How much cash do you need to splash to successfully tear up the racetrack? Lots of people will answer with the obvious: tons. From the car itself to the necessary gear to the insurance to the track babes, racing is a seriously expensive hobby, right?

Wrong. In fact, with a little know how and petrol-headed prudence, you can buy and prepare a track car for under a grand and a half. I kid you not. And no, you won’t have to remortgage your homestead, sell your sacred soul, or attack your savings account with a sledge hammer. Here’s how…

The Car

First things first people: you don’t need the sickest car in the world just to burn a bit of rubber. I mean come on; you aren’t Schumacher. Step away from the Ferrari FXX. If you’ve never had track experience before, spending nine figures on a high-powered sports car is the first mistake track newbies make. These babies are hard to handle and bruise easily. It’s wise to start small.

Plenty of old cars can still hold their own against much faster and more expensive machinery – and they can be had for under $1000! Modified or classic car insurance doesn’t need to cost the Earth and the key is to choose something light, small and uncomplicated. Small engine ‘hot hatchbacks’ are the cars of choice as they tick all the above boxes and handle like go-karts. Remember, the real fun in track-driving is found in the corners. Clipping the apex. Drifting. Anyone can drive fast in a straight line!

Here are two popular options. Both can be bought for under $1000:

Honda CRX Si

The mother of hot hatches before hot hatches were cool. The Honda CRX – a smaller, lighter, two-seater version of the popular Civic – is still burning up pavement at racetracks today.

You’ll want to shoot for the second generation CRX, which was restyled and given a new chassis, more power, and a fully independent wishbone suspension for 1988. Of course you’ll want to opt for the Si trim level, whose engine was upgraded to a 1.6-liter, 108 hp inline-4. If you’re outside the US, you’re lucky enough to have the option of the VTEC engine, which produces 150 hp in Europe and 157 hp for the JDM “SiR” model.

With the CRX you can have a blast on the track and still get 60+ MPG on the street. You might have to look hard to find a decent example for $1000; they’re highly desirable, but they’re out there.

Mk2 VW Golf GTi

The Golf GTi is one of the most successful hot hatches of all time, with the Mk2 being arguably the best of the bunch among enthusiasts. Precise handling, great reliability and impressive performance from its 1.8 16v engine (137 hp) made the Mk2 probably the best GTi variant ever produced.

When choosing a Mk2 Golf GTi, try and go for the non-catalyst version which produces 137 hp (as opposed to the cat version that sapped some power down to 127).

Preparation

Track driving puts far greater strain on a car’s components than road driving. This needs to be taken into account when preparing your car. Check and upgrade brakes, tires and restraints. A well maintained car will not only be faster around a racetrack but will also make death less of an option.

Braking System

Due to the excessive heat build-up that occurs during track driving, upgrading your old and tired braking system is a must for any track car. However, this does not necessarily mean buying a big brake kit for hundreds or thousands of dollars.

By upgrading the brake fluid to a racing DOT4 or DOT5, you increase the temperature at which the fluid boils, meaning the braking system can take more heat before brake fade occurs.

Additionally, changing the brake pads for racing pad compound will reduce the chances of brake fade by increasing the maximum operating temperature.

Racing brake fluid: $20
Racing compound brake pads: $60/pair (ex: Hawk HPS Brake Pads at AutoAnything)

Tires

It’s very important that you select the correct tires for your track car. After all, they’re the only part of the car that comes into contact with the road (hopefully!) Normal road tires aren’t designed to take the stresses and heat of track driving, so buy a sport or track compound and tread pattern. If this is your daily driver as well, buy a good mix between hard and soft compound.

Tires: $300-500

Weight saving

Removing weight from your car is by far the easiest and cheapest way to improve performance, handling, braking, and all-round balance. For a pure track car, everything that isn’t absolutely necessary to drive the car should be removed: interior, rear seats, spare wheel, stereo system…bin the lot!

Cost: free!

Servicing

Many people wrongly believe that by adding bolt-on air filters and big bore exhausts, you will release more power from your engine. Although this may be true for some (especially forced induction) cars, naturally aspirated cars are much harder and much more expensive to tune for massive gain.

Instead of trying to add power with expensive mods, make sure the stock engine is running as efficiently as possible by giving it a good old-fashioned service. Lost power can be clawed back by simply changing the spark plugs and engine oil, and making sure the car can properly breathe.

Spark plugs: $20-80 (ex: CR-X Pulstar Performance Series Spark Plugs – you don’t have to go this expensive)
Spark plug wires: $30-60
Air filter: $10-40 (it’s worth getting a high-flow filter like K&N)
Engine oil and filter: $30-50 (get a good filter like the K&N Wrench-Off Oil Filters and a decent oil.)

