Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[<i>Consumer Reports</i> tests small eco models, best only saves $145/year in fuel [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/29/consumer-reports-tests-small-eco-models-best-only-saves/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/29/consumer-reports-tests-small-eco-models-best-only-saves/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/29/consumer-reports-tests-small-eco-models-best-only-saves/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Consumer Reports

The good people at Consumer Reports appear to have a dim view of fuel-economy packages on small cars. The organization recently tested the Ford Focus SFE, Chevrolet Cruze Eco and Honda Civic HF to determine whether the cars' annual fuel savings actually offset the additional cost of opting for the package to begin with. During their mixed city and highway loop testing, the Ford actually fared the best by returning 31 mpg overall. That's three miles per gallon better than the standard Focus SE, and represents an annual fuel cost savings of just $145. The SFE package costs $495.

Likewise, the Honda Civic HF returned 33 mpg, which is also three mpg better than the base Civic LX, The Honda serves up an annual fuel cost savings of $135, though the HF package commands the largest premium over its base model at $800. Then there's our personal favorite of the lot, the Cruze Eco. Surprisingly enough, the Chevrolet compact netted just 27 mpg. That's just one mpg better than the Cruze 1LT in CR's testing, representing a savings of a mere $20 annually. Pretty rough considering Eco trim sets buyers back $770.

It is worth noting Consumer Reports opted for the automatic-equipped Cruze Eco, which is only good for 31 mpg combined. When equipped with a six-speed manual, the model returns a more palatable 33 combined. Still, as CR points out, there are plenty of other vehicles on the market that attain similar fuel economy ratings without the added cost. Check out the video for yourself by scrolling below.

Continue reading Consumer Reports tests small eco models, best only saves $145/year in fuel [w/video]

Consumer Reports tests small eco models, best only saves $145/year in fuel [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 May 2012 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletchevrolet cruzechevrolet cruze ecochevycivicconsumer reportscruzefocusfordford focusford focus sfehondahonda civichonda civic hfvideoTue, 29 May 2012 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20246757/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/29/consumer-reports-tests-small-eco-models-best-only-saves/20246757/article-detail.xml 20246757 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/consumer-reports-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/consumer-reports-628.jpg <![CDATA[Honda gets new Civic NGTC out on the track to defend BTCC title]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/23/honda-gets-new-civic-ngtc-out-on-the-track-to-defend-btcc-title/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/23/honda-gets-new-civic-ngtc-out-on-the-track-to-defend-btcc-title/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/23/honda-gets-new-civic-ngtc-out-on-the-track-to-defend-btcc-title/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Honda NGTC race car testing

It's been five months since we first brought you word that Honda was developing a version of its new euro-spec Civic hatchback for competition in the highly competitive British Touring Car Championship. A month later, Matt Neal took home the title for the Japanese automaker behind the wheel of the outgoing Civic touring car. And just a couple of weeks ago, Honda released a quintet of renderings of the version it is preparing in parallel for the World Touring Car Championship.

By now, the Honda team has not only finished building the new Civic NGTC - shorthand for Next-Generation Touring Car - but it has completed initial systems testing, carried out its first on-track shakedown and released these images to tell the tale. With everything running smoothly so far, the team is gearing up for further testing before the 2012 championship kicks off at Brands Hatch on April 1. That's when Neal and Gordon "Flash" Shedden will campaign the new Civic NGTC against a vicious field of rivals driving Ford, Vauxhall, Volkswagen, Skoda, Seat, Audi, BMW, Toyota and Proton racers. Heck, there's even the new MG MG6 GT...but not Chevrolet.

We'll be watching keenly to see if Neal and Shedden can defend Honda's title, but for now, you can check out the high-res images in the gallery above and the press release after the jump to see how their new ride is shaping up.

