Tag: Honda

  • Is Honda HR-V Showing the best Fuel Efficiency in its Class?

    Honda HR-V Side ViewNovember last year was the month when Honda HR-V was officially unveiled. To be honest, it surprised me very much, due to its innovative design and CR-V-inspired forms. Now, the Japanese company has announced that the model will be also one of the most efficient vehicles in its class and will offer dreamt-about characteristics.

    The styling of the car is literally breath-taking. From the outside one can also judge that there is enough space inside. As a typical Honda the car features advanced infotainment and safety technologies.

    But where does its perfect fuel efficiency range come from? The answer: two engines – the 1.6 litre i-DTEC diesel and 1.5 litre i-VTEC petrol, both coming directly from Honda’s advanced Earth Dreams Technology series.

    Furthermore, the first one is mated to a six-speed manual transmission, and this also helps the HR-V deliver 4.0 l/100km and 104 g/km of CO2. However, there is no compromise on performance, since the diesel unit produces 120 hp (88 kW). Not to mention that the HR-V is capable of acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.1 seconds.

    Those who are keener on gasoline engines have the option of 1.5 litre i-VTEC, which achieves a fuel economy of 5.2 l/100km and CO2 emissions from 120 g/km. This is only in the case of CVT automatic transmission.

    If the unit is coupled with a standard six-speed manual, the fuel efficiency is 5.6 l/100km and CO2 emissions are rated at 130 g/km. The great performance of the car is proved because it is capable of reaching the 100 km/h in just 10.3 seconds with the manual and 10.9 seconds when equipped with the optional CVT.

    2016 Honda HR-V will be available in European showrooms this summer.

    Source: Honda

  • Honda Concept D Previews Future Production Model. Take a Look!

    Honda Concept D Side and Front ViewThe automotive manufacturers are annually displaying vehicles at so many shows around the world. One of the fast developing markets is the Chinese and therefore it is no surprise that there is an exhibition where we can see some cars that could not be witness anywhere else. I am speaking about the Auto Shanghai and Honda’s one-off Concept D vehicle.

    There isn’t a lot of information disclosed about this concept model, however the automaker reassured us that this is an example for a future SUV, which is currently under development. It will be a mass-production car that is going to be distributed only in China domestic as a top-of-the-range model.

    The new SUV offers high-quality driving as well as luxurious and comfortable experience inside the spacious cabin. And with this ends all official information. We can tell more only by judging the pictures.

    The newest safety technologies and advanced features have been added to the Concept D. The front appears massive with its enormous grille and huge bumper, but it is somehow harmonized thanks to the LED DRLs and thin headlights.

    At the sides we see 21-inch wheels, hidden underneath edgy wheel arches. What also grabs the attention here are the massive side skirts and the added cameras in the place of mirrors. Going to the back of the car are the new LEDs, the muscular rear bumper and the big air vents.

    Given that the production version of the Concept D will be distributed in China, it is possible to see it in the form of a hybrid. There is also a lot of news about the show today, so stay tuned.

    Source: Honda

  • Take a Look at this Coupe-Inspired Honda Civic Type R

    2017 Honda Civic Type R Coupe RenderThis Honda will be praised or it will be hated, there is no interstitial opinion. The Type R coupe rendering has been a result of the work of Wild Speed, but we found it at CivicX forum, where people actually loved it. The renderings are only two (unfortunately), but they are so exquisitely made that it looks like a real car. We only wish!

    It is obvious that this Type R version is a consequence of the recently released Civic Coupe concept shown in New York. As a matter of fact, the company is actually launching the redesigned versions of the Civic range this fall.

    The happy news is that the tenth-generation model will keep the great performance characteristics and fantastic design, with sedan, coupe, hatch and Si models featured in the line-up. Oh, and of course the irresistible Type R.

    Let’s focus on the car we see here. It has more aggressive body, new quad exhaust system which is obviously borrowed by Chevy’s Stingray, and some other typical Type R accents here and there.

    If we take for granted that this car would have the output of the current generation, then this means that its unit will produce is 310 hp (228 kW) at 6,500 rpm, and 400 Nm (303 lb-ft) at 2,500 rpm. The 0-to-100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration sprint will be covered in just 5.7 seconds on the way to a top speed of 270 km/h (167 mph).

    As a Type R fan, I personally love it, but I wonder what your thoughts about it are?

    Source: www.CivicX.com

  • Formula Lites are Ready to Compete in the 2015 Season

    2015 Formula Lite

    On November 2014, the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) showed the first line of Formula Lites Craftwood FL-15. After loads of positive feedback,  five months later, Formula Lites series deliver the 2015 models, that will compete for their races in May this year. What happened back in 2014 became a real success fairytale, when the  Lites were debuted.

