Friday, August 31, 2012

Honda Automobiles: 2013 Honda Pilot Pricing and EPA Data

Model Transmission MSRP* EPA**
City/Hwy/Combined MPG
Pilot LX (2WD) 5-Speed Automatic $29,420 18/25/21
Pilot LX (4WD) 5-Speed Automatic $31,020 17/24/20
Pilot EX (2WD) 5-Speed Automatic $31,670 18/25/21
Pilot EX (4WD) 5-Speed Automatic $33,270 17/24/20
Pilot EX-L (2WD) 5-Speed Automatic $34,920 18/25/21
Pilot EX-L (4WD) 5-Speed Automatic $36,520 17/24/20
Pilot EX-L w/ Rear Entertainment System (2WD) 5-Speed Automatic $36,520 18/25/21
Pilot EX-L w/ Navi (2WD) 5-Speed Automatic $36,920 18/25/21
Pilot EX-L w/ Rear Entertainment System (4WD) 5-Speed Automatic $38,120 17/24/20
Pilot EX-L w/ Navi (4WD) 5-Speed Automatic $38,520 17/24/20
Pilot Touring w/ Navi and Rear Entertainment System (2WD) 5-Speed Automatic $39,570 18/25/21
Pilot Touring w/ Navi and Rear Entertainment System (4WD) 5-Speed Automatic $41,170 17/24/20
*Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) excluding tax, license, registration, $830 destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary.
**Based on 2013 EPA mileage estimates. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.


Source: hondanews.com

Honda Automobiles: 2013 Honda Odyssey Pricing and EPA Data

Model Transmission MSRP* EPA**
City/Hwy/Combined MPG
Odyssey LX 5-Speed Automatic $28,575 18/27/21
Odyssey EX 5-Speed Automatic $31,725 18/27/21
Odyssey EX-L 5-Speed Automatic $35,125 18/27/21
Odyssey EX-L w/ Rear Entertainment System 5-Speed Automatic $36,725 18/27/21
Odyssey EX-L w/ Navi 5-Speed Automatic $37,125 18/27/21
Odyssey Touring 5-Speed Automatic $41,430 19/28/22
Odyssey EX-L Touring Elite 5-Speed Automatic $43,925 19/28/22
*Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) excluding tax, license, registration, $830 destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary.
**Based on 2013 EPA mileage estimates. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.


Source: hondanews.com

Honda Automobiles: 2013 Honda CR-V Combines Remarkable Value, Functionality, Features and Efficiency in Right-Sized Package

The all-new, fourth-generation Honda CR-V debuted late last year with upscale styling, excellent fuel efficiency, and a host of standard convenience features, making it one of the most fun and functional compact SUVs in America. The CR-V returns for 2013 as an IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK and is distinguished by a NHTSA 5-star Overall Vehicle Score1. Along the way, it has also earned awards from Edmunds.com, Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com and J.D. Power and Associates. The 2013 Honda CR-V goes on sale September 6, and pricing begins at $22,695.

Compact on the outside and roomy inside, the CR-V represents an unparalleled balance of size and capability in the entry SUV segment. With its car-like interior comfort, a smooth and quiet ride, plus innovative features, the versatile CR-V is a great fit for families or anyone with an active lifestyle.

The CR-V model lineup carries over for 2013, starting with the exceptionally well-equipped CR-V LX with standard air conditioning, cruise control, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink, rearview camera, color i-MID display, remote entry, 160-watt 4-speaker audio system and Motion-Adaptive Electric Power Steering (EPS). The CR-V EX adds a number of features including an upgraded 6-speaker audio system, power moonroof, and 17-inch alloy wheels.

The CR-V EX-L builds on the rich content of the CR-V EX by adding more features including a leather-trimmed interior, 10-way power driver's seat, automatic dual-zone climate control, and a 328-watt 7-speaker audio system with XM® Radio3. Available features for the CR-V EX-L include the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System4 with Voice Recognition™ and FM Traffic, or a DVD Rear Entertainment System5. Real Time AWD (all-wheel drive) with a swift-acting electronic Intelligent Control System™ is available on each model.

Body
The Honda CR-V's body is designed to contribute to high fuel efficiency and vehicle safety while enhancing the functional and refined aspects of this entry-level SUV. The CR-V has an aggressive and aerodynamic stance with deep sculpting of the bodylines and a bold front fascia. The highly rigid unibody construction combines with lightweight suspension components, noise insulation and aerodynamic features including underbody covers and a rear spoiler to enhance quietness and ride quality.

Large 5-spoke wheels (17-inch alloy for the CR-V EX and EX-L, and 16-inch steel for the CR-V LX) and bold fender flares emphasize the vehicle's dynamic presence and capability. All CR-V models feature an exterior Expanded-View Driver's Mirror that adds an additional 5.5 degrees of visibility at the outer edge of the mirror's field of view, which can assist the driver in detecting other vehicles or road conditions that they might not otherwise see in a conventional mirror.

