Auto news and reviews from Car Buyer's Notebook.com: Acura Archives

August 13, 2008

Honda honors top suppliers

TORRANCE, Calif. - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. President and CEO Tetsuo Iwamura today presented the company's Premier Partner Award to 15 American Honda suppliers for demonstrating excellence in quality, value and customer service.

This year's award recipients were selected from among 53 suppliers nominated by American Honda associates, out of more than 1,000 eligible companies.

Continue reading "Honda honors top suppliers"

August 7, 2008

Acura Announces Pricing For 2009 MDX

TORRANCE, Calif., -- Acura has announced pricing for the 2009 MDX luxury SUV, which is now on-sale at Acura dealerships nationwide.

For 2009, the MDX's power rear tailgate feature is standard equipment with the Technology and Sport packages - previously the power rear tailgate was only available on the Entertainment Package.

Continue reading "Acura Announces Pricing For 2009 MDX"

August 4, 2008

Honda's ASIMO Visits Children Suffering from Sichuan Earthquake

China -- Honda made an effort to lift the spirits of children suffering from the Sichuan Earthquake through a special visit by ASIMO, Honda's humanoid robot.

ASIMO visited a school in Deyang in the Sichuan province of China, approximately 100km away from the epicenter of the earthquake. Children attending the school, as well as children invited from other kindergartens, elementary schools, and junior high schools in the surrounding areas, were able to have a fun time with ASIMO.

Continue reading "Honda's ASIMO Visits Children Suffering from Sichuan Earthquake"

August 1, 2008

Acura Announces July Sales Down 17.7%

TORRANCE, Calif. -- For the third consecutive month, the all-new TSX remains Acura's best-selling vehicle. In July, TSX sales were 3,474 units, up 15.9 percent over July 2007 sales based on daily selling rate*.

Total July sales for Acura were 12,828 units, down 17.7 percent versus 2007 sales.

Continue reading "Acura Announces July Sales Down 17.7%"

July 28, 2008

Honda Interactive Crash Test Demo Invites Viewers to "See What We See"

TORRANCE, Calif. -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc. has launched a unique online video experience of a vehicle crash test that invites viewers to witness the crash impact and explore it from different camera angles and at various motion speeds.

The crash test demo is part of Honda's "Power of Dreams" corporate ad campaign (http://www.dreams.honda.com) which invites consumers to view the world from inside Honda's vantage point.

Continue reading "Honda Interactive Crash Test Demo Invites Viewers to "See What We See""

July 25, 2008

Honda Beats Estimates, Sees Tougher Year Ahead

TOKYO -- Honda Motor Co.'s quarterly earnings handily beat market estimates but it cut its annual profit and global car sales forecasts as it battles with rising costs for raw materials and a crumbling U.S. auto market. Quarterly net profit at Japan's No.2 automaker ... showed a surprise 8 percent rise on Friday due mainly to a fall in allowances for U.S. sales incentives from the year before.

But like many other Japanese automakers due to follow with results in the coming weeks, Honda is suffering from a collapse in demand for big, gas-thirsty vehicles in the United States, its biggest market. With supply of popular, fuel-efficient cars such as the Civic falling far short of demand, Honda cut its sales forecast in North America this business year by 1.4 percent to 1.745 million cars and its global sales target also by 1.4 percent to 4.08 million cars.

July 20, 2008

Honda outlines environmentally responsible mobility

Torrance, Calif. -- Honda is continuing its industry-leading efforts to address the environmental challenges of global climate change, emissions reduction, and energy sustainability through a comprehensive approach that involves further improvements to gasoline engine fuel efficiency; the development of real-world alternatives to gasoline, including natural gas and the hydrogen-powered fuel cell car; and technology for refueling alternative fuel vehicles.

Continue reading "Honda outlines environmentally responsible mobility"

July 11, 2008

All-New 2009 Acura TL to Debut This Fall

TORRANCE, Calif. -- The all-new, completely redesigned 2009 Acura TL employs dramatic new styling along with a luxurious interior that includes more driver relevant technology than ever.

Featuring the most powerful Acura engine ever, the 2009 TL will be available in two distinctive versions including the first ever application of Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(R)) on TL.

Continue reading "All-New 2009 Acura TL to Debut This Fall"

July 9, 2008

Honda Outlines U.S. R&D Projects

Torrance, Calif. -- Honda R&D Americas, Inc. (HRA) is responsible for creating unique, advanced technologies and products in the U.S. that provide new value to Honda and Acura customers.

Established in Southern California in 1975 to conduct local market research and design activities, HRA now operates 14 R&D facilities in North America with the capability of "complete product creation" - developing all-new vehicles starting from market and technology research and design styling through engineering design, fabrication and testing, local parts procurement and mass production preparation.

Continue reading "Honda Outlines U.S. R&D Projects"

July 1, 2008

Honda Reports Record Sales in June, Up 13.8%

TORRANCE, Calif. -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc., today announced total June sales of 142,539, up 13.8 percent on a daily-selling-rate basis(1), setting a new record for the month.

Reflecting a shifting automotive marketplace, total car sales set a new June record for the first time since 1990 at 97,639, up 34.2 percent versus last year. Year-to-date American Honda sales are up 4.8 percent to 798,358.

Continue reading "Honda Reports Record Sales in June, Up 13.8%"

Acura Announces June Sales Down 16.4%

TORRANCE, Calif. -- The TSX sports sedan posted best-ever June sales, making it Acura's top-selling vehicle for the month as the luxury division posted June sales of 12,456 units, down 16.4 percent* based on the daily-selling-rate.

Acura year-to-date sales of 77,914 are down 14.3 percent versus 2007.

Continue reading "Acura Announces June Sales Down 16.4%"

June 23, 2008

Acura TSX Luxury Car Named Top Safety Pick

ARLINGTON, Va. -- The redesigned 2009 Acura TSX, a midsize luxury car, wins the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's TOP SAFETY PICK award. Winners afford superior overall crash protection among the vehicles in their classes.

To qualify, a vehicle must earn the highest rating of good in the Institute's front, side, and rear tests and be equipped with electronic stability control. The new TSX improved in the side test from acceptable to good and in the rear test from poor to good, compared with the previous model.

Continue reading "Acura TSX Luxury Car Named Top Safety Pick"

June 15, 2008

2009 Acura RDX On-Sale Nationwide

TORRANCE, Calif. - Acura has announced pricing for the 2009 RDX crossover SUV on sale at Acura dealerships nationwide.

The smartly designed RDX will be available in two versions: the generously appointed RDX and the fully-featured RDX with Technology Package. MSRP pricing for the RDX is $33,695 and the RDX with Technology Package is $36,995. Pricing for the 2009 model represents a modest 1.08 percent sales weighted average price increase. Destination and Handling fee is $760 and is not included in MSRP.

Continue reading "2009 Acura RDX On-Sale Nationwide"

2009 Acura RDX Adds New Features

TORRANCE, Calif. - The evolution of the luxury performance SUV took a significant leap forward with the arrival of the Acura RDX turbocharged crossover vehicle. The immediate response of power from Acura's first-ever turbocharged engine, combined with the breakthrough technology of Super Handling All-Wheel Drive, delivers adrenaline pumping performance in an efficient SUV package.

In its first full year of sales, the RDX captured 38-percent of the Entry Premium SUV segment, proving that its unique blend of performance and superior handling hit home with buyers looking for more than just the status quo from an SUV.

Continue reading "2009 Acura RDX Adds New Features"

June 3, 2008

Acura Announces May Sales Down 9.9%

TORRANCE, Calif. -- In its first full month of sales, the all-new 2009 Acura TSX posted its best month in the model's history with 4,564 units sold- topping the previous mark of 3,911 set in April of 2006.

So strong are TSX sales that for the first time ever, it topped the monthly sales of TL and MDX. Acura sales for May were 14,893 units, down 9.9 percent based on Daily Selling Rate* while year-to-date sales totaled 65,458 units, down 13.8 percent compared to 2007.

Continue reading "Acura Announces May Sales Down 9.9%"

American Honda Reports Best Month Ever -- Civic Soars to Record

TORRANCE, Calif. -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc., May sales of 167,997, up 11.3 percent on a daily-selling-rate basis, shattered the company's all-time sales record for any month as Civic sales reached 53,299, up 28.3 percent versus last May and surpassing the previous monthly record for any car in the lineup.

New all-time records set in May included (previous record in parentheses):

Continue reading "American Honda Reports Best Month Ever -- Civic Soars to Record"

May 29, 2008

Cadillac Tops 2008 Vehicle Satisfaction Awards

TUSTIN, Calif. -- A study released today by noted automotive consulting firm AutoPacific, Inc. summarizes the results of its 2008 model year vehicle satisfaction research. AutoPacific's Vehicle Satisfaction Award (VSA) is an industry benchmark for objectively measuring how satisfied an owner is with their new passenger car or light truck.

In a year that promises to be the toughest in a decade, owner-based awards like AutoPacific's Vehicle Satisfaction Award will help customers make their purchase decisions.

Continue reading "Cadillac Tops 2008 Vehicle Satisfaction Awards"

May 20, 2008

Acura ARX-01b Takes Third in Debut at Utah Grand Prix

TOOELE, Utah -- The debut of the No. 66 Panasonic ELS Sound de Ferran Motorsports Acura ARX-01b gave the American Le Mans Series spectators, competitors and media a thrill Sunday in the Utah Grand Prix at the Miller Motorsports Park.

Led by former Indy 500 champion Gil de Ferran, the new Acura racing effort left a strong impression in the highly-competitive North American sports-car campaign with an overall third-place finish as de Ferran and young French star Simon Pagenaud put on a sensational performance.

Continue reading "Acura ARX-01b Takes Third in Debut at Utah Grand Prix"

May 13, 2008

Erik Berkman Named Honda Racing Chief

Erik Berkman is in his first full season as president of Honda Performance Development, but he could easily be celebrating a decade in the racing business.

"Ten years ago Tom Elliott talked to me about the job [general manager] Robert Clarke eventually accepted, but I had four kids to help raise and it didn't seem like the best time to be traveling all over the world," recalled Berkman.

Continue reading "Erik Berkman Named Honda Racing Chief"

May 12, 2008

2008 Fuel Economy Guide Available for Download

The EPA has issued a comprehensive PDF guide to fuel economy of all 2008 vehicles, which you can download by right-clicking here.

In today's gas market, buyers are more sensitive than ever about buying cars that get good mileage, and more important, they want the government ratings to be as accurate as possible -- nobody wants to buy a vehicle that gets 10% worse mileage in the real world than the sticker rating.

To address this situation, the EPA has started using an updated test to assign more accurate MPG ratings to new vehicles, and you can learn about that by watching the video in this post.

May 6, 2008

Honda Reports an Increase in April Sales

TORRANCE, Calif. -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc., posted an April sales result of 135,180 vehicles, a decrease of 1.3 percent over April 2007 sales of 126,419 vehicles, on a daily-selling-rate basis*, the company announced today.

American Honda posted April car sales of 82,252 units, up 7.1 percent over last year, and April light-truck sales of 52,655 units, a decrease of 12.1 percent compared to year-ago results. Year-to-date American Honda total vehicle sales rose 0.5 percent over the same period last year, to 487,822 units.

Continue reading "Honda Reports an Increase in April Sales"

Acura Announces April Sales Results

TORRANCE, Calif. -- The TL performance luxury sedan was Acura's top-selling model with April sales of 4,291 units, eclipsing MDX sales for the first time in months.

Acura sales for April tallied 13,025 units, down 20.9 percent based on the daily selling rate* compared to April 2007. Year-to-date** Acura vehicle sales totaled 50,565 units, down 14.9 percent compared to 2007.

Continue reading "Acura Announces April Sales Results"

May 2, 2008

Preliminary Honda Sales Report Shows April Increase

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Due to technical difficulties, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., is forced to delay the posting of final April 2008 sales numbers until the issue is resolved.

All reported numbers are approximate and are expected to show increases when final results are tallied. Preliminary sales tabulations show that American Honda April sales will exceed 134,000 vehicles, compared to 126,419 vehicles for April 2007.

Continue reading "Preliminary Honda Sales Report Shows April Increase"

April 29, 2008

Acura to Report Service Information to Carfax

CENTREVILLE, Va. -- Carfax today announced that Acura has joined the Carfax Service Link program. Service and maintenance information will be reported to Carfax for vehicles serviced by Acura dealers participating in Carfax Service Link.

The free program creates a virtual directory of trusted dealerships that new owners can bring their car back to for maintenance.

Continue reading "Acura to Report Service Information to Carfax"

April 25, 2008

Honda Motor Co Reports Financial Results

TOKYO -- Honda Motor Co., Ltd. today announced its consolidated financial results for the fiscal fourth quarter and the fiscal year ended March 31, 2008.

Honda's consolidated net income for the fiscal fourth quarter ended March 31, 2008 totaled JPY 25.4 billion (USD 254 million), a decrease of 85.6% from the same period in 2007, due to, among other things, increased income taxes.

Continue reading "Honda Motor Co Reports Financial Results"

April 23, 2008

Statement by American Honda on Proposed Fuel Economy Standards

Honda is studying the details of the proposed new standards. We embrace the challenge and the opportunity these standards present for the health of our planet and the future of the automobile.

Honda has long supported the idea of tougher federal fuel economy standards and has advocated strongly for the adoption of new standards that will further advance the cause of increased automobile fuel efficiency and reduction of C02 emissions that contribute to global climate change.

Continue reading "Statement by American Honda on Proposed Fuel Economy Standards"

April 22, 2008

New Hot Wheels designed by Honda depicts the ultimate racecar

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Honda is announcing the arrival of the Honda Racer, a much-anticipated 1/64th scale Hot Wheels car designed by Honda R&D Americas, Inc., in Torrance.

The Honda model, along with designs from five additional automakers, were selected as part of the Hot Wheels Designer's Challenge as a way to celebrate the die-cast brand's 40th anniversary. The Honda Racer will arrive on store shelves in May 2008.

Continue reading "New Hot Wheels designed by Honda depicts the ultimate racecar"

Honda to Showcase Experimental Walking Assist Device

TOKYO -- Honda Motor Co., Ltd. will showcase an experimental model of a walking assist device which could support walking for the elderly and other people with weakened leg muscles, at the International Trade Fair on Barrier Free Equipments & Rehabilitation for the Elderly & the Disabled (BARRIER FREE 2008) which will be held at Intex Osaka, Friday, April 25 through Sunday, April 27, 2008.

Designed for people who are still capable of walking on their own, Honda began research of a walking assist device in 1999 with a goal to provide more people with the joy of mobility. Currently, the device has entered into the feasibility stage.

Continue reading "Honda to Showcase Experimental Walking Assist Device"

April 21, 2008

Acura racing notches division win in Long Beach

LONG BEACH, Calif. -- David Brabham made a spectacular pass of Romain Dumas entering Turn Eight on the 70th lap of the Tequila Patrón American Le Mans Series feature Saturday to win the highly-competitive LMP2 class ion the famed streets of Long Beach.

The victory was the first for the upstart Patrón Highcroft Racing team in the ALMS and the sec- ond for Acura since the manufacturer's entry in the road racing series in 2007.

