornering performance allow it to challenge the most capable German and Japanese sports sedans. Comfort, quietness and ride quality are also on a par with performance sedan competitors. For 2009, eight exterior colors are available-5 of which are new-including a new pearl pigment process that improves luster and shine.

Inside, the 2009 RL features a more elegantly styled interior that includes more room for rear seat passengers, easier-to-use front seat belts, door-mounted pull pockets, softer arm rests, redesigned vents, larger/clearer lettering for HVAC controls, and easier actuation of climate control functions. A revised steering wheel with available genuine wood trim (included with the CMBS package) and metal-look accents is now fitted to the RL along with a matching wood-trimmed transmission shift knob. Complementing the steering wheel are upgraded gauges that incorporate brushed metal accents for enhanced appearance. For 2009, additional insulation, a more high-tech design of Acura's acoustic glass windshield, and a new Active Sound Control (ASC) noise abatement system team to further reduce the RL's already quiet cabin.

The RL's perforated leather front seats now incorporate six levels of heated/cooled ventilation. Moreover, just like the driver's seat, the passenger front seat now has 10-way power adjustability. For 2009, the center panel controls are now more intuitive and are surrounded by a new background color along with improved quality wood patterned panels. These interior upgrades are complimented by advanced electronics that include a satellite-linked Acura Navigation System with Voice Activation along with the innovative AcuraLink satellite communication system with Real-time traffic, AcuraLinkTraffic Rerouting and (new for 2009) AcuraLink weather. The RL is the first vehicle on the market to feature in-dash integrated, continually updated real-time weather information in a single-screen format. The spectacular Acura/Bose 10-speaker Sound System with DVD-Audio returns but is now upgraded to include Bluetooth Audio, even richer audio sound, XM Note, improved button legibility, and a USB connectivity port.

The 2009 RL retains Acura's extremely rigid Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure that features extensive use of high-tensile steel and lightweight aluminum components to take vehicle construction beyond conventional safety protocols while keeping overall vehicle weight in check. The ACE structure's front-mounted polygonal main frame is designed to help prevent cabin deformation by distributing impact forces through multiple load bearing pathways-and away from the passenger compartment. For 2009, to enhance safety a new Active Head Restraint System is built into the front seats to improve neck and head protection in the event in a rear impact collision. To further aid in safety, the RL includes as standard a passenger seatbelt reminder, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and six airbags. These advances team to make the 2009 RL the strongest, most powerful, best handling, safest and most luxurious sedan Acura has ever built.

The RL earned 5-star ratings (the best possible) for frontal and side crash tests, and for rollover resistance, from the U.S. Department of Transportation's Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The RL is the fourth vehicle in the history of the program to earn the top rating of "5-star" in all three test categories. Government star ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program (www.safercar.gov). In addition, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the RL its top rating of GOOD in Side Impact Collision Evaluation (SICE) along with a GOOD rating for IIHS' frontal offset crash test. With a new Active Head Restraint System for front seat passengers, the 2009 RL is anticipated to receive a GOOD rating in IIHS rear crash protection evaluation.

Spied! 2009 Acura TSX

The 2009 Acura TSX was spotted and caught with a cell phone camera.

As you can see in the picture, the car is more rounded and is larger than the previous model. Would this mean the TL and RL will also move and become larger for the 2009/2010 redesign/revisions? Could be.

Although the side looks a lot in favour of a Ford Fusion, the front end has a little in line with the Jaguar XF, although not bad, but this wasn't what I was expecting.

Do you like it? Comment!

Canadian January 2008 Sales

Honda Canada has reported combined record Canadian sales of 12,022 units by both its Honda and Acura divisions, a 69% increase over last year, and up 31% over the previous January sales record of 9,211units in 2002.

The Honda Automobile Division reported record January sales of 10,534 units, up 76%, and Acura Division reported record January sales of 1,488 units, up 28% over last year.

