2012 Honda Civic Interior

Here's a good shot of what the Next Gen Honda Civic's interior will look like....

Honda CBR250R is first entry-level motorcycle with ABS

If you’re looking forward to celebrating warmer weather by getting into motorcycle riding, Honda may have the bike for you. The company just introduced a new entry-level sport bike, the CBR250R, to compete with Kawasaki’s popular Ninja 250, which we tested (and liked a lot) in 2008.

Previously, Honda’s only entry-level bike this small and affordable was the Rebel 250, a cruiser which we also tested then. All our riders preferred the Ninja for its precise handling; smooth, free-revving engine; and slick-shifting six-speed transmission. Some riders also found the Rebel 250 too small and cramped.

Now the CBR250R offers a sport-bike seating position in an affordable, entry-level package starting at $4,500. Better yet for new riders, the CBR250R is available with antilock brakes, which the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has shown reduces motorcycle crashes by as much as 37 percent.

Consumer Reports would like to see ABS offered on more motorcycles, especially affordable models aimed at newer riders. We welcome Honda’s introduction of the CBR250R as a first step in that direction and consider the $500 premium for the optional antilock brake system to be money well spent.

Source;
http://blogs.consumerreports.org/cars/2011/01/honda-cbr250r-is-first-entry-level-motorcycle-with-abs.html

Canadian Driver: Used Vehicle Review: Honda Civic, 2006-2011

By Chris Chase
The eighth-generation Honda Civic hit the market in 2006, and made a bit of a splash when it did, with its wedgy exterior and modern interior, including a controversial split-level dashboard. Nevertheless, the Civic remained one of the most popular cars on the market and largely retained its reputation for being a dependable form of transportation.

If you bought a Civic in 2006, you got a compact sedan or coupe powered by a 1.8-litre, four-cylinder engine making 140 horsepower in all trims save the Si coupe and Hybrid. The Si got a 2.0-litre, 197-hp motor, while the Hybrid used 1.3-litre engine paired with an electric motor for a net horsepower power rating of 110. Regular-grade Civics came standard with a five-speed manual transmission that could be optioned to a five-speed automatic. The Si used a six-speed manual exclusively and also got a limited-slip differential; the Hybrid came with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) as the only one available.

In 2008, an Si sedan was added to the line-up. Some upper trim models got stability/traction control in 2009.

Natural Resources Canada’s fuel consumption ratings for the 2006 Civic were 7.8/5.7 L/100 km (city/highway) for the 1.8-litre model with manual transmission, or 8.2/5.7 with the automatic. The Hybrid was rated at 4.7/4.3, and the Si at 10.2/6.8. These figures would remain the same through the eighth-gen Civic’s run, to 2011.

Reliability on the whole has been good, earning the Civic inclusion on Consumer Reports’ list of used car “good bets.” It’s not without fault, however, particularly the hybrid model.
Consumer Reports’ data on the Civic shows electrical system problems with the Hybrid powertrain. These include the IMA (Integrated Motor Assist) warning light turning on, indicating a problem with the battery or the software that manages the IMA system. Here’s a thread talking about how high ambient temperatures and hot weather can negatively affect the Civic Hybrid’s battery pack. The battery packs themselves appear to be pricey; I’ve seen figures upwards of $3,000 for replacement (including labour) mentioned in more than one forum.
There’s also an IMA software update mentioned frequently that apparently causes driveability issues after it’s installed in the car’s CPU. Apparently, this is due to the system needing to recalibrate itself, but kills the electric assist function in the process, making the car slow, and dangerously so, say some owners.

If the check engine, IMA and battery light come on and the car loses electric assist (runs on the gas engine only), a common, and simple, cause is a weak 12-volt battery (just like the one every car has). If this battery is bad, it frequently causes the car’s sensitive electronics to go haywire.
Here’s a Civic Hybrid FAQ from CleanMPG.com.

I’ll go out on a limb and say that the Honda Civic Hybrid is one to approach with caution, especially used, and even more so if the hybrid system warranty is close to expiry. A couple of posters in this GreenHybrid.com thread call their 2007 Civic Hybrids the worst cars they’ve ever owned.

With that out of the way, non-hybrid Civics have fared much better, suffering only from relatively minor problems.

There’s a common problem with the Civic Si’s transmission that causes grinding and hard shifting into third gear, and a shifter that pops out of third. This prompted the folks at 8thCivic.com to draft a (poorly written) petition in an effort to get Honda to acknowledge the problem. The company eventually did, by issuing a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) advising dealers on how to fix the bad transmissions.

