Honda Car Forum - Accord Parts Civic Tuning Acura Racing - Honda News http://www.hondacarforum.com en Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:52:15 GMT vBulletin 60 http://www.hondacarforum.com/images/misc/rss.jpg Honda Car Forum - Accord Parts Civic Tuning Acura Racing - Honda News http://www.hondacarforum.com STUDY: Cash for Clunkers helped Japanese way more than Detroit 3 http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/80477-study-cash-clunkers-helped-japanese-way-more-than-detroit-3-a.html Sat, 14 Nov 2009 08:00:02 GMT Filed under: Government/Legal (http://www.autoblog.com/category/government-legal/), Chrysler (http://www.autoblog.com/category/chrysler/), Ford (http://www.autoblog.com/category/ford/), GM (http://www.autoblog.com/category/gm/), Honda (http://www.autoblog.com/category/honda/), Nissan... Filed under: Government/Legal, Chrysler, Ford, GM, Honda, Nissan, Toyota


While there is no question that Obama's Cash-for-Clunkers program accelerated vehicle sales this summer, a new report by the University of Michigan's Transportation Research Institute shows the big winners were from Japan, not Detroit.

According to the study, nearly 85 percent of the trade-ins were from General Motors, Ford, and Chrysler, yet they only sold 39 percent of the new cars moved off the lots. On the other hand, 8 percent of the trade-ins came from Toyota, Honda, and Nissan, manufacturers who accounted for 41 percent of new car purchases.

While these numbers may be justified by the large quantity of inefficient domestic trucks and SUVs that were deemed clunkers, customer loyalty also seems to have taken a big shift. About 68 percent of owners who traded in Toyota, Honda, or Nissan vehicles replaced them with another from one of those Japanese brands, while only 43 percent of consumers who traded in Detroit steel purchased another General Motors, Ford, or Chrysler product. The program cost the U.S. taxpayers about $3 billion.

[Source: USA Today | Image: Justin Sullivan/Getty]STUDY: Cash for Clunkers helped Japanese way more than Detroit 3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.


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Source: Autoblog ]]> Honda News skylight http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/80477-study-cash-clunkers-helped-japanese-way-more-than-detroit-3-a.html LA Auto Show Design Challenge reveals Youthmobile 2030 design entries http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79946-la-auto-show-design-challenge-reveals-youthmobile-2030-design-entries.html Fri, 06 Nov 2009 07:50:12 GMT Filed under: LA Auto Show (http://www.autoblog.com/category/la-auto-show/), Audi (http://www.autoblog.com/category/audi/), GM (http://www.autoblog.com/category/gm/), Honda (http://www.autoblog.com/category/honda/), Mazda (http://www.autoblog.com/category/mazda/), Nissan... Filed under: LA Auto Show, Audi, GM, Honda, Mazda, Nissan, Toyota, Design/Style
Mazda Souga Concept from LA Design Challenge 2009 - Click above for high-res image gallery

This year's iteration of the annual Design Challenge at the LA Auto Show asks the question: How will a new generation of drivers age 16-23, raised with cell phones, web cams and online communities, emotionally connect to the automobile in 2030? We don't know the answer either, but at least six designers from some of the world's top automakers decided to give it a go with their own ideas.

First up are the eSpira and eOra from Audi, which are controlled by thought and by the minutest adjustments to the pilot's body. Next we have the General Motors Car Hero... yes, the name is borrowed from the popular Guitar Hero line of games and the car, as you might imagine, "turns driving into gaming." What happens when the inevitable "Game Over" comes at the end? Moving along, we come to the Honda Helix, a shape-shifting vehicle that borrows actual DNA from its owner. Yuck, we don't want to be a car, we want to drive a car.

Which brings us to the Mazda Souga, easily our favorite out of this crop of concepts. Mazda's vision for the future would have each owner design his own car for the low price of $2,000 while paying an additional monthly usage fee that also covers the price of electricity to power the Souga.

Nissan's vision for the future includes cars that get their power from an electrically-charged roadway called the GRID, and the vowel-challenged V2G UNLMTD is quickly hacked into an OFF-GRID transportation device by the next breed of young hackers. Lastly, we have the Toyota Link. According to Toyota, future college students will have nearly no income and will rely on mass transit vehicles like the Link that allow them to interact via their various social networks on their daily commutes. Sounds boring to us, but what do we know?

Be sure to check out all six designs in the gallery below and let us know your favorites in the comments.


Gallery: LA Design Challenge 2009 Competitors


[Source: LA Design Challenge]Continue reading LA Auto Show Design Challenge reveals Youthmobile 2030 design entries
LA Auto Show Design Challenge reveals Youthmobile 2030 design entries originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 19:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.


