Honda – Page 23 – Automobiles Review

Honda Urban SUV Concept to Debut at 2013 North American Auto Show

Honda has just revealed that its newest concept vehicle – the compact Urban SUV Concept is going to make a world debut at the 2013 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). In addition, the brand has also released the first teaser sketch of the new SUV, which exudes flowing forms and effortless movement.

The Urban SUV Concept is a global concept model that aims to combine sporty and dynamic SUV profile with a spacious interior. For that purpose it uses Honda’s centre-tank layout, creating a highly functional design. The concept will be introduced at an NAIAS press conference and afterwards more images and video will be released.

Source: Honda

December 12, 2012

2013 Honda CR-Z Sport Hybrid Upgraded

2013 Honda CR-Z will be officially launched on the market tomorrow and will include a host of powertrain, styling and feature enhancements. It will draw more power from its all-new Lithium-Ion battery pack, which in addition will improve its EPA mpg ratings.

Some of the styling upgrades include revised interior trim along with a new front fascia, a new finish for the 16-inch alloy wheels, an aerodynamically functional new rear diffuser and two new exterior colors – Passion Berry Pearl and Polished Metal Metallic.

For anyone who wishes to go standard, the 2013 CR-Z will give them Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, Bluetooth® Audio, rearview camera, an Expanded View Driver’s Mirror, AM/FM/CD/USB audio system with six speakers, automatic climate control, power windows and door locks, remote entry and cruise control. Optionally, the drivers can enjoy the new Plus Sport System, which allows additional on-demand electric boost via a steering wheel-mounted “S+” button.

As a standard the car is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission and automatic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Optionally, the CR-Z adds Auto-On/Off High-Intensity Discharge (HID) Headlights, LED daytime running lights (DRL), a 360-Watt AM/FM/CD Premium Audio System with seven speakers including subwoofer, perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel, and etc.

The CR-Z hybrid powertrain utilizes a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder, 16-valve, single-overhead cam engine with “intelligent” Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (i-VTEC) that receives additional power from the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system’s DC brushless electric motor.

But let’s speak in numbers: the CR-Z now generates 130 horsepower (96 kW) at 6000 rpm and 190 Nm (140 lb-ft.) of torque. Manual-transmission versions also receive both a larger clutch and a new lower final drive ratio.

Furthermore, this Honda model is equipped with enhanced 3-Mode Drive System, which is activated via three backlit buttons to the left of the steering wheel. The models namely are:

Sport mode – which improves engine throttle responsiveness, electric power steering effort and the electric motor power assist; Normal mode, which standardizes steering, engine response, motor assist and air conditioning settings; and at last the Econ mode, which can increase the potential for enhanced fuel efficiency by optimizing throttle angle for smooth acceleration, lower engine rpm and limiting power and torque by approximately 4-percent.

Next thing to highlight here is the chassis. The CR-Z includes front MacPherson strut and rear H-shaped torsion beam suspension, which are additionally modified to provide a sportier driving experience. All 2013 CR-Z models are equipped as a standard with new darker-tinged 16×6-inch aluminum wheels with finished spoke tips and 195/55R-16 tires, while accessory 17×7 alloy wheels with 205/45R-17 tires are optional.

The interior changes here are the new metallic trim on the door pulls and latches, center console, speaker grilles and lower steering-wheel spokes. The black and red interior trim combination on the other hand gives sportier feeling and adds new two-toned combi seats, and colored accents to the door panels and floor mats.

In terms of safety and security, the CR-Z is one step forward thanks to its Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure. The latter helps protect vehicle occupants in a frontal collision.

Other safety technologies featured here are the standard dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags; standard front-side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); side-curtain airbags, active head restraints; an anti-lock braking system (ABS); a tire pressure monitoring system; and a pedestrian injury mitigation design in the front of the vehicle.

2013 Honda CR-Z models will be priced at $19 975.

Source: Honda

November 20, 2012

Honda 1.6 i-DTEC diesel – 120HP and 300Nm

Honda has announced their latest engine. It is a new 1.6 liter i-DTEC diesel, which is created to bring high performance and incredibly low fuel consumption. The result is thanks to a number of modifications including superb lightweight.

This is the first from the Earth Dreams Technology series engines, which will be offered in Europe. The engine is specially produced for the European market and will be manufactured at the company’s facility in Swindon, UK.