Interior and Features
The interior of the 2013 Honda CR-V combines a sedan-like driving position with abundant comfort and convenience features, and standout utility and versatility. The CR-V's "small on the outside, big on the inside" packaging is the key to its appeal. The roomy 5-passenger seating layout provides plenty of space to stretch out, front and rear, and there's abundant storage, including a large center console. When it comes to utility, the low cargo floor and lift-over height ease loading, and the innovative Easy Fold-Down 60/40 Split Rear Seatback can quickly drop the seatback using release levers located near the tailgate opening or via a pull-strap accessible from each rear door.

The CR-V is well equipped with sophisticated instrumentation that includes an average fuel-economy indicator, instant fuel economy, miles-to-empty indicators, an engine oil-life indicator and more. A standard full-color "intelligent" Multi-Information Display (i-MID) offers a range of customizable features via fingertip controls on the steering wheel. A multi-angle rearview camera, standard on all models, provides a choice of three different views on the i-MID or navigation screen, offering more visual information for the driver when backing up.

The CR-V LX comes standard with a 160-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with four speakers; the CR-V EX and EX-L have six-speaker systems. The audio system offers impressive connectivity, with a Pandora® internet radio interface (with compatible iPhones) and a convenient SMS text messaging feature (with compatible smart phones) that can read incoming texts aloud through the audio system. The standard Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink™ phone interface offers convenient hands-free calling. Models equipped with the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ include FM Traffic, which has no monthly fee.  A DVD Rear Entertainment System (RES) with a 7-inch screen and a wireless remote control is available on the CR-V EX-L.

Safety
The 2013 CR-V exemplifies the Honda approach to safety. As standard equipment, every CR-V incorporates: VSA electronic stability control system with roll-over sensor; ABS with Brake Assist; driver and front-passenger airbags; side-curtain airbags; front-side airbags with a passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); and a front seat design that can help reduce the severity of neck injury in the event of a rear collision. An Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure helps make the CR-V highly effective at absorbing and dispersing the energy of a frontal crash. A pedestrian injury mitigation design in the front of the vehicle is also included, as are daytime running lights (DRL).

Third-party analysis highlights the CR-V's safety credentials. The CR-V has been named a TOP SAFETY PICK (the highest rating possible) by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The rating recognizes vehicles that do the best job of protecting vehicle occupants involved in front, side and rear crashes. The rating also factors in standard electronic stability control as well as rollover performance based on ratings in IIHS tests. The CR-V earned the highest-possible score of GOOD in all four ratings, including the rigorous roof-strength test. The CR-V also earned NHTSA's best-possible Overall Vehicle Score of 5-Stars, with 5-Star ratings for the frontal crash safety test and both side crash safety tests1 in all evaluated front and rear seating positions and scenarios.          

Powertrain
The CR-V features a sophisticated powertrain that offers a refined balance of versatile performance for city and highway driving and high levels of fuel efficiency for an SUV. All CR-V models are powered by a 2.4-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine with 185 horsepower and 163 lb-ft. of torque (SAE net). In keeping with Honda's proven commitment to the environment, the CR-V engine meets strict California Air Resource Board (CARB) Ultra Low Emission Vehicle-2 tailpipe emissions standards and Federal Tier 2-Bin 5 emission standards.

The engine is paired with a standard 5-speed automatic transmission that works in conjunction with the engine's Drive-By-Wire™ throttle control to smooth shifting action, and Honda's unique Grade Logic Control system can intuitively hold the most appropriate gear on hilly roads, reducing unnecessary shifting. For the all-season confidence of all-wheel drive, the Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System is available to help access available traction in low-grip driving conditions such as snow, rain and unpaved road surfaces.

The CR-V has an EPA fuel economy6 rating of 23/31/26 mpg city/highway/combined (FWD) and a compact SUV-class leading 22/30/25 mpg city/highway/combined rating for the AWD CR-V. Standard Eco Assist indicates to the driver when the vehicle is being operated in an efficient style via "green" visual cues surrounding the speedometer, and a selectable ECON Mode alters operating characteristics of the vehicle to support an efficient driving style.

Chassis
With its fully independent front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link suspension, the 2013 CR-V chassis is designed to maximize passenger comfort, driving enjoyment, and confidence. All CR-V models feature Motion-Adaptive Electric Power Steering (EPS) that works with the standard VSA and Electric Power Steering to detect instability in slippery road conditions both during cornering and under braking, and automatically initiates steering wheel inputs to prompt the driver to steer in the correct direction. This advanced new technology supports the driver's action in operating the vehicle more comfortably and with greater confidence. CR-V EX and EX-L models are equipped with 225/65-17 all-season tires with 17x6.5-inch aluminum alloy wheels. The CR-V LX is equipped with 215/70-16 all-season tires with 16x6.5-inch stamped steel wheels.

Manufacturing and Awards
The CR-V is sold in more than 160 countries throughout North and South America, Europe, Asia, Australia and Africa. In the U.S., CR-Vs are manufactured at the Honda of America Manufacturing, Inc., East Liberty Auto Plant in Ohio from domestic and globally sourced parts.

