nostalgia

Some of my most enjoyable summer weekends started with a trip to my aunt's and uncle's and heading off to the Gwan-hwak mountain/park for an afternoon of hiking and picnicking. The 6 of us would pack into a bright red Kia Pride and make the short drive over. Check out the specs and an old commercial I dug up:

Condensed specs: 
engine displacement: 1138 cc
power: 60 hp @ 6000 rpm 
torque: 74 lb-ft  @ 3500 rpm 


Dimensions:
length: 140.4 in. 
wheelbase: 90.4 in 
standard tire size: 145 SR 12 
official base curb weight: 1609 lbs. 


Performance: 
top speed: 99 mph (theor.)
acceleration: 0- 60 mph 12 s (sim.); 0- 100 km/h 12.8 s (sim.); 0- 1/4 mile 18.5 s (sim.) 


Fuel consumption: official: , a-c pred. average: 7.4 l/100km / 38 mpg (imp.) / 31.7 mpg (U.S.) / 13.5 km/l






These weekend trips became a tradition for my family and we kept it up for maybe about 3-4 years before all of us moved to the US. The measly 1.1L engine struggled mightily under all that weight and my uncle would do all he can to keep the engine from stalling when trying to engage 1st gear going uphill (!). The lack of power steering meant my dad used to have to help my uncle pull into the parking lot down the street because it was very hard to maneuver at low speeds. Navigation, 17-speaker stereo with iPod integration, and all the gizmos were literally science fiction back then (check out the manually operated radio antenna on the driver side A-pillar!). Yet, despite all that, our Sundays were filled with laughter and joy, and I'm forever grateful for those memories. Although it is no secret that our cars impose some serious environmental, economical, and political hazards, we all love our cars because they take us to new and old places, and most importantly, help us connect to friends and family. Even those of us who are not car enthusiasts will always remember their long awkward family road trips, the first time driving, or the first car they bought, however new or old it may have been.

Driving the Genesis always serves as a reminder of just how rapidly our cars and technology have advanced in the past 20 years. However, one thing that never changes is just how our beloved automobiles continue to lend us the freedom to expand our lives and to create lasting memories. I hope the next 20 years will prove to be just as enjoyable as the last...

quick fuel economy update

Here it is:
280.1 miles on 14.996 gal. = 18.68 mpg
trip computer read 19.9 mpg

Still not that great considering I made ~90 mile roundtrip on relatively open freeway (at least on the 45 mile trip back), but I've still only logged in 1200 miles and hopefully the numbers will go up with break in.

2012 Honda Civic Info

The 2012 Honda Civic will be receiving a fuel-efficient model called the HF, as many of you may know from previous trim levels in previous generations. However it will only be available in grey or white and in the 4-door sedan version.

Manual transmissions will only be offered on the DX and LX trims.

Colors so far are Crystal Black Pearl, Dyno Blue Pearl, Urban Titanium Metallic, Cool Mist Metallic, Polished Metal Metallic, Crimson Pearl, Alabaster Silver Metallic and Taffeta White.

More to come in the coming weeks ...

TGIX... X=Xenon headlights

Friday night, I was out with some friends in Manhattan Beach until way past my bedtime. It was yet another gorgeous sunny day, but as soon as things cooled down, the fog rolled in. And when I say fog, I mean FOG! It seemed like I could barely make out the tail lamps on cars are were only 2 or 3 car lengths in front of me. When I came up to intersections, I could not even make of the street signs and the familiar streets became completely unrecognizable (navi came in really handy!), especially when there were streetlights that made the fog glow and made things worse. Luckily, I had some help from the bright Xenon headlamps and the trusty fog lights. Getting on the freeway was not much better and things did not subside until I was 3 blocks from my house. I'd never seen the sky so clear!

On another note, during the week, I had to make a quick trip down to Irvine (~45 miles away) and I was finally able to make use of the adaptive cruise control. The gizmo really works! There were several cops along the way and it really kept me from venturing past all the cautious drivers. All that steady cruising has also bumped the avg. fuel economy to ~21 mpg, up from the usual 16-17 mpg I was getting from just commuting. I would not be surprised to get 26-27 mpg on a road long trip. Not bad for a car with 385 horses!

Canadian Deal of the Week: 2011 Acura RDX Base

MSRP: $40 490

Freight/dealer prep: $1 995

Dealer discount: $1 500

Factory rebate: $2 500

Taxable subtotal: $38 485

Total price with 13% HST: $43 489

Acura's 2012 TL to be shown in Toronto

Acura's 2010 TL with the beak nose

Acura has announced that its refreshed 2012 TL will also be debuting within weeks of its Chicago launch, at the Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto, Canada on February 17, 2011. Despite its unique look, Acura is looking to tone down the aggressive styling for 2012 after wide criticism from buyers, consumers and auto reviewers over its exterior styling.

