2008 Honda Inspire Modulo Concept pic's

http://www.autoblog.com/ has a nice article on the 2008 Honda Inspire Modulo Concept vehicle, here are a few snap shots with a link to more. The Honda Inspire is the North American Honda Accord, just sold in Japan.

Here's the link;

http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/28/tokyo-auto-salon-08-honda-inspire-modulo-concept/

Popular Mechanics; The Case for Diesel: Clean, Efficient, Fast Cars (Hybrids Beware!)

I stumbed across a good article via AutoblogGreen for 12.28.07 about "Hybrids, beware of diesels". I find this interesting since Honda has been really bringing the developement of 'clean diesel' engines to the forefront. Here's a link to a previous post of mine;
http://thehondaportal.blogspot.com/2007/09/clean-diesel-to-north-america-2010.html

Here are some highlights of the article;
-Most Americans have a bad impression of diesel cars. We think of them as loud, hard to start and foul-smelling. We sneer at them for lacking the get-up-and-go of their gasoline-powered cousins. And we dislike them for their perceived environmental sins, chiefly the polluting brew of sulfur and nitrogen compounds that they emit into the atmosphere. All those complaints were fair a generation ago.
-Today, diesel powertrains are on the map again, for both car manufacturers and efficiency-minded drivers. The technology could be here to stay, even if fuel prices (improbably) decline. The new cars run as well as their gasoline-powered competitors. And as for the emissions problems of the past—well, the dirty bird of fossil fuels isn’t so dirty anymore.
-The fuel contains more energy per unit volume than gasoline, and diesel engines operate at higher compression ratios than gasoline engines—typically 14:1 to 25:1, compared to 8:1 to 12:1. (The compression ratio is the relationship between the volume of the cylinder when the piston is at the bottom of its stroke and the volume when it’s at the top.) The higher the compression ratio, the more mechanical energy an engine can squeeze from its fuel/air mixture. So each time the mixture in a diesel engine’s cylinder ignites, the car gets a slightly bigger push than it would in a gasoline engine. That means it takes less fuel to move the car down the road. It also means that the engine generates a lot of power even when it isn’t cycling fast—and that’s the source of the beefy low-end torque these vehicles are famous for.
- A recent study by J.D. Power and Associates found that in 2007, 23 percent of U.S. car buyers were considering a clean diesel for their next purchase, up from 12 percent the year before.
-“This is going to be remembered as the decade when we transformed diesel.”

The Coming Diesel Invasion
AUDI A4 SEDAN
Engine: 3.0-liter V6 Target Release Date: 2008This 240-hp turbocharged direct-injected engine will also be available in the full-size Audi Q7 sport utility.
BMW 3 SERIES SEDAN
Engine: 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline Six Target Release Date: 2008BMW plans to release this 3.0-liter in 5 and 6 Series models in 2008 as well. It reportedly gets more than 35 mpg.
CADILLAC CTS SEDAN
Engine: 2.9-liter TDI V6 Target Release Date: 2009Look for clean diesel also in the Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia and GM light-duty pickups, around 2010.
FORD F-150 PICKUP
Engine: 4.4-liter V8 Target Release Date: 2009Derived from the Euro-spec 3.6-liter currently used in Land Rovers, which get around 31 mpg on the highway.
HONDA ACCORD SEDAN
Engine: 2.2-liter i-DTEC Target Release Date: 2009The British version gets 51.4 mpg in combined city/highway driving. The hybrid Civic gets 50 mpg.
SATURN AURA SEDAN
Engine: To be determined Target Release Date: 2010The Aura’s Euro twin, the Opel Vectra, gets more TDI options in ’09, which will transfer to the model coming here.

Here's a link to the full article, it's a good read;
http://www.popularmechanics.com/automotive/new_cars/4237945.html

2008 Detroit Auto Show Preview, Toyota's A-BAT Concept Compact Truck

Well, we're slowly starting to get some sneak peaks at what the Detroit Auto Show is going to showcase, and this one's from Toyota. I've never wondered if you married a Honda Element with a Honda Ridgeline before, but in case you have, I think this would be a pretty close rendition. Jokes aside, it's a pretty cool concept.

The uni-body pickup has a four-foot bed that can be extended two feet forward via a fold down mid-gate and another two feet back with the tailgate down. Even with its extended cab, the A-BAT still measures 27" shorter overall than a current extended cab Tacoma and even 9" less than a regular cab Tacoma. In typical Toyota fashion these days the A-BAT uses the Hybrid Synergy Drive with a four-cylinder gas engine. There's no mention of the engine size or drive layout, but the short hood points to a transverse layout driving the front wheels.

2009 Toyota Corolla Reviews Pouring In

Well, we're starting to get a clear picture of what Toyota is bringing to the table to compete with the Honda Civic, and it looks like it's going to be a nice car. Here is a review of the top of the line 2009 Toyota Corolla Sedan Automatic Transmission. I can't wait for this car to come out, it's just going to heat an already hot market up!

What Works:

Interior packaging and presentation; satellite navigation; enormous trunk with 60/40 split-fold rear seat; fuel economy.

What Needs Work:

Electric-assist power steering; tire noise; barely adequate headlamp illumination.

Bottom Line:

Toyota offers more standard equipment and unexpected amenities but little driving pleasure in its all-new Corolla world car.

