Autoblog

Honda recalling 183k cars and crossovers over unintended braking issue

Seyth Miersma — Thu, 14 Mar 2013 13:28:00 EST

Filed under: Recalls, Crossover, Acura, Honda

A recall has been issued for nearly 183,000 Honda and Acura brand vehicles from the 2005 and 2006 model years. The problem stems from a potential malfunctions to the vehicles' stability control and braking systems.

Drivers have reported a malfunction to Honda's Vehicle Stability Assist system, though to date, no crashes or injuries have been reported as a result of it. Some of the vehicles' Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) control units may have an electric capacitor that was damaged during manufacture. A damaged control unit could cause the VSA system to apply brake force for a "fraction of a second" without any driver input, or could add additional brake force if it malfunctions while the driver is already braking. Either example could increase the risk of a crash.

To fix the issue, Honda will install a new electrical sub-harness, free of charge to the owner. The recall specifies 101,000 Honda Pilot (pictured), 60,000 Acura MDX and 21,000 Acura RL vehicles from the 2005 model year will be affected. An additional 800 MDX crossovers from the 2006 model year are also included in the recall. In addition, 51,000 of the affected 2005 Pilots will be inspected to be sure that a ground bolt for the VSA system is properly tight. Should this bolt come lose, similar unexpected brake activation may occur.

The Detroit News is reporting that the same recall will affect nearly 250,000 Hondas from model years 2004 through 2006 worldwide: 56,000 in Japan, 8,000 in Canada, 1,000 in Australia, 300 in Mexico and 70 in Germany.

Continue reading Honda recalling 183k cars and crossovers over unintended braking issue

Honda recalling 183k cars and crossovers over unintended braking issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Mar 2013 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

2014 Acura RLX

Steven J. Ewing — Fri, 15 Feb 2013 11:57:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Acura, First Drives, Luxury

Good. But Good Enough?

Spoiler alert: The 2014 Acura RLX is a good car. But that shouldn't come as a surprise. Despite the fact that Acura is subject to a lot of criticism for things like its odd positioning in the automotive landscape, questionable styling choices in recent years, and the fact that, more or less, its products feel like lux'd-up Hondas rather than something truly unique, the cars have always been inherently good - decent to drive, nice to sit in and reliable to own. That's what happens when you ride that sort of "affordable luxury" line.

Because Acura's sedans don't really fit into any one definable segment, the brand hopes it can draw customers from a broader range who aren't necessarily dedicated to a certain marque. And while there's certainly rhyme to that reason on the more entry-level end of the spectrum, that proposition makes less sense as you move toward higher price points. (Have a gander at the Hyundai Equus, if you will.) On the other hand, Acura pulled data from a 2012 Strategic Vision survey that showed the number one purchase decision for luxury buyers last year was value for the money, with manufacturer reputation coming in at a close second.

Which brings us to the 2014 RLX, a flagship that will compete in the mid/high luxury segment, battling cars like the BMW 5 Series and Audi A6, but, according to Acura, reaches up into 7 Series and A8 territory, as well.

"This is the best car Acura has ever produced," said Michael Accavitti, the automaker's vice president of national marketing operations. And he may be right. But is it truly good enough to be a more renowned player in this higher-end segment than the outgoing RL was? (That shouldn't be too hard, given the fact that the RL was the worst-selling car of 2011.) We hit the roads around Napa Valley to find out.

Continue reading 2014 Acura RLX

2014 Acura RLX originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Feb 2013 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Acura RLX revealed in production form by patent filing

Jeff Sabatini — Thu, 21 Jun 2012 19:29:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Europe, Acura, Rumormill, Design/Style, Luxury

If you're looking for a phrase to capture the excitement of a new flagship sedan, "patent filing" is probably not it. Then again, the 2014 Acura RLX is the replacement for the Acura RL, the least interesting luxury sedan extant. (And yes, we're including Lincoln in that assessment.)

