Find it @ http://www.auto123.com/en/info/news/roadtest,view,Honda.spy?artid=89658&pg=1
Acura's Future Part 2
In a recent interview, Acura has said that it will in fact introduce a V10 engine and is currently working on one. But however, it says that if the public receives the V10 favorably, in the next NSX, it may be forwarded to the RL and the MDX, skipping V8s altogether. Currently, only a few sports/luxury cars are using V10 engines out there, and when asked about the power, Acura only says that it will use less powerful V10 engines if equipped on its premium vehicle line.
Honda Sued
From The Associated Press:
North American auto manufacturers have been slapped with a $2-billion class action lawsuit by four Toronto residents who claim the auto industry conspired to inflate the price of automobiles in Canada and also inhibited cross-border vehicle shopping on the strong Canadian dollar. The suit, filed Wednesday by Toronto-based law firm Juroviesky and Ricci, covers consumers who bought cars between August 2005 and August 2007. They say they paid more money to buy cars in Canada than similar or identical models cost in the United States. Included in the allegations are claims that the automakers agreed not to honor warranties for vehicles purchased in the U.S., forcing Canadian consumers who wanted a manufacturer's warranty to pay 25 to 35 percent more on average for a vehicle in Canada. None of the allegations has been proven in court. Named in the lawsuit are the Canadian and U.S. divisions of General Motors, Honda, Nissan and Chrysler. Also named in the suit are the Canadian Automobiles Dealers Association and the National Automobile Dealers Association, a U.S. partner based in Virginia. Meanwhile, the Canadian dollar has been gaining ground on its American counterpart in recent years and reached par last week after hitting an all-time low of 61.79 U.S. cents on Jan. 21, 2002. Many goods in Canada haven't been reduced yet to reflect the rising Canadian dollar. Doug Porter, deputy chief economist at the Bank of Montreal, released a study Friday that indicates Canadians are paying roughly 24 percent more than Americans on identical goods despite parity in the U.S and Canadian dollars. The plaintiffs claim a "conspiracy" among automakers involved agreements between the companies designed to minimize cross-border competition and the number of new cars that crossed the border.
North American auto manufacturers have been slapped with a $2-billion class action lawsuit by four Toronto residents who claim the auto industry conspired to inflate the price of automobiles in Canada and also inhibited cross-border vehicle shopping on the strong Canadian dollar. The suit, filed Wednesday by Toronto-based law firm Juroviesky and Ricci, covers consumers who bought cars between August 2005 and August 2007. They say they paid more money to buy cars in Canada than similar or identical models cost in the United States. Included in the allegations are claims that the automakers agreed not to honor warranties for vehicles purchased in the U.S., forcing Canadian consumers who wanted a manufacturer's warranty to pay 25 to 35 percent more on average for a vehicle in Canada. None of the allegations has been proven in court. Named in the lawsuit are the Canadian and U.S. divisions of General Motors, Honda, Nissan and Chrysler. Also named in the suit are the Canadian Automobiles Dealers Association and the National Automobile Dealers Association, a U.S. partner based in Virginia. Meanwhile, the Canadian dollar has been gaining ground on its American counterpart in recent years and reached par last week after hitting an all-time low of 61.79 U.S. cents on Jan. 21, 2002. Many goods in Canada haven't been reduced yet to reflect the rising Canadian dollar. Doug Porter, deputy chief economist at the Bank of Montreal, released a study Friday that indicates Canadians are paying roughly 24 percent more than Americans on identical goods despite parity in the U.S and Canadian dollars. The plaintiffs claim a "conspiracy" among automakers involved agreements between the companies designed to minimize cross-border competition and the number of new cars that crossed the border.
Acura's Future Lineup
Acura's sales are down, and rather than try to be all cars to all buyers, filling niches is more the game plan. Product planning manager John Watts intimated that Acura's looking at segments with a narrower appeal, such as the now-defunct CL, and the possibility of a retractable hardtop vehicle, too. The MDX does well, and the new RDX is the darling of everyone who drives it, but as far as cars go, Acura's not catching anyone's hair on fire. The top-dog RL sedan is a wonderful car – beautifully drawn, SH-AWD moves, and a powerful V6 make it a very pleasant way to devour miles, but it doesn't offer the flavor du jour for premium sedans with performance leanings. The engine layout is wrong, and it's missing at least two cylinders to truly be taken seriously by some buyers who are looking for a V8 and rear drive as prerequesites. There's talk of a new 8 or 10 cylinder powerplant in the offing. The NSX is supposedly getting a V10, which could then propagate through to other Acura cars. Analysts have noted that there's a need for a flagship sedan above the RL to offer RWD and larger engines. While Acura gets its act together developing the new NSX and readying the new TL for launch in 2009, dealers are enviously eyeing Lexus and Infiniti stores, wishing they had a big V8 boomer to throw into the fray, as well.
Canadian Honda Accord Press Release
The completely redesigned 2008 Honda Accord makes its Canadian debut at dealerships nationwide with Manufacturer Suggested Retail Prices ranging from $25,090 for the well-equipped Accord LX Sedan to $38,290 for the sporty Accord EX-L V6 Coupe featuring Honda's satellite-linked navigation system with bilingual voice activation. The new, stylish Accord sedans and coupes feature a wide range of innovative technologies designed for greater efficiency, enhanced safety and improved performance.
"Our new Accord adds popular features and enhancements while maintaining competitive pricing," said Jim Miller, executive vice president of Honda Canada Inc. "Accord has been a perennial segment leader during its 30-yearhistory with Canadian buyers valuing its refined features, strong performance and overall design. The eighth-generation Accord provides Canadians a vehicle that is 'green, safe, fun,' with an emphasis on expressive styling, fun-to-drive performance and innovative packaging."
The Accord is available in sedan and coupe body styles with two variations of a 2.4-litre 4-cylinder and two iterations of the 3.5-litre V6engine. The two L4 engines have 177 and 190 horsepower, respectively, with estimated city/highway fuel economy ratings of 9.4/6.4 L/100km (with manual transmission).
An available 3.5-litre i-VTEC V6 engine produces 268 horsepower - the most ever for any Accord - while introducing a new generation of fuel-saving advanced Variable Cylinder Management(VCM) technology and achieving low emissions. The VCM system operates in six-cylinder mode for power in and 4-and 3-cylinder modes for efficiency, resulting in an estimated city/highway fuel economy rating of 11.0/6.7 L/100 km. A 268-horsepower VTEC version of 3.5-litre V6 engine is featured in the Accord Coupe EX-L V6 with the 6-speedmanual transmission.
