Saturday, May 22, 2010

Honda Stepwgn


he Honda Step wgn is a mid-sized MPV produced by Honda since 1996. It is designed with a higher cabin, contrast to the Odyssey and later also the Stream in the product line. In addition, it can accommodate 8 people, instead of 7 in Odessey and Stream. In standard form the car has one door on the driver's side but two doors on the pavement / sidewalk side.995 The Honda Step WGN appeared at the Tokyo Motor Show as the "F-MX". 1996 May 8 The Honda Step WGN emerged as one type of vehicle. At that time, Japan's commercial delivery vehicles based on the engine under the driver's seat, or cabover type were the Step WGN is based on the Civic FF layout of the floor and low - , A tool to find square style, low-price strategy such as the popular model in one sitting. Cars,splitting the extreme limit of its. Step Van which is derived from that time, Japan, the "minivan" terms are still not in place "Commercial vehicles" reminiscent of "On the van | Meeting]]" to stop "Step Wagon". The English name "STEP WGN", a grade name "W", "G", "N" and "pleasure". Family assumes that the child has to rush out to prevent road-side, passenger side sliding door is only with the establishment. To improve profitability, cost reduction measures is to ensure that the [Ministry of Transport] (the current Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport) to get the model to reduce the cost of the engines and transmissions to one type at a time Aperture, and vehicle design, the Civic divert from the leg, [[finite element method] analysis (FEM) by reducing the use of steel, panels and parts of the division's efforts to reduce press die, than to. Moreover, the stiffness to ensure the right to sliding doors, glass front door outside the window is fixed, welding mark the blindfold and the rear corner of the seal for Skipping work without a thick coating of resin Mall And a large taillights RIAKONBIRANPU in the corner of a body cover, for last year. As a byproduct, vehicle weight is 1530 kg and 1410, finished a lightweight. However, the evils in the beginning, and low body stiffness, and arising out of [[steering] column and the brake] master cylinder (bulkhead) lack of rigidity of mounting a remote Friction cable size and lack of rigidity, mass itself due to lack of knobs, AT [[gearshift | SEREKUTAREBA] operations (a sense of discipline), and pointed to the poor.

Honda Freed

There were some confused looks a couple of months back when Honda Cars Philippines (HCPI) released information and images of their upcoming Freed minivan. Sleek and stylish as it maybe, the notion of having an Avanza-sized eight-seater for the Japanese market isn’t exactly newsworthy. At the time, we thought: maybe it’s a slow news day, or perhaps it was sort of a left-brained approach to market the all-new Jazz (coming to showrooms this August). Fast forward to now and bam! It suddenly hit us. The Honda Freed is coming to our shores locally. But before you start queuing up at your neighborhood Honda dealership, read on.
The fact that it looked sort-of quirky and oddball signified that it was a Japan-only car. However, with the price of oil continuing to skyrocket northward, Honda figured it was about time to, pardon the pun, free the people from the doldrums of a typical MPV. In terms of size, the Freed slots with the same bracket as the Toyota Avanza (it measures L xWxH at 4,215 x 1,695 x 1,715 mm). Unlike the Avanza though which is nothing more than a re-badged Daihatsu Xenia, the Freed is based off the Jazz hatchback. This means the Freed is a unibody, front-wheel drive MPV as compared to the traditional body-on-frame, rear-wheel drive configuration of the Toyota. And since it’s based off the Jazz, it’s only fitting that it also receives the same 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine. The L15A engine has a maximum output of 118 horsepower and 144 Nm of torque—good figures since this powerplant utilizes Honda’s acclaimed i-VTEC engine technology. There are two transmission options available, a CVT or a more conventional 5-speed automatic. Honda Japan claims 16.4 km/L for the CVT and 14.0 for the automatic.
From the outside, the Freed certainly looks like a stretched Jazz. Even with the sporty variant already receiving 185/65 R 15 tires, it still looks tall, no doubt because it was designed primarily to ferry people. The Freed has a 2+3+3 seating configuration where the second row folds in a 60/40 ratio and the third row in a 50/50 ratio. The third row folds laterally ala Fortuner. If you’re quick to gripe, remember that the Freed is a people-carrier and not a compact hatchback. And in that respect, the Freed’s rear doors slide like a true van making access in tight spaces so much better than the conventional swing doors of the Avanza.
Inside, the Freed is decisively more modern than the Avanza with a split-level instrument cluster like the Civic. The gauges feature electro-luminescent lighting and automatic climate control can be specified. The Freed also has a true flat-floor in all three rows increasing leg and knee space. In addition, the dash-mounted shifter should further improve this. With Honda engineers knowing very well that the cheap interior trimmings is the Avanza’s weakpoint, the Freed will surely benefit from better fit and finish.
So when is it coming to the Philippines? Well, hold your horses first as the Freed was just launched in Japan a month ago. However, Honda insiders say that an ASEAN version will be built in Indonesia. Whether the decision to build it there is to scorn Toyota, we don’t know; but we do know that thanks to the AFTA the Freed could be priced at around a reasonable P 740,000 to a cool P 1,000,000 for the top-of-the-line version.
It seems that these tough times have pushed Honda R&D to concentrate on the sub-Civic level cars. Aside from the Jazz which will make its Philippine debut in August, its sedan derivative (City) will be unveiled in Thailand this September. The Freed will follow sometime in 2009.
It looks sort of a stretched Jazz. It's not really beautiful, but it works.
Honda knows that the Avanza's lacking in refinement and space utilization. They want to correct those with their Freed.