Honda’s 1.6 i-DTEC uses a Bosch solenoid injection system which is capable of operating at a high pressure of 1800 bar. A high fuel pressure means that the fuel is injected at a faster rate and the finer the atomization of the fuel spray. This improves the fuel mixing with the air resulting in a cleaner and more efficient combustion helping to achieve the low emissions and fuel consumption.

Other huge advantage of the 1.6 liter i-DTEC is its weight. This is the lightest diesel in its class and weighs 47 kg. This means that all parts used in it will have lower friction leading to better power and low emission.

The engine has 120HP (88 kW) at 4000RPM and 300Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque at just 2000RPM. The CO2 emissions are only 94 g/km bringing the car equipped with this engine to “Tax-free” class. The fuel economy is rated at 78.5 mpg UK or just 3.6 liters per 100 km.

The first model with 1.6 liter i-DTEC will be the new 2013 Civic followed by the 2013 CR-V.

High Performance, Low Emissions
Max power: 120PS @ 4000rpm
Max torque: 300Nm @ 2000rpm
Fuel economy (EU combined): 78.5 mpg
CO₂ emissions: 94 g/km

Source: Honda

November 16, 2012

Honda Unveils Micro Commuter Prototype EV

What I like very much about Honda is that the brand is constantly putting efforts in developing environmentally friendly technologies. The latest such innovation revealed is the Honda Micro Commuter Prototype, which is a micro-sized short distance EV commuter vehicle.

This prototype was engineered in consideration of the vehicle categories for micro-sized mobility products. In fact, this model will serve as a demonstration unit, which is aimed to verify the potential of the vehicle in different utilizations. Some of them might include for support of everyday short-distance transportation for families with small children and for senior citizens, home delivery services, commuting and car sharing.

In addition, the prototype was introduced initially as a concept model back in 2011 at the Tokyo Motor Show, where it had a cabin space to seat one driver and two children in the micro-sized body.

Here the Variable Design Platform is very convenient because it positions components such as the battery, motor and control unit under the floor and in the rear space to concentrate the vehicle driving functions into a compact space.

Other interesting features on this model include the tablet device for the application of functions such as meter display, navigation, audio and back-up camera display, and the ability to charge the battery of the tablet using solar cells mounted on the vehicle roof.

Furthermore, Honda is going on with the development processes in order to bring onboard solar cells, which are going to provide solar energy to assist the driving. Another technology featured is the Honda Smart Home System (HSHS).

Of course, an interesting aspect here is when this model hopefully goes to mass production, which will be the auto part supplier for ordinary customers and how much it will cost to maintain the EV. But if we are looking positively towards the future we will hope to see the prices of those new technologies getting more affordable.

The optimized energy management results in CO2 reduction, which can be applied to the everyday life. Therefore this vehicle can provide for customers when it is used not only as an EV but also as a household battery.

Key Specifications of Honda Micro Commuter Prototype

Vehicle size (length × width × height)	2,500 × 1,250 × 1,445 (mm)
Maximum speed	80 km/h
Maximum range	Approximately 60 km
Charging time	Less than 3 hours
Battery type	Lithium-ion battery
Maximum output	15 kW (20 hp)

Source: Honda

November 14, 2012

2013 Honda Civic Debuts at Los Angeles Auto Show

One of the hottest news recently is the new look of the much appraised Civic. Honda has just revealed the 2013 model which will make its debut at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show.

The new Honda Sedan includes refined styling, host of safety features, comfort, chassis and interior styling enhancements. To be more precise the front end here features a new open-mouth lower bumper with a horizontal chrome accent and a sportier, black honeycomb mesh grille, anchored by new integrated fog lights on upper trims.

Furthermore, the more premium look of the Sedan is achieved via the grille which is flanked by new clear-lens corner lights. The front end therefore is more sculptured and as a natural continuation it flows into a more deeply faceted hood, complemented by a collection of sharp new wheel designs.

How about the rear end? There can be found a new rear bumper design and new rear trunk lid, which are capped by a clean, horizontal chrome trim piece. A highlight here is that the taillights include all-new design resembling a jewel. In addition they provide more finished and upscale look.

Next, the rear bumper includes integrated reflector treatments and a new lower diffuser panel finished with a honeycomb mesh vent. All of the mentioned exterior refinements contribute to a more youthful, premium Civic.

What is also important to mention is that Civic’s emblematic fun-to-drive nature and safety features, spaciousness and fuel efficiency remain intact.

