Ultimele articole din presa straina referitoare la Honda

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  • http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=159120

    Scott Robinson Honda Confirms, New HondaLink™ Connected Car System is Unveiled.

    Scott Robinson Honda confirms, Honda has unveiled HondaLink™, a new in-vehicle connectivity system that will debut this fall on the all-new, ninth-generation 2013 Honda Accord.

    Featuring the first automotive OEM application of Aha™ by Harman, HondaLink™ will provide a personalized experience connecting drivers to thousands of cloud-based news, information and media feeds from around the world, using an intuitive, audio-system based interface.

    Honda’s intuitive new HondaLink™ smartphone application allows owners to preset content on their phone. Once in the car, consumers can enjoy personalized content accessible via voice recognition, steering wheel mounted controls and in-dash audio system controls. With a tethered smartphone serving as a conduit to a wealth of cloud-based media, HondaLink™ creates a unique, connected driving experience.

    Through the Aha service, for example, HondaLink™ users can listen to Facebook and Twitter audio newsfeeds, podcasts from NPR, location-based personalized restaurant listings from Yelp!, and access internet music services such as Slacker. The service is free and instantly accessible from the cloud.

    Aha delivers a user-friendly experience requiring infrequent smartphone software updates, with in-vehicle content and channel access updating simply and automatically throughout the vehicle life. And content available from HondaLink™ will grow as the system continues to expand its services for Honda owners. HondaLink will also incorporate Pandora Internet radio and voice-to-text SMS text services with pre-programmed responses, which Honda introduced on the 2012 CR-V.

    With its support of local charities and environmental causes, Scott Robinson Honda has established itself as an integral part of the community, and has received industry wide recognition for its commitment to Green practices. For more information, call 866-604-4264 or visit (http://scottrobinsonhonda.com).

    Don’t forget to become a fan of Scott Robinson Honda on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/scottrobinsonhonda) and become a follower of Scott Honda Robinson on twitter (https://twitter.com/#!/HondaAltFuel).

    Scott Robinson Honda, located at 20340 Hawthorne Blvd. in Torrance, CA., has served the Long Beach, South Bay and Los Angeles areas since 1961, developing its unique reputation for providing car shoppers with outstanding value, honest service.

    ===================================

    http://www.hondainthenews.com/first-...in-california/

    First Fit EV Delivered in California

    Congratulations go out to automotive pioneers Matt and Becky Walton, who recently became the first U.S. customers for the 2013 Honda Fit EV. Their new high-efficiency hatchback will become a daily driver for the couple, who will enjoy the ability to travel up to 82 miles on a single charge with EPA ratings of 132 MPGe city/105 MPGe highway/118 MPGe combined. Further, based on the number of kilowatt-hours of electricity needed to travel 100 miles—just 29 for the Honda—the Fit EV is the most efficient all-electric car in the world.

    For added practicality, it also boasts one of the quickest recharging rates: Owners will be able to re-energize the Fit EV in under three hours using a 240-volt charger unit. And for the Waltons, the car has the benefit of coming from one of their favorite automakers. The couple first started buying Hondas back in the early 1970s, and the vehicle that will become their alternative choice now that they have the Fit EV is their Honda Odyssey minivan.

    Currently available only in California and Oregon, the 2013 Honda Fit EV can be leased for as little as $389 per month for 36 months.

    “It’s truly an honor to take delivery of the first Honda Fit EV and participate in the advancement of all-electric vehicles in the real world,” said Matt Walton. “The Honda Fit EV is not only a sustainable and energy efficient transportation option with the highest fuel-efficiency rating of any EV, but it has the added bonus of being fun-to-drive and can fully recharge from empty in less than three hours.”

    ===========================

    http://www.carnewschina.com/2012/07/...buts-in-china/

    More Chrome! Facelifted Honda Odyssey debuts in China

    This is the 2013 Honda Odyssey for the Chinese auto market. Honda didn’t change that much but what they did is very good. Biggest new thing is the grill with three extra chromed bars! Chinese car buyers do dig chrome a lot and Honda knows, there is more shiny stuff at the back as well.






    The current 2011 car, single chrome bar instead of triple, less impressive indeed.






    2013 Odyssey, huge chrome bar over the whole back! More new chrome around the light clusters. Honda is good. The facelifted Honda Odyssey was expected to debut at the Beijing Auto Show in April but it didn’t show up. The shiny Honda will now be launched on the Chinese auto market later this month. Power comes from a 2.4 with 180hp, mated to a 5-speed automatic. Price will range from 220.000 to 280.000 yuan. The Odyssey is made in China by the Guangzhou-Honda joint venture.




    2011 Odyssey, no chrome at the back at all.





    Only 10 in the morning here in Beijing, but Honda already made my day…

    Via: Autohome.

    ========================================
    tokyodream
    Senior Member
    Last edited by tokyodream; 25-07-12, 08:09.
    Iubesc masinile japoneze. Ele nu mint, nu inseala !
    ACURA & HONDA SUV FAN CLUB ROMANIA - http://daimyo.ro/index.php?action=forum

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    • http://www.marketwatch.com/story/hon...012-2012-07-25

      Honda Sets All-Time June Record for Worldwide Production and Achieves All-Time Accumulated Sales Record in Japanese Mini-Vehicle Category for the First Half of Year 2012

      Tokyo, Jul 25, 2012 (JCN Newswire via COMTEX) -- Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced a summary of automobile production, Japan domestic sales, and export results for the month of June 2012.




      Worldwide Production
      ------------------------------------------------------------
      June 2012 Year-to-Date Total
      Units vs.'11 (Jan-June 2012)
      ------------------------------------------------------------
      Japan 92,021 +112.6% 587,217 +120.4%
      Outside Japan 278,295* +122.5% 1,575,598 +52.0%
      Worldwide Total 370,316* +119.9% 2,162,815 +66.0%
      ------------------------------------------------------------

      Production Outside of Japan
      ------------------------------------------------------------
      North America 145,979* +132.1% 894,196 +75.1%
      (USA) 105,597* +131.9% 646,665 +70.4%
      Europe 12,503 +132.7% 82,361 +62.2%
      Asia 105,288* +103.6% 520,787 +24.8%
      (China) 64,561* +79.6% 350,494 +26.5%
      Others 14,525 +185.5% 78,254 +36.3%
      Overseas Total 278,295* +122.5% 1,575,598 +52.0%
      ------------------------------------------------------------
      * Record high for June




      Production in Japan for the month of June 2012 experienced a year-on-year increase for the seventh consecutive month (since December 2011).

      Production in regions outside of Japan experienced a year-on-year increase for the fifth consecutive month (since February 2012), setting record high production for the month of June. This includes all-time monthly records for June production in North America, USA, Asia, and China.

      Worldwide production experienced a year-on-year increase for the sixth consecutive month (since January 2012), setting record high production for the month of June.




      Sales in the Japanese Market
      ------------------------------------------------------------
      Vehicle Type June 2012 Year-to-Date Total
      Units vs.'11 (Jan-June 2012)
      ------------------------------------------------------------
      Registrations 45,159 +50.4% 269,234 +53.2%
      Mini-Vehicles 29,843 +241.2% 161,680 +151.0%
      Honda Brand Total 75,002 +93.4% 430,914 +79.4%
      ------------------------------------------------------------




      Honda's automobile sales in the Japanese market for the month of June 2012 experienced a year-on-year increase for the sixth consecutive month (since January 2012).

      New vehicle registrations experienced a year-on-year increase for the tenth consecutive month (since September 2011).

      Sales of mini-vehicles experienced a year-on-year increase for the sixth consecutive month (since January 2012).

      - Vehicle registrations - excluding mini-vehicles -

      Fit was the industry's third best-selling car among new vehicle registrations for the month of June 2012 with sales of 22,070 units. Freed was the industry's fifth best-selling car with sales of 11,067 units. Step WGN was the industry's seventh best-selling car with 8,626 units.

      - Mini-vehicles - under 660cc -

      N BOX was the industry's top selling car in the mini-vehicle category for the month of June 2012 with sales of 23,091 units.

      Furthermore, Honda has achieved the all-time record for the mini-vehicle category for the first half of year 2012.




      Exports from Japan
      ------------------------------------------------------------
      June 2012 Year-to-Date Total
      Units vs.'11 (Jan-June 2012)
      ------------------------------------------------------------
      North America 11,180 +47.4% 84,660 +32.3%
      (USA) 10,962 +54.0% 82,761 +35.3%
      Europe 1,092 -29.0% 13,807 +15.7%
      Asia 2,227 +85.0% 23,538 +203.3%
      Others 2,703 +20.9% 25,487 +82.8%
      Total 17,202 +36.9% 147,492 +51.1%
      ------------------------------------------------------------




      Total exports from Japan in June 2012 experienced a year-on-year increase for the sixth consecutive month (since January 2012).

      About Honda

      Honda Motor Co., Ltd. is one of the leading manufacturers of automobiles and power products and the largest manufacture of motorcycles in the world. Honda has always sought to provide genuine satisfaction to people worldwide. The result is more than 120 manufacturing facilities in 30 countries worldwide, producing a wide range of products, including motorcycles, ATVs, generators, marine engines, lawn and garden equipment and automobiles that bring the company into contact with over 19 million customers annually. For more information, please visit http://world.honda.com .

      Contact:



      Honda
      Media Inquiries
      corporate_pr@hm.honda.co.jp
      +81-3-5412-1512




      Copyright (C) Japan Corporate News NetWork

      =================================

      http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-18973775

      Japanese cars are 'most reliable' used car brands in UK

      Japanese carmakers Honda, Toyota and Lexus have been named the most reliable used car brands in the UK in a survey by What Car? and Warranty Direct.

      Suzuki and Subaru, also Japanese, were ranked fourth and fifth respectively in the survey of cars between three and 10 years old.

      South Korean carmaker Hyundai shared sixth place with Japan's Mazda and Mitsubishi.

      By contrast, Land Rover was the least reliable marque surveyed.

      Other luxury car brands, including Audi, Jaguar and Mercedes, were also among the 10 least reliable.

      "They need to do better," said What Car?'s editor in chief, Chas Hallett, insisting these marques' poor reliability would be "surprising to many".

      "Reliability is so important to motorists, especially when times are tough."
      'Increasingly complex'
      Continue reading the main story
      Analysis
      image of Jorn Madslien Jorn Madslien Business reporter, BBC News

      The revelation that used luxury cars are less reliable than many mainstream models is disconcerting.

      The fact that they tend to be expensive to repair makes matters even worse for motorists.

      This survey makes it clear that used Japanese and South Korean cars are much more likely to offer drivers headache-free motoring.

      But in spite of this, many drivers will prefer to buy luxury cars that often offer many other benefits.

      Jaguar, for instance, won a What Car? and JD Power ownership survey as recently as in May.

      Owners of used Hondas have a 10% chance of their cars suffering a breakdown, according to the survey of 50,000 Warranty Direct policies.

      "Japanese carmakers really do deliver on reliability and Honda is exceptionally good at this," said Mr Hallett, pointing out that this was the seventh year in a row when Honda topped the ranking.

      US carmaker Chevrolet was the only non-Asian marque to rank as one of the 10 most reliable used cars.

      Some 22% of Chevrolets break down at least once each year.

      By comparison, the worst performing Japanese brand was Nissan, with a failure rate of 25%, just ahead of South Korea's Kia at 26%.

      By contrast, seven in 10 Land Rover owners will experience a breakdown in any given year, the survey said.

      Failure rates for other luxury marques was better at between 41% and 45%, while most mainstream European brands had failure rates of between 31% and 55%.

      "Cars have become increasingly complex, with lots of gadgetry on board, especially on executive models, where buyers expect more and more bang for their buck," said Warranty Direct's managing director, Duncan McClure Fisher.


      ================================

      http://www.examiner.com/article/2012...he-u-s?cid=rss

      2012 Honda Civic remains the best selling compact car in the U.S.


      It’s been 40 years since they arrived on these shores. And over eight million of them have been sold. That gives Honda’s Civic the title of being the best selling compact in the U.S.A. But that comes with some illegal distinction. It’s also the second most stolen car after it’s big brother, the Accord.

      There must be a reason(s) that Civic’s are so popular by both paying and non-paying drivers. Perhaps it’s because over the years they’ve offered great fuel economy, lively handling and the best value for the money.
      View slideshow: 2012 Honda Civic remains the best selling compact in the U.S.

      Offered in base DX, LX, EX, EX-L, Si, Hybrid and Natural Gas versions, we tested the EX Navi model that came with a built in GPS navigation system whose cost is embedded as part of the model’s standard features.

      Powered by a 1.8L, 140-hp (128 lb/ft of torque) four cylinder and 5-speed automatic transmission, the little “four that could” is not a speedster as it’s been 0-60 tested in 9.2 seconds, but it’s economical at 28 city, 39 highway mpg. Highway mpg is almost as good as the hybrid version that’s rated at 44 city, 44-highway mpg, but which costs over $2K more.
      If you desire more power, check out the Si speedster that comes with a 2.4L, 201-hp four cylinder and 170 ft/lb of torque.
      A styling change for 2012 Civic's give the car a larger look even though its dimensions are a tad smaller
      A styling change for 2012 Civic's give the car a larger look even though its dimensions are a tad smaller
      Photo credit:
      by Nick Hromiak

      The 2012 Civic has a more stylish look over predecessors, partially due to a swept back windshield, new grille and headlights. But not by much. There’s still a lot of familiarity as opposed to the competition from Kia, Hyundai and others who have taken exterior design to a sexy, sculpted form.

      Interior accommodations have been taken a hit from the car enthusiast’s magazines for poor interior quality. To the contrary, I found the Civic EX with Navi comfy and stylish despite the busy two-tier dash and 14 control buttons on the steering wheel. While speedometers have traditionally been center located, a tach takes its place while the speedo is digitally placed in the top cowl of the dash. Out of habit I would look down at the tach thinking it was the speedometer. Few drivers ever refer to or even look at the tach, unless the car has a manual transmission, and then its’ doubtful.

      While leather is available on the EX-L, my EX came with cloth seats that were soft and comfy fore and aft. There’s also a good amount of leg and headroom in the back seat, which isn’t always the norm for a compact.

      Trunk space can hold two medium-sized roll-a-longs, one large one and two golf bags provided the long clubs are pulled and stacked atop the bags. Pull two handles and back seats fold for more space.

      Civic rides more like an Accord even though its overall size has been reduced somewhat. Only severe bumps and high expansion joints reverberate through the suspension and into the cabin. Exterior noise still remains a problem but as an old car salesman back in the 60’s used to say, “Turn the radio up and you won’t hear it.”

      With a long list of required and desired features including Electronic Brake Distribution, tire pressure monitoring, MP3, Bluetooth, tilt/telescoping wheel, moonroof, floor mats and the GPS nav system, my test car only lacked a rearview camera that could have been included in the GPS display screen. With all this and more, the Civic EX priced out at $22,005 or $22,775 with a $770 delivery charge.

      After nine generations of production, the 2012 Civic remains a contender in the hotly contested compact market.

      To test drive a Civic stop by Lehigh Valley Honda on Lehigh Street in Allentown or Phillipsburg Honda in New Jersey.

      ================================

      http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2012/07...-video-of.html

      Honda Drops New Photos and Video of European-Spec 2013 CR-V Crossover

      The new generation of the Honda CR-V has been on sale in North America since last December, but the European version of the compact soft-roader was only just revealed in production form and it won’t be arriving in showrooms until late October – early November, depending on the country.

      We have already detailed the European model in our previous post here, but Honda just came out with some new photos and static video footage of the crossover that you will find right after the break.

      In Europe, the new CR-V will be available at launch with a tweaked 2.0-liter i-VTEC petrol delivering 153hp (155PS) and a 153hp (155PS) 2.2-liter i-DTEC diesel, while early next year, the range will be enhanced with Honda's all-new 1.6-liter turbo diesel rated at 118HP (120PS).

      Notably, for the first time in Europe, the CR-V will be offered with a choice of both two- and four-wheel drive versions.

      Besides the different engine lineup from the North American model that is available exclusively with a 185hp 2.4-liter gasoline unit, the Euro-spec CR-V also sports a revised front bumper, headlamps with LED daytime running lights and rear LED lights, reshaped mirrors that incorporate turning signals and a fin-style antenna.

      2012 Honda CR-V B-Roll European Spec => http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=o7RZ7MCdKAQ

      =============================
      tokyodream
      Senior Member
      Last edited by tokyodream; 26-07-12, 08:12.
      Iubesc masinile japoneze. Ele nu mint, nu inseala !
      ACURA & HONDA SUV FAN CLUB ROMANIA - http://daimyo.ro/index.php?action=forum

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      • http://www.iol.co.za/motoring/indust...0#.UBC20qA1eSo

        Survey: Honda most reliable used car

        An annual report, published today, survey shows that Honda is the most reliable used-car brand in the UK for the seventh consecutive year.

        According to What Car? only one in 10 Hondas will break down in any given 12-month period. Toyota and Lexus are close behind in the league table.

        However, while Japanese makes once again dominate the top 10, the research, based on 50 000 Warranty Direct policies on cars between three and 10 years old, shows that many more expensive brands will actually let you down more often.

        Mercedes-Benz and Jaguar are down in the bottom 10, with Audi little better. Land Rover is the UK's least reliable manufacturer, with a shocking 71 percent of its cars breaking down at least once every year.

        COMPLEX CARS

        What Car? editor Chas Hallett said: “Reliability is important to drivers, especially when times are tough; big surprise is that several of the more desirable brands didn't do well - and the cost of their repairs are high.”

        Warranty Direct managing director Duncan McClure Fisher commented: “Cars have become increasingly complex, with lots of gadgets, especially on executive models, where buyers expect more and more features.

        “Owners of these cars pay over the odds for the premium badge, but the study shows they could also be paying over the odds just to keep the car on the road.

        “You can get cars that break down less often, but have higher repair bills, or you can buy a car that won't cost you much when it fails, such as a Renault, but lumbers you with more than a 50 percent chance of doing so.”

        UK ROADS ROUGH ON CARS

        Axle and suspension faults were the most common problems suffered by Warranty Direct customers - largely due, it says to the perilous state of British roads - accounting for 28.56 percent of all claims. Electrical gremlins were the second most likely cause of an unwanted garage bill, with 24.3 percent of drivers reporting problems.

        Chevrolet is the only manufacturer from outside the Far East to break into the top 10 - although that may be a misconception since most Chevrolet cars in Britain are in fact built in Korea by GMDat, formaerly Daewoo. Chevs also had the lowest average repair bill, £227 (R2950), of the most reliable brands. Unsurprisingly, Porsche models are the most expensive to repair, with an eye-watering average garage bill of £623 (R8080).

        ====================================

        http://www.hispanicbusiness.com/2012..._in_fun_to.htm

        Acura, Honda Gain in 'Fun to Drive' Poll



        Honda and Acura both improved in an annual survey about which auto brands are the most fun to drive, although Honda remained below average.

        The J.D. Power and Associates report, issued yesterday, shows that new-car drivers were generally more pleased with their vehicles than a year ago, and that switching to a smaller vehicle does not necessarily diminish the pleasure of driving.

        The research group's Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout survey is a lesser-known companion to its Initial Quality study, the latest version of which was issued last month.

        Honda scored 771 on a 1,000-point scale on the "fun to drive" survey, which ranked it 25th among 34 brands. Last year, Honda earned 762 points and ranked 28th out of 32.

        Acura, which is Honda's luxury brand, scored 816 points, which placed it 10th on this year's list. Last year, its score of 808 was good for 11th place.

        Honda has a major presence in central Ohio, where it assembles the Honda Accord and Acura TL sedans and the Honda CR-V crossover, among others.

