Search the Community

While everyone has been wiping the drool from their lips with the announcement of the Civic Type R coming the U.S. that will be arriving in 2017, there is still the Civic Si coming around the corner that should whet our appetites when it arrives sometime in 2016. The folks at CivicX Forums got their hands on some intriguing info on Civic Si. According to a source, the Si will use a detuned version of the turbocharged 2.0L found in the Civic Type R. Power is expected to be around 220 to 230 horsepower. A six-speed manual will be the sole transmission choice. It is expected that the Si will share a number of parts with the Type R as well. Source: CivicX.com

If there has been one complaint of the new Honda Civic, it is that you cannot get a manual transmission with the optional turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder. But there could be a change in the air. A member on the CivicX forum got their hands on a slide revealing that a six-speed manual transmission option would be available on the turbo-four starting in the 2017 model year. The slide also reveals that it was planned for 2016, but was pushed back a year. No reason as to why wasn't said. Source: CivicX.com, The Truth About Cars Image Source: CivicX.com

The rollout of the next-generation Civic continues with the reveal of the 2016 Civic Coupe at the LA Auto Show today. The production Civic coupe carries a lot of the design that we first saw on the concept shown at New York back in April. From a large chrome bar that flows into the headlights on the front end, to a sloping roofline and sculpting running along the doors, its clear that Honda wants to make Civic coupe standout. One nice touch we like the is how the rear taillight runs along the trunk to the quarter panels. Compared to the sedan, the Civic coupe is about 5.5 inches shorter in overall length and a slightly lower roof. The Civic Coupe's interior is similar to the sedan with a new dashboard layout, higher quality materials, and a seven-inch touchscreen that will able use Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Interior space has seen some increases as well with overall space up 8.4 cubic feet and rear legroom up 5 inches. Powertrains for the Civic Coupe include a 2.0L DOHC i-VTEC four-cylinder with 158 horsepower as the base and a turbocharged 1.5L DOHC direct-injected four-cylinder with 174 horsepower. The 2.0 is available with a six-speed manual or a CVT while the turbo only comes with a CVT. The 2016 Honda Civic arrives at dealers in March. Source: Honda Photos: Honda Media and Drew Dowdell - CheersandGears.com Press Release is on Page 2 Dynamically Styled, More Powerful and Fuel-Efficient 2016 Honda Civic Coupe Makes First Public Appearance at Los Angeles Auto Show 2016 Civic Coupe set to launch in March as the latest addition to Honda’s expansive and sporty new 10th-generation Civic lineup Lower roofline, more compact form and signature taillight differentiate the more personal and sporty Coupe design Two powerful and fuel-efficient powerplants, including first ever Honda turbo engine for Civic Coupe State-of-the-art connectivity with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay™ and new Honda embedded navigation system by Garmin Sporty and spacious, interior space grows by 8.4 cubic feet and rear-seat legroom is up more than 5 inches. TORRANCE, Calif., November 17, 2015 – The newest member of the completely reengineered and reimagined 10th-generation Civic lineup – the 2016 Civic Coupe – will make its first public appearance at the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show. Launching in March, the 2016 Civic Coupe delivers an even sportier and emotional take on the new Civic design while benefitting from the multitude of upgrades to the 10th-generation Civic lineup, including a sophisticated and sporty new chassis, a more spacious and quieter cabin, class-leading fuel-economy ratings and targeted top-in-class crash safety ratings. The new 2016 Civic Coupe, like its sedan counterpart, will feature two advanced new engines, including the first-ever turbo engine for the Coupe, delivering more power, performance and fuel efficiency. All new Civic Coupes, from the well-equipped LX to the new, line-topping Touring trim, also receive significant upgrades to interior style, with soft-touch materials and high-grade finishes, along with a bevy of new standard and available features, including the Honda Sensing™ suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies as well as both Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. “We continue on our epic 10th-generation Civic journey with the sportiest, most sophisticated and tech-savvy Civic Coupe yet,” said Jeff Conrad, senior vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. and general manager of the Honda Division. “I think our customers are going to be utterly surprised by what this new Coupe delivers in terms of refinement, safety, efficiency and fun-to-drive performance.” The 2016 Civic Coupe is the second in a series of new 10th-generation Civic models that Honda is launching over the course of the next 18 months, including the Civic Sedan, Civic Coupe, the first-ever Civic 5-door hatchback for the U.S. market, Civic Si performance variants and for the first time in the U.S., the radical new Civic Type-R. Civic Coupe Styling The 2016 Civic Coupe carries forward the sporty and premium character of the 10th-generation Civic design, including the bold front fascia, fast-back profile and sharp-edged detailing, as well as its more athletic wheels out proportions – its longer wheelbase (+2.9 inches), wider body (+1.9 inches), shortened front overhang (-1.4 inches) and wider stance. The new Coupe also benefits from the lower seating position, or hip point, of the new Civic platform, which amplifies the Coupe’s low, wide and planted dynamic driving character. From the A-pillars rearward, the Coupe features unique exterior styling with a lower and more steeply raked roofline, nearly 1 inch lower than the Sedan, and more compact proportions, with the rear overhang and overall length shortened by 5.5 inches. The new Coupe also features an exclusive rear taillight design that carries the arch of the distinctive C-shaped LED taillights across the full length of the rear deck lid. Sporty and Spacious Coupe Interior The 2016 Civic Coupe’s sportier design does not come at the expense of passenger comfort, as interior space grows by 8.4 cubic feet and rear seat legroom is increased by more than 5 inches, compared to the outgoing Coupe model. The new Civic Coupe interior strikes a more premium tone with high-quality materials and high-contrast finishes. These include a new one-piece, soft-touch instrument panel with molded stitching; more premium seat fabrics; a new full-color TFT center meter (EX and above trims); door inserts with real stitching; an LED shift indicator and LED overhead lighting; and for EX and higher trims, a leather shift lever boot. Civic Coupe Feature Upgrades All new Civic Coupes, from the well-equipped LX to the new line-topping Touring, feature upgraded interiors and an expanded list of standard and available technologies and features. New standard equipment includes auto on/off headlights, LED daytime running lights, LED taillights, acoustic glass windshield, automatic climate control (dual-zone in upper trims), Electric Parking Brake with Brake Hold and Walk-Away auto door locks. New available features include Honda LED headlights, Remote engine start, heated front seats and side mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, full-color TFT center meter and seven-inch Display Audio touchscreen. Civic Coupe Audio and Connectivity The new Civic Coupe delivers the latest in audio and connected-car technology, including more powerful audio systems; an available new Android OS-based, 7-inch Display Audio touch screen interface; a bevy of streaming audio options such as Pandora®, SiriusXM® and HD Radio™; and for trims with Display Audio, full compatibility with both Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay® platforms. The Civic Coupe highest trims will also feature a new Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ developed in cooperation with the experts at Garmin. Advanced New Powertrains The 2016 Civic Coupe will launch with two more powerful and fuel-efficient powertrains, Lower trims receive a new 2.0-liter DOHC i-VTEC™ engine turning out 158 horsepower and 138 lb.-ft. of torque (+15 HP and +9 lb.-ft. vs. 2015 Civic 1.8L) with anticipated EPA fuel-economy ratings of 31/41/35 mpg (city/highway/combined) for models equipped with CVT. This engine can also be equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission on the lowest trim. Civic Coupe mid to highest trims are powered by a new 1.5-liter DOHC direct-injected TURBO – the first-ever turbocharged engine for Civic Coupe – putting out a peak 174 horsepower and 162 lb.-ft. of torque (+31 HP and +33 lb.-ft. vs. 2015 Civic 1.8L) with anticipated EPA ratings of 31/42/35 mpg2. Advanced Safety Performance The 2016 Civic Coupe utilizes Honda’s next generation Advanced Compatibility Body Structure™ (ACE™) working in conjunction with advanced airbags and seatbelts to provide a high degree of safety performance. Utilizing these systems in conjunction with the available new Honda Sensing™ suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies, the 2016 Civic Coupe with Honda Sensing™ targets the highest available U.S. safety ratings – an NCAP 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Next at the LA Auto Show, Honda will unveil the coupe version of the Civic. But thanks to an eagle-eye spy photographer, we have our first peek at what the production coupe will look like. While the Civic coupe in the photo has the same bright green color as the concept shown at the New York Auto Show earlier this year, the production model is toned down a bit with no rear wing or distinctive front bumper. But the basic shape is all there. It's expected the Civic coupe will feature the same 2.0L four-cylinder engine with 158 horsepower and turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder engine with 174 horsepower as found in the sedan. We'll have full details of the coupe when it is shown at the LA Auto Show next week. Source: Motor Authority