EDMUNDS REVIEW
A Step Above Basic Transportation
By Chris Walton, Chief Road Test Editor

Here's the Link;

http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drives/FullTests/articleId=124046?tid=edmunds.il.home.photopanel..1.*

CAR & DRIVER PREVIEW

No quantum leap for the tenth generation of the best-selling car in history.
By Steve Siler

Here's the Link;

http://www.caranddriver.com/previews/14440/first-drive-2009-toyota-corolla.html

New Designated Honda Hybrid coming in just above the FIT for Pricing

Interesting read on www.egmcartech.com today;

“The real competition has just begun,” Honda CEO, Takeo Fukui said. “Until now, it has been an image-based competition, not a business-based competition.”

Fukui said that Honda will approach the hybrid-war by attacking the pricing. The hybrid-only model that is expected to hit the market in early 2009 where pricing is expected to be below the Honda Civic Hybrid and right above the Honda FIT.

Honda hopes to sell 200,000 units annually for its global hybrid, 100,000 of which are expected to come from North American sales.

Register a Miracle

I know this is completely unrelated to Honda News, however this is very near and dear to the hearts of everyone I work with. This is just to bring awareness to a challenge one of my co-workers, Cameron Kent and his family are going through at this time of year. It's really something like this that puts life into perspective, and we should all take time to be reflective of what we have. Our prayers go out to the Kent family. Here is the article;

REGISTER A MIRACLE
Girl needs bone marrow match
By LAURIE MUSTARD
The best gift any human being can ever give another, at any time of year, is the gift of life.
Madison, the beautiful young lady you see here, could use some help in that department. The great news is, someone walking around out there right now -- perhaps even here in the 'Peg -- is the person carrying Madison's cure.
Talking about a matching bone marrow donor. And once that person is found and the transplant's completed, Madison has an excellent chance of moving on from her daily battle with a life-threatening chronic illness to her dream of again being a regular young lady with a long and healthy future.
It's a gift I'm sure any one of us would be thrilled to give.
Madison's mom Stacy Kent describes her daughter's dilemma:
"Madison is a 10-year-old girl, who, a year ago, was diagnosed with aplastic anemia, a life-threatening illness where her bone marrow has shut down (likely due to an attacking antibody from a virus) and she is unable to produce sufficient white cells to fight infection, platelets to clot her blood and prevent bleeding, and hemoglobin to carry oxygen to maintain organ functions.
"She has had ongoing treatment at CancerCare Manitoba and last February received an in-hospital immunosuppressant treatment for 10 days in an attempt to restart her bone marrow. Some success was found in this initially but since September she has been supported with regular blood cell transfusions every two weeks as her counts did not maintain themselves.
"Many thanks to those who regularly donate to Canadian Blood Services; many people like Madison are given a better chance because of you.
"Madison is at the point in her treatment where a bone marrow transplant would be the best chance for her recovery. Frequent, ongoing transfusions over an extended period of time add to the difficulties of her treatment and eventual hopes for a transplant. This is supportive care, rather than a solution.
"We, her parents, are not a match for her bone marrow (HLA typing) so the only other option is to look to the Unrelated Donor Registry for a suitable match.
"Unfortunately, her HLA typing is not common and it may be tough to find -- there are currently 11 million people registered internationally and none may be a match. Time is definitely a factor. Our year-long search has had no positive results.
"We are calling upon the goodwill of others that we know is abundant among the generous population of Manitoba. We realize her match may be right next door!
"If you are a healthy individual who wants to make a difference in this little girl's life (or someone else's perhaps), please go to onematch.ca or call 1-888-2donate to register as a donor.
"They will contact you to give a blood sample at a location that is convenient for you.
"If you are asked to be a donor, the procedure involves exacting a portion of marrow that the body will naturally replace within six weeks. Usually the donor misses only a day or two of work for this type of procedure.
"Please consider giving this precious gift of life. Thank you, Stacy, Madison and Cam."
Such a small effort for such a potentially huge return. I'll be registering on behalf of Madison, and I hope, at a time of year when giving is everything, many of you will do the same.
We're hoping to give Madison a little Christmas miracle, folks. Please help.

Laurie Mustard can be reached by phone at 204-632-2749 or email at laurie.mustard@sunmedia.ca

Here is the original artical from the Winnipeg SUN;
http://winnipegsun.com/News/2007/12/22/4736800-sun.html

Mugen Tuning pkg for the Honda Accord/Inspire

The Honda Inspire is Japan's version of the North American Honda Accord. The famous Honda tuning firm, Mugen, which was formed by the son of Honda Motor Company founder, Soichiro Honda, present their tuning package for the upmarket targeted sedan. Consisting of the usual body kit components, front and rear bumper fascias, side skirts, grille and rear deck spoiler the Mugen Inspire also receives strut assemblies, brake rotors/calipers and stainless steel cat-back exhaust mid-pipe with dual mufflers. Looks nice.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from The Honda Portal

I know I am a little early on this, but I am not sure if I will have time to post this as I will be away on holidays, so, have yourselves a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Detroit Auto Show 2009 Honda Pilot Update

Well, I know this isn't saying much, but it's an update in the least;

"Of course, the RA isn’t the only hotly awaited debutante at Detroit. Also due is the Pilot small crossover from Honda which will see its next-gen avatar in Detroit. Like the new next generation CR-V launched at the Paris Motor Show in 2006, the new Pilot too will pack in a lot of design cues. Apart from improved safety, fuel efficiency and a clutch of new convenience features, the model will also pack in a complete overhaul of the interiors. Mainly targetted at the American market, the Pilot is manufactured by Honda at its Lincoln Alabama plant. Pilot sales have been more than perky this year. In November alone, production was up by nearly a quarter compared to the same month last year. However, net net Pilot production has come down because Honda decided to pull it off its other plant in Ontario."