        The industry average was 788, up from 781.

        "The most-notable thing was that Honda and Acura improved at a rate greater than the industry," said Chris Martin, a Honda spokesman. "It shows we're moving in the right direction."

        The top performer was Porsche with 887, the brand's eighth-consecutive year on top. Jaguar and BMW also held their places, in second and third, respectively.

        The top 10 finishers were all luxury brands. The top nonluxury brand was Volkswagen with 812 points and a No. 13 ranking. Suzuki remained at the bottom, with 745 points.



        Source: (c)2012 The Columbus Dispatch (Columbus, Ohio) Distributed by MCT Information Services

        ==========================

        http://www.ngrguardiannews.com/index...els&Itemid=605

        Comprehensive Honda’s after-sales facility to debut in 2013

        THE Honda Place (THP) has concluded plans to build a comprehensive facility in Lekki, Lagos State.

        The axis is regarded as Nigeria’s fastest growing commercial and residential district. The facility, according to the company is designed to bring “unprecedented standards and sophistication to the sale and after-sales operations of the Honda brand in Nigeria, matching and exceeding global standards in the industry”, adding that “This would be THP’s newest addition to its impressive string of Honda dedicated facilities, extensively situated in the country”.

        The opening of the multi-faceted facility is scheduled to hold in 2013, marking “THP’s two decades of dedicated association with the prime Honda brand”.

        Explaining further, the company said “Over the years, THP has entrenched the Honda brand firmly in the Nigerian market and seeks to take the brand to the next level in the competitive Nigerian automotive scenario.

        “The new showroom and after sales facilities are designed to enhance customer experience to international standards, whilst respecting unique Nigerian tastes and preferences.

        “THP’s plans centre around the growing strategic importance of Lekki and its captive consumers, and its long term vision to grow the Honda brand into a highly customer focused operation.

        “Amongst other features, the facility will a special focus on after sales services highlighting the

        best industry practices propagated by Honda Motor Company, Japan. The service standards, systems and processes are designed to meet THP’s ultimate objective of achieving the highest customer satisfaction”, said the company.

        THP’s Director, Sales & Marketing, Mr. Deepak Daryanani, said: “the whole objective is to make ownership of a Honda vehicle a great life time experience. The facility will aim to commence and maintain a rewarding relationship with customers throughout the ownership period, and retain them for lifetime”.

        =====================================

        http://swindon-business.net/index.ph...four-day-week/

        Honda workers to go on four-day week as Eurozone crisis hits demand

        Honda is to put a third of its Swindon workforce on a four-day week in the run up to Christmas, blaming the economic situation in Europe for its decision.
        Workers on the new Civic and Jazz lines at the South Marston plant will go onto a four-day week in September, a three-day week in October and then a four-day week in November and December.
        The Japanese car manufacturer reduced working hours in April and November last year after flooding in Thailand disrupted supplies. In 2009 the plant closed for four months and all production was halted as the global financial crisis put the brakes on car sales across the world. The workforce was put on half pay.
        The plant employs 3,500 people at the the massive South Marston complex where it builds the Civic, Jazz and CR-V 4X. It also makes engines on the site.
        A Honda spokesman said staff would not lose out as they are employed on flexible contracts that guarantees they are paid for a 37-hour week.
        Jim D'Avila, regional officer for the Unite union, said: "The recession is biting deep and big successful companies like Honda are struggling to maintain a sensible level of production to retain everyone's employment. Something governmental has to happen otherwise people's jobs are going to be at risk long-term."
        Honda recently took on an extra 500 new workers to build the new Civic at the Swindon plant. Most of the plant's output is exported to Europe.

        ====================================
        tokyodream
        Senior Member
        Last edited by tokyodream; 27-07-12, 16:03. Reason: completare
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        • http://www.marketwatch.com/story/hon...ear-2012-07-27

          Honda Tops Annual Car Reliability Survey for the Seventh Consecutive Year

          LONDON, ENGLAND, Jul 27, 2012 (MARKETWIRE via COMTEX) -- Honda is celebrating after being named the most reliable used car brand in the annual What Car? and Warranty Direct reliability survey for an unprecedented seventh year in a row. According to the report which Honda has topped since 2005, Honda cars are the least likely to leave passengers stranded by the roadside with just a one in 10 chance of models suffering a breakdown in any given 12-month period - an enviable record.

          Chas Hallett, What Car? editor in chief commented "Honda definitely deserve a special mention, seven years at the top of the annual What Car? / Warranty Direct research is a great achievement. When a car leaves the car makers warranty protection it can start to cost the consumer cash and inconvenience, this research highlights that this does not happen often with a Honda".

          Warranty Direct's managing director, Duncan McClure Fisher, added: "Honda has continued its spectacular record in the annual reliability study. It has proven its ability over many years to manufacture cars that continue to be extremely reliable beyond the usual three year warranty period. If you are in the market for a used vehicle, our study suggests you should seriously consider a Honda."

          Dave Hodgetts, Managing Director, Honda (UK), concluded; "The reliability of our cars is a key focus for Honda as we strive to make every second of Honda ownership an enjoyable experience. This doesn't just start at the manufacturing stage, but is intrinsic throughout the research & development and during the parts procurement process, this focus ensures that we build reliable and high quality cars.

          "Success in reliability studies like this, further proves the dedication, skill and passion of our engineers, both at the development and manufacturing stages, and we are incredibly proud to be the most reliable manufacturer in the industry - for an outstanding seven years running."

          Lucky number seven

          Seven is certainly a lucky number for Honda this year, not only is there seven cars in the range but on top of the seventh What Car and Warranty Direct Reliability Survey result, this is also the seventh accolade awarded to Honda so far in 2012.

          The British built Jazz was named Britain's Best Used Supermini by consumer campaigns Which? and it was also given the top spot in the 2012 JD Power owner satisfaction survey's supermini category for the ninth year running. Other wins include the CR-V being named most popular 4x4 in the Honest John Awards, the Honda Jazz Hybrid taking the trophy in the Parkers Cost of Motoring New Car Awards eco car category and the new British built Civic taking the Parkers medium hatchback category, plus it beat all other competitors to take the overall Parkers Cost of Motoring New Car Awards overall title.




          Contacts:
          Honda UK
          Ellie Wright
          Office: 01753 590193
          Mobile: 07872 103205
          ellie.wright@honda-eu.com





          SOURCE: Honda UK



          mailto:ellie.wright@honda-eu.com



          Copyright 2012 Marketwire, Inc., All rights reserved.

          =============================

          http://www.theautochannel.com/news/2...acing-car.html

          Honda Unveils HR412E, 'The Heart' Of Its Civic WTCC Racing Car

          Honda has unveiled the new racing engine HR412E to power its Civic WTCC race car in the FIA World Touring Car Championship.

          SLOUGH, UNITED KINGDOM – July 27, 2012: Developed at Honda’s R&D centre in Tochigi, Japan, the HR412E is a completely bespoke 1.6 litre 4 cylinder direct injection turbo-charged petrol engine, fully conforming to FIA regulations for the WTCC.

          Commenting on the announcement, Daisuke Horiuchi, the WTCC Development Project Leader at Honda R&D said: “In the continuous technological development of an internal combustion engine, the thermal efficiency is the essential key for improvement. And a race engine is not an exception. This HR412E was born from such thought process: aiming for higher efficiency. The HR412E heralds a new generation of high performance racing engines from Honda. All engineers at the R&D centre in Tochigi have worked hard to develop a race engine that will deliver great driveability to our racing drivers, with no compromise on peak power performance.

          "We believe the innovations that have led to this revolutionary engine will also lead to benefits beyond the race track, helping us to further increase the efficiency of our road car engines.“

          The engine has been delivered to the Honda Racing Team JAS workshop in Milan, Italy, where the Civic WTCC is being developed, and successfully passed all initial tests.

          The news follows the recent naming of Honda’s works team drivers in the the FIA World Touring Car Championship - Italian Gabriele Tarquini and Portuguese Tiago Monteiro.

          Honda will enter the WTCC as early as this season with one car. Behind the wheel of the Civic WTCC will be ex-Formula One driver Tiago Monteiro, who will compete in three races, starting at Suzuka in October 2012. Honda R&D and Mugen will provide trackside support to the team.

          Both drivers will compete in the full FIA World Touring Car Championship in 2013.

          =========================================

          http://www.thisisplymouth.co.uk/Buy-...ail/story.html

          Buy British with Honda



          HONDA is celebrating 20 years of UK manufacturing by introducing a range of competitive offers on its British-built models to make getting into a new Honda more affordable.

          The company is keen to promote its Britishness as the new 62 registration plate draws near.

          Driven by an 11 per cent increase in fleet and business sales, Honda's new car registrations show a healthy 5.7 per cent improvement overall for the first six months of the year, roughly double that of the UK's new car market performance overall.

          Honda's aim is to increase it current annual 60,000 sales in this country, of which 93 per cent come from its UK plant, to 90,000 by 2015.

          The Jazz supermini, Civic family sized five door hatchback and the CR-V five-seat SUV are all manufactured at Swindon.

          The factory, hit in the last two years by the recession, the shortage of components due to the earthquake and tsunami in Japan and floods in Thailand, will produce 180,000 vehicles this year increasing to 250,000 in 2015.

          The Swindon facility is one of Honda's 66 manufacturing centres worldwide in 28 countries employing 175,000 associates.

          The Jazz is currently Honda's best selling model range in the UK with a 28,000 annual sales target. Prices range from £11,605 to £18,750 for the petrol powered 1.2 and 1.4-litre British-built models.

          But there is the option of the Jazz Hybrid built in Japan with its 1.3-litre IMA petrol/electric powertrain with prices ranging from £16,300 to £19,335.

          The new Civic five-door hatchback is the second most popular range with sales of 22,000 in the UK with just over half of customers buying petrol models.

          There is the choice of 1.4/1.8-litre petrol or 2.2-litre diesel powerplants and prices range from £16,995 up to £26,850.

          The future introduction of a low CO2 emission 1.6-litre diesel engine will grow sales to fleet and business users as the current 2.2-litre diesel unit is considered to be too large a capacity for cars in this segment.

          The long serving CR-V five door/five seater SUV 4x4 now achieves 11,200 UK sales and 64 per cent of their UK sales are diesel powered.

          With a new CR-V due in October this year, the current model range is on run-out so there are bargains to be had.

          There is the choice of 2.0-litre petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engine options with prices ranging from £23,530 up to £34,420. The new 1.6-litre diesel engine will be added to this line-up in 2013 as will two wheel drive models. Next year the new CR-V has a UK annual sales target of over 17,000 units.

          Currently the British built Honda models are being sold with some attractive incentives-to-buy reflecting the competitive state of the new car market and also to celebrate the 20th anniversary of manufacturing in the UK.

          Available on new cars ordered between now and the end of September, the assortment of offers include competitive finance options, trim level upgrades, deposit contributions and servicing packages.

          The Jazz is available with a £500 deposit contribution and three years complimentary servicing. Customers can upgrade to a five years servicing plan for just £199.

          There are also flexible finance packages of 6.9 per cent PCP with nil deposit or three years zero per cent HP.

          The new Civic has had the cost of ownership made even more competitive than the published prices with the availability of a £1,500 deposit contribution.

          Buyers looking to purchase a new Civic now have the added option of financing the model with three years 6.9 per cent PCP with nil deposit or three years zero per cent HP.

          In addition to this, Honda is making the Civic available with a three year complimentary service plan, or for a payment of only £199 the plan can be extended to cover all servicing needs for five years.

          The run-out of the current CR-V has a number of incentives to buy finance options. The SE+ will be upgraded to the ES-T variant with the addition of £2,490 worth of extra equipment, including an integrated nav system, dual zone climate control, heated front seats and front and rear parking sensors.

          There is also a complimentary upgrade on offer from ES-T trim to the top spec EX.

          Additional features include full leather upholstery, panoramic roof, auto lights and wipers and a premium audio system, worth £2,520.

          Best of all for all, with current CR-Vs Honda is offering a £1,500 deposit contribution towards the car which can be used in conjunction with their finance packages of three years zero per cent PCP with nil deposit or three years zero per cent HP.

          As well as a complimentary upgrade and deposit contribution, Honda is offering a three year servicing plan for only £299 and a five year servicing plan for £498.

          David Miles

          =======================================

          http://www.nydailynews.com/autos/nex...icle-1.1123199

          Next-generation Honda CR-V set for Paris Motor Show debut
          Part-SUV, part-sedan crossover gets revamped design, larger interior; Honda will offer two versions of the CR-V: front wheel drive and all wheel drive




          Honda’s exhibit at the Paris Motor Show (September 29 to October 14) will include the next-generation CR-V crossover, which will be officially introduced in the French capital.

          The CR-V’s design is part-SUV, part-sedan, the lines are aggressive and sporty, and the LED lighting system has been powered up. Passengers can expect more room inside the car -- for themselves and their luggage.

          For the first time, Honda will sell two versions of its CR-V, front wheel drive and all wheel drive, and two types of engine (2l for the gas version and 2.2l for the diesel one) are available. The carmaker also announced a drop in CO2 emissions of around 10 percent.

          The carmaker's fourth generation CR-V since launching the line in 1995 will include plenty of technology to aid the driver, such as a speed and spacing regulator, a crash prevention system integrated with the brakes, a system that keeps the vehicle in its lane and an emergency stop system.

          The vehicle is set to go on sale starting in the fall.

          AFP/Relaxnews

          ====================================

          http://wallstcheatsheet.com/stocks/h...ines-now.html/

          Honda CELEBRATING After Award and 4 Auto Stocks Making Headlines Now

          Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (NYSE:HMC): Honda has reason to celebrate, after being named the most reliable used car, for the seventh year in a row, in the annual “What Car? and Warranty Direct Reliability” survey. They have had an enviable record, in any given 12 month period, of being the least likely, to have a breakdown, leaving passengers stranded. Their shares traded up $1.31 (4.20%), they were recently at $32.47.

          =========================
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          • http://www.kansascity.com/2012/07/28...ine-sport.html

            2012 Honda Ridgeline Sport

            The Honda Ridgeline is just as much at home when shopping at the local farmer’s market as it is parked in front of a nice restaurant because it is the prototypical urban pickup truck.

            Part SUV and part pickup, the Ridgeline is a bit like a utility vehicle with an exposed cargo compartment, not unlike the Chevrolet Avalanche. It is not all fluff, however, because it can tow 5,000 pounds or handle a payload of 1,000 pounds. The unibody chassis, similar to that of the Pilot, has a fully boxed frame welded onto the bottom to reinforce the floor pan. The frame also minimizes flex in the body structure, which is why it feels tight and solid even on bumpy roads.

            For 2012, Honda has added the Ridgeline Sport, with a base price of $30,095, to the other three models. The RT begins at $29,350 and a loaded RTL with navigation is $37,280.

            Upgrades for 2012 include a refreshed grille design, aerodynamic improvements, reduced engine friction and a one-mile-per-gallon improvement in fuel economy (now 15 in the city and 21 on the highway).

            The Sport has black, 18-inch aluminum wheels and a black honeycomb grille that give it a more aggressive look than the other Ridgelines. It has a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, auxiliary audio input, fog lights, rear privacy glass and all-weather floor mats.

            A 3.5-liter V-6 delivers 250 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque. The transmission is a five-speed automatic with Grade Logic control that helps hold lower gears on downhill roads.

            The Ridgeline’s all-wheel-drive system is similar to those of the Honda Pilot and Acura MDX. The system operates as front-wheel drive most of the time but transfers power to the rear wheels as needed. The system can be locked into four-wheel mode with a button on the dash, but it only works at speeds up to 18 miles per hour. Traction control, antilock brakes and vehicle stability control are standard.

            Ridgeline has two unique features: a lockable, weatherproof trunk under the load floor and a two-way tailgate. The bed can be extended to 75 inches by folding down the tailgate. For easy access to the trunk under the bed floor, the tailgate pivots to the side. The trunk can hold a baby stroller or three golf bags. It can also be filled with ice and used as a giant cooler. (There’s a drain plug in the floor.)

            The Ridgeline is designed to accommodate dirt bikes, bicycles and ATVs. It has indentions in the bed that fit dirt-bike tires. Sheets of plywood will fit flat between the wheelhouses in the bed. The bed has built-in tie-downs and four flush lights for nighttime loading. Honda will offer an extensive list of accessories, such as a bed extender and racks for motorcycles.

            In everyday driving, the Ridgeline handles like an SUV. Wind and road noise are commendably low. It is easy to handle and wheels into parking spaces like a car.

            The Ridgeline’s cabin is designed for comfort and convenience. Big door pulls look gaudy but provide a big surface to grip. The center console can also be configured to hold a variety of objects and accessories.

            The split-folding back seat is not only big enough for adults, but it also folds down to create an interior storage area. A mountain bike will fit inside, and a golf bag will fit in the underseat storage area.

            Standard equipment includes side-curtain airbags with a rollover sensor, tilt wheel, six-speaker audio system with CD player, power windows and keyless entry.

            Honda pickups are built in Alliston, Ontario, Canada.

            Price

            The base price of the test truck was $30,095. Freight charges brought the sticker price to $30,905.

            Warranty

            Three years or 36,000 miles, with a five-year, 60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

            Read more here: http://www.kansascity.com/2012/07/28...#storylink=cpy



            2012 Honda Ridgeline Sport

            Engine: 3.5-liter, 250-hp V-6

            Transmission: Five-speed automatic, all-wheel drive

            Wheelbase: 122 inches

            Curb weight: 4,494 lbs.

            Base price: $30,095

            As driven: $30,905

            MPG rating: 15 city, 21 hwy.

            At A Glance

            Point: The Ridgeline drives like an SUV, and yet it can haul 1,000 pounds or tow up to 5,000 pounds. The bed has a built-in trunk and a two-way tailgate. The cabin is spacious, and the back seat folds up to make interior storage space.

            Counterpoint: The V-6 has enough power for light use, but buyers seeking a truck for heavy hauling or towing would want a V-8 and rear-wheel drive.




            ================================
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            • http://www.autospies.com/news/Toyota...e-Again-71796/

              Toyota And Honda To Focus On Styling And Performance To Become Competitive Again


              Toyota and Honda are striving to get people excited about their product lineups, with more adventurous styling and new performance models, while also playing a bit of catch-up.

              The demands of the unintended-acceleration crisis put Toyota's engineers behind in some key technical areas. Meanwhile, Honda is eager to reassert its standing as a powerhouse of powertrains. Honda is launching its Earth Dreams engine family, and Toyota is focusing on direct injection, turbocharging and advanced transmissions.
              In the luxury sphere, Lexus aims to improve its sedan offerings to match up better with Mercedes-Benz and BMW, while Acura targets premium rivals Audi, Buick, Infiniti and Volvo with a new compact sedan and a series of key redesigns.

              ======================


              http://www.marketwatch.com/story/hon...and-2012-07-30

              Honda Commemorates 20 Million-Unit Mark in Cumulative Production of Power Products in Thailand

              - Increasing Efficiency of Power Products Business through Consolidation of Development and Production Functions at the New Plant -


              Bangkok, Jul 30, 2012 (JCN Newswire via COMTEX) -- Thai Honda Manufacturing Co., Ltd. (Thai Honda), a Honda motorcycle and power products production company in Thailand, today held a ceremony to commemorate the 20 million unit milestone in power products production that was reached on July 28th, at the new production plant opened last August. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries and guests representing the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand as well as Honda executives and associates, including Hiroshi Kobayashi, chief operating officer for Honda's regional operations in the Asia Oceania Region and Yuji Shiga, chief operating officer for Honda's power product operations.
              Thai Honda, which began power products production in 1987, achieved the 20 million-unit milestone only four years and nine months after achieving the 10 million-unit milestone in October 2007. At the new power products plant, Thai Honda is producing Honda's bestselling GX engine series which are small-sized, lightweight, highly compatible and durable, as well as water pumps and trimmers, and currently has an annual production capacity of approximately 2.7 million units.
              Power products manufactured by Thai Honda are not only being sold in Thailand and the Asia Oceania region, but also exported to 80 countries worldwide including North America, Europe and Japan.
              Further, in addition to its global production responsibilities, the power products development function of Honda R&D Southeast Asia Co., Ltd. will be transferred to the new plant. Through the integration of development and production, which enables Honda to deliver good products to its customers with speed, affordability and low CO2 emissions, Honda will continue its effort to increase the size and efficiency of its power products operation.