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Source: Autoblog ]]> Honda News skylight http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79946-la-auto-show-design-challenge-reveals-youthmobile-2030-design-entries.html SCCA approves Honda Fit-based engine for Formula F http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79947-scca-approves-honda-fit-based-engine-formula-f.html Fri, 06 Nov 2009 07:50:12 GMT Filed under: Motorsports (http://www.autoblog.com/category/motorsports/), Budget (http://www.autoblog.com/category/economy/), Hatchback (http://www.autoblog.com/category/hatchbacks/), Honda (http://www.autoblog.com/category/honda/) Image:... Filed under: Motorsports, Budget, Hatchback, Honda

Honda FF engine demonstrator - click above for high-res image

For 2010, Formula F is getting some fresh blood. The Sports Car Club of America's board of directors has given the thumbs up to Honda's proposal for a new engine in the class. Next year, competitors will be able to swap out their ancient Ford Kent engines for a new 1.5-liter four based on the Fit.

Honda Performance Development created the engine so that it was specifically able to bolt up to many contemporary Formula Ford chassis designs with minimal modification, all while providing comparable performance. The air restrictor and ECU calibrations can be adjusted by HPD to ensure performance parity with the series' existing engines.

The engine's electronically fuel injected engine promises significantly reduced service requirements compared to the Kent, along with better efficiency. The engines will be supplied complete with intake, exhaust and conversion kits. The kit for the Swift DB-1 including the engine and all necessary parts runs $11,750 with deliveries starting February.


Gallery: Honda Fit FF engine


[Source: Honda]Continue reading SCCA approves Honda Fit-based engine for Formula F
SCCA approves Honda Fit-based engine for Formula F originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.


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Source: Autoblog ]]> Honda News skylight http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79947-scca-approves-honda-fit-based-engine-formula-f.html SEMA 2009: Honda Accord Crosstour straps on some factory accessories http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79916-sema-2009-honda-accord-crosstour-straps-some-factory-accessories.html Thu, 05 Nov 2009 21:50:06 GMT Filed under: Aftermarket (http://www.autoblog.com/category/aftermarket/), Wagon (http://www.autoblog.com/category/wagons/), Crossover (http://www.autoblog.com/category/crossovers-cuvs/), Honda (http://www.autoblog.com/category/honda/), Design/Style... Filed under: Aftermarket, Wagon, Crossover, Honda, Design/Style

2010 Honda Accord Crosstour factory accessories -- Click above for high-res image gallery

Honda's 2010 Accord Crosstour doesn't yet appear on the Japanese automaker's accessories site, but a few images of aftermarket bits have been shared with an Element owner's forum (viewable below), and we now have some live shots straight from the show floor at SEMA.

On top are a rack and window deflectors and down below is a set of skirting that completely encircles the car. The effect, especially from the side, imbues the car with the kind of chunky brawn we used to associate with Subaru, before Subaru decided to dip its design pen into the inkwell of elegance. From the stock shots, the mods might even help, but our man Lavrinc on the show floor who took these live shots seems to indicate otherwise. In any case, as our first drive reviewer asked, is it enough? Thanks for the tip, Jubby!


Gallery: Honda Crosstour Accessories


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Honda Accord Crosstour with Honda accessories


[Source: H&A Accessories via Element Owners Club]SEMA 2009: Honda Accord Crosstour straps on some factory accessories originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.


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Source: Autoblog ]]> Honda News skylight http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79916-sema-2009-honda-accord-crosstour-straps-some-factory-accessories.html <![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Mugen-fettled Accord, Fit aren't the big Honda story from SEMA]]> http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79867-sema-2009-mugen-fettled-accord-fit-arent-big-honda-story-sema.html Thu, 05 Nov 2009 01:40:01 GMT Filed under: Aftermarket (http://www.autoblog.com/category/aftermarket/), SEMA Show (http://www.autoblog.com/category/sema/), Sedan (http://www.autoblog.com/category/sedans/), Performance (http://www.autoblog.com/category/sports/), Hatchback (http://www.autoblog.com/category/hatchbacks/), Honda... Filed under: Aftermarket, SEMA Show, Sedan, Performance, Hatchback, Honda
Mugen Honda Fit and Accord - Click above for high-res image gallery

In addition to announcing its plans to reinvigorate its participation in grassroots racing, Honda revealed two Mugen-accessorized models -- a 2010 Accord Sedan and Fit -- each outfitted with a range of parts available at dealers, but not a standalone model, ala Mugen Civic. While the 18-inch chrome wheels, front grille, spoilers, floor mats and machined aluminum oil filler cap are attractive additions to Honda's growing HFP line, needless to say, they leave us a bit cold when it comes the automaker's commitment to the aftermarket and, more to the point, performance.

Uninspiring SEMA efforts aside, the real news came last night during a meeting with Honda execs, where we were able to glean a few more details about Honda's future performance plans, how the CR-Z -- and more to the point, hybrids -- fit in and something to look out for next year.

Honda PR man Chuck Schifsky, told us that the Big H plans to use hybrids as a performance booster in the future, saying, "The CR-Z isn't the last step. It's the beginning." Although the real start of Honda's performance-marketed hybrids began with the last generation Accord Hybrid, Schifsky admits that its introduction was "ahead of its time," one of many reasons the electric-assisted sedan never quite caught on with consumers.