Car and Driver says these images were pulled from a European patent database, claiming that this is, in fact, the new RLX that will go on sale next year. The car pictured in these images adheres quite closely to the RLX Concept displayed at this year's New York Auto Show, with only slight changes to the front and rear fascias and more generic wheels. The side character line that runs from the top of the fender back to the rear door is there, as is the rest of the shape.

In between bashing Acura for its dull design, C&D speculates that the Honda luxury brand may show the production RLX at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November.

Check out all five images in our gallery.

Acura RLX revealed in production form by patent filing originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Jun 2012 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Acura flagship headed to NY dubbed RLX, will incorporate e-AWD

Zach Bowman — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 12:30:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Technology, Acura, Luxury

Acura has big plans for the New York Auto Show next week, notably with the reveal of the replacement for the aging RL. The new vehicle, which will likely be called the RLX, will still make use of a V6, all-wheel drive powertrain, but will rely on electric motors to spin the rear wheels.

Car and Driver reports the system will actually be lighter than the components found on the current RL while still offering torque-vectoring capability. Acura has already gone through the pains of registering the RLX name with the U.S. Patent and Trademark office, and the move seems to be part of a larger effort to expunge two-letter names from the company's stable.

With the RL on the way out the door, the TL is the last of the old guard still hanging around, and word has it that model may be on the short list for execution as well. As Car and Driver points out, Acura is also in the process of registering the TLX name.

We have to wonder if the name swapping will do the company any good. From our vantage, it seems like Acura is simply swapping one meaningless moniker for another. Expect to see more details emerge as we get closer to the 2012 New York Auto Show next week, but in the meantime, feel free to peruse the brief press release after the break.

Continue reading Acura flagship headed to NY dubbed RLX, will incorporate e-AWD

Acura flagship headed to NY dubbed RLX, will incorporate e-AWD originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Honda wins Acura RL collision warning system class action lawsuit appeal

Zach Bowman — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 08:29:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Etc., Government/Legal, Safety, Acura, Luxury

Honda can thank Wal-Mart for the automaker's recent victory in a class-action lawsuit over Acura RL models equipped with the company's Collision Mitigation Braking System. The system was designed to warn drivers of a potential crash, tighten the vehicle's seat belts and automatically apply the brakes. However, lawyers for approximately 2,000 plaintiffs sued the Japanese automaker, arguing that the system may warn the driver too slowly, and it may not work at all - the lawsuit also complained the system may shut off altogether in foul weather. Reuters says the suit involves RL models equipped with the optional CMBS system purchased or leased between August 17, 2005 and December 16, 2008.

The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in Pasadena, California found that a court ruling in a Wal-Mart case last June effectively narrowed the scope of class-action lawsuits. The same ruling was found to apply to the suit against Acura as well. Previously, a district judge in Los Angeles had ordered that California's consumer protection laws could be applied to RL owners nationwide, but the new ruling repeals that judgment. The circuit court also reversed the district court's finding that car buyers could have relied on advertising by Honda about the collision system. The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals found there weren't enough common facts among the plaintiffs' claims to apply the California laws across the board.

At this point, it's unclear how the plaintiffs in the case will respond to the decision.

Honda wins Acura RL collision warning system class action lawsuit appeal originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Acura RL replacement coming in April, TL or TSX to be killed

Jonathon Ramsey — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 15:29:00 EST

Filed under: New York Auto Show, Sedan, Acura, Rumormill, Luxury

Acura is bringing Goodies to the Detroit Auto Show - the capital "g" warranted for the NSX concept alone - but it has more aces in more sleeves: Car and Driver reports that the RL replacement is coming to the New York Auto Show. The RL is made up of some nice pieces, but even with heaps of cabin tech and SH-AWD it has never been able to outsmart its overwhelming anonymity - or its larger and less costly sibling, the TL.

