Not for North America....
This is the Honda BRIO prototype, which is the near production version of the company’s New Small Concept that was shown earlier this year in India. It is an A-segment vehicle that’s one class smaller than the Jazz and City. Rivals will include the Suzuki Alto, Hyundai i10 and Kia Picanto, among other small cars.
The BRIO measures 3,610 mm long, 1,680 mm wide and 1,475 mm tall. That’s 45 mm longer, 85 mm wider, but 65 mm lower than a Hyundai i10. Honda did not reveal what the wheelbase is, or what engine powers the BRIO, though we’re guessing a 1.2L SOHC engine from the same family as the one in the Jazz/City. Honda needs it to achieve an average fuel consumption of less than 5 litres per 100 km (or 20 km/l) on the ECE R101 mode measurement cycle to meet Thai eco car requirements.
Thai production will begin in March 2011. India will start making the Brio in 2011 as well, with 80% local content. Although the BRIO was designed primarily for the Thai and Indian market, Honda is considering export from Thailand to the region around it, so there’s a possibility that Honda Malaysia could take up this model as an entry level to the range, something like “my first Honda”.
In Thailand, Honda targets to sell the BRIO at a starting price of approximately 400,000 baht, which is the same price as a Proton Savvy thanks to the tax breaks it gets from the Thai eco car plan, while in India the car is supposed to go 500,000 rupees onwards. How much will you pay for a BRIO in Malaysia?
Source;
http://paultan.org/2010/11/30/hondas-a-segment-brio-set-for-march-2011-production/
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
2011 Honda Fit Receives More Standard Features; VSA Added to All Models
All I can say is carpted floor mats.... It's about freakin' time....
Accommodating, versatile and fuel-efficient five-door now includes standard VSA, USB, cruise control and remote entry on all models
11/29/2010 - TORRANCE, Calif.
The Honda Fit offers even more value for the 2011 model year in its already versatile, fun-to-drive and fuel-efficient five-door package. New for 2011, all models include Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) as standard equipment, along with more comfort and convenience features.
New features on the Fit (base model) include cruise control, remote entry, a USB audio interface and VSA. The Fit Sport (non-navigation) also gains VSA for 2011, along with carpeted floor mats.
The Fit Sport with Navigation (previously equipped with VSA as standard equipment) receives carpeted floor mats as standard equipment. Four new colors become available - Alabaster Silver Metallic, Polished Metal Metallic, Celestial Blue Metallic and Vortex Blue Pearl - and replace similar colors from the previous model year.
Compact on the outside yet spacious inside, the Fit stands apart from other entry-level vehicles with its multi-functional interior and emphasis on quality and refinement. The exclusive 60/40 split rear Magic Seat® offers multiple seating and cargo-carrying configurations - tall object mode, long object mode and utility mode - in addition to the standard five-passenger mode.
The exterior design provides excellent outward visibility and contributes to the vehicle's aggressive, sporty stance. The 1.5-liter, i-VTEC® 4-cylinder engine is tuned to deliver a rewarding combination of power and fuel economy. A five-speed manual transmission is standard and a five-speed automatic transmission is available. Steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters on Fit Sport models equipped with the available automatic transmission allow for manual gear selection.
Compact on the outside with an overall length of 161.6 inches, the interior provides an impressive passenger volume of 90.8 cubic feet for its class and a rear cargo volume of 20.6 cubic feet. The rear Magic Seat provides convenient one-motion dive-down functionality and can fold flat into the floor to create a rear cargo volume of 57.3 cubic feet.
Safety highlights include the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, standard VSA, anti-lock brakes and more. Dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags, dual front-side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS) and side-curtain airbags are standard equipment on all models.
The engine produces 117 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 106 lb-ft. of torque at 4,800 rpm. The Fit equipped with the available automatic transmission has an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) city/highway/combined fuel economy rating of 28/35/31 miles per gallon . The Fit Sport with the available automatic transmission has an EPA city/highway/combined fuel economy rating of 27/33/30 miles per gallon1. All manual transmission-equipped models have an EPA city/highway/combined fuel economy rating of 27/33/29 miles per gallon.1
The front MacPherson strut suspension and torsion beam rear suspension settings are tuned to provide a sporty, refined and dynamic driving experience. Fifteen- and 16-inch wheels (Fit and Fit Sport, respectively) feature 175/65 R15 84S (Fit) and 185/55 R16 83H (Fit Sport) tires. The standard anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) uses 10.3-inch ventilated discs in the front and 7.9-inch drums in the rear.
The Fit comes with standard amenities such as air conditioning, cruise control, remote entry, an AM/FM/CD audio system with four speakers, USB audio interface2, auxiliary audio input jack, MP3/WMA playback capability, Radio Data System (RDS), power windows, power mirrors and power door locks. The Fit Sport adds or replaces: carpeted floor mats, alloy wheels, an underbody aero kit, rear roofline spoiler, fog lights and a security system.
The Fit Sport audio system provides six speakers. The Fit Sport is available with the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with Voice Recognition3, featuring a 6.5-inch screen and more than seven million points of interest.
Fit awards and accolades include being named to Car and Driver Magazine's "10Best Cars for 2011" list (www.caranddriver.com), a prestigious honor it has received in each of the five years that it has been on sale in the United States.
# # #
1 Based on 2011 EPA mileage estimates. 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.
2 The USB Audio Interface is used for direct connection to and control of some current digital audio players and other USB devices that contain MP3, WMA or AAC music files. Some USB devices with security software and digital rights-protected files may not work. Please see your dealer for details on compatibility.
