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Showing posts with label Honda. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Honda. Show all posts

8/2/11

Honda CR-Z MUGEN RR ability in style


Promoting the concept of Mugen Honda CR-Z design MUGEN RR in Moving Motor Show 2011 last.

With the Honda CR-Z MUGEN RR, Mugen wants to show his ability in style, functionality, performance and agility.

Honda CR-Z MUGEN RR was created by M-Tec as an exhibition car only and there are no plans to enter into the production line.

Some of the Honda CR-Z MUGEN RR made of carbon fiber including the bonnet, both side doors and stern doors.

Other unique features that carried the CR-Z Mugen RR in the form of carbon-fiber at the bottom of the car, a pair of exhaust pipes in the middle, ventilated front bumper, and suspension of racing.

Part cabin wrapped in Alcantara leather. One screen in the dashboard serves data recording chassis and engine - developed by a race car. The screen serves as a satellite navigation and audio systems, too. This advanced equipment will monitor the car after more than two laps to learn the circuit and record data using a lap and a GPS vehicle tracking.

Honda CR-Z MUGEN RR ability in style


Promoting the concept of Mugen Honda CR-Z design MUGEN RR in Moving Motor Show 2011 last.

With the Honda CR-Z MUGEN RR, Mugen wants to show his ability in style, functionality, performance and agility.

Honda CR-Z MUGEN RR was created by M-Tec as an exhibition car only and there are no plans to enter into the production line.

Some of the Honda CR-Z MUGEN RR made of carbon fiber including the bonnet, both side doors and stern doors.

Other unique features that carried the CR-Z Mugen RR in the form of carbon-fiber at the bottom of the car, a pair of exhaust pipes in the middle, ventilated front bumper, and suspension of racing.

Part cabin wrapped in Alcantara leather. One screen in the dashboard serves data recording chassis and engine - developed by a race car. The screen serves as a satellite navigation and audio systems, too. This advanced equipment will monitor the car after more than two laps to learn the circuit and record data using a lap and a GPS vehicle tracking.

8/1/11

2012 Honda ridgeline


The 2012 Honda ridgeline is the same style of 2011 Honda ridgeline. Readers are invited to comment on this ridge line of Honda and their expectations and experiences of older models 2012 Honda ridgeline. Nissan Path Finder also competes withe the Honda Ridgeline.

The Ridgeline Sport, which looks reminiscent of the Ridgeline Sport project truck shown at SEMA in 2005, adds the following to the base Ridgeline RT's standard features: exclusive black 18-inch alloy wheels (+1 inch from RT steel wheels), exclusive black honeycomb grille, standard fog lights, black headlight and brake light housings, and black side mirrors and door handles.

The 2012 Honda Ridgeline should be a virtual repeat of the 2011 Honda Ridgeline. Should you wait for the 2012 Honda Ridgeline or buy a 2011 Honda Ridgeline? Buy a 2011 Honda Ridgeline. Styling: Aside from a possible new color choice or two, the 2012 Honda Ridgeline styling will mirror that of the 2011 Ridgeline. Ridgeline comes only in four-door crew-cab form and nearly matches some full-size crew-cab pickups for usable passenger space. Traditional pickups are based on rear-wheel-drive designs augmented with available four-wheel drive (4wd). Ridgeline has roots in front-wheel drive engineering but is fortified with standard all-wheel-drive (AWD).

Features: The 2012 Ridgeline will continue bound by Honda’s practice of eschewing individual options for a set of features exclusive to each model. For the 2012 Ridgeline, Honda might expand the roster with a swan-song special edition that combines popular features from several models. Leather upholstery, power moonroof, heated front seats, and the navigation system are available, depending on model. All 2012 Ridgelines will also come with air conditioning; tilt steering wheel; power windows and locks; a power sliding rear window; cruise control; keyless entry; and a 60/40 split lift-up rear seat with under-seat storage. Prices for the 2012 Honda Ridgeline won’t be released until shortly before the pickup goes on sale, but don’t expect major deviations from 2011 Ridgeline prices. (Prices in this review include the manufacturer’s destination fee; Honda’s fee for the 2011 Ridgeline was $780.)

Given a model range narrowed to one upscale configuration, Honda justifiably considers Ridgeline a “premium” truck -- and prices it accordingly. Estimated price for the 2012 Honda Ridgeline RT is around $29,800. Expect the 2012 Honda Ridgeline RTS to be priced around $32,500. That the 2012 RTL model is expected to remain Ridgeline’s most popular trim level is clear evidence that Ridgeline buyers tend not to be the young bucks, off-road enthusiasts, budget buyers, and tradespeople that form compact-pickup core audience. Estimated price for the 2012 Ridgeline RTL is $35,500. Unless Honda commemorates the close of the first-generation Ridgeline with a new top-line model, the RTL with navigation will repeat as the most expensive 2012 Ridgeline.

2012 Honda ridgeline


The 2012 Honda ridgeline is the same style of 2011 Honda ridgeline. Readers are invited to comment on this ridge line of Honda and their expectations and experiences of older models 2012 Honda ridgeline. Nissan Path Finder also competes withe the Honda Ridgeline.

The Ridgeline Sport, which looks reminiscent of the Ridgeline Sport project truck shown at SEMA in 2005, adds the following to the base Ridgeline RT's standard features: exclusive black 18-inch alloy wheels (+1 inch from RT steel wheels), exclusive black honeycomb grille, standard fog lights, black headlight and brake light housings, and black side mirrors and door handles.

The 2012 Honda Ridgeline should be a virtual repeat of the 2011 Honda Ridgeline. Should you wait for the 2012 Honda Ridgeline or buy a 2011 Honda Ridgeline? Buy a 2011 Honda Ridgeline. Styling: Aside from a possible new color choice or two, the 2012 Honda Ridgeline styling will mirror that of the 2011 Ridgeline. Ridgeline comes only in four-door crew-cab form and nearly matches some full-size crew-cab pickups for usable passenger space. Traditional pickups are based on rear-wheel-drive designs augmented with available four-wheel drive (4wd). Ridgeline has roots in front-wheel drive engineering but is fortified with standard all-wheel-drive (AWD).

Features: The 2012 Ridgeline will continue bound by Honda’s practice of eschewing individual options for a set of features exclusive to each model. For the 2012 Ridgeline, Honda might expand the roster with a swan-song special edition that combines popular features from several models. Leather upholstery, power moonroof, heated front seats, and the navigation system are available, depending on model. All 2012 Ridgelines will also come with air conditioning; tilt steering wheel; power windows and locks; a power sliding rear window; cruise control; keyless entry; and a 60/40 split lift-up rear seat with under-seat storage. Prices for the 2012 Honda Ridgeline won’t be released until shortly before the pickup goes on sale, but don’t expect major deviations from 2011 Ridgeline prices. (Prices in this review include the manufacturer’s destination fee; Honda’s fee for the 2011 Ridgeline was $780.)

