Honda Insight LIVE

Honda Civic Hybrid

2011-05-02T00:50:00.001-07:00

LARGER ENGINE, LITHIUM-ION BATTERY DELIVER GAINS

Perhaps most surprising is that Honda managed to achieve this result while relying on its less advanced Integrated Motor Assist hybrid system; a more rudimentary arrangement than the two-mode hybrids used by almost every other automaker and popularized by Toyota. The big difference, however, is that Honda opted for a high-tech Lithium-Ion battery pack – quickly becoming the norm over the old Nickel Metal Hydride units. The new Li-On pack makes 7 more hp than the old model for a total of 27-hp, plus it’s roughly a third smaller in both size and weight.
The other factor is that like when Toyota moved from the 2nd to 3rd gen Prius, Honda has decided to opt for a larger displacement engine. Gone is the old 1.3-liter in favor of a larger 1.5-liter 4-cylinder. Total power output does remain the same at 110-hp, although it comes on 500 rpm earlier at 5500 rpm. A total of 127 lb-ft of torque is now also available, up 4 lb-ft from before, and it’s offered over a wider rpm range. In general this is designed to deliver added power for real world driving conditions, and while it is a step in the right direction, the difference is mostly negligible from a driver’s perspective.
A 3-mpg gain, while respectable, is hardly ground breaking and the efforts to bring the IMA system into the modern era seem excessive for the rewards.
Paired with regenerative braking and start-stop technology, drive the Civic Hybrid in traffic and it’s easy to see why Honda is going it alone with its hybrid setup. The excessively grabby brakes of the previous generation model have been fixed for a more natural feel, however, the start-stop feature is unrefined at best.

Honda Pilot 4WD Touring

2011-04-19T00:27:00.000-07:00

Ford has four choices, while Toyota makes due with three options. Some models feature two rows of seating, while others boast room for up to eight. Then there are the more off-road capable options to contrast with the docile soft-roaders.
Though most automakers have gone crossover crazy, Honda has made due with a simple two-CUV lineup. The perennially top-selling CR-V takes care of those who desire a smaller footprint, smaller price tag and higher fuel economy, while the larger Pilot takes on the three-row crowd. The Pilot has been mostly successful during its nine-year production run, with high marks for safety (the 2011 model has an overall score of four stars from the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration) and reliability (Consumer Reports gave it the organization's coveted Recommended rating). Dancing on the fringes of the CUV segment and selling in low numbers, Honda also offers the nearly gone Element and Accord Crosstour, but it's still the boxier CR-V and Pilot doing the heavy lifting for the brand.

Honda Civic Si

2011-04-19T00:17:00.000-07:00

That's good news for a company that could soon run short on many vehicles, but Honda's production woes are anything but solved.TheDetroitBureau.com reports that Honda is also having trouble getting parts from Japan to plants here in the U.S., and the launch of the 2012 Civic could be impacted. The Civic, which is one of the most popular vehicles sold in the U.S., is supposed to begin a phased roll-out on April 20. But with parts trickling in from Japan at a snail's pace, some of the automaker's U.S. factories have experienced production slowdowns and shortened shifts. That means it would be difficult to supply enough '12 Civics to support the model's current sales pace of about 30,000 units per month. The automaker reportedly already has 12,000 Civics ready for delivery, but that number represents less than a two-week supply.
American Honda Executive Vice President John Mendel tells TDB that the situation is "fluid," adding that it "is changing every day." With that in mind, Mendel says that the automaker might not spend as much launch money on marketing out of the gate.

Honda CR-Z

2011-03-29T20:38:00.000-07:00

There are a lot of misconceptions about this new Honda product, and it’s easy to dump on a car that isn’t extraordinary in any one obvious way. With 122-hp it won’t deliver the thrills of a K24 in an EK (yea, we know Honda codes too), nor does it get the fuel economy of a Fiesta or a Prius, with a 35/39-mpg fuel economy rating. And it’s not a sports car – although it certainly handles like one. Nor is it a hybrid in the way people expect, meaning that it doesn’t and isn’t intended to deliver a revolutionary change to the way we drive.

Forget all that; the CR-Z isn’t competing with the Fiesta, nor is it up against the Prius, or any other hybrids on the market for that matter. Pigeonholed into a single segment, the CR-Z is the catastrophic failure any Honda fanboy with a modified CRX will tell you it is. But when looked at as a whole it represents a vehicle that’s more than the sum of its parts and so much more than these other cars, delivering a package that’s good on fuel, great on the eyes, a blast to drive and an urban status symbol.

Honda plans a French debut for the hybrid

2011-03-12T04:09:00.002-08:00

Honda Motor plans to sell its Insight and CRZ hybrid models in China by 2012, company CEO Takanobu Ito said today at the opening Beijing auto show, Bloomberg reported.

The No. 2 Japanese carmaker also will also produce and sell its Crosstour luxury crossover wagon (a derivative of the Accord sedan) in the Chinese market, now the world's largest, by the end of this year. The Crosstour will be built in China at joint venture Guangzhou Honda.

Government subsidies and possible sales tax cuts may help boost total sales of electric and hybrid vehicles in China to 300,000 units in 2011 from 5,000 last year, industry experts said. China is expected to announce details of incentives for clean-energy vehicles in July.

Honda will import the Insight and CRZ hybrids from Japan to the Chinese market and will also sell Acura hybrids in China within 3 years. The company sold 193 units of its hybrid Civic compact model in China last year.

In China, Nissan Motor will start selling its Leaf electric car from 2011, General Motors will sell its Volt plug-in car next year, and Toyota Motor recently started offering a hybrid Camry sedan.

Honda Insight 2012 Road Test

2011-03-12T04:09:00.001-08:00

To improve ride, handling and stability, Honda’s engineers went ahead and made several upgrades to the suspension of 2011 Honda Insight Hybrid is recoil currency translation adjustments, including springs, rear camber angles to change, modify V-shape of the rear suspension strut mount and adjustment.

Along with the suspension upgrades, Honda has a number of changes in the interior. In the 2011 model year Insight gets a new dashboard and seat colors for “uniform change”, while some plastics are better quality. Moreover, 2011 Honda Insight Hybrid new chrome rings around the vents and doors were a silver celestial feature.

Other 2011 Honda Insight Hybrid changes include the addition to the standard rear parking sensors for the ES-Insight model and the above introduction of a new line-filling model EX with black leather upholstery and a DVD Sat Nav Handsfree telephone equipment, and two new exterior colors – Dynamic Blue Pearl Red Pearl and carnelian.

Honda Future Vehicles

2011-03-12T04:08:00.001-08:00

Honda Insight Hybrid

2011-03-12T04:07:00.002-08:00

The Japanese carmaker has announced today the details of the 2011 Honda Insight which comes with a few updates, based on customer feedback. The 2011 Honda Insight features new suspension settings which one offer a better ride and improved comfort. The interior of the 2011 Honda Insight is now offering better quality materials and the model range features a new top-of-the-line trim level.

The 2011 Honda Insight EX features a black leather upholstery, DVD Sat Nav and hands-free telephone equipment.

The chassis of the 2011 Honda Insight has been improved by adjusting the recoil rate of the springs, changing the rear camber angles, altering the V-shape rear suspension brace and adjusting mounts.

The 2011 Honda Insight ES on the above versions now come with rear parking sensors, chrome rings around the air vents and a silver garnish feature on the doors.

The 2011 Honda Insight price starts at 16,325 GBP for the SE model and goes up to 20,215 GBP for the top of the range EX model.

Honda Insight Sports Modulo Concept

2011-03-12T04:07:00.001-08:00

We already knew that Honda was working on fitting a hybrid drivetrain into the Fit, and we now know we’ll see the final product at the Paris auto show in September. The car will wear its European nameplate, Jazz, for its debut; it will be known as the Fit hybrid in Japan. Honda says there are no plans to bring the Fit hybrid to the U.S. market, although we will get a reworked Civic hybrid for 2012, if that’s any consolation.