Honda Crossroad




The Crossroad was designed as an active life navigator car that helps people enjoy their active new lifestyles, unbound by conventional thinking. The square motif of the exterior design conveys a feeling of solid presence and strength, while areas around the center pillars and windows are deeply beveled to achieve a sturdy, robust look. The front suspension features a McPherson strut design for outstanding straight-line stability. In the rear, a compact, reactive-link, double-wishbone suspension helps provide increased space for passengers in the third row of seats. All types are equipped with a rear stabilizer bar. The distinctive angular design around the front headlights gives the Crossroad an effective minimum turning radius at the top of its class. The interior design features sculpted molding around the instrument panel to achieve a fun and confident feel. The square motif is continued throughout the interior, creating a refined, urban tone. With its innovative packaging, the Crossroad offers a confident presence and versatile 3-row seating, yet is a breeze to handle around town thanks to an overall length of just 4,285mm. The Honda Crossroad makes use of strong, lightweight, high-tensile steel which contributes to increased rigidity and weight savings. The design of the rear frame features a large cross-section along with two internal impact-absorbing frames. The frames have a polygonal cross-section to enable them to effectively absorb the shock of a rear-end collision.





Honda Airwave


The Honda Airwave is a subcompact car produced by the Japanese automaker Honda since 2005. It is a five-door station wagon version of the City / Fit Aria and Fit/Jazz, which are a sedan and a hatchback respectively. The Airwave is built on the Global Small Car platform; however, unlike the City and Fit, the Airwave is unique to the Japanese market. Honda announced the debut of the Airwave on April 7, 2005.The Airwave is sold in two trim lines, the basic "G" model, and the well-equipped "L" model. Each of the trim lines has an optional panoramic glass sunroof that covers a large part of the roof. Each version of the car is available in either front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. The current version of the Honda Partner panel van introduced on March 10, 2006 is now based upon the Airwave. Essentially a decontented version of the Airwave, it utilizes the L15A i-DSI engine (unlike the VTEC engine in the Airwave) mated to a five-speed automatic transmission identical to that found in the North American market Fit.The Airwave is powered by the largest version of Honda's L-series engine family, the 1496 cc 1.5L VTEC L15A gasoline engine. The engine produces a maximum output of 81kW (109hp) at 5800rpm and a maximum torque of 143Nm (105lb·ft) at 4800rpm. Two forms of a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) are available on the Airwave. The "G" trim line has a standard CVT of five-speed, while the "L" sports a CVT with seven-speed mode. This allows the driver to choose between the smooth, shiftless acceleration of a standard CVT, or the added option of shifting through seven computer-controlled "gears".The interior versatility of the Airwave is similar to its smaller sibling, the Fit. By moving the fuel tank underneath the front row of seats, a significant amount of space is freed up in the rear for a useful seating system. Like the Fit, the Airwave has five different seating modes.

Honda FC Sport


Honda surprised the motoring world today with the release of the radical and futuristic Honda FC Sport, a three-seat Hydrogen-powered design study that hints at the future of Honda sports cars to come. Using the Honda V Flow fuel cell setup already found in the Honda FCX Clarity , the FC Sport is the supercar to the FCX's stately sedan. The stunning design is meant to invoke the concept of a high-performance, low-weight hydrogen sports car. Press release and more details below the jump.nnovative fuel cell packaging demonstrates green performance potential

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 19, 2008 – Honda today revealed the Honda FC Sport design study model, a hydrogen-powered, three-seat sports car concept, at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show.
The FC Sport emphasizes the design flexibility and potential of Honda’s V Flow fuel cell technology – already deployed in the Honda FCX Clarity sedan – and reconfigures it into a lightweight sports car design with an ultra-low center of gravity, powerful electric motor performance and zero-emissions. The design study concept is inspired by supercar levels of performance through low weight and a high-performance, electrically driven fuel cell powertrain.
“The Honda FC Sport explores how to satisfy automotive performance enthusiasts in a world beyond petroleum,” said Dan Bonawitz, vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “People who love sports cars will still have a reason to love in a hydrogen-powered future.”
The high-output Honda fuel cell powertrain and a sleek, aerodynamic body contribute to the vehicle’s performance potential. A modular approach to fuel cell component packaging and the electric drivetrain contribute to the FC Sport’s low center of gravity with the majority of vehicle mass distributed between the axles, creating the balanced weight distribution sought after in sports cars.

Honda Civic Hatchback

Manufactured by Honda in July of 1972, the two-door sedan Honda Civic was small and compact yet filled with vast interior space.
Rated as Motor Trend's Import Car of the Year for 1980, the Civic achieved status on Car and Driver magazine's annual Ten Best lists six time from 1985 to 1996. At the 2006 North American International Auto show (NAIAS) Car of the Year awards, the Civic took home the North American Car of the Year title.The first-year civic came with an estimated 50 horsepower, and a 1,169 cc inline four-cylinder engine. Weighing only about 1,500 pounds, the Civic came with 0.71 horsepower per cubic inch. The Civic came with a transverse engine, and 1169 cc engine with front wheel drive a wheelbase of 220 cm.Sold as either a four-speed manual or two speed, this vehicle typically came with a A radio, heater, plastic trim, painted steel rims with a chromed wheel nut cap and two-speed wipers. Eventually becoming more luxurious, the updated Civic comes with satellite-linked navigation, power lock and windows and as a six-speed manual.
Before 1973, Honda was better known for producing motorcycles than vehicles. It was the arrival of the Civic that turned around the Honda opinion and its predilection for vehicle production. Achieving more than 40 mpg on the highway, this small car had room for four passengers. Available in either a 3-door hatchback or a sedan version, this vehicles were identical except for their rear options. The sedan offered a small vertical panel that opened and provided access to the ‘trunk'. Arriving with standard options such as power front disc brakes, reclining bucket seats, woodgrain-accented dashboard and vinyl seating, the options were minimal butincluded air conditioning, automatic transmission, rear wipers (in the hatchback) and radial tires. The hatchback also included a fold-down rear seat, cloth upholstery and an AM radio. Honda Civic's have always represented dependability and a good value for the price. At a base price of around $2,200, the Civc was considered to be practical and ecconomical without any pretenses.Nearly two years after its release, the engine expanded to 1,237 cc and available horsepower when from 50 to 52. The bumpers on the Civic also grew longer along with its overall length to 146.9 inches to meet the 5-mph bumper impact standard.