Continue reading "Acura racing notches division win in Long Beach"

April 15, 2008

Acura Announces Pricing For 2009 TSX

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Acura today announced pricing for the all-new 2009 TSX sports sedan that will go on sale at Acura dealerships nationwide on April 24th.

The completely redesigned TSX will be available in two versions: the generously appointed TSX and the fully-featured TSX with Technology Package. MSRP pricing for the TSX is $28,960 and the TSX with Technology Packages is $32,060.

Continue reading "Acura Announces Pricing For 2009 TSX"

April 6, 2008

Acura Lease Deals for April

Acura is offering the following lease deals for April:

2008 RL lease -- $499/month for 36 months, $1,999 due at signing.

2008 TL lease -- $359/month for 36 months, $1,999 due at signing.

2008 TSX lease -- $299/month for 36 months, $1,999 due at signing.

Continue reading "Acura Lease Deals for April"

April 3, 2008

Honda Touts Value to America

Torrance, Calif. -- Honda has a long history of high value-added contributions to the U.S. economy through investments in its U.S. manufacturing and R&D capabilities, and in its U.S. supply base.

The company also makes positive contributions to society and quality of life through its pioneering efforts in improving fuel efficiency & reducing emissions, enhancing safety, and providing a consistently high level of product quality and value to its customers.

Continue reading "Honda Touts Value to America"

April 2, 2008

April Acura Rebates Available at CurrentAutoRebates.com

Acura is offering up to $2,500 on the RL sedan and 2.9%-4.9% financing on the MDX and RDX SUVs. Low interest rate financing is also available on the TSX sedan. Programs end 4/30/08.

If you would like to research current auto rebates for all make and models for sale in the United States, check out CurrentAutoRebates.com, a fabulous service that allows you to check up on all rebate programs through a handy PDF report. The service is free and available now!

April 1, 2008

Acura Adds Power Tailgate to MDX Technology and Sport Packages

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Acura today announced the inclusion of a new convenience feature in its popular MDX Technology and Sport packages. Formerly available only on MDX models equipped with the Entertainment Package, the power tailgate feature is now included in the Technology and Sport packages.

"At Acura we take the voice of the customer seriously," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of sales. "Based on customer feedback, the availability of the popular power tailgate feature will be expanded to approximately 80-percent of all MDX luxury SUVs sold."

Continue reading "Acura Adds Power Tailgate to MDX Technology and Sport Packages"

Acura Announces March Sales Down 15.8%

TORRANCE, Calif. -- The MDX luxury SUV remained the top selling Acura model with March sales of 4,434 units. Total Acura sales for March tallied 13,288 units, down 15.8 percent based on the daily selling rate* compared to March 2007. Year-to-date**, Acura vehicle sales total 37,540 units.

"The economy is challenging all automakers to raise their game," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of sales. "Acura is ready for the challenge with three new sedans coming to market this year, including the all-new TSX which goes on sale later this month."

Continue reading "Acura Announces March Sales Down 15.8%"

Honda Claims Sales Increase on Fewer Units Sold

[Editor's note: In plain English, Honda sold 4,658 fewer vehicles in March 2008 compared to the same month last year. The company is claiming this is an increase, due to the fewer number of days they had to sell cars.]

TORRANCE, Calif. -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc., posted a March 2008 sales result of 138,734 Honda and Acura vehicles, an increase of 4.2 percent based on the daily selling rate,* the company announced today. March 2007 sales results included two additional selling days and totaled 143,392.

Led by strong sales of the Accord, Civic and Fit, American Honda total car sales posted record monthly results of 83,214, an increase of 11.1 percent. Year-to-date, American Honda total vehicle sales reached 352,642, an increase of 0.9 percent.

Continue reading "Honda Claims Sales Increase on Fewer Units Sold"

Honda Sponsors The Great American Cleanup

TORRANCE, Calif. -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc., has partnered with Keep America Beautiful for a fourth year as the Official Automobile Manufacturer of the Great American Cleanup.

Keep America Beautiful’s Great American Cleanup, the nation’s largest community improvement program, takes place annually from March 1 through May 31 and attracts more than 3 million volunteers to clean up and improve over 17,000 communities across America.

Continue reading "Honda Sponsors The Great American Cleanup"

March 31, 2008

Honda Launches New Environmental Site, "Green"

TOKYO -- Honda has opened a new special site, "Green."

Visit the brand new media-rich "Green" site, which provides an overview of Honda's activities to reduce emissions and carbon dioxide throughout the entire production life-cycle, and Honda's passion in developing non-fossil fuel alternatives to provide a safer, greener future for our next generations.

March 28, 2008

Honda Begins Testing of Advanced Safety Vehicles on Public Roadways

TOKYO, Japan -- Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced that it will conduct testing on public roadways of its Driving Safety Support Systems*1 (DSSS) using inter-vehicle and road-to-vehicle communications.

The tests, which will be conducted using the “Honda ASV-4” Advanced Safety Vehicle*2 and other vehicles equipped with advanced safety technology, will be carried out between Monday, March 24, and Friday, March 28, on public roadways in Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan.

Continue reading "Honda Begins Testing of Advanced Safety Vehicles on Public Roadways"

Honda Sets All-Time Record for Auto Production in February

TOKYO, Japan – Honda Motor Co., Ltd., announced a summary of automobile production, Japan domestic sales, and export results for the month of February 2008.

Production in Japan experienced a year-on-year decrease for the sixth consecutive month, since September 2007.

Production in regions outside of Japan experienced a year-on-year increase for the 31st consecutive month (since August 2005), setting an all-time record for the month of February.

Continue reading "Honda Sets All-Time Record for Auto Production in February"

March 26, 2008

Honda Outlines Safety for Everyone Leadership

Torrance, Calif. -- Honda has a long history of leadership in the development and application of advanced safety technologies and designs.

This commitment to safety is based on the company’s goal of being a company that “society wants to exist” and complements the company’s leadership in reducing vehicle emissions and improving vehicle fuel efficiency.

Continue reading "Honda Outlines Safety for Everyone Leadership"

March 25, 2008

Honda Pursues Aggresssive Environmental Progress

Torrance, Calif. -- Honda is continuing its industry-leading efforts to address the environmental challenges of global climate change, emissions reduction and energy sustainability through a comprehensive approach that involves further improvements to gasoline engine fuel efficiency, the development of real-world alternatives to gasoline, including natural gas and the hydrogen-powered fuel cell car, and technology for refueling alternative fuel vehicles.

Additionally, Honda is pursuing advances in technology related to energy systems such as solar cells, electrical co-generation and the efficient creation of renewable bio-fuels as part of its effort to develop real world solutions to environmental challenges.

Continue reading "Honda Pursues Aggresssive Environmental Progress"

March 20, 2008

Panasonic Advances Audio Performonace in the 2009 Acura TSX

SOUTHFIELD, Mich. -- The highly anticipated, fully redesigned 2009 Acura TSX, entry-level 4-door sports sedan will be available with the critically acclaimed Acura/ELS Surround Premium Audio System when the vehicle goes on sale this April.

The all-new TSX combines bold exterior styling, the latest technology, an upscale modern interior and track-tested performance to maximize the driver's experience.

Continue reading "Panasonic Advances Audio Performonace in the 2009 Acura TSX"

2009 Acura TSX Makes World Debut at the New York Auto Show

NEW YORK -- Acura provided a one-two punch with the world debut of the all-new second-generation TSX sports sedan along with the appearance of the redesigned RL luxury performance sedan at the New York International Auto Show today.

With new engines, refined drivetrain, and Acura's latest Keen Edge Dynamic styling, the all-new TSX and RL highlight a new direction for Acura sedans.

Continue reading "2009 Acura TSX Makes World Debut at the New York Auto Show"

XM Unveils In-Vehicle Weather Tracking Service

XM has announced that real-time XM NavWeather, the in-vehicle weather tracking service for navigation, will be available as on the Acura TSX.

2009 Acura TSX and RL drivers will be first to experience the new XM NavWeather service, available as part of the Technology Package that includes an Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition and AcuraLink with XM NavWeather and XM NavTraffic.

Continue reading "XM Unveils In-Vehicle Weather Tracking Service"

March 19, 2008

Honda's Dick Colliver Receives 'Founder's Award' for Distinguished Service

NEW YORK -- J.D. Power III, founder of J.D. Power and Associates, presented the prestigious Founder's Award to Dick Colliver of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. for his outstanding commitment to customer service in the automotive industry.

Power presented the Founder's Award to Colliver, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., during the Wall Street Automotive Awards Dinner held at the Plaza Hotel in New York City on Tuesday, March 18.

Continue reading "Honda's Dick Colliver Receives 'Founder's Award' for Distinguished Service"

Acura Launches Brand Partnership With W Hotels

NEW YORK -- W Hotels, the fastest growing luxury hotel brand in the world, today announced a groundbreaking partnership with luxury car maker, Acura.

In one of the most significant partnerships existing between a hotel brand and an automotive company, Acura will be the preferred vehicle of W Hotels.

Continue reading "Acura Launches Brand Partnership With W Hotels"

March 17, 2008

Acura Places Fifth at Grueling Sebring

SEBRING, Fla. -- The trio of David Brabham, Scott Sharp and Stefan Johansson drove the No. 9 Patron Highcroft Acura ARX-01b to an overall fifth place finish Saturday in the 56th running of the Mobil 1 12 Hours of Sebring. The Patron entry scored fourth in the LMP2 division.

The overall runner-up finish of the Lowe's Fernandez Acura ARX-01b, with drivers Adrian Fernandez and Luis Diaz, was excluded due to a part failure in post-race inspection.

Continue reading "Acura Places Fifth at Grueling Sebring"

March 14, 2008

Sebring Qualifying Halted Thursday After Crash

SEBRING, Fla. -- An early accident by a Mazda prototype sports car stopped qualifications Thursday at the famed Sebring International Raceway when driver Ben Devlin's car hit the Turn One barrier. Devlin walked away.

But due to the necessitated track repairs, the starting lineup for Saturday's 56th running of the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring was determined by the best practice-lap speed from the three previous practice sessions.

Continue reading "Sebring Qualifying Halted Thursday After Crash"

March 13, 2008

Acura Sports Cars Lead Practice At Sebring

SEBRING, Fla. -- Acura drivers Adrian Fernandez and Marco Andretti led the charge in the LMP2 division Wednesday in opening practice runs for Saturday's 56th running of the Twelve Hours of Sebring, the opening round of the 2008 American Le Mans Series.

Continue reading "Acura Sports Cars Lead Practice At Sebring"

March 3, 2008

American Honda Reports Record February Sales

TORRANCE, Calif. -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc., posted record February sales results of 115,397 Honda and Acura vehicles, an increase of 0.7 percent over February 2007, the company announced today.

American Honda light trucks also posted record monthly results with sales of 52,557, up 1.9 percent.

Continue reading "American Honda Reports Record February Sales"

Acura Reports February Sales Down 8%

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Acura reported February sales of 13,084 units, down 8.0 percent, based on the daily selling rate, the division announced today. Year-to-date sales reached 24,252 units.

The MDX luxury SUV was the best-selling Acura for the month, posting strong sales of 4,545, up 0.8 percent versus last February.

Continue reading "Acura Reports February Sales Down 8%"

February 19, 2008

Acura Adds Carfax 1-Owner to Certified Web Site

CENTREVILLE, Va. -- Acura has enhanced its Acura Certified Pre-Owned (ACPV) Web site to highlight Carfax 1-Owner cars.

Consumers shopping on the site can easily identify any Certified Acura Vehicle that had only one previous owner. For added peace of mind, complementary Carfax Vehicle History Reports are available with every certified vehicle listed, courtesy of Acura.

Continue reading "Acura Adds Carfax 1-Owner to Certified Web Site"

February 14, 2008

2009 Acura TSX Accentuates Performance

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Designed and engineered to reaffirm its place as a desirable and affordable entry point for entry-premium buyers, the all-new second-generation 2009 TSX is larger, more agile, more performance minded and even "more Acura" than ever before.

Carefully crafted to honor the original TSX's vision as a world-class sports sedan, the new TSX has significantly evolved to offer more comfort, convenience, driving performance and safety.

Continue reading "2009 Acura TSX Accentuates Performance"

February 11, 2008

Acura to Debut 2009 TSX at New York Auto Show

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Acura announced today it will debut the all-new 2009 Acura TSX sports sedan at the 2008 New York International Auto Show and released an exterior photo of the new model.

Scheduled to go on-sale in the spring, the 2009 Acura TSX will be the second generation of Acura's popular entry level sedan and feature numerous advancements in performance, styling, technology and safety.

Continue reading "Acura to Debut 2009 TSX at New York Auto Show"

February 7, 2008

Redesigned 2009 Acura RL Debuts at Chicago Auto Show

Chicago -- The redesigned 2009 Acura RL luxury sedan made its world debut today at the Chicago Auto Show. Featuring bold, sleek exterior styling, an upgraded interior, advanced technologies and powerful new engine, the RL once again pushes the limits of performance, style, and luxury. The 2009 RL will go on-sale this spring at Acura dealerships nationwide.

The 2009 RL furthers cutting edge technology with the addition of new high-tech items including AcuraLink weather, AcuraLink Traffic Rerouting, a new Note function for XM Radio, Active Sound Control, and Bluetooth Audio to an already robust list of features found on the previous RL.

Continue reading "Redesigned 2009 Acura RL Debuts at Chicago Auto Show"

February 6, 2008

Acura RL to Get XM NavWeather in 2009

CHICAGO -- Acura and XM announced today that the 2009 Acura RL will offer XM NavWeather featuring Threat Matrix technology as a part of its AcuraLink service.

The new Acura RL was unveiled today at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show and will be on display in the Acura booth. Acura is XM's first automotive partner to debut the XM NavWeather service.

2009 Acura RL drivers will be able to experience real-time, personalized weather tracking service directly through the in-dash navigation system.

Continue reading "Acura RL to Get XM NavWeather in 2009"

February 3, 2008

Acura MDX Super Bowl Ad

Acura has a pleasing, effective lease ad for the 2008 Acura MDX SUV -- employing a Jimmy Durante sing-alike gargling the tune, "make someone happy."

Not funny, dramatic or throwing the brand over the bar splashy, just a sales pitch. And pleasing to view.

February 2, 2008

Current Auto Rebates Has All the Updated Rebates!

With auto sales down 4.3% in January 2008, many automakers are increasing the rebate and incentive offers they have on the hoods of their vehicles.

Yet keeping track of all the rebate programs can be difficult work, which is why we began publishing Current Auto Rebates, the Internet's first document that lists every rebate program for every vehicle for same in the United States.

This 13-page PDF makes it easy for you to look up rebates on any model you're interested in, and even allows you to contact your local dealer who will give you a free price quote on the ride of your choice.

Since rebate programs can change several times per month, you may want to sign up for free updates to the publication -- when we update the document you'll get an email from us letting you know a refreshed version is available for you to download.

And if someone you know is currently shopping for a new vehicle, you may want to download a copy and email it to them -- they'll thank you for doing so!

February 1, 2008

Acura Announces January Sales Down 14.2%

TORRANCE, Calif. -- The MDX luxury SUV topped January Acura sales for January with 3,982 units; however total Acura sales were 11,168, down 14.2 percent compared to last year.