Like other Honda hybrids, the Fit hybrid sandwiches the electric motor and gas engine together. Dubbed Integrated Motor Assist (IMA), the Fit gets the same version of the system that powers the Insight and CR-Z. Hybridized Fits will use the Insight’s 1.3-liter i-VTEC gasoline engine, which provides 88 hp and 88 lb-ft of torque in that car, paired with an electric motor rated at 13 hp and 58 lb-ft. Like the IMA system in the Civic hybrid and Insight, Honda claims that the Fit hybrid can run on solely electric power in certain low-speed cruising situations. Really, though, unlike the Toyota Prius, the Honda hybrids can’t run on electricity from a stop or even very often. Honda also says the Fit hybrid will return fuel economy comparable to that of the Insight, but we’ll be surprised if its efficiency surpasses the already-frugal conventional model enough to justify an anticipated price premium. For the record, EPA ratings for the Insight are 40 mpg city/43 highway; we averaged 46 mpg when we tested an Insight EX.

Honda Insight gets suspension changes

2011-03-12T04:06:00.000-08:00

The upgrades on the 2011 Honda Accord coupe and sedan are a little more sedate than we expected. There's no six-speed transmission as we had hoped. Instead, Honda changed the gearing of the five-speed automatic to improve mileage. The four-cylinder models are now expected to get EPA ratings of 23 city and 34 highway mpg when equipped with the automatic transmission. The V6 automatic is expected to get 19 city and 30 highway mpg.

The rest of the 2011 Accord's changes are styling updates on the exterior and some minor changes to the interior. On the outside there's a new grille, revised bumper, updated wheel design and a new trunk lid. Interior upgrades include shift paddles for V6 coupes and USB ports on all coupes and some sedans. Revised climate controls are also part of this year's upgrades.

Radio Flyer truck

2010-10-06T18:39:00.000-07:00

If you've ever thought about picking up a yellow Hummer and painting the word "Tonka" across the side or building a working replica of your favorite Hot Wheels fantasy car, have we got a story for you. An elderly couple in Alaska has built a jumbo Radio Flyer wagon out of an old truck, and what's more, they drive it around Anchorage on a regular basis.
The underpinnings were borrowed from a 1976 Mazda pickup which Judy Foster (not to be confused with the Silence of the Lambs star, Jodie) inherited from her father. After they took possession, her husband Fred Keller started an eleven-month project to turn it into an overgrown childhood dream. The result is reportedly fully street legal and gets nothing but smiles wherever it goes. Fred and Judy will just have to watch that eight-foot tall handle clearing any low ceilings in parking garages. Follow the jump to watch the KTUU video segment for yourself.

CCI Wheel Cover - 15 in., ABS plastic, 20 hole

2010-07-30T16:33:00.000-07:00

CCI Wheel Cover - 15 in., ABS plastic, 20 hole
Part Number: C2CIWC40615S
Manufacturer Number: IWC406/15S
CCI Wheel Cover CCI Wheel Cover
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CCI AFTERMARKET WHEEL COVERS, SILVER, SET OF 4 -- 15 in. diameter; Does not include OE-style center cap; 20-hole design; This set of aftermarket wheel covers inexpensively enhances the look of your wheels; Features wire ring with spring steel clip for easy and reliable installation.

BMW takes Singapore

2010-06-02T20:34:00.000-07:00

BMW takes Singapore – Click above to watch video after the jump

BMW advertising gurus have a big job ahead of them when it comes to supplementing their longstanding "Ultimate Driving Machine" slogan with the company's new "Joy" campaign. Bimmer fanboys had lived and died by the company's proclamation of superiority for years, so it's going to take some coaxing to get BMW loyalists to swallow the new ads. Fortunately, BMW has never been one to skimp on advertising dollars, and the company has pulled a stunt in Singapore to make sure the ball gets rolling in the right direction.

BMW has used two buildings for a massive, unique 3D projection display right in the middle of downtown Suntec City. Talk about cool. Two massive hands appear to disassemble the structures and rearrange them for their own diabolical, Joy-soaked plans. You can hit the jump to see the whole shindig for yourself. Thanks for the tip, John!

One fifth of all McLaren F1s head home for a party

2010-05-11T09:44:00.000-07:00

Since the McLaren F1 finished its GT competition career in the late 1990s, seeing more than one of them in any single location has become an increasingly rare event (unless you happen to be in the Sultan of Brunei's garage). Only about 100 McLaren F1s were ever built, with 64 of those being standard road-going editions.

The remaining cars included the five F1 LMs that commemorated the first Le Mans victory and the various GTR race cars and prototypes.

For the recent launch of the new MP4-12C sports car, McLaren invited current F1 owners (and their cars) to the factory in the Surrey suburb of Woking. Surprisingly, 21 F1s actually showed up, making it perhaps the largest-ever gathering of the model.

Thankfully, not all of the McLaren F1s are ensconced in museums. A number of them do get driven on a regular basis.

Top Marques Monaco is Proud to Present Its New Title Sponsor

2010-03-09T19:51:00.000-08:00

Lloyds International Private Banking

ABU DHABI – March 9, 2010: Lloyds International Private Banking (IPB) forms part of the Wealth & International Banking division of Lloyds Banking Group.

When established in Geneva in 1919, IPB was one of Switzerland's first foreign banks. Today, we have almost 900 staff* worldwide servicing more than 11,000 clients*.

IPB follows a holistic approach to private banking in order to meet individual needs. We offer a wide range of products, services and solutions to HNW / UHNW individuals and external asset managers in more than 100 countries, with a strong emphasis on the following markets: UK, Europe, Middle East and Latin America.

Our aim is to be recognised as a top-tier international private bank by clients, colleagues and shareholders. We put clients and their needs first, offering them, their families and their enterprises a personalised service and trusted advice by building lifetime relationships.

By choosing IPB, clients opt for a bank with integrity, which offers flexible solutions created by experts and first class international wealth management.

*Source: Lloyds IPB, data as at 31 December 2009. This data includes UK Mayfair and excludes Channel Islands.

Atomik
Atomik 500 is our first achievement
Transmuting an Abarth 500 into an electric supercar was our challenge: four wheels drive, 5.6s for the 0-60mph, 26s for the 0-1000m. Regarding the citycar size and with an extra 0g CO2/km, it's a real world premiere. As exclusivity has to be highlighted, we provide Atomik 500 a specific look accordingly to the electric propulsion requirements and inspired by Abarth racing history. If you wish to be a preview pilot of tomorrow's technologies, come aboard Atomik 500: high performances LiFePO4 batteries without danger or pollution, brushless synchronous motors, 3 ways electric network (including one high voltage), direct high efficiency transmissions, ceramic heater, Peltier module A/C w/o gas and so on.

The eRUF Stormster
RUF introduces the first SUV with electric powertrain. RUF Automobile GmbH, the manufacturer of high performance automobiles, introduced the first electric sports car (eRUF) from Germany in October 2008. During the Geneva Motor Show, in March 2009, RUF presented an evolution of the first eRUF, widely known as "Greenster".The eRUF family continues to grow with the unveiling of the "Stormster", the very first AWD electrically driven SUV based on the Porsche Cayenne. The Stormster is driven by a Siemens electric motor, with 270 kW (367 bhp) as in the eRUF sports car. The total weight is 2,670 kg which makes it capable of reaching 100 km/h in only 10 seconds. The top speed is 150 km/h, being able to reach a range of 200 km at one charge. Three Stormsters had their first public debut during the European Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, (COP 15), December 7th to 18th 2009

Lexus – LFA
The spectacular LFA by Lexus made its global debut at the 41st Tokyo International Motor Show. Reaching 0-100 km/h in only 3.7 seconds with a top speed of 325 km/h, the LFA is a world-class supercar of incredible power, beauty and comfort. Painstakingly created from a blank canvas by an elite team of Lexus engineers, the LFA is a supercar unlike any other, incorporating the very latest racecar technology such as a high revving V10 engine, carbon fibre monocoque construction, lightweight aluminum alloy motorsport suspension and powerful carbon-ceramic disc brakes. The LFA aligns supercar styling with Lexus design philosophy in one cohesive form, it reinforces a new framework for Lexus and its advanced approach to high performance automotive development. Lightweight, powerful and perfectly balanced, the exclusive LFA will be available to only 500 lucky owners worldwide.

