2012 Honda Insight On Sale In Canada!

Despite rumors of the axing of the Insight in Canada, Honda Canada has introduced the 2012 refreshed Insight with a single trim level, LX priced at $21 990 with the CVT transmission. It seems Honda's Canadian hybrid strategy is a tri-fold with the Insight LX at the lower end, the CR-Z EX in the middle end at $23 990 and the Civic Hybrid at the top end at $26 350. VSA is now included with the Insight and 4 colors are available. The Insight is available as a special order. 

For more information, visit the Insight's site @ http://honda.ca/insight

To The Track ...

The Honda Racing Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship team are putting the new Civic Next Generation Touring Car (NGTC) through its paces at its first public test outing at Brands Hatch today (21 February 2012).

Both Gordon 'Flash' Shedden and triple-BTCC champion Matt Neal will be pushing the car to the limit to make it is as competitive as possible ahead of the season debut on 1 April 2012.

The testing at Brands Hatch follows a successful preliminary test at the MIRA test track last week where the car underwent extensive system checks to ensure it is fully functional. Matt Neal and the Honda Racing team spent Friday acclimatising to the car and making sure it's safe and ready for track testing.

Matt Neal commented; "This is the first opportunity we have had to get behind the wheel to really see what the car has got. The team are really pleased with the results from the test at MIRA last week and I can't wait to finally start putting the car through its paces.

"It will be interesting to see how the car performs, but I'm optimistic that we'll walk away from today confident we have a championship winning car."

Gordon 'Flash' Shedden added; "The feedback on the new Civic NGTC car so far is incredibly promising and I've been itching to get into the car since the end of the 2011 season. Like Matt mentioned, this is the first time we have had to really push the car and I'm looking forward to putting it into action."

Team Manager, Peter Crolla, concluded; "The team have all been working incredibly hard since the start of the NGTC programme back in August so everybody's very excited to see the new car on track for the first time. It'll be interesting from the point of view of both drivers and engineers to see how the car behaves on a track where we were very competitive with the S2000 Civic and we can really start to understand and develop the new car.

"The main aim for the day will be to establish a baseline set-up for the car which we can then tune for the various circuits we visit during the season. Initial feedback from the MIRA shakedown was positive so we're hoping to continue that today and cover some valuable mileage with both Matt and Gordon behind the wheel".

The next testing session takes place at Donington Park circuit on Thursday 23 February.

Management Changes Shock

Honda has recalled the CEO and a top exec in its Indian subsidiary. This move has shocked the company workers in India because of its unusual and unprecedented move. Many are taking this as a sign of Honda's desire to start fresh and regain its lost footing in the critical Indian minicar market. Takashi Nagai (pictured), the president and CEO of Honda Siel Cars of India along with the marketing head, Seki Inaba have only spent less than 2 years in their roles and they have already been shown the door. Honda spokespeople have said that this is part of a routine top management change announced every so often. Inaba will be moving to an unknown assignment while Nagai will become the president and representative director of Honda Logistics Inc and his spot will be taken by H Kanayama, current head of Honda's Taiwanese operations on April Fool's Day. 

Chicago Tribune's 2012 Honda Pilot Review

"So many times I hear a fellow mom say, "Well, I really need a third row," and I think to myself, why? Oftentimes, the third row in an SUV or crossover seems like an afterthought. It's either too small to transport people or too difficult to get the kids into it. There's also the problem of the third row hogging all the cargo space; what's the point of a road trip with seven when only one person's luggage could actually fit back there? The Honda Pilot, which was restyled for 2012, dispels those concerns."

For more information, visit Chicago Tribune's website @ http://www.chicagotribune.com/classified/automotive/sns-autos-car-review-2012-honda-pilot-20120222,0,7478776.story

Exec Changes

Honda plans to post its second-highest ranking global executive in the U.S. for the first time as the automaker that was Japan’s first to build cars in the market extends a three-decade localization push.