"With next week's debut of the new 2009 RL at the Chicago Auto Show, we anticipate a substantial boost in Acura interest," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of sales. "The RL, Acura's top-of-the-line sedan, will significantly raise the bar with new technology, additional power and enhanced handling."

Continue reading "Acura Announces January Sales Down 14.2%"

Honda Reports January Sales Down 2.3%

TORRANCE, Calif. -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc., posted January total vehicle sales of 98,511, a decline of 2.3 percent compared to January 2007 results.

Honda Division posted January sales of 87,343, a decline of 0.5 percent compared to January 2007. Models that broke monthly records include the CR-V, up 11.3 percent to 16,016; and the Fit, up 120.0 percent to 4,480. Civic sales increased 14.2 percent for the month to 20,993.

Continue reading "Honda Reports January Sales Down 2.3%"

January 30, 2008

With Home Prices Dropping, Car Prices Are Sure to Follow

It's accepted wisdom now that overall auto sales will drop in 2008. This is seen as a function of the housing bust, during which as much as 20% of new car purchases were funded by residential real estate profit, home equity cashouts and the general euphoria in real estate related industries.

Now that home prices are dropping -- and will continue to do so until they fall in line with median income -- we believe the average new vehicle transaction price will drop as well. If houses can fall 10%-30% in value, why not cars?

In November we ran a story from Comerica Bank stating the average transaction price of a new vehicle was $29,024. Our projection is this number will fall below $25,000, perhaps in 2009 if not this year, for several reasons:

1. Less money to spend. The option of taking cash out of a home to finance a new purchase is gone. The psychology of spending "free money" to buy a luxe ride will give way to folks actually having to make the payment out of their own pocket. And with many people paying even more for housing due to adjustable rates, they will choose cheaper rides.

2. Gas prices. While $3 a gallon gas isn't as draconian as five bucks, it will have an effect over time. People are already choosing more efficient crossovers and smaller SUVs over the big buses, and V8s are going out of favor. Look for more people to choose V6s in cars and for four-cylinders to pick up in popularity.

3. Negative equity. A greater percentage of folks are upside down in their cars, and have been rolling their balances into new loan agreements. To catch up, their new purchases will have to be cheaper and it's going to take years to eat away at the balance.

4. New frugality. In a tough economy, the value of money becomes more dear. People will start thinking twice about how much money they spend. They will choose cheaper cars, perhaps with more options, but the luxe-marques are in for a rough ride.

5. New wage structures. The Detroit car companies have made big headlines with their new labor deals, that allow them to replace higher paid union workers with new hires at a lower wage scale. The higher wages translated into higher sticker prices; the lower wages will allow for slimmer price hikes and even reductions.

6. Battle for fewer consumers. Don't let the tough talk fool you. As fewer cars are sold throughout 2008, the rebate war will kick into full swing -- and spiffs will help bring down the average transaction price.

This last reason is why we launched Current Auto Rebates, a site that publishes all the rebates for every model in a single PDF file, to make bargain hunting that much easier.

January 29, 2008

Honda Breaks Global Sales, Production Records in 2007

Honda Motor Co., Ltd., announced continued growth, with high demand and record sales for its automobiles and motorcycles across the world.

In 2007, Honda supplied its products to 23,335,000 customers worldwide, up 3% on the previous year.

Continue reading "Honda Breaks Global Sales, Production Records in 2007"

January 25, 2008

2008 Acura TSX Rebates Available at Current Auto Rebates.com

The 2008 Acura TSX currently has no factory offers. The 2008 Acura TSX base price -- $28,190.

Click here to get your free 2008 Acura TSX price quote!

To stay up-to-date on Acura TL rebates, check out Current Auto Rebates, the web's #1 source for car, truck and SUV rebates and incentives.

Current Auto Rebates is the only publication of its kind: a 13-page PDF file that lists all the current rebates, from every vehicle manufacturer. What you don't know about current auto rebates could cost you thousands of dollars -- get your free report today!

2008 Acura TL Rebates Available at Current Auto Rebates.com

The 2008 Acura TL has a $2,000 rebate; program ends 3/3/08. The 2008 Acura TL base price -- $33,725.

Click here to get your free 2008 Acura TL price quote!

To stay up-to-date on Acura TL rebates, check out Current Auto Rebates, the web's #1 source for car, truck and SUV rebates and incentives.

2008 Acura RL Rebates Available at Current Auto Rebates.com

The 2008 Acura RL has a $2,500 rebate; program ends 3/3/08. The 2008 Acura RL base price -- $46,280.

Click here to get your free 2008 Acura RL price quote!

To stay up-to-date on Acura RL rebates, check out Current Auto Rebates, the web's #1 source for car, truck and SUV rebates and incentives.

2008 Acura RDX Rebates Available at Current Auto Rebates.com

The 2008 Acura RDX has 2.9 to 4.9% financing available; program ends 3/3/08. The 2008 Acura RDX base price -- $33,195.

Click here to get your free 2008 Acura RDX price quote!

To stay up-to-date on Acura RDX rebates, check out Current Auto Rebates, the web's #1 source for car, truck and SUV rebates and incentives.

2008 Acura MDX Rebates Available at Current Auto Rebates.com

The 2008 Acura MDX has 2.9 to 4.9% financing available; program ends 3/3/08. The 2008 Acura MDX base price -- $40,195.

Click here to get your free 2008 Acura MDX price quote!

To stay up-to-date on Acura MDX rebates, check out Current Auto Rebates, the web's #1 source for car, truck and SUV rebates and incentives.

January 23, 2008

Harness the power of free price quotes!

Many of you have seen the link to get a free dealer price quote on our pages, as well as in our Current Auto Rebates report.

The free price quote is one of the best tools for savvy vehicle shoppers -- it's convenient, and there is absolutely no obligation to buy anything. Here are some of the other advantages:

-- You are essentially putting a bid out to local new vehicle dealers to compete for your business. In many cases, several dealers will respond to your price quote request. Armed with your knowledge of MSRP and rebates, you can then have dealers compete on price for your car buying dollars!

-- You can fill out a free price quote for each vehicle you are cross-shopping.

-- Schedule your test drive appointments. Just think, you know longer have to suffer the indignity of walking into a dealership and either being ignored or descended upon like a piece of fresh meat.

-- The dealership will have the vehicle you are interested in ready and waiting [if they are pros, which many are nowadays, given the competition of the Internet.]

-- You will be doing 90% of the work that goes into buying a new vehicle from the convenience of your own computer -- how civilized is that!

Get your free dealer price quote today!

Current Auto Rebates -- What You Don't Know Could Cost You Thousands of Dollars

Want to see all the rebates on every make and model vehicle for sale in the United States?

Current Auto Rebates has just launched a valuable 13-page PDF report that is the first of its kind -- listing all rebates for all vehicles. What you don't know about current auto rebates could cost you thousands of dollars!

Aren't you tired of clicking through page after page on web sites to find the information you need? This report has everything you need in one convenient, easy-to-use package.

Check out CurrentAutoRebates.com and get your free PDF report today!

January 21, 2008

Acura Rebates Available at CurrentAutoRebates.com

Acura is offering up to $2,000 on the TL sedan and $2,500 on the RL. Low interest financing is also available. Programs end 3/3/08.

January 17, 2008

Honda Cautiously Gaining On Rival Toyota

Honda could be called ascendant -- boasting the most fuel-efficient fleet on U.S. roads and earning top marks in reliability studies--while its Accord sedan is the nation's fifth-most sold vehicle, not far behind Toyota's Camry and Corolla.

The key to Honda's success is an abundance of caution, claims Aaron Bragman, an automotive industry analyst at Global Insight. "They are very measured ... and that is why you don't see them having the same kinds of problems that Toyota is having with its expansion," he says.

Although Toyota and Honda both started selling cars in the United States in the late 1950s, Honda has often been overshadowed by Toyota. But cracks have started to appear in Toyota's armor, even as it poised to overtake General Motors to become the world's No. 1 vehicle producer. It has seen its reputation eroded by product recalls and slippage in consumer-quality surveys.

January 15, 2008

Research Shows Minority Vehicle Buyers Create Recognizable Stereotypes

SAN DIEGO -- “Driver’s desires, needs and attribute priorities are called the customer’s vehicle DNA,” according to Alexander Edwards, Strategic Vision President of Automotive.

“When you understand the emotional payoff delivered by each vehicle attribute measured against the customer’s vehicle DNA, you will know why an African American views the Chrysler 300 as a vehicle of choice while an Asian American chooses an Acura MDX or BMW 3-Series (accounting for price).

Continue reading "Research Shows Minority Vehicle Buyers Create Recognizable Stereotypes"

January 13, 2008

Acura will introduce clean diesel engine in 2009

DETROIT -- Acura will introduce the new i-DTEC clean diesel engine to the North American market in 2009.

The i-DTEC engine reduces noxious exhaust emissions while boosting power and fuel efficiency.

Continue reading "Acura will introduce clean diesel engine in 2009"

January 10, 2008

Honda Donates $1 Million For Music Education In Detroit

DETROIT -- The Detroit Symphony Orchestra announced today that Honda has provided the institution a gift of over $1 million to create The Power of Dreams Music Education Fund to help support and expand the DSO's nationally acclaimed music programs for young people, and particularly an effort to encourage and support involvement of children in Detroit. Honda will also support a campaign to promote public donations to the fund.

Over the next five years the DSO partnership with Honda will include:

Continue reading "Honda Donates $1 Million For Music Education In Detroit"

Third Straight Record Year for Honda U.S. and North American Auto Production

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Honda automobile plants produced* a record number of vehicles in 2007 in the U.S. (1,015,462 units) and in North America (1,432,731 units) -- including all-time best performances by four of its six auto plants in the region.

It was the third straight record result and fourth consecutive year of continuous production growth for Honda in the U.S. and North America, and the first time that U.S. auto production exceeded 1 million units in a single year.

Continue reading "Third Straight Record Year for Honda U.S. and North American Auto Production"

January 9, 2008

Survey: Drivers See Toyota, Honda as Best Overall

NEW YORK -- Consumers perceived Toyota and Honda brands to be best by a wide margin, followed by Ford, Chevrolet, and GMC, according to Consumer Reports' 2008 Car Brand Perception Survey.

The survey also revealed that car buyers consider safety and quality as the most important considerations, followed by value, performance, environmental friendliness, design, and technical innovation.

Continue reading "Survey: Drivers See Toyota, Honda as Best Overall"

January 7, 2008

Champion Acura to Break Ground on New Houston Facility

HOUSTON -- Champion Acura, Houston's largest Acura dealership, announced today that it will break ground on its new, state-of- the-art sales and service facility on January 9, 2008, at 11:00 a.m. The new dealership is located at I-45 and Butler Road in League City.

"We're excited by what this facility is going to offer our customers and our associates," said John Morford, Region Market President "We're already at the leading edge of automotive retailing with things like our e-vehicle program and our pledge for fair and transparent financing. Now we're going to have a facility with the architectural attributes and physical capabilities to match."

Continue reading "Champion Acura to Break Ground on New Houston Facility"

January 4, 2008

Honda Launches 100,000 Mile Club Website

TORRANCE, Calif., -- 100,000 miles - the number of miles it would take to drive around the circumference of the equator four times and the minimum number of miles driven to be part of Honda's new "Honda Mile Makers" Web site.

The Mile Makers Web site, officially launched in late November, is a forum where owners of Honda vehicles that have traveled 100,000 miles and beyond can tell their unique stories, post photos of their vehicles, and read about other high mileage Honda success stories.

Continue reading "Honda Launches 100,000 Mile Club Website"

January 3, 2008

Acura Announces 2007 Year End Sales Down 10.8%

TORRANCE, Calif. -- In December, Acura posted a 7.7% decrease in sales; the brand recorded a 10.8% sales drop for 2007 as a whole.

For a second consecutive year Acura light trucks posted record year-end sales, though, eclipsing 2006 by 29.1 percent.

Continue reading "Acura Announces 2007 Year End Sales Down 10.8%"

Honda Posts 11th Consecutive Year of Record Sales

TORRANCE, Calif. -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc., today announced record sales results for the 11th consecutive year. Sales from both Honda and Acura Divisions totaled 1,551,542 and pushed American Honda annual sales up 2.5 percent, based on the daily selling rate*.

The results also mark the company's 14th consecutive year-over-year sales increase. American Honda's December sales totaled 131,792 vehicles, a slight increase versus December, 2006.

Continue reading "Honda Posts 11th Consecutive Year of Record Sales"

January 2, 2008

2008 Acura TSX: Performance, Style and Efficiency

The Acura TSX has made its mark in the highly competitive near-premium sports sedan segment, winning over driving enthusiasts with its taut styling, razor-sharp reflexes and long list of standard luxury features and technologies.

The 2008 TSX continues this outstanding blend of performance, style and efficiency that has helped it attract many new drivers from other players in the sports sedan market.

Continue reading "2008 Acura TSX: Performance, Style and Efficiency"

2008 Acura TL -- Performance in Luxe Style

The 2008 Acura TL prevails as a leader within the midsized market thanks to its recently-revised exterior and interior styling, expanded navigation system with AcuraLink™ satellite communication system featuring real-time traffic (with the addition of 32 more metropolitan markets), added safety and security features, two new exterior colors, along with the return of the performance-minded TL Type-S model.

Continue reading "2008 Acura TL -- Performance in Luxe Style"

2008 Acura RL -- The Brand Standard-Bearer

The Acura RL enters the 2008 model year as one of the most sophisticated and exhilarating touring sedans on the road today, putting the driver in command of their environment while delivering extraordinarily athletic performance within the luxury performance sedan class.

With an advanced and efficient 3.5-liter SOHC VTEC® V-6 engine, Acura's exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ System (SH-AWD™), and cutting-edge technologies including available AcuraLink™ with real-time traffic, Active Front Lighting System (AFS), Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) with Adaptive Cruise Control, and Active Noise Cancellation™ (ANC), the RL is the bearer of technology-enhanced performance, luxury and comfort in the Acura sedan lineup.

Continue reading "2008 Acura RL -- The Brand Standard-Bearer"

2008 Acura RDX -- Leading the Segment in Style

The evolution of the luxury performance SUV took a significant leap forward with the 2007 arrival of the all-new Acura RDX turbocharged crossover vehicle and competitors quickly followed.

The immediate response of Acura's first-ever turbocharged engine combined with the breakthrough technology of Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™), the RDX delivers adrenaline pumping performance in an efficient SUV package.

Continue reading "2008 Acura RDX -- Leading the Segment in Style"

2008 Acura MDX -- Daring Design, Committed to Safety

Benchmarked against some of the best performance SUVs in the world and tuned on the Nürburgring racetrack in Germany, the MDX clearly establishes itself as a driver's SUV.

Outfitted with Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™) system and an available sport package with Active Damper System, the MDX yields a combination of handling and comfort that is truly on the cutting edge.

Continue reading "2008 Acura MDX -- Daring Design, Committed to Safety"

December 27, 2007

Honda Previews Rose Parade Float

Today Honda gave its associates a sneak peek at the company's Rose Parade float that will transform right in front of the millions of viewers watching the 199th Rose Parade around the world on Jan. 1, 2008.

