HondaJet begins FAA certification process

HondaJet begins FAA certification process
Honda Motor Co. has taken to the skies with its first business jet that conforms to Federal Aviation Administration standards -- a development that launches the federal certification process.

Honda Aircraft Co., a unit of the Japanese automaker, announced today that its first HondaJet aircraft that can apply for FAA certification lifted off Monday.

The flight marks a significant step for Honda Aircraft, which operates out of Piedmont Triad International Airport in Greensboro, N.C. The company flew its first jet in 2003, but without FAA approval the aircraft could not be sold commercially.

[Read more: Autonews]

2011 Honda Accord Sedan Earns Best-Possible 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score in More-Stringent Federal Government New-Car Assessment Program - Honda.com

2011 Honda Accord Sedan Earns Best-Possible 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score in More-Stringent Federal Government New-Car Assessment Program - Honda.com
The 2011 Honda Accord Sedan has earned the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA's) best-possible Overall Vehicle Score of five stars, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today.

Helping the Accord achieve the top score were five-star ratings for overall frontal crash safety, overall side crash safety and rollover resistance. The Accord is one of only six vehicles to achieve a five-star Overall Vehicle Score to date, and is the first to achieve five stars in each of the three ratings categories: 5-star frontal crash rating, 5-star side crash rating (combined results of side barrier and side pole) and 5-star rollover rating.

The newly introduced Overall Vehicle Score is part of the federal government's more stringent 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 tests² and the rollover-resistance³ into a single, summary score between one and five stars.

[Read more: Honda News]
[Read the full report: www.safercar.gov/staticfiles/ncap-2011/2011_Honda_Accord_4DR.htm]

2011 Honda Fit - 10Best Cars - Car and Driver

2011 Honda Fit - 10Best Cars - Car and Driver
No sooner had the first-generation Honda Fit alighted on U.S. showroom floors than it shouldered its way onto our 2007 10Best list. Now it’s a five-time champ, maintaining its entertaining demeanor through a comprehensive 2009 makeover. Since its debut, the Fit Sport has won a seven-car comparo [May 2006], then faced a pair of brand-new challengers—the Ford Fiesta SES and the Mazda 2 Touring—to score another triumph [October 2010]. One-hundred seventeen horsepower ain’t much—there exist Montanans with lawn mowers as powerful—but the 2500-pound Fit nails 60 mph in 8.3 seconds, 1.8 seconds quicker than the Fiesta and 0.8 second sooner than the Mazda 2. We’re equally zinged by this Honda’s upscale interior, its quick and precise steering, an engaging shifter, spot-on ergonomics, a windshield as big as a minivan’s, and a rear seat that is both adult-habitable and drops to the floor faster than a Marine pumping push-ups. All of the foregoing, plus an observed 34 mpg. Although it’s close, the Fit isn’t perfectly fit. Its 197-foot ­braking distance is substandard, the front seat’s lumbar support is too aggressive, and the air conditioning strains to keep up with the solar load caused by all that glass. Nonetheless, the Fit offers a fun-to-drive quotient that proves basic transportation isn’t always basic.



[Source: Car and Driver]

2011 Honda Accord - 10Best Cars - Car and Driver

2011 Honda Accord - 10Best Cars - Car and Driver
The current Accord sedan, the eighth generation of the company’s bestselling midliner, has a few flaws. It isn’t as frisky and playful as its predecessor, and it looks a touch homely, especially parked next to a Hyundai Sonata. But flaws don’t equal failure: The Accord remains inscrutably excellent. It manages to combine all the practical virtues you need in a family sedan—plenty of ­interior space, lots of available infotainment and trim choices, a quiet and relaxed ride, subdued engines, and effortless transmissions—with a fluid chassis that urges a driver to wring it out on back roads and off-ramps. The optional V-6 engine is one of the best of its breed, but the Accord becomes quite pricey when loaded with options such as a navigation system. The Accord range is rounded out by a sporty five-seat coupe. Although the V-6 model strays too close to Mustang GT money, it can be mated to a six-speed stick for a 0-to-60-mph time in the mid-fives. The coupe is refined and far more stylish than the sedan, and the less-expensive four-cylinder versions make more sense and have the spirit of the old, much-loved Prelude. For the 25th time, the Accord wins a 10Best spot because it marries excellence and affordability so brilliantly. Our favorite? The sedan with the 190-hp four-cylinder mated to a slick five-speed manual, of course. 


[Source: Car and Driver]

YouTube - 2012 Honda Civic Spy Video

YouTube - 2012 Honda Civic Spy Video
Inside Line caught the 2012 Honda Civic hatch back getting put through it's paces.



[Source: Edmunds Inside Line]

Honda: What's New for 2011

Honda: What's New for 2011
What's New for Every 2011 Honda Car, Truck, SUV and Crossover

2011 Honda Accord: All Accord styles will be updated for 2011 with a new front grille, bumper, taillights and alloy wheels. EX trim levels and above plus the LX-S coupe will offer a USB audio interface. The Accord sedan will be updated with a new trunk lid and a rearview camera when fitted with navigation. The Accord coupe (V6 EX-L styles) will now include steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

2011 Honda Accord Crosstour: This tall Accord wagon continues unchanged for 2011.

2011 Honda Civic: All Civic styles remain unchanged for 2011 in anticipation of an all-new version next year.

2011 Honda CR-V: Honda added a new LX-based Special Edition (SE) CR-V for 2011. Special Edition CR-Vs add alloy wheels, a six-CD changer audio system with six speakers, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls and privacy glass. Otherwise, the CR-V has no significant changes.