2011 Honda Fit in Canada

Honda Canada's 2011 Fit DX is available in 3 colors

After a slightly delay in production, the 2011 Honda Fit is now in dealerships across Canada. There are no changes save for the color options on the DX and DX-A (DX with Air Conditioning) trims in Canada. The DX model is only available with a manual, you must step up to the DX-A in order to opt for an automatic transmission. There is no NAVI option for the Sport model unlike Fits in the United States. Along with that, there is no price increase, the DX starts at $14 480 MSRP up to the Sport priced at $18 780 MSRP.

For more information, visit Honda Canada's website @ http://honda.ca/fit

Honda Thailand Boosts Output

The Bangkok Post has reported that Honda Thailand will add an extra work shift at its Ayutthaya plant to boost 2011 output in line with a higher sales target projected this year. The automaker plans to raise local sales by almost 28% from 2010 to 145 000 units including a new economy compact car, the Brio that will debut in Thailand later this year. Honda predicts the overall Thailand market will grow but at a slower pace to 850 000 total units this year. Export volume will remain the same, at 60 000 units. Honda will be raising production from 120 000 units to 130 000 units while the plant has a capacity of 240 000 units.

The increase in production results from higher than expected sales from the City, Jazz, Civic and projected sales of the new Brio.

The Accord Sedan, CR-V and Freed are also sold in Thailand.

Honda Civic is California's Best Selling Car

Honda's Civic compact sedan followed by the Accord mid-size sedan became California's top and second top best selling vehicle in 2010 in a report released by the California New Car Dealers Association. The firm sees no end to the momentum as increased incentives will be given / are still given to the Civic as it is nearing the final few months of production and a new 2012 Civic is on the way in April/May and the Accord as well. 

Ridgline Nails

The Ridgeline was one of three pickups, the others being the Ram and F-Series to top the list of Strategic Vision's 2010 Total Value Awards. These awards measure the total perceived value amongst buyers. They interviewed 111 212 people who bought new vehicles between September 2009 and June 2010. With a top 1000 score, the TVI is calculated on buyer's perceptions towards total ownership experience and economic considerations as well as the price paid, affordability and resale value. 

Standard Pickup Segment:

Honda Ridgeline: 732 points
Toyota Tacoma: 681 points
Chevrolet Colorado: 671 points
Nissan Frontier: 656 points
GMC Canyon: 628 points
Dodge Dakota: 609 points
Ford Ranger: 580 points

Honda News

Honda Doubles Operating Profit 

Honda's operating profits doubled for the last 9 months ending December in 2010 to 500 billion yen ($6.08 billion) in profits. Honda is looking to revise this number citing rising sales volume in Asia and North America as well as a weaker yen. Between October 2010 and December 2010, the company's operating profit exceeded 100 billion yen beating the forecast. 

Honda Sells More in China than Japan

Surprise? Honda announced today that its Chinese sales for 2010 have far exceeded sales in its own home country. Honda's China sales climbed 13% to 655 000 units compared to 647 000 units in Japan. Honda is expected to expand sales 11% to 730 000 units this year relying on the success of the Accord and CR-V. 

Odyssey's Good Day

Odyssey Nails a 5-Star Rating

The all-new Honda Odyssey nailed an overall rating of 5 stars from the NHTSA today. It received a 5-star frontal rating, a 4-star rollover rating and a 5-star rating for side pole/barrier tests. The 4-star rollover rating is actually the highest rating possible for a car subjected to these tests, despite the fact that there are only 4 stars. The IIHS also recently announced that the Odyssey received a top score of Good in all crash tests. Of the 50 models the NHTSA has tested, only 11 have earned a full five-star ratings all across the board including Acura's MDX and Honda's own Accord. 

Consumer Reports' Top Rated Minivan

After being displaced by the Toyota Sienna numerous times in the past few years, the newest iteration of the Odyssey has regained the top spot. CR loved its performance, handling, storage capacities, refinement but noted that the sportiness has been diluted and the interior plastics were slightly cheap. 

Introduction into Qatar

The 2011 Honda Odyssey was recently launched at the Qatar Auto Show, making Honda's minivan available in over 6 countries. There are LX, EX, EX-L and Touring trims available. The model remains relatively the same compared to the North American Odyssey. 

BREAKING NEWS: All-new Honda Insight to debut in 2013?

MagX illustration of the next Honda Insight

Having fared horribly since its introduction, Honda is looking to fast pace the next generation of the Honda Insight. It looks like we'll be getting the 3rd-generation in February 2013. Japanese magazines are claiming that this new model will come with a larger 1.5L engine with revised engine technology called e-VTEC and will be using the new Fit platform. The Insight will retain its aerodynamics.

The Insight was introduced in 2009 as a 2010 model.