More interestingly, several Honda heads told us to expect something big in the world of motorsports next year -- likely in Japan. What that means is open to interpretation, but with Honda pulling its NSX out of SuperGT for 2010 (due to the front-engine, rear-drive chassis requirements), something interesting could be on the way. NSX revival? Lexus LFA fighter? Consider our interest extremely piqued...


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Mugen Accessorized Honda Accord and Fit


Photos copyright (C)2009 Damon Lavrinc / Weblogs, Inc.SEMA 2009: Mugen-fettled Accord, Fit aren't the big Honda story from SEMA originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.


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Source: Autoblog ]]> Honda News skylight http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79867-sema-2009-mugen-fettled-accord-fit-arent-big-honda-story-sema.html SEMA 2009: Honda uses vintage iron to announce return to grassroots racing http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79823-sema-2009-honda-uses-vintage-iron-announce-return-grassroots-racing.html Wed, 04 Nov 2009 05:20:09 GMT Filed under: Motorsports (http://www.autoblog.com/category/motorsports/), SEMA Show (http://www.autoblog.com/category/sema/), Classics (http://www.autoblog.com/category/timewarp/), Performance (http://www.autoblog.com/category/sports/), Honda (http://www.autoblog.com/category/honda/) *Image:... Filed under: Motorsports, SEMA Show, Classics, Performance, Honda


1974 "Tokyo Joe" Honda Civic 1200 Racecar - Click above for high-res image gallery

Honda is using SEMA to show off their 2010 vehicles and the accessories available for each. It's also using the show to signal its return to grassroots racing, displaying several vintage racers and production cars alongside their descendants. Although we're covering the entire Mugen-accessorized 2010 lineup elsewhere, we didn't want to miss a chance to talk about three little cars at the back of the booth that had us drooling.

A mint 1971 N600, with its original, yellowed window sticker shows how far we've all come. At $1,395 the N600 cost just about a-buck-a-pound and its 598 cc air-cooled two-cylinder put out just 36 hp, but that was enough to get it to 80 MPH and still return 40 MPG. The N600 was also the car that introduced Americans to Honda automobiles, and firmly established Honda's reputation for frugality and fun.

Next to the N600 sat "Tokyo Joe," the 1974 Bolus & Snopes Civic 1200 racecar that scored six SCCA GT5 championships between 1985 and 1990. It was campaigned by American Honda employee Bob Boileau and once held the title of "World's Fastest Civic" when it was clocked at 146.698 MPH on the Talladega Superspeedway back in 1976. It also looked like it might move the frugal/fun ratio for Hondas a little to the other side of the equation.

Balancing both nicely was the spotless 1984 Mugen CRX prototype. Using a host of parts developed by Mugen, the car showed the performance possibilities inherent in the CRX platform. The Mugen sported a body kit designed for high speed stability, engine mods, a thoroughly reworked suspension, and meatier (but still just) 13-inch tires. A real throwback to the early days of Honda road and racing machines.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Vintage Honda Racers


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Honda]Continue reading SEMA 2009: Honda uses vintage iron to announce return to grassroots racing
SEMA 2009: Honda uses vintage iron to announce return to grassroots racing originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.


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Source: Autoblog ]]> Honda News skylight http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79823-sema-2009-honda-uses-vintage-iron-announce-return-grassroots-racing.html 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour to start at $29,670 http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79790-2010-honda-accord-crosstour-start-29-670-a.html Tue, 03 Nov 2009 19:20:05 GMT Filed under: Car Buying (http://www.autoblog.com/category/carbuying/), Videos (http://www.autoblog.com/category/videos/), Honda (http://www.autoblog.com/category/honda/) Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/2010-accord-crosstour-011-ex-lk_optab.jpg ... Filed under: Car Buying, Videos, Honda
2010 Honda Accord Crosstour - Click above for high-res image gallery

UPDATE: Video of Accord Crosstour running footage added after the jump.

It's fair to say that the 2010 Accord Crosstour has caused Honda some heartburn in the U.S. already, but Japanese brand's new CUV has taken another step toward the showroom regardless. Honda has already given us some wheel time with the Crosstour, so keep your eyes peeled for our review at noon Eastern today. If that's not enough to keep you occupied, pricing for the 2010 Crosstour has just been released, and the new model starts just slightly under $30,000, running up to about $37,000. Honda has also released tons of new Accord Crosstour glamor shots (check 'em out in the gallery below).

EPA efficiency numbers are also included with the pricing, helping buyers understand what the care and feeding of an Accord Crosstour will do to their wallets. An EX-L loaded up with all-wheel drive ("4WD" in Hondaspeak), all the luxury goodies, and navigation earns an EPA estimated 20 mpg combined. Honda's 3.5-liter V6 with Variable Cylinder Management earns 25 mpg on the highway and 17 mpg city. Front-drive ("2WD) Crosstours muster 18/27, which are competitive figures for its class. Speaking of classes, don't forget to check out our First Drive at noon to see if the Crosstour is the Valedictorian or in need of remedial instruction.