3 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. RDS not available on navigation models.
Source;
http://www.hondanews.com/channels/corporate-headlines/releases/2011-honda-fit-receives-more-standard-features-vsa-added-to-all-models
Accommodating, versatile and fuel-efficient five-door now includes standard VSA, USB, cruise control and remote entry on all models
11/29/2010 - TORRANCE, Calif.
The Honda Fit offers even more value for the 2011 model year in its already versatile, fun-to-drive and fuel-efficient five-door package. New for 2011, all models include Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) as standard equipment, along with more comfort and convenience features.
New features on the Fit (base model) include cruise control, remote entry, a USB audio interface and VSA. The Fit Sport (non-navigation) also gains VSA for 2011, along with carpeted floor mats.
The Fit Sport with Navigation (previously equipped with VSA as standard equipment) receives carpeted floor mats as standard equipment. Four new colors become available - Alabaster Silver Metallic, Polished Metal Metallic, Celestial Blue Metallic and Vortex Blue Pearl - and replace similar colors from the previous model year.
Compact on the outside yet spacious inside, the Fit stands apart from other entry-level vehicles with its multi-functional interior and emphasis on quality and refinement. The exclusive 60/40 split rear Magic Seat® offers multiple seating and cargo-carrying configurations - tall object mode, long object mode and utility mode - in addition to the standard five-passenger mode.
The exterior design provides excellent outward visibility and contributes to the vehicle's aggressive, sporty stance. The 1.5-liter, i-VTEC® 4-cylinder engine is tuned to deliver a rewarding combination of power and fuel economy. A five-speed manual transmission is standard and a five-speed automatic transmission is available. Steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters on Fit Sport models equipped with the available automatic transmission allow for manual gear selection.
Compact on the outside with an overall length of 161.6 inches, the interior provides an impressive passenger volume of 90.8 cubic feet for its class and a rear cargo volume of 20.6 cubic feet. The rear Magic Seat provides convenient one-motion dive-down functionality and can fold flat into the floor to create a rear cargo volume of 57.3 cubic feet.
Safety highlights include the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, standard VSA, anti-lock brakes and more. Dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags, dual front-side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS) and side-curtain airbags are standard equipment on all models.
The engine produces 117 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 106 lb-ft. of torque at 4,800 rpm. The Fit equipped with the available automatic transmission has an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) city/highway/combined fuel economy rating of 28/35/31 miles per gallon . The Fit Sport with the available automatic transmission has an EPA city/highway/combined fuel economy rating of 27/33/30 miles per gallon1. All manual transmission-equipped models have an EPA city/highway/combined fuel economy rating of 27/33/29 miles per gallon.1
The front MacPherson strut suspension and torsion beam rear suspension settings are tuned to provide a sporty, refined and dynamic driving experience. Fifteen- and 16-inch wheels (Fit and Fit Sport, respectively) feature 175/65 R15 84S (Fit) and 185/55 R16 83H (Fit Sport) tires. The standard anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) uses 10.3-inch ventilated discs in the front and 7.9-inch drums in the rear.
The Fit comes with standard amenities such as air conditioning, cruise control, remote entry, an AM/FM/CD audio system with four speakers, USB audio interface2, auxiliary audio input jack, MP3/WMA playback capability, Radio Data System (RDS), power windows, power mirrors and power door locks. The Fit Sport adds or replaces: carpeted floor mats, alloy wheels, an underbody aero kit, rear roofline spoiler, fog lights and a security system.
The Fit Sport audio system provides six speakers. The Fit Sport is available with the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with Voice Recognition3, featuring a 6.5-inch screen and more than seven million points of interest.
Fit awards and accolades include being named to Car and Driver Magazine's "10Best Cars for 2011" list (www.caranddriver.com), a prestigious honor it has received in each of the five years that it has been on sale in the United States.
# # #
1 Based on 2011 EPA mileage estimates. 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.
2 The USB Audio Interface is used for direct connection to and control of some current digital audio players and other USB devices that contain MP3, WMA or AAC music files. Some USB devices with security software and digital rights-protected files may not work. Please see your dealer for details on compatibility.
3 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. RDS not available on navigation models.
Source;
http://www.hondanews.com/channels/corporate-headlines/releases/2011-honda-fit-receives-more-standard-features-vsa-added-to-all-models
Honda CR-Z Roadster Die-cast Begs the Question; Should it Become a Reality?
Interesting....
From what we know, Honda has no official plans to build a roadster version of its CR-Z hybrid coupe. But that hasn't stopped others from trying - even if in this case, we're talking about a scaled down die-cast model. Too bad we couldn't find any additional pictures of the toy-sized model, and especially of the rear end. If you happen to have any information and/or pictures, you know the drill... Follow the break and share your thoughts on whether or not Honda should create a two-seater drop top version of its CR-Z.
Source;
http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2010/11/honda-cr-z-roadster-die-cast-begs.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:+Carscoop+%28CARSCOOP%29&utm_content=Google+Reader
Below is an older photoshop of what someone was thinking that the car might look like....
From what we know, Honda has no official plans to build a roadster version of its CR-Z hybrid coupe. But that hasn't stopped others from trying - even if in this case, we're talking about a scaled down die-cast model. Too bad we couldn't find any additional pictures of the toy-sized model, and especially of the rear end. If you happen to have any information and/or pictures, you know the drill... Follow the break and share your thoughts on whether or not Honda should create a two-seater drop top version of its CR-Z.