INTRO: All-new 2011 Honda Accord UK

Honda has announced that it will premiere the 2011 Honda Accord Sedan/Estate for Europe at the 2011 Geneva Auto Show. This version is basically our 2011 Acura TSX but with slight exterior modifications. Similar to the new refreshed 2011 Acura TSX, this 2011 EU Honda Accord has a revised front end, along with the addition of Active Cornering Lights (Active Lighting System on the RL) where the lights turn with the steering wheel and a High-Beam Support System that uses a CMOS camera to sense when to turn the bright lights on and off. Honda has also revised the dual-mode dampers for an improvement in ride quality as well as improving the quietness of the cabin.

Alabaster Silver, Graphite Luster and Celestial Blue Pearl are added as colors and inside you'll find new red illumination lighting for Type-S models and blue lighting for the other models. Along with the interior changes come slight revisions on the 2.2L i-DTEC diesel engine that allow it increase fuel economy and reduce carbon emissions by just a small amount. "reduced internal frictional losses" and "underbody aerodynamic aids" were two things Honda employed to help them achieve this reduction.

Here is the Press Release.

The revised Honda Accord sedan and Tourer models will make their debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March. Both cars receive a host of changes with the styling, emissions, ride and handling all enhanced for 2011.

Summary of Changes:

• Revised exterior styling
• Detail changes to interior finishes
• Improvements to emissions and economy on all engines
• 138 g/km 2.2 i-DTEC introduced
• Ride and handling improvements for all models
• Auto High-Beam Support System and Active Cornering Lights debut on Accord
• 180 PS Type S model now available across Europe with bespoke interior and exterior styling

Exterior Design

Both the sedan and Tourer have benefitted from small but noticeable changes to the head lights and bumpers to complement the changes under the skin. The head lights have been given a cleaner, crisper appearance with the previously amber indicators now in a clear finish. On top grade cars the lights are now bi-xenon and feature Active Cornering Lights to improve night time visibility. The grille has been subtly remodelled with the two central spars finished in the same chrome material as the outer grille, for a sportier look. The cooling duct and fog light recesses on all models have been re-profiled with the taper of these areas given a more aggressive line, giving the car a more planted appearance.

The rear of the sedan model has been subtly enhanced with the rear lights having a light red finish for the reversing light and indicators to match that of the fog light, giving a balance to the rear styling. The exclusive styling of the sedan is rounded off with a light chrome garnish above the rear licence plate on most models and a dark chrome finish on Type S grade cars. The new exterior design cues are finished off with three new colours consisting of Alabaster Silver, Graphite Lustre and Celestial Blue Pearl added to the line up.

Interior Design

The exterior styling changes have been complemented by a number of subtle changes to the interior with most grades having new seat materials and door linings, changing the ambience of the cabin. Type S models have exclusive half leather, seats in a dark grey finish and a black head lining to further distinguish the top grade. The metal-look finish interior trim that covers the hand brake, gear lever surround, steering wheel garnish, door inlays, with a red background and sweeps up across the centre of the dash is now in a darker hue, to complement the new interior fabrics. The footwells of the majority of models are now illuminated blue if the headlights are on and red on Type S models.

Fuel Economy and Emission Improvements

The refined 2.2 litre 150 PS i-DTEC diesel engine has had internal frictional losses reduced to improve fuel economy and emissions. The result of these changes is an 9 g/km drop in CO2 emissions for the sedan with the 6-speed manual transmission and an 11 g/km reduction for the automatic variant. These internal changes have been combined with a host of underbody aerodynamic aids, including a larger front air dam, underfloor and a rear subframe cover Honda's engineers have also put effort into reducing the frictional losses in the wheels and tyres with low friction wheel bearings and reduced rolling resistance tyres. Accords equipped with Automatic transmission have also benefitted from minimised frictional losses in the gearbox and optimised ratios to improve economy and emissions.

Quieter Cabin

The already impressive NVH performance of the current Accord has been further improved with the adoption of higher density foam in the under bonnet and dashboard areas. The underfloor noise insulation has also been revised and teamed with additional sound deadening shields on the DPF and exhaust manifold cover of the diesel engine. The suite of noise reductions techniques is completed with a small 0.9 mm increase in the thickness of the rear window glass, improving the rear passenger experience.

Chassis

Engineers from Japan worked with their counterparts in Germany and the UK to further refine the dampers of the Accord Tourer and sedan for the vast range of road conditions found in Europe. Detailed refinement of the dual mode dampers has given improvement in both high speed stability for highway driving and a significant improvement in ride quality, even over poor road surfaces.

Active Cornering Lights

One of the most visible changes to the top of the range Accords is the addition of Active Cornering Lights, which provide enhanced illumination when the vehicle is turning. Additional lights units have been subtly integrated into the existing lights units, casting all of their light to the side of the vehicle to help the driver in low visibility conditions. The light unit on the relevant side will be illuminated when the driver activates the indicators in that direction or turns the steering wheel more than 90 degrees. When the vehicle is in reverse, both lights will be activated to give a good view to either side of the driver.

