Honda leans toward 2 motors for next Civic Hybrid

The two-motor hybrid system that debuted in the new Honda Accord Hybrid is more powerful and fuel efficient than Honda's one-motor system.

by Hans Greimel of www.autonews.com

TOKYO -- Honda Motor Co. has a new and greatly improved one-motor hybrid system for small cars. But engineers for the next Civic are leaning toward the more powerful and fuel-efficient two-motor system that debuted in the mid-sized Accord Hybrid that went on sale last fall.

Honda has not said what kind of gasoline-electric drivetrain the next-generation Civic Hybrid, expected around 2016, will get. But Hiromitsu Ishibashi, chief engineer for the one-motor system at Honda R&D Co., said engineers are considering the two-motor layout.

Honda has doubts about how the one-motor system's dual-clutch transmission will be accepted in America, Ishibashi said on the sidelines of Automotive World, an annual technical conference here. And the two-motor system would deliver better fuel economy.

The newly developed one-motor system, deployed in the Fit hatchback and the Fit-based Vezel subcompact crossover, pairs a 1.5-liter engine with an electric motor with a dual-clutch transmission.

Hybrid versions of both cars already are on sale in Japan, but there are no current plans to bring the gasoline-electric versions to the United States.

The two-motor Accord Hybrid uses a continuously variable transmission.

'Customers don't care'

"U.S. customers don't care that much about which system [they get], as long as fuel economy and drivability are good," Ishibashi said. "Also, DCTs have not been that well received."

Honda's two-motor system is capable of delivering better fuel economy than the one-motor system because it allows for longer electric-only driving. The Accord Hybrid has a 50-mpg city rating, better than any other mid-sized sedan. The downside: added cost.

Ishibashi said engineers are still evaluating which system would work best in the Civic but added: "My personal guess is it could be two motors."

Honda said in November it will replace step-geared automatic transmissions with CVTs in all automatic Civics starting with this year's freshening of the nameplate.

The company has not officially said when a re-engineered hybrid will arrive. The current version uses Honda's Integrated Motor Assist system, a one-motor technology often criticized for falling short in fuel economy and power. It achieves a combined city-highway 44 mpg rating.

Honda has been wrestling with what powertrain to use in the Civic Hybrid, partly to make it a tougher competitor of the Toyota Prius, which gets a combined city-highway 50 mpg rating.

Honda engineers have said in the past that one option might be two types of two-motor systems: a more expensive one for the Accord and a lower-cost version for the Civic.

Gains

Even if Honda goes with a one-motor system, it would still bring gains.

The new one-motor system, dubbed Sport Hybrid Intelligent Dual-Clutch Drive, delivers across-the-board improvements over the outgoing system.

For the redesigned Fit Hybrid that debuted last year in Japan, Honda switched to a lithium ion battery, from a nickel-metal hydride one, boosting energy capacity 50 percent. Power output was more than doubled to 22 kilowatts, from 10. Engineers also made the battery 23 percent smaller and more than doubled the torque to 118 pounds-feet, from 58.

Honda also slashed the weight of the intelligent power unit, which includes the battery, inverter, DC/DC converter and battery control unit, by 40 percent.

The Fit Hybrid also gets a new Atkinson's cycle 1.5-liter engine.

Source;

http://www.autonews.com/article/20140127/OEM06/301279985/honda-leans-toward-2-motors-for-next-civic-hybrid#axzz2rc2k8jJQ

Why Honda Edited Out Scenes Of Detroit Protesters From This New Ad

by Aaron Taube of www.businessinsider.com

Good morning, AdLand. Here's what you need to know today:

Honda edited a new version of a recent, optimistic ad from RPA to remove images of people protesting in front of the Detroit federal courthouse that is hearing the city's bankruptcy proceedings. Rev. Charles Williams II, the head of the Michigan chapter of civil rights group the National Action Network and one of the leaders of the protests, summed up Detroit's anger at the original ad as such: "They're using our pain for their pleasure to promote Japanese automobiles while we are suffering in part because of the decline of American automobiles from foreign automakers." So Honda cut the protest scene.

Here's the updated ad:

Source;
http://www.businessinsider.com/honda-removes-detroit-bankruptcy-courthouse-protesters-from-ad-the-brief-2014-1

Here's a link to the full commercial;
http://www.thestraighth.blogspot.ca/2014/01/ad-of-day-honda-spreads-message-of-hope.html

PaulTan.org: 2014 Honda City launched in Thailand – two airbags and VSA standard, six airbags an option

Not for us in North America, it's basically a 4dr Honda FIT/Jazz....

by Anthony Lim of www.paultan.org

Following the 2014 Honda City‘s global market debut in India just over two weeks ago, the car has now made its ASEAN debut in Thailand, with six variants priced from 550,000 baht.

All variants are powered by a 1.5 litre i-VTEC engine, which can also run on E85 fuel. It produces 117 hp at 6,000 rpm and 146 Nm of torque at 4,700 rpm (in India, 117 hp at 6,600 rpm and 145 Nm of torque at 4,600 rpm). Save for the baseline variant which has a five-speed manual gearbox, the new Honda City now comes with a seven-step CVT gearbox, replacing the outgoing model‘s five-speed automatic.