In the relatively short time it has been on sale, the fourth-generation CR-V has earned significant recognition. Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com named it a "2012 Best Redesigned Vehicle." According to the editors, the CR-V "boasts greater comfort, improved fuel economy and enhanced dynamics across the range while offering impressive options that include a more sophisticated version of its Real Time AWD."

The 2012 CR-V was ranked number one in Best Retained Value in the SUV $25K–$35K category by Edmunds.com and named one of the Top 10 cars with Best Resale Value by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. The 2012 CR-V was also named the top Compact Crossover SUV in J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study (IQS), which looks at owner-reported problems in the first 90 days of new vehicle ownership.

Additional media information, including detailed features and high-resolution photography of the 2013 Honda CR-V, is available at www.hondanews.com. Consumer information is available at automobiles.honda.com.

Connect with Honda:
Media Newsroom (for journalists): www.hondanews.com
For consumers: automobiles.honda.com/cr-v/
CR-V Leap List (for consumers): leaplist.honda.com
YouTube: www.youtube.com/honda
Flickr: www.flickr.com/hondanews
Twitter: www.twitter.com/honda
Facebook: www.facebook.com/hondacr-v
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/honda/
On Google+

1 5-Star Safety Ratings are part of NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (www.SaferCar.gov). Model tested with standard side airbags (SABs). Vehicles tested under the new program cannot be compared to MY10 and earlier vehicles.

2 MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, $830.00 destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary.

3 Required XM Radio subscription sold separately. Subscriptions are governed by the XM Customer Agreement available at xmradio.com/service terms. Other fees and taxes apply; see XM Customer Agreement for details. Fees and programming subject to change. Service not available in Canada, Alaska, or Hawaii. © 2011 SIRIUS XM Radio Inc.

4 The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ is available on the CR-V EX-L in the United States, except Alaska. Please see your Honda dealer for details. Certain functions that rely on a satellite signal will not work correctly in Hawaii and Alaska. These functions include, but are not limited to, automatic clock updates and time zone adjustments.

5 Rear Entertainment System (RES) not available with Navigation

6 Based on 2013 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

Third-party trademarks: Kelley Blue Book is a registered trademark of Kelley Blue Book Co., Inc. J.D. Power is and trademark of The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. The Bluetooth word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and any use of such marks by Honda Motor Co., Ltd., is under license. Pandora, the Pandora logo and other Pandora marks are trademarks or registered trademarks of Pandora Media, Inc. or its subsidiaries worldwide. SIRIUS, XM and all related marks and logos are trademarks of SIRIUS XM Radio Inc. and its subsidiaries.

 

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Source: hondanews.com

Honda Automobiles: 2013 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD


2013 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD

Source: hondanews.com

Honda Automobiles: 2013 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite


2013 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite

Source: hondanews.com

Honda Automobiles: 2013 Honda Pilot


2013 Honda Pilot

Source: hondanews.com

Honda Automobiles: 2013 Honda Pilot


2013 Honda Pilot

Source: hondanews.com

Honda Automobiles: 2013 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD


2013 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD

Source: hondanews.com

Honda Automobiles: 2013 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite


2013 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite

Source: hondanews.com

Wednesday, August 29, 2012

Honda N-One brochure scans reveal cute-as-a-bug city car

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Honda N-One brochure scan

Honda appears to have finally put a version of its crushingly cute N Concept 4 into production. The retro-styled hatchback has shown up in Japanese dealership literature for the first time, according to CarScoop. Behold the N-One, a minicar designed to take on the Fiat 500 at its own game. The street-worthy machine ditches the LED lighting arrays of the original concept in favor of more traditional units, and designers chose to adorn the back hatch with a large chrome accent bar below the rear glass as well. We could do without that change.

Step indoors, and Honda looks to have abandoned the retro styling of the N Concept in favor of a parts-bin raid on the N Box +. The move is fitting considering both kei cars ride on the same platform. Under the hood, buyers can expect to bask in the glow of a 660-cc three-cylinder engine paired with a CVT. Power can be shuttled to either the front wheels or an all-wheel drive system depending on trim. Honda hopes the addition to the company's lineup will help boost minicar sales to 280,000 units per year. Don't expect to see this N360-influenced creation show up on our shores any time soon, however.

Honda N-One brochure scans reveal cute-as-a-bug city car originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

Friday, August 24, 2012

Honda ups 2012 forecast by more than 25% on bullish CR-V, Civic sales

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2012  Honda CR-V - front three-quarter view

On the verge of launching an all-new 2013 Accord, Honda has significantly upped its expected sales figures for 2012. Riding on the success of both the new Honda Civic and the 2012 Honda CR-V, the automaker says its forecast of 2012 sales have increased by more than 25 percent from the original 1.2 million units projected earlier in the year up to 1.3 million units. This all despite having to recover from natural disasters in Asia that crippled its production and inventory.