Here's the link;

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/Auto/Debutantes_of_the_Detroit_Motor_Show/articleshow/2635658.cms

57mpg 20 yrs ago from Honda? Who knew....

Twenty years ago the car that got the best mileage in the nation was a real techno-wimp compared to what's on the road today. It wasn't even a hybrid. But it got better fuel economy than any car sold now - even the Toyota Prius.

Looking back at the 1987 Honda Civic CRX shows us why cars use so much more gas today and about the trade-offs we've had to make.

The CRX HF got an Environmental Protection Agency-estimated 57 mpg gallon in highway driving. Today, the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid Civic you can buy gets an EPA-estimated 34 mpg on the highway. Even today's Honda Civic Hybrid can't match it, achieving EPA-estimated highway mileage of just 45 mpg. The Toyota Prius, today's fuel mileage champ, gets 46 mpg on the highway.

One answer for the mileage drop is that the rating system has changed. Beginning with the 2008 model year, the EPA began using a more rigorous fuel economy test that means lower numbers for most cars. But that's only a small part of the answer.

The bigger answer is that the Honda Civic has changed a lot in twenty years. Honda no longer sells a tiny two-seat version like the CRX. Even Civics with back seats are much bigger and heavier today than similar versions were in 1987. It's in the nature of the car business that companies want to offer more - more legroom, more trunk space - with each redesign. As a result, cars get bigger and bigger. Besides size, American consumers expect a lot more convenience out of a car than they did in 1985. Today, we expect power steering, power brakes, power windows and more.

The base CRX HF did not have power steering or power brakes. (As light as it was, it really didn't need them.) Air conditioning was optional, as it was on most cars in those days, so it didn't figure into the EPA's fuel economy ratings. Today's consumers also expect safety. In the 1980s, car companies would sell cars that got one-star or two-star crash test ratings. Numbers like that would now cause car companies fits. Four out of five stars is considered the minimum acceptable rating.

Here's the rest of the article;
http://money.cnn.com/2007/12/17/autos/honda_civic_hf/?postversion=2007121911

New Hybrid Announced for Honda

Honda will launch a long-awaited, hybrid-only model in 2009. Honda plans on producing 200,000 of the new hybrids per year from the company's Suzuka plant in western Japan and will sell them initially in North America, Europe and Japan. They'll be equipped with a new lightweight motor which will assist the gasoline engine and be offered at a "more affordable price level" than currently available hybrids such as Honda's own Civic and Toyota's Prius.

That's just the beginning. Fukui also said that Honda is planning to launch its first-ever hybrid sports car, based on the CR-Z concept car that Honda first unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show in October. "The real full-scale hybrid competition will start from now," Fukui told reporters. He added that by 2010 around 10% of Honda's sales would come from hybrids

Further into the future, the company continues to look to fuel cell technology. Next summer the company will also begin leasing a small number of it's FCX Clarity hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles in Southern California. For $600 a month, customers will be able to drive the emission-free vehicle, which has a range of 270 miles.

Here's a link to the full article;

http://www.businessweek.com/globalbiz/content/dec2007/gb20071219_577749.htm?chan=top+news_top+news+index_businessweek+exclusives

Mobile Magazine gets Confirmation that North America gets a New NSX for 2010

While certain Japanese fans are still drooling over the Nissan GT-R, Honda is about to steal some of that supercar thunder back. Honda has just officially confirmed that they are working on a new version of the NSX supercar and it will make its debut sometime in 2010.

Here's a link to the full article by Michael Kwan
http://www.mobilemag.com/content/100/354/C14113/

How the -VTEC with 3-stage Advanced Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM™) Works

The 3.5-liter SOHC i-VTEC V-6 engine available in the Accord Sedan is the largest and most powerful engine ever offered in a Honda passenger car. It builds on technologies that have been developed and refined on previous Honda power-plants. With its 60-degree V-angle, the Accord’s V-6 engine is inherently very smooth and has compact overall dimensions that allow efficient packaging within the vehicle. The V-6 with automatic transmission incorporates cutting edge i-VTEC technology that boosts fuel efficiency using Advanced Variable Cylinder Management (VCM).

VCM Operation
To help improve the fuel efficiency of the V-6 engine available with the 5-speed automatic transmission, the latest generation of Honda’s VCM is used. This is the first application of VCM on a non-hybrid Accord model. Unlike previous VCM systems that switched between three- and six-cylinder operation, the Accord’s system can operate on three, four or all six cylinders.

During start-up, acceleration or when climbing hills – any time high power output is required – the engine operates on all six cylinders. During moderate speed cruising and at low engine loads, the system operates just one bank of three cylinders. For moderate acceleration, higher-speed cruising and mild hills, the engine operates on four cylinders.

With three operating modes, the VCM system can finely tailor the working displacement of the engine to match the driving requirements from moment to moment. Since the system automatically closes both the intake and exhaust valves of the cylinders that are not used, pumping losses associated with intake and exhaust are eliminated and fuel economy gets a further boost. The VCM system combines maximum performance and maximum fuel economy – two characteristics that don’t typically coexist in conventional engines.

VCM deactivates specific cylinders by using the VTEC (Variable Valve-Timing and Lift Electronic Control) system to close the intake and exhaust valves while the Powertrain Control Module simultaneously cuts fuel to those cylinders. When operating on three cylinders, the rear cylinder bank is shut down. When running on four cylinders, the left and center cylinders of the front bank operate, and the right and center cylinders of the rear bank operate.

