2014 Honda FIT CUV????

Hmmm, is Honda thinking of a FIT based CUV, say something like a Nissan Cube?!? Not sure what market this would 'Fit' into.... (I'm terrible, I know....)
Source;
http://autokavla.blogspot.ca/2011/12/2014-honda-fit-cuv-preview-futuro.html

Next Generation Honda FIT/Jazz Rendering from Autointrends.com

Latest ,most realistic and most beautiful rendering of 2014 Honda Jazz/Fit
Autointrends.com reported the speculation and rendering in January 2012.That time we posted computer generation image from the Mag-X which have sportyness and sharp line.Above of all Autointrends considers it too futurelistic for the car that schedule to arrive next year.

Now,We got Latest rendering from same magazine.But this time the image is more realistic (actually it the most realistic that autointrends have ever seen).It look very sporty, well proportion and improve from current car’s design.The headligh will be larger,the bumper will have more muscle.The line at side of the car will be more complex and have 2nd line at below of the door.The opera’s window and rear pillar will look like similar styling to current car.

The size of the car will be similar to current car.The 1.3 liter engine will improve very much in fuel economy from 24.5 km./liter to 30 km./liter or even 32 km./liter in gasoline/electric version.The economy which save more because the use of CVT,Better aerodynamic and reduce weight of the car.

Source;
http://autointrends.com/2012/04/05/latest-most-realistic-and-most-beautiful-rendering-of-2014-honda-jazzfit/

Honda Unveils 2013 Crosstour Concept at New York Auto Show

Not a dramatic change stylisitically speaking, but I didn't expect one for this Minor Model Change.... however different story for feature upgrades!
04/04/2012 - NEW YORK
Honda unveiled the 2013 Crosstour Concept today at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS), providing the first official glimpse of a more capable-looking exterior styling direction for the luxurious mid-size CUV. Set to go on sale this fall, the Crosstour's defined lines will resonate more clearly with the active consumers that form the largest portion of the premium crossover segment. The 2013 Crosstour V-6 will feature improved fuel economy thanks to its new 6-speed automatic transmission, while both four-cylinder and V-6 versions will benefit from a host of safety and visibility upgrades.

"Fueled by a combination of versatility, luxury, and efficiency, owners have demonstrated remarkable devotion to the Honda Crosstour," said John Mendel, executive vice president of sales for American Honda. "The 2013 Crosstour Concept shows how Honda will strengthen the styling and add even more content to one of the most efficient offerings in the class."

Concept Design
The Crosstour Concept features a more capable, SUV-like styling direction for Honda's mid-size crossover. A more aggressive and athletic front end, new contrasting moldings on the lower door garnish, and cleaner front and rear fascias anchored by the rugged look of finished sill plates provide more visual strength to the Crosstour Concept. Adding to the SUV-like stance, a new rear-fender finish helps give the Concept a more solidly planted appearance.

Up front, the new integrated foglamp treatment is complemented by a slotted finish beneath the headlights, which helps integrate the new, bolder grille. The revised tailgate sports a more horizontal design to add visual width to the sculpted lines at the rear of the Crosstour.

The Crosstour Concept is coated in a fresh hue, similar to one of two new shades that will appear on the 2013 Crosstour. Anchoring the Crosstour Concept are unique 5-spoke 19-inch wheels, while the 2013 Honda Crosstour will feature new 18-inch alloy wheels.

Though not on display in the Crosstour Concept, the luxurious interior of the Honda Crosstour will see even further refinement for 2013, including heavily revised trim materials, the addition of an 8-inch, in-dash information display, keyless ignition, and steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters on V-6 models.

Advanced and Efficient Powertrains
The Crosstour will offer two powertrains for the 2013 model year: a re-engineered and more powerful 3.5-liter, 24-valve, SOHC, i-VTEC V-6 engine, or a 2.4-liter i-VTEC inline four-cylinder engine. The 2013 Crosstour V-6 models will feature a 6-speed automatic transmission and utilize Honda Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®) technology to achieve class-leading V-6 fuel economy1 along with an overall improvement in fuel economy compared to the outgoing model. Also available on Crosstour EX-L V-6 models is Honda's Real Time 4WDTM system, which sends power to all four wheels when front-wheel slippage is detected.

The four-cylinder Crosstour models are powered by a 2.4-liter, 16-valve DOHC i-VTEC® engine producing 192 horsepower at 7,000 RPM and 162 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 RPM. To maximize efficiency, a 5-speed automatic transmission with Grade Logic Control is standard equipment.

Safety and Technology Innovations
The 2013 Crosstour will introduce numerous new safety features, and is targeted to earn top scores in the federal government's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). The next Crosstour will be available with Honda's 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 unexpectedly out of its lane or to warn drivers of a potential collision in front of them.

The 2013 Crosstour will provide a host of visibility enhancements, and will be one of the first models to receive the Honda-exclusive LaneWatch™ blind-spot display, which uses a camera system mounted on the passenger mirror for an enhanced view of the passenger-side roadway. Standard equipment to further enhance visibility on the 2013 Crosstour will also include re-shaped rear headrests, a rearview camera and an ExpandedView Driver's Mirror.