Fisker KARMA
The Fisker Karma is the world's first premium plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. The four-door saloon can reach 100km/h in about 6 seconds and a top speed of 200km/h, yet it can achieve 2.4L/100km and emit just 83g/km CO2 on an annual basis.

SSC's Ultimate Aero
Shelby SuperCars manufacturers the Ultimate Aero, the official "World's Fastest Production Car" at 256.18 mph as verified by Guinness World RecordsTM. The Ultimate Aero features an SSC designed twin-turbo V8 producing 1287 hp and 1112 lb/ft. of torque, and has been designed for exceptional overall performance.

BRABUS
High-end tuning and lifestyle for Mercedes-Benz and Maybach automobiles. The world-renowned tuner and car manufacturer offers individualized options to satisfy every wish. The BRABUS product line-up ranges from powerfully-tuned engines and elegantly styled aerodynamic enhancement kits to high-quality light-alloy wheels, dynamic yet comfortable sport suspensions and exquisitely luxurious interiors handcrafted to perfection

speak with Martin Birkmann who is the Head of Product Planning and Strategy with BMW NA

2010-01-17T21:21:00.000-08:00

Exclusive Interview with the Head of BMWNA Product Planning and Strategy/BMW Motorsport Manager, Martin Birkmann – A Look into the Future World of ///M Cars, Racing, and Current Engine Tech. At the recent 2010 NAIAS, we got a chance to speak with Martin Birkmann who is the Head of Product Planning and Strategy with BMW NA, as well as BMW Motorsport Manager in the U.S. If you haven’t already, we advise you get some coffee brewing or pop-corn popping – what follows is extremely interesting information about current and future BMW products.

With BMW’s new engines, the revamped N54 and now the N55, what have you upgraded on the N54?

Martin Birkmann: With the N54 we’ve basically changed the mapping of the engine, pressure of the engine, given it a more sporty, more torque, and peak oriented performance curve.

What are the differences between the N54 and N55?

Martin Birkmann: At first glance we’ve changed something in the architecture, we made the engine more compact, but in terms of costumer benefit the biggest change is the application of VALVETRONIC. With variable valve lift we eliminate the throttle and so we’ve made the engine again more efficient than the N54. The N55 is maintaining the N54’s base performance level, but gives you a lot of enhancement on the efficiency side

Will we see the N55 engine across the range?

Martin Birkmann: We started announcing the N55 for the 5 series GT so you can expect to find it in the regular 5 series sedan, one series, and we’ll roll it out for more and more applications.

With the new 5 series, what kind of changes can we expect to see on the new M5?

Martin Birkmann: I think it’s been widely speculated and confirmed that we’ve somewhat seen the dawn of the end of the NA engine. M is no exception, we’ve launched our first turbo M engines and I think that will be the biggest difference if you look at the tech spec sheet – that we will go with turbo charging for the M5. There is speculation that I don’t want to comment about; we will clearly see a change in the transmission strategy, we are still examining the need for a second transmission variant. We’ll know more about that as we go forward, as you know, every one should know that BMW NA in persona is a big proponent of manual transmissions and three pedal vehicle operation, but it’s not a trend that you see in the market gaining a lot of momentum right now. Our customers want more semi-automatic transmissions, so that’s a must, and everything else is a can. We’ll see as we approach the launch of the car.

What clear future do you see for BMW and racing?

Continued

Read Article

The M12 was hugely successful, but we needed to move the game on in terms of design

2010-01-07T22:52:00.000-08:00

Here's a supercar that's rising up against the competition - it's the Fenix! The work of Leicestershire-based sports car maker, Lee Noble, it's the first model to come from his new company, Fenix Automotive.

The as-yet-unnamed supercar features a basic design that is reminiscent of the Noble M600 and M12. However, the Fenix gets aggressive and angular lines, similar to those of the fighter jet-inspired Lamborghini Reventón.

“The M12 was hugely successful, but we needed to move the game on in terms of design,” said Noble. “The new car’s styling owes nothing to what I’ve done before and has quite literally been a ‘clean sheet’ exercise from the start. It’s edgy, with powerful lines, and aerodynamically will be in another league to any of my previous cars.”

Under the bonnet is a choice of two Corvette engines, giving 480bhp and 638bhp. The latter is lifted from the supercharged ZR1, and with a kerbweight of 1,200kg, is said to propel the Fenix from 0-100mph in just under seven seconds on its way to a 200mph top speed.

“Our first prototype is now in build and development will start in around one month’s time,” said Noble. “We’ll be hot-weather testing the first prototype on the mountain roads around Port Elizabeth, South Africa, where the car will be manufactured. But I’m itching to get the car back to the UK where I can set it up on roads I know well.”

Prices will be confirmed when sales start in 2011.

A new range of EcoBoost turbo petrol engines will be available

2010-01-07T22:00:00.000-08:00

When it comes to show-stopping unveils, the Focus is on Detroit! Rumours are gathering that Ford is preparing to reveal its third-generation Focus in saloon and hatchback form at the US expo next week.

As Auto Express closed for press over the Christmas holidays, news had leaked on to the North American International Auto Show’s own website. We brought you pictures of the whole new Focus family in Issue 1,092 (right), and the four and five-doors will get a bold face characterised by triangular lights and a stylish grille.

Don’t expect the latest Focus to be too radical, though. As a global car, it will need to have mass-market appeal. Contrary to previous reports, the car is believed to be based on a front-wheel-drive platform from the Mondeo, to ensure class-leading handling and increased space.

A new range of EcoBoost turbo petrol engines will be available. This will comprise 89bhp or 108bhp 1.0-litre units and a 170bhp 1.6. Diesel choices include a 1.6 giving 128bhp, plus a 2.0-litre with 168bhp or 197bhp.

Stop-start is expected to be standard on most cars, while Ford’s dual-clutch Powershift transmission should also help reduce emissions. In addition, the Focus will come with adaptive dampers, a lane departure warning system and traffic sign recognition. Wi-Fi is likely to be offered, too. Sales will start towards the end of this year.

Honda make a road going version of this car

2010-01-03T22:13:00.000-08:00

Honda’s new GT race car, the HSV-010 is the center of attention these days because it is the successor of the legendary NSX. Powered by a 3.4-liter V8 developing 500hp, the HSV will be competing in this season of Japanese SuperGT. Recently the car’s been scooped at Suzuka race track flexing its muscles a bit, showing off an awesome look. Check out that single central exhaust pipe! If Honda make a road going version of this car, it’ll be a Lexus LF-A killer!

Watch the videos below to see the car in action:

kansenzyuku

Others point back to Ford's decision to drop the Taurus name in favor of Five Hundred

2010-01-03T20:32:00.000-08:00

2008 Ford Kuga in front, possible 2011 Ford Kuga out back – click above for high-res image gallery

Here's the skinny: Ford's current Escape is heading the way of the dodo bird. In its place will be the Kuga, a much less dowdy looking compact CUV that should compete nicely with the likes of the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V and Hyundai Tucson. The European designed 2011 Kuga will be built here in the United States at a Louisville, Kentucky plant. All this we already know and have known for some time now.