Gallery: 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour


[Source: Honda]Continue reading 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour to start at $29,670
2010 Honda Accord Crosstour to start at $29,670 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.


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Source: Autoblog ]]> Honda News skylight http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79790-2010-honda-accord-crosstour-start-29-670-a.html First Drive: 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour goes down the road nicely... but is that enough? http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79789-first-drive-2010-honda-accord-crosstour-goes-down-road-nicely-but-enough.html Tue, 03 Nov 2009 19:20:05 GMT Filed under: Crossover (http://www.autoblog.com/category/crossovers-cuvs/), Hatchback (http://www.autoblog.com/category/hatchbacks/), Honda (http://www.autoblog.com/category/honda/), First Drive (http://www.autoblog.com/category/driving/), Design/Style... Filed under: Crossover, Hatchback, Honda, First Drive, Design/Style
2010 Honda Accord Crosstour - Click above for high-res image gallery

We hadn't been parked but a minute or two when it happened. After about a half an hour wringing out our test subject on what few curvy stretches of road suburban Detroit had to offer, we opportunistically pulled into a roadside fruit stand to snap a few photos before our ride got any dirtier. It was at exactly this point that a Lincoln MKZ rolled up, a window whirred down, and two gray-tufted heads popped out. "What is it?" inquired the couple in boisterous unison. Silence. "It's the 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour," we eventually blurt out, my co-driver sounding suspiciously apologetic. "It's... it's gorgeous!" The late-sixty-something man isn't being facetious - in fact, he's gushing - taking his hands off the Lincoln's wheel and gesturing as if to reinforce his sincerity.

If we're lyin,' we're dyin.'

"It's absolutely beautiful."

More silence.

"Really? Would you like to take a closer look?" No sooner had we extended the offer than said window was rolled up and the MKZ hurriedly shepherded into a parking spot. Moments later, our curious seniors were all over Honda's latest like first-in-liners at an early bird all-you-can-eat buffet. They took in its daring fastback profile, sized up its cargo hold, fiddled with its power seat controllers and gooshed its soft-touch plastics. Not only were they clearly impressed, they loved the way it looked.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour


Photos copyright (C)2009 Chris Paukert / Weblogs, Inc.Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour goes down the road nicely... but is that enough?
First Drive: 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour goes down the road nicely... but is that enough? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.


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Source: Autoblog ]]> Honda News skylight http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79789-first-drive-2010-honda-accord-crosstour-goes-down-road-nicely-but-enough.html Accord Crosstour, JDM Odyssey, or JDM Accord Tourer - Which would have been your pick? http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79460-accord-crosstour-jdm-odyssey-jdm-accord-tourer-would-have-been-your-pick.html Wed, 28 Oct 2009 01:40:03 GMT Filed under: Minivan/Van (http://www.autoblog.com/category/minivans/), Wagon (http://www.autoblog.com/category/wagons/), Japan (http://www.autoblog.com/category/japan/), Marketing/Advertising (http://www.autoblog.com/category/marketing-advertising/), Crossover... Filed under: Minivan/Van, Wagon, Japan, Marketing/Advertising, Crossover, Honda


While we were in Japan last week for the Tokyo Motor Show, at least two American Honda officials expressed interest in bringing the automaker's Fit-based Freed MPV to the U.S. market. However, as we strolled the streets of Tokyo's Ginza district, another thought occurred to us when a JDM Odyssey passed by. Back in the Nineties, the original Odyssey was sold in Japan and the U.S. as Honda's first crack at a minivan. For the second generation, the Nippon and U.S.-market cars diverged as Honda realized American buyers wanted something larger, so the original model continued to evolve in Japan, eventually resulting in an all-new model for 2008.

During the time since Honda's original Odyssey departed American showrooms, the North American market has also evolved, with the crossover segment emerging as an increasingly sizable piece of the pie. Enter the 2010 Accord Crosstour. While most people have only seen photos of the new Crosstour to date, the lion's share of the public's reaction has been charitably categorizable as "less than favorable." To be fair, however, we won't know if Honda made the right call until the model's sales results begin to come in.

Lest we forget, in addition to the JDM Odyssey, Honda also offers a more traditional Accord Tourer (read: "wagon") available overseas, and it's a model that many commenters on both this website and Honda's own Crosstour Facebook page have noted and expressed a preference for. In the case of the Odyssey, the JDM vehicle has arguably become more like a CUV than a minivan, what with its four traditionally-hinged doors and a lower roof than past iterations. The front end styling draws directly on the FCX Clarity, another car-based design cue.