The spark plugs continue to fire in inactive cylinders to minimize plug temperature loss and prevent fouling induced from incomplete combustion during cylinder re-activation. The system is electronically controlled, and uses special integrated spool valves that do double duty as rocker-shaft holders in the cylinder heads. Based on commands from the system’s electronic control unit, the spool valves selectively direct oil pressure to the rocker arms for specific cylinders. This oil pressure in turn drives synchronizing pistons that connect and disconnect the rocker arms.

The VCM system monitors throttle position, vehicle speed, engine speed, automatic-transmission gear selection and other factors to determine the correct cylinder activation scheme for the operating conditions. In addition, the system determines whether engine oil pressure is suitable for VCM switching and whether catalytic-converter temperature will remain in the proper range. To smooth the transition between activating or deactivating cylinders, the system adjusts ignition timing, drive-by-wire throttle position and turns the torque converter lock-up on and off. As a result, the transition between three-, four-, and six-cylinder operation is unnoticeable to the driver.

2009 Honda Pilot Rendering 'Panoramic Roof' could be a Reality

2009 Honda Pilot Rendering w/panoramic roof.
UK Honda CRV w/Panaoramic roof.

I stumbed across something that I didn't know in one of the forums at http://www.hondapilot.org/ . The CRV is available in the UK with a panoramic roof. So, this leaves me to believe that this has a shot at being a reality. Although here in North America I can't see it being on the Honda and not the Acura. Again, food for thought.

Honda on the Cover of the latest Japanese Magazine X

Stumbled across this a little while age, didn't think it was too news-worthy, but had a second thought. Now, even though it has a "H" logo on the car, let's not forget that the Acura lineup in Japan is badged under Honda. So, this could be the new RL for all we know. However there has been speculation that this could be the face of the new 2009 Honda Pilot. It does have a front grill of a Honda truck, but then again the new 2008 Honda Accord is very similar. In Japan, the new North American Accord will be called the Honda Inspire. The lights are completely different though. Who knows.

Honda Cleans up in the U.S. News and World Report 2008 Car and Truck Ratings

Just click on the car to get the full review.

CARS
Small Cars
Best Affordable Small Cars
#1 2008 Honda Fit
#2 2008 Honda Civic
#3 2008 Honda Civic Hybrid
See Full List

Best Upscale Small Cars
#1 2008 Volkswagen GTI
#2 2008 Audi A3
#3 2008 Acura TSX
See Full List

Midsize Cars
Best Affordable Midsize Cars
#1 2008 Honda Accord
#2 2008 Honda Accord Coupe
#3 2008 Toyota Camry
See Full List

Best Upscale Midsize Cars
#1 2008 BMW 3-Series
#2 2008 Infiniti G37 Coupe
#2 2008 Lexus ES
See Full List

Large Cars
Best Affordable Large Cars
#1 2008 Toyota Avalon
#2 2008 Chrysler 300 Series
#3 2007 Hyundai Azera
See Full List

Best Luxury Large Cars
#1 2008 BMW 5-Series
#2 2008 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
#3 2008 Cadillac DTS
See Full List

Sports Cars
Best Affordable Sports Cars
#1 2008 Honda S2000
#1 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
#1 2008 Mazda Speed3
See Full List

Hybrid Cars
Best Hybrid Cars
#1 2008 Toyota Camry Hybrid
#2 2008 Honda Civic Hybrid
#3 2008 Toyota Prius
See Full List

SUV'S
Compact SUVs
Best Affordable Compact SUVs
#1 2008 Honda CR-V
#2 2008 Toyota RAV4
#3 2008 Honda Element
See Full List

Best Luxury Compact SUVs
#1 2008 Acura RDX
#2 2008 BMW X3
#3 2008 Land Rover LR2
See Full List

Midsize SUVs
Best Affordable Midsize SUVs
#1 2008 Honda Pilot
#2 2007 Nissan Murano
#3 2008 Buick Enclave
See Full List

Best Luxury Midsize SUVs
#1 2008 Lexus RX 350
#2 2008 Infiniti FX
#3 2008 Acura MDX
See Full List

VANS
#1 2008 Honda Odyssey
#2 2008 Toyota Sienna
#3 2008 Chrysler Town & Country
Full List: http://usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/cars-trucks/rankings/Minivans/

TRUCKS
Best Sport Utility Trucks
#1 2008 Honda Ridgeline
#2 2008 Cadillac Escalade EXT
#2 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche
See Full List

Here's a link to the whole review;
http://usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/cars-trucks/

The New Knight Rider

Here is the official Shelby Knight Rider Car

Here's what could of been....

I couldn't resist, here is a pic of the new KnightRider. I know this may be old news to some of you, but apparently NBC is moving forward with a new KnightRider TV show. Anyway, I personally think it is sacrilege for this car not to be a TransAM.

The Original.

How Close will the 2009 Honda Pilot Rendering be to the Production Model?

Here is a shot of the rendered MDXHere is a shot of the production MDX

As most of you know already, there has been a 2009 Honda Pilot rendition released that is creating some buzz in the industry. Alot of people are wondering how accurate this rendition will be to the actual production model. One can only guess, however as some of you will remember a similar picture was released from Acura on the highly anticipated MDX redesign, and it was pretty close to the actual production model. So, anyway, food for thought.

