2013 Honda Pilot Features Standard Rearview Camera, Bluetooth®, USB Integration and Dramatic New Exterior Color Award-winning eight-passenger Honda SUV has class-leading fuel-economy ratings and is an IIHS Top Safety Pick Award-winning eight-passenger Honda SUV has class-leading fuel-economy ratings and is an IIHS Top Safety Pick

Award-winning eight-passenger Honda SUV has class-leading fuel-economy ratings and is an IIHS Top Safety Pick

08/31/2012 - TORRANCE, Calif.,

After receiving an extensive mid-cycle refresh for 2012 that included more refined styling, fuel efficiency improvements and upgraded feature content, the Honda Pilot returns for 2013 as the most fuel-efficient and flexible eight-passenger SUV. The Pilot combines family-friendly features with excellent EPA-rated fuel economy ratings (25 mpg highway on 2-wheel-drive (2WD) models), and solid towing capability (4,500 pounds¹ on 4-wheel drive models (4WD) models). Upscale exterior and interior designs, advanced electronics and safety features and a choice of 2WD or 4WD, makes Honda's Pilot a truly versatile transportation solution. The 2013 Honda Pilot goes on sale September 6, and pricing begins at $29,420².
For 2013, the Pilot offers a significant number of new standard features, including Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, Bluetooth® Audio, USB integration, high-resolution 8-inch intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID), automatic climate controls and a standard rearview camera. Also new for 2013 is a dramatic Obsidian Blue Pearl exterior color (replacing Bali Blue Pearl).
As in previous years, the Pilot is available in LX, EX, EX-L (leather) and Touring trim levels, with a Honda Satellite-Linked⁴ Navigation System™ and a Rear Entertainment System available on the EX-L model and standard on the Touring model. All 2013 Pilots are powered by a refined 250-horsepower 3.5-liter i-VTEC V-6 engine with VCM that includes numerous measures for reducing friction and improving fuel efficiency.
Models and Features
As with the prior model year, the 2013 Pilot is available in four model choices (LX, EX, EX-L and Touring), and each is offered in either a 2-wheel-drive or 4-wheel-drive configuration.
Standard 2013 Honda Pilot features include:

• Simplified center stack
• High-resolution 8-inch intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID)
• Rearview camera display
• Tri-Zone Climate Control
• 2GB CD-Library
• Album artwork display
• User-loadable wallpaper function
• Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®
• Bluetooth® Audio
• USB connection
• Automatic climate controls

Pilot LX
Standard comfort and convenience features on the Pilot LX include automatic climate control and a rear air conditioning system with air-filtration system, high-resolution 8-inch intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID), Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® and Bluetooth® Audio, USB connection, rearview camera, tilt and telescope steering column, cruise control, power windows with auto-up/down driver's and passenger's window, power door and tailgate locks, AM/FM/CD stereo system with seven speakers including a subwoofer and Radio Data System (RDS), AAC audio file playback capability from data discs to the CD player, trip computer, heat-rejecting tinted glass, integrated Class III tow-hitch receiver, and more.
 