Source;
http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2010/11/honda-cr-z-roadster-die-cast-begs.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:+Carscoop+%28CARSCOOP%29&utm_content=Google+Reader
Below is an older photoshop of what someone was thinking that the car might look like....
Rest in Peace Leslie Nelson
Ah, Mr. Nelson. The world is going to miss you. Fellow Canadian and one of my favourite actors, you'll never know how many times you've made me uncontrollably laugh! I never met Leslie but all indications were that he was a quality person, rest in peace.
Leslie Nielsen, who dazzled with deadpan in The Naked Gun and Airplane!, passed away on Sunday at a hospital near his home in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., where he was being treated for pneumonia, according to the New York Times. He was 84.
The master of parody boasted a talent for delivering the most ridiculous lines in the straightest way possible, cloaking outright absurdity in obliviousness. Ironically enough, the foundation of that gravitas was built early in his career as a dramatic actor: After serving in the Royal Canadian Air Force and studying at New York City’s famed Actors Studio, the Saskatchewan-born Nielsen popped up on early ’50s TV. He received his first big film break playing sturdy Commander J.J. Adams in the 1956 sci-fi flick Forbidden Planet. Over the next few decades, he established himself as a reliable, handsome, rich-voiced character actor who graced myriad TV dramas (Peyton Place, Dr. Kildare) and movies (The Poseidon Adventure).
His career took a comical hard left turn when he was cast as Dr. Rumack in the 1980 big-screen parody film Airplane! (Let us honor his famous line, which stands as one of the best retorts in comedic cinema history: “Surely you can’t be serious!” “I am serious. And don’t call me Shirley.”) Two years later he was tapped by the Airplane! brain trust to play Lt. Frank Drebin in the cop-show spoof sitcom Police Squad! Although the series lasted only six episodes, Nielsen earned an Emmy nomination for his work, and in 1988, re-inhabited the bumbling Drebin again for the big-screen adaptation The Naked Gun. (It may be hard to find more laughs-per-minute in a comedy film than in the film’s baseball-game scene, which culminates with Drebin foiling an assassination attempt on the Queen of England). The success of The Naked Gun paved the way for two sequels in 1991 and 1994, and Nielsen continued down the parody path in not-as-memorable films like Spy Hard, Wrongfully Accused, and Dracula: Dead and Loving It. (He did earn notice in Scary Movie 3 and Scary Movie 4.)
Nielsen worked into his 80s, appearing in even more spoof flicks like Superhero Movie and 2009′s Stan Helsing. Surely, we can’t be more serious when we say: Leslie Nielsen, you will be missed.
Source;
http://news-briefs.ew.com/2010/11/28/leslie-nielsen-dies/
Leslie Nielsen, who dazzled with deadpan in The Naked Gun and Airplane!, passed away on Sunday at a hospital near his home in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., where he was being treated for pneumonia, according to the New York Times. He was 84.
The master of parody boasted a talent for delivering the most ridiculous lines in the straightest way possible, cloaking outright absurdity in obliviousness. Ironically enough, the foundation of that gravitas was built early in his career as a dramatic actor: After serving in the Royal Canadian Air Force and studying at New York City’s famed Actors Studio, the Saskatchewan-born Nielsen popped up on early ’50s TV. He received his first big film break playing sturdy Commander J.J. Adams in the 1956 sci-fi flick Forbidden Planet. Over the next few decades, he established himself as a reliable, handsome, rich-voiced character actor who graced myriad TV dramas (Peyton Place, Dr. Kildare) and movies (The Poseidon Adventure).
His career took a comical hard left turn when he was cast as Dr. Rumack in the 1980 big-screen parody film Airplane! (Let us honor his famous line, which stands as one of the best retorts in comedic cinema history: “Surely you can’t be serious!” “I am serious. And don’t call me Shirley.”) Two years later he was tapped by the Airplane! brain trust to play Lt. Frank Drebin in the cop-show spoof sitcom Police Squad! Although the series lasted only six episodes, Nielsen earned an Emmy nomination for his work, and in 1988, re-inhabited the bumbling Drebin again for the big-screen adaptation The Naked Gun. (It may be hard to find more laughs-per-minute in a comedy film than in the film’s baseball-game scene, which culminates with Drebin foiling an assassination attempt on the Queen of England). The success of The Naked Gun paved the way for two sequels in 1991 and 1994, and Nielsen continued down the parody path in not-as-memorable films like Spy Hard, Wrongfully Accused, and Dracula: Dead and Loving It. (He did earn notice in Scary Movie 3 and Scary Movie 4.)
Nielsen worked into his 80s, appearing in even more spoof flicks like Superhero Movie and 2009′s Stan Helsing. Surely, we can’t be more serious when we say: Leslie Nielsen, you will be missed.
Source;
http://news-briefs.ew.com/2010/11/28/leslie-nielsen-dies/
Thursday, November 25, 2010
2012 Honda CRV Sketches
It seems that with all of the attention going to what Honda is doing with the next generation Civic, that the 2012 CRV full redesign is quietly flying under the radar, not much out there for info....but there are a couple of speculative sketches....
Source;
http://www.coroflot.com/public/image_file.asp?individual_id=164545&portfolio_id=4383669
Here's the older sketch that's been floating around for awhile....
Source;
http://www.coroflot.com/public/image_file.asp?individual_id=164545&portfolio_id=4383669
Here's the older sketch that's been floating around for awhile....