One of the parade's longest-running corporate sponsors, Honda annually gives associates the opportunity to put the final touches on the latest float creation called "Passport to the Future," complete with strawflower, flax seed and, of course, roses.

On New Year's Day, parade-watchers will witness a Honda Ridgeline-inspired truck rising from the bed of the float in a cloud of mist, become an airborne craft and 'blast off' with a replica of ASIMO, Honda's advanced humanoid robot, at the controls.

Using Honda generators to transform, the hood of the truck will fold forward to become an aircraft cockpit, the doors and sides of the truck will unfold outward to become wings, the wheels will tuck under the body, and the bed of the truck will open and take on the form of an aircraft tail section, complete with rocket engines - and even real fire.

Continue reading "Honda Previews Rose Parade Float"

December 21, 2007

Your Local Car Thief's Favorite Rides

According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau's (www.nicb.org) annual surveys of stolen vehicles, 1,192,809 motor vehicles were reported stolen in 2006 in the U.S.

The NICB names the "hottest cars" in the U.S. In its most recent study, the most frequently stolen cars were:

Continue reading "Your Local Car Thief's Favorite Rides"

December 20, 2007

Honda Plans Heavy Investment In Hybrids

Honda plans to invest aggressively in research for hybrids and other new technology in Japan, says Takeo Fukui, president of Japan's No. 2 automaker. It will introduce a new hybrid model--which runs on gas and electricity--with an affordable price tag in 2009, targeting sales of 200,000 vehicles a year. Hybrid sales will make up about 10% of the automaker's sales by about 2010, Fukui says.

Honda will invest about $425 million in a new research center in Japan to focus on next-generation cars, including hybrids and fuel cells, Fukui says. The center will be partially running by 2009, and fully open by 2010, and will also focus on research for new technology for Honda's Acura luxury brand models.

Fukui says Honda's hybrid system is better in some ways than Toyota's system, including that it costs less, but he will not specify a price.

December 14, 2007

Honda Aviation: Historical Timeline

1986: Honda begins research in Japan on both small aircraft and jet engines.

1993: Honda begins research on composite body aircraft with Mississippi State University (MSU), leading to development of aircraft called "MH-02" that is jointly fabricated and tested by Honda and MSU. Research continues until 1996.

1995: Honda begins high altitude testing of its first generation turbofan engine, HFX-01, conducting more than 70 hours of tests through 1996.

Continue reading "Honda Aviation: Historical Timeline"

December 4, 2007

Japanese Cars Continue to Dominate Car-Owner Satisfaction Survey

South Korean Cars Make First Appearance on CR's Most Satisfying List; Domestic Models Gain Ground in Family and Luxury/Upscale Categories for the First Time in Five Years

YONKERS, N.Y. -- Japanese vehicles continue their domination over domestic and European brands in Consumer Reports' Annual Car Owner Satisfaction Survey. Of the 39 car models that made Consumer Reports' latest Most Satisfying car list, 18 toted Japanese nameplates with 10 of those built by Toyota.

For the fourth straight year, the Toyota Prius hybrid was identified by respondents as the most satisfying of any vehicle, with 92 percent of Prius owners indicating they would definitely buy one again. Following closely, were the BMW 335i coupe/convertible and Porsche Boxster, which drew scores of 91 and 90 respectively.

Continue reading "Japanese Cars Continue to Dominate Car-Owner Satisfaction Survey"

December 3, 2007

Honda November Sales Up 4.7%

TORRANCE, Calif. -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc., posted record November sales of 111,431 Honda and Acura vehicles, up 4.7 percent*, surpassing the previous November 2006 record of 106,446, the company announced today.

American Honda year-to-date sales increased 2.7 percent* to 1,419,750. Honda Division year-to-date sales increased 4.8 percent to 1,257,228.

Continue reading "Honda November Sales Up 4.7%"

Acura Reports November Sales Down 24.9%

TORRANCE, Calif. -- In the fiercely competitive luxury car market, Acura division sales totaled 12,910 for the month of November and 162,522 year-to-date*, the company announced today.

Year-to-date sales of the award-winning MDX luxury sport utility vehicle are up 9.6-percent with total sales of 52,700.

Continue reading "Acura Reports November Sales Down 24.9%"

November 16, 2007

Acura MDX, RDX luxury SUVs top safety picks

TORRANCE, Calif. - Acura MDX and RDX luxury SUVs earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) 2008 TOP SAFETY PICK Award, the IIHS' highest honor. The annual award recognizes vehicles that do the best job of protecting vehicle occupants involved in front, side, and rear crashes based on ratings in IIHS tests.

The TOP SAFETY PICK is earned by a small percentage of vehicles sold in America.

Continue reading "Acura MDX, RDX luxury SUVs top safety picks"

Honda and Acura Receive Seven TOP SAFETY PICK Awards for 2008

Honda Accord, CR-V, Element, Odyssey and Pilot; Acura MDX and RDX all receive top crash safety ratings from IIHS

TORRANCE, Calif. -- A total of seven Honda and Acura models, including the all-new 2008 Honda Accord, have earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) TOP SAFETY PICK award for 2008, the highest rating possible from the nonprofit research organization. The annual award recognizes vehicles that perform best in protecting passengers in the Institute's front, side and rear crash test evaluations, and includes only vehicles with electronic stability control (branded as Vehicle Stability Assist(TM) (VSA(R)) on Honda and Acura vehicles) plus head protection airbags.

Continue reading "Honda and Acura Receive Seven TOP SAFETY PICK Awards for 2008"

November 14, 2007

Volkswagen claims best brand resale value

IRVINE, Calif. -- Kelley Blue Book announces the all-new 2008 model-year vehicle winners of its annual Best Resale Value Awards, which recognizes current and upcoming vehicles for their projected retained value five years from now (the average ownership period).

Since depreciation (or loss of value) is typically a car-buyer's primary expense during ownership,these awards, like all of kbb.com's new and used vehicle information, are designed to help consumers make more informed car-buying decisions.

Continue reading "Volkswagen claims best brand resale value"

November 10, 2007

Honda to certify two U.S. green buildings

CHICAGO -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc., a gold sponsor of Greenbuild 2007 and USGBC member since 2000, has undertaken a series of new green building initiatives as part of a leading effort to further reduce the environmental impact of Honda's operations and products in the U.S. and throughout North America.

The company will certify two new facilities to the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) standards in its 2009 fiscal year (ending March 31, 2009).

Continue reading "Honda to certify two U.S. green buildings"

November 8, 2007

Check out the latest car videos

Watch the latest videos on YouTube.com

Check out the latest car videos with our nifty new YouTube player.

November 1, 2007

Acura Announces October Sales Up 9.5%

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Record October sales of the turbocharged RDX crossover SUV and strong MDX luxury SUV totals pushed Acura light-truck sales to a fifteenth consecutive record breaking month.

October RDX sales of 1,937 units, up by 9.5 percent versus last October, tallied a third consecutive record month while MDX sales continued strong by surpassing October 2006 sales by 426 units. Year-to-date MDX volume reached 47,809 units, up 13.9 percent.

Continue reading "Acura Announces October Sales Up 9.5%"

American Honda Reports Flat October Sales

TORRANCE, Calif. -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc., posted record October sales of 114,799 Honda and Acura vehicles, surpassing the previous October 2005 record of 110,895, the company announced today. Based on the daily selling rate*, October sales declined 0.2 percent due to one additional selling day compared to last year.

Year-to-date, American Honda sales increased 2.5 percent to 1,308,319. Honda Division year-to-date sales increased 4.3 percent to 1,158,707.

Continue reading "American Honda Reports Flat October Sales"

October 23, 2007

Consumer Guide Announces 2008 Best Buys

LINCOLNWOOD, Ill. -- Consumer Guide Automotive, the leading publisher of authoritative, objective new and used car reviews for 40 years, today announced the recipients of its 2008 Best Buy and Recommended Awards.

The annual list, designed to make car buying easier for consumers, represents the best overall values in 18 categories and includes a total of 87 vehicles.

The editors then use objective criteria, such as price, features, performance, accommodations, fuel economy, reliability records and resale value, to assess each vehicle. The winners are divided into two categories: The Consumer Guide Automotive "Best Buy" and "Recommended" winners.

Continue reading "Consumer Guide Announces 2008 Best Buys"

October 22, 2007

Acura Racing: Fernandez, Kanaan Make Great Comebacks

MONTEREY, Calif. -- Veteran drivers Adrian Fernandez and Tony Kanaan made Saturday’s American Le Mans Series season finale at Laguna Seca Raceway a thrilling finish for the large crowd at the 2.238-mile, 11-turn legendary road circuit.

The two open-wheel stars came to the ALMS campaign in 2007 and, on Saturday, left a indelible mark on the thousands of fans who cheered them through the four-hour sports-car feature. At the end of the 157-lap contest, Fernandez had driven his No. 15 Lowe’s Fernandez Racing Acura Lola to third place in the LMP2 division, with Kanaan taking the No. 26 XM Satellite Radio Acura ARX-01a to fourth.

Continue reading "Acura Racing: Fernandez, Kanaan Make Great Comebacks"

October 14, 2007

New side tests of large luxury cars: luxury doesn't always buy safety

ARLINGTON, VA —Three of six large car models earn the top rating of good, but one is marginal in side impact crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Results show a range of performance in how well large cars are designed to protect people in serious side crashes.

Ratings of good, acceptable, marginal, or poor are based on a crash test in which a barrier designed to replicate the front end of a typical SUV or pickup truck strikes the tested vehicle in the side at 31 mph.

The best performers are the Acura RL, Kia Amanti, and Volvo S80, all 2007 models. The S80 also earns the Institute's 2007 Top Safety Pick award for superior overall crash protection. The S80 qualifies because it's rated good in the Institute's front, side, and rear tests and has electronic stability control as standard equipment.

Continue reading "New side tests of large luxury cars: luxury doesn't always buy safety"

October 9, 2007

Honda Announces Vehicles for 40th Tokyo Motor Show 2007

TOKYO, Japan, October 9, 2007–Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced that it will exhibit production and concept automobiles and a number of technologies at the 40th Tokyo Motor Show, to be held from Saturday, October 27 to Sunday, November 11, 2007, at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan.

The theme for Honda’s automobile booth for this year is: “For the endless joy of mobility on our earth”. Based on this theme, Honda will display a variety of advanced environmental technologies that address environmental issues such as a reduction in CO2 emissions, together with the fun of mobility.

Continue reading "Honda Announces Vehicles for 40th Tokyo Motor Show 2007"

October 7, 2007

Grueling Petit Le Mans Takes Its Toll At Road Atlanta As Highcroft Racing Leads The Acura Contingent

BRASELTON, Ga. -- The 10th anniversary of the Petit Le Mans sports car classic Saturday at Road At- lanta ended up being a survival test. The rate of attrition was staggering on the 2.54-mile, 12-turn road circuit.

The 1000-mile endurance road racing contest saw rough-and-tumble action with some of the world's most expensive racing machines and, when the dust cleared, there was a large amount of carnage and worn-out parts.

Continue reading "Grueling Petit Le Mans Takes Its Toll At Road Atlanta As Highcroft Racing Leads The Acura Contingent"

October 5, 2007

Honda Issues Third-Annual North American Environmental Report

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Honda today released its third annual report on the company's environmental performance in North America, with a special emphasis on global warming and energy sustainability as two of the most critical environmental challenges Honda is seeking to address through its many product, manufacturing and facilities initiatives.

The 2007 North American Environmental Report primarily covers the company's operations during the period April 1, 2006 to March 31, 2007 (FY 2007). The report looks at the environmental performance of the company's automobile, power sports and power equipment products, its 14 major manufacturing plants in North America, and the corporate activities of 15 Honda group companies in the region.

Continue reading "Honda Issues Third-Annual North American Environmental Report"

October 3, 2007

Acura September Sales Down 8.4%

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Record sales of the MDX luxury SUV and RDX turbocharged SUV contributed to Acura September sales of 14,369 units, down 8.4 percent versus last year based on the daily selling rate*. Year-to-date Acura sales reached 136,726 units.

Continue reading "Acura September Sales Down 8.4%"

October 2, 2007

Honda Sales Climb 13.8% on Strength of All-New Accord

TORRANCE, Calif. -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc., posted record September sales of 127,200 Honda and Acura vehicles, up 13.8 percent on a daily-selling-rate basis*, the company announced today. American Honda year-to-date sales totaled 1,193,520, up 2.8 percent on a daily-selling-rate basis*.

Honda Division posted record September sales of 112,831, up 17.5 percent compared to last year. September records for individual models included the CR-V with sales of 19,769, up 68.7 percent for the month; the Odyssey with sales of 16,464, up 24.2 percent for the month; and Fit sales of 4,565, up 139.1 percent for the month. Accord sales increased 31.2 percent to 35,031. Honda Division total truck sales of 48,120, up 15.3 percent, set a new September record.

Continue reading "Honda Sales Climb 13.8% on Strength of All-New Accord"

September 26, 2007

'Buy American' Desire Drives Many New Shoppers to Purchase Domestic Rather Than Import Nameplates

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif. -- Despite the fact that import vehicles make up nearly 49 percent of the U.S. auto market, the country of origin still plays a crucial role in consumer choice of which make and model to purchase, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2007 Escaped Shopper Study released today. The study provides a comprehensive evaluation of why consumers may consider one model, but ultimately purchase another.

Nearly 80 percent of new-vehicle buyers limit their consideration set to include only domestic models or only import models. Among those who cross-shop for both import and domestic models, consumers who ultimately buy a domestic frequently do so because they simply decide they do not want an import. Buyers of domestic new-vehicles also frequently decide against import brands for financial reasons, most often citing that the import didn't offer aggressive rebates or other incentives.

Continue reading "'Buy American' Desire Drives Many New Shoppers to Purchase Domestic Rather Than Import Nameplates"

September 25, 2007

Honda's Value To America

Torrance, Calif. -- Honda has a long history of high value-added contributions to the U.S. economy through investments in its U.S. manufacturing and R&D capabilities, and in its U.S. supply base.

Continue reading "Honda's Value To America"

Honda R&D Developing Leading Products In U.S.

Torrance, Calif. -- Over the past 30 years, Honda's U.S. R&D operations have grown beyond researching, designing and developing all-new vehicles, to taking an industry-leading role in the research and testing of advanced environmental technologies and the research, development and testing of advanced safety systems.

Honda now employs more than 1300 designers, engineers, technicians and other personnel at some 13 R&D facilities in North America.

Continue reading "Honda R&D Developing Leading Products In U.S."

Honda's Commitment to Safety for Everyone

Torrance, Calif. -- Honda has a long history of leadership in the development and application of advanced safety technologies and designs.

This commitment to safety is based on the company's goal of being a company that "society wants to exist" and complements the company's leadership in reducing vehicle emissions and improving vehicle fuel efficiency.

Continue reading "Honda's Commitment to Safety for Everyone"

September 4, 2007

Honda's August Sales Up 4.7%

TORRANCE, Calif. -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc., posted all-time record monthly sales of 158,342 Honda and Acura vehicles in August, up 4.7 percent while breaking the previous record of 156,173 set in August 2005, the company announced today. American Honda year-to-date sales totaled 1,066,320, up 1.6 percent on a daily selling rate basis*.