Honda Integra

The Integra styling, bolstered for the American market is smooth and muscular. In red as tested, we agreed the curves of the car, the proportions and presence on the road add up to a good-looking vehicle. Panel fit and paint is excellent, with no visible marks or aberrations. Rounded tail lights, and sleek front light assemblies complete the sporty look.Climbing into the cockpit of the Honda you are first struck by the smooth styling of the interior. There isn't a multitude of dials, switches or a large expanse of stereo. You get a single CD unit, some A/C and climate controls and the dials in the dash. The stereo has reasonable sound, and controls are simple to use. The three climate controls for fan speed, temperature and fan location are intuitive to use, and of high quality feel. The driver and passenger get power window controls, but they are not so convenient, being located in a position on the armrest uncomfortable to find easily.The interior is pretty much textured and colour coded ABS plastic and rubber which looks cohesive and stylish. Storage in the cabin is acceptable with a small single din compartment under the stereo, door pockets, and glovebox. There is a neat compartment forward of the tiptronic box with dual compartments, a tray and a bin below it, accessible by using either of two plastic tabs (visible in the interior photos).Pedals are standard fare, with rubber for grip (not drilled metal racing look as used for 'sporty' model cars these days). The steering wheel is a leather-clad design with integrated airbag. It is of small size, and feels very good to grip with comfortable hand positioning. Behind the steering wheel are white-faced dials, with needles pointing dead south - the racecar influence. They are generally easy to read during the day, but we found the red illumination at nighttime, although it looks good - is somewhat hard to read clearly and quickly.

Honda Prelude

In 1982, The second generation Prelude came available with a 12-valve carburated engine, and in 1985, fuel injection was introduced. The first to have pop-up headlights, allowing for a more aerodynamic front, the second generation Prelude was available with a DOHC 16-valve PGM-FI engine in Japan and Asia. This engine was released in Europe until 1986. The total production for the second-generation Prelude for the US market was 336,599Modifications to the hood were made to encompass the larger DOHC engine. The car was suprisingly dexturous despite its low weight of 1,025 kg and high power 16 –valve engine capable of producing 100 hp. In 1983, the Prelude model was lower and wider than the earlier models. The 1.8 liter CVCC, SOHC engine was fed through two side-draft carburetors, the end result being a additional 25 more horsepower than the old Accord. The MacPherson strut front end with a double A-arm front suspension was replaced by Honda to accommodate the low hood line and improve camber control.The 1984 Prelude model was declared the best sports coupe for under $12,000. Car and Driver rated the Prelude's handling second only to the Porsche 944. The 1988 Prelude received recognition in the 1987 Road & Track for beating every car of that year including Lamborghini, Ferrari, and Porsches. Phenomenol for those days, the Prelude reached 65.5 mph compared to the 1988 Corvette that did the same in 64.9 mph. Receiving a facelight in 1990, the Prelude now featured slightly larger tail lights with clear indicators rather than the previous yellow from before. Other updates included the front bumper changed to feature clear indicators along with park lamps, and different styling.Production sales reached 160,909 for the third-generation Prelude in the US market.The limited production line, Prelude SiStates was released in 1990 and featured 4WS (Four wheel Steering). The SiStates also featured a unique B21A engine only produced for this model. Only available in Japan for the Japanese Domestic Market, this model also came with Anti Lock Brakes, Limited Slip Differential, additional sound deadening on firewall, hood, rear wiper and washer, and leather wrapped steering wheel and gear shift levers.

Honda Civic Type R


GENEVA, Switzerland, February 28, 2006 - At this year's Geneva Auto Salon Honda is displaying a range of vehicles that perfectly encapsulate the company's bold approach to the challenges confronting today's vehicle designers.
The line-up that includes the world-unveiling of the Civic Type R Concept with its promise of fun and exhilarating performance. The quickening progress towards a hydrogen-fuelled future is amply demonstrated by the FCX Concept, a futuristic, stylish, but highly practical fuel cell car that points the way to a potential production model in three to four years' time. Then there is the debut of the European-specification Legend which bristles with innovative technology and raises the bar in terms of all-round safety features. And just to illustrate the company's breadth of expertise and now extensive motorsport heritage is a trio of Formula One machines, from the past to the present.With a level of success way beyond Honda's initial expectations, the Civic Type R which ended production last year proved a smash hit among those seeking the thrills of a sporty, high performance car, yet still delivering a strong dose of practicality, and all at an affordable price.The bold styling and 200 PS DOHC i-VTEC engine of the Civic Type R Concept provides a clear indication of how the final production car will appear; driving enthusiasts are unlikely to be disappointed.Honda's flagship saloon becomes available during the summer across Europe and offers a powerful combination of luxury and effortless driving performance.
The 295 PS 3.5 litre VTEC engined Legend is equipped as standard with an array of advanced technology designed to enhance relaxation, safety and the overall driving experience.
Those qualities are epitomised by Honda's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. Its unique ability to proportion torque both front to rear and between left and right rear wheels, allows it to overdrive the outer rear wheel during cornering to enhance handling and stability. Driving enjoyment and safe progression are the result.