Continue reading Honda gets new Civic NGTC out on the track to defend BTCC title

Honda gets new Civic NGTC out on the track to defend BTCC title originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 honda civic2012 honda civic ngtcbritish touring car championshipbtcccivicgordon sheddenhondahonda civichonda civic ngtcmatt nealnext generation touring carngtctouring carThu, 23 Feb 2012 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20176209/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/23/honda-gets-new-civic-ngtc-out-on-the-track-to-defend-btcc-title/20176209/article-detail.xml 20176209 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/webhondabtcc-02_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/webhondabtcc-02.jpg <![CDATA[Sparks fly with Honda's cool new European Civic ad]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/sparks-fly-with-hondas-cool-new-european-civic-ad/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/sparks-fly-with-hondas-cool-new-european-civic-ad/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/sparks-fly-with-hondas-cool-new-european-civic-ad/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

2012 Honda Civic 'spark' ad from UK

We'll be the first to admit we weren't overly taken with the Super Bowl commercial Honda worked up featuring Matthew Broderick. The company has a long history of genuinely great advertising, and while the countless Ferris Bueller's Day Off references were clever, the ad didn't really come close to the cleverness found in the movie that inspired it. Fortunately, the company has just released a new spot chock full of... that certain something. The clip follows a spark of innovation from inception to realization as the new European Honda Civic hatchback. As usual, the commercial is well shot and narrated by none other than Garrison Keillor, a staple of Honda's British ads.

Look closely and you'll even see a shout-out to Honda's famous "The Cog" Rube Goldberg spot of a few years ago, as well. You can follow the trials and tribulations of Honda's little spark in the commercial after the jump.

Continue reading Sparks fly with Honda's cool new European Civic ad

Sparks fly with Honda's cool new European Civic ad originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 honda civicadadvertisingciviccivic hatchbackgarrison keillorhondahonda civichonda civic adhonda cogmarketingvideoTue, 31 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20161163/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/31/sparks-fly-with-hondas-cool-new-european-civic-ad/20161163/article-detail.xml 20161163 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/honda-civic-ad-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/honda-civic-ad-628.jpg <![CDATA[Honda Civic gets frisky with Caddy in strange accident]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/07/honda-civic-gets-frisky-with-caddy-in-strange-accident/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/07/honda-civic-gets-frisky-with-caddy-in-strange-accident/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/07/honda-civic-gets-frisky-with-caddy-in-strange-accident/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Stacked cars

This crash isn't as odd as the California melee that saw a Saturn end up on an apartment roof, but it's still a little out of the ordinary. Apparently a driver in Wellesley, Mass. missed a curb, and wound up driving up and over a Cadillac CTS that was inside a parking structure.

We're a little baffled as to how this all went down, and the Wellesley police don't give us any clues in their video. Check out what happened after the jump.

Continue reading Honda Civic gets frisky with Caddy in strange accident

Honda Civic gets frisky with Caddy in strange accident originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 07 Jan 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cadillaccadillac ctsciviccrashctshondahonda civicwellesley policeSat, 07 Jan 2012 20:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20142737/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/07/honda-civic-gets-frisky-with-caddy-in-strange-accident/20142737/article-detail.xml 20142737 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/wellesley-crash_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/wellesley-crash.jpg <![CDATA[Honda CEO takes responsibility for poor reception of redesigned Civic]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/02/honda-ceo-takes-responsibility-for-poor-reception-of-redesigned/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/02/honda-ceo-takes-responsibility-for-poor-reception-of-redesigned/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/02/honda-ceo-takes-responsibility-for-poor-reception-of-redesigned/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



There are plenty of ways to know an automaker has made a misstep. Diminished sales and high inventory are typical markers of a lackluster model, as is a paucity of critical acclaim. All three factors are currently weighting on the 2012 Honda Civic. And while stopping short of an actual apology, Honda CEO Takanobu Ito has reportedly stepped in to take responsibility for the model's reception. At a Tokyo Motor Show roundtable, Ito told media members that he takes full responsibility for the vehicle's meager performance in the United States and remarked that Honda takes input from world markets very seriously. The CEO also said that his company is working to discern the best course of action moving forward, acknowledging talk of an earlier-than-normal refresh to address the car's criticisms.

The redesigned Honda Civic hasn't found many fans since it debuted in April. Consumer Reports refused to recommend the vehicle for the first time in the car's history, and Dan Neil of The Wall Street Journal said that the new car "feels like a betrayal from Honda."

Ouch.

Not surprisingly, Automotive News reports that Civic sales have dropped by 15 percent while the rest of the automotive market has seen an increase of 10 percent compared to last year. While some of that fall may be due to supply issues brought about first by earthquake and tsunami activity in Japan and later by floods in Thailand, the reality is that the bread-and-butter compact simply isn't meeting expectations.