Safety

Now the car is setup and safe, it’s time to think about your own personal safety. Most track day companies will offer helmet hire for around $10 per day, however an entry-level helmet can be bought new for $75 or second-hand for as low as $20 (edit: some readers have correctly pointed out that it’s not particularly wise to buy a second hand helmet – it’s one of those things worth spending some extra money on.) Additionally, a racing harness is recommended; however, this should be professionally installed as improper installation can be hazardous.

Racing harness: $100 (approx.)
Helmet: $60+ or $10 to hire

Oh, and you might want to get your car thoroughly inspected by a reliable mechanic to make sure it’s safe to take on the track, too. But you already did that, didn’t you?

Now What?

And there you have it, a car fit for the race track for under $1500. Who knew?

If you have a little extra cash sitting around after this, you can go in any direction to make your car a track monster. Upgrade the suspension, get racing seats to further reduce weight, add a better intake and exhaust…you have a thousand options. Check out forums for your specific car for suggestions.

To get started, we recommend checking out any local forums or associations like SCCA to see where the local Autocross events are taking place. For $15-30 a day, Autocross is the cheapest way to get into racing and a great way to get to know your car. From there, you’ll make contacts and meet people that can help take it a step further when you’re ready.

Let us know if you have any more money-saving track tips and remember, drive safe!

Originally posted on

Easter eggs related to automobiles consist of unique features making the ownership experience just a little more special. Like a uniquely painted Easter egg, the features define a single model or an isolated assortment of vehicles. However, past Easter egg features in motoring have hitched and multiplied. Ford SYNC, OnStar and even stop-start technology have grown to be widespread hatchlings in modern vehicles.

In 2013, a new batch of Easter egg features will delight motorists in current or soon-to-be released vehicles.

2014 Honda Odyssey HondaVac

The minivan sector has a habit of adding Easter Egg-type features in order to define otherwise boxy, difficult to define shapes. Rear passenger DVD entertainment and unique seating options are some features auto companies have used to triumph over each other in the minivan class. A low-tech Easter egg, the Honda Odyssey gained notoriety for its coin holder. At the 2013 New York International Auto Show, Honda’s upgraded version of the Odyssey minivan really sucks (in a positive way).

The first of its kind on-board vacuum unit, HondaVac the most sanitary motorist will not need to fret over dirty shoes or cookie crumbs. Integrated into the 2014 model year Honda Odyssey with cooperation between the auto company and Shop-Vac, the on-board vacuum is a powerful electric unit. A full-function vacuum installed along on the driver-side portion of the rear cargo area, the HondaVac includes several nozzle attachments.

The HondaVac will be standard on the 2014 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite model.

Mercedes-Benz SLK Magic Sky Control Roof

The thrill of purchasing a convertible is having the beaming of natural light surrounding you as you drive. Having just left winter, most of us in North America have not been thinking of acquiring a drop-top. Sunroofs can serve the need for sunlight often creates an oven-like experience in a vehicle’s cabin. In 2011, Mercedes-Benz recognized the dilemma by creating an intelligent sunroof system for their retractable hardtop SLK Roadster.

Using nano particles charged by an electrical current, the Mercedes-Benz SLK Roadster’s Magic Sky Control Roof could alter the illumination level. Controlled either by the driver or through an automated system, the Mercedes-Benz Magic Sky Control Roof allows maximum brightness on cooler days. Under scorching sun, Magic Sky Control Roof can automatically adjust to a darker shade to aid the climate control system in preserving a cool temperature. As of 2012, Magic Sky Control Roof system is added to the Mercedes-Benz SL model.

Jeep Patriot Boston Acoustics Liftgate Speakers

On the now-discontinued Dodge Caliber, a Chill-Zone beverage cooler in the dash panel could keep up to four drinks at a refreshing temperature. The Caliber and platform-mate the Jeep Patriot also offered a unique sound system feature. Originally called Magic Gate on the Dodge Caliber, a pair of Boston Acoustics audio speakers mount on the vehicle’s liftgate. Designed for camping or other social gatherings, the liftgate speakers can be folded down to create a party-like sound system.

Unfortunately, the unique features were surrounded by uninspired interior designs that for years haunted many Chrysler products. The Dodge Caliber has made way to the 2013 Dart but the Jeep Patriot remains for the 2014 model year.

2013 Toyota Avalon QI Wireless Phone Charging

Making vehicles connected has been the latest ambition of automakers. Adding Apple iPod jacks and USB connections, Bluetooth has also become a regular on new vehicles. The next trend is to integrate a special type of wireless device charger into new cars. General Motors and equipment provider Powermat announced early in 2011 intentions of putting wireless inductive charging units on vehicles for mid-2012. As of 2013, the Powermat based charging equipment has yet to be included on any Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet or GMC vehicle. With General Motors delaying in-car inductive charging, Toyota has decided to be the auto company to bring near effortless to operate hardware to motorists.

