As we all know, Toyota made major headlines this year with its unintended accelerating/pedals/floor mats recalls along with a slew of other recalls having it become the automaker with the most recalls in 2010.
On the other hand, Honda and Ford had the least recalls in 2010. For more information on some of the recalls done by Honda and Acura this year, visit our Recalls link on your bottom right.
Acura TL Wins ALG Award
The TL took first place in the quality of the vehicle, performance, value and other categories.
"It is an honor to win our fourth ALG award for the TL, the TL combines the best of advanced technology, luxury, performance and quality at an unbeatable value," said Jeff Conrad, VP of Acura Sales of America.
Acura's Future Compact to be named IL?
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| Acura's compact luxury sedan, a rebadged Honda Civic called the CSX is sold in Canada and will be phased out to make way for the new IL |
Cars.com 2011 Honda Accord SE Review
" The Honda Accord satisfies the principal needs for family-car shoppers, but Honda's dropped the ball in a few areas, and competitors are more than catching up. "
Visit their website @ http://www.cars.com/honda/accord/2011/reviews/?revid=56830
BREAKING NEWS: Hackers Hit American Honda
Hackers have hit American Honda and Acura. Honda has contacted up to 2.2 million customers after hackers stole a database containing names, emails and VINs (Vehicle ID Number, unique 17 digit ID located on your dashboard of your Honda).
The danger here is that these cybercriminals who have stolen the database may use the list to send emails to Honda customers, tricking them into clicking on malicious attachments/link or sending off their personal information to the cybercriminals. They are able to identify themselves as Honda because they can quote your Vehicle ID Number so be aware of the emails you are receiving from Honda.
According to Columbus Dispatch, the database was stolen from a third-party company who sent out Welcome emails to customers who created website accounts with the firm.
2.7 million customers of American Acura were also exposed to hackers from a different list, although this list seems to be only email addresses included. However, these email addresses could be used to send spam.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, HIT THEIR WEBSITE ABOUT CHANGING YOUR PASSWORD: http://www.honda.com/info/b/
The danger here is that these cybercriminals who have stolen the database may use the list to send emails to Honda customers, tricking them into clicking on malicious attachments/link or sending off their personal information to the cybercriminals. They are able to identify themselves as Honda because they can quote your Vehicle ID Number so be aware of the emails you are receiving from Honda.
According to Columbus Dispatch, the database was stolen from a third-party company who sent out Welcome emails to customers who created website accounts with the firm.
2.7 million customers of American Acura were also exposed to hackers from a different list, although this list seems to be only email addresses included. However, these email addresses could be used to send spam.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, HIT THEIR WEBSITE ABOUT CHANGING YOUR PASSWORD: http://www.honda.com/info/b/
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to my Readers!
Wishing all of you a Merry Christmas and a joyful holiday season and a wonderful new year ahead! :) And this blog will continue to chug along through the next few months or perhaps even years.
Acura/Honda News Update
2011 Honda Accord now on sale in the United Arab Emirates
The new refreshed 2011 Honda Accord Coupe and Sedan models are now on sale in the UAE, as well as parts of Saudi Arabia will be receiving the model shortly.
2011 Acura MDX awarded a NHTSA 5-star safety rating
The 2011 Acura MDX received a 5 star safety rating from the new NHTSA scoring system announced today. The rating is composed of a four-star frontal rating, a four-star rollover test and a perfect five-star rating for the side pole and barrier tests. However, the MDX had 11 ounces of gasoline leaked from the fuel system on the side barrier test and could've caused a fire in a reality accident situation leading to an asterisk being placed next to its rating.
MotorTrend Wraps Up Long-Term 2010 Honda Insight
"In the original story introducing the Honda Insight to our long-term fleet, I had a bit of fun recounting that, when I first encountered the Clear Sky Blue hybrid, my knee-jerk response was "Ack, ack!" I couldn't think of a better way to greet this otherworldly automotive invader than in the mono-word language of Tim Burton's alien invaders from his classic "Mars Attacks!" (What? It's not a classic?)
But after 12 months and 19,591 miles living with Insight serial number JHMZE2H7XAS000078, the toughest questions we have aren't the usual worn sneakers about reliability and cost of ownership and so on. Strangely enough, it's its alienness. What started as a bit of fun has become the most serious question we have about the Insight. "
For more information, visit their website @ http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/oneyear/1102_2010_honda_insight_ex_verdict/index.html
BREAKING NEWS: Honda Continues its Latest Recall Campaign with Accord/Pilot models
Honda is recalling 10 800 Accord Sedans and Pilot SUVs to prevent possible front suspension failure. This recall covers 2010-2011 Accord sedans and 2011 Pilot SUVs in the US. Honda will be recalling 442 Pilot SUVs in Canada but will not be recalling any Accords. The problem is fixated upon machinery that is used to tighten nuts on the vehicles' front axles. On the Pilot, there is a damper attachment bracket bolt problem that could cause these mechanisms to fail, a flaw in the equipment software on Honda's Alabama assembly plant was found and identified earlier this month. What they will do is inspect the problem areas and if needed, replace the spindle nuts and replace the front bracket bolts. Honda will notify owners this week and repairs will be done at Honda dealers.
2011 Acura RL First Road Test
Subtle balance is the key to most things in life and this is a notion that Acura stuck to very wisely with the newly redesigned 2011 Acura RL. Now, keep in mind that this is just a small “nip and tuck” so the 2011 RL still looks just as squat, purposeful and handsome as it ever did. It just has a smaller nose. Now do you see why I am using plastic surgery analogies? "
Acura News - December 21, 2010
2011 Acura RL US Pricing Announced
Acura's full-size sedan got a slew of upgrades for 2011 and it is now on sale, pricing starts at $48 060 for the base model, $52 210 for the Technology Package and $56 010 for the Advance Package. Prices include shipping.
2011 Acura ZDX US Pricing Announced
Acura's flagship model is also now on sale for 2011, with pricing starting from $46 505 for the base model, the Technology Package is priced at $51 005 and the Advance Package is priced at $57 055. Pricing includes shipping.