Another innovative technology for Accord is Variable Gear Ratio (VGR) steering. This new steering system uses variable mechanical ratio steering, inaddition to variable power assist, to provide precise on-center feel andgreater responsiveness at increased steering angles. Premium quality with a spacious design describes the philosophy behind the Accord's interior. The spacious interior is intended to provide "equal" seating comfort for front and rear passengers. Redesigned front bucket seatsare larger, and feature substantial lateral support to complement the Accord's sporty side. The fold-down lockable rear seatback increases cargo-carrying versatility.
The Accord Sedan's exterior styling emphasizes both an athletic anddynamic feel with the sophistication of a timeless sedan form. Even though the Accord is larger in all dimensions, its torsional rigidity has increased by 20 per cent as a result of advanced body construction.
The Accord Coupe styling radically departs from the sedan with a more aggressive image. Its long hood, sleek roofline and muscular lines suggest power and enhanced agility. The EX-L Coupe with V6 engine also features larger 18" aluminum alloy wheels, chrome door handles, front fog lights, dual exhaust finishers and rear lip spoiler.
The Accord Sedan rides on a longer wheelbase and is slightly longer than the 2007 model. The Accord Coupe wheelbase is also longer than the 2007 model. The longer wheelbases contribute to improved ride characteristics. The premium suspension design and wider track (along with wider tire sizes and standard ABS and VSA) are intended to enhance driver confidence and handling performance in all situations.
Through a comprehensive approach to vehicle safety, Honda seeks to provide the highest level of occupant and pedestrian protection in all itscars and trucks, regardless of size or price. Every 2008 Accord integrates sophisticated safety technology that includes driver's and front passenger's dual-chamber side airbags with a passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System; side curtain airbags; and dual-stage, dual-threshold driver's andfront passenger's airbags.
New for Accord is an Advanced Compatibility Engineering(ACE) body structure that enhances frontal collision compatibility with vehicles of different sizes and bumper heights. All Accords also feature active head restraints designed to help reduce the severity of neck injury in the event of a rear collision. Standard active safety features include Vehicle Stability Assist and four-wheel-disc anti-lock brake system with brake assist and electronic brake distribution.
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices for 2008 Canadian Accord Sedan & Coupe:
Accord Sedan LX- 177-hp 4-cylinder, Manual Transmission-$25,090, Automatic Transmission-$26,290
Accord Sedan EX- 190-hp 4-cylinder, Manual Transmission-$27,490, Automatic Transmission-$28,690
Accord Sedan EX-L- 190-hp 4-cylinder, Manual Transmission-$29,890, Automatic Transmission-$31,090
Accord Sedan EX-L Navi- 190-hp 4-cylinder, Manual Transmission-$32,690, Automatic Transmission-$33,890
Accord Sedan EX V6- 268-hp V6, Automatic Transmission-$31,690
Accord Sedan EX-L V6- 268-hp V6, Automatic Transmission-$34,990
Accord Sedan EX-L V6 Navi- 268-hp V6, Automatic Transmission-$37,790
Accord Coupe EX- 190-hp 4-cylinder, Manual Transmission-$27,990, Automatic Transmission-$29,190
Accord Coupe EX-L- 190-hp 4-cylinder, Manual Transmission-$30,390, Automatic Transmission-$31,590
Accord Coupe EX-L Navi- 190-hp 4-cylinder, Manual Transmission-$33,190, Automatic Transmission-$34,390
Accord Coupe EX-L V6- 268-hp V6, Manual Transmission-$35,490, Automatic Transmission-$35,490
Accord Coupe EX-L V6 Navi- 268-hp V6, Manual Transmission-$38,290, Automatic Transmission-$38,290
"Our new Accord adds popular features and enhancements while maintaining competitive pricing," said Jim Miller, executive vice president of Honda Canada Inc. "Accord has been a perennial segment leader during its 30-yearhistory with Canadian buyers valuing its refined features, strong performance and overall design. The eighth-generation Accord provides Canadians a vehicle that is 'green, safe, fun,' with an emphasis on expressive styling, fun-to-drive performance and innovative packaging."
The Accord is available in sedan and coupe body styles with two variations of a 2.4-litre 4-cylinder and two iterations of the 3.5-litre V6engine. The two L4 engines have 177 and 190 horsepower, respectively, with estimated city/highway fuel economy ratings of 9.4/6.4 L/100km (with manual transmission).
An available 3.5-litre i-VTEC V6 engine produces 268 horsepower - the most ever for any Accord - while introducing a new generation of fuel-saving advanced Variable Cylinder Management(VCM) technology and achieving low emissions. The VCM system operates in six-cylinder mode for power in and 4-and 3-cylinder modes for efficiency, resulting in an estimated city/highway fuel economy rating of 11.0/6.7 L/100 km. A 268-horsepower VTEC version of 3.5-litre V6 engine is featured in the Accord Coupe EX-L V6 with the 6-speedmanual transmission.
Another innovative technology for Accord is Variable Gear Ratio (VGR) steering. This new steering system uses variable mechanical ratio steering, inaddition to variable power assist, to provide precise on-center feel andgreater responsiveness at increased steering angles. Premium quality with a spacious design describes the philosophy behind the Accord's interior. The spacious interior is intended to provide "equal" seating comfort for front and rear passengers. Redesigned front bucket seatsare larger, and feature substantial lateral support to complement the Accord's sporty side. The fold-down lockable rear seatback increases cargo-carrying versatility.
The Accord Sedan's exterior styling emphasizes both an athletic anddynamic feel with the sophistication of a timeless sedan form. Even though the Accord is larger in all dimensions, its torsional rigidity has increased by 20 per cent as a result of advanced body construction.
The Accord Coupe styling radically departs from the sedan with a more aggressive image. Its long hood, sleek roofline and muscular lines suggest power and enhanced agility. The EX-L Coupe with V6 engine also features larger 18" aluminum alloy wheels, chrome door handles, front fog lights, dual exhaust finishers and rear lip spoiler.
The Accord Sedan rides on a longer wheelbase and is slightly longer than the 2007 model. The Accord Coupe wheelbase is also longer than the 2007 model. The longer wheelbases contribute to improved ride characteristics. The premium suspension design and wider track (along with wider tire sizes and standard ABS and VSA) are intended to enhance driver confidence and handling performance in all situations.