Honda CEO takes responsibility for poor reception of redesigned Civic originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Dec 2011 08:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 honda civicapologycivichondahonda civictakanobu itotakanobu ito apologyFri, 02 Dec 2011 08:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20118567/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/02/honda-ceo-takes-responsibility-for-poor-reception-of-redesigned/20118567/article-detail.xml 20118567 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-2012-honda-civic-ex-sedan628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-2012-honda-civic-ex-sedan628.jpg <![CDATA[Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #255 LIVE]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/07/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-255-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/07/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-255-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/07/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-255-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Autoblog Podcast

We record Episode #255 of the Autoblog Podcast tonight, and you can drop us your questions via our Q&A module below. Check out our discussion topics or chime in to help determine what else the crew chats about this evening. Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes if you haven't already done so, and if you want to take it all in live, tune in to our UStream (audio only) channel at 10:00 PM Eastern tonight.

Discussion Topics for Autoblog Podcast Episode #255
[UStream] Interact LIVE at UStream - 10PM Eastern on Monday, November 7, 2011
[iTunes] Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes
[RSS] Add the Autoblog Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator

Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #255 LIVE originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoblog podcast topicsevo magazine car of the yearhondahonda civicmyford touchsemasubaru advanced tourer conceptMon, 07 Nov 2011 16:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20100678/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/07/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-255-live/20100678/article-detail.xml 20100678 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #254]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/01/autoblog-podcast-254/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/01/autoblog-podcast-254/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/01/autoblog-podcast-254/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Ford and Consumer Reports, Honda Civic refresh, Toyota FT-86 details, Saab's latest sale and new 9-3 rumors

autoblog podcast

Episode #254 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, with Chris, Dan and Autoblog Executive Editor Chris Paukert crewing the show this week. Topics include Ford and its response to criticism about its PowerShift transmission and MyFordTouch. We also cover the Toyota FT-86 now that specs have been leaked, rumors of an accelerated refresh program for the much-criticized 2012 Honda Civic and the latest in the ongoing saga of Saab. Your questions and comments power the end of the 'cast, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. We've embedded our Q&A module after the jump for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #254:
In the Autoblog Garage
2011 Infiniti QX56
2012 Chevrolet Sonic
2012 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque
2012 Toyota Camry


Hosts: Dan Roth, Chris Shunk, Chris Paukert
Runtime: 01:09:21
Get the podcast
[UStream] Listen live on Mondays at 10PM Eastern at UStream
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[MP3] Download the MP3 directly

Feedback
Email: Podcast at Autoblog dot com
Voicemail: 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763)

Review the show in iTunes and take our survey

Autoblog Podcast #254 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Nov 2011 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-3autoblog podcast 254camryconsumer reportsevoquefeaturedft-86ft86honda civicmyford touchpowershiftqxqx-57qx56saabsonictoyota ft-86Tue, 01 Nov 2011 16:15:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #254Autoblog01:17:572011 Infiniti QX56, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic, 2012 Toyota Camry, 2013 Land Rover Evoque, autoblog podcast 254, featured, ford powershift consumer reports, honda civic, myfordtouch consumer reports, saab, saab 9-3, toyota ft-86 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20095738/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/01/autoblog-podcast-254/20095738/article-detail.xml 20095738 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #254 LIVE]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/31/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-254-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/31/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-254-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/31/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-254-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Autoblog Podcast

We record Episode #254 of the Autoblog Podcast tonight, and you can drop us your questions via our Q&A module below. Check out our discussion topics or chime in to help determine what else the crew chats about this evening. Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes if you haven't already done so, and if you want to take it all in live, tune in to our UStream (audio only) channel at 10:00 PM Eastern tonight.