This bullish estimate can directly be attributed to strong sales of the new CR-V and Civic, two models which account for almost half of all Honda's 732,165 units through July. In fact, the CR-V is on pace to "demolish" its 2007 sales record of 219,000 units. Compared to last year, CR-V sales are up 33.9 percent, and with five months left, Honda is well on its way of not only breaking this record but also beating out the CR-Vs closest rival - and last year's top-selling crossover - the Ford Escape. As for the Civic, despite its cold critical reception, it remains Honda's best-selling model as well as the best-selling car in its class. Things should get even better for Honda with the Accord coming out this year and an emergency-refresh Civic due out next year.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, the Honda Fit subcompact is down 26.4 percent for the year while the company's CR-Z and Insight hybrids have combined to sell just 7,194 units all year.

Overall, Honda's sales are up 18.5 through the first seven months of 2012.

Honda ups 2012 forecast by more than 25% on bullish CR-V, Civic sales originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Aug 2012 15:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

Thursday, August 23, 2012

2013 Honda Accord: First official images released

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If Honda's words are to be believed, what you're looking at here is "the most sculpted Accord ever." The camouflage has been pulled away and we're now getting our first glimpse at the production 2013 Accord sedan.

Now, let's dissect that "most sculpted Accord" statement for a moment. Historically, Honda has never been known to break design barriers with its decidedly likable midsize sedan. But when you're competing with the likes of the best-selling Toyota Camry in one of the most competitive and highly shopped segments in the industry, sex doesn't always sell. And to that extent, yes, this is the most sculpted Accord we've seen - certainly more attractive than the current sedan - but it won't set the world on fire. And that's fine, because conservative, handsome styling sells.

Conservative and handsome it definitely is. We like the strong character line that sweeps along the belt line and fades off just before the C pillar, and elements like the attractive 10-spoke wheels, LED running lamps, headlamps and taillamps keep it looking modern. From the rear, we won't fault you for mistaking the Accord for a Hyundai Genesis, and we'll really have to see the car in person before making final design judgments. It's not Sonata sleek, but it certainly doesn't look bad.

That's all we know for now, though Honda does say that the 2013 Accord sedan is "bigger on the inside and smaller on the outside." We'll have more details when the car officially debuts in the fall. In the meantime, peruse the two high-res images in our attached gallery and scroll down for Honda's press blast.

Continue reading 2013 Honda Accord: First official images released

2013 Honda Accord: First official images released originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Aug 2012 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

Honda Automobiles: 2013 Honda Accord Sedan Touring


2013 Honda Accord Sedan Touring

Source: hondanews.com

Honda releases first 2013 Accord Coupe pictures

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2013 Honda Accord Coupe - Front three-quarter view, blue

Honda released a pair of images of its new-for-2013 Accord sedan early this morning, and it's followed them up with a pair of matching Coupe photos (we've added some cropped/zoomed images so you can see some of the details better).

The two-door bodystyle looks quite similar to the rakish outgoing model, with comparable greenhouse and prominent profile creases, but styling has been cleaned up as well, with better integrated hood shutlines and a dumping of the love/hate "upside-down" door handles that marked out the previous Accord. Unlike the new-for-2013 sedan, the Coupe also has unique squared-off lower fascias with recessed lighting - particularly noticeable in the rear.

Up front, a mesh grille with a thinner U-shaped surround insert takes the place of the sedan's more conservative slatted affair, and the headlamp fixtures are unique with larger amber turn signals. The lower air inlet looks similar in style to the sedan, but the surrounding fascia is different, incorporating round fog lamps in blacked-out faux mesh recesses.

The rear end also receives unique taillamps, and they appear smaller than their family-minded counterpart. Also unlike the sedan, they don't extend into the trunklid, which appears to have a markedly narrower opening to go with its built-in lip spoiler and CHMSL. The Accord Coupe's most prominent feature in the rear is arguably its square-jawed bumper cap, which has vertical rectangle reflectors and a horizontal sliver of brightwork that the sedan lacks. As with the saloon, twin exhaust outlets are shown on this V6 model, but they have unique oval-shaped finishers, where the sedan has more traditional round pieces.

What do you think of the new Accord Coupe at first glance? Weigh in with your thoughts in Comments.

Continue reading Honda releases first 2013 Accord Coupe pictures

Honda releases first 2013 Accord Coupe pictures originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Aug 2012 10:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

Honda Automobiles: All-New 2013 Honda Accord Will Debut with Premium and Sophisticated Exterior Styling

Honda today revealed the first images of the much anticipated all-new 2013 Honda Accord Sedan and Accord Coupe, set to go on sale this fall. The most sculpted Accord ever delivers an even more spacious and luxurious passenger cabin wrapped in an upscale, sophisticated exterior designed to stand the test of time.

The 2013 Accord's styling is expressive, sophisticated and premium. Starting in the front, a bold new grille imparts a distinctive and dynamic tension that complements the powerful look of the hood's multiple styling lines. A strong side character line flows through the door handles and flares upward toward the rear of the vehicle to further convey a sense of motion. A deep contour in the rocker panel firmly grounds its visual presence to the road and smartly turns upward to convey a sporty attitude. In the back, the inward slope where the fenders taper into the trunk and C-pillars is designed to convey a powerful, athletic stance from the rear.