Honda is recalling 143,676 examples of the 2014-2015 Civic and 2015 Fit over a problem with the CVT. According to the company in a statement, the transmission software is programmed to use high hydraulic pressure at certain times, which puts a lot of stress on the on the drive pulley shaft. Honda goes on to say certain components of the drive pulley shaft may have been produced at the low end of the hardness specification. This combination could cause the shaft to break and cause the front wheels to lose power or lock up. According to NHTSA, there are 23 warranty claims for this problem, with the first one happening in July of 2014. Honda says no injuries has been reported for this issue. Honda will begin notifying owners later this month. Dealers will update the software for the CVT. Source: Honda Press Release is on Page 2

The last-generation Civic was a disappointment. Honda appeared to fall asleep at the wheel while a number of competitors stepped up. The Japanese automaker tried its best to improve the model in subsequent years, but it still lacked something. Tonight, Honda introduced the 2016 Civic - the model that will hopefully fix the mistakes of the previous model. From the outside, the Civic is much more distinctive than the model it replaces. From the fastback roofline to a front end style borrowed from the Accord. A set of LED taillights come standard, while LED headlights are an option. The interior features a modern looking dashboard, minus the tiered instrument cluster (thank you Honda). Interior space for the new Civic is 3.7 cubic feet larger than the outgoing model. Rear legroom has also seen an increase of 2 inches. Trunk space is up 2.6 cubic feet thanks to the sloping shape of the rear. In terms of technology, the 2016 Civic gets a large TFT screen in the instrument cluster on EX models and up. A 7-inch touchscreen that will be able to use Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Powertrains for the Civic include a 2.0L four-cylinder for base models and a turbocharged 1.5L four on higher trims. No power figures were given for either engine. A pair of CVTs will come with the new Civic, but Honda hasn't said if a manual transmission will be available. Honda is keeping mum on fuel economy figures, but does say the turbo 1.5 will get up to 40 MPG on the highway. We'll have more details, along with pictures of the coupe, hatchback, Si, and Type R models in the near future. Source: Honda Press Release is on Page 2 Honda Debuts Dynamic New 10th Generation Civic Sedan for North America: The Most Ambitious Remake of Civic Ever Sep 16, 2015 - LOS ANGELES Two new powertrains, including first Honda turbo engine in U.S. Available Honda Sensing™ technologies Compatible with Apple CarPlay®, the smarter, simpler way to use your iPhone in the car Also supports Android Auto™ New styling includes significant use of LED lighting New platform and package yields largest cabin in compact class Honda took to YouTube today to unveil an all-new, dynamically styled 10th-generation 2016 Civic Sedan, slated for sale in the U.S. this fall. With a more athletic stance and sportier driving position, the 2016 Civic Sedan is a new-from-the-ground-up design intended to recapture the sporty character of Civic while creating the world's best compact car – setting a new benchmark in the mainstream compact class for fun-to-drive performance, safety performance and fuel efficiency, together with a new level of refinement. The Civic Sedan is the first in a series of new 10th-generation Civic models that will include a sedan, coupe, high-performance Si models, a 5-door hatchback and the first-ever Civic Type-R model for the U.S. market, comprising the most diverse and innovative lineup in Civic's 43-year history. "This tenth-generation Civic is quite simply the most ambitious remake of Civic we've ever done," said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co, Inc. "We are bringing more new technology and innovative thinking to Civic than ever before to establish a new benchmark for fun-to-drive performance, fuel efficiency, safety performance and refinement in the compact class." Backing up the new Civic's dramatic and sporty design with new power and efficiency, for the first time the 2016 Civic will feature two all-new engines – including the first-ever application of Honda turbo engine technology in the U.S. These powerful and fuel-efficient new engines combine with a sophisticated new body and chassis design to deliver incredibly responsive and sporty performance with a higher level of ride refinement and class-leading fuel efficiency. The 2016 Civic Sedan will be available with the Honda Sensing™ suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies, including Collision Mitigation Braking, Road Departure Mitigation and, for the first time in a Honda, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow – bringing new value to the compact segment. Further, the 2016 Civic lineup joins the freshened 2016 Accord in offering advanced smartphone integration with a new, 7-inch high-definition Display Audio touchscreen, offering tech-savvy customers a more advanced and intuitive connected-car experience. Apple CarPlay® takes the things you want to do with your iPhone while driving and puts them right on your car's built-in display. You can get directions, make calls, send and receive messages, and listen to music right from the touchscreen or by voice via Siri. Supported apps include Phone, Messages, Maps, Music and compatible third party apps. Apple CarPlay® is compatible with iOS 8.4 or later and iPhone 5 or later. Android Auto™ was designed to give drivers a simple, intuitive way through touch and voice to minimize the potential for distraction so the driver can stay focused on the road. Compatible with Android 5.0 and higher, Android Auto features Google Maps, Google Now, messaging, music and numerous popular apps. Sporty Civic Design The dramatic and sporty new Civic design is grounded in its more athletic stance and low and wide proportions. Compared to the current model, the 2016 Civic Sedan is nearly 2 inches wider and 1 inch lower with a 1.2-inch longer wheelbase, featuring a more compact and sporty front overhang, a longer, more aggressively sculpted hood and fastback-style tail. The taut and tidy proportions of the new Civic Sedan are complemented and accentuated by refined design details, including sleek and swept-back bodylines, a sharp and aggressive face and bulging wheel arches. The new Civic's more premium compact sedan character is also highlighted by its available LED exterior lighting, including new Honda LED headlights (in-line type), LED daytime running lights (standard) and distinctive C-shaped LED taillights (also standard). "The new Civic really is the embodiment of our global design team's goal of styling a dramatic form that follows and speaks to the dynamic function of this ambitious redesign," said Jarad Hall, Senior Exterior Designer and project leader of the Civic Sedan, Honda R&D Americas. "The low and wide proportions, with the wheels pushed to the outmost corners, emphasize the Civic's dynamic handling prowess and give the car a crouched and muscular look, like a tiger ready to pounce." Two All-new Engines The 2016 Civic Sedan will feature two all-new, more powerful and fuel-efficient engines. Civic Sedan LX and EX trims will be powered by a 2.0-liter, 16-valve, DOHC i-VTEC™ 4-cylinder – the most powerful base engine ever offered on Civic – mated to either a 6-speed manual (LX trim) or continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Civic Sedans in EX-T, EX-L trims and Touring trims will be powered by a 1.5-liter, direct-injected and turbocharged 16-valve DOHC inline-4, mated to a unique CVT, delivering a new level of responsiveness in this capacity class of turbocharged engine. The new 1.5-liter powerplant is the first turbocharged engine on a U.S. Honda model and the most powerful engine ever offered on a non-Si Civic in America. Both engines will offer top-in-class performance and fuel efficiency, and are targeted to receive EPA highway fuel economy ratings in excess of 40 mpg. Additional powertrain details and specifications will be announced closer to launch. Advanced and Sporty New Body and Chassis The 2016 Civic will set a new standard for dynamic handling, steering, ride quality and cabin quietness in the compact class, courtesy of its all new platform, featuring the most rigid and tightly sealed body and the most sophisticated chassis in Civic history. Advancing the sporty character of this all-new Civic is its more sporty driving position, with a one-inch lower hip point compared to the current car. The lower hip point is enabled by the new Civic's lower floor and engine and its all-new suspension design. The new Civic chassis features a redesigned strut front suspension and a new multi-link rear suspension mounted to an ultra-rigid rear subframe. Torsional rigidity of the new body is improved by 25 percent, aided in part by more intensive use of ultra-high-strength steel. Twelve percent of the unit body is made of ultra-high-strength steel, up from 1percent on the current model. Aerodynamic efficiency is improved by 12 percent to class-leading levels, in part through the use of full underbody covers—a Civic first. Despite its larger size, the new Civic unit body is 68 pounds lighter than before, while new body-sealing techniques result in a 58-percent reduction in cabin air leaks. Class-leading cabin quietness is further improved by the use of premium noise-reducing features, including a flush-mounted acoustic glass windshield, a more tightly sealed engine compartment and triple-sealed doors. To achieve the Civic development team's high targets for dynamic performance and refined ride quality, the new Civic Sedan utilizes hydraulic compliance bushings, a technology typically reserved for more expensive vehicles, aiding the isolation of road vibration. Additional new chassis technologies include variable gear ratio steering, beefier front and rear stabilizer bars and standard 4-wheel disc brakes, along with the application of new Agile Handling Assist brake-torque vectoring technology for more precise and agile cornering. Spacious, Sophisticated and Advanced Cabin The new Civic interior is designed to offer the most comfortable, sophisticated and premium-feeling cabin in the compact class. An additional 3.7 cubic feet of interior space translates into the largest cabin in the compact segment with 2 inches of added rear-seat legroom versus the outgoing model. In front, new ultra-thin front roof pillars enable class-leading forward visibility; and at the rear, trunk space has been increased by 2.6 cubic feet with a lower liftover height, larger opening and wider and taller cargo area. Civic Sedan EX and above trims will feature a 60/40 split and folding rear seat. The 2016 Civic Sedan offers customers more premium features than ever before. New standard equipment includes automatic climate control – dual-zone on EX-L and higher trims; auto-up/down front power windows; an electronic parking brake with Brake Hold; Walk-Away auto door locks and an adjustable driver's seat thigh support with 14 degrees of tilt (EX-L and above). All Civic Sedan models also feature a larger, reconfigurable new center console with up to 7.2 liters of secure storage space, approaching SUV levels of console utility. The new Civic interior strikes a more premium tone with high-quality materials and high-contrast finishes. These include a new one-piece, soft-touch instrumental panel with molded stitching; more premium seat fabrics; a new full-color TFT center meter (EX and above trims); a center console with piano black finish and high-contrast sliver bezel; door inserts with live stitching; an LED shift indicator and LED overhead lighting; and for EX and higher trims, a leather shift boot. Upper grades offer even more premium features, including an 8-way power adjustable driver's seat, 4-way power front passenger's seat, heated front and rear seats and heated side mirrors. Civic Manufacturing Civic Sedans for the North American market will be produced at the company's Greensburg, Indiana and Alliston, Ontario, Canada auto plants. The new Civic's 2.0-liter and 1.5-liter turbo engines will be manufactured in Anna, Ohio, and the vehicle's two automatic transmissions (CVTs) will be sourced from Honda plants in Russells Point, Ohio, and Celaya, Mexico. The new Civic utilizes numerous new manufacturing processes and technologies to advance quality, efficiency and fun-to-drive performance – the result of new investment in Honda automobile and engine plants in North America. This includes the addition of the company's innovative new inner-frame weld body construction process in both Indiana and Canada, a system first utilized for production of the 2015 Honda Fit. This new general weld system creates a more lightweight, rigid and strong body structure that helps enable the Civic's class-leading fuel efficiency, outstanding safety performance and fun-to-drive experience.