High-Beam Support System

Another new lighting technology for Honda is the High Beam Support system, which is fitted on vehicles with the bi-xenon headlights. This system is controlled by a CMOS camera fitted to the windscreen in the area of the driver rear view mirror. The camera detects oncoming headlights or the taillights of a vehicle in front and automatically dips the headlights onto their normal setting if they are on high-beam. This allows the driver to fully concentrate on the road conditions, without having to manually control the high-beam setting.

The new Accord goes on sale across Europe from April this year.

2012 Acura TL to be shown at Chicago Auto Show

Acura announced earlier today that it will debut a refreshed version of the 2012 Acura TL at the Chicago Auto Show to be held on February 9, 2011. The Acura press conference that will unveil the new TL will be webcast live at http://acuranews.com 

Spyshots earlier last year suggested that no major changes are in store for this TL except for toned-down styling with a less aggressive grille/front end, slightly revised interior controls and what Acura says will, "further enhance its position in the segment with aggressive, yet refined styling and performance."

2011/2012 Crucial for Honda India

Honda's upcoming mini car, the Brio

Honda's current Jazz in India, to be facelifted come later this year

The Brio promises to be a classy, yet affordable, hatchback from the Honda stable built on a new 2CV concept equipped with features like a chrome stripe grill, bold looks, upward sweeping body lines and a forward inclined stance giving it a futuristic feel. The car will be propelled by a 1.2-litre Honda Jazz engine followed by a 1-litre motor in the future. Prominent headlamp pods set in black surrounds with a bit of chrome dominate the front while the all glass rear and low tail lights with a smoked-out effect make for an attractive rear. The Honda Brio is 3.6 meters in length and promises to be good to drive and easy to handle. The Brio doesn't have a central console and the instrument panel, music system and all rest has been aligned straight. The concept model had a double DIN music system, a driver airbag and fixed head restraints for front seats. Brio is likely to be priced around Rs 4.5 lakh (Rs 450,000) and will hit Indian showrooms sometime around September.

The Honda Jazz was recently spotted on Indian roads and the spy shots were published by an auto magazine. The face-lifted Jazz is likely to have new bumpers, grille and headlamps. The rear might get new tail-lamps with LED bulbs thought the car in the spy shots has the same rear as the existing Jazz. The car is likely to have the same 1.2-liter unit tweaked to be more fuel efficient. Honda is likely to retune the suspension of the Jazz and introduce a new steering set up to improve the ride and handling. Jazz comes with a CVT transmission in other markets. It is likely that Honda might think of bringing the CVT-equipped Jazz to the country.

Agility and Composure, 2011 Honda Odyssey

"In the supermarket of automobiles, minivans occupy the fruit and vegetable section. Their vehicular nutrition comes from gobs of practicality, with healthy doses of economics and safety mixed in.

But just because they're good for you doesn't make them cool. Trust me, I was the kid with baby carrots at snack time.

Honda's 2011 Odyssey aims to change that. All the usual nutrients that ease parents' minds are there. But Honda has dialed up the cool factor, hoping to draw those parents who know just as much about PlayStations as they do play dates."

Full review from The LA Times @ http://www.latimes.com/business/autos/la-fi-honda-odyssey-review-20110120,0,2267440.story

Another gorgeous weekend

Yes, it is yet another very gorgeous Sunday afternoon perfect for a quick jaunt out to the beach. It looks like I'm getting a pretty good flow of readers here, so I'll certainly do my best to fill you in at least once a week and try to have my camera with me more often! I was actually just out here at Torrance Beach on Friday for a nice long bike ride, but it looked so nice outside I just had to come back. I also took some friends out to dinner near downtown LA and the navi became very handy in traffic. I've now logged over 900 miles on the Genesis and it has been every bit as good as advertised. Yes, there are some issues, including some intermittent noise coming from the dash (sounds like plastic rubbing), so I'm hoping it'll work itself out (highly doubtful) or the dealer can remedy the issue when I go in for the complementary 1000 mile check up next week. Nonetheless, it is a great car to drive and I've been drowning out the noise with the awesome stereo (just wish XM had some better programming!). 

On the open road, the Genesis does feel a bit more balanced than some of the other cars at its price point (Buick LaCrosse, Ford Taurus, Lexus ES350, etc.). The steering is nicely weighted and actually has a decent feel, brakes work and feel great, and the engine has a muscular intake noise. The ride also doesn't feel as harsh as when I first drove the car, but I might just be getting used to it now (BTW the tire pressure was correctly set at 33 psi by the dealer). I've driven both the LaCrosse CXS and the Taurus SHO, both of which cost about the same as the Genesis 4.6. Both are actually very decent cars, but their interiors do not quite match the Genesis' cabin in quality and feel. In the case of the LaCrosse, it drives similar to the Genesis around town (almost as firm  a ride included), but on the freeway, it becomes a bit twitchy and the steering felt too light. The SHO is a better driving car than the Buick, and right up there with the big Hyundai (although I have not tried it out on the freeways), but all the interior bits and buttons just felt cheaper and less precise.