Discussion Topics for Autoblog Podcast Episode #254

[UStream] Interact LIVE at UStream - 10PM Eastern on Monday, October 11, 2011
[iTunes] Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes
[RSS] Add the Autoblog Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator

Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #254 LIVE originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 17:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-3autoblog podcast 254 topicscivicconsumer reportsfordft-86ft86hondahonda civicpang dasaabsaab 9-3toyota ft-86youngmanMon, 31 Oct 2011 17:11:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20095032/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/31/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-254-live/20095032/article-detail.xml 20095032 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Honda moving up mid-cycle refresh of Civic amidst criticism]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/31/honda-moving-up-mid-cycle-refresh-of-civic-amidst-criticism/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/31/honda-moving-up-mid-cycle-refresh-of-civic-amidst-criticism/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/31/honda-moving-up-mid-cycle-refresh-of-civic-amidst-criticism/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2012 Honda Civic EX

Automotive News reports that Honda is itching to release a mid-cycle refresh for the company's 2012 Civic. In response to a harsh criticism from reviewers and the model's first failure to earn a coveted Recommended rating from Consumer Reports in recent memory, the automaker has apparently decided to pull ahead the model's refresh to 2013 instead of 2014. The report quotes John Mendel, American Honda Executive Vice President, as saying that his company is "appropriately energized" by feedback from critics and customers alike. At the same time, the executive stressed that he wasn't sure exactly how much the manufacturer could do or how quickly it could be accomplished.

Critics have specifically found issue with the vehicle's overly soft handling and muddled, plastic-laden dash design, especially as competition in the segment has matured and grown even more compelling. While the 2012 Honda Civic initially saw a spike in consumer interest, shoppers may have trickled off; something that analysts say is highly unusual for any Honda model, let alone this onetime leader of the compact segment.

What will the refresh bring? We can only imagine that Honda will work to cure the ails that Consumer Reports has specifically called out by improving the interior and rolling in additional content.

Honda moving up mid-cycle refresh of Civic amidst criticism originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 honda civic2013 civic2013 honda civic2013 honda civic refreshciviccivic refreshhondahonda civicjohn mendelMon, 31 Oct 2011 13:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20094519/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/31/honda-moving-up-mid-cycle-refresh-of-civic-amidst-criticism/20094519/article-detail.xml 20094519 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/01-2012-honda-civic-ex-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/01-2012-honda-civic-ex-628.jpg <![CDATA[Matt Neal takes the British Touring Car Championship for Honda]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/19/matt-neal-takes-the-british-touring-car-championship-for-honda/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/19/matt-neal-takes-the-british-touring-car-championship-for-honda/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/19/matt-neal-takes-the-british-touring-car-championship-for-honda/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 BTCC finale

After an epic five-way showdown for the crown and a record 30-car field, Matt Neal has won the British Touring Car Championship, becoming the first three-time champion in the series since the '80s. The battle came down to the final three races held this past weekend at Silverstone - the same iconic circuit that hosts the British Grand Prix in Formula One along with countless other top-tier automobile and motorcycle races.

After securing pole position, Neal drove his Honda Civic to victory in Race 1, his teammate Gordon Shedden beat him out for Race 2 and the pair came eighth and tenth (starting on a reverse grid) behind race winner Tom Chilton in the Ford Focus. The points accrued were enough for Neal to claim the title with 257 points to Shedden's 249, while Chevrolet's defending champion Jason Plato landed third in the standings with 236. Mat Jackson and James Nash, who were both also in contention for the title up until the end of the third race, tied for fourth with 191 points.

In a further victory for the Honda, the team won the manufacturers' championship as well as the teams' title, while James Nash's Vauxhall-fielding 888 Racing team won the drivers' and teams' titles in the independent category. It was surely a high note for Honda on which to finish as it continues preparing a new NGTC-spec touring car based on the new European-market Civic for next year's championship, when it will seek to defend its titles once again and make it a hat trick. Follow the jump for the pair of full press releases.

Continue reading Matt Neal takes the British Touring Car Championship for Honda

Matt Neal takes the British Touring Car Championship for Honda originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>british touring car championshipbtcccivichondahonda civicmatt nealsilverstoneWed, 19 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20083313/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/19/matt-neal-takes-the-british-touring-car-championship-for-honda/20083313/article-detail.xml 20083313 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/webhonda-btcc-win_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/webhonda-btcc-win.jpg <![CDATA['92 Honda Civic thinks its a Veyron, makes us chuckle]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/17/92-honda-civic-thinks-its-a-veyron-makes-us-chuckle/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/17/92-honda-civic-thinks-its-a-veyron-makes-us-chuckle/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/17/92-honda-civic-thinks-its-a-veyron-makes-us-chuckle/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Honda Civic Veyron edition

Dressing up budget hatchbacks to appear to be something more than they are seems to be all the rage these days. Toyota iQ becomes Aston Martin Cygnet. Mini Cooper becomes the Rolls-Royce-inspired Goodwood edition. Even the Fiat 500 has had its Tributo Ferrari. But while most of these kinda make our eyes roll a little (or a lot), this latest privateer entry into their ranks just makes us chuckle.