2011 Honda CR-Z: Honda calls its new-for-2011 CR-Z a sport hybrid. We'd argue there is no such thing, but no other carmaker has made any effort to build a hybrid that's engaging to drive. Designed roughly as an homage to the original CRX, the CR-Z offers small dimensions, efficient operation and sporting intentions. It utilizes a 1.5-liter four-cylinder joined in parallel to a 13-horsepower electric motor. Power goes to the ground via a six-speed manual transmission.

2011 Honda Element: Honda's entry into the cube wars sees no significant changes for 2011.

2011 Honda FCX Clarity: Available for lease only in low volumes in Southern California, Honda's fuel cell vehicle remains unchanged for 2011.

2011 Honda Fit: The addition of stability control as standard equipment on Fit Sport styles is the only significant change to the Fit for 2011. Floor mats are now standard on Sport styles as well.

2011 Honda Insight: We're expecting a midcycle refresh for the Insight soon, but it's unclear whether that will come for 2011 or 2012. As of press time Honda won't reveal details on the 2011 Insight so we'd guess it will be sooner rather than later.

2011 Honda Odyssey: Fully redesigned for 2011, the Odyssey is a fully updated minivan that's more efficient than the model it replaces despite being larger and more powerful. Added versatility in both the second and third rows along with the ability to carry eight passengers when properly equipped is also a plus.

2011 Honda Pilot: This Odyssey-based utility vehicle remains unchanged for 2011.

2011 Honda Ridgeline: This pickup truck-style package built on the platform of the Odyssey minivan continues unchanged for 2011.

[Source: Edmunds Inside Line]

Hybrid and Diesel Tax Credits to End on December 31 - Carscoop

Hybrid and Diesel Tax Credits to End on December 31 - Carscoop
If you’re still in the market for a hybrid or clean diesel, you should try to get one this holiday season, as most tax credits are going to expire on December 31, with no new tax breaks in sight for next year. Among the diesel models, the Mercedes ML350 BlueTec is one of the victims, while the natural gas-powered 2011 Honda Civic GX will also lose its $4,000 tax credit. The same goes for the recently introduced 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid and 2011 Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid.

Chevrolet Volt and Nissan Leaf buyers are safe for now: both EVs have separate tax credits that don’t expire this year. The Alternative Motor Vehicle Credit was legislated under the Energy Policy Act of 2005 and supported buyers of eco-friendly vehicles with incentives. Currently, hybrids get tax breaks ranging from $900 up to $3,400.

[Read More: Carscoop]

All Honda Models Are Designed with Hybrid in Mind | Hybrid Cars

All Honda Models Are Designed with Hybrid in Mind | Hybrid Cars
Honda President Takanobu Ito says around 10 percent of Honda’s global sales will be hybrids by 2015, and all of its models are built with the ability to quickly adapt into hybrids.

In a Dec. 6 article, Automotive News primarily focused on how Kohei Hitomi, chief engineer of the Honda Fit, was asked by Honda’s top management in 2003 to make the Fit easily adaptable into a hybrid. So, Hitomi built in extra space below the rear floorboard flap for a potential electric motor in the engine housing. In the hybrid, the space houses the battery pack, inverter and controller—but it’s left empty in the gas-powered Fit.

The Honda Fit Hybrid went on sale in Japan in October, and will be sold in Europe in early 2011. The Fit Hybrid’s fuel efficiency and price aligns with the 2010 Honda Insight, rated at 40 mpg in the city and 43 on the highway. There are currently no plans to bring the Fit Hybrid to the United States.

[Read More: hybridcars.com]

Honda Teases 2012 Civic Concept - KickingTires

Honda Teases 2012 Civic Concept - KickingTires
As we edge closer to the 2011 Detroit auto show, Honda has released the first rendering of the Honda Civic concept that will be unveiled at the show next month.

Overall, the new look shows that Honda has decided to go evolutionary with the design. A lot of design traits from the current-generation Civic remain, though the new headlamp designs remind of us of Saab’s new “ice block” treatment.

While this is just a concept for now, the difference between a concept Honda and the real thing is usually only slight. Expect the production version of the 2012 Civic sedan and coupe to go on sale in the spring as 2012 model year vehicles.

[Read More: Kicking Tires]

Honda Accord tops safety ratings | freep.com | Detroit Free Press

Honda Accord tops safety ratings | freep.com | Detroit Free Press

Honda's Accord received the best possible safety rating among 2011 model-year passenger cars tested for crashes under new U.S. evaluation standards, edging ahead of Toyota and Hyundai sedans.

The midsize Accord, Honda's top-selling U.S. model, got an overall five-star rating, according to results posted on the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Web site.

Of 40 models tested so far, six rated five stars overall. Accord is the first to get five stars in each of three crash categories tested by NHTSA.

[Read more: Detroit Free Press]

SEMA 2010: Honda Shows Accord Crosstour HFP Concept and Accord Coupe HFP - Carscoop

SEMA 2010: Honda Shows Accord Crosstour HFP Concept and Accord Coupe HFP - Carscoop
On display alongside the twelve modified CR-Z sport hybrid coupes at Honda's SEMA Show booth, are the HFP (Honda Factory Performance) prepared Accord Crosstour study and Accord Coupe models.

The crossover version of the Accord is a demonstration concept only fitted with a body kit and blacked out front grille, a prototype lowered HFP sport suspension, alloy wheels, color-matched door handles and special black-out door sash trim. Honda did not say when or if these components will be offered for sale.