Half of Prospective Acura Buyers are turned off from styling
Acura has been definitely harshly criticized for its styling choices, since the debut of the "beak" on the 2009 Acura TL, but now a J.D. Power Avoidance Study cites that more than half of possible Acura buyers were turned off from the brand because of the styling elements. Interior styling was the second reason why they did not choose an Acura. Lately, it looks like Acura is listening with a massive redesign of its beaks starting from the 2011 TL/TSX models. However, damage has already been done to the overall sales and the current transaction prices sitting at an average price of $37 665, more than $5 000 less than its rivals. Initial quality and residual value remain strong despite the poor showings in styling. Acura/Honda would be wise to carefully pick out the styling direction of future Acura models.
Future of Acura
At the debut of the RL, the press asked questions on the future of the RL as well as what will come down the pipe for Acura. They most certainly said that the RL will remain as a conservative model no matter what kind of redesign will come (new model expected in about 12-18 months) and will most certainly not include a V8. They believed that the RL customer is conservative so the car most definitely has to be conservative as well. It looks like the next RL will continue to build upon and hopefully spur some momentum and excitement into the current vehicle's dying and sputtering image, expect a horsepower bump to around 350hp to make it competitive. The press was also told that something very Acura unconventional-like was to be introduced as well, in about 12-18 months when the new RL is introduced. Much of the technology already developed in previous NSX mules we're told, will be used in this new car. So whatever it is ... cross your fingers? Will it be an NSX? Will it be a compact sports car? What do you want it to be? Comment below!
Acura's Status
As a result, Honda’s luxury brand had to step-back and reexamine what its goals were. The exact message Acura wants to send isn’t clear and execs at the company admit that the current plan of branding the automaker as Honda-plus is not what they want. However, that has worked for Acura over the years and the plan is to still push ahead with vehicles that are performance-oriented but which are also a good value with normal maintenance and ownership costs.
According to Acura dealer Jim Smail, the automaker is committed to the brand and will be injecting more money into it over the next few years – particularly in developing new products. Smail says that at a recent dealer meeting in Denver dealer reps were told that Honda will expand the Acura lineup, with new hybrid powertrains, but also into new segments – likely returning to the premium compact arena where it has had so much success in the past. That won’t just mean a rebadged version of the Civic though, says Center, who highlights the Canadian-market CSX (a rebadged Civic) as exactly how not to transform Acura.
Honda Accord SE Review
"With only 955 miles on the odometer, our silver over black Accord test car still had that lovely sense of newness about it. That sense was deepened, for me, because I haven't been in an Accord for a couple of years. This year, the Accord certainly has been overshadowed by the Hyundai Sonata, but it was nice to get back into one and rediscover that it's still a very good car, although this particular iteration has been around for a while. The exterior styling has not been deemed a success -- I don't think even within Honda. There's an awkward formality to it; it doesn't quite hang together. It's not offensive, but it's not particularly fluid. The interior is a perfectly pleasant place, if a little somber; ours was all black with a little bit of silver-colored trim. However, the ergonomics are pretty much faultless. The center stack controls are very clear; our modestly priced example did not have a nav system, just a small display screen at the top of the center stack showing the clock and radio information. As far as I could tell, there was no display for climate control information, which is something you now get in a lot of cars in this class these days."
For more on the review, visit Automobile's website @ http://www.automobilemag.com/reviews/editors_notebook/1012_2011_honda_accord_4_door_se/index.html
Honda EVs in California
Honda has also announced that the Fit EV will hit the roads in Torrance, California in the beginning of 2011. Its Accord Sedan EV will also be on the roads by 2012 with a new plug-in hybrid powertrain. Stanford University and Google will also receive Fit EVs by the end of next year. Torrance is planning to use Fit EV cars in various city departments.
Honda plans to launch the Fit EV in 2012 as a 2013 model, with the Fit battery pack allowing the vehicle a range of 100 miles and a top speed of up to 90 miles per hour.
Honda will also launch a new two-motor hybrid system in a larger model in 2012 along with a new Honda model that will use a 6kw-hour lithium-ion battery pack with a 120-kw electric drive motor.
Honda EVs in China
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| Honda's Fit EV showcased in Japan on Monday |
Honda has announced that the company is studying the possibility and viability of electric vehicles in China. It is the latest in a series of Japanese automakers, Nissan and Toyota to study potential demand for EVs in China. Honda is considering initiating an EV testing program in China as well as the US and Japan. Honda's CEO thinks the chances are good in China for EVs long-term viability. However Honda is still being cautious about the prospects of these EVs because the costs of making vehicles that run on electricity only are still very high.
Electric vehicles are expected to account for only around 1-2% of 2020 global vehicle sales.
Honda will be using its Accord EV and Fit EV for these testing programs and will depend on the environmental policies that different Chinese governments will adopt to encourage these purchasing of these EVs.
Honda Accord EV Pictures
What are your thoughts on a Honda family sedan that can achieve the same EV requirements as the next generation 2012 Toyota Prius? Suitable technology for the future? Comment below!
Honda announces new China brand
Honda's automotive production and sales joint venture, Guangqi Honda has announced a new compact sedan model as part of the Li Nan (Everus) lineup in China. This car will be known as the Li Nian S1, based on Honda's City with a 1.3L/1.5L engines and will be available for order come Spring 2011.
"Li Nian" (Everus) is Guangqi Honda's original automobile brand with Guangqi Honda fully handling each step including design, production and sales with the goal of targeting the younger generation and entry level car customers. By introducing the Li Nian (Everus) brand, Honda will further expand its line-ups in China while continuously enhancing the quality of the brand to meet the diversifying needs of customers in the expanding China market.