Through a comprehensive approach to vehicle safety, Honda seeks to provide the highest level of occupant and pedestrian protection in all itscars and trucks, regardless of size or price. Every 2008 Accord integrates sophisticated safety technology that includes driver's and front passenger's dual-chamber side airbags with a passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System; side curtain airbags; and dual-stage, dual-threshold driver's andfront passenger's airbags.
New for Accord is an Advanced Compatibility Engineering(ACE) body structure that enhances frontal collision compatibility with vehicles of different sizes and bumper heights. All Accords also feature active head restraints designed to help reduce the severity of neck injury in the event of a rear collision. Standard active safety features include Vehicle Stability Assist and four-wheel-disc anti-lock brake system with brake assist and electronic brake distribution.
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices for 2008 Canadian Accord Sedan & Coupe:
Accord Sedan LX- 177-hp 4-cylinder, Manual Transmission-$25,090, Automatic Transmission-$26,290
Accord Sedan EX- 190-hp 4-cylinder, Manual Transmission-$27,490, Automatic Transmission-$28,690
Accord Sedan EX-L- 190-hp 4-cylinder, Manual Transmission-$29,890, Automatic Transmission-$31,090
Accord Sedan EX-L Navi- 190-hp 4-cylinder, Manual Transmission-$32,690, Automatic Transmission-$33,890
Accord Sedan EX V6- 268-hp V6, Automatic Transmission-$31,690
Accord Sedan EX-L V6- 268-hp V6, Automatic Transmission-$34,990
Accord Sedan EX-L V6 Navi- 268-hp V6, Automatic Transmission-$37,790
Accord Coupe EX- 190-hp 4-cylinder, Manual Transmission-$27,990, Automatic Transmission-$29,190
Accord Coupe EX-L- 190-hp 4-cylinder, Manual Transmission-$30,390, Automatic Transmission-$31,590
Accord Coupe EX-L Navi- 190-hp 4-cylinder, Manual Transmission-$33,190, Automatic Transmission-$34,390
Accord Coupe EX-L V6- 268-hp V6, Manual Transmission-$35,490, Automatic Transmission-$35,490
Accord Coupe EX-L V6 Navi- 268-hp V6, Manual Transmission-$38,290, Automatic Transmission-$38,290
2008 Canadian Honda Model Arrival Dates
2008 Honda Accord- Set for (September 21st-October 12th), depending on where you live
2008 Honda Civic Hybrid- Set for October arrival, depending on where you live, other areas may receive Civic Hybrid by mid-to-late October, regional dealers will get very few Hybrids
2008 Honda CR-V- Set for October arrival, depending on where you live, other areas may receive CR-V by mid-to-late October.
2008 Honda Odyssey- Set for (November 9th-November 23rd), depending on where you live, other areas may receive new Odyssey in December due to shifting dates.
2008 Honda S2000- Set for November arrival (although October intro, isn't unexpected), depending on where you live, other areas may receive new S2000 in late November.
2008 Honda Civic Hybrid- Set for October arrival, depending on where you live, other areas may receive Civic Hybrid by mid-to-late October, regional dealers will get very few Hybrids
2008 Honda CR-V- Set for October arrival, depending on where you live, other areas may receive CR-V by mid-to-late October.
2008 Honda Odyssey- Set for (November 9th-November 23rd), depending on where you live, other areas may receive new Odyssey in December due to shifting dates.
2008 Honda S2000- Set for November arrival (although October intro, isn't unexpected), depending on where you live, other areas may receive new S2000 in late November.
2008 Canadian Honda Accord Prices/Info
Debut Date for Canadians: This Wednesday, BUT official car launch to be in October.
Arrival Dates in Dealerships: Major Metropolitan Areas (Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver), 2008 Accord is already on lots., Smaller Metropolitan Areas (Edmonton, Calgary, Winnipeg), 2008 Accord to be on lots by end of September, Other Areas (Regional Dealerships, East Coast, Saskatchewan), 2008 Accord to be on lots by early-mid October.
A few pricing details for 2008 Canadian Accord:
LX/LX-S/LX-P Coupe/Sedan - $25,000-$29,000
EX/EX-L/EX-L NAVI Coupe/Sedan- $29,000-$33,000
EX-V6 Coupe/Sedan- $33,000-$35,000
EX-L V6/EX-L NAVI V6/EX-L 6SPD V6 Coupe/Sedan- $35,000-$38,000
Arrival Dates in Dealerships: Major Metropolitan Areas (Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver), 2008 Accord is already on lots., Smaller Metropolitan Areas (Edmonton, Calgary, Winnipeg), 2008 Accord to be on lots by end of September, Other Areas (Regional Dealerships, East Coast, Saskatchewan), 2008 Accord to be on lots by early-mid October.
A few pricing details for 2008 Canadian Accord:
LX/LX-S/LX-P Coupe/Sedan - $25,000-$29,000
EX/EX-L/EX-L NAVI Coupe/Sedan- $29,000-$33,000
EX-V6 Coupe/Sedan- $33,000-$35,000
EX-L V6/EX-L NAVI V6/EX-L 6SPD V6 Coupe/Sedan- $35,000-$38,000
2008 Canadian Honda Civic Coupe/Sedan Now On Sale
The 2008 Canadian Honda Civic Coupe/Sedan now on sale! There are only major lineup changes, a few little feature changes and a new EX-L and Si trim levels
For more on the 2008 Canadian Honda Civic Coupe/Sedan go to this site @ http://www.honda.ca/default
2008 US Honda S2000 Now On Sale!
The 2008 US Honda S2000 and S2000 CR are now on sale!
For more, visit automobiles.honda.com/s2000
Major Changes to 2008 Canadian Honda Civic Coupe/Sedan
2008 Civic Coupe/Sedan Trim Levels:
DX
DX-A/C (Air Conditioning)
DX-G (Now has Hybrid-style wheels)
LX
LX-SRF (Sunroof)
EX-L
Si
DX
DX-A/C (Air Conditioning)
DX-G (Now has Hybrid-style wheels)
LX
LX-SRF (Sunroof)
EX-L
Si
2008 Honda Odyssey Press Release
Press Release
The significantly-updated-for-2008 Honda Odyssey minivan receives new exterior styling along with a more fuel-efficient version of the available Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®) i-VTEC V-6 engine. Exterior styling focuses on a bolder, six-sided grille design and a front bumper fascia with crisp lines that add to the vehicle's dynamic and premium appearance.