              About Thai Honda Manufacturing Co., Ltd. Location: Bangkok, Thailand Representative: Shunichi Eguchi, President Capital Investment: 150 million baht Capitalization Ratio: 83% Honda group companies Business: Production of motorcycles, power products and components Start of Production: Motorcycles: May 1967, Power prods: Feb. 1987 Production Capacity: 1.5 million motorcycles per year 2.7 million power products per year Employment: Approximately 8,100 associates Production models: Motorcycles PCX (125, 150), CBR250R, Wave alpha.. Power products GX engine series, Trimmers, Water pumps, etc. About Honda
              Honda Motor Co., Ltd. is one of the leading manufacturers of automobiles and power products and the largest manufacture of motorcycles in the world. Honda has always sought to provide genuine satisfaction to people worldwide. The result is more than 120 manufacturing facilities in 30 countries worldwide, producing a wide range of products, including motorcycles, ATVs, generators, marine engines, lawn and garden equipment and automobiles that bring the company into contact with over 19 million customers annually. For more information, please visit http://world.honda.com .


              Contact:

              Honda Media Inquiries corporate_pr@hm.honda.co.jp +81-3-5412-1512 Copyright (C) Japan Corporate News NetWork

              =============================

              http://www.btimes.com.my/Current_New...cle/index_html


              DRB-Hicom gears up for regional expansion


              KUALA LUMPUR: DRB-Hicom Bhd is gearing up for regional expansion with Honda and Volkswagen as its springboard, says HWANGDBS Vickers Research Sdn Bhd.

              In a research note today, HWANGDBS Vickers said Honda Japan's decision to make Malaysia its regional manufacturing hub for hybrids was timely, as it expects a slew of incentives for Energy Efficient Vehicles (EEV) in the National Automotive Policy.

              Meanwhile, Volkswagen's capacity in Pekan (Pahang) would be progressively ramped up to 50,000 units between 2017 to 2018, paving the way for exports to the Asean market.

              There would be three variants, namely, the Passat, Jetta and Polo, making Malaysia its regional hub for passenger vehicles.

              On DRB-Hicom's defence business, DRB-Hicom Defence Technologies Sdn Bhd (Deftech) is set to release the first prototype of its 247 units of armoured vehicles next year, enabling strong earnings recognition from its RM7.55 billion contract from the 2014 financial year onwards.

              The research house also viewed Deftech to be a potential catalyst to the group, if it leverages on its partnership with Sweden's SAAB AB, for a contract to supply an Airborne Early Warning and Control System to the Royal Malaysian Air Force.

              HWANGDBS Vickers has maintained its "buy" call on DRB-Hicom with RM3.35 target price. -- BERNAMA

              ====================================

              http://www.i-newswire.com/honda-cr-v...ing-and/188830

              Honda CR-V Named Best-Selling And Highest-Rated Crossover, Available At Don Davis Honda

              The 2012 Honda CR-V outsells and outranks other crossover SUVs in studies by Forbes and Total Car Score, and is available at Don Davis Honda in Buffalo, New York.

              Buffalo, NY (I-Newswire) July 30, 2012 - Minivans and large SUVs were once the go-to vehicle for families. Bigger was better then, especially when it came to hauling kids and cargo. But with raises in gas prices and environmental awareness, crossover SUVs have claimed their place among the family vehicles. Forbes recently examined this shift, and in the process, discovered that the Honda CR-V, the best-selling crossover, now outsells the best-selling minivan by more than two to one.

              Crossovers are typically built on car-like chassis instead of a truck platform. They combine the utility and functionality of an SUV with the fuel economy and style of a car. There are more than 58 models in the class to choose from, which makes the number one ranking of the Honda CR-V that much more impressive.

              Using Total Car Score ratings, the Honda CR-V scores 83.41 out of 100 in the compact crossover category, in which 74.43 was the average score, making it both the top selling and top rated in the segment.

              The Honda CR-V was redesigned for its fourth generation in 2012, offering three trim levels, with two- or four-wheel drive options. The new model offers more standard features and better fuel economy than in previous years. Reviewers liked the comfortable and spacious passenger cabin, updated and upgraded console, and easily loaded and organized cargo area. The 2012 CR-V also received updates to the available technology, including standard USB port, Pandora Internet radio access, Bluetooth and voice text messaging, and rearview camera.

              The 2012 Honda CR-V was also named a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, and received outstanding scores from federal tests by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Active safety features include anti-lock brakes, traction control, electronic brake-force distribution, and hill start assist. The CR-V also offers side-curtain airbags, front side airbags, and dual-stage front airbags.

              To test drive the best-selling Honda CR-V, or see other Honda vehicles that better fit your needs, visit Don Davis Honda in Amherst, online or in person near Buffalo, New York.




              About Don Davis Honda:
              Don Davis Honda is proud to serve the Buffalo, NY area. Carrying a full line of new and used Honda cars, Don Davis Honda offers the best selection when it comes to purchasing a vehicle. The knowledgeable and award winning service department is prepared to assist with all repairs and routine maintenance. The parts department offers a full variety of Honda parts and accessories for your vehicle. Don Davis Honda strives for 100 percent customer satisfaction for every visit.

              Company Contact Information
              Don Davis Honda
              Kevin Allen
              2277 Niagara Falls Boulevard
              14228
              Phone : 7166917800


              =====================================

              http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/30/h...vic/#continued

              Honda reveals 1.6-liter turbocharged heart of its new WTCC Civic racer

              Technical details are still scant, but we do know a tiny bit more about Honda and its plans for a World Touring Car Championship entrant based on the Euro-spec 2012 Civic. The automaker has unveiled its HR412E, a 1.6-liter, turbocharged and direct injected gas engine, and let us know its plans for getting the engine and car into some races: Tiago Monteiro will race one example in the final three rounds of the season, beginning with Suzuka, and multiple touring car champion Gabriele Tarquini will join him for races in the second car as of 2013. Tarquini is doing development work on the car this year.

              The car itself is currently in Milan, Italy being tested and prepped by JAS Motorsport, a collaboration we've already had a taste of in the dirt with their Honda Jazz rally car. Honda has also partnered with Mugen on its WTCC project. It will be three months before we see the Civic WTCC going for the checkered flag, the Suzuka race running October 19-21. Have a read of the presser below for a few more details on the engine and the drivers.

              =========

              Honda unveils HR412E, 'the heart' of its Civic WTCC racing car

              Tokyo, July 27th 2012 - Honda today unveiled the new racing engine HR412E to power its Civic WTCC race car in the FIA World Touring Car Championship.

              Developed at Honda's R&D centre in Tochigi, Japan, the HR412E is a completely bespoke 1.6 litre 4 cylinder direct injection turbo-charged petrol engine, fully conforming to FIA regulations for the WTCC.

              Commenting on the announcement, Daisuke Horiuchi, the WTCC Development Project Leader at Honda R&D said:

              "In the continuous technological development of an internal combustion engine, the thermal efficiency is the essential key for improvement. And a race engine is not an exception. This HR412E was born from such thought process: aiming for higher efficiency."

              "The HR412E heralds a new generation of high performance racing engines from Honda. All engineers at the R&D centre in Tochigi have worked hard to develop a race engine that will deliver great driveability to our racing drivers, with no compromise on peak power performance."

              "We believe the innovations that have led to this revolutionary engine will also lead to benefits beyond the race track, helping us to further increase the efficiency of our road car engines."

              The engine has been delivered to the Honda Racing Team JAS workshop in Milan, Italy, where the Civic WTCC is being developed, and successfully passed all initial tests.

              The news follows the recent naming of Honda's works team drivers in the the FIA World Touring Car Championship - Italian Gabriele Tarquini and Portuguese Tiago Monteiro.

              Honda will enter the WTCC as early as this season with one car. Behind the wheel of the Civic WTCC will be ex-Formula One driver Tiago Monteiro, who will compete in three races, starting at Suzuka in October 2012. Honda R&D and Mugen will provide trackside support to the team.

              Both drivers will compete in the full FIA World Touring Car Championship in 2013.


              Gabriele Tarquini and Tiago Monteiro announced as Honda's WTCC drivers

              - Tiago Monteiro will race in Suzuka, Shanghai and Macau this year
              - Gabriele Tarquini will assist Honda Racing Team JAS on the car's development
              - Both will race the new "Civic WTCC" in 2013

              Tokyo, July 18th 2012 - Honda announced today that Italian Gabriele Tarquini and Portuguese Tiago Monteiro will be its works team drivers in the FIA World Touring Car Championship (WTCC).

              Earlier this year, Honda already confirmed its entry in the WTCC from 2013 onwards, with a two car works team - Honda Racing Team JAS - managed by JAS Motorsport (Milano, Italy), Honda's long term racing partner.

              J.A.S. Motorsport is currently developing the European Honda Civic 5-door for the WTCC, whilst Honda R&D has created a bespoke, brand new 1.6 litre 4 cylinder direct injection turbo-charged petrol engine at its research and development centre in Tochigi (Japan).

              As part of its development programme, Honda will enter the WTCC as early as this season with one car. Behind the wheel of the "Honda Civic WTCC" will be ex-Formula One driver Tiago Monteiro, who will compete in three races, starting at Suzuka in October 2012. Honda R&D and Mugen will provide trackside support to the team as the new engine makes its racing debut.

              Drawing on his extensive experience in the sport, 2009 World Touring Car champion Tarquini will also assist the works team on the car's development this year.

              Both drivers will compete in the full FIA World Touring Car Championship (FIA WTCC) in 2013.

              Commenting on the announcement, Hideo Sato, General Manager of Honda Motorsport Division in Japan, said:

              "We are delighted to have Gabriele back with us and excited to welcome Tiago into the Honda racing family for the first time. Both are former Formula One drivers and have also proven time and again that they belong in the absolute top echelon of world touring car drivers. We are convinced that both drivers will contribute to the success of the Honda Civic in the FIA WTCC.

              I'd also like to express a special gratitude to the FIA and Eurosport Events, who have both been instrumental in making our entry into the WTCC possible from this year onwards."

              Gabriele Tarquini's racing career began in karting, where he became both Italian and World Champion. He then moved to Formula 3000 for three seasons, followed by Formula One, participating in 78 Grand Prix and working with teams such as Osella, Coloni, AGS, Fondmetal and Tyrrell.

              In 1994 the Italian then made a successful switch to touring cars. Starting with the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC), he won the title at his first attempt.

              In 1997 he began a five year relationship with Honda, firstly in the BTCC behind the wheel of a Honda Accord. In 1998 he moved to Germany to support Honda's assault in the country's STW Cup, and then in 2000 returned to the BTCC. This first 'Honda era' drew to a close in 2001 and was marked by winning nine races in the European Touring Car Championship.

              Since then Tarquini has competed in the FIA WTCC, including a championship winning season in 2009, when he took the drivers' title at the last race of the year.

              In the same year that Tarquini first joined Honda (1997), Tiago Monteiro was making his debut in the French Porsche Carrera Cup.

              After a spell in the French Formula 3 and the GT Championship, he moved to Formula 3000 in 2002 and then the American Champ Car series in 2003.

              He then pushed through to Formula One, driving for Jordan Grand Prix, Midland F1 and Spyker F1 team. In the 2005 United States Grand Prix he obtained a podium finish (3rd place) and in the same year went on to break the record for the highest number of finishes in a season as a rookie (18); a record that he still holds to date.

              Monteiro moved to the FIA WTCC in 2007, where he continues to compete at the highest level.

              ####

              About Honda Racing Team JAS
              Team Name: Honda Racing Team JAS
              Drivers: Gabriele Tarquini as 2012 development driver and 2013 racing driver, Tiago Monteiro as 2012 racing driver from Suzuka round and for 2013 season
              Team Principal: Alessandro Mariani
              Chief Designer: Andrea Adamo
              Technical Director: Stefano Fini

              About the Honda Civic WTCC
              Car Designation: Honda Civic WTCC
              Base Car: Honda Civic 5Door, produced in Honda's manufacturing plant located in Swindon (UK).

              About J.A.S. Motorsport
              - J.A.S. Motorsport is a racing car builder and racing team founded in 1995 to compete mainly in touring car races. It became Honda's partner in 1997 as a works team in the Super Touring Car era (STW (Germany)) in 1998 &1999, BTCC (UK) in 2000 and has run Honda Racing Customer Support on behalf of Honda Motor Europe since 2001. Located in Milan, Italy, J.A.S Headquarters and factory consists of a surface area of 2500 square meters.
              - J.A.S. Motorsport's President is Maurizio Ambrogetti and Managing Director is Alessandro Mariani.

              More information can be found at www.jasmotorsport.com

              About Mugen
              - Mugen is a brand of M-TEC Co., Ltd. a company based in Saitama (Japan) whose main motorsport activities are: designing, development, manufacturing and marketing of racing engines; parts and components for Honda cars and technical services at racing circuit.
              - M-TEC has subsidiaries in America (MUGEN America Inc. (U.S.A.)) and in Europe (MUGEN EURO Co., Limited (U.K.))

              More information can be found at www.mugen-power.com/

              About WTCC
              - WTCC is the FIA World Touring Car Championship.
              - Vehicle specification is strictly regulated by FIA Super 2000 category
              - All vehicles who compete in the championship are based on mass production cars with more than than 4 seats.
              - The championship is reserved for cars powered by a 1.6 litre petrol engine, turbo-charged with direct injection.
              - The distance of each race varies between 50 km and 60km
              - The full racing season covers 12 racing weekends (two races per weekend)

              More information can be found at www.fiawtcc.com

              ================================================== ==========


              http://www.carnewschina.com/2012/07/...a-auto-market/

              Facelifted Honda Odyssey hits the China auto market

              The facelifted Honda Odyssey MPV has been launched on the China auto market, price starts at 229.800 yuan and ends at 279.800 yuan. The facelift includes a new grill, new bumpers, new front and tail lights, and an updated interior.

              Traditionally the launch came with a little party and it seems Chinese automakers, local and foreign alike, are competing who can have the most stupid ceremony. The focus is always on ‘cool people’ who are dancing around looking cool doing cool. Here we have three men, what does that say about Honda’s favorite customers? Bad!

              Two babes and three men, looking like they work in an electronics factory, and feel cool about that. Typical buyer of the outgoing Honda Odyssey is a grumpy taxi driver with a stinking shirt who uses it to ferry folks to the airport or tourists to the Great Wall. I wonder whether he can identify himself with the coolness on stage.

              Power comes from a 2.4 with 180hp, mated to a 5-speed automatic. The Odyssey is made in China by the Guangzhou-Honda joint venture.

              Via: Sohu.


              =======================

              Honda's profit quadruples on disaster recovery

              TOKYO — Honda's quarterly profit quadrupled to 131.7 billion yen ($1.7 billion) as the Japanese automaker bounced back from last year's natural disasters with more vehicles sold across all key regions except for Europe.
              Tokyo-based Honda Motor Co., which makes the Fit subcompact, Odyssey minivan and Asimo walking robot, said Tuesday its April-June quarter sales surged 42 percent to 2.44 trillion yen ($31.2 billion).
              Vehicle sales doubled in the key markets of Japan and North America but were weak in Europe where austerity measures to tackle the region's debt crisis have crimped demand. Honda reported global sales of 849,000 vehicles for the quarter, up from 458,000 a year earlier.
              The earthquake and tsunami in northeastern Japan and the flooding in Thailand last year disrupted parts supplies and production for all Japanese automakers. Honda's profit for the April-June period last year was 31.7 billion yen.
              But the Japanese automakers are making a comeback. Toyota Motor Corp., which reports earnings Friday, regained its crown as the world's biggest selling automaker from General Motors Co. in the first half of the year.
              Honda stuck to its forecast of 470 billion yen ($6 billion) profit for the fiscal year through March 2013. That would be more than double what it earned last fiscal year. It expects to sell 4.3 million vehicles for the fiscal year, up by more than a million vehicles from 3.1 million vehicles for last year.
              Mazda Motor Corp. on Tuesday said its losses for the April-June quarter shrank to 6.5 billion yen ($83.3 million) from the 25.5 billion yen of red ink it reported a year earlier.
              Last week, Nissan reported a 72.3 billion yen ($900 million) profit, down 15 percent, hammered by the damage from the strong yen, which erodes the value of its overseas earnings.


              Vehicles of Honda Motor Co. are on display in front of the Japanese automaker's headquarters in Tokyo Tuesday, July 31, 2012. Honda's quarterly profit quadrupled to 131.7 billion yen ($1.7 billion) as the Japanese automaker bounced back from last year's natural disasters with more vehicles sold across all key regions except for Europe. (AP Photo/Itsuo Inouye)
              tokyodream
              Senior Member
              Last edited by tokyodream; 31-07-12, 14:51.
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              • http://www.foxbusiness.com/news/2012...tion-rebounds/

                Honda 1Q Net Jumps as Production Rebounds

                Honda Motor Co. (7267.TO) said Tuesday that its net profit surged more than four-fold in the April-June quarter, as sharp sales growth in the U.S. and Japan and fully restored production after disasters last year offset the yen's strength.

                In its first quarterly earnings since manufacturing operations fully recovered after the earthquake and tsunami disaster of March 2011 and from the Thai flooding last year, Japan's third-biggest car maker by volume posted a net profit of Y131.72 billion, up from Y31.80 billion in the same quarter last year.

                The figure undershot the Y148.73 billion average estimate in a survey of seven analysts compiled by financial information provider Quick.

                Sales shot up 42.1% to Y2.436 trillion from Y1.715 trillion and operating profit jumped nearly eight-fold to Y176.01 billion from Y22.58 billion.

                For the full fiscal year, the car maker maintained its net profit forecast of Y470 billion, an operating profit outlook of Y620 billion and a sales projection of Y10.300 trillion.

                Honda reports earnings under U.S. accounting standards.

                ===================================

                https://wot.motortrend.com/hondas-dr...rd-240497.html

                Honda’s Dreamy Future: New Engines, CVT for Fit, Pilot, and Accord

                Honda’s amusingly named Earth Dreams technology plays a central role in the Honda and Acura future product lineups, with new engines finding their way under the hoods of everything from the subcompact Honda Fit to the upcoming Acura RLX luxury sedan. Thanks to a report from Automotive News, we’ve got an advance look at what we can expect to see from future Hondas and Acuras — and when they’ll arrive in the U.S.
                Honda Cars

                Hondas Dreamy Future: New Engines, CVT for Fit, Pilot, and Accord imageThe future of a higher-performance Honda CR-Z Si model is unclear. As with Scion deciding not to offer in the U.S. a turbocharged or drop-top FR-S, Honda may not make available a more powerful CR-Z. The same goes for the hybrid variant of the Honda Fit, which could cannibalize sales from the Insight. While the Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ hog headlines for now, Honda may eventually consider a competitor, but a sports car like the discontinued S2000 is not a priority, the report says.