Although it would be premature to judge the value of a model before consumers get the chance determine its success or failure, it sounds like many of you are already wondering whether Honda made the right decision. If you have some initial thoughts, drop your fellow commenter a line and be sure to take our poll after the jump - and we'll keep an eye on sale figures!Continue reading Accord Crosstour, JDM Odyssey, or JDM Accord Tourer - Which would have been your pick?
Accord Crosstour, JDM Odyssey, or JDM Accord Tourer - Which would have been your pick? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.


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Source: Autoblog ]]> Honda News skylight http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79460-accord-crosstour-jdm-odyssey-jdm-accord-tourer-would-have-been-your-pick.html Autoblog Podcast #150 - Tokyo Motor Show Edition http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79459-autoblog-podcast-150-tokyo-motor-show-edition.html Wed, 28 Oct 2009 01:40:03 GMT Filed under: Podcasts (http://www.autoblog.com/category/podcasts/), Japan (http://www.autoblog.com/category/japan/), Tokyo Motor Show (http://www.autoblog.com/category/tokyo-motor-show/), Buick (http://www.autoblog.com/category/buick/), Honda (http://www.autoblog.com/category/honda/), Kia... Filed under: Podcasts, Japan, Tokyo Motor Show, Buick, Honda, Kia, Mazda, Toyota, Tokyo Auto Salon

Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!


It's Episode #150 of the Autoblog Podcast, and we raided the crypt to give you your buck-and-a-half's worth. Former podcast staples John Neff and Chris Paukert have been unearthed and join Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid, and Dan Roth for this milestone occasion.

A review of the Tokyo Motor Show starts things off, and then we drill down to talk more specifically about both ends of Toyota's sports spectrum: the Lexus LFA and the Toyota FT-86 concepts. Other Tokyo standouts like the Honda CR-Z and Subaru Hybrid Tourer concept weave into the conversation before we turn to the next-generation Honda Civic, rumored to be lighter and smaller. From there, things devolve entirely before this week's big crew wraps it up.

We'll hit your questions again next time around, keep them rolling in to Podcast at Autoblog dot com. We appreciate you filling our survey with data, and remember, if you get lonely, there's always Joystiq and Engadget. Thanks for listening! You can also leave us a message at our new Google Voice number 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Who knows... we might even play it on the podcast!
Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #150 - Tokyo Motor Show Edition
Autoblog Podcast #150 - Tokyo Motor Show Edition originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.


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Source: Autoblog ]]> Honda News skylight http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79459-autoblog-podcast-150-tokyo-motor-show-edition.html REPORT: Honda plans a return to larger hybrids http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79435-report-honda-plans-return-larger-hybrids.html Tue, 27 Oct 2009 15:40:02 GMT Filed under: Hybrid (http://www.autoblog.com/category/hybrids/), Minivan/Van (http://www.autoblog.com/category/minivans/), Sedan (http://www.autoblog.com/category/sedans/), Honda (http://www.autoblog.com/category/honda/) Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/honda-skydeck.jpg... Filed under: Hybrid, Minivan/Van, Sedan, Honda
2009 Honda Skydeck Concept - Click above for hi-res image gallery

To put it mildly, sales of the Honda Accord Hybrid never quite set the world on fire. Regardless, Japan's second largest automaker is reportedly hard at work developing its proprietary Integrated Motor Assist hybrid platform so that it can once again be used to power larger vehicles like the Accord.

To make it all work out, Honda is adding an extra electric motor to the mix for a total of two, both of which will be more powerful than the single pancake motor used in the current Insight and Civic Hybrid. Also on the menu is a lithium ion battery pack to replace the current nickel metal hydride unit, with added capacity to allow for electric-only operation.

Word on the street (or at least the Nikkei daily newspaper in Japan) is that Honda might place this next-gen hybrid powertrain in a minivan sometime in 2011 or so. Before that, though, we can look forward to the launch of Honda's sporty CR-Z hybrid hatchback. It's important to have your priorities straight, right?


Gallery: 2009 Honda Skydeck Concept


[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]REPORT: Honda plans a return to larger hybrids originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.


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Source: Autoblog ]]> Honda News skylight http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79435-report-honda-plans-return-larger-hybrids.html REPORT: NHTSA upgrading investigation into Honda Odyssey brakes http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79436-report-nhtsa-upgrading-investigation-into-honda-odyssey-brakes.html Tue, 27 Oct 2009 15:40:02 GMT Filed under: Minivan/Van (http://www.autoblog.com/category/minivans/), Safety (http://www.autoblog.com/category/safety/), Honda (http://www.autoblog.com/category/honda/) Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/odyssey_nhtsa_brakes.jpg ... Filed under: Minivan/Van, Safety, Honda


The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has upgraded their preliminary probe into an issue with the Honda Odyssey to an engineering analysis. The agency has received more than 500 complaints about a braking problem, with drivers saying the pedal gets soft or spongy. According to reports on ten crashes that have been submitted, the van in some cases hasn't stopped as it should.

