Tag: Acura

  • 2014 Acura MDX at the NAIAS

    Acura will exhibit the new 2014 MDX at the 2013 New York International Auto Show. Utilizing a completely new platform that has been optimized in every respect, the seven-passenger MDX will offer enhanced ride comfort, a more versatile cabin, and increased fuel efficiency, while also improving dynamic performance.

    It is powered by a direct-injected 3.5-liter i-VTEC V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM). The SUV features both SH-AWD and 2-wheel-drive drivetrain variants.

    The 2014 MDX features a longer wheelbase that raises ride quality, increases second-row legroom, and improves third-row seat access. In addition, the 2014 Acura MDX harnesses a collection of Acura signature technologies, including the next-generation of the AcuraLink Connectivity System and Jewel Eye™ LED headlamps.

    The 2014 MDX offers a collection of innovative driver assistive and visibility technologies such as the Multi-Angle Rearview Camera and the available Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow, and Blind Spot Information (BSI). The third-generation MDX is also equipped with a broad array of advanced safety technologies, including the next generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ II (ACE™ II) body structure and the available Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW) systems. Further, the 2014 MDX is expected to achieve top-level safety ratings, including a 5-star Overall Vehicle Score from the NHTSA and a TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from the IIHS.

    Source: Acura

  • Honda Starts 2013 Civic Si Challenge Contest

    2012_Performance_Developmet-THUMBHonda will bring to the 2013 Chicago Auto Show the biggest racing game with the launch of Forza Horizon on Xbox 360. At the show the visitors will enjoy the opportunity of playing the game’s new downloadable Honda Challenge Car Pack.

    With the latter, the players will have the option to race three, distinct performance-oriented Honda models: a new 2013 Civic Si Coupe, an original 1986 Civic Si, and the Honda Performance Development B-Spec Rally Fit.

    Even more excitement is added with the fact that attendees can virtually race against Honda IndyCar driver Scott Dixon and try to beat his fastest time in a 2013 Honda Civic Si. 2013 Civic Si Challenge will in fact be a contest, where the fastest racer will have the chance to meet the Indianapolis 500® winner in-person and receive a custom Civic Si-themed Xbox 360 gaming console.

    As a matter of fact this is a photo contest which encourages players to submit photos taken in-game of the 2013 Civic Si. The best photo will be featured on Honda social media channels and on the Honda web site. The winners will be also gifted a custom Civic Si-themed Xbox 360 gaming console.

    Source: Honda

  • Honda to Reveal Two Concepts in Geneva

    Honda-NSX-Concept-THUMBMore news for the show in Geneva is coming! This time the main “actor” is Honda, which will introduce the Civic wagon concept model and the next generation NSX Concept at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

    Next to those concepts at Honda’s stand is going to be the CR-V featuring the new 1.6 i-DTEC diesel engine. But to go further into details, the Civic wagon concept delivers strong cues for the exterior design of the final mass produced version. It comes to add its forces to the famous Civic range.

    Next, on the show will be the biggest star – the NSX Concept. Although we have already seen it at NAIAS a month ago, the model will make an official European debut. This concept gives glimpses of a potential direction for the next-generation NSX’s interior design.

    As you can see, the exterior design stays true to the original concept styling. It delivers low and wide stance with the dynamic and alluring proportions that are highlighted by clean, modern and simple surfacing, and edgy details.

    At last but not least, Honda CR-V equipped with the new Earth Dreams Technology 1.6i-DTEC diesel engine, will be available in two-wheel drive, with manual transmission, providing an exceptional balance of performance and economy. This unit is the lightest engine in its class and it helps the CR-V achieving an energetic performance, agile handling and low running costs for customers.

    Source: Honda

  • Honda Includes Siri Eyes Free Technology Into Select Vehicles

    2013 Honda Accord - Front Angle ViewHonda will include Apple’s Siri Eyes Free Technology Into some of its most successful model ranges. Siri is the intelligent assistant that helps the occupants get things done just by asking, and it is going to be integrated in 2013 Honda Accord, Acura RDX and ILX models as an option.

    In the technology will be added a Using Eyes Free mode, thanks to which Siri takes hands-free functionality even further and minimizes distractions even more by keeping the iOS device’s screen from lighting up.

    With this step Honda is expecting to meet the connectivity and convenience needs of its customers in a responsible manner. For this reason, the brand has reengineered its software to seamlessly integrate Siri Eyes Free mode into its Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® via the onboard microphone and speakers.