Someone at Honda is going to be yelled at. An eagle-eyed member of the CivicX forum caught the next-generation Civic parked outside of a building in Ann Arbor, MI. Compared to the Civic Coupe concept shown at New York, the production sedan retains a number of details such as the fastback shape and bold front end treatment. We have to admit that the Civic is quite the looker. We'll have more information and pictures when Honda officially introduces the next-generation Civic on Wednesday. Source: CivicX.com Image Credit: Mark at CivicX.com

Honda has apparently rediscovered its sporty side when they announced that the Civic Type R would be coming to the U.S. in the near future. But Automotive News reports the Japanese brands wants more sporty cars. Speaking with executive vice president of American Honda, John Mendel, Automotive News asked if the Honda S660 - a roadster that is about two feet shorter than the Mazda Miata would be coming the U.S. Mendel said no. "I wouldn't put my chips on that," said Mendel. "When the practicalities of the market come in, and the car only so big, that might not be the best car for the U.S. market. It might be better for India or China or somewhere else." But the idea of a sports car is still alive and well at Honda. The company filed patent drawings for a mid-engine model this year, and at the opening of their Silicon Valley r&d lab, there was a full-scale exterior design study looking very familiar to the drawings. When asked about, Mendel only said it was a design study from a team. But he did admit that dealers are wanting a sports car of some kind. "They want anything in the sports car world," Mendel said. "They're going, 'Gimme a sports car.' They want a retractable hard top; they want a high-horsepower $20,000 sports car. Because that's the nature of what they do." Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

Late last week, Honda introduced a refreshed 2016 Accord in Silicon Valley. The location was chosen for the Japanese automaker to make the point of one the biggest changes for this model - introduction of Android Auto and Apple's CarPlay. Standard on EX models and up, these systems allow your phone to take the place of the vehicle's infotainment system. Additionally, all Accord trims come with the option with Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced driving and safety features that includes Forward Collision Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, and Collision Mitigation Braking System. Outside, the 2016 Accord looks more like an Acura (for better or worse) with a new front grille and LED taillights. The top Touring trim gets LED headlights. A set of 19-inch wheels are available on higher trims. Powertrains largely carryover from the current model. The 2016 Accord arrives at dealers later this summer. Source: Honda Press Release is on Page 2 Honda Introduces the Highest Tech Accord Yet in High Tech’s U.S. Hub—Silicon Valley Jul 23, 2015 - MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. Upgraded 2016 Accord features one of the first applications of both Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ in a volume-produced vehicle More dynamic styling, including first 19-inch wheels on Accord Honda Sensing™ safety and driver-assistive tech available on all trims New 7-inch Display Audio touchscreen interface Honda introduced a refreshed 2016 Accord loaded with advanced technology in Silicon Valley today, the first time the company has launched a new vehicle in the U.S. tech hub. Coming to market in August, the 2016 Accord will be the first Honda model and among the first high-volume cars in the marketplace to feature both Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. These and other major upgrades to technology and features make it the most high-tech Accord ever. The 2016 Accord Sedan and Coupe receive dynamic new styling, a new Display Audio touchscreen interface, and Honda Sensing™, the most comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies in the midsize car class. The 2016 Accord also adds HD Radio®, heated rear seats, front and rear parking sensors, and a number of other new features and technology to be revealed in coming weeks. Details on the Accord Hybrid will be announced at a later date. "Where else to introduce the most technologically advanced midsize sedan, the 2016 Accord, than in Silicon Valley," said John Mendel, executive vice president of the Automobile Division, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "Customers want their vehicles to be more intelligently integrated with their smartphone-powered lives, and we are committed to delivering that experience starting with Accord, retail car buyers' most popular vehicle the past two years." Exterior and Interior design The 2016 Accord gets a major facelift with sportier, more sophisticated styling, front and rear. In front is a more sharply creased and intricately structured bumper fascia with outside edges that tuck into intake-like meshed areas that house new LED fog lights (Sport trim and above). A new aluminum hood features sharper character lines that meet up with a brighter, more expressive front grille. In the rear, the Accord gets restyled LED taillights and a similarly aggressive rear bumper fascia redesign. While all models feature restyled wheels, the Accord Sedan (Sport and Touring trim) and Coupe (Touring, new for Coupe) get new, larger 19-inch wheels and tires. The Touring sedan also gets a new rear deck spoiler. All models, Coupe and Sedan, feature the expanded use of LED lighting – LED taillights for all models, LED headlights for the new Touring Coupe, and LED daytime running lights (DRLs) for Sport and above trims. Honda Sensing™All 2016 Accords also can now be equipped with Honda Sensing™, among the most comprehensive suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies in the class. Honda Sensing includes a Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), and is available as a standalone option on all trims with the exception of Touring, where Honda Sensing is included as standard equipment. Also, all 2016 Accords feature a standard Multi-Angle Rearview Camera and Expanded View Driver's Mirror and, for the first time, new auto high-beam headlights (Touring trim) that enhance nighttime visibility and driving convenience by defaulting to the high-beam setting and automatically switching to low beams when an oncoming vehicle is detected. Display Audio with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ The Accord audio and digital experience also is significantly upgraded with the application of a 7-inch Display Audio touchscreen interface featuring Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, on EX and above trims, as well as available HondaLink™ Assist (e911) and HD Radio. The intuitive and easy-to-use capacitive touchscreen lets users swipe, tap and pinch—just like on a tablet or smartphone—to control the vehicle’s audio system, display settings and other advanced features. Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are designed to support seamless smart phone integration and offer a multitude of new functions and features. Apple CarPlay® takes the things you want to do with your iPhone while driving and puts them right on your car’s built-in display. You can get directions, make calls, send and receive messages, and listen to music right from the touchscreen or by voice via Siri. Supported apps include Phone, Messages, Maps, Music and compatible third party apps. Apple CarPlay® is compatible with iOS 8.4 or later and iPhone 5 or later. Android Auto™ was designed to give drivers a simple, intuitive way through touch and voice to minimize the potential for distraction so the driver can stay focused on the road. Compatible with Android 5.0 and higher, Android Auto features Google Maps, Google Now, messaging, music and numerous popular apps. To take full advantage of these new systems and features, the 2016 Accord's new 7-inch Display Audio touchscreen is paired with an upper 7.7-inch high-resolution display screen and steering wheel-mounted controls. The upper screen can display audio settings, turn-by-turn directions, time and trip information, LaneWatch™ and Rearview Camera displays, incoming calls, SMS text messages when stopped, and parking sensor alerts. Upgraded FeaturesThe Accord value proposition is further bolstered by new standard and available features: Accord EX and above trims (Sedan and Coupe) with automatic transmission get remote engine start, 7-inch Display Audio touchscreen and HD Radio. SiriusXM satellite radio and Homelink remote, previously on EX-L and Touring, are now standard on EX and above trims. Sport and above trims in the sedan lineup also get a new 60/40 split and folding rear seat, previously a one-piece folding design. The Accord Sedan in Touring trim gets heated rear seats, front and rear parking sensors and new rain-sensing windshield wipers. Advanced Powertrains The Accord will continue to be offered with two advanced Honda engines: a direct-injected (DI) 2.4-liter inline i-VTEC™ 4-cylinder and a 3.5-liter VTEC™ V-6 that is the most powerful engine offered in a Honda sedan to date. Available transmissions include a sporty and fuel-efficient continuously variable transmission (CVT) for the 4-cylinder engines, unique 6-speed manuals for the 4-cylinder and V-6 engines, and a 6-speed automatic for V-6 models.

