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Showing posts with label honda. Show all posts

Autocar India Awards 2012


                                                                                                  Car of the Year – Maruti Suzuki Swift

maruti swift car of the year
The Swift won our Car of the Year in 2005. And it wins it yet again this time. Though the new Swift looks exactly like the old model, this car is a grounds-up new generation of the Swift. This model is based on an all-new platform and is now both longer and wider. The Swift’s interior styling, which is heavily borrowed from its Kizashi sibling, is now plusher.

The car is now sportier to drive and the 1.2 K-series petrol gets variable valve timing (VVT) to bump up power to 86bhp. The 74bhp 1.3 diesel Multi-jet engine remains largely unchanged but the carmaker’s effort to make the cabin a quieter place is evident. Maruti Suzuki has taken an already good car and made it even better by ironing out the flaws in the older car. Despite stiff competition this year from among nearly all the world’s majors, Maruti Suzuki’s new Swift shows the competition a clean pair of heels to pick up the prestigious award of the Bloomberg-UTV Autocar Car of the Year 2012.

Bike of the Year – Honda CBR250R

honda cbr 250r bike of the year
The Honda CBR250R came like a breath of fresh air for Indian motorcycle enthusiasts long stuck between underpowered city commuters and horrendously expensive imported superbikes. Here was a motorcycle that offered great styling, zippy performance, street-friendly handling with a price tag that did not need you to mortgage your house. The CBR250R has all the big bike visual cues with its VFR 1200 inspired headlamp and CBR1000RR fairing. It ticks all the right boxes in the design and styling department. For its combination of style, performance, streetfriendly handling as well as advanced technology at a decent price, the Honda CBR250R is the Bike of the Year.

Compact Car of the Year – Maruti Suzuki Swift

The Swift was already a favourite in the competitive compact car market. And the new Swift promises to continue Maruti Suzuki’s winning streak. Though the new Swift looks the same as the old car, it is a completely new model built on a new platform. Ride and handling have been tweaked and they are even better now. The new Swift is larger, more spacious, delivers better performance, has better driver dynamics and gives you enhanced fuel economy. The Swift, always a great car, is now even better and is quite definitely the Best Compact Car of the Year.

Mid-size Saloon of the Year – Skoda Rapid

Under the skin the Skoda Rapid is a VW Vento. However, dig deeper and the Rapid proves to be much more than a Volkswagen clone. Skoda has ironed out many of the Vento’s shortcomings. The diesel engine is more linear but just as punchy, the shorter geared petrol now works much better and ride and handling are much improved as well. Spacious, fast, frugal, reasonably well-built and good value, the Rapid has a lot going for it. In fact, it actually beats its twin to win the crown of the mid-size saloon Car of the Year.

SUV of the Year – Mahindra XUV500

The XUV500, designed and developed completely in-house, is a quantum leap forward by Mahindra & Mahindra – it’s the company’s first serious attempt at developing a global product. The price at which Mahindra has launched the SUV makes it shattering value-for money. You get a lot of car for the price. You get a fantastic-looking SUV that dominates the road with its presence. An excellent package makes the XUV500 a worthy winner.

Winners for the rest of the categories are as follows:

Best Styling & Design – Hyundai Verna

Best Value for Money – Mahindra XUV500

Best Variant of the Year – Chevrolet Beat Diesel

Best Driver's car – Ford Fiesta

Manufacturer of the Year – Toyota

Technology and Innovation award –  Audi A8

Sub-compact car of the Year – Honda Brio

Best Compact car of the Year – Maruti Suzuki Swift

Best Saloon car of the Year –  Skoda Rapid

Best Executive Saloon of the Year – VW Jetta

Luxury Saloon of the Year – Audi A6

SUV of the Year – Mahindra XUV500

Luxury SUV of the Year – BMW X3

Best Automobile Ad of the Year – Volkswagen Jetta 'Flyboy'

Bike of the Year 2012 – Honda CBR250R

Premium Bike of the Year – Kawasaki Ninja 650R

Import Bike of the Year – BMW K 1600 GTL

Green Car Award – VW Passat for BlueMotion technology

Man of the Year – Pawan Goenka

Viewer's choice award - CAR – Mahindra XUV500

Viewer's choice award - BIKE – Honda CBR250R

Honda Brio vs Hyundai i10

The Hyundai i10 is easy to drive, has a strong fuel-efficient engine, a well-appointed cabin and thus a strong favourite in the small hatchback class. With regular revisions and facelifts it has managed to distance itself from the rest.
The Honda Brio though is keen on upstaging the Hyundai with its premium positioning. Both have 1.2-litre engines and what the Honda wins with size, the Hyundai claws back with content. With less than Rs. 20,000 separating the top-end versions, which car should you put your money on?
Design and engineering
The bigger Brio is 25mm longer and 85mm wider than the i10 and these dimensions give it a wide and squat stance, while the high-mounted headlights and a low grille give it a distinctive look. The 14-inch wheels and the sharply rising window line gives the Brio a very pitched-forward stance. The rear of the Brio, the full-glass tailgate looks quite funky and the fit and finish of the bodywork on the whole looks and feels great.
The i10’s looks on the other hand are not as sporty as the Brio’s, but its crisp detailing like the hexagonal grille and sharp headlamps mean it still looks quite fresh. The i10’s tall profile also points towards a well-packaged cabin and decent luggage space. A deeper floor in the boot also means larger bags can be squeezed in.
The Brio’s boot is comparatively small but once you get past the high load lip (for better chassis stiffness) you will be surprised how many bags you can load into it.
Under the skin both the cars are similar with a front-wheel drive, electric power steering systems, transverse motors and independent front suspensions with torsion beams at the rear. 
Interiors
Step into the Brio and you will be surprised by the amount of passenger room on offer, which is more than many bigger hatchbacks. The driver gets a fantastic view and the driving position is spot on.
The i10 is tighter on the inside in comparison, but is reasonably spacious, with decent headroom. The i10’s high-set driver’s seat, though good for visibility, lacks thigh support and, like in the rear, the cushions feel a touch too hard.
The dashboard on the Brio is well built but it is clear where the fat has been trimmed. The absence of a full centre console and plastics and the colours on the dashboard don’t do the Brio any favours.
The i10, in comparison, has a fuller dashboard with a neatly laid air-con and music system and the dash-mounted gearlever leaves some storage between the front seats. The top-end i10 Asta offers you more features like Bluetooth connectivity, CD player, parking sensors and rear wash and wipe as standard.
Engine, gearbox and performance
The Brio uses the same 1.2-litre i-VTEC, single-cam motor as the bigger Jazz albeit in a milder state of tune in the interest of economy. It makes a healthy 88bhp and is compliant when you want some extra performance. However, it does lack some low-speed punch and the slightly taller first, second and third gears also mean you have to downshift more frequently. That said, the Honda motor is easily the more refined of the two.
The i10’s Kappa2 motor, on the other hand, is much more responsive and the car jumps off the blocks with just an inch of throttle travel. Though the motor will rev till its 6700rpm redline, the problem is, past 4500rpm, the engine feels strained and doesn’t pull as cleanly to the top as the Brio.
Flat out, the i10 dispatches 100kph in 12.04sec, while the Brio takes 12.47sec to do the same. It’s same story with the in-gear acceleration times; the i10 is a nose ahead in the third and fourth-gear slogs
Ride and handling
As expected, both cars with their compact dimensions and light steering are easy to drive in the city. The Brio is fairly pliant and bad roads are soaked up quite well. The i10’s suspension, on the other hand, isn’t as well sorted as the Brio’s. It’s fairly comfortable at slow speeds but up the pace, especially on a bad road and the i10 doesn’t feel as settled as we would like, and this bobbing motion is enhanced when the car is loaded up.
But when in the mood, the Brio’s the one to choose. With its willing top-end performance, confidence-inspiring brake pedal and eagerness to tackle corners, the Brio feels a special little car. The steering has a slight dead zone at the straight-ahead position, but once you push the car harder and load up the suspension the Brio displays a poise, balance and confidence rarely found in a car of this class.
The i10 on the other hand makes you think a bit before pushing on – it’s got too much body roll, loses its poise quite easily and those ultra-thin, 155-section tyres run out of grip alarmingly early.
Fuel efficiency
Despite having 9bhp more, the Brio is slightly more efficient than the i10. City figures of 12.6kpl and 17.0kpl and a highway number of 11.7kpl and 16.0kpl for the Brio and i10 respectively reveal a small, but crucial victory for the Honda. Both cars though have 35-litre tanks which somewhat limits their range.
Verdict
The i10 is a thoroughly engineered product with good performance and practicality. Its appeal has always been its versatility and this still holds true. The top-spec i10 is superbly kitted and sets the standard for equipment and features in this class of car. It is decent value for money and promises a hassle-free ownership experience. The i10 though is nowhere near as fun to drive as the Brio and can’t match it in key areas like passenger comfort and ride and handling. The interiors are well built but point to a pared-down car. However, you can’t get away from the fact that the Brio is and feels like a car in a higher class and this big-car feel for small-car money is what clinches it for the Honda.

Facelifted Honda City launched


Honda India has launched its updated City in India.
The new City gets a host of cosmetic upgrades such as an electric sunroof, chrome-plated front grille, updated front bumper, 10-spoke alloy wheels and turn indicators on rear-view mirrors. The saloon also gets cruise control now.
 
Safety features on the new City include Dual front SRS airbags, ABS with EBD and Brake Assist. The updated City comes in five variants with base being Corporate, E, S, V and V Exclusive with the last two variants offered with automatic transmission option.
 
Prices for the refreshed Honda City are:
Corporate - Rs 6.99 lakh
City E - Rs 7.7 lakh
City S - Rs 8.2 lakh
City V (Manual) - Rs 8.7 lakh
City V (Auto) - Rs 9.74 lakh
City V (Manual) with Sunroof - Rs 9.5 lakh
City V (Automatic) with Sunroof - Rs 10.22 lakh

Honda's new AC-X saloon concept


Honda has also revealed the AC-X saloon concept at the Tokyo Motor Show. The Japanese manufacturer describes this concept as a next-generation plug-in hybrid. The AC-X (Advanced Cruiser Experience) concept is between the Civic and Accord in size.
Honda says the concept “offers a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience in urban and long-distanc
e motoring”. To that end, the concept is offered with an ‘automatic driving mode’ for more relaxed driving, with an ‘engine drive mode’ on offer for more spirited driving.
Specifically designed for long journeys, the AC-X gets the two joystick steerin
g controls that are common to all of Honda's Tokyo show cars. Dubbed ‘twin lever steering’, the system is said to reduce the physical stresses of driving, allow for an auto-pilot setting and more efficient auto-recharging in electric vehicles.
It’s not something we’ll see in the near future, but Honda has tested it in an old Formula One car, resulting in significant improvements in lap times. The four-seat AC-X concept showcases particularly advanced aerodynamic progression including ‘wheel diffusers’ that help contribute to the impressive 0.21cd drag coefficient.
Expect to see this less-cluttered, more striking design language arrive in future Honda production cars uncorrupted from these concepts, though you will still see different designs and types of Honda model being produced for individual countries.
Yoshikazu Kigoshi, general manager for Honda research and design, was open about the fact that Honda will “uphold the categorisation we think is necessary for markets as different as USA, Japan and Europe.”
The firm revealed last month that it intends to have a plug-in hybrid on sale in limited numbers in China, Japan and US in 2012.