The six variants of the Thai-market Honda City consist of the S MT, which is priced at 550,000 baht (RM55,650), the S AT at 589,000 baht (RM59,600), the V at 649,000 baht (RM65,670), the V+ at 689,000 baht (RM69,720), the SV at 734,000 baht (RM74,270) and the SV+, which goes for 749,000 baht (RM75,790).

Like the Indian-market City, the interior features a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which supports a smartphone interface, and an automatic air-conditioning system with a touch-control panel for the SV and SV+ variants (the other variants get manual AC and a standard audio system). The triple gauges are illuminated by blue light rings and house a multi-information display on the V, V+, SV and SV+ versions – the baseline S has amber illumination.

Other features include keyless entry with push-start ignition and a multi-function steering wheel with paddle shifters, cruise control, audio control switches and a hands-free telephone switch for the SV and SV+.

Unlike the rather bare Indian-spec car, all Thai variants come with good safety features as standard – ABS brakes, VSA stability control, Hill Start Assist and Emergency Stop Signal. Let’s hope the same goes for the Malaysian-spec car.

The V+ and SV+ variants include an upgrade to the standard safety specs, adding i-Side airbags and side curtain airbags to the mix, bringing the total airbag count to six. The ‘+’ in the model name also adds a multi-angle rearview camera with three-level adjustment.

There are seven colour choices for the car – Modern Steel Grey (metallic), Carnelian Red (pearl), Crystal Black (pearl), Alabaster Silver (metallic), Taffeta White are joined by two new shades, these being Brilliant Sporty Blue (metallic) and Golden Brown (metallic).

Honda Automobile Thailand is targeting sales of 60,000 units of the new City per year. This should of course aid Honda’s cause in the 2014 passenger car sales race – Honda overtook Toyota in Thai passenger car sales for the first time ever in 2013.

Source;
http://paultan.org/2014/01/23/2014-honda-city-launched-in-thailand/

IIHS Tests Minicars and finds a few surprises

I for one am shocked at how poorly the FIT did in this test, the 2015 bodystyle (ACE II) can't get here soon enough....

Minicars fall short for small overlap frontal protection

ARLINGTON, Va. - Only 1 minicar out of 11 tested achieves an acceptable rating in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's small overlap front crash test, making these tiny vehicles the worst performing group of any evaluated so far.

The Chevrolet Spark's acceptable rating in the test, along with good ratings in the Institute's four other crashworthiness evaluations, earns the new minicar a 2014 TOP SAFETY PICK award. The Spark was among the initial award winners announced in December. The new small overlap test results for the rest of the minicar group mean that no other models in this size category join the Spark in the winner's circle yet.

Introduced in 2012, the small overlap test replicates what happens when the front corner of a vehicle collides with another vehicle or an object such as a tree or utility pole. In the test, 25 percent of a vehicle's front end on the driver's side strikes a rigid barrier at 40 mph.

The test is more difficult than the head-on crashes conducted by the government or the longstanding IIHS moderate overlap test because most of the vehicle's front-end crush zone is bypassed. That makes it hard for the vehicle to manage crash energy, and the occupant compartment can collapse as a result. Nevertheless, in many size categories, manufacturers have found ways to improve vehicle structures to meet this challenge.

"Small, lightweight vehicles have an inherent safety disadvantage. That's why it's even more important to choose one with the best occupant protection," says Joe Nolan, IIHS senior vice president for vehicle research. "Unfortunately, as a group, minicars aren't performing as well as other vehicle categories in the small overlap crash."

In contrast to the minicar group's performance, most models in the small car category, which are a little larger, have done much better in the test. There are five good ratings and five acceptable ratings among 17 small cars that have been evaluated so far.

Looking at the component ratings that make up the overall marks, every minicar, including the Spark, rates marginal or poor for structure, the most fundamental element of occupant protection. When a vehicle's structure doesn't hold up, injury risk is high. Collapsing structures can knock frontal airbags and seats out of position, exacerbating the problem.

All the vehicles except the Spark and the Mazda 2 also earn low ratings for restraints and kinematics. Seven of the 11 were downgraded for allowing too much occupant forward motion during the crash. In these cases, either the safety belt didn't do a good enough job holding the dummy in place, or the dummy's head missed or slid off the frontal airbag. The side curtain airbag, which has an important role to play in small overlap frontal crashes, provided insufficient forward coverage in eight of the minicars and didn't deploy at all in the Toyota Yaris. In many models, the steering column moved sideways, and in three cars the seat tipped.

The two worst performers are the Honda Fit and the Fiat 500. In both cases, intruding structure seriously compromised the driver's space, and the steering column was pushed back toward the driver. In the case of the Fit, the dummy's head barely contacted the frontal airbag before sliding off and hitting the instrument panel. During the test of the 500, the driver door opened after the hinges tore. An open door creates a risk that the driver could be partially or completely ejected.

Injury measures on the dummy's left legs are marginal or poor for many models. In most cases, potential injuries involved the lower leg, but the Fit, 500 and Hyundai Accent were downgraded for left thigh or hip injury. The Fit and 500 were the only vehicles to record elevated injury risk to the right leg as well.

Despite its marginal structure, the Spark achieves an acceptable overall rating because the dummy's movement was fairly well controlled and its injury measures were low. The Spark is the only vehicle with good injury measures for all body regions, including the lower leg and foot, generally a problematic area in the small overlap test. This may be related to the fact that the structure around the lower part of the occupant compartment held up better than other minicars, despite intrusion in the upper part.