"The Odyssey is the king of the Honda lineup when it comes to moving the maximum number of people in maximum comfort," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "For 2008, the Odyssey strengthens its styling and functional advantages while adding even more premium features."
Four new and notable available premium features include Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® (available Odyssey EX-L and Touring), 4-way power passenger seat (standard Odyssey EX-L and Touring), rearview camera display integrated into the rearview mirror (standard Odyssey EX-L) and memory-linked side mirrors with reverse gear tilt-down (standard Odyssey Touring).
Interior styling receives updates in the form of new colors and textures for the instrument panel, along with premium fabric for Odyssey LX and EX seating surfaces. Further interior refinements include an additional storage bin in the 2nd Row PlusOne Seat™ (standard on Odyssey EX, EX-L and Touring), standard MP3/Windows® Media Audio (WMA) compatibility (CD-based) and a standard auxiliary input jack.
The Odyssey achieves the highest five-star crash safety rating by the federal government for both frontal and side impacts . In keeping with the Honda "Safety for Everyone" initiative, all Odyssey models are equipped with Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®), also known as electronic stability control; standard anti-lock brakes with brake assist; advanced dual-stage, dual-threshold driver's and front passenger's SRS airbags; front side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Protection Detection System (OPDS); three-row side-curtain airbags with a rollover sensor; and a pedestrian safety design in the front of the vehicle. An Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure provides enhanced occupant protection in a frontal collision. New for 2008, active front seat head restraints and daytime running lights have been added.
Known for its industry trend-setting One-Motion 60/40 Split 3rd-Row Magic Seat®, the Odyssey's innovative eight-passenger seating areas (seven-passenger on LX) quickly and easily adapt between passenger and cargo duties. The 3rd-Row Magic Seat can accommodate up to three passengers and still provide 38.4 cubic feet of cargo volume behind the seats, or fold completely flat into the floor for cargo duty to create 91.1 cubic feet of cargo volume while still maintaining room for five passengers (four passengers on LX). With the second row seats removed, total cargo volume expands to a voluminous 147.4 cubic feet. Total interior volume measures 209.8 cubic feet for passenger and cargo volume combined - representing a total volume greater than two Civic Sedan interior volumes combined, for comparison. The 2nd-Row PlusOneSeat™ integrates a new storage bin inside the seat structure and is standard equipment on the Odyssey EX and EX-L (as before). The 2nd-Row PlusOneSeat has been added as standard equipment to the Odyssey Touring, replacing the standard removable center console, while retaining similar functionality and adding a seating position to the previously seven-passenger Touring model.
Designed with families in mind, a total of three Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) child seat attachment systems exist: two are located in the outboard second-row seating positions and one is located in the middle third-row seating position.
Standard comfort and convenience features include dual-zone air conditioning (tri-zone automatic climate control on Odyssey EX, EX-L and Touring), tilt and telescope steering wheel, power windows and door locks, keyless entry and cruise control.
Available premium features include the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with voice recognition, an 8-inch screen, and Zagat Survey® restaurant guide information, and a Honda DVD Entertainment System with a 9-inch screen. A rearview camera aids rear visibility on the Odyssey EX-L equipped with the available navigation system. Odyssey EX-L models without the available navigation system provide a rearview camera display via a 2.5-inch monitor embedded in the rearview mirror.
Determined by specific model, two engine variations exist. The 3.5-liter, all-aluminum, SOHC VTEC® engine on the Odyssey LX and EX produces 244 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 240 lb-ft. of torque at 5000 rpm. The Odyssey LX and EX models achieve an EPA-rated city/highway fuel economy of 16/23 mpg .
The Odyssey EX-L and Touring models feature a 3.5-liter, all-aluminum, SOHC i-VTEC® V-6 engine with VCM for enhanced fuel efficiency. This engine produces 241 horsepower at 5700 rpm and 242 lb-ft. of torque at 4900 rpm.
For 2008, a new generation of VCM provides the additional capability to selectively deactivate either two or three of the engine's six cylinders during cruising and deceleration (instead of three, exclusively). Similar to the new VCM system available on the 2008 Accord, the Odyssey's new VCM engine expands the cylinder deactivation operating range, which helps to increase fuel efficiency in a wider variety of driving conditions and speeds. An "ECO" indicator light illuminates on the instrument panel when the vehicle is operating at an optimal level of fuel efficiency. The Odyssey EX-L and Touring models achieve an EPA-rated city/highway fuel economy of 17/25 mpg2.
Vehicles equipped with VCM use both an audio system-based Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) system and a chassis-based Active Control Engine Mount (ACM) system to cancel noise and vibration that can occur during cylinder deactivation.
An independent front and rear suspension and a rigid unit body structure help provide comfortable and refined ride performance. Additional chassis components include power-assisted 4-wheel disc brakes and variable power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering. Odyssey LX, EX and EX-L models have 16-inch wheels (alloy on EX and EX-L) with all-season 235/65R16 tires. Odyssey Touring models are equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels and all-season 235/60R17 tires (standard); Michelin® PAX® System run-flat technology wheels and tires are available (460 mm wheels and 235-710R 460A tires).
LEAKED! 2009 Honda Fit/Jazz
Here ya go!
Some leaked pics of the 2009 Honda Fit/Jazz for Japan.
Hopefully the panaramic roof makes it over here.
BREAKING NEWS UPDATE: ANOTHER HONDA CIVIC RECALL
This time, only 2006 CANADIAN Honda Civic Hybrids are affected. These were 908 cars affected, all sold in Canada.
Transport Canada Recall Statement: On certain vehicles, excessive amounts of silicon grease were applied to the telescoping mechanism of the steering column during vehicle assembly. As a result, oil can separate from the grease and may fall onto the brake light switch. This can cause the brake light to fail; it may not be possible to shift the transmission from the Park position; and/or the stop lamps may fail to illuminate. Dealers will replace the brake light switch and connector housing, and install a cover to prevent oil from damaging the switch.
Transport Canada Recall Statement: On certain vehicles, excessive amounts of silicon grease were applied to the telescoping mechanism of the steering column during vehicle assembly. As a result, oil can separate from the grease and may fall onto the brake light switch. This can cause the brake light to fail; it may not be possible to shift the transmission from the Park position; and/or the stop lamps may fail to illuminate. Dealers will replace the brake light switch and connector housing, and install a cover to prevent oil from damaging the switch.
BREAKING NEWS: HONDA CIVIC RECALL LARGER THAN EXPECTED
The Honda Civic recall has now apparently is in effect for Canadians, Mexicans, and possibly around the world where they sell the Honda Civic/Acura CSX Sedans but India is not affected by this recall.