What we don't know is what Ford will call the Kuga when it goes on sale here in 2011. Kuga is obviously one option, but so, apparently, is Escape. According to Wards Auto, Ford's domestic dealers are pushing for Escape. "I believe the Escape is a great vehicle with a great reputation and that it would be a big mistake to kill the Escape name," says one San Diego based dealer.

Others point back to Ford's decision to drop the Taurus name in favor of Five Hundred – part of the brand's strange decision to make all cars start with the letter "F" (Focus, Fusion, Five Hundred – though the Mustang never became Fustang) and all SUVs and crossovers start with the letter "E" (Edge, Escape, Explorer, Expedition, Excursion). Though, of course, reverting back to Five Hundred was supposed to drum up some long lost brand equity/nostalgia, which is the first thing CEO Alan Mulally did when he changed Five Hundred back to Taurus. Very complicated stuff, no?

So, Kuga or Escape? While there are many good arguments for Escape, here's one for Kuga – Ford's One World strategy. Simply put, rather than having one Focus for Europe and one for North America, Ford is working toward offering one global vehicle per a given segment – and that's it. And naming one car one thing for one market and one car another for another is essentially a monkey wrench in the plan. What should Ford do, and more importantly what will they do? Place your vote in our poll below and leave any further thoughts in Comments.

What should Ford call the Kuga when it reaches the U.S. market?

KugaEscapeNeither

Mugen-fettled Accord, Fit aren't the big Honda story from SEMA

2009-11-06T21:11:00.000-08:00

Mugen Honda Fit and Accord - Click above for high-res image gallery

In addition to announcing its plans to reinvigorate its participation in grassroots racing, Honda revealed two Mugen-accessorized models -- a 2010 Accord Sedan and Fit -- each outfitted with a range of parts available at dealers, but not a standalone model, ala Mugen Civic. While the 18-inch chrome wheels, front grille, spoilers, floor mats and machined aluminum oil filler cap are attractive additions to Honda's growing HFP line, needless to say, they leave us a bit cold when it comes the automaker's commitment to the aftermarket and, more to the point, performance.

Uninspiring SEMA efforts aside, the real news came last night during a meeting with Honda execs, where we were able to glean a few more details about Honda's future performance plans, how the CR-Z -- and more to the point, hybrids -- fit in and something to look out for next year.

Honda PR man Chuck Schifsky, told us that the Big H plans to use hybrids as a performance booster in the future, saying, "The CR-Z isn't the last step. It's the beginning." Although the real start of Honda's performance-marketed hybrids began with the last generation Accord Hybrid, Schifsky admits that its introduction was "ahead of its time," one of many reasons the electric-assisted sedan never quite caught on with consumers.

More interestingly, several Honda heads told us to expect something big in the world of motorsports next year -- likely in Japan. What that means is open to interpretation, but with Honda pulling its NSX out of SuperGT for 2010 (due to the front-engine, rear-drive chassis requirements), something interesting could be on the way. NSX revival? Lexus LFA fighter? Consider our interest extremely piqued...

Mugen Accessorized Honda Accord and Fit

We've got a trio of modded Kizashis for you to peruse down in the gallery

2009-11-06T16:50:00.000-08:00

Delta Tech Engineering Suzuki Kizashi - Click above image for high-res gallery

We totally dig the new 2010 Suzuki Kizashi. It's a bold step forward for Suzuki and (hopefully) a harbinger of great things to come, which also happens to be what "Kizashi" means. However, the looks are a little, well... not outstanding. Not that it's particularly bad-looking (it ain't), but what if it were a little more... special? SEMA to the rescue!

We've got a trio of modded Kizashis for you to peruse down in the gallery, but how about some background info up front? First up is Delta Tech Engineering's car which might be our favorite. Delta Tech specializes in lighting and every light on the car is either LED or HID. Even though big mouth-look grilles are on the way out fashion-wise, we like the snout on this guy. We also like the fact that it has a cold air intake, custom exhaust and Koni coilovers.

While we just said that the Delta Tech Engineering might be our favorite Kizashi, the Road Race Motorsports Platinum Edition Kizashi pushes all the right buttons with an even more aggressive body kit. It also features a custom air intake, engine management system and data logger. You also get 13-inch slotted rotors up front (though "only" 10-inches out back). Custom springs, sway bars and chassis stiffeners round the package out.

[UPDATE: We wrongly identified Westside's Kizashi as Import Tuner's car. A total mistake on our (my) part. Sorry 'bout that.]

Lastly, we've got Westside's custom Kizashi – a car we just can't wrap our heads around. From the Frankenstein's Monster neck-bolts as exhaust tips to the bizarre two-tone paint job to the Jianghuai GIGANTIC grill, we're totally, 100% not in love. And that's that.

Suzuki Kizashi Customs

Meet the world's most desirable Lexus RX450h by Branew

2009-11-06T16:43:00.000-08:00

Branew Lexus RX450h - click above image to view hi-res gallery

Let me be blunt: I don't like luxury crossovers. At all. It's a niche with no appeal to me whatsoever. Not a car, not a truck – just a fat sedan jacked up on stilts to woo trophy wives with fancy badges and reassure soccer mammas that their children are "safe." And the Lexus RX gets the sharp point of my spear of anger because it's basically responsible for the high-end CUV craze. Not a fan of hybrids, either. That said, I'm absolutely smitten with Branew's Lexus RX450h.

I think it's the stance, has to be. But there is just something very desirable – from an aesthetic standpoint. The big 24-inch wheels help tremendously, perching Branew's at just the right height. And the lower fascia helps the quite handsome – if not distinctive – OEM grill pop. And I know it's going to be a controversial opinion, but the koi fish on the hood totally work. In fact, I know a certain Subaru WRX that could use a koi or two. Anyhow, while I'd rather gargle nails than rock a luxo-CUV, if forced at gunpoint, Branew's RX450h would be my first (and only) choice.

Hummer quartet is a pretty sweet swansong

2009-11-06T16:18:00.000-08:00

2010 Hummer Robby Gordon Off-Road - Click above for high-res image gallery

We almost skipped the Hummer section of the General Motors booth this year at SEMA, concentrating instead on the plethora of Chevrolet Camaro concepts all around them. When we went back for a second look at the day's new design for the Graphics Camaro, we saw the truck above and figured we should probably reconsider avoiding HUMMER after all. We took some pics and scrounged up the press release which you'll find after the jump.

There were four different Hummers on display. The one shown above is a Robby Gordon Off-Road race truck that is absolutely ridiculous -- in a good way. This H3 was built to campaign in the 2010 Dakar Rally and is a full-blown, tube-chassis race truck, just like the Trophy Trucks you'll see running in the Baja 1000.

Next up was the Rod Hall Racing H3 Alpha. This is a stock-class desert runner that ran the 2009 SCORE International Baja 1000., meaning that it features a stock frame, stock suspension design and production-based engine.

The other two trucks were Hummer concepts. First up was the H3 Moab. Said to be inspired by trails like Steel Bender, Moab Rim, and Poison Spyder, it's a 300-horsepower, V8-powered H3 Alpha with dual locking differentials, a Rancho four-inch front suspension lift, custom rear spring-over conversion, and 35-inch BF Goodrich Mud-Terrain KM2 tires mounted on custom 17-inch two-piece Monster Black Competition Beadlock Raceline Wheels by Allied.

Last but not least is the H3T Sportsman. It's been customized with a combination of powertrain modifications, suspension enhancements and an assortment of genuine factory accessories and aftermarket components. The standard Alpha 5.3-liter V8 has been boosted by a healthy 70 horsepower. Suspension upgrades include Light Racing JounceShocks and two-inch-diameter Rod Hall Racing piggyback reservoir-type performance shocks.