Honda Division posted all-time record sales of 141,906 in August, up 6.7 percent compared to last year while breaking the previous division record of 136,952 set in August 2005.

Continue reading "Honda's August Sales Up 4.7%"

Acura Announces August Sales Down 10%

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Record sales of the MDX luxury SUV and continued demand for the RDX turbocharged SUV lead Acura to August sales of 16,436 units, down 10.0 percent versus last August. Acura year-to-date sales reached 122,357 units.

Acura light trucks posted record August sales of 7,676 units on the strength of the MDX and RDX SUV's. The MDX posted record August sales of 5,816 units, surpassing the previous record of 5,379 set in August 2005.

Continue reading "Acura Announces August Sales Down 10%"

August 29, 2007

XM Satellite Radio Acura Takes Third In ALMS Event

BOWMANVILLE, Ont., CANADA - Andretti Green Racing drivers Marino Franchitti and Bryan Herta drove the No. 26 XM Satellite Radio Acura ARX-01a prototype in a sensational fashion Sunday in the Grand Prix of Mosport, the ninth stop in the American Le Mans Series.

Franchitti and Herta, seeking their first podium finish since Houston, mounted a spectacular challenge for the dominant Penske Porsches on the fast 2.45-mile Mosport International Raceway road circuit.

At the conclusion of the two-hour, 45-minute contest, the Andretti Green pair had to settle for third in the LMP2 class after racing wheel-to-wheel with the Penske machines that had won six straight ALMS events overall.

Continue reading "XM Satellite Radio Acura Takes Third In ALMS Event"

August 25, 2007

Report: Auto Finance Providers Exploring Direct Lending Initiatives

WESTLAKE VILLAGE -- As competition in the auto finance market intensifies, many lenders are deploying full-spectrum strategies, which consists of lenders servicing both prime and sub-prime customers, to increase volume and market share and to improve service to their dealers, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2007 Dealer Financing Satisfaction Study released today.

The study finds that many prime finance providers are making the transition to the sub-prime market, with 57 percent of dealers utilizing traditionally prime lenders for sub-prime customers. Conversely, only 33 percent of dealers report using traditional sub-prime lender services for their prime customers.

Continue reading "Report: Auto Finance Providers Exploring Direct Lending Initiatives"

August 17, 2007

Acura RL Earns Top Rating in Side Impact Crash Evaluation

TORRANCE, Calif. - The Acura RL luxury performance sedan has been awarded the highest rating given by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for side impact crash protection. The GOOD rating validates Acura's extensive efforts and commitment to vehicle safety.

According to the information released by IIHS today, their announcement shows a range of performance for various large cars in the institute's side impact crash test. IIHS reports that side impacts are the second most common fatal crash type after frontal crashes.

Continue reading "Acura RL Earns Top Rating in Side Impact Crash Evaluation"

August 10, 2007

Report: Buick and Lexus Brands Tie for Highest Vehicle Dependability

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif. -- Buick ties with Lexus to rank highest among nameplates in vehicle dependability -- marking the first time in 12 years that another brand ties with Lexus for the highest-rank position, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2007 Vehicle Dependability Study(SM) (VDS) released today.

The study, which measures problems experienced by original owners of 3-year-old (2004 model year) vehicles, finds that Buick and Lexus tie for the top rank position with a score of 145 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100). Following in the top five rankings are Cadillac, Mercury and Honda, respectively.

Continue reading "Report: Buick and Lexus Brands Tie for Highest Vehicle Dependability"

August 1, 2007

Acura Announces July Sales Down 8%

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Record sales of light trucks in July led Acura to 14,381*, the division announced today. Acura year-to-date sales reached 105,921 units, an 8.0 percent decline versus last year.

Strong sales of Acura's luxury SUV's combined to set a July record of 6,332 for total light trucks, surpassing the previous July record of 5,499 set in 2005.

Continue reading "Acura Announces July Sales Down 8%"

Honda Reports July Sales Down 3.2%

TORRANCE, Calif. -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc., posted July sales of 141,049 Honda and Acura vehicles, down 3.2 percent on a daily-selling-rate basis*, the company announced today.

American Honda year-to-date sales totaled 907,978, up 1.1 percent.

Continue reading "Honda Reports July Sales Down 3.2%"

July 30, 2007

Car Buyer's Notebook Now Available in Nine Languages!

Thanks to the Babel Fish translation software from AltaVista, Car Buyer's Notebook is now available in translation for nine languages. If you include English.

The alternate languages include: Spanish, French, German, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Italian and Portugese.

All you have to do is click on the appropriate flag in the box that is on the right hand side of the site.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in Spanish.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in French.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in Japanese.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in Chinese.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in German.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in Korean.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in Italian.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in Portugese.

July 27, 2007

GM, Toyota Top 2007 Motorist Choice Awards

CAMPBELL, Calif. -- PRIMEDIA's IntelliChoice and AutoPacific today announced the results of their second annual Motorist Choice Awards for model year 2007, with Toyota and GM coming in as the big winners.

Toyota scored winners in eight segments, including the overall winner, Lexus LS, while GM followed in second with five segment winners, including the Cadillac DTS and GMC Yukon XL.

Continue reading "GM, Toyota Top 2007 Motorist Choice Awards"

July 16, 2007

Acura Dealers Ranked Highest in Survey

PACIFIC GROVE, Calif. -- Acura dealerships ranked highest in the newly released 2007 Pied Piper Prospect Satisfaction Index(SM) Auto Industry Study, an industry-first study that measures how consumers are treated when shopping for a new car, SUV or truck.

The independent study evaluated and benchmarked shopping experiences at 1,592 dealerships nationwide, representing all major brands.

Following Acura were Land Rover, Saturn, Jaguar, Volkswagen, Nissan, and nineteen other brands at or above the industry average. Twelve brands finished below industry average.

Continue reading "Acura Dealers Ranked Highest in Survey"

July 9, 2007

Most-Researched New Vehicles During First Half of 2007

IRVINE, Calif. -- Kelley Blue Book has named the most-researched new cars during the first half of 2007. Information was collected among more than 70 million unique visitors to kbb.com.

Kbb.com's Most-Researched New Vehicles During First Half of 2007:

Continue reading "Most-Researched New Vehicles During First Half of 2007"

July 4, 2007

American Honda Reports Record June Sales of 140,935

TORRANCE, Calif. -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc., posted record June sales of 140,935 Honda and Acura vehicles, up 7.3 percent on a daily-selling-rate basis*, the company announced today. American Honda year-to-date sales totaled 766,929, up 2.1 percent.

Honda Division posted record June sales of 124,169, up 7.4 percent compared to last year. The CR-V sold 19,715, up 53.2 percent, achieving its sixth consecutive month of record sales. The Civic posted record sales of 36,512, up 33.6 percent over last June. Civic Hybrid sales increased by 20.1 percent to 3,246, also setting a new record for the month. The Fit, up 44.3 percent to 5,613, broke its all-time sales record from May, 2007 of 5,361.

Continue reading "American Honda Reports Record June Sales of 140,935"

Get the Car Buyer's Notebook Widget!

Aren't you tired of constantly navigating to sites, several times a day to keep up with the latest news?

I know I am -- and that's why I love widgets.

Widgets are these cool pieces of desktop "furniture" [like ours at right] that you can add to your computer -- and thus have a continuous live feed of updated news -- without going to a website to scan for cool stuff. [The widget can either be "parked" on top of all windows, or left underneath -- they're customizable, too!]

In the case of Car Buyer's Notebook, we have created just such a widget for you to download to your desktop -- and when you see a story you're really interested in, click on the title and it will take you to a new browser window to see the whole thing.

Getting our widget is simple -- there's only two steps:

1. Go to Springwidgets and download the widget software.

2. Go to this page, and get the Car Buyer's Notebook widget by clicking on the little green cog underneath the widget itself. This will add our widget to your widget menu.

And you will be in automotive widget heaven!

July 3, 2007

Acura Announces June Sales Up 6.9%

TORRANCE -- Driven by record sales of Acura light trucks and the TSX sports sedan, Acura posted June sales of 16,766 units, up 6.9 percent* versus last year based on the daily selling rate, the division announced today. Year-to-date Acura sales reached 91,540 units.

Strong sales of Acura's luxury SUVs combined to set a June record of 6,503 for total light trucks, breaking the previous June record of 5,797 set in 2005. The MDX luxury SUV continued to post sales gains, with June sales of 4,639 units, up 26.2 percent versus last year. Year-to-date MDX sales reached 27,027, up 9.9 percent. Additionally, the RDX turbocharged crossover recorded sales of 1,864 for the month.

Continue reading "Acura Announces June Sales Up 6.9%"

June 28, 2007

Report: Honda Captures Most Awards in 2007 APEAL Study

Higher Vehicle Appeal May Allow for Lower Dealer Incentives

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif. -- Honda captures four model segment awards -- more than any other vehicle nameplate this year -- according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2007 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study(SM) released today.

Honda's four segment-leading models are the Fit (in a tie), CR-V, Ridgeline and Odyssey. BMW and Mercedes-Benz receive three segment awards, while Ford, Nissan and Volkswagen each garner two awards. BMW models receiving awards include the 3 Series, 6 Series and X5, while Mercedes-Benz earns awards for the E-Class, S-Class and GL-Class. Ford models earning awards are the Mustang and Edge. Volkswagen receives awards for the Jetta and GTI, while Nissan earns awards for the Altima Sedan and Armada.

Continue reading "Report: Honda Captures Most Awards in 2007 APEAL Study"

June 25, 2007

Honda Achieves Record Monthly Overseas and Worldwide Auto Production

TOKYO, Japan, June 25, 2007– Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced its automobile production, Japan domestic sales, and export results for the month of May 2007. Honda achieved a new record for overseas and worldwide auto production for the month of May.

Continue reading "Honda Achieves Record Monthly Overseas and Worldwide Auto Production"

June 21, 2007

Honda Creates Environmentally Responsible Mobility

Honda is continuing its industry-leading efforts to address the environmental challenges of global warming, emissions reduction and energy sustainability through a comprehensive approach that involves further improvements to gasoline engine fuel efficiency, the development of real-world alternatives to gasoline including natural gas and the hydrogen-powered fuel cell car, and technology for refueling those vehicles.

In addition, Honda is pursuing advances in technology related to energy systems such as solar cells, electrical co-generation and the efficient creation of renewable bio-fuels as part of its effort to develop real world solutions to environmental challenges.

Continue reading "Honda Creates Environmentally Responsible Mobility"

Honda R&D Developing Leading Products In U.S.

Over the past 30 years, Honda's U.S. R&D operations have grown beyond researching, designing and developing all-new vehicles, to taking an industry-leading role in the research and testing of advanced environmental technologies and the research, development and testing of advanced safety systems.

Honda now employs more than 1,400 designers, engineers, technicians and other personnel at some 13 R&D facilities in North America.

Continue reading "Honda R&D Developing Leading Products In U.S."

Honda's Safety Planning Protects Everyone

Honda has a long history of leadership in the development and application of advanced safety technologies and designs. This commitment to safety is based on the company's goal of being a company that "society wants to exist" and complements the company's leadership in reducing vehicle emissions and improving vehicle fuel efficiency.

Safety for Everyone

* The Honda "Safety for Everyone" initiative in North America is a comprehensive approach to vehicle safety that seeks to provide enhanced levels of occupant protection in all Honda and Acura passenger vehicle designs, while also making an active commitment to enhance safety for the occupants of other vehicles and pedestrians.

Continue reading "Honda's Safety Planning Protects Everyone"

Honda Works with Flexible Manufacturing

Honda has invested in advanced, flexible manufacturing capacity in its North American and global production facilities in order to more quickly and efficiently respond to changes in market demand.

Honda's New Manufacturing System has been applied to all of Honda's major plants around the world, allowing for more efficient utilization of global production resources, increased stability of local manufacturing operations and employment, and enhanced value for Honda customers.

Continue reading "Honda Works with Flexible Manufacturing"

June 7, 2007

Report: Ford Motor Company Captures Most Awards in 2007 Initial Quality Study

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif. -- Ford Motor Company garners five top model segment awards -- more than any other automobile corporation this year, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2007 Initial Quality Study(SM) (IQS) released today.

In the study, Ford Motor Company earns model segment awards for the Ford Mustang, Lincoln Mark LT, Lincoln MKZ, Mazda MX-5 Miata and Mercury Milan.

Continue reading "Report: Ford Motor Company Captures Most Awards in 2007 Initial Quality Study"

June 1, 2007

Acura Reports May Sales Down 5.3%

Light Trucks Post Record Sales as New Acura Design Studio Opens

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Record sales of light trucks drove Acura May sales to 15,920 units, off 5.3 percent* from May 2006 based on the daily selling rate that included one additional selling day, the division announced today. Acura year-to-date sales reached 74,774 units.

Continue reading "Acura Reports May Sales Down 5.3%"

Honda Sales Speed Up in May to New Record; Civic Sets All-Time Record

CR-V and Fit set records

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Record May sales for American Honda Motor Co., Inc., increased to 145,367, up from 141,810 in 2006, breaking the previous May record set in 2004, the company announced today. The Honda Division posted record May sales of 129,447, up from May 2006 results of 125,639.

With one additional selling day in May 2007, the daily selling rate* (DSR) percentage change represents a 1.4 percent decline for American Honda and a 0.9 percent decline for Honda Division. Year-to-date American Honda sales increased to 625,994, up 1.0 percent.

Continue reading "Honda Sales Speed Up in May to New Record; Civic Sets All-Time Record"

May 25, 2007

Acura Design Studio Opens; Will Lead to Creation of Future Acura Vehicles

- New California Facility Designed as 'Green Building' -

TORRANCE, Calif. -- The new $15 million Acura Design Studio officially opened its doors today, assuming a key role in the development of new concepts and designs that will lead directly to future Acura products. With state-of-the-art design technologies and a work layout focused on improving collaboration, the new design studio represents the next step in the advance of the Acura brand.

Designed to achieve a high level of energy efficiency, the studio also is expected to be certified as a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) building by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). A number of measures were adopted in the design and construction of the studio, with the goal of achieving LEED gold certification.

Continue reading "Acura Design Studio Opens; Will Lead to Creation of Future Acura Vehicles"

May 21, 2007

Early Charge By Acura Looks Promising In Utah But Fortunes Fall Short

All Three Acuras Lead LMP2 Class But Fernandez Team's Fifth Is Best Result

The first 30 minutes of Saturday's Utah Grand Prix had the three Acura teams, Andretti Green Racing, Lowe's Fernandez Racing and Highcroft Racing, leading the LMP2 class and showing excellent speed on the long 4.5-mile, 24-turn road circuit at Miller Motorsports Park.

Marino Franchitti, driving the No. 26 XM Satellite Radio Acura ARX-01a, made a sensational start from his sixth position and moved to second overall on the opening lap of the American Le Mans Series race. Franchitti took his machine to first in the LMP2 division and chased the overall-leading, more-powerful Audi.

