Honda has revealed its Urban SUV concept at the North American International Auto Show.
Honda's new SUV is part of a segment of smaller vehicles that are becoming more readily available in the U.S. market with higher-end features such as heated seats and navigation, noted IHS Automotive analyst Rebecca Lindland. Other upcoming small SUVs, such as the Toyota RAV4, fit the bill as well.
The concept measures 169.3 inches in length, making it about eight inches longer than a Fit hatchback and nine inches shorter than the CR-V. Honda confirmed that its new crossover will debut a telematics system for Honda, and it will use one of Honda's new Earth Dreams engines; we previously reported that this engine would be a 1.5-liter I4 paired with a continuously variable transmission.
Inside, Honda's vision for the Urban SUV concept (the concept at the auto show has no interior) is rather conventional, featuring an instrument panel that could easily translate into a production form. The concept reportedly uses Honda's Magic Seats system, which are featured in the Fit subcompact and allow for extraordinary flexibility in terms of seating arrangements and cargo hauling. The production version is expected to also make use of this system.
Press Release Honda "Urban SUV Concept" Makes World Debut at the 2013 North American International Auto Show All-new Honda concept model previews addition to growing small-SUV segment and demonstrates Honda's small-car expertise An all-new Honda "Urban SUV Concept" vehicle made its world debut today at the 2013 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. The dynamic and youthful concept hints at the styling direction of an all-new small SUV slated to launch in Japan by the end of 2013, followed by the U.S. market in 2014. "No one has had greater success with small cars than Honda, and this Urban SUV Concept will create new value in the growing small-SUV segment," said John Mendel, executive vice president of sales at American Honda. "With the continued expansion of our North American manufacturing operations, we expect fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive 'small' cars to play a key role in meeting the needs of our customers in the U.S." The Urban SUV Concept is intended to provide the basis for a fun-to-drive and fuel-efficient small SUV with aspirational design, flexible packaging and next-generation connectivity targeting active lifestyle customers. The concept showcases clean and sophisticated styling, dynamic character lines and a strong stance, with hidden rear door handles giving the SUV a coupe-like presence. Measuring 169.3 inches long, the Urban SUV Concept is nine inches shorter than the Honda CR-V, making it the ideal size for navigating both crowded city streets and open mountain roads. The Urban SUV Concept represents the expansion of vehicles based on Honda's Global Compact Series, which includes the Honda Fit subcompact and the Honda City subcompact sedan, a model sold in markets outside the United States. All-New Small SUV Launching 2014 Coming to the U.S. in 2014, an all-new small SUV based on the Urban SUV Concept will feature fuel-efficient Earth Dreams™ Technology and be priced and positioned below the CR-V within the Honda light-truck lineup. Part of Honda's Global Compact Series, and utilizing the Honda-original center-tank layout featured on the Fit, the model will include Honda's configurable Magic Seat® setup that can provide a host of passenger and cargo options, including a fold-flat mode for maximum cargo capacity. The all-new model will also feature next-generation telematics and a modern interior. The small SUV will be manufactured along with the Fit at Honda's newest North American plant near Celaya, Mexico, expected to open in the spring of 2014. The growth and expansion of its small-vehicle lineup will help Honda double worldwide production of vehicles in its Global Compact Series to more than 1.5 million units by the end of 2016, and remain a global small-car leader.
Honda Brio Amaze has been officially launched in Thailand at a starting price of 4,54,000 Baht or Rs 8.19 lakh approximately.
Honda Brio Amaze comes with styling elements of it’s hatchback sibling but with a new front grille and rear end. The chrome plated front grille of Brio hatchback has been replaced with a new grille similar to Honda City. The lower half of the bumper resembles to Brio hatchback’s front bumper. The model spotted in the images does not have a fog lamp though.
Dimensions of Honda Brio Amaze stand at 3,990 mm long, 1,680 mm wide, 1,485 mm tall and a wheelbase of 2,405. Weight of the Brio Amaze is at 925 kgs (S AT), boot space is 1,480 liters. Tire configuration for all fours is as 175/65 R14. Fuel tank capacity is 35 liters.
It comes with a 1.2-liter, 4-cylinder, 16-valve i-VTEC engine producing 90 hp (67 kW) that provides a fuel consumption of 20 km/l (47 mpg US ; 56 mpg UK ; 5 liters / 100 km). ABS, EBD and airbags are among the standard features, along with a rear armrest with nine cup holders, USB/AUX/2 DIN audio system support and remote key.
