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Spy Shots: Noblesse takes tuned Honda CR-Z to Suzuka for testing [w/video]Filed under: Aftermarket, Spy Photos, Coupe, Hybrid, Japan, Videos, Hatchback, Honda 
Noblesse-tuned Honda CR-Z on-track - Click above to watch video after the jump
A couple of days ago, we wrote about the specs for the 2011 Honda CR-Z, and most commenters weren't all that impressed. Spoon then let a little bit slip about what it was doing to make the hybrid coupe a little more engaging, but those were merely words. Now we have what is said to be track footage of Japanese tuner Noblesse in one of their tuned CR-Zs at Suzuka, and it might put people in a mind to at least reserve judgment.
It's all in-car video, and yes, Noblesse is primarily known for their bodykit work, not for actual performance parts. All which makes this footage a little tough to gauge, but there were moments when we did find ourselves thinking, "Hey, this could be something." And yes, we will only accept fully blacked-out CR-Zs from now on. Follow the jump for some Suzuka lapping, and have a look at it in the gallery of high-res photos below. Thanks for the tip and images, Chris!
[Source: Six Sylinder]Continue reading Spy Shots: Noblesse takes tuned Honda CR-Z to Suzuka for testing [w/video] Spy Shots: Noblesse takes tuned Honda CR-Z to Suzuka for testing [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Mar 2010 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsAutoblog Podcast #169: Wagons and SuperDuty and NASCAR, Oh My!Filed under: Motorsports, New York Auto Show, Podcasts, Safety, Acura, Cadillac, Ford, Honda, Toyota, Rumormill 
Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!
Episode #169 of the Autoblog Podcast has arrived, and it's Chris, Sam, Alex, and Dan again this week. As usual, the Autoblog Garage starts us off, this time with a couple Suzuki Kizashis, a Ford Transit Connect, and the Cadillac SRX. The first topic for discussion are the latest developments in the ongoing Toyota Recall issue. The Cadillac CTS-V Wagon catches our fancy next, and we stay on the wagon tip to talk about the Acura TSX Wagon, which will debut at the New York International Auto Show. Honda's CR-Z is next, before we go big and talk about the 2011 Ford SuperDuty. Wrapping up on a sporting note, we offer totally uninformed commentary on the Carl Edwards NASCAR wreck before taking a few listener questions and calling this turkey done. Thanks for listening!
Direct fanmail to Podcast at Autoblog dot com, review the show in iTunes, fill out our survey or even leave us a voicemail on our Google Voice line 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Until next week, hit up Joystiq and Engadget when podcast loneliness sets in. Thanks for listening!Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #169: Wagons and SuperDuty and NASCAR, Oh My! Autoblog Podcast #169: Wagons and SuperDuty and NASCAR, Oh My! originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Mar 2010 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsSpoon developing parts for Honda CR-ZFiled under: Aftermarket, Hybrid, Japan, Hatchback, Honda 
Spoon Honda CR-Z - Click above for image gallery
With Honda's in-house parts department in the game and Mugen developing it's own line of kit for the CR-Z, the tuner trifecta is almost complete with the release of Spoon's performance parts for Honda's hybrid hatch.
While we thought bright blue wheels went out of vogue (even in the U.S.) in 2008, Spoon has coated its CR93 rollers in the company's signature hue, along with upgraded calipers clamping onto 15-inch slotted discs. A ride height lowered by 50mm comes courtesy of front coilovers and a spring and shock combo in the rear, while the body has been subtly altered with the addition of a carbon fiber hood, mirrors and front lip spoiler.
More importantly, a new N1 exhaust has been fitted and Spoon is fiddling with the ECU to churn out a few extra (and much-needed) ponies. There's no word on what the rejiggered computer and exhaust is good for power-wise or how Spoon is manipulating the hybrid drive system to boost performance, but considering the company's past endeavors, we're expecting good things.
[Source: Spoon via 7Tune]Spoon developing parts for Honda CR-Z originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Mar 2010 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsVideo: Honda execs talk up historical link between CR-Z and CRXFiled under: Hybrid, Videos, Hatchback, Honda 
Honda execs relate CR-Z to the original CRX - Click above to view the video after the jump
Looking at the 2011 CR-Z, it's hard not to think back to the original Honda CRX. The two-seat configuration, double-paneled glass hatch and sport compact styling are what made the CRX a huge hit for Honda buyers some two decades ago, and the automaker is hoping to recapture that magic with the CR-Z, though with a slightly different approach.