Honda Element WINS First-ever DogCar of the Year Award

Here's one for all you dog lovers out there (me included). A website http://dogcars.com/ has rated the 2007 Honda Element as 'Best Overall' for being pet friendly. Here's what they had to say;

Best Overall: 2007 Honda Element

Love or hate the look, no matter: The Element is as good a DogCar as could possibly be imagined. From its versatile interior to its anti-noseprint windows, everything about the Honda Element has dog-lovers howling with happiness. The easy-to-clean Element is a near-perfect DogCar with just the right canine chemistry.
Available in three trim lines: the rugged LX, refined EX and the sporty SC — all of which features an inline four cylinder engine that produces 166 horsepower. Easy on the fuel-sipping, too!

Here's a link to the whole article if you're interested;

http://dogcars.com/blog/?page_id=33

2009 Honda Pilot Rendering and Official Honda Press Release

Well, we didn't have to wait long for a little more information on the upcoming Honda Pilot. Here is what the official Honda Press release had to say;

12/12/2007 - TORRANCE, Calif. -
A prototype of the next-generation Honda Pilot will be unveiled at the January 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today.
The prototype will convey design features of the more boldly-styled, next-generation Pilot and will emphasize authentic SUV styling, clever interior packaging and advanced technologies for safety, fuel efficiency and convenience.
The current-generation Pilot offers versatile eight-passenger seating and all-weather, medium-duty off-road capabilities while earning a distinctive reputation in the midsize SUV class for its refined handling and ride comfort. Among its numerous accolades, the Honda Pilot has earned Car and Driver magazine's prestigious "5Best Truck" award for six straight years (2002 thru 2007).
Additional Honda vehicles to be on display at NAIAS include the FCX Clarity hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, introduced at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show, and the CR-Z concept vehicle, introduced at the 40th Tokyo Motor Show. Limited retail marketing of the FCX Clarity will begin in summer 2008. The CR-Z is a next-generation lightweight sports car concept equipped with Honda's original gas-electric hybrid system.

Here's the link;
http://www.hondanews.com/categories/804/releases/4384

Here's another link to a previous post on what to expect on the 2009 Honda Pilot;
http://thehondaportal.blogspot.com/2007/10/2009-honda-pilot-what-to-expect.html

2008 Detroit Auto Show,

This is the Cobo Centre where the show is being held.
Here's a link to the official site.
http://www.naias.com/Default.aspx

The 2008 North American International Auto Show, the Detroit Auto show, is drawing near. This is going to be a big show for Honda, as everyone is expecting to see the 2009 Honda Pilot Concept vehicle. Expect the Honda Pilot Concept vehicle to be a sharp indication of what the new production model will look like.

The show runs through Saturday, January 19, 2008 to Sunday, January 27, 2008, and already some of the show's concept vehicles have been 'leaked'! A-la Landrover LXR Concept, follow the link to see that one.

http://jalopnik.com/photogallery/DetroitLandRoverConcept/2588825

So, don't be surprised to find a few pic's leaked before the date. Stay tuned.

Comparison Test: 2007-2008 V6 Family Sedans; 2008 Honda Accord VS 2008 Chevy Malibu VS 2007 Toyota Camry VS 2007 Nissan Altima

Edmunds Engineering Editor Jason Kavanagh did a nice write up comparing the 2008 Honda Accord EX-L V6 Sedan, 2007 Nissan Altima 3.5 SE Sedan, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu LTZ V6 Sedan, and the 2007 Toyota Camry XLE V6 sedan.

Each of the four entrants chosen for their comparison test represents the highest available trim level, and each is also packed with nearly every available option and an overachieving V6 power plant driving the front wheels. Heck, the least powerful engine in this test churns out 252 horsepower, a figure that was unheard of in the mainstream sedan world not long ago.

Here's the results;

1st Place: 2008 Honda Accord EX-L V6 Sedan

The 2008 Accord isn't the cheapest, fastest or most feature-laden car in our comparison. But if you're familiar with the Goldilocks effect, you already know how the Accord came to finish in 1st place.The Accord is a full 2.4 inches wider than the Malibu and devotes all of this to interior space, and the result is a notable impression of spaciousness combined with excellent visibility. Rear seat passengers are likewise treated very well, with ample thigh support and space easily sufficient for 6-footers during long road trips. There are also more useful storage bins and little nooks than in the other cars in this comparison.The quality of the materials is best in class. And since there are few of the usual chrome-plated bits masquerading as style items, the number of distracting reflections is kept to an absolute minimum. One area of the interior that could use some more work is the busy collection of buttons on the Accord's center stack. They're large and clearly labeled, but there are just too many of them lined up like bathroom tiles. On the other hand, the interface for the Accord EX-L's navigation system is the most intuitive to use by far, and there's thankfully no touchscreen to accumulate smeared fingerprints.Though it has a large cabin, the Accord doesn't drive like a large car. Its steering manages to be quick and communicative right around center, and this helps make the driving experience feel natural and intuitive. As it goes down the road, the Accord responds to surface imperfections with crisp suspension action that has just enough compliance to minimize complaints from the passengers, yet keep the driver in touch with reality. At the same time, we'll acknowledge that the Accord does feel a little too busy over some pocks and bumps, so the Honda engineers still have something to fuss over.Acceleration from the Accord's mannerly 3.5-liter SOHC V6 trails the pack on paper, since midrange grunt is not this engine's strong suit. Nevertheless, the Accord manages to squirt through the urban jungle with respectable speed thanks in large part to its cooperative five-speed transmission. Though the competition has adopted six-speed transmissions, Honda's five-speed manages to overcome its disadvantage with smart calibration and quick shift action. You won't miss the extra gear while climbing hills, since the transmission's excellent grade logic makes for frustration-free ascents.This V6 also incorporates cylinder deactivation, a system that promises to improve fuel economy, and it's easier to feel the transition between the system's modes than we'd hoped. Nevertheless, the Accord's EPA fuel economy estimates of 19 city/29 highway are the best in this group (once the 2007 models are adjusted to the 2008 EPA standards), and we're curious to see if the expected gains will materialize during our extended test of this long-term car. So far we've seen an average of 22.8 mpg over 2,200 miles, just slightly better than the 21.2 mpg over 18,575 miles recorded by our long-term Altima.Chart-topping evaluation scores and strong feature content at the second-lowest price in our test give the Accord the edge. And this reflects the wave of progress in this class of family sedans. Though these cars are not Camry-like in detail, they share the Camry's overall spirit of well-equipped quality, a measure of luxury in the family sedan world. The Chevrolet Malibu, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry have now left behind any overtones of down-size cheapness and embraced a new spirit of full-size sophistication.