2012 Honda CR-V previewed with new concept : Latest Cars Reviews

2012 Honda CR-V previewed with new concept : Latest Cars Reviews

2012 Honda CR-V previewed with new concept : Latest Cars Reviews

2012 Honda CR-V previewed with new concept : Latest Cars Reviews

2012 Honda CR-V previewed with new concept : Latest Cars Reviews

2012 Honda CR-V previewed with new concept : Latest Cars Reviews

2012 Honda CR-V previewed with new concept : Latest Cars Reviews
With spy shots popping up on our radar at least twice in the past few months, we've been anticipating the arrival of a new Honda CR-V. And now the solitary image above has been circulating around these interwebs, reportedly giving us an advance look at the show car that will preview the new production model.

In typical Honda fashion, the purported concept vehicle pictured above appears to be a slightly jazzed-up version of the production CR-V expected to debut shortly. When it does enter production in Ohio and Ontario, it will likely lose the showy jumbo wheels, smoked headlamps, tinted windows and high-gloss lower body cladding, but otherwise, what you see is likely what you'll get.

Mechanically, the new crossover is expected to pick up largely where the outgoing model leaves off, but with a few important changes. Though the 2.4-liter engine – driving either the front wheels or optionally all four – could get a slight adjustment in output and efficiency, it is tipped to ditch its five-speed mate for a new six-speed automatic. The longer form also looks ready to adopt an extra pair of jump-seats in the back for seven-person capacity, but thus far, that's just a rumor.

We'll have to wait for further information from Honda to know for sure, but if the shot above turns out to be legit, we could be looking at a very stylish new CR-V indeed.

UPDATE: Honda has confirmed the image above is the real deal, and it's even confirmed that the CR-V will debut at the Orange County International Auto Show in Anaheim this September. Check out the official press release after the jump for more information.

2012 Honda Civic Si Coupe and Hoda Civic Si Sedan

Precision manufactured using high quality austenitic stainless steel; this system is designed to endure years of heavy use. Installing a Honda Civic Si Coupe and Hoda Civic Si Sedan Performance Exhaust System on your vehicle will eliminate the restrictive design of the stock exhaust, allowing your engine to discharge exhaust gas easier. The result is more horsepower and torque, longer engine life

2012 Honda FCX Clarity Powerful Cars

Honda recently handed the keys to an FCX Clarity Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle to 2012 Canadian Olympic hockey team captain, Scott Niedermayer at the Honda Center in Anaheim. More FCX Clarity Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle are now in the hands of Southern California drivers. the Honda FCX Clarity is an electric vehicle. A fuel cell vehicle is powered by an electric motor running on electricity generated

2012 Honda Civic Sedan Weight Saving Technologies

The ninth-generation 2012 Civic introduces a sleeker style and higher fuel-efficiency than the previous generation. The Civic range consists of sedans and coupes powered by conventional gasoline, high-performance, hybrid, and compressed natural gas engine choices. Technology and features new to the Civic include an available "intelligent" Multi-Information Display (i-MID), an available Eco Assist

2011 Honda Pilot

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

2011 Honda Element

The 2011 His all about utility. An added plus, if you need more utility, is that the Element’s interior is easy to clean. Like the Honda Element, the Forester features a practical interior. It starts at a few hundred dollars less than the Element, and has all-wheel drive standard (an all-wheel drive Element costs about $2,000 more than the base Forester). Part of the Honda E’s appeal isn’t its

Honda Civic Si Concept

The Civic Si Concept coupe and Honda Civic Concept sedan made their world debuts at the 2011 North American International Auto Show, providing the first official glimpse at the styling direction of the all-new, ninth-generation 2012 model set to go on sale this spring, the company announced."The Civic is known for providing a balance of 'just-right' packaging, fun-to-drive character and

Bubba Shobert's flat-tracker


Harley-Davidson has dominated the AMA’s Grand National Championship since the inception of the series in 1954. But there was a time in the mid-1980s when Honda took over as the series king—winning four championships in a row.

This is the bike that made it happen: the RS750.
This actually was Honda’s second attempt at building a flat-track bike. The first was the NS750, based on a bored-out

For Sale : 1970 Honda SL350

.This SL350 has been restored, it has a rebuilt engine and a new clutch, all seals and gaskets replaced. The frame was bead blasted and painted and 99% of all rubber parts replaced. The fuel tank is new as is the fuel cap and shut off valve. New tires an all new control cables... Read more.

2011 Honda CR-Z High Technology Performance

The 2011 Honda CR-Z Is Body compact and simple Honda Integrated Motor Assist IMA system adds power and efficiency with an electric motor. The CR-Z’s 1.5-liter, 16-valve i-VTEC 4-cylinder gasoline engine combines with an electric motor to provide 122 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque6 (123 lb-ft CVT). Perfect for driving in the city, the IMA’s instantaneous torque at low rpm means quick

2011 Honda Odyssey Best Concept and Performance 2012

The all-new 2011 Honda Odyssey is equipped with high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights – a first for any Odyssey. They cast a longer, brighter beam to help light up the night when you’re traveling on dark roads (Touring Elite). Other vehicles will have a harder time sneaking up, since the Odyssey features a blind-spot information system (BSI) that notifies the driver of any vehicle detected in

2011 Honda CR-Z Review

The exterior design of the Honda CR-Z is formed around a corner of a movement "concept with a low hood line and position of the scale giving the car a sporty look. Design Honda has signed so that the glass rear door on two levels, aerodynamic roof surface slope referred to in the elegant cut design and then combined with a curvilinear shape and deeply sculpted exterior.


The general performance of the engine and the IMA system is a healthy 124 hp and 174 Nm of torque. maximum torque figure is the same 1.8-liter Civic and arrives at just 1500 rpm, at a level where previously only turbo engines deliver maximum. Even if the couple directly comparable with the Civic, Honda CR-Z releases 35 g / km less CO2 than its traditionally powered cousin. Other exhaust emissions are extremely low, and Nickel Metal Hydride battery can be recycled at the end of Honda dealers in the life of the vehicle.

For the first time, fuel, low emission hybrid is connected to a parallel high-precision 6-speed manual transmission. Manual gearbox is an integral part of the driver of Honda engineers wanted to bring the model of Honda CR-Z. The flexibility of the Honda into a single parallel hybrid IMA system allows its use with a variety of objects, not just the CVT-based transmissions.


The manual transmission is completed with an engine of 1.5 liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder, which is new in Europe and is a key element in the uniqueness of the Honda CR-Z. This engine is powerful and effective, but based on the engine fitted to some versions of non-European jazz. The wait for the revolution of the engine type of the average capacity is increased by the additional 78 Nm of torque of the electric motor PS 14, which is located between the engine and clutch. The electric motor increases torque at low revs and medium enterprises, which gives flexibility Honda CR-Z, usually associated with turbo engines.

If you want to maximize the choice of the driver and increase the daily drivability of the car, the Honda CR-Z is equipped with 3-mode drive system. This unique feature allows the driver to select three driving modes that change throttle response, steering, air conditioning and the level of service to the IMA system. In developing this new opportunity, Honda, the driver can change the settings of the street car to enjoy, to maximize economy, or to find a balance between the two.

Sport buttons have become common, usually provides a sharper gas, but Honda 3-Mode Drive system is different. The new system changes the behavior of the hybrid transmission and care of the steering and throttle mapping between the three modes.

When the Honda CR-Z, the driver is out of town and want to enjoy the open road, may be "Sport" mode of the car. This sharpens the throttle to change the behavior of IMA hybrid system in an electric motor to provide more help and more emphasis on electric power steering.

Honda recognizes that even the most enthusiastic driver can regularly experience heavy traffic, which maximizes fuel economy is preferable to a complete line through a corner. In these situations, the ECON mode, you can choose what to give priority to fuel economy of operation of the throttle valve drive-by-wire, the ECU, air conditioning and a hybrid system. For those times when the busy driving is not possible or desirable, Eco Assist with the ECON mode, the driver can enjoy the best economy rating of their way to work, or in heavy traffic.

At all times the car can be run in normal mode, which offers a balance between performance, fuel economy and emissions, and is suitable for most situations.

Lighting and the speedometer is used in the same way as the Insight guide the driver to drive more economically and ecologically. In addition, Eco Assist, Honda CR-Z meter is connected to the 3-mode. In normal mode, and speed ECON state indicator is lit blue, bright green when the hard economically. ECON mode is back in Green Eco-Flower symbol. When the speedometer is illuminated with a red light environment, this indicates that the Honda CR-Z is a Sport mode.

Careful thought about the design of exhaust gas to ensure that, in addition to being efficient, the Honda CR-Z is a car that encourages enthusiastic driver and sounds instead of the previous compact hybrid. Other parts, including engine mounts and the shock has been tuned to the elements of this sport exhaust heard the driver, but less desirable sounds associated with sports exhaust were weak.

Aspect of the Honda CR-Z consciously to mind the iconic style of the 1980 CR-X, which was originally developed to provide a small, elegant car that can not achieve the spectacular economy. Signature property CR-X, as the rear door glass on two levels and low-low roof slope has been referred to the design of an elegant coupe and then together, and very shapely sculpted appearance.

The sloping roofline and sharply truncated shallow tail of the Honda CR-Z is a feature shared with the past and present for many of Honda, including the CR-X, 1999 Insight and FCX Clarity. All these vehicles were designed to cut the air with as little disruption as possible to reduce the drag to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Honda CR-Zs headlamps are accentuated with time of day to LED lights, which are placed in the bottom of the headlights. This is the first LED lights have been applied to the front of a Honda automobile production and help to focus on the direction of the range of new hybrid sports coupe.