"Our record January sales for Honda were strengthened by the popularityof the Honda Civic, Canada's best-selling car the past 10 years, which saw its record January sales double from last year," said Jim Miller, executive vice president, Honda Canada Inc. "All of our Honda truck products were upsignificantly in January with an overall average increase of 63 per cent, and record January sales of Ridgeline and Pilot.

Acura's record January sales were led by an increase in our luxury sports sedans with record January sales of TL that were up 69 per cent in addition to RL, up 225%, and TSX, up 38%.

Acura luxury utility vehicles,RDX and MDX, set January sales records, up 26 per cent and 14 per cent, respectively.

Honda January sales highlights include:

Record January sales for Honda Automobile Division of 10,534 units, up 76% over January 2007, and up 34% over the previous January sales record of 7,880 units in 2003

Honda Civic sets January sales record of 5,202 units, up 101% from January 2007, and up 43% over the previous January sales record of 3,638 units in 2001.

Honda Ridgeline sets January sales record of 424 units, up 93% from January 2007, and up 69% over the previous January sales record of 251 units in 2006.

Honda Pilot sets January sales record of 402 units, up 84% from January 2007, and up 38% over the previous January sales record of 291 units in 2003.

Honda truck sales increase 63% over January 2007:

Honda Ridgeline up 93%.

Honda Pilot up 84%.

Honda CR-V up 68%.

Honda Odyssey up 32%.

Honda Element up 27%.

Honda Accord January sales of 1,480 units, up 124% over last year.

Acura January sales highlights include:

Record January sales for Acura of 1,488 units, up 28% over January 2007, and up by 45 units over the previous January sales record of 1,443 units in 2002.

Acura TL sets January sales record of 367 units, up 69% from January 2007, and up from the previous January sales record of 364 units in 2004.

Acura MDX sets January sales record of 462 units, up 14% from January 2007, and up 13% over the previous January sales record of 409 units in 2002.

Acura RDX sets January sales record of 332 units, up 26% from record January sales of 263 units in 2007.

2009 Acura Model Update

Another round of updates for the 2009 TSX, TL and RL have supposedly been coming in. Starting off with the 2009 TSX, its onsale date has been confirmed once again as 4/24/08. From this source, it is believed that the TSX will be front wheel drived first with a possible revised turbocharged engine, it is also believed that an XM weather function will be offered in the 2009 TSX. For the 2009 RL, it will supposedly get the XM weather function and get cooled front seats for the US (as has been offered in Canada for the past few years). It is also reumoured that the RL may get the same 3.5L motor but with a power increase to 306hp. But the 2009 TL will get a 3.5L with front wheel drive and a 3.7L with SH-AWD so this seems awkward the RL will get the smaller engine. (strangely, these were always offered in Canada). From reports, it is believed that the RL now has an edgier look to it. Supposedly the RL will continue with a 3.5L motor, but it will now deliver 306hp. Considering that the '09 TL will supposedly be getting a 3.5L (FF) and 3.7L (SH-AWD), it seems odd that the RL would stick with the 3.5, so this might be an error.

US January 2008 Sales

American Honda posted January total vehicle sales of 98,511, a decline of 2.3% compared to January 2007 results. Honda Division posted January sales of 87,343, a decline of 0.5% compared to January 2007. Models that broke monthly records include the CR-V, up 11.3% to 16,016; and the Fit, up 120% to 4,480. Civic sales increased 14.2% for the month to 20,993.

"We're seeing real strength in our compact and subcompact vehicles," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of sales for American Honda. "Honda products like the Civic, CR-V and Fit are proving to be solid performers in these turbulent economic times." Honda total car sales of 49,642 increased by 7.1% for the month. Overall, the Honda Division's top five-selling vehicles include the Accord, 23,957; Civic, 20,993; CR-V, 16,016; Odyssey, 8,746; and Pilot, 8,375.

The Acura Division posted a sales volume of 11,168, a decrease of 14.2% compared to January 2007. The division's top-selling vehicles include the MDX, 3,982; TL, 3,246; TSX, 2,073; and RDX, 1,483.