True to the spirit of Honda and every Accord before it, the ninth-generation embraces a customer focus from the inside out. Smart interior packaging allows for increased passenger and cargo space in both the sedan and the coupe, while the overall exterior lengths are noticeably shortened, contributing to a sportier driving character and easier parking. An expansive greenhouse and generous rear seating area provide excellent levels of visibility and comfort for the driver and all passengers.

"This car is the most sculpted and the most dynamic Accord yet," said Vicki Poponi, assistant vice president of product planning for American Honda. "Following Honda's long-held philosophy of 'man maximum, machine minimum,' the beautiful exterior evolved from a focus on interior space and the needs of the people inside it."

On the road, an overall aerodynamic shape combined with low-drag exterior surfaces including nearly flush windshield glass, flush-mounted windshield wipers and careful under-body tailoring promise enhanced fuel efficiency. Premium details like available LED daytime running lights, headlights and taillights hint at the sophisticated technology and luxury available inside.

More information about the all-new 2013 Accord will be revealed later this fall. For photos about the styling direction of the 2013 Accord, visit www.hondanews.com.

Connect with Honda:
Media Newsroom (for journalists): www.hondanews.com
Future Vehicles (for consumers): http://automobiles.honda.com/2013-accord/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/HondaAccord
YouTube: www.youtube.com/honda
Flickr: www.flickr.com/hondanews
Twitter: www.twitter.com/honda
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/honda/
On Google+

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Source: hondanews.com

These are the best-selling cars in wealthy zip codes

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2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Perhaps the most frustrating thing about being mired in the 99% is that due to the prevalence of reality-distorting TV and the booming personal security business, we really have no idea what it's like to be Mitt Romney, Donald Trump or one of the Koch brothers. At least in the olden days, we plebs could point and stare, mouths agape as the robber barons rode through city streets in their jewel-encrusted carriages. But today? Good luck catching a glimpse of Trump's platinum-dipped Maybach or the plutonium-burning hovercrafts that the Koch's use to fly to their secret Tea Party Illuminati meetings.

What's that? Rich people buy their cars at dealerships just like we do?

Yep, and according to a new study from TrueCar, Mr. and Mrs. Moneybags don't go in for luxury models nearly as completely as you'd think. TrueCar has released a list of the top 10 most popular cars in the wealthiest zip codes in the U.S. and, shockingly enough, half the vehicles on it are mainstream models from Toyota, Honda and Volkswagen.

As you would expect, a Mercedes-Benz is indeed at the top of the list, but note that it's the E-Class rather than the S-Class. Runner-up was the BMW 3 Series, just ahead of the C-Class. Fourth place went to the Lexus RX, and fifth to the Toyota Prius. Then the real commonplace models take over, with the Volkswagen Jetta in sixth, the Honda CR-V and Accord in seventh and eighth, and the Toyota Camry taking ninth. The BMW X5 wraps up the list in 10th place.

What this tells us is that the rich are clearly not stupid, choosing to buy the same sorts of vehicles that the rest of us do, models with good reputations for quality and value. Either that or they're paying their servants in cars.

Continue reading These are the best-selling cars in wealthy zip codes

These are the best-selling cars in wealthy zip codes originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Aug 2012 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

Honda Automobiles: 2013 Honda Accord


2013 Honda Accord

Source: hondanews.com

Honda Automobiles: Honda Plants Start Producing Fuel-Efficient Engines, CVTs For All-New 2013 Honda Accord

On Thursday, Aug. 16, Honda will start mass production of its new Earth Dreams engines and continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) for the all-new 9th-generation Accord.

This will be the first opportunity to see production of Honda's next-generation CVT on a new assembly line at Honda Transmission Mfg., which resulted in more than 100 new jobs.

In addition, the Anna plant is starting production of a new direct-injection four-cylinder engine and its next-generation V6 for the 2013 Accord models.

Separately, on Monday, Aug. 20, Honda will host an event to mark the production launch of the 2013 Accord at the Marysville Auto Plant. (See separate media advisory)

Anna Engine Plant
12500 Meranda Road, Anna, Ohio

9:00 am Brief overview and media interviews
9:30 Plant tour for videos and photos of the new V6 and direct-injection four-cylinder engines for the new Accord models
10:00 Depart for transmission plant

Interviews
John Spoltman Plant Manager, Anna Engine Plant
Denis Kovacs Accord Engine New Model Leader

Honda Transmission Mfg. of America
6964 St. Rt. 235, Russells Point, Ohio

11:00 am Brief overview and media interviews
11:30 Plant tour of the new CVT Assembly Line
12:00 pm Departure

Interviews
Gary Hand Plant Manager, Honda Transmission Mfg.
Greg Dawson Accord Transmission New Model Leader

Media are welcome to attend one or both events.