The interior of the car production was influenced by the cab of Tokyo Motor Show 2007 Honda CR-Z Concept, especially the speedometer and rider 3D model. The cockpit instrument rather than high technology to all commonly used controls near the driver's hands, allowing full concentration on the conduct of all time.

The dashboard of the new coupe has a complex form and interesting, with a black top seems to float on a light gray lower section of dashboard that has continued in the middle of the inner door panels.

level of equipment on the Honda CR-Z is generous with all the qualities to take six airbags, active head restraints, vehicle stability assist and Hill Start Assist. All CR-ZS will also be equipped with air conditioning, CD player with 6 speakers, iPod ® USB link and a button to start the engine. middle and senior ranks of the benefits of leather seats, steering wheel audio controls and alloy pedals. Top grades get Bluetooth ® hands-free phone control, cruise control, panoramic glass roof, HID headlamps and 360W high power sound system - including a boot-mounted sub-woofer.

The elegant decor is a 2 +2 layout that opens the possibility of smaller adults or children small distances for long journeys. One-touch folding rear seats motion to open a baggage compartment with a flat bottom, which gives an amazing 382 liters of cargo space, tied with the most C-segment sedans, which allows a wider range of bags to carry . The area also has a flexible luggage area in-boats from 19 liters to store extra load or store items out of sight.

The chassis has been an important factor in the development of the new car, with the pleasure of the pilot at a central part of the design brief. The shares of platform elements of Jazz and Insight models, but the wheelbase, track width and set-ups are all unique to the new hybrid. Overall, the Honda CR-Z has a wheelbase of 115 mm shorter and shorter as 310 mm in overall length of the Insight increase agility, and reduce the empty weight of 57 kg compared to its 5-door Five-seat family car cousin.

The suspension of Honda CR-Z unique springs and shocks and adjustment tolerances are also unique. A major change in detail is the adoption of a forged aluminum lower arms in the MacPherson front suspension to replace the elements of the penetration of pressed steel. This reduces the weight of 2 kg each triangle and also increases the strength to cope with the width of the wider track and tires.

Exterior Styling and Body

Honda CR-Z was created by a project to create a sports coupe in the second decade of the 21st century. The compact, lightweight construction and aerodynamics provides a dual advantage of improving performance, but also reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

The design has hints of the history of Honda's window split-level and shallow pitched roof, combining them with complex curves and deeply scalloped panels that would have been impossible to mass produce just a few years ago .

modern car design has many limitations, with the increasing number of rules and policies that affect the design of new models. The challenge, says the designers and engineers Honda has been to keep the design small thin cover initial design studies, while adopting a 1.5-liter engine with IMA system and meet the requirements of pedestrian protection. Honda engineers have worked tirelessly with the designers to reduce engine height, and work on suspension and points hard body to allow clearance for the deformation of the hood.

The wide track and low strengthens against unusual piece of a grid that extends above and below the front bumper. This network is a key element of the order of "face" with a surface marked up the hood of his right under the top line to the base of the windshield. Sharp headlights, the day fire elegantly integrated into the lower edges, extending to the edges of the fenders badly burned.

The angle of curvature at the edge of the windshield of the Honda CR-Z is the largest of all current Honda models, and mixed almost seamlessly into the A-pillars and side windows. This effect is only possible to wrap the rain gutters revolutionary integrated in front pillars that significantly reduce the usual way between the edge of the windshield and the pillar of 50%. In addition to creating a distinctive visual effect, reducing this stage has obvious benefits and reduces aerodynamic turbulence in this important area. The eye gloss finish accented with black integrated surface applied to the columns, creating the illusion of a single piece of glass.

The positions of the screen wrapping A-pillars further in lateral profile, giving the hood look longer and lower. Curved glass on the sides of the car was Honda's engineers have managed to obtain excellent forward visibility, an important factor in safety and driving enthusiast.

Aerodynamic

Exterior mirrors are very aerodynamic shape, keeping fit with the wing, which combines the visual appeal, design and aerodynamic drag. Extensive testing has led to the aerodynamic design team for the final formulation, which combines the thin end of the indicator repeater watch.

The slope of the roof and the length is important for overall performance and aerodynamics of a vehicle designers and engineers worked together to create the largest possible length of the deck, without compromising overall visual balance of the car.

The rear of the Honda CR-Z is a particularly important role to play in the aerodynamics and many hours of wind tunnel tests was to enhance the final design. Broke back arches strongly we feel proud of the bodywork and the candles in the rear door glass on two levels, a common understanding with the second generation CR-X, 1999 model FCX Clarity and Insight.

The curvature and shape of the tailgate and the area of ​​glass is part of the measures relate were used in the design of the Honda CR-Z and bring a fresh perspective to a design feature Honda's signature. Much attention has been given to maximize the visibility through the rear hatch and the size and location of the fin, which separates the two areas has been very carefully studied and tested.

masks rear diffuser exhaust Honda CR-Z, a balanced view behind the truck and contribute to the efficient management of the air flows back of the car. The diffuser is made of a material containing aluminum flakes to give the appearance of a metallic finish.

Body structure

To achieve a radical look Honda CR-Z Concept, we need innovative solutions to ensure that the style does not compromise the availability or response dynamics Honda CR-Z. Engineers wanted to create a rigid unit to ensure a dynamic response design creates expectations. To achieve this goal, metal reinforcements are used in critical areas around the front and rear suspension turrets solid foundation for the excellent suspension control. Moreover, the "performance of wand" in the form of H is designed for the back to add stiffness to the rear fuselage. Stiffening of these efforts is a figure similar to the rigidity of the Civic Type R. European

As with all Honda models in recent years, the CR-Z has a structure EngineeringTM Advanced Compatibility Engineering body (ACETM). This unique technology was developed by Honda of years of testing at the Honda Center in Tochigi R & D where cars crashed in real life situations. The front frame to distribute the load on the structures of a frontal collision the Honda CR-Z offers maximum protection for impacts with vehicles of different bumper heights.

INTERIOR DESIGN

The interior styling of the Honda CR-Z concept was warmly welcomed and the Honda engineers and designers were keen to take this into account in the production car.

The cockpit of the Honda CR-Z has been designed around a theme of the cabin, the consolidation of critical controls near the driver, creating a sense of purpose and reduce distractions. The upper section of the dashboard contains all the controls and brand and is a RIM (reaction injection molding) molded black plastic, which has never been used for a panel before Honda. This new plastic offers a nice surface to touch the edge of table.

At the bottom of the dashboard is made of light gray material that gives the appearance of a floating top. Smaller, lighter period lasted almost without interruption in the doors, the cabin is wrapped around the driver and passenger. The doors are equipped with two beautiful colors, most of the texture and color corresponding to the top "float" of the media and devastated by the coordination of the lower part gray. Door to grab some types are treated specially coated metal that is used for the first time cars for internal use. This film is glossy coated metal evaporated to create a unique composition of the upper class cars.

The seats are designed to support the driver in a freeway, with particular attention to the inclination of the seat relative to the pedals. Angle, which allows the driver to sit in the car a bit 'and maintain a position of practical and useful guide. Half-cushions and seats are designed to support various sizes of people, and is optimized for seat on the size of a person. Courtesy of reach and tilt adjustable steering wheel, driver's seat is 50 mm in different height adjustment, driver and passenger with a 240 mm between the front to support the movement.

One element that has been reflected most strongly in the production car is the design of the dashboard, which has a catchy design and 3D instrument tech. The mark of the Honda CR-Z is designed to be more than attractive, the lighting of the dials to play a key role in the system 3-mode drive and Eco Assist functions.

Instrumentation

Forms tachometer cornerstone of the dashboard with speedometer back into the center of the disc. The tachometer performs a scale from zero to maximum and back to start, drawing the eye of the driver's cockpit instrument when you put the car on.

Both sides of the speedometer and tachometer gauges and accessories are the display, the less critical data. To the right of the center is the fuel gauge and fuel economy meter and below these is the Multi-Display (MID). On the left is a key indicator, the IMA battery meter and charge / assist gauge that indicates when the engine is to help, or to charge the battery.

MID can display the time travel, fuel economy, average fuel economy and average speed. MID can also display the current engine and motor to provide power and Eco Assist Bar, which provides detailed information on driving style and avoiding excessive acceleration and braking, when the economy is goal. Drivers can also control the economy figures are achieved in their previous missions and their progress towards Eco Assist Awards.

Ski area is framed by two wings as an instrument hood extensions, which includes frequent inspections of equipment used, move close to the driver's hands. On the left wing, "controls the drive 3-mode system were merged with adjustable mirrors.

To the right "controls and display temperature control are placed together for ease of use. The wheel is the same design philosophy of other Honda models, audio controls on the left speaker and the cruise control (if ) on the right to speak. MID under the right to voice and speakerphone and voice activated satellite navigation controls HFT (if applicable) under the rays of the left.

Internal flexibility

The interior is elegant 2 +2 layout, which offers the opportunity to expand the availability, in addition to the two-seater and is equipped with ISOFIX child seat points. The rear seats have been designed to be folded easily and quickly to significantly increase cargo space. One Touch Business rear seats can be folded easily, even standing in the car, quickly reaches the standard 214 liters (VDA) of space. Folding seats opens flat luggage compartment floor, which is surprising given 382 liters (VDA window) of cargo space, the largest amount of baggage to carry.

There is also a boot-boot space of less than 19 liters to pay more load, or store items out of sight. This area is very deep, between the IPU and the rear bumper and can easily take a laptop or something like that. Boot of the region can be configured tonneau cover, or it may be removed and attached to the boot floor. This allows the user to point the boot lid forms a hidden partition in the boot lip, almost invisible from the outside. The third option is to secure the lid when rolled across the floor to remove the limitation on the load height when folded.

Team

levels of equipment for the Honda CR-Z is a generous, all the qualities to benefit from the six airbags, active head restraints, Vehicle Stability Assist and Hill Start Assist. Once you begin the steep slope to stop, Hill Start Assist, temporarily prevents the vehicle from sliding backward and keep the brake pressure during the time between the release of the brake, clutch and pressure of gas (approximately 1 , 0 seconds).

All Categories Honda CR-Z is equipped with temperature control, CD player with 6 speakers with USB and iPod ® link motor start button. The dashboard has a semi-hidden box in the upper space in front of the shifter. This table is sized to accommodate an MP3 player containing the cable to connect compatible devices with the stereo in the Honda CR-Z. Customers will benefit from the ability to control the MP3 music players from the main stereo to maximize ease of use and minimize distractions.

Benefit middle and higher grades of leather seats, steering wheel audio controls and alloy pedals. Top grades make hands-free Bluetooth ® telephone (HFT) controls, cruise control, panoramic glass roof, HID lamps and 360W high power system sound - including a boot mounted sub-woofer.