Then Luis Diaz, in the No. 15 Lowe's Fernandez Acura Lola, made a tremendous pass on Fran- chitti in traffic and jumped to the front position. Diaz, teaming with Adrian Fernandez, set a blistering pace before handling the driving chores to his teammate at Lap 26.

Continue reading "Early Charge By Acura Looks Promising In Utah But Fortunes Fall Short"

15 Millionth Honda Engine Produced at Anna, Ohio

Associates at the Largest Honda Engine Plant in the World Celebrate Milestone Product and Continued Investment

ANNA, Ohio --Associates at the largest Honda auto engine plant in the world celebrated the 15 millionth engine produced since Honda of America Mfg., Inc. opened the Anna Engine Plant in 1985.

As the milestone engine was finished, a $75 million expansion project at the plant continued toward completion later this year. The project will transfer connecting rod and camshaft production from Japan to Ohio.

“Today we are not only celebrating a production milestone, but the efforts of our associates, past and present, to satisfy 15 million customers,” said Dan Smith, Honda of America vice president and plant manager of the Anna Engine Plant.

Continue reading "15 Millionth Honda Engine Produced at Anna, Ohio"

May 14, 2007

New Acura MDX and Ford Taurus are top performers in crash tests

ARLINGTON, VA —The 2007 Acura MDX luxury SUV plus the 2008 Ford Taurus and twin Mercury Sable large family cars earn the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's TOP SAFETY PICK award.

Vehicles earning this designation afford superior overall crash protection among the vehicles in their class. To qualify for TOP SAFETY PICK, vehicles must earn the highest rating of good in all three Institute tests — front, side, and rear.

They also have to be equipped with electronic stability control (ESC), which is a standard feature on the MDX and optional on the Taurus and Sable beginning with 2008 models.

"Criteria to win TOP SAFETY PICK award are tough because they're intended to drive continued safety improvements such as high crash test ratings and rapid addition of ESC," says Institute president Adrian Lund. "Recognizing vehicles at the head of their class for safety helps consumers distinguish the best overall choices without having to sort through multiple results."

Continue reading "New Acura MDX and Ford Taurus are top performers in crash tests"

May 5, 2007

DaimlerChrysler Health Initiative Recognized by Michigan Senate Leadership

-- Driving DCX diabetes program integrates diabetes care with existing workplace programs

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Driving DCX, an innovative diabetes care program created by DaimlerChrysler to improve the health and quality of life for employees with diabetes, was recognized with a tribute from Senator Mike Bishop, Senate Majority Leader of the Michigan State Senate, during activities of Diabetes and Kidney Advocacy Day in Lansing, Mich.

Kate Kohn-Parrott, Chrysler Group Director - Integrated Health Care and Disability, and Fred Hoffman, Chrysler Group Director - State Relations were present to accept the tribute on behalf of the company.

"To be recognized by Senator Bishop and the National Kidney Foundation for our Driving DCX diabetes program is an honor and very encouraging," said Kohn- Parrott. "It validates the proactive direction we have taken with our employee health programs and our commitment to provide employees with information that can help them to become more knowledgeable about chronic conditions like diabetes."

The Driving DCX (Diabetes Care eXperts) program partnered with Henry Ford Medical Group and Health Alliance Plan to develop an initiative that integrates diabetes care with existing workplace programs. Program components include onsite health screenings for blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol, appointments with certified diabetes educators and "Lunch and Learn" session on diabetes care.

Continue reading "DaimlerChrysler Health Initiative Recognized by Michigan Senate Leadership"

May 2, 2007

Acura Announces April Sales

Light Trucks Post Record Sales

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Record sales of light trucks pushed Acura April sales to 15,193 units, off 15.0 percent from record April 2006 based on the daily selling rate*, the division announced today. Acura year-to-date sales reached 58,854.

Strong sales of the redesigned MDX luxury SUV and RDX turbocharged SUV helped set an April sales record of 6,648 for total light trucks, surpassing the previous record of 5,073 set in 2005. The MDX strong posted sales of 4,497, up 10.4 percent versus last year. Year-to-date MDX sales of 17,765 units outpaced last year's total by 3.0 percent. Additionally, demand for the RDX continued to grow with April sales of 2,151 units, driving year-to-date sales to 8,407.

Continue reading "Acura Announces April Sales"

April 23, 2007

Acura Team Falls Short in Houston

Bryan Herta had the large crowd at the Lone Star Grand Prix on its feet Saturday evening in a wild finish on the JAGFlo Speedway road course around the famed Astrodome and beautiful Reliant Stadium.

The California driver just missed taking the No. 26 XM Satellite Radio Acura ARX-01a sports car to the overall victory on the tight 1.7-mile, 10-turn track many drivers called one of the roughest circuits on the 12-race American Le Mans Series tour. Herta came from 27 seconds behind to close within .450 seconds at the checkered flag and take second overall to the No. 7 Penske Porsche driven by Timo Bernhard and Romain Dumas.

Continue reading "Acura Team Falls Short in Houston"

April 16, 2007

Report: most cars still can't prevent whiplash

Rear crash protection in cars: seat/head restraints in two of every three models are marginal or poor

Among the winners are seat designs in all Volvos; Audi A4, S4 and A6; Ford Five Hundred/ Mercury Montego; Nissan Sentra and Versa; Saab 9-3; and Subaru Impreza and Legacy/Outback.

ARLINGTON, VA — Seat/head restraint designs in 22 current car models are rated good for rear crash protection, but those in 53 other cars are rated marginal or poor. The latest evaluations of occupant protection in rear-end collisions by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety found that the seat/head restraints in more than 60 percent of car models fall short of current state-of-the-art protection from neck injury or whiplash.

The ratings of good, acceptable, marginal, or poor are based on geometric measurements of head restraints and simulated crashes that together assess how well people of different sizes would be protected in a typical rear-end collision.

Among the winners are seat designs in all Volvos; Audi A4, S4 and A6; Ford Five Hundred/ Mercury Montego; Nissan Sentra and Versa; Saab 9-3; and Subaru Impreza and Legacy/Outback. Seat/head restraints in 12 other car models are rated acceptable. These results show some improvement since the Institute began rear impact tests of seat/head restraints in 2004. Seats in only 8 car models earned good ratings in 2004.

Continue reading "Report: most cars still can't prevent whiplash"

Highcroft Acura Team Takes Fourth in Long Beach Grand Prix

Dario Franchitti and the No. 26 XM Satellite Radio Acura ARX-01a were the class of the American Le Mans Series field Saturday in the series' debut at the famed Long Beach Grand Prix. Unfortunately, the Andretti Green Racing driving pair of Franchitti and Bryan Herta didn't end up in Victory Lane.

Continue reading "Highcroft Acura Team Takes Fourth in Long Beach Grand Prix"

April 4, 2007

Honda Named 'Greenest Automaker' by Union of Concerned Scientists

- America's Most Fuel Efficient Car Company Earns Fourth Consecutive Title -

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Honda, the most fuel efficient car company in America(1), has earned the title of America's "2007 Greenest Automaker" from the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) for the fourth consecutive time. The award is given by the UCS on a biennial basis to the company with the lowest overall production of smog-forming emissions and global warming emissions (primarily CO2) in its U.S. automobile fleet.

"Honda remains the greenest U.S. automaker. The company installs clean technology across its entire fleet of cars and trucks and that consistency makes it a top environmental performer. Honda is one of only two automakers to have better-than-average global warming scores in every class of vehicles it sold in MY2005," said Don MacKenzie, a vehicles engineer with the Union of Concerned Scientists. "In addition, Honda continues to have the best smog score in four out of the five classes."

Continue reading "Honda Named 'Greenest Automaker' by Union of Concerned Scientists"

Acura Announces March Sales Down Slightly

Light Trucks Set Record Due to Strong MDX and RDX Sales

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Boosted by a March record for light truck sales, Acura sold 16,986 vehicles for the month, less than 500 units behind March 2006. Sales of the popular MDX and RDX crossover SUVs combined for a new Acura March light-truck record of 7,209 units, the luxury division announced today.

Continue reading "Acura Announces March Sales Down Slightly"

ExxonMobil Along for Acura’s Inaugural Run in the American Le Mans Series

ExxonMobil to Provide Its Flagship Mobil 1 Synthetic Engine Oil for All Acura LMP2 Race Car Engines

FAIRFAX, Va. -- Expanding the broad presence its flagship Mobil 1 synthetic engine oil has in high-performance motorsports, ExxonMobil today announced a global technical cooperative agreement with Honda Performance Development (HPD), a subsidiary of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., and the Honda technical operations center, for the development and design of Acura's high-performance racing engines.

Continue reading "ExxonMobil Along for Acura’s Inaugural Run in the American Le Mans Series"

April 3, 2007

Acura Team Makes Podium In Rough & Tumble St. Petersburg Challenge

The Acura Sports Car Challenge of St. Petersburg proved to a real street fight Saturday, with some slam-bang action around the 1.8-mile circuit.

The American Le Mans Series debut in the streets of St. Petersburg lived up to expectations with many lead changes and a number of racing incidents that saw the Acura teams battle back through the field to finish third and fourth in the LMP2 class.

The new Highcroft Acura team, with drivers David Brabham and Stefan Johansson, scored its first podium finish with a third place in the darkness at the checkered flag. The Penske Porsches, who started first and second on the grid, placed 1-2 after coming back from a variety of mishaps.

Continue reading "Acura Team Makes Podium In Rough & Tumble St. Petersburg Challenge"

March 30, 2007

Honda Wants to Be Known for Safety

MARYSVILLE, Ohio — From the time it started selling cars in the United States 35 years ago, Honda has fostered a reputation for building fuel-efficient vehicles.

Now it is taking a new tack: it wants to join Volvo as an automaker best known for safety.

To get there, Honda is promoting safety as an essential part of its public image. It is offering front and side-curtain air bags and antilock brakes on most of its offerings, from the smallest cars to trucks, emphasizing that buyers need not pay top dollar for such protection.

It has also redesigned the frames of its vehicles to better spread out the impact of a crash. That redesign process, begun this decade in Japan, will be mostly complete this fall across its lineup, when the newest version of its flagship Accord sedan reaches showrooms.

Honda’s campaign, known internally as “Safety for Everyone,” is showing results, with some of the auto industry’s best scores on government and insurance industry crash tests.

Eight of its vehicles, from the small CR-V sport utility to the Odyssey minivan, can claim to be among the safest cars on the road, with five-star ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in front and side crash tests, as well as the top rankings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety on a variety of crash tests.

Those results exceed the ratings for General Motors, Chrysler, Toyota and even Volvo, the company whose image Honda is striving to emulate. The Ford Motor Company and the Korean automaker Hyundai have a similar number of vehicles that receive those best-in-class scores, though they are not emphasizing safety as much as Honda does in its marketing, including its Web site.

March 28, 2007

Honda Continues Record Monthly Pace for Worldwide Auto Production

TOKYO – Honda Motor Co., Ltd., announced its automobile production, domestic sales, and export results for the month of February 2007.

Due to increased production for the Japan domestic market and overseas market, domestic production experienced a year-on-year increase for the ninth consecutive month (since June 2006).

Due mainly to increased production in Asia, overseas production experienced a year-on-year increase for the nineteenth consecutive month (since August 2005). Honda achieved a new production record in Europe and Asia and China for the month of February. Honda also set a new monthly record for overseas production for the month of February.

Continue reading "Honda Continues Record Monthly Pace for Worldwide Auto Production"

March 22, 2007

Acura Brings Sponsored Events To Fans Missing The Action

FOR THE SAILBOAT RACING ENTHUSIASTS who couldn't get to the events, the Honda division is posting highlights of a special broadcast of the races on a number of racing and sailing Web sites and will rebroadcast it in its entirety later this month. It also will be the focus of a direct-mail and magazine campaign during May. It first aired on ESPN2 and features Gary Jobson, former All-American collegiate sailor, ESPN analyst and sailing tactician for Ted Turner.

Acura sponsored the Acura Key West Race Week in January and the Acura Miami Grand Prix last week.

The programs feature footage shot from helicopters and chase boats, interviews with defending champ Ernesto Bertarelli and others, Acura marketing and other material. They will be direct-mailed to sailing enthusiasts via a 10-minute DVD and will be sewn into the May America's Cup edition--the biggest of the year, in terms of readership--of Sailing World, which has 60,000 subscribers. The DVD contains a brand spot and an ad for the Acura RDX.

March 19, 2007

Acura Sports Car Debut Proves Formidable With Sebring Victory

All Three Acura ALMS Teams Finish In The Top Six Overall Positions

The three new Acura American Le Mans Series teams made a spectacular debut Saturday by taking the first, second and fourth positions in the LMP2 class at the 55th annual Mobil 1 12 Hours of Sebring, one of the world's most prestigious road-racing events.

The Andretti Green Racing effort, with drivers Bryan Herta, Dario Franchitti and Tony Kanaan, scored the LMP2 class victory over the Lowe's Fernandez Racing team of Adrian Fernandez and Luis Diaz after the grueling 12-hour endurance contest. The AGR trio finished second overall to the factory Audi LMP1, racing on the lead lap against the more powerful German manufacturer before gearbox woes slowed the Acura ARX-01a driven by Herta in the final hour. The Fernandez team placed third overall, just two laps shy of the AGR team.

Continue reading "Acura Sports Car Debut Proves Formidable With Sebring Victory"

Acura's rich media ads are among the best on the web

What you see here is a screenshot of an expanding Acura ad that I found on this webpage, around 9 am, Monday.

What I like about this Acura ad is that, in it's origianl state the graphical tab annnouncing the ad was unobtrusive, yet also persuasive due to its style and well-presented offer.

Then when you expand the tab, you get this, a series of offers as it turns out, for Acura automobiles.

This ad is one of the best I've seen at providing a rich advdertising expeience without "choking" the content on the page. Well done.

March 1, 2007

Acura Announces February Sales, down 3.4%

Light-Truck and TSX Sales Reach a New Monthly High

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Led by a February record for sales of light trucks and the TSX sports sedan, Acura sold a total of 13,658 vehicles for the month, off 3.4 percent from last year, the luxury division announced today.

"Harsh weather in some key Acura markets presented a few challenges, but we are pleased with the sales figures for the TSX and our light trucks," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president, sales. "As the temperatures rise nationwide, we expect Acura sales to increase as well."

The redesigned 2007 Acura MDX luxury SUV was the top-selling Acura model with 4,330 units sold, an increase of 0.5 percent over 2006. Meanwhile, the turbocharged RDX entry-premium SUV posted total sales of 2,034 units, making February the model's second-best month since its introduction in June of 2006. The two models combined for an Acura light-truck record of 6,364 units.

The TSX sports sedan totaled 2,769 units, an increase of 3.6 percent from the same period in 2006, setting a monthly record for the model.

February 20, 2007

Honda settles suit over defective odometers

Tentative plan includes Acura; customers will be reimbursed for repairs, warranties will be extended.

WASHINGTON -- About 6 million Honda and Acura owners will get extensions of leases or warranties, or in some cases refunds, as part of a $16 million-plus settlement stemming from faulty odometers, which chalked up miles too quickly.

Because of the defective odometers, warranties expired earlier than they should have.

In some cases, leaseholders had to pay for miles they did not drive when odometers showed they exceeded mileage limits.