Honda Accord and Fit Receive Car and Driver Magazine's "10Best Cars" Awards
Car and Driver magazine has named the 2011 Honda Accord and the 2011 Honda Fit as two winners of its prestigious and highly competitive, annual "10Best Cars" award. Now in its eighth generation, the Accord has achieved "10Best" status 25 times in the 29 years that Car and Driver editors have been conducting the competition, more than any other vehicle in the award's history. The Honda Fit has been honored with 10Best status in each of the five years that it has been on sale in the United States.
"The Car and Driver '10Best' awards are among the most coveted awards in the industry," said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "These awards recognize the company's ongoing emphasis on performance, quality and safety, and Honda is honored to have its vehicles regarded so highly over the years."
"The Car and Driver '10Best' awards are among the most coveted awards in the industry," said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "These awards recognize the company's ongoing emphasis on performance, quality and safety, and Honda is honored to have its vehicles regarded so highly over the years."
Honda Car and Driver "10Best" Award History
Accord
2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, 2001, 2000, 1999, 1998, 1995, 1994,1991, 1990, 1989, 1988, 1987, 1986, 1985, 1984, 1983
2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, 2001, 2000, 1999, 1998, 1995, 1994,1991, 1990, 1989, 1988, 1987, 1986, 1985, 1984, 1983
Civic
1996, 1991,1990, 1989, 1988
1996, 1991,1990, 1989, 1988
CRX
1988, 1985
1988, 1985
Fit
2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007
2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007
Prelude
1998, 1997, 1996, 1995,1994,1993, 1992, 1986, 1985, 1984
1998, 1997, 1996, 1995,1994,1993, 1992, 1986, 1985, 1984
S2000
2004, 2002, 2001, 2000
2004, 2002, 2001, 2000
Source;
Barn-find Bugatti Type 38 makes seven times its estimate at auction
Huh?!?
A 'barn-find' Bugatti amounting to little more than a loose collection of bits has sold at auction for more than seven times its estimate.
Completely dismantled, incomplete and lacking its engine and body, the 1926 Bugatti Type 38 was expected to fetch only around £9,000 when it went under the hammer at a Bonhams sale in Australia.
But seven telephone bidders fought against six absentee bids and five people in the Sydney auction rooms for what was described as a 'restoration project'.
After a tense showdown, a mystery bidder - identified only as 'living in the northern hemisphere' - triumphed, with a bid of £68,000.
When Robert Glover, Bonhams' Head of Motor Cars Australia, informed the lady owner of the winning bid, said an auction house spokesman, there was a 'stunned silence followed by a tearful thanks'.
As the picture reveals, the new owner has quite a job on his or her hands. All that remains are four sorry-looking wheels, battered fenders bearing traces of red paint, the radiator, a headlamp, steering wheel, rear bumper, axles, other assorted components, seat shells and what is left of the doors.
A Type 38 in concours condition, however, would be worth around £200,000.
Bonhams says that a 'handful' of Type 38s found their way to Australia via the London Bugatti agent. The car in question was first owned by a Dr Feather of Roma, Queensland but passed through various hands until it was sold to the vendor in the 1960s, by which time it had already fallen into disrepair.
At the same auction, a 1925 Bentley 3- litre sold for £203,000, while a right -hand-drive 1949 Jaguar XK120 Alloy roadster changed hands for £154,000.
Source (via Jalopnik);
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/motoring/classiccars/8140984/Barn-find-Bugatti-Type-38-makes-seven-times-its-estimate-at-auction.html
A 'barn-find' Bugatti amounting to little more than a loose collection of bits has sold at auction for more than seven times its estimate.
Completely dismantled, incomplete and lacking its engine and body, the 1926 Bugatti Type 38 was expected to fetch only around £9,000 when it went under the hammer at a Bonhams sale in Australia.
But seven telephone bidders fought against six absentee bids and five people in the Sydney auction rooms for what was described as a 'restoration project'.
After a tense showdown, a mystery bidder - identified only as 'living in the northern hemisphere' - triumphed, with a bid of £68,000.
When Robert Glover, Bonhams' Head of Motor Cars Australia, informed the lady owner of the winning bid, said an auction house spokesman, there was a 'stunned silence followed by a tearful thanks'.
As the picture reveals, the new owner has quite a job on his or her hands. All that remains are four sorry-looking wheels, battered fenders bearing traces of red paint, the radiator, a headlamp, steering wheel, rear bumper, axles, other assorted components, seat shells and what is left of the doors.
A Type 38 in concours condition, however, would be worth around £200,000.
Bonhams says that a 'handful' of Type 38s found their way to Australia via the London Bugatti agent. The car in question was first owned by a Dr Feather of Roma, Queensland but passed through various hands until it was sold to the vendor in the 1960s, by which time it had already fallen into disrepair.
At the same auction, a 1925 Bentley 3- litre sold for £203,000, while a right -hand-drive 1949 Jaguar XK120 Alloy roadster changed hands for £154,000.
Source (via Jalopnik);
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/motoring/classiccars/8140984/Barn-find-Bugatti-Type-38-makes-seven-times-its-estimate-at-auction.html
Car and Driver: 2010 Editors Choice Awards
Are you in the market for a new car or truck? Now you can see what we at Car and Driver would choose to drive if we were shopping for new wheels today. We conducted rigorous instrumented testing and editorial evaluation of hundreds of 2010 model-year vehicles, including all the Editors' Choice picks and their competitors.