Someone, it seems, took a fifth-generation (1992-95) Honda Civic hatchback and dressed it up to look like a mini-me Bugatti Veyron, complete with two-tone Rape Yellow and black paint job. And you know what? It doesn't look half bad.

Sure, the wheels don't match, and yes, it is downright comical to dress up a car that should barely sell for more than $2,000 to look like one that costs over a million. But while it may be missing a few cylinders - make that a few cylinder banks, and the quad turbos - it manages to tickle our funny bone in a way few other gussied-up premium hatchbacks can.

'92 Honda Civic thinks its a Veyron, makes us chuckle originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Oct 2011 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugattibugatti civicbugatti veyroncivichondahonda civichonda veyronveyronMon, 17 Oct 2011 08:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20082696/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/17/92-honda-civic-thinks-its-a-veyron-makes-us-chuckle/20082696/article-detail.xml 20082696 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/hondabugatti_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/hondabugatti.jpg <![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Honda Civic Type R... turbo?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/05/rendered-speculation-honda-civic-type-r-turbo/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/05/rendered-speculation-honda-civic-type-r-turbo/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/05/rendered-speculation-honda-civic-type-r-turbo/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

A new report says the next generation Honda Civic Type R should arrive in 2013 - sporting a turbocharged engine for the first time.

According to Auto Express, this hottest Honda hatch will brandish a Mugen-developed, 210-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbo four. When we last reported on Mugen, their engineers were boring and stroking the 2010 Civic Type R to develop 256 naturally aspirated horsepower.

Temple of VTEC purists can thank strict European emissions regulations for the move to forced induction, and Auto Express says that the Type R will receive a start-stop system to further conserve fuel. Honda fan boys will still have plenty to get excited about: A six-speed manual tranny with a short-throw shifter, track-ready suspension, and a whole complement of aero aids. The UK-based magazine predicts 0-60 times in the low six-second range and a top speed near 150 mph.

The Type R's projected £23,000 price tag (minus the 20% national tax the Brits factor into their new car prices) would make it about a $28,000 car at today's exchange rates. But alas, since it's based on the European five-door Civic, there's virtually no chance we'll be seeing this Type R Civic on our side of the pond. For the moment, you'll have to content yourself with checking out the artist's renderings over on Auto Express.

Rendered Speculation: Honda Civic Type R... turbo? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 honda civic type rciviccivic turbocivic type rctrhondahonda civicmugentype rWed, 05 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20074393/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/05/rendered-speculation-honda-civic-type-r-turbo/20074393/article-detail.xml 20074393 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2013-ctr-crop-250-1317829059_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2013-ctr-crop-250-1317829059.jpg <![CDATA[Acura preparing Civic-based RSX sedan?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/22/acura-preparing-civic-based-rsx-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/22/acura-preparing-civic-based-rsx-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/22/acura-preparing-civic-based-rsx-sedan/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Acura CSX

The Civic has long been a big volume model for Honda. But while it has grown in size and standards of accommodation over the years, Canadian buyers are the only ones in the world who can get their hands on an Acura version.

Called the CSX, it's essentially a rebadged Civic with some extra luxury touches. It was preceded by the EL, also based on the Civic, which in turn took the place in Acura Canada's lineup left vacant by the departure of the Integra sedan in 1996. Rumors, however, have been circulating for the past year that Acura was developing a new Civic-based model earmarked towards a broader market - including the United States.

We've heard this line of thinking out of the rumormill before, but it's been a while, and this is the first time we've heard talk of it reviving the RSX badge. The RSX, as you may recall, succeeded the Integra, albeit in coupe form only, and it was a favorite among front-wheel drive performance guys and gals. Whether a new RSX sedan might prove a worthy successor - or for that matter, whether a two- or three-door version might be offered as well - remain to be seen, but word on the street is that we can expect it to arrive in 2013 as a 2014 model.