As part of a tentative class-action settlement, American Honda Motor Co. will:

--Extend by 5 percent the mileage-based coverage period of its warranties.
--Extend mileage allowed in leases by 5 percent.
--Reimburse customers for repairs made just after their warranties expired.
--Refund $6.1 million in fees for exceeding mileage limits to about 25,000 former leaseholders -- who will receive $265 each.

The suit began in April 2004 when a Texas woman complained that her 2002 Odyssey was overstating her mileage by 2 percent to 4 percent. Other drivers also complained their odometers weren't accurate.

February 15, 2007

Acura RDX Wins 'Canadian Utility Vehicle Of The Year' Award

All-New Turbocharged Crossover Utility Vehicle Top Pick by Auto Journalists

TORONTO – Acura’s all-new RDX Technology Package, a luxury-performance crossover utility vehicle (CUV), was voted “Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year” by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC).

“With Acura RDX being voted the Canadian Utility of the Year, Canadian consumers can rely on AJAC’s third-party evaluation when selecting a luxury crossover utility vehicle,” said Jim Miller, executive vice president, Honda Canada Inc.

Continue reading "Acura RDX Wins 'Canadian Utility Vehicle Of The Year' Award"

February 5, 2007

Honda Drives Innovative SUV Design with Autodesk Software

2007 Acura MDX Exceeds Safety and Environmental Design Standards with AliasStudio

SAN RAFAEL, Calif.-- Autodesk, Inc. today announced that Honda Canada engaged Autodesk AliasStudio software for the widely recognized design of the 2007 Acura MDX sports utility vehicle (SUV). The Acura design team in Los Angeles, California designed the improved 2007 MDX model with a new styling direction. The innovative design embodies Acura's commitment to performance, luxury, quality and style, together with a global mandate for safety and environmental care. Acura worked with INCAT, an Autodesk Authorized Reseller, to choose AliasStudio software for their automotive design process.

Continue reading "Honda Drives Innovative SUV Design with Autodesk Software"

February 1, 2007

Acura January Light Truck Sales Set NewRecord

Propelled by sales of the all-new 2007 MDX luxury performance SUV, Acura sold a January record of 5,951 light trucks, up 48.7 percent versus last year, the division announced today. The previous record of 4,165 was set in January 2004.

Overall, Acura began 2007 with sales of 13,017 units sold for the month, down 10.6 percent from a year ago based on the daily selling rate that included one fewer day than last January. MDX led Acura sales for the month with 4,153 units sold, eclipsing its total from a year ago by 3.8 percent and making it the model's second-best January ever.

"We are certainly pleased with the way customers have reacted to the new MDX," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president, sales. "The combination of its dynamic styling and track-tuned performance have really hit home."

Continuing its steady sales pace, the turbocharged RDX crossover SUV sold 1,798 units for the month. Meanwhile, sales of the TSX sports sedan totaled 2,628 units.

DaimlerChrysler AG Reports 3 Percent Increase in U.S. Sales for Passenger Vehicles for January 2007

* Chrysler Group Reports Sales of 156,308 Vehicles, a 1 Percent Increase for January 2007

* Mercedes-Benz USA Reports Sales of 17,069 Vehicles a 37 Percent Increase for January 2007

DaimlerChrysler AG, the third largest U.S. auto maker, today reported total group sales of 173,377 passenger vehicles in the U.S. for January 2007, a 3 percent increase compared to January 2006. All sales figures in this release are on an unadjusted basis unless otherwise noted.

Continue reading "DaimlerChrysler AG Reports 3 Percent Increase in U.S. Sales for Passenger Vehicles for January 2007"

January 31, 2007

Honda Reports Financial Results for Fiscal Third Quarter

TOKYO -- Honda Motor Co., Ltd. today announced its consolidated financial results for the fiscal third quarter and the fiscal nine months ended December 31, 2006.

Third Quarter Results

Honda's consolidated net income for the fiscal third quarter ended December 31, 2006 totaled JPY 144.8 billion (USD 1,216 million), an increase of 8.8% from the corresponding period in 2005. Basic net income per Common share for the quarter amounted to JPY 79.45 (USD 0.67), an increase of 9.7% compared to JPY 72.41 for the corresponding period in 2005. One of Honda's American Depository Shares represents one Common Share.

Consolidated net sales and other operating revenue (herein referred to as "revenue") for the quarter amounted to JPY 2,768.6 billion (USD 23,244 million), an increase of 12.0% from the corresponding period in 2005. This increase was due mainly to the increased revenue in automobile business in North America and Europe. Honda estimates that if the exchange rate of the Japanese yen had remained unchanged from the corresponding period in 2005, revenue for the quarter would have increased by approximately 9.6%.

Continue reading "Honda Reports Financial Results for Fiscal Third Quarter"

January 23, 2007

XM and Honda Launch Satellite Radio Program for Honda Certified Used Cars

XM,, the nation's leading satellite radio service, and American Honda Motor Co., Inc. today launched a satellite radio trial program for Honda Certified Used Cars with factory-installed XM Satellite Radio.

Under this new program, all certified pre-owned Honda models equipped with XM Satellite Radio will be available with three months of complimentary XM service and a waived activation fee. Honda models equipped with XM include the Accord, Accord Hybrid, Civic, Civic Hybrid, CR-V, Element, Odyssey, Pilot, and Ridgeline.

XM and Acura recently announced a similar program that introduces XM to customers who purchase an Acura Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle equipped with XM Satellite Radio. Combined with the Acura program, XM's partnership with American Honda Certified Programs will make XM available in more than 35,000 of these certified vehicles in 2007, and grow to more than 55,000 vehicles in 2008. The XM marketing program for certified pre-owned vehicles will continue to expand with the increasing availability of factory-installed XM Satellite Radio across both vehicle model lineups.

Continue reading "XM and Honda Launch Satellite Radio Program for Honda Certified Used Cars"

January 8, 2007

Acura 'Advanced Sports Car Concept' Debuts at North American International Auto Show

Concept Provides a Glimpse of the Next Generation Acura Exotic Sports Car

The show-stopping Acura "Advanced Sports Car Concept" made its world debut today at the 2007 North American International Auto Show. The dynamically styled concept provides a preview of the design direction for the successor to the Acura NSX.

Created to take exotic sports car styling to a new level, the concept is designed to incorporate a powerful front-mounted, V-10 engine and a new high- performance, rear-wheel-drive based version of Acura's exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(TM)).

"The Acura brand will always be a home for people who love to drive," said Takeo Fukui, president & CEO of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. "As we advance toward building a car like this, I can tell you it will feature advanced technology matching our passion for performance."

Continue reading "Acura 'Advanced Sports Car Concept' Debuts at North American International Auto Show"

Acura Planning the Next NSX

DETROIT — This afternoon saw the worldwide debut of the Advanced Sports Car Concept, heir-apparent to Acura's sports icon, the NSX, at the 2007 North American International Auto Show.

Distinguished by sharp angles and futuristic sculpting, the concept features what the manufacturer calls subtle cues associated with its predecessor. LED headlights intended to evoke the first-generation NSX's pop-up headlights.

"Our intention was to design an exotic sports car that gracefully combines advanced technology and strong emotion," said Jon Ikeda, principal designer, Acura Design Center. "The technical, machined surfaces and keen-edge design are balanced with sweeping curves and dramatic lines, all of which results in the ultimate exotic sports car."

January 3, 2007

American Honda Posts 10th Consecutive Year of Record Sales in 2006

Increased Civic and CR-V Sales Help Propel Honda to Its Best Sales Year Ever

American Honda Motor Co., Inc., today announced all-time record sales results for the 10th consecutive year. Sales from both Honda and Acura Divisions totaled 1,509,358 and pushed American Honda annual sales up 3.5 percent based on the daily selling rate*. The results also mark the company's 13th consecutive year-over-year sales increase. American Honda December sales totaled 131,778 vehicles, up 3.0 percent for the month based on the daily selling rate.

2006 American Honda sales highlights:
* All-time record total vehicle sales of 1,509,358 (up 3.5 percent)
* 10th consecutive yearly sales record
* 13th consecutive year-over-year annual sales increase
* All-time record light truck sales of 665,408 (up 6.9 percent)
* Individual vehicle sales records for Honda CR-V, Odyssey, Pilot,
Ridgeline and Acura TSX

Continue reading "American Honda Posts 10th Consecutive Year of Record Sales in 2006"

Acura Registers Second Consecutive Year of 200,000-Plus Sales

Light-Truck Sales Set a New All-Time Record

Driven by yearly record sales of light trucks and the TSX sports sedan, Acura surpassed the 200,000-unit sales mark for the second consecutive year, the luxury division announced today. Year-end Acura sales totaled 201,223 units, down just 3.7 percent from a year ago (based on the daily selling rate).

Meanwhile, December Acura sales of 19,056 units were up 6.3 percent compared to last year, fueled by strong demand for the all-new RDX turbocharged SUV and MDX luxury SUV. MDX posted strong December sales of 6,227, up 17.1 percent from a year ago.

"To break the 200,000-unit sales barrier in consecutive years for Acura is a great accomplishment," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president, sales. "We look forward to an even stronger year in 2007, especially after the momentum we built in November and December of 2006."

2006 Acura sales highlights included:
- An Acura total light-truck record of 63,285 units sold, eclipsing the previous mark of 59,505 set in 2004.
- A fourth consecutive year of record sales for the TSX sports sedan with 38,035 units, surpassing the record of 34,856 set in 2005 and a 9.5-percent increase over a year ago.
- The performance luxury sedan TL continuing as Acura's top-selling model, recording annual sales of 71,348 units.

December 19, 2006

Acura 'Advanced Sports Car Concept' to Debut at North American International Auto Show

The Acura 'Advanced Sports Car Concept' will make its debut at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the division announced today. The concept provides a glimpse at the next generation Acura exotic sports car.

As a part of the global commitment to the Acura brand, Honda Motor Co. Ltd.'s President and CEO Takeo Fukui will be delivering the keynote remarks at the Acura press conference.

Additional details on the Advanced Sports Car Concept will be announced on Sunday, Jan. 7th at 1:20 pm the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

December 13, 2006

2007 North American Car and Truck of the Year Finalists Announced

An international group of automotive journalists has selected the Honda Fit, the Saturn Aura and the Toyota Camry as finalists for the 2007 North American Car of the Year. The Chevrolet Silverado, Ford Edge and Mazda CX-7 are finalists for the 2007 North American Truck of the Year.

The awards are unique in the United States because - instead of being given by a single publication, radio or television station - they are given by 49 automotive journalists from the United States and Canada.

The awards are designed to recognize the most outstanding vehicles of the year based on factors that include innovation, design, safety, handling, driver satisfaction and value for the dollar. To be eligible, vehicles must be "all new" or "substantially changed" from the previous model.

Continue reading "2007 North American Car and Truck of the Year Finalists Announced"

December 1, 2006

Acura Announces Record November Sales Results

Light Truck Sales Set a New All-Time Record

Fueled by record sales of the all-new 2007 MDX luxury SUV in just its first full month of sales, Acura sold a November record of 17,200 units sold for the month, the division announced today. The monthly total was up 23.9 percent from a year ago and raised year-to-date sales to 182,167.

Further boosted by a record 1,951 RDX entry premium SUVs, the division sold an all-time record of 8,037 light trucks in November, shattering the previous record of 6,238 set in December 2004. Leading the way for Acura during the month was the newly-redesigned MDX with 6,086 units sold, an increase of 66.8 percent over 2005, making this its second best November ever. The MDX has now sold 47,894 units in 2006.

Continue reading "Acura Announces Record November Sales Results"

November 30, 2006

Acura 'Advanced Sedan Concept' Debuts at Los Angeles Auto Show

LOS ANGELES -- The Acura "Advanced Sedan Concept" made its world debut today at the 2006 Los Angeles Auto Show. Created by Acura's Los Angeles-based advanced design team, the concept features a modern, powerful exterior while retaining an ultra luxurious feel.

"The Advanced Sedan Concept illustrates Acura's commitment to modern design and cutting-edge style," said John Mendel, senior vice president, auto operations. "With our advanced design team taking a significant role in shaping future vehicle design, we can expect upcoming products to reflect this progressive, forward-thinking styling."

The Advanced Sedan Concept is the purest expression of advanced design, performance and luxury, highlighted by its powerful, wide stance and deeply sculpted surfaces. The primary goal of this design study was to create a sophisticated, refined sedan with a mysterious presence.

Continue reading "Acura 'Advanced Sedan Concept' Debuts at Los Angeles Auto Show"

November 21, 2006

2007 Acura RDX Earns TOP SAFETY PICK Award

All-new SUV One of Only Three Luxury SUVs to Receive Honor for 2007

The all-new 2007 Acura RDX was one of only three luxury SUVs (out of 13 total vehicles) to earn a 2007 Insurance Institute for Highway Safety TOP SAFETY PICK Award. The annual award, given to SUVs for the first time this year, recognizes vehicles that perform best in protecting passengers in front, rear and side crashes based on their ratings in the Institute's tests.

Continue reading "2007 Acura RDX Earns TOP SAFETY PICK Award"

November 8, 2006

Honda Issues Second-Annual North American Environmental Report

Honda has released its second annual report on the company's environmental footprint in North America, with a special emphasis on global warming and energy sustainability as two of the most critical environmental challenges facing society today.

The 2006 North American Environmental report covers the company's operations during the period April 1, 2005 to March 31, 2006 (FY 2006). The report looks at the environmental performance of the company's automobile, power sports and power equipment products, its 12 major manufacturing plants in North America, and the corporate activities of 13 Honda group companies in the region.

"We are pleased to provide this report on our ongoing efforts to reduce the environmental footprint of Honda's North American operations," said Koichi Kondo, chief operating officer of Honda's North American Regional Operation. "Even as we continue to grow our North American sales, R&D and manufacturing capabilities, we are seeking ways to make a positive contribution to the environment through improvements to product and process efficiency, reductions in emissions, and elimination of toxic substances and waste."

The 2006 North American Environmental Report is available for viewing and download at the company's corporate web site at www.honda.com.

Continue reading "Honda Issues Second-Annual North American Environmental Report"

November 2, 2006

American Honda October Sales Increase 3.7 Percent

All-New CR-V Sets All-Time Sales Record

Honda's light trucks continue to shine with another record month of sales

Honda and Acura total vehicle sales of 110,624 for October increased 3.7 percent over last year on a daily selling rate basis, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today. American Honda light truck sales of 52,789 led the increase with a 15.6 percent gain that broke the previous October record of 49,193 set in 2004.

Sales of the all-new 2007 Honda CR-V totaled 20,413, representing an increase of 95.7 percent in its first full month of sales while shattering the previous all-time record by 3,744 units from July 2005. Total year-to-date sales for American Honda continued on a record-setting pace of 1,271,134 cars and light trucks for the year, up 3.9 percent and on-track for a 13th consecutive year-over-year sales increase.

"The increased diversity of both our Honda and Acura lineups is helping to push sales up across the board," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of American Honda. "Judging by the new all-time sales record, the all-new 2007 Honda CR-V is a hit with consumers, too."