These alphabetical lists aren’t static. We will adjust our rankings continuously to reflect the merits of new vehicles as they come on the market, providing a real-time look at what we consider to the top entries in any given market segment. To that end, you may notice that we’ve marked several vehicles as Ones to Watch. Those are vehicles we have yet to either fully test or directly compare against the competition, but that we feel show a lot of promise.
Winners are chosen based on three criteria: practicality, value, and driver satisfaction, and they highlight our editors’ favorite rides in 20 vehicle categories, ranging from small cars to family sedans to exotic sports cars—and more. Click on a vehicle name below to go directly to our comprehensive Buyer’s Guide, where you can get full specs, pricing, capsule reviews, and more on every vehicle chosen as a 2010 Car and Driver Editors' Choice.
SMALL CARS
Honda Civic
Honda Fit
Mazda 3
Nissan Versa
Volkswagen Golf
FUEL SIPPERS
Ford Fusion hybrid
Honda Fit
Honda Insight
Toyota Prius
Volkswagen Jetta TDI
ENTRY LUXURY
Acura TSX
Audi A4
BMW 3-series
Cadillac CTS
Infiniti G37
FAMILY SEDANS
Chevrolet Malibu
Honda Accord
Ford Fusion
Mazda 6
One to Watch: Hyundai Sonata (2011)
SPORTS SEDANS
BMW M3
Cadillac CTS-V
Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG
Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG
Porsche Panamera
SUPERCARS
Bugatti Veyron 16.4
Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
Ferrari 458 Italia
Ferrari 599GTB Fiorano
Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4
LUXURY SEDANS
Audi A6
BMW 5-series
BMW 7-series
Mercedes-Benz S-class
Infiniti M (2011)
PERFORMANCE COMPACTS
BMW 1-series
Chevrolet Cobalt SS
Mazdaspeed 3
Subaru Impreza WRX
Volkswagen GTI
CONVERTIBLES
Audi A5/S5
BMW 1-series
BMW 3-series/M3
Ford Mustang
Mercedes-Benz SL-class
AMERICAN MUSCLE
Cadillac CTS-V
Chevrolet Camaro
Dodge Challenger SRT8
Ford Mustang GT
Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8
SPORTS CARS
Audi TTS
Chevrolet Corvette
Mazda MX-5 Miata
Nissan 370Z
Porsche Boxster
PREMIUM COUPES
Audi R8
BMW M3
Maserati GranTurismo
Porsche Cayman
Porsche 911
TRACK STARS
Chevrolet Cobalt SS
Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR
Lotus Elise/Exige
Nissan GT-R
SUPERCARS
Bugatti Veyron 16.4
Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
Ferrari 599GTB Fiorano
Ferrari 458 Italia
Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4
SMALL SUVs
Chevrolet Equinox
Honda CR-V
Subaru Forester
Toyota RAV4
Volkswagen Tiguan
MID-SIZE SUVs
Honda Pilot
Hyundai Santa Fe
Mazda CX-9
Nissan Murano
One to Watch: Jeep Grand Cherokee (2011)
LARGE SUVs
Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban
Ford Expedition/EL
Ford Flex
Nissan Armada
Toyota Sequoia
LUXURY SUVs
Acura MDX
Audi Q5
BMW X5
Land Rover Range Rover
Mercedes-Benz GL-class
PICKUPS
Chevrolet Silverado
Dodge Ram
Ford F-150
Honda Ridgeline
Nissan Titan
VANS
Ford Transit Connect
Honda Odyssey
Mazda 5
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
Toyota Sienna
Source;
http://www.caranddriver.com/features/09q4/2010_editors_choice-awards
These alphabetical lists aren’t static. We will adjust our rankings continuously to reflect the merits of new vehicles as they come on the market, providing a real-time look at what we consider to the top entries in any given market segment. To that end, you may notice that we’ve marked several vehicles as Ones to Watch. Those are vehicles we have yet to either fully test or directly compare against the competition, but that we feel show a lot of promise.
Winners are chosen based on three criteria: practicality, value, and driver satisfaction, and they highlight our editors’ favorite rides in 20 vehicle categories, ranging from small cars to family sedans to exotic sports cars—and more. Click on a vehicle name below to go directly to our comprehensive Buyer’s Guide, where you can get full specs, pricing, capsule reviews, and more on every vehicle chosen as a 2010 Car and Driver Editors' Choice.