Tetsuo Iwamura, 60, Honda’s chief operating officer for North America, on April 1 adds the titles of executive vice president and executive officer, the Tokyo-based company said today in a statement. Iwamura is to also join Honda’s board in late June, pending shareholder approval, the company said.

Iwamura will continue to run operations in North America while assisting President Takanobu Ito in managing global sales, said Jun Odajima, a company spokesman. “This is the first time the top North American executive has also been the No. 2 company official,” he said.

The promotion of Iwamura and naming of Erik Berkman to lead Honda’s U.S. research and development unit, the first time that job has gone to a non-Japanese engineer, come as the company lifts production across North America, its biggest source of revenue, to counter a rising yen. Honda is increasing vehicle output at plants in the U.S. and Canada, adding a factory in Mexico to build subcompacts and preparing to make the Acura NSX supercar in Ohio by 2014.

Berkman, currently vice president of corporate planning and logistics for U.S. auto operations, is to become president of Honda R&D Americas on April 1, the company said.

Honda’s U.S. headquarters are in Torrance, California. The company’s American depositary receipts rose 1.3 percent to $37.28 at the close in New York.

India Production Back In Business

Honda production is back in Thailand with the company producing more than 450 cars a day through two shifts to clear a massive production backlog created in the past few months. Honda's Thailand plants, which source most of the Honda cars for sale in India, was hit by a massive flood earlier last year that completely shut down the Honda plant. Honda's Brio received 9000 bookings when it was released in October 2011 but only around 2000 bookings have been filled; Honda expects the bulk of the bookings to be filled by the end of March 2012. Along with that, Honda has also lost production of about 15000 cars. 

To make up for its recent shortcomings, Honda is set for a massive all-out advertising campaign for the new Brio along with adding dealership networks across India to reach out to consumers. 

Too little too late? What do you think? Comment below!

Honda Europe In Reverse

Honda's shares in Europe have not been doing well lately. In 2011, Honda Europe fell to a market share of just over 1%. But Honda won't let that stop it from competing with other manufacturers. However, it will take Honda until at least 2013/2014 to return to profitability in Europe. In that time frame, Honda will be moving to having almost 80% of all Euro cars (nearly 180 000 vehicles will be doubled by the end of this year to begin with) sold be produced in the UK. Honda Europe's head continues to look for ways to cut Honda Europe's exposure to the yen. 40% of Honda's sales in the region are Hondas produced elsewhere in the world including every Honda Accord sold. In the next-generation Accord, Honda Europe is looking to import the model from the US, cutting down shipping times from four weeks to seven days. 

Honda will also be hiring more engineers in the UK region and putting an increased emphasis on local content in its vehicles made in Europe. Honda Europe hopes to achieve 300 000 sales in Europe by 2014/2015.

Honda also brushed off rumors that Honda would enter into an alliance with another company to fund fuel-saving technology in its cars. Honda has no interest with allying and does not have any future plans. Honda will be adding a new, 1.6L diesel engine into its European engine portfolio some time in the near future. 

2013 Acura RDX Pricing

The all-new 2013 RDX crossover SUV will go on-sale at Acura dealerships in early Spring with a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) starting at $34,320 Acura announced today.

"The right-sized 2013 RDX adds increased comfort, utility and power, along with class-leading fuel economy," said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales."Based on changing consumer preference, small is becoming big in the eyes of today's consumers."

The 2013 RDX significantly ups the game with its all new looks, increased comfort and new technology. In addition the RDX features a new 3.5L V-6 engine with 33 more horsepower than the outgoing model, a new 6-speed automatic transmission and a new all-wheel-drive system (available as a $1,400 option). The RDX exterior incorporates a sleek (more aerodynamically efficient) body and chassis updates abound in the form of a longer wheelbase with increased track, all-new Amplitude Reactive Dampers and a new motion adaptive electronic power steering system.