The next round of RL is meant to bring a sedan that embodies Acura's brand values, in this case said to mean "relatively lightweight, nimble, and economical," and perhaps not called RL. It does not mean an eight-cylinder, however, with a V6 plus working the front wheels and two electric motors on duty at the rear. Space is said to rival a BMW 7 Series, while exterior dimensions will hover around those of the 5 Series. We just hope those dimensions are draped sheetmetal that's memorable for all the right reasons, not the wrong ones.

But Acura's lineup switch means there might not be enough room for both the TSX and TL (pictured) in between the new RL on top and the Civic-based ILX sedan coming in at the bottom C/D see the permutations of either sedan being pruned, even though, like us, they find it less believable that the solid-selling TL would disappear. It's posited that the new RL could change its name to TL, but that seems least plausible - after all, Prince already showed us how awful it would be to have to call your sedan "The Model Formerly Known As RL." More substantial answers will come in New York on April 4.

Acura RL replacement coming in April, TL or TSX to be killed originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

2011 Acura RL presents slight changes to an aging package

Jeff Glucker — Tue, 14 Dec 2010 14:29:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Acura, Luxury

2011 Acura RL - Click above for high-res image gallery

For the 2011 model year, Acura has freshened up its flagship RL sedan. What exactly does "freshened up" mean when it comes to the RL? It may not look like much more than a cosmetic touch-up, but there are quite a few new tricks going on under the nip-tucked skin.

The 2011 Acura RL continues to utilize the 3.7-liter V6 engine with 300 horsepower that powers all four wheels courtesy of the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system. New to the powertrain, however, is a six-speed Sequential Sportshift automatic transmission. It's a smooth-shifting unit that allows for the occasional sporty dash courtesy of the wheel-mounted paddles while also improving fuel economy by two miles per gallon on the highway - EPA ratings come in at 17 mpg city and 24 highway.

An upgraded gearbox is nice and all, but since this is an Acura we are looking more for new technology. The 2011 RL is fitted with Hemholtz resonators in the wheels (a "world's first" for a passenger vehicle). These chambers sit in the center portion of the inside of the wheel and help diminish road noise, which results in a quieter cabin. Coupled with increased floorboard insulation, the 2011 Acura RL behaves like a library out on the road. Unless of course you twist the knob for the ELS audio system.

Up front, the grille of the 2011 Acura RL has been revised to soften the angry-hawk nose while retaining a signature Acura look... opinions are divided on how successful the new schnoz may be. Brand new 18x8-inch 15-spoke aluminum wheels help fill out the wheel wells and get wrapped in Michelin Pilot all-season rubber.

Overall, the changes to the 2011 Acura RL are minimal, minus the upgraded transmission and in-wheel noise reduction technology. We had a chance to very briefly sample the '11 model on the roads north of San Francisco and there's unfortunately not much to get excited about. The rest of the lineup, regardless of how one feels about the styling, presents a sporty driving experience that doesn't eat into the luxury. The RL feels heavier than it should while presenting a driving sensation that feels much more aged compared to its Acura siblings. We understand that its aimed at a different segment of the market, but that doesn't mean it should lose the driving characteristics long-time Acura buyers have come to expect.

You can read more about the 2011 Acura RL in the full press release located after the jump.

Gallery: 2011 Acura RL

[Source: Acura]

Continue reading 2011 Acura RL presents slight changes to an aging package

2011 Acura RL presents slight changes to an aging package originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Dec 2010 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Honda recalls 470K vehicles after Toyota, both used same supplier

Zach Bowman — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 11:30:00 EST

Filed under: Minivan/Van, Sedan, Recalls, Safety, Acura, Honda

Honda has announced that it's recalling a total of 470,000 vehicles in the U.S. due to the same failing master cylinder problem that caused Toyota to recall 1.66 million vehicles worldwide this week.

According to The Detroit News, the two automakers used the same supplier for the part, and when owners use a type of brake fluid other than what's used at the factory, a seal within the master cylinder may fail, causing a leak that could eventually lead to loss of braking power altogether. Honda says that a warning light would illuminate before this happened, however.