Given a model range narrowed to one upscale configuration, Honda justifiably considers Ridgeline a “premium” truck -- and prices it accordingly. Estimated price for the 2012 Honda Ridgeline RT is around $29,800. Expect the 2012 Honda Ridgeline RTS to be priced around $32,500. That the 2012 RTL model is expected to remain Ridgeline’s most popular trim level is clear evidence that Ridgeline buyers tend not to be the young bucks, off-road enthusiasts, budget buyers, and tradespeople that form compact-pickup core audience. Estimated price for the 2012 Ridgeline RTL is $35,500. Unless Honda commemorates the close of the first-generation Ridgeline with a new top-line model, the RTL with navigation will repeat as the most expensive 2012 Ridgeline.

7/29/11

2012 Honda Pilot can be expected in showrooms before autumn 2011

2012 honda pilot
the first Honda Pilot was introduced in 2002, as a large SUV with third row seats. There are four different styles of the Honda Pilot available, the base model, EX, EX-L and the deluxe touring model. The two-wheel drive Honda Pilot MPG is 17 in the city and 23 miles per gallon with highway usage. The touring model comes with a power tailgate, and the other models offer a glass hatch.

The safety features have been updated with dual front airbags, airbags in the front, which include a passenger side occupant position detection system (OPDS), curtain airbags in the third row and several security features and sensors for the seatbelts. The Honda Pilot also includes many active safety parts as well such as Electronic Brake Distribution, Antilock Braking System and Vehicle Stability Assist.

The 2012 Honda Pilot is in line for some styling tweaks but won’t change in size or basic design. Should you wait for the 2012 Honda Pilot or buy a 2011 Pilot? Wait for the 2012 Honda Pilot if you wish to confirm that Honda indeed will give this crossover some mid-cycle updates.

Actually, Pilot traces its underskin architecture to the Honda Odyssey minivan. Comparatively lightweight unibody design benefits fuel economy and handling and is what makes Pilot a crossover. Speaking of rims, Honda’s taken the conservative route and equipped all Pilot models with modestly sized 17-inch wheels and tires. Pilot’s top competitors use six-speed automatics, which promise smoother performance and better fuel economy. In Honda’s defense, Pilot’s powertrain response and refinement is already among best in class. Expect all 2012 Pilot models to continue with a choice of front-wheel drive or Honda’s Variable Torque Management (VTM-4). Don’t equate Pilot’s upright-SUV profile with knuckle-dragging driving manners. The 2012 Pilot should retain tow ratings in the upper range for V-6 crossover SUVs, with AWD models capable of trailering 4,500 pounds and front-drive Pilots able to pull up to 3,500 pounds.
The 2012 Honda Pilot is expected to come in the same trim levels: LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring. Unlike its competitors who offer 18-, 19-, 20-inch wheels, the Honda Pilot onloy comes with 170inch wheels. laid flat.The 2012 Honda Pilot will come with front and rear air conditioning, keyless entry, tilt and telescope steering wheel, and cruise control.

The new Honda Pilot all-wheel drive models will be able to tow up to 4500 pounds and front-drive Pilots can manage 3,5000 pounds.The 2012 Honda Pilot can be expected in showrooms before autumn 2011.

2012 Honda Pilot can be expected in showrooms before autumn 2011

2012 honda pilot
the first Honda Pilot was introduced in 2002, as a large SUV with third row seats. There are four different styles of the Honda Pilot available, the base model, EX, EX-L and the deluxe touring model. The two-wheel drive Honda Pilot MPG is 17 in the city and 23 miles per gallon with highway usage. The touring model comes with a power tailgate, and the other models offer a glass hatch.

The safety features have been updated with dual front airbags, airbags in the front, which include a passenger side occupant position detection system (OPDS), curtain airbags in the third row and several security features and sensors for the seatbelts. The Honda Pilot also includes many active safety parts as well such as Electronic Brake Distribution, Antilock Braking System and Vehicle Stability Assist.

The 2012 Honda Pilot is in line for some styling tweaks but won’t change in size or basic design. Should you wait for the 2012 Honda Pilot or buy a 2011 Pilot? Wait for the 2012 Honda Pilot if you wish to confirm that Honda indeed will give this crossover some mid-cycle updates.

Actually, Pilot traces its underskin architecture to the Honda Odyssey minivan. Comparatively lightweight unibody design benefits fuel economy and handling and is what makes Pilot a crossover. Speaking of rims, Honda’s taken the conservative route and equipped all Pilot models with modestly sized 17-inch wheels and tires. Pilot’s top competitors use six-speed automatics, which promise smoother performance and better fuel economy. In Honda’s defense, Pilot’s powertrain response and refinement is already among best in class. Expect all 2012 Pilot models to continue with a choice of front-wheel drive or Honda’s Variable Torque Management (VTM-4). Don’t equate Pilot’s upright-SUV profile with knuckle-dragging driving manners. The 2012 Pilot should retain tow ratings in the upper range for V-6 crossover SUVs, with AWD models capable of trailering 4,500 pounds and front-drive Pilots able to pull up to 3,500 pounds.
The 2012 Honda Pilot is expected to come in the same trim levels: LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring. Unlike its competitors who offer 18-, 19-, 20-inch wheels, the Honda Pilot onloy comes with 170inch wheels. laid flat.The 2012 Honda Pilot will come with front and rear air conditioning, keyless entry, tilt and telescope steering wheel, and cruise control.

The new Honda Pilot all-wheel drive models will be able to tow up to 4500 pounds and front-drive Pilots can manage 3,5000 pounds.The 2012 Honda Pilot can be expected in showrooms before autumn 2011.

7/28/11

2012 Honda Civic, a car pride

2012 Honda Civic
from the past to the present, the Honda Civic is my favorite car, let alone for honda civic 2012 model, for me to have more value because it is fully in the redesigned, so I plan to buy a 2012 Honda Civic

The 2012 Honda Civic will be available in seven models: a sedan, a coupe, Si sedan, Si coupe, Honda Civic hybrid, high fuel-efficiency and a natural gas model. Car and Driver prefers the Civic Si’s 2.0-liter 197 horsepower engine over the base model’s 1.8-liter four-cylinder that makes 140 horsepower. Performance aside, the industry is pleased with the Civic’s improved fuel economy ratings. The HF model gets 41 mpg on the highway, and the base models get 39 mpg on the highway. If you’re disappointed with the base Honda Civic but want to stick with Honda, try the Honda Fit. The Honda Insight is the Civic Hybrid’s only competitor, and it has lower fuel economy ratings of 40/43 mpg city/highway. The Golf gets up to 24/31 mpg city/highway, and the Mazda3 averages 25/33 mpg city/highway.