                Those who want the subcompact Honda Fit hatchback to be redesigned will have to wait until the summer of 2014. Don’t be surprised to see a few design tweaks on the U.S.-spec Fit not available in other markets. Automotive News suggests that Honda might not wait until the redesign to give the Fit an Earth Dreams 1.5-liter I-4 with 127 hp and 111 lb-ft of torque, mated to a CVT. The 2013 Honda Fit uses a 1.5-liter I-4 that produces 117 hp and 106 lb-ft of torque, with a five-speed manual or automatic transmission.

                The Honda Insight hybrid hasn’t made the impression the automaker wanted and, at this point, it’s unclear what Honda has in store for the now-refreshed car. One possibility includes swapping the Insight’s nickel-metal hydride battery pack for a lithium-ion pack. With the Toyota Prius rising in price, the Insight’s competition, by price, may now be the Toyota Prius C.

                Hondas Dreamy Future: New Engines, CVT for Fit, Pilot, and Accord imageOn the higher-volume end of the lineup, we’ve known about the quick redo of the Honda Civic for a while. Interior materials will be improved and, by the time the Civic gets a full refresh on spring 2014, it may receive a CVT as well as an Earth Dreams 1.8-liter I-4 good for 148 hp and 133 lb-ft of torque. The 2012 Honda Civic’s 1.8-liter I-4 makes 140 hp and 128 lb-ft of torque, using a five-speed manual or automatic transmission.

                The real news for Honda is the imminent debut of the 2013 Honda Accord. The new sedan and coupe may be shorter than the existing car, with an Earth Dreams 2.4-liter I-4 as the volume engine, mated to a CVT. Manual-transmission fans can always pick the Accord V-6 that, at least in coupe form, is likely to offer a six-speed manual transmission in addition to a six-speed automatic. A plug-in hybrid variant of the Accord is sure to be more successful than the V-6 hybrid offered years ago.
                Honda SUVs

                The Honda Crosstour recently added a four-cylinder base model; the 2013 Crosstour will introduce a six-speed automatic to the regular V-6 engine. If the Crosstour lives to see a second generation, expect Earth Dreams powertrains all around.

                The Honda CR-V has, so far, proved successful after its recent redesign. How that might be affected by the introduction of a Honda Fit Crossover is uncertain. Thanks to flexibility at Honda’s Mexican plant, a Fit-based crossover is a possibility for the 2016 model year, though we’re not sure we want to know what acceleration in a fully loaded Fit-based crossover would be like.

                Hondas Dreamy Future: New Engines, CVT for Fit, Pilot, and Accord imageLess polarizing styling is in the Honda Pilot SUV’s future. A redesigned model comes in the fall of 2014 with an Earth Dreams V-6 producing more than 300 hp. Automotive News suggests the front-drive Pilot will use a CVT while the all-wheel-drive model will get a six-speed automatic. As for the Honda Odyssey minivan, the people-mover already leads the segment in terms of EPA-rated fuel efficiency, but the Earth Dreams V-6 could replace the car’s current V-6 as soon as the 2014 model year.

                The Honda Ridgeline has managed to last far beyond its expiration date, but that doesn’t mean Honda still doesn’t have plans for that nameplate. In the 2014 calendar year, a Ridgeline-badged truck with improved fuel economy and a lower base price — the 2012 Ridgeline carries a base price of just over $30,000 with EPA-rated fuel economy of 15/21 mpg city/highway.

                ====================================

                http://www.businessweek.com/news/201...n-honda-slumps

                Japan Stocks Fall on China Manufacturing; Honda Slumps

                Japanese stocks fell, with the Nikkei 225 (NKY) Stock Average declining the first time in five days, as companies from Honda Motor Co. and Komatsu Ltd. missed profit estimates and after China’s manufacturing output expanded at a slower pace than economists expected.

                Honda, Japan’s third-largest carmaker by sales, slipped 5.8 percent as it joined Nissan Motor Co. in reporting earnings that trailed estimates. Komatsu, which gets about 14 percent of sales from China, sank 9.7 percent after the world’s second-biggest maker of construction equipment cut its annual profit forecast. Nomura Holdings Inc. slid 2.9 percent as Japan’s No. 1 brokerage faces penalties after staff leaked information on at least three share sales in 2010.

                “This quarter’s earnings have shown that Japanese exporters are badly affected by the slowdown in China, the recession in Europe and the yen’s appreciation,” said Norihiro Fujito, a senior investment strategist at Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley Securities Co. “Given that the Chinese economy hasn’t bottomed yet, next quarter’s earnings could be even worse and share prices may keep sliding. It’s difficult to see a recovery by the end of the year.”

                The Nikkei 225 retreated 1.3 percent to 8,579.91 as of 10:17 a.m. in Tokyo, with five shares falling for each that rose. The broader Topix Index lost 1.2 percent to 727.45.

                “Investors have been in wait-and-see mode for the last two days ahead of key central bank announcements and that will continue today,” said Prasad Patkar, who helps manage about $1 billion at Platypus Asset Management Ltd. in Sydney.

                The Federal Reserve may forgo announcing a third round of large-scale asset purchases today, and is more likely to wait until September to unveil plans to buy $600 billion in housing and government debt, according to economists surveyed by Bloomberg News.

                The European Central Bank meets tomorrow, with President Mario Draghi pledging policy makers will do whatever is needed to preserve the euro.

                =========================================

                http://rumors.automobilemag.com/repo...ns-160137.html

                Report: Improved Engines Lead Honda, Acura Future Lineup Plans

                Honda and Acura are fighting to regain respect in the U.S. market with a number of product updates over the next few years, an Automotive News report suggests. From Honda cars and SUVs to the Acura lineup, the automaker may see a serious boost in visibility over the next few years thanks to a series of engine and transmission improvements.

                Honda Cars

                The future of a higher-performance Honda CR-Z Si model is unclear. As with Scion deciding not to offer in the U.S. a turbocharged or drop-top FR-S, Honda may not make available a more powerful CR-Z. The same goes for the hybrid variant of the Honda Fit, which could cannibalize sales from the Insight. While the Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ hog headlines for now, Honda may eventually consider a competitor, but a sports car like the discontinued S2000 is not a priority, the report says.

                Those who want the subcompact Honda Fit hatchback to be redesigned will have to wait until the summer of 2014. Don’t be surprised to see a few design tweaks on the U.S.-spec Fit not available in other markets. Automotive News suggests that Honda might not wait until the redesign to give the Fit an Earth Dreams 1.5-liter I-4 with 127 hp and 111 lb-ft of torque, mated to a CVT. The 2013 Honda Fit uses a 1.5-liter I-4 that produces 117 hp and 106 lb-ft of torque, with a five-speed manual or automatic transmission.

                The Honda Insight hybrid hasn’t made the impression the automaker wanted and, at this point, it’s unclear what Honda has in store for the now-refreshed car. One possibility includes swapping the Insight’s nickel-metal hydride battery pack for a lithium-ion pack. With the Toyota Prius rising in price, the Insight’s competition, by price, may now be the Toyota Prius C.

                On the higher-volume end of the lineup, we’ve known about the quick redo of the Honda Civic for a while. Interior materials will be improved and, by the time the Civic gets a full refresh on spring 2014, it may receive a CVT as well as an Earth Dreams 1.8-liter I-4 good for 148 hp and 133 lb-ft of torque. The 2012 Honda Civic’s 1.8-liter I-4 makes 140 hp and 128 lb-ft of torque, using a five-speed manual or automatic transmission.

                The real news for Honda is the imminent debut of the 2013 Honda Accord. The new sedan and coupe may be shorter than the existing car, with an Earth Dreams 2.4-liter I-4 as the volume engine, mated to a CVT. Manual-transmission fans can always pick the Accord V-6 that, at least in coupe form, is likely to offer a six-speed manual transmission in addition to a six-speed automatic. A plug-in hybrid variant of the Accord is sure to be more successful than the V-6 hybrid offered years ago.

                Honda SUVs

                The Honda Crosstour recently added a four-cylinder base model; the 2013 Crosstour will introduce a six-speed automatic to the regular V-6 engine. If the Crosstour lives to see a second generation, expect Earth Dreams powertrains all around.

                The Honda CR-V has, so far, proved successful after its recent redesign. How that might be affected by the introduction of a Honda Fit Crossover is uncertain. Thanks to flexibility at Honda’s Mexican plant, a Fit-based crossover is a possibility for the 2016 model year, though we’re not sure we want to know what acceleration in a fully loaded Fit-based crossover would be like.

                Less polarizing styling is in the Honda Pilot SUV’s future. A redesigned model comes in the fall of 2014 with an Earth Dreams V-6 producing more than 300 hp. Automotive News suggests the front-drive Pilot will use a CVT while the all-wheel-drive model will get a six-speed automatic. As for the Honda Odyssey minivan, the people-mover already leads the segment in terms of EPA-rated fuel efficiency, but the Earth Dreams V-6 could replace the car’s current V-6 as soon as the 2014 model year.

                The Honda Ridgeline has managed to last far beyond its expiration date, but that doesn’t mean Honda still doesn’t have plans for that nameplate. In the 2014 calendar year, a Ridgeline-badged truck with improved fuel economy and a lower base price — the 2012 Ridgeline carries a base price of just over $30,000 with EPA-rated fuel economy of 15/21 mpg city/highway.



                Acura Cars and SUVs

                No coupe variant of the Acura ILX is on the way, but an Earth Dreams four-cylinder engine replacing the volume 2.0-liter ILX is a distinct possibility for the car’s refresh. Depending on the ILX’s sales performance, the Acura TSX could become a much lower-volume model. The report mentions the possibility of the TSX continuing as a limited-production V-6 model to remain between the ILX and TL.

                As for the Acura TL, a revamped sedan still based on the Accord arrives next spring. We’d be surprised if the next-gen Acura TL doesn’t follow the 2013 Honda Accord’s lead, with slightly smaller dimensions, though with an Earth Dreams 3.5-liter V-6 for the luxury four-door. While Acura may not offer two V-6 variants, a hybrid TL is in the cards with fuel economy of about 45 mpg.

                Above the TL is the new Acura RLX, with an Earth Dreams V-6 offering as well as a 370-hp V-6 hybrid model with an advanced all-wheel-drive system and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. We’re anticipating the debut of another model, the Acura NSX. By 2014, Acura will begin building the new Acura NSX in Ohio, with a direct-injection V-6 paired to a lithium-ion battery pack and a special all-wheel-drive system, likely a version of the next-gen hybrid SH-AWD system currently in development.

                As the Acura RDX gains traction in the U.S., the Acura MDX is set to be redesigned next fall, with the Earth Dreams V-6 engine. Though the MDX-based Acura ZDX has only sold 416 units through the first half of 2012 (Acura RL at 214 units), the crossover with coupe-like styling could continue as a special-order model until the new MDX debuts.

                ====================================
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                • http://www.marketwatch.com/story/ame...ent-2012-08-01

                  American Honda Reports July Auto Sales: CR-V Sets Seventh Consecutive Monthly Sales Record; Acura RDX Sales Up More Than 142 Percent
                  Honda division sales up 46.4 percent, Acura sales up 36.4 percent


                  TORRANCE, California, August 1, 2012 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- American Honda today reported July 2012 U.S. sales of 116,944 units, an increase of 45.3 percent compared with July 2011 (an increase of 57.4 percent based on the daily selling rate*). The Honda Division posted July 2012 sales of 104,119 units, an increase of 46.4 percent compared with July 2011. Acura's U.S. July sales of 12,825 units increased 36.4 percent compared with July 2011.

                  Honda

                  Honda division posts best seventh-month year-to-date sales total since 2008

                  Accord sales pace strong at 28,639 units, up more than 70 percent; Civic sales up more than 78 percent with 25,004 units sold

                  CR-V sets seventh consecutive monthly sales record with a new July record (20,554 units), up more than 47 percent from July 2011

                  Odyssey sales up more than 88 percent from July 2011, with 11,953 units sold in July

                  "As our sales momentum continues to build through the summer, Honda is experiencing its best year-to-date sales in four years," said John Mendel, American Honda executive vice president of sales. "With success growing along with inventory, it's wonderful to once again be able to meet the strong retail customer demand for our great Honda products."

                  Acura

                  Continuing its sales success, the new RDX delivered another record sales month (2,664 units), up more than 142 percent from July 2011

                  MDX remains the top selling Acura vehicle with sales of 4,288 units, up more than 24 percent from July 2011

                  Gaining momentum in only its second full month of sales, the all-new ILX posted sales of 1,410 units

                  "With the MDX continuing its reign as the top seven-passenger luxury SUV, and the new RDX leading the compact luxury segment, Acura light trucks lead the way for the Acura brand," said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. "With the ILX gaining its stride, Acura is sure to see robust sales increases for many months to come."

                  *The daily selling rate (DSR) is calculated with 24 days for July 2012 and 26 days for July 2011. Year-to-date, the DSR is calculated with 178 days for 2012 and 178 days for 2011. All other percentages in release are unadjusted; see table for adjusted DSR figures.

                  For more information about Honda vehicles, please visit http://www.automobiles.honda.com . For media inquiries please visit http://www.hondanews.com . For more information about Acura vehicles, please visit http://www.acura.com . For media inquiries please visit http://www.acuranews.com .

                  ===================================

                  http://community.nasdaq.com/News/201...storyid=160460

                  Honda Profits More Than Fourfold - Analyst Blog

                  Honda Motor Co. ( HMC ) revealed more than fourfold increase in profits to ¥131.72 billion ($1.66 billion) or ¥73.09 (92 cents) per share in the first quarter of its fiscal year ending March 31, 2013 from ¥31.80 billion or ¥17.64 in the comparable quarter of 2011. However, the company's profits were lower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.15 per share.

                  Consolidated net sales and other operating revenues surged 42.1% to ¥2.44 trillion ($30.71 billion) driven by higher revenues in the automobile business with the recovery in production from the twin disaster in Japan last year, and increased revenues in the motorcycle business, despite unfavorable foreign currency translation effects.

                  Consolidated operating profits increased significantly by 679.5% to ¥176.01 billion ($2.22 million) from ¥22.58 billion a year ago, driven by higher sales volume and model mix, despite increased SG&A and R&D expenses as well as unfavorable foreign currency effects.

                  Segment Results

                  Revenues in the Automobile segment soared 60.6% to ¥1.89 trillion ($23.84 million) driven by a 10.5% increase in unit sales. Operating profits were ¥100.66 billion ($1.27 million) in sharp contrast to a loss of ¥76.23 billion in the first quarter of fiscal 2012. Improved sales volume and model mix favorably affected operating profits, despite increased SG&A and R&D expenses and unfavorable foreign currency effects.

                  Revenues in the Motorcycle segment scaled up 4.9% to ¥346.65 billion ($4.37 billion) due to a 2.1% rise in unit sales. However, operating profits fell 18.1% to ¥36.80 billion ($464.0 million) from ¥44.93 billion last year due to increased SG&A expenses and unfavorable foreign currency effects, despite improved sales volume and model mix.

                  Revenues in the Financial Services segment slid 3.3% to ¥131.28 billion ($1.66 billion) due to unfavorable foreign currency translation effects. Operating income dipped 23.8% to ¥40.84 billion ($514.94 million) from ¥53.61 billion due to a fall in residual gain of off-lease vehicle sales and increased cost of credit risk.

                  Revenues in the Power Product and Other segment ebbed 5.6% to ¥67.47 billion ($851.0 million) due to lower revenues in other businesses and unfavorable foreign currency translation effects, despite higher unit sales. The segment had an operating loss of ¥2.29 billion ($28.87 million) compared with a profit of ¥260 million a year ago due to higher SG&A expenses and unfavorable foreign currency effects.

                  Financial Position

                  Consolidated cash and cash equivalents was ¥1.13 trillion ($14.30 billion) as of June 30, 2012 compared with ¥1.25 trillion as of March 31, 2012. Total debt amounted to ¥3.99 trillion ($50.30 billion) as of June 30, 2012, down from ¥4.11 trillion as of March 31, 2012. This translated into a debt-to-capitalization ratio of 47.3% compared with 48.3% a year ago as of March 31, 2012.

                  In the quarter, cash flow from operations decreased to ¥176.45 billion ($2.22 billion) from $201.70 billion in the fiscal 2012-quarter. Meanwhile, capital expenditures increased to ¥135.80 billion ($1.71 billion) from ¥73.55 billion in the comparable period of 2011.

                  Guidance

                  Honda has projected revenues to improve 29.6% to ¥10.30 trillion in fiscal 2013. Operating profits are expected to increase 168.0% to ¥620 billion, net profits are anticipated to rise 122.2% to ¥470 billion and earnings per share are expected to be ¥260.78 for the year.

                  Our Take

                  Honda is a leading manufacturer of automobiles and the largest manufacturer of motorcycles in the world. It is the second largest automaker in Japan following Toyota Motor Corp. ( TM ).

                  The company is recognized internationally for its expertise and leadership in developing and manufacturing a wide variety of products that incorporate its efficient internal combustion engine technologies ranging from small general-purpose engines to specialty sports cars. Currently, it retains a Zacks #4 Rank, which translates to a short-term (1 to 3 months) rating of Sell.

                  ($1 = JPY 79.31)

                  =====================================

                  http://www.pcworld.com/article/26017...heir_feet.html

                  Honda’s Stride Management Assist Will Have the Elderly Back on Their Feet

                  It has been quite a month for miraculous restorative robotics. First we saw a glove with the capacity to improve motor skills of individuals suffering from spinal cord injuries. Now, Honda has introduced the Stride Management Assist, a device that will be featured at the National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology in August.

                  The Stride Management Assist is a lightweight device using technology harnessed from the creation of ASIMO in order to “support people with reduced walking ability.” Consisting of a harness around the waist and two metal braces that clamp on to one’s legs, the device weighs in at just over 6 pounds, and contains a control computer and two brushless DC motors, one on each side of the waist.

                  According to Ubergizmo, the device “works by analyzing the wearer’s stride and boosts it by providing assistance to the thighs when extending the front leg and when the rear leg pushes off.” In other words, users still need to have the ability to “walk under their own power.”

                  Keeping in mind that the Stride Management Assist is primarily designed for the elderly, the hour or more of lithium-ion battery life should provide plenty of juice for daily strolls. Although the Assist won’t go into testing until the end of August, Honda is hopeful that the device will not only make walking easier, but will also strengthen leg muscles to make walking without the machine even easier.

                  ========================================

                  http://www.canadianbusiness.com/arti...-lifting-sales

                  Americans re-embrace Japanese cars, lifting sales

                  DETROIT (AP) — Just when Detroit seemed to be luring them away, Americans are embracing Japanese cars again.

                  Toyota and Honda lost ground last year after the Japanese earthquake limited their supplies. But July's U.S. sales show they've nearly regained what they lost, at the expense of GM and Ford.

                  GM sales fell 6 percent and Ford sales were down 4 percent compared with last July. Honda's sales were up 45 percent and Toyota jumped 26 percent. Overall car and truck sales rose 9 percent to 1.15 million, according to Autodata Corp.

                  "Toyota and Honda have regained all of the share they lost, and much faster than we thought they would," said Jesse Toprak, vice president of market intelligence for the car buying site TrueCar.com. "Their customers appear to be a lot more loyal than we gave them credit for."

                  Toprak and others thought that newer, better products at GM and Ford, like the Chevrolet Cruze and Ford Focus small cars, might permanently pull customers away from the Japanese after the earthquake disrupted their supplies. Toyota had virtually no Prius hybrids to sell last summer, for example.

                  But rivals' gains haven't lasted. The Cruze, which was the best-selling subcompact in the country last July, saw sales plummet 40 percent last month. It was far outsold by the Honda Civic, whose sales jumped more than 78 percent to just over 25,000. The Toyota Corolla also topped the Cruze and Focus, even though it's an older car with fewer features.