Standard Crosstour convenience features include an automatic dimming rearview mirror, auto-on/off headlights, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® and USB audio interface. Other available features on the 2013 Crosstour will include a hard-drive based navigation system, Pandora internet radio interface, XM satellite radio and an SMS text-to-speech function.

Sales, Accolades and Manufacturing History
First launched in 2009, and now available with both V-6 and four-cylinder engines, the Crosstour remains one of the most versatile choices in the midsize crossover segment, and earned the distinction of J.D. Power and Associates' "Highest Ranked Midsize Crossover/SUV in Initial Quality" in their 2011 Initial Quality Study SM (IQS). The Crosstour is produced2 at Honda's East Liberty Auto Plant in East Liberty, Ohio.

Source;
http://www.hondanews.com/channels/corporate-headlines/releases/honda-unveils-2013-crosstour-concept-at-new-york-auto-show

Fake car makes room for a fake ASIMO to be your fake driving companion

by Paul Miller

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

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

Honda to Debut 2013 Honda Crosstour Concept at New York Auto Show

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Takeros Honda Fit Turbo Gets Wide and Wild: 2012 Tokyo Auto Salon

By Colum Wood of Autoguide

Known for modifying wagons like the Honda Odyssey and Nisaan Stegea, Japanese tuner Takero’s recently expanded its product offering to include the Honda Fit – with impressive results. First came aerodynamic components, followed by suspension parts, now Takero’s has revealed a wide body kit for the Fit at the Tokyo Auto Salon, plus a turbocharger setup.

Head-on the Takero’s Fit still looks impressive, but the widebody sub-compact looks a little absurd from any other angle. The obvious advantage, however, is the ability to fit wider tires for more grip, with some massive 225/35/18 rubber on this machine. And that extra tire is no doubt necessary to help put down the extra power generated by the new turbocharger setup. Unfortunately, Takero’s hasn’t released any specs on the kit, but we’d expect something close to the 180 hp mark.

Source;
http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2012/01/takeros-honda-fit-turbo-gets-wide-and-wild-2012-tokyo-auto-salon.html

Honda Shows 2012 Tokyo Auto Salon the Flash Box, the Freed Wa, the Freed Spike Transporter and the Beat Auto Salon Special.

by By Paul Lienert, Inside Line

Just the Facts:
-At the 2012 Tokyo Auto Salon, Honda is showing a variety of customized and "accessorized" vehicles for the Japanese market.
-Honda's TAS display includes the Flash Box, the Freed Wa, the Freed Spike -Transporter and the Beat Auto Salon Special.
-The auto salon is Japan's answer to SEMA.

TOKYO — Honda is having a rollicking good time at this year's 2012 Tokyo Auto Salon, with the outrageously outfitted Flash Box and the delightfully named Freed Wa and Freed Spike Transporter.

The Tokyo auto salon, which is basically Japan's answer to the annual SEMA show in Las Vegas, runs this weekend, featuring a wild mix of production, concept, tuner, racing, prototype, customized and "accessorized" vehicles.

Honda said its display was designed to "present an exciting variety of approaches to customization while conveying the joy of mobility and the appeal of motor sports."

The Honda stand features the Flash Box, which is based on the new N Box Custom minicar that was released in December in Japan. The Flash Box gets custom paint and employs LEDs and reflective decals to adorn the exterior and interior of the boxy hatchback.

The Freed Wa — wa refers to traditional Japanese culture — is based on the Freed Hybrid compact minivan and showcases a lacquered exterior with a four-seasons interior motif.
Honda Racing has created another Freed spin-off, the Freed Spike Transporter, which was designed to haul off-road motorcycles.

Finally, an Auto Salon special edition of Honda's now-defunct Beat micro-roadster wears a special lower skirt and a custom paint job.

Inside Line says: The Japanese love their custom cars — the wilder, the better.

Source;

http://www.insideline.com/honda/honda-creates-best-japanese-car-name-freed-spike-transporter.html

Acura ILX Concept Video Up Close and Personal

Autoblog: Acura NSX Concept at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show

By Jeremy Korzeniewski
As any Acura diehard would be quick to tell you, a revival of the iconic NSX is long overdue. In true Honda fashion, the automaker decided that, if it was going to go to the trouble of producing a legitimate sportscar, it was going to take on the very best in the industry. Suffice it to say, the NSX delivered the goods.

We now have a new concept to drool over. While the last conceptual sportscar Acura showed off left NSX purists with a sour taste in their mouths – a V10 engine mounted up front was a far cry from the lightweight and high-revving mid-engine V6 of the original – we have a strong feeling that nobody is going to turn their noses up at this new NSX Concept.

Like its forebear, this latest take on the NSX promises to shed excess weight through the use of a high-tech platform made from the latest lightweight materials. Power, as with the original, will come from a V6 mounted behind the two occupants that sends its power to the rear wheels; except this time, it will be augmented by an electric motor.

Acura's latest SH-AWD incorporates one electric motor in a dual-clutch transmission, forming a hybrid setup. Additionally, two more motors can instantly send negative or positive torque to the front wheels during cornering for improved handling and efficiency, and the whole package can be tailored via software. Acura says the new all-wheel-drive system will provide "supercar acceleration while offering outstanding efficiency."