Please RSVP by contacting Ron Lietzke
Office: 937-644-6627
Cell: 937-441-0968
ron_lietzke@ham.honda.com



Source: hondanews.com

Consumer Reports calls out "Five Popular Cars To Avoid"

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2012 Honda Civic  - front three-quarter view, burgundy

Those crusaders of shopping empowerment over at Consumer Reports have put together a list of five cars to avoid, even if their sales numbers suggest otherwise. CR points out that just because a vehicle is making a lot of buzz and ringing cash registers, that doesn't necessarily make it a wise choice for buyers. According to the report, these are vehicles that either tested poorly or have been experiencing poor reliability in their new car surveys.

Perhaps of little surprise is the presence of the Honda Civic on this list. The latest Civic has been getting dinged by auto critics left and right, and CR specifically points to a "Choppy ride, noisy cabin, vague steering, and mediocre interior quality" as reasons for its inclusion on the list. Its a good thing, then, that a short-term update is its way.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, Consumer Reports once again voices its disapproval of the Toyota Prius C. We knew they weren't in love with it when they reviewed it back in May, and apparently the passage of time hasn't softened their opinions of Toyota's least-expensive hybrid.

Check out the gallery of all five cars that Consumer Reports is telling buyers to avoid and then weigh in with your thought in Comments.

Consumer Reports calls out "Five Popular Cars To Avoid" originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Aug 2012 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Honda's U.S. operations to take lead on more vehicle design

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Acura NSX Concept

Honda has been dinged by the media - us included - for recent lackluster designs, most notably the 2012 Civic. While the company has mostly adhered to its public position that everything is fine, clearly there are some changes being wrought behind the scenes at the Japanese automaker. For one, Honda's North American product development team is going to be taking over the next-generation Civic, according to Automotive News.

Honda will also be developing the Acura NSX here, according to remarks made by Erik Berkman, the company's new president of Honda R&D Americas, speaking at the annual Center for Automotive Research Management Briefing Seminars. Berkman has been in charge of Honda's Ohio-based research and development center since April. The organization has some 2,000 employees, a number which is likely to grow in the next few years, according to the report.

Honda's U.S. operations to take lead on more vehicle design originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Aug 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

Honda Automobiles: All-New 2013 Honda Accord Unveiling Ceremony

On Monday, Aug. 20, Honda will host an event to mark the production launch of the all-new 2013 Honda Accord at the Marysville Auto Plant.

Media attending the event will have the opportunity to interview Honda leadership, the Accord new-model team and government leaders.

Launch of the new Accord is taking place as we prepare to celebrate 30 years of Honda auto production in North America, which started in Ohio at the Marysville Auto plant on Nov. 1, 1982. Historical generations of the Honda Accord will be on display during this event.

Production Line-Off Event

1:00 pm Reception at Honda Hall
Media Interviews with Honda leadership, Accord New Model Team
Plant access for interviews and to shoot video and photos

1:30 Accord Walk-Around Event Mike Fischer, Accord New Model Leader

2:00 Media escorted to Marysville Auto Plant

2:30 Plant Launch Ceremony, followed by media scrum

Interviews
Hide Iwata President & CEO, Honda of America Mfg.
Jeff Tomko Plant Manager, Marysville Auto Plant
Mike Fischer Accord New Model Leader

Location
Off U.S. 33, northwest of Columbus in Union County
Marysville Auto Plant
24000 Honda Parkway
Marysville, Ohio 43040 Enter at Gate B and proceed to the Honda Operations Office

Please RSVP by contacting Ron Lietzke
Office: 937-644-6627
Cell: 937-441-0968
ron_lietzke@ham.honda.com



Source: hondanews.com

Autoblog Podcast #295

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Top Gear USA, Jeep pickup, five cars to avoid, Dodge out of NASCAR

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Episode #295 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week Dan and Zach are joined by Rutledge Wood and Adam Ferrara of the History Channel's Top Gear USA. The crew chats about the new season of Top Gear, which starts tonight at 9:00 PM Eastern (8:00 Central) on the History Channel before turning to some topics. The awesomeness of a Jeep Wrangler Pickup, the death of the Jeep Liberty, five popular cars to avoid, and Dodge pulling out of NASCAR are the official topics, but there's a lot of in-between in this conversation. Your questions and comments power the end of the 'cast, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. Keep reading for our Q&A module for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #295:



Topics:

In the Autoblog Garage:
2013 Nissan GT-R
Peel Trident

Hosts: Dan Roth, Zach Bowman
Guests: Rutledge Wood, Adam Ferrara

Runtime: 01:22:57

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Feedback
Email: Podcast at Autoblog dot com

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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #295

Autoblog Podcast #295 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Aug 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

Honda Automobiles: Honda Marks 30 Years of U.S. Auto Manufacturing With Production Start of All-new 2013 Honda Accord

Associates at the Marysville Auto Plant today started production of the all-new 2013 Honda Accord, marking 30 years of automotive manufacturing in the United States. With sophisticated styling, premium features and unique technologies that make Accord more fuel efficient and fun to drive, the ninth-generation Accord will go on sale next month.