                  Toyota commanded 14.3 percent of the U.S. market in July, up from 12.3 percent a year ago and back to pre-earthquake levels. GM had a 17.4 percent share, which matched its pre-earthquake level and was down from 20.3 percent last July.

                  It was good news for the Japanese in an otherwise stagnant month for the U.S. auto industry. July sales stayed at nearly the same pace they were in June, or around 14.1 million on an annualized basis. While that's better than the 12.8 million cars and trucks sold in 2011, it's a slower pace than at the start of this year.

                  As a result, Toprak lowered his forecast for full-year sales to 14.3 million, from 14.5 million at the start of this year. LMC Automotive, an industry consulting firm, plans a similar cut to its forecast, said Jeff Schuster, LMC's senior vice president of forecasting.

                  Uncertainty over bad economic news from Europe, weak consumer confidence and slow job growth likely will scare some buyers away unless they absolutely have to buy a car, Schuster said.

                  "Our feeling is we're not going to get that lift in the second half of the year that we expected," he said.

                  Yet it's not all bad news. Sales aren't likely to drop because of pent-up demand from people replacing old vehicles, Schuster said. Sales most recently peaked at 17 million in 2005, and millions of owners need to replace those seven-year-old cars.

                  Financial enticements could also spark sales. In July, there were good deals on last year's models, low- or no-interest financing and strong trade-in values due to high used-car prices. Auto loans are available from banks for just over 3 percent, half of their levels two years ago.

                  TrueCar.com estimated Volkswagen's incentive spending was up 38 percent last month. Volkswagen was offering zero percent financing for five years on all non-diesel 2012 models. GM and Ford have limited incentive spending in an effort to improve brand image, but it is probably costing them some sales, Toprak said.

                  GM and Ford both blamed their slowdowns on lower sales to government, corporate and rental car fleets. Ford said its fleet sales were down 16 percent for the month, while GM's fell 15 percent.

                  But GM also saw declines for its Buick, GMC and Chevrolet brands. Only Cadillac was up 21 percent thanks to the new XTS sedan.

                  Despite the sales decline and last weekend's ouster of GM's marketing chief, company executives said they don't expect to alter marketing or factory production.

                  "There is no change in direction. There is no change in priorities," said Alan Batey, U.S. sales vice president and interim marketing head. "The team is focusing on executing."

                  That could mean trouble. Experts say that even though the company is making better cars and trucks, advertising has failed to get the message across.

                  At Ford, the Lincoln luxury brand fell 11 percent, dragging down sales. Sales of the Escape small SUV were down 12 percent after the new version, which reached dealerships in June, was recalled for safety problems. Ford said inventories were also hurt because it can't sell 3,500 Escapes that were damaged in a hail storm.

                  Ford's best performer was the Fusion sedan, which saw sales climb 21 percent.

                  Other carmakers reporting sales Wednesday:

                  — Chrysler, the third biggest U.S. automaker, saw sales rise 13 percent, led by strong demand for its Ram pickup and Chrysler 200 sedan. Chrysler didn't gain much share last year, since it didn't have small cars to compete with the Japanese. But it has gained sales thanks to new small cars like the Dodge Dart.

                  — Nissan's sales increased 16 percent thanks to a big jump at the luxury Infiniti brand, which has several new products.

                  — Volkswagen's sales rose 27 percent, led by the new Passat midsize sedan.

                  — Hyundai sales rose 4 percent thanks to strong sales of the new Elantra sedan.

                  ==============================

                  http://www.bizjournals.com/columbus/...tional+Feed%29

                  Honda sales up 42% in 2Q, profit quadruples

                  Honda Motor Co.'s 2012 comeback campaign led it to a 42 percent sales improvement in the quarter, boosting its bottom line after coming off a year in which natural disasters slammed sales and profit, the Associated Press reports.

                  Honda (NYSE:HMC) saw sales hit the $31.2 billion mark between April and June, including a doubling of sales in Japan and North America, the AP reports. The company, which maintains manufacturing operations in Central Ohio, sold 849,000 vehicles in the quarter.

                  Profit for the quarter was $1.7 billion, four times last year's level, AP reports. The company expects to make $6 billion this year, twice as much as it made last year.

                  ====================================
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                  Comment


                  • http://www.carnewschina.com/2012/08/...ting-in-china/

                    Spy Shots: Honda Accord Coupe testing in China


                    Spy shots of the Honda Accord Coupe testing in China. Chinese media report it will be launched on the Chinese auto market next year as an import. The Honda Accord sedan is made in China by the Guangzhou-Honda joint venture but the market for coupe’s is too small for local production.

                    The China-bound Coupe will be available with a 2.4 or a 3.5 V6. Price yet unknown but it won’t be cheaper than 300.000 yuan. The locally made sedan is priced between 186.800 yuan and 342.800 yuan. Honda is not alone in bringing a imported coupe to the Chinese market, Audi will soon launch the RS5/S5 and Mercedes-Benz is readying the C-class Coupe.

                    Via: iFeng.




                    =================================

                    http://automotivediscovery.com/honda...ineup/9214264/

                    Honda Adding “Earth Dream” Engines to the Lineup

                    Honda is getting ready to unveil its line of “Earth Dream” engines. The engines are slated to be incorporated throughout their lineup, but will be making its debut in the Accord. According to an Automotive News report, the engines (with direct-injected, dual overhead cam powerplant ranges) are reputed to increase fuel economy by 10 percent over their current engine lineup.
                    The report also mentions the possibility of a 1.6-liter diesel with 200 pound feet of torque to be released in the United States and possibly a hybrid set-up for large cars. The rumors have already started as to whether Honda will resurrect the short-lived Accord Hybrid.
                    Automotive News didn’t limit their report to engine technology, however. They also reported that the Japanese automaker will move to Continuous Variable Transmissions (CVTs) in a greater way. But it is not clear which vehicles will receive a CVT since “performance models and off-road vehicles will retain geared transmissions.”

                    AN gave a breakdown of some of the future product plans for Honda, which includes a redesigned Honda Fit slated for the summer of 2014. The vehicle will include a 1.5-liter four-cylinder coupled with a CVT. A Hybrid Fit will be available in Europe, but that idea fell through for the United States. The smallest offering from the automaker will be compact crossover that is just below the CR-V, but that isn’t expected until Spring of 2015.
                    Another noteworthy bit of portfolio news is that the Pilot three-row crossover with get a new 3.5-liter Earth Dreams V6 during its redesign for 2014. Expected horsepower is 310 with 265 pound-feet of torque. A CVT is also expected to part of that redesign, but only on front-wheel drive models of the vehicle. The Civic will also get a quick makeover (only 18 months after its debut) due to limited interest in the current model. There is also the possibility of resurrecting the S2000 in order to compete with the Subaru BRZ and the Scion FR-S. But that project is not a priority, according to Honda.

                    ==============================

                    http://www.autoweek.com/article/2012...NEWS/120809978


                    A look at Honda future products


                    CVTs, new engine family will reshape Honda line

                    Honda's new Earth Dreams engine family will debut in the redesigned Accord this fall and then trickle through the rest of the lineup.
                    The new engines have direct injection and double-overhead cams. They will produce at least a 10 percent fuel economy advantage over Honda's current four-cylinders.
                    Earth Dreams engines will be added as each vehicle is redesigned, and in some cases will be available for mid-cycle revisions. Even the base four-cylinder will have a twin-cam profile setup, variable valve timing and direct injection. And there also is talk of bringing a 1.6-liter diesel with 220 pounds-feet of torque to the United States.
                    Honda also is putting heavy emphasis on continuously variable transmissions. While performance models and off-road vehicles will retain geared transmissions, mainstream cars will have CVTs.
                    With the introduction of Honda's large-car hybrid powertrain system next year, more vehicles in the lineup will have a hybrid option.
                    Here's a look at Honda's product plans:
                    Fit: Europe gets a hybrid version, but Honda has canceled plans for a Fit hybrid in North America.
                    A redesign of the Fit comes in summer of 2014. Because Honda will have a dedicated plant in Mexico to handle Fit production for the United States, expect some local market design cues and features that won't appear in the Japanese or European models. But Honda might not wait until then to install the Earth Dreams 1.5-liter inline-four with 127 hp and 111 pounds-feet of torque, as well as a CVT.
                    Fit EV: The electric version of the Fit went on sale this summer with an EPA-rated equivalent of 118 mpg. But its range is just 82 miles. Packaging the battery pack was difficult, so expect the next Fit to have a different suspension module for the hybrid and EV versions.
                    Insight: No word on whether the nickel-metal hydride battery pack will swap out for lithium ion before the 2015-model redesign.
                    Civic: Terrible reviews of the Civic's interior plastics have prompted a major freshening for this fall, just 18 months after launch. Expect a big improvement in the tactile feel of the instrument panel. A 1.8-liter inline-four Earth Dreams engine with 148 hp and 133 pounds-feet of torque, mated to a CVT, could be installed in the spring 2014 midcycle change.
                    Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ have American Honda product planners angling for a competitive model. But it is not a priority in Japan.
                    Accord: A redesign for the sedan and coupe comes this fall. The current Accord was considered too large, so expect a slightly narrower version that's about two or three inches shorter. The wheelbase may stay the same.
                    This will be the first Honda model with Earth Dreams engines. The base engine is a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder with 181 hp, 177 pounds-feet of torque and much-improved fuel economy. The Accord will have a CVT as its only four-cylinder automatic offering. The V6 Accord will have a choice of a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic.
                    Honda is placing a major emphasis on crash safety, as well as such devices as a lane-departure warning system. The Accord also will be the first vehicle with Honda's new large-car hybrid system. Engineers say the four-cylinder plug-in hybrid will have a 2.0-liter engine teamed with a lithium ion battery pack and will easily beat the Toyota Camry Hybrid's 41 mpg.
                    Crosstour: A midcycle change in the 2013 model year will bring a six-speed automatic transmission but not an Earth Dreams engine.
                    FCX Clarity: Honda's hydrogen-powered fuel cell vehicle is trickling into Southern California garages as part of a test for an eventual launch in 2018.
                    CR-V: Redesigned for the 2013 model year.
                    Fit Crossover: According to Japanese press reports, Honda is studying a compact crossover that would slot below the CR-V. Honda's top U.S. manufacturing executive has said the plant in Mexico that will produce the Fit will have flexibility to build multiple variants for the North American market when it opens in 2014. Given Honda's typical factory ramp-up timing, that probably means a smaller, entry-level crossover will arrive in the United States in the spring of 2015 as a 2016 model.
                    Pilot: A full redesign on the shared Odyssey platform comes in fall of 2014, and sheet metal will move away from the "angry robot" look. It likely will get a 3.5-liter Earth Dreams V6 with around 310 hp and 265 pounds-feet of torque. Expect the front-wheel-drive version to have a CVT and the all-wheel-drive version to get a six-speed automatic transmission.
                    Odyssey: The minivan was redesigned in fall 2010 on a six-year cycle. That means the 3.5-liter Earth Dreams V6 probably will be incorporated during the 2014 model year.
                    Ridgeline: Honda's pickup will keep the Ridgeline name but won't look or feel the same when it is redesigned in 2014. Honda wants to keep the handling dynamics and packaging, but the styling, fuel economy and sticker price are weaknesses.

                    ===================================


                    http://www.autoweek.com/article/2012...IEWS/120809972


                    2012 Honda Civic Hybrid review notes


                    A hybrid that doesn't look like a hybrid

                    EDITOR WES RAYNAL: I seem to be one of the few auto writers on the planet who actually likes the new 2012 Honda Civic. I think Honda did a good job updating the car; it looks fresher all the way around to my eye (except the interior, which I'll get to in a second). That said, in my opinion, one would have to be really interested in saving fuel to want one of these, especially at this price. On the other hand, it's a hell of a lot more enjoyable then a Toyota Prius, so it has that going for it.
                    It's not a bad little scooter in which to zip around town. Still, I find Honda's hybrid system stumbles and bumbles a bit, even at steady state cruising. It's always been that way, and this year's version is only marginally improved. Set the cruise at 70 mph on the freeway, for example (be patient, it takes a while to get there), and the system transitions to battery boost and nonbattery boost and you can feel it.
                    The EPA fuel-economy ratings have it topping 40 mpg, but vehicles such as the Chevrolet Cruze Eco or a Mazda 3 with the Skyactiv powertrain are receiving 40-mpg ratings, too. Well, at least on the highway, and those are a lot less expensive.
                    The interior materials are a huge letdown. It's all hard, brittle plastics throughout. The car could definitely use an upgrade.
                    AUTOWEEK.COM EDITOR DALE JEWETT: When I first climbed into this Civic hybrid, the thought crossed my mind that maybe some of my auto-writing colleagues had been too harsh in their criticism of Honda's remake of its small car.
                    The split-level gauge cluster appeals to me (I find that I rarely look at the tach display on the lower level), the center stack is nicely angled toward the driver and the leather-covered seats were quite comfy. Even the surfaces of the instrument panel don't look too bad. But the vibe turns bad when you touch the hard plastic. I'm sure Honda had what it thinks are good reasons for using this material—cost, durability, recyclability—but it doesn't feel good.
                    One the road, the Civic hybrid's body feels sturdy, and the suspension did a fine job of absorbing small and medium road imperfections with a solid thunk.
                    But as the miles passed, the car's aura began to fade some. The hybrid powertrain is slow to pull away from a stop unless you give the throttle a big stab, and then the power comes on in a big rush. And, on the opposite end, as speeds drop while coasting toward a stop you get that big grip/little grip sensation as the regenerative braking system works to dump energy back into the battery pack. To me, the brake pedal reaches a threshold where it feels hard set, but the car doesn't decelerate as rapidly as I want it to. Push harder on the pedal, and the brakes really grab, but the whole process is not a smooth ridedown. Maybe it would get better if I spent more time driving the car.
                    I spent less than 24 hours with the car but three times managed to bang my knee on the left edge of the instrument panel while getting in the car. The left edge of the panel curves outward to meet the driver's door trim, creating a nice impact point if you're not careful.
                    On the plus side for Honda, my teenage son liked the Civic hybrid inside and out. He was fascinated by the display that shows the power flow, and he could see himself driving one to school.
                    Ha! Not with a sticker price of 27 grand! Wow, that was way more than I had expected before I checked the data. I know this car is loaded (the only thing missing is a sunroof) but there are a lot of other, larger cars in the market that cost less, run with four-cylinder engines and have perfectly acceptable fuel economy—and would still leave money in my bank account. I could accept many of the Civic hybrid's compromises, but not at this price.
                    COPY CHIEF CYNTHIA L. OROSCO-WRIGHT: I'll start with the positive, because the negatives here will take more time.
                    The sheetmetal on this Civic hybrid isn't bad; it has a bit of a sporty look. The wraparound dash is nice, all of the infotainment controls are easy to use, and the eco meter is kind of cool. Once you top 45 mph, the drive isn't bad, or at least it isn't as choppy. And, of course, there's the great fuel economy.
                    But, my time at the wheel of this car was anything but enjoyable. Honda's hybrid system is just bad; herky-jerky. There is no modulating, no in-between, no happy middle ground. You are either driving at a steady speed or you are abruptly stopped. And I do mean abrupt, once the car actually stops. Hitting the regenerative brakes gives you the sense of speeding up before the car comes to a complete stop, and that doesn't instill a lot of confidence.
                    Inside, the seats are pretty flat and the materials do not feel and or present very well. I also would like more upright adjustment in the seatback; I couldn't quite get a comfortable and adequate seating position. A good bit of wind noise and road noise enter the cabin. And, $27,000-plus for this car? Really? I think not. The Chevrolet Malibu Eco that I drove a week or so ago looked better, had better interior styling and materials and the eAssist light-hybrid system was nearly seamless. Yes, it gets 7 mpg less than this Civic on the highway and it costs about $2,000 less as we tested it. But I'd pay that sum for a car that I actually enjoyed driving.
                    NEWS EDITOR GREG MIGLIORE: This is a solidly executed hybrid that returns real-world usability and plenty of environmentally friendly elements. This is a Civic. There's plenty of room. It looks normal. It drives reasonably well. I think this should be the model for hybrids going forward: real cars that get good gas mileage.
                    Considering that hybrids generally come with a premium sticker, I have no issue with the 27-large tag on this thing. As others note—and it is the foible of all hybrids—base four-cylinder models get nearly as good fuel economy, usually for less money. The Chevrolet Cruze Eco is a sharp example, as Wes points out.
                    But if you're a Honda loyalist and like the Civic, the hybrid variant will not disappoint you. I put a decent amount of miles on this sample, crisscrossing metro Detroit in comfort and returning solid fuel economy. I like the instrument panel, which is colorful, informative and simple. You get the speed, rpm and instantaneous fuel efficiency, which is all you need to know when driving a hybrid. The colors in the IP changed from blue to green depending on your driving style, and you get an eco score at the end of your trip showing how well you did by the number of plants displayed. The navigation map and audio were clear and informative as well.
                    I saw the specs ahead of time and was a bit concerned that the Civic hybrid would be dog-slow to live with for a weekend. But it was more than respectable. I launched with verve to merge onto a service drive, and the Civic was up for it. I also had no trouble blending with traffic at speed on the expressway. The stop/start system engaged aggressively and effectively, everywhere from stoplights to the bank drive-through. I'm used to such technology, though I think automakers do need to educate consumers as to how it works and make it as nonintrusive as possible.
                    The Civic in hybrid guise has many of the same positives and negatives as the conventionally powered car. The chassis is eager, even a touch tossable (at least lightly), the steering is light at first but does have some feedback and it's a very agreeable daily driver. The negatives? This interior looks and feels pedestrian, and the styling of the exterior looks the same. The Civic hybrid is a solid car. I'd just go for a less expensive four-banger.


                    2012 Honda Civic Hybrid with Leather and Navigation


                    Base Price: $27,520
                    As-Tested Price: $27,520
                    Drivetrain: 1.5-liter I4 hybrid; FWD, continuously variable transmission
                    Output: 110 hp @ 5,500 rpm (133 hp net system output), 127 lb-ft @ 1,000-3,500 rpm (205 lb-ft net system output)
                    Curb Weight: 2,875 lb
                    Fuel Economy (EPA/AW): 44/38.4 mpg
                    Options: None
                    For more information: Check out the 2012 Honda Civic hybrid at shopautoweek.com.

