World Cars Auto

Sunday, June 26, 2011

Honda Accord Review

Few vehicles over the past three decades have garnered as much respect in America as the Honda Accord. It hasn't achieved this by being sporty, glamorous or sexy. Instead, it has, for every year, offered what most Americans want out of their daily transportation. Take an Accord for a test-drive, and you'll find it comfortable, roomy, intelligently engineered and easy to drive. Research it, and you'll find it backed by a solid reputation for reliability, a strong resale value and an emphasis on safety.

2008 Honda Accord EX-L V6 Coupe Shown

It is true that competing sedans or coupes hold certain advantages over the Accord. Some are faster, others are more prestigious or less expensive. What's special about the Honda Accord, though, is its completeness. It scores well in all of the categories that people expect a family-oriented sedan or coupe to cover, not just a few. When examined from a holistic standpoint, it's easy to see why this Honda car has become an automotive icon and one of our editors' top recommendations.

Current Honda Accord

The Accord has been fully redesigned for the 2008 model year. This model is bigger than previous Accord models and boasts better engine performance without any loss of fuel efficiency. It's available as a midsize coupe or sedan and a variety of trim levels to suit almost any buyer's needs. Entry-level LX models have the basic necessities while top-line EX-L models feature items like leather upholstery and an optional navigation system. All models come with a fully array of safety equipment, including side curtain airbags and stability control.

As has been the case with the past few generations of the Accord, the newest eighth-generation model comes with either a four-cylinder or V6 engine. The base 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine makes 177 horsepower; an upgraded version of this engine makes 190 hp. For more power, a 268-hp, 3.5-liter V6 is available. The four-cylinder engine has a five-speed manual transmission as standard and a five-speed automatic as optional. The V6 typically comes with a five-speed automatic, though V6-equipped coupes are available with a six-speed manual.

In reviews, we've found the latest Honda Accord continues to excel as a family sedan or midsize coupe. The interior is very roomy and high in quality, though some might take issue with the car's multitude of buttons on the dash. As a response to some Accords of the past, the latest model is a bit sportier to drive. We wouldn't call the Accord a sport sedan exactly, but this newfound agility is a desirable addition to the usual Accord strengths of safety, reliability and comfort.

Past Honda Accords

Unlike most things from the '70s -- disco, green shag carpeting, ugly pants -- the Honda Accord has not succumbed to being kitsch retro. It debuted in 1976 and multiple generations of success have followed since. Shoppers interested in a used Accord will likely find many seventh-generation models on dealer lots.

This Accord was sold for the 2003 to 2007 model years. As with the current model, it was available as a midsize coupe or sedan. Selecting a used Accord from this generation should be rather straightforward. Initially, there were three trim levels: DX, LX and EX. The DX was pretty frugal with features, so the better choice will be the LX or EX. Side and side-curtain airbags were typically optional on all trim levels.

Under the hood was a 160-hp 2.4-liter inline-4 or a 240-hp, 3.0-liter V6 engine. Four-cylinder engines could be had with either a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. A six-speed manual was available on the V6-powered EX Coupe.

In 2005, Honda introduced the Accord Hybrid. This model's V6 gasoline/electric powertrain produced 255 hp and, in theory, the best fuel economy of the lineup. In real-world use, however, the car's fuel economy was disappointing and people balked at its higher price. Very few Accord Hybrids were sold.

The most significant changes of this generation occurred in 2006 when the Accord received freshened exterior styling and more power for both engines. Stability control also debuted this year, as did minor modifications to trim level organization. In reviews at the time, we praised the car for its roomy and stylish interior, tight build quality, smooth ride and good crash test scores. Downsides included tepid handling and mediocre brakes. All said, however, this Accord was an excellent choice for a family sedan or midsize coupe.

The sixth-generation Honda Accord is also very popular in the used car market. Available from 1998-2002, this model came in coupe or sedan body styles and had either four-cylinder or V6 power. In a nine-car comparison test conducted by our Edmunds.com editors, this car finished in 2nd place. We noted that the car was not exactly entertaining to drive but was very user-friendly and competent in all areas. Buyers should feel relatively free to look at models throughout this generation as Honda didn't make any drastic changes, though cars built after 2000 have expanded safety features.