Ohio Gov. John Kasich along with other government and community leaders joined Honda associates at the plant today as the first mass-produced 2013 Accords rolled off the assembly line. The Accord has been in continuous production at the Marysville Auto Plant since it started operations as the first Japanese automaker in the U.S. on Nov.1, 1982 with production of the second-generation Accord Sedan. The plant has produced more than 9 million Accords during the past three decades.

"This new Accord excels in all areas, and it's being built in a plant that excels in all areas as well – including flexibility, efficiency and quality for the customer," said Hide Iwata, president and CEO of Honda of America Mfg. "For 30 years, the Accord has been the signature vehicle from Honda, and it remains the industry benchmark in a very competitive segment."

Located northwest of Columbus, the Marysville Auto Plant redefined the American automobile industry over the past 30 years with its highly skilled workforce, top quality, production flexibility and environmentally responsible performance.

During the line-off event, Jeff Tomko, plant manager of the Marysville Auto Plant, hailed the high degree of quality and craftsmanship achieved by the Honda associates building the new Accord.

"The styling is outstanding, the features are impressive and the technology is unlike any other vehicle in this segment," said Tomko. "But what really makes this vehicle great is the hands-on craftsmanship that each of our associates have put into building this new Accord."

With its full-model change, the 2013 Accord has a sculpted and aerodynamic exterior, all-new engines and transmissions, and innovative features that include the LaneWatch™ blind-spot display which enhances visibility of the passenger-side roadway; Lane Departure Warning; and Forward Collision Warning. New technologies that are standard on all Accord models include rearview camera and Expanded View Driver's Mirror. Also standard are popular technologies including Bluetooth®1 HandsFreeLink® phone interface, Multi-Information Display (i-MID), SMS text messaging function and Pandora® Internet Radio interface2.

"Together, we worked hand-in-hand to ensure that every detail of this vehicle could be manufactured with the highest levels of quality," said Mike Fischer, manufacturing new-model leader for the Accord. "We have been very successful at taking an exciting design concept for the 2013 Accord and turning it into a segment-leading product for our customers."

One example is the Accord's seamless, one-piece instrument panel, which reduces road noise and makes for a much more quiet and luxurious ride. Making this one change required three new machines, two new welders and installation of a special seismic floor six feet deep into the plant floor to eliminate vibrations that could cause variations with the ultrasonic knife used to score perforations that will enable deployment of the front passenger airbag.

"This new Accord will be very fun to drive, will offer great fuel economy, and will feature a comfortable cabin with a very quiet ride," said Tomko. "Our team at the Marysville Auto Plant is ready to build it, and we are committed to manufacturing it with the best quality and reliability in the business."

Honda's engine and transmissions plants in Ohio on Thursday started mass production of Honda's new "Earth Dreams" powertrain series, a new generation of engines and transmissions that will make their U.S. debut on the all-new 2013 Honda Accord.

Along with a total redesign of the vehicle, the ninth-generation Accord is the first in North America to apply Honda's Earth Dreams engine and transmission technologies that offer improved fuel efficiency and fun-to-drive performance. This includes a new four-cylinder direct injection engine paired with a new Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), and a new V-6 engine with 6-speed automatic transmission that provide an excellent combination of fuel efficiency and performance.

Honda is investing $220 million to launch the CVT production for vehicles produced in North America, including $120 million for the new CVT line and nearly $100 million at the Anna Engine Plant for the production of the CVT's high-tech pulley components starting next year. The expanded production will create 150 new jobs at the two plants.

The Accord also is an important product for domestic suppliers in Ohio and the rest of North America, which manufacture the vast majority of the parts and components for its production. More than 200 parts suppliers in the U.S. manufacture parts for the Accord.

Honda's parts purchasing will exceed $20 billion this year in North America from more than 600 parts suppliers in the region, including 500 in the U.S. and 150 in Ohio. Parts purchasing has continued to grow in the region as Honda's production has increased in North America, and due to increasing exports of parts from North American suppliers to Honda plants in other parts of the world.

About Honda in Ohio
Based on Honda's longstanding commitment to "build products close to the customer," Honda began operations at its first U.S. auto plant nearly 30 years ago, on Nov. 1, 1982, in Marysville, Ohio. The Marysville plant currently employs approximately 4,400 associates. In addition to producing both the four-cylinder and V6 models of the Accord Sedan and Coupe, the Marysville plant is the sole manufacturing site for the Acura TL luxury Sedan. Honda and Acura vehicles are produced using domestic and globally sourced parts.

Honda also operates an auto plant in East Liberty, Ohio, that builds the segment-leading Honda CR-V compact sport-utility vehicle (SUV) and the Honda Crosstour crossover utility vehicle, and the Acura RDX luxury SUV. Honda has the capacity to build 680,000 automobiles annually at its two Ohio auto plants.

In addition to manufacturing, Honda has established substantial R&D operations in Ohio, along with other operations that support product development, manufacturing and sales of Honda and Acura products in North America. The company employs more than 13,500 Ohioans and tens of thousands more through its suppliers and other business partners. The company's total investment in its extensive operations in the state exceeds $8 billion.