A popping sound from the front suspension, a problem that appears to affect mostly 2006, 2007 and a few 2008 Civics, is caused by an incorrectly manufactured bump stop. Honda addressed this in 2007, with the TSB that can be found here.

Read this thread for a few details about a rear suspension problem – bad upper control arms – that seems to affect only the Hybrid.

This thread indicates that some Civic owners have experienced head gasket failures. There’s no evidence of this in Consumer Reports’ data, though.

The two-door Civic earned a “good” rating in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s (IIHS) frontal offset crash test, and an “acceptable” score in side impact testing, with the IIHS citing a possibility of rib and pelvis fractures for front seat occupants. The four-door model scored “good” in both tests, but the IIHS noted that there was still a small possibility of rib fractures for front-seat riders.

From the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave Civic two- and four-door models five stars for driver and front passenger protection in its frontal crash test, and four and five stars for front and rear seat protection in side impacts, respectively.

Used Civic pricing, from Canadian Black Book (CBB), shows these cars have held their value well, as is the Honda way. At the low end is a 2006 DX coupe, at $8,150, or $8,625 for a DX sedan; for bigger budgets, a 2010 sedan in top EX-L trim is worth $20,200. The Si’s values range from $15,525 for a 2006 coupe, to $21,300 for a 2010 sedan (the coupe is a bit cheaper), and the Hybrid starts at $10,750 for a 2006 and ranges up to $17,075 for a 2009. (CBB doesn’t have pricing info for the 2010 Hybrid.) For middle-ground shoppers, a 2008 LX is worth $14,450.

As stated above, the Civic Hybrid is a car to avoid, or at least, consider very carefully when shopping for a fuel-thrifty vehicle. The rest of the Civic line has held up well, earning consistent above-average used vehicle reliability ratings from Consumer Reports, with few, if any, serious trouble spots. Regardless, look for a car with detailed service records and have it checked out by a trustworthy mechanic before buying.

Source;
http://www.canadiandriver.com/2011/01/27/used-vehicle-review-honda-civic-2006-2011.htm

Honda R and D: Mind Contol a Car

This is a neat idea, but I think all we'd have to do is take the tech that Honda has developed for ASIMO and incorporate it into a R2 unit like below.... no?

Posted on: January 31st, 2011 by Hannah Westfield

Everyone has had a time when they wished things could be achieved through thought alone. As children, many try to move objects and imagine what it would be like to have the power to do things through thought alone.

Well, incredibly this idea may not be far away. Honda, the Japanese car manufacturer, has been having talks this weekend with some top fashion designers. The idea is to design and produce a stylish and attractive ‘driving hat’, which should be able to allow the wearer to be able to undertake tasks while driving via just thinking about what needs to be done.

It sound like something from a futuristic science fiction film, where a UFO or weapons system is controlled purely by thought. However, this is a real prototype that will actually read its wearers brainwaves to do simple tasks for the driving. It will be able to undertake commands to turn on window wipers or headlights, open things like the boot, or other simple tasks.

The scanner and controller are so small that it can actually fit into the lining of a hat, just an ordinary hat, not even a specially designed one. Some have said that Honda are now looking to get high-end fashion designers and Hollywood stars involved in the project.

Up until recently, reading brain pattern has required probes and often hair removal. However, Honda’s design has managed to read brain waves through hair and via soft pads (no proing required). The idea of the hat is to be a fashionable driving aid, making life easier, while making the driver look good.

Source;
http://news.carrentals.co.uk/do-you-wish-you-could-think-something-to-be-done-34235900.html

Honda launches TV ad to interact with iPhone app

Honda is launching what it claims to be the first campaign that allows viewers to use an app to interact with a TV ad in real time.

The 'This Unpredictable Life' campaign, for its Jazz model, breaks tomorrow (1 February). It gives the app's users the ability to "catch" animated characters with an iPhone as they appear on screen in Honda's new TV ad.

The app, named Honda Jazz – This Unpredictable Life, is free to download.

The Pixar-style clip shows a character floating through life, collecting experiences and possessions.

Using audio-recognition technology, app users can pull up to seven characters, including Space Monkey, Baby Balloon Head and Playful Puppy, to their app.

The campaign showcases the car's ability to "handle all that life has to throw at the modern family".

Martin Moll, head of marketing for Honda, said: "This new ad campaign reflects the experiences of our Jazz customers, showing how its Tardis-like interior has the versatility and space to cope with almost anything."