    Source: Honda

  • 2013 NAIAS: Acura Reveals MDX Prototype [VIDEOS]

    2014-Acura-MDX-Prototype-THUMB2014 Acura MDX Prototype has just made its first world appearance at 2013 North American International Auto Show, providing a glimpse of the future design direction of the third generation seven-passenger MDX performance luxury SUV.

    The vehicle will be launched in the middle of the year and will include all-wheel-drive and front-wheel-drive layouts. The new Acura SUV model features the specific “Aero Sculpture” styling which results in smart, compact and premium appearance with low, wide and sleek proportions.

    Furthermore, the clean and efficient design includes some premium detailing, such as the signature Acura Jewel Eye™ LED headlights. And if one wonders why it is called an “Aero Sculpture”, well the answer lies in the fact that the new structure of the car delivers significant gains in aerodynamic efficiency – up 16 percent compared to the outgoing 2013 MDX.

    What is more, the arcing roofline is now 1.5-inches lower. In addition to this the SUV features a longer wheelbase that enhances ride quality, increases second-row legroom, and improves third-row seat access.

    Exclusively, for the first time Acura is including in the model a front-wheel drive version. 2014 MDX will also include an all-new, more rigid and lightweight chassis with new front and rear suspension designs that deliver a more refined, confidence-inspiring, and sporty driving.

    More importantly, the SUV will be equipped with direct-injected 3.5-liter i-VTEC SOHC V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM). The unit will deliver enhanced torque and performance but at the same time will offer increase in fuel efficiency.

    In terms of safety technologies included in the MDX Prototype there will be present Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW) systems, Multi-Angle Rearview Camera, Blind Spot Information (BSI), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), and Active Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow.

    Of course full array of advanced information technologies will be also included: AcuraLink cloud-based connected car system with Pandora® connectivity, SiriusXM™ radio, SMS text messaging, and cloud-based Aha™ by Harman connectivity, and Acura/ELS® audio system as an option.

    httpv://youtu.be/fieoujINGFA

    httpv://youtu.be/L0MOn6uV4HM

    Videos Source: YouTube

    Source: Acura

  • 2014 Acura RLX Flagship Sedan – US Price $48,450

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    Acura has announced the new 2014 RLX Flagship Sedan. The luxurious vehicle is priced from $48,450, excluding destination fees.

    2014 Acura RLX is powered by a 3.5 liter V6 with 310HP (231 kW) and 368 (272 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a 6-speed automatic transmission and able to return 20 mpg city / 31 mpg highway / 24 mpg combined.

    The new RLX has the most spacious passenger cabin in its class, and the first-ever application of signature Acura technologies including Precision All-Wheel Steer™ and Jewel Eye™ LED headlamps, the RLX delivers new levels of technology-enhanced performance, safety, and luxury-class comfort to Acura’s range-topping sedan.

    “With an array of signature Acura technologies, the 2014 Acura RLX sets a new standard for luxury in the Acura lineup,” commented Jeff Conrad, vice president and general manager of Acura Sales.

    “The feature-rich RLX epitomizes Acura’s ‘Man-Machine Synergy’ product direction, utilizing advanced technology and smart vehicle design to deliver incredible performance, comfort and value on a luxury scale.”, he added.