Honda has seven auto plants in North America with the capacity to manufacture 1.63 million automobiles annually. Honda has announced that by 2014, the company's North American auto production capacity will reach 1.92 million units. More than 85 percent of the Honda and Acura products sold in the U.S. are built in North America.

###

For more information, contact:
Ron Lietzke at Honda of America Mfg.: 937-441-0968
ron_lietzke@ham.honda.com

Connect with Honda of America, and Acura and Honda brands:
Honda of America Mfg., Inc. (Press Room): www.ohio.honda.com
Acura Media Newsroom (for journalists): www.acuranews.com
Honda Media Newsroom (for journalists): www.hondanews.com

1 The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and any use of such marks by Honda Motor Co., Ltd., is under license.

2 Compatible with select Apple® iPhone® devices only. Your wireless carrier's rate plans apply.



Source: hondanews.com

Honda Automobiles: 2013 Honda Accord Manufacturing B-roll

2013 Honda Accord Manufacturing B-roll.

Source: hondanews.com

Top 10 most-stolen vehicles of 2011 released by NICB [w/video]

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There are plenty of lists on which consumers love to see their vehicles, but the National Insurance Crime Bureau annual "Hot Wheels" roster is likely not be one of them. The Illinois-based NICB has just released its annual top 10 list of stolen vehicles using 2011 data submitted by law enforcement agencies. The good news that comes out of this report is that the NICB says car theft has dropped by 3.3 percent compared to 2010, and last year was the lowest for vehicles thefts since 1967.

For the most part, this list has been dominated by pre-1997 cars that lack smart key technology, but as crooks get more high tech, thefts of late-model cars have been on the rise. Smart keys have a chip in the key or fob for improved theft protection, and with dealerships having access to the code for vehicle transponder keys, the NICB says that some thieves are getting around that by cajoling a dealership employee into handing over a car's key code. The bogus keymaking scheme is apparently only a fraction of theft scenarios, though: the organization tracked some 531,031 key code transactions (read: key replacement instances) in the first quarter of this year, and apparently, 277 vehicles related to those instances were stolen within a week of the transaction.

In 2011, the top 10 most-stolen vehicles as indicated by the NICB Hot Wheels lists were:
  1. 1994 Honda Accord
  2. 1998 Honda Civic
  3. 2006 Ford F-Series
  4. 1991 Toyota Camry
  5. 2000 Dodge Caravan
  6. 1994 Acura Integra
  7. 1999 Chevrolet Silverado
  8. 2004 Dodge Ram
  9. 2002 Ford Explorer
  10. 1994 Nissan Sentra
Since 2008, the 1994 Honda Accord has topped the list of most-stolen vehicles, but for the most part, the list always contains many of these same makes and models with slight changes in the model year.

To protect yourself from having your vehicle stolen, the NICB recommends using common sense when parking your car and equipping your vehicle with an alarm and immobilizing device (ironically, this includes smart keys).

Scroll down for the video and press release.

Continue reading Top 10 most-stolen vehicles of 2011 released by NICB [w/video]

Top 10 most-stolen vehicles of 2011 released by NICB [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 15:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

Honda Automobiles: 2013 Accord Production with Ohio Governor


2013 Accord Production with Ohio Governor

Source: hondanews.com

2013 Honda Accord production fires up with Earth Dreams power

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2013 Honda Accord - studio shot - gray - front three-quarter view

Production of the "Earth Dreams" powertrains that will slot into the 2013 Honda Accord got underway at the Japanese automaker's Anna Engine and Honda Transmission Mfg. plants last week, and both facilities have begun feeding engines and gearboxes to the Marysville, Ohio, assembly lines where the 2013 Accord has started rolling off the lines. A ceremony marking the start of the new generation's assembly today also served to celebrate Honda's 30 years of production in the States.

As one would expect with car as important to Honda as the ninth-generation Accord, the company has made a huge investment in the North American debut of its new direct-injected, 2.4-liter four-cylinder, a new CVT transmission and a 3.5-liter V6 and its optional six-speed automatic. Honda has spent $220 million on expansions, casting operations and automated lines for its associates, and the plant is now able to make 1.8 million Earth Dreams engines annually.

The new engines are said to be good for a 10-percent improvement in fuel economy compared to current offerings, and the powerplants will eventually migrate to other models in Honda's lineup. Check out the press releases below for more information.

Continue reading 2013 Honda Accord production fires up with Earth Dreams power

2013 Honda Accord production fires up with Earth Dreams power originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #296 LIVE

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We record Episode #296 of the Autoblog Podcast tonight, and you can drop us your questions and comments via our Q&A module below. Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes if you haven't already done so, and if you want to take it all in live, tune in to our UStream (audio only) channel at 10:00 PM Eastern tonight.

Discussion Topics for Autoblog Podcast Episode #296

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Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #296 LIVE originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: www.autoblog.com

Honda Automobiles: Honda President at Accord Launch


Honda President at Accord Launch

Source: hondanews.com