We're not so sure environmentalists are ready to accept the notion of an eco-friendly supercar, but it's clear Acura's parents at Honda are keen to keep emissions and fuel usage in check. "In this new era, even as we focus on the fun to drive spirit of the NSX, I think a supercar must respond positively to environmental responsibilities," says Takanobu Ito, president and CEO of Honda Motor Co.

Acura isn't saying how much horsepower its V6 engine and three electric motors will amount to, but we're not expecting outlandish figures. The automaker says it's aiming for an "extremely favorable power-to-weight ratio." We like the sound of that, and hope the production version, which is expected within the next three years, delivers on this laudable promise.

Source;
http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/09/acura-nsx-concept-detroit-2012/

Acura Debuts Three New Vehicles at the 2012 North American International Auto Show

New ILX compact sports sedan to feature Acura's first hybrid powertrain;All-new RDX sport utility vehicle features new engine and all-wheel-drive system; NSX Concept to be developed and built in America with new performance hybrid system

Representing the leading edge of a wave of new products and technologies, Acura today unveiled three new vehicles at the North American International Auto Show, including a concept version of the all-new gateway to the Acura brand, the ILX luxury compact sedan; a prototype of the 2013 RDX crossover sport utility vehicle; and the NSX Concept, which presages the direction for Acura's next-generation supercar.

Acura also announced that the next-generation NSX will feature Acura's innovative new Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® technology and that the vehicle will be developed by Honda R&D Americas and manufactured in Ohio.

"Over the next 24 months the Acura brand will unleash a series of new models that will remake our product lineup and shake up the luxury market," said Jeff Conrad, vice president and general manager of Acura. "Acura will once again defy conventional wisdom to become one of the top luxury brands by creating luxury vehicles based on our own unique values."

Debuting three new models in Detroit heralds the beginning of Acura's second 25 years as a premium luxury-performance automobile brand.

Acura ILX Concept

The Acura ILX Concept is the precursor to an all-new Acura luxury compact sedan scheduled for launch in Spring 2012. To be positioned as the gateway to the Acura brand, the ILX will feature three different powertrains, including Acura's first-ever gas-electric hybrid.

"First time luxury buyers place the highest value on exterior styling, affordability and environmental issues and that's a virtual definition of 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, sporty and aerodynamically efficient, the exterior of the all-new Acura ILX combines luxury, performance and efficiency. A beautifully styled luxury sedan, the ILX Concept has a compact, yet formal proportion, targeting a very professional image. The Acura ILX delivers both, with a greenhouse that provides excellent visibility, an aerodynamic low and wide stance, the ILX is immediately recognizable as an Acura

The lineup of ILX models will include an entry-level model powered by a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine; a high-performance model with a 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission; and a 1.5-liter gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain, Acura's first-ever hybrid offering.

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 smart entry keyless access system 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, different trim levels (that will include a Technology Package), multiple transmission choices, and excellent standard safety features— including Acura's acclaimed Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ body structure, front, side and side-curtain airbags, 4-channel anti-lock brakes and Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA™). Acura anticipates that the ILX will achieve top ratings in both NHTSA and IIHS crash safety testing.

The new ILX will be manufactured exclusively by Honda Manufacturing of Indiana, LLC, in its Greensburg, Ind. plant— one of only three plants in the world to receive J.D. Power and Associates' 2011 Platinum Award for outstanding quality.

Acura RDX

Shown as a prototype version of the 2013 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, scheduled to launch in Spring 2012, will 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 a 6-speed automatic transmission with a new lock-up torque converter. The RDX also gets a new, lighter all-wheel-drive system that provides the required performance and safety with increased efficiency.

With anticipated EPA fuel economy ratings of 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, front-wheel-drive models of the 2013 RDX are expected to offer the best fuel economy of any gasoline-powered luxury SUV in its class.

The RDX exterior incorporates a sleek, more aerodynamically efficient body, evolving RDX from a sporty, compact SUV to a more formal look with a longer, sculpted hood and styling that is more elegant and sophisticated to match the Acura philosophy of timeless, beautiful design. Chassis updates include a longer wheelbase and wider track, all-new Amplitude Reactive Dampers, and a new motion adaptive electronic power steering system.

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 a power rear tailgate make the RDX interior even more accommodating and flexible.

As with the ILX, the 2013 RDX will receive a host of new technologies including Pandora internet radio interface, SMS text message feature, a smart entry keyless access system, pushbutton start, and a three view rear camera. An available Technology Package will provide 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. New for 2013, the 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.
Acura anticipates that the RDX will achieve top ratings in both NHTSA and IIHS crash safety testing.

Production of the new RDX will move to the East Liberty, Ohio plant of Honda of America Mfg., Inc.— home to one of the four top assembly lines in North America in the J.D. Power and Associates' 2011 Initial Quality Study (IQS). The first generation RDX has been built at the Marysville, Ohio auto plant, an IQS award winner for both of its assembly lines.