                    =================================


                    http://wot.motortrend.com/july-compact-crossover-sales-honda-cr-v-battles-ford-escape-for-top-spot-241711.html

                    July Compact Crossover Sales: Honda CR-V Battles Ford Escape for Top Spot


                    Though Ford was the only major automaker to not post CUV gains in July, the Escape came out on top of our compact crossover sales chart once again, winning a tight race with the Honda CR-V. The third-place Chevy Equinox was only about 650 units below the CR-V.
                    Maintaining its momentum from June 2012, the Ford Escape earned first place with 21,572 sales in July despite an 11.6-percent year-over-year decrease. Although the Honda CR-V still takes the lead in year-to-date sales of 167,236 units through July, things could change if the Escape’s hot streak continues.
                    The redesigned Honda CR-V took the silver once again in July, moving 20,554 CR-Vs last month, bringing its year-to-date total 167,236. In June, it beat the Escape with nearly 20,000 more units for the year, but in July, that number gets smaller at around 18,000.
                    We’re not forgetting about the Chevy Equinox, which was hot on the CR-V’s heels with 20,793 units sold in July and a year-to-date total of 130,796. Next in line was the Toyota RAV4, with 15,248 units sold. The Nissan Rogue rounds out the top five, with 13,193 sold.
                    The GMC Terrain was behind the Rogue with 7595 units sold, followed by the Subaru Forester (6453 units sold), and the Mazda CX-5 (4208 units sold).
                    Car July 2012 Sales July 2011 Sales YTD
                    Ford Escape 21,572 24,411 148,739
                    Honda CRV 20,554 13,943 167,236
                    Chevy Equinox 19,906 17,094 130,796
                    Toyota RAV4 15,248 8814 104,686
                    Nissan Rogue 13,193 11,260 85,031
                    GMC Terrain 7595 7302 54,197
                    Subaru Forester 6453 6218 43,549
                    Mazda CX-5 4208 N/A 20,239
                    Source: Ford, Honda, GM, Toyota, Nissan, Subaru, Mazda

                    ======================================


                    http://rumors.automobilemag.com/hond...rd-160687.html

                    Honda Civic Still Top Compact in July, Corolla and Elantra Get Second and Third

                    The Honda Civic continues to lead the compact car segment while the Toyota Corolla is well established in the number two spot. Hyundai’s Elantra jumped two spots for a third place finish with help from two new body styles: the Elantra Coupe and Elantra GT hatchback.
                    Honda sold 25,004 Civics in July, a 78.5-percent increase from July 2011, when Honda and other automakers were still dealing with a severely constrained supply of vehicles. The Toyota Corolla secured its second-place finish with 23,640 sales, a 34.5-percent increase over July last year. Honda is also in the lead for the first half of 2012 with 187,586 Civic models sold, to Toyota’s 175,366 Corollas sold.
                    Sales of the Elantra were up 21.9 percent compared to July 2011, with 15,181 units sold — boosting it to the number three spot from fifth place in June 2012. The Elantra jumped ahead of the Ford Focus (16,454 units) and the Chevrolet Cruze (14,954 units).
                    Rounding out the top-eight list for July 2012 compact sales were the Volkswagen Jetta (13,629 units, down 13.3 percent), Nissan Sentra (9888 units, up 13.3 percent), and Mazda3 (9027 units, down 2.8 percent).
                    Car July 2012 July 2011 Year-to-Date
                    Honda Civic 25,004 14,006 187,586
                    Toyota Corolla 23,640 17,577 175,366
                    Hyundai Elantra 18,512 15,181 116,281
                    Ford Focus 16,454 14,889 147,877
                    Chevrolet Cruze 14,954 24,648 128,838
                    Volkswagen Jetta* 13,629 15,713 96,832
                    Nissan Sentra 9888 8730 65,872
                    Mazda3 9027 9288 68,554
                    *Listed Volkswagen Jetta sales now include the sedan and wagon.
                    Source: Honda, Toyota, Hyundai, Ford, Chevrolet, Volkswagen, Nissan, Mazda

                    ===========================



                    tokyodream
                    Senior Member
                    Last edited by tokyodream; 03-08-12, 06:33.
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                    Comment


                    • http://blog.al.com/businessnews/2012...made_in_a.html

                      Sales of automobiles made in Alabama up 16 percent

                      BIRMINGHAM, Alabama -- Combined U.S. sales of Alabama-made automobiles rose nearly 16 percent in July, a performance bolstered by strong demand for the lineups built by Honda and Hyundai in the state.

                      In year-over-year growth, two Honda models were at the top, according to sales reports issued Wednesday.

                      Sales of the Odyssey minivan totaled 11,953, up 89 percent over July 2011, while sales of the Ridgeline pickup, a niche model, jumped 160 percent to 981.

                      And in terms of volume, Hyundai was the leader.

                      Sales of the Elantra compact totaled 18,512, a 22 percent improvement from the year-ago period. While sales of the Sonata sedan, at 20,978, were flat compared to a year ago, it was still the top-selling U.S. model for Hyundai in July.

                      Overall U.S. light vehicle sales topped 1.15 million last month, growing 9 percent over July 2011, according to Autodata Corp.

                      Jessica Caldwell, senior auto industry analyst with Edmunds.com, noted a few big drivers of the demand.

                      "The people that need to buy a car is increasing," she said, adding that the average age of a trade-in on a new vehicle is 6 years old.

                      That's about where it's been all year, but it's significantly higher than past years.

                      At the same time, automakers continue to offer low interest rates and other incentives to spur buying, she said.
                      MORE AUTO SALES REPORTS
                      See the highlights of sales reports from Alabama's automakers.
                      • Mercedes-Benz
                      • Honda
                      • Hyundai

                      As for individual automakers, overall July sales fell for both General Motors and Ford, down 6.4 percent and 4 percent, respectively, compared to a year ago.

                      Other automakers made up for those losses. For example, Chrysler sales rose 12.6 percent and Toyota sales rose 26 percent.

                      Here's a look at highlights from the sales reports for automakers in Alabama:

                      • Sales tumbled last month for two vehicles Mercedes-Benz builds in Alabama.

                      Sales of the M-Class SUV were 1,790, down 35.6 percent from July 2011, while sales of the R-Class crossover sank 43 percent to 32 sold.

                      Sales of the R-Class are being discontinued in the U.S., but Mercedes will continue to build it in Alabama for overseas markets.

                      Meanwhile, sales of the third model made at the company's Tuscaloosa County factory -- the GL-Class full-sized SUV -- rose 32 percent to 2,494.

                      The automaker sold a total of 19,311 Mercedes-brand vehicles in July, a 1.6 percent increase from a year ago.

                      • Honda said sales of its Alabama-made Odyssey minivan and Ridgeline pickup rose sharply in July.

                      Sales of the Odyssey were 11,953, an 89 percent improvement from July 2011, while Ridgeline sales were 981, up 160 percent over the year-ago period.

                      Sales fell slightly for another model made at the automaker's Lincoln plant. Honda sold 9,757 Pilot SUVs last month, down 2 percent from a year ago.

                      Across its model lines, Honda sold 116,944 vehicles in the U.S. last month, a 45 percent increase from July 2011.

                      The company's sales have been on an upswing all year, after they suffered last year amid a parts shortage created by the earthquake and tsunami in Japan.

                      Honda is also adding new jobs in Alabama, as it increases capacity in Lincoln and prepares for the addition of the Acura MDX next year.

                      • Sales rose 22 percent during July for the Hyundai Elantra compact sedan, which is built at the automaker's Montgomery factory.

                      Across its model lines, Hyundai's July sales rose 4 percent over the year-ago period.

                      In Montgomery, Hyundai is preparing to start a third shift, a move that is aimed at boosting output of the popular Sonata and Elantra.

                      =================================
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                      • http://rumors.automobilemag.com/hond...ly-161047.html

                        Honda Reveals New Civic WTCC, Tests at Vallelunga, Italy

                        Earlier this week, Honda gave us a glimpse at its new direct-injected 1.6-liter turbo-four slated for its new World Touring Car Championship Civic. Now, the Japanese automaker has taken the WTCC Civic testing and given us a look at the new racer’s body.

                        The 2012 WTCC Civic is unsurprisingly based on the all-new 2012 Civic hatchback. The race car carries over the production-spec’s sinister front fascia, complete with projector headlights and blacked out grille, but amplifies the aggressive look with a wild black/white/red paint job, flared wheel arches, and large rear wing. Honda performed extensive wind tunnel testing to whittle down the WTCC’s aerodynamic drag.

                        Powering the WTCC Civic is a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder utilizing direct injection that fully conforms to the FIA regulation for WTCC racing. It will debut for the 2013 season at the Suzuka Circuit in Japan this October. Piloting the new Honda racer will be Gabriele Tarquini and Tiago Monteiro.

                        “To see the finished Civic finally on the race track is an extremely emotional moment for the whole team. I am so proud of everyone involved,” said Alessandro Mariani, the team principal of Honda Racing Team JAS. “They have managed to accomplish so much in such a short period of time. Everyone has been working tirelessly for this day to happen and the new car and engine are no less than our expectations.”

                        Honda has completed initial testing at the Vallelunga circuit, near Rome, Italy and at Vairano circuit near the car’s build factory in Milan. The team will continue testing the car throughout the summer, led by Tarquini, who also was the WTCC champion in 2009.

                        Source: Honda

                        =======================

                        http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20120803/AUTO0104/208030426/1361/Honda-s-U.S.-unit-offers-$500-million-one-year-notes

                        Honda's U.S. unit offers $500 million one-year notes

                        Honda Motor Co., the fifth-largest automaker in the U.S., sold $500 million of one-year, floating- rate dollar-denominated notes.

                        The company's U.S. unit issued the bonds to yield eight basis points more than the three-month London interbank offered rate, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.

                        The subsidiary previously sold one-year notes in May, issuing $150 million of debt to yield 15 basis points more than three-month Libor, Bloomberg data show. The unit also sold $250 million of one-year securities in January at a spread of 25 basis points.

                        The new bonds may be rated A1, the fifth-highest level of investment grade, by Moody's Investors Service, according to a person familiar with the transaction, who asked not to be identified because the terms are private.

                        Citigroup Inc., Deutsche Bank AG and Royal Bank of Scotland Group Plc managed the sale for the Tokyo-based company, Bloomberg data show. The bonds were issued through American Honda Finance Corp.

                        Honda ranks behind General Motors Co., Ford Motor Co., Toyota Motor Corp. and Chrysler Group LLC as the largest seller of autos in the U.S., Bloomberg data show.

                        ====================================

                        http://www.inautonews.com/honda-s200...sidered-report

                        Honda is planning to develop a successor of the S2000 sports car which will be a direct rival for the Toyota GT 86, for the Scion FR-S and for the Subaru BRZ.

                        The Japanese based automaker Honda didn’t announce anything official yet about the S2000 successor but according to Automotive News, the model will be a competitor to the three sports cars mentioned above and performance is expected to be similar to its rivals, but we don’t know what platform the vehicle will use and what engine we can see under its hood.

                        Besides a successor of the Honda S2000, the car manufacturer will also unveil an updated Civic this autumn, along with the 2013 Accord, which should get a revolutionary design and two new engines, a 2.4 liter 181 HP and a V6 with 310 HP. A new Crosstour, inspired by the concept, will be unveiled one year later and by 2014, a new Pilot and Ridgeline are expected to debut, based on the Oddyssey, while in 2015 Honda will revealed a redesigned Insight and a Fit based crossover.

                        As a quick reminder, the Honda S2000 was a roadster manufactured between 1999 and 2009. The model came with an FMR layout and it could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.4 seconds, doing a quarter mile in 14.4 seconds. The United States was the largest market for the Honda S2000 where the model’s base price was $36,995, with a 1,000 USD option to add a stereo and air conditioning.

                        ============================

                        http://www.livemint.com/2012/08/0400...tinue-Civ.html

                        Honda Siel may discontinue Civic
                        Without a diesel option, Civic’s sales were down 79% to 309 in July from last year


                        New Delhi: Honda Siel Cars India Ltd is likely to stop selling the Civic, a runaway success when it was launched in the country in 2006 but now a victim of the market’s wholesale switch to diesel because the fuel is at least 40% cheaper than petrol.

                        Without a diesel option, the Civic’s sales have been dwindling—309 were sold in July, down 79% from the year before.

                        The sales of the sedan may be discontinued by the end of the year, according to three people familiar with the development.

                        File photo of Masahiro Takedagawa, president and chief executive officer of Honda Siel Cars India Ltd., poses for a picture next to a Honda Civic in Jaipur. Bloomberg

                        File photo of Masahiro Takedagawa, president and chief executive officer of Honda Siel Cars India Ltd., poses for a picture next to a Honda Civic in Jaipur. Bloomberg

                        The firm will, however, be bringing in a diesel variant of the car in future, Jnaneswar Sen, Honda Siel’s senior vice-president (marketing and sales), said in an interview on Friday.

                        Sen said a final decision is yet to be taken on whether the present model will be discontinued and the new generation of the car, launched last year, will be brought to India.

                        “We are pondering on the issue,” Sen said. “We are still producing the car, and will be producing it even in August; but we don’t know about the future.”

                        The discontinuation of the Civic could mark the beginning of the end of petrol models in the Indian market, where demand has significantly shifted toward diesel.

                        Car sales grew 5.22% to 490,802 units in the April-June period, according to data provided by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (Siam) lobby group.

                        The proportion of diesel cars sold in India has steadily risen from 21.4% of total cars sold in fiscal 2008 to 40% in the year ended 31 March and 50% at the end of the June quarter this fiscal, according to Siam data.

                        This shift has prompted car makers such as Maruti Suzuki India Ltd, Hyundai Motor India Ltd and Ford India Pvt. Ltd to substantially increase their capacity for diesel engines.

                        Not only that, due to poor demand, Honda’s rival Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt. Ltd stopped production of its entire range of petrol engines in June.

                        To be sure, Honda offers a 1.6-litre diesel Civic in European markets but this isn’t compatible with fuel available in India.

                        “That engine is specifically developed for Europe and it is a no-sulphur engine. That engine cannot run on the quality of diesel available in India,” Sen said.

                        “A separate diesel engine is under development for the Indian market, but I cannot comment on its size, time frame or anything,” he added.

                        According to two Honda dealers who spoke with Mint on condition of anonymity, the company is expected to bring in the diesel variant by the end of this fiscal.

                        The country’s leading automobile magazine Autocar India reported on 2 August that the production of the Civic is expected to last till the festive season, starting September.

                        “Assembled from completely knocked-down (CKD) kits here in India, Honda will build what remaining kits it has, and production is expected to last until about Diwali. With no plans to bring the next-generation model that was launched internationally in 2011, this effectively ends the Civic line in India,” Autocar India said in its report.

                        The Civic was the second sedan launched by Honda in India after the City. It swept the segment with its sleek lines and digital speedometer despite its lack of adequate ground clearance.

                        The car was a hit with Indian customers due to its design and the lack of competition in the segment, said Pradeep Saxena, executive director at market research TNS Automotive.

                        “When Civic was launched, (Hyundai’s) Elantra was already being phased out and Toyota had a dated model of the Corolla,” said Saxena. “Civic’s success could be attributed to that.”

                        In the past few years, the diesel factor had affected sales, he said.

                        “Now, with the rising yen and low volumes of the car, it’s not worthwhile to produce the car,” he said.

                        “And bringing in the new Civic would mean fresh investments as Honda goes for a full-model change right from body to chassis. So if you are not doing good numbers, the price proposition becomes difficult,” he added.

                        =====================================

                        http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/03/j...or-honda-cr-z/

                        Jackson Racing releases new supercharger system for Honda CR-Z

                        Jackson Racing, the guys who have been modifying and racing Hondas (and Acuras) for more than thirty years, have announced the arrival of a new supercharger system for the Honda CR-Z equipped with a six-speed manual transmission. The bolt-on blower may effectively address the primary complaint lodged against the frugal two-seater, its lack of sporty grunt.

                        According to the California-based tuner, who pulled numbers off a dyno, the supercharger (providing eight psi of boost) effectively bumps combined output of the 1.5-liter gasoline-fed four-cylinder and brushless DC electric assist motor from 138 horsepower and 119 pound-feet of torque to 190 horsepower and 164 pound-feet of torque. The stock CR-Z is classified as an Advanced Technology-Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV). To retain the rating, Jackson Racing has reportedly spent the past eight months refining emissions to obtain the necessary exemptions from the California Air Resources Board (CARB) – certification is pending.

                        As of now, the supercharger system has only been engineered for the manual gearbox (a clutch upgrade is recommended for those who drive aggressively), but the tuner is evaluating the demand for the automatic transmission. There are three different kits, all providing the same horsepower, with the most basic system starting at $3,995. Check out all the details in the press release below.

                        Jackson Racing releases their new supercharger system for US MT Honda CR-Z

                        AUGUST 1st, 2012 - Yorba Linda, California - World leading Honda Supercharger experts Jackson Racing are proud to announce their next generation supercharger system for the Honda CR-Z is now available from $3995USD. The power and torque delivery of the Jackson Racing CR-Z is perfectly balanced with the Honda IMA hybrid system to provide a smooth, strong and sporty power delivery that will make you fall in love with your Honda again. The supercharger kit delivers an additional 50 horsepower and 45 ft-lbs of torque, an impressive 40% increase HP and 38% increase in torque. All while maintaining the excellent fuel economy expected from the CR-Z Hybrid.

                        The Jackson Racing CR-Z supercharger system has been through extensive durability testing to ensure factory drivability is retained, while giving a substantial boost in performance. This testing includes track time by seasoned drivers, taking the car and supercharger system to the limit. The Jackson Racing CR-Z attended Super Lap Battle 2011, and on its first try broke the previous Hybrid record by almost 6 seconds.

                        "We realize that performance tuning for the next generation of Hondas requires maintaining excellent fuel economy and adapting to new technologies," said Oscar Jackson Sr., President and Chief Engineer of Jackson Racing. "The Jackson Racing CR-Z supercharger system embodies the best of our 30+ years of experience in building quality performance upgrades for Honda and Acura automobiles."

                        Key Points:

                        • An additional 50 hp and 45 ft-lbs torque
                        • Maintains excellent fuel economy when driven normally
                        • Restores the performance "Honda" engine feel
                        • Works in harmony with Honda's IMA hybrid system

                        System Includes:

                        • Rotrex C30-74 Supercharger
                        • Jackson Racing Precision CNC-machined Components
                        • Jackson Racing Belt Drive and Tensioning System
                        • Jackson Racing Intercooler System w/ Aluminum Piping
                        • High Quality Metric Fasteners and Hardware
                        • Color Installation Manual
                        • Industry Leading Customer Service and Support

                        Pricing and Availability

                        Tune Yourself (TY) Kit $3995

                        - 8 PSI Jackson Racing CR-Z Supercharger System
                        - Engine Management Not Included

                        Factory Tuned System $4495

                        - 8 PSI Jackson Racing CR-Z Supercharger System
                        - Hondata ECU Reflash
                        - High Flow Fuel Injectors

                        FlashPro Tuner System $4995

                        - 8 PSI Jackson Racing CR-Z Supercharger System
                        - Hondata FlashPro
                        - Jackson Racing CR-Z FlashPro Calibration
                        - High Flow Fuel Injectors

                        The TY kit is ideal if you already have engine management and want to do your own tuning.

                        The Factory Tuned system is our plug-n-play system. This system provides the same power and drivability as the Tuner kit without the added expense of the FlashPro tuning solution or hassle of flashing the ECU yourself. Install and enjoy.

                        The FlashPro Tuner system includes the Hondata FlashPro and the Jackson Racing CR-Z calibration. This system is ideal if you are looking for the data-rich features of FlashPro, and to learn more about your CR-Z.

                        More product details for the Jackson Racing CR-Z Supercharger System are available online at:
                        http://jacksonracing.com/shop/superc...harger-system/

                        FAQ

                        Q: Will I need a clutch upgrade?
                        A: The Jackson Racing CR-Z has done over 20,000 miles including several track days all using the stock clutch. If you have an aggressive style of driving we would recommend a clutch upgrade.

                        Q: Why is the kit not offered for the CR-Z CVT?
                        A: Jackson Racing's immediate focus is on the manual transmission CR-Z but will evaluate the demand for a CVT supercharger kit.

                        Q: Will you offer a kit for Japanese and European owners?
                        A: The Tuner kit will be available for international customers in the future. Visit http://www.hondata.com/flashpro_cr-z.html to view the supported ECUs.

                        Q: Will my CR-Z pass emissions?
                        A: The CR-Z is an Advanced Technology-Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV), which is the cleanest gasoline engine standard. With 8 months of solid emissions lab testing, we have worked really hard to bring an emissions certified product to the CR-Z. We are happy to report, we have completed and passed all emissions lab testing and are currently awaiting exemption from California Air Resources Board.

                        Q: Will I be able to adjust and custom tune the Jackson Racing FlashPro calibration?
                        A: The calibration provided by Jackson Racing with the FlashPro cannot be modified.

                        Q: Will performance upgrades be available for the Jackson Racing systems?
                        A: Yes, performance upgrades are currently being tested and will be available.