The 2010 Accord Coupe, on the other hand, comes equipped with already available dealer-installed parts including front and rear aprons, side skirts and multispoke alloy wheels.

[Read More: CarScoop]

Honda Announces Mugen Kit for CR-Z, Brings Two Concepts and a Bunch of Tuned CR-Zs to SEMA - Car and Driver Blog

Honda Announces Mugen Kit for CR-Z, Brings Two Concepts and a Bunch of Tuned CR-Zs to SEMA - Car and Driver Blog
Honda’s display at the SEMA show provides a slightly more convincing argument in favor of the “sport” part of the CR-Z’s “sport hybrid” moniker in the form of a pair of turbocharged concepts—we’ve found the standard car fun to drive, but feel its practicality trade-offs compromise the overall car. The display also features a CR-Z wearing Mugen components, as well as some CR-Zs tuned in the aftermarket.
The Mugen accessories (shown on the gray car above) comprise a new body kit, grille, rear wing, 17-inch multispoke wheels outside, and an aluminum oil-filler cap, with a black aluminum shift knob and new floor mats dressing up the interior. Just 300 such kits will be offered starting in spring 2011, each color-matched to the buyer’s CR-Z. Pricing will be set at a later date.

We were more interested in the CR-Z Hybrid R (red, above) and CR-Z Racer (white, below) concepts. With turbochargers for the gasoline engine and upgraded IMA hybrid-drive components, the modified cars are said to produce up to 200 hp and 175 lb-ft of torque. (The stock combined power rating is 122 hp and 128 lb-ft.) A stronger clutch, a limited-slip differential, bigger brakes, and a firmer suspension are also on the agenda. The show cars scored new body kits, wheels, and big rear wings, too. Sadly, neither model is slated for production, though two race-spec CR-Zs will compete in the 25 Hours of Thunderhill race this December.

Honda’s SEMA stand is also playing host to a slew of tuner-ized CR-Zs modified by a variety of tuner and parts companies. Click the gallery below to check them out and see more pictures of the factory efforts above.

[Read More: Car and Driver]

Honda Worldwide | October 29, 2010 "ASIMO Celebrates 10th Anniversary"

Honda Worldwide | October 29, 2010 "ASIMO Celebrates 10th Anniversary"
October 29, 2010 - ASIMO has reached a huge milestone and will celebrate its 10th Anniversary on 31st October. A decade ago, Honda created a humanoid robot so advanced it started a revolution in humanoid robot technology. To mark this date, dedicated Anniversary websites and films have been launched today, with new photos, videos, the story of its creation and smartphone apps.

The application software for iPhone and Android smartphones, “Run with ASIMO” features ASIMO and other Honda robots as characters that the user can interact with. (Both the iPhone and Android versions will be available soon).

Honda’s research into humanoid robotics started almost a quarter of a century ago and 14 years later, on 31st October 2000, ASIMO was created. Since its European unveiling at the Technical University of Darmstadt in June 2003, ASIMO has inspired, educated and influenced thousands of people all over the region and has gained acclaim from engineers and scientists alike.
ASIMO has visited science museums around Europe, met royalty and heads of state and even has visited the European Parliament.

ASIMO is part of Honda’s long standing program of research and development into robotics and human mobility. Honda’s goal is to develop a robot that will be able to help people in their everyday lives; a robot that will take on some of the tasks that would help make all our lives easier and more pleasant.

The benefits of such a humanoid robot may not be limited to the home environment, but could include any situation where people need support and assistance.

Honda is now focusing its research on the development of intelligence as well as improving the understanding about the ideal interaction and relationship between people and humanoid robots.

The ultimate goal of the Asimo project is to create a truly usable humanoid robot and continue the development of intelligent systems for use in other Honda products. In addition to this, Honda partner in many education projects around Europe, aimed at inspiring schoolchildren and students to become more involved in science & engineering.

[Read More: Honda Worldwide]

Honda to Debut All-New Electric Vehicle Concept at Los Angeles Auto Show - Honda.com

Honda to Debut All-New Electric Vehicle Concept at Los Angeles Auto Show - Honda.com

Plug-in hybrid platform will also be revealed

An all-new Honda electric vehicle concept will make its world debut November 17 at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show, the company announced today. Additionally, Honda will reveal a plug-in hybrid platform showcasing the next-generation of Honda hybrid technology. Both the electric vehicle concept and the plug-in hybrid platform along with the FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle demonstrate the company's vision for the future of personal mobility and its continued commitment to developing advanced environmental technologies.

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. President and CEO Takanobu Ito will attend the press conference, marking the first time Honda's global Honda CEO has introduced a worldwide vehicle debut during the Los Angeles Auto Show press days.

Details on the electric vehicle concept will be announced on November 17, 2010 at the Los Angeles Auto Show in the Honda booth and webcast live at www.hondanews.com.

[Read More: Honda News]

Honda Air Lightweight Concept Car Is Propelled By Compressed Air - Ecofriend

Honda Air Lightweight Concept Car Is Propelled By Compressed Air - Ecofriend
Honda has designed an all new Air Concept car, which the company showcased at the 2010 LA Auto Show’s Design Challenge competition. Designed to weigh less than 1000lbs, the vehicle can carry up to four people. The Honda Air is a vision of a coastal cruiser for the aggressive lifestyle and has been inspired by roller coasters and skydiving wing-suits.