Inside the 2013 RDX, occupants will appreciate a new interior design with increased utility, rich interior materials and generous use of noise insulation. Standard features on RDX include leather seating surfaces, heated power front seats, a power moonroof and a 360watt audio system. New technologies such as Pandora® internet radio interface, an SMS text messaging function, a Keyless Access System with pushbutton start, an Active Noise Control system and a rear view camera system with three unique viewing angles are also standard on all RDX models.

Available for $3,700, a Technology Package brings the RDX owner even more high tech appointments including items such as the AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System, Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, a hard disk drive (HDD) with 60 gigabytes of storage capacity, AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting™, AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™,a GPS-linked solar-sensing, dual-zone automatic climate control system, Acura/ELS Surround® Premium Sound System, a power actuated rear tailgate, projector beam headlights with Bi-Xenon High Intensity Discharge (HID) bulbs and front fog lights.

2012 Euro Civic Gets 5-Stars

The new Honda Civic 5 door has been rated one of Europe‘s safest cars, according to new independent crash testing results from Euro NCAP. In addtion, Euro NCAP have announced that they are extending Honda's Advanced NCAP reward for its Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) technology to include the new Civic.

The new Honda Civic has been awarded Euro NCAP's maximum 5-star rating. The rating scheme focuses on the vehicle's overall safety performance which gives consumers an easy to understand single score. The system considers occupant protection, child protection, pedestrian protection and the availability of driver aids. Since the introduction of Euro NCAP‘s new rating scheme (February 2009) all Honda models tested have achieved 5 stars.

Michiel van Ratingen, Euro NCAP Secretary General, commented "The 9th generation Civic impressed and achieved high scores in all areas of assessment, putting it on a par with its rivals in this competitive market segment. The car scored well in Safety Assist and is also fitted as an option with Honda's Collision Mitigation Brake System (CMBS)."

Euro NCAP also announced today that they are extending Honda's Advanced NCAP reward for its CMBS technology to include the new Civic. The reward recognises Honda‘s CMBS technology as amongst the best available safety innovations, offering research proven benefits. Euro NCAP Advanced is an initiative developed in response to the rapid development of new safety technologies, for which there is no independent assessment.

Honda has been recognized for its Collision Mitigation Brake System (CMBS), a radar-based autonomous emergency braking system. CMBS is designed to help prevent collisions with vehicles which are stationary or travelling in the same direction. The system is aimed at alerting the driver to an imminent collision both at low speeds, typical of urban driving, and at higher speeds typical of rural roads and motorways. By studying accident statistics in Germany and extending the figures to the broader European community, Honda estimates that, if all cars were fitted with CMBS, between 200,000 and 250,000 accidents could be either prevented or mitigated every year.

The new Civic's top safety rating and Advanced NCAP reward reflect Honda's commitment to overall vehicle safety. Honda's car-to-car crash test facility at the Tochigi R&D center analyzes impacts between models of different sizes and weights and develops solutions to mitigate injuries for both passengers and pedestrians. The omni-directional vehicle-to-vehicle crash test facility opened in 2001 and is the world's first indoor facility of its type.

Recall Alert: 2008 and 2009 Honda Odyssey

Along with the theme of recalls, Honda is recalling 45 747 2008 and 2009 Honda Odysseys with a power liftgate in the US because they may have faulty gas-filled struts. These struts are prone to early life failures because of a "manufacturing flaw" and as a result, may leak pressurized gas leading to an unexpected liftgate injury. Honda will notify owners in the coming weeks. 2790 Honda Odysseys in Canada are affected. 

Recall Alert: 2012 Honda Pilot and 2012 Acura MDX

Honda is recalling 8709 2012 Honda Pilots and 2012 Acura MDXs beginning mid-March. The recall is focused on the possibility of a fuel leak when the vent shut float valve cases in the fuel tank assemblies do not meet the proper design specifications. As a result, fuel may leak from the tank. Owners with affected vehicles will be notified in the coming weeks.

