Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Honda could halve its US lineup without crimping its sales much [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/honda-could-halve-its-us-lineup-without-crimping-its-sales-much/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/honda-could-halve-its-us-lineup-without-crimping-its-sales-much/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/honda-could-halve-its-us-lineup-without-crimping-its-sales-much/#commentsFiled under: ,



Taking a detailed look at the Honda lineup in the US, it isn't hard to see the strength of some models and the weaknesses of others. A recent report on Autoline Daily points out that its five core models - the Accord, Civic, CR-V, Odyssey and Pilot - make up a full 93 percent of Honda's sales in the US. Through April, Honda has sold 419,798 vehicles, and 389,474 of them were from these core models; not to mention the fact that the Accord was the top-selling car in the US last month.

This means that Honda could technically cut six of its 11 models and only lose about 5,000 sales per month. Of course, this is just some data crunching and there is no reason to believe that Honda is planning to kill off any of its models in the near future. In fact, it seems to be committed to the Ridgeline, while Japanese-made models that may actually lose money for Honda still fill unique voids. Scroll down for the video report - fast-forward to the 1:43 mark for the Honda info.

Continue reading Honda could halve its US lineup without crimping its sales much [w/video]

Honda could halve its US lineup without crimping its sales much [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 18 May 2013 15:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hondahonda accordhonda civichonda cr-vhonda cr-zhonda crosstourhonda fcx clarityhonda fithonda insighthonda odysseyhonda pilothonda ridgelinehonda salesSat, 18 May 2013 15:13:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20574189/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/18/honda-could-halve-its-us-lineup-without-crimping-its-sales-much/20574189/article-detail.xml 20574189 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/hondacrz2011---01opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/hondacrz2011---01opt.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Honda Fit Sport]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/2013-honda-fit-sport-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/2013-honda-fit-sport-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/2013-honda-fit-sport-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Revisiting The Runabout Of Record

2013 Honda Fit Sport

The current Honda Fit has been around the block a few times. The subcompact hatch has soldiered on without significant revision since its first update for US customers in 2009, and while Honda is on the verge of launching a third generation, we thought we'd take the time to see how the runabout stacks up against the new wave of small, efficient and plucky five-doors now on the American market. Those include old standbys like the Nissan Versa and Toyota Yaris, as well as relative newcomers like the Chevrolet Sonic and Ford Fiesta.

Those machines may have all covered ground on the Fit, but Honda's wee machine holds a pleasant surprise for those buyers still willing to give the car the time of day. While the rest of the Japanese automaker's lineup has succumbed to dreaded model bloat, the Fit has remained true to the spirit of Honda that we remember from our vagabond youths. This may very well still be the closest genetic ancestor to the Civic models of old.

Outside, the Fit Sport continues to wear its "I'm the meanest June Bug" looks with pride. The oversized, wedge-shaped headlamps and aggressive lower fascia help lend the design plenty of attitude up front, and our tester's 16-inch alloy wheels keep this Honda from looking like it was the cheapest thing on the lot. Still, with a massive windscreen, tall greenhouse and short wheelbase, the Fit Sport can't help but look over-inflated, but that's a criticism we could levy at nearly every other product in this segment as well.

Continue reading 2013 Honda Fit Sport

2013 Honda Fit Sport originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 honda fitfeaturedhondahonda fitreviewreviewsMon, 29 Apr 2013 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20550916/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/29/2013-honda-fit-sport-review/20550916/article-detail.xml 20550916 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-honda-fit-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-honda-fit-review.jpg <![CDATA[Honda recalls 2012-13 Fit Sport models over stability control issue]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/honda-recalls-2012-13-fit-sport-models-over-stability-control-is/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/honda-recalls-2012-13-fit-sport-models-over-stability-control-is/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/honda-recalls-2012-13-fit-sport-models-over-stability-control-is/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Honda is recalling 43,782 examples of the 2012 and 2013 Fit Sport in the US and close to 2,000 more in Canada. During federal compliance testing it was discovered that the software for the Vehicle Stability Assist allows an excessive tilt angle before applying the brakes to prevent a crash. The issue only affects Fit Sports equipped with a certain kind of tire.

Honda will notify owners in mid-May, at which time owners can take their cars to dealers to have the stability control software updated free of charge. There's a press release from Honda below with more details.