Although pictures of the interior are not available, the Amaze will undoubtedly feature the same uncluttered dashboard that is found in the regular Brio. Buyers with extra cash in their pocket will be able to order the car with an infotainment system controlled by a small dash-mounted touch-screen.
Press Release
Honda unveils the new Brio Amaze, a new equation of happiness Download [PDF]Printer Friendly 23 November 2012 Bangkok 23 November 2012: Honda Automobile (Thailand) Co. Ltd. announced the official launch of all-new 1.2 liter Brio Amaze eco-car sedan. Thailand is the first country in Asia to introduce this innovation. Honda has also selected Bie Sukrit Wisetkaew as the Brio Amaze Presenter, to deliver a new equation of happiness. According to Mr. Pitak Pruittisarikorn, Executive Vice President, Honda Automobile (Thailand) Co., Ltd., “Since successfully returning to full strength in just eight months, Honda has set a new record for the Thai automotive industry for launching new models. Today’s launch of the all-new Brio Amaze is the tenth model in the Honda 2012 lineup and Honda’s second eco car. Based upon the original Brio model, the Brio Amaze represents a major milestone resulting from a collaborative effort by Japanese and Thai engineers at the Asia Pacific Honda Research & Development Center located right here in Thailand to satisfy the customer needs in Thailand and Asia. Honda put tremendous effort into ensuring the Brio Amaze was launched in response to the Thai first-car market demand before the end of the government’s first-car buyer program. The new Brio Amaze is the perfect choice for Thai customers who are looking for a first car that is distinctive and available at a very affordable price,” said Mr. Pitak. The design of the new Brio Amaze is based on the Smart Micro Limousine concept. It is also influenced by Honda’s Man Maximum Machine Minimum approach that puts the highest importance on the driver and passengers. The exterior styling is sleek with distinctive character lines from front to rear, enhanced by a sporty chrome grille and bumpers in the same color as the body. The newly-designed tail lamps are complemented by chrome accents for a sleeker look. The spacious interior of the all-new Brio Amaze provides a large rear luggage storage compartment ready for any journey. Powered by a 1.2 liter, 4-cylinder, 16-valve, 90-horsepower SOHC i-VTEC engine, the new Brio Amaze offers fun driving and unrivalled fuel economy with fuel consumption of 20 kilometers per liter. It is a genuine eco sedan that is friendly to the environment in accordance with the Euro 4 standard. A rack & pinion and electric power steering (EPS) system gives the new Brio Amaze great maneuverability with a small turning radius of only 4.6 meters. Comprehensive safety features include a G-CON steel safety body structure; Anti-lock Braking System (ABS); Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD); and an intelligent i-SRS for the driver and a SRS airbag system for the passenger that confirms to UNECE standards to provide protection from side and front impact (in all variants). Other key features include a remote key; 2 DIN audio system; USB connector; AUX for peripherals; and rear armrests with nine cup holders. (Standard equipment differs for each variant.) The Brio Amaze is the ideal solution for a new equation of happiness delivered by Honda. It represents the harmony of contrasting values that are agility but with spaciousness and comfort; fun driving but with fuel-saving performance; and a distinctive eco car model that is equipped with a full range of safety features. To boost the outstanding image of the new Brio Amaze, Honda has selected Bie Sukrit Wisetkaew, a superstar among Thai audiences of every age and gender, as the presenter for the new model. He will deliver the new equation of happiness to all customers though an exclusive song called “The Equation of Love” that was specially produced for the Brio Amaze. A highly-acclaimed vocalist and actor, Bie is agile and modern as well as fun and easy-going, but with great determination to work efficiently and achieve the best outcome. His unique qualities truly reflect the personality of the new Brio Amaze. The new Brio Amaze is available in four variants, which are the S MT, priced at 454,000 Baht; the S AT, priced at 493,000 Baht; the V MT, priced at 482,000 Baht; and the V AT, priced at 521,000 Baht. It comes in five colors including new Marine Purple (Pearl), as well as Crystal Black (Pearl), Carnelian Red (Pearl), Alabaster Silver (Metallic) and Taffeta White. Customers under the first car program who reserve a new Brio Amaze by the end of the year are eligible to receive a tax rebate of 65,000 to 73,000 baht. To welcome the launch of all-new Brio Amaze, Honda kicked off the stunning Brio Amaze Equation of Happiness campaign for customers who place their orders from today until December 31, 2012. The campaign offers three tiers of surprises, including: 1st tier: Customers can chose one of the following: 1) The lowest interest of only 1.49% for customers who want low monthly payments; 2) The lowest down payment of 59,999 baht, plus free first-class car insurance, for customers to make it easy to own a Honda Brio Amaze; or 3) The most attractive monthly payment of only 3,813 baht with free first-class car insurance simply by joining the Honda Smile Pay program and paying just 128 baht per day; 2nd tier: Free 20” travel luggage worth 2,500 baht; and 3rd tier: A chance to win a Honda Click 125i motorcycle valued at 46,500 baht, with a total of 39 units to be given away in daily draws. To experience the new Honda Brio Amaze and get more information, visit any Honda showroom nationwide, visit www.honda.co.th/brioamaze, or contact the Honda Call Center at 02-341-7777, 02-341-7888, or 02-341-7999.