Included in the 2013 Toyota Avalon Limited model, the wireless charger technology employs Qi interfaces. Unlike the Powermat system that requires a special accessory to be retrofitted to a phone, the QI system is built into devices. The LG Google Nexus 4 and Nokia Lumia 920 are early adopters of a promising charging standard. Attachments are available for other smartphone devices.

Rolls-Royce Wraith’s Satellite Aided Transmission

When you spend $320,000 for a vehicle, it’s easy to say you have high expectations the vehicle. When Rolls-Royce introduced the two-door Wraith at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, the super luxury carmaker was required to explore the heights yet unattained by current vehicles. A personal luxury car providing impressive performance and comfort, the Rolls-Royce Wraith’s 624-horsepower momentum will be funnelled through an eight-speed automatic transmission is guided by an additional influence.

The Rolls-Royce Wraith is the first-ever vehicle to have a transmission that uses GPS (global positioning system) data in the electronic decision making when shifting gears. Rolls-Royce’s Satellite Aided Transmission of the Wraith employment of navigational information not only adjusts precisely to the current road position but also has the power to plan gear selections for the road ahead. Maybe it is a bunch of over-engineering, but the Satellite Aided Transmission will permit the Rolls-Royce Wraith to roll smoother than almost any Easter egg.

Information and photo source: American Honda Motor Company, Chrysler Group, Daimler AG, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, Toyota Motor Corporation

Originally posted on

At a creative standpoint, we are currently witnessing a vibrant era in the automotive industry. Weathering some tough economic conditions and even confronted by challenges for more fuel-efficient vehicle fleets, most of the auto companies have raised their innovation game. Not just accepting the long-standing tradition of furthering design, tangible technology advancing engine, infotainment and other aspects of the driving experience makes exhibitions as such the 2013 North American International Auto Show in Detroit a once-again captivating display.

This year’s auto show catered to a near-record paying crowd of over 795,000 people who inquired on the present and future of motoring. While the present or near present is dealt with vehicles such as the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, Infiniti Q50 and the Audi RS7 Sportback, a handful of concept cars display what could be some profoundly important insight into vehicles that will occupy the roads and highways in coming years. The following sampling to what could be the most influential concepts:

Ford Atlas Concept

The pickup truck business is a market as gigantic as the vehicles that inhabit it. At Ford Motor Company, truck sales alone (not including utility vehicles such as the Escape, Expedition or Explorer) account for amount 37 percent of their 2012 vehicle sales in North America. Last year, the F-Series line of pickup trucks represents over 645,000 vehicles sold by Ford. When Ford presented a pickup truck as their display centerpiece in Detroit, it makes quite a bit of sense.

Overall a rather production-ready design study, the Ford Atlas Concept is immediately remarked to this vehicle being the precursor to future Ford pickup trucks. Revealing multiple design cues of an upcoming Ford truck, the Atlas Concept crew cab exhibits multiple features to benefit use by drivers. A cargo bed not only includes multiple tie-down locations but 110-volt electrical outlets. There is also a Dual-Purpose Tailgate Step and Cargo Cradle that extends for greatly use as well as accessibility. Intelligent electronic features related to the Atlas Concept include a 360-degree camera system and Trailer Backup Assist able to bring relief to a very difficult task.

A pickup truck for the not-so-distant tomorrow, the Ford Atlas Concept makes use of a variety of energy-saving technologies. LED lighting is found inside and outside of the Atlas Concept truck. Without going into detail, the Ford Atlas Concept promotes power from a next generation EcoBoost engine. Aerodynamics have also been optimized with the Ford truck concept as active grille shutters, active wheel shutters and power running board are incorporated with this tough vehicle.

Honda Urban SUV Concept

When the Honda CR-V was introduced in 1997, it made a splash as a smaller sport utility vehicle. In a time where the sport utility vehicle market segment gained life, the CR-V presented a than-rare interpretation of a car-like utility. Times have changed and auto companies have now begun a transition to the next scale of compact crossover utilities. Based on the Honda Fit, attendees of the 2013 North American International Auto Show in Detroit were treated a peek at a close representation of a production crossover set for release in 2014.

One of the first things the Honda Urban SUV Concept design excels in doing is winning over critics decrying Honda’s recent trend of conservative styling. Working with an overall length of 169.3 inches, Honda has integrated a decisive coupe-like appearance into the Urban SUV Concept cast by the roof sloping and hidden rear door handles. Executive vice president of sales at American Honda John Mendel commented on the auto company’s direction saying, “With the continued expansion of our North American manufacturing operations, we expect fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive ‘small’ cars to play a key role in meeting the needs of our customers in the U.S.”