Acura MDX Review
" It was on the way home during this season’s first snowstorm that I realized why Acura sells so many of its MDX crossovers. "
@ http://www.bclocalnews.com/lifestyles/112013869.html
Honda Accord Hybrid Investigation
"A little more than five years after a crash killed Lalitha Seetharaman’s husband, Gautam, she is hoping the NHTSA will be able to confirm her contention that her Honda Accord Hybrid’s brakes were responsible for his death."
For more information on the story, visit http://wheels.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/12/17/woman-asks-federal-agency-to-investigate-honda-accord-hybrid/?src=mv
Honda Passport Recall
Honda is recalling 35,000 of its Passport SUVs due to rear suspension problems. Honda wants to double check the brackets on the rear suspension that could detach from the frame and lead to a possible accident. About 30 complaints have been reported. California is not included in this recall batch, all drivers are asked to visit their local dealer for more information.
Will Honda Brio Sell?
If you have been keenly observing the auto market in India, you will notice that every now and then, an auto manufacturer gets its wrong. Almost all companies have got some product under their belly that they are not very proud of. Even the son of the soil, Maruti Suzuki has burnt their hands with the Grand Vitara and Versa. Not Honda! Honda has got all their products right in India. And it is not even that they were strictly playing by the rules. I mean come on. How did Honda manage to sell thousands of 8 lakh rupee hatchbacks (Honda Jazz)? The answer lies in the question: ‘Honda.’ Brand ‘Honda’ stands tall as much in the first hand market as it does in the second hand market. And trust me, Honda has seen its fare share of ‘cars up in flames’ and ‘factory recalls’. But still the image of Big ‘H’ has never been charred and has manage to mop up as many J D Power ‘Quality’ awards as it can.
Let’s hope Honda gets it right or the Brio will be Honda’s first shame-child in India.
Wall Street Journal: Honda China Expectations
TOKYO (Dow Jones)--Honda Motor Co. (7267.TO) aims to boost its sales in China by 12% in 2011 compared with this year, a Honda executive said Friday, in a sign that the company expects the key market to continue to log solid growth.
The Japanese car maker is targeting sales of 730,000 vehicles in China for 2011, up from its estimated 2010 sales of 650,000 vehicles, Seiji Kuraishi, the head of Honda's China operations, said at a meeting with reporters.
The company's estimated sales for 2010 also represents a 12% increase from the previous year.
The 12% growth target for next year is upbeat, as it would beat a 10% rise in industrywide sales expected by Xiong Chuanlin, vice secretary of the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers.
Kuraishi also said that the company wants to produce hybrid vehicles in China, in a bid to make them more affordable for the local market. A monthly output volume of at least 2,000 hybrid cars would be needed, he said without elaborating.
Honda currently sells a hybrid version of the Civic small car in China that is imported from Japan. But sales totaled only about 200 units in 2009.
The car maker plans to broaden its hybrid lineup in China by rolling out two more models--the Insight car and the CR-Z coupe---in 2012.
Those models will also be imported from Japan, at least initially.
The Japanese car maker is targeting sales of 730,000 vehicles in China for 2011, up from its estimated 2010 sales of 650,000 vehicles, Seiji Kuraishi, the head of Honda's China operations, said at a meeting with reporters.
The company's estimated sales for 2010 also represents a 12% increase from the previous year.
The 12% growth target for next year is upbeat, as it would beat a 10% rise in industrywide sales expected by Xiong Chuanlin, vice secretary of the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers.
Kuraishi also said that the company wants to produce hybrid vehicles in China, in a bid to make them more affordable for the local market. A monthly output volume of at least 2,000 hybrid cars would be needed, he said without elaborating.
Honda currently sells a hybrid version of the Civic small car in China that is imported from Japan. But sales totaled only about 200 units in 2009.
The car maker plans to broaden its hybrid lineup in China by rolling out two more models--the Insight car and the CR-Z coupe---in 2012.
Those models will also be imported from Japan, at least initially.
Associated Press: Honda Lobbying in 3Q
DETROIT (AP) — American Honda Motor Inc. spent $545,682 lobbying the federal government on automotive safety legislation, trade and other issues in the third quarter, according to a recent disclosure form.
That's an increase from the $418,919 is spent in the second quarter but less than the $570,634 it spent in the third quarter last year.
American Honda, the U.S. subsidiary of the Japanese automaker, said it lobbied both houses of Congress during the July-to-September quarter on the Vehicle Safety Act, the legislation overhauling auto safety laws in the wake of Toyota Motor Co.'s huge safety-related recalls.
It also lobbied the government on legislation that would extend tax credits for hydrogen fuel-cell powered vehicles, which Honda makes, and legislation that would require foreign companies to hire trade agents that would be held legally accountable for products entering the U.S., according to the report filed Oct. 20 with the House clerk's office.
That's an increase from the $418,919 is spent in the second quarter but less than the $570,634 it spent in the third quarter last year.
American Honda, the U.S. subsidiary of the Japanese automaker, said it lobbied both houses of Congress during the July-to-September quarter on the Vehicle Safety Act, the legislation overhauling auto safety laws in the wake of Toyota Motor Co.'s huge safety-related recalls.
It also lobbied the government on legislation that would extend tax credits for hydrogen fuel-cell powered vehicles, which Honda makes, and legislation that would require foreign companies to hire trade agents that would be held legally accountable for products entering the U.S., according to the report filed Oct. 20 with the House clerk's office.
PR: Honda Electric Models in California
Honda launched an Electric Vehicle Demonstration Program today with Torrance Mayor Frank Scotto and American Honda Motor Co., Inc. President and CEO, Tetsuo Iwamura, conducting the first public test drive of a Fit EV prototype and an Accord Sedan test vehicle outfitted with a new two-motor plug-in hybrid system.
The city of Torrance along with Stanford University and Google Inc., will each receive a Fit EV for testing starting in 2011. In addition, the city of Torrance will test a plug-in hybrid as a part of the program in 2012. Each of the three demonstration program participants will conduct general testing as well as evaluating specific and distinct issues related to the introduction of electric vehicles.