Honda has released photos and new details for the NSX Concept, which will debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show.
Highlighting the design and technology direction for Honda’s next generation supercar, the NSX Concept features a V6 mid-mounted engine and will employ a range of new technologies including the innovative Sport Hybrid SH-AWD (Super Handling All Wheel Drive) hybrid system. It is expected to go on sale within the next three years. Acura NSX has a length of 4330 mm, width 1895 mm, height 1180 mm and wheelbase 2575. Its weight is light because they are made from aluminium base material and CRFB (carbonfibre reinforced plastic.
The new 1.6-litre diesel is the first engine to come, and Honda claims it will be the lightest engine in its class and while producing 118bhp. It will be the company's first sub-100g/km CO2 diesel engine, and they are keen to impress the international audience by releasing full technical details at the show.
In addition to these products, Honda will also showcase a prototype of the European CR-V, as well as the EV-STER electric sports car.
Press Release
HONDA UNVEILS FIRST ENGINE FROM ITS NEW EARTH DREAMS TECHNOLOGY RANGE AT 2012 GENEVA MOTOR SHOW
The first example of Honda's ground breaking new Earth Dreams Technology will be on display at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The 1.6-litre diesel is the first in a new generation of engines being introduced over the next three years. Lining up next to the engine display will be the NSX Concept, EV-STER and a prototype of the European C
Earth Dreams Technology - delivering class-leading fuel economy Honda's Earth Dreams Technology is a new generation engine series delivering excellent performance and environmental values. Due to be introduced throughout the product range, the new technology will see Honda become number one in fuel economy within three years.
The new 1.6 litre diesel will be the first engine from this series and it will be introduced to the new Civic in late 2012. It will be the lightest engine in its class, delivering sub 100g/km CO2 levels and a class-leading balance of fuel economy and performance. A cut engine display of the new 1.6 litre diesel will be shown on the Honda stand.
1.6 litre diesel engine specification:
Displacement: 1596cc
Max Power: 88kw (120 PS)/4000rpm
Max Torque: 300Nm/2000rpm
Honda NSX Concept The stunning NSX Concept will make its European debut at the Geneva Motor Show badged ‘Honda'. Highlighting the design and technology direction for Honda's next generation supercar, the NSX Concept features a V6 mid-mounted engine and will employ a range of new technologies including the innovative Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® (Super Handling All Wheel DriveTM) hybrid system. It is expected to go on sale within the next three years.
European CR-V Prototype Honda will also present the European CR-V Prototype, a preview model highlighting the exterior styling direction of the all-new fourth generation European Honda CR-V, which is set to go on sale in Autumn 2012. Compared to the previous generation, the model adopts a more aggressive stance with deeper sculpting of the body lines and a bolder front fascia. The lower front bumper wraps smartly upward to convey SUV capability, while the lower front bumper design now integrates more smoothly into the fascia for improved aerodynamics.
New Jazz Models for Europe Two new Jazz derivatives will also be displayed for the first time. The Jazz Si, on sale from Summer 2012, features an upgraded sporty suspension package and styling changes to the interior and the exterior.
The second derivative, the Jazz 1.2 with Idle Stop, delivers a reduction in CO2 emissions of 3g/km compared to the standard 1.2 variant and will available to order in Spring.