    As you may know, the Lites models were created to fill that big gap in US market. But what happened is not just a “fill”, but a story about high-end engineering, new-age technology, that created a legend on the track.

    Especially built to bring incredible performance and safety, the FL-15 is geared with a 2.4-Liter, 16-valve Honda powerplant and a six-speed sequential transmission. The open-wheel racing car collaborates with brands as Pirelli, Honda/HPD, PFC, Eibach Springs and Bosch products.

    Without any surprise, the years of experiments and gained experience bring us a promising vehicle, that is ready to show its full potential. At the first general tests, there were three teams, that tried out four FL-15 vehicles in a challenging 2,27-mile track. None of the three teams have reported any problems, as it comes to  engine, drivetrain, suspension or chassis.

    In general, the Formula Lites bring us hi-tech machines, that come with further upgraded economics and efficiency stats, as well safety and high-response systems, that altogether deliver high-performance and high hopes for the upcoming races.

    Source: Formula

  • Honda’s “Never-Ending” CR-V YouTube Campaign is Simply Mesmerizing! [VIDEO]

    Honda "The Endless Road’" Campaign Is there a better way to promote the newCR-V other than with an endless film? Obviously there isn’t, since Honda has just done this, which makes it the first company to create a ‘never-ending’ YouTube Film. This is part of an integrated campaign, called ‘The Endless Road’, which comes to advertise the latest CR-V. The campaign also aims at showing all new benefits of the model, starting with the expanded engine range and continuing to the improved equipment.

    The endless video displays a vicious cycle, showing how Honda CR-V drives up a hill, chasing a spiraling road. And this never stops, literally. What is more fascinating however is that everything is personalized and happens in real time.

    Another interesting fact that the company has revealed that since launch, this film will be always running, visually reflecting the time of day and weather of the particular location of the viewer. One can even click on other locations to see how it would change. And it does, but I won’t tell you more. Just try it.

    The secret behind this commercial is that it uses a hypnotic visual illusion with the aim of demonstrating Honda’s constant pursuit for superiority. The video was filmed with the help of a one tenth scale model and a custom motion control rig. The latter was used to capture this mesmerizing illusion. Everything was shot by Nick Meek and led by “mcgarrybowen London creative agency.

    You can view the film at HondaVideo YouTube channel, and also below, but you won’t get the same impression as at the interactive site. However, we also have added a ‘making-of’ video below, so you can fully enjoy the process.

    httpv://youtu.be/5u95Zc7AbDM

    httpv://youtu.be/pU7za8viorE

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Honda 

  • Say Goodbye to Honda Crosstour. It is Never Coming Back.

    If you drive a Honda Crosstour, then you are a lucky one, because Honda has decided to cease the production of the 2016 model year version. The car was originally introduced in 2010, and intended to bring about a combination of a crossover, sedan and a wagon. The last edition of the model was equipped wit the powerful but fuel-efficient Earth Dreams V-6 engine, which was rated at 278 horsepower (204 kW) and 341 Nm (252 lb-ft) of torque, and was linked to an AWD.

    The other unit in the powertrain range was the 2.4-liter DOHC i-VTEC, generating 192 horsepower (141 kW) and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque. It was connected to a five-speed automatic transmission with Grade Logic Control.

    Although, Crosstour’s exterior stance exuded sleek and sporty proportions, the car was said to be one of the ugliest on the market. Well, opinions may vary, since I find it really attractive. Unfortunately, Honda is a brand that follows strongly customers’ opinion and the result is at hand.

    In addition, the Japanese company has a growth strategy in North America that includes strengthening of its light truck line-up. This is visible through the recent introduction of the CR-V, the stunningly beautiful HR-V, the Pilot, and the next gen Ridgeline truck. Moreover, Honda is also planning to fortify its leading lineup of passenger cars, starting with the new Civic.

    The company also says that Crosstour has played a significant role, in targeting crossover customers. However, it is obvious that with the introduction of the new HR-V, Honda is actually creating new perception for the crossovers in the segment, thus aiming to attract new buyers.

    This is definitely sad news for all Honda fans, but it will probably open many new unexplored horizons.

    Source: Honda 

  • Tenth-Gen Civic Previewed via Concept Version at NYIAS

    Honda Civic Concept Side ViewHonda Civic Concept is so hot that it could only be revealed at the New York Auto Show. The company is actually preparing to launch the redesigned versions of the Civic range this fall. The tenth-generation cars will keep the great performance characteristics and fantastic design. In the lineup, Honda will feature a sedan, coupe and Si model. Oh, and of course, my two favourites: the hatchback and Type R.

    The cars will be built on a longer wheelbase. As we can see from the pictures of the concept it is obvious that it stands also lower to the ground and has this wider stance. Precisely, the hood is longer, while the front overhang and rear deck are shorter.