Engine and the IMA system

The Honda CR-Z is the first car that combines an i-VTEC engine of 1.5 liters and the IMA system, providing excellent fuel economy and emphasis on driver enjoyment. The engine is 114 hp electric motor attached to a PS 14, which also increases the torque with an impressive 78 Nm at low to medium engine speeds. The peak power figure of 124 hp combined with a healthy 174 Nm of torque.

Performance and driver enjoyment can be seen as a conflict need good fuel economy and exhaust emission levels. CR-Z 1.5-liter 16-valve i-VTEC petrol engine gives the driver the pleasure of the engine note with enthusiasm, a willingness to rev, and a wide spread of torque. At the same time its modest capacity, increased the electric motor can achieve good fuel economy and low emissions overall, as the all important CO2 emissions. CR-Z hybrid Honda Insight is the first since the original uses a 1 liter four-valve per cylinder, the IMA system.

Honda CR-Z to send only 117 g / km of CO2 in the EU test cycle and consumes only 5.0 l/100 km of fuel. This figure is only 1 CO2 g / km higher than the original Civic Hybrid, an incredible achievement considering more than 30 horsepower advantage of the CR-Z is more than his ancestor sedan.

The Honda CR-Z used is based on the Jazz unit of 1.5 liters with changes in valve timing for intake valve should be turned off at low revs. This creates a whirlpool effect that allows the rapid combustion further and higher gas recirculation. The effect of this additional turbulence to reduce emissions and improve fuel consumption. At high speeds, both intake valves open to increase power.

Many small modifications to the engine depending on the characteristics of the Honda CR-Z, the IMA system integration and installation in the body cut. The original engine because it was installed in the Jazz would not fit under the hood of the car low in its current form. The development engineers have developed a new intake manifold and a set of dishes cleaner air, providing enough space and provide space for pedestrian impact protection.

Engine 1.5-liter i-VTEC was not seen in a car before European specification, and was chosen for its combination of low weight, fuel consumption and compact size. Block 1.5-liter engine is similar to other engine variants and Jazz Insight means that the IMA system integration is simplified. Because the layout of the basic block is shared with the 1.3 liter engine Insight was the sump pan that has been developed for this car passed. This helped the team in the task of reducing engine height and lower position in the cabinet.

IMA System

IMA system is divided into Insight hybrid, but the software and settings have been changed in interaction with the 3-mode drive and manual transmission. Although the operating cycles are very different from the manual car, the Honda IMA flexibility of a parallel hybrid system makes the integration of different engines and transmissions, much easier.

Extensive testing was done to ensure that sustainability impressive hardware Insight IMA has not been compromised in any way by the addition of a manual gearbox. Emphasis was placed on the possibility of over-revving the engine due to lost gear changes and the implications this may have on the system

The electric motor provides maximum torque immediately from the start, taking the low-end torque of the Honda CR-Z more than 70 Nm, better initial acceleration. The torque curve of the new hybrid is particularly flat for a naturally aspirated engine, with the peak reached just 1500 rpm, allowing for flexibility at all engine speeds.

Battery for Honda CR-Z is a 100.8-volt nickel metal hydride units, which provides an excellent balance of power, reliability, security and price. Like the rest of the system, the battery is divided into an incredibly reliable model Insight, which has proven to be the lowest warranty claims of all Honda cars sold in Europe in 2009. When the battery life of the vehicle can be recycled through Honda dealers.

Design and Tuning exhaust

To ensure that drivers will enjoy driving the Honda CR-Z on the road, the development team has spent much time and thought to the design of the exhaust pipe. The brief was to create not only an effective unit allowing engine operation to minimize emissions and to generate the target power level, but also to produce a pleasant sound. Due to the diversity of environments, pilots and the speed of the CR-Z was designed, engineers would not be satisfied with an exhaust system having a capacity of slightly less quiet.

Much development time has been devoted to the design of the exhaust to give it a sporty note when the engine was working hard but not too much noise while using the highway or city. For this, the team has spent time setting of the other components, including engine mounts and noise insulation, sound insulation unpleasant, and allow the market more pleasing sound of exhaust gases can be heard in silence, without reduced too far.

3-Drive System

Honda CR-Z is designed for the car, which connects the driver enjoy excellent driving performance and economy of the city. Two of the important role of the car can sometimes be made with the characteristics of strong opposition, such as gas, and more guidance to give greater weight to the satisfaction of the driver driving on the open road, but perhaps proving to be frustrating traffic and bumper to bumper.

Honda engineers have developed a 3-Mode Drive System Honda CR-Z, which allows the driver to change the properties of the car, depending on their needs and the environment inside the car is driven by significantly alter responses to new system of a car CR-Z allows the driver to adapt to different road and traffic situations.

The new feature allows the driver to select between three driving modes that alter the response of the accelerator, climate control steering, and the level of assistance that the IMA system.

In developing this new facility, Honda allows the driver to decide whether to maximize the sportsmanship, the economy or the best balance between the two.

Sport Mode

Sporting buttons have become commonplace, often provide a sharper throttle response, but the Honda system of 3-mode is different. The new system changes the behavior of the hybrid powertrain and steering assistance as well as the mapping of gas between the three modes.

When the Honda CR-Z is far from the city and want to enjoy the road, you can put the car in Sport mode. This sharpens the throttle response, changes the behavior of IMA hybrid system for electric motor assist and increase the weight of the electric power steering.

ECON mode

Honda recognizes that even the most enthusiastic driver can regularly experience heavy traffic, which maximizes fuel economy is preferable to a complete line through a corner. In these situations, the ECON mode, you can choose what to give priority to fuel economy of operation of the throttle valve drive-by-wire, the ECU, air conditioning and a hybrid system. For those times when the busy driving is not possible or desirable, Eco Assist with the ECON mode, the driver can enjoy the best economy rating of their way to work, or in heavy traffic.

ECON mode reduces sensitivity to smooth throttle inputs and this action is facilitated by using a different engine map that emphasizes fuel economy. The climate control system is also influenced by the mode of Economic and Monetary Affairs of the air circulation and reduce the compressor to reduce power consumption. Using the engine to assist the gasoline engine is overridden by the priority given to fuel economy does not improve performance.

NORMAL mode

At all times the car can be run in normal mode, which offers a balance between performance, fuel economy and emissions, and is suitable for most situations.

Eco Assist

With the ECON mode, the CR-Z uses a manual function that can be used to obtain high energy efficiency and reduce harmful exhaust emissions.

During the race, there are two main elements in the system: a bar "Eco-Drive 'flag in the multi-information display (MID) and meters around the screen behind digital speedometer Both instruments are synchronized to provide real-time information on fuel consumption. and provide advice on how to change your driving style.

The "eco guide in MID is a solid bar icon that moves from each side of a trunk. The idea is to run in a manner that holds the bar in the middle and outside shaded areas on both sides.

When you drive safely, efficiently and, therefore, the bar is near the center of the indicator to move slightly to the right when accelerating gradually and slightly to the left when braking gently. Under these conditions, the environment back behind the speed meter to display the green color seems to be the best eco-driving performance.

Under a greater acceleration, braking and moderately, the bar moves in the MID to one end of the scale, which shows the use of more fuel, and the meter room is lit with a green / blue.

With the aggressive acceleration or sudden braking, the head of the indicator bar to the right or left, the shadows of the scale to show greater fuel consumption and the meters surrounding blue respectively.

To get the best fuel, the pilot is designed to keep the bar in the middle and the green light screen as much as possible throughout each trip.

To help motivate drivers on each trip, another screen above the bar indicator awards grants to more efficient driving. If successful, it leaves little to "grow" above the bar to see the economic engine courses, with more leaves and, finally, a flower added to the system records a "perfect" he says.

In addition, pressing the Info button on the steering wheel and scrolling displays MID, drivers can not only watch their average fuel consumption of going to class, but can also get their average fuel economy for the last three rounds .

The Honda CR-Z features a shift indicator (SIL), which warns the driver to switch between optimum efficiency up or down the point. As shown in the light, together with advice on Aid driving can improve fuel economy up to 10%, reaffirming the commitment of Honda to improve fuel economy every day.

Eco Scoring

Once the trip is over, and the ignition is off, ecological changes MID guide for "an echo score. Now, the symbols of the leaves at the summit, a report on driver behavior during the season Last, while the bar and symbols on the bottom of the screen show a score to life. This is shown in three stages with the plant and flower, due to the right of the bar that shows the highest score .

If the pilot has improved over recent trip to the recognition of a symbol of the wreaths will be displayed. At the end of the third phase of the award indicates progress.

Conversely, if the driving style is worse, the regression score and life and on stage, so that the symbol of recognition of a plant is wilting.

Normal mode - normal - which ensures a balance between performance, economy and emissions in general suits all driving situations. Normal operation of the system balances the IMA, control of temperature and gases between the economy and maximum driver enjoyment is the default Honda CR-Z to business creation. In this mode, the address settings are the same as ECON. All certification tests are performed in the normal way, as it is the default mode of the car to start. Between different modes, each mode icon appears on the MID for two seconds before returning to pre-selected information.

Scramble-Assist

Scramble-Assist is a control strategy that detects driver calls for the acceleration of the accelerator pedal movement and increases the amount of motor assistance. SPORT mode assists proportionately larger for a given pedal movement, resulting in better acceleration compared to normal.

Motoren-Assist is a control mechanism in which the electric motor takes over when the accelerator is pressed. It can be divided into four situations: the Eco Drive-Away Assist stampede support and 70-80% for gas. SPORTS committed with fashion, there is a performance improvement over the scramble for assistance.

ECON cruise control

When the cruise control is set during normal operation, it is removed too quickly when driving on a flat and descending a hill, to improve fuel consumption. However, the slope of the change, you too can accelerate the traditional system, causing increased fuel consumption. ECON Cruise Control to reduce unnecessary gas openings in these situations. ECON Cruise Control soften the responses to an increase of the slope and speed enables small to reduce consumption. Allied with the ECON mode, this cruise control reduces fuel consumption without sacrificing comfort.

Cruise control function of the traditional options are available in Sport or Normal mode, as it is expected that the premises used for the driving conditions in which the vehicle speed varies greatly throughout the journey.

TRANSMISSION

The RZ is Honda's first hybrid to be fitted with a gearbox 6-speed manual, which allows pilots to control the maximum combination of engine torque 1.5-liter i-VTEC and IMA.