EV-STER Further underlining Honda's aim of developing sporty, exciting products, the Honda EV-STER will also make its European debut at the show. The EV-STER, an electric rear wheel drive two-seater open sports car, features dynamic and innovative styling and excellent environmental performance.
The Honda Press Conference will take place at 09.15 on Tuesday 6 March.
The Honda CR-Z iCF will boast a little over 172 horsepower thanks to some wrenching by Mugen Euro. The base 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine packs a centrifugal supercharger along with an intercooler and a remapped ECU. The end result is a greatly improved power to weight ratio, as evidenced by a new 0-60 mph time of just 6.1 seconds--a full 3.0 seconds faster than the regular model.
The Honda CR-Z iCF Mugen price will start at 24,000 GBP, and the first exemplars will be available for test drives through the eight Honda UK MUGEN dealers starting from Spring 2012.
Press Release
HONDA (UK) LINKS WITH MUGEN EURO TO LAUNCH HOT "CR-Z iCF"
Following a successful programme launch at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2011, Honda (UK) has joined forces with "MUGEN Euro", to launch a 130+mph sports hybrid CR-Z, boasting Civic Type R performance.
With almost 50 per cent more power than the standard car, this 175 PS 'pocket rocket' hybrid marks the strengthening of the engineering partnership between Honda (UK) and MUGEN Euro following the limited edition Civic Type R MUGEN in 2010.
MUGEN Euro engineers 'breathed over' the 1.5-litre power unit, retaining the 3-button IMA modes, adding a centrifugal forced air induction system, charge-air cooler and induction system and importantly, a MUGEN Euro-mapped ECU. The result is outstanding power to weight, and increased torque helping to deliver 0-62mph in 6.1 seconds - over 3 seconds quicker than the standard car.
Martin Moll, Head of Honda (UK) marketing said, "MUGEN Euro magic has created a super responsive yet eco-conscious model building on our sporting credentials and giving us the ability to compete in the "hot hatch" marketplace as we move into 2012."
Production development continues at MUGEN Euro, with cars available for test drive through the eight Honda UK MUGEN dealers in spring 2012. Prices have yet to be confirmed, but are expected to be approximately £24,000.
On the outside, the Pilot gets a revised three-bar grille, redesigned headlights and front bumper. EX trims and higher now have 18-inch alloy wheels (upgraded from 17-inch rims), while LX trims are equipped with 17-inch steel wheels.
Inside, Honda has taken strides to rearrange some buttons and decrease interior noise. The Pilot gets a piano-black center console to minimize the brightwork of the outgoing silver look, which resembled a hi-fi boombox from the late 1990s. On EX-L and Touring models, the Pilot gets a voice-activated 60GB hard drive for storing MP3s, Bluetooth audio streaming, and Honda’s Satellite-Linked Navigation System that offers traffic updates as far as Alaska, in case the Pilot’s adventures take you that far.
Under the hood, while it was expected that Honda might introduce a six-speed automatic transmission, the five-speed unit remains for the 2012 model year, as does the 250-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine.
Other improvements to fuel efficiency include the use of low-rolling-resistance tires, low-drag front and rear ventilated disc brakes and changes to the exterior design that help reduce wind resistance.
The pricing starts at $28,470.
Press Release
2012 Honda Pilot Debuts with Sleek New Look, Improved Fuel Economy and Upgraded Interior Features
25 mpg Pilot 2WD achieves top highway EPA rating for an eight-passenger SUV
The Honda Pilot eight-passenger SUV receives a wide range of upgrades for 2012 with a sleeker front-end design, enhanced interior features and an EPA highway fuel economy rating of 25 mpg on two-wheel-drive models, an increase of 2 mpg compared to 2011 models.
The new styling for the front fascia, with its three-bar chrome-style grille, conveys a more sophisticated crossover SUV appearance. Interior styling changes focus on instrument panel refinement and a more intuitive button layout. For 2012, audio system upgrades on Pilot EX and EX-L models include a 2 GB CD-Library (CD-L) and Bluetooth® Audio Streaming, along with the addition of Bluetooth HandsFreeLink® to those trim levels.
Feature upgrades on the Pilot EX-L include the addition of a full-color 8-inch intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) for audio and vehicle information. Models equipped with the available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System for 2012 receive subscription-free FM Traffic, 15 GB audio hard disk drive memory (HDD), and a higher-resolution display.