Continue reading Honda recalls 2012-13 Fit Sport models over stability control issue

Honda recalls 2012-13 Fit Sport models over stability control issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 08:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hondahonda fithonda fit recallhonda fit sportNational Highway Traffic Safety Administrationnhtsarecallstability controlMon, 29 Apr 2013 08:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20550795/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/29/honda-recalls-2012-13-fit-sport-models-over-stability-control-is/20550795/article-detail.xml 20550795 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2012-honda-fit-sport_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2012-honda-fit-sport.jpg <![CDATA[Honda CEO expects Fit sales to increase fourfold to 200,000]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/08/honda-ceo-expects-fit-sales-to-increase-fourfold-to-200-000/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/08/honda-ceo-expects-fit-sales-to-increase-fourfold-to-200-000/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/08/honda-ceo-expects-fit-sales-to-increase-fourfold-to-200-000/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Honda Fit Sport - front three-quarter view, red

Automotive News reports Honda expects the popularity of its Fit subcompact to grow significantly over the next four years. President Takanobu Ito says he expects the model and its variations to sell around 200,000 units per year in North America by 2016. That's up from 64,177 units in 2011. The goal is part of a larger strategy to step up sales on this continent by 18 percent, and from the sounds of things, Ito expects the Fit to lead that charge. The tiny hatchback is slated for a redesign next year, and Honda will begin manufacturing the Fit in Mexico by 2014, which could help the automaker lower its MSRP or add content to attract more sales.

In addition, Honda has also made it clear buyers will be able to take home more bodystyles in the near future. While the automaker hasn't commented on exactly what that means, it has said we can expect to see a crossover spawned from the hatchback as well as a hybrid, but neither model has been publicly confirmed for North American consumption.

Honda CEO expects Fit sales to increase fourfold to 200,000 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Nov 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 honda fitfitfit hybridhondahonda fithonda fit productiontakanobu itoThu, 08 Nov 2012 10:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20373060/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/08/honda-ceo-expects-fit-sales-to-increase-fourfold-to-200-000/20373060/article-detail.xml 20373060 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2012-honda-fit-sport-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2012-honda-fit-sport-628.jpg <![CDATA[Honda delivers first Fit EV in California]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/23/honda-delivers-first-fit-ev-in-california/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/23/honda-delivers-first-fit-ev-in-california/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/23/honda-delivers-first-fit-ev-in-california/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Honda Fit EV First Customer

Honda has made good on its promise to deliver its first Fit EV, and that delivery took place in California on Friday. Matt and Becky Walton, of Ventura County, can now claim they have the first example of Honda's all-electric car, which costs $389 a month. The Waltons got the first Fit EV because they were the first ones to sign up for a lease at the car's website. They've owned at least four other Hondas, the automaker says, going back to the 1970s.

In a statement, Matt said, "It's truly an honor to take delivery of the first Honda Fit EV and participate in the advancement of all-electric vehicles in the real world," but he didn't mention the fact that Honda's "real-world" EV push is, in this case at least, available for a limited time only, and in limited areas. Leases start in California and Oregon now and will expand to the East Coast early next year.

The EPA rated the Fit EV at 118 MPGe and gives it an official range of 82 miles. The car's highly efficient energy consumption is 29 kWh per 100 miles. Read our First Drive review of the Fit EV here.

Continue reading Honda delivers first Fit EV in California

Honda delivers first Fit EV in California originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Jul 2012 18:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric honda fitelectric vehiclefitfit evhondahonda fithonda fit evMon, 23 Jul 2012 18:05:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20284100/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/23/honda-delivers-first-fit-ev-in-california/20284100/article-detail.xml 20284100 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/honda-fit-ev-first-customer-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/honda-fit-ev-first-customer-628.jpg <![CDATA[Honda may build CUV based on next Fit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/18/honda-may-build-cuv-based-on-next-fit/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/18/honda-may-build-cuv-based-on-next-fit/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/18/honda-may-build-cuv-based-on-next-fit/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Honda Fit Sport - Red - front three-quarter view

While some automakers are streamlining platforms and models globally, Honda is going the other way, with more locally developed variants of models. There is a new Honda Fit on the way for the 2013-2014 timeframe, says Automotive News, and Honda is reportedly hoping the platform will sell more than one million vehicles. Honda thinks the way to hit that volume is by basing a new crossover vehicle off the next-generation Fit.