2012 Honda CR-V Exclusive Edition

To commemorate the passing of the second-generation Honda CR-V, Honda is rolling out a CR-V Exclusive Edition that will be sold in Italy and launching this weekend at 22000 euros. The Exclusive Edition will add from the Elegance trim level with a choice of two engines, one turbodiesel common rail engine and one i-VTEC gasoline engine. Inside, power windows, automatic climate control, Alcantara steering wheel and leather gear shift knob, driver's assistance, tinted glass, heated mirrors and 17" inch alloy wheels adorn the exclusive model. Interestingly, a manual transmission is also offered. Petrol models start at 22900 euros while the diesel model starts at 28950 euros. 

Phillipines Production

 Honda Cars Philippines Inc. (HCPI) has decided to stop the assembly of its Civic model in the country and instead relocate it to Thailand on cost competitiveness issue leaving the company with only one CKD model produced here.

Tatsuya Natsume, president and general manager of HCPI, told reporters at yesterday’s launch of the all-new Honda Civic, that there is no plan to revive CKD operation for Civic at its Sta. Rosa plant.

Natsume said they have stopped local production of Honda Civic at its Sta. Rosa plant in July last year and was supposed to source it from Thailand since then. The flooding in Thailand, however, has forced them to temporarily source Civic from Japan. Once the Thailand operation has stabilized, he said, they would start getting its supply of Civic from this ASEAN country.

“It is a matter of scale of economy,” Natsume said pointing out that its Thailand plant has a production capacity of 240,000 units a year and that makes it more efficient than maintaining its local assembly of Civic in the Philippines.

Besides, he said, importing from Thailand is already at zero tariff. CBU imports from Japan is slapped with a 20 percent tariff.

There is no plan to bring back the CKD operation for Civic at its Sta. Rosa plant, which has a capacity of 9,000 to 10,000 units. The decision to stop CKD operation for Civic has not also affected its workers. They maintain a total of 530 workers.

Natsume, however, said that the capacity void left by Civic would be replaced by the growing demand for its City model.

“City’s sales is a lot higher so iT is better to continue City and that has replaced Civic volume,” he said noting that City’s sales are placed at 9,000 units last year.

For the all-new Civic, HCPI is targeting total sales 350-unit monthly sales. Civic’s record sales before was 9,000 units a month. The Laguna plant is already back into its full operation and they have started delivering City units to its dealers last year.

Natsume did not give a comparative figure last year because 2011 was not a good year because the flooding in Thailand has left the company practically with no inventory in the latter part of the year.

2012 Honda CR-V Review

"One of Honda’s bestsellers, the CRV, arrives totally redesigned for 2012. Honda’s popular compact crossover SUV’s newest reincarnation is evolutionary, rather than revolutionary, but there’s still plenty of good news for consumers. The 2012 CRV Touring boasts a lower base price ($25,990 for 2012 vs. $26,290 for 2011), more power (185 horsepower), a better fuel-economy rating (9.2/6.6 l/100 km city/hwy for 2012 vs. 10.1/7.5 for 2011), and increased shoulder room and cargo-carrying capacity despite a slightly lower roof and shorter body. But wait ... there’s more! Kudos to Honda for making heated front seats and rear-view camera standard on ALL CRVs."

For more on the Edmonton Journal's review of the 2012 CR-V, visit http://www.edmontonjournal.com/cars/Honda+absolute+winner/6150719/story.html

Indian Production

Honda Siel Cars of India is set to resume delivery requests of the Brio and Jazz cars this week following the Thailand floods that disrupted production and cancelled many delivery orders. Owner prospects will receive their vehicles before the end of this month. The plant in India has been operating at a minimal output due to the shortage of components from China. Currently, there are 13000 orders for the Brio, Jazz and City. Honda looks to increase daily vehicle production to 440 units a day by next week. 