Consumers should remember that the Spark, while offering more small overlap protection than other minicars, weighs less than 2,500 pounds and doesn't protect as well as a larger and heavier vehicle with a comparable rating. Frontal crash test results can't be compared across weight classes.

In addition, neither the Spark nor the other minicars in the test group offer front crash prevention, an increasingly common safety feature that can prevent or mitigate some kinds of frontal crashes. For 2014, vehicles must be available with front crash prevention to qualify for the highest safety award from IIHS, TOP SAFETY PICK+.

Source;
www.iihs.org

Ad of the Day: Honda Spreads a Message of Hope in a World of Chaos and Conflict RPA's inspiring Civic campaign

by David Griner of www.adweek.com

Honda wants you to know something: This world is not actually as horrible and soul-crushing a place as it appears.

In a lengthy online anthem titled "Today Is Pretty Great," which launches a new Gen Y-focused campaign for the redesigned Civic Coupe and Si Coupe, the automaker and agency RPA partnered with modern bluesmen Vintage Trouble to create a spot highlighting all the good things happening in a world also beset by conflict and climate change.

The examples of reasons to hope, however, are a bit of a mixed bag. The spot leans heavily on pop culture and Internet fads, likely in hopes of keeping the message from seeming overly serious. But in the end, selfies, beards, cosplay and screaming goats seem pretty underwhelming compared to some of the spot's more serious optimism boosters, like artificial blood, genetic therapy and metamaterials (which could enable everything from invisibility to next-generation wireless communication).

"This new Civic campaign connects with a new generation of buyers by prompting them to focus on the positive and consider what they love about today," said Honda's svp of auto operations, Mike Accavitti. "The Civic campaign also introduces a crew of fun pop cultural references that will pique Gen Y's attention across media they frequent."

To help create a message tailored to millennials, Honda partnered with popular Cartoon Network show Adventure Time and Internet meme Nyan Cat, along with some lesser-known content creators like singer-songwriter Laura Maust. (Despite being shown in the clip as a viral sensation who's racked up a million views, Maust actually has less than 20,000 views on her most popular YouTube performance at the moment. Of course, being in a major ad like this might help turn her portrayal into reality.)

The full campaign, "One More Thing to Love About Today," includes a 30-second TV spot, digital takeovers of popular sites and print ads.

Perhaps most interesting, Honda is partnering with Spotify to create a "digital scrapbook" that lets you connect your social-media posts from across the years to the specific music you were listening to when you first posted each update.

So, will this campaign be enough to convince millennials that Honda is the ultimate partner for a carefree yet socially aware and technologically literate lifestyle? If not, they can always lean harder into their celebrity endorsements from Jake the Dog, Finn the Human and Princess Bubblegum.

CREDITS
Client: Honda
Title: "Today Is Pretty Great - Performance"

Agency: RPA
Executive Vice President, Chief Creative Officer: Joe Barratelli
Senior Vice President, Executive Creative Director: Jason Sperling
Senior Vice President, Chief Production Officer: Gary Paticoff
Vice Presidents, Creative Directors: Chuck Blackwell, Ken Pappanduros
Creative Directors: Gage Clegg, Becca Morton
Vice President, Executive Producer: Isadora Chesler
Senior Producer: Jack Epsteen

Production Company: Rabbit Content
Director: +jacksonkarinja

Editing: Lost Planet
Editors: Hank Corwin (:30s), Federico Brusilovsky (long form)
Music: HUM
Artist: Vintage Trouble

Source;
http://www.adweek.com/news/advertising-branding/ad-day-honda-spreads-message-hope-world-chaos-and-conflict-155127

014 Honda CR-Z provides unheard of hybrid performance

Hybrid vehicles are great for the environment and the wallet when it comes time to fill up, but if there was one pitfall to these gas-sipping vehicles, it would be that they lack the athleticism and style many vehicle shoppers are after. Generally easy to spot, most hybrid vehicle options feature lackluster designs where the majority of innovation gets placed into powertrain configurations. Going against the hybrid grain, the 2014 Honda CR-Z at Matt Castrucci Honda takes a completely different approach on what a hybrid should look and drive like.

Packaged tightly into a sleek hatchback design, the 2014 Honda CR-Z features a surprisingly aggressive look for a vehicle that competes in the hybrid segment. Thanks to a sport-inspired front end design, aggressively molded side panels and a distinct rear end, the CR-Z looks more like a performance vehicle pieced together with aftermarket parts than one concealing a hybrid engine.

Honda doesn't just stop with changing the appearance of its CR-Z to become more athletic. An extra emphasis on its driving characteristics are also taken into consideration. Producing a more thrilling ride for its drivers, the CR-Z uses the combination of a gas-powered and electric motor to give it unheard of hybrid performance.

The CR-Z produces a lively 130 horsepower and 140 pound feet of torque (with a six-speed manual transmission) that is controlled with Honda's perfected science of the responsive drive-by-throttle steering system.  In addition to the responsive steering of the CR-Z, a firmer suspension has also been placed into the CR-Z to give it a driving feel unlike any other vehicle in its class.