Buyers in the U.S. and Eurpean markets have a substantial appetite for truckish anti-wagons, and Honda already manages to sell 800,000 Fit and Fit-based vehicles, including the eight-seat JDM Freed, but that's probably not what Honda means when talking about a small crossover. If a Fit-ute takes off, it will help Honda get a quicker return on its investment in a new plant in Mexico that's expected to open in 2014 and is already lined up to build the Fit hatch.

A smaller CR-V could be automotive hotcakes for Honda, though the Fit's 1.5-liter engine might need to hit the gym if it's going to keep pace.

Honda may build CUV based on next Fit originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Jul 2012 11:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 honda fitfithondahonda crossoverhonda fithonda fit crossoverWed, 18 Jul 2012 11:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20280398/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/18/honda-may-build-cuv-based-on-next-fit/20280398/article-detail.xml 20280398 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/honda-fit-sport-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/honda-fit-sport-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Honda Fit EV [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/29/2013-honda-fit-ev-first-drive-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/29/2013-honda-fit-ev-first-drive-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/29/2013-honda-fit-ev-first-drive-review-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Reminding Us That EVs Are Becoming Less Of A Compromise

2013 Honda Fit EV - front three-quarter view, static

The 2013 Honda Fit EV, the Japanese automaker's highly anticipated answer to the Nissan Leaf, is quick, agile and actually quite fun to drive. Its cabin is roomy, outward visibility good and its styling is anything but odd. The platform is impressively safe, it has decent range and Honda says it is the most efficient vehicle the EPA has ever tested.

So, what's the problem? Let's call it a lack of volume.

Honda is only releasing 1,100 of these little blue hatchbacks over the next two model years in the States, and all of them will be delivered on contracted three-year leases. Making matters more frustrating for those who want to forget about internal combustion, only California and Oregon are in the launch plans with five other preselected East Coast markets opening shortly thereafter.

Statistically speaking, the Honda Fit EV will initially be scarcer than a Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 (the Italians are estimating a production run of approximately 4,000 worldwide). But thankfully, Honda brought a handful of pre-production Fit EVs to Southern California and offered us a drive. We ran acceleration tests, dodged cones on a slalom course and then did some real-world driving. Dwelling on its pending shortage, it was almost frustrating that we enjoyed ourselves so much.

Continue reading 2013 Honda Fit EV [w/video]

2013 Honda Fit EV [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Jun 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 honda fit2013 honda fit evelectric vehicleevfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivefitfit electric vehiclefit evfit ev first drivefit ev reviewhondahonda fithonda fit evFri, 29 Jun 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20268725/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/29/2013-honda-fit-ev-first-drive-review-video/20268725/article-detail.xml 20268725 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/2013-honda-fit-ev-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/2013-honda-fit-ev-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Honda "losing money" on Japan-built cars like Fit, CR-Z and Insight]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/11/honda-losing-money-on-japan-built-cars-like-fit-cr-z-and-insi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/11/honda-losing-money-on-japan-built-cars-like-fit-cr-z-and-insi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/11/honda-losing-money-on-japan-built-cars-like-fit-cr-z-and-insi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2012 Honda Fit Sport - red - front three-quarter static view

Automotive News reports Honda is currently limiting shipments of models like the Fit, CR-Z and Insight due to Japan's strong yen. The automaker admits it is currently losing money on every Japanese-built model it sells in the U.S. with the exchange rate currently at 80 yen per dollar. Honda is currently working to move more production to North America and source more components from this side of the Pacific, though such a shift will take time. In the interim, the manufacturer is carefully allocating Japanese-manufactured models. Honda says it has no intention to cut off Fit, CR-Z or Insight shipments altogether.

Honda builds around 85 percent of the vehicles it sells in North America on the continent, which is significantly more than companies like Nissan or Toyota. Even so, this marks the first time Honda has gone on the record as saying importing cars from Japan costs more money than it makes.

So, why sell these models at all? Automotive News reports Honda needs the vehicles to keep segments covered and to keep its customers coming back to showrooms.