Accords built from 1994 to 1997 should make for a smart choice for those on a budget. This model boasted the typical Accord attributes and, as a used car, should provide better than average reliability, assuming it's been properly maintained by previous owners. This generation marked the first time that Honda used its VTEC variable valve timing system. A VTEC-equipped four-cylinder engine came with the EX trim level. Accord models from 1995 and upward also had a V6 available. This generation was also the last for the rare Accord wagon.

Consumers interested in an Honda Accord but limited to a smaller budget could also check out the fourth-generation Accord, which was available starting in 1990. As there is little price difference between these cars at this point, 1992 or '93 EX or SE models are probably your best choices.

Honda Civic Review

Since its launch in 1972, the Honda Civic has been one of the most popular compact cars sold in America. Its success can be attributed to its consistently high level of fit and finish and an impressive reputation for reliability, especially for an economy car.

2008 Honda Civic EX 2dr Coupe w/Navigation System Shown

Impressive fuel economy, environmental awareness and engaging performance have also played a large role in making the Honda Civic a top choice for many Americans. Through the development of advanced engine technologies such as variable valve timing (VTEC), Honda has been able to increase the engine performance of the Civic while also improving fuel economy. In the '90s, the Civic was one of the cornerstones of the burgeoning import tuning craze, as young enthusiasts found the car to be an affordable and easy car to modify for performance.

The current Civic is the best yet. It is the most powerful and the most fuel-efficient, and comes in a wide range of models, from the 197-horsepower Civic Si to the Civic Hybrid. It is also the most radically designed Civic to date, inside and out. For those looking for a used car, the Civic is again a smart choice, as its long production run and wide range of models make it easy to find what you want.

The current Honda Civic, which was introduced for the 2006 model year, is available in two body styles: coupe and four-door sedan. Both styles share four trim levels: a base DX, EX, LX and Si. The DX, EX and LX are powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, which makes 140 hp. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, and a five-speed automatic is optional. All trims get a broad range of safety features, such as antilock brakes, front-seat side airbags and full-length side-curtain airbags.

Those accustomed to the Honda Civic's conservative tradition will be surprised to find a dramatic-looking interior that features a new two-tier dashboard layout. A digital speedometer sits on top of the dash, while the tachometer is the lone instrument gauge behind the steering wheel. In terms of premium features, the DX is pretty limited, and you'll have to jump up to the EX and LX trims to get air-conditioning and powered accessories. The EX and LX also add upgraded stereo systems and sportier 16-inch wheels.

The sedan is also available in two special trims, GX and Hybrid. Powered by a 113-hp 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, the Civic GX runs on clean-burning compressed natural gas. The Civic Hybrid features Honda's latest Integrated Motor Assist system, which consists of a 1.3-liter four-cylinder gas engine and a 20-hp electric motor. Total output is 110 hp. The Hybrid comes exclusively with a continuously variable transmission, and its EPA-estimated fuel economy is 49/51 mpg.

In reviews and road tests, our editors found the Honda Civic to be a well-rounded car. The 1.8-liter engine won't overwhelm anyone, but it provides enough power for comfortable city driving. Honda has tuned the coupe to feel sportier than the sedan. Both are fun to drive, with great steering feel and wonderful handling.

Driving enthusiasts might want to take a look at the Civic Si. Offered in both coupe and sedan body styles, the Si is powered by a high-revving 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which pumps out 197 hp. It comes exclusively with a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission and a front limited-slip differential. The Si also features a sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch wheels and the kind of all-around performance that challenges cars costing thousands of dollars more.

Always known for its reliability, the Honda Civic has also earned a reputation for performance and fuel economy. Honda's VTEC technology first appeared in the fifth-generation Civic, which was sold from 1992-'95. The Civic VX featured a fuel-efficient 92-hp 1.5-liter four-cylinder with VTEC-E.