2006/2007 Honda Civic Coupe/Sedan and Acura CSX/CSX Type-S in Canada are affected by this recall. A total of 93,706 vehicles in Canada are affected by this recall.
Transport Canada Recall Statement: On certain vehicles, an ABS wheel speed sensor O-ring seal may allow water to enter the rear wheel bearing and eventually cause damage, especially in areas that use road salt. In time, the bearing could loosen and overheat, which could cause a wheel to separate from the vehicle. Dealers will inspect and, if required, replace the ABS sensor O-ring seals and rear wheel bearings.
2006/2007 Honda Civic Coupe/Sedan and Acura CSX/CSX Type-S in Canada are affected by this recall. A total of 93,706 vehicles in Canada are affected by this recall.
Transport Canada Recall Statement: On certain vehicles, an ABS wheel speed sensor O-ring seal may allow water to enter the rear wheel bearing and eventually cause damage, especially in areas that use road salt. In time, the bearing could loosen and overheat, which could cause a wheel to separate from the vehicle. Dealers will inspect and, if required, replace the ABS sensor O-ring seals and rear wheel bearings.
Done and Done!
The Japan-exclusive Honda Civic Mugen RR that we showed you before, has officially been SOLD OUT! This Civic was a unique, limited edition and was going for only 300 units in its life time. But within 10 minutes, the 300th was sold.
Acura's Future
When Honda renamed Anaheim's Arrowhead Pond to the Honda Center, it did what it does with its car owners: it asked customers what they thought.
Specifically, Honda asked what patrons thought about the center’s name change. But, the company got more than what it asked for: it got comments like "now that Honda runs the center, the food will be better and the bathrooms will be cleaner."
“Holy s---,” John Mendel, who was promoted to executive vice president of automobile operations for American Honda Motor Co. this year, recalls thinking as he read the survey responses. “Now we’re being held responsible for hot dogs, beer, bathrooms and everything else.
“But,” he adds philosophically, “that’s the power of the Honda brand. You put the Honda name on something, and there’s a certain level of expectation.”
And that’s what keeps John Mendel awake at night –- protecting the Honda brands and delivering on customer expectations –- more the customer expectations of Honda and Acura car and truck owners than the quality expectations of Honda Center patrons for hot dogs and beer -– though Mendel claims they, too, have improved.
“I wake up scared every morning of the enormous responsibility I have to care for these brands –- Honda and Acura,” admits Mendel, who appears poised to take over American Honda, succeeding the Richard Colliver. “Those before me have done a phenomenal job, and I want to do even more.”
Redefining Acura
While the Honda brand, with its longer history and larger volume, clearly is his No. 1 priority, Mendel is focusing heavily on the redefinition of the Acura brand, which celebrated its 20th anniversary last year. While young in automotive terms, the Acura is the oldest of the Japanese luxury marques.
“Our goal is to move Acura into a Tier 1 luxury brand,” says Mendel emphatically. “We’re pretty clear about it. BMW is well established, and Acura is not, in terms of a brand image. The good news for us is we don’t have a lot of baggage.”
While in Detroit for the launch of Acura’s 2008 product line earlier this month, Mendel tried to explain to gathered journalists where Acura is headed. No two- or three-word explanation, like “The Relentless Pursuit of Perfection” or the “Ultimate Driving Machine,” suffices. Acura's current "Advance" tagline only hints.
For starters, Acura, says Mendel, is being positioned to be closer to BMW and Audi in their sporty performance, than the plusher “country club” Lexus and Mercedes. “But even within that perceptual map, there’s an area that’s even more sport and more luxury that holds an opportunity for us. You can have both. They’re not mutually exclusive,” he explains.
Future Acura models will have performance, but performance a driver can live with on a daily basis, as the NSX was a livable sports car. Mendel points to the RDX, with its first-ever turbocharged engine in an Acura, or Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive as other examples of livable performance.
In the future, performance will mean a V10 engine. It also could mean clean diesel engines for larger Acura sedans (a clean diesel already is rumored for a future Honda Accord). It could mean rear-drive architecture. Mendel doesn’t talk specifics.
“Acura brand has always been about performance and dynamics,” continues Mendel. “One of the additions now is the technology piece. But it is clearly not a technology race. It’s not about more stuff or faster Bluetooth that differentiate you. What Acura is going to be in the future is delivering a driving experience and performance across everything at a level that’s unique in the marketplace.”
Acura will have technology that is simple and easy to use, as Acura navigation systems have been from Day One. “You have to think beyond a specific technological thing and think more holistically about the man-machine interface, the integrity and feel and the driving dynamics,” says Mendel.
Mendel apologizes: “I don’t mean to get too Zen on you.”
It sounds about as mystical as Zen. Maybe it’s one of those things that we’ll get when we see it. And see it, we soon will.
2008: A Milestone Year for Acura
As 2006 was a milestone for Acura turning 20, 2008 will be a milestone year in laying out Acura’s new direction, Mendel suggests.
“For the first time in its history, we’ve got a very clear vision of what the brand is going to be when it grows up,” says Mendel. “The next three to four years are going to be absolutely critical for us to put a fine point on that.”
Mendel notes the all-new RDX and redesigned MDX tip the future direction of Acura.
“Next year at this time, you will have a pretty good idea of the direction we’re heading,” Mendel assures. “You will not see a big bang -– as if suddenly it was this and now it isn’t. Rather, you’ll start to see vehicles roll out in the 2008 calendar year with not so much styling differences but technology and philosophy differences." Mendel notes the new RDX and redesigned MDX hint at the future direction of Acura. And while Mendel won't talk about future models, it is widely known that the new TL and a new TSX will go on sale next fall as 2009 models. Little is known about them, and, as of yet, only the TL has been captured by spy photographers. Mendel would only say that as with all future Acura and Honda models, more distinction will exist between the Honda Accord, upon which the TL has been based, and the new TL. "If you like what we did with the Accord, wait till you see what we do with the TL," he said.
Acura recently opened its first U.S. design studio and now has separate R&D operations in Japan. Down the line, Acura introduces a new NSX in 2009 as a 2010 model. The car has been spotted doing laps on the Nürburgring. In addition to being more distinct from Hondas, future Acuras will emphasize performance that drivers can live with daily — features like the RDX's turbocharged engine, a future V10 engine and, possibly, clean diesels. Acura also will focus on technology, but technology that is simple and intuitive.