Acura preparing Civic-based RSX sedan? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acuraacura csxacura elacura rsxciviccsxelhondahonda civicintegrarsxThu, 22 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20049756/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/22/acura-preparing-civic-based-rsx-sedan/20049756/article-detail.xml 20049756 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/csxcivic1xq3_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/csxcivic1xq3.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Euro Honda Civic is more hatch hotness we won't get]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/13/2012-honda-civic-hatchback-frankfurt-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/13/2012-honda-civic-hatchback-frankfurt-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/13/2012-honda-civic-hatchback-frankfurt-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The 2012 Honda Civic has long since made its American debut, and we've scored seat time in a variety of versions. Our Civic is different than the one our European friends get to drive, however, and the updated Euro-market Honda Civic has been revealed to the awaiting crowds at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.

Differences between the U.S. and European Civic models become immediately apparent with just a quick glance. The face of the European car is much more assertive than the North American variety. Fender flares are more pronounced, and the entire exterior package looks far more sporty than the version we can buy here.

European customers will have a choice between three engine options; a 1.4-liter or 1.8-liter gasoline four-cylinder, or a 2.2-liter diesel unit. All three are available with a six-speed manual transmission and the 1.8-liter is also available with a specially prepared five-speed gearbox. The aforementioned diesel engine is good for 148 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque.

Read the full press release posted after the jump to learn more about the car your European counterparts will have the chance to buy.

Continue reading 2012 Euro Honda Civic is more hatch hotness we won't get

2012 Euro Honda Civic is more hatch hotness we won't get originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Sep 2011 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 frankfurt2012 honda civicciviccivic hatchbackeuropean civiceuropean-market civicfrankfurtfrankfurt motor showhondahonda civicTue, 13 Sep 2011 16:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20041239/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/13/2012-honda-civic-hatchback-frankfurt-2011/20041239/article-detail.xml 20041239 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/01-2012-honda-civic-euro-frankfurt-2011628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/01-2012-honda-civic-euro-frankfurt-2011628.jpg <![CDATA[Honda Racing UK already working on NGTC-spec Civic]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/04/honda-racing-uk-already-working-on-ngtc-spec-civic-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/04/honda-racing-uk-already-working-on-ngtc-spec-civic-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/04/honda-racing-uk-already-working-on-ngtc-spec-civic-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Honda Civic

Of all the new debuts scheduled for the Frankfurt Motor Show - now less than two weeks away - few will proliferate quite like the new European-market Honda Civic. The Old World version of the new Civic has so far only been teased, but the company's UK competition division has already started work on the racing version that will take on the most famous circuits Great Britain has to offer.

The competition version of the new Euro Civic is being built according to the new NGTC rules employed by the British Touring Car Championship, and is currently undergoing development in conjunction with Team Dynamics. The outfit fields the old Civic, which was introduced to the BTCC back in 2007, with considerable success: the team has collected a slew of titles in the series, including the teams' and manufacturers' championships last season, and is currently sitting second and third in the current standings.

Expect the new racer to be unveiled sometime after the road car makes its debut in Frankfurt. In the meantime, Honda has released the first of a four-part video series highlighting its BTCC effort. Check it out after the jump.

Continue reading Honda Racing UK already working on NGTC-spec Civic

Honda Racing UK already working on NGTC-spec Civic originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 04 Sep 2011 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>british touring car championshipbtccciviceuro civiceuro honda civiceuropean civiceuropean honda civichondahonda civicnext generation touring carnext-generation touring carngtcteam dynamicsvideoSun, 04 Sep 2011 20:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20032769/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/04/honda-racing-uk-already-working-on-ngtc-spec-civic-w-video/20032769/article-detail.xml 20032769 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/webeuro-civic-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/webeuro-civic-630.jpg <![CDATA[Honda marketing chief responds to <i>Consumer Reports</i>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/01/honda-marketing-chief-responds-to-consumer-reports/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/01/honda-marketing-chief-responds-to-consumer-reports/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/01/honda-marketing-chief-responds-to-consumer-reports/#commentsFiled under: ,



Honda has recently taken a few shots directly across the bow, fired from the heavy guns of Consumer Reports. First, CR stated that the 2012 Civic had lost its Recommended Rating. Shortly after that, Consumer Reports went for the knockout by releasing a piece that chronicled what it describes as a decline in Honda's competitiveness. That wouldn't feel good for any automaker, but how does it feel if you just signed on as the new head of marketing?