Honda Stream

It’s often said that real genius is never appreciated until it’s gone. Take Honda’s Stream as an example. The original flopped in the UK, but just as the old model has been killed off, the market for car-like people carriers has gone through the roof with the launch of Ford’s S-MAX.Now there’s a new-look Stream, but has it got what it takes to show Ford’s pretender how it’s done? Auto Express took an exclusive first drive to find out.Where its predecessor looked awkward from some angles, the new Stream has a chiselled appearance inspired by the firm’s latest Civic and Accord.Inside, the cabin layout is first-rate. Three rows of seats are mounted on a low, flat floor allowing adults to sit com-fortably in any of the Honda’s seven chairs. So impressive is the third row that even six-footers can travel long distan­ces without feeling cramped.The reason the newcomer is so much more spacious than its predecessor is that it’s bigger. It has gained 20mm in length, which is all added where it’s most useful – between the wheels. However, it is 45mm lower.While the car driven here is still offi­cially a prototype, it won’t differ significantly from the production model. Honda claims it wants to make some improvements to the cabin, but the Civic-style dashboard already seems attractively laid out and well built. The Stream will be offered with two petrol engines. Entry-level variants feature the 1.8 unit from the Civic, but a new 2.0-litre i-VTEC has been developed with Honda’s latest lightweight technology.The fresh motor offers a far broader powerband than its predecessor, deliv­ering 148bhp and 190Nm of torque. Mated to a smooth five-speed manual or CVT box, the 2.0-litre is quick off the mark, gets up to speed effortlessly and pumps out seamless acceleration from 2,000rpm all the way to 6,000rpm. However, the sporty CVT-equipped RS-Z version sounds noisy when pushed.Thanks in part to the racy variant’s stiffened suspension, the Stream handles like a sporty saloon. Its steering is much more precise than the previous-generation model’s, and the MPV corners with little body roll and excellent stability. What’s more, engineers have all but eradicated understeer.

Honda S2000


The S2000 ranks near the top of its class for its visceral power and track-oriented handling. It's eye-catching too. Overall, it proves to be a solid choice for anyone that's searching for a weekend thrill ride.

The 2009 Honda S2000 is a no-frills street machine designed to primarily excel at one thing only -- racing. Edmunds writes, "In a world of bloated sedans and SUVs, this roadster is a refreshing example of purity." Indeed, the S2000 produces mind numbing levels of power and speed, and handles just as spectacularly. Nevertheless, it still garners criticism for its stiff suspension and cramped cabin, which lead many test drivers to conclude that it's unfit for daily use. Many also add that its decade-old design could use a refresh in order to keep pace with competitors. That, however, may never happen -- as recent repot that Honda may cancel the S2000 after 2009.

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. Though the S2000 will likely hold better on the track, the Miata is less punishing over bumps and potholes. If, however, track-racing is your thing, stick with the S2000, but be sure to opt for the performance-enhanced Club Racer (CR) trim. Also, be sure to check for current Honda deals that may be available on a new S2000.

Honda NSX


For a company that spends billions on its Formula 1 program, Honda's been awfully quiet in the sports car scene. The $2000 released seven years ago and production of the NSX stopped in 2005 after years of poor sales. The good news is that Honda is planning to release a replacement for the $2000 and perhaps a new NSX to replace its 'forgotten supercar'. The bad news is that we may have to wait till 2009 before we see either of them. Honda already started sketching the next $2000 roadster but the current version is expected to be manufactured till 2009, albeit with some minor tweaks. There's expected to be a lot of interest in the next $2000, considering its deadly combination of looks, driveability and reliability that placed it at number 1 in the Top Gear Survey.

The new NSX, also slated for a possible 2009 release is expected to be very similar to the HSC concept (pictured above) revealed at the Tokyo Motor show back in 2003, and there is expected to be another concept along the lines of the HSC at the coming Detroit Motor show. The new NSX will be in some good company with the 2008 release of the new Skyline GTR and the 2007 Evo X. Hopefully the release of these three Japanese powerhouses in the coming years will finally give us Japanese cars that can compete not only on a track, but also on the boulevarde with their bold new styling.

Friday, May 21, 2010

Honda City


The new Honda City is probably the most successful model marketed by Honda in the ASEAN region.The best part of the new City VTEC is the L15A VTEC engine. This is a 16V SOHC version of the L15A engine. It is rated for 110ps and has 4 extra valves and is equipped with VTEC, using the standard 1 spark-plug per cylinder.

The City’s cabin has been designed to maximize space and there really is a lot of space inside it. The City VTEC is really very comfortable – plush and comfortable, loads of legroom and headroom. Yet the City VTEC is not perfect. On the highway, at medium to high speeds, a slight amount of wind noise can be heard inside the City’s cabin. Simple, ergonomic controls, uncluttered dashboard layout, an adjustable steering wheel, easy to read instruments make everyday life with this car as hassle-free as possible.

The engine’s selling point is its Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control mechanism. This increases the combustion efficiency and enhances the power delivery characteristics.

The City VTEC is equipped with a very slick five-speed gearbox which transfers its 101PS to the front wheels. The City VTEC won’t provide astounding performance though since it has a kerb weight of 1065 kilos, which can be hauled by the 101PS only to a limited extent. The City VTEC goes from zero to 60km/h in 5.46 seconds, from zero to 100km/h in 11.52 seconds and on to a top speed of more than 185km/h. Since it has a light clutch, really smooth gearbox and a tractable engine, driving the City VTEC over long distances leaves you relaxed and comfortable. The car also averages a very economic 17kmpl, so there is a nice mix of performance and fuel efficiency.

The City VTEC’s suspension system employs McPherson struts at front and H-type torsion beam suspension at the rear. Spring and damper rates have been tweaked and have been firmed up at both front and rear. Since it has 14-inch wheels running on 175/65 rubber, road holding is quite adequate. The VTEC gets disc brakes both in the front as well as in the rear.

The City VTEC’s weight to power ratio is better than any other car in its class. The 16 valve MPFI engine provides 100 bhp in the 1.5 litre engine model and 90 bhp for the 1.3 litre engine. Other features include internally adjustable rear view mirrors; rear centre armrest, body colour bumpers, remote fuel cap release, remote hood release, childproof rear door locks, trunk light, driver’s tray and pocket, intermittent wipers with mist plus optional alloy wheels are available as well.