More powerful was the 128-hp 1.6-liter four-cylinder VTEC engine found in the Civic Si and EX sedan trims. First sold only in hatchback and sedan body styles, the fifth-gen Civic got two coupe trims in 1993, the DX and EX. The lower CX and DX trims each had a 70-hp 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine.

Sold from 1996-2000, the sixth-generation Civic was in many ways a refinement of the style and technology found on the outgoing model. A 106-hp 1.6-liter engine replaced the engine on the lower CX hatchback and all DX trims (available as a hatchback, coupe and sedan). The EX trim (coupe or sedan) got a 127-hp 1.6-liter engine with VTEC. Honda didn't release an Si trim until 1999. Based on the coupe body style, the Si was powered by a high-performance 1.6-liter engine that was tuned to put out 160 hp.

Although the seventh-generation Honda Civic, which was sold from 2001-'05, might have looked like an extension of the sixth generation in styling, there were many small tweaks to the Civic formula to reduce fuel consumption. Both the 115-hp base engine and the 127-hp engine in the EX were more fuel-efficient than the outgoing 1.6-liter engines. Even bigger news was the launch of the Civic Hybrid in 2003. Powered by Honda's early version of the Integrated Motor Assist system, the Hybrid mated an 85-hp 1.3-liter four-cylinder gas engine to a 13-hp electric motor for a combined 98 hp. The only hatchback available in the seventh generation was the European-designed Civic Si, which was powered by a 160-hp 1.8-liter four-cylinder.

Honda S2000 Review

The Honda S2000 is a two-seat roadster that features a high-performance, high-winding inline four-cylinder engine along with a superbly balanced chassis. Introduced for the 2000 model year, the S2000 was the first sports car to roll out of a Honda factory since the tiny S500, S600 and S800 roadsters of the 1960s.

2008 Honda S2000 Convertible

With minimalist cockpit comforts and a racetrack-ready suspension, the Honda S2000 is a pure sports car. More powerful than the less expensive Miata yet not as pricey or luxurious as a Z4 or SLK, the S2000 occupies a niche within a niche. Quick and communicative steering, an ideal 49/51 weight distribution and an engine that loves to rev coupled with a slick six-speed gearbox promise a lot of fun for the serious driving enthusiast.

There is only one version of the Honda S2000 roadster. Notable hardware includes a feisty inline four with an 8,200-rpm redline coupled to a short-throw six-speed manual gearbox. Without resorting to forced induction (turbo- or supercharging), this jewel of an engine utilizes Honda's variable valve timing and lift system (VTEC) to squeeze 237 horsepower out of just 2.2 liters. No automatic transmission is available.

Standard features include a power-operated top with a glass rear window (with defroster), lightweight 17-inch wheels, leather seats, keyless entry, air conditioning, an eight-speaker CD audio system, stability control and HID headlights. A lightweight (44 pounds) aluminum hardtop is optional. As expected, the S2000 retains strong Honda attributes such as sound ergonomics and comfortable, supportive seats with enough adjustment to make short and tall pilots alike a good fit.

As with prior S2000s, the current version speaks loudly to the enthusiast. With its finely balanced chassis, quick and communicative steering, eager-to-spin engine and flickable shifter, the S2000 makes short work of twisty roads as it slices through and then slingshots out of the corners.

Debuting in 2000, the Honda S2000 started life with a 2.0-liter inline four that redlined at 9,000 rpm. With 240 horsepower, it put out more horsepower per liter than any other naturally aspirated engine on the planet. Although it provided a thrilling ride when driven aggressively, our editors did find some faults. Among the more notable ones were a lack of low-end torque that made the S2000 a bit flat-footed around town, a sometimes persnickety shifter, a weak audio system and a plastic rear window.

Honda gradually made upgrades to the S2000. For 2002 the company amped up the radio, added a glass rear window with a defogger and even smoothed out the short-throw shifter. Some styling changes took place as well, with chrome rings added to the taillights, a new shift knob and a few pieces of well-placed silver trim in the cockpit. The lightweight aluminum hardtop became optional, a blessing (albeit a pricey one at $3,000) for those who live in areas where inclement weather is a part of life.