"The goal of the Honda Electric Vehicle Demonstration Program is to more fully understand the challenges and opportunities associated with such a fundamental shift in technology," said Tetsuo Iwamura, American Honda Motor Co, Inc., President and CEO. "The city of Torrance and the other participants will play a key role, by providing real-world feedback on their experience. They will help us tackle the important issues surrounding customer adoption of electric vehicles."
When the city of Torrance receives their Fit EV and plug-in hybrid, they will be evaluating the technologies with a focus on charging infrastructure development, promotion of sustainable community initiatives and to building public awareness about electric vehicles.
The Fit EV and plug-in hybrid will be used by several Torrance city departments, including the Community Development department and Public Works office, along with the Economic Development office.
The Fit EV Concept made its world debut on November 17, 2010 at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The production Fit EV will be introduced to customers in the U.S. and Japan in 2012. The Fit EV is designed to meet the daily driving needs of the average metropolitan commuter and utilizes the same 5-passenger layout found in the popular Fit hatchback.
The Fit EV will be powered by a lithium-ion battery and coaxial electric motor. The high-density motor, derived from the FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle, delivers excellent efficiency and power while remaining quiet at high speeds. The Fit EV will have a top speed of 90 mph. Recharging the Fit EV can be accomplished in less than 12 hours when using a conventional 120-volt outlet, and less than six hours when using a 240-volt outlet.
The Fit EV will achieve an estimated 100-mile driving range per charge using the US EPA LA41 city cycle (70 miles when applying EPA's adjustment factor). Driving range can be maximized by use of an innovative 3-mode electric drive system, adapted from the 2011 Honda CR-Z sport hybrid. The system allows the driver to select between Econ, Normal, and Sport to instantly and seamlessly change the driving experience to maximize efficiency or improve acceleration.
Honda also unveiled a plug-in hybrid platform at the Los Angeles Auto Show, which showcased Honda's next-generation two-motor hybrid system. This new hybrid system is designed for mid-size to larger vehicles and will be introduced in a future Honda model in 2012. The plug-in hybrid is intended to be compatible with daily driving habits, allowing for short, frequent trips in all-electric mode, while providing long-distance driving capability when needed. The Honda two-motor system continuously moves through three different modes to maximize driving efficiency: all-electric, gasoline-electric and a unique, engine direct-drive mode. The plug-in hybrid also uses regenerative braking to charge the battery.
In all-electric mode, the vehicle uses a 6kWh lithium-ion battery and a powerful 120 kW electric motor. The all-electric mode achieves a range of approximately 10-15 miles in city driving and a top speed of 62 mph. Fully recharging the battery will take 3 to 4 hours using a 120-volt outlet and 1 to 1.5 hours using a 240-volt outlet.
The city of Torrance along with Stanford University and Google Inc., will each receive a Fit EV for testing starting in 2011. In addition, the city of Torrance will test a plug-in hybrid as a part of the program in 2012. Each of the three demonstration program participants will conduct general testing as well as evaluating specific and distinct issues related to the introduction of electric vehicles.
"The goal of the Honda Electric Vehicle Demonstration Program is to more fully understand the challenges and opportunities associated with such a fundamental shift in technology," said Tetsuo Iwamura, American Honda Motor Co, Inc., President and CEO. "The city of Torrance and the other participants will play a key role, by providing real-world feedback on their experience. They will help us tackle the important issues surrounding customer adoption of electric vehicles."
When the city of Torrance receives their Fit EV and plug-in hybrid, they will be evaluating the technologies with a focus on charging infrastructure development, promotion of sustainable community initiatives and to building public awareness about electric vehicles.
The Fit EV and plug-in hybrid will be used by several Torrance city departments, including the Community Development department and Public Works office, along with the Economic Development office.
The Fit EV Concept made its world debut on November 17, 2010 at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The production Fit EV will be introduced to customers in the U.S. and Japan in 2012. The Fit EV is designed to meet the daily driving needs of the average metropolitan commuter and utilizes the same 5-passenger layout found in the popular Fit hatchback.
The Fit EV will be powered by a lithium-ion battery and coaxial electric motor. The high-density motor, derived from the FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle, delivers excellent efficiency and power while remaining quiet at high speeds. The Fit EV will have a top speed of 90 mph. Recharging the Fit EV can be accomplished in less than 12 hours when using a conventional 120-volt outlet, and less than six hours when using a 240-volt outlet.
The Fit EV will achieve an estimated 100-mile driving range per charge using the US EPA LA41 city cycle (70 miles when applying EPA's adjustment factor). Driving range can be maximized by use of an innovative 3-mode electric drive system, adapted from the 2011 Honda CR-Z sport hybrid. The system allows the driver to select between Econ, Normal, and Sport to instantly and seamlessly change the driving experience to maximize efficiency or improve acceleration.
Honda also unveiled a plug-in hybrid platform at the Los Angeles Auto Show, which showcased Honda's next-generation two-motor hybrid system. This new hybrid system is designed for mid-size to larger vehicles and will be introduced in a future Honda model in 2012. The plug-in hybrid is intended to be compatible with daily driving habits, allowing for short, frequent trips in all-electric mode, while providing long-distance driving capability when needed. The Honda two-motor system continuously moves through three different modes to maximize driving efficiency: all-electric, gasoline-electric and a unique, engine direct-drive mode. The plug-in hybrid also uses regenerative braking to charge the battery.
In all-electric mode, the vehicle uses a 6kWh lithium-ion battery and a powerful 120 kW electric motor. The all-electric mode achieves a range of approximately 10-15 miles in city driving and a top speed of 62 mph. Fully recharging the battery will take 3 to 4 hours using a 120-volt outlet and 1 to 1.5 hours using a 240-volt outlet.
Canada's Most Stolen Car: Honda Civic
Canadian car thieves seem to have a peculiar taste for 10-year-old Honda Civics. For the fourth year in a row, the Civic leads the list of most stolen cars in Canada.