The years in question are the 2006-2008 Odysseys. The problem being looked at is whether air entering the brake lines is degrading brake performance. Honda says air might enter the lines, but that wouldn't change the operation of the brakes. This is not a recall, merely an analysis, and there is no indication yet that a recall will be necessary. Later model vans are being looked at most closely, and NHTSA should release its findings soon.

[Source: Reuters]REPORT: NHTSA upgrading investigation into Honda Odyssey brakes originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 06:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.


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Source: Autoblog ]]> Honda News skylight http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79436-report-nhtsa-upgrading-investigation-into-honda-odyssey-brakes.html REPORT: Honda goes back to drawing board for smaller, lighter next-gen Civic http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79409-report-honda-goes-back-drawing-board-smaller-lighter-next-gen-civic.html Tue, 27 Oct 2009 05:30:01 GMT Filed under: Honda

2009 Honda Civic - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you introduced an '80s-era Honda Civic to its modern counterpart, it couldn't recognize what it's become. But after decades of growing dimensions, Honda's going back to the drawing board for the next-gen Civic.

The change in direction was reportedly ordered last year before the global economy took a nose-dive by product chief Tsuneo Tanai who observed a rise in oil and raw metal prices. Once the financial sector hit rock bottom, the Civic emerged as a strong player, out-selling the Ford F-Series pickup as the number one vehicle in the United States in May 2008. Not satisfied with sitting back and seeing how things shape up, though, Tanai ordered his engineers and designers to scrap their plans and redesign the next-gen Civic to be smaller, cheaper, lighter and more fuel efficient.

The move coincides with Honda's re-strategizing vis-a-vis hybrids and electric vehicles, not to mention the cancellation of its V8 and rear-drive programs. But despite having put more people on the job, the decision to restart the Civic's development halfway through the process is sure to be a major setback for the company's lifecycle schedule. And not just for the Civic itself, but also for vehicles that share its platform, including the CR-V crossover, the Element sport-utility-box, the JDM Stream and European-market FR-V minivans, to say nothing of the upcoming CR-Z, Acura RDX, and of course the all-important Canadian-market Acura CSX.


Gallery: 2009 Honda Civic


[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]REPORT: Honda goes back to drawing board for smaller, lighter next-gen Civic originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 16:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.


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Source: Autoblog ]]> Honda News skylight http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79409-report-honda-goes-back-drawing-board-smaller-lighter-next-gen-civic.html Honda Racing finally puts NSX out to pasture as SuperGT tweaks regs http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79381-honda-racing-finally-puts-nsx-out-pasture-supergt-tweaks-regs.html Mon, 26 Oct 2009 19:20:13 GMT Filed under: Motorsports (http://www.autoblog.com/category/motorsports/), Japan (http://www.autoblog.com/category/japan/), Honda (http://www.autoblog.com/category/honda/), Specialty (http://www.autoblog.com/category/special-limited-editions/) Image:... Filed under: Motorsports, Japan, Honda, Specialty


The Honda/Acura NSX has had a good run. The mid-engine supercar developed with input from the legendary Ayrton Senna first hit the market in 1990 and didn't cease production until 2005, giving it one of the longest production runs in the business. But even after Honda stopped selling the NSX, it was still being campaigned in Japan's SuperGT racing series. No more, says Honda, as the 2010 regulations switch exclusively to the use of front-engine, rear-drive chassis, forcing the NSX into retirement after nearly two decades of duty.

Based on the roadgoing supercar, the SuperGT-spec NSX-GT featured a heavily modified chassis that swapped the stock transverse V6 for a 500-horsepower competition-spec engine tuned by Mugen and mounted longitudinally. The car's been driven to three drivers' titles and three teams' championships in the Japanese touring car series.

No word yet on what, if anything, will succeed the NSX - or the Toyota MR-S for that matter - but Japanese automakers dropping out of motorsports like so many flies, we won't be holding our breath.

[Source: Honda via Jon Sibal]Honda Racing finally puts NSX out to pasture as SuperGT tweaks regs originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.


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Source: Autoblog ]]> Honda News skylight http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79381-honda-racing-finally-puts-nsx-out-pasture-supergt-tweaks-regs.html Mugen reportedly considering tuning Honda CR-Z http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79380-mugen-reportedly-considering-tuning-honda-cr-z.html Mon, 26 Oct 2009 19:20:13 GMT Filed under: Aftermarket (http://www.autoblog.com/category/aftermarket/), Hybrid (http://www.autoblog.com/category/hybrids/), Performance (http://www.autoblog.com/category/sports/), Hatchback (http://www.autoblog.com/category/hatchbacks/), Honda (http://www.autoblog.com/category/honda/) *Image:... Filed under: Aftermarket, Hybrid, Performance, Hatchback, Honda

Honda CR-Z - Click above for high-res image gallery

While the idea of a performance-tuned hybrid may have seemed nonsensical only a couple of years ago, as the earth-friendly vehicles become more mainstream, the sub-segment will undoubtedly grow to attract a fair share of our attention. Case in point: reports from overseas indicate that Mugen is seriously toying with the idea of creating a high-performance version of the upcoming Honda CR-Z.