For the European market with a manual transmission is considered essential and a gearbox 6-speed considered optimal for the economy and sportier driving. As a parallel hybrid system, is easy to adapt the Honda IMA system to work with a variety of hardware as indicated in the original 1999 Insight, a manual can work very well with good hybrid technology.

The manual gearbox give the CR-Z is a very different hybrid models and the driver to a new level of interaction.

The gearbox is designed for the enthusiast driver in mind, thanks to a short and firm action of light, but that encourages the driver to change regularly. Tolerances for components moving mechanism have been optimized to reduce the free play in the system. The timer is a component that controls the movement of the shifter, and this area has undergone considerable attention to achieving a positive click in each gear change.

Even with a gearbox and six-speed transfer action sports, there is no need to continually work the gearbox Honda CR-Z. The ample torque at low engine speed and the IMA system is synonymous with flexibility in the process is also impressive.

FRAME

The development of the chassis of the Honda CR-Z will always be the cornerstone of the nature of the car. From the beginning, the basic platform will be shared with the hybrid Honda Insight, but with significant changes in the length, size, components and parameters.

The most significant change is the frame, reducing the wheelbase is 115 mm to increase flexibility and reduce the overall length of the CR-Z is 310 mm. Together with the reduction in width of the track pitch is increased by 20 mm (front) 25 mm (rear) offers greater stability.

Basic structure of a suspension of the Honda CR-Z is similar to Insight which shares the platform architecture. Changes were made to the components suitable for the nature of the sport Honda CR-Z, and to maximize the driving pleasure. Springs, dampers and anti-roll bars are unique in the new coupe to adapt to the different characteristics of the Honda CR-Z.

To complement the broader issue and lower weight, lower control arm front suspension with MacPherson struts are formed from forged aluminum instead of steel used for the arms Insight. These aluminum spacers for a total of 4 kg lighter than steel components, and the ongoing strengthening of support to the largest forces generated by the increase in road width and tire size.

The rear suspension is H-shaped torsion bar, which is built on the concept of design as the Insight offers excellent control of the rear wheels, creating space for the installation of low-IMA battery and control unit. The installation of the IMA, the batteries in the trunk, and low and the Honda CR-Z is a clear benefit from treatment, lowering the center of gravity of a coupe. Wishbone is the Honda CR-Z has been amended to increase the width of the carriageway and strength.

Director

In a first for Honda, a new advanced control EPS provides a more linear feel and natural management has been implemented. The new software combined with the possibility to choose the level of support from the system drive of 3 mode gives the Honda CR-Z in a totally different feel to other Honda hybrids.

All the qualities of the Honda CR-Z is equipped with 16-inch light alloy series, which is shod with 195/55R16 tires. 17-inch wheels are available from dealers as an option for customers who wish to further customize their cars.

Recycling the CR-Z

Honda CR-Z is 92% recyclable materials collected and Honda is constantly working on ways to improve the figure closer to full recycling. The battery is included in this figure, which means that Honda CR-Z is not less recyclable than a conventionally powered vehicle.

myth of mountain battery

Since the start of sales of Honda hybrids in 1999, raised the issue of batteries, if you ever need to replace the car or at the end of life. He was concerned that hybrid cars produce a mountain of used batteries, or fill up the landfills.

In fact, the batteries contain metals that still has a value at the end of its useful life and can be recycled economically to create new battery packs or other uses.

Honda dealers will backpacks, and they are either recycled locally by battery recycling plants in the country or who recycle batteries Umicore Honda key.

The metal recovered from the primary batteries, nickel is used in hundreds of applications and uses. The amount of nickel used in the production of batteries, is small relative to global consumption of mercury for the production of alloys such as steel. The economic value of nickel: the hostages out of the Honda network is almost certain to find its way into a recycling facility to recover recyclable materials.

Energy consumption in buildings through the life cycle

Because hybrid cars have more technology and materials, beyond what is found in a conventional car engine, it has been erroneously suggested that the energy consumed in their construction outweigh the energy savings in use. Honda's own research shows that even a small amount of extra energy used in the construction phase and the elimination of the life cycle, economies of the period of use is significantly greater than the extra energy.

A life cycle analysis of the Civic Hybrid presented here indicates that over a shorter life cycle than usual of only 100,000 km, the energy used is 40% less than a conventional Civic sedan 1.8 liter. This is due to the use phase of life cycle uses more energy (78%) than elsewhere and thus saving energy during this critical phase has a greater impact on the overall figure.

Honda is constantly working on reducing the impact of its plants in the environment in several ways. One of the longstanding goals of Honda, has been the development of technologies to ensure that the manufacturing process is not only the energy and cost, but produces no waste to landfills. This objective was stated by its founder Soichiro Honda in 1956: "After the materials are transported on the ground, nothing but products should be the same.

When Mr. Honda made the bold statement had little interest in global environmental protection. However, despite this, the founder strongly believes that Honda should avoid contamination of the environment in the manufacture or use of its products. Last zero waste to landfill has been a lengthy process and that the necessary innovation perseverance and commitment. All Honda factories in Japan have achieved this and all other Honda plants are planned to reach this point of interest in late 2010.

efficient use of energy is an essential element of the manufacturing philosophy of Honda's Suzuka factory and is an example of these ongoing efforts. The roof of the plant is covered with a large solar panel contributes to the energy needs of the plant, reducing carbon dioxide emissions. The Suzuka plant also uses a giant cogeneration unit, which is used to heat the plant and produce electricity simultaneously. Using the energy of natural gas fuel more efficiently, the cogeneration unit reduces overall CO2 emissions by a combination of two methods. The production of electricity locally is much more efficient because it removes the power line losses are experienced when the electricity is used a great distance from where it occurs.

Heritage

Since the compact 2 +2 coupe with a double rear hatch window and the roof line low, the CR-Z has links with the CR-X, are clear. What is perhaps less obvious is your car and the objectives of the original design brief.

CR-X was launched in 1983 and received a warm welcome and a compact, nimble coupe, which Honda has changed opinions about the United States and Europe. What is less known is that the main purpose of the CR-X was to break the barrier of 50 mpg in the U.S. and the top ratings EPA fuel consumption. The design of the car was driven by the need to be compact and so light and aerodynamic needs.

Since the passage of a compact and lightweight, the CR-X has proven to be excellent handling and fun with a car. Current Honda President and CEO, Takonobu Ito, who has worked in the design platform for the CR-X, and recognizes the need for a new era in eco-car entertainment, "said 's 2010 Detroit auto show debut of the CR-Z: "The first task of the United States was in the early 1980s I was a young engineer, to develop a platform for the first. generation of Honda CR-X. You might remember that the "pocket rocket." I remember the CR-X of the vehicle to show that the machine can be both sporty and fuel. Times have changed ... but the idea of ​​developing vehicles that are both fun to drive and fuel consumption is alive and well. "

2011 Honda Accord Review

Set to go on sale in mid-August, 2010, 2011 Honda Accord sedan and coupe get significant improvements, including fuel economy, better exterior styling and interior, and added a new leather-equipped Special Edition (SE) trim level . Available in sedan or coupe is a 4-cylinder and V6 variations, the Honda Accord offers a unique balance of style, performance, efficiency and value of each model.


"For 2011, Honda Accord is developed again with a strong style inside and out, gains in fuel efficiency and a wider application of the most common," said Erik Berkman, vice president of Planning and Logistics for American Honda Motor Co ., Inc. "The Honda Accord was designed to provide a rewarding experience all the properties in the areas that matter most to the sedan and coupe."

Improvements in the aerodynamics of the vehicle, the friction of the engine and transmission components, all contribute to improving fuel economy. EPA estimates fuel economy for models Honda Accord sedan 4-cylinder engine are equipped with automatic transmission to improve two miles per gallon (mpg) city and 3 mpg highway, and city / highway rating 23/34 mpg.


2011 Honda Accord Sedan indicates the more refined look and a strong presence in the new style grille, front bumper and rear lid with a new wheel design.

Based on the character design of the sedan, the Honda Accord Coupe is the unique position is reinforced by the grill with a bold, muscular design, a new front bumper, brake light and improved the appearance of new wheel design for models V6.

Balance between value and luxury, Honda Accord Sedan SE offers new features for the popular Honda Accord LX-P lisäylellisyydestä seats leather upholstery, heated seats, power driver lumbar support and leather-wrapped steering wheel.

New features in some models are mounted on the paddle wheel turning point in the Honda Accord Coupe EX-L V6, a USB audio interface for all Honda Accord Coupe and Sedan EX and EX-L, and a camera rear view in cars equipped with the available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System ™. In addition, the Honda Accord V6 EX-L models get a two-position memory for driver's seat. Other interior upgrades on all models include new seat fabrics in models with cloth seats, a dashboard design updated and more refined focus points throughout the interior.

style of the interior on all models and provides an accessible luxury of generous standard equipment, a world-class ergonomics and intuitive vehicle controls. The front seats are designed to provide plenty of lateral support and complement the Honda Accord a sporty side. Folding rear seat provides the versatility of carrying goods, as well as a lock pass-through for long items such as snow skis.

New for 2011, the most commonly used climate buttons are now positioned on the left side of the control stack closest to the driver for ease of use, and less frequently used buttons are now placed on the right. Setting the clock of the vehicle is also to encourage a more visible lettering.

190-hp, 2.4-liter 16-valve DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder is standard on the Honda Accord EX sedan and EX-L and Accord LX-S, EX and EX-L cups. 2.4-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder engine Honda Accord LX-P LX and SE sedans produces 177 horsepower.

3.5-liter 24-valve SOHC i-VTEC ® V6 produces 271 horsepower and takes advantage of Variable Cylinder Management ™ (VCM ®) technology that can shut down half the cylinders during navigation to improve fuel economy. Preliminary EPA-rated fuel economy for 2011 Accord V6 sedan is 19 mpg city/30 highway, an improvement of 1 mpg on the highway.

Performance-oriented Honda Accord Coupe EX-L V6 with six-speed manual transmission has a unique 3.5-liter VTEC V6 (without VCM) that provides a valve train performance, music, intake and exhaust in order to extend the curve of torque at lower rpm midrange performance at an amateur level.

A 5-speed manual transmission is standard on 4-cylinder and a 5-speed automatic transmission is available. A 5-speed automatic transmission is standard on V6 models. A 6-speed manual transmission is available exclusively at the Honda Accord Coupe EX-L V6.

For security reasons, the Advanced Compatibility Engineering ™ (ACE ®) is a patented design that improves occupant protection and crash compatibility in frontal crashes. ACE ™ uses a network design to connect the structural elements to distribute impact energy more evenly across the front of the vehicle. This improvement in the management of frontal crash energy reduces the forces transferred to the cabin.