The big difference with the CR-Z is that it uses a hybrid powertrain rather than a standard petrol mill. And while the automaker's decision to give the CR-Z a gas/electric powertrain isn't necessarily sitting well with everyone, Honda reassures us that the fundamental values that made the CRX a success are very much present in the CR-Z. John Mendel, executive vice president of auto sales, says, "We hope consumers look at this car and see all the passion around the original CRX, but [we're] taking that passion and moving it into a whole new generation." See what other Honda execs and enthusiasts have to say about the CR-Z by watching the video after the jump.
[Source: YouTube]Continue reading Video: Honda execs talk up historical link between CR-Z and CRX Video: Honda execs talk up historical link between CR-Z and CRX originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Mar 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsReport: Honda CR-Z was almost killed twice, U.S. dealers didn't want itFiled under: Coupe, Budget, Hybrid, Hatchback, Honda 
2011 Honda CR-Z - Click above for high-res image gallery
Norio Tomobe, chief engineer of the Honda CR-Z, said "The CR-Z is supposed to be an intelligent sports car." We can spend a fair bit of time debating the 'intelligence' of a sports coupe that gets from 0-to-60 in 9.7 seconds and has just two seats but gets worse gas mileage than a Toyota Prius. However, we won't really be able to decide on the issue until we drive it, and that is apparently what it takes to feel the love for it.
According to Automotive News, back when the CR-Z was being designed to house a traditional gasoline-only drivetrain, Tomobe said he and his team dug deep to come up with a new idea for the car, which ended up being a hybrid drivetrain and a six-speed transmission. But that wasn't until after they had tried to kill the project. Twice. And that didn't stop the president of American Honda Motor from repeatedly telling Japan the U.S. didn't need or want a sporty hybrid, which he thought would confuse customers. Until he drove it, and then all was go.
The hybrid's compromises remain a subject on everyone's minds. Tomobe wants more horsepower, and rumors began a month ago about a Type-R iteration. Even though Tomobe claims "We are not pursuing absolute maximum speed," we can't help but wonder if this first version of Honda's 122-horsepower future satisfies his own aspiration that "What we aim for is a car that is exhilarating to drive."
Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd.]Report: Honda CR-Z was almost killed twice, U.S. dealers didn't want it originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Mar 2010 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsHonda recalling 2005 Odyssey over liftgate strut failuresFiled under: Government/Legal, Recalls, Honda 
Honda is recalling 21,776 model year 2005 Odyssey Touring minivans equipped with a power operated rear liftgate. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website says the tailgate strut could fail, resulting in the power liftgate closing unexpectedly. We're thinking that could hurt if you happen to be under said opening when the strut fails.
Effected Odyssey owners can take their minivan to the nearest Honda dealer for repairs anytime and the dealer will inspect the liftgate struts and replace them free of charge. Owners can contact Honda at 1-800-999-1009 if they have any questions. Hit the jump to read over the NHTSA press release.
[Source: NHTSA]Continue reading Honda recalling 2005 Odyssey over liftgate strut failures Honda recalling 2005 Odyssey over liftgate strut failures originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Mar 2010 19:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsGeneva 2010: Honda 3R-C Concept is one trick trekky trikeFiled under: Concept Cars, Geneva Motor Show, Etc., Honda, Motorcycle, Electric
Honda 3R-C Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery
Ask anyone who's ever shopped for an ATV, outboard engine, personal robot...heck, even a private jet, and they'll tell you that cars are only the tip of the proverbial iceberg for Honda. The Japanese industrial giant is one of a handful of automakers that also makes motorcycles (along with the likes of Peugeot, BMW and Suzuki, to name just a few). And here in Geneva, the two core competences have come together in the form of the 3R-C Concept.
Packing two wheels up front and one in the back, the 3R-C is the latest take on the trike formula. The open cabin (which can be closed by the canopy windshield when parked) can accommodate one passenger/driver/rider in enclosed comfort, while the twin front rims keep it stable. It follows in a long line of intriguing R&D products from the technological powerhouse, but don't expect to see it parked curbside in front of your office/home/biker bar quite so soon.
Photos by Noah Joseph / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.Geneva 2010: Honda 3R-C Concept is one trick trekky trike originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsMugen accessories for the Honda CR-Z officially revealedFiled under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Hybrid, Hatchback, Honda, Design/Style 
Mugen Honda CR-Z - Click above for high-res image gallery
Honda says its new CR-Z hybrid hatchback is supposed to hearken back to the days of its sporty little CRX, so it's anything but surprising that Mugen, the Japanese automaker's tuning company of choise, is showing off its package of accessories for the model ahead of its official sale date. Sadly, none of the bits or pieces will make the car much faster... but at least the CR-Z can look like a proper hot hatchback, right?