The 2000 and 1999 Honda Civic are the top two stolen cars in Canada for 2010. (Wes Allison/Associated Press)The 2000 and 1999 Civic SiR two-door are the number 1 and number 2 most stolen cars in Canada, according to the Insurance Bureau of Canada.
Three models of the Acura and the Audi Quattro round out the IBC's list of the top-10 stolen vehicles.
While figures for the total number of vehicles stolen in 2010 aren't in yet, there is some encouraging news from 2009.
Close to $1 billion lost to vehicle theft in 2009
Last year 108,172 vehicles were stolen in Canada, a drop of 15 per cent from 2008. Still, the overall cost of auto theft is close to $1 billion.
The top-10 list of stolen vehicles:
2000 Honda Civic SiR two-door.
1999 Honda Civic SiR two-door.
2002 Cadillac Escalade four-door 4WD.
2004 Cadillac Escalade four-door 4WD.
2005 Acura RSX Type S two-door.
1997 Acura Integra two-door.
2000 Audi Quattro four-door AWD.
2003 Hummer H2 four-door AWD.
2006 Acura RSX Type S two-door.
2004 Hummer H2 four-door AWD.
The 2000 and 1999 Honda Civic are the top two stolen cars in Canada for 2010. (Wes Allison/Associated Press)The 2000 and 1999 Civic SiR two-door are the number 1 and number 2 most stolen cars in Canada, according to the Insurance Bureau of Canada.
Three models of the Acura and the Audi Quattro round out the IBC's list of the top-10 stolen vehicles.
While figures for the total number of vehicles stolen in 2010 aren't in yet, there is some encouraging news from 2009.
Close to $1 billion lost to vehicle theft in 2009
Last year 108,172 vehicles were stolen in Canada, a drop of 15 per cent from 2008. Still, the overall cost of auto theft is close to $1 billion.
The top-10 list of stolen vehicles:
2000 Honda Civic SiR two-door.
1999 Honda Civic SiR two-door.
2002 Cadillac Escalade four-door 4WD.
2004 Cadillac Escalade four-door 4WD.
2005 Acura RSX Type S two-door.
1997 Acura Integra two-door.
2000 Audi Quattro four-door AWD.
2003 Hummer H2 four-door AWD.
2006 Acura RSX Type S two-door.
2004 Hummer H2 four-door AWD.
Extended Report: Honda Fit Recall
Honda says a global recall of 1.35 million Fit subcompact cars that have defective headlight wiring does not include Canadian versions of the model.
The company said the Canadian model is not affected because it has a different wiring system than the recalled vehicles in order to comply with laws that require daytime running lights.
Honda said Thursday it would recall 143,000 cars in the United States and 734,000 cars in Japan, with the Japanese recall costing the company around US$42.8 million.
It will also recall Fit cars in Europe and Asia, but declined to give further details.
Honda said no accidents have been reported due to the defect.
The company said the Canadian model is not affected because it has a different wiring system than the recalled vehicles in order to comply with laws that require daytime running lights.
Honda said Thursday it would recall 143,000 cars in the United States and 734,000 cars in Japan, with the Japanese recall costing the company around US$42.8 million.
It will also recall Fit cars in Europe and Asia, but declined to give further details.
Honda said no accidents have been reported due to the defect.
BREAKING NEWS: Honda Fit Recall
American Honda has announced that it is recalling over 140,000 Fit hatchbacks due to a "potential loss of low-beam headlight functionality," the automaker has told CNN. A total of 143,083 Fits from the 2007 and 2008 model years are affected.
Honda has issued a statement saying that the root of this problem is the plating on the wiring harness connectors for the low-beam headlight circuit. The Japanese automaker states that this plating "can become warn after repeated use ... and cause the connector to overheat and fail, resulting in a loss of low-beam headlight functionality."
Honda has issued a statement saying that the root of this problem is the plating on the wiring harness connectors for the low-beam headlight circuit. The Japanese automaker states that this plating "can become warn after repeated use ... and cause the connector to overheat and fail, resulting in a loss of low-beam headlight functionality."
2011 Honda Civic Shocker
The Honda Civic recently earned an overall three star rating from new safety tests conducted by NHTSA. In side crash tests, the Civic only received a two-star award. The front crash earned itself four stars, the driver front seat earned two stars, and side barrier/pole crash tests amounted to only two stars.
This is a major hit for the Civic despite its six airbags system.
2011 Acura RL
If any Acura needs updating, the RL does. With styling and technology stuck firmly in the current decade, Acura has decided to give the model a nose job and a new six-speed transmission for 2011.
Up front, the 2011 RL's new snout is less bulbous than that of its predecessor - a styling change possibly aimed at helping to silence critics of the controversial familial front end. New 18-inch alloys are perched in the wheelhouses and house special technology to quiet road noise. No other cosmetic changes have been made.
The real news lies underneath the 2011 RL's skin, with a new six-speed SportShift transmission replacing the five-speed used in for the 2010 model year. The new gearbox is a welcome addition to the RL, and helps to boost fuel efficiency from 16/22 mpg city/highway to 17/24 mpg (combined fuel economy increases a full 2 mpg from 18 to 20). The additional cog could also make hilly driving a little less frantic than in the current car.
Pricing has not yet been announced for the 2011 Acura RL, though with the new transmission we expect a minor bump over 2010 prices.
The real news lies underneath the 2011 RL's skin, with a new six-speed SportShift transmission replacing the five-speed used in for the 2010 model year. The new gearbox is a welcome addition to the RL, and helps to boost fuel efficiency from 16/22 mpg city/highway to 17/24 mpg (combined fuel economy increases a full 2 mpg from 18 to 20). The additional cog could also make hilly driving a little less frantic than in the current car.
Pricing has not yet been announced for the 2011 Acura RL, though with the new transmission we expect a minor bump over 2010 prices.
Honda Odyssey, 2011 Automobile Magazine All-Star Winner
Automobile Magazine has named the 2011 Honda Odyssey as one of its 2011 All-Star Awards. This is the 8th time that the Odyssey has captured the award for its versatile and comfortable interior, refined driving dynamics, family friend features and the fuel economy.