The Honda tuner par excellence shares a close, even familial relationship with the factory, and it reportedly sees the electric motor in the hybrid drive as a sort of replacement for a turbocharger, offering a bit of low-end boost to small gasoline engines that are down on torque. The result could redefine the Japanese hot hatch as we know it.


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: Honda CR-Z concept


[Source: Autocar]Mugen reportedly considering tuning Honda CR-Z originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.


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Source: Autoblog ]]> Honda News skylight http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79380-mugen-reportedly-considering-tuning-honda-cr-z.html Honda design boss discusses changes to production CR-Z http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79348-honda-design-boss-discusses-changes-production-cr-z.html Sun, 25 Oct 2009 23:10:06 GMT Filed under: Coupe (http://www.autoblog.com/category/coupes/), Honda (http://www.autoblog.com/category/honda/), Design/Style (http://www.autoblog.com/category/design-style/) Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/cr-z-design-630.jpg ... Filed under: Coupe, Honda, Design/Style
Honda global design director Nobuki Ebisawa - click above for high-res image gallery

For the first time in its history, Honda invited a select group of North American media to visit to its design studio this week following the Tokyo Motor Show. While we didn't see any secret new cars today, we did sit down for a chat with Nobuki Ebisawa, general manager of global design for Honda. Among other things, we discussed the styling of the new CR-Z hybrid sport coupe.

Honda unveiled an updated concept version of the CR-Z at the show that's merely a thinly-veiled version of the production model slated to debut at the Detroit Auto Show in January. The new concept remained on the show floor while the original 2007 concept was on display in the studio along with two quarter-scale clay models. One model was of the original proposal from early 2007, while the other model was the 2009 concept. Both are the work of Motoaki Minowa, while the actual concept that was built in 2007 was produced by Makoto Iwaki. Read on to learn more about the changes.


Gallery: Honda CR-Z design studio


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: Honda CR-Z concept


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.Continue reading Honda design boss discusses changes to production CR-Z
Honda design boss discusses changes to production CR-Z originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 25 Oct 2009 19:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.


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Source: Autoblog ]]> Honda News skylight http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79348-honda-design-boss-discusses-changes-production-cr-z.html Tokyo 2009: Should Honda bring the Freed MPV to America? http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79283-tokyo-2009-should-honda-bring-freed-mpv-america.html Sat, 24 Oct 2009 16:50:13 GMT Filed under: Minivan/Van (http://www.autoblog.com/category/minivans/), Tokyo Motor Show (http://www.autoblog.com/category/tokyo-motor-show/), Honda (http://www.autoblog.com/category/honda/) Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/freed-tokyo-630-1.jpg ... Filed under: Minivan/Van, Tokyo Motor Show, Honda
2009 Honda Freed - Click above for high-res image gallery

Here in Tokyo, we were hanging around with some American Honda Motor Co. officials when they got their first up-close look at the Freed. The Freed is a compact minivan/MPV based on Honda's Fit architecture. For reference, the six-seat, three-row Freed is about 15 inches shorter than a Mazda5 and about 4 inches longer than a U.S.-spec Fit.

Freed's third row seats fold up against the sides of its body, leaving a completely flat load floor. At least two U.S. Honda PR people checking out the model loved the idea of offering it Stateside, although they'd be inclined to see two changes. Because of the micro-van's short length, they would drop the third row and move the second row back for more legroom. Additionally, the 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine (the same one used in the U.S. Fit) would also likely be replaced by something a bit larger for the our market - possibly a 1.8-liter or even a 2.0-liter.

The Freed is a certainly an attractive package and could make a good competitor in the burgeoning small MPV segment against the likes of the Mazda5 and the forthcoming Chevrolet Orlando and Ford C-Max. What do you think? Have your say in the poll we're running after the jump. Honda's looking for feedback and would like to hear from you.

Gallery: Tokyo 2009: Honda Freed


[Source: Honda]
Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.Continue reading Tokyo 2009: Should Honda bring the Freed MPV to America?
Tokyo 2009: Should Honda bring the Freed MPV to America? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 24 Oct 2009 09:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.


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Source: Autoblog ]]> Honda News skylight http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79283-tokyo-2009-should-honda-bring-freed-mpv-america.html Tokyo 2009: Honda rolls out the EV-Cub, we pray for a production model http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79246-tokyo-2009-honda-rolls-out-ev-cub-we-pray-production-model.html Fri, 23 Oct 2009 20:30:01 GMT Filed under: Tokyo Motor Show (http://www.autoblog.com/category/tokyo-motor-show/), Honda (http://www.autoblog.com/category/honda/), Motorcycle (http://www.autoblog.com/category/motorcycles/), Alternative Fuel (http://www.autoblog.com/category/alternative-fuel/) Image:... Filed under: Tokyo Motor Show, Honda, Motorcycle, Alternative Fuel
Honda EV-Cub Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

You meet the greenest people on a Honda. Well, maybe not quite yet... but the World's Largest Motorcycle Manufacturer has signaled its intent to usher in a new era of electrically-powered two-wheelers, and a modern-day Cub seems like an excellent way to do just that.