Michael Accavitti is the man who recently stepped into that role. In fact, Accavitti took the role the same day that Consumer Reports released its unfavorable opinion of the all-new Civic. Despite that, Accavitti has a positive outlook in his new position, and he's stated that, although Honda respects the opinion of CR, it also disagrees with the way it currently views the brand.

Honda and Accavitti feel that the publication is hitting them quite harshly because they typically turn in A work, but this time have given the world a B+. On the flipside, Accavitti states that other automakers routinely hand in C-level work, and are being lauded for supplying everyone with a new crop of B- products.

It's an interesting outlook, but we wouldn't expect the new head of marketing to have a negative view of his brand. Honda and Acura have some challenges ahead of them, and the Consumer Reports articles should help kick them in the butt.

*Update: Corrected Mark to Michael

Honda marketing chief responds to Consumer Reports originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 civic2012 honda civicconsumer reportshondahonda civichonda consumer reportsmike accavittiThu, 01 Sep 2011 15:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20031953/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/01/honda-marketing-chief-responds-to-consumer-reports/20031953/article-detail.xml 20031953 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/03-2012-honda-civic-ex-sedan_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/03-2012-honda-civic-ex-sedan.jpg <![CDATA[Honda releases more details about European Civic [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/13/honda-releases-more-details-about-european-civic-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/13/honda-releases-more-details-about-european-civic-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/13/honda-releases-more-details-about-european-civic-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2012 Honda Civic

Honda's achingly slow striptease of the Euro-spec Civic continues with another spate of photos and some details on the diesel mill set to power the 2012 model.

An updated version of the 2.2-liter i-DTEC four-cylinder will be available when the new Civic goes on sale in early 2012. With around 147 horsepower and upwards of 184 pound-feet of torque, the revised mill - combined with the Civic's improved aerodynamics - will bring CO2 emissions down to 110g/km and should boost fuel economy by around 15 percent.

Those might sound like incremental improvements, but compared to the U.S. market version, it's a significant change - one we wish Honda would adopt Stateside. Check out our previous post on the 2012 Euro Civic and make the jump for the dirty details on the oil-burner before the big reveal in Frankfurt.

Continue reading Honda releases more details about European Civic [w/video]

Honda releases more details about European Civic [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 13 Aug 2011 16:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 frankfurt2012 honda civicciviceurofrankfurtfrankfurt motor showhondahonda civicSat, 13 Aug 2011 16:09:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20016720/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/13/honda-releases-more-details-about-european-civic-w-video/20016720/article-detail.xml 20016720 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/15564newhondacivic-630op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/15564newhondacivic-630op.jpg <![CDATA[Cars.com still recommending Honda Civic, doesn't care what CR says]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/03/cars-com-still-recommending-honda-civic-doesnt-care-what-cr-sa/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/03/cars-com-still-recommending-honda-civic-doesnt-care-what-cr-sa/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/03/cars-com-still-recommending-honda-civic-doesnt-care-what-cr-sa/#commentsFiled under: ,

2012 honda civic

There have been few remodels in the compact car segment that have been more eagerly anticipated than the 2012 Honda Civic. And why not? The Civic has been the standard-bearer in the segment for decades, and hopes were high for the new model.

We tested the Civic last month and discovered that while it still offered good fuel economy numbers and the promise of robust reliability and resale value, the 2012 evolution is something of a step back compared to the outgoing model. The interior isn't quite as good, it certainly isn't as much fun to drive as it used to be, and this Honda probably won't turn as many heads as it once did. All while the competition has evolved at a rapid pace.

Consumer Reports was even less kind in expressing its feelings about the 2012 Civic. The consumer advocacy institute removed the Civic from its list of Recommended rides, and Senior Director David Champion went on to say that the refreshed Honda "now ranks near the bottom of its category."