The production version of the Honda Urban SUV Concept will be built alongside the Fit subcompact at a Mexican manufacturing plant set to open by the spring of 2014.

Smart Forstars

Years ago, there was some concern that the Smart brand has reached its peak. The nifty Fortwo has epitomized economy-geared driving across the globe inspiring imitation from others. However, Smart has fought with limited success in attempting to make their vehicles appear hip and exciting to image-conscious buyers. Debuting the Forstars concept car at the 2013 Detroit show, Smart wants everyone to see the electrified powertrain in one of the sportiest forms.

Given a front end appearing more like a Jeep product than a Smart product, the Forstars delivers some serious street creditability to the mellow small car brand. In order to present the Smart Forstars concept’s sporty look, the wheelbase was stretched rather sizably compared to their production vehicles. At 97.2 inches, the wheelbase of the Forstars is nearly two feet longer than the Smart Fortwo. An overall length of 139.8 inches places the Smart Forstars closely equal to the span of a Fiat 500.

Partly contributing to the Smart concept’s name, a glass roof brightens the small but well-equipped interior. The two-seat configuration features a two-tone leather cabin with a high-quality stereo system and Bluetooth connectivity options.

A beyond outrageous (and likely not be to appear on the production vehicle feature list anytime in the future) is the Smart Forstars video projector system. Mounted on the hood, the projector can be activated from an Apple iPhone via Bluetooth.

Toyota Furia

Without regret, I placed the Toyota Corolla on a list of boring cars last year. Not criticizing the vehicle as time-honoured solid, reliable transportation, the Corolla is simply a dull design. In theory, there should be not reason to expect building some style into the sedan would compromise the vehicle’s cornerstones. Well, it appears Toyota agrees choosing the 2013 Detroit auto show as the premiering showcase for a design concept meant to shape the future look of the Corolla.

Called the Furia or the Corolla Furia Concept, Toyota is advertising a future compact sedan that is actually attractive. Described as “Iconic Dynamism” by Toyota, the Furia Concept defines an edger four-door. Attitude asserting front end, chiselled bodylines and massive 19-inch wheels of the Toyota Furia Concept sends a strong message that the Hyundai Elantra, Ford Focus and Honda Civic will definitely take seriously.

Selling over 290,000 units last year in the United States, the Toyota Corolla is padding a sales volume of nine million vehicles since introduced in 1968. The Detroit debut of the Furia Concept is Toyota’s recognition that the auto company only sees the potential of great days ahead.

Information and photo source: American Honda Motor Company, Daimler AG, Ford Motor Company, North American International Auto Show, Toyota Motor Corporation

Originally posted on

Welcome back to favorable coverage Honda! It must feel good, as the Japanese automaker has thoroughly been attacked by the automotive press in the recent years (and rightfully so). The lowest point came with the 2012 Civic – even Consumer Reports couldn’t defend the lack of investment and effort that was put into into that car.

Criticism caused Honda to rush out an update just one year into the new Civic’s model cycle. The 2013 Civic includes a redesigned front grill and fascia, redesigned rear taillights, a new safety cage, and an updated interior with higher-quality materials. Apparently a lot happened between Honda’s 2012 and 2013 model years – we aren’t sure what exactly, but whatever it is we’re thankful for it. For starters, the 2013 Accord has a handsome exterior design.

As a genuinely good looking design, it’s the best Accord we’ve seen in years. Other areas of criticism, such as wind and road noise, have apparently been addressed as well. These are common issues in previous Honda vehicles. While we’ve heard good things in that regard, we will have to checkout those changes for ourselves when we review the 2013 Accord. Many have asked, is the Accord the best? Cars.com/USA Today/Motorweek says it is, after recently conducting a test where they crowned the Accord the best midsize sedan in the segment.

The “Shootout” brought together six midsize sedans that start under $26,000 and achieve 28 miles per gallon or better in combined EPA fuel economy ratings. “We’re pleased that the real-world customers have determined that Accord excels in all areas, which makes the Cars.com/USA TODAY/”MotorWeek” showdown victory for the 2013 Accord all the more meaningful,” says Michael Accavitti, vice president of marketing operations, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “The consistent strength of Honda products in these shootouts supports our strong position with in-market consumers.” The Accord is Honda’s fifth win in a Cars.com/USA Today/Motorweek Shootout, so we wouldn’t take it too seriously. However, the good news keeps coming in for Honda with the 2013 Accord.

Originally posted on

Toyota has been pummeled for years by the enthusiasts community, due to a lack of cars with an engaging driving experience. It wasn’t always this way though; the company used to have sports cars like the Supra, Celica and MR2.