Honda Doubling Europe Production

Honda is attempting to double its vehicle production in Europe to reduce the reliance on foreign production plant imports after an awful year that devastated production levels across the world. Honda is aiming to increase production at its main Swindon plant in England from 97 000 units last year to 180 000 units this year. Honda believes this approach will allow them to respond better to the increasing yen and allow the company to escape unscathed from natural disasters around the world that crippled Honda's Japanese plants and Thailand plants last year. Honda's European sales have taken a nosedive since the 2008 economic crisis and continues to nosedive from a lack of new product and strategic focus. Honda is changing this with the new Civic that is coming to the UK, the new CR-V coming this fall and the refreshed Jazz coming later this year too. Along with increased production facilities, Honda's Swindon plant will produce a smaller 1.6L diesel engine which will add 500 workers and a second shift to the plant. Honda is also looking to expand its R&D in Europe but there are no concrete plans as of yet. 

Indoor Air Quality

If there's one thing Honda should be proud about, that should be the air quality in its new cars. The Ecology Centre has released its 4th consumer guide to vehicle toxic chemicals after testing 200 most popular 2011-2012 vehicles for these chemicals including lead, PVC, chlorine and bromine. Car interiors are usually filled with a variety of these chemicals through the material on the seats and the dash and may cause long-term health damage for those with a weak immune system/severe allergies and may cause cancer and even birth defects. The Honda Civic is the winner as the car with an interior that has the highest air quality. The Civic is free of bromine-based flame retardants, has PVC-free interior fabrics and trim and has very low heavy metal and metal allergen count in its interior. Honda says that it is one of its goals to reduce and eliminate chemicals inside their cars. The CR-Z was also among the top few cars with the highest air quality. 

Toronto Auto Show: 2013 Honda Accord Coupe Concept

At today's Canadian International Auto Show (CIAS), Honda Canada unveiled the 2013 Accord Coupe Concept. Providing a first glimpse of the Accord's new, athletic styling direction, the 2013 Accord Coupe Concept also features a host of new technologies that will make their first appearance on a Honda vehicle when the 2013 Accord Coupe will go on-sale this fall.

"This ninth-generation Accord will once again raise the bar with new Honda powertrain and safety technologies that will ensure Honda and the Accord continue to lead in fuel economy, safety and fun-to-drive performance," said Dave Jamieson, assistant vice president of Honda Auto Sales at Honda Canada Inc. "Equally impressive though is the new styling direction that really demonstrates Honda's commitment to athletic and sporty designs."

The 2013 Accord will feature three all-new powertrains, including the first North American application of Honda's new 2.4-litre direct-injected engine and of the two-motor plug-in hybrid system from Honda's suite of next-generation Earth Dreams^™ powertrain technologies. In addition, the V-6 Accord will be the first Honda sedan to feature a new 6-speed automatic transmission. Both the Accord Sedan and the Accord Coupe models are expected to achieve class-leading fuel economy ratings and will be available with a number of innovative new safety and technological features.

The Accord Coupe Concept's styling features 20-inch, machine-finished, 5-spoke wheels that contribute to its solid stance. The rear taillights aggressively sweep into the body, while a trunk -lid spoiler and large exhaust finishers integrated into the bumper underscore the Accord Coupe Concept's muscular exterior. The front bumper's dynamic lines are highlighted by a revised four-sided honeycomb grille and deeply set multi-reflector headlights and the lower fog-light spoilers are accented by crystallized chrome inlays.

All 2013 Accord models will incorporate the Honda ECO Assist^™ system, an innovative technology that can enhance efficient vehicle operation at the touch of a button, while also providing visual feedback to the driver to promote and confirm a more efficient driving style.

The 2013 Accord will also introduce numerous new features for enhanced driver safety, visibility and security. The new Accord will be available with Honda's first application of Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Forward Collision Warning (FCW) technology. Both systems use a camera mounted behind the windshield to alert drivers if the car is moving out of its lane or to warn drivers of a potential collision in front of them.

Also on display at the CIAS is the sporty, performance-oriented heart of Honda's 2012 Canadian lineup and the newest vehicle to wear the Honda Factory Performance (HFP) badge - the Civic Si Coupe HFP. This vehicle is joined by the Remix Accord 2.0 and Remix Civic 2.0, two new after-market, tuned project vehicles that exemplify Honda's race-inspired DNA.