Included in the kit are the expected updates to the front and rear fascias, side skirts and an all-conquering roof-mounted wing that looks as if it could serve double-duty as a picnic table at your next tailgating session. There's also a new grille with optional LED lamps, triangular rear exhaust tips, and at least five different alloy wheel options. And we'd be remiss if we didn't at least mention the carbon fiber license plate holder.
Inside you'll find an aluminum gearshift knob, a three-gauge central cluster, floor mats and, wait for it... a carbon fiber rear-view mirror cover. Fortunately, there are a few extras that will improve the car's driving dynamics somewhat, including a cat-back exhaust system, upgraded springs and shocks and a full set of brake pads. Perhaps those pieces will restore enough performance to offset the added weight of the bodykit? See for yourself in our high-res gallery below.
[Source: Mugen]Mugen accessories for the Honda CR-Z officially revealed originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Feb 2010 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsHonda and Subaru top latest Consumer Reports automaker report cardsFiled under: Car Buying, Chrysler, Honda, Subaru  The time has come once again for Consumer Reports' annual Auto Issue, which means the respected magazine will hand out an updated list of the vehicles and brands that it recommends. Included amongst the pages are CR's so-called Automaker Report Cards, and the tippy-top and way bottom couldn't have been easier to see coming.
Much like last year (and the year before, and the year before...), Honda gets the nod as the head of CR's list, joined in this instance by fellow Japanese automaker Subaru. The leading duo each earned a score of 77 out of 100, putting them three points ahead of cross-town rival Toyota, who's score of 74 was no doubt affected when CR yanked its Recommendation off eight of its products following their recent recall and safety woes.
Hyundai, Nissan and Volkswagen also performed well, scoring ahead of Ford, which was the highest ranking American automaker on the list. Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Saab, and Volvo each earned plaudits for improving on their reliability scores from last year, leaving only one automaker to languish at the very bottom of the list. Drum roll please... Chrysler!
The Pentastar was the only company to score worse this year than last, though there was one lone bright spot shining from Auburn Hills: the Dodge Ram 1500, which is the only Chrysler model on Consumer Reports' Recommended list. Bravo. See the full press release after the break, and keep an eye on your mailbox or a newsstand near you for the complete Auto Issue.
[Source: Consumer Reports]Continue reading Honda and Subaru top latest Consumer Reports automaker report cards Honda and Subaru top latest Consumer Reports automaker report cards originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Feb 2010 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsGeneva Preview: Honda 3R-C Concept is a funny little thingFiled under: Concept Cars, Geneva Motor Show, Tokyo Motor Show, Honda, Electric 
Honda 3R-C Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery
Honda's bringing a concept car to the Geneva Motor Show that you would more expect to see in the design student gallery section - or Tron Legacy - than on a major automaker's platform. The 3R-C concept is a three-wheeled, battery-powered single-seater. We're going to assume the seating position in the rendering is a slight error of scale or that there's something more complex going on, otherwise, we don't know how the driver would see above the controls. At first we were confused about the driving position, but a belatedly complete set of press photos explains that the headrest-looking thing is actually a backrest...
It will be joined by the EV-N concept that is debuting in Europe for the first time, but that cute little number was initially shown at the Tokyo Motor Show. Follow the jump to read about both electric offerings, and check them out in the galleries of high-res photos below.
[Source: Honda]Continue reading Geneva Preview: Honda 3R-C Concept is a funny little thing Geneva Preview: Honda 3R-C Concept is a funny little thing originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Feb 2010 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsDespite recalls, Consumer Reports names Honda Fit, Toyota Prius Best ValuesFiled under: Budget, Hybrid, Etc., Recalls, Hatchback, Honda, Toyota
Honda Fit and Toyota Prius named Consumer Reports Best Values for 2010
Consumer Reports is set to ship its annual automotive issue out to subscribers, but before the dyed and bound dead trees make their way to subscribers, CR shot off a few press releases to let us know what to expect. While we already covered the six new members of their Top Picks charts this morning, we found their New-Car Best and Worst Values List equally newsworthy.