Dual front fork and management of trust multilink rear suspension while providing a comfortable ride. The 2011 Honda Accord Sedan comes standard with steel wheels with alloy rims 16 inches, or 16 - or alloy wheels 17 inches depending on model.

Three audio systems are available - all (WMA) MP3/Windows Media ® Audio playback and an auxiliary input jack. The standard system includes a single-disc CD player, six speakers and 160 watts. Radio Data System (RDS) displays information will be sent through the participation of FM radio stations that often includes call letters, station type (type of research) and programming. Steering wheel audio controls are standard on every Accord. Honda Accord EX Sedan and Coupe LX-S add a 6-disc in-dash.

A premium 270-watt audio system comes standard on the Honda Accord Coupe EX models Accord EX-L Sedan, and includes a six CD changer and seven speakers including a subwoofer 8 inch. XM Radio ® is standard on all Honda Accord EX-L.

Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System (available in the Accord EX-L) uses an 8-inch display and a user interface dial for user input. Features include the Zagat Survey ® restaurant guide, nightclubs, hotels and attractions. Honda Accord EX and EX-L and Accord Coupe EX-L sedan models include Bluetooth ® HandsFreeLink ® as standard in wireless connection with compatible mobile phones.

The Honda Accord Coupe (4 cylinder) has alloy wheels as standard equipment 17-inch, 18 inch alloys as standard on the Honda Accord Coupe V6. All agreements based on the disc brakes on all four wheels.

Currently, over 95 percent of sales contracts in the United States are manufactured at Honda of America Manufacturing Inc., Marysville Auto Plant in Marysville, Ohio, and Honda Manufacturing of Alabama LLC, Lincoln, Alabama. The Marysville plant is the only global source of the Honda Accord Coupe.

2011 Honda Odyssey Review

The all-new 2011 Honda Odyssey seeks to redefine the concept of the minivan with its aggressive stance and sporty "lightning-bolt" beltline. The lightning bolt not only provides an exclusive appearance, but also adds increased visibility for third-row passengers.


New interior features add more convenience for families, while available entertainment technology introduces high-definition connectivity and split-screen viewing. Currently the best-selling minivan in the U.S., the all-new 2011 Honda Odyssey is set to go on sale in the fall of 2010. Compared to the previous Odyssey, the 2011 model's lower roofline (-1.6 inches versus 2010 Odyssey EX) and wider track (+1.4 inches) contribute to a sleeker, stronger and more dynamic presence with improved aerodynamics that help increase fuel economy and also translate into more interior width.

2011 Honda Jazz Hybrid Review

Honda's continuing commitment to petrol-electric hybrid technology. The launch of the latest addition to the practical Jazz line-up marks the first time a parallel hybrid vehicle has been available to B-segment consumers. Importantly the Honda Jazz Hybrid will not lose any of its practicality, with the compact nature of the Honda IMA system allowing the B-segment car to retain its ultra-flexible "Magic Seats" and 300 litres of boot space.
The IMA battery pack and power control unit have been integrated in the area under the boot floor, retaining the normal boot area and allowing the "Magic Seats" to fold in the same manner as non-hybrid versions. This means that the seats still fold entirely flat to provide a surprising 831 litre of space or the seat bases can be folded up to sit vertically, so as to accommodate tall items within the car.


The IMA hybrid system is shared with the Insight and CR-Z hybrids, taking advantage of the proven reliability of this important technology. With almost two decades of development and 10 years of sales behind it, the Honda IMA system has proven itself to be a flexible and dependable system, with over half a million vehicles on the road benefitting from its combination of low emissions and fuel economy.The new model features the same IMA system as in the Insight hybrid, using the same 1.3 litre i-VTEC engine as its dedicated hybrid model sibling. The IMA system is combined with a CVT gearbox in the Honda Jazz and with emissions of just 104 g/km of CO2 it has the lowest CO2 output of any automatic car in the B-segment. As a petrol-electric hybrid, the new derivative has ultra-low levels of other exhaust emissions, not just taxable elements.


Visually the Honda Jazz Hybrid is distinguished from the current Jazz range with revised headlights, which have a blue surround, clear rear lights, new front grille, restyled bumpers and a chrome tailgate garnish. The new hybrid will be available in a range of existing colours plus a bespoke Lime Green metallic.
Inside the cabin is given a fresh look with a darker single colour dashboard, which contrasts strongly with the blue lighting of the dials and centre console. The new hybrid is also available with leather trim, the first time this has been available on a Jazz model in Europe. The dashboard integrates a version of the Eco Assist function, which uses the ambient lighting of the speedometer to advise the driver on how their driving style is impacting on their fuel economy. The Eco Assist function aides drivers in getting the maximum economy from their car in everyday situations and gives users real-time feedback on how their use of the brakes and throttle affects their fuel bills and environmental impact.
While respecting the unique features of the car, a range of Genuine Accessories will accentuate its hybrid character even further. Decoration items, such as doorstep garnishes, a variety of exterior and interior stickers, B-pillar garnishes and alloy wheels can be fitted according to the driver's personal taste. A Solid State Drive navigation, hands-free Bluetooth® and rear entertainment system are set to provide extra technological comfort. A complete range of Genuine Accessories is available for those customers that want to add in even more functionality and style.
The Honda Jazz Hybrid will go on sale in some European markets in the early part of 2011, prices and full specifications will be announced in due course.

2012 Honda Civic Hybrid Review

The all-new 2012 Honda Civic represents the ninth generation of one of the company's most popular and globally recognized products. Having earned a reputation for being a fun-to-drive compact that is simultaneously fuel efficient, sporty, stylish and durable, the Honda Civic has become a beloved and relied-upon member of the worldwide transportation family. Cumulatively, the Civic has reached 8.8 million customers in the United States through 2010 since its launch as a 1973 model.
Each generation of Honda Civic has improved with a specific development theme in mind. The 2012 Civic embraces the fundamental concept of a "futuristic and distinctive compact," a direction that introduces new values that reach ahead of present-day needs and elevates the experience that Honda Civic represents. Major strides include improvements to refinement throughout, increased fuel economy on all models, the further addition of interactive technologies for personalization and convenience, along with enhancements to performance, ride and interior packaging.




Civic customers span the entire public spectrum of automotive drivers. They are high school graduates and college students just beginning their adult lives; they are families with young children; they are schoolteachers, soccer parents and professionals, environmentalists and performance enthusiasts; and they are Generation Y, baby boomers and retirees. And they live in Snow Belt states, Sunbelt states, in the Midwest and in Hawaii and Alaska. But regardless of their demographic and psychographic makeup, Honda Civic customers are tied together by one thing - they are young at heart. Because at the end of the day, beyond its myriad attributes (including safety, economy, durability, comfort and style), the Civic is fun to drive.


2012 Honda Civic Model Lineup
The automotive landscape has rapidly evolved in the last decade with increased interest in fuel economy, low emissions and overall affordability. All of these traits are among the Civic's strongest advantages. The new 2012 Civic lineup further embraces these concepts with six different variants that span from ultra efficient to high performance, with specific models designed to better meet individual needs and preferences. For 2012, a highly affordable and highly efficient Honda Civic HF has been added to the lineup. The aero-enhanced Civic HF achieves an estimated highway fuel economy rating of 41 miles per gallon, two more mpg than the regular Civic Sedan, and the highest highway fuel economy rating in America for any gasoline-only compact sedan equipped with an automatic transmission.
The 2012 Honda Civic model lineup is comprised of:
  • Civic Sedan (Civic DX, Civic LX, Civic EX and Civic EX-L)
  • Civic Coupe (Civic DX, Civic LX, Civic EX and Civic EX-L)
  • High-efficiency and value-oriented Civic HF (new)
  • High-performance Civic Si Sedan and Civic Si Coupe
  • Ultra-efficient Civic Hybrid (with new Lithium-Ion batteries)
  • Ultra-clean Civic Natural Gas, previously known as Civic GX (available at qualified dealers nationwide)
The Foundation of Civic
Beneath the aerodynamic skin of every 2012 Civic is Honda's commitment to its foundational pillars of safety, fun-to-drive performance, style, comfort, convenience, durability, quality and refinement. The end result is a vehicle that's not only a smart decision when new, but can also provide long-term joy of ownership unique to this class of vehicle.
Safety - Advanced safety systems include Honda-exclusive Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE)™ body structure for frontal collision energy management and vehicle-to-vehicle crash compatibility, and a long list of standard safety equipment including two-row side curtain airbags, dual-stage, multiple-threshold driver's and front passenger's airbags, driver's and front passenger's side airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®), an anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Brake Assist, and a new Motion Adaptive Electric Power Steering system that helps the driver steer in the ideal direction to mitigate oversteer or understeer situations. Internal crash test information indicates that the new Honda Civic should achieve top marks in both the federal government's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program and the independent Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) designation as a "TOP SAFETY PICK."
Fun to Drive - Every Honda Civic model is designed to be fun to drive, with a MacPherson strut front suspension, a multi-link rear suspension, and front and rear stabilizer bars. Motion-Adaptive Electric Power Steering (EPS) improves steering response at low speeds while rewarding the driver with outstanding feel at higher speeds. In addition, with EPS there is no parasitic power loss to the engine as is common with a traditional hydraulically boosted steering system - which benefits both power output and fuel economy. Standard 15-inch diameter wheels with all-season tires, 16-inch wheels on Civic EX and Civic EX-L models, and 17-inch wheels on Civic Si models (with performance-oriented summer tires available) provide a satisfying blend of ride comfort and all-weather grip. The Civic Si Sedan and Civic Si Coupe further expand the driving fun with a new, larger displacement (201 horsepower) engine and specially tuned suspension.
Distinctive, Aerodynamic Styling - As a new interpretation of the Honda Civic's iconic "one-motion" mono-form shape, the 2012 Civic is designed to convey an even more substantial, high-energy appearance. The exterior styling of both Civic Sedan and Coupe models showcases the clean-yet-powerful body lines with sleekly angled windshields, wide stances and pronounced character lines along the profile. The look of the Civic Coupe conveys an aggressive attitude with a more angular front fascia, mesh grille and a tapered rear roofline that flows smoothly into the trunk. Hidden aerodynamic features such as flat-bottom unit-body construction, precisely placed aero strakes, and other features work together to help the Honda Civic achieve excellent fuel-economy.
Comfort, Convenience and Personalization - Crisp, smart and driver focused, the new Civic's 5-passenger interior is a careful blend of form and function, with an advanced instrument layout that is unique in its class. A "smart interface" approach divides the interior into different areas, with key instrument displays located above the steering wheel. Secondary information is located lower in the area, while a third area to the driver's right groups controls that are not essential to driving. New for 2012, the intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) on all models (except Civic DX) provides a 5-inch color monitor for the display of vehicle information and audio information including album artwork (if available). Along with customizable vehicle settings, the i-MID includes the ability to upload personal wallpaper backgrounds. The Civic can be further personalized for driving with Eco Assist on all models (except Civic Si), the first time this feature has been included on any non-hybrid Honda model in America. The performance-oriented Civic Si exclusively features a new Sequential Rev-limit Indicator and a Power Monitor screen that can be displayed on the new i-MID.
Durability, Quality and Reliability - For many customers the Durability, Quality and Reliability (DQR) of the Honda Civic is what keeps them returning year after year. These fine qualities - and the resale or trade-in value they engender for the Civic - become a powerful purchase incentive. Virtually every major study of vehicle residual value has shown that the Honda Civic typically has one of the highest residual values in the industry. As an end result, a high residual or resale value makes the Civic's true cost of ownership less than many lower-priced competitors.