I also gave the Genesis a quick wash on Friday after getting a few detailing products from Amazon:

Meguiar's A3332 Quik Detailer Mist & Wipe Spray, The Absorber Synthetic Drying Chamois, 27, Mothers 20324 FX Tire Shine - 24 oz
The Quik Detailer spray works really well along door sills, but I remain skeptical about wiping down an entire dusty/dirty car. I'm sure it'd be fine, but I was taught better than to run a towel on a dirty body panel! The Chamois worked really well and dried everything really quickly and was very easy to wring out. Lastly, the Tire Shine worked well and my tires still has a "greasy" look even after running around over the weekend.

I also have some mileage update here:
260.6 miles on 15.46 gal. = 16.8 mpg (17 mpg total so far)

That's it for now! I'll try to make a video one of these days for all you avid readers. 

Acura's ZDX launching in China

Acura's brand performance in China lately have been more than dismal, in fact it's downright disappointing. Honda's CEO is looking to change things however by launching the ZDX.

Rumors have it that the ZDX is currently undergoing heavy testing on the local streets in Southern China. Some rumors claim the ZDX will be launched by the end of this year but launch date could be pushed to 2012.

It is believed that the majority of the US version of the ZDX will be retained including the 3.7 V6 engine. Trim levels could be altered.

Autonet.ca's 2011 Honda Accord Crosstour Review

"As I drive along pleasantly in the 2011 Honda Accord Crosstour, I find myself musing about how the initial proposal may have gone.

Designer guy: You know what we should do? We should totally take the Accord, hack off the back end, add a hatch, but still make it kinda big and kinda expensive and not at all like other hatchbacks. Not really a wagon, exactly, but like a wagon. Not an SUV, obviously, but for SUV people who don’t really want an SUV. You know?

Executive: Um. OK."

For more on the review, visit their website @ http://www.autonet.ca/autos/search/testdrives/2011/01/07/16797836-autonet.html

Canadian Deal of the Week: 2011 Honda CR-V LX

MSRP : $28 290

Freight: $1 690

Dealer Discount: $1 000

Factory Rebate: $1 000

Taxable Subtotal: $27 980

Total Price w/ 13% HST: $31 617.40

Honda Malaysia

Honda's Malaysia counterpart expects to be selling around 48 000 vehicles this year, a jump of 8% from last year.

Honda sold around 44 486 vehicles last year on a record 15% year-on-year growth.

Honda Malaysia believes that the continuity of buyers' positive sentiment will allow them to capture 8% of the Malaysian automobile industry volume at 600 000 units. Growth for Honda came from its best-selling subcompact sedan, the City, having sold 19 946 units last year representing more than 45% of total sales followed by the compact sedan, Civic at 20% and the mid-size luxury sedan, the Accord at 16%.

Honda will also be introducing upgraded and new hybrid vehicles in Malaysia this year following a very positive launch of the Insight model earlier last year having 1 300 bookings for the new model.

Honda builds new Argentine Plant

Honda's new Campana, Argentine plant will be producing an annual output capacity of 30 000 units of its Honda City model. Honda is aiming to export 60% of the vehicles that are produced out of this plant. Building of the plant was delayed in 2009 when the global economic meltdown hit the world. The factory involved a total investment of $250 million dollars. 

Honda Jazz Hybrid

Honda is set to introduce the smallest and cheapest hybrid in the UK in the next couple of months. It will be the UK's first hybrid supermini. Unfortunately, reviewers are claiming that the Jazz Hybrid is not as green as it supposedly sounds. It has CO2 emissions of 104g/km, higher than the 89g/km from the Auris and higher than the 99g/km from the Fiesta.

Honda product managers claimed that the Jazz Hybrid was not specifically engineered for the UK or to avoid the London congestion charge @ 100g/km. And if they were to do so, they would have to install a larger battery or remove sound-deadening material which would cause the Jazz to lose refinement.

However, Honda is still confident that its latest rendition of the Jazz will be a very popular model, especially in the fleets. It will be priced at GBP 15 995 (US $25 500~), around GBP 3 000 lower than the Toyota Auris Hybrid.

In-Depth: Transitioning to Lithium-Ion Batteries for the 2012 Honda Civic Hybrid

We reported a while ago that the new Civic Hybrid would get lithium-ion batteries, and Honda has confirmed that the new Civic Hybrid will be getting lithium-ion batteries.

What does this mean for consumers?

The transitioning of nickel batteries to lithium will mean more MPG at a lower cost. This shift is part of Honda's plan to make its hybrids as affordable as its conventional gasoline vehicles.