Source;
http://www.marketingmagazine.co.uk/news/1052149/Honda-launches-TV-ad-interact-iPhone-app/

Honda P-NUT Concept,2009

Honda P-NUT Concept,2009

The Honda P-NUT Concept (Personal-Neo Urban Transport) demonstrates a futuristic concept for an ultra-compact and sophisticated city coupe, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show.

Conceived around a small "footprint" for maximum convenience in tight urban settings, the packaging concept integrates a center driving position configuration and a rear powertrain layout. The exterior styling leverages crisp angles with dynamic flowing lines that originate from the front of the vehicle and span outward toward the rear. The end result is a sleek and aggressive exterior that also allows for a spacious and open interior with excellent visibility.

The exterior styling is intended to capture a future direction for premium sophistication while balancing the need for maximum interior space and an aerodynamic appearance. The interior layout, in conjunction with the rear powertrain design, contributes prominently to the exterior's overall shape.

The layout of the interior space, with its center driving position flanked by two rear seats, provides generous legroom for all occupants, roughly the equivalent of a mid-sized sedan in a vehicle that has an exterior footprint similar to a micro car. Interior functionality is increased by rear seating areas that fold up and out of the way to increase storage capacity. The windshield serves as a heads-up display for the navigation system and the back-up camera.

The modular rear engine bay, depicted on the exterior by blue composite material, is designed to accommodate a wide variety of potential propulsion technologies including a conventional small displacement internal combustion engine, a hybrid gasoline-electric powertrain, or a battery-electric powertrain.

The Advanced Design Studio of Honda R&D Americas, Inc. in Los Angeles developed the Honda P-NUT Concept. Honda R&D Americas began its operations in California in 1975 with local market research activities and has steadily grown its capabilities over the past 33 years to include all aspects of new vehicle research, design and development. Recent Honda-brand efforts include trend-setting products such as the Pilot, Ridgeline, Element, Civic Coupe and Civic Si Coupe.

Specifications
    * Size class: Ultra-compact
    * Layout: Rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive
    * Passengers: 3
    * Length: 3,400 mm
    * Width: 1,750 mm
    * Height: 1,439 mm
    * Powertrain: Internal-combustion engine, hybrid-electric or battery-electric

Honda Pilot Prototype 2009

Honda Pilot Prototype 2009

 

The prototype conveys the design features of the more boldly-styled 2009 Pilot, which emphasizes authentic SUV styling, clever and more accommodating interior packaging and advanced technologies for safety, fuel efficiency and convenience.
The functional eight-passenger seating, a hallmark of the Pilot, becomes even easier to access in the third row as key dimensions for legroom, cargo and occupant space increase in all seating positions. A redesigned platform allows even more refined handling and ride comfort to exist seamlessly with all-weather and medium-duty off-road capabilities.
The Pilot will feature the Honda-exclusive Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE) body structure and the most extensive use of high-strength steel in any Honda product to date.

The ACE body structure enhances frontal collision compatibility with vehicles of different sizes and bumper heights. A pedestrian injury mitigation design in the front of the vehicle is designed to help absorb energy in the event of a collision.
A crossover SUV platform underpins the Pilot to provide the best of the car and truck worlds by integrating the refined traits and packaging advantages of a unit body car design with the utility and capability of an SUV design. A V-6 engine introduces the latest generation of Honda fuel-saving Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®) technology that operates in 6-cylinder mode for power and 4- and 3-cylinder modes for efficiency, an improvement compared to the existing Pilot's available VCM system that works exclusively in 6- and 3-cylinder modes.

The three rows of seats provide a high degree of adaptability for people and large cargo loads. The first row provides a commanding view of the road from two captains' chairs. A wide center stack and center console form the styling anchor for the interior with a design that emphasizes spaciousness and power, while allowing for convenient access to navigation, entertainment and climate-control systems.
The 60/40 split second row, more spacious, slides further forward for increased ease of access to the third row. The 60/40 split third row, now supplies enough knee room for an above-average-sized adult male to fit comfortably, making the Pilot's third row among the most practical in the industry. Each side of the second and third row independently folds down for cargo. A flat floor is created when the second and third rows are folded down.

Honda CR-Z Concept, 2009

Honda CR-Z Concept, 2009

 

The 2009 Honda CR-Z Concept, displayed at the Tokyo Motor Show, is the most recent prototype of a compact, agile coupe using Honda's IMA technology. When the production version goes on sale in the UK in the summer of 2010, it will be the world's first sports hybrid car, and the first ever petrol-electric vehicle to employ a 6-speed manual transmission.