Powertrain
Honda has long been known for its world-class engine technology and a continuous process of innovation and improvement. At the core of Honda's powertrain engineering is the ongoing pursuit of greater performance, enhanced fuel economy and low emissions. The 2012 Civic model range embodies Honda's ongoing effort to offer a wide range of powertrain choices including gasoline, hybrid and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) that offer unique solutions for different buyers.
An advanced 140-horsepower, 1.8-liter i-VTEC® engine is standard in the Civic Sedan, Civic Coupe and Civic HF, with a choice of a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission (automatic only for Civic EX-L Coupe, Civic EX and EX-L Sedans, and Civic HF). A variant of the same 1.8-liter engine develops 110 horsepower in the compressed natural gas (CNG) powered Honda Civic Natural Gas, which comes standard with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The performance-oriented Si model has a 201-horsepower, 2.4-liter i-VTEC® engine, matched with a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission. And finally, the Civic Hybrid is powered by an ultra-efficient 1.5-liter i-VTEC® engine with Integrated Motor Assist® producing 110-horsepower. This is coupled to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

Civic Sedan, Civic Coupe, Civic HF and Civic Natural Gas Powertrain
The Honda Civic Sedan, Civic Coupe, Civic HF and Civic Natural Gas benefit from an updated and refined version of the 1.8-liter I-4 engine that powered the previous generation Civic. The new engine has extensive changes that reduce friction, improve emissions performance and increase fuel economy.
The engine is a Single Overhead Cam (SOHC) 1.8-liter inline 4-cylinder design with 16 valves, i-VTEC®, and a dual-stage intake manifold. In the Civic Sedan, Civic Coupe and Civic HF, the engine produces 140 horsepower at 6300 rpm, and 128 lb-ft. of torque at 4300 rpm. In the Civic Sedan and Coupe, the 1.8-liter engine has an estimated EPA city/highway fuel economy rating of 28/39 miles per gallon when equipped with automatic transmission.

Honda Civic Si Powertrain
The 2012 Civic Si is powered by a new 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder engine that is the largest and most powerful of any Civic introduced in the United States. The dual overhead cam (DOHC) engine is an all-aluminum design that uses four valves per cylinder (16 valves total), a high-performance version of the i-VTEC® system and a specially tuned high-volume intake manifold. The Civic Si produces 201 horsepower - up four horsepower from the 2.0-liter engine it replaces. The i-VTEC® "intelligent" valve-control system, new friction-reducing technologies and extensive weight control measures helps the Civic Si deliver exhilarating acceleration, improved fuel economy and low exhaust emissions.
The new larger displacement engine in the Civic Si delivers peak power at a more accessible 7000 rpm compared to the previous Si engine's 7800 rpm power peak. The engine's increased displacement results in a substantial 22-percent increase in peak torque. The new 170 lb-ft rating occurs at just 4400 rpm, 1700 rpm lower than the previous engine's 139 lb-ft at 6100 rpm. Even with its increase in displacement, horsepower and torque, the 2012 Civic Si has an estimated EPA city rating of 22 mpg (up 1 mpg compared to the 2011 Civic Si) and increases highway fuel economy with a rating of 31 mpg (up 2 mpg compared to the 2011 Civic Si). In addition, the Civic Si engine meets strict Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV-2) emissions standards.
The Honda Civic Si is available exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission with a short-throw shifter. Designed to be compact and lightweight, the 6-speed has also been engineered to provide quick and precise shift action. The Civic Si also includes a clutch with a torsion mechanism that enhances refinement in terms of engagement and feel.

Honda Civic Hybrid Powertrain
The newest-generation Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system fitted to the Civic Hybrid uses a gasoline engine as the primary source of power while an electric motor provides additional power and electricity regeneration capability. The new IMA system consists of a larger 1.5-liter i-VTEC® 4-cylinder engine connected to a larger, more powerful electric motor and a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). A new Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) battery pack is used to capture and store electricity for the upgraded 23-horsepower electric motor. The new Lithium-Ion battery is more powerful, lighter and more compact than the nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery it replaces.
Together, the gasoline engine and electric motor team to produce 110 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 127 lb-ft of torque at 1000-3500 rpm. Compared to the previous generation Civic Hybrid, the new Civic Hybrid has the same peak horsepower, but achieves it at 500 fewer rpm. The new Hybrid has gained 4 lb-ft of torque, and it is spread over a wider rpm range (between 1000 rpm to 3500 rpm) for improved performance during normal city driving.
During acceleration, the engine or the engine and electric motor propel the vehicle. During sustained cruising, the gasoline engine and/or the electric motor can individually propel the vehicle. During braking, the gasoline engine deactivates and the electric motor acts as generator to replenish the Li-Ion battery pack. When the vehicle is at a stop, the engine can enter an idle-stop mode to conserve fuel and reduce emissions - and the engine remains off until the brake pedal is released.
Compared to the previous Honda Civic Hybrid, the fifth-generation Honda IMA powertrain provides improved acceleration at highway speeds, while simultaneously delivering a combined city/highway EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 44 mpg - an increase of 3 mpg from the previous model.
Body
The new 2012 Honda Civic Sedan and Civic Coupe are the most aerodynamically and aggressively styled models in the model's history - and also the most functional and versatile in how most Civic customers like to use their cars. As in past years, both 5-passenger sedan and 5-passenger coupe body styles are available. The sedan design is sophisticated and efficient, while the coupe is more dramatic and exciting. Both are highly aerodynamic, including a sleek windshield angle with narrow A-pillars (and thinner C-pillars in the Coupe) for excellent outward visibility, numerous under-vehicle aerodynamic aids, and even low rolling-resistance tires on all models except Civic Si.
Apart from the headlights, hood and front fenders, no visible exterior body panels, lights, glass, grille or bumpers are shared between the Civic Sedan and Civic Coupe. Differences between models include aggressive front grille, front and rear fascias and other elements for the Civic Si Coupe and Civic Si Sedan, and extensive aerodynamic aids for the high fuel economy Civic HF. However beneath the skin, the underlying chassis construction is the same between the Civic Sedan and Civic Coupe, except that at 105.1 inches, the wheelbase of the Civic Sedan is two inches longer than that of the Civic Coupe.

Civic Sedan Design
Though roomier inside than previous models, the 2012 Civic Sedan adds a sophisticated flair while retaining the Coupe's dramatic styling character. Its four doors provide improved utility, with excellent ingress and egress for all passengers. In back, the trunk lid gracefully meets the rear window and seamlessly ties in with the overall styling of the car. Standard are 15-inch diameter steel wheels with full wheel covers, 15-inch aluminum wheels for the Civic HF, 16-inch aluminum wheels for the Civic EX and Civic EX-L models, and 17-inch aluminum wheels for the Civic Si.

Civic Coupe Design
Everything about Honda Civic Coupe says this is a driver's car, with the short, wide front fascia generating an aggressive overall look. Adding to the Civic's distinctly sporty and dynamic flavor are wide, angular headlights, a bold grille, and fog lamp openings in the lower fascia. A wedge design continues along the Civic Coupe body side, with the hood, windshield and cabin all forming decisive character lines that create a strong sense of motion. The high rear deck further reinforces the Coupe's dynamic wedge styling, while a functional rear lip spoiler and 16-inch aluminum wheels on Civic EX and Civic EX-L models (17-inch wheels on the Civic Si) add to its clear sporting intentions.

Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE™) Body Structure
The Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure is a pioneering Honda unit-body construction technology. Introduced to Civic in the 2006 model, it increases the body's ability to disperse crash energy in a frontal collision and is anticipated to help deliver top safety ratings.

Rigid Unit-Body Construction and Energy-Absorbing Crush Zones
The Civic's aerodynamic unit-body structure plays a strong role in helping both the coupe and sedan achieve their expected high fuel-economy and projected top safety ratings, but it also contributes to a smooth, quiet ride and a fun-to-drive character. A rigid body allows for noise and other disturbances to be more efficiently isolated by bushings and other dampers throughout the vehicle.

Increased Use of High-Strength Steel
Both the Honda Civic Sedan and Civic Coupe feature a rigid and lightweight unit-body design made possible by increased use of high-strength steel. The 2012 Civic Sedan now uses 55 percent high-strength steel, compared to 50 percent in the previous generation. This contributes to a 7-percent reduction in body weight compared to 2011 Civic Sedan. Although the body structure is now lighter, static and dynamic rigidity are 10 percent better.
In addition, more slender A-pillars (also constructed of high-strength steel) provide a greater field of view without compromising body strength. Along with a new side mirror shape, the thinner A-pillars also help minimize wind noise at highway speeds.

Aerodynamic Enhancements
The 2012 Civic Sedan and Civic Coupe are just as aerodynamically efficient as their appearance suggests, resulting in improved fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, improved handling at higher speeds and lower levels of interior noise. The improvements are the result of extensive modeling and testing conducted during the design process. Examples include:
  • A guide under the front bumper directs the flow of air into the engine compartment for cooling.
  • Lightweight plastic parts under the engine bay, the fuel tank and parts of the rear underbody enhance airflow.
  • Front spoiler and strakes ahead of the front and rear tires help direct air flow around the tires and wheel wells.
  • A new flat under-floor significantly improves aerodynamic efficiency by helping air to move over, around and under the vehicle - resulting in a significant 3.4-percent lower coefficient of drag as compared to the 2011 Civic.
  • Low-drag side mirrors reduce wind noise by minimizing turbulence (Civic EX and Civic EX-L models also include heated side mirrors).
Multi-Reflector Halogen Headlights
All 2012 Honda Civic models are equipped with multi-reflector halogen headlights with an auto-off feature (Auto On/Off on EX-L, Hybrid and Si) for confident nighttime driving, along with a dynamic and dramatic appearance. The auto-off feature automatically turns off the headlights when the key is removed from the vehicle. Inboard mounted halogen high beams offer further nighttime driving confidence with a crisp, bright and focused light beam. The halogen high beams serve double-duty as the daytime running lights (DRL) by operating at a lower voltage. All Civic models include a headlights-on reminder.
Meanwhile Honda Civic Si Sedan and Coupe models add fog lights located in openings below the front bumper. Integrated fog lights are likewise available as a dealer-installed accessory on other 2012 Civic models.