"The all-new Odyssey represents the latest and best thinking that Honda has to offer in a minivan, the recognition from this magazine as an All Star is an honor made possible by the hard work and passion that Honda associates have put into the design and construction of the vehicle," said John Mendel, VP of sales at American Honda.
CTV.ca's Honda CR-Z Review
REVIEW COPYRIGHTED BY CTV
Brent Jamieson, CTV.ca News
Date: Wednesday Dec. 15, 2010 7:16 AM ET
This year Honda unveiled its brand new 2011 CR-Z Sport Hybrid – one of their most anticipated 2011 models, with the looks harking back to the CRX of old.
With its sloping nose and high rear end, this car is definitely a head turner, as proved on the drive back one night as I caught glimpse of Acura owner looking over his shoulder as he slowly passed me in rush hour traffic.
Available only in one trim level, the CR-Z has two unique tricks up its sleeve. It is the first Hybrid car to offer a 6-speed manual transmission, in comparison to Honda's current Hybrids (the Civic Hybrid and the Insight) which only come in an automatic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). It also has three different driving modes -- Econ, Normal and Sport. Each mode gives you a different driving experience. Starting at only 23,490, this is the cheapest Hybrid currently on the market.
Options: The CR-Z comes well equipped with 16" Alloy Wheels, 7-speaker audio system, HID (High Intensity Discharge) Headlights, fog lights, audio controls on the steering wheel, cruise control, Bluetooth handsfree connectivity, air conditioning, power doors, power mirrors and power locks. For an extra $800, you can equip the CR-Z with the CVT, which comes with steering wheel paddle shifters – so, even if you don't know how to drive a standard, you can at least have some fun.
Safety: The car comes with 6 airbags, 4-wheel ABS, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, Brake Assist, Hill Assist Start for the manual transmission and Creep-aid System for the CVT– both of which prevent the car from rolling backwards from starting on a hill.
Mileage: Advertised fuel economy of the CR-Z manual is 6.5L/100km for City and 5.3L/100km for highway and a combined fuel economy of 6L/100km.
The fuel economy of the CVT is 5.6L/100km for City, 5L/100km for Highway and a combined economy of 5.3L/100km. The model I had was equipped with the 6-speed manual transmission and I was able to get, with my daily commute of a combined winter rush hour traffic and city driving, 7.2L/100km. With its 40 litre tank, and 122HP Hybrid engine, this car can get you from A to D and be able to have lots of fun in between.
Dr. Jekyll, Mr. Hyde
When starting the CR-Z, the first thing I picked up was the three buttons just left of the steering wheel marked Econ, Normal and Sport. Those were the clear identifiers of what mode you could put the car into. Every time you start the car, it starts in Normal mode, which I found a bit of annoyance, because if you pulled into your local grocery store in Sport Mode, you'd like to be able to leave in Sport Mode Instead, when you turn off the car, it automatically reverts back to Normal Mode, which is like having your radio programmed to your favourite radio station, and then every time you turn it back on, it sets itself to stations only your grandparents would listen to.
This was annoying, but not hard to change, especially when driving. While driving the car in Econ or Normal mode, I found its standing start and acceleration a little sluggish -- kind of like driving a minivan. But as soon as you hit that Sport mode button, the car transformed itself like a car from a 1980s cartoon into the sport coupe it is designed to be.
The handling, acceleration, and Hybrid system changes with each setting. In Econ mode, the car is as close you can come to a Hybrid. It relies heavily on the electric motor, and when you shift into neutral as you come up to a stop, the electric motor kicks in, shutting off the gas motor so that you are not wasting fuel as you wait your turn to go. The light around the RPM gauge changes from blue to green as you drive in an economical fashion, and you get a shift reminder.
In Normal mode, the acceleration is a little more responsive as the car isn't relying so much on the electric motor, and I found that I was driving in an economical fashion, even at 401 highway speeds, as the blue light changed to green with a slow and steady acceleration. The car will still switch to the electric motor at a standing stop, with the transmission in neutral, like the Econ mode – but it takes it a longer time for that system to activate, especially in the winter, and you still have the shift reminder.
But it's in Sport mode where you have the most fun. Putting the CR-Z in that mode, not only changed the acceleration, but also firmed up the steering, allowing the car to be more responsive to quick directional changes – making it easier to move around Christmas traffic. Not only that, but the car relies more on the gas motor than the electric motor, giving the batteries a chance to charge up with the hybrid system. Display wise, the blue light changes to red and stays red, and the shift reminder -- which you can glance at while driving in Econ and Normal mode -- is shut off, and it is now fully a driver's car.
On the exterior, the car is designed for absolute aerodynamics. From the front grill, to the back bumper, every curve and angle has been considered for not only looks but also performance. Driving straight into a head-wind, and with just a little bit of extra pressure on the gas, the car cut through it like a hot knife through butter without having to grip the wheel with a death-like grip.
But aerodynamics come at a price. With the unique design of the windshield, if you get a rock chip or crack, it could be costly to repair. And with the straight back end of the car, the designers installed a straight back window, to allow you to see clearly out behind you. Which is great, if it comes with a wiper. But because the tinted window at the back is so small, there is no wiper on it, and because it's a straight window, it gets covered in road spray, which makes it difficult to see out of in the winter.
Comfort wise, the CR-Z is planted on the road, and very surefooted, even in the worst conditions. The suspension is like driving a luxury sedan, as not even the harshest of bumps throws off the car. With standard fog lights and HID Headlights, this car is not blind on the road. Inside, the controls are easy to access and clearly marked. The two cup holders are not in the way of the shifter, making it possible to shift without having to reach around, or accidently hit, your coffee that you just picked up from your favourite drive thru -- making this a car that was designed for the manual transmission, before they installed the automatic.
The transmission is very easy to shift and there is no way that you could accidently put it into reverse, or the wrong gear.