The Honda recall covers 2005-2007 Acura RL models and 2005-2007 Honda Odyssey minivans, while the Toyota recall includes the 2005-2006 Avalon and 2004-2006 Highlander (non-hybrid only), and 2006 Lexus GS, IS and RX cars and crossovers.

Honda says that at this point, it doesn't know how many of its vehicles have suffered a master cylinder failure nor how many have leaked. The company says it will replace the faulty seal and, if leaking has occurred, the brake booster will be replaced as well.
There's no set schedule for fixing those vehicles that are impacted by the recall, but owners should expect to hear something soon.

[Source: The Detroit News | Image: Stan Honda/AFP/Getty]

Honda recalls 470K vehicles after Toyota, both used same supplier originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Oct 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Cadillac CTS, Infiniti M models earn Top Safety Pick status from IIHS

Chris Shunk — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 16:01:00 EST

Filed under: Safety, Acura, Audi, BMW, Cadillac, Hyundai, Lexus, Lincoln, Mercedes-Benz

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has put a new crop of large luxury vehicles through its crash test gauntlet, and the Cadillac CTS and Infiniti M joined some impressive company in scoring a Top Safety Pick designation. The CTS and M clinched the highly regarded award by receiving the top score of "Good" in roof strength testing. To achieve the top score in rollover safety, a vehicle's roof has to be able to support four times the weight of the entire vehicle.

The Top Safety Pick designation is handed out only to vehicles that received a "Good" score for all four IIHS crash tests while also featuring standard stability control to help avoid accidents altogether. The Cadillac and Infiniti join the BMW 5 Series, Lincoln MKS, Volvo S80, Hyundai Genesis and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class as Top Safety Pick winners.

Since large luxury vehicles cost so much and contain so many safety features, it's not all that surprising that so many models aced IIHS testing. But not all vehicles passed the test with flying colors. The Lexus GS and Audi A6 managed only an "Acceptable" score in roof testing, while the aging Acura RL lagged behind the competition with a "Marginal" rating. Hit the jump to read over the IIHS presser.

Gallery: 2011 Cadillac CTS sedan

Gallery: 2011 Infiniti M

[Source: Insurance Institute for Highway Safety]

Continue reading Cadillac CTS, Infiniti M models earn Top Safety Pick status from IIHS

Cadillac CTS, Infiniti M models earn Top Safety Pick status from IIHS originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Aug 2010 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Report: Honda to kill off Acura RL/Legend globally, discontinue gas Civic models in Japan [*UPDATE]

Sam Abuelsamid — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 08:31:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, Sedan, Japan, Acura, Honda, Luxury

2010 Acura RL - Click above for high-res image gallery

Word coming from Japan's Nikkei business daily (as reported by Reuters) indicates that Honda has finally decided to discontinue the slow selling Acura RL and its Japanese market counterpart, the Honda Legend.

Ostensibly the flagship of Acura's brand here in North America, the RL has been a slow-seller for quite some time, upstaged in part by the company's less-expensive, higher-volume TL sedan. For some years now, the TL has offered more space, similar tech and even more power (in the Type S model), making the RL a particularly tough sell for dealers. Through the first half of this year, only 872 RLs have been sold in the United States.

Another production change reported by the Nikke that would only affect the Japanese market is the discontinuation of conventional gasoline versions of the Civic. If accurate, that would mean that from now until at least until the next-generation Civic arrives in the Fall of 2011, Honda will only sell the Civic hybrid in its home market.

In addition, the JDM Elysion minivan is also apparently set to get the axe.

Autoblog reached out to Honda for comment on the Nikkei story, and spokesman Chuck Schifsky would only say that the automaker does not comment on future product plans, noting that no official announcement has been made about the fate of the RL/Legend, the JDM Civic or the Elysion. Top tip, Joaquin!

UPDATE: Acura has released a statement saying that RL will continue to be the brand's flagship model and it's in no danger of being euthanized.