SMALL CARS
Honda Civic
Honda Fit
Mazda 3
Nissan Versa
Volkswagen Golf
FUEL SIPPERS
Ford Fusion hybrid
Honda Fit
Honda Insight
Toyota Prius
Volkswagen Jetta TDI
ENTRY LUXURY
Acura TSX
Audi A4
BMW 3-series
Cadillac CTS
Infiniti G37
FAMILY SEDANS
Chevrolet Malibu
Honda Accord
Ford Fusion
Mazda 6
One to Watch: Hyundai Sonata (2011)
SPORTS SEDANS
BMW M3
Cadillac CTS-V
Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG
Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG
Porsche Panamera
SUPERCARS
Bugatti Veyron 16.4
Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
Ferrari 458 Italia
Ferrari 599GTB Fiorano
Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4
LUXURY SEDANS
Audi A6
BMW 5-series
BMW 7-series
Mercedes-Benz S-class
Infiniti M (2011)
PERFORMANCE COMPACTS
BMW 1-series
Chevrolet Cobalt SS
Mazdaspeed 3
Subaru Impreza WRX
Volkswagen GTI
CONVERTIBLES
Audi A5/S5
BMW 1-series
BMW 3-series/M3
Ford Mustang
Mercedes-Benz SL-class
AMERICAN MUSCLE
Cadillac CTS-V
Chevrolet Camaro
Dodge Challenger SRT8
Ford Mustang GT
Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8
SPORTS CARS
Audi TTS
Chevrolet Corvette
Mazda MX-5 Miata
Nissan 370Z
Porsche Boxster
PREMIUM COUPES
Audi R8
BMW M3
Maserati GranTurismo
Porsche Cayman
Porsche 911
TRACK STARS
Chevrolet Cobalt SS
Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR
Lotus Elise/Exige
Nissan GT-R
SUPERCARS
Bugatti Veyron 16.4
Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
Ferrari 599GTB Fiorano
Ferrari 458 Italia
Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4
SMALL SUVs
Chevrolet Equinox
Honda CR-V
Subaru Forester
Toyota RAV4
Volkswagen Tiguan
MID-SIZE SUVs
Honda Pilot
Hyundai Santa Fe
Mazda CX-9
Nissan Murano
One to Watch: Jeep Grand Cherokee (2011)
LARGE SUVs
Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban
Ford Expedition/EL
Ford Flex
Nissan Armada
Toyota Sequoia
LUXURY SUVs
Acura MDX
Audi Q5
BMW X5
Land Rover Range Rover
Mercedes-Benz GL-class
PICKUPS
Chevrolet Silverado
Dodge Ram
Ford F-150
Honda Ridgeline
Nissan Titan
VANS
Ford Transit Connect
Honda Odyssey
Mazda 5
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
Toyota Sienna
Source;
http://www.caranddriver.com/features/09q4/2010_editors_choice-awards
Honda Malaysia rolls out Concept M models
PETALING JAYA - Honda Malaysia has launched a series of special edition vehicles collectively known as the Concept M models.
Named after the first letters of Honda's official accessories partners 'M'odulo and 'M'ugen, this special fleet of cars are factory fitted with their respective accessories and are available exclusively in shades of white.
Concept M vehicles feature the Civic 2.0L and Jazz 1.5L with Mugen kits; and the Accord 2.4L with Modulo kit.
The Concept M Civic 2.0L captures the essence of a stylish and sporty sedan with outstanding performance. It is fitted with Mugen front, rear and side spoilers, rear wings and Enkei wheel rims in a special pewter grey colour, to add to its sporty stylishness.
The interior gets enhanced with grey leather stitched seats as well as tinted windows (Ecotint).
This special edition is limited to 210 units nationwide. It retails at RM137,980 (S$57,690).
The limited edition Honda Accord 2.4L features the Modulo front grille, door visor, trunk spoiler and illuminated side steps.
The interior also has grey leather stitched seats and tinted windows (Ecotint). The car is limited to 120 units nationwide, it is priced at RM176, 800. This package is inclusive of a Garmin Nuvi navigation unit.
Both the Concept M Civic 2.0L and the limited edition Accord are available in Tafetta white.
The Jazz 1.5L special edition meanwhile, gets the Mugen treatment coming factory-fitted with Mugen's front aero bumper; side, rear under and wing spoilers; and tinted windows (Ecotint). Limited to only 20 units, the 2nd Generation Jazz comes in Brilliant White Pearl and retails at RM116, 800.
Rohime Shafie, President and Chief Operating Officer of Honda Malaysia, said the Concept M models were created to meet customers' preference and expectations of "new and exciting products."
"Through an internal survey conducted amongst Honda customers, we found a good number of them showed preference for car accessories that add exclusivity and sportiness to their vehicles, especially those manufactured by Mugen and Modulo.
"With this finding, and in view of the increasing trend of preference for white shaded vehicles in Malaysia market, we have created a white-coloured fleet of Concept M special edition models to fulfil customers' demand," he said.
Source;
http://motoring.asiaone.com/Motoring/News/Story/A1Story20101125-249206.html
Named after the first letters of Honda's official accessories partners 'M'odulo and 'M'ugen, this special fleet of cars are factory fitted with their respective accessories and are available exclusively in shades of white.
Concept M vehicles feature the Civic 2.0L and Jazz 1.5L with Mugen kits; and the Accord 2.4L with Modulo kit.
The Concept M Civic 2.0L captures the essence of a stylish and sporty sedan with outstanding performance. It is fitted with Mugen front, rear and side spoilers, rear wings and Enkei wheel rims in a special pewter grey colour, to add to its sporty stylishness.
The interior gets enhanced with grey leather stitched seats as well as tinted windows (Ecotint).
This special edition is limited to 210 units nationwide. It retails at RM137,980 (S$57,690).
The limited edition Honda Accord 2.4L features the Modulo front grille, door visor, trunk spoiler and illuminated side steps.
The interior also has grey leather stitched seats and tinted windows (Ecotint). The car is limited to 120 units nationwide, it is priced at RM176, 800. This package is inclusive of a Garmin Nuvi navigation unit.
Both the Concept M Civic 2.0L and the limited edition Accord are available in Tafetta white.
The Jazz 1.5L special edition meanwhile, gets the Mugen treatment coming factory-fitted with Mugen's front aero bumper; side, rear under and wing spoilers; and tinted windows (Ecotint). Limited to only 20 units, the 2nd Generation Jazz comes in Brilliant White Pearl and retails at RM116, 800.
Rohime Shafie, President and Chief Operating Officer of Honda Malaysia, said the Concept M models were created to meet customers' preference and expectations of "new and exciting products."