In recent years Toyota has responded by developing the fantastic 2013 Toyota GT-86/Scion FR-S sports car and the 2013 Lexus GS. We’ve yet to see it play out in the mainstream, but we like what we’re seeing so far. At Honda the situation has grown similar to Toyota’s, with sports cars like the S2000 being eliminated completely.

Criticism of Honda’s mainstream models reached a fever pitch with the 2012 Honda Civic. The company quickly responded with an unprecedented update for 2013. In addition, reviews of the new 2013 Accord are coming in very favorably. Could the Honda’s mainstream models be back on track? Looks like it. But what about performance? Honda hasn’t signaled anything big so far. Interestingly enough though, the first indication of a change could be coming at the 2013 Tokyo Auto Salon…and it starts with the S2000. The S2000 was discontinued four years ago, much to the consternation of the automotive press.

The S2000 was tossable and fun to drive, featuring a four-cylinder that had a motorcycle-like redline. Instead of continuing with the car’s development, like Mazda has with the MX-5 Miata, Honda decided to kill it. Remember the part about the 2013 Civic redesign being unprecedented? Well here is another unprecedented development from Honda. The company has announced it will be showing off the S2000 Modulo Climax. The car is a lightly facelifted version of the S2000 from a few years back – this isn’t even significant enough to be in mid-cycle enhancement territory. It looked better before, but we’ll take what we can get. We aren’t sure what Honda’s plans are in doing this. Will they bring the S2000 back in this nearly identical form, or does this signal intentions for a new model? Either way, we’ll probably find out more when the Tokyo Auto Salon begins.

Originally posted on

Well that didn’t take long. Consumer Reports is well-known in automotive circles for having an affinity for the Japanese automakers, particularly Honda. That’s why we knew Honda was in trouble last year when CR thoroughly panned the redesigned Civic, failing to give the car its “recommended” rating.

Complaints from CR, along with a whole host of other automotive outlets prompted Honda to rush out an unprecedented update just a year later. The 2013 Civic was introduced at last month’s Los Angeles International Auto Show, to a much better reception. With the fate of the 2012 Civic being so poor, many wondered about the fate of the 2013 Accord. Fortunately, Honda seems to have gotten it right.

The 2013 Accord is good-looking inside and out, something we couldn’t say about previous Honda designs. We hope the Accord’s stylists follow the same template for future Honda models. In addition to visual updates, the 2013 model saw a lot of changes to its specification sheet as well. To boost fuel economy, Honda debuted the new 4-cylinder engine mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). This is a trick that Nissan has used to great effect in models like the Altima. Enthusiasts generally hate CVTs, but you can’t knock their efficiency.

With this setup, the new Accord returns 30 mpg city and 40 mpg highway. These changes are enough to put the 4-cylinder Accord back on top in CR’s testing. “Honda missed the mark with other redesigned models in recent years, but it nailed this one,” said Jake Fisher, director, Consumer Reports Auto Test Center. The 2013 Accord was compared against the Hyundai Sonata and Toyota Camry for the magazine’s February issue, which goes on sale December 27th. As far as the V6 models go, CR rates the Accord highly, but still gives the top spot to the Toyota Camry. Overall, CR says the Accord is “convincing evidence that Honda may be back on track.” It looks like that may be the case. However, our pick in the mid-size segment would go to the 2013 Ford Fusion.

Originally posted on

In the midst of all of Honda’s product woes over the past decade, the sub-compact Fit has been a bright spot. It was the lone exception in a string of design misfires, like the Ridgeline, Pilot, and the previous generation Accord and CR-V.

The Fit has been a recognized leader in its segment, and sales have been very brisk. There is just one problem – due to unfavorable exchange rates, Honda loses money on every Fit sold in the United States. That is because it is one of the few Honda vehicles remaining to be built solely in Japan, but that is about to change.

A new plant is being built in Mexico that will build the next generation model of the Fit. This time around, the line-up will be expanded though. One of those models includes a crossover scheduled for release at the North American International Auto Show next month.

Ahead of its introduction, Honda has released a teaser image of the new model. Fitting in with Honda’s recent strategy of thinly-veiled concepts, it will be called the Urban SUV concept. Concept or not though, it will be extremely close to the production crossover based on the Fit. We can’t tell a whole lot from the teaser image, but it looks like it has very nice flowing lines. Could we finally be seeing improvement in Honda design? The 2013 Accord is the best Honda design in years, but that is a pretty low bar to clear. The new Honda CUV will be one of the first mini-crossovers, slotting in below the compact CR-V. We could see buyers of the CUV and the Buick Encore cross-shopping each other, despite the fact that the Encore will be significantly more expensive. Given the Fit’s successful track record, we are anticipating the next-generation model.

Originally posted on

When Consumer Reports doesn’t give a Honda its “recommended” rating you know something is wrong. Hondas have long been the publication’s favorite due to things like reliability and re-sale value.