The year 2004 saw improvements that made the Honda S2000 more of a viable choice as a daily driver. A slight increase in engine displacement (from 2.0 to 2.2 liters) provided more power at lower rpm. Peak torque went up to 161 pound-feet (up from 153) and that peak occurred at a friendlier 6,500 rpm instead of 7,500 rpm. The redline dropped to a still heady 8,200 rpm. Combined with shorter gearing in the six-speed's lower four gears, this all translated into an S2000 that had more snap at lower engine speeds for dealing with the daily slog to work and dicing through urban traffic. Larger tires (215/45R17s vs. 205/55R16s up front and 245/40R17s vs 225/50R16s out back) were fitted, as were minor suspension tweaks designed to make the ultrareactive S2000 more forgiving of less-than-expert drivers.

Friday, June 17, 2011

Nissan teases Paris-bound Townpod EV concept

As the Paris Motor Show draws closer, automakers are sending out the usual raft of teaser shots. The pictures never reveal much but they definitely get people talking. The image you see above? It’s a glimpse at the zero-emissions, electric concept vehicle called the Nissan Townpod EV.

Nissan has this to say about the Townpod:

It is designed to offer zero-emissions mobility to a future generation of home-based, innovative entrepreneurs who are creative and tech-savvy. It is more than just a car and it’s more than just a van – it heralds a new-era of flexible, stylish vehicles that will bring electric-vehicle mobility to the masses.

So, is it an electric city-car for the techie on the go? Will the Townpod EV be a mobile blogging lair for those both green and lazy? Honestly, we have no clue. It’s not easy to figure out what something looks like from an image that resembles the eye of an Autobot. For now, we’ll just have to let our imaginations run wild.

We do love staring at concept vehicles until our contact lenses dry out, and the Nissan Townpod EV is sure to be no exception. Stay tuned for updates from the Paris Motor Show, and hit the jump to read Nissan’s official press release.

Nissan Leaf

Nissan’s director of product planning, Mark Perry, met with folks over at Inside Line to discuss the demographics of the company’s Leaf electric vehicle.

Perry revealed some info that we’ve touched upon before, but with the company now able to glean data from the more than 19,000 Leaf pre-orders, a concise buyer profile has finally emerged:

They are very tech savvy, they are college educated and most drive less than 50 miles per day. Home ownership is a big component of the profile. And they’ve got garages.

In addition, Perry told Inside Line that 80 percent of Leaf buyers don’t drive a Nissan vehicle today and most own several other vehicles, including hybrids like the Toyota Prius. Here’s a rundown of what Perry had to say:

The average buyer of a 2011 Nissan Leaf is a 45-year-old baby boomer.
The typical buyer has an income of about 5,000 a year.
Buyers list energy independence and environmental consciousness as primary motivators for choosing the Leaf.
Blue is the most popular exterior color (35%), followed by silver, with black in last place.
75 percent of buyers are opting for the top-of-the-line SL trim level.

Bill Nye, The Science Guy, and Alyssa Milano have joined Lance Armstrong as celebs who have reserved the Leaf. Nissan spokesperson Katherine Zachary confirmed that the Tour de France extraordinaire is still in line to receive one of the first Leafs to reach U.S. shores. While Perry’s revelations don’t really surprise us, we’d definitely like to find out if you, our loyal readers, either slot in or fall outside of, the demographics listed above. Hit up the comment box below and let us know.

$700 quick charge option on Nissan LEAF allows 80% charge in 30 mins

A full charge for the 2011 Nissan LEAF takes up to 8 hours on a standard 200V outlet. That may be too long for those that need a quick boost every now and then when their battery level is near 0%. Buyers can purchase the optional DC 50kW quick-charger for $700, which recharges the battery up to 80 percent in under 30 minutes.

Available with the Nissan LEAF SL trim, which starts at $33,720, this charge port on the vehicle will allow for charging to 80 percent capacity in 30 minutes. However, the quick charger is only compatible with high voltage public charging stations.The option is not available on the Nissan LEAF SV trim, which starts at $32,780.

With a full charge, the Nissan LEAF allows for a driving range of 100 miles.