Honda 3R-C Concept, 2009

Honda 3R-C Concept, 2009

 

 

Honda 3R-C Concept, a revolutionary three wheeled battery electric vehicle concept, shows what a future minimal urban transport vehicle for one person might look like. The battery electric drivetrain is mounted low in the three wheeled chassis, therefore keeping the centre of gravity low and thus improving stability.

The Honda 3R-C Concept has a clear canopy that covers the driver's seat while it is parked and not in use. When 3R-C vehicle is in motion, the canopy becomes an enveloping wind-shield that provides the pilot, who sits low in the vehicle, with significant protection from the bodywork and doors.

The high sides of the safety shell seat give greater safety to the occupant, reducing the threat from side impacts and improving weather protection. In front of the driver is a lockable boot area, which gives significant secure storage for luggage or other items. The Honda 3R-C Concept's designers created a flexible cover that surrounds the upper torso to reduce exposure to bad weather and improving comfort.

The Honda 3R-C Concept study was created by European designers working at Honda's Research and Design facility in Milan.

Honda Accord EX-L Sedan, 2008

Honda Accord EX-L Sedan, 2008

 

The all-new 2008 Honda Accord moves the world of mainstream transportation in a refined, dynamic and sophisticated direction with an expanded range of innovative technologies designed for more power, greater efficiency and enhanced safety across the entire lineup of sedans and coupes.

Completely redesigned for 2008 with increased dimensions for a more spacious interior, the sedan styling theme expresses a powerful presence with sharp and strong character lines. The coupe is further individualized with an aggressive stance and unique proportions that create a muscular, sporty demeanor.

"The all-new Honda Accord has become more advanced and refined with a new level of engineering sophistication," said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "As the Honda brand's flagship automobile, the Accord is designed to exceed expectations with premium technology, a more spacious interior and increased power, while retaining the fun-to-drive character and innovative feel that has always distinguished the Accord."

The Accord is available in sedan and coupe body styles with 2.4-liter 4-cylinder and 3.5-liter V-6 engine choices. Available transmissions include a 5-speed manual (standard with all 4-cylinder engines), a 5-speed automatic (standard on sedan V-6 models, available with all 4-cylinder engines and V-6-powered Accord Coupes,) and a 6-speed manual transmission (exclusive to the Accord Coupe EX-L V-6 6MT).

Sedan trim levels range from the well-equipped Accord Sedan LX and plus-featured LX-P (177-horsepower 4-cylinder engine), to the nicely-equipped Accord Sedan EX (190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine or 268-horsepower V-6 engine), to the premium and upscale Accord Sedan EX-L (190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine or 268-horsepower V-6 engine). Coupe trim levels range from the well-equipped Accord Coupe LX-S (190 horsepower 4-cylinder engine), to the nicely-equipped Accord Coupe EX (190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine) to the premium and upscale Accord Coupe EX-L (190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine or 268-horsepower V-6 engine).

Interior
Premium quality with a simple, modern and spacious design describes the philosophy behind the Accord's interior. The larger Accord Sedan total interior volume of 120.0 cubic feet (+3.3 cubic feet compared to 2007) moves the EPA classification from the midsize sedan class to the large sedan class. The additional space is intended to provide "equal" seating comfort for front and rear passengers. Rear legroom of 37.2 inches (+0.4 inches) approaches the impressive second row legroom of the Honda Pilot SUV (37.4 inches). The wider interior (+1.5 inches) allows the front seats to be positioned farther apart to allow for a wide center console more commonly associated with the finest luxury vehicles.

The Accord interior is designed for a dynamic, intuitive and upscale presence, starting with an easy-to-read information display on every vehicle. A zone styling approach separates operation-related instruments (top) and information-related instruments (lower). At night, the controls are further separated by color to distinguish between climate controls (aqua green) and audio controls (white). Classically-styled gauges for the speedometer and tachometer are perfectly round (instead of being truncated at the bottom). Steering wheel audio controls are standard on every Accord. Careful attention was paid to the symmetry of the exterior and interior of the vehicle - including sight lines related to the dashboard height and the visual presence of the hood to the driver.

Redesigned front bucket seats are larger, and feature substantial lateral support to complement the Accord's sporting side. The fold-down lockable rear seatback increases cargo-carrying versatility; the sedan includes a lockable pass-through.