Pilot EX
The Pilot EX adds a tri-zone automatic climate control system with humidity control and air filtration, a power driver's seat with 10-way power adjustment with lumbar support, security system, XM⁵ Radio®, body-colored side mirrors and door handles, alloy wheels, fog lights, exterior temperature indicator, HomeLink® Remote System, 2 GB CD Library (CD-L), and more.
Pilot EX-L     
Additional Pilot EX-L features include leather-trimmed seating surfaces, heated front seats, 4-way power front passenger's seat, one-touch power moonroof, a power tailgate, an automatic-dimming rearview mirror and the availability of either the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™² or the Honda DVD Rear Entertainment System with a 9-inch screen. The addition of either the navigation or the entertainment system also adds a 115-volt power outlet in the center console.
Pilot EX-L with Navigation           
The Pilot EX-L with Navigation adds an upgraded navigation system with a high-resolution VGA display and an internal hard drive. Additional features include FM Traffic, Song by Voice™, rearview camera with a multi-view display and a Multi-Information Display in the center of the gauge cluster.
Pilot Touring           
The top-of-the-line Pilot Touring includes the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™² with rearview camera, a Premium Audio System with 10 speakers, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink® and Audio Streaming (with selected phones), the Honda DVD Rear Entertainment System, 2-position memory seats, roof rails, corner and backup sensors, side-mirror integrated turn indicators and more.
Colors available for 2013 include Alabaster Silver Metallic, Obsidian Blue Pearl (replaces Bali Blue Pearl), Crystal Black Pearl, Dark Cherry Pearl, Polished Metal Metallic, Taffeta White, White Diamond Pearl, new Dark Amber Metallic, and new Glacier White (Pilot Touring). Fabric and leather interior color choices, which are matched to selected exterior colors, include beige, black or gray.
Powertrain
Power comes from an advanced 24-valve, all-aluminum engine with "intelligent" Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (i-VTEC) technology with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM). The VCM system allows the V-6 engine to operate in 6-cylinder mode for power and 4- or 3-cylinder modes for efficiency. The Pilot has an EPA³ city/highway/combined fuel economy rating of 17/24/20 mpg on 4-wheel-drive models and 18/25/21 mpg on 2-wheel-drive models. This gives the 2013 Pilot 2WD the highest fuel economy rating of any 8-passenger SUV and the Pilot 4WD the highest fuel economy rating for any mid-size 4WD SUV.
Engine friction-reduction technologies including a plateau-honed engine block, low-friction piston treatments, ion-plated piston rings and 0W-20 oil contribute to the high fuel efficiency. Additional fuel efficiency-enhancing measures include the use of a load-variable alternator, high-efficiency spark plugs and a wide VCM operating range.
The 5-speed automatic transmission features Grade Logic Control to help maintain the most appropriate gear when going uphill or downhill, thereby avoiding gear "hunting." The available VTM-4 system on Pilot 4WD models adds fully automatic 4-wheel-drive capability. VTM-4 delivers seamless, "decision-free" application of  4-wheel-drive when needed, a key benefit compared to conventional systems. The system also provides a "lock mode" – available when in first or second gear up to 18 mph and activated by a button on the instrument panel – that can deliver the maximum-possible torque transfer to the rear wheels to aid in extraction from extremely low traction or stuck conditions.
Body
The Pilot's grille and front fascia feature a distinctive 3-bar horizontal design, while multi-reflector halogen headlights and integrated turn signals contribute to the premium look. A front air dam and optimized strakes (the rectangular air deflector in front of the wheels) help reduce unwanted air turbulence, which can help improve fuel efficiency. The Pilot EX and above models have a 5-spoke, 18-inch aluminum alloy wheel design, while Pilot Touring alloy wheels feature an exclusive 6-spoke design with a high-contrast machined surface. Pilot LX models are equipped with 17-inch styled-steel wheels.
The tailgate features a lift-up glass hatch for convenient access to the rearmost cargo area. The model's 18.0 cubic-feet of cargo space behind the third row matches or exceeds the trunk space of a typical large sedan and can accommodate items as large as a mid-size cooler or a folded stroller. For maximum cargo space, the second and third rows fold flat into the floor to provide sufficient width for 4-foot-wide items.
The cargo area has a hidden storage well that provides 2.8 cu-ft. of additional space and can combine with the above-floor storage area by securing the hinged cover against the seatback. The Pilot Touring also provides a load-supporting cargo net (20 lbs. maximum weight) to further subdivide the rear cargo area. In exterior dimensions, the 2013 Pilot is 78.5 inches wide, 71.0 inches tall (72.7 inches for Pilot EX, EX-L and Touring), and features a 109.2-inch wheelbase and 67.7-inch front / 67.5-inch rear track. Overall length is 191.4 inches, while ground clearance is 7.97 inches.
Chassis
The suspension is a fully independent system with front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link with trailing arm designs that contribute to responsive driving characteristics for an SUV. The 109.2-inch wheelbase facilitates a smooth ride. A tight turning diameter of 37.9 feet aids maneuverability in tight parking situations.
Advanced chassis features that directly benefit fuel efficiency include a variable-displacement power steering pump, low-rolling-resistance tires, and low-drag front ventilated and rear disc brakes. Finely tuned aerodynamics, the front strakes, splash shields and inner fenders, and minimal frontal area also contribute to improved fuel efficiency.
Interior
Sophisticated interior styling, high-quality materials and advanced electronic features provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience for passengers in all three rows of seating. Standard features include 16 different seating configurations, 60/40 split-folding second- and third-row seats, and generous cargo room, plus an estimated fuel-economy display, three voice-recognition languages, and an intuitive audio interface.
For 2013, the Pilot LX and EX add a simplified center stack that was previously exclusive to EX-L and Touring models. The upgrade means that all Pilot models now include a high-resolution 8-inch intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) with rearview camera display (multi-angle on EX-L and Touring), iPod album artwork display and user-loadable wallpaper function, plus Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, Bluetooth® Audio, USB connection and automatic climate controls. The Pilot EX and EX-L models include a 2GB CD Library (CD-L), while Pilot EX, EX-L and Touring models additionally include a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat and tri-zone automatic climate control.
The latest version of the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™² offers 60 GB of total system memory (includes 15 GB allocated for user media) and voice recognition for three languages. The system uses multiple global positioning satellites covering all of the U.S. including Alaska and Hawaii, as well as Canada and Puerto Rico. Its included FM Traffic feature provides free, continuous updates on traffic and incidents, helping drivers avoid gridlock. The hard drive can store thousands of minutes of music, which is accessible by simple voice commands using the Song By Voice™ feature. Additionally, 2013 Pilot models with navigation feature a multi-view rear camera (wide view, normal view and top-down view), with the image displayed on the navigation screen for convenient parking help when in Reverse.
Adding to the comfort level of the 2013 Pilot is pleasingly low noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). Enhanced body seam sealing around the unit-body connection points, and specially tuned rear suspension sub-frame mounts, result in lower noise levels in the passenger cabin. Other specific NVH countermeasures include body-seam sealants to reduce air leaks, enhanced pillar separators, revised insulation materials and acoustic windshield glass on all models.
Interior dimensions include front headroom of 40.0 inches for Pilot LX and EX (39.3 inches for moonroof-equipped Pilot EX-L and Touring), second-row headroom of 39.8 inches and third-row headroom of 38.2 inches.  Legroom is 41.4 inches in front, 38.5 inches for the second row, and 32.1 inches for the third row. Passenger volumes are 153.7 cu-ft. for Pilot LX and EX (152.7 cu-ft. for Pilot EX-L and Touring), and the cargo volume is 87.0 cu-ft. total (47.7 cu-ft. behind second-row seats and 18.0 cu-ft. behind third-row seats).
Safety
Safety technology includes the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure that helps reduce the amount of crash energy reaching the passenger compartment in a frontal collision and can enhance frontal collision compatibility. Additional standard safety equipment includes 3-row side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor, driver's and front passenger's front and side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS), active front seat head restraints and anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution and brake assist. Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) is standard on all models.
           
Awards, Accolades and Ratings
From building initial quality impressions to providing fun-to-drive character with lasting durability and reliability, the Pilot carries forward the essential DNA that defines all Honda vehicles. These traits have earned the redesigned Pilot multiple awards, including "Family Car of the Year" from Cars.com, which took special note of the Pilot's size, roominess, efficiency and versatility. The Pilot also took the top spot in the "USA Today, MotorWeek and Cars.com $37k and Under SUV Shootout," which touted it as "the perfect SUV for buyers who want to comfortably haul the entire family and all of their gear." And finally, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has rated the Pilot as a "2012 Top Safety Pick."
Manufacturing
The Pilot is assembled from domestic and globally sourced parts at Honda Manufacturing of Alabama in Lincoln, Alabama. Honda R&D Americas designed and developed the Pilot in Raymond, Ohio, and Torrance, California.

Source;
http://www.hondanews.com/channels/corporate-headlines/releases/2013-honda-pilot-features-standard-rearview-camera-bluetooth-usb-integration-and-dramatic-new-exterior-color

2013 Honda Odyssey Offers Unmatched Safety Ratings, Class-Leading Fuel Economy Ratings and High-Tech Convenience Features

Ultimate family vehicle seats up to eight and offers enhanced standard equipment

08/31/2012 - TORRANCE, Calif.

The 2013 Honda Odyssey minivan continues to lead its class in fuel economy and safety ratings, while providing spacious accommodations for up to eight passengers and a refined and engaging driving experience. The Odyssey Touring is rated at a remarkable 28 mpg¹, the highest EPA highway fuel economy rating of any eight-passenger minivan. All Odyssey models are an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) TOP SAFETY PICK, and the Odyssey has earned the best possible overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) with a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score,² an accomplishment that no other currently-tested minivan can claim. The 2013 Honda Odyssey goes on sale September 6, and pricing begins at $28,575³.
There are five models in the Odyssey range: LX, EX, EX-L, Touring and Touring Elite. Each provides a unique combination of features, value, luxury and in-vehicle entertainment technology. Changes for 2013 include a rearview camera that"s now standard on all Odyssey trims, and the base Odyssey LX now shares a simplified center stack design with the Odyssey EX. The new center stack includes an 8-inch full-color intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) along with a rearview camera, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, Bluetooth® Audio, USB input, and CD library function.
Powertrain
All Odyssey models are powered by an advanced 3.5-liter, 24-valve, SOHC, i-VTEC V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM), which provides a balanced combination of performance, fuel efficiency and low emissions. Producing 248 horsepower (hp), it"s the most powerful engine ever for the Odyssey. With 250 lb-ft. of torque at 4800 rpm, the engine offers excellent responsiveness and acceleration, while delivering a class-leading V-6 EPA city/highway/combined fuel economy2 rating of 19/28/22 mpg on Odyssey Touring models (18/27/21 mpg on Odyssey LX, EX and EX-L models). A 5-speed automatic transmission is standard on Odyssey LX, EX and EX-L models. Odyssey Touring models feature a 6-speed automatic transmission for enhanced driving refinement.
Body
The Odyssey has a distinctive body design with a signature "lightning bolt" side character line that creates a dynamic appearance, and improves the outward view for third-row passengers through a larger rear window. Interior quietness was a design priority, and the Odyssey"s highly rigid body is constructed of 59-percent high-strength steel to help isolate road noise and to reduce body weight for agile handling and excellent fuel efficiency.
Chassis
For confident driving performance and a comfortable ride, the Odyssey features a long 118.1-inch wheelbase, with a fully independent suspension and standard Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA®) with traction control. MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension combine to give the Odyssey a quiet, composed ride. Variable power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering assures light steering effort in low-speed maneuvering coupled with secure highway manners.
Interior
The Odyssey"s roomy interior offers a wide range of seating versatility to accommodate child seats, adult passengers and cargo. The passenger volume measures 172.5 cu-ft. (Odyssey LX and EX) and the cargo volume ranges between 38.4 cu-ft. of cargo volume (all seats up) to 148.5 cu-ft., depending on the seating configuration. With the second-row seats removed, a 4x8 sheet of plywood can fit inside the Odyssey's cargo bay. With the available front console removed, 10-foot-long 2x4 studs can fit inside the vehicle.
The Odyssey"s interior provides three rows of comfortable seating with generous legroom in each row. Up to five Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH) positions for child seats (the Odyssey LX has four LATCH positions) allow parents great flexibility in locating car seats.
The driver's seat is 10-way power adjustable (8-way power adjustable on Odyssey LX) for maximum comfort. A "3-mode" second-row seat design provides the ability to attach up to three child seats across the second row (Odyssey EX and above) by relocating the outboard seats to alternate positions closer to the doors. The one-motion, 60/40 split third-row Magic Seat®, one of the Odyssey's most versatile features, is easy to operate with one hand.
The Odyssey offers an extensive range of standard comfort and convenience features, including air conditioning with manual front and rear controls, power driver's seat, power windows with auto-up/down on the driver's and front-passenger's windows, tilt and telescopic steering column, and a maintenance minder system. Odyssey EX models and above come standard with power sliding rear doors, center console storage and a conversation mirror. Odyssey EX-L models include leather-trimmed seating surfaces (front and outboard second row), heated front seats, power tailgate, a cool box, and XM Radio® capability. Standard equipment on the Odyssey Touring includes the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System⁴, a Rear Entertainment System with a 9-inch display, driver"s seat with two-position memory, 115-volt power outlet, fog lights, parking sensors, and a six-speed automatic transmission. The Odyssey Touring Elite adds an Ultra-Wide Rear Entertainment System (RES), blind-spot information system, and High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights.
For 2013, the Odyssey offers more technology than ever before, with a rearview camera, 8-inch, full-color i-MID display and Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® as standard on the entry-level LX model. A Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System² with Voice Recognition is available on the Odyssey EX-L and standard on the Odyssey Touring, and it features an 8-inch, high-resolution VGA color display and GPS technology to provide turn-by-turn guidance. The system also includes subscription-free FM Traffic data and a Zagat® restaurant guide.
The Odyssey Touring Elite features a state-of-the-art, factory-integrated Rear Entertainment System that includes an ultra-wide 16.2-inch flip-down LCD screen and a 12-speaker, 650-watt sound system capable of reproducing Dolby® Digital 5.1 Surround Sound. A High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) video input and two wireless headphones for rear passengers are also provided. The Odyssey Touring Elite also includes the Blind Spot Information system (BSI), which helps alert the driver when other vehicles are detected in set zones to the left and right of the Odyssey.
Safety
Safety is a key Odyssey attribute, and an extensive list of safety equipment helps give owners peace of mind. The Odyssey"s Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure is a Honda-exclusive body design that can enhance occupant protection and crash compatibility in frontal collisions. Additional standard safety equipment includes: Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®); anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist; three-row side-curtain airbags with a rollover sensor; driver's and front passenger's side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); and dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags.
Third-party analysis highlights the Odyssey"s safety credentials. The Odyssey was named a TOP SAFETY PICK (the highest rating possible) by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The rating recognizes vehicles that do the best job of protecting vehicle occupants involved in front, side and rear crashes. The rating also factors in standard electronic stability control as well as rollover performance based on ratings in IIHS tests. The Odyssey earned the highest-possible score of GOOD in all four ratings, including the rigorous roof-strength test. The Odyssey was also one of the first vehicles, and still the only minivan to achieve NHTSA's best-possible Overall Vehicle Score of 5 Stars, with 5-Star ratings for the frontal crash safety test and both side crash safety tests2 in all evaluated front and rear seating positions and scenarios.
Manufacturing and Awards
Designed, engineered and assembled in the United States⁵, the 2013 Odyssey is truly an American-made vehicle that represents the expanding capabilities of Honda in North America. Virtually every aspect of the Odyssey was developed, tested and finalized by Honda associates throughout California, Ohio and Alabama. The Odyssey is produced exclusively at Honda Manufacturing of Alabama (HMA) using domestic and globally sourced parts.
Awards and accolades for the Odyssey include the 2012 "MotorWeek" Drivers' Choice Award for Best Minivan and selection as one of 2012"s 10 Best Family Cars by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. Parenting magazine also recognized the Honda Odyssey Touring Elite as one of 2012"s "Smartest Family Cars." The Odyssey is well known for its exceptional value, and both the 2011 and 2012 models were recognized with Residual Value Awards from Auto Lease Guide (ALG). The Odyssey also captured AutoPacific's 2012 Vehicle Satisfaction Award (VSA), which is based on over 75,000 surveys completed by owners of new cars and light trucks in the United States.

Source;
http://www.hondanews.com/channels/corporate-headlines/releases/2013-honda-odyssey-offers-unmatched-safety-ratings-class-leading-fuel-economy-ratings-and-high-tech-convenience-features

Honda Thinking about a Small Civic Based CUV for terrain and for the racetrack

This is not for the North American Market....

Honda wants to make the 2013 VW Tiguan SUV with a variant of the Civic competition. Beginning in 2014, then in Europe, a new Civic Type R with turbo gasoline coming into the showrooms.
Honda is working on two new versions of the Civic. Already in 2013, a view on the basis of compact SUVs on the market. The as yet unnamed model is a whole size smaller than the familiar CR-V and is about the size of the VW Tiguan. The design, with large headlamps based on the revised Civic. New is a 1.6-liter diesel with 118 hp, which is to consume less than five liters per 100 kilometers. Later could also evolved from the Insight hybrid will be available. The Civic SUV will be offered with front-wheel and all-wheel drive and produced in England.

Honda wants to make next year the VW Tiguan SUV with a variant of the Civic competition. Beginning in 2014, then in Europe, a new Civic Type R with turbo gasoline coming into the showrooms.

Also in 2013, the new edition of the Civic Type R is launched. First Honda relies a turbo gasoline. In the predecessor, the Japanese had even set to a two-liter vacuum cleaner with high-revving 201 horsepower and - but the new standard of Euro did not make the fifth The new Turbo is slightly stronger than the old vacuum cleaner: It delivers 210 hp and thus exactly as much as the turbo also fired engine in the VW Golf GTI. With the new drive, the Japanese do the sprint from 0 to 100 km / h in 6.5 seconds and achieve 230 km / h top speed. Premiere for the Type R at the Tokyo Motor Show in November 2013. In Europe the sport Civic is then expected to be launched in early 2014.

Source;
http://www.autobild.de/artikel/honda-civic-neue-versionen-3572012.html  

CarScoop: First Photos of Honda's Fiat 500-Fighting N-One Mini

For the Japanese market only as of now, not sure if this would ever make it's way to North America....

Do you remember the Honda N Concept_4 from last year's Tokyo Motor Show? Well, what you see pictured here is the final production version of the small hatchback that is slated to go on sale in Japan this fall. 
 
Sourced from a leaked Japanese market brochure, these scanned images reveal the exterior and interior of the new Honda that will probably rival the likes of the Fiat 500 in the city car segment.
 
Note that we are not entirely sure about the name, which we translated to N-One (or N-1) from Japanese. 

The cosmetic changes over the original N Concept 4, itself a follow up to the 2009 EV-N study, are restrained and include the regular head- and tail lamp fixtures (instead of LED units), and the redesigned tail gate that now sports a thick decorative chrome strip right above the license plate holder. 
 
The styling of the N-One harks back to Honda's original N series of kei-cars from the 1960s and 1970s, and especially the N360, built between 1967 and 1972. 
 
Inside, the N-1 appears less retro with the lower half of the dashboard being almost identical to the one found on Honda's recently launched N Box +, while the upper part is different. 
 
The parts sharing with the JDM N Box + continues underneath the body as the two models use the same platform and running gear. 
 
We don't have any information on the engine choices, but we expect the N-1 to be offered in Japan with Honda's 660cc three-cylinder petrol engine in both naturally aspirated and turbocharged versions linked to a CVT driving the front- or all-four wheels. 
 
At last year's Tokyo Motors Show during the presentation of the concept model, Sho Minekawa, Honda Managing Officer and CEO for regional sales in Japan, said that he expects the N Box + and the N-1 to help double the brand's mini-vehicle sales to around 280,000 units. 
 
Honda has not said if it has any plans to offer the car in markets outside of Japan. 
 
Many thanks to our Japanese tipster 福田隆二!
Photo credits: 福田隆二

Source;
http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2012/08/scoop-first-photos-of-honda-fiat-500.html 

2013 Honda Accord Interior Leaked

I am guessing someone from the online Honda training took a pic with their phone, for the record, wasn't me....

The recently-revealed Honda Accord, a very sober-looking and serious car, was first shown a few weeks ago, and people generally liked it, despite the fact that some argued it looked a bit too much like a Kia. However, what will really set the all-new Accord apart from its Korean rivals is the unmistakeable Honda interior.

Now, thanks to a post on Temple of VTEC, we can now bring you a complete, albeit bad quality picture of the interior which, at least from a design standpoint, doesn’t disappoint. It features two screens on the center console, one which will be touch-operatad (HondaLink), while the other larger one will show the sat-nav or useful information (i-MID).

It also features a completely redesigned instrument cluster with the oversized speedo in the center, with the tachometer on the left and fuel and temperature gauges on the right. Other highlights include an ‘Econ’ button, a very nicely designed multifunctional steering wheel and a generally very modern and clean layout which gives the impression that everything is close at hand.

Source;
http://www.autoevolution.com/news/2013-honda-accord-interior-photo-leaked-48792.html

2014 Mazda 6 Debuts in Russia, Photos and Info Released

Nice looking car, always thought so....

Good news, everyone! Mazda is just about to launch its third-generation 6, and this time around it’s smaller and much lighter than the car it replaces. The 2014 Mazda 6 could even capture some of the spirit of the delightful first-gen car—at least, that’s what Mazda’s execs want us to believe. The new 6 debuts at the Moscow auto show.

Why Moscow? Mazda sales have been huge in Russia in the past few years, and the company has a new joint venture there to build 6s. In contrast, Mazda just pulled out of its sole U.S. factory, meaning new 6s will be imported from Japan.

Hug Mazda
Few automakers consistently satisfy automotive enthusiasts like Mazda. From living rooms and dorm rooms, we command engineers to make cars lighter and sportier and even a little smaller. “Sure,” says Mazda. The 2014 car is 2.2 inches shorter overall than the outgoing 6, but the wheelbase is 1.6 inches longer, accomplished by moving the front wheels forward relative to the A-pillar.

Mazda’s estimates for the 6’s weight are similarly impressive. Depending on the engine, the new car is 220 to 375 pounds lighter than a four-cylinder second-gen Mazda 6. A fully equipped Russian-market version of the new 6 is said to weigh just 3109 pounds, which not only makes it lighter than its classmates, but leaves it just slightly heavier than a Porsche Boxster S. Whoa. Thanks, high-strength steel.

Details are thin on the 6’s platform, but Mazda says that torsional rigidity is up 30 percent, and that noise, vibration, and harshness levels are improved. The suspension will use struts in the front and a multilink setup in the rear. The sheetmetal doesn’t just look good, it’s got a claimed drag coefficient of a low 0.26.

Powertrain Lineup
Even though Russians get a choice of four-cylinder engines, we’ll probably see only the larger 2.5-liter mill here. This Skyactiv-branded engine is rated at 189 hp and 189 lb-ft of torque, putting it among the leaders for naturally aspirated four-cylinders in the 6’s segment. We should get both a manual and automatic transmission, each with six forward gears.

Helping the fuel-economy mission, the 6 will use electric power steering and an engine stop-start system. Mazda also will minimize demands on the engine by powering some of the car’s electric systems from a supercapacitor that charges during deceleration.

Unfortunately, when we went to Japan for a detailed intro to the Skyactiv family of engines, it seemed clear that they’re not designed to accept turbochargers. With the Ford-sourced 3.7-liter V-6 gone from the 6’s engine arsenal and a turbo out of the question, we’re not thrilled that there won’t be a range-topping powerplant—even if an overwhelming majority of the cars in the family-sedan segment are sold with naturally aspirated fours. A diesel still may be in the cards for the 6, but the CX-5 crossover is slated to receive it first.

It looks like the only way to exceed 189 hp in the new 6 will be opting for the hybrid version. Basic components are licensed from Toyota, but Mazda is setting up the system on its own to ensure Mazdaness. (Sorry, but we won’t toss out the “Zoom-Zoom” tag line for a hybrid until we at least drive the thing.)

Oh, That Interior
The interior is a relatively pleasant—if familiar—scene. The only drawback we can see is that rather than a nicely integrated radio or navigation system, Mazda’s 6 has a rectangular box plugged into the top of the dashboard—it looks old-school and cheap. A horizontal bar housing the air vents stretches across the dash, and below it HVAC controls are housed in the lower part of the center stack. Triple gauge pods with white lettering add a sporty touch.

For Europeans, whose outgoing Mazda 6 is smaller than ours, the new car is touted as being significantly more spacious inside, especially for rear-seat passengers. We’ll need to wait until U.S. specs are released to know whether the space increases compared to our second-gen Mazda 6, but interior space wasn’t a problem in that car. In fact, roominess was the driving force in selling a larger version here.

Russian-market cars get the full array of driver-assistance gadgets on offer from most automakers: adaptive headlights with LEDs, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and an infrared-based emergency braking system. The only feature we’re not seeing is adaptive cruise control, but perhaps such a system will appear later.

Mazda started production of the new 6 in Japan this month, with deliveries for European and Japanese dealerships beginning very soon. We wait longer because we’re farther from the factory, so we won’t see our 6s in dealer showrooms until early 2013.


Source (with a lot more pix);
http://www.caranddriver.com/news/2014-mazda-6-debuts-in-russia-photos-and-info-released-news

2013 Honda Accord Coupe Spy Video

Great find! Thanks for the tip Ron!

Honda Brio with bigger 1.3 Liter i-VTEC engine and CVT automatic transmission bags 1000 bookings in Indonesia

The Honda Brio small car has been launched in Indonesia and has managed to bag 1,000 bookings within weeks of its launch in the island nation. The Honda Brio that is sold in Indonesia is different from the Indian version, in that it comes with a more powerful engine and an CVT automatic transmission. The engine is a 1,339cc i-VTEC unit, and produces a peak power of 100 PS with peak torque rated at 127 Nm. Both these figures are higher than the 90 PS-110 Nm output of the 1.2 liter i-VTEC petrol engine that the Indian version of the Brio features.

While the Indian Brio comes with a five speed manual transmission, the Indonesian version of the Brio also gets a Modulo body kit to spice up its looks. The body kit which costs INR 94,000 comes with fog lamps, a different grille design, front and rear bumper inserts, side skirts, a new fuel cap insert and a rear roof spoiler. Honda plans to sell 1,200 units of the Brio hatchback in Indonesia every month and has targeted sales of 6,000 units by the end of 2012. In India too, the Brio has been a hot selling car for the Japanese brand, what with the hatchback now the best selling model in Honda’s Indian line up.

In the coming months, the automatic variant of the Brio, perhaps with the CVT gearbox, is expected to be launched in the Indian car market. The Brio is an excellent car to drive around town, with compact dimensions and a peppy yet fuel efficient i-VTEC engine-5 speed gearbox combo making short work of the city traffic. This also explains why the Brio has particularly found favor with the fairer sex, who have taken to the easy-to-drive demeanour of the Brio like fish to water. The addition of the CVT gearbox will only serve to reinforce this strength of the Brio, of that of being an ideal city car.

Honda has also been spied testing the Brio Diesel in India. So, a diesel engined version of the Brio is definitely in the pipeline, with a launch expected to happen sometime in 2013. A diesel engine on the Brio is just what the Japanese automaker needs, as it struggles to sell its petrol-only car models in India, with the market clearly biased towards the more frugal and economical diesel engined car models. A turbo diesel engine under the hood and a competitive price tag are the only two factors stopping the Brio from becoming a huge success for Honda in India.

Source;

http://www.indiancarsbikes.in/cars/honda-brio-with-bigger-1-3-liter-i-vtec-engine-and-cvt-automatic-transmission-bags-1000-bookings-in-indonesia-61442/#more-61442

2014 Mazda 6 Spyshots

By Ben Timmons of www.automobilemag.com

The official 2014 Mazda 6 reveal is just days away, and it looks like Mazda is putting the final touches on the all-new sedan. We caught this pack of camouflaged 6s hanging out near Big Bear Lake in California.

Considering that we’ve already seen the sedan in both sedan and wagon forms, the photos don’t hold many surprises. They do, however show just how much of the successful CX-5 will trickle down (or perhaps sideways) to the 6. We already knew that the CX-5′s front character line–the chromed strip that runs under the grille and up, through the headlights–will continue on the 6, but the CX-5′s spartan interior, with its long asymmetrical trim (shown here in piano black) and low HVAC controls, will appear on the 6 as well. It also looks like the midsize sedan will get the CX-5′s infotainment system with navigation by TomTom, but also get the rotary knob controller (a la MMI, Comand, and iDrive) that goes on European CX-5s.

Other than that, there’s little to report. We’d hazard a guess that at least one of those cars is powered by Mazda’s ubiquitous 2.0-liter Skyactiv I-4 (which makes 155 hp and 150 lb-ft of torque in the CX-5), since Mazda has already announced that we’ll see the mill in the 2014 6. However, it remains to be seen what–if anything–Mazda will slot underhood of the 6 for power-hungry buyers. Efficiency-minded customers will be well catered-for, as the 6 will be the first American Mazda to feature i-ELOOP and i-Stop regenerative braking and start/stop technologies.

The 6 will take to the stage at the Moscow Motor Show, which opens later this week.

Source;

http://rumors.automobilemag.com/spotted-2014-mazda-6-sedans-testing-in-california-166007.html

Next-Generation Nissan GT-R Gets Green Light, Coming in 2018

Awesome news!

We are very, very happy to be able to give you the news that the Nissan GT-R’s second generation has received the green light. This is because previous reports indicated that the future of the model was uncertain and we just couldn’t stand seeing Godzilla in this situation after the same thing happened to the Evo.

The current generation of the GT-R was the first one to be built from the ground-up as a full-throttle supercar and it seems that we’ll also be getting a second one. However, this was scheduled to arrive in 2015, but it will be postponed to 2018. The info comes from Inside Line, which recently visited Nissan’s R&D center in Atsugi, Japan.

One strong reason for the delay is that the chief engineer for the GT-R, Kazutoshi Mizuno, has been absent for a while due to health issues, but now he’s back and he’s determined to complete the development of the second GT-R. This could use hybrid technology, as Nissan is currenlty paying close attention to the upcoming Acura NSX, which will use petrol-electric power and is rumored to be abvle to lap the Nurburgring faster than Godzilla.

Until the second generation of the GT-R arrives, we must look into the short-term development of the car - the GT-R will receive important upgrades at the end of next year. These will allow it to compete with one of its closest rivals, the Porsche 911 Turbo, whose new 991 generation should be released by then.

Source;
http://www.autoevolution.com/news/next-generation-nissan-gt-r-gets-green-light-coming-in-2018-48762.html

2013 Honda Accord Lane Departure Warning System

Mazda ends 20 years of US production, Ford to take over Flat Rock, Michigan plant

The last US-built Mazda rolled off the production line at Flat Rock, Michigan on Friday, said The Detroit News. As the Japanese carmaker moves Mazda6 (pictured) production to Japan, only the Ford Mustang will continue to be built there, with overflow production of the 2013 Ford Fusion expected to join sometime in the future.

Apart from confirming the news, both manufacturers have been keeping pretty quiet, but Ford has revealed to The Detroit News that it plans to spend US$550 million expanding the factory as well as adding 1,200 jobs to the existing 1,700.

The plant, also known as AutoAlliance International, started off as a Ford casting plant in 1972, shutting its doors in 1981. Six years later it was bought by Mazda and put to work building the Ford Probe and Mazda MX-6. It has been run as a joint venture between Ford and Mazda since 1992, producing the Mazda6 and the Ford Mustang in recent times.

Mazda is opening a new plant in Salamanca, Mexico, which will produce the Mazda2 and Mazda3. Recently the Hiroshima-based manufacturer announced that production of its CX-7 SUV had ended.

Source;
http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/car-news/consumer-news/59853/britains-depreciation-winners-and-losers

2014 Toyota Corolla Spyshots

Toyota's compact will remain a mini-Camry in nearly every way.

By BY ALEXANDER STOKLOSA

What It Is: A next-generation Toyota Corolla sedan covered in heavy black camouflage. The Corolla is the smallest four-door in Toyota’s U.S. lineup, now that the Yaris sedan was dropped for 2012. The current-generation Corolla has been around in largely the same form since 2009—it was lightly updated for 2011 with a new face and some fresh features—but it’s time for a redesign.

Why It Matters: Toyota has dutifully updated the volume-generating sedan every few years, but no recent model has excited anyone outside of the company’s accountants. Now that the Corolla’s competition includes reloaded efforts from Ford with its new Focus and Dodge with the Dart—in addition to the competent Chevy Cruze, the stylish Hyundai Elantra, and the fine-driving Mazda 3—it looks even more dated than it did before.

Sky-high mpg is perhaps more important than ever, but the Corolla will need to offer more than just good EPA numbers to properly compete. Compact-car buyers today expect mid-size features and technology in a reasonably priced package. Doodads such as navigation, heated seats, and even self-parking systems are becoming prevalent in the segment. The current Corolla offers neither upmarket features nor an appropriately low price to overcome its lack of modern amenities.

Platform: From the look of the prototype in these spy photos, the Corolla likely will follow in the footsteps of the larger Camry and use an updated version of the current platform. Besides aping the Camry’s evolutionary platform strategy, the Corolla also will borrow heavily from that sedan’s styling. The taillights on this test car look nearly identical to the latest Camry’s units, while the Corolla’s front end incorporates several angular cues cribbed straight from its big brother. The car seen here shares its relatively high beltline with the current model, but manages to not appear dowdy and tall for it, at least in this armored look.

Powertrain: As did the recently redesigned Camry, we suspect the Corolla will carry over most of its powertrain stuff. The Corolla currently offers but a single engine—a 132-hp, 1.8-liter four—paired with either a five-speed manual or an outdated four-speed automatic. We wouldn’t be surprised if Toyota muscles the engine up a bit with some more power, although we hope that both transmissions benefit from more gears. A six-speed manual or automatic would bring the Corolla’s gearswappers into this century, and would help improve upon its already admirable fuel economy. The EPA rates the current stick-shift Corolla at 27 mpg in the city and 34 on the highway; the automatic is good for the same highway number, but sacrifices 1 mpg in the city. Not terribly shabby stuff for technology seemingly borrowed from 1983, but we expect Toyota will shoot for the magic 40-mpg mark with the 2014 Corolla.

Competition: Chevrolet Cruze, Dodge Dart, Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Mazda 3, Volkswagen Jetta.

Estimated Arrival Time: The next-gen Corolla should appear sometime next year as a 2014 model, which would keep the sedan in line with Toyota’s typical five-year product cycle.

Source (with more pix);

http://www.caranddriver.com/news/2014-toyota-corolla-spy-photos-news

Honda sees 2013 Accord powering revival from troubled ’11

By Dan Eaton

Honda has high hopes its signature car is ready to make a new mark.

Honda of America Manufacturing Inc. on Monday started production of the 2013 Accord, the automaker’s flagship sedan that has been assembled at the company’s Marysville plant for the past 30 years. In that time there have been eight generations of the Accord.

“Many people doubted Honda in the last few years,” Honda of America CEO Hide Iwata told a group of workers and visitors at the launch. “Many wondered if we would overcome the many challenges.”

Honda encountered a turbulent 2011. It dealt with production and supply problems caused by a March earthquake in Japan and flooding later in the year in Thailand. Sales have rebounded in 2012, and the newest Accord is expected to further drive that improvement.

Ohio Gov. John Kasich attended the launch and praised Honda for its commitment to the state and its $8 billion in investment in Ohio since opening its motorcycle plant in Central Ohio in 1979.

The new Accord is scheduled to reach showrooms next month. Pricing hasn’t been disclosed, but it is expected to be comparable to the 2012 model, which starts at $21,480.

The 2013 Accord has a more sculpted exterior, in auto industry speak, and though most details about its interior remain under wraps, the company made public a few of the technological elements, including a standard-feature Bluetooth phone interface, Pandora Internet radio and a variety of voice controls. Safety features include a driver’s view mirror, lane shift warning and front collision warning systems and a blind-spot camera mounted in the sideview mirror and activated by using the turn signal.

Accord Model Leader Mike Fischer said that feature is exclusive to Honda and gives the driver an 80-degree view of their blind spot compared with a normal 20-degree view.

Fischer said the interior has more space but the exterior dimensions are smaller than the eighth-generation Accord.

It also is the first Honda to get the company’s next-generation engine and transmission, dubbed Earth Dreams. Denis Kovacs, engine model leader, said the newest powertrain gives the vehicle improved fuel efficiency and better performance.

“That’s a balance our customers like,” he said.

Fischer said the powertrain provides 10 percent more output; fuel economy is improved by 4 percent. The engine is made at Honda’s plant in Anna, and the transmissions are manufactured in Russells Point.

Spokesman Ron Lietzke said Honda is not disclosing production projections but said the Marysville plant is running above capacity with overtime work. The facility, which is the sole producer of Accords for North American market and some exports, has an annual production capacity of 440,000 vehicles. It also produces the Acura TL sedan.

Source;
http://www.bizjournals.com/columbus/blog/2012/08/honda-sees-2013-accord-powering.html?page=all

Video Find: 2013 Honda Accord – A One-Minute Silent Film

Written by: Erick Ayapana of www.motortrend.com Just a few days after the first 2013 Honda Accord rolled off the assembly line, the automaker has released the following video of its new midsize sedan in action (the B-roll footage is silent, so feel free to add your own soundtrack or narration).

The video features a 2013 Honda Accord sedan sporting metallic beige paint. It’s unclear what trim level or engine the sedan carries since shots of the rear were avoided, though the alloy rims and chrome accents suggest that it’s at least a mid-level Accord. As previously reported, the 2013 Honda Accord will initially be offered with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, mated to a CVT or a six-speed manual. A 3.5-liter V-6 will follow, with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. A plug-in hybrid will complete the model range.

The 2013 Honda Accord is expected to reach dealerships next month, though pricing hasn’t been released yet. Its launch follows the release of the 2012 Toyota Camry and 2013 Nissan Altima, two of the Accord’s main rivals. The Accord will also compete with the upcoming 2013 Ford Fusion, which should arrive in showrooms by this fall.

Source;
http://wot.motortrend.com/video-find-2013-honda-accord-a-one-minute-silent-film-251185.html

2013 Honda Accord Sedan Trim Levels and Features for Canada

Alright, for the next few days I will be filling you all in on what this car is all about! 

2013 Honda Accord Sedan Trim Levels and Specs

LX

-2.4Litre DOHC 4 Cylinder Engine
-183HP with 181 Torque
-Front and Rear Stabilizer Bars
-Direct Injection
-A.C.E. II Bodystructure Safety 
-CVT or 6 Speed Manual Transmission
-Econ Button
-Eco Assist Driving Coach System
-Hill Start Assist
-17" Aluminum Alloy Wheels
-Electronic Power Steering
-Front Independent Strut Suspension
-Front Strut Tower Bar
-Front, Side and Curtain Airbags
-Smartvent Side Airbags
-Electronic/Adaptive Cruise Control
-Air Conditioning w/ Micron Filter
-Tilt and Telescopic Steering with Audio Controls
-Bluetooth Handsfree Phone Sync
-CD Player w/AM-FM Radio, Aux and USB Connector
-Driver's Expanded View Mirror
-Halogen Projector Beam Headlights
-8" i-Multi Information Display
-SMS and E-Mail
-Heated Front Seats
-Rear Folding Bench Style Seat
-ABS and Electronic Brake Distribution
-Traction Control with Vehicle Stability Assist
-Active Noise Cancellation
-Power Windows with Auto up/down
-Power Door Locks
-Power Heated Side Door Mirrors
-Outside Temperature Display
-Rear Backup Camera
-On Touch Turn Signal

EX-L (Adds to or Replaces the above)

-CVT Transmission is the only option
-Rear LED Taillights
-Smart Key Entry
-Push Button Start
-Heated Rear Seats
-5" Honda Link with Audio Touch Screen
-AHA Radio
-Chrome Door Handles
-Front Fog Lights
-Driver Seat Position Memory
-XM Satellite Radio
-Lane Watch Blind Spot Mirror
-Forward Collision Warning System
-Lane Departure Warning System
-Multi-Angle Rear View Camera

SPORT (Adds to or Replaces the above)

-189HP with 182 Torque (Bigger Exhaust System)
-Paddle Shifters
-18" Aluminum Alloy Wheels
-Dark Chrome Grille
-Dark Chrome Door Handles
-Front Fog Lights
-Decklid Spoiler
-Dual Exhaust Finishers
-Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel

TOURING (Adds to or Replaces the above)

-18" Aluminum Alloy Wheels with Blade Silver with Diamond Machined Face
-Dark Chrome Grille
-LED Projector Beam Headlights
-LED Daytime Running Lights
-7 Speakers with Subwoofer
-Chrome Door Handles
-Honda Satellite Linked Navigation System

EX-L V6 (Adds or Replaces the above)

-3.5Litre SOHC 6 Cylinder Engine
-278HP
-17" Aluminum Alloy Wheels
-6 Speed Automatic Transmission with Grade Logic
-Halogen Projector Beam Headlights
-6 Speakers (No Subwoofer)
-Dual Exhaust Finishers

TOURING V6 (Adds to or Replaces the above)

-Multi-Port Fuel Injection
-18" Aluminum Alloy Wheels with Blade Silver with Diamond Machined Face
-Dark Chrome Grille
-LED Projector Beam Headlights
-LED Daytime Running Lights
-7 Speakers with Subwoofer
-Chrome Door Handles
-Honda Satellite Linked Navigation System
-Dual Exhaust Chrome Finishers

Source;
Honda Canada

Honda jazzes up the Jazz with a 'greener' supermini

Not for North America....

With a name like Jazz you would expect Honda's supermini to be the choice of trendy young things wanting a set of wheels as much to impress with, as drive. In reality, it became a favourite of, how can we say this, the more mature driver.

The reason is the remarkable flexibility of the car's interior, which almost certainly offers more useable space than any other car of its size.

Its wide-opening doors make it easy to get in and out of, the slightly higher seating position is welcomed by many and the above-average rear cabin and boot is to be marvelled at.

All of this also makes the Jazz a real possibility as a family car; plus those looking to downsize and reap the financial benefits will not feel they have had to compromise too much on their driving pleasure.

Honda says the average age of a Jazz customer (and there are about 28,000 of them each year) is 56 and it doesn't expect that to change much. But one of the remits for the latest refresh of a model that has featured at, or near, the top of the sales charts every year it has been on sale in the UK was to sharpen its looks so it will also appeal to younger drivers.

Sleeker front and rear bumpers are the key styling changes and the "projector"-style headlights give it a sharper look.

The major news, however, centred on the car's powerplant and the introduction of a Hybrid engine alongside the 1.2 and 1.4-litre petrol offerings. It is that car we are testing here.

The Jazz Hybrid has been given the same powertrain as found in the Honda Insight – the 1.3-litre i-VTEC petrol engine with Honda's IMA technology and automatic CVT gearbox. This brings CO2 emissions down to 104g/km and delivers 62.8 miles per gallon on the combined cycle. These figures mean free road tax for the first year and only £10 per year thereafter.

More importantly perhaps, Honda has managed to include the technology without compromising the incredible versatility of the Jazz. Often, some hybrid offerings will have severely limited bootspace (because the batteries have to go somewhere). But the Jazz Hybrid still features all the practicality of the petrol variant, most notably, the famed Magic Seats and an impressive load-lugging space of up to 883 litres.

I undertook a round-trip to London during the Olympics and found the car handled a long journey really well. Because of its spacious feeling and lack of road noise, we exited the other end, despite being caught up in jams through Greenwich, without feeling at all frazzled.

While there, we scooted around town with five on board without any complaints.

On the return journey and a need to press on because of negotiating another huge jam, the engine, with a very smooth semi-automatic transmission, which could be changed via paddles on the steering wheel, performed wonders, allowing us to maintain a consistent high speed without impacting overmuch on the quoted economy figures.

While travelling, the clever "Eco Assist" gives you a constant update on how economically you are driving and provides real-time information on how fuel consumption is being affected by how harshly you brake or how fiercely you accelerate.

As mentioned already, one of the Jazz's biggest selling points is its space and versatility and this is down, mainly, to the so-called "Magic" seats in the rear, which offer multiple seating and load- carrying configurations. The 2:1 split seats drop-down in one motion without the need to remove the headrests or adjust the front passenger seat position. For added versatility, the rear seats now recline 73mm to increase rear passenger comfort and flexibility.

Utility Mode: With the seats folded down, Jazz offers a perfectly flat load floor that is 1720mm long; enough for four large suitcases or a few kids' bikes. With just two of the rear seats collapsed there is sufficient space and length for a surfboard or two 26in frame mountain bikes stood upright.

Long Mode: For all flat-pack furniture transporters out there, this mode uses the full length of the Jazz. By fully reclining the passenger seat and dropping the Magic Seats flat, a massive 2.4m long load space is revealed.

To return the rear seats to a seating position, you simply lift the assembly back up; the seat bottom remains locked to the seat back and is simply released by pulling up the leg frame

Tall Mode: Locking the seat base in the "up" position against the seat backs creates a second load area between front and rear seats to stow taller items in the rear foot-wells. The clearance here is 1280mm tall and items such as bikes, golf clubs, a folded wheelchair, tall plants and furniture can all fit in.

Design features have also been added to distinguish between the Hybrid and petrol versions. As an example, the front grille, headlights and tail lamps on the Jazz Hybrid are all finished in a chrome blue surround to mark it out from the petrol models.

Trim levels start at HE and progress through HE-T, HS and HS-T models before arriving at the flagship HX and HX-T variants. The HE model features stability control, climate controlled air con, a CD stereo with AUX-IN, and twin front, side and curtain airbags. HE-T adds sat-nav and hands-free phone.

The HS version gets a leather- trimmed steering wheel, 15in alloy wheels, cruise control and a USB socket, while the HS-T adds the nav and phone setup. The HX is the one to go for if you need leather seats that also have a heating option plus the very nice panoramic glass roof.

Downsides? None really to the Jazz range. As far as Hybrid goes you will, of course, pay a premium – the Jazz range starts at £11,605 on the road, Jazz Hybrid starts at £16,300.

Only you can decide if this works for you but it is, most definitely, a serious option if a "greener" car is high on your agenda.

Source;
http://www.thisishullandeastriding.co.uk/Honda-jazzes-Jazz-greener-supermini/story-16759622-detail/story.html

CEO of Mitsubishi Australia Says “I don’t know why people buy a Mitsubishi”

Wow....

Company executives are usually very reserved in their statements, always careful not to offend the buyer or put their company in a bad light. However, the CEO of Mitsubishi Australia, Mutsuhiro Oshikiri seems to be different. He became CEO just ten weeks ago, and since then has been criticizing the brand’s Astralian lineup.

He went on to say that "the product is too old...the prices are too high [. . .] I don't know why people buy a Mitsubishi...What is the benefit?...I have to find out." This harsh criticism is partially justified, as Mitsubishi hasn’t really been on a roll recently, and perhaps, some new and/or refreshed models would bring more customers into their showrooms and convince them that one of their cars is just right.

We say that if all people had attitudes similar to Mr. Oshikiri’s, then the auto industry would have been a much smoother-running and conspiracy-free business, which would have been achieved for the greater good of all involved, from its workers to the buyers who genuinely got what they paid for.

Source;
http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ceo-of-mitsubishi-australia-says-i-dont-know-why-people-buy-a-mitsubishi-48649.html