    TRIM

    MSRP*

    RLX

    $48,450

    RLX with Navigation

    $50,950

    RLX with Technology Package

    $54,450

    RLX with Krell Audio Package

    $56,950

    RLX with Advance Package

    $60,450

    • Class leading interior space based on the RLX’s longer wheelbase and efficient packaging. At 196.1 inches, the RLX is similar in length to the outgoing RL, but it has a two-inch longer wheelbase and is nearly two inches wider, placing the new RLX well above the norm in the mid-luxury class. The flagship RLX sedan has up to three inches more rear legroom than competing models, including the BMW 535i, Lexus GS350 and Audi A6.
    • Extensive use of lightweight materials includes the application of strength steel to 55 percent of the body, and the intensive use of aluminum—for the front fenders, hood, steering hangar beam, front and rear bumper beams, front subframe, and all-new “hybrid” front and rear door panels (steel inner structure mated to aluminum outer skin). The RLX weighs in at 3,933 pounds. Static bending and torsional body rigidity are up 52 percent and 46 percent, respectively.
    • Jewel-Eye™ LED headlights (an Acura first) LED lamps enhance the RLX’s modern and distinctive appearance while providing outstanding light distribution and improved down-the-road illumination.
    • Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ offers a wide range of search options including local search functionality and AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ for both highways and surface streets.
    • Agile Handling Assist (an Acura first) uses active braking to help the driver smoothly and easily trace the desired line through a curve with smaller steering inputs.
    • Electric Parking Brake (an Acura first) provides one-touch parking brake activation.
    • Automatic Brake Hold (an Acura first) maintains the vehicle’s position when the driving or parking brake are released until the throttle is depressed.
    • Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow (an Acura first), allows the RLX to independently maintain a set following distance in low-speed traffic situations, including stop and go traffic, and to initiate vehicle braking when necessary.
    • Forward Collision Warning (FCW) uses a camera mounted in the upper portion of the windshield to detect vehicles ahead of the RLX and audibly and visually alert the driver when it determines a frontal collision with a detected vehicle is possible.
    • Lane Departure Warning (LDW) uses the same windshield-mounted camera to detect lane markings on the road and alerts the driver if the vehicle is wandering from a detected lane.
    • Front seatbelt e-pretensioners use electronic control to reduce belt tension under normal driving conditions, while also enabling automatic belt tensioning in hard cornering maneuvers or in the event of a collision.
    • Multi-angle rearview camera with dynamic guidelines uses dynamic guidelines that reflect steering wheel inputs on the display to aid in backup maneuvers.
    • Capless fueling (an Acura first) eliminates the fuel cap and improves ease of fueling.

    Source: Acura

    • Class leading interior space based on the RLX’s longer wheelbase and efficient packaging. At 196.1 inches, the RLX is similar in length to the outgoing RL, but it has a two-inch longer wheelbase and is nearly two inches wider, placing the new RLX well above the norm in the mid-luxury class. The flagship RLX sedan has up to three inches more rear legroom than competing models, including the BMW 535i, Lexus GS350 and Audi A6.
    • Extensive use of lightweight materials includes the application of strength steel to 55 percent of the body, and the intensive use of aluminum—for the front fenders, hood, steering hangar beam, front and rear bumper beams, front subframe, and all-new “hybrid” front and rear door panels (steel inner structure mated to aluminum outer skin). The RLX weighs in at 3,933 pounds. Static bending and torsional body rigidity are up 52 percent and 46 percent, respectively.
    • Jewel-Eye™ LED headlights (an Acura first) LED lamps enhance the RLX’s modern and distinctive appearance while providing outstanding light distribution and improved down-the-road illumination.
    • Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ offers a wide range of search options including local search functionality and AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ for both highways and surface streets.
    • Agile Handling Assist (an Acura first) uses active braking to help the driver smoothly and easily trace the desired line through a curve with smaller steering inputs.
    • Electric Parking Brake (an Acura first) provides one-touch parking brake activation.
    • Automatic Brake Hold (an Acura first) maintains the vehicle’s position when the driving or parking brake are released until the throttle is depressed.
    • Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow (an Acura first), allows the RLX to independently maintain a set following distance in low-speed traffic situations, including stop and go traffic, and to initiate vehicle braking when necessary.
    • Forward Collision Warning (FCW) uses a camera mounted in the upper portion of the windshield to detect vehicles ahead of the RLX and audibly and visually alert the driver when it determines a frontal collision with a detected vehicle is possible.
    • Lane Departure Warning (LDW) uses the same windshield-mounted camera to detect lane markings on the road and alerts the driver if the vehicle is wandering from a detected lane.
    • Front seatbelt e-pretensioners use electronic control to reduce belt tension under normal driving conditions, while also enabling automatic belt tensioning in hard cornering maneuvers or in the event of a collision.
    • Multi-angle rearview camera with dynamic guidelines uses dynamic guidelines that reflect steering wheel inputs on the display to aid in backup maneuvers.
    • Capless fueling (an Acura first) eliminates the fuel cap and improves ease of fueling.

  • 2013 NAIAS: Honda reveals NSX Concept [VIDEO]

    Honda-NSX-Concept-THUMBHonda NSX Concept was just revealed at the 2013 North American International Auto Show which in Detroit. The new NSX Concept is an evolution of the next-generation supercar in terms if styling and design.

    Its design philosophy will be possibly used in other vehicles produced by the brand. The original concept styling, the low and wide stance with the dynamic and alluring proportions are now even more highlighted. The clean, modern and simple surfacing, and edgy details show perfectly the attitude and a high-tech feel of this Honda concept.

    The interior package offers outstanding visibility, a strong driving position, and an intuitive “Simple Sports Interface”. The latter makes minimal the interior clutter thus allowing the driver to put their attention on the driving experience.