Source: Honda

November 13, 2012

2013 Honda N-One: Variety in Action

2013 Honda N-One is currently being launched on the market, being a third of the new N Series mini-vehicles (including N-Box and N-Box+). The model was created with the help of the motif of the N360 series, which was the first mass-produced Honda mini passenger car introduced to the market in 1967.

With N-One the engineers aimed to make a new basic car which will be a new type of vehicle for the new era in Japan. Key features of the N-One include a spacious cabin for four adults, and an improved acceleration performance.

Furthermore, stable driving performance and excellent quietness even during highway driving were achieved via lightweight and highly-rigid body and an exclusively-developed suspension. Here the engineers made the car with excellent fuel economy of 27.0km/L. In addition, for the first time among all mini-vehicles in the market, the N-One will include Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) system as standard equipment on all types.

Another highlight is the higher grade model – N-One Premium, which includes a high-quality exterior and interior. In addition to this Honda has supplied the customers with great variety of exterior colors, offered with total 11 body colors and a 2-tone color style, which has different colors for the body and roof.

2013 Honda N-One Key Specifications:

Body Colors:

・Premium White Pearl

・Alabaster Silver Metallic

・Crystal Black Pearl

・Premium Yellow Pearl II

・Milano Red

・Innocent Blue Metallic (new color)

・Premium Deep Mocha Pearl

・Cherry Shell Pink Metallic

・Premium Blue Moon Pearl (new color)

・Polished Metal Metallic

・Premium Deep Rosso Pearl

2-tone Color Style:

・Taffeta White × Innocent Blue Metallic

・Crystal Black Pearl × Premium White Pearl

・Crystal Black Pearl × Milano Red

・Crystal Black Pearl × Premium Yellow Pearl II

・Starry Silver Metallic × Premium Blue Moon Pearl

Interior Colors :

Beige × Mocha Gray, Black

Black × Burgundy

Timeless N design which is friendly and impressive:

• Individuality and innovativeness are expressed with the friendly and timeless hatchback style which was designed in the motif of the N360.

• There are five color combinations for the 2-tone color style which more effectively highlights the individual tastes of customers.

• The Interior design is simple and yet great attention was paid to ensure the quality feel of materials in every detail. Comfort and a sense of security were pursued with the large-size bench seat. With these factors, a comfortable cabin space was achieved that people will not grow tired of even after prolonged use.

• A flat and cleanly fit audio system display was adopted. By connecting a smart phone using “InterNavi Pocket,” a genuine navigation system application developed by Honda, the navigation screen can be displayed on the screen of the audio system (manufacturer’s option).

High performance power unit which realizes top class driving performance and fuel economy:

• The DOHC Turbo engine equipped with a high-performance turbo charger is made available for all grades and realizes driving performance equivalent to a vehicle in the 1.3L class.

• Both smooth and powerful driving and excellent fuel economy of 27.0km/L*2 were realized through the combination of the DOHC engine, which realizes top class output and torque, and optimally-tuned CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).

Enhanced safety features which realize excellent safety performance:

• For the first time among all mini-vehicles in the market, the Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) system, which responds to sudden braking and quickly blinks hazard lamps automatically to alert the drivers of trailing vehicles, is featured as standard equipment on all types.

• VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist) system is standard equipment on all types.

• HSA (Hill Start Assist) system that temporarily prevents the vehicle from rolling backward when starting on an upward incline is standard equipment on all types.

• The side curtain airbag system which helps mitigate head impacts in a side collision and the front seat i-side airbag system are standard equipment on select model types.

• The Pedestrian Injury Mitigation Body, which features structures that absorb the impact of a collision on a pedestrian’s head and legs in case of a collision, was adopted.

• Class-leading omni-directional collision safety performance was realized with the newly-designed engine and new load distribution structure.

Environmental performance:

• All types are certified by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism as complying with the 2005 – 75% emissions standard.

• NA (natural aspiration) engine types achieve fuel economy of 20% higher than the 2015 fuel economy standard. Turbo engine types*6 achieve fuel economy 10% higher than the 2015 fuel economy standard.

Source: Honda

November 5, 2012

Every Drop Counts: Honda’s Second in a Series of Environmental Film Shorts [VIDEO]

Followed by the first video of environmental series of short films, the second footage named Every Drop Counts continues the purpose of Honda associates to fulfill the company’s vision for reducing Honda‘s environmental impact and creating a more sustainable business.

The new film highlights a project which aims to capture and utilize the energy present in water falling from rooftop cooling towers. In the video you can view the story of how a retired plant engineer’s sketch intrigues a team of associates who seek to generate their own energy with a simple but ingenious device.