Honda "losing money" on Japan-built cars like Fit, CR-Z and Insight originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Jun 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 honda cr-z2012 honda fit2012 honda insightcr-zdollar yenexchange ratefithondahonda cr-zhonda fitinsightjapanlossyen dollarMon, 11 Jun 2012 15:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20256023/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/11/honda-losing-money-on-japan-built-cars-like-fit-cr-z-and-insi/20256023/article-detail.xml 20256023 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/2013-honda-fit-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/2013-honda-fit-628.jpg <![CDATA[Flood-stricken Thai Honda plant comes back online after six months [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/27/flood-stricken-thai-honda-plant-comes-back-online-after-six-mont/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/27/flood-stricken-thai-honda-plant-comes-back-online-after-six-mont/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/27/flood-stricken-thai-honda-plant-comes-back-online-after-six-mont/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Honda vehicles flooded in Thailand

It's been six months since extensive flooding put a strangle hold on manufacturing in Thailand. Now, Reuters reports that Honda has finally resumed production at its Ayutthaya plant. All told, the disaster is said to have cost the company the production of around 260,000 vehicles worldwide for the fiscal year that ended last month.

While a rash of parts suppliers and other manufacturers were forced to shut down during the flooding, Honda was arguably hit the worst. According to Reuters, Toyota and Nissan were able to adjust production to include suppliers from other countries, but Honda was stuck with a fully flooded facility.

The Ayutthaya plant builds the Honda Fit for the Asian and Australian markets. After the flood waters receded in October, Honda vowed not to use any parts or sell any vehicles damaged by the disaster. As a result, hundreds of otherwise new vehicles were sent to scrap. Hit the jump to see video of the cars awaiting their destruction.

Continue reading Flood-stricken Thai Honda plant comes back online after six months [w/video]

Flood-stricken Thai Honda plant comes back online after six months [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ayutthayafloodhondahonda ayutthaya planthonda fithonda flood thailandthailandthailand floodingTue, 27 Mar 2012 13:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20201812/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/27/flood-stricken-thai-honda-plant-comes-back-online-after-six-mont/20201812/article-detail.xml 20201812 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/honda-vehicles-flooded-in-thailand-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/honda-vehicles-flooded-in-thailand-628.jpg <![CDATA[Kia Rio, Hyundai Accent and Chevy Sonic top <i>Consumer Reports</i> subcompact shootout]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/23/kia-rio-hyundai-accent-and-chevy-sonic-top-consumer-reports/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/23/kia-rio-hyundai-accent-and-chevy-sonic-top-consumer-reports/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/23/kia-rio-hyundai-accent-and-chevy-sonic-top-consumer-reports/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

2012 Kia Rio sedan

Consumer Reports has just wrapped up an evaluation of subcompact sedans, and the Kia Rio EX has rolled out ahead of the class. The four-door beat out its corporate clone, the Hyundai Accent and the Chevrolet Sonic to take the top spot. Evaluators pointed to the sharp handling and well-optioned interior in the Rio as reasons for the vehicle's win. The newly redesigned Nissan Versa and unloved Toyota Yaris filled out the top five sedans. And what of the baby hatchbacks? CR once again credited the Honda Fit as leader of the pack, followed closely by the Versa Hatchback and Rio Hatchback.

The organization found fault with the base Chevrolet Sonic's fuel economy, and found the turbocharged LTZ model to be too expensive. Evaluators also felt the Sonic Turbo "didn't live up to its sporty aspirations."

We'll politely agree to disagree on that one.

All of the vehicles in the evaluation are either too new or scored too low in CR evaluations to earn a coveted Recommended rating. Hit the jump for a look at the full press release and debate amongst yourselves in Comments.