"Through an internal survey conducted amongst Honda customers, we found a good number of them showed preference for car accessories that add exclusivity and sportiness to their vehicles, especially those manufactured by Mugen and Modulo.
"With this finding, and in view of the increasing trend of preference for white shaded vehicles in Malaysia market, we have created a white-coloured fleet of Concept M special edition models to fulfil customers' demand," he said.
Source;
http://motoring.asiaone.com/Motoring/News/Story/A1Story20101125-249206.html
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
2012, 2013 Honda Ridgeline and 2012 Honda Civic Update
2012 Honda Ridgeline
-Expect another Minor Model Change for this year but indeed there will be one.
2013 Honda Ridgeline
-This will be the Full Model Change over. I was told via reliable source that this vehicle is not disappearing, most of this depends on what is going on in the US, and that is favourable.
2012 Honda Civic
-The spyshots floating around (http://thehondaportal.blogspot.com/2010/10/2012-honda-civic-exposed.html) are apparently of the previous Civic that President Ito kiboshed, not the revised one.
Source;
Reliable Honda
-Expect another Minor Model Change for this year but indeed there will be one.
2013 Honda Ridgeline
-This will be the Full Model Change over. I was told via reliable source that this vehicle is not disappearing, most of this depends on what is going on in the US, and that is favourable.
2012 Honda Civic
-The spyshots floating around (http://thehondaportal.blogspot.com/2010/10/2012-honda-civic-exposed.html) are apparently of the previous Civic that President Ito kiboshed, not the revised one.
Source;
Reliable Honda
'The Beetles are coming!' Oprah Winfrey gives a brand new VW to all 275 of her audience
Wow, this is pretty awesome!
It may be the last year of her talk show, but Oprah Winfrey is clearly determined to go out with a bang.
Today, in the second part of her annual Favourite Things episode, the talk show host gave away a brand new VW Beetle to every member of her 275 strong audience.
Keys were handed out to the screaming crowd, who will be the first group to get behind the wheel of the new updated model, hitting showrooms next autumn.
'Oh yeah, oh yeah, I gotcha, I gotcha,' she yelled to the stunned audience after a massive gift box was opened to reveal the car's silhouette.
Today's giveaway was the second part of Oprah's "Favourite Things" episode.
The first half, which aired next week, saw the talk show host give away thousands of dollars worth of prizes including a Sony television and Caribbean cruise.
The 56-year-old talk show host also gave the audience an Apple iPad, which she proclaimed her 'No. 1 favourite thing ever.
'I know it's wrong to be in love with a thing, and I don't normally recommend it,' she said, before declaring the gadget the 'best invention of the century so far.'
Oprah also gave the audience several items of clothing, including a cashmere sweater, Ugg boots covered in sequins and a patent-leather Coach bag that cost nearly $400.
'It's not really about all the gifts,' she said. 'Although the stuff is really fun, it really for me is about hope.
For the rest of the article;
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1332213/Oprah-Winfrey-gives-new-VW-Beetle-car-275-audience.html?ito=feeds-newsxml
It may be the last year of her talk show, but Oprah Winfrey is clearly determined to go out with a bang.
Today, in the second part of her annual Favourite Things episode, the talk show host gave away a brand new VW Beetle to every member of her 275 strong audience.
Keys were handed out to the screaming crowd, who will be the first group to get behind the wheel of the new updated model, hitting showrooms next autumn.
'Oh yeah, oh yeah, I gotcha, I gotcha,' she yelled to the stunned audience after a massive gift box was opened to reveal the car's silhouette.
Today's giveaway was the second part of Oprah's "Favourite Things" episode.
The first half, which aired next week, saw the talk show host give away thousands of dollars worth of prizes including a Sony television and Caribbean cruise.
The 56-year-old talk show host also gave the audience an Apple iPad, which she proclaimed her 'No. 1 favourite thing ever.
'I know it's wrong to be in love with a thing, and I don't normally recommend it,' she said, before declaring the gadget the 'best invention of the century so far.'
Oprah also gave the audience several items of clothing, including a cashmere sweater, Ugg boots covered in sequins and a patent-leather Coach bag that cost nearly $400.
'It's not really about all the gifts,' she said. 'Although the stuff is really fun, it really for me is about hope.
For the rest of the article;
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1332213/Oprah-Winfrey-gives-new-VW-Beetle-car-275-audience.html?ito=feeds-newsxml
Honda NSX Gets New Lease on Life
Finally! Some Honda/Acura sportscar news! Now if we can just get Honda to start thinking about a Next Generation Honda Prelude (non hybrid of course) ....
The NSX lives, at least in a different form. According to one source, Honda never gave up its plans for an NSX successor. Even though the V-10-powered post-NSX concept came along at the wrong time -- during the economic meltdown -- and had to be cancelled, Honda engineers didn't completely shelve the project.
They simply applied a more market-friendly (and eco-friendly) sports-car approach to the company's flagship two-door, giving it the latest hybrid gizmology. Completely different than Toyota's THS-II hybrid system, the technology slated to power Honda's new sports coupe "can be driven with either a clutch and an engine only, the engine and motor only, or the motor only," says our source. It will also offer a manual transmission option.
It apparently will employ a modified Accord platform, and power will come from either a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder or a 3.5-liter V-6, with the latter considered the sure favorite. Why do we think so? Once again our spies in Japan have uncovered a patent application that specifies a "V6 powertrain developing upwards of 400 horsepower." (yes!) That makes sense, especially when you consider what one company staffer told us about Honda's desire to return to making sports cars.
"Honda does not see the CR-Z as a sports car. It's a sporty coupe and a great first try in the hybrid-sports direction. To be called a sports car, a car needs to have the potential of an NSX or an S2000. That's what we need to aim for."
And as expected, the coupe will employ a version of the automaker's proven SH-AWD system, but Honda will apply NSX concept technology by fitting the rear-drive-based SH-AWD setup that enabled the test mule to lap the Nürburgring in 7 minutes, 37 seconds two years ago.
Using the front-wheel-drive Accord platform as a base for this car will cut R&D costs dramatically. Engineers will swap the front and rear around to create a rear midship AWD package. If the coupe gets the green light for production, expect to see it in showrooms as early as 2014. Still unclear is if the car will continue to be badged as an Acura here in the U.S.
Source (via autoblog);
http://www.motortrend.com/features/auto_news/2010/1011_honda_nsx_gets_new_lease_on_life/index.html
The NSX lives, at least in a different form. According to one source, Honda never gave up its plans for an NSX successor. Even though the V-10-powered post-NSX concept came along at the wrong time -- during the economic meltdown -- and had to be cancelled, Honda engineers didn't completely shelve the project.
They simply applied a more market-friendly (and eco-friendly) sports-car approach to the company's flagship two-door, giving it the latest hybrid gizmology. Completely different than Toyota's THS-II hybrid system, the technology slated to power Honda's new sports coupe "can be driven with either a clutch and an engine only, the engine and motor only, or the motor only," says our source. It will also offer a manual transmission option.
It apparently will employ a modified Accord platform, and power will come from either a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder or a 3.5-liter V-6, with the latter considered the sure favorite. Why do we think so? Once again our spies in Japan have uncovered a patent application that specifies a "V6 powertrain developing upwards of 400 horsepower." (yes!) That makes sense, especially when you consider what one company staffer told us about Honda's desire to return to making sports cars.
"Honda does not see the CR-Z as a sports car. It's a sporty coupe and a great first try in the hybrid-sports direction. To be called a sports car, a car needs to have the potential of an NSX or an S2000. That's what we need to aim for."
And as expected, the coupe will employ a version of the automaker's proven SH-AWD system, but Honda will apply NSX concept technology by fitting the rear-drive-based SH-AWD setup that enabled the test mule to lap the Nürburgring in 7 minutes, 37 seconds two years ago.
Using the front-wheel-drive Accord platform as a base for this car will cut R&D costs dramatically. Engineers will swap the front and rear around to create a rear midship AWD package. If the coupe gets the green light for production, expect to see it in showrooms as early as 2014. Still unclear is if the car will continue to be badged as an Acura here in the U.S.
Source (via autoblog);
http://www.motortrend.com/features/auto_news/2010/1011_honda_nsx_gets_new_lease_on_life/index.html
Monday, November 22, 2010
2010 Acura TSX V6 vs. 2011 Buick Regal CXL Turbo, 2010 Volkswagen CC 2.0T R-Line - Comparison Tests
This is a really good article, follow the link at the bottom of the page for the full version....
1st place: 2010 VW CC 2.0T R-Line
Highs, Lows, and Verdict
Highs: Precise steering, perfect seats, cosmopolitan styling inside and out.
Lows: Restricted sightlines, only four seats, occasional shivers in the platform.
The Verdict: A “four-door coupe” with the grace and agility of a ballerina.
2nd Place: 2010 Acura TSX V6
Highs, Lows, and Verdict
Highs: Right-now power, aggressive “sport” transmission mode, Honda quality.
Lows: Feels bigger and heavier than it is, happier on interstates than in the hills.
The Verdict: Fast in a straight line but lacking the reflexes we expected.
3rd Place: 2011 Buick Regal CXL Turbo
Highs, Lows, and Verdict
Highs: Light steering, great styling, blend of interesting cabin surfaces.
Lows: Too heavy, a gritty powertrain, relentlessly reminds that it’s a four-banger.
The Verdict: All the right stuff is there; it just needs some finessing.
Source (full article with tons of pics);
http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/comparisons/10q4/2010_acura_tsx_v6_vs._2011_buick_regal_cxl_turbo_2010_volkswagen_cc_2.0t_r-line-comparison_tests
1st place: 2010 VW CC 2.0T R-Line
Highs, Lows, and Verdict
Highs: Precise steering, perfect seats, cosmopolitan styling inside and out.
Lows: Restricted sightlines, only four seats, occasional shivers in the platform.
The Verdict: A “four-door coupe” with the grace and agility of a ballerina.
2nd Place: 2010 Acura TSX V6
Highs, Lows, and Verdict
Highs: Right-now power, aggressive “sport” transmission mode, Honda quality.
Lows: Feels bigger and heavier than it is, happier on interstates than in the hills.
The Verdict: Fast in a straight line but lacking the reflexes we expected.
3rd Place: 2011 Buick Regal CXL Turbo
Highs, Lows, and Verdict
Highs: Light steering, great styling, blend of interesting cabin surfaces.
Lows: Too heavy, a gritty powertrain, relentlessly reminds that it’s a four-banger.
The Verdict: All the right stuff is there; it just needs some finessing.
Source (full article with tons of pics);
http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/comparisons/10q4/2010_acura_tsx_v6_vs._2011_buick_regal_cxl_turbo_2010_volkswagen_cc_2.0t_r-line-comparison_tests
Sunday, November 21, 2010
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