Even though the 2014 Honda CR-Z has been built to be a more compelling vehicle, it holds true to the hybrid mentality in terms of efficiency, obtaining highway fuel marks north of 35 mpg.

Source;
http://www.einnews.com/pr_news/186451088/2014-honda-cr-z-provides-unheard-of-hybrid-performance

Autos.ca: Preview: 2015 Honda Fit

review by Mark Stevenson; photography by Mark Stevenson and courtesy Honda North America.

EXCITING H DESIGN!!! EXCITING H DESIGN!!!

If you were part of the Japanese media when the new Fit was first shown in September, this is the mantra given as Honda’s new design philosophy. EXCITING H DESIGN must mean squishing a Honda Civic, making it taller, and giving it a different grille, because it doesn’t look particularly exciting.

If there is one car in Honda’s lineup that the automotive press falls in love with time and time again, it’s the Fit. It’s aerodynamic nose, triangular headlamps, and clever packaging always made it a favourite in our hearts and minds. It also came from a time when Honda was a bit more enthusiast-oriented but delivered practicality by the tonne at the same time. The Honda of today is more focused on rehashing its failed Earth Dreams motto from Formula 1.

One glance at this new hatchback will tell you which direction it’s heading. The 2015 Fit is almost identical in proportion to Nissan’s newest B-segment hatchback, the Versa Note. Both cars were designed in Japan mainly for the Japanese market. In fact, both were on sale in Japan long before we could get our hands on them in North America.

Gone are the signature triangular lights for those resembling those of its big brother Civic, albeit with a slight change of shape to match the narrower body. And while some may call this new design “bolder” than the outgoing shape, it’s definitely derivative of everything else in Honda’s lineup (though not nearly as bad as Acura’s design laziness). While the current Fit is a unique gem at the bottom of the range, this newest iteration plans to join the pack through mimicry.

Fit still features a tall greenhouse but its silhouette has changed to be more aero friendly. Instead of being a sharp-angled arrow through the air, Honda has given the subcompact a more rounded shape.

Also gone are the relatively flat sides of the Fit in favour of deeply cut body creases swooshing through the metal. The top crease connects both door handles to the redesigned taillights at back while the bottom line attempts to give the Fit a sporty stance.

Around back, the Fit’s rear window has shrunk due to “beltline creep” with the rest being good news for the most part. A restyled rear bumper gives Fit an athletic appearance and new taillights have a shape than can only be described as Japanese calligraphy. Rear hatch doors also feature a bright chrome bar across the middle, splitting the rear glass and metal bodywork.

The interior has been significantly improved over the current Fit, which was more old than bad. All trims will get Bluetooth and back-up camera (in anticipation of new NHTSA rules requiring such devices). Upper trims will also receive “smart entry” with push-button start, heated mirrors, moonroof, Honda LaneWatch, and seven-inch display audio. For the first time, Fit will also be available with leather seating surfaces.

Under the hood, Fit receives a brand new 1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC four-cylinder engine producing 130 hp and 114 lb-ft of torque (13 hp and 8 lb-ft more than the outgoing model). Along with this new engine is a pair of new transmission options. Thankfully, Honda will retain a manual option in their subcompact, providing a new six-speed manual (the current Fit can be had with a five-speed). However, just like many other cars, the Fit loses its traditional autobox for a new continuously variable transmission such as the one in the Nissan Versa Note. The CVT’s only saving grace is it will get paddle shifters, hinting at a stepped CVT setup much like the new Corolla.

Honda anticipates the new Fit won’t just be frugal, but safe as well. With the new ACE body structure engineered for the subcompact, Honda expects to hit a home run on all IIHS tests and receive a five-Star NCAP score.

Fit will be produced for the first time in Honda’s Celaya, Mexico plant and should be available mid-2014. No pricing information has been announced but expect it to get a slight price drop, closer to the Nissan Versa Note’s MSRP of around $13,500.

Source;
http://www.autos.ca/honda/preview-2015-honda-fit/

TMW - EUROPEAN SALES - Full brand sales in Europe for 2013

CLICK TO VIEW BIGGER PICTURE

2013 was a year of varying successes and failures, however overall 2013 was most probably the year that the Europe wide fall in sales finally flat-lined, there were some huge stories that hit the worldwide media over the last twelve months, namely the takeover of Chrysler by FIAT, VW's continued dominance in Europe, followed far far behind by the PSA group, who themselves are in continued talks about mergers, takeovers and financial dire straits.

But the main story, well on this blog, is the brilliant news that Jaguar Land Rover carry on where they left off 2012, and thats higher sales, better profits, more models, and more improvement in reliability. as well as the awards, that just flowed month after month to JLR, The stunning F-Type, new Sport and the big daddy, Range Rover, all said hello, and like a hound after a hare, the sales shot off, at a high rate of knots, the next few years will be a huge one for JLR, with massive investment, the new Engine plant at Wolverhampton UK, comes on stream this year, the new 3-Series competitor will emerge, as well as the new XF, and SUV.

The last year or two have been devoted to getting Range Rover right, this has been done, now it is the turn of Land Rover and Jaguar, with the Freelander name disappearing and being replaced with the Discovery moniker making Discovery a brand in its own right, but this is not all, a brand new plant in India, China, Mexico and Saudi Arabia are all with built, building or in the planning stages, JLR will become a huge company, one that the likes of BMW and Mercedes will do well to keep their eyes on.