Powered entirely by compressed air and a pneumatic regulator system, the vehicle uses turbo vacuums and external air-flow to regenerate tank pressure for extended range and increased boost for an estimated 100 miles. To reduce the overall weight of the car, the body panels and fairings have been made from vegetable-based polymers. The cockpit is aimed at maximizing the open air driving performance.

[Read More: Ecofriend]

Pushing the 2011 Honda CR-Z Into The Red - KickingTires

Pushing the 2011 Honda CR-Z Into The Red - KickingTires
Cars.com’s editors recently drove the sporty Honda CR-Z hybrid on a mileage challenge using its standard drive setting with the objective of replicating how most people drive most of the time. The 2011 CR-Z lets you select Econ, Normal and Sport modes, and they kept it in Normal mode at all times on the mileage challenge, with the trip computer registering 37.7 mpg over 330 miles. However, when switched to the more responsive Sport mode and driven in a sporty manner, can the CR-Z still return good gas mileage? I flogged a manual-transmission CR-Z for a weekend and drove it like a sporty car, not a hybrid, to see if the self-proclaimed “Sport Hybrid Coupe” could be efficient in that sportiest of modes.

[Read More: KickingTires]
[Download a Honda CR-Z brochure]
[Buy a Honda CR-Z]

Police Try to Thumb a Ride With Anti-Texting Message - WSJ.com

Police Try to Thumb a Ride With Anti-Texting Message - WSJ.com
Iowa police are on the lookout for drivers who send text messages behind the wheel. So far, the effort is all thumbs.

Instead of tickets, police are giving texting drivers colorful bands to wear on their thumbs that say: "TXTNG KILLS."

The bands are part of a statewide campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of texting while driving under a new law prohibiting the practice that took effect July 1. For the first year, police can give scofflaws warnings only. Next year, fines will kick in.

[Read More: TheWallStreetJournal.com]

2011 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite vs. 2011 Toyota Sienna XLE Comparison Test

Comparison Test: 2011 Honda Odyssey vs. 2011 Toyota Sienna Video
According to Edmunds.com Inside Line, the 2011 Odyssey is still the top minivan in the market earning the 1st Place award. The 2011 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite is still the best-equipped, best-driving minivan money can buy today.

[Read More at Edmunds.com Inside Line]
[Download a 2011 Honda Odyssey Brochure]
[Buy a 2011 Honda Odyssey]

Honda CR-Z hits the red carpet at the Vancouver Film Fest

Honda CR-Z hits the red carpet at the Vancouver Film Fest:
Honda’s latest advanced technology vehicle CR-Z made a red carpet entrance at the 29th Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF).

Honda CR-Z hits the red carpet at the Vancouver Film Fest

[Read more CNW Group-Honda Canada]

State Farm Data Shows That October Remains Most Dangerous Month for Teen Crashes - Forbes.com

State Farm Data Shows That October Remains Most Dangerous Month for Teen Crashes - Forbes.com
Newly analyzed State Farm claims data shows the trend continues - October remains the most dangerous month of the year for teen driver crashes. According to claims data spanning the last seven years, the highest number of injury or collision claims filed by 16- and 17-year-old drivers continues to hit a high point in October, spiking by about 15 percent when compared to other months of the year.

[Read more Forbes.com] [State Farm Teen Driver Site]

AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety

AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety
Teens Not Exposed to Diverse Driving Experience Prior to Licensing, Finds AAA Foundation Study
In advance of National Teen Driver Safety Week (October 17-23), today the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety released the first naturalistic study using in-vehicle cameras to capture teenage drivers and their parents during their supervised driving phase. Nearly half (47 percent) of parents in the study reported that after the year-long learner’s stage, there was still at least one condition in which they did not feel comfortable letting their teen drive. Yet, more than one-third (37 percent) of these families allowed their teen to obtain a license within a month of being eligible, although a few families restricted driving in certain scenarios.

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teenagers in this country. The first few years of unsupervised driving are the most dangerous – 1,368 U.S. teen drivers age 15-18 died in traffic crashes in 2008. However, teens are clearly a danger to others as well because the total number of deaths resulting from these crashes was 3,431. 

[Read More: AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety]
[SeeVideo footage of the study]

2012 Honda Civic exposed | CarMiddleEast.com

2012 Honda Civic exposed | CarMiddleEast.com
Seems like CAR Middle East are the first ones in the world to bring the first pictures of the next generation of the Civic sedan, completely naked of all camouflage!

They snapped these twin silver prototypes during a spell of early morning hot weather testing. Apart from a few missing ‘H’ badges, this is the Civic you can expect to see in UAE showrooms next year.

[Read More: CarMiddleEast.com]
[Buy a Honda Civic Sedan] [Download a Honda Civic Brochure]

Honda Launches Refreshed Fit and New Fit Hybrid in Japan, Receives 10,000 Orders for Gas-Electric Model

Honda Launches Refreshed Fit and New Fit Hybrid in Japan, Receives 10,000 Orders for Gas-Electric Model
Honda on Friday introduced the Japanese domestic market version of its new Fit (Jazz in Europe) Hybrid alongside the regular Fit model, which benefits from a minor cosmetic refresh and equipment upgrades for the 2011 model year.

The car, which makes use of the same IMA system with a 1.3 liter i-VTEC engine as the Insight Hybrid, will go on sale in certain European markets from early 2011 as the Jazz Hybrid. According to the Japanese automaker, the Jazz Hybrid's fuel economy is estimated at 4.4 lt/100km [53.5 mpg US] in the combined European cycle. Honda has not yet said if and when it will offer a Fit Hybrid for the North American market.