Honda Jazz

The journey of the first generation Jazz started in 2001 with its debut launch in Japan. The car is now being sold in more than 115 countries across the Globe. The first generation Jazz set a benchmark by achieving cumulative sales of more than 2 million units. The truly acclaimed and the stunning performer Honda Jazz , in its Second generation avatar, has been launched finally in India but with a price tag starting from Rs. 7 lakhs the prospective buyers may go for the much more affordable and feature rich Hyundai i20. Honda Cars India have added a new variant to its Jazz hatchback. Christened as Jazz select, it comes with new features such as rear parcel tray, alloy wheels and front mug guard. Jazz Select has been launched to commemorate the celebration of ‘Car of the Year’ award won by the Jazz in India. Jazz select is priced Rs7,12,000 (ex-showroom Delhi). The 'Select Edition' is an addition to the Jazz line-up boasts premium styling, spacious interiors, versatile utility and remarkable performance and fuel efficiency. The Select Edition aims at getting customers back into the showrooms and give the slow moving hatch a second lease of lifeHonda's Jazz is one of the cleverest superminis around. It's a thoroughly modern design that's innovative in its use of space, with remarkably good head and rear legroom, well specced, and fitted with frugal and characterful engines. It's at its best in town where it's both friendly and fun to drive. From the outside the brilliance of the Jazz is not immediately obvious. It has more than a hint of the MPV (Multi Purpose Vehicle) about it. Though the Honda Jazz is small, Honda's enviable reputation for refinement and reliability shine through clearly. Take a little look at the exterior of the Honda Jazz and you will see just some of the great styling and body features that saw the Honda Jazz win the Japan Car of the Year in 2001 and 2002 - with a few updated twists here and there. The Exterior Design of Honda Jazz is stylish and embellish typical Honda design - sharp lines and central bonnet ridge. Sharp headlamps supplements the steeply raked windscreen but the front grille resembles the CR-V. Alloy wheels and ellipsoidal glass area decorates the Jazz side. Taillamp is the pure attraction as it blends with the rear

Honda Civic Si Coupe

Recently synonymous with the import tuner scene, Honda's Civic Si coupe is actually in its sixth generation. The highest-performance model in the Civic lineup -- aside from the mechanically identical Civic Si sedan -- the sporty coupe infuses a little performance into the otherwise staid and conservative but popular line of cars.The current Civic Si was introduced for 2006, though a 2009 update gave it a light mid-cycle refresh. For 2007, the coupe gained a four-door Civic Si sibling for the first time ever.The 2009 model year onward update gave the Civic Si revised trim inside and out, most notably new head and tail lamp designs that give it a cleaner look. The 17-inch alloy wheels were also redesigned.Eschewing the standard Civic coupe's 1.8-liter four-cylinder for a more sophisticated and more powerful (not to mention more rev-happy) K20Z3 2.0-liter dual overhead camshaft four-cylinder, the Civic Si is rated at an impressive 197 horsepower at a sky-high 7,800 rpm. Torque is marginally improved over the standard Civic at 139 lb-ft. at 6,100 rpm.Fuel economy suffers a little compared to its stablemates, but the Civic Si still manages 25 mpg in the combined cycle, or 21 mpg around town and 29 mpg on the highway according to the EPA.The Civic Si is available only with a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission; no automatic option is available. A helical limited slip differential helps deliver the power to the front wheels.Underneath, the Civic Si gains a stiffer suspension with thicker anti-roll bars than its comfort-oriented siblings. Upgraded four-wheel disc brakes with antilock control and a revised electric power steering setup give it a sportier feel befitting its performance upgrades.Stylistically similar to the standard Civic coupe, which was introduced for 2006, the Civic Si coupe gains mildly revised front and rear fascias, as well as a standard rear spoiler. To help get the most out of corners -- not to mention looks -- the Civic Si comes standard with dark-finish 17-inch alloy wheels mounted on V-rated 215/45 tires

Honda Fit

The 2010 Honda Fit ranks 2 out of 30 Affordable small car. This ranking is based on our analysis of 30 published reviews and test drives of the Honda Fit, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.The 2010 Honda Fit is a winner is almost every respect. Beloved by the automotive press for its innovative storage options, its extensive list of available features and its zippy ride, the Fit is a good choice for anyone shopping for an affordable small car. The 2009 model was even named one of US News & World Report's Best Cars for the money in the subcompact class.The 2010 Fit hasn't been on the market long enough to win any awards, but the nearly identical 2009 model has received many accolades for its versatility and excellent design. It was one of car and driver's "10Best" for both 2008 and 2009. In addition, it's a Consumer Guide Best Buy and was selected as one of Automobile Magazine's -Stars for 2009. Reviewers, themselves, are also exuberant in their descriptions of the Fit. Car and Driver is especially animated, saying, "We love the Honda Fit. Roomy inside and more fun to drive than a team of coked-up sled dogs."Recently, the Honda Fit has been the subject of a recall due to a faulty window switch. According to Honda, if the switch gets wet, it could cause a vehicle fire. Seven fires have been reported in the United States. The recall covers 141,000 Fits in the U.S., all from the 2007 and 2008 model years. If you're interested in a 2010 Fit, know that it isn't affected by the recall, but if you're shopping used Fits, make sure the car you're looking at has been fixed.Among the Fit's most talked about features is its renowned "Magic Seat," which transforms to allow for three separate storage modes -- tall, long and utility -- and is surprisingly comfortable for a rear seat. The Fit is also commended for its long list of standard and available features -- from its 10 cupholders and speed-sensitive volume control to its Satellite-linked navigation system with voice recognition. Reviewers are thrilled that you can find all of this in an ultra fuel-efficient car (28 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway) that's even fun to drive.Recently, the Honda Fit has been the subject of a recall due to a faulty window switch. According to Honda, if the switch gets wet, it could cause a vehicle fire. Seven fires have been reported in the United States. The recall covers 141,000 Fits in the U.S., all from the 2007 and 2008 model years. If you're interested in a 2010 Fit, know that it isn't affected by the recall, but if you're shopping used Fits, make sure the car you're looking at has been fixed.