Losing the Recommended tag will likely sting Honda quite a bit, but just because CR is hating on the Civic doesn't mean that everyone feels compelled to follow suit. For instance, Cars.com continues to stand by the Civic, citing "its terrific mileage, comfortable cabin, top safety scores, high resale value and a long track record of reliability." Further, Cars.com adds that the Civic beat out entries like the Ford Focus and Kia Forte in one of its recent comparison tests, and at the same time, the Honda earned a "Top Safety Pick" from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

So is the 2012 Civic the star performer Cars.com seems to think it is, or is it closer to the disappointment described by Consumer Reports? The answer to that question will come down to personal choice. That said, for our money, we'd be happier if Honda stuck to the recipe that made the Civic great while leaving more mundane choices to its other competitors.

Cars.com still recommending Honda Civic, doesn't care what CR says originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Aug 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 civic2012 honda civic sedancars.comconsumer reportshondahonda civiciihsWed, 03 Aug 2011 10:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20007763/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/03/cars-com-still-recommending-honda-civic-doesnt-care-what-cr-sa/20007763/article-detail.xml 20007763 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/2012-honda-civic-ex-sedan_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/2012-honda-civic-ex-sedan.jpg <![CDATA[Honda to debut all-new European five-door Civic in Frankfurt [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/29/honda-to-debut-all-new-european-five-door-civic-in-frankfurt-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/29/honda-to-debut-all-new-european-five-door-civic-in-frankfurt-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/29/honda-to-debut-all-new-european-five-door-civic-in-frankfurt-w/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Honda Civic (Euro) teaser

The 2012 Honda Civic has already launched here in the United States, but the party is just about to start for our friends in Europe. Across the pond, the Civic has always been quite different from the model we receive in North America, and for the new model year, that tradition will carry on. How can we tell? The first bit of information Honda chose to release about its new five-door European Civic concerns ride and handling, not fuel economy or interior comfort or how many different paint colors will be available.

Initial development of the Euro Civic started in Japan, but when it came time to tune the suspension, the project was handed over to the company's European division. "Every time we visited Europe during the development of the car, we achieved significant improvements in the ride and handling, tuning the car for the local demands," states the Civic's chassis development leader, Kazuo Sunaoshi. The European Civic will retain its torsion beam rear suspension setup from the current car, though Honda has increased the wall thickness of the beam and fitted a larger-diameter stabilizer bar.

The new Civic will debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, with only the five-door hatchback configuration being offered. Like the previous Civic, we can expect a range of gasoline and diesel powerplants for European markets, and who knows, maybe a too-hot Type R model will be in the works, too. Follow the jump for Honda Europe's official release, as well as a video of the Civic's ride and handling undergoing testing.

Continue reading Honda to debut all-new European five-door Civic in Frankfurt [w/video]

Honda to debut all-new European five-door Civic in Frankfurt [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Jul 2011 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 frankfurt2012 honda civicciviccivic five-doorfrankfurtfrankfurt motor showhatchbackhondahonda civicFri, 29 Jul 2011 13:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20004370/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/29/honda-to-debut-all-new-european-five-door-civic-in-frankfurt-w/20004370/article-detail.xml 20004370 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/01-honda-civic-eu-hatch630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/01-honda-civic-eu-hatch630opt.jpg <![CDATA[Honda celebrates 39 years of Civic heritage]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/14/honda-celebrates-39-years-of-civic-heritage/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/14/honda-celebrates-39-years-of-civic-heritage/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/14/honda-celebrates-39-years-of-civic-heritage/#commentsFiled under: , ,


A look at the Heritage of the Honda Civic - Click above to watch video after the jump

Honda is looking forward to watching how its new 2012 Civic performs as it hits dealer lots. In the meantime, the automaker is taking a moment to look back at the history of its popular compact. Honda has produced a video titled "Heritage" and, with some help from the British house music trio Dirty Vegas, they provide a glimpse at the history of the Civic.

The first model came to life in the form of the 1973 Honda Civic. Fast-forward to the 2012 version, and Honda can look back on 19,000,000 units sold. Click past the jump to watch "Heritage" and check out our historical Civic gallery as well.

Continue reading Honda celebrates 39 years of Civic heritage

Honda celebrates 39 years of Civic heritage originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Jul 2011 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civiccivic heritagecvccheritagehondahonda civichonda heritagevideoThu, 14 Jul 2011 15:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19990615/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/14/honda-celebrates-39-years-of-civic-heritage/19990615/article-detail.xml 19990615 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/civic-heritage_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/civic-heritage.jpg -1 2