[Read More: CarScoop]
[Buy a Honda Fit] [Download a 2010 Honda Fit Brochure]

Automaker Rankings 2010 | Union of Concerned Scientists

Automaker Rankings 2010 | Union of Concerned Scientists
Honda wins for the fifth consecutive time as the greenest automaker on the road, beating Toyota and Hyundai by a narrow margin, according to a study released Thursday by the Union of Concerned Scientists.  The award honors the company whose U.S. motor vehicle fleet produces the lowest levels of smog-forming and greenhouse gas emissions.

The Union of Concerned Scientists is the leading science-based nonprofit working for a healthy environment and a safer world.

[Read More: Union of Concerned Scientists]

Honda Camp Rock 2 Rock Your Ride Sweepstakes | Disney

Honda Camp Rock 2 Rock Your Ride Sweepstakes | Disney

In Honor of Camp Rock 2 on the Disney Channel, Honda is sponsoring the Disney Rock your Ride Sweepstakes. Enter online and you could win a trip to Disneyland and an all-new Honda Odyssey.

[Read more and enter the Sweepstakes: disney.go.com] 
[Buy a 2011 Honda Odyssey]  
[Download a 2011 Honda Odyssey Brochure]

2011 Honda Odyssey Video Tour

Check out the latest 2011 Honda Odyssey video. The all-new 2011 Honda Odyssey, available at DCH Honda of Temecula, is the ultimate minivan reinvented, re-energized and evolved.

The all-new 2011 Odyssey is not just a van, it's a vantasy. Developed and engineered in America, the stylish Odyssey was made by parents for parents. Powered by a hugely efficient V-6 engine that gets up to 28 hwy mpg the Odyssey is laden with dazzling innovations like an available 16" Ultrawide Rear Entertainment System and Cool Box. Inside the spacious and comfortable cabin, wondrous configuration possibilities abound.

Visit DCH Honda of Temecula and discover more reasons the 2011 Odyssey is a must-have for smart families.  Call (888) 964-4488 to arrange a VIP Preview or just stop by the dealership. Enjoy the video and see you soon!

2011 Honda Odyssey Commercial "The Van Beckons"

2011 Honda Odyssey Commercial "The Van Beckons"
The all-new 2011 Honda Odyssey, available at DCH Honda of Temecula is the ultimate minivan reinvented, re-energized and evolved. With its modern styling, spacious interior, and high-tech features, the new Odyssey almost demands a new category. Although it's available with seating for up to eight passengers[1], there's nothing “minivan” about the Odyssey's efficient-yet-sporty performance, available 10-way power adjustable heated leather-trimmed front seating, authoritative V-6 acceleration and all the thoughtful engineering you'd expect from a Honda.

Of course, the new Odyssey pushes the tech envelope further with available features like a 16.2-inch Ultrawide DVD Rear Entertainment System with HDMI® Technology and split screen viewing capability for those times when passengers just can't agree on what to watch[2][3]. And the available navigation system now includes FM Traffic, which alerts you to traffic conditions and can suggest alternate routes[4]. The Odyssey's sophisticated technology is thoughtfully integrated for user-friendliness and simplicity—just load it with family and friends, gear up, and go.

[See More Videos]

[1] Standard seating for EX and above models.  [2] The Honda DVD Ultra-Wide Rear Entertainment System with HDMI® Technology is standard on Touring Elite models. A separate source device is required to use split-screen function.  [3] HDMI, the HDMI Logo, and High-Definition Multimedia Interface are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC in the United States and other countries.  [4] The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ is available on EX-L and standard on Touring models in the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. Please see your Honda dealer for details.

AMS Tunes Honda CR-Z

AMS Tunes Honda CR-Z
The Japanese tuning house AMS has unveiled one of the first tuning packages, and definitely the most aggressive, for the new Honda CR-Z hybrid sport coupe.

The kit is part of AMS's Terra line of aero parts. It includes a new front bumper, headlight eyelids, 0.6-inch-wider front and 2.75-inch-wider rear fenders as well as side skirts that stick out 1.8 inches. A set of 19-inch piano black and pearl white Rays Versus Torismo Rechente wheels are also part of the package, but AMS says they are for photography only in this size — wheels would need to be smaller for real-world driving.

[Read More: Edmunds Inside Line]
[Buy a Honda CR-Z from DCH Honda of Temecula]
[Download a CR-Z brochure]

DCH Auto Group: Winner of a 2010 Peter K. O'Rourke Special Achievement Award

DCH Auto Group: Winner of a 2010 Peter K. O'Rourke Special Achievement Award

The Peter K. O'Rourke Special Achievement Awards recognize notable achievements in the field of highway safety during the prior calendar year by individuals, coalitions, organizations, nonprofit groups, businesses, government agencies, universities or programs. About Peter K. O'Rourke

  

2010 Winner: DCH Auto Group

DCH Auto Group, the largest auto group in New Jersey and one of the largest in the nation, which made a substantial commitment to promote teen safe driving through active involvement in local high schools and communities. In spite of the most significant budget crisis in their industry in decades, DCH supported the creation of SADD chapters in local high schools within each of the communities served by their dealerships, as well as travel for students and advisors to attend SADD national conference and set up regional training conferences on the east and west coasts. To date, DCH has sponsored 27 SADD chapters in high schools in its service areas. These chapters range in size from 30 students to 150 students. DCH/SADD chapter activities have reached 30,000 students as well as hundreds of parents and family members and thousands of additional community members. All 2010 Highway Safety Award Winners

[Read More: Governors Highway Safety Association]

Aquarium of the Pacific - Employee & Affiliate Online Discount Tickets

Aquarium of the Pacific - Employee and Affiliate Online Discount Tickets
DCH Honda of Temecula has partnered with the Aquarium of the Pacific to offer our Friends and Family discounted tickets to visit the fourth largest aquarium in the nation. With the added convenience of printing your admission tickets from your computer and presenting them at the entrance turnstiles bypassing ticket booth lines. Purchasing admission tickets has never been easier!