Acura NSX Concept

The dynamically-styled NSX Concept gives an indication of the next great performance vehicle from the Acura brand. Making use of lightweight materials and a mid-mounted V-6 engine, the NSX Concept employs several new technologies for Acura, including application of Acura's innovative new Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® (Super Handling All Wheel Drive™) hybrid system.

Utilizing an unique 2 Electric Motor Drive Unit with a bilateral torque adjustable control system, the all-new hybrid all-wheel-drive system can instantly generate negative or positive torque to the front wheels during cornering. Acura anticipates the new Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® will deliver handling performance unmatched by previous AWD systems. In addition to the handling benefits of the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® system, a powerful next-generation VTEC® V-6 engine with direct-injection works in concert with a dual clutch transmission with built-in electric motor to create supercar acceleration while offering outstanding efficiency.

"This Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system will make NSX the ultimate expression of Acura's idea to create synergy between man and machine," said Takanobu Ito, president and CEO of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. "The NSX will make the driver one with the car to enhance dynamic driving abilities without getting in the way."

While most supercars opt for brute force delivered from a large engine, the NSX Concept champions the true racing philosophy of an extremely favorable power-to-weight ratio.
"Like the first NSX, we will again express high performance through engineering efficiency," added Ito, who led the development of Acura's first NSX supercar. "In this new era, even as we focus on the fun to drive spirit of the NSX, I think a supercar must respond positively to environmental responsibilities."

The new Acura supercar, expected to debut in the next three years, will be developed by an engineering team led by Honda R&D Americas, Inc., and manufactured in Ohio, at a yet to be named facility.

About AcuraAcura 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. To view a webcast of the unveiling all three new Acura vehicles from the North America International Auto Show in Detroit, visit http://acuranews.com/live/2012naias-acura.

Source;

http://www.hondanews.com/channels/corporate-headlines/releases/acura-debuts-three-new-vehicles-at-the-2012-north-american-international-auto-show/photos/2013-acura-rdx-prototype

Honda Chopper Concept

Honda Motors unveiled an all new concept chopper earlier this week. From just looking at this concept bike, you will realize that this is not a motorcycle from this world, but from the future. Honda engineers, as always, have perfected a masterpiece. As it is a concept motorcycle, Honda Chopper electric will not go into production ever, as of now.

Honda Chopper concept electric is powered by two electric Motor fitted independently on both wheels. Don't worry, they work perfectly well together. We do not know the tech specs of this futuristic Honda bike, which according to many is a genius work of art and engineering design. This Honda electric chopper is designed by Mr Peter Norris, who we think is a big Star Wars fan.

As it is powered by electric motors, the Honda electric chopper does not pump harmful fumes into our environment, giving owners a new feel of Pride. Though a futuristic chopper, this Honda superbike will be a performance bike with a decent acceleration and topspeed. As of now we wonder, how this motorcycle would maneuver in city traffic, or for that matter take a turn, any guesses?

Source;

http://www.rushlane.com/honda-concept-chopper-electric-bike-is-really-a-motorcycle-from-the-future-photos-1225877.html

Acura NSX Approved for Production! Concept to Appear at 2012 Detroit Show

Much to the delight of rabid, froth-mouthed fans—and more than eight years of teasing on Acura’s part—a proper second-generation NSX sports car is on its way. The concept version debuts at the Detroit auto show in early January. (You can dive into the NSX 2.0’s decade-long gestation here, from its shifting engine placement to prototype spy photos to being repurposed as a race car. And those are just the tip of the iceberg.)

The first NSX was a technological tour de force when it arrived in 1990. The mid-engine sports car packed a dual-overhead-cam V-6 under an all-aluminum wrapper. The engine made 270 hp, a staggering number for a six-cylinder engine at the time. For all that, it was the car’s handling that was the most impressive—piloting an NSX is like having the controls hard-wired to your gray matter.

Acura has decided that the new NSX will again use a mid-engine layout and that it will follow the first car’s general philosophy: The second-gen model will be relatively lightweight, efficient, and make use of lots of new technology.

The company is still quiet about powertrain specifics, but we can offer some educated speculation. The engine will again be a V-6, but this time the gasoline engine will play a role in an ensemble hybrid-electric drivetrain. One or more electric motors likely will power the front wheels, and translation services between the gasoline engine and the tarmac will probably be provided by Honda’s new seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. If this all sounds familiar, it’s because you read our own Mike Austin’s piece on Acura’s new hybrid AWD system. The impression we have is that the NSX’s powertrain will be inspired by the front-engine system Austin recently sampled in an Accord.

Styling-wise, the NSX concept we saw isn’t terribly far off from the sports car that Tony Stark (that’s Iron Man’s civilian name—or “Robert Downey, Jr.” if you want to get technical about it) drives in the upcoming Avengers movie. Proportions are similar to those of the original NSX: There’s a short, low hood, a relatively big canopy over the cabin, and a low, wide rear end. (The original car is pictured above—Acura hasn’t released official images of the concept yet.) This one’s also got side scoops to feed air to the engine.

When the car is unveiled at the Detroit show, Acura’s spokespeople are going to say this is a concept only. They may even say a decision is still yet to be made. But we hear it’s already received a green light for production, and will arrive sometime in 2012 or early 2013. It won’t be cheap, but Acura has no intention of approaching Lexus LFA pricing, either. We’d guess on a sticker in the $90,000-to-$130,000 range.