Honda has a big product offensive coming soon and one of those key products is the new Ridgeline. Unlike the old model which had some clever ideas, but never made it on the sales chart, Honda is making more of an effort to make the next Ridgeline more 'truck'. A new set of spy shots show us how more 'truck' the Ridgeline will become. The Ridgeline looks be adapting conventionally shaped crew cab rather than the oddly shaped one from the previous model. The front end looks to have same front end styling as the new Pilot. The Pilot will share its underpinnings with the Ridgeline as well, meaning it will get the 3.5L V6 and all-wheel drive system. A six-speed automatic will be standard transmission, but a nine-speed automatic is in the cards. The Ridgeline is expected to be shown sometime this year, with sales beginning sometime next year. Source: Left Lane News

Changes are afoot at Honda as they get ready for a massive product overhaul coming in the next few years. Autoblog reports that at the end of 2015 model year, the Civic Hybrid and Natural Gas models will be no more due to customer preferences changing. "These moves will allow greater focus on Civic's sporty new driving character," said John Mendel, Honda executive vice president and head of US automotive operations. The new Civic will go on sale sometime later this year in sedan, coupe, and hatchback forms. The Type-R which was announced to come to the U.S. sometime later has been given an arrival date of 2017. Source: Autoblog

Honda has finally pulled the curtain back on the 2017 Civic Hatchback that will be arriving this fall in the U.S. There aren't many changes with the transition from concept to production model. There is a sloping roofline and a upswept beltline. The model shown here - Sport Touring - features side skirts, intergrated rear wing, and center mounted exhaust. The Civic Hatchback will only be available with the turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder. The LX, EX, and EX-L get 174 horsepower, while the Sport and Sport Touring feature 180. Both tunes of the turbo 1.5 will feature the same amount of torque - 162. One exciting bit of news is that the hatchback (along with the Civic coupe and sedan equipped with the turbo engine) will have a manual transmission as standard equipment for the LX, Sport, and EX trims. A CVT will be available on those trims and standard on the EX-L and Sport Touring. Honda says the Civic Hatchback provides best-in-class rear legroom (36 inches) and cargo space (no measurement is listed for it). More importantly, the hatchback will be the basis for the next Civic Type R, due out next year. Honda's Swindon plant in the UK will handle the worldwide production of the Civic Hatchback. Pricing will be announced at a later date. Source: Honda Press Release is on Page 2 All-New 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback Arrives This Fall in North America Aug 15, 2016 First 5-door Hatchback for Civic lineup in the U.S. Civic Hatchback combines Euro-inspired styling and five-door versatility All models powered by 1.5-liter DOHC direct-injected turbo engine Civic Hatchback will serve as the basis for radical new Civic Type-R TORRANCE – Arriving this fall in North America, the 2017 Civic Hatchback is the latest addition to the much-heralded 10th-generation Honda Civic lineup, joining the 2016 North American Car of the Year – the Civic Sedan, and the Civic Coupe that launched earlier this year. The 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback combines striking, Euro-inspired styling and five-door versatility with the Civic's world-class driving dynamics and Honda direct-injected turbo engine technology. The Civic Hatchback, scheduled to arrive this fall at Honda dealers nationwide, also will serve as the basis for the radical new Civic Type-R launching in the U.S. in 2017. "The Civic Hatch has been a staple for Honda in Europe, but has long been the forbidden fruit for Honda fans in the U.S.," said Jeff Conrad, senior vice president and general manager of the Honda Division of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "Now, we're bringing this sporty, stylish and versatile Civic Hatchback to North America, as we amp up the performance of our incredible Civic lineup with each new Civic model." Built on the same world-class platform as the 10th-generation Civic Sedan and Coupe, the 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback offers an appealing combination of sporty styling, efficiency, interior utility and premium features. The Civic Hatchback will be available in LX, Sport, EX, EX-L, and Sport Touring trims, and will feature a single engine for the U.S. market: a 1.5-liter DOHC direct-injected turbocharged in-line 4-cylinder with peak output of 174 horsepower and 162 lb.-ft. of torque in LX, EX and EX-L trims and 180 horsepower and 162 lb.-ft. of torque in the Sport and an all-new Sport Touring grade, which feature a high-flow center-mounted exhaust. The turbocharged engine will be offered with either a sporty CVT (all trims) or a performance-inspired 6-speed manual transmission (LX, Sport, and EX trims). Anticipated EPA fuel economy ratings of 31/40/34 mpg (city/highway/combined) for CVT-equipped models, based on the newer, more stringent model year 2017 EPA ratings requirements, put the 5-door Honda Civic Hatchback at the top of its class. Working in concert with the Honda turbocharged powertrain is the Civic's more rigid and lightweight body and sophisticated chassis design, featuring a fully independent suspension system with liquid filled bushings, front and rear; sport-tuned electronic power steering with variable gear ratios; and powerful 4-channel anti-lock disc brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution and Hill Start Assist. The interior of the 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback carries through on the modern, sophisticated and premium quality of the 10th-generation Civic lineup, with high-grade materials and finishes applied liberally throughout. In terms of packaging, the 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback delivers class-leading volume and cargo capacity, including a roomy interior (122.9 cu. ft.), best rear seat legroom (36.0 inches) and largest cargo carrying capacity in the competitive set. Available on most trims (and standard on Sport Touring) will be the Honda Sensing™ suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies, which includes Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™), Forward Collision Warning (FCW) integrated with CMBS, Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), Lane Departure Warning integrated with RDM and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow. Other available features include Honda Display Audio with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ (EX and above trims), heated front seats and heated side mirrors, power driver and front-passenger seats, remote engine start and more. The Civic Hatchback's all-new Sport Touring grade makes Honda Sensing™, Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ and LED headlights as standard equipment, while adding heated rear seats and other features. The Civic Hatchback will target top-class safety ratings – an NCAP 5-star Overall Vehicle Score and an IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK rating with a GOOD rating in all crash test modes and a SUPERIOR rating in frontal crash prevention, when equipped with Honda Sensing. The 2017 Civic Hatchback was developed jointly by Honda R&D teams in Europe and Japan and will be manufactured exclusively by Honda of the UK Manufacturing in its Swindon, UK plant.