                        ======================================

                        http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1...2000-successor

                        What Would You Want From A Honda S2000 Successor?

                        Looking around the market today at rear-wheel drive sports cars at relatively affordable prices, there aren't a lot of options. A new, and very good option, has come in the form of the Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ (near) twins, but beyond those and the Mazda MX-5, the Hyundai Genesis Coupe, the lower end of the Nissan 370Z range, and the Ford Mustang and Chevy Camaro (which are both more muscle car than sports car), there's a bit of a void--an empty space.

                        That space is left, largely, by the Honda S2000, though some might include the RX-8's absence in that gap. If you want a new car with more than 225 horsepower and less than 2,800 pounds curb weight, you're currently without any real choice in the under-$30,000 range--and without many even in the under-$50,000 range.

                        Fortunately, there are the beginnings of whispers (Automotive News, sub. req.) about a rebirth of the Honda S2000 line--or a successor to it, perhaps. They're weak and thready, not even rising to the status of rumor as yet, but the whispers surrounding Honda have been shouts in the throats of fans of the S2000 since its discontinuation in 2009.

                        So we ask you: what would you want to see in an S2000 replacement, keeping in mind that it would have to be both quintessentially Honda and suited for the modern regulatory and retail marketplace.

                        What kind of engine would you like to see? Another high-revving, peaky, VTEC four-cylinder? Something with a turbo on it? More cabin space? Lighter weight construction? More than the last model's 240 horsepower rating?

                        Put some thought into it, and formulate what your ideal Honda S2000 successor's spec sheet would look like and post it in the comments below.

                        We'll start with ours:

                        260 horsepower naturally-aspirated 2.4-liter four-cylinder
                        Two seats (cloth)
                        Manual soft top
                        Six-speed manual transmission
                        Base version with manual windows, manual locks, no radio, optional soft top delete with separate hard top
                        Luxury version with power retractable hard top, navigation, HUD, and full leather interior
                        25+ combined mpg
                        Price from $28,000-40,000+

                        ======================================
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                        Comment


                        • http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-13746_7...=2547-1_3-0-20

                          2013 Honda Fit EV first drive: The efficiency expert

                          With its 118 mpge, the Honda Fit EV is the most efficient car ever tested by the EPA. Better yet, it is easy and enjoyable to drive.


                          Driving a blue Honda Fit EV down El Segundo Blvd. in Los Angeles, I began to feel a bit guilty. To my left stretched a massive complex, a big stretch of beachfront property devoted to a Chevron oil refinery. As the Fit EV whispered by this facility, which Wikipedia told me later was founded in 1911 and gave the town of El Segundo its name, I thought of all the oil workers the little electric car I was driving would put out of a job.

                          Lacking a gas tank and exhaust pipes, this Fit EV would never need to sully itself at one of the many gas stations I passed on this drive through Los Angeles, except maybe to top off the air in the tires.

                          The Fit EV represents one of the new breed of electric cars, which current battery technology is making more practical for daily use. And in my drive I found the Fit EV the best of the bunch.

                          Honda recently got to crow about the Fit EV's EPA numbers, boasting the car's average fuel economy of 118 miles per gallon equivalent for the combined city and highway number. That makes the Fit EV the most efficient car yet tested by the EPA. However, the mpge number cited for electric cars probably won't mean much to most drivers, and only a power company engineer could truly appreciate the 29 kilowatt-hour-per-100-miles number that Honda includes in its spec sheet for the Fit EV.

                          Range will be at the top of most drivers' minds, and here the Fit EV only scores 82 miles in the EPA tests. Not a bad number for new electric cars, but nothing revelatory. More in the car's favor is the 3-hour charging time when using a 240-volt source, thanks to its 6.6-kilowatt onboard charger. Of course, charging the Fit EV will be cost a lot less than filling an equivalent car with gasoline. Honda broke down the numbers for me, citing a savings of about $4,000 in three years for charging the Fit EV over paying for gasoline.

                          The other electric cars on the market, the Nissan Leaf, Ford Focus Electric, and Mitsubishi i-Miev, compare well enough with the Fit EV on various of these specifications, but I found something about the Fit EV that I haven't found with these other cars; it was actually kind of fun to drive. Leaving Tesla aside for the moment, the Fit EV had, along with the de rigueur Eco button, a Sport button. Honda actually included a mode that would tap most of the power train's acceleration potential, whilst also putting a big drain on the battery. Other EV makers focus exclusively on getting the most range out of their cars.

                          The Fit EV includes a Sport mode, which taps the full 92 kilowatts of its motor.
                          (Credit: Wayne Cunningham/CNET)

                          When I began my drive in the Fit EV, a little range anxiety had me driving in Eco mode, wanting to preserve the 86 miles displaying on the instrument cluster. This mode reins in the full potential of the battery pack, and also hobbles the air conditioning so as to maximize range.

                          When the range did not plummet precipitously and the Los Angeles heat began to make me sweat, I relented and pushed the Normal button. As the green accent lighting faded from the instrument cluster, so did the lassitude of the accelerator. The Fit EV assumed a zippier character, ready to pounce off the line as traffic lights turned green. The potential range also dropped about 5 miles, but as the air conditioning stepped up to a more comfortable level, I felt it was a worthwhile sacrifice.

                          With the more responsive pedal, I was able to appreciate the handling of the Fit EV. It felt lighter and nimbler than both the Focus Electric and Nissan Leaf, and not much heavier than a gasoline-engine Fit. Honda constructed the Fit EV cleverly, raising the chassis about 1.5 inches to accommodate a 20 kilowatt-hour lithium ion battery pack underneath the car's passenger compartment. That positioning makes the extra weight less noticeable. It also raises the passenger seating position to that of a minivan or small SUV, giving the Fit EV driver a more commanding view of the road than in a standard Fit.

                          Honda also said that, due to some of its efficiency technologies, the Fit EV gets by with a smaller battery pack than some of its competitors, while still getting equivalent range. Certainly the mpge figure it earned shows that efficiency.

                          One such technology is the way its regenerative braking handles a downward slope. I found a few good descents to test the car's grade logic. Instead of building speed as I sent it downhill, the car automatically maintained its initial speed without me having to touch the brake pedal. The car applies regenerative braking when going downhill to maintain a steady speed, and also to charge up its batteries. If I wanted more speed, I merely had to touch the accelerator a bit. It was kind of like cruise control.

                          The instrument cluster shows the range, and includes an eco coach.
                          (Credit: Wayne Cunningham/CNET)

                          The real fun came after I saw the car still had 60 miles of range, and it was getting close to the time to return it to Honda. Engage Sport mode, and the instrument cluster turned an angry red. Suddenly, the full 92 kilowatts of the electric motor was available. I had 189 pound-feet of torque on tap, which made the little Fit EV step off the line in a much livelier manner. Normal drive mode limits the motor to 75 kilowatts output, while Eco keeps it down to 47 kilowatts, although pressing the accelerator hard unleashes its 75-kilowatt potential.

                          The easy handling and light feeling of the car contributed to the enjoyment. And although I was stripping miles off the range faster than a Las Vegas tourist losing chips at a roulette table, it made driving the Fit EV more than just an exercise in efficiency. Although far from a sports car, the Fit EV felt as responsive and fun as the standard Fit. To accommodate the battery pack, Honda even upgraded the Fit EV's rear suspension, going from a torsion bar to a multilink configuration.

                          The plant-derivative material covering seats and interior surfaces had a nice, soft feeling. The rear seats are raised even higher than the front seats, creating a stadium seating effect, and there's more rear legroom than in the standard Fit. However, Honda had to use conventional rear seats, rather than the Magic Seat found in the standard Fit. That means the rear cargo area doesn't get a completely flat floor with the rear seats folded down.

                          The rear seats do not fold flat, as they do in the standard Fit.
                          (Credit: Wayne Cunningham/CNET)

                          Navigation comes standard in the Fit EV, but the head unit is the same one Honda puts in the standard Fit, with a few modifications. In reviews of other Honda vehicles, such as the CR-V, I have mentioned the chunky look of the maps in the navigation system, and the Fit EV shows no improvement here. For the Fit EV, Honda superimposes the range for a one-way or two-way trip over the map, shown as a circle. Although this display does not represent actual road miles, it serves as a useful guideline.

                          Honda included an EV charging station category in its points-of-interest database, which differentiates between 120-volt and 240-volt stations. From a 240-volt station, the Fit EV can get a full charge from zero in 3 hours. Honda points out that if a Fit EV driver were to plug in while going shopping for an hour, the car could be charged up by a third.

                          Along with the navigation system's EV features, Honda offers an app for iPhone and Android that lets drivers schedule charging and turn on the climate control remotely. The app shows the car's state of charge and has its own charging station finder. A key fob for the car also lets the driver initiate charging or start up the air conditioning from about 100 feet away.

                          Although Honda gives a price of $36,625 for the 2013 Fit EV, the company will not be selling the car. It will only be offered on a lease basis in California and Oregon, initially. The lease cost will be $389 per month, and includes collision insurance. That rate takes into account the Federal tax credit for electric vehicles, but lessees will be able to claim California's tax incentives and an HOV lane sticker.


                          ==========================================
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                          Comment


                          • http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe...rticle4460598/

                            2012 Honda Odyssey Touring
                            The Odyssey: Honda’s co-Pilot


                            The minivan’s place in the family vehicle scheme of things has largely been usurped by crossovers and SUVs, of which we bought almost half a million last year compared with fewer than 90,000 small vans, but that’s still a significant number and means many Canadians are still making a case for buying vehicles such as Honda’s Odyssey Touring.

                            The major crossover action is in the compact segment, which almost hit the 300,000 mark in 2011. But while these vehicles offer a number of pluses, passenger and cargo room aren’t among them compared to what vans and mid-size crossovers or SUVs can offer.

                            And many families obviously feel the need to carry up to eight people or have the option of transporting a shipping container-like load of stuff, which means a van or a larger crossover or SUV is what they’ll be shopping for.

                            It appears Honda customers are convincing themselves of the minivan’s benefits right in the company’s showrooms, from which it sold 4,366 of its mid-size Pilot crossovery-SUVs last year and 9,060 Odysseys. Why they chose the van might provide clues as to why those shopping other makes might want to opt for one over a crossover as well.

                            It’s doubtful style or the lack of it played a significant role in the choice, other than if you buy into the perceived wisdom that a vehicle like the Pilot has a higher “cool” factor than a minivan. They both look fine but, well, they are what they are. Nobody’s going to ooh-and-aah when you drive by in one. Although, to my eye, the Odyssey is the better-looking of the two.

                            Price might have been a factor with this pair of Hondas as the Odyssey starts at $29,990 and the Pilot at $34,920 (with two-wheel-drive). But moving up the model range, you climb the monetary scale rapidly, peaking in the luxuriously equipped Touring versions of each, with the van listing at $47,090 and the crossover at $48,520. Both offer a similar and fairly high level of equipment in base form, and more or less match at the top level.

                            Of course, the Odyssey and Toyota’s Sienna (which sold about a thousand more units last year) are priced at a premium compared to Chrysler’s offerings, which dominate the segment. Dodge’s Caravan is easily one of the best family-vehicle values in the marketplace with prices starting at less than $20,000.

                            In terms of size, the Odyssey is bigger than the Pilot, putting 5,152 mm between its bumpers versus 4,861 mm, but they both weight about 2,100 kilograms. It’s their shape that dictates their relative usefulness with the Pilot having a total interior volume of 4,324 litres and the Odyssey 4,817 litres.

                            Both can nominally seat eight, but third-row occupants in both won’t like the experience much, although those in the Odyssey can get in and out more easily and might not complain at quite as high a volume.

                            Not surprisingly, it’s in cargo capability that the van wins hands down, providing 1,087 litres behind the third-row seat, 2,636 litres behind the second row and, with all stowed, a total of 4,205 litres. The Pilot has 581 litres behind the third seat, 1,351 behind the centre seat and a total of 2,464 litres. The story is similar with other crossovers.

                            And, as is the case with all minivans, passengers and cargo can be boarded through wide sliding side doors and a large hatch at the rear versus swing-open doors and a smaller hatch with the Pilot. If you’re serious about practicality and versatility, the van is a clear winner.

                            Both vehicles are equipped with a 3.5-litre, single-overhead-cam V-6 that in the Odyssey is rated at 248 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque and, in the Pilot, at 250 hp and 253 lb-ft of torque. The Pilot comes with a five-speed automatic as does the Odyssey, but the Touring version of the latter gets a six-speed automatic.

                            Overall performance is similar, with no shortage of power in either. But the Odyssey delivers better fuel economy with ratings of 10.9 litres/100 km city and 7.1 highway versus 12.3 city/8.2 highway for the Pilot.

                            The Pilot does offer a couple of distinct advantages, the most obvious being its all-wheel-drive system, more than 50 mm of additional ground clearance and a suspension that allows it to be used to go places that would eviscerate the front-drive van. On the other hand, I wouldn’t be at all surprised if the van outhandled the Pilot on the pavement. And with a set of winter tires it will get you through any weather you should be out in. Another Pilot plus is its tow rating of 2,041 kg, while the van can only manage 1,588 kg.

                            The Odyssey was given a comprehensive redesign for 2011, which means it’s fully up to date in terms of the latest features, but little changed for the 2012 model year.

                            The Touring edition, with almost $20,000 worth of additional equipment, most of it related to keeping you safe, pampering or amusing you in myriad ways (the mechanical specs, aside from the six-speed and 18-inch wheels, are the same) is a pleasant vehicle. And with its quiet leather-clad interior, comfortable ride and seats and stable highway behaviour, it more than lives up to its “Touring” designation.

                            After a week with the Odyssey, I can see why buyers might have chosen it over the Pilot. Both are big, heavy, cumbersome vehicles that, while not unpleasant to drive, certainly aren’t what you’d pick unless you felt you really needed the attributes they offer. Given a choice, I’d opt for the Odyssey.

                            globedrive@globeandmail.com

                            TECH SPECS

                            2012 Honda Odyssey Touring

                            Type: Minivan

                            Base Price: $47,090; as tested, $48,730

                            Engine: 3.5-litre, SOHC, V-6

                            Horsepower/torque: 248 hp/250 lb-ft

                            Transmission: Six-speed automatic

                            Drive: Front-wheel

                            Fuel economy (litres/100 km): 10.9 city/ 7.1 highway; regular gas

                            Alternatives: Chrysler Town & Country/Dodge Grand Caravan, Kia Sedona, Nissan Quest, Toyota Sienna, Volkswagen Routan

                            ===========================================
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                            Comment


                            • http://bottomline.nbcnews.com/_news/...ota-honda?lite

                              Consumer Reports trash talks Toyota, Honda

                              If the well-regarded Consumer Reports has taken some criticism, over the years, it’s for being too import friendly, but you’d be hard-pressed to tell from the non-profit publication’s latest issue – where it takes the Toyota Prius C and Honda Civic to task as two of “Five Popular Cars to Avoid.”

                              That could be bad news for the two makers as CR does, indeed carry significant weight among more affluent, import-oriented buyers. The Civic is a critical model in the Honda line-up but has already taken sharp criticism since its 2011 redesign, while the Prius C is the newest member of Toyota’s expanded hybrid family.

                              “Just because a car generates a lot of buzz or is a best seller doesn’t mean that it’s a good choice for you,” warns the magazine.

                              Chrysler to Offer “Hot Spot on Wheels”

                              The two Japanese makers aren’t the only ones coming under fire in the September 2012 issue of Consumer Reports, however. The magazine also targets three domestic models:

                              The popular Ford Edge crossover;
                              The Jeep Liberty sport-utility vehicle; and
                              The Dodge Grand Caravan minivan.

                              The magazine notes that all five of the models “may be on a lot of buyers’ shopping lists, but we suggest you steer clear.” The reason? Either reliability problems or poor tests in CR testing – or both.

                              Fuel Prices Nudging Up Again…So is Mileage

                              The Civic has been a perennial best-seller for Honda but has probably taken more fire from CR than any other model the maker has introduced in years. A primary reason is that Honda “took too many shortcuts” in the redesign of the latest version of the compact model. The Honda Civic has come under criticism from a variety of other reviewers – including TheDetroitBureau.com – for similar reasons.

                              Toyota has hoped to score a home run with the 2012 Prius C. It’s one of four models now sharing the familiar Prius name – along with the bigger Prius V, the Prius plug-in and the original Prius hatchback. But CR editors have little nice to say about the compact entry into the hybrid family, declaring it “suffers from a stiff ride, noisy cabin, slow acceleration and cheap-looking interior trim.”

                              Legislation Would Block Renting of Recalled Cars

                              As for the Ford Edge, it is faulted for a much-worse-than-average reliability rating, according to recent CR reader surveys. And the magazine joins the chorus of boos for the crossover’s difficult FordMyTouch infotainment interface.

                              The Jeep Liberty, meanwhile, garnered one of the lowest scores in recent CR road tests, delivered lousy fuel economy and had a poor ride on pavement that offset its off-road capabilities.

                              As for the Dodge Caravan, CR did have some nice things to say about it, calling the vehicle, “versatile, comfortable and well-equipped.” But that couldn’t offset the minivan’s many problems, including a meager 17 mpg mileage rating, squeaks, rattles, problems with its sliding doors, “and sloppy at-the-limit handling.”

                              =====================================

                              http://www.justluxe.com/community/wh..._a_1808235.php

                              Why Honda is the Best Choice for a New Grad

                              When you graduate from college—or even high school—chances are one thing at the top of your to-do list is to get a new set of wheels.

                              Unless you are one of the lucky few who receives a new car as a gift, though, you are probably on a budget and don’t want to spend too much on your new set of wheels. Once you factor in a monthly payment, insurance, maintenance and fuel, owning a car can eat up a significant portion of your monthly budget.

                              You have options, though. There are plenty of affordable vehicle brands out there, but one of the best for new grads is Honda. Why? Consider these factors:
                              Value

                              Honda’s may not be the least expensive cars on the market, but they are affordable and offer great value for the money. Many base models run less than $20,000. In fact, the Honda Insight hybrid has a base price of around $18,000, making it the least expensive hybrid available. Even the base models though, include standard features like airbags, anti-lock brakes and power windows and door locks. These standard safety and comfort features make Honda an exceptional value over lower priced vehicles.
                              Affordability

                              This isn’t referring to price—although Honda vehicles are certainly affordable. The overall costs to run a Honda, including maintenance and insurance, tend to be lower than other vehicles. And the gas mileage helps younger drivers save on skyrocketing fuel costs. The Civic model, for example, averages 26 miles per gallon in the city and 34 on the highway, meaning you can go much further on a single tank of gas.
                              Reliability

                              Any new car is going to be reliable, but Hondas have nearly every other model beat when it comes to long-term reliability. Most well-maintained Hondas run for well over a decade, traveling upwards of 200,000 miles or more. If something does go wrong, though, the overall repair costs tend to be lower than other vehicles.
                              Drivability

                              Many Honda owners become lifelong aficionados once they purchase their first Honda vehicle, thanks to the carmaker’s focus on making its cars comfortable and fun to drive. Many reviewers point out that Hondas have quick acceleration, good handling, and in the case of some models, sporty looks that make the car a good choice for younger drivers.
                              Hybrid Options

                              Many of Honda’s models come in hybrid versions, as well as the Insight, meaning that those who want a vehicle that is both eco-friendly and fuel efficient have plenty of options.
                              Special Incentives

                              Honda dealers know that these vehicles are appealing to new grads, and as a result offer plenty of incentives to help make the vehicles affordable. AutoFair Honda of Plymouth, for example, offers new grads lower down payments and flexible financing offers to recent college and graduate school graduates. These specials allow new grads to pay for a new set of wheels while also building a positive credit history.