By far, 2008, may be a (no redesign, no refresh) Acura lineup, but it's stall for things to come.
Specifically, Honda asked what patrons thought about the center’s name change. But, the company got more than what it asked for: it got comments like "now that Honda runs the center, the food will be better and the bathrooms will be cleaner."
“Holy s---,” John Mendel, who was promoted to executive vice president of automobile operations for American Honda Motor Co. this year, recalls thinking as he read the survey responses. “Now we’re being held responsible for hot dogs, beer, bathrooms and everything else.
“But,” he adds philosophically, “that’s the power of the Honda brand. You put the Honda name on something, and there’s a certain level of expectation.”
And that’s what keeps John Mendel awake at night –- protecting the Honda brands and delivering on customer expectations –- more the customer expectations of Honda and Acura car and truck owners than the quality expectations of Honda Center patrons for hot dogs and beer -– though Mendel claims they, too, have improved.
“I wake up scared every morning of the enormous responsibility I have to care for these brands –- Honda and Acura,” admits Mendel, who appears poised to take over American Honda, succeeding the Richard Colliver. “Those before me have done a phenomenal job, and I want to do even more.”
Redefining Acura
While the Honda brand, with its longer history and larger volume, clearly is his No. 1 priority, Mendel is focusing heavily on the redefinition of the Acura brand, which celebrated its 20th anniversary last year. While young in automotive terms, the Acura is the oldest of the Japanese luxury marques.
“Our goal is to move Acura into a Tier 1 luxury brand,” says Mendel emphatically. “We’re pretty clear about it. BMW is well established, and Acura is not, in terms of a brand image. The good news for us is we don’t have a lot of baggage.”
While in Detroit for the launch of Acura’s 2008 product line earlier this month, Mendel tried to explain to gathered journalists where Acura is headed. No two- or three-word explanation, like “The Relentless Pursuit of Perfection” or the “Ultimate Driving Machine,” suffices. Acura's current "Advance" tagline only hints.
For starters, Acura, says Mendel, is being positioned to be closer to BMW and Audi in their sporty performance, than the plusher “country club” Lexus and Mercedes. “But even within that perceptual map, there’s an area that’s even more sport and more luxury that holds an opportunity for us. You can have both. They’re not mutually exclusive,” he explains.
Future Acura models will have performance, but performance a driver can live with on a daily basis, as the NSX was a livable sports car. Mendel points to the RDX, with its first-ever turbocharged engine in an Acura, or Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive as other examples of livable performance.
In the future, performance will mean a V10 engine. It also could mean clean diesel engines for larger Acura sedans (a clean diesel already is rumored for a future Honda Accord). It could mean rear-drive architecture. Mendel doesn’t talk specifics.
“Acura brand has always been about performance and dynamics,” continues Mendel. “One of the additions now is the technology piece. But it is clearly not a technology race. It’s not about more stuff or faster Bluetooth that differentiate you. What Acura is going to be in the future is delivering a driving experience and performance across everything at a level that’s unique in the marketplace.”
Acura will have technology that is simple and easy to use, as Acura navigation systems have been from Day One. “You have to think beyond a specific technological thing and think more holistically about the man-machine interface, the integrity and feel and the driving dynamics,” says Mendel.
Mendel apologizes: “I don’t mean to get too Zen on you.”
It sounds about as mystical as Zen. Maybe it’s one of those things that we’ll get when we see it. And see it, we soon will.
2008: A Milestone Year for Acura
As 2006 was a milestone for Acura turning 20, 2008 will be a milestone year in laying out Acura’s new direction, Mendel suggests.
“For the first time in its history, we’ve got a very clear vision of what the brand is going to be when it grows up,” says Mendel. “The next three to four years are going to be absolutely critical for us to put a fine point on that.”
Mendel notes the all-new RDX and redesigned MDX tip the future direction of Acura.
“Next year at this time, you will have a pretty good idea of the direction we’re heading,” Mendel assures. “You will not see a big bang -– as if suddenly it was this and now it isn’t. Rather, you’ll start to see vehicles roll out in the 2008 calendar year with not so much styling differences but technology and philosophy differences." Mendel notes the new RDX and redesigned MDX hint at the future direction of Acura. And while Mendel won't talk about future models, it is widely known that the new TL and a new TSX will go on sale next fall as 2009 models. Little is known about them, and, as of yet, only the TL has been captured by spy photographers. Mendel would only say that as with all future Acura and Honda models, more distinction will exist between the Honda Accord, upon which the TL has been based, and the new TL. "If you like what we did with the Accord, wait till you see what we do with the TL," he said.
Acura recently opened its first U.S. design studio and now has separate R&D operations in Japan. Down the line, Acura introduces a new NSX in 2009 as a 2010 model. The car has been spotted doing laps on the Nürburgring. In addition to being more distinct from Hondas, future Acuras will emphasize performance that drivers can live with daily — features like the RDX's turbocharged engine, a future V10 engine and, possibly, clean diesels. Acura also will focus on technology, but technology that is simple and intuitive.
By far, 2008, may be a (no redesign, no refresh) Acura lineup, but it's stall for things to come.
Honda Civic Once Again Canada's Best Selling Passenger Car for August 2007
Strong sales for the Canadian Honda Civic have kept it on top of new car sales list for August. In total, the Civic have also topped the year-to-date sales to the end of August. Earlier this year, it looked like a few cars like Mazda 3 could've taken over the Civic but now, August sales results have put that notion to rest.
Civic sales were up 30.7 per cent in Canada in August and are now up 9.6 per cent year-to-date. A number of other small entry-level vehicles are having a great year as well, but none of them will capture the best-selling car award, at least in 2007.
The top ten best-selling passenger cars in Canada in August were the Honda Civic, Mazda3, Toyota Corolla, Chevrolet Cobalt, Toyota Yaris, Ford Focus, Toyota Camry, Pontiac Pursuit/G5, Nissan Versa and Toyota Matrix.
Year-to-date to the end of August, the top ten were the Honda Civic, Mazda3, Toyota Corolla, Toyota Yaris, Chevrolet Cobalt, Toyota Camry, Pontiac Pursuit/G5, Ford Focus, Toyota Matrix and Nissan Versa.
Among light-duty trucks, the top ten in August, were the Ford F-Series, Dodge Caravan, Dodge Ram, Chevrolet Silverado, Ford Escape/Escape Hybrid, GMC Sierra, Ford Ranger, Honda CR-V, Pontiac Montana SV6 and Chevrolet Uplander.