2nd Place: 2007 Nissan Altima 3.5 SE Sedan

Of all the sedans tested here, the Nissan Altima is the most sporting of the bunch. Not just because it blasts past the competition with a 67.3-mph pass through the slalom, but also because it feels just right through the controls. Thanks to the weight of the steering effort and character of the response, the action and feel of the brake pedal, and the suspension's firm control of body motion, the Altima speaks more clearly to enthusiasts than any other car here.At the same time, you don't have to be a car nut to appreciate the benefits of a communicative driving experience. The more attuned a driver is to a vehicle, the more confidence he will have behind the wheel. And as far as we're concerned, safety begins with confidence.Stiff tire sidewalls and firm damping contribute to the Nissan's precise character on the road, but they also produce a choppy ride, and this is the downside to the Altima's sporty bent. In addition, this is the only car in our test that recommends the use of premium fuel — the others drink regular, which can add up to real savings in the long run.Nissan's 270-hp 3.5-liter V6 has received accolades for years, and it remains a terrific all-around performer. The big surprise this time is that the Altima's continuously variable transmission (CVT) reaps the highest scores of any gearbox in our test.This CVT behaves as if it's been hard-wired into the mind of the driver, as its ability to know when to let 'er rip and when to dial things back is completely uncanny. The CVT also helps lend the Altima a far more eager disposition than the quicker-by-the-clock Malibu. And we love the CVT's refined yet super-quick manual-mode shift program.Broad, flat front seats are a glaring flaw in the Altima's driver-oriented mission, as they don't provide the support that's necessary. Backseat passengers fare better, though headroom is lacking. The surroundings in either situation are of high quality, if on the austere side.If you want features, the Altima is the car for you. Armed with a back-up camera, dual-zone HVAC, a keyless ignition system, DVD-based navigation, sunroof and Bluetooth, our Altima is the most comprehensively equipped sedan here.You pay for all this, though. At $32,545 as-tested, the Altima is the most expensive car of the bunch, a factor that takes a toll on the car's final placement in this comparison. And be aware that the Altima's options are clustered into expensive packages rather than being available à la carte.

3rd Place: 2008 Chevrolet Malibu LTZ

The 2008 Malibu has literally entered the big time. Riding on a longer wheelbase and weighing more than any of its rivals, the 2008 Malibu has stepped up both its size and its game. As if to underscore its arrival, the big Chevy's presence is graced with distinctively elegant styling.At the same time, there are practical compromises forced by the Malibu's style. The small greenhouse and thick C-pillars noticeably compromise outward visibility and impart a less spacious feel to the cabin. Meanwhile, the high-bustle tail has the highest trunk liftover height in our test. On the plus side, the Malibu's deck lid has scissor-type hinges that don't intrude on trunk space at all, unlike the gooseneck hinges on the other cars.Though our opinions about the interior color scheme of this Malibu LTZ were sharply divided, we all agree that the interior itself simultaneously impresses and frustrates. The Malibu's dashboard is impeccably fitted, yet the black plastic pieces look cheap. And if you're looking for dual-zone HVAC, Bluetooth compatibility, and keyless ignition, you won't find them in the Malibu, as this car's cost-conscious character means they can't even be found on the options list. However, OnStar is standard on the Malibu, a feature no other car in this comparison offers.Freeway cruises are a treat in the Malibu, as it's extremely quiet and quells wind noise better than any other car in our test. The front seats were universally lauded as the best in this bunch thanks to a first-rate combination of both comfort and support. By contrast, the rear seat offers the least amount of useful space and the fewest frills of all the cars here. Rear headroom is snug, the seat cushions are flat and there's no flip-down center armrest. (The Malibu is the only car here without one.)On the dynamic front, the Malibu's steering lacks feel, yet the effort loads up nicely in a corner and matches the well-controlled body motions. In fact, the Malibu sports the best compromise between ride and handling in our test, admirably dispensing with road harshness while still maintaining composure on winding bits of pavement. Moreover, the Malibu's brakes have plenty of stopping power, and this car turns in the shortest stopping distance from 60 mph.The Malibu ties the Camry in the sprint to 60 mph and posts the second-quickest quarter-mile time thanks to the solid traction available when it's launched hard. The Chevy's trap speed in the quarter-mile reflects a power deficit in this comparison, yet 252 hp and 251 pound-feet of torque from the 3.6-liter DOHC V6 ensure the Malibu never feels lacking for oomph when the throttle pedal meets the carpet.The Malibu's six-speed automatic transmission garners some black marks from us due to its lazy part-throttle calibration, which dulls the engine's potency. Top gear is summoned at every opportunity, and the gearbox doggedly refuses to downshift in a timely fashion. This is clearly a measure to enhance fuel economy, yet it also gives the car a sluggish disposition around town despite the V6's respectably broad power band.With a $27,245 as-tested price that undercuts its competition, the Malibu has a head start in our test scoring, but a relative lack of equipment and indifferent evaluation scores ultimately place it midpack. These shortcomings aside, the Malibu is a stylish, impressive car that commands attention and also deserves it.