These are things that have propelled the Civic and Accord to top spots in their respective segments. But something happened – the competition got a lot fiercer, while Honda got complacent. The result was a 2012 Civic, a car that looked too much like its predecessor and failed to move the ball forward.

The car was developed during the depths of the economic crisis, and not much was devoted to research and development. This stands in stark contrast to the large efforts put into the Chevrolet Cruze, Ford Focus, and Hyundai Elantra, all of which are very well-regarded. Given all of the negative press, Honda decided it had to do something. It rushed out a freshening just one year into the new Civic’s model cycle.

On the exterior, there isn’t radical change – they only had about one year to rush this out. After years of design misses, most agree that Honda turned out its best design in a while with the 2013 Accord. The Civic takes cues from that car, with a new grille and lower front fascia that features Honda’s new chrome-insert design. It helps the car look more up-to-date, as the 2012 is pretty tired looking. There are bigger changes to the rear of the 2013 Civic, which gets new taillights in a horizontal orientation. This ties it in with the new look debuted on the 2013 Accord. One of the biggest offenses of the 2012 Civic was the fact that its interior actually seemed to move backward.

The 2012 gets updates to some of the displays and switchgear as well as materials. Honda says it went through everything and added soft-touch plastics and higher-quality materials. This is much welcomed. Anyone familiar with the 2012 Civic knows it had other flaws as well. The driving experience was lifeless in comparison to previous Civics, and the car suffered from a lack of noise vibration and harshness control. Poor NVH is a typical Honda problem. Both areas have been addressed.

The suspension has been retuned with stiffer springs and thicker stabilizer bars have been added front and back. The Civic’s Electronic Power Steering system has also been recalibrated to offer a quicker steering ratio. As far as NVH, Honda has added sound-proofing material in the dash, floor, doors, and rear tray. There is also a stiffer front sub-frame and thicker glass on the windshield and the front doors. These changes are very comprehensive and are hopeful indication that Honda isn’t content to rest on its laurels. As for sales, we only expect them to increase for the 2013 calendar year. After all, criticism hasn’t dampened sales of the 2012.

Originally posted on

When producing our everyday items, patriotism no Longer has a consistent place in corporate manufacturing in the 21st century; that may not be a bad thing. Decades ago, vehicle branding would easily define the geography of a car. An American branded car would be assembled in the United States along with the vast majority of components. At one time a taboo in reaction to fierce 1980s protectionism of the Detroit Three auto companies, Japanese automobile production in the United States is now a celebrated addition to the country’s economic community.

The synergy of Japanese and North American labour was first realized in 1982 by what is now known as American Honda Motor Company. This month 30 years ago, the first Honda Accord rolled off the Marysville Auto Plant assembly line becoming the first Japanese-based carmaker to operate production facilities in the United States. The auto company started what continues to be an enduring presence in the state of Ohio. Three years after the first US plant where the Accord continues to be built to this day, Honda’s first Canadian assembly line in Alliston, Ontario began operations. Domestic production for Honda was in effort to skirt around export agreements that limited the amount of vehicles that can be shipped to the United States.

While having a limited manufacturing presence in the United States since 1972, Toyota began assembling vehicles in United States in 1984. The Japanese entered an agreement with General Motors that led to the NUMMI (New United Motor Manufacturing, Inc.) plant in Fremont, California (the home base for Chevrolet and later Pontiac badged Corolla-based vehicle production for more than 25 years). NUMMI officially dissolved in 2010 but currently resides as the source of the second-highest number of US-built Toyota vehicles. Toyota would open their first wholly owned and operated manufacturing complex in Georgetown, Kentucky in 1986. As Honda celebrates 30 years of production in the United States, Toyota has recently toasted their milestone 25-millionth vehicle being built on North American soil when a 2013 model year Avalon Hybrid rolled off the Georgetown assembly line on the 30th of October.

Nissan’s history in the United States has also been storied. Mid-2013, Nissan North America will ring in 30 years of production at their Smyrna, Tennessee plant. Nissan’s Smyrna manufacturing facility accounts for just under 6,000 employees of what is currently around 12,000 US production workers for the Japanese auto company. Toyota’s overall workforce in North America is said to be 365,000 while Honda accounts over 24,000 workers on this continent in vehicle production alone.

In the near future, Japanese automakers are evermore determined to expand North American vehicle production. Even prior to the major damage caused last year that crippled their manufacturing capacity for months, Japanese automakers have been intent on making a bigger footprint in North America. Higher costs to produce vehicles in Japan and the importance of the United States auto market has made wider spread manufacturing capacity within the country more attractive. “This Lexus production increase, and the several announcements before it, reflects our growing optimism for an improving North American market and our intent to localize more production,” said the Executive Vice President of Toyota’s North American manufacturing operations Steve St. Angelo.