At first glance, this set of spy photos might look like a standard Honda Civic Coupe being disguised for some unknown reason. But the back has an emblem on the passenger side covered up and there a single-piece exhaust that is similar to the Civic coupe concept from the 2015 New York Auto Show. Ladies and gentlemen, may we introduce you to the upcoming Civic Si. These pictures handed off to AutoGuide are the first spy shots of Honda's hot Civic - until the Type R comes around. Other details we can pull from the shots is a more aggressive front end that is similar from the 2015 concept and new bumpers. Power is expected to come from the 2.0L turbo-four powering the current Civic Type R. The engine will be slightly de-tuned to produce 220 to 230 horsepower. A six-speed manual is expected, but no word on whether this Si will be the first to offer an automatic transmission. The Civic Si expected to arrive sometime next year, so it would be safe to assume it will appear at either the LA or Detroit Auto Show. Source: AutoGuide

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued an urgent warning to owners of certain 2001 to 2003 Honda and Acura model to stop driving them due to these models being equipped with Takata airbags. Lab tests done by NHTSA revealed that the airbag inflator in these vehicles have a 50 percent chance of the bag rupturing, causing metal shards to enter the interior and possibly injuring or even killing a person. "With as high as a 50 percent chance of a dangerous air bag inflator rupture in a crash, these vehicles are unsafe and need to be repaired immediately. Folks should not drive these vehicles unless they are going straight to a dealer to have them repaired immediately, free of charge," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx. The vehicles involved include, 2001-2002 Honda Accord 2001-2002 Honda Civic 2002 Honda CR-V 2002 Honda Odyssey 2003 Honda Pilot 2002-2003 Acura 3.2 TL 2003 Acura 3.2CL According to NHTSA, there 313,000 vehicles that need to have their airbags replaced. One of the main causes for the rupturing is moisture getting inside the inflator. Vehicles in high humid areas such as Florida are susceptible to this. In a statement, Honda agreed with NHTSA's findings and urged owners to get their vehicles to a dealer as soon as possible. Source: Reuters, NHTSA Press Release is on Page 2 NHTSA: New test data on particular subset of Takata air bag inflators shows substantially higher risk NHTSA calls on news media and public to assist in finding unrepaired high-risk vehicles WASHINGTON – New test data on a particular subset of defective Takata air bag inflators in certain model-year 2001-2003 Honda and Acura vehicles show a far higher risk of ruptures during air bag deployment, prompting an urgent call from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to ensure that unrepaired vehicles in this population are found and fixed before they cause further injuries or fatalities. “With as high as a 50 percent chance of a dangerous air bag inflator rupture in a crash, these vehicles are unsafe and need to be repaired immediately,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx. “Folks should not drive these vehicles unless they are going straight to a dealer to have them repaired immediately, free of charge.” The higher-risk inflators are in certain 2001-2003 Honda and Acura vehicles: 2001-2002 Honda Civic 2001-2002 Honda Accord 2002-2003 Acura TL 2002 Honda CR-V 2002 Honda Odyssey 2003 Acura CL 2003 Honda Pilot The air bag inflators in these particular vehicles contain a manufacturing defect which greatly increases the potential for dangerous rupture when a crash causes the air bag to deploy. Ruptures are far more likely in inflators in vehicles that have spent significant periods of time in areas of high absolute humidity—particularly Florida, Texas, other parts of the Gulf Coast, and Southern California. Testing of the inflators from these vehicles show rupture rates as high as 50 percent in a laboratory setting. The vehicles in question were recalled between 2008 and 2011. Honda has reported that more than 70 percent of this higher-risk population of vehicles has already been repaired, but approximately 313,000 vehicles with this very dangerous defect remain unrepaired. The risk posed by the airbag inflators in these vehicles is grave, and it is critical they be repaired now to avoid more deaths and serious injuries. NHTSA and Honda are asking for the news media and public’s assistance to find the remaining unrepaired vehicles. Drivers of these vehicles should immediately visit SaferCar.gov to check whether their vehicle has any outstanding safety recalls. Those that do should contact their nearest dealer to schedule a no-cost immediate repair. Replacement parts for these vehicles are available immediately. “The air bag inflators in this particular group of vehicles pose a grave danger to drivers and passengers that must be fixed right away,” said NHTSA Administrator Dr. Mark Rosekind. "Drivers should visit SaferCar.gov or contact their local dealer to check whether their vehicle is affected. If it is, they should have the vehicle repaired immediately for free at an authorized dealer. We commend Honda for taking additional actions to get these vehicles repaired.” Though the vehicles are already under recall, NHTSA ordered Takata to perform additional ballistic testing following recent reports of ruptures. Eight of the 10 confirmed U.S. fatalities due to Takata ruptures — including the most recent in Fort Bend County, Texas — were in this population of vehicles. Honda has committed to immediately taking additional actions to enhance their efforts to find and fix recalled vehicles. Honda will provide additional information about their efforts. NHTSA has also directed Honda to report weekly on the progress of vehicle repairs. NHTSA is also expanding its own direct consumer outreach, including a paid media campaign and a series of outreach events in high-risk areas this summer. NHTSA has also engaged the vehicle insurance industry to help locate the unremedied vehicles.