4th Place: 2007 Toyota Camry XLE V6 Sedan

Kapow! The Camry, the clear winner of our last comparison test for V6 sedans, has been blown off by its newly refurbished rivals. Though it finishes in last place, the Camry remains well-equipped and powerful, but it's simply been leapfrogged by a new generation of competitors, largely because of driving dynamics.And we're not just referring to driving on the ragged edge like some hooligan either. Even in routine driving, the Camry's soft ride and deliberate chassis responses make it feel poorly controlled, as if it's wallowing down the road. Similarly, the Camry's steering is reasonably precise, yet it feels almost completely numb. The result is a limp driving character that seems even more pronounced in contrast to the far more engaging personalities of its rivals. The Malibu in particular demonstrates that body control and a compliant ride are not mutually exclusive.Then you floor the throttle and the Camry aims to erase these impressions, flinging itself to the quarter-mile mark in 14.9 seconds at 96.4 mph, quicker and faster than any other car in this test. Its 268-hp V6 and six-speed automatic combine to deliver a sweet powertrain, with plenty of power everywhere in the rev range and a willingness to flex its muscles even during routine driving. Several times we found ourselves remarking that the Camry's chassis is almost comically overshadowed by the refined performance of this V6.Front headroom is tight for anyone taller than 6 feet, but the Camry XLE's backseat accommodations are pretty luxurious. There is plenty of space, plus contoured seats that recline, a feature not found in any of the other sedans. Unfortunately, this design forces the deletion of the 60/40-split-folding function, and there's just a small pass-through into the trunk. Lesser trim levels of the Camry offer a split-folding seat, so you can decide whether your priority is passenger accommodation or available cargo volume.The build quality of our Camry test car trailed the others, and we noted more inconsistent interior panel gaps and interior squeaks and rattles than we'd expect from a car with fewer than 11,000 miles. The equipment level of this XLE model is fairly high, but it also results in the second highest as-tested price of $31,619, which proves to be yet another factor that weighs against it in the final analysis.Time has marched on, and what was outstanding a year ago is merely good today.

Here's a link to the article;

http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drives/Comparos/articleId=123842?tid=edmunds.il.home.photopanel..1.*#68

Introducing NEW 2008 Honda Odyssey DX Trim Level for Canada

New for 2008 is a Canada-exclusive Honda Odyssey DX trim that provides minivan buyers with high value, a fuel-efficient V6 engine, and a full complement of safety features.

Honda sees some new opportunities to expand the Odyssey sales, here are the recent developments that have Honda excited;

-The recent launch of the new Dodge Caravan and like has generated new interest in the minivan catagory.

-Ford has discontinued the Freestar minivan for 2007 leaving their base customers forced into another brand.

-GM will drop the Chevrolet Uplander, Pontiac Montana SV6, Buick Terraza and the Saturn Relay at the end of the 2008 model year.

-Toyota has aggressively targeted entry-level buyers with the 7-passenger Sienna CE, representing almost 70% of their total sales.

The 2008 Odyssey DX will compete head to head with the 2008 Toyota Sienna CE with advantages;

-Rear lip spoiler

-Glass integrated radio antenna

-4-wheel disc brakes

-Front and rear independent suspension

-One-touch up/down power driver's window

-Illuminated Vanity mirrors

-Active head restraints

-Roadside Assistance for 3yrs Unlimited Mileage

Both vans are very good and both are worth a look.

AJAC Announces 2008 Honda Accord as one of the Canadian Cars of the Year 2008

The Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) is an association of professional journalists, writers and photographers whose focus is the automobile and the automotive industry. The majority of our journalists test-drive, and report on, new vehicles on an on-going basis in various media across the country. The contenders are NEW cars only, so, redesigned or new entries qualify only.

2008 Canadian Car of the Year Vehicles in contention

Small Cars
Focus SE
Mitsubishi Lancer GTS
Saturn Astra - Winner
Subaru Impreza Sedan
Suzuki SX4 Sedan

Family Cars
Chevrolet Malibu
Dodge Avenger
Honda Accord Sedan - Winner
Kia Rondo
Saturn Aura Green Line Hybrid
Subaru Impreza Wagon

Luxury
Cadillac CTS
Mercedes C-Class - Winner
Volvo S80

Prestige (over $75,000)
Audi R8 - Winner
Jaguar XKR Coupe
Lexus LS600hL
Mercedes-S Class

Sports / Performance under $50,000
Dodge Caliber SRT4
Honda Accord Coupe
Mini Cooper S - Winner
Nissan Altima Coupe
Nissan Sentra SE-R
Subaru WRX
Volvo C30

Sports / Performance over $50,000
Audi TT Coupe 2.0
Audi S5 - Winner
Infiniti G37 Coupe