Honda Pilot

The 2010 Honda Pilot seats eight and delivers a topflight blend of performance, useful features, and value. The 2010 Pilot builds on a 2009 redesign that gave Honda’s biggest SUV new styling and a smidgen more cabin space than the 2003-2008 version. Pilot buyers like their amenities, and the most popular trim level is the leather-lined EX-L edition, which is priced at $36,155 with four-wheel drive. Step down a rung to the cloth-upholstered, but still-comprehensively equipped, EX and you’ll save about $3,000. Come resale time, though, it’ll be the EX-L that represents the higher return on your investment.The 2010 Honda Pilot earns crossover cred by blending an SUV’s blocky profile and high ground clearance with a car-type unibody structure. Peel off its sheet metal and you’ll find not a truck frame but basically the same chassis used by Honda’s Odyssey minivan (and by the MDX crossover from Honda’s premium Acura division). The 2009 redesign wisely inflated Pilot’s exterior dimensions only slightly, so this wagon remains the most maneuverable eight-seat SUV on the market. It’s a garage-friendly 10- to 23-inches shorter than other eight-passenger SUVs. Unfortunately, Honda listened to first-generation Pilot owners who said they wanted tougher styling. So the 2010 Honda Pilot gamely wears a caboole of trucky cues: exaggerated fender flares, sapling-thick roof pillars, a pugnacious front end. The grille appears inspired by a tie clip filched from the set of “Mad Men.”The 2010 Honda Pilot boasts impressive engine and driveline engineering. Extracting the most efficiency from its lively, smooth 250-horsepower 3.5-liter V-6 is Honda’s advanced Variable Cylinder Management system. This automatically transitions the engine back and forth between six, four, or three cylinders as sensors determine the best balance of fuel economy and power. All Pilots are available with front-wheel drive or Honda’s Variable Torque Management all-wheel drive. Pilot’s not designed for serious off-roading, so its AWD system does not have low-ranging gearing. It’s instead designed to improve grip in all conditions, even on dry roads. And pushing a dashboard button does lock in a front-rear torque split for maximum low-speed traction. Honda says 65 percent of Pilots are ordered with AWD. The sole transmission for the 2010 Honda Pilot remains a five-speed automatic.

Honda Insight


It's hot in here. The A/C is off, and I've got the windows sealed tight to maximize my aerodynamic efficiency. I don't think the radio reduces the output of my Honda Insight's IMA system, but I have it off just in case. All I can hear is the quiet hum of the tires as I try to keep my speedo green and the gas engine from firing up.


Beads of sweat begin to develop on my brow. I'm in Arizona, at the launch of the all-new Honda Insight, running a special fuel-economy road loop, but feel like this could be Australia, circa 1987. That was the year GM's Sunraycer won the inaugural World Solar Challenge.Okay, it's not quite Darwin-to-Adelaide hot, and we're certainly not running on solar power, but things are definitely heating up. Especially behind me. What appear to be local representatives of the Arizona Monster Truck association are stacking up and flashing their lights. But I'm holding firm-if sweaty -- determined to keep my Insight's leaves growing and the speedo glowing green. Too bad these first few miles have many stops, turns, and long, gradual hills-just the kind of the topology hybrids hate.Right around mile 10 of this 16-mile loop, we peak and the climbing stops. So do the nasty looks and one-finger salutes. We can now run with traffic instead of holding it up. I breathe easy, shift into neutral, and coast most of the way, hitting speeds upward of 40-45 mph and stopping (okay, rolling) only for the two stop signs.I pull in, soaked and elated: My instantaneous average looks to be 63.7 mpg through this mostly city course. That's over 20 mpg higher than the 43 mpg those ninnies at the EPA got on the highway.Comparing notes with the other journalists, I'm deflated upon finding I'm below our group average of 65 mpg. One guy hit 68.2, while "hypermiling" expert Wayne Gerdes of cleanmpg.com hit 69.4-without even trying.
What gives? Honda's powertrain engineer, Takemoto-san tells me shifting into neutral is not the way to go since it keeps the engine running. "On the downhill, tip in the throttle just enough to activate the battery, but keep the valves shut on the engine," he advises. Well, duh.
Gerdes, fresh off setting the 48-state mileage record (68.5 mpg in a Honda Civic Hybrid), concurs and gives me more advice. But it's like taking racing tips from Schumacher. "Pulse and glide on the climbs. Never use cruise control. 'Fast' [force an engine stop] on the downhills," he says. "And be sure to let the 'rabbits' [faster moving traffic] trigger the stoplights ahead." His hypermiling jargon sets my head is spinning, so I try clearing it with another run in the Insight-this time driving like an MT editor.

Honda CR-V

Many newcomers have entered the compact sport utility vehicle market since Honda launched its car-based CR-V as a 1997 model. Substantial revisions for 2005 included new exterior and interior styling. A new Special Edition featured heated leather front seats and body-colored bumpers. All versions got side-impact and side curtain-type airbags, as well as Honda's Vehicle Stability Assist electronic stability system.
A five-speed-automatic transmission is available on all models, but the EX can be equipped with a five-speed manual instead. Honda claimed that a modified all-wheel-drive system yielded better acceleration and hill climbing.
Under new testing standards established by the Society of Automotive Engineers for 2006 models, the CR-V's engine is rated at 156 horsepower. Two new colors are available, but nothing else has changed.
LX versions can be equipped with front- or all-wheel drive. The upscale EX and SE come only with all-wheel drive. The 2006 CR-V earned five-star ratings in both frontal and side-impact crash tests by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The 2005 CR-V also earned impressive frontal and side-impact crash-test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Semi-traditional SUV styling continues to conceal the CR-V's passenger-car platform. Styling features include a short, sharply raked nose and high-visibility rear lights. An aerodynamic front bumper, a restyled grille, updated side sills and cylindrical-shaped headlights were new for 2005.
EX and SE versions are equipped with a moonroof and privacy glass. All models ride on 16-inch wheels.
Each CR-V seats up to five occupants in front bucket seats and a three-place rear bench. The reclining and sliding rear bench seat is split 60/40, and it folds and tumbles. Cargo volume is 72 cubic feet with the rear seat folded and 33.5 cubic feet with the backseat up. All models have remote keyless entry and a retractable grab rail.