Gallery: 2010 Acura RL

[Source: Reuters]

Report: Honda to kill off Acura RL/Legend globally, discontinue gas Civic models in Japan [*UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Jul 2010 08:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Ralph Lauren pays tribute with Scuderia collection

Noah Joseph — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 08:28:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Ferrari

If you just so happen to be ordering a new Ferrari, the craftsmen over at Schedoni will be glad to outfit you with a full set of fitted luggage for your new Italian Stallion. But if you want to go a slightly different route, Ralph Lauren is here to help you out. And why shouldn't he? Among his unparalleled car collection are a number of highly coveted Ferraris - including a 250 GTO, a 375 Plus and not one, but two Testa Rossas. (Remember, one TR recently set the world auction record at $12 million.)

Lauren's love of polo ponies is already well known... just take a look on the chest of any of his shirts. But to celebrate his love of the other kind of Prancing Horses, the quintessential American designer has graced us with a collection of bags of various shapes and sizes. Bearing the Scuderia name, they're decked out with perforated black calfskin and yellow racing stripes - perfect for tossing on the luggage rack of your favorite GT from Maranello. As you'd expect, they command an appropriate price: the tote bag you see to the right goes for a hefty $1,295, so you'd better make sure you've got plenty of cash set aside for gas and tires first.

[Source: Ralph Lauren via Acquire]

Ralph Lauren pays tribute with Scuderia collection originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Aug 2009 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Autoblog Podcast #87

Dan Roth — Sat, 16 Feb 2008 13:31:00 EST

Filed under: Chicago Auto Show, Concept Cars, Podcasts, Hybrid, Minivan/Van, Truck, Crossover, Acura, Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford, GM, Suzuki, Volkswagen, India

The Chicago Auto Show wasn't that eventful, but that's what we lead off Autoblog Podcast episode #87 with. The Challenger was the biggest deal, followed by the Denali XT, and then a bunch of inconsequential things. We did find ourselves talking about the Suzuki Equator and the Ford Transit Connect, too. We give you our first up close and personal impressions of the Challenger SRT-8 in this podcast. We also saw the VW Routan, which certainly doesn't conjure warm, fuzzy memories of Type IIs gone by. Chevy's Traverse calls into question the usefulness of Saturn's Outlook in the product lineup. Speaking of GM badge-engineering, we got word this week that Pontiac will not be getting a Trans Am companion to the Camaro, dang. Another disappointment is the rumor that Cerberus is going to let the Viper run down without rewinding the clock for a third generation. We wrap up by touching on the possibility that an Indian pickup could be the first diesel hybrid in the US, even though it's not even being imported yet, and we're sure that when it gets here, it'll generate even more hate than the new Acura RL. 42 minutes, that's it. Sorry it's a little late this week, it's all Alex's fault, I swear.

SUBSCRIBE to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes
LISTEN to the show now
ADD the Autoblog Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator

Autoblog Podcast #87 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 16 Feb 2008 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Rumormill: Redesigned Acura RL coming to Chicago Auto Show

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 17:14:00 EST

Filed under: Chicago Auto Show, Sedan, Acura

Our friends over at the Temple of VTEC got a hold of a communiqué from Acura regarding the automaker's plans for the 2009 TSX and RL. While it doesn't divulge the rumored drivetrain upgrades, both vehicles are apparently going to receiving several enhancements inside, including the AcuraLink Satellite Communication System and a premium sound upgrade on the TSX, while the RL will get an improved HVAC system and a few other bells and whistles.

TOV's forum members have been posting about the '09 RL's future, specifically a 300+ hp, 3.7-liter V6 and a revamped SH-AWD system that will shovel more torque to the rear wheels. The body of the RL will supposedly undergo a massive refresh, with only two body panels carried over from the outgoing model, along with a new interior that boasts more room. We know that changes are coming to the TSX, which, in addition to some new sheet metal, is likely to include some new drivetrains, with the possibility of a V6-powered variant with SH-AWD being considered.