The All-New Civic Si Coupe HFP
For 2012, Honda is extending Honda Factory Performance program to include the 2012 Civic Si Coupe HFP. Joining the Accord HFP, which made its debut in 2011, the all-new Civic HFP will feature improved handling performance and more aggressive styling characteristics. The 2012 Civic Si Coupe HFP will go on sale this spring.

"After receiving positive feedback on our Accord HFP from this past year, we wanted to deliver a similar performance and styling direction to Canada's top-selling car," said Jamieson. "Civic Si Coupe HFP is perfect for the car enthusiast who wants to take both performance and style to the next level!"

2012 Civic Si Coupe HFP Highlights:

• 2.4 litre, DOHC i-VTEC® engine, 4-cylinder 16-valve with 201 horsepower and 170 lb.-ft. of torque
• Close-ratio 6 speed manual transmission
• 18" HFP aluminum-alloy wheels with Michelin Super Sport Performance Tires
• HFP Suspension Package
• HFP side underbody, front bumper underbody and rear bumper underbody spoilers
• HFP exterior badging and interior floor mats
• Helical limited-slip differential
• Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with bilingual Voice Recognition
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel
• Sport seats with high-contrast stitching and embroidery
• 360-watt AM/FM/CD premium audio system with MP3/Windows Media® Audio playback capability and 7 speakers including subwoofer, USB, and XM Satellite Radio
• HandsFreeLink™-bilingual Bluetooth® wireless mobile phone interface

All-New Honda Remix 2.0 Civic and Remix 2.0 Accord
Honda has once again teamed up with Performance Auto & Sound Magazine (PASMAG) to push the limits of both performance and expressive design with Honda vehicles. This partnership was designed to connect Honda with its vast network of enthusiasts across the country, and demonstrate the tuning potential of Honda platforms   Beyond the unique exterior design scheme of the Remix 2.0 Accord and Civic, significant upgrades under the hood were added to back up their aggressive demeanour.

"These Remix cars are all about providing experts with an open canvas to do what Honda enthusiasts have always loved doing - taking a great Honda and personalizing it," said Jamieson.

Remix Civic Si Coupe Overview
The philosophy behind the Civic Si Remix was to take an already sporty vehicle and showcase its aftermarket performance potential, including increasing the engine's output. To accomplish this, a full Race Turbo Kit (designed specifically for the Civic Si's 2.4L engine) and Borg Warner EFR 7163 Turbo have been installed, providing the Remix Civic Si Coupe an output boost to more than 400 horsepower.

To accentuate the car's new, more aggressive nature, the body has been treated with black trim to provide contrast with the stylish Frozen Grey paint and a carbon fibre hood has been added to reduce weight. The wheels were also upgraded to 19x8.5 Konig Avanti alloys.

Other modification highlights include:

• Full Honda Factory Performance (HFP) body kit
• HSD Coilovers
• Wilwood Engineering Superlite 6R Front Brakes
• Vibrant ™ Sports Exhaust
• Factory seats were replaced with red Sparco Chrono front seats, a Momo Race Evo shift knob and Momo Gotham Racing pedals for precise inputs
• Philips LED lighting installed throughout the cabin
• Addition of Kenwood's DNX6180 double-din Multimedia DVD Receiver with Navigation and Bluetooth.
• Impressive 6.1-inch touchscreen offers vivid image quality and an intuitive GUI.

Remix Accord V6 Coupe Overview
In 2011, Performance Auto & Sound Magazine (PASMAG) brought some of the Accord V6's performance potential to light through the Remix Accord -- a vehicle that featured style and performance enhancements both inside and out. That vehicle created a lot of buzz and served as a reminder of Honda's performance core.

For 2012, Honda and PASMAG, along with its partners at International Automotive and Custom, are taking performance enhancement to an exciting new level with the Remix Accord 2.0.