CR chose the Honda Fit and Toyota Prius as its top picks for best overall value in the marketplace, despite Honda recalling more than 650,000 Fits and the issue plaguing the Toyota Prius, among the myriad of things that have kept ToMoCo busy lately. So before the complaints come in, perhaps a look at CR's methodology is in order. According to the presser after the jump:
"To determine which cars are the best values, Consumer Reports looked at a combination of performance, utility, and reliability for the money, considering total owner costs over the first five-years. The better a car performs in Consumer Reports' road tests and reliability Ratings and the less it costs to own, the greater its value."
Consumer Reports says the Honda Fit and the Toyota Prius bested 280 other cars in eight different categories to grab their top spots. Each recorded a score of 2.08 on their tally sheets, representing values that are more than twice as good as the overall average for the group. It could be argued that the recalls affecting the vehicles might have come too late in the game and/or may have not impacted their rankings significantly enough to erase the inherent value of each vehicle. And lest we forget, CR isn't alone in recognizing the Prius, with MotorWeek and Intellichoice both naming the Japanese hybrid to their awards this year.
The full report on best and worst new-car values will show up March 2, but you can see the lists in the press release after the jump.
[Source: Consumer Reports]Continue reading Despite recalls, Consumer Reports names Honda Fit, Toyota Prius Best Values Despite recalls, Consumer Reports names Honda Fit, Toyota Prius Best Values originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Feb 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsHonda Performance Development begins shipment of Fit FF race engineFiled under: Motorsports, Honda 
After first announcing its plans to offer a new race engine for Formula Ford-type cars last summer, Honda Performance Development (HPD) has now begun to ship the new powerplants. HPD developed the 1.5-liter inline-four based on the production unit from the 2009 Fit. The engines will be eligible for use in the Sports Car Club of America's Formula F category. Honda offers a kit that allows the L15A7 mill to be retrofitted into existing Formula Ford chassis like the Swift DB-1 and DB-6 as well as the Van Diemen RF99-09.
HPD has calibrated the Fit engine to provide output comparable to the Ford Kent unit that has been the heart of Formula Ford for decades. The Honda unit is approved for SCCA competition, effective March 1, 2010.
[Source: Honda]Continue reading Honda Performance Development begins shipment of Fit FF race engine Honda Performance Development begins shipment of Fit FF race engine originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Feb 2010 08:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsReport: Honda's large-car hybrid system getting closerFiled under: Hybrid, Minivan/Van, Sedan, Crossover, Honda, Diesel 
2009 Honda Skydeck Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery
Honda hasn't shared similar success with its various hybrid automobiles as cross-town rival Toyota, despite the fact that the two Japanese automakers introduced their first gasoline/electric models around the same time. The reasons for the sales disparity are many and varied, and at least due in part to the design of Honda Integrated Motor Assist drivetrain, which doesn't quite match the level of sophistication and fuel mileage of Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive.
Still, Honda is pushing forward with the next generation of its IMA system, and it will be added to larger, thirstier models within the next three years or so. The last time Honda put a hybrid powertrain in a larger car, the results were more than a little disappointing with the Accord Hybrid failing to meet sales or efficiency expectations. As such, it will be interesting to see how Honda improves the upsized hybrid system and whether it will be enough to compete with the likes of Toyota, Ford and General Motors.
In somewhat related news, Honda is apparently still working on diesel engines, though apparently not for the U.S. market. According to Tomohiko Kawanabe, chief operating officer of automobile research and development at Honda, "If you want to compete in markets like India, and also Europe, (a small diesel engine) is necessary."
[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]Report: Honda's large-car hybrid system getting closer originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Feb 2010 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsCold Weather Testing in Minnesota: Where Acura beats on one of the best AWD systems in the businessFiled under: Sedan, SUV, Etc., Safety, Technology, Crossover, Acura, Audi, BMW, Honda, Infiniti, Lexus, Luxury, Off-Road 
Acura Cold Weather Testing - Click above for high-res image gallery
"Don't hold back."
Three words I've never heard before at a press event and three words that are running through my mind as I tramp down on the throttle and wheelspin my way towards the gray horizon.
Don't hold back.
Ahead of me lies a three-quarter-mile stretch of perfectly groomed snow sitting atop a thick layer of ice, with over 300 feet of desolation on either side.
Don't hold back.
From a standing start, the well-worn BMW X6 grapples with a lack of traction and then finally grips through the slush to propel me past 20... 30... 40... 50 mph. Then I slam on the stoppers. The ABS system pulses through the brake pedal and the coupe-shaped 'ute grinds to a squeaky, squawky halt. Let's try that again.
Don't hold back.