The fuel economy gains for 2012 result from combined improvements to the powertrain, chassis and vehicle aerodynamics. The 250 horsepower i-VTEC V-6 engine includes additional measures for friction reduction and improved efficiency. The 2012 Pilot becomes quieter with additional noise insulation and other enhancements throughout the vehicle.
Body The 2012 Pilot's new grille and front fascia replace the prior model's six-sided grille insert with a distinctive three-bar horizontal design. Reconfigured multi-reflector halogen headlights and turn signals contribute to the new look with a layout that relocates the turn signal from an outboard position to an inboard position within the headlight housing. A new front air dam and optimized strakes (the rectangular air deflector in front of the wheels) help reduce frontal area and unwanted air turbulence, both of which impact fuel economy. Rounding out the exterior design changes, Pilot EX and above models receive an all-new five-spoke, 18-inch aluminum alloy wheel design (plus 1-inch compared to the previous model). Pilot Touring alloy wheels feature an exclusive six-spoke design with a high-contrast machined surface. Pilot LX models are equipped with 17-inch styled-steel wheels.Exterior dimensions for 2012 are similar to 2011 with identical measurements for width (78.5 inches), height (71.0 inches for Pilot LX and 72.7 inches for Pilot EX, EX-L and Touring) wheelbase (109.2 inches) and track (front 67.7 / rear 67.5 inches). Overall length increases 0.5 inches to 191.4 inches as a result of the front styling changes. Ground clearance is basically the same at 7.97 inches, down slightly from 8.00 inches in the previous model.
Interior Interior styling changes are designed to increase refinement throughout the cabin while also enhancing the intuitive nature of the controls. The instrument panel uses a more unified color theme with less contrast between panels. A glossy black center panel for audio controls replaces the high-contrast silver panel of the previous model. Speedometer and tachometer gauge faces incorporate a new look with distinct segments surrounding each meter's perimeter, along with white background illumination for nighttime driving instead of the previous model's aqua-blue background illumination. The redesigned center stack adds a subtle U-shaped character line and different textures to create a layered effect on the panel. Ideal for phones and audio players, a larger center storage pocket is 0.4-inches taller. A simplified layout for the climate controls replaces some of the buttons with dials for a more intuitive, easy-to-use overall design.The top of the center stack on each Pilot model contains a unique display that varies by model. Pilot LX and EX models contain a three-line display. Pilot EX-L models for 2012 (without navigation) receive the new i-MID, which provides a convenient platform for integration of vehicle information and compatible personal electronics through a color LCD screen and intuitive steering wheel controls. The Pilot EX-L rearview camera display appears in the i-MID and includes guidelines for judging parking distance. The i-MID also shows HandsFreeLink® operation, user-loaded wallpaper such as photos, a fuel-economy display and an audio interface.Available on Pilot EX-L and standard on Touring, the 2012 Pilot adopts the latest version of the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation SystemTM2. Now with 60 GB of total system memory (includes 15 GB allocated for user media) and voice recognition for three languages, this system uses multiple global positioning satellites covering all of the U.S. including Alaska and Hawaii, as well as Canada and Puerto Rico. Its new FM Traffic feature provides free, continuous updates on traffic and incidents, helping drivers avoid gridlock. The hard drive can store thousands of minutes of music, which is accessible by simple voice commands using the Song By VoiceTM feature. Additionally, 2012 Pilot models with navigation feature a multi-view rear camera (wide view, normal view and top-down view), with the image displayed on the navigation screen for convenient parking help when in Reverse.Adding to the comfort level of the 2012 Pilot is a reduction in noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). Enhanced body seam sealing around the unit-body connection points, and re-tuned rear suspension sub-frame mounts, result in lower noise levels in the passenger cabin. Other specific NVH countermeasures include body-seam sealants to reduce air leaks, enhanced pillar separators, revised insulation materials and acoustic windshield glass on all models.The tailgate features a lift-up glass hatch for convenient access to the rearmost cargo area. The model's 18.0 cubic-feet of cargo space behind the third row matches or exceeds the trunk space of a typical large sedan and can accommodate items as large as a mid-size cooler or a folded stroller. For maximum cargo space, the second and third rows fold flat into the floor to create 87.0 cubic feet of storage capacity, while also providing sufficient width for 4-foot-wide items.The cargo area has a hidden storage well that provides 2.8 cu-ft. of additional space and can combine with the above floor storage area by securing the hinged cover against the seatback. The Pilot Touring also provides a load-supporting cargo net (20 lbs. maximum weight) to further subdivide the rear cargo area.Key interior dimensions are identical to the previous Pilot model, including front headroom (40.0 in. for Pilot LX and EX, 39.3 in. for moonroof-equipped Pilot EX-L and Touring), second-row headroom (39.8 in.) and rear headroom (38.2 in.), legroom (front 41.4 in., second-row 38.5 in., and third-row 32.1 in.). Passenger volumes are likewise identical (153.7 cu-ft. for Pilot LX and EX, 152.7 cu-ft. for Pilot EX-L and Touring), as are cargo volumes (87.0 cu-ft. total, 47.7 cu-ft. behind second-row seats, and 18.0 cu-ft. behind third-row seats).Safety