Altogether a pretty nifty quartet of Hummers that we'll probably never own. Check out the gallery and all the details after the jump.

General Motors has reached an agreement to offload Hummer

2009-10-10T08:56:00.000-07:00

General Motors has reached an agreement to offload Hummer onto China's Sichuan Tengzhong Heavy Industrial Machinery, with Tengzhong taking an 80 percent stake and a private investor consuming the rest.

Details on the deal (available in the press release after the jump) include Hummer contacting vehicle manufacturing from GM, with the General's Shrevport and Mishawaka plants continuing to produce vehicles through June of 2011, with a possible extension until 2012. A recent report says the sale will net GM around $150 million, although the transaction still has to be approved by both U.S. and Chinese regulatory agencies, which could come later this year or in early 2010.

Tengzhong, which only produces commercial trucks and industrial equipment, has never entered into consumer vehicles before, but according to Yang Yi, chief executive officer of Tengzhong. "We are excited about some of the initiatives already underway at HUMMER that we believe our investment will be able to accelerate, particularly related to the creation of the next generation of more fuel-efficient vehicles to meet not only future regulations but also customer expectations."

Honda Insight Overview 2010

2009-07-04T06:54:00.000-07:00

The 2010 Honda Insight has returned to the showroom for the first time since the 2006 model year. The Insight is now a four-door, five-passenger hatchback with a unique aerodynamic shape to help it achieve greater fuel economy.

The Insight is powered by Honda's Integrated Motor Assist system, which is a combination of a 1.3-liter gas engine and a 13-hp electric motor, all attached to a continuously variable transmission. The engine and motor combined generate 98-hp and 123-lb.ft of torque, and provide 40-plus mpg fuel economy. The LX trim offers six airbags, anti-lock brakes, automatic climate control, power windows, locks and mirrors, keyless entry and a four-speaker CD audio system with an auxiliary input. The EX trim adds electronic stability control, alloy wheels, cruise control, six-speaker audio system with USB interface, heated exterior mirrors and steering wheel mounted paddle shifters. A voice activated navigation system is available on the EX trim, and includes Bluetooth for hands-free cell phone use.

The Insight is all new for 2010.

2010 Honda Insight tops European hybrid

2009-07-02T06:52:00.000-07:00

2010 Honda Insight - Click above for high-res image gallery

Honda's new Insight may be falling short of sales expectations so far here in the U.S., but apparently it's doing OK thus far in Europe. Honda of Europe is reporting that, during its first full month on sale in May, the Insight was the best selling hybrid vehicle on the continent. Unfortunately, hybrids still haven't achieved the sales volumes in Europe that they get elsewhere. Honda has not said precisely how many Insights were sold, but Toyota only sold 1,372 Priuses in May. The Prius is, of course, in the middle of a model changeover, so the numbers aren't necessarily representative. Over the next several months as both cars become readily available at dealers, the relative sales picture may change.

Elsewhere in the Honda hybrid lineup, the Civic hybrid took third place in the sales race and Honda again promised to bring the production CR-Z as well as a Jazz (Fit) hybrid to market.

Gallery: ABG First Drive: 2010 Honda Insight

Honda Insight test drive 2010

2009-06-30T06:51:00.000-07:00

Honda's market researched turned up an interesting fact: The people most likely to buy hybrid cars are young people who can't afford them. Enter the 2010 Insight, a purpose-built four-seat hybrid designed to bring high mileage to the masses. But the Honda Insight isn't just a cut-rate hybrid -- it turns eco-driving into a video game, complete with snappy graphics, cheat buttons, high scores and trophies. How does the Insight do it? Read on. Base price: $20,470. EPA fuel economy TBD.I liked the new Insight as soon as I set eyes on it. From the outside, the Insight looks like a Honda-ized Toyota Prius, which is understandable -- the shapes of both cars are optimized for best-possible aerodynamics. Angular headlights and a shiny chrome grille recall Honda's hydrogen-powered FCX Clarity, while the taillights remind me of the original two-seat Insight.

Settle into the Insight's cloth-covered, height-adjustable bucket seats, and it's clear that this is a hybrid designed for Generation Y -- the dashboard has a futuristic look that wouldn't pass muster with Honda's older, more conservative Civic and Accord buyers. Like the Civic, the Insight uses a brilliant split-level dash, with a digital speedometer up top and other gauges in a bin below the steering wheel rim. Cargo space is excellent -- Honda engineers redesigned the Insight's controller and battery pack to fit into a small package under the trunk floor -- but back seat room is very tight, with little headroom and low doors that make it difficult to get in and out.

Honda offers the new Insight in two models, and they're easy to spot: Plastic wheel covers denote the cheaper Insight LX, while jazzy alloy wheels mark the Insight EX. LX models get power windows, locks and mirrors, keyless entry, automatic climate control and a CD stereo, while EX models add cruise control, electronic stability control, an iPod adapter, an optional navigation system, a center armrest, and a few other bits and bobs.

Look & feel

The cockpit view of the 2010 Honda Insight EX.

The Insight is a lot of fun for a hybrid -- acceleration is zippy and it handles with typical Honda agility, though the ride is noisy, especially at highway speeds. But the coolest thing about the Insight is that it turns eco-driving into a video game. The dash is chock full of displays that give you feedback on your driving. A colored band behind the speedometer glows green when you're eco-miling, bright blue when you're lead-footing it, and blue-green when you're somewhere in between. And then there's the Insight's multi-information gauge -- besides the traditional instant fuel economy and power flow gauges, it has an Eco Guide with a bar graph that moves left or right as you brake or accelerate. Keep the bar as close to the middle as possible, and presto, you're hypermiling. The car even keeps a long-term score, using a small "plant" icon that rewards eco-drivers by growing leaves and, eventually, a flower.

Most modern-day video games have cheat codes that you can type in to improve your chances of success. The Insight has its own form of cheat code: A big green ECON button. Pressing it changes several aspects of the Insight's behavior, from the way the engine responds to the accelerator pedal to the output of the air conditioner. Even the cruise control gets in on the act; it relaxes a little when Econ mode is engaged, allowing the car's speed to vary a bit on inclines. Aside from the cruise control behavior, Econ mode doesn't make a huge difference in the way the Insight drives, but it does help pick up an extra MPG or two.

Fuel-ability

The Insight is powered by a 1.3-liter gasoline engine and a continuously-variable automatic transmission with a DC brushless motor sandwiched between them. Combined output is 98 horsepower and 123 lb-ft of torque, with 10 hp and 58 lb-ft coming from the electric motor. Like the system in the Civic Hybrid, the Insight can't run the engine and the motor independently , but it does shut the engine off when the car is stopped and it has an electric-only mode for low-speed cruising -- the intake and exhaust valves are closed, sealing the engine and minimizing engine drag. But since the engine is still turning, the Insight doesn't "run silent" the way most hybrids do -- the power gauge is the only indicator that the Insight is running on pure battery power.

EPA fuel economy estimates for the Insight have not yet been announced, but Honda's in-house tests predict 40 MPG city and 43 MPG highway. Compare that to 40/45 for Honda's Civic Hybrid and 48/45 for the Toyota Prius. Honda set up a hypermiling course consisting of 16 miles of suburban streets with a 35 minute time limit. I drove it normally as a benchmark and got 50.2 MPG. Using my best eco-driving skills and the Insight's video feedback tools, I scored 63.7 MPG and completed the course in 34 minutes. Then I tried it in a Toyota Prius, which lacks the Insight's eco-feedback gizmos. With only my ears and the seat of my pants to guide me, I got 74.5 MPG in 31 minutes. Oops! Sorry, Honda.