Source;
http://blog.caranddriver.com/acura-nsx-approved-for-production-concept-to-appear-at-2012-detroit-show/

2013 Honda Accord Coupe Concept to Make World Debut at the 2012 North American International Auto Show

12/11/2011 - TORRANCE, Calif.
A concept vehicle revealing the styling direction of the next-generation Honda Accord Coupe will debut at the 2012 North American International Auto Show January 10, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today.
The Accord Coupe Concept will convey the dynamic and aggressive profile of the ninth-generation 2013 Honda Accord set to go on sale in the fall of 2012. John Mendel, American Honda executive vice president of sales, will introduce the concept vehicle at a press conference, which will also be broadcast live via webcast at http://hondanews.com/live/2012naias-honda (link will be live Jan. 10).
A leader in style, performance, safety, efficiency and value since the introduction of the first generation model in 1976, the Accord remains one of the best-selling cars in America. The 2012 Accord was recently named to Car and Driver Magazine's '10Best' list for a record 26th time and was ranked as having the highest initial quality in its segment in the J.D. Power and Associates 2011 Initial Quality Study (IQS). The introduction of the ninth-generation Accord marks 30 years of U.S. production of the model at the Marysville Auto Plant in Marysville, Ohio, the first Japanese car assembly plant in the U.S.
For high-resolution photos and media information on the current Honda lineup, please visit http://www.hondanews.com/. After the press conference, images and video of the Accord Coupe Concept will also be available for download on the site.


Source;
http://www.hondanews.com/channels/corporate-headlines/releases/2013-honda-accord-coupe-concept-to-make-world-debut-at-the-2012-north-american-international-auto-show

Honda to Begin Sales of N BOX, First Model of New Mini-vehicle N Series

TOKYO, Japan, November 30, 2011 - Honda Motor Co., Ltd. today announced it will begin sales of the N BOX, the first model of the new mini-vehicle N Series, on December 16, 2011. Honda created the N Series with a passion to create the best and new vehicle for Japan, and a newly-designed platform and powertrain were adopted for the N Series models.

Honda, which has great experience in producing minivans, developed the N BOX with the goal of creating a "mini-minivan," condensing the attractiveness and values of a minivan into a mini-vehicle. Featuring an innovative platform, the N BOX realizes spaciousness, comfort and economic efficiency beyond the concept of a mini-vehicle.

Through the combination of the new platform, the center-tank layout, and the newly-developed powertrain, the N BOX features one of the largest cabin spaces*1 among all mini-vehicles in the market. This new platform embodies Honda's M/M (man maximum/machine minimum)*2 concept, the origin of Honda's automobile design. The center-tank layout is Honda's unique packaging technology, first adopted for the Fit, which innovated the concept of a "small car.

"The newly-developed engine and transmission enabled the N BOX to realize both dynamic driving and excellent fuel economy. With the adoption of the idle stop mechanism, which has been adapted from hybrid vehicles, the N BOX realized top level fuel economy in its class*3.

Customers can choose from several types and packages to accommodate their preferences. In addition to the base grade, which offers the spaciousness and sense of security suitable for a family with children, N BOX Custom is offered for customers who seek a vehicle with strong individuality and a sense of presence.
*1
Honda internal research, after the current mini-vehicle standards were applied (as of November 30, 2011)
*2
Honda's "man maximum, machine minimum" concept is a basic approach to Honda car design calling for maximizing the space available for people and minimizing the space required for mechanical components
*3
Honda internal research, "super-height" class (as of November 30, 2011)

Key Features of N BOXComfortable cabin space beyond the concept of a mini-vehicle:
・One of the largest cabin spaces among all mini-vehicles in the market was realized through the combination of the long cabin length, shortest engine room length among all mini-vehicles*4 and the low-floor design made possible with the center-tank layout.
*4 Honda internal research (as of November 30, 2011)

Ease-of-use beyond customers' expectations:
・An easy-to-operate and versatile seating arrangement was realized by maximizing the benefit of the center-tank layout. With a low floor and large opening the tailgate offers excellent convenience for loading luggage.Sense of security and visibility beyond the mini-vehicle category:
・In addition to realizing the same eye height as a minivan, installation of mirrors which help eliminate blind spots around the left-front wheel, left-rear wheel, and lower rear made it easier to pull up closer to an object on the side or to park.New powertrain realizing both top class fuel economy and excellent output performance:
・The newly-developed DOHC engine and the newly-developed CVT (continuously variable transmission) with high power efficiency realize both driving performance which enables the driver to enjoy a stress-free experience during everyday urban driving and long-distance travel as well as the class-leading fuel economy of 22.2km/L*5.
・N BOX Custom adopts a high performance turbo charger, which is combined with the newly-developed DOHC engine to generate maximum torque from a low-speed range of 2,600rpm and realize powerful acceleration.
*5 N BOX and N BOX Custom FWD vehicles (excluding turbo model) measured in JC08 mode (Testing by Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism)