Safety technology includes the Advanced Compatibility EngineeringTM (ACETM) body structure that helps reduce the amount of crash energy reaching the passenger compartment and can enhance frontal collision compatibility. Additional safety equipment includes three-row side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor, driver's and front passenger's side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS), active front seat head restraints and anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution and brake assist. Vehicle Stability AssistTM (VSA®), commonly referred to as Electronic Stability Control, is standard on all models. The 2012 Pilot also meets new federal regulations with taller rear head restraints.Honda has targeted the new Pilot to achieve best-in-class safety ratings, including a NHTSA 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score, and a TOP SAFETY PICK designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reflecting the institute's new procedures for Front Offset, Side Impact Collision Evaluation (SICE), Roof Crush and Head Restraint tests.
Powertrain Power comes from an advanced 24-valve, all-aluminum engine with "intelligent" Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (i-VTEC) technology with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM). The VCM system allows the V-6 engine to operate in six-cylinder mode for power and four- or three-cylinder modes for efficiency. Fuel economy improves for 2012 with an EPA-estimated1 city/highway/combined fuel economy of 17/24/20 mpg on 4-wheel-drive models and 18/25/21 mpg on 2-wheel-drive models. Representing a 1-mpg increase in City, a 2-mpg increase in Highway and a 2-mpg increase in city.
Combined, this gives the 2012 Pilot 2WD the highest fuel economy of any 8-passenger SUV and the Pilot 4WD the highest fuel economy for any mid-size 4WD SUV.Fuel-efficiency enhancements include the application of engine friction-reduction technologies including a plateau-honed engine block, low-friction piston treatments, ion-plated oil rings and a load-variable alternator. The use of dual-electrode spark plugs, 0W-20 low-friction oil and low-friction automatic transmission fluid contribute to higher efficiency. The VCM operation range has also been expanded.The 5-speed automatic transmission features Grade Logic Control to help maintain the most appropriate gear when going uphill or downhill, thereby avoiding gear "hunting." The available VTM-4 system on Pilot 4WD models adds fully automatic 4-wheel-drive capability. VTM-4 delivers seamless, "decision-free" application of 4-wheel-drive when needed, a key benefit compared to conventional systems. The system also provides a "lock mode" - available when in first or second gears up to 18 mph and activated by a button on the instrument panel - that can deliver the maximum-possible torque transfer to the rear wheels to aid in extraction from extremely low traction or stuck conditions.
Chassis The suspension is a fully independent system with front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link with trailing arm designs that contribute to responsive driving characteristics for an SUV. The 109.2-inch wheelbase facilitates a smooth ride. A tight turning diameter of 37.9 feet aids maneuverability in tight parking situations.Chassis improvements that directly improve fuel economy include a variable-displacement power steering pump, low-rolling-resistance tires, and low-drag front ventilated and rear disc brakes. Improved aerodynamics, the front strakes, splash shields and inner fenders, and reduced frontal area also contribute to improved fuel economy.
Models and Features As with the prior model year, the 2012 Pilot is available in four model choices (Pilot LX, EX, EX-L and Touring), and each is offered in either 2-wheel-drive or 4-wheel-drive configuration.Pilot LX
Standard comfort and convenience features on the Pilot LX include a front and rear air conditioning system with air-filtration system, keyless entry with simplified operation, tilt and telescope steering column, cruise control, power windows with auto-up/down driver's and passenger's window, power door and tailgate locks, AM/FM/CD stereo system with seven speakers including a subwoofer and Radio Data System (RDS), trip computer, heat-rejecting tinted glass, integrated Class III towing receiver, and more. For 2012, the Pilot LX adds AAC audio file playback capability from data discs to the CD player.