SEAT and Skoda saved VAG by adding over 40,000 models to the 2012 sales, but VW, AUDI and Porsche all took hits keeping 13's sales below 12's, however the mighty VAG will not rest on its laurels, they did sell nearly three million cars in the EU last year, and nearly Ten Million worldwide, so a few thousand is really nothing, but I am sure that there will be meetings and conversations high up to fathom out the issues and processes put in place to ensure it does not happen this year.

The French brands fared little better, -8.4% for the PSA company and up 4.4% for Renault Group, however it was the Dacia brand that saved Renault, and a massive first year in the UK where it sold over 17,000 cars in its first year, not bad for an unknown brand, its seems that the UK customer did indeed do the maths (reference to the UK TV advertising "Dacia - You do the maths"), Peugeot and Citroen, for two old brands, with great products 2013 was a let down, but 2014 will be better, Peugeot will have the youngest range of products in its history, Citroen will continue with the DS brand and push it further into China, and with the 308 coming on stream worldwide, along with the 208 and 2008, this year will be a significant year for the French giants.

FIAT Group, well, where to start, what a rubbish year in Europe, every brand in their portfolio fell, even the great Ferrari didn't do exceptionally well in Europe, Alfa needs a Miracle, Lancia needs putting to sleep, FIAT needs billions of euros to turn it around, and Chrysler just has not succeeded in the EU, the real story with FIAT is the takeover of Chrylser and the continued slide of Alfa Romeo, it is surely going to take a vast amount of money and talent to get FIAT Group back on top.

Of the other US brands, both had minor falls, Ford dropped 3.2% and GM by 4.3% with Vauxhall saving GM further embarrassment, by increasing sales by over 11% in the UK, adding 20,000 extra sales, 2014 will be interesting to watch, to see if the announcement of Chevrolet pulling out of Europe will effect sales, I am sure that GM wont be advertising the fact, as any sales are worthwhile, even if they are pulling out.

The so called premium brands, BMW and Mercedes were complete opposites, with BMW+MINI dropping and Mercedes+SMART rising, of the remaining brands in Europe only Kia and Mazda managed to increase sales on the previous year, but with the majority of the drops only small numbers, just saying drop or rise is a little innocuous, overall the Europe market dropped by a rather insignificant 1.7%, but that 1.7% equates to about 200,000 sales, and that's not to be ignored.

2014 will be a year of change, more emphasis on China for a lot of brands will bolster sagging sales elsewhere, most companies have significant new car releases this year, so again sales figures will be buoyant, and with the increased sales, the fight for customers will start again, with various offers, finance packages and deals to tempt, even the most tight fisted buyer, these in turn will start the spiral that eventually ended up with the entire worldwide market crashing back in 2008, have any of the Motor Manufacturers taken note and will they act accordingly, don't be silly, it will just carry on as before, the belts will tighten, and gradually they will slip, and sometime in the future, we will all be back here doing the same thing.

In the mean time, enjoy the great new cars that are due this year, and take advantage of any and all offers that are around, and remember, at the end of the day, it is only a car, and not life and death, duh, what a lot of rubbish, we live for cars around here, and any new car is met with a smile and a great deal of interest, that's why we publish all we can. Enjoy them all and here is to the next 11 months of new releases, hopefully better sales and lots of interesting news and gossip from around the world.

Jon Mower

A Dozen Years Dumber

Hmmm....What would the CRV look like as a Truck you ask.....?????

I stumbled across this photo shop, looks pretty good too, not saying I'd want to see this a reality, just saying Matheus Castro did a bang up job on it.

www.gt-x.blogspot.com.br

Honda reveals all-new 2014 Civic Si Coupe at the Montreal International Auto Show

Restyled, more aggressive Civic Si features next-gen technology for an unrivaled Civic driving experience

MONTREAL, Jan. 16, 2014 /CNW/ - During today's Montreal International Auto Show, Honda Canada debuted the all-new 2014 Civic Si Coupe, the sportiest version of Canada's top-selling car for the past 16 years, the Honda Civic. The 2014 Civic Si Coupe features bold new styling, improved performance and class-leading technology. 

Civic Si Coupe now boasts a redesigned front fascia, a distinctive grille and bumper, a new taillight design and 18-inch wheels. Aggressive styling advancements connect with a 6-speed manual, tightened suspension and tuned exhaust for greater power, sporty performance that is synonymous with Civic Si.

"The 2014 Civic Si Coupe is the most exciting Civic in our lineup and we're thrilled to unveil it to Canadians here in Montreal," said Dave Gardner, vice president of sales and marketing, Honda Canada Inc. "Civic Si Coupe is a fantastic blend of new technology, edgier style and performance enhancements, all of which make for a vehicle people can't help but love to drive."

The Civic Si Coupe has a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $26,655.
 
Premium tech and style inside and out
Once behind the wheel, drivers will find premium interior updates and new technology and finishes that further enhance the Civic Si Coupe look and feel. The 2014 model marks the introduction of a 7-inch Display Audio infotainment touch-screen with tap, swipe and pinch capabilities. Honda has also included HondaLink^TM Next Generation connected-car technology - an application-based platform that seamlessly connects a driver's smartphone with their Civic, enabling access to information and content online and in the cloud.