Refresher: Power for the Nissan Leaf comes from a 107-hp electric-motor that runs on power supplied by lithium-ion cells. On a full-charge, the Nissan Leaf allows for a driving range of 100 miles with a top speed of 87 mph. A full charge takes up to 8 hours on a standard 200V outlet. Buyers can opt for the DC 50kW quick-charger, which recharges the battery up to 80 percent in under 30 minutes. Prices for the 2011 Nissan LEAF will start at $32,780 but with a federal tax-credit prices will come in as low as $25,280, or for a lease payment of $349 a month.

2011 Nissan Murano Price

We already took an in-depth look at the mildly facelifted 2011 Murano back in August, but now Nissan has released U.S. pricing for the crossover model which went on sale today nationwide. The manufacturer’s suggested retail prices (MSRP) for the 2011 Murano start at $28,500 for the entry-level front-wheel drive model and top out at $39,140 for a fully equipped all-wheel drive version. All prices don’t include destination and other fees.

The most notable exterior changes on the 2011 model year Murano include the redesigned front grille, lower fascia and taillights, while interior refinements are limited to fresh colors, a white back-light for the gauges on the instrument panel and new audio and entertainment features.

The Murano continues to be offered exclusively with a 260-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine matched to Nissan’s Xtronic CVT transmission in a choice of front-wheel or all-wheel drive.

Murano S FWD——— $28,500 USD
Murano SV FWD——- -$31,910 USD
Murano SL FWD——– $35,450 USD
Murano LE FWD——– $37,540 USD
Murano S AWD——— $30,100 USD
Murano SV AWD——– $33,510 USD
Murano SL AWD——– $37,050 USD
Murano LE AWD——- -$39,140 USD

New Sports Car Nissan JUKE Production Launch

Nissan’s Sunderland Plant celebrated the production launch of the all-new Nissan JUKE compact sports crossover on August 26, 2010.

Nissan JUKE combines the best attributes of an SUV and a sports car and will offer a refreshing and dynamic alternative to the traditional small hatchback when it goes on sale across Europe next month.

Nissan JUKE looks set to continue the success of Nissan Qashqai – its bigger brother – as Nissan has already received more than 22,500 pre-orders across Europe since the order books opened in June 2010.
Based on this, Sunderland expects to produce up to 100,000 units each year making it the plant’s second highest volume model behind the phenomenally successful Nissan Qashqai.

Nissan Note and Nissan Qashqai +2 complete Sunderland Plant’s current model line-up, while the Nissan LEAF zero-emission electric car is confirmed for production from early 2013.

Nissan JUKE represents £57 million of investment in the Sunderland facility. Its arrival safeguards 1,100 jobs directly at the plant and an estimated 2,000 additional posts across Nissan’s supply base. A £6.2 Mn Grant for Business Investment from the UK Government has crucially supported this project.

It is expected Nissan JUKE will contribute to a potential production volume of more than 400,000 units for the 2010 Financial Year which, if realised, would be a plant record.

Trevor Mann, Nissan Senior Vice President of Manufacturing, Europe said: “JUKE provides a much needed breath of fresh air within the small car segment and will play a key role in defining the Nissan brand in the years ahead.

“Customers in this sector now have the opportunity to own a highly individual and innovative car that will reinforce Nissan’s position as a pioneer of crossover vehicles.

“Congratulations to the Sunderland workforce for earning the right to produce what is their sixth new model in eight years. I would also like to thank both national and local government for their support, as well as the continued efforts of our all our suppliers.”

Sunderland will ramp up to full Nissan JUKE production volume in a plant record of two weeks, ensuring European dealers are fully stocked and ready for the car’s start of sales in late September 2010.

The majority of Nissan JUKEs produced in Sunderland will be exported into mainland Europe with the remainder destined for dealers across the UK and Ireland.

Customers will be able to choose from three trim grades and three engines, including a 190 PS flagship turbocharged option.

Like Nissan Qashqai, Nissan JUKE will be available in two-wheel drive versions as well as the range-topping all-wheel drive model produced at Nissan’s plant in Oppama, Japan, which also supplies Nissan JUKE to the domestic Japanese market, the US and overseas markets.