SEMA 2009: Mugen-fettled Accord, Fit aren't the big Honda story from SEMA
by Damon Lavrinc on Nov 4th 2009 at 4:21PM 
Mugen Honda Fit and Accord - Click above for high-res image gallery
In addition to announcing its plans to reinvigorate its participation in grassroots racing, Honda revealed two Mugen-accessorized models -- a 2010 Accord Sedan and Fit -- each outfitted with a range of parts available at dealers, but not a standalone model, ala Mugen Civic. While the 18-inch chrome wheels, front grille, spoilers, floor mats and machined aluminum oil filler cap are attractive additions to Honda's growing HFP line, needless to say, they leave us a bit cold when it comes the automaker's commitment to the aftermarket and, more to the point, performance.
Uninspiring SEMA efforts aside, the real news came last night during a meeting with Honda execs, where we were able to glean a few more details about Honda's future performance plans, how the CR-Z -- and more to the point, hybrids -- fit in and something to look out for next year.
Honda PR man Chuck Schifsky, told us that the Big H plans to use hybrids as a performance booster in the future, saying, "The CR-Z isn't the last step. It's the beginning." Although the real start of Honda's performance-marketed hybrids began with the last generation Accord Hybrid, Schifsky admits that its introduction was "ahead of its time," one of many reasons the electric-assisted sedan never quite caught on with consumers.
More interestingly, several Honda heads told us to expect something big in the world of motorsports next year -- likely in Japan. What that means is open to interpretation, but with Honda pulling its NSX out of SuperGT for 2010 (due to the front-engine, rear-drive chassis requirements), something interesting could be on the way. NSX revival? Lexus LFA fighter? Consider our interest extremely piqued...
Photos copyright ©2009 Damon Lavrinc / Weblogs, Inc.
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
RG 4:26PM (11/04/2009)
The Accord Hybrid was far from "ahead of it's time." It was a poor model decision, plain and simple.
Whether it is now or 10 years from now, if you introduce a car that is substantially more expensive yet negligibly faster or more efficient, it will fail. That is, unless you envision the future automotive buyer to be substantially more stupid than they are today.
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Mike7 4:45PM (11/04/2009)
A bit harsh, eh?
Do you feel the same way about Ferrari's upcoming hybrid-performance system?
Anyway, if Honda brings back the quality, fun, I'll be happy.
LesPaul1 12:38AM (11/05/2009)
Because you've driven one right? I did, wasn't bad at all. Acceleration was powerful and smooth, fit and finish on the car was good. I don't really know what you're whining about.
Franz 4:35PM (11/04/2009)
C'mon Honda, we know you can do it.
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R56 5:40PM (11/04/2009)
Its just a matter of time, 6 speed hybrid. CR-z is going to be a huge success i believe.
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fmwso 6:35PM (11/04/2009)
The Mugen accessories that are available here are a joke compared to the ones in Japan. By the way, those wheels on the Accord are horrible.
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JDM Life 6:59PM (11/04/2009)
The pics of the Accord shows how odd shaped and funny looking the car really is.
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Ross 9:08PM (11/04/2009)
Totally agree. In particular, the back end of the current Accord is just sad.
The Fit is the best looking mass-market car Honda now sells in NA. Strange but true. Oh, and it's probably the only one not specifically designed for NA buyers. That's gotta tell you something.
JDM Life 11:08PM (11/04/2009)
I agree.
Its like it and its coupe version have nothing in common at all....
hmmwv 10:55AM (11/05/2009)
That's why they put a crosstard in the background
Dustin 7:54PM (11/04/2009)
The title really pulls you in with the "Big Story" line... but I don't see much substance here.
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