With the 2012 Accord V6 already producing a very respectable 271 horsepower with its 3.5L V6, the challenge for PASMAG was to crank up the performance, and enhance the car's winning style at the same time. To do so, a CT Engineering Supercharger now pushes peak horsepower well north of 300.  A Magnaflow stainless steel muffler and a custom stainless exhaust were also installed to allow the fumes to escape quickly and produce a throatier sound.

The focus then turned towards enhancing the Accord Coupe's muscular looks. The application of Matte Frozen Grey paint is accentuated with Black trim, creating a truly muscular and menacing appearance.  Twenty-inch Vossen VVS-CV3 alloy wheels with a matte black machined finish were have been installed and then wrapped in Kumho rubber, with P245/30/20s up front and P275/30/20 in the rear.

Other modification highlights include:

• Full Honda Factory Performance (HFP) body kit
• Eurolite HID low-beams and Philips Crystal Vision Ultra-Bright high beams
• Rotora Front Brakes
• BC Racing Coilovers
• Leather seat covers in both the front and rear
• Race shift knobs and pedals
• Philips LED lighting installed throughout the cabin.
• JBL GTO1004 4-channel amp featuring variable electronic crossover and bass boost
• Bazooka BTA10100FHC 10-inch Amplified Basstube
• JBL P660C 6.5-inch 2-way component speaker systems and a set of JBL GTO628 6.5-inch speakers surround the occupants with sound.

MotorTrend Drives the 2012 Honda Fit Sport

"This is probably the best car Honda builds." That seems to be the common phrase around our office when discussing the little silver 2012 Honda Fit we've been passing around for the last week and a half. The Fit obviously isn't the fastest or best-appointed Honda, but as far as accomplishing the job it was designed to do, it is hard to beat.

Introduced as a 2007 model, the Honda Fit set the standard for what buyers could expect in the subcompact car market. The first-generation Fit won a comparison right out of the gate against the 2007 Nissan Versa and Toyota Yaris. It won again in the summer of 2010, beating the then-brand-new Ford Fiesta. It drew praise for its great handling, near-perfect packaging, and excellent outward vision. All the things you would rank highly in a micro-sized people-mover."

For more information, visit MotorTrend's website @ http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/hatchbacks/1202_2012_honda_fit_first_test/

Odyssey: A Bad Choice

Following Honda's loss at a class action lawsuit filed by an angry Civic Hybrid driver who wasn't getting the mileage claimed by EPA estimates, Honda is again facing another class action lawsuit. This one is aimed at the power windows in most Honda models between 1994 and 2007 including the Pilot, Odyssey, Accord, Civic, CR-V, Element and Acura MDX models. One of the consumers filing the lawsuit claims that his 2002 Odyssey LX window fell into his door and Honda would not compensate him for his $400 repair and recall the vehicles affected. The class action suit claims that a defective piece of plastic meant to keep windows in place breaks under normal operating conditions and this defect poses a great hazard to drivers and passengers. 

Unfortunately, there may not be a good outcome for this deal as power windows in old vehicles often fail no matter which car maker you look at and this may not be Honda's problem, but moreso attributed through wear-and-tear, friction over 10+ years, weather-related corrosion. 

As you'd imagine, Honda will be taking on these consumers with their own lawyers. More to come ...

Odyssey: A Smart Choice

Honda's Odyssey Touring Elite was named by Parenting Magazine as the one of the year's most Smartest Family Cars. The Odyssey was voted Smartest by its ease of use, technological aids, family-friendly features including the BSI Information System and the DVD RES system. Look for the Odyssey in the February issue of Parenting Magazine. 

Meanwhile, the Odyssey has also won MotorWeek's Driver's Choice awards for the 6th time in the past 13 years. The decision was made with the help of the Odyssey's amazing fuel economy, the Odyssey's impeccable fun-to-drive abilities, the Odyssey's family-friendly features and the Odyssey's best possible safety ratings through the NHTSA and IIHS. 