The inspiration of Honda’s engineers was big enough so that it resulted in a unique small-scale hydro power generation system. The vehicle was created via spare parts and materials (almost entirelly) in the plant.

Then the specialists converted a simple AC motor for use as an alternator, which generated energy from water as it falls 35 feet to a sump. The results are amazing: the low-cost, low-maintenance system produces 50 000 kilowatt hours of electricity each year and offsets roughly 77 000 pounds of CO2 emissions from the consumption of grid-supplied electricity.

The Honda Environmental Short Film Series puts more light on the environmental innovations across Honda in North America. It puts more attention to the efforts the brand is making in order to create a more fuel-efficient and low emissions vehicles. In addition, it shows their efforts in reducing energy use, emissions and waste in all of the company’s operations.

httpv://youtu.be/DiMJ4JEC2iA

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Honda

October 30, 2012

2013 Honda Fit Twist to be Launched in November

2013 Honda Fit Twist is an evolved version of the well known Fit model, which the brand has presented at Sao Paolo’s International Motor Show. In addition, the model is gong to go on sale very soon – just in one month from now.

As a matter of fact this is a world premiere for the model. This particular Honda is a derivative developed exclusively for the Brazilian market. This basically means that it keeps the ease of use and driving comfort of the original Fit.

However, there are some key differences, which will contribute for better driving experience of the Brazilian customers. In particular, the Fit twist offers a sportier vehicle image with a bold design realized through adoption of an exclusive front grill and roof rails as well as an exclusive seat surface material.

The model will have a starting price of $28 600. Honda has also unveiled its lineup of new flex fuel vehicles, including CR-V Flex and Civic 2.0. Both are scheduled to go on sale next year. in 2013.

Source: Honda

October 24, 2012

2013 Honda CR-Z Mugen RZ for Japan

Mugen will hit the Japan Market with Honda CR-Z Mugen RZ. With exclusively developed suspension, brake system, and wheels, and exterior parts aerodynamically designed and wind-tunnel tested, coupled with the installation of a centrifugal supercharger system, all are combined to improve performance.

The car also features an aerodynamic body kit with a front spoiler, a revised grille and modified side skirts. There’s also a rear diffuser, an adjustable wing and a sports exhaust system.

It rolls 17” alloy wheels fitted with Dunlop Direzza Z II tires

CR-Z Mugen is powered by a 1.5-liter engine with 156HP (115 kW) and 185Nm (136 lb-ft) of torque. The hybrid system also features an electric motor with 20HP (15 kW) and 78Nm (58 lb-ft).

MUGEN will be responsible for installing the parts on to the CR-Z (6MT), provided by Honda Motor Co., Ltd., and will start to sell the limited run of 300 completed cars in Japan from November 26th.

The price starts from ¥4,494,000 including a 5% consumption tax.

Source: Honda

October 5, 2012

Paris Motor Show: 2013 Honda CR-Z Hybrid

2013 Honda CR-Z Hybrid has just been unveiled at the Paris Motor Show exhibiting improvements focusing on style and performance. Some updated parts of the exterior and interior enhance the styling of the car and on the other hand the power of both the petrol engine and electric motor has been increased to 137 hp (100 kW) without comprising fuel economy or increasing exhaust emissions.

Furthermore, the car is also equipped with Lithium Ion battery and a Plus Sport (S+) boost system. Some of the changes which emphasize are the new front bumper design, which frames a revised grille, the new aerodynamic rear diffuser design and 17 inch alloy wheels.

The Honda model will be offered in two bold new colours – Energetic Yellow and Aurora Violet. The designers have also considered the interior which is now with a new colour scheme. On the other hand revisions to the door casings improve the cabin storage.

The old 1.5-litre petrol engine has been upgraded with changes to the variable valve timing system and Engine Control Unit (ECU). An anti-vibration knock sensor has been added and the material of the crankshaft has been upgraded. The peak power output has been increased from 114 hp (84 kW) to 121 hp (89 kW).

The improvements continue with the electric motor system, which is visible through the new Lithium Ion battery. The latter replaces the old Nickel-metal hybrid (Ni-MH) battery. The new version now delivers increase of power from 14 hp (10 kW) to 20 hp (15 kW).

The engine works in unison with the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid system. The IMA now delivers a combined output of 137 hp (101 kW) at 6600 rpm and 190 Nm (140 lb-ft). To go even further into details this means that the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h for the CR-Z is possible only for 9.0 seconds. The top speed is 124 mph, while the combined consumption is 56.5 mpg and 116 g/km of CO2.