To set the stage, the 2011 Honda Civic remains an excellent car, even as it's being replaced by the 2012. The completely redesigned 2012 Honda Civic improves incrementally upon its predecessor in many ways, ensuring it will remain a top-selling compact, but the car doesn't leapfrog its formidable competitors.

As before, the Civic comes in coupe and sedan styles, in DX, LX and EX trim levels, as well as a performance-oriented Si version, in both body styles. There are also hybrid and high-efficiency HF variants, both sedans. A natural-gas-powered Civic GX sedan will return later in the model year under the name Civic Natural Gas, with plans to expand its availability nationwide for the first time.

The Honda Civic continues Honda's approach of combining a variety of textures and styles. The Civic has six airbags including the front pair, front-seat-mounted side-impact bags and side curtain airbags. Civic in the Market

The 2012 Honda Civic has been fully redesigned. Highlights include mild styling updates, improved fuel economy and more power for the Honda Civic Si model.
Fuel economy remains pretty much the same as before for most Honda Civic models, but there's a new Civic HF variant that's rated for 41 mpg highway. Fuel efficiency and power are improved for the Honda Civic hybrid model, as well. In terms of features, stability control is now standard throughout the model lineup.

The 2012 Honda Civic is a compact car offered in both coupe and sedan body styles. Entry-level DX models come equipped with 15-inch steel wheels, auto-off headlights, intermittent windshield wipers, a rear window defroster, power windows, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and a one-piece fold-down rear seatback. The EX-L model adds leather upholstery, heated front seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The Honda Civic Hybrid sedan is available in two trim levels. The base model's list of standard features is similar to the mainstream EX sedan, with the addition of 15-inch alloy wheels and low-rolling-resistance tires, outside mirrors with built-in turn signals, LED taillights, a rear spoiler and a 160-watt, six-speaker stereo. Inside upgrades include most of the items from the EX model's standard features list plus front sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, an aluminum shift knob, red backlit gauges, a special Power Monitor display, Bluetooth and a seven-speaker sound system.

The front-wheel-drive 2012 Honda Civic is powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that puts out 140 horsepower and 128 pound-feet of torque. Transmission choices include a five-speed manual and an available five-speed automatic (HF and EX models get the automatic as standard equipment). The 2012 Honda Civic comes with standard safety features that include stability control, antilock brakes (four-wheel discs with the EX and Si), front-seat side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags. In Edmunds brake testing, the Civic EX-L came to a stop from 60 mph in a longish 131 feet, with prevalent brake fade.
Interior changes are very minor for the 2012 Honda Civic. The 2012 Honda Civic Si is still a fun car to drive.

2012 Honda Civic, a car pride

2012 Honda Civic
from the past to the present, the Honda Civic is my favorite car, let alone for honda civic 2012 model, for me to have more value because it is fully in the redesigned, so I plan to buy a 2012 Honda Civic

The 2012 Honda Civic will be available in seven models: a sedan, a coupe, Si sedan, Si coupe, Honda Civic hybrid, high fuel-efficiency and a natural gas model. Car and Driver prefers the Civic Si’s 2.0-liter 197 horsepower engine over the base model’s 1.8-liter four-cylinder that makes 140 horsepower. Performance aside, the industry is pleased with the Civic’s improved fuel economy ratings. The HF model gets 41 mpg on the highway, and the base models get 39 mpg on the highway. If you’re disappointed with the base Honda Civic but want to stick with Honda, try the Honda Fit. The Honda Insight is the Civic Hybrid’s only competitor, and it has lower fuel economy ratings of 40/43 mpg city/highway. The Golf gets up to 24/31 mpg city/highway, and the Mazda3 averages 25/33 mpg city/highway.

To set the stage, the 2011 Honda Civic remains an excellent car, even as it's being replaced by the 2012. The completely redesigned 2012 Honda Civic improves incrementally upon its predecessor in many ways, ensuring it will remain a top-selling compact, but the car doesn't leapfrog its formidable competitors.

As before, the Civic comes in coupe and sedan styles, in DX, LX and EX trim levels, as well as a performance-oriented Si version, in both body styles. There are also hybrid and high-efficiency HF variants, both sedans. A natural-gas-powered Civic GX sedan will return later in the model year under the name Civic Natural Gas, with plans to expand its availability nationwide for the first time.

The Honda Civic continues Honda's approach of combining a variety of textures and styles. The Civic has six airbags including the front pair, front-seat-mounted side-impact bags and side curtain airbags. Civic in the Market

The 2012 Honda Civic has been fully redesigned. Highlights include mild styling updates, improved fuel economy and more power for the Honda Civic Si model.
Fuel economy remains pretty much the same as before for most Honda Civic models, but there's a new Civic HF variant that's rated for 41 mpg highway. Fuel efficiency and power are improved for the Honda Civic hybrid model, as well. In terms of features, stability control is now standard throughout the model lineup.

The 2012 Honda Civic is a compact car offered in both coupe and sedan body styles. Entry-level DX models come equipped with 15-inch steel wheels, auto-off headlights, intermittent windshield wipers, a rear window defroster, power windows, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and a one-piece fold-down rear seatback. The EX-L model adds leather upholstery, heated front seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The Honda Civic Hybrid sedan is available in two trim levels. The base model's list of standard features is similar to the mainstream EX sedan, with the addition of 15-inch alloy wheels and low-rolling-resistance tires, outside mirrors with built-in turn signals, LED taillights, a rear spoiler and a 160-watt, six-speaker stereo. Inside upgrades include most of the items from the EX model's standard features list plus front sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, an aluminum shift knob, red backlit gauges, a special Power Monitor display, Bluetooth and a seven-speaker sound system.

The front-wheel-drive 2012 Honda Civic is powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that puts out 140 horsepower and 128 pound-feet of torque. Transmission choices include a five-speed manual and an available five-speed automatic (HF and EX models get the automatic as standard equipment). The 2012 Honda Civic comes with standard safety features that include stability control, antilock brakes (four-wheel discs with the EX and Si), front-seat side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags. In Edmunds brake testing, the Civic EX-L came to a stop from 60 mph in a longish 131 feet, with prevalent brake fade.
Interior changes are very minor for the 2012 Honda Civic. The 2012 Honda Civic Si is still a fun car to drive.

7/20/11

2011 Honda Civic Hybrid Overviews


The 2011 Honda Civic Hybrid is the newest on the band of Civics, and this 2011 Honda Civic Hybrid analysis will ample you in on this budget-friendly automobile.