Convertibles
BMW 335i Cabriolet - Winner
Chrysler Sebring Convertible
Volvo C70

Pick-ups
Chevrolet Silverado - Winner
Dodge Dakota
GMC Sierra
Toyota Tundra

Minivans
Chrysler Town & Country
Dodge Grand Caravan
Hyundai Entourage - Winner

SUV / CUV under $35,000
Ford Escape Hybrid
Jeep Liberty
Jeep Patriot
Mitsubishi Outlander
Nissan Rogue - Winner
Saturn Outlook XE
Saturn Vue Green Line

SUV / CUV $35,000 - $60,000
GMC Acadia SLT
Hyundai Veracruz
Infiniti EX
Jeep Grand Cherokee Diesel
Mazda CX-9
Nissan Pathfinder
Saturn Vue - Winner
Subaru Tribeca
Toyota Highlander
Volvo XC70

SUV / CUV over $60,000
BMW X5
Buick Enclave - Winner
Mercedes M-Class

Here's a link to AJAC;
http://www.ajac.ca

Next Generation Honda / Acura NSX

Here's a sneak peak of what the next generation Acura (Honda pretty much every where else) NSX may look like.

How the Honda RealTime 4 Wheel Drive Works

The CRV and the Element both use the RealTime 4WD system, different from the Pilot and the Ridgeline's VTM-4 Lock (which I explained in an earlier article). Here is how it works (technical explanation);

The CR-V’s 4-wheel drive system is designed to best match the majority of driving situations that SUV’s realistically encounter. The fully automatic Real Time 4WD system enhances the CR-V’s all-weather and light duty off-road capabilities when driving in rain, snow, dirt roads and sandy conditions – without the significant weight, fuel economy and handling performance drawbacks of a conventional four-wheel-drive system. Enhancements have been made to the system for improved performance by optimizing materials and construction, resulting in a more rigid assembly with the capacity for up to 20 percent more torque transfer to the rear wheels.

The CR-V's Real Time 4WD system sends power only to the rear wheels when there is insufficient traction for the front-wheel-drive system. The system consists of the conventional front-wheel-drive system, a compact transfer case that distributes torque to a propeller shaft running the length of the vehicle, a dual-pump system with a multi-plate clutch, a cam unit mechanism, the rear differential, and left and right rear-wheel driveshafts.

The core of the system is the dual-pump unit. It consists of two hydraulic pumps, one driven by the front wheels via the propeller shaft and one driven by the rear wheels via the rear differential. A hydraulically actuated, multi-plate clutch, similar to the clutches used in Honda automatic transmissions, connects the propeller shaft to the rear differential.

When the CR-V is operating with the front and rear wheels turning at the same speed, for example on dry pavement, the front and rear hydraulic pumps operate at the same rate. Hydraulic fluid circulates between the two pumps; however, no pressure is generated. In effect, the fluid pressure created by the front pump is equalized by the rear pump.

If the front wheels begin to turn faster than the rear wheels, as would be the case if they were spinning on snow or ice, the two hydraulic pumps would turn at a different rate and hydraulic pressure proportional to the difference in their speeds of rotation would be generated. The resulting hydraulic pressure opens a valve body and feeds pressure to the multi-plate clutch, which engages the front propeller shaft to the rear differential. The rear differential then feeds the drive torque to the right and left rear wheels.

To provide a quick torque transfer response time for transparent 4-wheel drive operation to the driver, the multi-plate clutch is supplemented by a one-way ball cam unit mechanism. The cam unit mechanism consists of two plates separated by six ball cams (large bearings) that move within ramped grooves. When a slight difference in rotation speed exists between the rear wheels and front wheels when driving forward, the ball cams move within the ramped grooves and create pressure that instantly begins the engagement of the main clutch (prior to the build-up of sufficient hydraulic pressure). By engaging the main clutch at a sufficient force even before the hydraulic pressure is generated by the two hydraulic pumps, the driving torque is transferred without a hint of time lag.

Overall system operation is completely automatic; no electronics or driver action is involved. The greater the degree of front-wheel slippage, the greater the amount of torque fed to the rear wheels. Real Time™ 4WD is also low maintenance. The Maintenance Minder system will indicate that the dual pump fluid should be changed at about 100,000 kilometers.

Source: 2008 Honda Product Guide for the 2008 Honda CRV.

Some Cool Honda Element Pic's

Things have been pretty quiet as of late, at least on the Honda news front, so, I put together some cool pic's on the Honda Element. Enjoy.

A cool tuner with a logo H25.

Ah, a Element Woodie, brings back memories of the old 'Grilwald' Vacation movies.

I have a fever and the only cure is more wood paneling!

Surprisingly hot.

A pop up roof. Cool idea.

Some person on ebay had this wheelchair accessable Honda Element.

A full Moonroof would be a nice final touch to the Element.

A crazy Element sketch from a European site.

Honda's Alabama Plant Tour closed until January 01, 2008; Working on the 2009 Honda Pilot?

Here's something interesting, the Odyssey / Pilot factory in Alabama is closed for tours due to "special projects". Could this be the heavily guarded 2009 Honda Pilot? If it is, they are either still retooling for full production or have even begun initial production. The secrecy could be due to the redesigned Pilot for the 2009 model year. Factories do close for retooling for new models and this could also be getting the 'concept' ready for the Detroit Auto Show.

Here's the link;

http://www.hondaalabama.com/index.php?submenu=Tours&src=gendocs&link=Plant%20Tours&category=Tours