Exterior
Intended to convey a prestigious presence, the Accord Sedan embraces a traditional three-box shape that emphasizes both a dynamic and athletic feel with the sophistication of a timeless sedan form. Dimensionally, the Accord Sedan's overall length of 194.1 inches (4-cylinder models, V-6 models add 0.2 inches for front spoiler lip) is 3.0 inches longer than the 2007 model. The width of 72.7 inches is 1.1 inches wider, and the height of 58.1 inches is 0.9 inches taller. Even though the size is larger in every dimension, the vehicle's torsional rigidity has increased by 20 percent as a result of advanced body construction that uses 48 percent high-tensile steel - the most high-tensile steel by volume of any Accord to date. A significant benefit to the advanced body construction is that total vehicle weight increased only by approximately 5 percent despite the larger size, greater rigidity and added features.

The Accord Coupe styling radically breaks from the sedan with a uniquely aggressive image. Its long hood, sleek roofline and muscular lines suggest power and a heightened agility compared to the sedan. Dimensionally, the Accord Coupe's overall length of 190.9 inches is 3.2 inches longer than 2007 model, its width of 72.8 inches is 1.2 inches wider, and its height of 56.4 inches is 0.6 (LX-S) to 0.7 (EX, EX-L) inches higher. Compared to the 2008 Accord Sedan, the Accord Coupe is 3.2 inches shorter in length, 1.7 inches shorter in height and 0.1-inch wider.

2010 VW Passat the Auto Cars

2010 VW Passat Photo
2010 VW Passat Pics


The 2010 Volkswagen Passat ranks 13 out of 18 Affordable Midsize Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 66 published reviews and test drives of the Volkswagen Passat, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The 2010 Volkswagen Passat is an affordable midsize car with an interior that almost belongs in a more expensive class, combined with with suspension tuning that makes it fun to drive and an excellent safety record. However, it's also one of the most expensive midsize cars, particularly when fully loaded with options.

The 2010 VW Passat offers a near-luxury level of refinement, and excellent road manners. It also offers a near-luxury price. Edmunds notes, "For many folks, the Passat fills the gap that exists between normal, humdrum family cars and the financially out-of-reach luxury brands."

Reviewers aren't sure what to make of the car because of that unusual status, floating between affordable and luxury classes. The 2010 Volkswagen Passat, most critics say, is an enjoyable car to drive. It offers a refined, smooth ride, and sharp handling for a family car. Its interior is a step up from those of most Affordable Midsize Cars, with high-quality materials and fine attention to detail.

Its high price, however, can be hard to justify. Volkswagen's midsize car isn't among the class leaders in fuel economy, either -- making it an expensive car to own.
Other Cars to Consider

The Passat is known for its tight handling, but high price. Those looking for a fun-to-drive midsize car might want to consider the Mazda6 or Ford Fusion as well. Both cars offer similar athleticism at a lower price. The all-new Suzuki Kizashi is a bit smaller, but may be the sportiest entry in the midsize category.

Volkswagen loyalists might also want to look closely at VW's other midsize car. The stylish CC uses many of the same parts as the Passat, but offers an even more upscale feel with similar driving dynamics. Many VW dealerships now stock a greater variety of 2010 CCs than Passats.
Volkswagen Passat: The Details

Volkswagen has scaled back Passat production significantly, as the company prepares to replace the aging model. For 2010, Volkswagen will build only a single trim level for the Passat, available as a sedan or wagon. VW offering free scheduled maintenance for the first three years or 36,000 miles on all Passats.

2010 VW Passat the Auto Cars

2010 VW Passat Photo
2010 VW Passat Pics


The 2010 Volkswagen Passat ranks 13 out of 18 Affordable Midsize Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 66 published reviews and test drives of the Volkswagen Passat, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The 2010 Volkswagen Passat is an affordable midsize car with an interior that almost belongs in a more expensive class, combined with with suspension tuning that makes it fun to drive and an excellent safety record. However, it's also one of the most expensive midsize cars, particularly when fully loaded with options.

The 2010 VW Passat offers a near-luxury level of refinement, and excellent road manners. It also offers a near-luxury price. Edmunds notes, "For many folks, the Passat fills the gap that exists between normal, humdrum family cars and the financially out-of-reach luxury brands."

Reviewers aren't sure what to make of the car because of that unusual status, floating between affordable and luxury classes. The 2010 Volkswagen Passat, most critics say, is an enjoyable car to drive. It offers a refined, smooth ride, and sharp handling for a family car. Its interior is a step up from those of most Affordable Midsize Cars, with high-quality materials and fine attention to detail.