Newly-designed body which pursues a lightweight body and high efficiency:
・A highly efficient frame was realized by reviewing every step of the manufacturing processes. The adoption of the most advanced production technologies, such as the world's first tailored blank and hot stamping of molded trim, to help increase the tensile strength and reduced the weight by approximately 10%*6.
・Conventional welding methods were reviewed and an inner frame was adopted for the first time in Japan, which resulted in the reduction of the number of parts and significantly increasing binding rate.
*6 Honda internal research, compared to the previous models

Newly-designed chassis that realized a sense of security and excellent fuel economy:
・Compared to conventional Honda mini-vehicles, N BOX's stability during driving was improved due to the long wheelbase. In addition, newly-designed suspensions significantly improved driving and riding comfort.High safety performance and enhanced safety features:
・Class-leading omni-directional collision safety performance was realized with the newly-designed engine and new load distribution structure.
・VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist) system is standard equipment on all types.
・HSA (Hill Start Assist) that temporarily prevents the vehicle from rolling backward when starting on an upward incline, is installed as standard equipment on all types.
・Driver-side i-SRS airbag system (with continuously staged inflation) and SRS airbag system for front passenger are standard equipment on all types.
・Combined with the front seat i-side airbag system, the side curtain airbag system which helps mitigate head impact in a side collision will be available on select model types.
・The impact-mitigating headrests in the front seats which are designed to help mitigate the likelihood of a neck injury in the event of collision, and the interior which protects occupants' heads from impact are adopted.Environmental performance:
・All types are certified by Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism as complying with the 2005 - 75% emissions standard and comply with the 2010 + 25% fuel economy standard.
・More than 90 percent of the entire vehicle is recyclable*7.
*7 Calculated based on the "Definition of and Guideline for Calculating the Percentage of Recyclable Materials in New Automobiles" (Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, Inc., 1998)

Source;
http://www.hondanews.info/news/en/auto/4111130eng-nbox

Honda Small Sports EV Concept

Here's another pic of the Honda Sports EV Concept.

Source;
http://visions-autos.sport24.com/668215/Honda-Small-Sports-EV-Concept-2011-et-Coupe-Honda-Design/

Honda Small Sports EV Concept teased ahead of Tokyo debut

At the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show this year, Honda’s booth will carry a theme of “What makes people feel good?”

“Honda will propose an exciting and thrilling mobility life of the future that it envisions as a company providing personal mobility to people all around the world,” the company said in a statement. “The display will include a lineup of the next-generation electromotive concept models including two-, three- and four-wheeled commuter vehicles designed for easy and fun mobility in future cities, mid-to-long distance commuters designed to enrich life and enhance the freedom and fun of mobility, and sporty models that pursue the joy of driving/riding.”

One of the most exciting vehicles on display will be the Small Sports EV Concept (tentative name). Honda said the study shows a “next-generation EV sports model which maximizes the fun of driving while achieving excellent environmental performance.”

It seems the Japanese automaker is hinting that the Small Sports EV Concept could be a new take on the Beat, a midengine 660cc sports car that was sold in Japan in the early ’90s.

More details will be announced at the show on Nov. 30.
- By: Omar Rana

Source;
http://www.egmcartech.com/2011/11/09/honda-small-sports-ev-concept-teased-ahead-of-tokyo-debut/

Honda Intelligent Horse Among 2011 L.A. Auto Show Design Challenge Competitors

By Anita Lienert, Correspondent Published Nov 2, 2011

Just the Facts:
The Honda Intelligent Horse, Hyundai Stratus Sprinter, Mercedes Silver Arrow, Smart 341 Parkour, Subaru Horizon and Maybach Berline are set to duke it out at the 2011 L.A. Auto Show Design Challenge.
Designers were charged with creating Hollywood's next hottest movie car.
The winner will be announced November 17.

LOS ANGELES — The Honda Intelligent Horse, Hyundai Stratus Sprinter, Mercedes Silver Arrow, Smart 341 Parkour, Subaru Horizon and Maybach Berline are set to duke it out at the 2011 L.A. Auto Show Design Challenge.

The cars are inspired by vampires, Cinderella, a classic cowboy movie and crash-test dummies, say show organizers. Designers were charged with creating Hollywood's next hottest movie car.
The winner will be announced on November 17.

The Honda IH or Intelligent Horse is at the heart of a futuristic action-adventure movie called High Noon. "The Honda IH was inspired by the legend and material remains of an ancient creature called the horse and brought to life with advanced technology," said show organizers in a statement. It is the work of Honda Research and Development Americas.

The Hyundai Stratus Sprinter is the centerpiece of a vampire tale called Countess of Siberia. The vehicle has a "magical stealth force" that renders it invisible. It is the work of Hyundai Design North America.

The Mercedes Silver Arrow is the conveyance of two "enlightened" crash dummies who are pitted against the evil "Dr. Barrier" in an unnamed movie. It is inspired by the W125 series, a Silberpfeil racecar of the late 1930s and the Uhlenhaut SLR from the '50s. It is the work of Mercedes-Benz Research & Development North America.

The Smart 341 Parkour, which features a "fly mode" and a "climb mode" that allows it to climb skyscrapers, is the work of Mercedes-Benz Advanced Design Germany. The unnamed movie features a reporter looking for a scoop.