Thanks for the tip, Jay!

[Source: TOV]

Rumormill: Redesigned Acura RL coming to Chicago Auto Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Jan 2008 17:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Honda recalling 43,000 Acuras for power steering hose

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:28:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Recalls, Acura, Honda

Those of you rolling in a 2005-2008 Acura RL take note: Honda has issued a recall for your power steering hose and being the educated consumer that you are, you won't have to wait by the mailbox to know about it.

The high temperatures created by the V6 under the RL's hood are apparently causing some cracks to form in the power steering hose that could lead to fluid leaking onto the catalytic converter, resulting in a fire, which is bad. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration issued the recall, but no injuries or fires have been reported as of yet.

Approximately 43,200 Acura RLs are affected by the recall and since it's likely that you're more informed than your local Acura service department, we'd suggest you print out this post and tell the folks at your dealer that you've got a friend in the industry.

[Source: Detroit News]

Honda recalling 43,000 Acuras for power steering hose originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Acura RL redesign seeking to address slow sales

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 09:08:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Acura

Acura's RL has never fared well in a marketplace rife with V8s and rear-wheel-drive, but according to dealers, the next iteration of the brand's flagship sedan might finally bring it up to the level of its competitors. However, a story in Automotive News doesn't shed much light on what's in store.

Dealers believe that a major makeover is coming, but when AN talked to Dan Bonawitz, the veep of corporate planning and logistics over at Honda, he said the that RL was due for a mid-term change, which would imply that it might simply benefit from some new sheetmetal. An Acura dealer in Pittsburgh confirmed as much, saying that the new model will get a redesigned body, but little else was divulged.

In order for Acura to compete with the Bimmers and Benzs of the world, they'll have to ditch the AWD and V6, and instead equip the new model with V8 power being sent to the rear wheels. When that will come and whether Acura will develop an all new platform remains to be seen.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Acura RL redesign seeking to address slow sales originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Nov 2007 09:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Acura exec outlines future vehicle lineup

Dan Roth — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 10:05:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Japan, Acura, Honda

Acura's sales are down, and rather than try to be all cars to all buyers, filling niches is more the game plan. Product planning manager John Watts intimated that Acura's looking at segments with a narrower appeal, such as the now-defunct CL, and the possibility of a retractable hardtop vehicle, too. The MDX does well, and the new RDX is the darling of everyone who drives it, but as far as cars go, Acura's not catching anyone's hair on fire. The top-dog RL sedan is a wonderful car - beautifully drawn, SH-AWD moves, and a powerful V6 make it a very pleasant way to devour miles, but it doesn't offer the flavor du jour for premium sedans with performance leanings. The engine layout is wrong, and it's missing at least two cylinders to truly be taken seriously by some buyers who are looking for a V8 and rear drive as prerequesites.

There's talk of a new 8 or 10 cylinder powerplant in the offing. The NSX is supposedly getting a V10, which could then propagate through to other Acura cars. Analysts have noted that there's a need for a flagship sedan above the RL to offer RWD and larger engines. While Acura gets its act together developing the new NSX and readying the new TL for launch in 2009, dealers are enviously eyeing Lexus and Infiniti stores, wishing they had a big V8 boomer to throw into the fray, as well.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Acura exec outlines future vehicle lineup originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 Sep 2007 10:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Spy Shots: Mystery Acura sedan

Chris Shunk — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 10:05:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedan, Acura, Honda

Acura's non-CUV lineup has been rather quiet lately while the Japanese, German, and American competition have been steadily adding new and refreshed models to their lineup. Judging by these spy shots in the California desert, that's all about to change. The folks over at KGP Photography caught a mystery Acura sedan testing in the middle of the night, and even though the vehicle is heavily camo'd, there are a lot of interesting cues that can't be hidden with black padding.