Moreover, the Plus Sport (S+) boost system works when the battery is more than 50 per cent charged. In this case the driver can activate this system using the S+ button on the steering wheel.

What happens is that when the accelerator is pressed, then the electric boost begins thus delivering increased acceleration for up to ten seconds. A flashing gauge on the dashboard indicates when the system is active. S+ can be used in ECON, Normal or Sport modes.

The revised CR-Z will go on sale in January 2013.

Technical specifications

Engine	1.5 SOHC i-VTEC
	4 valves per cylinder
Bore x stroke, mm	73 x 89.4
Capacity, cc	1497
Compression ratio	10.4 (Honda internal figure)
Max.Power (Engine), kW/PS	89/121
@rpm	6600
Max torque (Engine, Nm	146
@rpm	4800
Max power (Electric Motor), kW/PS	15/20
@rpm	2000
Max torque (Electric Motor), Nm	78
@rpm	1000
Max power (combined)1, kW/PS	101/137
@rpm	6600
Max torque (Combined)1, Nm	190
@rpm	1000-2000
Fuel system	Honda PGM-FI Electronic Injection
Fuel rating	Unleaded, 95 RON
Fuel Consumption
Urban, mpg	47.1 (sport) / 46.3 (GT)
Extra Urban, mpg	64.2 (Sport) / 60.1 (GT)
Combined, mpg	56.5 (Sport) / 54.3 (GT)
CO2 emissions, g/km	116 (Sport) / 122 (GT)
Performance
Top Speed, mph	124
Acceleration 0-62 mph, sec	9.1 (Sport / 9.5 (GT)
Wheels & Tyres
Wheels	16x6J (Sport) / 17×6.5J (GT)
	195/55R16 (Sport) / 205/45R17 (GT)

Source: Honda

September 27, 2012

2013 Honda CR-Z Facelift

Honda has introduced the new 2013 CR-Z facelift at the 20^th Indonesia International Motor Show. This time, Honda’s theme is “Racing for Blue Skies”, to show the new product that combines sporty character with a friendly environment.

“From the beginning, all the products developed Honda engine always show a distinctive character with leading technology, fuel-efficient, cleaner emissions, but still deliver performance and a sporty look. Character Green and Honda Racing was the DNA, ” said Tomoki Uchida, President Director of PT Honda Prospect Motor.

“Through the theme” Racing for Blue Skies “, we want to show that creating advanced technologies and protecting the environment can be done without having to lay aside his impression of sporty,” he added.

The exterior of the new CR-Z features a modified front bumper, a new front grille and slightly restyled headlights. Other upgrades include a new rear diffuser and a set of nice 17” alloy wheels fitted with proper tires.

The interior is also slightly touched. There is a new tachometer and a new Plus Sport system, which improves the engine’s response at the push of a button.

The powertrain remains the same – a 1.5 liter i-VTEC combined with an electric motor. The total power is 135HP (99 kW) and 172Nm (127 lb-ft) of torque. This power is with CVT (continuously variable transmission), which has a lot of loses, but when the engine is combined with a 6-speed manual gearbox, the power rises to 136HP (100 kW) and 190Nm (140 lb-ft) making the car a lot better to drive.

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Source: Honda

September 21, 2012

2013 Honda Civic Ti Limited Edition Launched in UK

The new version of Honda Civic Ti is going to be launched as Limited Edition model in the UK. The car will include exclusive extra kit for customers which will convey sportier stance.

This 5-door sports-inspired Honda is based on the 1.8 SE model. However, it comes with additional equipment. The exterior appearance of the car is enhanced by color coded wheel arches and unique 17-inch Team Dynamics “Le Mans” alloy wheels.

The interior of this Civic is also complemented by extra equipment, which adds more luxurious feeling to the driving experience. One can see there leather wrapped steering wheel and gear knob on top of the high specification. There are also included climate control, AUX and USB for an iPod, steering wheel audio controls, electric rear windows, Hands Free Bluetooth.

Furthermore this limited edition will be offered in three colors: Milano Red, White Orchid Pearl and Alabaster Silver Metallic. The combination of high spec interior treatment and an exterior upgrade adds to the premium sporty style.

2013 Honda Civic Ti Limited Edition has a starting price of £16 995 and will be produced in only 1000 examples.

Source: Honda

September 19, 2012

Tag: Honda