Its high price, however, can be hard to justify. Volkswagen's midsize car isn't among the class leaders in fuel economy, either -- making it an expensive car to own.
Other Cars to Consider

The Passat is known for its tight handling, but high price. Those looking for a fun-to-drive midsize car might want to consider the Mazda6 or Ford Fusion as well. Both cars offer similar athleticism at a lower price. The all-new Suzuki Kizashi is a bit smaller, but may be the sportiest entry in the midsize category.

Volkswagen loyalists might also want to look closely at VW's other midsize car. The stylish CC uses many of the same parts as the Passat, but offers an even more upscale feel with similar driving dynamics. Many VW dealerships now stock a greater variety of 2010 CCs than Passats.
Volkswagen Passat: The Details

Volkswagen has scaled back Passat production significantly, as the company prepares to replace the aging model. For 2010, Volkswagen will build only a single trim level for the Passat, available as a sedan or wagon. VW offering free scheduled maintenance for the first three years or 36,000 miles on all Passats.

New Mercy CLS Class

http://carmodifcation.blogspot.com/

Akhirnya kita dapat menyaksikan peluncuran Mercedes CLS Class yang akan dirilis ulang tahun 2011. Model baru tersebut memiliki fitur dan kisi-kisi yang lebih tegas serta bemper depan lebih menonjol. Mercedes CLS akan bersaing dengan model seperti Audi A7 dan Porsche Panamera. Debut resmi akan dilakukan pada bulan September di Paris Auto Show, dengan penjualan yang akan dimulai pada awal tahun 2011.



Mercedes CLS akan didukung oleh mesin baru buatan perusahaan yaitu bi turbo 5,5 liter, mesin yang berbeda dari pendahulunya dan mobil terdekatnya CLS 63 AMG yang hanya didukung oleh mesin V8 6,2 liter. Dengan 5,5 liter bi turbo, Mercedes CLS baru akan mampu menghasilkan lebih dari 544 HP dan torsi 590 Nm untuk bentuk standar dengan paket performa yang lebih kuat 571 tenaga kuda dan torsi 664 Nm. Mercedes CLS juga akan ditawarkan dengan powertrains diesel dan hybrid, yang akan didukung oleh mesin 4 cylinder diesel twin turbo bertenaga 204 hp.



Mercedes CLS ini adalah desain ikonik dan akan meluncurkan dalam bentuk coupe 4 pintu dengan posisi rendah, seperti fitur yang telah diangkat oleh CC Volkswagen dan desain lainnya yang tak terhitung jumlahnya. Mercedes harus berhati-hati ketika mendesain ulang Mercedes CLS dengan tampilan baru, karena akan mencerminkan desain perusahaan melalui bagian belakang mobil yang luas. Mercedes CLS saat ini dilahirkan dengan tema persegi yang mengagumkan, itu terlihat di kaca spion mobil sedangkan bagian atas mobil dari pilar A ke pilar C masih dipertahankan CLS dengan kelengkungan garis atap pada bagian belakang mobil.

    

http://carmodifcation.blogspot.com/

Mustang Decepticon by pangkah

http://carmodifcation.blogspot.com/

http://carmodifcation.blogspot.com/

MANIATEKNO.COM — Ada kabar baik bagi para mania tekno yang menyukai film “Transformers” dan bermimpi untuk bisa memiliki salah satu mobilnya. Karena saat ini MotoeXotica yang bermarkas di St. Louis berencana melelang salah satu dari tiga mobil Saleen Mustang yang dibuat khusus untuk film Transformers pertama pada tahun 2007

Ford Racing Menghadirkan Mobil Balap Mustang Boss 302S

http://carmodifcation.blogspot.com/

 

MANIATEKNO.COM — Kemarin pada ajang Performance Racing Industry (PRI) di Orlando, FL, Ford Racing membuka selubung mobil balap Mustang teranyarnya, Boss 302S. Disiapkan sebagai pengganti dari mobil balap FR500S yang dulu dipakai dalam seri balapan Mustang Challenge, Boss 302S ditujukan untuk para konsumen yang menyukai balapan dan dipersiapkan untuk ajang balapan seperti World Challenge dari SCCA dan American Iron dari NASA

AC Schnitzer Turns All-Electric MINI E into a Police Car

In support of the German Automobile Tuner Association’s “Tune it! Safe!” campaign, AC Schnitzer built the MINI E Police Look Concept, which is being showcased at the 2010 Essen Motor Show. The idea behind the campaign is to create a car that can satisfy tuning aficionados and also meet safety standards.