Year-to-date to the end of August, the top ten were the Ford F-Series, Dodge Caravan, Dodge Ram, GMC Sierra, Chevrolet Silverado, Ford Escape/Escape Hybrid, Ford Ranger, Pontiac Montana SV6, Chevrolet Uplander and Honda CR-V.
Civic sales were up 30.7 per cent in Canada in August and are now up 9.6 per cent year-to-date. A number of other small entry-level vehicles are having a great year as well, but none of them will capture the best-selling car award, at least in 2007.
The top ten best-selling passenger cars in Canada in August were the Honda Civic, Mazda3, Toyota Corolla, Chevrolet Cobalt, Toyota Yaris, Ford Focus, Toyota Camry, Pontiac Pursuit/G5, Nissan Versa and Toyota Matrix.
Year-to-date to the end of August, the top ten were the Honda Civic, Mazda3, Toyota Corolla, Toyota Yaris, Chevrolet Cobalt, Toyota Camry, Pontiac Pursuit/G5, Ford Focus, Toyota Matrix and Nissan Versa.
Among light-duty trucks, the top ten in August, were the Ford F-Series, Dodge Caravan, Dodge Ram, Chevrolet Silverado, Ford Escape/Escape Hybrid, GMC Sierra, Ford Ranger, Honda CR-V, Pontiac Montana SV6 and Chevrolet Uplander.
Year-to-date to the end of August, the top ten were the Ford F-Series, Dodge Caravan, Dodge Ram, GMC Sierra, Chevrolet Silverado, Ford Escape/Escape Hybrid, Ford Ranger, Pontiac Montana SV6, Chevrolet Uplander and Honda CR-V.
2008 Honda S2000/CR
The on sale dates of the 2008 S2000/CR have been pushed for October 6th for US.
Expect Canadians to get the 2008 S2000 in November.
Expect Canadians to get the 2008 S2000 in November.
2008 Odyssey Owner's Manual Photos
This is the new Bluetooth with HandsFreeLink buttons with the new Bluetooth System. This is available only on the Touring.
This is the new PlusOne Seat Console located under the seat cushion of the PlusOne seat. This is not available on LX models.
This is the slightly redesigned in-floor storage with a new handy cover for the handle. Note that the PlusOne seat cushion can be put in there. Standard on all models.
This is the cupholders, tray section of the PlusOne seat, also new for 2008. This is not available on LX models.
This is the new Auto Dimming Rearview Mirror, now standard on the 2008 Canadian EX-L and US EX-L without NAVI models. However, when the ignition is ON and transmission in REAR, a rearview picture is displayed on the left side of the mirror.
This is the new Audio Auxiliary Input Jack located beside the 12-volt power outlet. It replaces the previous dual power outlets. This is standard on all models.
2008 Honda Odyssey Details
US Odyssey Models: LX, EX, EX-L, EX-L with RES/NAVI, Touring, Touring with PAX
Canadian Odyssey Models: LX-G, EX, EX-L, Touring
In other details, there is a slightly revised steering wheel with slightly revised gauges, a new PlusOne Seat console with fold-down seatback cupholders and tray, newly standard Active Front Head Restraints, newly standard MP3/WMA capability audio, newly standard Auxiliary Input Jack, newly available Bluetooth with HandsFreeLink, newly available Auto Dimming Rearview Mirror with Rearview Display in Mirror and more.
Expected arrival dates: US- Early-Mid-October, Canada- Mid-Late November.
Canadian Odyssey Models: LX-G, EX, EX-L, Touring
In other details, there is a slightly revised steering wheel with slightly revised gauges, a new PlusOne Seat console with fold-down seatback cupholders and tray, newly standard Active Front Head Restraints, newly standard MP3/WMA capability audio, newly standard Auxiliary Input Jack, newly available Bluetooth with HandsFreeLink, newly available Auto Dimming Rearview Mirror with Rearview Display in Mirror and more.
Expected arrival dates: US- Early-Mid-October, Canada- Mid-Late November.
2008 Canadian Acura MDX Now On Sale!
The 2008 Canadian Acura MDX is now on sale! There are only colour changes and a new standard Auto Dimming Rearview Mirror for the 2008 Canadian MDX.
For more on the 2008 Canadian Acura MDX go to this site @ http://www.acura.ca/index.html?fileId=7.0&lang=1
2008 Canadian Acura TSX Now On Sale!
The 2008 Canadian Acura TSX is now on sale! There are no changes for the 2008 Canadian TSX.
For more on the 2008 Canadian Acura TSX go to this site @ http://www.acura.ca/index.html?fileId=7.0&lang=1
Honda Civic Recall
Honda is recalling more than 182,000 2006/2007 Honda Civics because the wheels are prone to fall off. The trouble comes from a leaky O-ring in the wheel speed sensor in wich water could damage the wheel bearing which could result in one of the four wheels falling off. Owners of the affected Civics can expect a note in the mail from Honda, offering to fix the problem and replace any damaged parts.
2008 US Honda Accord Now On Sale!
The 2008 Honda Accord is here!
Find it @ automobiles.honda.com/accord
Honda Accord Tourer Concept
It's just a concept at the Frankfurt Auto Show, but expect Honda to forward at least 90% of it to the 2009 Euro Honda Accord/Acura TSX. Although it may not arrive here in TSX form but definitely expect the sedan version to arrive here in TSX form. It will feature the 2.0- and 2.4-liter gas engines, as well as Honda's 2.2-liter diesel, as options when it goes into production, which means it will be a full all-Euro 5-compliant vehicle across the board.
We'll see much more with the official final version, at the Geneva Auto Show.
Honda S2000 Type-S
The Honda S2000 CR will be called the Honda S2000 Type-S in Japan. These pics were caught on the Honda Japan's website. However, the difference between the CR and Type-S is that the Type-S will feature the soft-top rather than the CR's hardtop.
Expect this to be featured in October's Tokyo Show.
Stay tuned!
BREAKING NEWS! CONFIRMED REPORTS OF 2008 CANADIAN HONDA CIVIC SI SEDAN!
Yes, I am not fooling you, but this is official: The 2008 Honda Civic Si Sedan will be available in Canada.
The Civic Si Sedan will be available in early October starting at $26,680. It will be identical to the Civic Si Coupe except for of course, four doors.
What this means to the Acura CSX, it may be a early fortell of the end of the CSX in Canada, but hey, who knows?