Honda is getting serious with its green cred as they have announced an updated Accord Hybrid for 2017 and two more models joining the Clarity Fuel Cell in the U.S. We'll begin with the 2017 Accord Hybrid. The model took a break for the 2016 model year as Honda updated the Accord lineup with a revised look and new tech. But the Hybrid as a 2017 model with all of the changes seen on the 2016 model - updated exterior and the addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The big news is with the Accord Hybrid's powertrain. The 2017 model uses the next-generation of Honda's two-motor hybrid system with a revised 2.0L i-VTEC Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine, a more compact electric motor, and improved electronics. The changes increase horsepower from 196 to 212. Fuel economy figures for the 2017 Accord Hybrid stand at 49 City/47 Highway/48 Combined. These numbers are slightly different from the 2015 model which boasted 50 City/45 Highway47 Combined. This is due to Honda having to certify the fuel economy numbers under new, stricter EPA drive-cycle test requirements for 2017. Standard equipment includes a backup camera, remote start, and Honda Sensing (suite of safety tech such as collision avoidance braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, etc). Higher trims get a new 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; heated rear seats, and front and rear parking sensors. Pricing hasn't been announced, but Honda says the 2017 Accord Hybrid will be arriving at dealers towards the end of spring. Honda Clarity To Get Two New Members Honda hasn't even started selling the Clarity Fuel Cell in the U.S. (specifically California), but they have announced two new variations of it. For 2017, Honda will offer a fully electric and a plug-in hybrid version. Details are scarce on both models, but Honda says the Clarity EV will be sold in California first before moving to other markets. The Clarity plug-in hybrid will be sold in all 50 states and offer 40 miles of electric-only range. Source: Honda Press Releases are on Page 2 The Best Gets Better: More Powerful, Fuel Efficient and Technologically Advanced 2017 Accord Hybrid Launching this Spring Apr 21, 2016 - TORRANCE, Calif. Next-generation two-motor hybrid powertrain expected to receive class-leading EPA fuel economy ratings; including 49 mpg city Most powerful and refined midsize hybrid sedan with 212 total combined horsepower Honda Sensing™ safety and driver-assistive technologies standard Doubled production capacity for expected sales increase Honda will bolster its Accord lineup with the launch of the 2017 Accord Hybrid this spring, featuring a more powerful and efficient second-generation two-motor hybrid powertrain that has the highest EPA fuel economy ratings of any midsize hybrid sedan and delivers the most power. With improved production methods and supplies of hybrid components, Honda is anticipating significant growth in sales of Accord Hybrid and is targeting annual sales to be more than double its previous best of just under 14,000 vehicles in 2014. "The new Honda Accord Hybrid is the ultimate Accord – the most refined, technologically sophisticated and, of course, most fuel efficient in the lineup," said John Mendel, Executive Vice President of the American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "With Accord already America's most popular car three years running and the best-selling midsize car to younger buyers, we think this new hybrid model will add considerable momentum for the Honda brand." In addition to its more powerful and fuel efficient hybrid powertrain, the 2017 Accord Hybrid carries the substantial upgrades made to the entire Accord lineup for model year 2016. This includes the latest technology Honda has to offer, including the available Display Audio with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, and the Honda Sensing™ suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies, to be offered as standard equipment on all new 2017 Accord Hybrids. Hybrid-exclusive design features include a special aluminum hood and wheels, blue highlighted LED headlights and taillights and "Hybrid" exterior badging. A more compact hybrid battery pack increases trunk capacity to a midsize hybrid class-leading 13.5 cu.-ft. Combining the next generation of Honda's two-motor hybrid system with an ultra-efficient 2.0-liter i-VTEC Atkinson Cycle engine, the 2017 Accord Hybrid powertrain will achieve peak combined output of 212 horsepower, the highest of any midsize hybrid sedan and up 16 horsepower over the 2015 Accord Hybrid. EPA fuel economy ratings of 49/47/48 (city/highway/combined)1 put the Accord Hybrid at the top of the class for ratings, making it the most powerful and fuel efficient midsize hybrid sedan in America. These EPA fuel economy ratings are based on new, more stringent ratings requirements enacted by the U.S. EPA for the 2017 model year. Based on the new requirements, Honda estimates the 2015 Accord Hybrid ratings would be 48/45/47 (actually rated at 50/45/47 under the previous method), indicating a +1/+2/+1 increase for the 2017 model over the previous version. The Accord Hybrid's two-motor hybrid powertrain takes an elegant and innovative approach to hybrid power, eliminating the need for a conventional mechanical transmission. The Accord Hybrid's powertrain seamlessly transitions between three operations: EV Drive – using its electric propulsion motor and lithium ion battery pack drives the front wheels for short distances under light loads (with the engine turned off) Hybrid Drive – the electric propulsion motor drives the front wheels while the gasoline engine powers a second motor/generator to supplement electrical current drawn from the battery pack Engine Drive – using a lock-up clutch mechanism to connect the engine and propulsion motor, the front wheels are driven by both the motor and gasoline engine. With its next-generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure and Honda Sensing™ technology, the 2017 Accord is anticipated to receive the highest available crash safety rating from the U.S. government – a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from the NHTSA – and a similar top rating of TOP SAFETY PICK+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The 2017 Accord Hybrid will be available in three trims – Hybrid, Hybrid EX-L and Hybrid Touring – and all grades will feature increased levels of standard and available equipment. New standard features include a wide angle rearview camera, remote engine start and Honda Sensing™, which includes Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™), Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Forward Collision Warning (FCW). Available new features on upper trims include a 7-inch Display Audio touchscreen with Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlayâ compatibility, heated rear seats, and front and rear parking sensors. The Accord has been named a Car and Driver magazine "10Best" an unprecedented 30 times and has been the most popular car in America with retail car buyers for three consecutive years.2 The Accord is on track to earn a fourth straight year as America's most popular car with sales up 12.3 percent through the first three months of 2016. Accord also is the most popular midsize car with Millennials and has been #1 with under-35-year-olds for four consecutive years and leads all other cars in America, except Honda's own Civic, in sales to under under-35 car buyers since 2010.3 The 2017 Honda Accord Hybrid will make its first public appearance at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, Calif., as part of the aquarium's Earth Day weekend celebrations on April 23-24. Honda Takes Bold Step with Honda Clarity Series; Fuel Cell, Battery Electric and Plug-In Hybrid Variants to Leverage Common Platform Apr 21, 2016 - DETROIT Clarity Fuel Cell gets two electrified siblings – the Clarity Electric and the Clarity Plug-in Hybrid – both launching in 2017 New trio of Clarity vehicles provide unparalleled choices to customers through three different electric powertrain options All Clarity vehicles will offer spacious, five-passenger seating, premium features and interior appointments; consumers can learn more at http://www.automobiles.honda.com/Clarity DETROIT – Honda today announced that the upcoming Clarity Fuel Cell will be joined by two additional variants, the Clarity Electric and Clarity Plug-in Hybrid, launching in the U.S. in 2017. The addition of two new Clarity vehicles, based on the same platform underpinning the new Clarity Fuel Cell, makes Clarity the first vehicle in the industry to offer fuel cell, electric and plug-in hybrid technology on one model platform, offering Honda customers an expanded array of electrified vehicle choices to suit their individual tastes and driving needs. Following the U.S. launch of the Clarity Fuel Cell in late 2016, the Clarity Electric will go on-sale in 2017. The Clarity Electric will be the first affordable, midsize, five-passenger battery electric vehicle (BEV) to offer premium content and features. The third vehicle in the Clarity series, the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid, will launch in all 50 states later in 2017 and will be the volume leader in the series, seamlessly combining an all-electric driving range in excess of 40 miles with a hyper-efficient gasoline-hybrid extended range mode. With elegant exterior styling, the Clarity series of vehicles will also offer spacious interiors outfitted with premium, environmentally-responsible materials and thoughtful, stylish design cues. The Clarity series will also feature advanced technologies, including Display Audio with Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay™ as well as standard Honda Sensing™ safety and driver-assistive technology. "The Honda Clarity Series will provide customers with a well-equipped, premium, midsize vehicle with range of ultra low-carbon powertrain options to suit their lifestyle needs," said John Mendel, executive vice president, Automobile Division, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "This Honda trio of dedicated, advanced technology vehicles, along with the expanded application of two- and three-motor hybrid systems to our core models, represents a strong commitment to Honda's future and will help create a new volume pillar for electrified vehicle sales." All of the Clarity models will leverage the platform that has enabled the Clarity Fuel Cell's low, wide and aerodynamic proportions and spacious five-passenger cabin. This shared platform strategy also enables flexibility in responding to infrastructure and market developments, and the ability to provide customers nationwide with an ultra-low carbon vehicle that meets their lifestyle needs while expanding the market for Honda advanced technology products. The first of the Clarity Series to launch will be the Clarity Fuel Cell, Honda's most technologically advanced vehicle ever, slated to begin deliveries to customers in select California markets in late 2016. The Clarity Fuel Cell will have a targeted monthly lease price of under $500. Technological innovations to the Clarity Fuel Cell include a fuel cell stack that is 33 percent more compact than its predecessor with a 60 percent increase in power density compared to the outgoing Honda FCX Clarity. The more compact fuel cell and integrated powertrain, comparable in size to a V-6 engine, now fit entirely under the hood of the car, allowing for a more spacious cabin with seating for five adult passengers. The new Clarity Fuel Cell will feature an anticipated U.S. EPA driving range in excess of 300 miles, with a refueling time of approximately three to five minutes, roughly equivalent to customers' experience with gasoline refueling. In addition to the Clarity series, a reengineered 2017 Accord Hybrid will go on-sale this spring, delivering both top-of-class power and fuel efficiency in a midsize hybrid sedan, as Honda seeks to grow sales of electrified vehicles – hybrids, plug-in hybrids, battery electric vehicles and fuel cell vehicles. On a global basis, Honda is aiming to have electrified vehicles account for two-thirds of its vehicles sales around 2030. Customers interested in the Clarity vehicles are encouraged to visit http://www.automobiles.honda.com/Clarity where they can receive more information and sign up for the opportunity to become a Clarity Fuel Cell customer.