When it’s all said & done

2010 Honda Insight eco gauge

I like the Insight -- it's cute, it's useful, and it's fun. But it has two major problems. The first is size: The Insight is great for singles and young families, but as your kids grow, you're going to need a bigger car, and the best family-friendly hybrids come from Toyota (Prius, Camry Hybrid) and Nissan (Altima Hybrid). Second, I don't think Honda's IMA system is as good as Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive. Despite all the Insight's gauges and gadgets, Toyota's system -- which shuts the gasoline engine off entirely, rather than just disabling it -- makes eco-driving easier, as proven by my slightly-unauthorized hypermiling experiment.

One important question remains unanswered: Just how affordable is the Insight going to be? Honda hasn't announced pricing; my guess is that the LX will come in around $20k, and an EX with navigation will be closer to $24k. Compare that to the base- model Prius ($22,720) and Civic Hybrid ($24,320). But Honda dealers are bound to gouge -- sorry, "add" -- an extra mark-up -- sorry, "market adjustment" -- when the cars are new, so the Insight may not be that great a deal, at least not for the first few months of sales.

Bottom line: It's great to see a hybrid designed specifically to make eco-driving fun and affordable. Unfortunately, the Insight simply isn't as fuel-efficient or as practical as the Toyota Prius -- but it is a lot more enjoyable. If you're willing to trade a bit of economy and utility for a higher fun-to-drive factor, the 2010 Honda Insight is the hybrid to have. -- Aaron Gold

Honda Insight Hybrid

2009-06-28T06:51:00.000-07:00

Honda unveiled the 2010 Insight Hybrid at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show on Jan. 11th. Sales of the 2010 Honda Insight Hybrid will begin in April 2009.

All 2010 Insights carry a 1.3L SOHC i-VTEC engine mated to a CVT transmission. Mated to Honda’s Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid technology that allows for an EPA rated fuel-economy of 40/43 (city/highway) mpg. Besides that outstanding fuel-economy, the 10-kilowatt electric motor IMA hybrid system, along with a 10.6 gallon fuel-tank, allows for driving range of more than 400 miles.

Honda also introduced its new Ecological Driver Assist System (ECO Assist) that helps drivers get the most fuel-efficiency out of their Insight Hybrid. The driver activated ECON mode optimizes the control of the CVT transmission, engine and other powertrain parts to increase fuel-efficiency. Real-time feedback from the Insight is displayed on the new speedometer display in cool changing background colors.

The 2010 Honda Insight will be available in three different trim levels including LX, EX and EX with Navi. Pricing starts at $20,470 (including $670.00 destination charge and options). Honda is targeting global sales of 200,000 units annually, half of which it expects to come from North America.

Keep checking back here for the latest coverage on the Honda Insight Hybrid. Have something to say? Start a discussion in the Comments section below.

Honda Insight Bottom Line 2010

2009-06-26T06:30:00.000-07:00

MSRP: $19,800 - $23,100
Get Dealer Price Quotes

The Insight is an entirely new vehicle for 2010 and bears no relation to the two-door coupe of the same name, which was discontinued after 2006. Like the Toyota Prius, the 2010 Honda Insight is a dedicated hybrid vehicle, meaning it has a unique look and is only offered with a hybrid powertrain, with space for five. While Toyota attracts affluent, environmentally conscious families with its Prius, which has become more luxurious and feature-laden in recent years, Honda aims the Insight primarily at younger, budget-conscious customers who want to make an environmental statement and cut their fuel consumption.

It's immediately apparent that the 2010 Honda Insight worships wind tunnels, with a shape that looks carved to cut through the air with the least resistance. Yet the silhouette allows a hatchback practicality, and Honda manages to incorporate an impressive degree of design detail for such a low-priced vehicle. The thin projector-beam headlamps are a distinctive break from the large, overwrought designs of recent years, and the front grille is complex but simpler than what we've seen in Honda's larger vehicles like the Pilot SUV. Also, distinctive LED taillamps adorn the rear, and at the back is a tinted window that plays a styling role and allows improved visibility for the driver. Smooth lift-up door handles are a nice alternative to the chunky, trucky versions expected even on small cars.

Inside, the 2010 Honda Insight also shifts from the small-car mold, with a two-tiered, two-tone instrument panel situated quite far forward to permit a spacious feel for those in front. Center-stack controls—except for the sound system and nav display—are angled toward the driver, and climate controls are similar to those in the Fit, centered in their own round area just to the right of the steering wheel. And the seats have a nice, meshy fabric that's grippy and comfortable. Unfortunately, behind the front seats, it's not quite as perfect; the backseat can fit three kids across, or two adults, but headroom is tight. Cargo space is a generous 15.9 cubic feet, but it's quite shallow, and the 60/40-split backseats don't quite fold forward flat.

Honda's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system works with a 1.3-liter VTEC four-cylinder engine, helping it out during acceleration and recharging the battery system during coasting and braking. Altogether, the system produces 123 pound-feet of torque and 98 horsepower. A start/stop system turns off the gasoline engine to save fuel at stoplights. Unlike the system in the Toyota Prius or Ford vehicles, the hybrid powertrain in the 2010 Honda Insight can't start up from a standstill on electric power alone, but it can maintain a 30-mph cruise with solely electric power.

The 2010 Honda Insight is rated at 40 mpg city, 43 mpg highway, although based on TheCarConnection.com's driving experience, owners should have no problem surpassing the ratings in everyday driving. TheCarConnection.com editors returned about 44 mpg just keeping with the flow of traffic in a variety of roads.

The front-wheel-drive Insight is, relative to other hybrids, a joy to pilot. Thanks to the IMA system, there's plenty of torque to take off quickly from stoplights, along with good power for passing. The CVT automatic operates unobtrusively and doesn't hunt around at higher speeds as the Prius's transmission will sometimes do. For those who want to drive the Insight in more spirited fashion, there's a manual mode and steering wheel paddles on the uplevel 2010 Honda Insight EX, simulating seven speeds.

Most will be pleased with the way the 2010 Honda Insight handles. The Insight doesn't change directions as crisply as the Honda Fit, but it feels confident in all but the tightest corners, with unexpected poise in high-speed cruising. Brakes are front disc, rear drum but feel up to the task. Ride quality is good despite the short 100-inch wheelbase, and the interior is quiet and civilized except when mashing the throttle to the floor, which causes the engine to become quite raucous.

If optimal fuel economy is important—and it probably is if you're considering the 2010 Honda Insight—you should be interested in the fancy display interfaces that come standard on the Insight. Eco Assist helps you reach the best mileage by changing the background color of the speedometer from blue to green as efficiency increases, while a bar indicator displays a thinner bar when you're conserving fuel. Meanwhile, Eco Guide keeps tabs on your daily driving, adding flower petals when you're doing well and accumulating a "lifetime score," if you care to play the game. Just to the left of the steering wheel is an Econ button, which engages fuel-conserving modes for a range of vehicle systems, including how the air conditioning and cruise control operate and how often the gasoline engine is shut off.

The 2010 Insight hasn't been crash-tested yet as it's a brand-new design, but most of the items that TheCarConnection.com prefers are standard, including front, front side, and side curtain airbags, as well as anti-lock brakes and active front head restraints. However, electronic stability control—a lifesaving feature that TheCarConnection.com strongly recommends—isn't even optional on the base model. The Insight shares some of its structure with the new 2009 Honda Fit, which has done extraordinarily well for a small car in crash-testing.

The Insight comes in two different trims, and there's a seemingly vast chasm between them in terms of equipment. The 2010 Honda Insight LX weighs in at a remarkably low price, but features like cruise control, stability control, and a nav system aren't even optional. The EX model heaps on the extra equipment, including steering-wheel paddle shifters, VSA, cruise control, a 160-watt AM/FM/CD system with MP3 compatibility, a USB interface, aux inputs, and six speakers, plus a center console with armrest, more storage compartments, fog lamps, heated side mirrors, and alloy wheels—albeit at a higher price that's no longer quite a steal. It also adds a center console with an armrest and storage, map pockets, and interior lights. Major options on the EX include a navigation system with a nice, big screen and a Bluetooth hands-free interface.