2012 Acura ILX Photos

The 2.0L base model is shown in dark grey and medium blue, the 2.4L sport model is shown in black and the 1.5L IMA hybrid model is shown in silver. Enjoy! The 2012 ILX debuts this spring. 

2013 Acura RDX Debuts

Quick Facts:

• 3.5L V6 now making 273hp
• FWD models making 20/28mpg (city/highway), AWD models making 19/27mpg
• Available Technology Package

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 will deliver 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 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. 

2013 Acura ILX Debuts

2.0L 4-cylinder with 5AT

1.5 IMA Hybrid

2.4L 4-cylinder with 6MT

2.4L 4-cylinder with 6MT

1.5 IMA with CVT and Premium and Technology Package

Quick Facts:

• 3 distinct models, 4-cylinder with 5-speed automatic = 2.0L 4-cylinder engine making 150hp, 4-cylinder with 6-speed manual = 2.4L 4-cylinder engine making 200hp, Civic Hybrid's IMA with CVT = 1.5L 4-cylinder making 111hp
• Premium Package set up from base models on each engine, including leather seating surfaces, rearview camera
• Technology Package adds to the Premium Package with ELS Surround Sound System, Acura Navigation System with Real-Time Traffic

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 will deliver 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 will deliver 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 will deliver 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. 

Honda Unveils 2015 Japanese NSX

Which grille works better on this sportscar? The simplistic Honda trademark grille or the Acura toned-down plenum power grille? 

Get the Latest Acura Navigation DVD 2012

In the second series of our “how to” guides and hints and tips for Honda and Acura vehicle GPS map updates we have information on how you can update your Acura Navigation System (we previously told you how you can update your Honda GPS Maps).  You will need to purchase a new navigation DVD which contains all the latest routes, directions, new roads, highways, and business addresses – plus a database that includes millions of points of interest files including restaurant review and tourist attraction destinations.  

The Acura range of luxury motors have become one of the more popular vehicle brands in the United States over the last ten years, with the range including the CL, MDX, RDX, RL, TL, TSX, and ZDX models.  Many of these models let the driver purchase the Technology package which comes with a GPS embedded into the dashboard – including rear-view camera integration to help with reversing plus entertainment options and traffic notifications.  If you want to keep the maps up to date though you will need to purchase the new annual Acura Navigation DVD for 2012 and the latest disc was released in September of 2011.

Installing new Acura GPS Map Updates from Disc

If you do decide to purchase the new Acura Navi DVD then it’s very easy to install, and this is how you do it in three simple steps:

1.       First find the disc drive for your Acura GPS.  Most of the time the slot will be integrated into the dashboard itself below the navigation screen display, but on some older models before 2003 it will instead be located underneath the driver’s seat or even inside the glove box.

2.       Once the new disc is placed inside the drive, the display will ask you to enter your own unique serial number.  This will be printed onto the DVD’s packaging and case so make sure that you don’t lose it.

3.       The new map updates will now start to install automatically – please be aware that due to the large amount of data being installed onto the GPS hard-disc you could be waiting for as much as an hour for it to complete.

One word of warning when updating with the new Acura Navigation DVD – do not turn off the car ignition of the GPS device when installed the new disc because this could lead to a corrupted install – you may have to consult a qualified Acura engineer or mechanic in some cases if this happens.

Why Purchase Acura Navigation System Updates?

Aside from benefiting from any road changes that might have occurred in the United States since your last update, the new disc and an up to date GPS can actually save you money on fuel costs and CO2 emissions.  This is because it will automatically route you the shortest or quickest route – plus with traffic alerts it will suggest a different route if you are faced with traffic jams.  In traffic jams you use more fuel due to the stopping and starting driving style. 

Want More Information?

For further details on where you can buy the new 2012 Acura Navigation DVD and links to the cheapest online prices and deals, make sure you visit: www.acuranavigationdvd.com.  The website is run by Acura fans and enthusiasts and also includes a table which shows exactly how much money you can save every year based on the average American driving habits from 2011.