                              College grads have many decisions to make – and what vehicle to buy is just one of them. Take a Honda for a test drive, though, and the decision is a no-brainer.


                              This guest post was written by Jerry Lasley. Jerry is an automotive specialist and enjoys sharing his knowledge of the automotive industry.

                              ====================================

                              http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/...w/15390295.cms

                              Honda Motors to set up 20 zonal offices to penetrate into smaller cities

                              AHMEDABAD: Two wheeler manufacturer Honda Motors and Scooters India (HMSI) will restrucutre its sub-regional sales and service network to penetrate into the smaller cities of India, said a senior official of the company.

                              HMSI expects its recent launch, the 110 cc bike 'Dream Yug' to cater to the customers in smaller cities, which will raise the share of motor cycles to close to 50% in its domestic sales. "India is a big country. The regions here are even bigger than countries like Indonesia.

                              To enable our customers get a better sales and service network, we will create about 20 zonal offices below the five regional offices," HMSI president, Keita Muramatsu told media persons in Ahmedabad during the inauguration of first zonal office at Ahmedabad.

                              Bhopal and Chennai will be the next to have zonal offices. HMSI has regional offices at Pune, Manesar, Bengaluru, Kolkata and Lucknow. All the zonal centres will house a training centre to upgrade the skills of technicians of it dealers.

                              The company plans to increase its sales and service network from about 1,500 now to close to 2,000 by the end of the current fiscal. Its upcoming facility at Narsapur in Kolar district, near Bengaluru is expected to start functioning in 2013, raising company's installed capacity to 40 lakh units per annum.

                              HMSI started its India operations about a decade ago and has invested Rs 3,500 crore cumulatively. It plans to invest additional Rs 1,500 crore in the Karnataka facility as well as its existing facilities at Manesar. HMSI is banking on recently launched Dream Yug to reach out customers in smaller cities and in rural areas.

                              It will also help its bike sales to match up to the scooters sales. The company expects sales of 27 lakh units in the current fiscal, of which about 14 lakh will be scooters. It sold 21 lakh vehicles in the previous fiscal of which 12.5 lakh were scooters.

                              Honda Activa is its flagship brand with sales of about 10 lakh units in FY 2011. The sales of Activa is likely to rise to 11 lakh in FY 2012. The two wheeler maker is also redesigning and re-engineering the auto parts to compensate for the increase in the raw material price.

                              ====================================

                              http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx...bCategoryId=72

                              Honda's 1'M Blue eco-safe driving campaign takes off


                              MANILA, Philippines - “Lubak ka ba? Patalon-talon kasi ang puso ko pag kasama ka, eh,” said Asec. Dante Lantin of the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) in his candid opening statement at the 1’M Blue Eco Safe Driving Campaign launch, held at the Ayala Museum last Monday, July 30.

                              It was a rather fun way to break the ice and capture the full attention of his audience during an otherwise serious forum involving a series of discussions about the state of the country when it comes to the subject of Climate Change, and a multi-sectoral movement that is being proposed to be part of the solution.

                              This Eco-Safe Driving Movement, read as the catchphrase “I’m Blue” is basically a drive to train 1 million Filipino drivers in eco-safe driving. The movement echoes Honda’s long-established environmental battle cry Blue Skies for our Children! Hence, the project moniker: 1’M Blue.

                              “Blue Skies for our children is the driving force in all of Honda’s environmental efforts since the 1970’s,” said Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) President and General Manager Tatsuya Natsume during his opening message at the event. “It represents Honda’s commitment to realize the joy and freedom of mobility, and a sustainable society where people can enjoy life,” he continued.

                              Back in 2010, the Honda Foundation already embarked on an Eco-Safe Driving and Clean Fleet Management Program, implemented through partnerships with the Philippine Business for the Environment (PBE), Clean Air Initiative for Asian Cities (CAI-Asia), and the Department of Energy (DOE). The program focused on eco-safe driving lessons that were derived from the Clean Fleet Management Toolkit developed by the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP). It provided both classroom and hands-on training to more than 400 administrative and fleet personnel from 43 government agencies, and to over 200 individuals from private companies.

                              However, Bonar Laureto, Executive Director of the PBE, explained that “If we continue using the old model (of doing seminars with small groups), it will take us 15 years to reach a million drivers! We have got to change gears! This is how 1’M Blue was born.”
                              Sec. Mary Ann Lucille Sering - Climate Change Commission, Vice-Chair (Program Convenor)

                              “Our team has now gone bigger and better with 12 organizations from the private sector, government, civil society and media who are now convenors of the 1’M Blue eco-safe driving program,” revealed HCPI’s Natsume. New partners are the Climate Change Commission, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC), the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), PAC Fleet Solutions, Honda Safety Driving Center, and GMA Network.

                              The 1’M Blue campaign is comprised of 4 main components: a video component that will consist of 13 30-second instructional videos demonstrating eco-safe driving techniques that will be shown in LTO offices, partner cinemas, and aired on TV via GMA; a social networking component that will consist of instructional videos and articles explaining eco-safe driving techniques and the concept of climate change, to the online community; driver-training seminars from PAC Fleet Solutions and the Honda Safety Driving Center, where professional 1’M Blue instructors will conduct both public and private eco-safe driving seminars all over the country; and Clean Fleet management, where 1’M Blue can assist companies improve their fleets’ overall fuel-efficiency.

                              Furthermore, all the speakers at the 1’M launch event were extremely inspiring, as they pointed out three main motivations for the public to go green (or should we say blue?): to address climate change; to improve respiratory health via cleaner air; and most popularly, to help the pocket, via reduced fuel expenses.

                              There is so much to say about climate change and its ill effects on our country, health and economics, that this space would certainly not suffice. Instead, we leave you with a few practical points to ponder on: Did you know that for every liter of gas consumed, 2.4 kgs of CO2 (carbon dioxide) is released into the atmosphere? And that every liter of diesel yields 2.6 kgs? So a typical car that travels 25 kms a day (averaging at 9 km/L) would have released one metric ton of CO2 over a period of just five months!

                              “I am sincerely proud of Honda’s legacy in blue skies for our children, but I also want to tell you that we need you to be on board,” persuaded Natsume. “We need you to help us spread the word about eco-safe driving,” he said with much heart.

                              For more information, contact the 1’M Blue Secretariat at inbox@thepbe.org or (02)635-3670.

                              =====================================

                              http://www.industryweek.com/strategi...ations-indiana

                              Honda Supplier Expands Operations in Indiana
                              Company will invest $21.78 million to expand its facility including purchase new manufacturing machinery and information technology equipment.


                              Indiana Marujun, LLC, a Tier 1 Honda automobile parts supplier, announced on August 6 plans today to expand its operations here, creating up to 50 new jobs by 2015.

                              Marujun, a subsidiary of Japan-based Marujun Company, LTD, will invest $21.78 million to expand its 127,000 square-foot facility. As part of the project, the company will purchase new manufacturing machinery and information technology equipment.

                              “This is yet another example of the jobs created as a result of Honda locating in Indiana,” said Governor Mitch Daniels. “With the string of recent automotive announcements, it is no secret that Indiana continues to be a place where motor vehicle companies find the resources they need to drive to success.”

                              The company currently employs 534 full-time employees in Indiana

                              Founded in 1999 as an Isuzu supplier, the company manufactures service parts and body parts for Honda, such as CRV and Civic body parts. The company ships to Honda plants across North America, including Honda’s Greensburg, Ind. facility.

                              ==============================
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                              • http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/news/j...145119114.html

                                JAS positive about WTCC Honda project
                                JAS Motorsport team principal Alessandro Mariani is positive at the prospect of working closely with engine supplier Honda in the World Touring Car Championship.



                                A number of Japanese engineers and technicians attended the test in Vallelunga. This marked a turning point in the working relationship between JAS Motorsport and Honda.

                                Yes, indeed. In previous years our role was to run racing cars which were not developed by ourselves in the Super Touring years. When we entered WTCC in 2005 with a JAS-developed Accord, it was with our own funding, as a private team. This is the first time we have been involved in a factory programme from inception. Honda designed and built a bespoke racing engine, and we are working side-by-side with the Japanese engineers at all stages. We share the same enthusiasm and I am so happy that we could establish such a good atmosphere between the two crews.

                                Does this mean that the team must adjust to the Japanese working methods?

                                We are all part of the same team: Honda Racing Team JAS. Everybody has his own role. Honda takes care of the engine and JAS of the chassis. These are two newborn babies and we have to work side-by-side to let them grow up together. The engine was our priority for the first test and so the Japanese took the lead in Vallelunga. We all like to plan the work to be done during a test, but at this stage, with so many new things, planning is nearly impossible.

                                How will your testing programme develop before the car’s first race at Suzuka?

                                We will test twice in Europe before shipping the car to Japan, where we will have one final test before Suzuka.

                                What are your goals for the final three WTCC events of the current season?

                                We all like to aim for victory! Then anything may happen - this is the right spirit when you take part in competitions. However, we must take into account that we have a brand new car, that we will start racing after only four test sessions and that the championship is very competitive. We have two great drivers, I know we have built a very advanced car and Honda’s reputation in engine expertise is second to none. We have all the right ingredients, we just need to be patient and take the time to mix them in the best way. We decided to take part in Suzuka, Shanghai and Macau to develop the car on the track. Although Honda is not putting any pressure on, we would like to achieve some good results - but our true goal is winning the first race in 2013.

                                ========================================

                                http://www.hispanicbusiness.com/2012...ll_produce.htm

                                Honda Reveals 2013 Accord, Will Produce Next-generation Civic in US



                                The next generation of the Honda Civic sedan and coupe for sale in the U.S. will be developed in North America, said Erik Berkman, president of Honda R&D Americas.

                                The decision was made by global top management last month, Berkman said at the Center for Automotive Research Management Briefing Seminars here.

                                The next generation is expected around 2016. It will have multiple body styles -- a 5-door hatchback is under consideration for North America -- as well as many different powertrains. It will be built in 14 different plants and sold in 160 countries although 55 percent of global sales currently are in Canada and the U.S., Berkman said.

                                The current Civic debuted last year to mixed reviews.

                                "We will continue to refine the current model this fall," Berkman said. "It's the right thing to do."

                                "They are fairly substantial styling changes," Berkman said in an interview, "most notably in the interior but also some sheet metal. It's been 'sportified' a bit more but is still sophisticated."

                                Lessons learned have been applied to the all-new 2013 Accord that goes on sale this fall. Pricing has not been released for Honda's highest-volume vehicle. The current model starts at $22,270, including delivery charges.

                                The Accord plan was done and being executed when criticism of the Civic came out, prompting changes before the concept was shown in January at the North American International Auto Show.

                                Today Honda released teaser photos of the production versions of the new sedan and coupe.

                                The 9th-generation Accord goes on sale as Honda celebrates the 30th anniversary of U.S. manufacturing at the Marysville, Ohio, plant that will have been building the Accord for three decades in November.

                                But Berkman said Honda did not plan the timing, nor are there anniversary editions in the works.

                                The Accord competes in the largest and most hotly contested segment with strong entries including the new Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Malibu, Nissan Altima and the Hyundai Sonata as well as the perennially strong Toyota Camry.

                                Jim Lentz, chief executive of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., would not say if the Camry can maintain past volumes of 400,000 sales annually but he said he welcomes competition in the segment that accounts for 1.8 million sales.

                                So far this year, Honda has sold more than 183,800 Accords in the U.S. -- up almost 28 percent. The segment was up 36 percent in July.

                                At this year's Detroit auto show, Honda announced that North America would lead global development of the NSX supercar that will be built in the U.S. in a dedicated facility.

                                More than 20 new models have been developed in North America over the years, including global leadership for the Honda Odyssey, Ridgeline and Pilot and the Acura MDX, Berkman said.

                                Honda makes 85 percent of the vehicles it sells here in North America, Berkman said, and about 30% of the North American lineup was developed here.

                                Eventually virtually all Honda products sold here will be built here, he said.

                                "Products imported from Japan are 100% yen-based which is not helpful to the bottom line."


                                Source: (c)2012 the Detroit Free Press. Distributed by MCT Information Services

                                ====================================

                                http://rumors.automobilemag.com/repo...de-161853.html

                                Report: Honda Planning Fit-Based Crossover, Should It Be Sent Stateside?

                                If you feel that the Honda CR-V has outgrown your needs, Honda may have a new car for you. A new report is stating that the Japanese automaker is working on a crossover based on the subcompact Fit hatchback.

                                A Fit-based SUV wouldn’t be Honda’s first foray into the realm of tiny crossovers. From 1999 to 2006, the automaker sold the HR-V in Asian and European markets, which was based on the Logo supermini. The HR-V was replaced in 2008 by the boxy Crossroad that was roughly the same size as the now-dead Element, but was available with a third row of seats.

                                Expect to see an all-new Fit hatchback around the 2014 model year, which means that the crossover that Autocar is reporting could follow shortly thereafter. The British publication is also saying that Honda is expecting the baby SUV to sell some 400,000 units globally per year, with its biggest markets being the U.S. and Europe. Autocar also reports that Honda is planning on letting each market customize their Fits more than the current one-size-fits-all Japanese-market car and is expecting both the next Fit and the small crossover to be built locally in each region. That’s possible now more than ever, since the next-generation, North American-market Fit will be built “locally” in a new plant in Mexico.

                                Right now, no automakers offer a crossover below their compact/ C-segment-sized offerings in the U.S.; however, Buick will be rolling out the subcompact Encore next year that is based on the same platform as the Chevrolet Sonic that competes with the Fit. Ford also already sells the Fiesta-based EcoSport SUV in South America and China and sold the Fusion crossover (based on the last-generation Fiesta) in Europe.

                                With the CR-V having grown since its first generation in 1999, do you think there’s room for a subcompact crossover below it in Honda’s lineup? Could it counter something equally small, like Buick’s Encore, here in the U.S.? Let us know in the comments below.

                                Source: Autocar

                                ==================================

                                http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/...w/15443155.cms

                                Honda Siel buys out Usha International Ltd from India JV

                                Shriram Group-promoted Usha International Ltd (UIL) said in a statement it had sold its 3.16% stake, or 1.8 crore shares, in Honda Siel Cars India to the Japanese automaker.
                                Shriram Group-promoted Usha International Ltd (UIL) said in a statement it had sold its 3.16% stake, or 1.8 crore shares, in Honda Siel Cars India to the Japanese automaker.

                                NEW DELHI: Japan's Honda Motor Co on Friday ended its 16-year-old joint venture in India by buying the entire stake of Usha International for 180 crore.
                                Shriram Group-promoted Usha International Ltd (UIL) said in a statement it had sold its 3.16% stake, or 1.8 crore shares, in Honda Siel Cars India to the Japanese automaker. The sale was sealed at 100 a share, inclusive of a non-compete fee, Usha said.

                                "Usha feels that it was inevitable that some day the parting would come, because automobiles are not really Usha's direct business," the company said, adding, "The proceeds from the stake sale would be applied to the normal development of Usha's business."

                                Following the sale, Usha International owner Siddharth Shriram will cease to be chairman and director of Honda Siel, which manufacturers the City, Brio, Jazz, Civic, Accord and CRV in India.

                                The sale, finalised two days ago, makes Honda the sole owner of the company. The automaker said the name of the firm would be changed soon.

                                In a separate statement, Honda Siel Cars said, "Based on mutual consent, UIL has sold its shares to partner Honda Motor." UIL had shown interest in divesting its stake, it added.

                                ============================

                                http://biz.thestar.com.my/news/story...5&sec=business

                                Honda’s investment lifts auto sector

                                WHO'S next? That is one question that set tongues wagging recently in the local automotive industry. Following Honda Malaysia Sdn Bhd's RM1bil plans to build a new production line and improve its infrastructure and dealers network, many are wondering whether there would be other takers to pursue the manufacturing of energy efficient vehicles (EEV) in Malaysia.

                                Spurred on by the major impact of the Thai floods, Honda Malaysia jumped the gun and plonked in its investment to manufacture hybrid vehicles even before the announcement of the reviewed National Automotive Policy (NAP).

                                While Honda Malaysia has made its mark as the first non-national automotive manufacturer to produce hybrid vehicles in the country, the attention is now on UMW Holdings Bhd, which manufactures and markets Toyota vehicles and Lexus vehicles via UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd.

                                UMW by far has the largest market share of the local industry with its 48.5% domination of the local passenger car market.

                                Beside its Toyota business, UMW is also the single largest shareholder of Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn Bhd, the leading volume seller in the country. UMW sold 67,635 vehicles combined for the first quarter, about half of the 138,500 total industry volume.

                                When contacted by StarBizWeek, UMW Toyota says it will continue to develop Toyota hybrid and technology in Malaysia and promote hybrid benefits and awareness to the public.

                                “We are very much committed to play an important role in offering green technology vehicles and quality products to our customers. Our principal in Japan is now looking at its long term global strategy plans and Malaysia is in it,” it says.

                                It adds that it fully supports the Government's initiative to make Malaysia an EEV hub in this region and support plans for hybrid local assembly.

                                Now, all eyes are on the revised NAP, which is touted to ensure that the local automotive industry achieve competitiveness, and to position Malaysia as the leader in the EEV segment by 2015.

                                EEVs encompass a wide scope of vehicles that would meet a set of defined specifications in terms of emission levels and energy usage including fuel-efficient vehicles, hybrid, electric vehicles and alternatively fuelled vehicles such as compressed natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas, biodiesel, ethanol, hydrogen and fuel cell.

                                However, industry sources are sceptical despite looking at the NAP with a mildly optimistic view, as the previous review of the NAP had failed to live up to what it had set out to do.

                                Reviewed in 2006 and 2009, the NAP had been widely scrutinised by industry observers and experts for not detailing guidelines and strategies of what it had initially set out to achieve, which is to turn Malaysia into a regional player, if not a global automotive hub.

                                “This is an opportunity for the Government to buck up. It is known that the local automotive industry needs the extra push from foreign stakeholders to take the industry further. Proton and Perodua just don't have the scale to compete with other global original equipment makers (OEMs),” says an industry observer.

                                He says beside the incentives to attract foreign players, the new NAP needs to define clearly what EEV cars are, if the country intends to move towards a EEV-centric producing country.

                                “The industry have been waiting eagerly for the NAP to set their direction, but it has not been forthcoming. What was initially thought to be revealed by mid-2012 have been delayed again,” he says.

                                Meanwhile, RHB Research analyst Alexander Chia says whether more global OEMs will be attracted to set up shop in Malaysia to manufacture EEVs will depend greatly on the incentives in NAP 2012.

                                “Structural issues are a limiting factor for the auto industry that the NAP needs to unwind. That includes high duty structures, high relative selling prices, non-tariff barriers, fuel subsidies and political considerations. Malaysia needs to identify and develop an industry niche to differentiate ourselves from other regional auto hubs like Thailand and Indonesia,” he says.

                                He says domestic demand will not be able to sustain the investment needed to begin local assembly of EEVs and export markets will need to come into the equation.

                                “For hybrids, the local market is still in the early stage of acceptance and education. The rollback of fuel subsidies leading to higher fuel prices could spur the takeup rate of EEV/hybrids as the payback period would be shortened. Obviously the duty exemption period will need to be extended beyond 2013 to maintain local demand,” he says.

                                According to him, there may be plans in the pipeline but few companies are willing to commit ahead of the actual details in the NAP 2012.

                                “The most obvious other candidates for local assembly of hybrids would be UMW Toyota. Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd or Nissan is unlikely to do so in the near future as they have no hybrid products, and the Leaf is a full electric vehicle plus there's no charging infrastructure. The Nissan A-segment competitor is still a few years away,” he says.
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