With the electrified vehicle build-up in the automotive market, the tides of Japanese carmakers have presented the United States and Canada as a growing manufacturing mecca. Along with producing the lithium-ion batteries, Nissan is producing the all-electric Leaf in Tennessee. Honda has also added production of their current Civic Hybrid from Japan to Greensburg, Indiana to better supply the North American market. The gasoline/electric hybrid joins the conventional Honda Civic and the all-new Acura ILX. As Honda’s Acura brand desires a greater foothold in the US market, the Marysville Auto Plant is slated to become the future production facility of the NSX supercar.

In 2008, rumours hinted that Toyota was looking at building the popular Prius in the state of California. As gas prices launched runaway levels, the gasoline/electric hybrid was flying out of dealerships at higher than MSRP (Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price) thereby making the potential to increase the Toyota Prius supply tempting. Any plans were ultimately suspended when the economic crisis cooled the auto market. While the Prius is still being manufactured in Japan, Toyota’s production of the 2012 RAV4 EV depends on electric powertrain components from the Tesla Motors-occupied Fremont, California plant and final assembly in Woodstock, Ontario, Canada.

With several examples existing where international influence has injured North American markets, the auto sector has and continues to adapt well to global competition. As 30 years of Japanese vehicle production in the United States is currently being marked in a “business as usual” manner with perhaps the occasional banner, a positive effect of fair globalization has given steady employment to many North American workers and furnished greater choice for consumers.

Information source: American Honda Motor Company, Nissan North America, Toyota Motor Corporation
Photo source: American Honda Motor Company, Toyota Motor Corporation

Originally posted on

The all-new 2012 Honda CR-V has been updated and is the fourth generation of the Japanese automakers popular small SUV.  The CR-V is a four-door, five-passenger, entry-level sport utility vehicle. The new 2012 model gets a few notable improvements over the previous generation.

New on the 2012 CR-V is the Eco-Assist system which helps improve fuel-efficiency. The new system will adjust the transmissions shift points and retards acceleration to achieve the improved fuel economy. Eco-Assist can be switched on and off by the driver. The 2012 model gets an EPA-estimate 23/31 city/highway mpg on the front-wheel drive CR-V, and 22/30 mpg with all-wheel drive. Those figures are somewhere in the middle of the CR-V’s major competition.

Drivetrain and exterior upgrades for 2012

Honda has also updated the new 2012 crossover with some equally new drivetrain technology. The new model comes with hill-start assist, which automatically applies the brakes when the car is stopped on a hill and releases them when the driver touches the accelerator. A new clutch feature on AWD models has a pre-load function that prevents any initial slippage when moving from a complete stop.

The outside of the 2012 CR-V also gets some revisions. Most of the changes are small but the one on the rear was overdue. On the front, the headlight housings are sleeker. The car is more aerodynamic thanks to the roof being lowered an inch. The side sculpting is also more pronounced, but the most needed change came the rear of the CR-V with the liftgate and taillight assemblies receiving a complete re-do and look much better than those on the 2011 model.

The main change to the interior is the loss of one inch of headroom due to the lower roofline. The rear cargo area is bigger when the rear seats are folded flat. The quality and fit and finish is what you would expect from a Honda product and it has contemporary styling. There is a lot of hard plastic surfaces used except for the door armrests. Overall the cabin of the CR-V is comfortable and functional.

Loaded with standard features

This week we tested the CR-V EX-L AWD ($29,995) and it comes loaded with standard features like leather seats, navigation, Bluetooth, heated front seats, automatic climate control, and a premium 328-watt audio system with a subwoofer and XM satellite radio. A rearview camera is also standard and features a multi-angle unit that lets the driver choose between a top view and either a 130-degree or a 180-degree view.

CR-V EX-L upgrades to dual-zone automatic climate control, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift lever, and 10-way power driver’s seat including power lumbar.  The EX-L gets the only factory-installed options offered: a navigation system with turn-by-turn directions and rear-seat DVD entertainment system. Each version is available with AWD.

Improved engine performance and efficiency

There is only one powertrain offered, but it’s an upgraded 2.4-liter four-cylinder, with an upgraded five-speed automatic transmission. The improvements did make a difference in performance and fuel-mileage. The engine comes with four more horsepower and two more pound-feet of torque and gets better fuel economy, a 10-percent improvement. Most automakers have upgraded to a six-speed automatic while the CR-V sticks with five.

The 2012 CR-V is quieter than the previous generation due to a number of key changes. The lowered roofline adds to the better wind resistance, some credit goes the rigid body and Honda says the 2012 gets more sound deadening material than the 2011. On the highway, the ride and handling is solid without being overly firm and stable with little body lean in corners even at higher speeds.