Honda Element

Honda is a company that does its homework and usually doesn't bring a product to market until it's fully developed and ready to make a serious dent in the competition's sales. All the vehicles in their lineup are desirable products that are well regarded and need little explanation. But drive a Honda Element, and you will likely be overwhelmed by questions by other motorists. What is it? Who makes it? What does it do? Now in its fourth year, the Element SUV is geared toward young and very active Generation-Y types who want an affordable vehicle that offers flexible cargo-hauling ability along with a sporty persona.The 2006 Honda Element is chock-full of features that make it easy to take the mountain bikes to the trailhead, the surfboard to the waves or the 27-inch TV to the dorm or apartment. Riding on a wheelbase of just 101.4 inches and measuring only 166.5 inches in overall length, the Element is compact, yet the space inside makes it hard to believe that the Element is actually shorter in length than a Civic coupe. The secret is in having a tall body (at 74 inches, 8 inches taller than a CR-V), which allows the seats to be higher, providing plenty of legroom. By having no B-pillar and allowing the doors to swing open wide (the fronts open up 78 degrees and the rears pivot a full 90 degrees), a 55.5-inch-wide portal allows bulky items to be loaded with ease. The typical problem with this sort of design is that it usually makes for a weaker body structure, but Honda says it more than compensated for the lack of a traditional B-pillar by, in essence, hiding one in each rear door as a reinforced vertical brace.Sounds great, but are Generation-Y surfers really going to cough up a sum around $21,000 just so they have something new to carry their surfboards? Or, are they just going to keep their ratty compact pickups and spend their cash on new video game releases? The latter has always seemed more likely to us, and so far, typical Element buyers have tended to be far older than Honda's targeted Gen-Y audience.

Honda Racing F1 Team RA106

The Honda F1 Team unveiled its challenger for the 2006 Formula One season in Spain this morning with the new driver line-up of Jenson Button and Rubens Barrichello.
This marked an important milestone for Honda as it is the first formula one car launched by a Honda works team since 1968.
As an indication of Honda's commitment to the new challenge and the strength of its manufacturing operation, the team delivered not one, but two identical RA106 race car the launch to enable Rubens and Jenson to start testing at exactly the same time. The new cars and their RA806E engines are the product of a single, unified team which combines the resources of the Honda Racing F1 Team Operations Centre in Brackley, England, Honda Racing Development's engine base in Bracknell, England, and Honda R&D in Tochigi, Japan.
The RA106 sported its new base canvas of Honda Racing White, a colour which has been synonymous with the Honda motorsport identity since the company's F1 debut in 1964. The rest of the livery has the more familiar feel of the Lucky Strike brand, which remains as title sponsor for the 2006 season.
'Our target in 2006 is to challenge for race wins and we will do our utmost to achieve that objective.
During 2005 we put in place some important building blocks that will help us meet our targets in 2006 and beyond. We secured two of the best racing drivers in the world, we proved our ability to develop a car through the season, resulting in points for Jenson in each of the last ten races, and we gained a better understanding of the strengths of the 2004 car and the issues with our 2005 race car. Lastly, and most importantly, we have 'works' team status with access to the technical resources of Honda R&D. I'm particularly proud that we have been able to deliver a new car each for Jenson and Rubens today which demonstrates the depth of our manufacturing ability and skill and determination of our people. With our new wind tunnel also coming on-stream later this year, we are ready to step up to the challenge.'

Honda Zest

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced the introduction of the new ZEST minicar, created to enhance the active lifestyles of today's consumers and provide comfort and utility for the entire family. The ZEST delivers superior power and performance, while its efficient low-floor design and generous storage area with a convenient access bay help give it class leading spacious cabin1. The new ZEST will be available for sale through Honda's automobile dealer network in Japan starting March 1. Further, a ZEST equipped with a tilt-up sliding front passenger seat and wheelchair-accessible models will be available starting March 17.
The ZEST was developed as a minicar that can satisfy both individual and family users in a variety of occasions including daily shopping and weekend leisure activities. The key to the design of the ZEST is Honda's unique low-floor platform technology, which results in a high-capacity storage area with a maximum of 739 liters2 of space accessed via one of the lowest tailgates in its class1. In addition, ZEST achieves a spacious cabin with a height equivalent to StepWGN. The ZEST features Honda's i-DSI engine or i-DSI turbocharged engine, combined with a 4-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission to deliver strong and smooth performance in accelerating from low and medium speeds to higher speed ranges.