This time I get up to 60 mph, lay on the brakes and it's the same result. Now I'm bored, so it's time to experiment with a few emergency lane change maneuvers. I get up to 30 mph, stab at the brake, yank the wheel to the right, then back to the left and straighten up. Nothing. No drama. No hesitation. No tail wagging. I do it again, this time at 40 mph with the traction control off. Same result. Then 50 mph. Same result. Then 60 mph. And then I promptly stuff myself into an six-foot-tall snow bank.
Didn't hold back.
Follow the jump to read about our experience at Acura's cold weather testing facility in Minnesota.
Continue reading Cold Weather Testing in Minnesota: Where Acura beats on one of the best AWD systems in the business Cold Weather Testing in Minnesota: Where Acura beats on one of the best AWD systems in the business originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Feb 2010 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsRumormill: Honda CR-Z Type-R in the worksFiled under: Hybrid, Performance, Europe, Japan, Tokyo Motor Show, Hatchback, Honda, UK, Rumormill 
2011 Honda CR-Z - Click above for high-res image gallery
The rumormongers at AutoExpress are at it again, donning their speculative fedoras and suggesting that a 200-horsepower Honda CR-Z Type-R is on the way. But if you were hoping for a K20 swap to ditch the hybrid setup, you're in for a disappointment.
In stock form, the production CR-Z unveiled in Detroit makes due with a 102 hp 1.5-liter four-cylinder mated to an electric motor good for an additional 20 ponies. If AE is to be believed, Honda and its internal tuning partner, Mugen, plans to up the output of the stock four-pot to approximately 150 hp. Since the CR-Z was designed from the onset to be a hybrid, apparently Honda just can't swap in the 2.0-liter engine from the Euro-Civic and call it a day. Instead, a beefed-up electric motor will be fitted - reportedly good for another 50 hp - and bringing total output up to 200 hp.
Naturally, the transformation won't just be under the hood. A reworked suspension, upgraded brakes and a smattering of body mods will be included in the package, along with an additional driving mode (bringing the total to four), "Sport Plus" which will reportedly modify throttle response, steering, the start-stop system and the electric motor assist.
If the Type-R comes to fruition, expect it to debut at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show, with the production version arriving sometime in 2012.
[Source: AutoExpress]Rumormill: Honda CR-Z Type-R in the works originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Feb 2010 13:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsHonda UK releases Civic Type-R Mugen 200 to celebrate return to BTCCFiled under: Aftermarket, Performance, Europe, Hatchback, Honda, UK 
Honda Civic Type-R Mugen - Click above for high-res image gallery
When Mugen's UK-based tuning arm turned up the wick on the Euro Civic Type-R late last year, the result was a 220-hp, stripped out hatch that was only available to 20 lucky consumers. Riding on the critical success of that limited-edition model, Honda UK will begin offering another Mugen-fettled Civic Type-R this March, but it's decidedly less impressive than its track-worthy predecessor.
Included in the package is a set of front and rear Mugen bumper skirts, lightweight 19-inch wheels, limited slip differential and a Championship White exterior, the last Type-R to receive the storied hue. Unfortunately, no mods have been performed to the engine, exhaust or ECU, so output remains unchanged at 200 horsepower.
Naturally, an assortment of badges and plaques are included on the 200 limited-edition models, which are being released to celebrate Honda's return to the British Touring Car Championship this April. Make the jump for all the details, along with ordering information... assuming you live across the pond.
Continue reading Honda UK releases Civic Type-R Mugen 200 to celebrate return to BTCC Honda UK releases Civic Type-R Mugen 200 to celebrate return to BTCC originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Feb 2010 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | CommentsScratch that: Next generation Honda Ridgeline not coming in 2011Filed under: Chicago Auto Show, Truck, Honda 
A little confusion travels quickly. As long ago as last year and as recently as last week's Chicago Auto Show, the bed-happy gents at PickupTrucks.com were told that a new Honda Ridgeline would be arriving sometime in 2011. Now the guys have been told by Honda, "That's not the case." The proper information: "there will be no significant change to the Ridgeline through the 2011 model year."
That leaves the Honda pickup to soldier on through a 50-percent decline in sales and EPA numbers on the wrong side of frugality for at least another two years. And with a five-year-old design. Perhaps Honda wants to see how the truck market (and the auto market in general) does in the near term before it decides what the next Ridgeline should be. Or perhaps the company wants to get its core models in order, like those hybrids, before it makes another play at a small segment. We only have guesses - but there are certainly people out there who'd rather have a new Ridgeline.