Honda's Fit EV that was announced a couple of months ago also uses lithium-ion batteries. Blue Energy Co. Ltd, a joint venture between Honda and GS YUASA Corp will be providing these lithium batteries for Honda hybrids.

Honda plans to have 10% of its global sales to be hybrids by 2015.

Despite the fact that lithium ion batteries cost 30% more to make than nickel metal hydride batteries, manufacturers build smaller packs to save money. If Honda applies this method to the Honda Civic Hybrid, we'd see a couple of more MPGs being pushed out of the current rating of 40/43 highway/city respectively. Lithium ion batteries also mean lighter and more effective regenerative braking.

Another positive about going lithium ion is that Honda will put an end to the problems plaguing current Honda Civic Hybrids relating to critical battery failures. Not only have there been reported losses of power in the battery packs, there have been reports of outright battery failures. Honda's fixes have only worsened the problem by making the car less fuel efficient. The low sales of the Civic Hybrid makes it a good candidate to switch to lithium-ion to test how they will work in the real-world.

All manufacturers are slated to transition into lithium ion for their hybrids, Honda hasn't been the first, but they are playing along. It's just a matter of time before nickel metal batteries become history.

Win an Acura TSX Wagon!

Honda is now giving you the chance to win the new 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon through their Compete Like A Pro Facebook competition. You pick a sport, tell Acura how you'd use the TSX Sport Wagon to rock the hell out of some and submit your story! Your story goes on a social vote and the winner gets a car and the ability to blog for it for a year!

Find the details right here: http://www.facebook.com/Acura?v=app_185955991432091

Honda Fit Hybrid at the Tokyo Auto Salon

A modded Honda Fit Hybrid with the manual transmission ... tasteful yes/no?

Honda Jazz Road Test from AutoVehicle

MIXED emotions can usually be found well to the fore when a particular car model reaches the end of its showroom career.

In most cases the human emotions run high with sadness at its passing and joy at what is to come, for the show must go on, they say.

One of the big pluses at changeover time is the run-out period when all manner of bargains are available in the dealerships as the main event, the launch of the newcomer, approaches.

Currently in this situation is the Honda Jazz which, after a hugely successful period since June 2002 throughout which some 220,000 models were sold in the UK alone, is all set to re-enter the highly competitive world of the supermini in February having adopted a new guise, with more aerodynamically efficient front and rear bumpers and a more premium feel to the cabin.

Ahead of the refreshed supermini’s UK arrival, the Swindon based car giant has declared its hand for the run-out period.

Pricing for the outgoing Jazz has been slashed, the range now opening up at £9,995 for the entry level 1.2 S model and recently I've renewed my acquaintance with all that “original Jazz”.

In the frame here is a Jazz 1.4 EX variant which came in an appealing alabaster silver metallic hue complemented by some very young family serviceable black fabric upholstery.

Throughout its career, flexibility accompanied by surprising amounts of space for its size, has been the watchword for a model which, while being a relatively short member of the supermini sector, offers up some highly impressive interior space.

Within a well thought out cabin the boot is also surprisingly accommodating offering 335 litres of stowage space with all seats taken, which extends to 883 litres.

This comes courtesy of some clever two-way folding rear pews which fold flat at the flick of a switch while places for those bits and bobs accumulated on the run also proved quite plentiful.

Thanks to a good range of tiller and seating adjustment an agreeable driving position is easily arrived at. You also sit pretty high in the Jazz facing a futuristic dashboard boasting some hi-tech instrumentation while overall vision from the driving seat is good.

Powered by Honda’s 1.4-litre petrol engine paired with a five-speed manual gear change Jazz is an easy driver, its 98bhp positively answering the fluency of some sharp throttle response via a well weighted clutch and slick five-speed gearbox.

With suspension a little on the firm side which gives the Jazz its sure footedness, there is also some decent body control and sprightly handling to enjoy while, depending upon individual driving style, 50mpg is promised over the mixed driving miles – not a bad return for petrol power.

Over the past decade the Honda Jazz has deservedly earned a reputation for good build quality plus there are decent levels of standard kit to enjoy which include air con, electric windows all round, electric heated mirrors, panoramic roof with electric sunshade, sound system with CD and steering wheel controls, plus ABS braking with electronic brake force distribution and emergency brake assist, while good residuals ensure the Jazz keeps its value well.

Honda Siel Cars of India announces 2011 Honda Civic Sunroof

Honda Siel Cars have introduced the new Honda Civic with a sunroof. India owners have long been asking for a sunroof model and they will be getting it along with a new Urban Titanium color.

Tatsuya Natsume, Director of Marketing for Honda Siel Cars of India says, "We are delighted to introduce the new Civic with the sunroof which further augments the style quotient of the Civic and make it even more desirable. We believe this variant will greatly appeal to the customers for whom the style is a way of life."