Simply log onto our Online Discount Tickets web page where you can purchase and print a variety of Aquarium of the Pacific eTickets in minutes. Click on the link below to get started!

DCH Auto Group Wins National Highway Safety Award for Teen Safe Driving Program

DCH Auto Group Wins National Highway Safety Award for Teen Safe Driving Program
The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) presented one of four Peter K. O'Rourke Special Achievement Awards for notable achievements in highway safety to DCH Auto Group at the organization's annual meeting in Kansas City. GHSA represents state highway safety agencies across the country, and this prestigious award, named in honor of former GHSA Chairman and Californian Peter K. O'Rourke, recognizes DCH Auto Group for its commitment to educating teens about safe driving and for its innovative partnership with SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions).

"DCH is very honored to receive The Peter K. O'Rourke Special Achievement Award," said Shau-wai Lam, Chairman of DCH Auto Group, who accepted the award on the company's behalf. "This recognition of our efforts by the GHSA reaffirms our commitment to teen safe driving and our goal of reducing the number of car crashes involving teens."

DCH Auto Group is committed to helping teens drive safely with its Mindless Driving. Keep It Out Of Cars® initiative, an exclusive, long term, teen-focused, driving-safety community outreach program. The focus is to keep "it" — as in, mindless driving — out of our teenagers' cars. This means not driving distracted, driving recklessly, or driving under the influence, to name a few. DCH's investment in teen safe driving represents a company-wide commitment to raising broad community awareness about the issue and assisting young people in each of the communities that DCH conducts business.

[Read More: PR Newswire]

Honda CR-Z Times Square 3-D Takeover

Honda held the first-ever takeover of Times Square in 3-D technology to support the launch of the all-new CR-Z sport hybrid coupe on Thursday, September 23. Spanning five blocks of Times Square, the event marks the first time 3-D footage will be broadcast to the public space. Take a look a the highlights.

[Read More: Honda] [Buy a Honda CR-Z from DCH Honda of Temecula] [Download a 2011 Honda CR-Z Brochure]

N.E.R.D performs at 3-D event in Times Square hosted by the Honda CR-Z |...

Honda held the first-ever takeover of Times Square in 3-D technology to support the launch of the all-new CR-Z sport hybrid coupe on Thursday, September 23. Spanning five blocks of Times Square, the event marks the first time 3-D footage will be broadcast to the public space.

[Read More: Honda] [Buy a Honda CR-Z from DCH Honda of Temecula] [Download a 2011 Honda CR-Z Brochure]

Honda to Take Over Times Square for First-Ever 3-D Launch of New CR-Z Sport Hybrid Coupe - Honda.com

Honda to Take Over Times Square for First-Ever 3-D Launch of New CR-Z Sport Hybrid Coupe - Honda.com
Honda will hold the first-ever takeover of Times Square in 3-D technology to support the launch of the all-new CR-Z sport hybrid coupe on Thursday, September 23. Spanning five blocks of Times Square, the event marks the first time 3-D footage will be broadcasted to the public space. As a part of the takeover, Honda will run 3-D CR-Z commercial footage on the Times Square HD Spectacolor screen (located on Broadway between 46th and 47th Street) and Sony will provide 3-D Gran Turismo 5 racing simulators. Additionally, Maxim Magazine models will distribute copies of their special 3-D October issue and Honda will sponsor a special performance from chart-topping hip-hop trio, N.E.R.D.

[Read More: Honda] [Buy a Honda CR-Z from DCH Honda of Temecula] [Download a Honda CR-Z brochure]

Pasadena Tournament of Roses® Announces American Honda as Presenting Sponsor of the Rose Parade - Honda.com

Pasadena Tournament of Roses® Announces American Honda as Presenting Sponsor of the Rose Parade - Honda.com
Pasadena Tournament of Roses President Jeffrey L. Throop announced last night that American Honda Motor Co., Inc. will become the first Presenting Sponsor of the Rose Parade. The announcement was made at the annual membership kickoff celebration at the Rose Bowl stadium. The 122nd Rose Parade, Presented by Honda, will be themed: "Building Dreams, Friendships & Memories." Although the 2011 Parade will be the first Rose Parade officially presented by Honda, it represents a 50-year collaboration between American Honda and the Tournament of Roses.

[Read More: Honda]
[www.tournamentofroses.com]

Ford Fiesta vs. Honda Fit vs. Mazda 2 Comparison Test - Car and Driver

Ford Fiesta vs. Honda Fit vs. Mazda 2 Comparison Test - Car and Driver
The 2010 Honda Fit has been a Car and Driver's 10 Best list four years in a row.  It comes as no surprise that the 2010 Honda Fit Sport was awarded first place in this latest comparison of small, efficient hatchbacks from Car and Driver.

[Read more: Car and Driver] 
[Buy a 2010 Honda Fit from DCH Honda of Temecula] [Download 2010 Honda Fit Brochure]

My DCH Honda of Temecula Experience? Hot Coffee, Warm Cookies, Manicures, and a Massage... Now THAT's Service!