The Subaru Horizon stars in the action-thriller Divided. It can withstand strong electromagnetic fields, chemical imbalances, scorching heat and raging storms. It is the work of Subaru Design Studio Tokyo.

The Maybach Berline ferries a modern-day Cinderella in a romantic drama. It gets gullwing doors with oversized privacy glass, retractable stairs and a "Royal Lounge." It is the work of the Mercedes-Benz Interior Design Studio in Germany.

Inside Line says: Still pretty hard to beat Steve McQueen's 1968 Mustang GT in Bullitt.

Source;
http://www.insideline.com/honda/honda-intelligent-horse-among-2011-la-auto-show-design-challenge-competitors.html

2012 Honda Civic Si Wows At SEMA Show

Limited-edition Honda Factory Performance kit unveiled and Honda Performance Development reveals new grassroots racing program for the Civic Si
11/01/2011 - LAS VEGAS
Seven modified 2012 Civic Si Coupes and Sedans are featured prominently in the Honda booth at the 2011 SEMA Show, which opens today. The all-new 2012 Civic Si Coupe and Civic Si Sedan emphasize the performance potential of the Civic lineup and represent great platforms for vehicle personalization. Several significant vehicles are being unveiled at the show, including a 2012 Civic Si Coupe equipped with a limited-edition Honda Factory Performance™ (HFP™) package, the Honda Performance Development, Inc. (HPD) Compass360 Racing HPD 2012 Civic Si Coupe Racecar, the Accord Coupe HFP Concept and several vehicles equipped with Honda Genuine Accessories.

“The Honda Civic was instrumental in the first import-tuner movement in the U.S. during the ‘80s,” said Bruce Smith, vice president of Service and Technical Operations for American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “The all-new Civic Si builds on that proud history by offering inspiring performance, improved fuel economy and a great platform for personalization.”

Show-goers will get the first look at the 2012 Civic Si Coupe fitted with a limited-edition HFP package. Limited to only 500 complete kits and on sale today at Honda dealers in the U.S., the package includes: high-performance springs, reducing ride height by 15 mm; high-performance dampers tuned for enhanced road handling and decreased body roll; 18x7 inch HFP Alloy Wheels; full HFP aerodynamic body kit; HFP carpet floor mats; red ambient interior illumination; and, HFP emblems. All of the painted parts will come color-matched to each of the seven available Civic Si Coupe colors.

After unveiling the Compass360 Racing HPD 2012 Civic Si Coupe Racecar, HPD provided details about its new racing performance parts program for the all-new Civic Coupe. Earlier this year, HPD began sales of Civic bodies-in-white, also on display. For builders of racecars, starting their build with a body-in-white represents significant cost and labor savings when compared to the purchase and conversion of a fully-equipped production car. Sales of the body-in-white began in July, and HPD has delivered a number to licensed race teams thus far, priced at $3,500 each. Additionally, HPD will soon offer HPD-designed parts and branded racing components for the new Civic through the Honda Racing Line. These racing parts are tailored for use in the SCCA World Challenge and Grand Am's Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge. They will be available early in 2012, and full details and pricing will be available at that time.

Combining the expertise of HPD and the styling and performance history of HFP, the Accord Coupe V6 HFP Concept features a full suite of currently-available HFP components. HPD guided the creation of the “concept,” which includes a supercharger and performance air intake and exhaust systems. Building upon a stock 3.5-liter V6 engine, the supercharged engine is estimated to produce 335 hp and 285 ft. lbs of torque (up 64 hp and 34 ft. lbs vs. stock car). This vehicle was modified to demonstrate the performance potential of the Accord V6 coupe and to gauge consumer interest. Honda has no current production plans for the concept.

Sporting available Honda Genuine Accessories, the 2012 Civic Si Sedan shows that performance and style can come with four doors. It features 18x7 inch HFP alloy wheels, all-season floor mats, trunk tray, cargo net, cargo hook and splash guards. All Honda Genuine Accessories, including HFP components, offer a 3-year/36,000 mile warranty like the Civic itself, if they are purchased and installed at the time of new vehicle purchase, and are engineered to be fully compatible with each Honda vehicle.

Nestled amongst two previously-seen Honda-modified CR-Z sport hybrids, the HPD CR-Z Hybrid R Concept and the CR-Z with MUGEN accessories, is a stand-alone HPD CR-Z engine concept equipped with a supercharger. This 1.5-liter engine concept builds upon HPD’s experience with the turbocharged HPD CR-Z Racer that competed at the 25 Hours of Thunderhill last year and represents HPD’s continued exploration of the performance potential of the CR-Z.

Reaching out to the import community, Honda invited three independent vehicle tuners to build and display their Civic Si concepts at the SEMA Show. Tuners were asked to push the limits of performance and style with their builds, and the vehicles on display demonstrate the personalized potential of the Si Coupe and Sedan. Following last year’s amazing CR-Z build, Bisimoto Engineering delivered a 1004 hp version of the Civic Si Coupe. Having previously built two generations of Fit project vehicles, Tjin Edition brings its own take on the Civic Si Sedan, showing that style and performance can coexist with kids and a family. And making its Honda SEMA Show debut, Fox Marketing pulled out all of the stops to create a wide-body, turbo-charged version of the Civic Si Coupe.