The 2011 Honda Civic Hybrid has a CD/CDR/CDRW/mp3 audio system, and along with the USB audio interface, you can easily enjoy your favorite tunes while you drive. This Civic hybrid has an available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System, complete with voice recognition, which can help you with directions if ever you need any. The 2011 Honda Civic Hybrid, despite being a Civic, has a certain look that is distinguishes it from its predecessors. Honda's Integrated Motor Assist system consists of an ultra-efficient 1.3-liter, 8-valve i-VTEC 4-cylinder gasoline engine alongside a lightweight high-output electric motor, which definitely adds extra power to the 2011 Honda Civic Hybrid when needed. All 2011 Honda Civic Hybrid models have essential safety features such as side curtain airbags and dual-stage, multiple-threshold front air bags. The 2011 Honda Civic Hybrid is no ordinary car, that is for certain. Getting a 2011 Honda Civic Hybrid is not just a purchase of a new car, it is an investment that you will make.

The current Honda Civic Hybrid debuted for the 2006 model year and uses gasoline-electric hybrid technology to reach fuel economy ratings of 40/43 mpg city/highway. The Honda Civic Hybrid sedan looks as futuristic as the gas-powered models.
The Honda Civic Hybrid has an interesting-looking instrument cluster that's similar to the regular Civic's

Honda's electronic stability system is standard on the Honda Civic Hybrid.
In the Civic, IMA consists of a 93-horsepower, 1.3-liter four-cylinder, assisted by a 20-hp electric motor sandwiched between the engine and transmission, plus a battery pack located near the rear of the car. Visibly, it would take a true gearhead or hybrid car fan to identify the Civic Hybrid from a standard Honda Civic Sedan, at a distance. Standard-feature content in the 2011 Honda Civic Hybrid is impressive. Power locks and windows, along with automatic climate control, remote keyless entry, a tilt/telescope steering wheel, a 160-watt audio system with an aux jack, and steering-wheel audio controls are all included, and options include a rather antiquated navigation system, satellite radio, Bluetooth hands-free, and leather upholstery.

2011 Honda Civic Hybrid Overviews


The 2011 Honda Civic Hybrid is the newest on the band of Civics, and this 2011 Honda Civic Hybrid analysis will ample you in on this budget-friendly automobile.

The 2011 Honda Civic Hybrid has a CD/CDR/CDRW/mp3 audio system, and along with the USB audio interface, you can easily enjoy your favorite tunes while you drive. This Civic hybrid has an available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System, complete with voice recognition, which can help you with directions if ever you need any. The 2011 Honda Civic Hybrid, despite being a Civic, has a certain look that is distinguishes it from its predecessors. Honda's Integrated Motor Assist system consists of an ultra-efficient 1.3-liter, 8-valve i-VTEC 4-cylinder gasoline engine alongside a lightweight high-output electric motor, which definitely adds extra power to the 2011 Honda Civic Hybrid when needed. All 2011 Honda Civic Hybrid models have essential safety features such as side curtain airbags and dual-stage, multiple-threshold front air bags. The 2011 Honda Civic Hybrid is no ordinary car, that is for certain. Getting a 2011 Honda Civic Hybrid is not just a purchase of a new car, it is an investment that you will make.

The current Honda Civic Hybrid debuted for the 2006 model year and uses gasoline-electric hybrid technology to reach fuel economy ratings of 40/43 mpg city/highway. The Honda Civic Hybrid sedan looks as futuristic as the gas-powered models.
The Honda Civic Hybrid has an interesting-looking instrument cluster that's similar to the regular Civic's

Honda's electronic stability system is standard on the Honda Civic Hybrid.
In the Civic, IMA consists of a 93-horsepower, 1.3-liter four-cylinder, assisted by a 20-hp electric motor sandwiched between the engine and transmission, plus a battery pack located near the rear of the car. Visibly, it would take a true gearhead or hybrid car fan to identify the Civic Hybrid from a standard Honda Civic Sedan, at a distance. Standard-feature content in the 2011 Honda Civic Hybrid is impressive. Power locks and windows, along with automatic climate control, remote keyless entry, a tilt/telescope steering wheel, a 160-watt audio system with an aux jack, and steering-wheel audio controls are all included, and options include a rather antiquated navigation system, satellite radio, Bluetooth hands-free, and leather upholstery.

6/21/11

2012 Honda Accord generally comes in the four door sedan model

2012 Honda Accord
2012 Honda Accord has swept back its design with the rear hatchback. The 2012 Honda Accord sports the outward design, which can be traced to the 2008 model, however this just re-emphasis the feedback and love from the people all over the old design. The "2012 Honda Accord" generally comes in the four door sedan model & the two door coupe design; "2012 sedan" features the 2.4 liter four cylinder engines and coupe gives six cylinder engine ability. Whereas, a lot of companies have given the 2011 Honda Accord feedback in a lot of mediums & these has highly influenced the people’s selection to buy the Honda Accord and company to continue giving its best, this 2012 Accord carries on to capture the contemporary attention.

On March, at the "Geneva Motor Show", Honda the renowned Japanese automaker is about to reveal refined versions of its "Honda Accord Saloon and Tourer models". In the high-end grades, the lights are now bi-xenon and feature Active Cornering Lights, improving on the night time visibility. Furthermore, a sportier appearance has been achieved through a upgraded grille, more aggressive cooling duct and fog lights, restyled tail lights and 17-inch lightweight alloys.
The 2012 Honda Accord will be virtually unchanged from the 2011 Honda Accord and likely close the door on a basic design that dates to model-year 2008. Carrying over minor model-year 2011 updates, the 2012 Accord returns as a four-door sedan and two-door coupe. The best 2012 Accord value remains a four-cylinder sedan in "midrange EX trim at around $25,000".

Should you buy a 2012 Honda Accord or wait for the 2013 Honda Accord? The "2012 Honda Accord sedan and 2012 Honda Accord Coupe carry over the subtle styling changes given the 2011 Accord. Honda doesn’t offer options per se. The 2012 Accord Coupe should repeat an LX-S, EX, and EX-L model "ladder.

Mechanical: The 2012 Honda Accord won’t have mechanical features that weren’t available on the 2011 Accord. It should return at 177 horsepower in LX, XL-P, and SE sedans and at 190 horsepower in EX and EX-L sedans. The 190-horsepower version should repeat as the base engine in the "2012 Accord Coupe". A five-speed automatic will repeat as the sole transmission for 2012 Accord V-6 sedans. The 2012 Accord EX-L V-6 Coupe will again be positioned as a performance model. An overwhelming majority of Accord buyers choose automatic transmission, and while Honda’s five-speed automatic works well enough, Accord’s top rivals have more-efficient six-speed automatics. Like the majority of midsize cars, the 2012 Accord will again have front-wheel drive. Features: The 2012 Honda Accord will continue to offer most every comfort, convenience, and tech feature available on its rivals. For example, only EX-L Accords have been available with a navigation system. "Honda" most recently shuffled some equipment by creating the 2011 Accord SE.