Honda Insight: Overview

2009-06-24T06:28:00.000-07:00

View All 56 Photos

The 2010 Honda Insight is a new, dedicated hybrid model from the Japanese automaker. This gas/electric hybrid car is a five-passenger, 4-door hatchback that mates a 1.3-liter 4-cylinder engine with a battery-powered electric motor for 98 hp. Honda's hybrid system allows Insight to run on one or both of its power sources. Most of the time, however, the gas engine shuts off at a stop and restarts again when the driver releases his or her foot from the brake pedal. No plug-in charging is required. Insight has a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). LX and EX trim levels are available. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. EX comes with cruise control, steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, alloy wheels, heated power mirrors, and an upgraded audio system. A navigation system is available, and Insights so equipped are priced as separate models. They also include a wireless cell-phone link.

2010 Honda Insight

2009-06-22T06:27:00.000-07:00

Click above for high-res image gallery of the 2010 Honda Insight

2009 is shaping up to be a big year for hybrids as Ford launches the Fusion and Milan hybrids, Toyota brings us the third generation Prius and the new Lexus HS250h and Honda revives the Insight brand. The original Insight was the first hybrid to make it to the US market but it was never very commercially successful. Honda only managed to sell about 18,000 Insights worldwide over 6 years. The new Insight is a whole different story.

This time around, Honda has created a five seat hatchback that it says will be the most affordable hybrid in the world. Honda is targeting world wide sales of 200,000 Insights a year with half of those going to North America. AutoblogGreen spent a day driving the new Insight in and around Carefree AZ just before the holidays. Unlike the Prius which is efficient but has never been particularly appealing to drive, the Insight makes good use of its Fit based chassis for fun steering and handling and still manages to get outstanding fuel efficiency. ABG managed to achieve an average 63.4 mpg on an efficiency drive and 44 mpg on a mountain road pleasure drive. Read all about the new Insight at AutoblogGreen.

Gallery: ABG First Drive: 2010 Honda Insight

Gallery: 2010 Honda Insight

2009 Meet Brian Deese, the 31-year-old in charge of breaking up GM

2009-06-06T00:15:00.000-07:00

Many of us ABers being in our early- to mid-30s, we're less amazed that another of our ilk has risen to a decisive government position. We are, after all, a generation on the rise. The surprising part about Brian Deese's story is that he's been instrumental in shaping the Obama administration's moves to save General Motors, and this is his first official tour of duty in Washington. What qualifies a guy who hasn't even finished his Yale Law degree to steer President's automotive task force around? From what's been said about Mr. Deese, his quick ability to boil down the often competing economic and political aspects of any given issue.

Deese piped up in favor of Fiat's rescue of Chrysler, pointing out with a memo that a fire sale of the ailing automaker would send unforseen ripples out into the economy as a whole. Speaking out in such an influential manner is definitely unusual considering Deese doesn't appear to be an auto enthusiast or business propeller-head with his nose buried in studies and reports about the car industry. A childhood spent in the Boston suburb of Belmont, Massachusetts under the parentage of a college professor an an engineer, Deese did his undergraduate time at Middlebury College in Vermont before heading to Washington to work for Nancy Birdsall on international aid. A turn with former Clinton policy wonk Gene Sperling before the move to Yale, Hillary Clinton's bid for nomination brought Deese back to DC. With friends in Washington, Deese found himself hooked into the Obama team, and from there he's been running busily around our nation's capital.

If General Motors can successfully navigate Chapter 11, we'll all get to see just how well Brian Deese has done digesting the thorny chestnut that is saving our domestic auto industry.

Honda Insight Hybrid to cost less than $19,000

2009-05-07T01:58:00.003-07:00

One of the most significant reveals here in Paris is the Honda Insight Hybrid that is due out in the U.S. in April ‘09. This will be the Toyota Prius’ biggest rival; however, most of you are wondering what it’s going to cost and how will it compete with the Prius in terms of fuel-economy.

According to Automotive News, President Takeo Fukui said that he is targeting a range of $18,864 for the Insight Hybrid when arrives in showrooms - that’s a little more than $3,000 cheaper than the Prius. In terms of fuel-economy, Fukui says the Insight “will mirror” the Civic Hybrid’s 40/45 mpg (city/highway) - the Toyota Prius gets 48/45 mpg.

Honda is targeting global sales of 200,000 vehicles a year, half of which it expects to come from North America.

Head over after the jump to see live imags from the 2008 Paris Motor Show.

Live from Paris 2008: Honda Insight Hybrid Concept:

Live shots of the new Honda Insight... at last!

2009-05-07T01:58:00.001-07:00

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Honda Insight

The biggest bit of greenery at the Paris Motor Show may be the Honda Insight concept. This is the car that's set to give the Prius a run for its money in the ongoing hybrid arms race in America, and it looks like it may have the goods to do proper battle. As has been stated, over and over again, the Insight bears a striking resemblance to its main rival from Toyota, but perhaps that's to be expected as both cars are meant to cheat the wind in an effort to reach maximum efficiency.

This isn't the production version, but we don't expect too many changes to its external appearance before it hits the Detroit Auto Show in January in its final form. Details like those LED-heavy light clusters up front may not make it, but the overall look is what will be in Honda dealerships sometime next year. The interior looks pretty spacey, but so did the second-gen Prius' when it was introduced. Take a look at the live shots in our gallery below.

Gallery: Paris 2008: Honda Insight Concept

[Source: Autoblog]

PRESS RELEASE

HONDA GIVES AN INSIGHT INTO THE FUTURE OF HYBRIDS

Honda has always intended Hybrid vehicles to be a bridge to a hydrogen powered future, the potential of which has already been demonstrated by the FCX Clarity. The Insight Concept has clear stylistic links to the world's first production fuel cell car, with both vehicles' forms shaped to maximise the efficiency of their respective drivetrains.

The Insight Concept is the stylistic inspiration for the production version which will go on sale in 2009. From this unique position in the marketplace, Insight will open hybrid technology to a new generation of customers.

The 1.3 litre Insight is powered by Honda's acclaimed IMA system, which has been extensively modified to reduce its cost and weight. With careful engineering of key components and refinement of manufacturing processes, the cost of the hybrid system has been significantly reduced. This ensures that Insight can be sold at a very competitive price without compromising ability, quality, environmental performance or profitability.

The Insight will benefit from a significant cost reduction in Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) components resulting in the most affordable hybrid vehicle to date. This dedicated hybrid vehicle will be offered as a 5-door hatchback with seating for five passengers and built on a newly developed platform. Engineers have mounted the compact control unit and battery beneath the boot space to give the Insight both a low centre of gravity and the practicality of a conventionally powered hatchback.

This reduction in cost has not been brought about by compromising the quality of the Insight, instead the Japanese manufacturer has tasked its engineers with finding more intelligent cost reduction solutions.

Insight will utilise various technologies, including a function to assist more fuel efficient driving giving customers a further improvement in real world fuel consumption. Along with the Civic Hybrid, the new vehicle will be produced at Honda's Suzuka factory in Japan which recently has expanded hybrid motor production line.

CO2 emissions and fuel economy are targeted to be at a similar level to the existing Civic Hybrid, giving drivers a flexible and highly practical lower environmental impact car. At its expected price point, Insight will have a unique combination of passenger space, luggage capacity, emissions and economy.

"The original Honda Insight launched in 1999 was the pioneer of hybrid technology in Europe and remains an iconic symbol of Honda's environmental innovation," said Takeo Fukui, Honda Motor Co., Ltd. CEO. "This new Insight will also break new ground by providing an affordable hybrid to an expanded number of customers craving great fuel economy and great value."