Honda Civic Launching FAST

Honda is apparently about to take a quick approach when launching the delayed Civic model in April 2011.

Unlike the past Civic which rolled out numerous different variations in a progression spread over 3 years (the Civic Si Sedan model came late), this Civic will have each of its variety launch within weeks of each other. The variety includes a sedan, coupe, numerous engines, a hybrid, GX natural gas model, Si coupe and sedan models.

Perhaps this is Honda's catching up after it announced it would delay the 2012 Civic from its original production date of spring 2010 to April 2011. The 2012 Civic is smaller, lighter, more fuel efficient and cheaper than the original car drawn to be produced in 2010.

"The story that will never be told is how much we changed the car," Mendel VP of Honda America said at the unveiling of the Civic Concept last week.

"The major change with the new Civic involved interior packaging. When you get in the current Civic, it isn't roomy enough to be a Civic. That was what our focus was, getting back to where we once were: a compact yet surprisingly roomy vehicle." said Vicki Poponi, Honda Assistant VP of Product Planning.

The Civic Concept retains the angular look of the current model with more pronounced shoulders. The window has a less shallow rake but continues with a cab-forward orientation and has a rear BMW styling cue in name of a Hofmesiter C-pillar kink.

Honda CR-Z Turbo Fast-tracked?

A very popular customized Honda CR-Z shown at the 2011 Tokyo Auto Salon

Honda is fast-tracking the production of the CR-Z Turbo according to Japanese sources. It will likely be available in two versions, a 160hp and a 200hp version. Sources say that buyer feedback have been so strong and sales have been slightly off that Honda is fast-tracking the turbo development. Rumors say to look for the turbo version to debut in December. The 1.6 Turbo reportedly will provide the similar performance of Honda's 2.0L engines but because of forced induction and Honda's i-VTEC technology, will provide better than expected fuel economy.

Short Sunday drive

View RPV sunday drive in a larger map

Instead of watching the Patriots hemorrhaging their season away against the Jets, I decided to enjoy the beautiful 75° day outside with a short drive to Racho Palos Verdes. RPV is truly an escape from the hustle and bustle of the greater LA area and one of the most scenic places for a quick getaway.

First stop was at a neighborhood park on the northern part of RPV. The park hugged the coast and offered a wide open view of the coast. A quick drive up the hill proved to be even more spectacular and an even better photo op with the Genesis. Had I planned this trip a little better, I could have hiked down to Bluff Cove, but I marched on to the open roads!

This was where the Genesis really shined! Smooth, open tarmac along the coast that was just perfect for windows-down cruisin' with music pumping through the Lexicon system. Life is good! To get home, I decided to take the short route up Hawthorne Blvd, which took me to a vista point that showed off a distant view of Portuguese Bend (I sure envy those who get to enjoy that view every morning!). The V8 was perfect for smooth and effortless drive up the hill, and the firm suspension I complained about earlier came in handy when tackling the wide, sweeping curves going downhill. Not a bad Sunday afternoon!

mileage update

Just filled up again today. Here are the stats:

240.1 miles
14.75 gal.
16.3 mpg
(trip computer showed 17.1 mpg)

This was strictly commuting in traffic.

break-in is over!

Sorry for the blurry picture, but it was taken with my iPod Touch at a red light. The 600-mile break-in is complete! I'll probably still stay away from long drives on the freeway and keep a light foot though.

More first month impressions

So far, I've logged only about 560 miles on the car. Hyundai recommends a break-in period of 600 miles, so I have been, for the most part, light-footed and driving in typical LA traffic. Like all cars, it's not perfect, but it has so much going for it! Although 90% of my driving is done solo, I am certain that I will make use of all the room inside for more people and stuffs. The front seats are fairly comfortable (the heated seats are a godsend these days even in LA!) and the rears are simply one of the best back seats I've ever sat it.

The infotainment system is also very easy to use thanks to the logical menu structure and the clear, crisp screen. The HVAC controls are a bit busy, but it is still fairly easy to use once you know where the buttons are. The Lexicon stereo is truly outstanding, with deep, clear, distortion-free sound from any of the sources available. While there may be some features that are not available (infrared night view, blind spot monitoring system, etc.), but I find that those "missing" features are really more gimmick and $$ than what anyone really wants or needs.

As for the driving characteristics, the Genesis really does drive very well. Although the car does ride much firmer than it should, I've also noticed how quickly it rebounds and doesn't bounce up and down when it rolls over big bumps. It also seems to ride more comfortably as speeds build. The ZF 6-speed changes gear quickly and imperceptibly, and the Tau V8 is smooth and very powerful (not to mention its got a nice throaty sound!). The steering is a bit numb on-center, but it is nicely weighted and feels very similar to a Mercedes E550 I've test driven a while back.