[Source: PickupTrucks.com]Scratch that: Next generation Honda Ridgeline not coming in 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 13 Feb 2010 15:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsReport: Next-Generation Honda Ridgeline coming for 2011 model yearFiled under: Truck, Honda, Rumormill 
2009 Honda Ridgeline - Click above for high-res image gallery
The last few years have been unkind to the Honda Ridgeline. Higher fuel prices have made trucks less appealing in general, but at five years old, the Ridgeline is also nearing the end of its lifecycle. Honda's sales of its first-ever truck dipped more than 50 percent compared to 2008, and a revision will be necessary to boost sales over the next few years.
According to PickupTrucks.com, that new model could be coming soon - very soon. The second generation Ridgeline is scheduled to debut for the 2011 model year and will have a host of improvements, including better fuel economy, a more aerodynamic design and less weight. There's no official word on when the 2011 Ridgeline will make its debut, but we shouldn't have too long to wait.
[Source: PickupTrucks.com]Report: Next-Generation Honda Ridgeline coming for 2011 model year originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Feb 2010 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsReport: Honda CFO fears Toyota woes will have ripple effect on other automakersFiled under: Honda, Toyota 
With a combined recall of over eight million vehicles worldwide, Toyota is now firmly entrenched in the public relations barrel. Those millions of recalled vehicles will hurt the Japanese automaker both in terms of the costs associated with the recall as well the overall loss of sales, which could total well over a billion dollars. But is Toyota the only automaker with the potential to lose out in this story? Honda Chief Financial Officer Yoichi Hojo apparently doesn't think so.
Honda's CFO told The Wall Street Journal that the Toyota recalls could hurt consumer's industry-wide perception of quality, adding "if customers start to harbor doubts, that would be problem for the whole industry." If Mr. Hoji's fears are realized, the quality perception gap could lead to the slowing of the auto industry recovery, which could hurt U.S., Korean, German and other Japanese automakers. Also unknown is if the recent pressure put on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration will lead to tougher regulations for all automakers in the future.
And while Toyota is down and out right now, Hoji feels Honda will continue to refrain from tailoring incentives towards current Toyota owners, bucking the precedent set by GM, Ford and Hyundai. That doesn't mean Honda won't increase rebates, though, because inventories of Civic and Accord models are reportedly rising. Hoji said in the interview that Honda will increase second quarter incentives to about $1,400 per vehicle; $600 more than in the previous quarter, adding that he expects Honda's global operations to end fiscal 2009 (ending March 31) with a 265 billion yen profit ($2.96 billion in U.S. funds).
[Source: The Wall Street Journal - Sub. Req.] Report: Honda CFO fears Toyota woes will have ripple effect on other automakers originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Feb 2010 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsChicago 2010: Honda Odyssey Concept gives clear glimpse of next-gen minivanFiled under: Chicago Auto Show, Concept Cars, Minivan/Van, Honda
2011 Honda Odyssey Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery
Honda just unveiled a concept version of its next-generation Oddity Odyssey minivan at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show, and it was one of those rare instances where the media was actually seeing it for the first time, as God intended unveilings to be. Although billed as a concept, the 2011 Honda Odyssey Concept looks almost production ready... other than its door handles, lights and a few other details.
While the current third-generation van is the best selling minivan in America two years running, Honda decided not to play it safe with the redesign. The all-new fourth-generation Odyssey is a big departure for Honda. It's lower and wider, taking an almost Mercedes R-Class stance. Although they claim it's only one inch lower and 1.4 inches wider, it looked like a lot more than that. The 2011 Odyssey also features a "lightning bolt" lower greenhouse border that reminded us of the Nissan Quest a bit. Honda says it helps with rearward visibility.
The production version of this 2011 Honda Odyssey should be in dealerships this fall, and will likely look a lot like this concept. While no specifics were mentioned, it is said to have a V6 that will deliver slightly better fuel economy. The interior was completely blocked off so we aren't sure what they have in store for us inside, but Honda reps promised something big. One thing Honda did share was the fact that this Odyssey is all-American. From inspiration to target market, styling to assembly, this is truly a product of the U.S. of A. There's a press release after the jump and live and press galleries below.
Live photos copyright (C)2010 Frank Fiipponio/Wenlogs, Inc.Continue reading Chicago 2010: Honda Odyssey Concept gives clear glimpse of next-gen minivan Chicago 2010: Honda Odyssey Concept gives clear glimpse of next-gen minivan originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 13:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments |
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