With its small size, the designers put in many cubby areas, so that even though you don't have a back seat, you at least have a spot to place your laptop without having to go into the trunk. That being said, because the batteries are right behind the seats, they sacrifice extra leg room making it a tight squeeze for someone over 6 feet.
Cargo capacity, though, is pretty good. The hatch-like trunk allows you to load in a full-size travel bag width wise, plus others without having to fold down the divider between the seats and the trunk. With the divider area down, you gain enough space to load in two sets of golf clubs so that you and a buddy can go golfing. And without a passenger, you can carry something 6 feet in length with the passenger seat moved as far forward and folded as far forward as possible, without a problem. One of the things you need to watch out for when loading the trunk, is that the liftgate doesn't go as high as you think, so you might hit the back of your head on the latch mechanism.
Parking the CR-Z is easy. With its size and tight turning radius, you can park it with the same ease as a sub-compact. Because of its size, you're able to pull into a parking spot beside someone who doesn't know how to park, without having to worry about them hitting you car, or the back end sticking out beyond the end of the yellow lines. And if your work or mall has Hybrid Parking, you aren't wasting your time trying to find the best parking spot and ending up in a "valley of death" overflow lot.
Overall, this car definitely looks to the past for its design and to the future for its technology.
2011 Honda CR-Z Sport Hybrid
- Type: Two door Sport Hybrid Coupe
- Price Range: 23,490 – 27,857
- Engine: 1.5 Litre, four cylinder with 10 kilowatt Integrated Motor Assist (IMA)
- Horsepower: 122 HP
- Transmission: 6 Speed Manual / CVT
- Drive: Front wheel
- Competitors: None at the moment
[CTV.ca, full link can be found @ http://autos.ctv.ca/CTVNews/Autos/20101214/honda-cr-z-sport-hybrid-101215/?s_name=Autos]
Honda to Expand Hybrid Line in Japan
Honda will be a very busy company next year rolling out multiple new hybrid versions of its cars, following the CR-Z launch in the summer and more recently, the Fit Hybrid launch.Honda is set to launch a hybrid version of its small minivan, the Freed along with a stretched wagon variant of the Fit Hybrid in order to meet domestic consumption of the vehicle. The stretched wagon variant will have the same front and have the back extended by about 2 inches. The Fit Hybrid wagon variant is expected in early spring 2011 with the hybrid Freed in fall 2011. There is also news that a major revamp is underway for Honda`s Insight model that was launched a couple of years ago as well as rumors that the Civic Hybrid may not be sold in Japan past this year because of the removal of the Civic nameplate from the Honda Japan lineup.
What are your thoughts? Think that Honda needs to bring these cars over to North America?
BREAKING NEWS: Stop Sale Order Issued for 2011 Accord/CR-V
Honda said it has stopped the sale of the 2011 Accord and CR-V and is asking its U.S. dealers to inspect more than 10,000 of the vehicles for potential engine oil leaks, including an estimated 1,200 vehicles that have been delivered to customers and another 9,200 vehicles on dealer lots. Dealers are inspecting their own stocks of about 4,900 Accords and 4,300 CR-Vs, all of them assembled in North America, to check for engine oil leaks.
A Honda spokeswoman said the action "is not a recall; it's a simple service bulletin." She described the oil-leak problem as "a manufacturing issue." If necessary, Honda dealers will replace an internal engine part called a rocker shaft holder to correct the problem.
Of the additional 1,200 vehicles that already have been sold, customers will receive a letter from Honda requesting that they return their vehicles to dealers for inspection and possible repairs.
2012 Honda Civic Concept
The styling direction of the next-generation Honda Civic will debut at the 2011 North American International Auto Show in January, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today.
The company released a sketch of the Civic Concept that conveys the sleek and aerodynamic profile of the show vehicle. The production version of the ninth-generation 2012 Civic based on the revealed concept will go on-sale in spring 2011. John Mendel, American Honda executive vice president of sales, will introduce the concept vehicle at a press conference, which will also be broadcast live via webcast on www.hondanews.com/live2011naias.
The company released a sketch of the Civic Concept that conveys the sleek and aerodynamic profile of the show vehicle. The production version of the ninth-generation 2012 Civic based on the revealed concept will go on-sale in spring 2011. John Mendel, American Honda executive vice president of sales, will introduce the concept vehicle at a press conference, which will also be broadcast live via webcast on www.hondanews.com/live2011naias.
Guest Post - Honda Insight Updates (UK)
Honda Insight Updates (UK)
By Ant Bradshaw
Honda has announced the pricing for its Insight hybrid, labelled the ‘cheapest hybrid on the road’ by the car maker.
UK pricing for the hybrid hatchback starts at £14,995 with Honda’s Affordable Driving offer and rises to £16,325 when the offer concludes at the end of December.
Generally, the Honda Insight has been left unchanged, however the Japanese firm has introduced a new trim level in the shape of the EX trim at the top of the range.
EX models will be finished with black leather upholstery throughout the interior which will also house a DVD enable satellite navigation system and a hands-free telephone.
More technology has been added in the form of rear-parking sensors for the five-door model, with Honda looking to make the cheap hybrid more refined than its predecessor.
Outside, the Insight has had two new finishes made available in the form of Dynamic Blue Pearl and Carnelian Red Pearl.
The high-end Insight EX models will be priced at £20,215.
The Honda Insight at entry-level is the cheapest hybrid on the market, undercutting the more established Toyota Prius and Toyota Auris models.
Also in the Honda hybrid line-up is the impressive CR-Z sports-coupe that recently scooped the Top Gear ‘Green Car of the Year’ award.
Ant Bradshaw is currently working for http://www.oneswoop.com/default.aspx>Oneswoop.com – a car price-comparison website. As well as providing up-to-date industry news and opinion the site lets users find the best deals available by comparing prices online. This means users can http://www.oneswoop.com/new/honda/insight/cars.aspx>compare Honda Insight prices online.
Honda Happy Days Continue!