6/17/11

Honda CR-Z Mugen 197bhp

Honda CR-Z
Now though, tuning company Mugen has bolted a supercharger onto the CR-Z’s 1.5-litre petrol-electric powertrain taking power and torque up to 197bhp and 245Nm respectively.
A joint project by Honda and Euro Mugen, the car will be on show at the Goodwood Festival of Speed between July 1 and July 3.
Debuting at next month’s 2011 Goodwood Festival of Speed will be the Honda CR-Z Mugen hybrid hot hatch.

Uprated suspension includes stiffer springs and five-position adjustable dampers - based on MUGEN’s commercially available products - with braking courtesy of four-pot callipers grabbing 320mm grooved and vented discs up front.

Thanks to the collaboration of Honda UK and its in-house tuning shop Mugen Euro, the 1.5-liter i-VTEC petrol engine has received a supercharger as well as to the Honda IMA system. “Performance figures already look promising for this supercharged Honda CR-Z, as early tests with a prototype car based on a standard CR-Z and a mid-tune engine giving 0-60mph times around that of the Civic Type R,” Honda said in a statement.

"We've retained the three driving modes from the standard car and economy ranges from 50+mpg in 'eco' mode to mid-30 mpg when tapping into the supercharged power in a special Mugen mode."

6/2/11

2011 Honda Accord Review

2011 Honda Accord
2011 Honda Accord makes a great choice in the class of Affordable Midsize Cars, the class has changed drastically due to rivals becoming better and better. Before buying a 2011 Honda Accord, be sure to test drive some of its higher-ranked competitors to see how they compare. The Ford Fusion, for instance, was Motor Trend’s 2010 Car of the Year. Additionally, the Fusion features top-notch interior trims and Ford’s highly-acclaimed SYNC infotainment system. Although the Accord boasts competent systems it cannot compete with SYNC’s high-tech options.

It offers loads of space, convenience features and style, while still being cheaper than the Honda Accord. Be sure to check for the best deals for this month and current Honda Deals that may be available on a 2011 Honda Accord.

Honda Accord: The Details
The Honda Accord was updated in 2010. The easiest-to-spot changes are found on the 2011 Honda Accord’s exterior. Additionally, the 2011 Honda Accord can be had in a new leather-equipped Special Edition (SE) trim. Car and Driver points out, “This is clearly Honda's Hyundai Sonata fighter, albeit with 21 fewer ponies."

For 2011, the Honda Accord receives the first significant updates for its current-generation platform. "What midsize sedan should I buy?" The answer to this question has long been "Honda Accord." With impressive new competitors, the 2011 Honda Accord now has more serious rivals to compete against.

There is one bright spot for 2011, because the Accord's engines choices are now more frugal. Thanks to aerodynamic tweaks, engine friction reductions and revised transmission gearing, the four-cylinder Accord now has an EPA rating of 23 city/34 highway, a rise of about 2 mpg that takes the Accord to the top of the fuel economy chart for family sedans. Unfortunately, the Accord's interior hasn't changed much for 2011. The Accord also comes in a sporty coupe body style, something that few other automakers offer in their midsize models. So we still recommend the Accord.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2011 Honda Accord is available as a midsize sedan and coupe. The sedan comes in LX, LX-P, SE, EX and EX-L trim levels, while the coupe comes in LX-S, EX and EX-L trims.
The LX-P trim adds 16-inch alloy wheels and an eight-way power driver seat. The SE adds leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, power-adjustable driver lumbar and heated front seats. The EX-L adds automatic headlights, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, Bluetooth, a seven-speaker upgraded sound system, satellite radio and the option of a navigation system with voice control and a rearview camera. A V6-equipped EX-L also gains driver seat memory settings and a four-way power passenger seat.

The coupe's LX-S trim is equipped similarly to the LX sedan, but gets 17-inch wheels and a six-disc CD changer. The EX coupe does not include the power-adjustable driver lumbar, but does get the EX-L sedan's upgraded stereo without satellite radio.

Powertrains and Performance
The 2011 Honda Accord LX trims and SE are powered by a 2.4-liter inline-4 engine that produces 177 horsepower and 161 pound-feet of torque. With the automatic, EPA-estimated fuel economy for both LX and EX versions is 23 mpg city/34 mpg highway and 27 mpg combined. The Accord EX and EX-L can be equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 good for 271 hp and 254 lb-ft of torque (251 with the manual-equipped coupe). The coupe can also be equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox.

Safety
Every 2011 Honda Accord comes with antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, front side airbags and side curtain airbags. In Edmunds brake testing, the various Accords we've tested over the years have stopped from 60 mph in about 130 feet -- on the long side for this class of car.

In the government's new, more strenuous crash testing for 2011, the Accord earned top five-star ratings all around for overall performance, front-impact protection and side-impact protection.

The Honda Accord satisfies the principal needs for family-car shoppers, but Honda's dropped the ball in a few areas, and competitors are more than catching up.

The second-best-selling sedan in America, the Accord is still worth your consideration, particularly given the 2011 model's improved gas mileage. I drove a four-cylinder Accord SE sedan. The SE trim level is new, slotting between the lower-end LX and LX-P and the higher-end EX and EX-L. There's also an Accord coupe and an Accord Crosstour wagon; the Crosstour is covered separately on Cars.com. It's also the only Accord to offer factory 18s, which go on V-6 EX-L models.

The Accord's four-cylinder makes 177 horsepower in LX, LX-P and SE models. It's tuned for 190 hp in EX and EX-L sedans, and in all four-cylinder Accord coupes. At least Honda's drivetrain is efficient: With a fuel-saving cylinder deactivation system, the V-6 Accord sedan gets an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in combined city/highway gas mileage. That's up 1 mpg over last year's V-6 Accord, and it's better than most six-cylinder family cars. The four-cylinder Accord gets a combined 27 mpg. That's up 2 mpg over last year's four-cylinder, and it ties the Optima and Altima for best fuel efficiency among four-cylinder family cars.

All V-6 Accord sedans get an automatic. Quiet and comfy, the Accord is not.
Conversely, the Accord has always been one of the more engaging family cars to drive. At highway speeds, the steering wheel's hefty weight is impressive.
Four-wheel-disc antilock brakes are standard. The prior-generation Accord had near-Volkswagen levels of cabin quality. A navigation system is optional on EX-L models. My test car didn't have it, so I had to make do with the Accord's standard auxiliary MP3 jack.

5/28/11

Honda S2000 One thing only -- racing.

Honda S2000
2009 Honda S2000 is a no-frills street machine designed to primarily excel at one thing only -- racing. If you're in the market for a sports roadster that handles just as spectacularly, but is more comfortable for everyday driving, test-drive the Mazda MX-5 Miata.