    The aggressive look of the car is further strengthened by the prominent fender arches and the new wheel-to-body relationship. At the front we see new LEDs on the both sides of the “Flying H” grille. The latter is supported by deeply sculpted lower air intakes.

    The next big thing about the new Civic is that it will be powered by the 1.5-liter VTEC Turbo engine from the Earth Dreams Technology series. The unit includes direct injection and is linked to either a six-speed manual transmission or an efficient continuously variable transmission (CVT). In this way more efficiency is guaranteed, right?

    In terms of safety, the Civic concept and all its future siblings will be equipped with Honda Sensing suite. It is filled with advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies like the Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning, Multi-Angle Rearview Camera, Adaptive Cruise Control and Honda LaneWatch.

    All in all, this concept tells me that the new Civic range will have even more to expect, and I am pretty excited about it. How about you?

    Source: Honda 

  • Honda Releases Bullet-Fast Concept Called S660

    Honda S660 Concept Edition Front and Side View On April 2, 2015, Honda will begin sales of the fresh and ready to go two-seater S660. At the same day the limited S660 Concept Edition will also be released. By “limited” Honda means only 660 vehicles, that will be sold only in Japan. The S660 is definitely a beauty that deserves our attention. Here are some more details.

    The two-seater is with a weight balance, which only Honda can create. You will deal with a mid-ship engine with a rear wheel drive, perfectly seated to create a low center of gravity that includes the 45-55 front-rear weight balance. All these fine tunings bring overall pleasure of driving, great turning capability and as always, highest levels of comfort.

    The Honda team created a vehicle, which provides pleasure and comfort for anyone, who dares to try it. The S660 comes with newly designed turbo charger only to bring the right engine response. Only for this model, drivers will have the chance to try the 6-speed transmission that adopts ratio settings, finely tuned to bring the maximum extent of the engine. Furthermore, the S660 is also available with a 7-speed shifter that changes the mode to “sport”, so the drivers can get that extra acceleration response.

    The exterior is based on the “energetic bullet” design. This means, that the body is low and wide in order it can hold the ground on any of the four car corners. And of course, when we talk about bullets, we know that it means speed. The car design brings highest levels of dynamic and performance.

    For the interior, Honda team went for intuitive and spacious concept, specifically created for sports driving. The high levels of quality and visuals do match the high levels of performance and overall quality.

    The S660 is a proud member of the Honda family that contains all of the brand’s characteristics, beauty and power. You should definitely check it out!

    Source: Honda

  • Honda fans Celebrate Civic Type R at Nürburgring [VIDEO]

    Honda Civic Type R Side and Rear View One of my most favorite debuts at this year’s Geneva Motor Show was the last generation Honda Civic Type R. In order to celebrate its release, the Japanese company decided to invite fans to the Nürburgring circuit. This is where the Type R has set a lap record for a front-wheel drive hot hatch. This is also where the red badged Civic drivers are offered the chance to attend the historic ADAC Zurich 24-hour sports car race in their Type Rs.

    The even will happen between 15 and 17 May and will feature (for the first time ever) the FIA World Touring Car Championship (WTCC) race. It will be held on both Nordschleife and Grand Prix circuits that measure 25 kilometers, combined. The most important individuals in the team will be Gabriele Tarquini and Tiago Monteiro, who will aim at no less than victory.

    What is more, the one-off event will offer Type R fans the opportunity to purchase a three-day package, including VIP entrance with paddock access, camping accommodation in a special souvenir tent, food and beverages, and most importantly the chance to meet the drivers in person and visit the pit lane by taking their Civic on a lap around the circuit. This of course will happen before the start of the 24 hour race.

    httpv://youtu.be/a9G7N0_M9Rc

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Honda 

  • Honda Launches Indy Car Aero Kit [VIDEO]

    Honda will participate in 2015 Verizon IndyCar Series with a special Indy Car that has just received a new aero kit. As the name suggests, this new addition to the vehicle is all about aerodynamic components and upgrades. It is really very impressive that the kit comprises of nearly 200 individual pieces, each of which can be fitted to the already known Honda-powered Dallara Indy car chassis. Of course, all this is done for the sake of optimum performance.

    Honda’s Indy car aero kit was developed with the help of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) technology. Then what followed was a validation via Driver-In-Loop (DIL) Simulators that allowed the determination of the better aerodynamic direction prior the development of kit’s components.

    The next step was the testing of the components in a full-scale wind tunnel. At last, the final proof-of-concept correlation was conducted by HPD and included test track on various circuits for six days.

    Next to the improved performance, Honda also says that this kit makes the Indy car safer. This includes the new design of the fuel safety interlock system, which is now fitted on all Indy cars, as well as the new chassis floor, specifically developed for 2015 season.