The sedan appears to be rather large, meaning that it's likely the TL (the RL isn't scheduled to arrive until 2010 or later), which has been on the market virtually unchanged since 2004. The greenhouse looks like it's been to the Lexus/Nissan design school with its steeply raked C-pillar, although the camo doesn't give much away. What's visible of the front end shows a much more aggressive look for Acura, and judging by what appears to be a mesh grille and performance-oriented wheels, the model caught testing may be Acura's next stab at a sport model. The automaker's car lineup could use a shot in the arm to keep up with the competition, and with Honda's penchant for excellent quality and powertrains coupled with their outstanding AWD system, this new model should be great, whatever it may be.

[Source: WorldCarFans]

Spy Shots: Mystery Acura sedan originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Jul 2007 10:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Chicago Auto Show: The 2008 Saturn Vue Red Line shows its face

Eric Bryant — Wed, 07 Feb 2007 14:27:00 EST

Filed under: Chicago Auto Show, SUV, Crossover, Saturn

click above image to view live shots of the 2008 Saturn Red Line

Admittedly, hot-rodded cute-utes mystify many of us, but the kids seem to love 'em, and the Red Line version of Saturn's 2008 Vue should satisfy those looking for a combination of practicality and power.

We're sure that some Saturn fans were not happy with the inclusion of Honda power in the previous Vue RL, and they can take comfort in the fact that the "foreign" drivetrain has been replaced with the General's own High Feature DOHC V6 and six-speed automatic. Front wheel drive is standard, while those looking to route those 250 ponies via additional paths can opt for AWD.

The front fascia receives special Red Line attention, and out back, two large rectangular exhaust tips remind followers that they're not behind a garden-variety Vue. Inside, the RL gets an exclusive Ebony color scheme, along with suede inserts on the seating surfaces to keep butts properly planted when exploring the limits of the lowered suspension and fat wheel/tire package.

Mike from ABG made the comment that this is a bit like a poor man's BMW X3, and we'd have to agree with that statement.

Check out the gallery for additional shots of the Vue Red Line followed by the official press release after the jump.

Gallery: 2008 Saturn VUE Red Line

Continue reading Chicago Auto Show: The 2008 Saturn Vue Red Line shows its face

Chicago Auto Show: The 2008 Saturn Vue Red Line shows its face originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Feb 2007 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

V8 Acura in the works

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 11 Dec 2006 08:09:00 EST

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Sedan, Acura, Honda

It's been speculated for some time that sales of Acura's luxo-barge offerings may be hindered by the automaker's lack of offering V8 power. According to Automotive News, this problem may be remedied soon.

In an interview with Honda's president of R&D in the States, Hirohide Ikeno, he hinted that a new direction for Acura powerplants would debut at the upcoming Detroit auto show in January.

It's already been confirmed that the new NSX, due in 2009, will likely get a mid-ship V10, drawing credibility from Honda's 8- and 12-cyclinder racing mills. That kind of power is necessary in the supercar market and a V8 option is a necessity if an automaker hopes to compete with other luxury sedans.

Although development of the V8 will be carried out by Acura's parent company, Honda, don't expect a V8 option in the next Civic.

[Source: Automotive News -- Sub. Req.]

V8 Acura in the works originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Dec 2006 08:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Honda enters Chinese luxury auto market with U.S. Acura brand

Joel Arellano — Fri, 28 Jul 2006 08:02:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, China, Marketing/Advertising, Acura

Honda's luxury brand, Acura, dropped off its first shipment of TL's at the port of Shanghai this week. The brand, developed originally by Honda Motor Co. for the U.S. market, has only recently pursued markets outside of North America.

The TL is Acura's most successfully selling model in the U.S. Alongside the flagship RL's, the sedans will be sold in several major Chinese cities, with Acura aiming to sell 3,000 vehicles through the first model year of operations. It is unknown if Honda plans to build plants on Chinese soil to manufacture more of the luxury mark.

[Source: The Fabricator]

Honda enters Chinese luxury auto market with U.S. Acura brand originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Jul 2006 08:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments