Honda Drops Accord Crosstour Teaser Shot, Begins Countdown

Having already confirmed the name of its new Accord-based crossover, Honda is now starting the promotional campaign for the Crosstour with the release of the first teaser shot. It will be followed by more cryptic photographs over the next 11 days as the Japanese automaker wants to build some hype around the crossover prior to the vehicle's official unveiling on September 1st. The first image shows the Crosstour's front grille which is different than the one found on the Accord Coupe and Sedan models - if you just whispered 'big deal' no worries, we agree with you 100 per cent...

Previous spy shots suggest that the Accord Crosstour looks like something that we'd feel comfortable describing as a "poor man's" BMW 5-Series GT featuring an elongated hatch and a sleek roofline.

We're still in the dark when it comes to powertrain options but Honda recently announced that the Accord Crosstour will go on sale in the U.S. this fall. More to come shortly.

Source;
http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2009/08/honda-drops-teaser-shot-of-accord.html

2010 Honda Accord Changes

The FINANCIAL -- The 2010 Honda Accord lineup receives new features on certain models with an expanded application of Bluetooth HandsFreeLink to vehicles equipped with leather seating surfaces (previously exclusive to navigation-equipped models) and new rear seat ventilation ducts on Accord Sedan EX and EX-L models for more-direct rear passenger airflow.

Subtle modifications include graphically optimized climate control buttons and the addition of a trunk roof lining on Accord EX models.

"The Honda Accord offers something for a diverse range of people seeking anything from a comfortable family car to an aggressive coupe with looks and power," said Erik Berkman, vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "The feature changes to the 2010 Honda Accord elevates its appeal and supports a legendary reputation as a class leader for quality and customer satisfaction."

The Accord Sedan's exterior expresses an upscale and powerful presence with a distinctive 6-sided grille, flared fenders and inset character lines sculpted into the sides of the body. Building on the sedan's design character, the Accord Coupe's unique muscular stance is highlighted by a longer hood, projector beam headlights and a sleek, lower-profile roofline.

"Interior styling on all models seeks to provide attainable luxury with generous standard equipment, world-class ergonomics and intuitive vehicle controls. Available premium features include the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation1 System with Voice Activation and XM Radio2 . The front seats are designed to provide generous lateral support and complement the Accord's sporty side. The fold-down, lockable rear seatback increases cargo-carrying versatility and also includes a lockable pass-through for long items like snow skis," Honda reported.

New for 2010, a more-contrasting "lighter" gray color theme for the climate control buttons on all models helps to better differentiate the system controls in relation to nearby dark gray audio system buttons. Models equipped with the available dual-zone automatic climate control enhance the manual fan control override button to include on/off functionality with corresponding changes to the button graphic. For additional simplicity, the dual-zone activation button name changes to "SYNC" from "DUAL."

Available engine choices include a V-6 and a 4-cylinder engine. The 3.5-liter, 24-valve SOHC i-VTEC V-6 engine produces 271-horsepower and takes advantage of Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) technology that can deactivate up to half of the cylinders while cruising to improve fuel economy. The VCM system contributes to an EPA city/highway fuel economy rating of 19/293 miles per gallon in the Accord Sedan V-6.

The performance-oriented Accord V-6 Coupe with 6-speed manual transmission exclusively has a 3.5-liter V-6 VTEC engine (without VCM, hence no "i" in VTEC) that offers an exclusive valvetrain, intake and exhaust system that broadens the torque curve in the low- to mid-rpm range.

A 190-horsepower 2.4-liter, 16-valve DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine is standard in the Accord Sedan EX, EX-L and Accord Coupe LX-S, EX and EX-L. The 2.4-liter Accord Sedan LX and LX-P four-cylinder engine produces 177 hp and features a DOHC i-VTEC valvetrain system. When equipped with the available automatic transmission, both 4-cylinder engines achieve an EPA rating of 21/31miles per gallon3 city/highway.

Available transmissions include a 5-speed manual (standard with all 4-cylinder engines), a 5-speed automatic (available with all 4-cylinder engines and standard on V-6-powered models) and an available 6-speed manual transmission on the Accord Coupe EX-L V-6.

For safety, the Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) is an exclusive body design that enhances occupant protection and crash compatibility in frontal crashes. The ACE design utilizes a network of connected structural elements to distribute crash energy more evenly throughout the front of the vehicle. This enhanced frontal crash energy management helps to reduce the forces transferred to the passenger compartment and can help to more evenly disperse the forces transferred to other vehicles in a crash.

The double wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension, a sophisticated arrangement for any vehicle, inspire spirited handling performance while also supporting a comfortable ride. The 2008 Accord Sedan comes standard with 16-inch steel wheels with wheel covers, or 16- or 17-inch aluminum wheels depending on the model.

Three audio systems are available – all with MP3/Windows Media Audio (WMA) playback capability and an auxiliary input jack. The standard system provides a single-disc CD player, six speakers and 160 watts of power. A Radio Data System (RDS) displays information broadcast by participating radio stations that often includes call letters, station type (searchable by genre) and programming information. Steering wheel audio controls come standard on every Accord. The Accord Sedan EX and Coupe LX-S add a 6-disc in-dash changer.

A premium 270-watt audio system comes standard on Accord EX Coupe and Sedan EX-L models, and includes a six-disc CD changer and seven speakers including an 8-inch subwoofer. XM Radio2 is standard equipment on all Accord EX-L models.

The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with voice activation (available on Accord EX-L) uses an 8-inch screen and an interface dial for user input. Features include the Zagat Survey guide for restaurants, nightlife, hotels and attractions. New for 2010, Accord EX-L models now include Bluetooth HandsFreeLink as standard equipment for connecting wirelessly connecting compatible mobile phones.

The Accord Coupe has 17-inch aluminum wheels standard, with 18-inch aluminum wheels standard on the Accord V-6 Coupe with 6-speed manual transmission. Every model features four-wheel disc brakes.
Approximately 80 percent of the Accords sold in the United States are produced4 at Honda of America Manufacturing Inc.'s Marysville Auto Plant in Marysville, Ohio, and at Honda Manufacturing of Alabama, LLC, in Lincoln, Alabama. The Marysville plant is the sole global source of the Accord Coupe.

1 Certain functions that rely on a satellite signal will not work correctly in Hawaii and Alaska. These functions include but are not limited to automatic clock updates and time zone adjustments.

2 Required XM Radio subscription sold separately after 90-day trial period. Subscriptions are governed by the XM Customer Agreement available at xmradio.com/serviceterms. Other fees and taxes apply after trial period; see XM Customer Agreement for details. Fees and programming subject to change. Service not available in Canada, Alaska, or Hawaii. 2009 SIRIUS XM Radio Inc. SIRIUS, XM and all related marks and logos are trademarks of SIRIUS XM Radio Inc. and its subsidiaries

3Based on 2010 EPA mileage estimates, reflecting new EPA fuel economy methods beginning with 2008 models. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

4 Honda products are produced using domestic and globally-sourced parts.

Source;
http://www.finchannel.com/news_flash/Oil_&_Auto/45483_2010_Honda_Accord_Adds_New_Features_on_Select_Models/

2010 Acura ZDX - First Drive Review

Acura goes a little, well, funny in the head. And we don’t mind.
The Acura ZDX is endearingly weird, the sort of vehicle you might expect Citroën to produce, were it still doing business in America and hoping to slake our countrymen’s thirst for an all-in-one crossover/sports coupe/sedan/SUV. What the ZDX is not, philosophically, is a Honda. “This isn’t the old Acura way of ‘Honda Plus,’” says Acura’s executive vice-president John Mendel, and indeed, this thing is seriously out of compliance with the Honda ethos. The ZDX trades efficiency and rationality for a big ol’ bag of interesting.

It’s a five-door fastback that seats two to three fewer occupants than the MDX and Honda Pilot SUVs on which it’s based. It tows as little as a Honda CR-V (1500 pounds). It has less cargo space than the subcompact Honda Fit. Acura wanted to create a sporty coupe, so naturally it, um, gave it heavy running gear and lifted its center of gravity?

Maybe we’ve had our defenses broken down by the begrudgingly excellent BMW X6, but the ZDX starts to make sense once you drive it, especially in its element, i.e., the winding coastal roads of northern California or the snowy passes of Tahoe. This is a vehicle for those well-tanned, Cialis-addled boomers you see frittering away their early retirements on winery tours, decorator consults, and elective surgeries. In other words, the kind of people a maitre d’ seats us far away from.

Specifications
VEHICLE TYPE: front-engine, 4-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 5-door wagon
ESTIMATED BASE PRICE: $44,000
ENGINE TYPE: SOHC 24-valve V-6, aluminum block and heads, port fuel injection
Displacement: 224 cu in, 3664ccPower (SAE net): 300 bhp @ 6400 rpmTorque (SAE net): 270 lb-ft @ 4600 rpm
TRANSMISSION: 6-speed automatic with manumatic shifting
DIMENSIONS:Wheelbase: 108.3 in Length: 192.4 in Width: 78.5 in Height: 62.8 in Curb weight: 4450–4500 lb
PERFORMANCE (C/D  EST): Zero to 60 mph: 6.7 sec Standing ¼-mile: 15.3 sec Top speed (governor limited): 130 mph
PROJECTED FUEL ECONOMY (MFR’S EST): EPA city/highway driving: 16/22 mpg

It’s a low-stress machine. Though it feeds an ample 300 horsepower from its 3.7-liter V-6 through Acura’s new six-speed automatic transmission and its torque-shuffling SH-AWD system, the ZDX’s dials are angled toward luxury rather than sport. True, it does have an optional sport mode (part of the Advance package), which livens up steering effort and damper response. But there remains a tendency for the ZDX to worry itself around corners, not providing the steering feedback and off-center torque buildup you get in the MDX. The brakes are easy to predict, though, and the vehicle stays composed through hard bends and over broken roads, thanks to the Advance pack’s magneto­rheological adaptive dampers.

The ZDX’s exterior is deeply alluring and reconciles, finally, Acura’s new “shogun warrior” styling theme. Its long panoramic glass roof terminates in a transom window set between the ZDX’s ultra-wide, sculpted hips. The interior, though difficult to access through the rear doors, is roomy and filled with high-quality touches—loop carpet, a strut-equipped cargo-bin lid, and leather that feels like it slid off a side of Wagyu beef.

Coming to market nicely loaded—a roughly $3500 Technology package adds nav, an eight-inch display screen (a camera with rearview-mirror-integrated display is standard), and ELS audio; the Advance pack offers all that, plus stuff such as blind-spot warning and adaptive cruise for about another $2000—the ZDX will start around $44,000, sitting, pricewise, between the MDX and the RL. It will offer 15,000 or so empty-nester MDX buyers a way to stay in the Acura brand without having to resort to driving a sedan. Because that would be far too rational.

Source (w/more pic's);
http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/car/09q3/2010_acura_zdx-first_drive_review

Rendered Speculation: 2012 Mazda MX-5 could go lighter and smaller

Now celebrating its 20th anniversary, the Mazda MX-5 (or Miata) has shown remarkable resilience to the bloating trends of age. While other automakers tend to make new cars bigger and fatter with each successive generation, notwithstanding the optional retractable hardtop version, the Mazda roadster has remained relatively compact and light on its feet. But while the MX-5 Superlight concept due to debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show takes the current Miata into ever lighter territory, reports suggest that the next-generation model could prove even lighter.With a compact four-cylinder engine and lightweight chassis, the replacement for the current MX-5 is reportedly being prepared for its debut in 2012. What this would mean, however, for the fate of the reputed MX-2 – a speculated sub-Miata roadster – remains to be seen.

Source;
http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/18/rendered-speculation-2012-mazda-mx-5-could-go-lighter-and-small/

Automotive News: Acura to shift focus towards fuel efficiency, Honda may stretch product cycles

Mark Rechtin of Automotive News has two stories concerning Honda today. John Watts is (once again) a central figure in these stories. In the first story, Rechtin reports that Honda is looking at the possibility of stretching certain model cycles and quotes an analyst who says that the Accord would be a good possible candidate for an extended cycle, but it would be unlikely to see this happening to the Civic. Several months ago, we reported on tips we had received from anonymous sources claiming that the next generation Civic's introduction could be delayed by anywhere from 6 months to a year. Since then there have been several sources contradicting these claims, however. After reading the article at Automotive News, it's not really clear which direction Honda is really headed with this, as John Watts seems to make a number of arguments against the idea.

Link: Honda may stretch U.S. product cycles to cut global costs (subscription req'd)

The second story concerns Acura and how they are said to be shifting their focus away from performance and more towards fuel efficiency. John Watts mentions that the upcoming 2016 CAFE standards are proving to be very difficult to meet (side note: Honda was one of the few automakers who supported the very stringent standards), and that they see a much stronger (luxury) consumer focus on fuel efficiency when the market emerges from the current recession.

Link: Acura says it's putting fuel economy ahead of performance (subscription req'd)

Source;
http://www.vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=847654

Honda remains in driver's seat of fuel-cell cars

More fuel cell news....
Honda Motor is backing hydrogen power for the cars of the future, waving aside a decision by the Obama administration to drop the so-called fuel-cell technology in favor of battery-run vehicles.

"Fuel-cell cars will become necessary," said Takashi Moriya, head of Tokyo-based Honda's group developing the technology. "We're positioning it as the ultimate zero-emission car."

Honda, the only carmaker to lease hydrogen-powered autos to individuals, opened a production line last year in Tochigi prefecture to make 200 fuel-cell FCX Clarity sedans, the model being leased in a trial in Los Angeles.

The Obama administration sought to eliminate hydrogen-station funding and instead lend $1.6 billion to Nissan Motor and $465 million to Tesla Motors to make electric cars, and give $2.4 billion in grants to lithium-ion battery makers.

"Honda has a propensity to think very long term," said Ed Kim, an analyst at AutoPacific in Tustin, Calif. "It's also part of the company culture that if they've made a decision they think is correct, they'll really stick with it."

Honda is not alone. Toyota Motor, Daimler AG, General Motors and Hyundai Motor say hydrogen, the universe's most abundant element, is among the few options to replace oil as a low-carbon transportation fuel.

U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu said in May his department would "be moving away" from hydrogen as it's unlikely the U.S. can convert to the fuel even after 20 years. Nissan Chief Executive Carlos Ghosn predicts electric vehicles may grab 10 percent of global auto sales by 2020. Honda hasn't announced plans for a battery-powered car.

Hydrogen, made mainly for industrial use from natural gas, costs about $5 to $10 per kilogram for vehicles in California, more than double an equivalent amount of gasoline. The Energy Department estimates future prices for hydrogen will fall to $2 to $3 a kilogram, Toyota said.
Toyota President Akio Toyoda said Aug. 5 his company plans consumer sales of fuel-cell cars within six years. Toyota, like Honda, is making "exponential progress" with fuel cell technology, Justin Ward, manager of Toyota's U.S. advanced powertrain program, said in an interview.

Battery-powered electric cars are further along in the market. Mitsubishi Motors started selling the i-MiEV last month. Tesla sells a $109,000 Roadster and Nissan unveiled its first electric car, the Leaf, this month. It plans limited sales of the model in Japan and the United States next year.

Honda says hydrogen vehicles match the refueling style drivers are used to: filling up in minutes at a service station. Nissan's Leaf recharges fully in 30 minutes with a fast-charger, or up to 16 hours on a household outlet, said Tetsuro Sasaki, senior manager of Nissan's battery test group.

A budget crisis slowed plans for more hydrogen stations in California, home to the biggest fleet of cars using the fuel. At the federal level, Chu sought $333.3 million in May for battery and advanced gasoline autos in the 2010 budget, up 22 percent. Hydrogen funds were cut 60 percent to $68 million, slashing money that would have gone to transportation projects.

The Clarity is available in the United States only in Los Angeles, where drivers can use about 16 hydrogen stations. The 5- passenger car has a top speed of 100 miles an hour and goes 240 miles, more than double the 100-mile range of Nissan's compact electric car. Through July, Honda leased cars to 10 drivers for $600 a month.

One problem for Honda is the need for a network of hydrogen filling stations.
"We cannot do infrastructure alone," Moriya said. "We've been developing the cars on our own without government support."

The Senate and House voted in July to restore the funds. President Barack Obama must approve the final budget.

Honda and Toyota will have to reduce production costs to win over consumers. Fuel cells need more platinum -- a precious metal that costs more than $1,200 an ounce -- and current durability is half that of gasoline engines, according to Moriya.

Honda plans to offer hydrogen-powered cars at costs comparable to midsize gasoline autos by 2020. Honda said its 2005 hand-built predecessor to the Clarity cost about $1 million. Moriya wouldn't discuss the Clarity's price.

Honda engineers in Tochigi are trying to trim costs. For 13 months, technicians have worked in a semiconductor-style clean-room, coating rolls of plastic film for fuel-cell membranes. Nearby, a press stamps stainless-steel plates that will grip the material. Hundreds of the cells are then sealed in a metal case, forming the fuel-cell stack.

Honda's hydrogen push has been undermined by plunging sales in the United States, its main market. Last quarter, profit at Japan's second-largest carmaker fell 96 percent to 7.5 billion yen ($79 million). Its research budget is 515 billion yen this fiscal year, down 8.5 percent. Funds for fuel cells were cut and some spending shifted to other "priorities," Moriya said, without elaborating.

Honda probably spends "a few tens of billions of yen" a year on fuel cells, said analyst Mamoru Kato at Tokai Tokyo Research Center in Nagoya.

"Maybe, just maybe, fuel cells will be the future," said Edwin Merner, who helps manage about $3 billion at Atlantis Investment Research in Tokyo. "And if you're not in there, then you have a big disadvantage."

Source;
http://www.nj.com/business/index.ssf/2009/08/honda_remains_in_drivers_seat.html

Honda backs hydrogen tech; going into production

Honda is pushing ahead with its plans to begin mass-production of its hydrogen fuel-cell-powered FCX Clarity, despite the slow take-up of hydrogen technology.

In the US, a key market for hydrogen technology, the Obama administration has publically backed electric car technology and has consistently distanced itself from creating a hydrogen network.

In other key markets, including Britain, no hydrogen network currently exists.
Takashi Moriya, head of the Tokyo-based Honda group developing the technology, said: “Fuel-cell cars will become necessary. We’re positioning it [the FCX Clarity] as the ultimate zero-emission car.”

At present, Honda is the only major car manufacturer offering its fuel-cell vehicles to members of the public for leasing. GM and Toyota have also publically backed the adoption of hydrogen fuel-cell technology.

GM plans to launch a fuel-cell car by 2012, while Toyota president Akio Toyoda confirmed his company would bring a fuel-cell car to market within the next six years.

Source;
http://www.autocar.co.uk/News/NewsArticle/Honda-Concepts/242482/

Acura Press Release: 2010 Acura ZDX

New 2010 Acura ZDX Four-Door Sports Coupe Delivers Style, Performance, Luxury and Refinement

The all-new 2010 Acura ZDX four-door sports coupe will arrive this winter at Acura dealerships with dramatic styling, outstanding performance and the latest in advanced technology. The segment bending ZDX features stunning coupe-like styling with the added benefit of a commanding presence and flexible utility. Staying true to the prototype model that debuted at the 2009 New York International Auto Show in April, the production ZDX will feature the key design highlights of a panoramic glass roof, hidden rear door handles and bold fender flares.

"The ZDX is like nothing you have ever seen before from Acura," said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. "It combines the best attributes of a coupe, a sedan and a sport utility – all wrapped in a beautifully sculpted package – that will attract an entirely new luxury customer to the Acura brand."

Designed, developed and manufactured entirely in North America, the ZDX breaks new ground for Acura in many ways. The ZDX is the first vehicle to be styled from start to finish in the new, dedicated Acura Design Studio in Torrance, CA, allowing exterior and interior designers to work closely together throughout the entire design process. Staying true to the original sketch from Acura's first female designer, Michelle Christensen, the ZDX features sensuous curves, deeply sculpted shoulders and strong character lines.

Inside, the ZDX exhibits the highest levels of refinement and sophistication ever offered from Acura. Every ZDX interior will feature Acura's first hand-stitched leather dashboard, door panels and sculpted center console. The rich leather appointments give the ZDX a warm and inviting feeling while creating an intimate cockpit for the driver and front passenger. The cabin is well lit thanks to extensive use of LED lighting along with the light from the unique moonroof that is an integral design aspect of the longest glass roof in the industry. The panoramic glass roof has dual automatic sunshades that open and closes at the touch of a button.

The luxurious cockpit gives way to generous cabin that provides comfortable seating for up to 5-passengers. The ZDX's flexible utility allows it to be a perfect weekend getaway vehicle, allowing for 26.3 cubic feet of space behind the second row seats and a total of 55.8 cubic feet when the seats are folded flat. The cargo area can also be expanded to accommodate longer objects (such as golf bags) by removing side panels in the cargo-compartment sidewalls. As an added bonus, there is an integrated under-floor storage area which provides 2.2 cubic-feet of secure space.

The all-new ZDX not only boasts head-turning style but also outstanding performance. The 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 all-aluminum engine generates 300 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque for immediate acceleration response, outstanding low- and mid-range torque and superior high-rpm power. The all-new 6-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters gives the ZDX excellent acceleration while also enhancing fuel economy. EPA estimated city/highway fuel mileage of 16/22 mpg* and a large 21-gallon fuel capacity allow for the ZDX to have a long cruising range. Plus, the ZDX complies with the latest EPA TIER 2 – BIN 5 and
CARB LEV II ULEV emissions standards.

Standard on the ZDX is Acura's exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system. SH-AWD® expands the ZDX's appeal by providing outstanding handling as well as excellent all-season capability. Standard on the ZDX are 19x8.5-inch 7-spoke aluminum alloy wheels- the largest standard wheel in the Acura lineup.

Adding to the dynamic capabilities of the ZDX is the available Integrated Dynamics System (IDS), which tailors the fully independent suspension's Active Damper System and speed-sensitive steering together to suit the driver's preference for a more comfortable or a more sporting ride – all available for easy change at the turn of a dial. Comfort mode prioritizes road isolation and reduced passenger fatigue, while Sport mode favors crisp handling response, heightened vehicle body control and maximum traction.

Befitting its "sports coupe" design, the 2010 ZDX is longer, lower, wider and has a significantly wider track than its primary market competitors. The ZDX rides on a 108.3-inch wheelbase with an overall length of 192.4 inches, it has an overall width of 85.6 inches with a 67.7-inch track front and rear, and it stands 62.8 inches tall. These dimensions allow the ZDX to offer a driving character that is as confident as its appearance is dramatic.

When the ZDX goes on sale this winter, customers will have the choice of three distinct trim levels: ZDX, ZDX with Technology Package and the ZDX with Advance Package. Like all Acura models, the ZDX will come generously equipped. The panoramic glass roof with moveable sunshades, hand-stitched leather interior, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® connectivity, power tailgate and a high powered audio system with CD player, AM/FM radio, XM® Satellite Radio and USB audio connectivity with iPod® integration are all standard features.

The ZDX with Technology Package adds several key features including an Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, an Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system and a new multi-view rear camera. The Advance Package boasts additional customer enhancing technologies like a blind spot information system, a Collision Mitigating Braking System™ (CMBS™) and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC).When the ZDX goes on-sale, it will bring a new level of prestige to the Acura lineup. The ZDX will be positioned and priced between the MDX luxury SUV and the RL luxury performance sedan. ZDX pricing and additional details will be released at a later date.

PowertrainThe all-new ZDX is equipped with a new generation of the 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 engine that continues Acura's longstanding mission to provide V-8 level horsepower and torque with the size and fuel efficiency of a V-6. The all-aluminum engine develops 300 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque for immediate acceleration response, outstanding low- and mid-range torque and exciting high-rpm power.

Helping broaden the powerband while simultaneously improving fuel efficiency of the latest 3.7L V-6 is a new 2-rocker arm design VTEC® (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) system applied to the intake valves. In addition, special high-lift camshaft specs during VTEC® operation, a dual-stage induction system and an electronic Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system team to improve engine performance.

Performance and fuel economy are further enhanced by the ZDX's all-new Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic transmission that is designed to satisfy the most discerning enthusiast drivers. EPA estimated city/highway fuel mileage of 16/22 mpg* and a large 21-gallon fuel capacity allow for the ZDX to have a long cruising range. Plus, the ZDX complies with the latest EPA TIER 2 – BIN 5 and CARB LEV II ULEV emissions standards.

Standard on the ZDX is Acura's exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system, which is tuned for real-world driving conditions and has been performance proven on Germany's famed Nürburgring road course. Setting new standards for power delivery and handling response, SH-AWD® actively varies the torque distribution first between front and rear axles, and then between the left and right rear wheels, to maximize available traction under most driving situations. This "torque vectoring" operates automatically and seamlessly, and allows SH-AWD® to overdrive the outside rear wheel up to 1.7-percent faster than the front wheels- thus creating a "yaw moment" that allows the ZDX to better rotate around a corner while minimizing vehicle understeer.

Chassis The ZDX chassis was tuned to provide an ideal balance of handling precision, road isolation and damping. In front, MacPherson struts team with coil-over springs and forged-aluminum lower control arms for precise handling with generous wheel travel, while hydro-compliance suspension bushings and a front subframe that "floats" on rubber mounts provide superb road and engine isolation. The ZDX's multi-link rear suspension mounts on a separate steel subframe and employs aluminum uprights for reduced unsprung weight; the coil springs, dampers and anti-roll bar are tuned for optimum ride and handling.

Included with the available Advance Package, the new Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) tailors the ZDX's fully independent suspension's Active Damper System and speed-sensitive steering to suit the driver's preference for a more comfortable or a more sporting ride – available at the touch of a switch. Comfort mode prioritizes road isolation and reduced passenger fatigue, while Sport mode favors crisp handling response, heightened vehicle body control and maximum traction.

The heart of the ZDX's Active Damper System is its electronically-controlled Magneto-Rheological shock absorbers, which can individually adjust from minimum to maximum damping force in as little as five milliseconds (0.005 sec.). Along with the active dampers, the speed-sensitive hydraulic steering assist is automatically adjusted according to the driver's choice of Comfort or Sport modes: lighter steering effort is generated in the Comfort mode, while firmer effort results when in Sport mode.

Body The exterior design goal for the ZDX was to merge the emotional appeal of a sports coupe with excellent all-season ability and good ground clearance to allow for moderate off-highway use. The unique design of the wide rear fenders and aerodynamic cabin give the ZDX a decisive and powerful appearance, while the panoramic glass roof provides occupants with a breathtaking view of the world around them.

The unique moonroof design teams with the surrounding glass structure to make for the longest glass roof in the automotive market- stretching from the leading edge of the windshield to the trailing edge of the tailgate glass. In the front section of the glass roof is the moonroof that tilts and slides up and back along the outside of the roof. This opening design helps to preserve maximum interior headroom while also retaining the dramatic and personal "sports coupe" design of the cabin greenhouse. A fixed glass panel over the rear seat area further brightens the cabin. Dual motorized sunshades cover both the front and rear glass panels should the ZDX occupants choose to reduce sunlight entering the interior, while a mesh fabric pop-up air deflector achieves a new standard for wind-noise performance when compared to a traditional blade-type wind deflector.

Cargo Opening the power-actuated tailgate reveals an impressively detailed rear cargo area that offers a total of 26.3 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats. Lined with premium loop-style carpet, the rear cargo area also offers a cleverly hidden 2.2 cubic-feet cargo bin positioned under the floor. Hidden behind removable side panels are additional storage areas in the cargo-compartment sidewalls. Like the under-floor access panel, the removable side panels have satin-metal release handles, and can be stored in the under-floor cargo bin to generate a wide load space designed to accommodate up to four golf bags. With the second-row seats folded, the ZDX offers a fully carpeted near-flat load floor and a total of 55.8 cubic feet of cargo space.

InteriorCombining premium materials with a new standard of attention-to-detail and craftsmanship, the ZDX interior takes its place as the ultimate expression of Acura interior design. Following the "2+Freedom" design concept, the ZDX interior emphasizes the needs of the driver and passenger, while also offering the loading freedom to easily accommodate a weekend golfing trip or a piece of bulky cargo. For occasional use, the ZDX's second-row seats can comfortably accommodate two full-size adults, or three passengers for shorter rides.

New manufacturing processes allow top-grade leather to precisely follow complex, flowing shapes on the instrument panel, center console and door panels. LED interior lighting and a striking center instrument panel that blacks out when not in use give the ZDX a clean, technical feel.

Standard ZDX interior features include leather seating surfaces, a supportive 10-way adjustable power driver seat and an 8-way adjustable power passenger seat. Also standard is the panoramic glass roof, power tailgate and a dual-zone, dual-mode automatic climate control system with automatic humidity control and rear seat vents. Additional standard equipment includes a powerful 8-speaker audio system with 6-disc CD changer, AM/FM tuner, XM® Radio, Bluetooth® Audio, USB port connectivity (for items such as iPod®, iPhone®, or removable USB mass storage devices) and AUX jack interface (for portable MP3 music players).
The ZDX auto day/night rearview mirror includes an integrated rear view camera display, while Tech and Advance models display camera information on the navigation system's full VGA color display.

Advanced Technology An available Technology Package increases both connectivity and comfort. The package starts with a Keyless Access System with push-button start, luxurious full-grain Perforated Milano Premium Leather for the seating surfaces and an Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™. The system has an 8-inch full VGA high-resolution color display, uses navigation data stored on a built-in 60 GB hard disk drive (HDD) for impressively quick operation and includes AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting™ along with the AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ with weather radar image maps. For the ultimate in connectivity, the AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System allows direct communication between the ZDX and Acura, including the ability to make automated appointments for vehicle service.

The Technology Package also features Acura's renowned Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system with a 435-watt Digital Sound Processor amplifier, a 10-speaker surround sound array and a built-in 15-gigabyte hard disk drive (HDD) media storage system that allows the ZDX owner to download and store about 3,500 up to songs†for later playback. The Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system offers DVD-Audio (with 500-times higher resolution than traditional CD audio), DTS™, CD, AM/FM tuner, XM® Radio, Bluetooth® Audio, plus USB and AUX jack connectivity.

The available Advance Package includes everything in the Technology Package, and adds premium brushed tricot headliner material, ventilated front seats, a sport steering wheel and additional LED ambient lighting. The Advance Package also includes Acura's Collision Mitigating Braking System™ (CMBS™), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), a blind spot information system and the Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) that controls the Active Damper System and speed-sensitive steering.

Safety Acura's acclaimed Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure and a comprehensive array of active and passive safety features help the 2010 ZDX offer a high level of passenger safety. The ACE™ body structure more evenly distributes collision forces throughout the vehicle and also helps maintain the integrity of the passenger cabin in the event of a severe frontal collision.

Passive safety features include a dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), dual-chamber side airbags with a passenger side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS), front seats with active head restraints, knee bolsters for front occupants, side curtain airbags with rollover sensor and front seatbelts with an automatic tensioning system with integrated load limiters.

Numerous standard "active safety" features that help the ZDX driver minimize the risk of collision include Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) along with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist.

An additional active safety feature included in the available Advance Package is the Collision Mitigating Braking System™ (CMBS™) which helps the driver reduce the likelihood of a collision by alerting the driver to potential collision situations and activating the brakes if the system determines a collision likely is unavoidable.

Although the ZDX has not yet been tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) as of press time, Acura internal testing projects the ZDX to achieve top ratings in NHTSA** frontal and side impact testing, as well as earn GOOD ratings from the IIHS.

Along with every other new Acura, the 2010 ZDX is covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty and a 6-year/70,000 miles powertrain limited warranty. Additional benefits of ownership include Acura Total Luxury Care (TLC), which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service and trip routing.

AcuraAcura offers a full line of technologically advanced performance luxury vehicles through a network of 270 dealers within the United States. The 2010 Acura lineup features six distinctive models including the RL luxury performance sedan, the TL performance luxury sedan, the TSX sports sedan, the turbocharged RDX luxury crossover SUV, the award-winning MDX luxury sport utility vehicle and the all-new ZDX four-door sports coupe.For more information about Acura vehicles, please visit www.acura.com. For additional media information, please go to www.acuranews.com.

*Based on 2010 EPA mileage estimates, reflecting new EPA fuel economy methods beginning with 2008 models. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.
**Government star ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA's) New Car Assessment Program (www.safercar.gov). Model tested with standard side-impact air bags (SABs).

Source;

http://www.acura.com/PressReleaseArticle.aspx?year=2009&id=5125