Yet after all this, I do have to mention that it is not much fun driving this car, though not due to any fault of the Genesis. I had a Toyota Solara V6 and a Toyota pickup from way back. Both cars COMBINED do not equal the power that the Genesis 4.6 makes! Yet, driving around in the city and the congested freeways, there is absolutely no opportunity to wind out the 4.6 and enjoy the soundtrack! Just yesterday, I accelerated to pass YET ANOTHER Prius that was clogging up traffic and testing everyone's sanity. After just an instant of hearing the V8 come to life, I was already going way too fast and 5 car lengths ahead of the dreaded Prius! The speed is so deceptive in this car that it's amazing and alarming at the same time. Because of its quiet interior and the effortless acceleration, even a big surge of acceleration is less sensational and less visceral than in my old Solara in city driving. The funny thing is, the Solara is probably one of THE most boring cars ever made! I think the Genesis may just be much more suitable for the open roads. Can't wait 'til I take the Genesis on a summer road trip!

2011 Honda Insight Review

"Don’t doubt it for a second, green motoring is the future. Even if your moral compass isn’t leading you to help minimise the relatively small impact that cars have in the greater scheme of carbon emissions, this week’s crude oil prices alone should inspire you to reduce your dependence on black gold.

Hybrid cars have been gaining ground as a credible interim solution and the new Honda Insight stakes a good claim for itself as the first true hybrid for the people and though hardly cheap at R259 990, it does undercut the Toyota Prius by more than 70 grand."

Visit the Motoring's website for the review: http://www.iol.co.za/motoring/road-tests/test-honda-s-hybrid-for-the-people-1.1011732

PR: 2012 Honda Civic Concept in Canada

The Honda Civic Concept sedan made its Canadian debut at the Montreal International Auto Show today, providing the first glimpse at the styling direction of the all-new, ninth-generation 2012 model set to go on sale this spring.

"The Civic is renowned for its core attributes, including fun-to-drive character, outstanding fuel economy, class-leading safety and high value," said Jerry Chenkin, executive vice president, HondaCanada Inc. "The redesigned 2012 Civic builds on this great legacy and promises to be the best Civic yet."

The 2012 Civic embraces the company's vision as a "Civic for all people," a phrase originally expressed in defining the goal of the first-generation Civic. The 2012 Civic lineup is designed to meet the needs of compact-vehicle buyers, including first-time buyers, with a renewed vision of a "Civic for all people."

The diverse vehicle range includes a sedan and a coupe with conventional gasoline models, two sporty "Si" performance versions, along with a third-generation hybrid. The depth of the Civic model line is designed to offer a balance between fuel economy, low emissions and fun-to-drive performance unlike any other vehicle in the industry.

As a new interpretation of the current Civic's iconic "one-motion" mono-form shape, the new ninth-generation Civic conveys a more substantial, high-energy appearance.

The exterior styling of the Civic concept highlights its clean yet powerful lines with a steeply raked windshield, wide stance and character lines along the side profile. The lower character line broadens toward the rear fenders to enhance the dynamic feeling of forward energy. The front fender surface treatments form a complex, three-dimensional look to further enhance the image of sophistication and structural depth against the deeply set headlights.

The Civic Concept takes on a sophisticated presence with a front grille defined by crisp lines, a solid bar that integrates a chrome Honda emblem and 19-inch alloy wheels.

The Civic's engines with "intelligent" Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (i-VTEC®) technology become even more fuel efficient for 2012. The upcoming Civic Hybrid offers the latest generation of the compact and lightweight Integrated Motor Assist™ (IMA™) gasoline-electric hybrid system and features the first application of a lithium-ion battery in a Honda hybrid vehicle.

Building on its emphasis on fuel economy, most upcoming Civic models receive Honda Eco Assist™ technology, already available in the CR-Z and Insight hybrids. The 2012 Civic is the first North American Honda model to employ Eco Assist technology in a gasoline-only powered vehicle. Eco Assist is just one example of how the new Civic can be customized and configured by the drivers to suit individual preferences.

The 2012 Civic continues to emphasize safety and is expected to score well in both the U.S. government's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) vehicle evaluations.

All 2012 Civics will be equipped with Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) as standard equipment as well as a full complement of standard safety features. Additionally, the ninth-generation Civic continues to provide Honda's exclusive and innovative Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure for frontal collision energy management.

As the best-selling car in Canada for the past 13 years, the current, eighth-generation Civic has sold more than 350,000 units since the 2006 model went on sale in late 2005, and nearly 1.6 million in total since it was first introduced in Canada in 1973. The 2006-model Civic earned the Automobile Journalists of Association of Canada (AJAC) Car of the Year, Motor Trend Car of the Year and the North American Car of the Year awards, among others.

With the exception of the Civic hybrid, all Civics sold in Canada last year were made at the Honda of Canada Mfg. assembly facilities in Alliston, Ontario.