    The official debut of Honda Indy Car Aero Kits will happen on 16th and 17th of March with an “Open Test” at Barber Motorsports Park near Birmingham, Alabama. The new season starts on 29th of March at the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Florida.

    httpv://youtu.be/7W_9lFylVcc

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Honda 

  • Honda Civic Type R is Finally Here [VIDEO]

    After five long years the new Honda Civic Type R is here! The hatch was revealed at the Geneva Motor Show two days ago, thus giving all fans (me as well) the pleasure of viewing one of the most anticipated cars. And the question is simple: Is the wait worth it?  I’m going to talk about this in a minute after previewing what’s new in the Type R.

    First and foremost, the red ‘H’ badged car will be driven by the 2.0 litre VTEC TURBO engine, which finds its world-first application here. In fact, in Type R’s 22 years of history this is the most extreme and high-performing engine used.

    Regarding the details, the maximum power that this unit can produce is 310 hp (228 kW) at 6,500 rpm, and the optimum torque is 400 Nm (303 lb-ft) at 2,500 rpm. And if you are a Honda fan than you’ll definitely know that these numbers are higher than any previous ones. Although I did expect more from the performance of this car, it is still satisfactory for a front-wheel driven hatch.

    The 0-to-100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration sprint is covered in just 5.7 seconds and the top speed is of 270 km/h (167 mph).

    In terms of styling we see the typical Civic Type R form, but there are some details that need to be mentioned and I find very intriguing. First, the car was subject to substantial aerodynamic analysis and testing. As a result the development of the car continued via computer-based CFD modelling and wind tunnel testing, and later with extensive prototype testing on the road and on track.

    Rear diffuser and rear wing have been both redesigned as well as the wide front splitter and deep side skirts. Heat is managed via the enlarged upper and lower grilles in the front bumper, while the airflow is channelled to outlet vents above the wheels.

    Speaking of wheels, the car rides on lightweight 19-inch alloys fitted with 235/35R19 tyres that were specially made for the Type R. Brembo brake package is what takes car for the stopping power of the car. At the front there are four-piston calipers with 350 mm drilled discs.

    Besides the Championship White exterior color, this Civic will be also offered in the pearlescent Crystal Black, metallic Polished Metal and Brilliant Sporty Blue as well as in Milano Red.

    In terms of interior, we have nothing much different than the previous generation model. And this is where I am little disappointed, because I have obviously expected more. Take for instance the gear lever knob which is made from machined aluminium alloy. The black sports seats and the red double stitching are also present.

    Nevertheless two innovative things about this Honda immediately grab the attention. The first one is the ‘+R’button and the second is the GT Pack. The ‘+R’ button increases the response of the chassis and drivetrain systems. As a result the driver will get better driving experience. But before we test the car we can’t say if this is true.

    Also exclusive to the Type R is the GT Pack which gives those needed individual enhancements. Here are included front red highlights and rear splitters, rear parking sensors, dusk sensing headlamps, rain sensing automatic wipers and electric fold door mirrors, and many more.

    httpv://youtu.be/J76kVLYJXWA

    httpv://youtu.be/QSt02xpRe9Y

    Video Source: YouTube 

    Source: Honda 

  • Is this the new Civic? No, it’s Honda Jazz

    Honda Jazz Prototype debuted last year at the Paris Motor Show. Back then, I remember when looking at it for the first time I though that it is like the Civic. Fortunately, my hopes and expectations proved right and now we have a production Jazz that has carried over the beautiful looks of its prototype form. The car definitely seems to have higher ground clearance than the Civic and is with wider proportions, hence delivering more interior space.

    As we can expect from Honda, the new Jazz will be fitted with advanced safety and infotainment technologies, and will offer (hopefully) more dynamic driving experience. For its efficiency we don’t even have to assure you.

    The car is based on the B-segment chassis which also directs us to the thoughts that it is bigger inside and outside. And this is where the occupants will meet the Magic Seats system which will make their life easier through its various configuration options. The interior will also benefit from a seven-inch touchscreen, new infotainment system called Honda Connect and online access.

    Also new in the Jazz range is the 1.3- litre i-VTEC petrol engine that promises more responsive and engaging driving experience. The unit produces 102 hp (75 kW) at 6,000 rpm, and is coupled with a six-speed manual or a semi-automatic CVT transmission.

    Active and passive safety technologies are also priority here. Advanced Driver Assist System is what matters in this case since it is Honda’s rage of safety equipment. It comprises of Intelligent Speed Assist, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition system and High-beam Support System. As a standard the car will also get the City-Brake Active system.

    In other words, we can’t wait to see this car hitting the dealerships which will happen this Summer.

    Source: Honda