Honda's continuing Happy Days promo for the US looks to be extended throughout the holiday season, for more information on these deals, check http://automobiles.honda.com
Continuing Canadian Honda Deals ...
Honda's continuing Canadian Christmas event now includes the new revamped 2011 Accord, and the Civic and CR-V models, this is the pricing for Western Canada models, Eastern Canada models will have price increases of around $500 per vehicle.
Spy Shots OLD - 2012 Honda Civic
The first two pictures are spy shots that were taken awhile ago, the second one is a rendering of what the next Civic looks like ... doesn't look like much will change, I hope Honda plans a massively improved chassis, engine, interior, space, etc.
Honda City Review
A quality recommendable car made by Honda, @ http://www.bsmotoring.com/news/which-car-december-edition-2/2909/1
Acura RDX Review
A car of personality. Check the review out @ http://www.tflcar.com/2010/12/review-the-2011-acura-rdx-has-a-great-personality-.html
Honda #1 in Loyalty
Honda and Ford have tied for first place in a JD Power and Associates study on Car Loyalty.
This study measures the amount of people who will stick with the same brand that they have previously bought, for their next cars. It was based on responses from 123,601 new vehicle buyers and lessees and was conducted between February and May and August and October. Both Ford and Honda measured 62%.
Honda's Accord, CR-V and Pilot scored highest of the automaker in the survey.
Close but no cigar came Hyundai, Lexus, Toyota and Kia with a mere maximum of 5-7 points separating them from 62%.
In recent years, the reasons buyers cited in explaining why they chose a specific vehicle was often based on the car's safety, residual value and fuel economy, however these days, more and more people have specified as well as in the survey that they wanted cars that were fun to drive as well.
2012 Honda Civic
The first two pictures are a rendition from AutoExpress, while the last two pictures were real ones taken from real-world testing of the 2012 Honda Civic. From what we can see, there is not much different ... less of a revolution of the Civic, more of an evolution ...
I personally think this is a bad move in the compact car class, they need to continue the Civic momentum, how about you?
Next-generation Honda Accord Information
Credible information or not?
"Back in July Honda President, Takanobu Ito, reveal plans to introduce midsize plug-in hybrid car to United States and Japan in 2012.Accoding to latest report from Japanese Mag-x,the car will be a plug-in hybrid version of next generation Honda Accord (codename 2GA).
The same source also reveal that the car is in research and development at Honda R & D center in Japan.The new car will divide to Japanese/European version and U.S./China/Asia version.body size of the new North american’s Accord is about 4895×1845x1470mm.
The engine will be the range of inline four cylinder 2.0L, 2.4L and V6. 3.5L.But the most interesting is the debut of Plug in Hybrid-petrol version.
In 2010 LA motorshow honda reveal a plug-in hybrid platform which autoten expect to use in the 2013 Honda Accord hybrid. A four cylinder 2.0L petrol have The two-motor system continuously moves through three different modes to maximise driving efficiency: all-electric, petrol-electric and a unique, engine direct-drive mode. The plug-in hybrid also uses regenerative braking to charge the battery.
When the Honda plug-in hybrid system operates in electric mode, it can achieve a range of approximately 10-15 miles in city driving and a top speed of 62 mph.Fully recharging the battery will take 2 to 2.5 hours using a 120-volt outlet and 1 to 1.5 hours using a 240-volt outlet.
The car will arrive in November 2012."
The car will arrive in November 2012."
Source and information from Autoten.com
Guest Post - Honda CR-Z Scoops Top Gear Award
Honda scoops Top Gear’s Green Car of the Year
By Ant Bradshaw
Top Gear has awarded their Green Car of the Year award to the Honda CR-Z.
This latest award takes their award tally up to four in as many weeks for the sporty hybrid model, in a list which also features the What Car? Green Award for Best Sports Car and Japan’s Car of the Year 2010-2011.
The Top Gear judges were won over by the CR-Z’s ability to cope with anything thrown at it, including busy back streets of the Third Ring district in China as well as a sporty look, responsive handling and excellent fuel efficiency.
In a statement, Top Gear said: “Of all the cars we’ve brought to Chinda, CR-Z is far and away the one I feel most at home with – and most excited about. Compact, accessible and responsive, it’s a breeze to drive in this hectic and distracting place.”
Managing Director for Honda (UK), Dave Hodgetts said: “To be recognised for a publication as well respected as Top Gear is a great achievement for the CR-Z and for Honda.
“We’re so please with the reception the CR-Z has received from the press, especially when you consider the strength of the competition out there. The car has only been on sale for nine months but we’re already looking for a bigger trophy cabinet!”
And who can blame them? With the recent success that the CR-Z has had – it is no wonder Honda are looking to the future.
The new CR-Z starts at £16,999 OTR and combines a 1.5-litre i-VTEC engine, six-speed manual gearbox and Honda’s Integrated Motor Assist system.
About the Author
Ant Bradshaw is currently working for Askaprice.com which can provide you with a great deal of information on a range of car manufacturers and models as well as all the latest news and reviews from the car industry. Askaprice.com can also provide you with completely free, no obligation http://www.askaprice.com/new/cars/honda.asp”>new Honda Quotes.
Acura TSX Wagon Reviews
Initial driving/reviews sound great! Check them out!
http://www.automobilemag.com/reviews/driven/1012_2011_acura_tsx_sport_wagon/index.html
http://www.autoweek.com/article/20101208/CARREVIEWS/101209915
Honda CR-Z Convertible Contemplated
Following reports of a turbo Type-R model of the CR-Z to be produced, we're hearing word that Honda's working on a drop-top CR-Z. This would mean that the CR-Z would be heavier and would probably have to be paired up with a more powerful engine (think the 200hp engine described earlier). The model will take styling cues from the current CR-Z as well as the Honda Open Study Concept (pictured). If it will be produced, watch it to be released late 2012.
So Type-R model and now convertible model? Honda has set quite a few big plans for the CR-Z.
Do you think it'll be popular?
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