Introduction
Roadsters tend to be narrowly focused on performance, sacrificing practicality in the name of merriment. Precision handling dynamics are also part of the S2000's DNA, as this high-revving Honda evinces excellent balance during hard cornering with minimal computer intervention. CR stands for "club racer," denoting this model's track-specific tweaks for reduced weight and sharper handling. Second, while its 2.2-liter VTEC four does a credible impression of a racecar engine above 6,000 rpm, there's little power to speak of at lower engine speeds.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2009 Honda S2000 is a compact two-seat roadster that is available in two versions -- base and CR. The base S2000 includes a power convertible soft top with a glass rear window, 17-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, leather upholstery, full power accessories, air-conditioning and a CD player. The CR model is a racetrack-focused variant aimed at die-hard enthusiasts. Other casualties of the CR's diet include sound insulation and the power soft top, the latter being replaced by the removable aluminum hardtop. The CR also receives some unsightly but effective aerodynamic spoilers, dark gray wheels with wider rear tires, even sportier suspension tuning, a quicker steering ratio, a sport-tuned muffler and fabric seats with suede inserts. Add it all up and the topless CR is 99 pounds lighter than the standard S2000 (51 pounds lighter with the hardtop installed). Some of the base model's options are also available on the CR.

Powertrains and Performance
Both variants of the 2009 Honda S2000 are powered by a 2.2-liter VTEC four-cylinder that produces 237 horsepower at a stratospheric 7,800 rpm and 162 pound-feet of torque at 6,800 rpm. A six-speed manual transmission relays this power to the rear wheels. Fuel economy checks in at an EPA-rated 18 mpg city/25 mpg highway and 21 mpg in combined driving.

Safety
The CR model's fabric seats with synthetic suede inserts provide even more support, and the CR boasts a revised shift lever that provides slightly shorter throws and more positive engagement.
Driving Impressions
Performance differences between the standard S2000 and CR model are nearly indistinguishable on public roads.

Naming a sports car an "S2000" was not an auspicious start for Honda's open-top pocket rocket. While I preferred the original car's angular front, Honda's designers nailed the basic shape. Cue the Psycho shower scene violins. My God, is the S2000's cockpit a nasty place to spend your time. I'm not against– nor a stranger to– cheap and cheerful car interiors. The S2000's cabin is small in every conceivable direction. The sound system is particularly lame. Above 5000rpms, well, that's a different story. I suppose the general idea is to hang on until 5850rpms, when the high-lift long duration cams come on song, then cane it to the 8000rpm redline. Two problems. One, the S2000's engine note lacks character, texture or tonality. I reckon only a stone deaf driver could withstand the brutal din coming from the S2000's engine at full chat. Excluding a reverse gear that likes to play hide-and-seek, the Honda S2000 six-speed gearbox offers nothing but quick slick shifts. It corners with minimal body roll, prodigious grip and tremendous feedback. If Honda upgraded the S2000's cabin and sonically tuned the engine, the Nipponese convertible would be an irresistible alternative to its newer, fresher challengers.

4/15/11

Honda Insight hybrid sedan earned the accolade as the clean car 2011

Honda Insight hybrid
Honda Insight hybrid sedan earned the accolade as the 2011 Cleanest Car in the event of Jaffa's Green Car Awards 2011 in England. These awards are created through the cooperation of Jaffa's, site milesperlitre.com and vcacarfueldata.org.uk to analyze the levels of emissions from various car manufacturers the world.

Research conducted three independent institutions in the field of environment is not only focused on the levels of CO2 emissions, but also take into account the emission levels of NOx, hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, PM10 particles, and even though the sound pollution.

According to the research, PM10 particles are a major contributor to environmental pollution and health followed by hydrocarbons, and NOx. The best car is a car that has the lowest three levels, as well as sound pollution.

As a result, ten types of cars successfully elected as the "Cleanest Cars" for 2011 this. Of the ten cars, eight car brands made it into the ranks of the top ten of ten cars that entered the ranks of the top ten is a gasoline-fueled cars and hybrid. Five cars were gasoline-fueled cars while the other five are hybrid cars.

The result of research conducted by the three institutions were announced in London, England in late March 2011 through the arena of Jaffa's Green Car Awards 2011, whereby the Honda Insight get the title as the "Cleanest Cars" among nine species of other cars.
Honda Insight can achieve the perfect figure of 100% of the existing research results.

Insight is a hybrid sedan that carries the Honda i-VTEC engine power 1.3 liter combined with battery power of the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA).

From the results of research, the Honda Insight petrol consumption per 100 kilometers is 4.6 liters. CO2 emission levels even below 100 mg per km is 60 mg per km. For emission standards, the Honda Insight meets Euro 5 emissions standard that is the new standard rate of motor vehicle exhaust emissions that came into effect in 2010 ago in Europe.

The second generation Honda Insight was released in 2009. Since its release, its market share is spread across North America (Canada and United States), Europe, South Africa, and Asia-Oceania (Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, and Singapore).

Jaffa's is short for Jaffa's Juicy Bits, an independent institute that studies about technology "green", especially in this case the performance of modern cars environmentally friendly, which refers to mathematical analysis.

4/4/11

2011 Honda Accord Crosstour

2011 Honda Accord Crosstour
2011 Honda Accord Crosstour Reviews

2011 Honda Accord Crosstour is a mid-sized vehicle available with two trim levels which include EX and EX-L trims.
2011 Honda Accord Crosstour will be installed with 3.5 L capacity V6 engine.
Interior of 2011 Honda Accord Crosstour is very much identical to Honda Accord with minor changes. Seats installed in this model are very supportive and comfortable.
2011 Honda Accord Crosstour will be installed with some active and passive safety accessories.
The 2011 Honda Accord is the eighth generation of the vehicle and is now selling in dealerships. Read on for a preliminary car review of the 2011 Honda Accord.

With the 2011 Accord, Honda is upping the ante yet again. With two different 4-cylinder engines available, and one souped-up V6, the 2011 Honda Accord should please those with a need for speed. Five-speed automatic and manual transmissions are available, and all Accords feature front wheel drive. With enhanced fuel economy, it's safe to say that the 2011 Accord is a definite winner.

