Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[VIDEO: Presenting the coolest Honda Civic Wagon film ever]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/video-presenting-the-coolest-honda-civic-wagon-film-ever/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/video-presenting-the-coolest-honda-civic-wagon-film-ever/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/video-presenting-the-coolest-honda-civic-wagon-film-ever/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Wagon Attack II- Click above to watch the (epic) video

More than a few Autobloggers regularly pine for the days when Honda (among other automakers) built simpler, smaller, lighter cars that were still packed with functionality. A sterling example of this philosophy is Honda's mid-Eighties Civic Wagon, the pioneering pent-roof with the brand's then-new RealTime 4WD system. Arguably one of the earliest crossovers, the Civic Wagon was incredibly robust, and more than a few enterprising shadetree mechanics have subsequently realized that they have similar tuning potential to their far more popular sedan and hatchback cousins. Enter the Attack Wagon.

Not only is the subject of Wagon Attack II a thoroughly bitchin' example of what can be done with forced induction and a few bulletproofing sessions, the folks that made the above video clearly went beyond the call of duty to chronicle its awesomeness in high-definition. Click through to the jump to watch the most entertaining - and arguably best quality - car video you'll see today. When you're done watching the 1989 Honda earn its Civic Shuttle namesake (as it was known in other markets) vaulting off Michigan's Silver Lake Sand Dunes and tearing around broken-down airport runways, be sure to check out the making-of video as well.

And yes, we want one now too. Thanks for the tip, Luke!

[Source: WagonAttack.com]

Continue reading VIDEO: Presenting the coolest Honda Civic Wagon film ever

VIDEO: Presenting the coolest Honda Civic Wagon film ever originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boostCivicHonda CivicHonda Civic ShuttleHonda Civic WagonHonda ShuttleHondaCivicHondaCivicShuttleHondaCivicWagonHondaShuttleoff-roadOff-road parkoff-roadingOff-roadParkReal time 4wdReal-Time 4wdReal-time4wdRealTime 4wdRealTime4wdShuttlesilver lake sand dunesSilverLakeSandDunesWed, 09 Dec 2009 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Honda goes back to drawing board for smaller, lighter next-gen Civic]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/26/report-honda-goes-back-to-drawing-board-for-smaller-lighter-ne/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/26/report-honda-goes-back-to-drawing-board-for-smaller-lighter-ne/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/26/report-honda-goes-back-to-drawing-board-for-smaller-lighter-ne/#commentsFiled under:


2009 Honda Civic - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you introduced an '80s-era Honda Civic to its modern counterpart, it couldn't recognize what it's become. But after decades of growing dimensions, Honda's going back to the drawing board for the next-gen Civic.

The change in direction was reportedly ordered last year before the global economy took a nose-dive by product chief Tsuneo Tanai who observed a rise in oil and raw metal prices. Once the financial sector hit rock bottom, the Civic emerged as a strong player, out-selling the Ford F-Series pickup as the number one vehicle in the United States in May 2008. Not satisfied with sitting back and seeing how things shape up, though, Tanai ordered his engineers and designers to scrap their plans and redesign the next-gen Civic to be smaller, cheaper, lighter and more fuel efficient.

The move coincides with Honda's re-strategizing vis-a-vis hybrids and electric vehicles, not to mention the cancellation of its V8 and rear-drive programs. But despite having put more people on the job, the decision to restart the Civic's development halfway through the process is sure to be a major setback for the company's lifecycle schedule. And not just for the Civic itself, but also for vehicles that share its platform, including the CR-V crossover, the Element sport-utility-box, the JDM Stream and European-market FR-V minivans, to say nothing of the upcoming CR-Z, Acura RDX, and of course the all-important Canadian-market Acura CSX.


Gallery: 2009 Honda Civic


[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

REPORT: Honda goes back to drawing board for smaller, lighter next-gen Civic originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 16:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acura csxacura rdxAcuraCsxAcuraRdxcivichondahonda civichonda cr-vhonda cr-zhonda crvhonda crzhonda elementhonda fr-vhonda frvhonda streamHondaCivicHondaCr-vHondaCr-zHondaCrvHondaCrzHondaElementHondaFr-vHondaFrvHondaStreamMon, 26 Oct 2009 16:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Honda adds 440,000 more cars to airbag fragment recall]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/03/honda-adds-440-000-more-cars-to-airbag-fragment-recall/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/03/honda-adds-440-000-more-cars-to-airbag-fragment-recall/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/03/honda-adds-440-000-more-cars-to-airbag-fragment-recall/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2001 Honda Accord - click above for high-res gallery

Honda began a recall campaign last November to repair overpressurized airbag inflators in 2001 Honda Civics and Accords. The excessive pressurization could cause the metal inflator casing to explode on the driver's side, potentially resulting in fragments that would pierce the airbag material and injure drivers.

That recall has now been expanded with the addition of 440,000 cars that include the 2002-2003 Acura TL. Honda says affected owners will receive a recall notice in the mail, or you can check your car's recall status on Honda and Acura's sites. Barring that, you can get all of the information in the press release after the jump or check out our galleries of the 2001 Accord and Civic models below.

Gallery: 2001 Honda Accord


Gallery: 2001 Honda Civic

Continue reading Honda adds 440,000 more cars to airbag fragment recall

Honda adds 440,000 more cars to airbag fragment recall originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Aug 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accordacuraacura tlAcuraTlcivichondahonda accordhonda civicHondaAccordHondaCivicnhtsarecallsafetytlMon, 03 Aug 2009 08:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Mugen Civic Type R hatchback restores former glory [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/20/mugen-civic-type-r-hatchback-restores-former-glory/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/20/mugen-civic-type-r-hatchback-restores-former-glory/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/20/mugen-civic-type-r-hatchback-restores-former-glory/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Mugen Honda Civic Type-R hatch - Click above for high-res image gallery

Honda's Euro-market Civic Type R hatchback has been called out for being a successor that hasn't exactly succeeded. Seems a bit of the thrill is gone from the new car compared to the old one. Enter tuning firm Mugen, whose modifications to the Type R hatch should make it even better than it once was.

Not much is known about the changes in store. However, based on changes made for Mugen's Japan-spec Civic Type RR 4-door sedan, these pictures, and the fact that this car might take on the Renault R26.R, you can expect much: upgraded suspension and 18-inch wheels, giant front splitter and rear wing, huge exhaust, and a powerplant putting out 237 bhp and 160 lb-ft.

If the pictures don't lie, however, it looks like the bigger Brembo brakes might not appear, and the back seats will remain in place. You can check out the details for yourself in the high-res gallery below. Thanks to Ryan for the video


Gallery: Mugen Civic Type R Hatch


[Source: 4 Wheels News]

Continue reading Mugen Civic Type R hatchback restores former glory [w/VIDEO]

Mugen Civic Type R hatchback restores former glory [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 20 Jun 2009 16:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civiccivic type rcivic type r hatchCivicTypeRCivicTypeRHatchhatchbackhondahonda civicHondaCivicmugenmugen civic type rmugen civic type r hatchmugen civic type rrMugenCivicTypeRMugenCivicTypeRHatchMugenCivicTypeRrtunersvideoSat, 20 Jun 2009 16:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Honda cuts production and pay in North America]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/01/honda-cuts-production-and-pay-in-north-america/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/01/honda-cuts-production-and-pay-in-north-america/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/01/honda-cuts-production-and-pay-in-north-america/#commentsFiled under: ,

The struggles of GM and Chrysler have been making headlines, but the entire industry has been hit with a near catastrophic decline in new car sales. That includes the once indefatigable Honda, with 2009 sales so far down more than 30% versus the first two months of 2008. In the wake of those sobering sales statistics, Honda is looking to cut pay and production in North America.

Automotive News is reporting that Honda will cut production by 62,000 units during the company's fiscal first quarter. The reductions will be achieved by shuttering plants for 13 days starting in May. Honda has traditionally paid its hourly workers even when plants were down, but this time workers won't be compensated for six of the days.

Honda will also cut salary and hourly pay in 2009, and reduce or eliminate bonuses. Honda also took the extraordinary step of offering buyouts to many of its 32,400 workers in the US and Canada. The auto industry is officially in the tank when Honda starts cutting production and pay, while simultaneously offering buyouts to most of its workforce.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Honda cuts production and pay in North America originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Apr 2009 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accordcivichondahonda north america production cutHondaNorthAmericaProductionCutWed, 01 Apr 2009 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Honda unveils 2009 Tokyo Auto Salon lineup]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/07/honda-unveils-2009-tokyo-auto-salon-lineup/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/07/honda-unveils-2009-tokyo-auto-salon-lineup/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/07/honda-unveils-2009-tokyo-auto-salon-lineup/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Sports Modulo S2000 Concept
Click above for a hi-res gallery of the Sports Modulo S2000 Concept and friends

Detroit's not the only auto show kicking off on January 11. The annual Tokyo Auto Salon (think "Japanese SEMA") also kicks off this Sunday, and Honda has announced the vehicle lineup it'll display at Makuhari Messe. The two headliners are the Sports Modulo S2000 and Fit concepts. The former is a somewhat ghastly take on Honda's two-seat sports car, with a face that belongs in an aquarium and side cladding straight from a '90s Pontiac stylist's wildest fantasies. Inside, the Sports Modulo S2000 Concept is actually very nice, with swanky brown leather adorning a variety of surfaces. It still doesn't atone for that clock-stoppingly ugly body kit, though. Read on for some brief commentary on a pair of other concepts headed to the show, and check out the gallery below for the complete model rundown.

Gallery: Honda at Tokyo Auto Salon 2009

Sports Modulo S2000 ConceptSports Modulo S2000 ConceptSports Modulo Fit ConceptSports Modulo Fit ConceptHonda Life Style Study

Continue reading Honda unveils 2009 Tokyo Auto Salon lineup

Honda unveils 2009 Tokyo Auto Salon lineup originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 tokyo auto salon2009TokyoAutoSalonaccordciviccrossroadfithondalifemoduloodysseys2000sparksports moduloSportsModulotokyo auto salonTokyoAutoSalontouring moduloTouringModulotype rTypeRzestWed, 07 Jan 2009 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Next Euro Civic will look like Scirocco?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/21/rendered-speculation-next-euro-civic-will-look-like-scirocco/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/21/rendered-speculation-next-euro-civic-will-look-like-scirocco/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/21/rendered-speculation-next-euro-civic-will-look-like-scirocco/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Keeping track of who's cribbing whose automotive designs is about to get even more difficult once Honda brings its new Euro Civic to market. If this rendering from Auto Express is to be believed, the new hatch is a certifiable stunner. That is due in large part to the fact it looks almost exactly like another stunner: the new Volkswagen Scirocco. Swap out the grille and the rear lights, and that Honda is... practically a VW.

The OSM concept at the British Auto Show was the appetizer for the next Euro Civic's looks -- there was simply more distance between it and That Other Hatch since the OSM had no top. Under the hood, though, Honda has vastly different plans: rumors include a 1.5-liter hybrid with 150 hp and a 2.0-liter for the Type R that could be assisted by an electric motor

The 2-door hatch will be a different proposition than the 4-door and aimed at a different buyer just like the current models in Europe. Not that it will make a difference to American buyers, because just like the car it (kind of) plays doppelganger to, the Civic hatch isn't coming to the U.S. Thanks for the tip, Colin!

[Source: Auto Express]

Rendered Speculation: Next Euro Civic will look like Scirocco? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Aug 2008 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civiccivic hatchcivic hatchbackCivicHatchCivicHatchbackeuro civicEuroCivichondahonda civichonda euro civicHondaCivicHondaEuroCivicThu, 21 Aug 2008 11:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Facelifted 2009 Honda Civic sedan gets scantastic reveal]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/17/facelifted-2009-honda-civic-sedan-gets-scantastic-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/17/facelifted-2009-honda-civic-sedan-gets-scantastic-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/17/facelifted-2009-honda-civic-sedan-gets-scantastic-reveal/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above for two sets of '09 Civic Sedan brochure scans

Honda hasn't released official shots of the mildly facelifted 2009 Civic sedan yet, but it has started sending brochures to dealers. You know how this works: brochure > scanner > web > you, so here it is. Up front, the grille is reshaped to align Civic with its Honda brethren and the lower fascia gets a more aggressive three-opening treatment that lets the foglamps be pushed farther outboard. In back, the taillamps retain their shape, but the reverse light detailing is updated. Some models (from what we can see) now also get a trunklid chrome strip. Look for some new wheel designs sprinkled throughout, as well as two new trim levels -- the DX-VP (Value Package) and LX-S (Sport appearance package). Given that people are flocking to more economical cars, those additional offerings in the lineup certainly shouldn't hurt. We expect to see 4-door's front-end changes make their way onto the Civic coupe as well. We're sure scans and photos of that will appear soon enough, with official images and details from Honda sure to follow in short order. Thanks to asndragon for the tip!

[Source: 8thCivic]

Facelifted 2009 Honda Civic sedan gets scantastic reveal originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 17 Aug 2008 08:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20092009 honda civic2009HondaCivicbreakingcivicdxdx-vpfacelifthondahybridlxlx-ssiSun, 17 Aug 2008 08:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Skunk2 project EP3 Honda CivicRR up for sale]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/02/skunk2-project-ep3-honda-civicrr-up-for-sale/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/02/skunk2-project-ep3-honda-civicrr-up-for-sale/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/02/skunk2-project-ep3-honda-civicrr-up-for-sale/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click the picture above for a high-res view.

Aftermarket parts manufacturer Skunk2 has been churning out go-fast bits for Hondas since the mid 1990s. Initially named Skunkworks, the company's extensive racing efforts and an R&D facility only found in the dreams of most engineers have rocketed it to the forefront of today's sport compact market. Skunk2 is ready to move into the future and is seeking to offload its project EP3 Honda Civic RR in order to make room for something new. Built to show that the Japanese tuners could be beaten at their own game, and loaded with every possible item in the Skunk2 catalog, the ride carries an asking price of $17,000.

The project exclusively uses U.S. domestic market parts. The motor, built with Wiseco pistons, forged Cunningham rods and various Skunk2 components, churns out 254 hp and 190 ft-lbs of torque at the wheels. For the most part, the mods are limited to the performance and interior upgrades, though a few Civic Type R body trim pieces (technically UKDM) and lightweight Volk wheels (apparently domestic distribution counts as USDM) also find their way onto the car. No gaudy shopping cart rear wings or excessively louvered hoods for this rice burner. Check out the gallery for more EP3 images.

Gallery: Skunk2 EP3 Honda Civic RR


[Source: Skunk2]

Skunk2 project EP3 Honda CivicRR up for sale originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 02 Aug 2008 13:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CivicEP3Honda CivicHondaCivicSkunk2Sat, 02 Aug 2008 13:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota may build more Camrys at truck plant]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/08/toyota-may-build-more-camrys-at-truck-plant/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/08/toyota-may-build-more-camrys-at-truck-plant/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/08/toyota-may-build-more-camrys-at-truck-plant/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Automotive times are a-changin, as fuel-efficient cars are now outselling trucks by a wide margin. Toyota's flexible manufacturing capabilities allow it to adjust to these crazy times, and the Japanese automaker is discussing a plan to build still more Camrys at its Indiana truck plant. The Princeton plant is only running two shifts right now, and its trucks and SUVs are suffering just as much as similar offerings coming out of Detroit. That makes the plant a great fit for the Camry, which sold an astonishing 51,291 units last month. Honda has already decided to increase production of the Civic, which was the top-selling vehicle in the US last month with over 53,000 units leaving the showroom floor.

[Source: Auto News (subs req'd)]

Toyota may build more Camrys at truck plant originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 08 Jun 2008 13:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CivicCorollaGas pricesGasPricesPrinceton IndianaPrincetonIndianaToyota CamryToyotaCamrySun, 08 Jun 2008 13:54:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Mismatched much? Challenger SRT8 vs. Civic Si]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/30/video-mismatched-much-challenger-srt8-vs-civic-si/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/30/video-mismatched-much-challenger-srt8-vs-civic-si/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/30/video-mismatched-much-challenger-srt8-vs-civic-si/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



We've driven the Honda Civic Si, and have found it to be an entertaining vehicle to attack some twisties. A drag racer, though, it is most assuredly not. Sure, offering just shy of two-hundred horsepower from such a small engine is impressive, but the distinct lack of torque and the stratospheric rev-ceiling required to extract those ponies will surely limit the straight-line drag numbers. The new Dodge Challenger SRT8, on the other hand, does not require high-rev shenanigans in order to scorch the 1320, and this point is proven in the video posted after the break. Although only covering an eighth mile, the Challenger has no problem keeping the Si at bay. We're not knocking the Si, as this type of activity is clearly not its proper playground, but listen closely when playing the video and you'll hear that the Challenger's pilot was toying with the Civic driver. It's not until the last few hundred feet that the Hemi driver dips into the throttle, leading to a few chuckles from the crowd.

[Source: Youtube via Jalopnik]

Continue reading VIDEO: Mismatched much? Challenger SRT8 vs. Civic Si

VIDEO: Mismatched much? Challenger SRT8 vs. Civic Si originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 May 2008 18:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>challenger drag racechallenger srt8challenger-drage-raceChallengerDragRaceChallengerSrt8civiccivic sicivic si drag racecivic-sicivic-si-drag-racecivicsiCivicSiDragRacedrag race videodrag-race-videoDragRaceVideoFri, 30 May 2008 18:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Honda shuffles production so it can make more Civics]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/29/honda-shuffles-production-so-it-can-make-more-civics/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/29/honda-shuffles-production-so-it-can-make-more-civics/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/29/honda-shuffles-production-so-it-can-make-more-civics/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

As domestic automobile manufacturers cut production and lay off workers because they were caught off-guard when consumer buying habits switched to more fuel-efficient vehicles, Honda will effortlessly shuffle its production to meet U.S. demand for small cars. Without cutting any jobs in North America, Honda will move assembly of the Honda Pilot SUV and Honda Ridgeline pickup from Alliston, Ontario, to Lincoln, Alabama. This move will allow the Japanese automaker to increase production of the fuel-efficient Honda Civic in its Canadian plant. Later this year, Honda is expected to add another 2,000 jobs as it begins to build Civics in Indiana, as well. That plant will be Honda's seventh in North America. Honda has sold 34,163 units of the Civic in North America through April of this year, which is 8.2% more Civics sold on average per day than in 2007. For comparison's sake, Toyota has sold 32,435 Corollas, Ford has sold 23,850 Foci and Chevy has sold 18,636 Cobalts so far this year.

[Source: The Detroit News]

Honda shuffles production so it can make more Civics originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 May 2008 15:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AlabamaAllistonCanadaCivicHondaIndianaLincolnOntarioPilotProductionRidgelineThu, 29 May 2008 15:25:00 EST<![CDATA[In the Autoblog Garage: 2008 Honda Civic Si sedan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/26/in-the-autoblog-garage-2008-honda-civic-si-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/26/in-the-autoblog-garage-2008-honda-civic-si-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/26/in-the-autoblog-garage-2008-honda-civic-si-sedan/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Honda Civic Si sedan.

We've avoided glossy-eyed retrospectives of 2007, but if you were in the market for a practical, affordable and entertaining ride in the last year, there were a handful of vehicles to be had for under $25 large. The Mazdaspeed3, R56 MINI Cooper S and VW GTI have set the fun-to-drive quotient relatively high, but one vehicle that's been left out of the Autoblog Garage is the Honda Civic Si. While the coupe has garnered its fair share of praise, we understand that your average Joe and Jane have people and stuff to schlep; thankfully, so does Honda. So with little fanfare last year, it released the Civic Si Sedan to the masses and in the process created yet another entertaining steer for those of us unable or unwilling to break the $30,000 ceiling.

Gallery: Autoblog Garage: 2008 Honda Civic Si



All photos Copyright (C)2008 Damon Lavrinc / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading In the Autoblog Garage: 2008 Honda Civic Si sedan

In the Autoblog Garage: 2008 Honda Civic Si sedan originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Mar 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20082008 honda civic si2008 honda civic si review2008 honda civic si sedan2008 honda civic si sedan test drive2008HondaCivicSi2008HondaCivicSiReview2008HondaCivicSiSedan2008HondaCivicSiSedanTestDrivecivicfeaturedhondahonda civic sihonda civic si reviewhonda civic si road testhonda civic si sedanhonda civic si sedan reviewhonda civic si sedan road testhonda civic si sedan roadtesthonda civic si sedan testHondaCivicSiHondaCivicSiReviewHondaCivicSiRoadTestHondaCivicSiSedanHondaCivicSiSedanReviewHondaCivicSiSedanRoadTestHondaCivicSiSedanTestsedansiWed, 26 Mar 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Those teens that do get their license prefer Mustang]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/29/those-teens-that-do-get-their-license-prefer-mustang/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/29/those-teens-that-do-get-their-license-prefer-mustang/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/29/those-teens-that-do-get-their-license-prefer-mustang/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Research International USA's TRU branch has polled the youth of our country and discovered that they'd like a fun, stylish car more than anything (duh) -- namely the Mustang. Twenty-somethings posed the same question picked the Honda Civic above all else, mainly because they've had a dose of reality, and are now paying their own insurance and fuel.

So what exactly does this study say? As you mature, your experience leads to more practical decision making, perhaps? That there's a whole subset of spoiled brat high schoolers who have their insurance and fuel paid for and also expect that being handed the keys to a 3,500 pound wheeled liability is a birthright? Probably a bit of both, we suppose, but the fact remains that the Mustang is a flashy, fun car that even non-car people could point out in a crowd and undoubtedly has decent youth appeal.

The rest of the teens choices weren't earth shattering. Besides the Mustang, the cars that young drivers most desire are posted below the fold.

[Source: KickingTires]

Continue reading Those teens that do get their license prefer Mustang

Those teens that do get their license prefer Mustang originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Feb 2008 19:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20civicdesireabledriversfunmustangteenteenagerstwentyFri, 29 Feb 2008 19:32:00 EST<![CDATA[2008 Tokyo Auto Salon: Mugen Type-RR Experimental Spec]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/17/2008-tokyo-auto-salon-mugen-type-rr-experimental-spec/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/17/2008-tokyo-auto-salon-mugen-type-rr-experimental-spec/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/17/2008-tokyo-auto-salon-mugen-type-rr-experimental-spec/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click the image above for a high-res gallery.

One of the other concepts that graced Mugen's stand in Japan at the recent Tokyo Auto Salon was the Civic Type-RR, which in addition to the obvious replacement of the entire front clip with carbon fiber pieces, also includes a K20A engine that's been bored out to 2157 cc to create a more tractable powerband and an even higher redline. 260 horsepower and 173 lb.-ft. of torque is sent to the six-speed gearbox and down to the front wheels through a LSD. Naturally, the brakes and suspension have been upgraded to handle the extra grunt, while carbon fiber was used inside to beef up the structure. Mugen also added a system dubbed I-TCMS, or Intellligent Tire Condition Monitoring, which keeps tabs on the tire's air pressure and temperature. The dash mounted instrument cluster might be a big impediment to forward visibility, but we're sure it's nothing compared to the price.

[Sources: LeBlogAuto, Nihon Car]

Gallery: Mugen Honda Civic Type-RR Experimental Spec

2008 Tokyo Auto Salon: Mugen Type-RR Experimental Spec originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Jan 2008 17:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20082008 tokyo auto salon mugen2008TokyoAutoSalonMugencivicexperimental specExperimentalSpechondamugenmugen civic type-rrmugen civic type-rr experimental sepcmugen honda civic type-rrMugenCivicType-rrMugenCivicType-rrExperimentalSepcMugenHondaCivicType-rrtastokyo auto salonTokyoAutoSalontype-rrThu, 17 Jan 2008 17:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Tokyo Auto Salon '08: Honda Sports Modulo Civic Type-R]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/28/tokyo-auto-salon-08-honda-sports-modulo-civic-type-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/28/tokyo-auto-salon-08-honda-sports-modulo-civic-type-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/28/tokyo-auto-salon-08-honda-sports-modulo-civic-type-r/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

UPDATE: New images added to the gallery.

click above for more high-res images of the Honda Sports Modulo Civic Type-R

Honda is bringing a trifecta of tricked-out, Modulo-fettled concepts to the Tokyo Auto Salon, and this Civic Type-R takes the track-ready nature of the base model to the next level.

The concept is fitted with 19-inch Modulo wheels wrapped in 225/35 R19 R-compound tires and a revised suspension, along with a new front fascia, rear bumper, side skirts and wing. The checkered livery speaks to its track-friendly nature, but the inside of the Civic Type-R is what gains the most attention. Honda replaced several interior panels with carbon fiber components and fitted custom Recaro seats, a new dash display and an F1-inspired steering wheel with integrated shift lights. It's function following form with a perfect blend of track-ready gear and street-legal mods. We likey.

[Source: Honda, Carview]

Gallery: Honda Sports Modulo Civic Type-R

Tokyo Auto Salon '08: Honda Sports Modulo Civic Type-R originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Dec 2007 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civicconcepthondamodulotokyo motor showTokyoMotorShowtype-rFri, 28 Dec 2007 13:25:00 EST<![CDATA[0-300 in 10 minutes: Honda Civic Mugen RR a sellout in Japan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/18/0-300-in-10-minutes-honda-civic-mugen-rr-a-sellout-in-japan/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/18/0-300-in-10-minutes-honda-civic-mugen-rr-a-sellout-in-japan/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/18/0-300-in-10-minutes-honda-civic-mugen-rr-a-sellout-in-japan/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Honda Civic MUGEN RR
Click image for photo gallery

The Honda Civic Mugen RR (based on the new JDM Honda Civic Type R) is limited to a total production run of 300 cars. Japanese track fiends with ¥4.7million to spend on a spiffy, street-legal time attack weapon are its target audience -- and a receptive one at that. On September 14th at 9:00 AM local time in Japan, reservations for Mugen's ultimate Type R officially began being taken. By 9:10 AM, according to the Japanese enthusiast site, Carview, the 300th reservation was placed. However you want to parse the numbers (we're sure additional reservations were taken, in case some prospective buyers bail out), one thing's certain: all 300 cars are spoken for well in advance of the expected January delivery date.

Those lucky enough to secure the Mugen RR receive a lighter, more powerful and track-tuned Civic Type R that in the right hands is capable of lapping Japan's Tsukuba circuit in 1:06:38. At least that's what the folks at Mugen were able to wring out of it. We're sure some of the car's buyers will be looking to top that number as soon as they have a chance. With this thing, life is a driving game, and Time Attack mode is always on.

[Source: Carview]

Gallery: Honda Civic Mugen RR (JDM)

0-300 in 10 minutes: Honda Civic Mugen RR a sellout in Japan originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Sep 2007 18:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civichondahonda civichonda civic mugenhonda civic mugen rrhonda civic type rHondaCivicHondaCivicMugenHondaCivicMugenRrHondaCivicTypeRjdmmugenmugen rrMugenRrrrtype rTypeRTue, 18 Sep 2007 18:54:00 EST<![CDATA[One-make race version of Civic Type-R available (in Japan)]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/16/one-make-race-version-of-civic-type-r-available-in-japan/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/16/one-make-race-version-of-civic-type-r-available-in-japan/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/16/one-make-race-version-of-civic-type-r-available-in-japan/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Japan has its fair share of one-make race series. For well under $20,000 you can buy a stripped out Vitz (Yaris) from Toyota, a March (Micra) from Nissan, a Swift (Ignis) from Suzuki or a Roadster (MX-5, Miata, whatever...) from Mazda specifically prepared to do battle with identical machinery six or so times a year around Tsukuba, Fuji and Suzuka. But the undisputed leading feeder race into Japanese formula racing is Honda's Type R series.

Wannabe Honda F1 drivers have been contesting Integras for the past seven years, but next year's championship sees a return of the Civic Type R to Japan's tracks. The race going version sports the standard R's 225PS KA20 motor and six speed 'box, but has no need for the road-going car's helical LSD, aircon, seats, interior trim, underseal and expensive HID lights, which knocks off not only several kilos its curb weight, but a whopping 40% off the road car's sticker price, bringing it under $15,000 at 1,690,500Yen.

Pity that the entry fee, roll cage, racing seat and harness plus a season's worth of tires and parts will come to at least as much again.

One-make race version of Civic Type-R available (in Japan) originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 16 Sep 2007 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civichondaone make raceOneMakeRacetype rTypeRSun, 16 Sep 2007 16:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Eye Candy: Honda releases more pics of the Civic Mugen Si]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/03/eye-candy-honda-releases-more-pics-of-the-civic-mugen-si/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/03/eye-candy-honda-releases-more-pics-of-the-civic-mugen-si/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/03/eye-candy-honda-releases-more-pics-of-the-civic-mugen-si/#commentsFiled under: , ,


click above image for a new high-res gallery of the Civic Mugen Si

The Honda Civic Mugen Si is the first real factory Mugen vehicle to be offered in the United States. When Honda pulled the wraps off the production car last month, all we saw were a few static studio images. That's been remedied, as the automaker has unleashed a mess 'o new shots, showing the trick, tuned Civic Si carving up a track. Limited to 1,000 units, the Mugen Si gets a more aggressive suspension tune, the body kit shown, and lighter wheels. Power is the same as the standard Civic Si, but we have a feeling the Mugen will hustle around the track in less time. It goes on sale this fall. All the new photos have been added to the gallery below. Enjoy.

[Source: Honda]

Gallery: 2008 Honda Civic MUGEN Si

Eye Candy: Honda releases more pics of the Civic Mugen Si originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Aug 2007 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingciviccivic mugen sicivic siCivicMugenSiCivicSimugenFri, 03 Aug 2007 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[By Jove, they've done it! Honda adds a few more MPGs to Canadian Fit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/24/by-jove-theyve-done-it-honda-adds-a-few-more-mpgs-to-canadian/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/24/by-jove-theyve-done-it-honda-adds-a-few-more-mpgs-to-canadian/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/24/by-jove-theyve-done-it-honda-adds-a-few-more-mpgs-to-canadian/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Autoblog regulars will remember the ongoing feud between Honda Canada and the Canadian government. The conflict centers around Ottawa's new budget that contains the ecoAuto program, which offers between $1,000 and $2,500 rebates on certain fuel efficient vehicles and up to a $4,000 penalty on gas guzzlers. The Honda Fit, which is very popular in Canada, missed the cutoff for being eligible for a rebate because it consumes 6.6L of fuel every 100 kilometers, just one tenth of a liter more than the federal criteria for the rebate. The Civic misses the mark, however, by one-third to a half liter every 100 kilometers.

Honda threw a fit at what it saw as a federal endorsement of fuel economy over safety, as well as the unfair advantage it gave to competitors like the Toyota Yaris, which did qualify for the rebate but performed less well in crash tests. Honda even went so far as to offer its own $1,000 rebate on the Fit in protest.

In the meantime, Honda engineers have been going over the Fit to eek out a few more miles per gallon, and they've done it on the Fit equipped with a manual transmission. While confirming that they did not reduce the vehicles weight by deleting safety options to achieve the fuel savings, Honda was mum on exactly how it was achieved except to say "internal tinkering" was involved.

Unfortunately, it doesn't look they'll be able to perform the same miracle with the Fit that's equipped with an automatic, though in Canada the manual Fit sells more anyway. The Civic, which is less fuel-efficient than either Fit, has pretty much no hope of ever meeting the governments criteria for the rebate.

Thanks for the tip, Steve!

[Source: The Star]

By Jove, they've done it! Honda adds a few more MPGs to Canadian Fit originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Jul 2007 16:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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