Continue reading "American Honda October Sales Increase 3.7 Percent"

Acura Announces October Sales Results

Light Truck Sales Reach a Third Consecutive Monthly Record For the Luxury Division

Spurred by sales of the all-new 2007 MDX luxury performance SUV and continued growth in sales of the RDX crossover SUV, Acura sold an October record of 6,130 light trucks, the division announced today. The previous record for the month of 5,233 was set in 2004.

Overall, Acura totaled 15,877 units sold for the month, up 0.7 percent from a year ago based on the daily selling rate and posting year-to-date sales at 164,967.

"We made some important strides in sales during October," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president, sales. "We think November and December should be big months for us, especially with the all-new MDX and TL Type-S models available at dealerships."

Continue reading "Acura Announces October Sales Results"

October 11, 2006

Acura and XM Are First to Offer Complimentary Satellite Radio Program for Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles

Acura Certified Pre-Owned Car Buyers Get 3 Months Complimentary XM Service

XM Satellite Radio, the nation's leading satellite radio service with more than 7 million subscribers, and Acura today announced the first complimentary satellite radio service program for Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles. Beginning this fall, Acura will offer three months of complimentary XM service on CPO Acura models with factory-installed XM Satellite Radio, including: RL, TL, TSX and MDX. Acura currently inspects, certifies and remarkets more than 35,000 previously-owned vehicles per year, with approximately one-third featuring standard XM Satellite Radio, a rate that will grow over time as XM continues to be offered as standard equipment across Acura models.

Continue reading "Acura and XM Are First to Offer Complimentary Satellite Radio Program for Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles"

October 6, 2006

Acura Announces September Sales Results

Light Truck Sales Reach a Second Consecutive Monthly Record for the Luxury Division

Fueled by the first full month of sales of the all-new turbocharged RDX crossover SUV and continued steady sales of the MDX luxury performance SUV, Acura sold a September record of 5,706 light trucks, up 28.5 percent* versus 2005 and eclipsing the previous mark of 4,958 set in 2004, the division announced today.

In addition, Acura narrowly missed setting a new all-time September record, falling short by a scant 311 units. Acura sales for the month totaled 16,323 units, down 5.6 percent based on the daily selling rate, with year-to-date sales tallying 149,090 units.

"September was a good month for us," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president, sales. "And we expect October to be even better with the addition of the all-new 2007 MDX and the new high performance TL Type-S."

Off to a strong start, 1,704 RDX's were purchased during the new model's first complete month of sales. Meanwhile, MDX posted 4,002 units during September, bringing its year-to-date total to 37,379.

The TSX sports sedan continued its strong pace with 2,882 units for September, while year-to-date TSX sales reached 29,837 -- up 6.8 percent versus 2005.

The TL performance luxury sedan maintained its position as the top-selling Acura, with 5,334 units sold in September, bringing year-to-date TL sales to 54,274.

September 29, 2006

Acura buying tips for 2007

Acura is one of the hottest selling car brands in the USA and many other countries. Although the competition on the car market is fierce, Honda’s luxury division has managed to seize an important segment of the auto industry, so its 2007 models are expected to take the quality even further. Here are a few tips for buying an Acura in 2007, together with a look at their future and current vehicle offer.

Acura RDX (2007)
Priced at $32,995, the 2007 Acura RDX is a medium sized SUV that is slightly smaller than the MDX. The main competitors for the RDX are X3 from BMW and the M Klass Mercedes, together with other mid-sized SUVs. The RDX seems to be a very good choice for a family car that also offers luxury and a bit of sportive feel.

Acura MDX (2007)
The impressive sales of the MDX are expected to rise even further in 2007. Coming from Honda’s luxury division, the car-based seven-passenger MDX will most likely have shoppers face waiting lists. The 2007 Acura MDX has some other impressive advantages – more power and improved stability on any terrain with Acura’s All-Wheel Drive system.

Continue reading "Acura buying tips for 2007"

September 10, 2006

Honda sales up 10.5% in August

American Honda light truck sales increased 10.5 percent for August and set an all-time record with sales of 69,385 light trucks. American Honda year-to-date sales are up 5.3 percent to 1,044,284 units, while sales for the month are down 6.7 percent to 151,253 units based on the daily selling rate.

Honda Division light truck sales also posted an all-time record with 63,731 units delivered, up 11.4 percent. Odyssey sales of 18,773 units broke the all-time record, increasing 11.6 percent over year-ago results. Also setting records for the month were the Pilot and CR-V, both posting record August sales of 19,100 and 16,321 units, increasing by 31.6 and 6.8 percent respectively. Total Honda division sales were down 6.5 percent for the month to 132,990 units, while year-to-date sales are up 7.5 percent to 911,517.

"American Honda has successfully achieved year-over-year increases for more than a decade," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "The arrival of the all-new 2007 CR-V as well as the Civic Si sedan should allow us to continue our strong year-to-date momentum."

Acura Division posted record August sales for light trucks with 5,654 sales. The all-new RDX signals a successful start with 1,361 units sold since its introduction less than a month ago. The TL luxury performance sedan was Acura's best selling model with 6,339 units.

August 22, 2006

Ad Agency sharks circling around $640 Million Honda Account

Regional Reviews Spark Hope of Cracking Door on National Business

Ad agencies think they hear Mr. Opportunity knocking on Honda's $640 million account.

American Honda Motor Co. insists its longtime shop, RPA -- which has been running model-clearance ads featuring an animated character that "knocks" on the TV screen -- is secure on the national account. But auto-hungry agencies, straining to hear sounds of discontent with the agency of record, are encouraged that new regional Honda dealer groups -- each with budgets additional to the national spending-are looking outside RPA.

"It's a much-needed shot across the bow" of RPA, claimed a former Honda insider who asked not to be named.

Link.

August 13, 2006

Turbocharged 2007 Acura RDX at at Dealers Now

Performance Oriented SUV Is a Technological Tour-De-Force

The 2007 Acura RDX, which delivers a new level of performance, handling and luxury to the sport utility market, makes its debut today at Acura retailers nationwide. The performance oriented RDX boasts the exceptional handling of a sports sedan with the utility of a SUV and brings a new level of driving excitement in the growing entry premium crossover SUV segment.

"The 2007 RDX illustrates Acura's passion for developing vehicles that can deliver the ultimate in performance, technology and safety," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of sales. "For drivers that want the utility of an SUV but demand a sporty driving experience, the RDX truly delivers."

Continue reading "Turbocharged 2007 Acura RDX at at Dealers Now"

August 2, 2006

American Honda Sets July Sales Records

Honda Division Posts July Record and Second-Best Month Ever

Posting increased sales of its best-selling Accord and Civic models, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced record July results of 151,804 Honda and Acura vehicle sales, an increase of 10.2 percent over July 2005. American Honda posted July light truck sales of 67,853, up 11.0 percent for a new all-time record, while year-to-date American Honda total vehicle sales of 893,031 were up 7.5 percent on a daily selling rate basis.

The Honda Division posted its seventh consecutive record month of total sales, delivering 133,601 cars and light trucks to consumers; an increase of 12.7 percent over year-ago results. A new all-time record for light trucks of 63,049 units represents a 12.9 percent increase over same period last year. Record months for the Pilot, at 19,490 units, and the Odyssey, at 18,322 units, reflected increases of 37.6 and 10.7 percent, respectively. The Ridgeline also posted record July results, up 15.5 percent with 4,345 units sold.

As demand continues to outpace supply for Honda's small car lineup, the Honda Civic sold 28,607 units for a 6.2 percent increase, and the all-new Fit sold 3,135 units. Accord sales increased 9.5 percent to 38,043, and Honda also sold a total of 3,268 hybrid vehicles helped by record July sales for the Civic Hybrid of 2,673 units.

"Honda has spent the last 36 years building its brand around fuel efficiency, even when gas prices were low," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of American Honda. "Now that fuel efficiency rates higher in the purchase decision, customers are turning to trusted brands associated with excellent fuel economy."

The Acura Division posted July sales of 18,203, with record July sales of 3,799 units for the TSX. The TL luxury performance sedan was Acura's best-selling model with July sales of 6,304 and year-to-date sales of 42,601.

Acura Announces July Sales Results

TSX Sets July Record Sales

Bolstered by record sales of the TSX sports sedan as well as continued steady sales for the TL performance luxury sedan; Acura sold 18,203 units in July, the division announced today. Total year-to-date sales reached 114,504 units.

The TSX sports sedan continued its sales momentum, posting record July sales of 3,799 units, up 8.0 percent, based on 25 selling days for the month. Year-to-date TSX sales reached 23,625 -- an increase of 10.9 percent versus 2005.

The TL performance luxury sedan continued its reign as the top-selling Acura, with 6,304 units sold in July, bringing year-to-date TL sales to 42,601.

"Our dealers and our customers are looking forward to August," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president, sales. "The dynamic RDX crossover SUV goes on sales the tenth of the month and Acura is looking to establish itself as the leader in a growing segment whose popularity is on the verge of exploding."

The MDX luxury performance SUV sold 4,804 units in July, bringing its total sales for the year to 29,084 units.

July 27, 2006

Acura announces 2007 Acura RDX pricing

Making its debut at Acura dealerships on August 10, the 2007 RDX will have a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $32,995. The performance oriented RDX is poised to bring a new level of driving excitement and enjoyment to consumers seeking sports sedan performance in the growing entry premium SUV segment.

Continue reading "Acura announces 2007 Acura RDX pricing"

The 2007 Acura RDX SUV

The sport-luxury SUV marketplace is in an exciting state of evolution. With the arrival of Acura's new RDX 5-passenger Entry Premium SUV, this emerging market segment gets a decidedly "connected" spin.

Not only does this all-new SUV combine the immediate response of Acura's first-ever turbocharged engine and the agile control of Super Handling All-Wheel Drive, the RDX puts state-of-the-art communications, navigation and audio entertainment at the driver's fingertips. And the RDX delivers it all in keeping with Acura's long-established tradition of respect for crisp, contemporary styling and simple, intuitive operation that adds to the driving experience.

Continue reading "The 2007 Acura RDX SUV"

Small cars help Honda profits soar

High-mileage Civic and Fit boost U.S. sales, contributing to a nearly 30% earnings increase.

TOKYO -- First-quarter profit at Honda soared nearly 30 percent as a solid reputation for mileage lifted sales in the U.S., a critical region that makes up half of the Japanese automaker's vehicle sales.

With U.S. gas prices hovering at around $3 a gallon, Americans were snatching up Honda's small car models like the Civic and Fit, boosting Honda's North American sales by nearly 9 percent to 456,000 vehicles for the quarter from the same period a year earlier.

Link.

Acura TL going on sale in China

Acura TL Becomes First U.S. Model Exported to China by Japanese Luxury Nameplate

Number One Acura Seller Goes On-sale in September

Acura took a major step forward in its global plans with the export of the first U.S.-made Acura vehicle to China, the company announced today.

Scheduled to go on-sale beginning in September at newly constructed Acura dealerships in key metropolitan areas of China, the first shipment of TL performance luxury sedans was off-loaded at the port of Shanghai earlier this week. Designed, developed and assembled in the United States, the sporty TL is the number one selling Acura model in the U.S., and will be sold alongside the top-of-the-line RL luxury sedan.

"We are excited about Acura's expansion to China this year and look forward to launching the brand in Japan in 2008," said John Mendel, senior vice president automobile operations. "China is one of the fastest growing markets in the world and we are confident that Acura will be at the forefront of China's luxury automobile market."

Sales of three thousand Acura vehicles are projected during the first twelve months of operation.

Continue reading "Acura TL going on sale in China"

July 23, 2006

Honda building new hybrid parts plant

Honda is reportedly building a new plant in Japan to produce components for its hybrid cars.

Japan's No. 3 automaker plans to build the plant on the grounds of Honda's Suzuka factory in Mie Prefecture, which would allow the company to quadruple its output capacity for electric motors to 200,000 units a year, Japan's business daily Nihon Keizai reported.

The plant is scheduled to begin operations in 2008, the paper reported without citing sources. Kyodo News agency had a similar report. Honda sold about 50,000 hybrid cars in 2005 based on its Civic and Accord models, according to the newspaper.

July 7, 2006

Honda's Seat Belt Reminders Boost Use

Vehicles made by Honda have some of the most persistent seat belt reminders on the road today -- and that vigilance on the part of the automaker leads to a big jump in compliance by drivers and their passengers, according to the Insuranc

Car Buyer's Notebook

Recent Stories

Topics

August 13, 2008

Honda honors top suppliers

August 7, 2008

Acura Announces Pricing For 2009 MDX

August 4, 2008

Honda's ASIMO Visits Children Suffering from Sichuan Earthquake

August 1, 2008

Acura Announces July Sales Down 17.7%

July 28, 2008

Honda Interactive Crash Test Demo Invites Viewers to "See What We See"

July 25, 2008

Honda Beats Estimates, Sees Tougher Year Ahead

July 20, 2008

Honda outlines environmentally responsible mobility

July 11, 2008

All-New 2009 Acura TL to Debut This Fall

July 9, 2008

Honda Outlines U.S. R&D Projects

July 1, 2008

Honda Reports Record Sales in June, Up 13.8%

Acura Announces June Sales Down 16.4%

June 23, 2008

Acura TSX Luxury Car Named Top Safety Pick

June 15, 2008

2009 Acura RDX On-Sale Nationwide

2009 Acura RDX Adds New Features

June 3, 2008

Acura Announces May Sales Down 9.9%

American Honda Reports Best Month Ever -- Civic Soars to Record

May 29, 2008

Cadillac Tops 2008 Vehicle Satisfaction Awards

May 20, 2008

Acura ARX-01b Takes Third in Debut at Utah Grand Prix

May 13, 2008

Erik Berkman Named Honda Racing Chief

May 12, 2008

2008 Fuel Economy Guide Available for Download

May 6, 2008

Honda Reports an Increase in April Sales

Acura Announces April Sales Results

May 2, 2008

Preliminary Honda Sales Report Shows April Increase

April 29, 2008

Acura to Report Service Information to Carfax

April 25, 2008

Honda Motor Co Reports Financial Results

April 23, 2008

Statement by American Honda on Proposed Fuel Economy Standards

April 22, 2008

New Hot Wheels designed by Honda depicts the ultimate racecar

Honda to Showcase Experimental Walking Assist Device

April 21, 2008

Acura racing notches division win in Long Beach

April 15, 2008

Acura Announces Pricing For 2009 TSX

April 6, 2008

Acura Lease Deals for April

April 3, 2008

Honda Touts Value to America

April 2, 2008

April Acura Rebates Available at CurrentAutoRebates.com

April 1, 2008

Acura Adds Power Tailgate to MDX Technology and Sport Packages

Acura Announces March Sales Down 15.8%

Honda Claims Sales Increase on Fewer Units Sold

Honda Sponsors The Great American Cleanup

March 31, 2008

Honda Launches New Environmental Site, "Green"

March 28, 2008

Honda Begins Testing of Advanced Safety Vehicles on Public Roadways

Honda Sets All-Time Record for Auto Production in February

March 26, 2008

Honda Outlines Safety for Everyone Leadership

March 25, 2008

Honda Pursues Aggresssive Environmental Progress

March 20, 2008

Panasonic Advances Audio Performonace in the 2009 Acura TSX