The ZEST also offers a full range of advanced safety features. In addition to being the first minicar1 to be equipped with a front and rear side curtain airbag system, the ZEST also features Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body for significantly enhanced self-protection and damage mitigation in vehicle-to-vehicle collisions. Regarding environmental performance, all FWD models have earned Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport certification as Low-Emissions Vehicles, with emission levels 75% lower than those required by 2005 standards, while some models meet or exceed Japanese government fuel economy standards for 2010 by 5%.
The ZEST also comes fully equipped with a range of advanced features for enhanced passenger comfort and peace of mind, including Honda's HDD InterNavi system; newly-developed high-performance deodorizing air cleaning filters treated with anti-allergenic materials to control pollen and other allergens; and a security alarm and immobilizer for effective anti-theft protection

Honda Odyssey

There's no disputing the fact that the Honda Odyssey is a great minivan. Having claimed the best-in-class crown from Chrysler shortly after its debut in 1999, the Odyssey reigned supreme for five years thanks to its cavernous interior filled with useful features, pleasant driving characteristics, excellent crash test scores and generally favorable reliability record.And just when you thought the best couldn't get any better, the Odyssey hit the market for 2005 offering numerous mechanical improvements as well as increased feature content. The newest Honda Odyssey is quieter, more spacious and offers even more innovative features than before, including increased seating configurations and unique storage solutions.

The Honda Odyssey offers two V6 options. Both are 3.5-liter VTEC engines rated at 244 horsepower, and are mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. The difference is that one is classified as an i-VTEC featuring Variable Cylinder Management (VCM, standard equipment on top trim levels). VCM increases fuel-efficiency by "shutting off" three of the engine's six cylinders during cruising and deceleration, and switches back to using all six cylinders when added power is needed. The VCM system, noted to increase fuel economy by as much as 12 percent over the regular VTEC V6, is virtually undetectable. As an added bonus, Honda Odyssey models with VCM are extra quiet because they're equipped with Active Noise Control (ANC) technology that works with the audio system to effectively cancel inherent noise produced by the VCM system (along with some road noise). The Honda Odyssey continues its tradition of a carlike ride and handling, further enhanced by a stout structure and well-tuned suspension dynamics. If you're looking for a minivan that's enjoyable to drive in addition to being practical, Honda's van remains the leader in this area. Inside, the Odyssey offers optional eight-passenger seating with a stowable middle seat in the second row. This optional seat can be converted into a center tray table or removed and stored in the vehicle's in-floor storage area, which can be made even more functional with a rotating "lazy Susan" feature hidden inside. Additionally, the second-row captain's chairs can be pushed together to form a two-passenger bench. In the far back, the third-row seat remains a fold-flat 60/40-split bench.

Honda Accord


The 2010 Honda Accord lineup is getting a features upgrade on certain models with an expanded application of Bluetooth HandsFreeLink to vehicles equipped with leather seating surfaces (previously exclusive to navigation-equipped models) and new rear-seat ventilation ducts on Accord Sedan EX and EX-L models for more-direct rear passenger airflow. Subtle modifications include graphically optimized climate control buttons and the addition of a trunk roof lining on Accord EX models.Other available features include the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with Voice Activation and XM Radio2. The front seats are designed to provide generous lateral support and complement the Accord's sporty side. The fold-down, lockable rear seatback increases cargo-carrying versatility and also includes a lockable pass-through for long items like snow skis.Available engine choices include a V-6 and a four-cylinder engine. The 3.5-liter, 24-valve SOHC i-VTEC V-6 engine produces 271 horsepower and takes advantage of variable cylinder management (VCM) technology that can deactivate up to half of the cylinders while cruising to improve fuel economy. The VCM system contributes to an EPA city/highway fuel economy rating of 19/29 miles per gallon in the Accord Sedan V-6.

For safety, the Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) is an exclusive body design that enhances occupant protection and crash compatibility in frontal crashes. The ACE design utilizes a network of connected structural elements to distribute crash energy more evenly throughout the front of the vehicle. This enhanced frontal crash energy management helps to reduce the forces transferred to the passenger compartment and can help to more evenly disperse the forces transferred to other vehicles in a crash.

Three audio systems are available all with MP3/Windows Media Audio (WMA) playback capability and an auxiliary input jack. The standard system provides a single-disc CD player, six speakers, and 160 watts of power. A radio data system (RDS) displays information broadcast by participating radio stations that often includes call letters, station type (searchable by genre) and programming information. Steering wheel audio controls come standard on every Accord. The Accord Sedan EX and Coupe LX-S add a six-disc in-dash changer.

Honda Civic Hybrid

First off, let me say that Honda’s highly efficient, entry-level hybrid sedan is more refined operationally than I expected. It’s also remarkably roomy, not to mention miserly when it comes to fuel consumption.Apart from subtle nose revisions to improve the flow of air over the Civic’s lean body, not much has changed with Honda’s high-mileage 4-door hybrid sedan but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Honda’s Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid technology has proved itself to be robust and reliable.
The Civic Hybrid continues to be a big seller for Honda. It’s the least expensive hybrid vehicle on the Canadian market, (or so Honda claims) and the one that best retains its Kelly Blue Book value. The latest Prius incarnation is more expensive, but in return it’ll squeeze a little more distance from a litre of petrol.The 2009 Civic Hybrid is EnerGuide Canada rated at 4.7L/100km and 4.3L/100km of city and highway driving respectively while Toyota’s 2010 Prius turns in a slightly better result of 4.0 and 4.2-litres. Separations in the tenths of litres is fairly insignificant, especially when driving style is factored-in.
However it’s measured and interpreted, it’s fair to conclude that both vehicles return mighty impressive results from a litre of golden nectar. Perhaps it’s due to the diminutive size of the original Honda Civic that hit North American shores as an inexpensive hatchback in 1972, the name ‘Civic’ always been synonymous with small – at least for me. And in keeping with that theme, the exterior dimensions of this week’s test car are just that – small.
Yet when one takes a seat in the Civic Sedan, the perception of “small” evaporates. There’s plenty of head and legroom in the Civic Hybrid for tall folks, and that applies to rear seating as well.
Trunk space is also greater than one would expect but a significant penalty is imposed by fixed rear seat backs that don’t fold down in order to expand cargo space into the cabin. This impediment to cargo capacity is a hybrid trade-off. A conventionally powered Civic Sedan can be obtained with folding rear seat backs