Pilot EX The Pilot EX adds a tri-zone automatic climate control system with humidity control and air filtration, a power driver's seat with 10-way power adjustment with lumbar support, security system, XM Radio®5, body-colored side mirrors and door handles, alloy wheels, roof rails, fog lights, exterior temperature indicator, HomeLink® Remote System, and more. For 2012, the Pilot EX now also features Bluetooth HandsFreeLink (previously exclusive to EX-L with Navi and above models), Bluetooth audio streaming and a new 2 GB CD Library (CD-L) replaces the previous 6-disc CD changer.
Pilot EX-L Additional Pilot EX-L features include leather-trimmed seating surfaces, heated front seats, 4-way power front passenger's seat, one-touch power moonroof, an automatic-dimming rearview mirror and the availability of either the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation SystemTM2 or the Honda DVD Rear Entertainment System with a 9-inch screen. The addition of either the navigation or the entertainment system also adds a 115-volt power outlet. New for 2012 is the addition of a power tailgate to the Pilot EX-L, a USB Audio Interface, and an intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) with QVGA resolution. The i-MID includes a rearview camera display, iPod album artwork display and a user-loadable wallpaper function.
Pilot EX-L with Navigation The Pilot EX-L with Navigation adds an upgraded navigation system with higher VGA resolution replacing the previous QVGA display and an internal hard drive that replaces the previous model's DVD-based system. New features include FM Traffic, Song by VoiceTM, rearview camera with a 3-mode display and a Multi-Information Display in the center of the gauge cluster.
Pilot Touring The top-of-the-line Pilot Touring includes the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation SystemTM2 with rearview camera, a Premium Audio System with 10 speakers, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink4 and Audio Streaming (with selected phones), the Honda DVD Rear Entertainment System, two-position memory seats, roof rails, corner and backup sensors, side-mirror integrated turn indicators and more.Colors available for 2012 include Alabaster Silver Metallic, Bali Blue Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl, Dark Cherry Pearl, Polished Metal Metallic, Taffeta White, White Diamond Pearl, new Dark Amber Metallic (replaces Mocha Metallic) and new Glacier White (Pilot Touring). Fabric and leather interior color choices, which are matched to selected exterior colors, include beige, black or gray.
Honda has released the first pictures of the CR-Z Mugen, ahead of its debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.
2012 Honda CR Z Mugen Rear View 495x355 2012 Honda CR Z Mugen After a further 15 per cent increase in power over this ‘stage 1′ engine and with over 50 kg reduced from the chassis, overall performance is set to meet Mugen’s original targets. That achieved 0-60mph in 6.6 seconds, and the team says the test version has already passed that, thanks to a hike in power to 200bhp and 245Nm of torque.
The regular 1.5 i-VTEC engine develops 113bhp, while Mugen's bolting on a supercharger and fettling the IMA hybrid system for nearer 200bhp and 181lb ft. And Mugen's dieticians have stripped out 50kg of unnecessary heft, to make the CR-Z more agile. The bonnet is made from carbonfibre while the wheels are lightweight Mugen alloys.
Mugen also has upgraded handling and performance, fitting adjustable shocks and large disc brakes, increasing track and reducing weight. Mugen GP 17-inch forged alloy wheels are part of an exterior package that includes front and rear airdams, side skirts and a rear wing.
Press Release
FIRST IMAGES OF CR-Z MUGEN REVEALED
Honda (UK) and MUGEN Euro have revealed the first official photographs of the CR-Z MUGEN - the higher-performance hybrid coupe.
Development of the supercharged Honda CR-Z is on track, with performance figures already looking promising.
Early tests with a prototype car based on a standard CR-Z and a mid-tune engine have given 0-60mph times around that of the Civic Type R.
After a further 15 per cent increase in power over this 'stage 1' engine and with over 50kg reduced from the chassis, overall performance is set to meet MUGEN's original targets.
"Early fuel consumption tests have also been encouraging," says Colin Whittamore from MUGEN Euro. "We've retained the three driving modes from the standard car and economy ranges from 50+mpg in 'eco' mode to mid-30 mpg when tapping into the supercharged power in a special 'MUGEN' mode."
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