    By creating this supercar, the designers have aimed to delivering more of the driving experience by combining vehicle’s dynamic capabilities with advanced environmental performance. More importantly, the NSX will be powered by a mid-mounted, direct-injected V-6 engine mated to Honda’s Sport Hybrid SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive) system.

    European debut, the Honda NSX Concept will make in March during the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

    httpv://youtu.be/IBb2RnvySxo

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Honda

  • 2014 Acura MDX Prototype at the 2013 NAIAS

    Acura will present the next-generation MDX Prototype at the 2013 NAIAS, held in Detroit over January 14-15, next year.

    The new MDX utilizes “Aero Sculpture” design language. It affects both form and function, the 2014 MDX Prototype will feature alluring proportions with smooth, arching body lines matched to an efficient architecture.

    Nothing is mentioned about the technical specs, but probably the MDX will be powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 314HP (231 kW) and 368Nm (272 lb-ft) of torque.

    Stay tuned for further information, video and high resolution pictures, which will be available right after the press conference, which can be watched live at www.acurawebcast.com.

    Source: Acura

  • 2013 Acura ZDX Facelift US – Price $50,920

    The innovative and stylish Acura ZDX crossover vehicle, introduced in 2009, will receive numerous styling and technology enhancements for the 2013 model year, which will be the final year on the market for ZDX as the Acura brand sharpens its focus on new models and core products, the company announced today.

    The 2013 ZDX will receive several new features, including a redesigned front grille, front and rear parking sensors, power folding side mirrors and safety features such as Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW). The 2013 Acura ZDX will go on sale October 19, 2012, with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) starting at $50,920*.

    “People shopping for a luxury crossover vehicle will find the Acura ZDX an even more attractive product,” said Jeff Conrad, vice president and general manager of the Acura Division. “Moving forward, we will continue to advance the Acura lineup with a focus on new core models, like the recently redesigned RDX and the upcoming all-new RLX flagship sedan, that provide the ideal balance of performance and fuel efficiency that is right for each product and a driving experience that is dynamic and emotional.”

    The ZDX is built in the same Alliston, Ontario plant as the Acura MDX, which shares the platform with ZDX. As a result, ZDX production will be discontinued in conjunction with the transfer of the popular MDX to the company’s Lincoln, Alabama plant in early 2013 (as previously announced).

    For 2013, the Acura ZDX will be sold as a single, valued-added package offering clients greater value on a luxury scale. Robust features now standard on the 2013 ZDX include the 435-watt Acura/ELS Surround® 10-speaker audio system with 15 GB hard disk drive (HDD) memory, Acura Navigation System with Voice RecognitionTM, 8-inch high-resolution VGA display, multi-view rear view camera, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® wireless telephone interface, ventilated and heated front seats with perforated premium Milano leather seating surfaces, Keyless Access System (with Smart Entry and pushbutton ignition) and dual-zone automatic climate control system.

    The ZDX will receive several new exterior features for 2013, such as a redesigned front grille, front and rear bumpers with integrated parking sensors, power-folding auto-dimming side mirrors and a dark accent on the wheels for a sportier finish. The interior receives a new trim finish on the center console and a high contrast interior option.

    Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW) are two new safety features for the 2013 ZDX. The Forward Collision Warning (FCW) system can detect vehicles ahead of the ZDX. If the FCW system determines that a collision is possible with a detected vehicle, it provides the driver with visual and audio alerts to encourage avoidance actions. Lane Departure Warning (LDW) uses a camera mounted between the windshield and the rear-view mirror to detect lane lines on the road. If the driver begins to drift out of a detected lane without using the turn indicator, the system will provide the driver with visual and audible alerts.

    The 2013 ZDX is equipped with an all-aluminum 3.7-liter V-6 engine that develops 300 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. Performance is further enhanced by the ZDX’s Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic transmission that is designed to satisfy the most discerning enthusiast drivers. The 2013 ZDX EPA city/highway/combined fuel mileage is rated at 16/23/19 mpg**.

    For customers seeking a great balance of utility and performance Acura will continue to offer vehicles in the luxury crossover space with the 5-passenger RDX and the TSX Sport Wagon. Acura also will continue to provide ZDX customers with a high-level of service and parts support throughout the life of their vehicles.

    U.S. sales of Acura models increased 43.5 percent in September and rose nearly 30 percent to 115,773 units for the first nine-months of 2012, the Acura brand’s best nine-month sales results since 2008. The Acura TL sedan, along with the MDX, RDX and TSX Sport Wagon crossover vehicles, have each posted double-digit gains for the year to date, including an 85.7-percent rise in sales of the redesigned RDX and a 25.2-percent gain for the TSX Sport Wagon. The all-new Acura ILX continues to gain momentum, posting its fifth consecutive monthly increase on September sales of 1,737 units.