The Civic Si Sedan will be available in early October starting at $26,680. It will be identical to the Civic Si Coupe except for of course, four doors.
What this means to the Acura CSX, it may be a early fortell of the end of the CSX in Canada, but hey, who knows?
2008 US Honda Accord Pricing
Press Release
The all-new, completely redesigned 2008 Honda Accord is set to debut at dealerships nationwide on September 12 (sedan) and September 20 (coupe), with Manufacturer Suggested Retail Prices1 (MSRP) ranging from $20,360 for the well-equipped Accord LX Sedan to $30,510 for the sporty and luxurious Accord EX-L V-6 Coupe equipped with the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation2 System™, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today. "The 2008 Honda Accord adds popular features and enhancements while maintaining competitive, value-oriented pricing on every model," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "A new, innovative design with improved packaging and even more refined performance adds to the Accord's strong foundation of historically high residual values, renowned manufacturing quality and legendary reliability." Compared to the outgoing 2007 Accord, the 2008 Accord pricing reflects a sales-weighted increase of approximately $600 (2.5 percent) across the entire lineup while adding approximately $1,400 in relative value through new standard features and enhanced equipment. All 4-cylinder models add Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®), 11 horsepower (24 horsepower on Accord EX and EX-L Sedans and all Accord Coupes), rear disc brakes (LX), larger wheels and tires and audio system enhancements. The audio system enhancements include an MP3/auxiliary input jack, steering wheel audio controls (LX), MP3/Windows Media® Audio3 (WMA) playback capability and Radio Data System (RDS). New standard features and enhancements on V-6 models include Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®) on automatic transmission models, a 24-horsepower increase, audio system enhancements, fog lights and more. The Accord is available in sedan and coupe body styles with 2.4-liter 4-cylinder and 3.5-liter V-6 engine choices. Available transmissions include a 5-speed manual (standard with all 4-cylinder engines), a 5-speed automatic (standard on V-6 sedan models, available on all 4-cylinder engines and V-6-powered Accord Coupes), and a 6-speed manual transmission (available exclusively on the Accord EX-L V-6 Coupe). The available 3.5-liter i-VTEC V-6 engine produces 268 horsepower - the most ever for any Accord - while introducing a new generation of fuel-saving VCM technology and achieving a Partial Zero-Emissions Vehicle (PZEV4) rating. The VCM system, standard on all automatic transmission-equipped V-6 models, operates in 6-cylinder mode for power and 4- and 3-cylinder modes for efficiency, resulting in an EPA city/highway fuel economy rating of 19/295 miles per gallon (Accord V-6 Sedan). New for Accord, the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure enhances frontal collision compatibility with vehicles of different sizes and bumper heights. Additional safety equipment standard to all Accord models includes VSA, also known as Electronic Stability Control; side-curtain airbags; dual-chamber front side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS), active front seat head restraints, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution, brake assist and more. Sedan trim levels range from the well-equipped Accord LX Sedan and plus-featured LX-P (177-horsepower 4-cylinder engine), to the nicely-equipped Accord EX Sedan (190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine or 268-horsepower V-6 engine), to the premium and upscale Accord EX-L Sedan (190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine or 268-horsepower V-6 engine). Coupe trim levels range from the well-equipped Accord LX-S Coupe (190 horsepower 4-cylinder engine), to the nicely-equipped Accord EX Coupe (190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine) to the premium and upscale Accord EX-L Coupe (190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine or 268-horsepower V-6 engine). Dimensionally, the Accord Sedan's overall length of 194.1 inches (4-cylinder models, V-6 models add 0.2 inches for front spoiler lip) is 3.0 inches longer than the 2007 model. The width of 72.7 inches is 1.1 inches wider, and the height of 58.1 inches is 0.9 inches taller. Premium quality with a simple, modern and spacious design describes the philosophy behind the Accord's interior. The larger Accord LX Sedan total interior volume of 120.0 cubic feet (+3.3 cubic feet compared to 2007) moves the EPA classification from the midsize sedan class to the large sedan class. The additional space is intended to provide "equal" seating comfort for front and rear passengers. Rear legroom of 37.2 inches (+0.4 inches) approaches the impressive second row legroom of the Honda Pilot SUV (37.4 inches). The wider interior (+1.5 inches) allows the front seats to be positioned farther apart to allow for a wide center console more commonly associated with the finest luxury vehicles. Three impressive audio systems are available - all with MP3/WMA playback capability and an auxiliary input jack. The standard system features 160 watts, a single-disc CD player and six speakers. The RDS displays information broadcast by participating radio stations that often includes call letters, station type and programming information. The Accord EX Sedan and all Accord Coupes add a 6-disc in-dash changer. The premium audio system, which comes standard on Accord EX Coupe and EX-L Sedan models, has a six-disc CD changer, 270 watts of total amplification and seven speakers, including an 8-inch subwoofer. XM® Satellite Radio6 is standard equipment on all Accord EX-L models. The latest-generation of the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with voice recognition (available on EX-L) uses an 8-inch screen and an interface dial for user input. Features include the Zagat7 Survey® guide for restaurants, nightlife, hotels and attractions. Navigation-equipped models also include Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®8. A performance-inspired, double-wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension are designed to provide world-class chassis dynamics. The Accord Sedan wheelbase of 110.2 inches is 2.3 inches longer than the 2007 model, while the 62.2-inch front/rear track is 1.1 and 1.0 inches wider, respectively. The Accord Coupe wheelbase of 107.9 inches is 2.8 inches longer than the 2007 model (track is identical to sedan). Ultimately, the suspension design with wider tire sizes, standard ABS and standard VSA is intended to enhance driver confidence and handling performance. The 2008 Accord Sedan also comes standard with 16-inch steel wheels with wheel covers, or 16- or 17-inch alloy wheels, depending on model. (The Accord Coupe has 17-inch alloy wheels standard, with 18-inch alloys available on the V-6 Coupe). The 17-inch wheels are the first for a four-cylinder Accord and the Coupe's available 18-inch wheels are the largest ever for a Honda car. The Honda Accord was first Japanese-nameplate car assembled in the United States and calendar year 2007 represents the 25th anniversary of its manufacture here. The first Japanese-built Accord was introduced as a 1976 model, and by 1982 it was being manufactured both in Japan and in a brand-new automobile assembly plant in Marysville, Ohio. The success of the Accord set a path for Honda, and conclusively proved that assembling cars in America was a viable proposition. Seven more Accord generations followed, leading to the eighth-generation 2008 Accord.
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