As Honda/Acura begin production of the NSX, talk has sprung up about doing a more extreme version. Nick Robinson, Dynamic Development Leader on the NSX told Autocar there are a number of folks who want Honda to do a Type R version as it would continue the revival of the company’s sporting heritage. Robinson was quick to point out that Honda hasn't approved anything at the moment. What would an NSX Type R look like? It would be lighter than your standard NSX to begin with. A key item that could be removed is the NSX's hybrid powertrain. Not only would it remove a fair amount of weight, but it also would make it rear-wheel drive. There could also be the use of lightweight materials. “There are places weight could be cut out. We are Honda so cost [of exotic materials on the regular car] is a consideration, but for a limited edition? Why not?” said Robinson. Robinson also mentioned that a convertible version of the NSX is likely to follow. Source: Autocar

And the hatchback makes for three. Next month at the Geneva Motor Show, Honda will introduce a concept version of the 10th Generation Civic Hatchback. The teaser photo Honda released matches up perfectly with the Civic Coupe shown at the LA Auto Show. The C-shaped taillights and a similarly styled lid lead us to this conclusion. Don't expect the center mounted exhaust to come into production. Honda says the production model will begin production in Europe in early 2017 with sales beginning sometime after. The U.S. will also be getting the Civic, though a timeframe hasn't been given at the moment. Source: Honda Press Release is on Page 2 Honda Civic Hatchback Prototype Set For Worldwide Debut at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show Global premiere of Civic Hatchback Prototype redefines Honda’s core European model Clarity Fuel Cell to make European debut European customer deliveries of NSX to start in 2016 New Jazz concept turns on the style Honda is set to unveil the next step in the renewal of its European car range at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show, including the global premiere of the Civic Hatchback Prototype. Civic Hatchback Prototype The Civic Hatchback Prototype receives its global premiere at Geneva Motor Show, previewing the exterior design of the all-new hatchback model, scheduled for a European launch in early 2017. Produced at Honda of the UK Manufacturing (HUM), the car will be exported to global markets, including the US. Clarity Fuel Cell The Clarity Fuel Cell will make its European debut at Geneva, following its global unveil at Tokyo motor show in October last year. Clarity Fuel Cell is the world’s first production fuel cell saloon to house the entire fuel cell powertrain under the bonnet. With a range of up-to 435 miles (700 km)*, the Clarity Fuel Cell achieves best-in-class range while its unique packaging allows an interior design to offer seating for five, a first for a fuel cell saloon. NSX Following the announcement of the start of customer sales in the US at Detroit motor show, Honda confirms the first European customer deliveries for the Honda NSX will begin in 2016. The NSX features classic low and wide proportions married to modern and alluring surfacing, an aggressive front design, and rear lights that pay homage to the original NSX. The new hybrid supercar has an all-new mid-mounted DOHC V6 engine with twin turbochargers mated to a specially-developed nine-speed DCT. Jazz ‘Keenlight’ Concept Honda will also demonstrate a new design concept model of the popular Jazz. The new Keenlight concept seeks to highlight the potential for customising Jazz, using sleek design elements, special decals and a unique colour named ‘Keenlight’. CRF1000L Africa Twin Inheriting the “go anywhere” spirit of its celebrated predecessors, the all-new CRF1000L Africa Twin packs an innovative and powerful parallel twin-cylinder engine into a lightweight, agile chassis ready for true adventure both on and off road, whether crossing continents or commuting.

Subcompacts tend to have that one thing, a gimmick or feature that they try to put out there as a selling point. We have models that are fun to drive, get good gas mileage, have the back seat space of a midsize, etc. The 2015 Honda Fit is no exception to this rule. As I found out at the MAMA Spring Rally, Honda is playing the versatility card with the Fit. The back seat in the Fit is what Honda calls the 'magic seat' and there is reason why. The back seat can be folded in a number of configurations to allow tall items to stand in back; create a flat floor delivering 52.7 cubic feet of cargo space; fold the front passenger seat along with the back seat to fit an eight-foot object (surfboard, ladder, etc); or have the back seat up and fold both front seats down to provide a nice space to lay down. Describing it seems a bit funny, but actually having someone demonstrate it from Honda and then trying it out for myself, I was really impressed. Aside from the clever seating, Honda has classed up the Fit. A new dashboard design with better materials and a cleaned up center stack make the Fit a nice place to be in. The optional infotainment system features the latest version of HondaLink which comes with a new interface. I like the interface as its easy to read and navigate. What I'm not so keen on is Honda's choice of using capactive touch controls for the volume and seek since it takes a couple of times for it to be registered. Stepping outside and looking around the Fit, Honda has designed the Fit to be more in line with other Honda vehicles. This is apparent up front where the grille and headlights are reminiscent to the Civic. I understand what Honda is trying to do with the design, but I Iiked the alien shape of the previous model and wished Honda built upon that. Powering the Fit is a all new 1.5L four-cylinder with Earth Dreams technology. The 1.5L makes 130 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque. This was paired up to a CVT, though a six-speed manual is available. Like most subcompacts, the Fit's power lies towards the top of the rpm range. Great for driving on the backroads, but a little bit buzzy when driving in the city. The back roads of Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin also revealed another big change for the Fit. The previous Fit was known as being a fun to drive subcompact vehicle. The 2015 Fit loses some of that the suspension doesn't quite handle the way a Chevrolet Sonic does, nor is the steering as sharp. Plus side: Fit exhibits some impressive ride quality when driven over rough surfaces. While its versatility may be its trump card, the 2015 Fit has a few other qualities that make a real contender in the subcompact class. Disclaimer: Honda Provided the Fit for the MAMA Spring Rally Year: 2015 Make: Honda Model: Fit Trim: EX-L Navi Engine: 1.5L i-VTEC Earth Dreams Four-Cylinder Driveline: Front-Wheel Drive, CVT Horsepower @ RPM: 130 @ 6600 Torque @ RPM: 114 @ 4600 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 32/38/35 Curb Weight: 2,642 lbs Location of Manufacture: Celaya, Mexico Base Price: $20,800 As Tested Price: $21,590 (Includes $790.00 Destination Charge) Options: N/A William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

From the 'We Can Dream' file, Auto Express is reporting that Honda is planning to bring back the S2000 nameplate for a new mid-engine coupe. Quite the departure from the front-engine roadster that was the S2000. The model is expected to be the middle of a trio of sports cars from Honda; the top being the NSX and bottom being a small roadster named S660. The reborn S2000 is expected to be powered by a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder producing somewhere in the range of 350 horsepower. There is talk of using a simplified version of the NSX's hybrid powertrain as another option. The model is expected to arrive sometime in 2017, two years after the arrival of the NSX. Source: Auto Express William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