Continue reading Kia Rio, Hyundai Accent and Chevy Sonic top Consumer Reports subcompact shootout

Kia Rio, Hyundai Accent and Chevy Sonic top Consumer Reports subcompact shootout originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Mar 2012 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accentchevroletchevrolet sonicconsumer reportscrfithondahonda fithyundaihyundai accentkiakia rionissannissan versariosonictoyotatoyota yarisversayarisFri, 23 Mar 2012 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20199653/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/23/kia-rio-hyundai-accent-and-chevy-sonic-top-consumer-reports/20199653/article-detail.xml 20199653 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/kia-rio-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/kia-rio-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mugen-powered Honda Jazz rally car looks Fit for the purpose]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/22/mugen-powered-honda-jazz-rally-car-looks-fit-for-the-purpose/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/22/mugen-powered-honda-jazz-rally-car-looks-fit-for-the-purpose/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/22/mugen-powered-honda-jazz-rally-car-looks-fit-for-the-purpose/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Mugen-powered Honda Jazz rally car

Honda took a Mugen-powered Jazz (better known as the the Fit here in the U.S.), sent it to Italy to be engineered for rallying by JAS of Milan, then flew it to Australia to be prepared for Oz's 2012 rally series. Honda's been competing in the series with Civic Type R racers for the last two years, but this year, it decided to press the Fit into service for G2 class spec.

Up front is a 245-horsepower Mugen powerplant with 142 pound-feet of torque. Honda says this "may well be the fastest Jazz in the world," and it will start challenging the six rounds of this year's championship in March with driver Eli Evans and co-driver Glen Weston. You can read about it in the press release and watch it kick up dirt in the video after the jump.

Continue reading Mugen-powered Honda Jazz rally car looks Fit for the purpose

Mugen-powered Honda Jazz rally car looks Fit for the purpose originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 honda fitaustralian rally championshipeli evansglen westonhonda fithonda jazzhonda rallyjasjazzmugenrally australiarally carvideoWed, 22 Feb 2012 14:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20175782/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/22/mugen-powered-honda-jazz-rally-car-looks-fit-for-the-purpose/20175782/article-detail.xml 20175782 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/hondajazzrallyoz_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/hondajazzrallyoz.jpg <![CDATA[Honda delivers first Fit EV to Torrance, CA]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/honda-delivers-first-fit-ev-to-city-of-torrance/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/honda-delivers-first-fit-ev-to-city-of-torrance/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/honda-delivers-first-fit-ev-to-city-of-torrance/#comments

Torrance, CA is going to the front of the line. Honda has delivered its first Fit EV to the city government Friday as part of an EV demonstration program that will include an unspecified number of the little electric vehicles in tests before the consumer launch in limited markets (read: California and Oregon) happens this summer. Torrance will also get a Honda plug-in hybrid in the future.

From the sound of Honda's language, it appears that Torrance - as well as Google Inc. and Stanford University, the other test partners - will only get one Fit EV. Honda's press release (available after the jump) says:

Each program participant will provide Honda with real-world feedback on the Fit EV. Individually, each participant will use the Fit EV to further initiatives such as research into human behavior and various usages like personal, fleet and car-sharing.

However many Fits are tested, what's more important is how real-world drivers will be able to make use of this car when it becomes available. With an expected lease price of $399 and a range of 123 miles in the city (76 miles city/highway combined) from a 20-kWh lithium-ion battery, the Fit does offer up some good numbers. Throw in a three-hour recharge time (from a 240V, Level 2 charger) and you've got a potential winner. In limited markets, anyway. Get more details on the Fit EV here.

Continue reading Honda delivers first Fit EV to Torrance, CA

Honda delivers first Fit EV to Torrance, CA originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 honda fit evelectric vehiclefitfit evhondahonda fithonda fit electrictorrancetorrance californiaTue, 24 Jan 2012 08:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20154915/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/24/honda-delivers-first-fit-ev-to-city-of-torrance/20154915/article-detail.xml 20154915 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/honda-fit-ev-torrance_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/honda-fit-ev-torrance.jpg <![CDATA[Honda Fit tops Japanese-dominated <i>Consumer Reports</i> best new car values]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/03/honda-fit-tops-japanese-dominated-consumer-reports-best-n/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/03/honda-fit-tops-japanese-dominated-consumer-reports-best-n/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/03/honda-fit-tops-japanese-dominated-consumer-reports-best-n/#commentsFiled under: ,

2012 Honda Fit

Looking for the best value in a new car? Better make it Japanese, according to Consumer Reports. The go-to buyer's guide has just finished compiling its list of the best values in the new-car market, and an overwhelming proportion of them hail from the Land of the Rising Sun.