Here are several of the specs on the 2011 Accord:
Pricing: prices of the new Accord range from $21,180 to $31,730 MSRP; no invoice data available
Fuel economy:23 mpg in the city, 34 mpg on the highway, 27 mpg combined
Engine: two four-cylinder engine options, one offering 180 horsepower, the other 195 horsepower. Drivetrain: four-cylinder engines can be paired with a five-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission; V6 Accord coupes are available with a six-speed manual
Acceleration: V6 2011 Accord completes 0-60 mph in about 7.5 seconds
Model lineup: no changes are expected to the current lineup of Accords despite rumors of a resurrected gas-electric hybrid Accord.
The brakes in the 2010 Honda Accord were sub-par, so Honda may tweak them for the new model year.
Handling is quite good, especially in coupe models. Although it performs admirably on the freeway, the 2011 Honda Accord does suffer from slightly elevated road noise that may bother some drivers.
The light, assured handling of the Honda Accord, combined with its fuel efficiency and punchy horsepower, makes it a true pleasure to drive. The 3.5-liter V6 engine produces a whopping 271 horsepower. Almost every auto review of the 2010 Honda Accord agreed that the car was in desperate need of a styling refresh, and Honda is expected to deliver on that in 2011. In initial photos of the 2011 Honda Accord, you’ll see an extremely futuristic-looking car with high body lines and pulled-back headlights. The new Accord has very short overhangs and pronounced wheel arches.

Interior Features
When combined with climate control, riding inside of a Honda Accord is an immersive, pleasurable experience.
Drivers have come to expect quality from Honda vehicles; the 2011 Accord does not disappoint. The enhanced navigation screen and new backup camera all round out the high quality of the interior of the Honda Accord to a considerable degree.

Performance
The Accord doesn’t need to improve fuel economy or add horsepower in order to remain competitive in the midsize sedan class, so changes are improbable. There are plenty of perks involved with the 2011 Honda Accord. Honda has comprehensive warranty policies that give drivers significant peace of mind.

Cons
For those individuals with families, the Honda Accord is the best choice in terms of maximizing comfort for multiple passengers.

Much like the similarly sized Toyota Venza, the Accord Crosstour is aimed mainly at those who simply want a higher seating position than a car, but a lower one than tall SUVs. Just get in and you'll see the advantage of the design; the Crosstour is very easy to slide into and doesn't require any contorting. It's 7.6 inches higher than the Accord sedan and rides a couple of inches higher—though its six inches of ground clearance are about the same as that of the sedan.

The 2011 Crosstour drives somewhat like the Accord sedan but with a heavier, more deliberate feel that's a step in the opposite direction of the nimble feel we've praised the Accord sedan for in the past. The 271-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 moves the Crosstour plenty quick, but you're going to feel that weight in stop-and-go traffic. The transmission hesitates to downshift when coming out of a corner, yet it holds lower gears for longer than needed during light acceleration. It steers well and has reasonably good body control on a curvy road, but there's quite a bit more fore-aft motion during hard braking or strong acceleration than we remember from the Accord.
Mainly because of its added heft and height, the Accord Crosstour gets significantly lower fuel economy than the Accord Sedan: just 18 mpg city, 27 highway for the front-wheel drive model, 17/25 with AWD.

Dual-zone climate control, cruise control, a 360-watt sound system, and a tilt/telescopic steering wheel with audio controls are included in all Crosstours, while the EX-L, as tested at $35,480, included leather upholstery, front heated seats, a HomeLink garage-door opener, and heated mirrors, among many additional features, plus the navigation system with rearview camera system.

To find out more of our driving impressions and our overall take on the Accord—plus what more specs, pics, and news, plus what others have to say—read this drive piece on the Honda Accord Crosstour, then browse through our full review of the 2011 Honda Accord lineup.

3/30/11

Honda Accord Coupe 2011


All-New Honda Accord Sedan and Honda Accord Coupe 2011 slide in mid-August 2010. Honda North America beautify the outward appearance and the Honda Accord. In addition, Honda also increase the fuel efficiency of Honda Accord.

Improvements include the vehicle aerodynamics, engine friction and gear transmission ratio, contribute to improving fuel efficiency. EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), USA gave a rating of 1 to Accord Sedan 4-cylinder with automatic transmission. In the town of Accord Sedan 4-cylinder spend 9.87 km / liter better 0.85 km / liter. While on the freeway (highway) recorded 10.2 km / liter, preferably 1.28 km / liter.

Revision 2011 and Honda Accord Coupe exterior found on the grille, alloy wheels, rear deck lid, and wheels. Luxurious and ergonomic interior increases with the presence of leather upholstery, lumbar support, leather steering wheel, heated seats, for a particular type.

Accord is offered in a choice of 2 petrol engine, 4-cylinder, 2.4 liter, DOHC, i-VTEC, with power 190 hp and 177 hp, and V6, 3.5 liter, SOHC, i-VTEC, Variable Cylinder Management (VCM ), powerful 271 hp. Accord Sedan V6 petrol consumption in city / highway carrying 8.08 / 12.75 km / liter, preferably 0.43 km / liter on the highway. EPA rank 3 for the Accord V6 Sedan.

and Honda Accord Coupe EX-L V6 was seeing a 6-speed manual transmission. While the Accord 4-cylinder option offered a 5-speed manual transmission and 5-speed automatic.

3/2/11

2011 Honda Element


2011 Honda Element Review
The 2011 Honda Element is all about utility. An added plus, if you need more utility, is that the Element’s interior is easy to clean. Like the Element, the Forester features a practical interior. It starts at a few hundred dollars less than the Element, and has all-wheel drive standard (an all-wheel drive Element costs about$2,000 more than the base Forester). Part of the Element’s appeal isn’t its practicality, but its styling. If you love the Element’s squared-off looks but don’t need its cavernous space and rough ride, check out the Kia Soul.

The 2011 Element comes in two trims, LX and EX, both of which are available in front- or all-wheel drive (Honda calls it four-wheel drive). Be sure to check for current Honda Deals that may be available on the Honda Element. The "2011 Honda Element" is little-changed from the 2010 model. If you like the Element, you'll need to buy one this year. Honda has announced that Element production will end after the 2011 model year.

Inside, the Element is best described as no-nonsense. The 2011 Element has modest technical specs: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 166 horsepower and 161 pound-feet of torque; front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive; and running gear that's evolved in part from the Civic and CR-V parts bin. The 2011 Honda Element has a box-on-wheels design that imbues it with a lot more interior space than models that take up more parking space.

And with its suicide-door (front-hinged front door and rear-hinged back door) setup, high roof and low cargo floor, it's seriously spacious. While most other vehicles of the Element's size have five seats, the Honda seats just four, and the two backseats are quite small. The 2011 Element comes with a rather basic set, though options like premium sound and a nav system can be had, along with a Dog Friendly Element package. Top crash-test ratings and a good set of safety equipment complete the Element's "get 'er done, safely" mindset.

The 2011 Honda Element represents the final model year for the original box-shaped crossover; decreasing sales mean there won’t be a 2012 Honda Element. Except for a mild model-year 2009 facelift, the 2011 Element is the same shipping-container-shaped wagon introduced as a 2003 model. Should you buy a 2011 Honda Element?