Civic Si Coupe will also feature LaneWatch^TM, keyless entry and push-button start, as well as sportier seat materials and colours, all of which are complemented by standard features, including a rearview camera and USB/iPod connectivity.

"There's a reason Civic has been the country's top-selling car for 16 years," added Gardner.  "We never stop listening to our customers and challenge ourselves to meet and exceed their expectations. The 2014 Civic Si Coupe is a demonstration of Honda delivering on these promises."

Powertrain
The Civic Si is powered by an i-VTEC® 2.4-litre DOHC 16-valve engine mated to a close-ratio, 6-speed manual transmission. The Si also includes as standard equipment a helical limited-slip differential. The performance differential helps minimize front wheel slippage for enhanced steering precision when accelerating and cornering.

To increase the excitement level of the exhilarating Civic Si driving experience, refinements to the exhaust system increase engine performance to 205 peak horsepower¹ and 174 lb-ft of torque². This is an increase of 4 horsepower and 4 lb-ft of torque over the previous model.

Body
The Civic Coupe's youthful and sporty nature is amplified with fresh and aggressive styling changes for 2014. The dynamic capabilities of the coupe are portrayed by a bold new grille, headlights and taillights, and sculptured hood, front fenders, side mirrors and rear bumper. The coupe's sporty styling cues continue with premium, athletic looking, larger and redesigned 18-inch alloy wheels.

Chassis
For 2014, the Honda Civic Si Coupe receives a larger rear stabilizer bar and the front spring rates have been increased. These updates enhance steering response and roll feel. In 2013, the Civic lineup benefitted from substantial changes to enhance handling refinement and noise isolation. These included a reworked Electronic Power Steering (EPS), suspension spring changes and thicker stabilizer bars with new Teflon-lined mounting bushings. Other upgrades include larger diameter front brake rotors on some models for better stopping power, and a host of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) countermeasures to reduce road, engine and wind noise.

Interior
Several refinements to the 2014 Civic interior further enhance its youthful and sporty, yet advanced and premium appearance. The Civic Si Coupe seats are changed to further enhance the sporty look with exclusive seat fabric and decoration in a dynamic black and red.

New Display Audio Interface for 2014, Civic Si Coupe includes the all-new 7-inch Display Audio touchscreen. The intuitive and easy-to-use Display Audio lets you swipe, tap and pinch - just like on a tablet computer or smartphone - to control the vehicle's audio system, display settings and other advanced features. The Si Coupe also includes Display Audio with a fully integrated and fully featured Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™.

Safety
At Honda, safety is always a top priority and the 2014 Civic Si Coupe is a prime example of that focus. Civic safety begins with the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure that was redesigned in 2013 to provide increased protection to vehicle occupants in a frontal collision, including front end structures to help disperse crash energy in narrow overlap frontal crashes. The 2014 Civic's safety technologies also include standard dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags, an anti-lock braking system (ABS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®)³ with traction control, Daytime Running Lights (DRL), and a pedestrian injury mitigation design in the front of the vehicle. The 2013 Civic was the first small car to earn a GOOD rating in the U.S. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) stringent small overlap front crash test.

Awards
In addition to receiving numerous awards for the completely redesigned 2012 Honda Civic, the refreshed 2013 model was also awarded and recognized with accolades. It was named "Best Buy Compact Car" by Consumer Guide and "Top Family Car of 2013" by Edmunds.com and Parents Magazine. In addition, KBB awarded the Civic "Best Resale Value: Top 10" status and the Civic Si "Best Retail Value: Sporty Compact Car." Civic was also recognized with a "Polk Automotive Loyalty" award in the compact car segment, Edmunds.com named the Civic "Best Retained Value" and the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy included the Civic Hybrid amongst the "Greenest Vehicles of 2013."

Consumer information is available at www.honda.ca. To join the Honda community on Facebook, visit facebook.com/HondaCanada. Additional media information including detailed features and high-resolution photography of the 2014 Honda Civic Si Coupe is available at www.hondanews.ca.


¹205 hp @ 7000 rpm (SAE net)
²174 lb-ft of torque @ 4400 rpm (SAE net)
³VSA is not a substitute for safe driving. It cannot correct the vehicle's course in every situation or compensate for reckless driving. Control of the vehicle always remains with the driver.

Third-party trademarks:The Bluetooth word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and any use of such marks by Honda Motor Co., Ltd., is under license; iPod is a registered trademark of Apple, Inc. All rights reserved. iPod not included; Kelley Blue Book is a registered trademark of Kelley Blue Book Co., Inc. 

SOURCE Honda Canada Inc.

Zeroper One

Antonello Minia si è chiuso in garage per circa un anno e lavorando in maniera saltuaria alla sua Honda SLR 650 ha creato la sua scrambler .
Ora che ha finito il lavori ci teneva a mostrarmela .
Si è ispirato alle moto da regolarità anni 70 , ha messo un serbatoio Garelli 50 la sella del corsarino  e poco altro spendendo  intorno a 1200 euro tra pezzi sostituiti e comprati tutti second hands, saldatore e verniciatore per completare  la sua Zeroper One  .
Ecco una moto che non ha niente da invidiare rispetto alle scrambler che vanno tanto di moda sfornate dai personaggi che vanno di moda e che circolano in giro per il web e anche dentro il mio blog .
Quindi ora sapete che è possibile farsi la propria special senza spendere un fortuna ma solo con buon gusto e duro lavoro.

Official – Global unveil of Honda’s Vision XS-1 crossover concept at 2014 Auto Expo

The Honda XS-1 is very likely to be a SUV top-hat on the Mobilio platform.

by Karthik H of www.indianautosblog.com 

Honda has announced that it will conduct yet another global unveil in India. A creative study model called the “Honda Vision XS-1″ will be revealed at the 2014 Auto Expo in February.

The Vision XS-1 is a new crossover based on the packaging technology of Honda with both surprising space and sporty styling, the company says.

There will also be the Mobilio MPV, the third-generation Jazz hatchback, the four-generation City sedan and the Amaze compact sedan on display making it the biggest ever Auto Expo for Honda, who had nothing new to show at the previous edition.

The new Honda Jazz receives its Indian premiere at the Auto Expo.

As for the Vision XS-1 crossover concept, going by its description, it seems to be a made-for-Asia concept as it talks about packaging technology and surprising space, and not about performance or looks.

The previous made-for-Asia cars that Honda launched (and shared this introduction) were the Brio hatchback and Amaze sedan, which have had good success streaks in India and other Asian markets like Thailand and Indonesia. Moreover Honda have the Vezel earmarked for global countries, and a second crossover is not warranted.

Honda would also put the new Accord Hybrid on display, as a study.

Honda even recently inaugurated a facility in Indonesia this week that became the first to manufacture the Mobilio MPV. Honda India has already confirmed to IAB that the Mobilio will be launched in the coming fiscal.

There will also be a new scooter from Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India at the Auto Expo, the release mentioned.

Source;
http://indianautosblog.com/2014/01/honda-vision-xs-1-crossover-concept-auto-expo-2014-113344

THE DAKDAAK

Deus ha messo le mani su una Honda CRF 450 , la moto è bella non c'è che dire ma io rimango affezionato al mono nella sua veste di moto leggera e potente capace di far uscire il lato fuorilegge e da teppista urbano che c'è in voi , più che da moto da mezzi sterzi in stile sfida sulla North Circular. 

Provate a guidare una di queste moto magari in versione motard e poi ditemi che non divertenti  

Deuscustoms.com

Acura Considering Honda Vezel-Based Crossover SUV

Not exactly new news, but news none the less.....

by  Viknesh Vijayenthiran of www.motorauthority.com
 
Acura is reportedly considering the launch of a compact crossover based on the Honda Vezel, which debuted at the 2013 Motor Show and is due in local showrooms later this year, most likely under a new name. The information comes from one of the Vezel’s engineers, who told Automotive News (subscription required) that Acura is investigating whether it should launch its own version of the car.

The engineer, Naohisa Morishita, offered up Acura’s SUV-X concept from the 2013 Shanghai Auto Show as an example of what’s possible. A production version of the SUV-X concept has been confirmed for a Chinese market launch in 2016 but Morishita sees such a vehicle being popular elsewhere.

"There is a market for it worldwide, not just in China," Morishita is reported to have said. "Personally, I think Acura needs it."

If Acura were to launch a compact crossover based on the Vezel in the U.S., the vehicle would face some stiff competition from the likes of the BMW X1 and upcoming Audi Q3, Lincoln MKC and Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class. Convincing buyers to opt for the Acura version instead of the Vezel will also be a challenge, something Lincoln will also have to address with its MKC and Escape twins.

Source;
http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1089730_acura-considering-honda-vezel-based-compact-crossover

2015 Honda FIT Touring (?) Dash

Wow, very nice.  Notable features/changes;
-1.5Litre 130HP in all models
-Bluetooth and Backup Camera is standard in all models
-Options of a CVT (Automatic Transmission) or a 6 Speed Manual Transmission
-There will be a Leather Optioned FIT (Touring model?)
-Moonroof is a now actually available (first time in North America!)
-Lanewatch Blindspot Camera is available

Source;
Honda

Honda Reveals All-new 2015 Fit at 2014 NAIAS in Detroit (VIDEO)

Honda Introduces All-New 2015 Fit at North American International Auto Show

01/13/2014 - DETROIT

• More powerful, refined and fuel-efficient Fit set to launch this spring
• All-new U.S. model showcases dynamic styling and upgraded interior packed with class-leading features and technology
• Earth Dreams™ Technology engine and transmissions deliver heightened fun-to-drive performance and class-leading fuel efficiency

Honda unveiled the all-new 2015 Fit at the North American International Auto Show today. Set to go on sale in the U.S. this spring, the new Fit is completely redesigned from the ground up to deliver an unparalleled combination of style, interior space, fun-to-drive performance and fuel efficiency plus leading-edge safety and vehicle connectivity.

"The Honda Fit is a small car with big aspirations. Faster, more fuel-efficient and more fun, it's a subcompact with larger-than-life-capabilities," said John Mendel, executive vice president of automobile sales for American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "It's simply the best Fit to date and, we believe, a new benchmark in the small-car category."