The BMW Group's MINI E is powered by an electric motor with 204 hp on tap and plenty of low-down torque (maximum is 220 Nm or 162 lb-ft). It completes the standard sprint from standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.5 seconds and has a limited top speed of 152 km/h (95 mph).



AC Schnitzer’s comprehensive tuning package made it even better while the police livery is an interesting take on the “safety” theme.



Finished in the classic Polizei colors, the concept has the latest signaling system from Hella mounted on the roof and special wraps from Foliatec. Modified front and rear bumpers, plus lowered side skirts, improve the car's looks, while bonnet vents and a large roof spoiler complete the bodykit.



The tuner opted for new alloys, too. The 18-inch MI 2 wheels feature an 8-spoke design and are wrapped in high-performance Hankook Ventus S1 Evo tires. Stopping power is provided by an upgraded brake system, boasting 328mm 4-pot caliper (in front) ventilated disks. There is also a complete suspension kit.



Inside, the boys in blue are greeted by aluminum pedals, footrest and handbrake handle.



AC Schnitzer says that most of the tuning accessories shown on the concept model are either already available or will soon be offered for the production MINIs.

Suzuki Alto Priced from £6,795 in the UK

On the 1st of March, Suzuki's all-new Alto mini will go on sale in the UK with an on the road price starting at £6,795. The five-door Alto hatchback is powered by a three-cylinder 67HP 1.0-litre engine and has a combined fuel consumption of 64.2 mpg UK with CO2 emissions of just 103 g/km. Not that buyers will care, but the Alto is the first European-specification model to be exported in three years from the firm's Maruti Suzuki plant in Delhi, India, which is celebrating its 25 year anniversary this year.

Suzuki MR Wagon

Suzuki has announced the arrival of its new home market MR Wagon kei car, which has been fully redesigned for the first time in five years featuring a fresh styling and a brand new 660cc three-cylinder petrol engine matched to a continuously variable transmission.



The Japanese firm's kei car is built on a newly development platform and measures just 3,395 mm long, 1,475 wide and 1,625 tall. With a wheelbase 65mm longer than its predecessor at 2.425mm, the new MR Wagon promises to offers increased passenger space as well as a little more ride comfort and improved stability on the road.



In Japan, Suzuki offers the 0.7-liter three-cylinder engine in naturally aspirated and turbocharged flavors, which produce 54HP and 64HP respectively, while buyers can also opt between front- and all-wheel drive configurations.



Other highlights include a touch screen audio system on the upper part of the center console and the availability of an ESP system with Hill Hold Control.



The boxy shaped kei car is available for order in Japan with prices starting from US$13,700.

Chevrolet Camaro SS

FELGE German aftermarket specialists reveal their upgrade program on the Chevrolet Camaro SS.



The standard 6.2-liter V8 unit develops 432 horsepower and 569 Nm of maximum torque, but after receiving a compressor kit (EUR8,999) by Speed Box, the Camaro produces some impressive 625 horsepower.



In the 22-inch realm, a staggered approach is used, with 265/30ZR22 tires on 10-inch wide rims and 295/25ZR22 meats over11-inch rims out back. This kind of image is backed up with appropriate chassis mods, including a coil-over conversion from H&R along with their sway bars.



It's a performance-oriented package but Speed Box also offers that 'Black Cat' matte body paintwork for the Camaro SS priced at €3,500.

2012 VW Beetle Spied

Source w/writeup and more pics;
http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/27/spy-shots-2012-volkswagen-new-new-beetle-caught-undisguised/

2011 Honda Odyssey Earns Best-Possible 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score in More-Stringent Federal Government Crash Test Safety Rating Program

01/27/2011 - TORRANCE, Calif.
The all-new 2011 Honda Odyssey has earned the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA's) best-possible Overall Vehicle Score1 of five stars and is one of the first two vehicles ever to earn five stars in each seating position for all three crash tests, each crash test category and the overall rating, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today. The Odyssey joins the 2011 Accord Sedan as one of the few vehicles to date that achieves the federal government's best-possible five-star Overall Vehicle Score and five stars in the combined frontal and side crash safety ratings.

The Odyssey achieved its top Overall Vehicle Score with five-star ratings for the frontal crash safety test and both side crash safety tests2 in all evaluated front and rear seating positions and scenarios. Additionally, the Odyssey received four stars for the rollover rating3, the highest achievable in the light-truck vehicle class using the program's measurement methodology.