    Acura will debut its all-new 2014 Acura RLX luxury sedan on November 28, 2012, at the Los Angeles International Auto Show. The new Acura flagship sedan will employ an array of new technologies unique to Acura, including the Precision All Wheel SteerTM system, the next-generation AcuraLink® Communication System, and the all-new Jewel EyeTM LED headlamps to deliver an entirely new level of performance, sophistication and comfort.

    Equipped with new features and safety technologies, the 2013 Acura ZDX Facelift is priced at $50,920.

    Source: Acura

  • 2014 Acura RLX Sedan Debuts at the Los Angeles Auto Show

    2014-Acura-RLX-THUMB2014 Acura RLX Sedan is finally going to be revealed making its debut at the first day of Los Angeles Motor Show on 28th of November. The new Acura flagship sedan will be equipped with wide range of new technologies some of them exclusively for this model.

    For instance, there will be included the Precision All Wheel Steer™ system, the next-generation AcuraLink® Communication System, and the all-new Jewel Eye™ LED headlamps, sophistication and increased comfort.

    The front-wheel-drive version of the 2014 RLX will use Acura’s new Precision All Wheel Steer™ system. The latter automatically makes slight adjustments to the relative rear wheel (toe) angles by employing electrically controlled actuators. This results in an extraordinary level of cornering control and steering precision.

    In addition, the front-wheel-drive model will be powered by all-new 3.5-liter direct-injected VTEC® V-6 engine producing 310 horsepower (228 kW).

    Furthermore, the new sedan will be equipped with the next-generation AcuraLink®, which includes built-in two-way cellular communication and deliver a variety of new convenience features. Some of them for example are airbag deployment notification, stolen vehicle tracking, remote locking and unlocking, security alarm notification and concierge service.

    Next t be highlighted here is also the exclusive Jewel Eye™ LED headlamps use a dual-stacked array of multiple high-intensity LED lamps, with ultra-reflective optical lenses and high-gloss trim. In fact, this provides great down-the-road illumination and gives the vehicle one-of-a-kind bright-eyed look in both daytime and nighttime conditions.

    Typical for Acura, the new model will feature excellent passive and active safety features. These include a Collision Mitigation Braking System™, Lane Keep Assist System, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, front, side and side-curtain airbags for the driver and front passenger, and a driver’s knee airbag.

    A prominent feature here is the second generation of Acura’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, with reinforced front frame members for further improved frontal crash energy management.

    Source: Honda

  • Paint by Numbers: Honda’s First in a Series of Environmental Film Shorts [VIDEO]

    Paint by NumbersHonda has just released the first video in a series of short films. The goal is to highlight environmental initiatives undertaken by the brand. Honda’s ultimate aim is to reduce the company’s environmental impact and create a sustainable future.

    The film series will focus on Honda’s efforts at creating more fuel-efficient, low emissions vehicles. In addition, they will also show the efforts to lessen the impact of the company’s manufacturing and logistics operations.

    Below you can view the first film in the series, named “Paint by Numbers”. You will understand the story of how a Honda senior staff engineer, Shubho Bhattacharya, developed the technology which reduces energy consumption in the automobile body painting process.

    “The largest amount of energy that’s consumed in a car factory is in the painting process. In fact, the painting process consumes about 60 percent of a typical car factory’s energy consumption”, says Bhattacharya.

    The engineer created the Intelligent Paint Technology. As a result there is now decrease of CO2 emissions from painting operations by approximately 25 percent. This represents the reduction of approximately 10 000 metric tons of CO2 emissions per year at Honda’s seven auto plants in North America.

    httpv://youtu.be/bKLPXvZytIs

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Honda

  • Innovative 2013 Acura ILX Car Installation [VIDEO]

    2013-Acura-ILX-Installation-THUMB2013 Acura ILX Sedan is one of the most advanced cars in terms of technological innovation and now it is playing an important role in a video. Metric’s new album “Synthetica” is a blend between technology and nature.

    They have collaborated with Acura and took the ILX on the road, visiting several cities in the United States. What was so elaborate in this communion is that the vehicle underwent special installation.

    State of the art projection mapping and LED display lights worked together to give a 3D experience outside and inside the car. Take a look at the video below and you’ll get the impression of how awesome this project was!

    httpv://youtu.be/7SazEAQPMDg

    News and Video Source: YouTube