Modern Styling with Class-Leading Packaging
The 2015 Fit debuts with a sleek, modern and sporty exterior style. A more aggressive front fascia showcases a new grille and headlight design. A strong character line runs along the side of the Fit, emphasizing the vehicle's aerodynamic profile. Larger 16-inch tires outfitted with a new 5-spoke wheel design give the Fit a planted and sporty stance. In the back, rear reflectors and LED taillights run along the hatch with a chrome tailgate garnish and rear diffuser, all contributing to the Fit's more substantial and dynamic appearance.

Retaining a similar exterior footprint to the current model, the new Fit is slightly shorter (-1.6 in.) and wider (+0.3 in.) with a longer wheelbase (+1.2 in.), resulting in improved handling and maneuverability. Inside, the Fit builds on its already class-leading interior space, airy cabin and large greenhouse thanks to an all-new efficient platform that incorporates a unique center-mounted fuel-tank layout. The new Fit also delivers a significant increase in passenger volume (+4.9 cu ft) and rear legroom (+4.8 in.) compared to the previous model. With the Honda-exclusive Magic Seat® offering multiple configurable seating positions, the Fit provides an unrivaled 52.7 cubic feet of cargo space when the second row seats are folded flat. With an overall height of 60 inches, the Fit allows for easy loading of items into the rear cargo and ingress/egress for passengers.

Enhanced Interior and Technology Features
The 2015 Fit will deliver above-class interior refinement and features while offering value at every trim level. All 2015 Fit models will be equipped with class-leading standard features including Bluetooth® connectivity, a multi-angle rearview camera, and Expanded View Driver's Mirror. For customers looking for premium features in the subcompact segment, Fit will be available with smart entry with push-button start, heated side mirrors, a moonroof, heated front seats, Honda's exclusive LaneWatch™ display and a 7-inch Display Audio¹ touchscreen interface with HondaLink™ smartphone connectivity. Soft touch and premium materials are used throughout and, for the first time, the Fit will be offered with available leather-trimmed seating.

Improved Performance, Efficiency and Safety
The 2015 Fit marks the U.S. debut of an all-new direct-injected 1.5-liter DOHC i-VTEC engine. Generating 130 horsepower² at 6500 rpm and 114 lb.-ft. of torque² at 4600 rpm, engine output is increased by 13 horsepower and 8 lb.-ft. compared to the outgoing engine, while reducing weight and improving efficiency. Paired to two new transmissions, a slick-shifting 6-speed manual or a sporty and fuel-efficient Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with available paddle shifters, the Fit powertrain offers superior acceleration and passing performance and is anticipated to have class-leading³ EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 33 city/41 highway/36 combined⁴ (CVT-equipped models).

Complementing the new powertrain is a revised chassis that provides for improved handling, ride comfort and NVH. A more rigid body, new rear dampers and revised suspension geometry notably enhance the 2015 Fit's ride quality and fun-to-drive handling characteristics.

The 2015 Fit benefits from the most extensive use of ultra-high strength steel in the model's history, providing increased body stiffness while reducing platform (underbody and chassis) weight by 57 pounds versus the outgoing model. Equipped with the next generation of the Honda Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, the Fit is anticipated to earn top safety scores from NHTSA and IIHS, including a NCAP 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score and a TOP SAFETY PICK rating with a GOOD rating in all IIHS test modes, including the rigorous small overlap barrier test.

North America Production
The 2015 Fit will be manufactured for the first time in North America at the new Celaya, Mexico plant. With an annual capacity of 200,000 units, the facility will begin mass production of the 2015 Fit next month, adding production of an all-new small Honda SUV later in the year. With introduction of the new manufacturing facility in Mexico, Honda's North American automobile production facilities will have a total annual capacity of 1.92 million units, and will have the capability to manufacture vehicles in all product segments, from subcompacts to light truck models. With the added production, approximately 98 percent of all Honda-brand vehicles sold in the United States will be sourced from Honda plants in North America.

About Honda

Honda offers a complete lineup of cars and trucks through a network of more than 1,000 dealerships in the United States. Honda has more than 30 years of experience producing automobiles in the region, which began with the Accord in Marysville, Ohio, in November 1982. Having produced more than 25 million vehicles in North America through 2012 using domestic and globally sourced parts, Honda currently operates 14 major manufacturing facilities in North America, producing a wide range of Honda automobiles, all-terrain vehicles, power equipment products, engines and transmissions.

For high-resolution photography of the 2015 Fit, visit www.hondanews.com. For customers interested in receiving more information on the 2015 Fit, please visit www.automobiles.honda.com/2015-fit to sign up email updates.

¹The Display Audio Interface is used for direct connection to and streaming from some current [Apple/Android] smartphones. For safety reasons, always launch HondaLink applications or perform any other operation on your phone only when the vehicle is safely parked. State or local laws may limit use of texting feature, and Assist functions may be terminated without notice. Your wireless carrier's rate plans apply. Please see your Honda dealer and HondaLink terms and conditions for details.
² Preliminary estimate provided by Honda. Final specification is subject to change.
³ Among subcompact class vehicles equipped with standard engine and automatic transmission.
⁴ Preliminary mileage ratings determined by Honda. Final EPA mileage ratings not available at the time of printing. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle

Source;
http://www.hondanews.com/channels/corporate-headlines/releases/honda-introduces-all-new-2015-fit-at-north-american-international-auto-show