The newly introduced Overall Vehicle Score is part of the federal government's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) that is first being applied to 2011 models. As a convenience to new car shoppers, the Overall Vehicle Score represents the combined results of the overall ratings from the frontal crash tests, the side crash tests and the rollover-resistance into a single, summary score between one and five stars. Additional information is available at www.safercar.gov.

Complete NCAP safety rating results for the 2011 Odyssey are:

All 2011 Odyssey vehicles utilize the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure. ACE is an exclusive body design that enhances occupant protection and crash compatibility in frontal crashes. The ACE design utilizes a network of connected structural elements to distribute crash energy more evenly throughout the front of the vehicle. This enhanced frontal crash energy management helps to reduce the forces transferred to the passenger compartment. Standard safety equipment includes Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with traction control; an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS); three-row side curtain airbags with rollover sensor; dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags; a driver's front side airbag; and a front passenger's side airbag with an occupant position detection system.

Overall, the Odyssey improves for the 2011 model year with greater interior functionality, a more distinctive style and higher fuel economy. Significant enhancements to the interior include a new "3-mode" second-row seat design that is more comfortable for center passengers (Odyssey EX and above). A more powerful and efficient 3.5-liter i-VTEC V-6 engine features Variable Cylinder Management (standard on all models for 2011) and produces 248 hp while delivering an EPA-estimated4 city/highway/combined fuel economy of 19/28/22 mpg on Odyssey Touring models.

New technology available on certain models includes a rear entertainment system with a 16.2-inch ultrawide split-screen display and an auxiliary High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) video input, an "intelligent" Multi-Information Display (i-MID) with customizable wallpaper, integration of FM traffic data on navigation models and much more.

The 2011 Odyssey is truly an American-made vehicle – designed, engineered and assembled in the United States. The Odyssey is produced exclusively at Honda Manufacturing of Alabama (HMA) using domestic and globally sourced parts.

For more information and downloadable high-resolution images of Honda vehicles, please visit www.hondanews.com. Consumer information is available at www.honda.com.

Source;
http://www.hondanews.com/channels/corporate-headlines/releases/2011-honda-odyssey-earns-best-possible-5-star-overall-vehicle-score-in-more-stringent-federal-government-crash-test-safety-rating-program

Honda takes $180M quarterly earnings hit due to... fishy seafood dealings?

Huh, who knew....
Honda just slapped itself on the wrist due to some inappropriate activity in a relatively unknown area of its business dealings. The Japanese automaker is involved in the seafood business and, although we're fairly certain it's not working with Matsumura Fishworks, it's active in the shrimp and shellfish trade. The "slap on the wrist" is of the monetary kind, and Honda owes $180 million due to misguided activity.

Employees involved in the seafod trading business are tasked with securing wholesale seafood then reselling it to supermarkets, restaurants and other interested parties. However, Honda had been paying well above market price for some of the transactions then failed to find a buyer for the overly-expensive seafood. To make the books look clear, the traders listed that they returned the purchased items yet then managed to find an interested third party to buy the overflowing inventory.

The resulting $180 million charges are necessary to adjust for a reduced inventory value and to clean up accounts receivable.

Source;
http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/27/honda-takes-180m-quarterly-earnings-hit-due-to-fishy-seafood/

U3-X Personal Mobility Prototype Video

Incredible....

WoodysCarSite: 2012 Honda Civic First Look

Nice looking find....
Source;
http://www.woodyscarsite.com/2011/01/2011-honda-civic-hybrid-first-look.html

Toyota FT-86 Teaser for Geneva Auto Show

Toyota allows us a glimpse of new FT-86 II - an evolution of its rear-drive coupe concept

Toyota is set to unveil a second evolution of the FT-86 rear-drive coupe concept at the Geneva show in March.

The FT-86 was first unveiled as a concept back in 2009 and, although rumours last summer suggested that the eagerly anticipated coupe could make production by the end of 2011, the new concept will be the first 'official' step closer to revealing the final design for the new Toyota coupe.

Unfortunately we'll all have to wait a bit longer to see properly what the 'FT-86 II' is, as Toyota is following the distinctly irritating fashion of enigmatic teaser photos.

So, aside from the frustrating photo, all Toyota will say for now is that the FT-86 II "builds on the original concept and will give the clearest indication yet of the final design for Toyota's next sports car".

Oh, and that "this new concept embodies the company's reborn passion for sports car driving".
Very nice, but can we see the car now please, Toyota?

Source;
http://www.pistonheads.com/news/default.asp?storyId=23083