My DCH Honda of Temecula Experience? Hot Coffee, Warm Cookies, Manicures, and a Massage... Now THAT's Service!
Bill Burchard is a Broker/REALTOR serving the Temecula/Murrieta Area. He was so happy with his experience at DCH Honda of Temecula that he took the time to write a review of his recent visit.

Read it here at his blog: Discovering Murrieta Real Estate Blog with Bill the Murrieta Broker.

Honda's New Navigation System: First Look - KickingTires

Honda's New Navigation System: First Look - KickingTires
Making its debut on the 2011 Honda Odyssey is the company’s upgraded navigation system. The hard-drive-based unit packs an 8-inch high-resolution screen, live traffic with a lifetime subscription, and voice commands that make it quite a few steps better than the outdated system adorning current Hondas.

[Read more: Cars.com-Kicking Tires]

Honda Odyssey Review: 2011 Honda Odyssey First Drive: Car and Driver

Honda Odyssey Review: 2011 Honda Odyssey First Drive: Car and Driver
Not exactly all-new, but still all good and still exactly what a minivan should be.
 
[Read More: Car and Driver]

Paramore prepped to end latest tour in Anaheim - Entertainment - The Orange County Register

Paramore prepped to end latest tour in Anaheim - Entertainment - The Orange County Register

Things couldn’t be going better for Tennessee-based rock group Paramore. Since mid-July the quintet has been out headlining the 31-city Honda Civic Tour, with Canadian indie-pop twins Tegan and Sara, long-running Florida pop-punk outfit New Found Glory and newcomer Kadawatha.

The final stop is at Honda Center in Anaheim on Sunday, and rhythm guitarist Taylor York says he couldn’t be happier that the trek is wrapping up in one of the band’s favorite cities.

[Read More: The Orange County Register] [Buy Tickets at Ticketmaster]

2011 Honda Odyssey Line-off

Honda marked the start of production of the all-new 2011 Honda Odyssey minivan on September 02, 2010, with a line-off celebration at Honda Manufacturing of Alabama.

The Odyssey minivan has been the top-selling minivan in the U.S. for the past two years and is considered the benchmark vehicle in the minivan class. The completely-redesigned 2011 Honda Odyssey improves on its already award-winning, class-leading design with a more-distinctive style, higher fuel efficiency and greater interior versatility.

2012 Honda Civic Sedan Spy Video

Edmunds Inside Lines' spy shooters in Death Valley caught up with Honda's prototype version of the 2012 Civic sedan.

2011 Honda CR-Z Tour "Econ Mode" From DCH Honda of Temecula

Check out this video of the 2011 Honda CR-Z's Econ Mode.

2011 Honda CR-Z Tour "Sport Mode" From DCH Honda of Temecula

Check out this video of the 2011 Honda CR-Z's Sport Mode.

31 Percent in New AAA Survey Admit to Being Distracted by Their Pet While Driving / AAA

31 Percent in New AAA Survey Admit to Being Distracted by Their Pet While Driving / AAA
Millions of Americans recognize that dogs are wonderful companions and bring their favorite furry friend along on road trips, day trips and even day-to-day errands. However, in a vehicle this can mean added distractions for the driver. A recent survey conducted by AAA and Kurgo asked dog owners how often they drive with their dog and about their habits behind the wheel. The survey found that drivers not only love to bring Fido along, but they also often engage in risky behaviors when man’s best friend is along for the ride. [Read more - Source AAA]

Note: The Honda Element has a dog-friendly package with a travel kennel in the rear cargo area, complete with a circulating fan and water bowl. These accessories and more are available from DCH Honda of Temecula.

Fun and Games - 2011 Honda CR-Z

 

Fun and Games - 2011 Honda CR-Z
Check out the CR-Z driving game – 3-Mode Mania. It’s simple, rudimentary and doesn’t come close to representing how the CR-Z drives. But it’s fun. And we hope it helps hold you over until you can drive the real thing.
http://cr-z.honda.com/3-mode-mania/

Consumer Reports Cars Blog: Video: Knock-off bumper part "explodes" in crash test

Consumer Reports Cars Blog: Video: Knock-off bumper part "explodes" in crash test

New crash-test video dramatically illustrates what can happen when a cheap aftermarket part suffers even a low-speed impact: It explodes into a shower of pieces.
[Read more]

More audio, mileage for the 2011 Honda Accord

More audio, mileage for the 2011 Honda Accord
Honda's updated 2011 Accord sedan and coupe will hit dealerships in mid-August. The Accord gets a refresh inside and out, a new leather-equipped Special Edition model and a handful of other interior upgrades.

[Read more: Autoweek]

Honda Accord Review: 2011 Honda Accord SE Sedan Driven – Car and Driver

Honda Accord Review: 2011 Honda Accord SE Sedan Driven – Car and Driver
Same great Accord, now with a Special Edition package and improved fuel economy.
If aliens landed tomorrow and asked for our finest example of mainstream transportation, you’d probably point them toward one of these babies. You might also tell them that the Accord has snatched Car and Driver’s 10Best trophy a whopping 24 times, although they might look at you funny (we publish no interstellar editions). The 2011 model year brings a mid-cycle refresh.