The Insight will form the first part of Honda's new hybrid strategy, which will see a further dedicated hybrid model, derived from the CR-Z show car and a hybrid version of the Jazz. The strategy will make hybrids both more accessible and more appealing to a range of customer types.

The Insight Concept is the culmination of two decades of hybrid petrol electric hybrid research and development. The Insight production vehicle will go on sale in Europe, Japan and North America during the first half of 2009.

Honda Insight ES-T is so green it even gives your road skills an eco-score

2009-05-07T01:57:00.001-07:00

When is an eco-friendly car not eco-friendly? When I drive it, apparently.

There I was, conscientiously cleaning the grime off my sparkling new Honda Insight hybrid, using more water and electricity than an African village probably uses in a year.

But what did you expect? I'm a Westerner. Our whole lives are what they call 'unsustainable', and it doesn't matter how many hybrids we buy. We'll go on killing the planet until someone makes us live on twigs and berries.

The Honda Insight is one of a flood of mass-market hybrids about to hit the roads, so it's important that it looks desirable - and from the front, it does

It was a power-washer that made me realise how futile it all is. You might want to skip to the next paragraph if you're eating your breakfast... I'd popped into a service station on the M1 to relieve myself and was quite impressed to see the urinals were a special non-flushing kind, to save water and, by extension, polar bears.

I'm all for saving the bears and bees and the lesser-spotted Guatemalan honey frog. But what they hadn't foreseen was that other things might end up on the porcelain - like an entire Pot Noodle, deposited there by some student after a boozy binge, which had welded itself to the surface like concrete and was in the process of being jet-blasted off by a sad-eyed Albanian.

In ten seconds he wasted more water than the whole facilities would have used in a week, so completely defeating the object. I knew it, he knew it, but 'green' appearances have to be kept up.

Likewise, when you go to the supermarket these days they ask you if you need a bag, even if you've got an entire trolley full of stuff.

I've considered saying, 'No, I'll just pack it all in the back of my car like some giant bloody jigsaw puzzle, thanks.'

The Honda Insight's sat-nav

But it's not the checkout girl's fault, is it? She's just going through the motions, same as the rest of us. We recycle, but the Government just piles it up in depots. Why? They're lazy. You and I are lazy. We all need a big 'nudge' in the right direction, like in the book that American economist wrote... which, come to think of it, was about urinals, too. I must get off this subject.

The point is, Honda has built a really clever 'nudge' into its new affordable hatchback that might finally, genuinely, get people driving in a planet-saving way. But I'll get to that later, as I didn't actually notice it at first.

The Insight is one of a flood of mass-market hybrids about to hit the roads, so it's important that it looks desirable - and from the front, it does. It's similar to the Civic: sporty, sharp and youthful with its blue-ish lights squinting aggressively.

The problem is that every inch you go towards the back adds two years to its age, ending in a rear view about as modern as a Morris Minor Traveller.

The colour-coded rev counter monitors driver's efficiency

Inside is much more like it, especially in this top-spec ES-T model. The dash is very plasticky (probably so they can turn it into carrier bags afterwards), but designed in a cool, Star Wars way.

The big digital speedo rises above the steering wheel, while the rev counter gives off a green glow if you're driving efficiently, or a blue glow if you're wasting energy. There's also a row of flowers on the LCD display, which flicker into life when you turn the engine on. Drive more greenly, and more appear.

It was two days before I noticed that this display can be switched to show you the lifetime 'eco score' of the car. There's a little tree you have to keep alive like a tamagotchi, and you get wreaths and trophy symbols if your performance is improving.

I was in the office when I read about this, so I ran down to the car to see how I'd done. Er, not well. I'd wilted every leaf on the tree, thereby killing six bears, four dolphins and an iguana. Mr Attenborough, I'm sorry.

But the point is, next time I got in the car I drove differently. I kept the rev counter glowing green and even pressed the little ECON switch, which changes gear more gradually, smoothes off your accelerator input, captures more energy from the brakes and subtly turns down the air con.

In fact, it turns it off if you come to a halt, along with the engine (Idle Stop Mode, they call it). In other words, it's really not me, so I gave up in the end.

Still, I can easily see my gran getting obsessed with her eco score. And 17-year-old learners. It's stupidly easy to understand and the better you do, the more money you save. I think it's a little stroke of genius.

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Even so, for me driving's about having fun - and you know what? This wasn't bad at all.

Steering was light and responsive, the battery-assisted engine feels bigger than 1.3 litres and the centre of gravity's low, so it doesn't wobble in the corners.

I quickly found myself sliding round them in a four-wheel drift, keeping the revs high and treating it like the old Civic Type R boy racer.

The little flowers were not happy. I am a plant murderer - but that's OK; this car's not really aimed at me.

At two grand cheaper than a Prius it's not even really aimed at eco-nutters, just people who want to save money. You spend less on petrol, less on road tax and nothing on the congestion charge - saving buckets if you commute every day. I can understand anyone buying one of these.

But me? I'm tired of going through the planet-saving motions. I'm going to bed. Goodnight, and don't forget to turn off the lights, the TV, the dishwasher, oven, fridge, video and DVD.

The dashboard

TECH SPEC

£18,390, honda.co.uk

Engine 1.3-litre 4-cylinder petrol/electric hybrid

Engine power 87bhp

Electric motor power 14bhp

Fuel economy 61.4mpg CO2 emissions 105g/km (tax band B)

Top speed 113mph

Transmission Continuously variable, front-wheel drive

Standard 16in alloys, ABS, EBD, Vehicle Stability Assist, cruise control, paddle shift gear selector, Ecological Drive Assist System, Eco Mode button, CD/radio/MP3 with USB port, voice recognition DVD sat-nav, power folding adjustable heated mirrors, front foglights, climate control, heated front seats, leather steering wheel and gear shift, auto lights and wipers

Optional Premium Pack (mudguards, side protection), Elite Pack (adds rear parking sensors), Elite Plus Pack (adds front parking sensors)

News Honda Insight LIVE REVEAL

2009-05-07T01:56:00.000-07:00

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Honda Insight

The Honda Insight concept took a hushed bow under the lights of Paris today. It’s Prius-esque, but in person the car is less evocative of its Toyota challenger. The Insight’s width and rather low height give it a substantial presence, and there’s a bit of attitude out back with the hatch sliding into a flick of a tail. We imagine some of the more complex elements, such as the headlights reminiscent of shards from Superman’s home planet of Krypton, will not make it to production. We hope the interior, however, is left untouched — it is just the right blend of tech and common currency. The production version will be introduced to the public at the Detroit Auto Show in January and pricing is rumored to be just under ,000 when it goes on sale. In the mean time, enjoy the gallery of high-res photos below, and check out the press release after the jump.

Gallery: Honda Insight LIVE

Gallery: Paris 08: Honda Insight Concept

Continue reading Paris 2008: Honda Insight LIVE REVEAL

Honda Insight LIVE REVEAL

2009-05-07T01:55:00.000-07:00

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Honda Insight

The Honda Insight concept took a hushed bow under the lights of Paris today. It's Prius-esque, but in person the car is less evocative of its Toyota challenger. The Insight's width and rather low height give it a substantial presence, and there's a bit of attitude out back with the hatch sliding into a flick of a tail. We imagine some of the more complex elements, such as the headlights reminiscent of shards from Superman's home planet of Krypton, will not make it to production. We hope the interior, however, is left untouched -- it is just the right blend of tech and common currency. The production version will be introduced to the public at the Detroit Auto Show in January and pricing is rumored to be just under $19,000 when it goes on sale. In the mean time, enjoy the gallery of high-res photos below, and check out the press release after the jump.

Gallery: Honda Insight LIVE

Gallery: Honda Insight Concept

Honda Insight LIVE

2009-03-23T22:16:00.001-07:00