LED Brake Lights on Civic Hybrid
The 2012 Honda Civic Hybrid's taillight system features attention-grabbing LED illumination for the brake lights and soft glowing surface lighting for the taillights. The sculpted, 3-dimensional look of the units adds a distinctive and technical styling element to the rear view of the Civic. Additionally, LED lighting uses less power and longer service life compared to traditional tungsten light bulbs, which is consistent with the vehicle's emphasis on efficiency.

Power Windows
All 2012 Honda Civic models (except for Civic DX) feature power windows with auto-reverse. All trim levels (except the Civic DX) also feature an auto up/down driver's window for added convenience.

One-Touch Power Moonroof with Tilt Feature
Civic EX, Civic EX-L and Civic Si models have one-touch power moonroof actuation with tilt feature that will open or close with one touch of the switch. The moonroof's thin construction allows for maximum headroom and improved comfort. Also included is a sliding sunshade that automatically opens with the moonroof, and the shade can be closed to block sunlight. An auto-reverse feature is built into the moonroof operation.

Security System with Remote Entry
Remote entry and remote trunk entry systems are now standard on all 2012 Civic models except for DX. Using a wave key with integrated remote buttons, all doors can be locked with one touch of the LOCK button. Pressing UNLOCK once unlocks the driver's door, while pressing it twice unlocks all doors. The trunk can also be unlocked by pressing a separate trunk button. The system has an operating range of up to 50 feet.

Cargo Area
Another strength of the new 2012 Civic Coupe and Sedan is impressive storage capacity. The Civic Sedan offers 12.5 cu-ft of storage space (12.1 cu-ft. for Sedan EX-L), exceeding the 12.0 cu-ft trunk volume of the previous generation - an improvement of 0.5 cu-ft or 4.2-percent. The Civic Coupe trunk offers 11.6 cu-ft of storage, a slight increase over the previous model's 11.5 cu-ft. Folding the second-row seatback yields additional room for the storage of bulky items. Civic Hybrid and Civic Natural Gas have a fixed rear seatback.
Conveniently placed latches enable customers to lower the fold-down rear seatback from the trunk. The Civic EX and Civic EX-L and Civic Si models add even more convenience with 60/40 split fold-down rear seatbacks, which allow simultaneous passenger seating and cargo storage.

Exterior Colors
The 2012 Honda Civic offers a dynamic color palette that adds character and boldness to the entire model range. All-new colors for the 2012 Civic Sedan include Dyno Blue Pearl, Cool Mist Metallic and Crimson Pearl. While on the 2012 Civic Coupe, Dyno Blue Pearl and Cool Mist Metallic are new additions to the color lineup. Civic Si Coupe and Civic Si Sedan models add a unique Sunburst Orange Pearl, while the Civic Hybrid comes in Green Opal Metallic. All the new colors change in appearance depending on sunlight conditions, further amplifying the Civic's dramatic bodylines.

Chassis
The 2012 Civic chassis was developed to maximize driving enjoyment as well as passenger comfort and safety. The chassis features Honda's highly developed MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension systems, along with Motion-Adaptive Electric Power Steering for excellent steering performance and improved efficiency. Regardless of whether it is a versatile Civic Sedan or Coupe, sporty Civic Si, or efficient Civic Hybrid, clean Civic Natural Gas or value-oriented Civic HF model, every 2012 Honda offers a high level of refinement, confident handling and a fun driving experience - while also providing excellent safety.

Wheels and Tires
The 2012 Honda Civic Sedan and Civic Coupe models feature a variety of 15-, 16- and 17-inch diameter wheels and all-season tires, with a space-saver spare tire located under the trunk floor. Details include:
  • Civic DX Sedan, Civic DX Coupe and Civic LX - 15x6 steel wheels with full covers and P195/65R15 tires
  • Civic EX Sedan, Civic EX Coupe and Civic EX-L - 16x6.5-inch aluminum wheels and P205/55R16 tires
  • Civic Hybrid - 15x6-inch aluminum wheels and P195/65R15 tires
  • Civic Si Sedan and Civic Si Coupe - 17x7-inch alloy wheels and P215/45R17 (with available summer tires)
  • Civic Hybrid - 15x6-inch alloy wheels and P195/65R15 low-rolling-resistance tires
  • Civic Natural Gas - 15x6-inch steel wheels with full covers and P195/65R15 tires
  • Civic Sedan HF Sedan - 15x6-inch aluminum wheels and P195/65R15 low rolling-resistance tires
For improved fuel economy, the 2012 Civic uses new tires that are 5-percent lighter with 10-percent improvement to the Rolling Resistance Coefficient (RRC) as compared to the previous Civic's tires. Constructed of low-mass tread material, thinner sidewalls and an optimized structure, the new tires help reduce fuel consumption - all while maintaining comparable durability and projected service life. The Civic HF further reduces the rolling resistance of the tires by an additional 21-percent compared to the standard Civic tires.

Interior
Creative and expressive, roomy and practical - the 2012 Honda Civic interior is as impressive as the body design, while featuring a bold and advanced instrument layout that's unlike anything in the class. The new Civic interior builds on the already sophisticated design of the current generation Civic by adopting a "smart interface" approach. With this approach, the interior is divided into different areas for key instrument displays above the steering wheel, secondary information located lower in the area visible through the steering wheel, and a third area to the driver's right. Overall, the controls are clear and easy to operate, with a cleanly simple layout and highly intuitive operation.
All the shapes, textures and colors work together to create a welcoming contemporary environment that is both visually and tactilely rewarding. Everything the driver needs is close at hand and materials and finishes are as carefully selected as the equipment features. Distinct upper and lower areas of the instrument panel have their own unique materials that create visual zones that add beauty and richness.
Building on the successful packaging on the previous generation, the 2012 Honda Civic Sedan has gained a small amount of interior passenger volume and also made gains in shoulder and hip room. The Civic Coupe gains an increase in front shoulder room. Both the Sedan and Coupe are classified as compact vehicles by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Interior Dimensions
Though the 2012 Civic Sedan is externally the same width and length, it has gained in interior passenger volume by 3.7 cubic feet, and has more front shoulder room and additional front and rear hip room. The Civic Coupe has gained 1.2 inches in front shoulder room. Other interior dimensions are within an inch of the previous generation.

Steering Wheel
The Honda Civic's new 3-spoke steering wheel is a small diameter unit befitting the car's sporty character and accents the vehicle's quick-ratio steering. Civic EX-L and Si steering wheels are leather trimmed for an even sportier look and feel. All Civic models feature a manual tilt and telescope steering column adjustment to better accommodate drivers of various sizes. Civic LX and models above now include audio, i-MID and cruise control buttons. Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® control buttons are included in all models except Civic DX, Civic LX and Civic HF.

Interior Materials
Interior surfaces on the 2012 Civic are designed to be pleasing to the touch, with controls that are ergonomic and operate with precision. Cloth upholstery is standard in most Civic models, with Civic EX-L receiving leather seating surfaces. Leather is also available on the Civic Hybrid.

Seating
Like the previous generation Honda Civic, the 2012 model can accommodate five passengers. The two front seats have been completely redesigned with a more supportive seat construction. The Civic Coupe has deeper side bolsters than the Civic Sedan, and the Civic Si further increases lateral support with firmer side bolsters. Both front seats manually recline, and the driver's seat features a manual height adjustment control. To improve access into the rear seats on the Civic Coupe, the front passenger seat has a one-touch seatback release and slide feature.
A flat rear floor improves passenger comfort by providing considerably more foot room for the middle passenger. To increase storage space, Civic DX, Civic LX and Civic HF models feature a one-piece folding rear seatback, while Civic EX, Civic EX-L, and Civic Si models feature a 60/40 split-folding rear seatback. The Civic Hybrid and Civic Natural Gas have fixed rear seatbacks.

Interior Storage
A redesigned center storage console with a large armrest combines comfort with functionality. Two large cup holders are positioned in the center console, and each door panel has a built-in storage bin and bottle holder. Civic Coupe models have a bottle holder and storage bin integrated into each side of the rear cabin. A spacious glove box and an open compartment located left of the steering wheel provide additional storage.

Climate Control Systems
Civic LX and above models have air conditioning with an integrated micron air-filtration system capable of filtering nearly 100 percent of particulates that are over eight microns in size (the size of most pollen), and approximately 40 percent of particulates down to 0.3 microns (about the size of diesel emissions). The Civic Hybrid has automatic climate control with a secondary compressor, powered by a high-voltage electric motor that ensures the cabin temperature stays at the preferred level during engine idle-stop.

Power Windows, Locks and Keyless Entry
Power windows are standard equipment on all Honda Civic models. Civic LX and above models provide auto-up and down operation on the driver's window. Power door locks with a customizable auto-locking feature are standard on Civic LX and above models. Remote entry is standard on all models except DX, and an engine-immobilizer system is also standard on all 2012 Civic models.

Safety
The 2012 Honda Civic includes a high level of standard safety equipment in every model. The 2012 Civic integrates Honda's most advanced safety technology including the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, two-row side curtain airbags and front side airbags in every model and trim level. The ACE™ body structure 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 involved in the crash. ACE™ also increases the likelihood of the two vehicle's bumpers properly connecting during a collision- including larger and smaller vehicles and those with differing bumper heights.
Every Civic incorporates side curtain airbags and front side airbags with a passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS) as standard equipment. In addition, all seating positions include head restraints that are designed to help mitigate the severity of a neck injury in the event of a rear collision. Additional standard safety features include dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags, an anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Brake Assist, and front seatbelts with automatic-tensioners and load limiters. Every 2012 Honda Civic model also features daytime running lights (DRL) and a pedestrian injury mitigation design for the front of the vehicle.
The ninth-generation Civic is expected to earn top safety ratings for the driver and front passenger and rear seat passengers in both frontal and side impact crash-safety tests, as well top roll-over resistance ratings, undertaken by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It is also anticipated to earn top safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

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