Vehicles on Display at the Honda Booth
From American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
2012 Civic Si Coupe with limited-edition HFP™ package
2012 Civic Si Sedan with Honda Genuine Accessories
2012 Accord Coupe V6 HFP™ Concept
2011 CR-Z with MUGEN Accessories
2012 Civic Si Coupe modified by blink-182 for the Honda Civic Tour

Historic Civic models from the American Honda Collection
2000 Civic Si Challenge winner (by Superstreet magazine)
1975 Civic 3dr

From Honda Performance Development, Inc.
2012 HPD Compass
360 World Challenge Spec Civic Si racecar
2012 Civic Coupe body-in-white
2011 CR-Z Hybrid R Concept HPD CR-Z engine concept with supercharger (engine only)

Aftermarket Project Vehicles
Bisimoto Engineering 2012 Civic Si Coupe
Fox Marketing 2012 Civic Si Coupe
Tjin Edition 2012 Civic Si Sedan

Source;
http://www.hondanews.com/channels/corporate-headlines/releases/2012-honda-civic-si-wows-at-sema-show

Honda to Debut Two All-New Models at the Los Angeles Auto Show

10/24/2011 - TORRANCE, Calif.

Honda will debut two all-new models, the 2012 CR-V and 2013 Fit EV, at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 16th at 1:05 pm PST. As one of the best-selling SUV's in the United States, the fourth-generation 2012 CR-V will showcase new exterior and interior styling, improved fuel economy and added technology features. The all electric zero-emissions Fit EV concept vehicle debuted at last year's Los Angeles Auto Show and the production model will be revealed this year.

The Honda press conference at the Los Angeles Auto Show can be viewed live via webcast at www.hondanews.com.

For high-resolution photos and media information on Honda's current product offerings, please visit www.hondanews.com. Consumer information is available at automobiles.honda.com.

Source;
http://www.hondanews.com/channels/corporate-headlines/releases/honda-to-debut-two-all-new-models-at-the-los-angeles-auto-show

2012 Honda CR-V Concept Makes World Debut

Concept version of upcoming production model reveals dynamic, new look
09/22/2011 - ANAHEIM, Calif.
The 2012 Honda CR-V Concept made its public debut at the Orange County International Auto Show in Anaheim, Calif., today, and introduced the styling direction for the all-new, fourth-generation CR-V. The 2012 CR-V is set to go on sale in the United States by the end of the year and will debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November.

"The 2012 CR-V Concept strongly hints at the more dynamic and refined look of the upcoming model," said John Mendel, executive vice president of sales for American Honda. "As the best-selling SUV in each of the past four years, the 2012 CR-V promises to build on its highly successful formula with even more style, innovative features and higher fuel economy."

The CR-V Concept embraces a distinctive and bold styling direction for the top-selling1 SUV in the United States. Compared to the current-generation CR-V, the concept model takes on a more aggressive stance with deeper sculpting of the body lines and a bolder front fascia. The front bumper's smooth-flowing lines are highlighted by a horizontal three-bar grille and deeply set multi-reflector headlights. The lower front bumper wraps smartly upward to convey SUV capability with a generous approach angle, while the lower front bumper design now integrates more smoothly with the fascia for improved aerodynamics.

The CR-V's signature vertical rear taillights remain for 2012 with a more three-dimensional style that wraps further into the design of the vehicle. The CR-V Concept's large 5-spoke machined alloy wheels and bold fender flares emphasize the vehicle's dynamic presence and capability.

The all-new 2012 CR-V will improve upon the current model in a variety of ways, and will feature a more fuel-efficient engine and reduced body weight. In addition to all-new exterior styling, the 2012 CR-V will have an all-new interior with a more accommodating and spacious design.

Currently in the fifth year of its model cycle, the CR-V continues to sell at a record pace. The 2011 CR-V was among the highest-ranked vehicles in its segment for initial quality in J.D. Power & Associates' 2011 Initial Quality Study (IQS), where it finished second to the Honda Element in the compact SUV segment. The CR-V is sold globally in more than 160 countries throughout North America, South America, Europe, Asia and Africa. In the U.S., CR-V is manufactured in Ohio at the East Liberty Auto Plant of Honda of America Manufacturing, Inc., using domestic and globally sourced parts. The East Liberty Auto Plant earned a Silver Award for outstanding quality in the recently released J.D. Power 2011 Initial Quality Study. The 2012 CR-V Concept will be at the Orange County International Auto Show from September 22 to 25 in the Honda display.

Connect with Honda:
Honda Media Newsroom (for journalists): www.hondanews.com
Honda Future Vehicles (for consumers): automobiles.honda.com/future-cars
Honda on YouTube: www.youtube.com/honda
Honda on Flickr: www.flickr.com/hondanews
Honda on Twitter: www.twitter.com/honda

1The CR-V is the best-selling SUV in the United States by calendar year from 2007 thru 2010.

Source;
http://www.hondanews.com/channels/corporate-headlines/releases/2012-honda-cr-v-concept-makes-world-debut