CR took some 200 different vehicles into account, catalogued them into eleven categories and picked the best values based on the outcome of their own road tests, their reliability ratings and overall ownership costs (including depreciation) over a five-year term. The resulting 48 best values included 34 picks from Japanese automakers, six European, five American and three South Korean.

At the very top of the list sits the Honda Fit, which not only ranked as the best value in its category, but the best value overall. Consumer Reports concludes that, even discounting the Fit from your shopping list, the small car category still represents the best value no matter which model you choose. Case in point: The Chevrolet Cruze, which was ranked as the worst value in the small car category, still ranked above average overall. Follow the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Honda Fit tops Japanese-dominated Consumer Reports best new car values

Honda Fit tops Japanese-dominated Consumer Reports best new car values originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Jan 2012 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 honda fitbest valueconsumer reportsdepreciationfithondahonda fitownership costsvalueTue, 03 Jan 2012 16:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20139396/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/03/honda-fit-tops-japanese-dominated-consumer-reports-best-n/20139396/article-detail.xml 20139396 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/13-2012-honda-fit-sport_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/13-2012-honda-fit-sport.jpg <![CDATA[First Chinese car imported to North America built by... Honda?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/22/first-chinese-car-imported-to-north-america-built-by-honda/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/22/first-chinese-car-imported-to-north-america-built-by-honda/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/22/first-chinese-car-imported-to-north-america-built-by-honda/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2012 Honda Fit Sport

The very first production car from China has made it to North America, though it's not what you might think. In an effort to move more of its production out of Japan, Honda has begun manufacturing Fit models in the People's Republic and importing them to Canada. There's no indication that the vehicles will make their way to the U.S. in the future, however. While there are plenty of automakers who operate plants in China, only a fraction of the vehicles built there are made for export. Last year, only three percent were sent outside of the country's borders.

Honda and other Japanese manufacturers have begun investigating production facilities outside of the U.S. to combat the rising Yen, and Honda says that the company will begin producing Fit models in Mexico for U.S. customers soon. According to The New York Times, Honda may be reticent to test the American waters with a Chinese-built vehicle for fear of risking the company's reputation for quality and reliability. That's despite the fact that the company says Chinese-built Fit models are held to the same production quality standards as any Honda vehicle built elsewhere in the world.

First Chinese car imported to North America built by... Honda? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Dec 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 honda fitchinachina carchinese carsfitfit productionhondahonda fithonda fit chinahonda fit productionThu, 22 Dec 2011 09:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20132985/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/22/first-chinese-car-imported-to-north-america-built-by-honda/20132985/article-detail.xml 20132985 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/2012-honda-fit-sport-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/2012-honda-fit-sport-628.jpg <![CDATA[Honda "envious" of Nissan's Qashqai, ponders rival]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/honda-envious-of-nissans-qashqai-ponders-rival/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/honda-envious-of-nissans-qashqai-ponders-rival/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/honda-envious-of-nissans-qashqai-ponders-rival/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Nissan Qashqai

Honda hasn't been profitable in Europe since 2007, and would like to break the two-percent market-share barrier in the EU and Russia. To do that, it is looking at a rival to Nissan's Qashqai. Nissan's compact CUV alone outsold the entire Honda lineup in Europe in the first nine months of this year, and by no small margin: 153,079 to 105,918.

Those kinds of numbers have Honda justifiably envious of Nissan's little crossover, as apparently offering the CR-V in Europe hasn't generated the same sort of consumer response. Even so Honda's CEO, Takanobu Ito, will say nothing more than that "we are thinking about doing something like that" - a decision could still be a ways off, to say nothing of an actual production vehicle.

Nissan also has city cars like the Pixo and Micra spreading the gospel in the A-segment, and it's likely turning some of those drivers into Qashqai graduates. Likely with that in mind, the company head said they are also considering expanding the Jazz/Fit line, but a true A-segment fighter looks a long way off, with Ito saying, "maybe there will come a time when we will consider A-segment cars for Europe."

Honda "envious" of Nissan's Qashqai, ponders rival originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fithonda europehonda fithonda jazzhonda salesjazznissan qashqaiqashqaitakanobu itoMon, 12 Dec 2011 18:40:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20124981/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/12/honda-envious-of-nissans-qashqai-ponders-rival/20124981/article-detail.xml 20124981 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/hondaqashqaicompetitor_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/hondaqashqaicompetitor.jpg <![CDATA[Honda releases more details on Fit electric concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/20/honda-releases-more-details-on-fit-electric-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/20/honda-releases-more-details-on-fit-electric-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/20/honda-releases-more-details-on-fit-electric-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Honda Fit electric concept

Japanese automaker Honda may not have stolen the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, but Honda did use the stage to present some of its greener prototypes, most notably, its EV Concept.

Still without a proper name, the Honda EV Concept is designed to meet the daily driving needs of the average commuter and utilizes the same five-passenger layout found in the popular Honda Jazz Fit.

When the production version of the Honda EV Concept hits the streets in 2012, it will be powered by a lithium-ion battery and coaxial electric motor. The motor, derived from the unit found in the FCX Clarity fuel cell car, is efficient and powerful while remaining quiet at highway speeds (top speed is listed at 90 miles per hour), according to Honda.

Honda says the EV Concept will achieve an estimated 100-mile driving range per charge using the EPA's LA4 city cycle and claims that range can be maximized by use of an innovative three-mode electric drive system adapted from the Honda CR-Z.

There's still no word on pricing for the Honda EV Concept and the Japanese automaker remains mum on the vehicle's rollout schedule. However, we'd assume Honda will follow the lead of most other automakers by launching the electric Fit in select states in 2012 ahead of a nationwide rollout a year or so later.

Continue reading Honda releases more details on Fit electric concept

Honda releases more details on Fit electric concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicleev conceptfitfit electricfrankfurthondahonda evhonda fithonda fit electric conceptTue, 20 Sep 2011 10:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20047361/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/20/honda-releases-more-details-on-fit-electric-concept/20047361/article-detail.xml 20047361 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/00-honda-fit-ev-concept_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/00-honda-fit-ev-concept.jpg <![CDATA[Mugen itching to build hot Honda Fit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/26/mugen-itching-to-build-hot-honda-fit/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/26/mugen-itching-to-build-hot-honda-fit/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/26/mugen-itching-to-build-hot-honda-fit/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Mugen Fit
Mugen Honda Fit/Jazz - Click above for high-res image gallery

As the pseudo-works Honda tuner of choice, Mugen has tricked out Civic models for decades. They've also dabbled in the occasional Accord, are preparing to debut their supercharged CR-Z and have even had their way with the Ariel Atom - powered as it is by Honda engines. So what's next for Mugen? It could be the Fit.

The five-door hatchback, known in other markets as the Jazz, has received some attention from Mugen in the form of aftermarket body kits and such, but the tuning house's British garage could be looking at something a little more comprehensive, according to a fresh report from Autocar.

According to the British mag, the hot Fit's engine program could incorporate either the 2.0-liter VTEC four from the Civic Type R or the supercharged hybrid 1.5 developed for the Mugen CR-Z. Tempting options, both, but whichever way the Honda tuner goes, the likelihood is that the result won't make the trip over to these shores, anyway.

Mugen itching to build hot Honda Fit originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 May 2011 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fithonda fithonda jazzjazzmugenmugen fitmugen hondamugen jazzThu, 26 May 2011 13:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19950845/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/26/mugen-itching-to-build-hot-honda-fit/19950845/article-detail.xml 19950845 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/mugen-fit_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/mugen-fit.jpg <![CDATA[Honda recalling 700,000 Fit models over engine fears - 97k in U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/17/honda-recalling-700-000-fit-models-over-engine-fears-97k-in-u/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/17/honda-recalling-700-000-fit-models-over-engine-fears-97k-in-u/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/17/honda-recalling-700-000-fit-models-over-engine-fears-97k-in-u/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2009 Honda Fit Sport
2009 Honda Fit Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery

Honda has announced that the company is recalling around 700,000 vehicles globally for faulty lost motion springs in the valve train. The springs may fatigue and break over time, causing the engine to stall as a result. The recall covers certain 2009-2010 Fit, Freed and City models, and so far the company has received a total of 72 complaints of the issue in Japan and 29 complaints from elsewhere in the world.

No injuries or accidents have been reported as a result of the problem.

A total of 176,000 vehicles are being recalled in Japan, while another 156,000 are being brought in for inspection in China. A full 233,000 models are being recalled through the rest of Asia, and North America should see 122,000 cars head back to the dealership - over 97,000 of which are from the States. Hit the jump for Honda's official press release. Thanks to everyone for the tips!


Gallery: Review: 2009 Honda Fit Sport


Photos copyright (C)2010 Damon Lavrinc /AOL

[Sources: Honda, BBC]

Continue reading Honda recalling 700,000 Fit models over engine fears - 97k in U.S.

Honda recalling 700,000 Fit models over engine fears - 97k in U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Feb 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fithondahonda cityhonda fithonda fit recallhonda freedhonda recallrecallThu, 17 Feb 2011 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19848102/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/17/honda-recalling-700-000-fit-models-over-engine-fears-97k-in-u/19848102/article-detail.xml 19848102 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/fit_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/fit.jpg <![CDATA[Honda Fit overtakes Toyota Prius as best-selling vehicle in Japan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/08/honda-fit-overtakes-toyota-prius-as-best-selling-vehicle-in-japa/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/08/honda-fit-overtakes-toyota-prius-as-best-selling-vehicle-in-japa/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/08/honda-fit-overtakes-toyota-prius-as-best-selling-vehicle-in-japa/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Honda Jazz/Fit Hybrid
European Honda Jazz/Fit Hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Toyota Prius is unquestionably the world's best-selling hybrid, and for the past 20 months Toyota's gas-electric has held the title of the top-selling automobile in Japan. Well, the fuel-sipping Prius has finally relinquished its perch atop the Japanese sales chart and the new champ is a pint-sized contender ready for the big leagues.

In January, the Honda Fit subcompact overtook the Toyota Prius, capturing the number one spot. Fit sales in Japan surged to 14,873 units in the first month of this year, a 14 percent increase over the sales it tallied in January 2010. In addition, nearly half of the 14,000-plus buyers opted for the Fit Hybrid. Part of the appeal of Honda's subcompact gas-electric lies in its ¥1.59 million ($19,331 U.S. at the current exchange rate) price tag, which is approximately $3,500 less than the Honda Insight and undercuts the Prius by a similar margin. Perhaps, as one analyst previously pointed out, it really is time for Toyota to consider a Prius price drop.


Gallery: European Honda Jazz Hybrid


[Source: Business Week]

Honda Fit overtakes Toyota Prius as best-selling vehicle in Japan originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Feb 2011 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>honda fithonda fit hybridhybrid saleshybrid sales japanpriustoyota priusTue, 08 Feb 2011 07:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19832633/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/08/honda-fit-overtakes-toyota-prius-as-best-selling-vehicle-in-japa/19832633/article-detail.xml 19832633 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/honda-jazz-hybridlead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/honda-jazz-hybridlead.jpg <![CDATA[Honda officially previews Fit Shuttle, including hybrid model]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/04/honda-officially-previews-fit-shuttle-including-hybrid-model/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/04/honda-officially-previews-fit-shuttle-including-hybrid-model/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/04/honda-officially-previews-fit-shuttle-including-hybrid-model/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Honda Fit Shuttle Site


Honda has fired up a website for its new Fit Shuttle. The B-segment fighter's larger twin is set to use the same center-tank design as the smaller of the duo, which means that buyers can look forward to a surprising amount of interior room. While the extended hatch will come with a gasoline drivetrain, the engineers have also cooked up a hybrid variant for squeezing the most out of every last whisper of fuel.

Word from Honda is that the Fit Shuttle will get an official unveil in March, which leads us to believe that the new creation will show its face at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show next month. That said, don't expect to see the Fit Shuttle on our shores. This machine is likely to keep itself tucked away as a JDM-only model, though there is some chance that the car will show up in Europe as well. You can check out the Japanese site here.

[Source: Honda]

Honda officially previews Fit Shuttle, including hybrid model originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Feb 2011 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 geneva motor show2012 honda fit shuttlefitfit shuttlefit+hybridfithybridgenevageneva motor showhondahonda fithonda fit shuttlehybrid+fithybridfitFri, 04 Feb 2011 17:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19828996/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/04/honda-officially-previews-fit-shuttle-including-hybrid-model/19828996/article-detail.xml 19828996 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/fit-shuttle-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/fit-shuttle-630.jpg -1 2