Read more linked by DCH Honda of Temecula

2012 Honda Civic Spy Video from Inside Line Videos

Check out the spy video providing a early look at the upcoming 2012 Honda Civic.  This prototype was caught testing in Europe recently and it gives us our first glimpse of Honda’s fully redesigned Civic.  As you can see, the test mule was clearly a four-door hatchback, a body style that never made to the U.S. market.  In the States, however, the Civic is expected to continue as a four-door sedan and two-door coupe.

[Source: Inside Line Videos]

Consumer Reports picks best cars for teens and seniors — Autoblog

Consumer Reports picks best cars for teens and seniors — Autoblog
The car-savy folk over at Consumer Reports have released a new list of its best picks for vehicles suited for teens and seniors. The group suggests parents looking to send their teens off to school with a newer vehicle should try to avoid the common misstep of assuming that a larger SUV is safer than its smaller, more efficient counterparts.

Interestingly enough, the only vehicle that Consumer Reports recommends for both driver types is the Honda Accord.

Read more here linked by DCH Honda of Temecula

Toyota Sienna score in Consumer Reports plunges, no longer top-rated — Autoblog

Toyota Sienna score in Consumer Reports plunges, no longer top-rated — Autoblog
It's generally accepted that every new iteration of any vehicle is somehow better than its predecessor. And that's true of the 2011 Toyota Sienna minivan, which is festooned with more goodies (like a 16.4-inch widescreen monitor for rear-seat passengers) and a sportier flair (complete with a sporty SE trim) than the previous generation Sienna. The only question that remains, then, is this: Do those improvements automatically equal a better vehicle?

According to Consumer Reports, the answer is no. And surprisingly, it's not even close, with the new Sienna's overall test score of 80 paling in comparison to the 2010's overall score of 94. The main culprits cited by CR for the plummeting score are poor fit and finish and excessive interior noise – bad enough that CR claims it's not possible to have a proper conversation between front and rear passengers.

So, if not the Toyota Sienna – which held the honor for three straight years – what is CR's top-rated minivan? The six-year-old Honda Odyssey.

Read more here linked by DCH Honda of Temecula

Second National Distracted Driving Summit Set for September

Second National Distracted Driving Summit Set for September
The federal government on Tuesday said it will hold a second National Distracted Driving summit on September 21 . The first summit last year triggered a number of state laws that ban texting while driving, and celebrity endorsements — from people like Oprah — for government crackdowns on the problem.

The second summit will "explore accomplishments since our first summit, as well as the many challenges that lie ahead," said a statement from U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "Key topics will include research, technology, policy, public outreach and best practices in enforcement."

Following last year's summit, the Obama administration banned texting while driving by 4 million federal employees while they are driving government-owned vehicles. The government also launched a new www.distraction.gov to draw attention to the problem.

 [source: Edmunds Inside Line]

2010 Honda Accord Crosstour: Going Dry Lakes Racing

2010 Honda Accord Crosstour: Going Dry Lakes Racing

It's the birthplace of hot rodding and it's a 90 minute drive from our Santa Monica office. So a few Saturdays ago I loaded up the kids, fired up our long-term 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour and headed for the El Mirage Dry Lake. We even arrived in time to watch some of the land speed racing sanctioned by the legendary Southern California Timing Association or SCTA.

People have been going fast on El Mirage for more than 50 years. No, we didn't race the Crosstour, but we did marvel at its comfort levels, its roominess and its easily manipulated navigation system. Ultimately we spend the entire day inside the Honda (driving, sitting in traffic, watching the racing, etc.) and we returned home with no complaints. You know, the more I use the Crosstour, the more I'm sold on it.

Fun day.

Scott Oldham, Editor in Chief 

[source: http://blogs.insideline.com/roadtests/Vehicles/2010-honda-accord-crosstour]

Spy Shots: 2012 Honda Civic struts its stuff in Europe — Autoblog

Spy Shots: 2012 Honda Civic struts its stuff in Europe — Autoblog
These are the first spy shots of the 2012 Honda Civic. This vehicle, with its five-door hatch shape and funky rear door handles, is the European version that has never made its way to US soil. The latest set of spy photos seen here prove that Honda's little compact hatchback is progressing along rather nicely.

Read the full story and see more pictures linked by DCH Honda of Temecula.

Temecula area wineries heating up with nightlife | Carl Love | Columns | PE.com | Southern California News | News for Inland Southern California

Temecula area wineries heating up with nightlife | Carl Love | Columns | PE.com | Southern California News | News for Inland Southern California
There was a time when entertainment in Temecula Valley Wine Country consisted of tasting rooms and sipping samples. Not bad, but when the tasting rooms closed by early evening, Wine Country pretty much shut down.

That's so last night compared to the busy agenda now served there late into the evening, especially in the summer when the weather cools down and the action heats up.

Click here to read more. Linked by DCH Honda of Temecula

2010 Honda Civic Video

The Honda Civic is a perennial favorite among car shoppers, currently the sixth best-selling car in America. However, the Civic has gone nearly five years without a redesign and is now competing against vehicles like the well-rated, all-new Kia Forte. Watch the video to find out if Cars.com editor Kelsey Mays thinks this old-timer can still keep up with its newer competition

Honda's Marysville Plant Produces 10-Millionth Vehicle - MarketWatch

Honda's Marysville Plant Produces 10-Millionth Vehicle - MarketWatch
The Marysville Auto Plant has become the first Honda plant outside Japan to manufacture* 10 million vehicles with the production this morning of a Honda Accord Sedan. Honda began local auto production in November 1982 at the Marysville plant with an Accord Sedan, and has continued producing that model along with various others.

Click here to read more. Linked by DCH Honda of Temecula.