We initially reported that the 2012 Element would kick off this crossover’s second-generation design. Bottom line, it’s clear the 2011 Element’s design appeals to a shrinking number of buyers. The 2011 Honda Element styling is unchanged, though the sporty-trimmed SC model is dropped, leaving behind base LX and uplevel EX versions of this slab-sided four-seater. On the downside, every rival has four conventional side doors. Element, by contrast, uses long front doors in combination with quarter-sized rear doors hinged at the back. You can’t open a rear door unless a front is already open and can’t close it unless a front is already shut. Except for their wheels, the 2011 Element LX and 2011 Element EX models are virtually indistinguishable visually. Both use the same size tires on 16-inch wheels, though the EX comes with alloys and the LX uses steel wheels with wheel covers. Gone for model-year 2011 is the Element SC model, which affected a “street custom” look with lowered ride height, 18-inch alloy wheels, and a monochromatic exterior color scheme.

3/1/11

2011 honda pilot reviews


The Pilot is Honda's mid-size crossover utility vehicle, offering a rugged look combined with a very passenger-friendly package and surprisingly good on-the-road performance.
Four-wheel-drive models can tow up to 4,500 pounds.
From a practicality standpoint, the interior of the 2011 Honda Pilot interior brims with cubbies, holders, and bins for accoutrements of all sorts.

The 2011 Honda Pilot’s strengths are a spacious third-row seat, lots of storage cubbies, and a powerful engine, but it can’t keep up with competitors when it comes to interior quality and braking performance.

Along with its spacious third row and excellent safety scores, the Pilot boasts a powerful V6 engine and impressive towing capacity. It also comes with three rows of seats (though it seats seven rather than the Pilot’s eight) and boasts a better 19/25 fuel economy rating.

At a glance, the "2011 Honda Pilot" would seem to do a fine job as a family hauler. In sum, we think the 2011 Honda Pilot is an adequate choice for a midsize or large crossover SUV. The 2011 Honda Pilot is a midsize crossover SUV offered in four trim levels: LX, EX, EX-L and Touring. Each is available with either front- or all-wheel drive. The EX adds 17-inch alloy wheels, foglights, painted body molding (versus black plastic), roof rails, heated exterior mirrors, an eight-way power driver seat (with two-way power lumbar), steering-wheel audio controls, tri-zone automatic climate control, an in-dash six-CD changer, and satellite radio. Optional on the EX-L is a rear-seat DVD entertainment system and a voice-activated navigation system bundled with Bluetooth, an iPod interface and a 10-speaker premium audio system.

Powertrains and Performance
The 2011 Honda Pilot is motivated by a 3.5-liter V6 that generates 250 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all Pilot models are available with an all-wheel-drive system that automatically apportions power to the rear wheels -- up to 70 percent -- when front slippage occurs. This system also has a driver-selectable "lock" feature that routes maximum torque to the rear wheels at speeds below 19 mph.

Still the Pilot's EPA estimates of 17 city/23 highway mpg and 19 mpg combined (16/22/18 for AWD models) are merely average for this segment.

Safety
Standard safety equipment includes stability control, front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. In the government's new, more strenuous crash testing for 2011, the Pilot earned an overall rating of four stars out of a possible five, with four stars for overall frontal crash protection and five stars for overall side crash protection.The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety likewise awarded the Pilot its top "Good" rating for both frontal-offset and side-impact crashes.

Interior Design and Special Features
Mimicking the 2011 Honda Pilot's utilitarian exterior styling, the interior features a rugged and blocky theme. The Pilot also keeps stride with the competition with its roomy third-row seats.

Driving Impressions
In terms of performance, the 2011 Honda Pilot is burdened by a lack of power and a hefty curb weight. On curvy roads, the Pilot also feels rather cumbersome. In our testing, however, that positive feel ran counter to the Pilot's rather long stopping distances.

2/17/11

2011 honda crz review


The 2011 Honda CR-Z. As it’s closely related to the 2010 Honda Insight five-door hatchback, Honda is careful to pitch the CR-Z as a hybrid sports coupe, and to put a little distance between its illustrious hot-hatch history. The CRX was a halo car for the whole Honda brand; the CR-Z feels just like a two-door Insight with less cohesive looks and worse gas mileage.

Honda's latest hybrid, the 2011 CR-Z, attempts to be both sporty and a hybrid, and it has middling success at each.

The CR-Z's higher trim level, the EX, adds features like Bluetooth, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, aluminum shift knob (manual), aluminum pedals, additional interior accents and a more powerful stereo with a subwoofer. I drove EX Navi versions, both manual and automatic.

My first and most lasting impression was how comfortable the CR-Z's ride is. A high point is the CR-Z's precise, well-weighted steering from what Honda notes is the company's smallest steering wheel. The handling is definitely sporty, but the CR-Z didn't beg to be driven hard. What many car reviewers call underpowered, I call modestly powered. The CR-Z is meant to be a sporty, fun car. Sporty cars typically are less efficient than normal ones, and a sporty hybrid can be expected to be less efficient than a normal hybrid. The CR-Z is, as shown below.

At the Honda CR-Z launch, in fact, Honda plopped us down in a cherry 1985 CRX Si and told us to go nuts. Where the impish CRX used lightness and a stripped-down approach to deliver entertainment and efficiency, the CR-Z looks to a gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain. Particularly with the three-mode adjustable drive system in sport mode, it’s a relatively fun little car. At 160.6 inches long, the "Honda CR-Z" is 16 inches longer than the original CRX, but it doesn’t look like that much with the two cars side by side; for modern reference, the CR-Z is an inch shorter than Honda’s own Fit. It’s not as light, however, with Honda estimates putting the CR-Z around 2700 pounds.

It mates to Honda’s Integrated Motor Assist hybrid system as seen in the Insight, which is comprised of a nickel-metal hydride battery pack and a 13-hp electric motor. In sport, throttle sensitivity is increased, the steering tightens, the electric motor provides more assistance on manual-equipped cars, and in CVT models, the “gear ratios” are optimized for acceleration.

The mileage returned by the Honda CR-Z isn’t as stellar as you’d expect in a hybrid this small, at 31 mpg city and 37 mpg highway with a manual and 35/39 with the CVT. (The EPA tests were run in normal mode.) Would those numbers be the same if the car were lighter with no hybrid gadgetry? —remember that Honda has the Insight and upcoming Fit hybrid to appeal to the hypermiler crowd. The CR-Z is a sporty car with green leanings more than anything else, and that likely guided the engineers’ efficiency targets.

The chassis plays a big part in making the hybrid experience transparent. Where the CR-Z impresses most is in ride quality.
The Honda CR-Z comes in three flavors: base, EX, and EX with navigation. Standard across the range are stability control, power mirrors, power locks and windows, keyless entry, automatic climate control, cruise control, a tilting and telescoping steering column, USB and auxiliary inputs, LED taillamps, and the three-mode drive system. Further, all those CVT buyers will effectively negate the CR-Z’s reason for being, its sportiness.

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