Honda is showing a conceptual electric Cub as we speak at the Tokyo Motor Show, but strangely isn't letting out very much information about the machine. We know there's an electric motor powering each wheel and some kind of battery pack sitting in between somewhere in the frame rails, but that's about it.

Regardless of how little we know about the EV-Cub, it's a concept we wholeheartedly approve of. We're big fans of the original gas-powered 50cc model, which has been known to return well over 200 miles per gallon in daily use, and a thoroughly modern drivetrain seems like a fitting way to inject some new life into the old Cub. See our high-res image gallery of live shots below.


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: Honda EV-Cub


Photos copyright (C)2009 Jonathon Ramsey / Weblogs, Inc.Tokyo 2009: Honda rolls out the EV-Cub, we pray for a production model originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Oct 2009 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.


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Source: Autoblog ]]> Honda News skylight http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79246-tokyo-2009-honda-rolls-out-ev-cub-we-pray-production-model.html Mugen Honda Civic Type-R confirmed for Euro consumption http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79245-mugen-honda-civic-type-r-confirmed-euro-consumption.html Fri, 23 Oct 2009 20:30:01 GMT Filed under: Performance (http://www.autoblog.com/category/sports/), Europe (http://www.autoblog.com/category/euro/), Hatchback (http://www.autoblog.com/category/hatchbacks/), Honda (http://www.autoblog.com/category/honda/) Image:... Filed under: Performance, Europe, Hatchback, Honda

Mugen Honda Civic Type-R - Click above for high-res image gallery

Earlier this summer, we caught whiffs of rumormill pandering that Mugen was planning to launch a high-performance version of Honda's Civic Type-R. Those rumors are now facts as the well-known tuning firm has just announced that the Ultimate Civic Type-R is headed to a European country near you for a pocketbook-stretching £38,599 (that's $64,000 at current exchange rates, not that it matters).

Included for that whopper of a bottom line is a horsepower boost to 237 from the stocker's 198 along with a welcome 10-percent torque improvement across the rev range. New pistons, camshafts, intake manifold, and a stainless exhaust system are responsible for the added ponies while a completely revised suspension system with limited-slip differential take care of the handling mods.

Rounding out the package are a bespoke bodykit with a monster wing out back and forged alloy wheels capping four-piston mono-block racing brake calipers. Want one? Better get all your ducks in a row in short order - Mugen is only planning on building 20 Ultimate Civic Type-R hatchbacks. Hit the jump for the official press release.


Gallery: Mugen Honda Civic Type-R


[Source: Honda]Continue reading Mugen Honda Civic Type-R confirmed for Euro consumption
Mugen Honda Civic Type-R confirmed for Euro consumption originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Oct 2009 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.


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Source: Autoblog ]]> Honda News skylight http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79245-mugen-honda-civic-type-r-confirmed-euro-consumption.html Tokyo 2009: Honda CB1100 brings back the UJM http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79190-tokyo-2009-honda-cb1100-brings-back-ujm.html Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:20:06 GMT Filed under: Tokyo Motor Show (http://www.autoblog.com/category/tokyo-motor-show/), Honda (http://www.autoblog.com/category/honda/), Motorcycle (http://www.autoblog.com/category/motorcycles/) Image: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/honda-cb1100-tokyo_0001_opt.jpg ... Filed under: Tokyo Motor Show, Honda, Motorcycle
Honda CB1100 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Honda officially took the wraps off a couple new motorcycles this week at the Tokyo Motor Show, and along with the hotly anticipated VFR 1200F, the retro-styled CB1100 is one bike that's receiving plenty of attention. We've been hearing rumblings that the new large-bore, air-cooled standard might make its way Stateside, and while that hasn't quite been confirmed by Honda, we've got our fingers crossed.

The CB1100 would mark the return of the classic Universal Japanese Motorcycle, more commonly known as the UJM, which was best exemplified by Honda's own CB750 series from the 1970s. As we've noted in the past, the Big Four have all but forgotten the UJM, which is a shame - there's an unfortunate lack of no-nonsense, reasonably-priced, do-it-all motorcycles offered here in the U.S.

Check out our gallery of live photos below of one standard model in black and one featuring a nice flyscreen, blacked-out exhaust and cafe-style seat in red... oh, and be sure to contact your local Honda dealer to let them know you're interested.


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: Honda CB1100


Photos copyright (C)2009 Jonathon Ramsey / Weblogs, Inc.Tokyo 2009: Honda CB1100 brings back the UJM originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 12:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.


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Source: Autoblog ]]> Honda News skylight http://www.hondacarforum.com/honda-news/79190-tokyo-2009-honda-cb1100-brings-back-ujm.html