At one time, Acura was a shining star in the automotive world. Thanks to impressive quality and a fun to drive quotient that many luxury automakers couldn't match at the time, Acura seemed it was going places. But in recent years, Acura has been a bit of a rut. Odd designs, complicated interior layouts, and trying to convince buyers that they're on the same level as Mercedes-Benz and BMW hasn't played in their favor. But Honda hopes to change that. This week, the company announced that Acura and Honda would be separated into their own divisions. Taking charge at the Acura division will be Michael Accavitti, who is currently Senior Vice President for Auto Operations at American Honda. Jeff Conrad, head of Acura sales becomes the head for Honda. The two will report to John Mendel, executive vice president of what is now called the Automobile Sales Division. "Our goal is to accelerate the already strong sales growth of the Honda and Acura brands through a more cohesive strategy, with a heightened focus on the unique needs of luxury and mainstream customers. These moves will more completely align the major activities for the Honda and Acura brands under dedicated brand leaders to take advantage of new opportunities in the marketplace with greater speed and efficiency," said John Mendel. Source: Honda William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.comor you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 American Honda Strengthens Auto Sales Division to Accelerate Sales Growth of Honda and Acura Brands 03/10/2014 - TORRANCE, CA American Honda Motor Co., Inc., will strategically realign its automobile sales and marketing operations into separate divisions organized by brand, as the Honda Division and Acura Division. The moves, effective April 1, are intended to create greater clarity and more cohesive sales and marketing plans that are right for the products and customers of each brand. In conjunction with the strategy, the following executive changes were announced: Michael Accavitti will become senior vice president and general manager of the Acura Division. In his new role, Accavitti will be responsible for all sales, marketing and parts and service business for the Acura brand. Accavitti joined Honda in 2011, and is currently the senior vice president of Auto Operations, which includes responsibility for national marketing for the Honda and Acura brands. Jeff Conrad will become senior vice president and general manager of the Honda Division. Conrad will be responsible for all sales and marketing activities for the Honda brand. Conrad joined American Honda in 1982, and is currently the vice president and general manager of Acura Sales. American Honda automotive operations have long been separated by function rather than by brand. These moves will result in exclusive divisions, with dedicated sales and marketing teams for Honda and for Acura. Both brands will be housed under a single "American Honda Auto Division" to be headed by John Mendel, executive vice president of what is now called the Automobile Sales Division. "Our goal is to accelerate the already strong sales growth of the Honda and Acura brands through a more cohesive strategy, with a heightened focus on the unique needs of luxury and mainstream customers," said Mendel. "These moves will more completely align the major activities for the Honda and Acura brands under dedicated brand leaders to take advantage of new opportunities in the marketplace with greater speed and efficiency." Further, the strategy behind the creation of the Acura Division coincides with the recently announced establishment of a new Acura Business Planning Office, also effective April 1. This new entity will focus on strengthening the business and product strategies for the Acura brand. Erik Berkman, currently president of Honda R&D Americas, Inc., will become an executive vice president of Honda North America, Inc., and will lead the Acura Business Planning Office. "The realignment strategy that has created a new Acura Division reflects our growing commitment and the increased level of resources and leadership we are focusing on the Acura brand on a global basis," said Mendel. In addition to steady sales growth for the Honda and Acura brands in each of the past two years, both brands will continue to introduce new models in 2014. This spring, Honda will launch the all-new 2015 Honda Fit, to be followed later this year by an all-new compact Honda SUV. The Acura brand will introduce the all-new 2015 Acura TLX luxury performance sedan by mid-year. "The best time to make a change is when you're in a position of strength and we are not only coming off a great sales year, we are continuing to create new opportunities with a series of new and exciting Honda and Acura models," said Mendel. American Honda enjoyed near record automobile sales of 1,525,312 vehicles in 2013, the second best sales total in company history. Sales of Honda brand cars and trucks totaled 1,359,876 vehicles, an increase of 7.4 percent. Honda was led by the success of core models, with the Honda CR-V posting all-time record sales in 2013 to rank as the top-selling SUV in America, the Civic ranking as the top-selling compact car, the Odyssey ranking as the top-selling minivan, and Accord ranking as the best-selling car in America with individual car-buyers. Sales of Acura brand cars and trucks totaled 165,436 vehicles, an increase of 5.9 percent, and its best sales total since 2007. Further, sales of the Acura MDX and RDX in 2013 combined to achieve Acura's best sales year ever for light trucks.

The current Honda Accord and I had a difficult beginning. When the automaker introduced the Accord Coupe Concept at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show, I was wondering what real changes had been made and being more interested in the early 80’s Accord on loan from The Henry Ford in their exhibit. Then when Honda revealed the production Accord Sedan and Coupe, I was wondering what was going at Honda because it looks almost the same as the old one. But recently, I spent a week with a 2014 Honda Accord EX Sedan and I said, “Oh, I get it now.” Read on to see what I mean. On the face of it, the 2014 Accord EX Sedan doesn’t look that much different from the last-generation model. The two models have a similar design profile. Honda made a couple of changes with the front end with a new grille surround and a set of LEDs running along the outer edge of the headlights. In the back, there is a restyled trunk lid. However, there is one big difference between the old and new Accord; length. Park the two next to each other and the 2014 model is about 3.6 inches shorter than the last-generation. Not only does this bring the Accord back into the midsize classification, it also makes the overall design look better proportioned. Moving into the Accord EX’s interior, its the same story as the exterior. There really isn’t anything that breaks new ground. It’s just a lesson on how to build one that is very comfortable and well built. Materials range from soft-touch plastics on the door panels and dashboard to faux brushed metal trim. Build quality was excellent. All Accords come equipped with a large eight-inch color screen that displays radio, audio inputs, trip computer, backup camera, and Honda’s LaneWatch system. LaneWatch uses a camera on the right-side mirror to keep an eye on the Accord’s blind spot. The system activates when you flick the turn signal to make a right turn or by pressing a button on the turn stalk. The system is a great idea as it provides that extra amount of security and certainty when making lane change or a pass. I would like to see Honda add a blind spot monitoring system as well to add a bit more security. Aside from LaneWatch, controlling the audio system and trip computer was very easy thanks to a well placed set of controls that featured large buttons. The Accord’s interior space has to be at the top of the class. On the EX, they were wrapped in comfortable cloth with heat. The front seats provided excellent support and comfort. Despite a cut in overall length and a 0.2 inch reduction of headroom, space in rear seat is still large. My 5’7” frame was able to get comfortable and even stretch out back here. For thoughts on the powertrain and handling, see the next page. For most Accords, they’ll be equipped with the powertrain combination found in my tester; a new 2.4L EarthDreams four-cylinder engine with direct-injection paired with a CVT. The 2.4 produces 185 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. However, the new Accord Sport gets a slight bump in horsepower and torque to 189 and 182 respectively. Honda is known for building four-cylinders that are very smooth, but have to be pushed to an inch of its life to get it moving at a decent clip. The new 2.4L follows that somewhat as its power delivery is very smooth. However, you don’t need to reach the outer limits to get moving. The engine builds power starting in the midrange, which makes power delivery more linear. More impressive is the CVT which takes the place of a five-speed automatic. The transmission has been engineered to simulate shifts to make it seem like you’re driving an automatic. This illusion works for the most part aside from pressing the pedal to the floor and the whine from the transmission comes into play. My average fuel economy for the week landed 31 MPG, which puts it right in line with the EPA ratings of 27 City/36 Highway/30 Combined. Another item Honda is very well known for is using a double-wishbone suspension setup in the front and rear for the Accord. With this generation, Honda swapped swapped the double-wishbone in the front to a more compact MacPherson strut setup. This change may cause many to worry that the fun to drive aspect of the Accord would be lost. It hasn’t. The Accord feels confident and collected when being pushed around. Steering feels nicely weighted, giving more confidence to a driver. Don’t think the Accord’s suspension is a one trick pony though. On the ‘fine’ roads of Michigan, the Accord’s suspension was able to provide a very smooth ride. Impacts from bumps and potholes were minimized. One area Honda still needs to work on is wind and road noise. Both were noticeable during my week with the vehicle. On the face if it, you may think Honda really didn’t change anything with the 2014 Accord EX. But first glances can be deceiving. While the Accord does not have the sleek and sexy styling as some of its competitors, it does have a number of improvements to the interior, powertrain, and ride qualities that embarrass many of its rivals. To put it quite simply, the Accord just does everything right for a midsize sedan. Disclaimer: Honda Provided the Accord EX, Insurance, and One Tank of Gas Year: 2014 Make: Honda Model: Accord Trim: EX Engine: 2.4 DOHC 16-Valve i-VTEC EarthDreams Four-Cylinder Driveline: Front-Wheel Drive, CVT Horsepower @ RPM: 185 @ 6400 Torque @ RPM: 181 @ 3900 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 27/36/30 Curb Weight: 3336 lbs Location of Manufacture: Marysville, Ohio Base Price: $25,680.00 As Tested Price: $26,470.00 (Includes $790.00 Destination Charge) Options: N/A William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.comor you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.