Overall, the 2012 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD is a solid competitor in the small SUV segment. It has received enough changes and upgrades to keep it in the race. Honda is playing it conservative instead of making radical changes to the CR-V. But they have been questioned for that conservative approach with the competition bringing out all-new vehicles.

See how much this car should cost you. Hint: It's not MSRP - get Free Price Quotes at Edmunds.com

Originally posted on

On September 22nd, the season transitions to the Southward Equinox. Spelling the end of summer in the Earth’s Northern Hemisphere residents enter (often with reluctance) into autumn or otherwise known as fall. Having created nearly 10 months of memories in 2012, the good as well as bad moves made this year is now weighed down by a season that will turn the air colder and the shortening span of sunlight will leave us finding warm solace in positives.

In the United States automobile industry, this year has presented a field of experiences that are likewise as diverse as the feelings we have felt. With many successes with domestic and import automotive brands all seeming to have some highlight in their lineup, 2012 has also been a rough year for certain once-popular products. The present automotive landscape offers a brilliant assortment of cars, trucks and crossover vehicles that seemingly cater to every motoring appetite. The past several pasts have seen automakers getting very clever in the experimentation of size and capabilities. In case of several vehicles that have so far flopped in 2012 sales, there is a price to be paid for being too clever. Whether affected by changing American driving tastes of this year, increased competition or through other means, the first 8 months of auto sales have unveiled several vehicles experiencing a considerable drop in United States demand.

The following four vehicles are some of the more extreme examples of vehicles that have apparently lost favour in the United States:

Buick Regal

US Sales Drop in August 2012 Compared to Previous Year Term: 36.3%

Buick survived the 2009 consolidation of General Motors firmly positioning itself between Chevrolet and Cadillac in the car brand lineup. With Buick’s popularity in the highly important China market helping to leverage promise for the 109-year old carmaker, General Motors has been making every attempt to assist regaining similar fame in North America. Released in 2011, the famous Buick moniker Regal returned in order to promote a new way of looking at the United States upscale vehicle market.

Based on the Opel Insignia sedan, Buick touted the European inspiration as a primary selling point for what would become their mid-sized car offering when the Verano was introduced this year. Connecting well with customers, 40,144 Buick Regal sedans were sold during the 2011 calendar year. Presenting eAssist technology and a GS model equipped with a 270-horsepower Ecotec engine, the 2012 model year was fall of promise for the mid-sized sedan. However, as of the end of August 2012, sales of the Buick Regal have taken a drop of almost 11,000 vehicles compared to the same time a year ago. Some of the loss in Regal sales could be the results of the slight smaller Buick Verano’s launch that has currently amounted to over 25,000 vehicles produced.

Seeking to curb sales charts back into an upward direction, General Motors has recently indicated the Regal will be one of 9 Buick or GMC models that will undergo a redesign in the next 12 months.

Nissan Cube

US Sales Drop in August 2012 Compared to Previous Year Term: 59.9%

For many years, North American buyers had been begging Japanese automaker Nissan to send the unique utility vehicle called the Cube across the Pacific Ocean. In late 2009, the wish was granted as the funky looking small Nissan Cube arrived for sale attracting a niche market status in retail and commercial arenas. However, 3 years since its arrival in North America, it appears that the Nissan Cube is now out of shape.

While the overall sales volume of Nissan North America has taken a 7.6 percent uptick, sales volume of the Cube has tanked in the first 8 months of 2012. Down 59.9 percent over the previous year, only 5,797 examples of the Nissan Cube left dealerships up to the end of August. The downward trail in sales is considered even more alarming since, like most Japanese-built vehicles, the Nissan Cube’s production was affected by the Earthquake and Tsunami.

Usually a sure-fire sign that either a major change or discontinuation awaits a vehicle, Nissan has slashed choices for the Cube in the 2013 model year. The base and Indigo Limited Edition have been removed from the 2013 lineup alongside the Cargo Version Package.

Honda CR-Z

US Sales Drop in August 2012 Compared to Previous Year Term: 67.6%

The first major automaker to bring a gasoline-electric hybrid vehicle to the United States, Honda gave motorists in the Americas their first taste of high fuel efficiency driving with the three-door Insight. Abandoning the dedicated hybrid car line in 2006, Honda would reintroduce the Insight in 2009 as a five-door hatchback against arch competition Toyota began to gain traction with the Prius. One year later, an attempt to excite the image of their gasoline-electric hybrid with a three-door was revealed by Honda borrowing inspiration from the classic CR-X sport compact.

In the Honda CR-Z, the tribute to the CR-X radiates heavily in its design. However, while the CR-Z looks the part of a performance car, the 122-horsepower output from the combined efforts of electric motor and gasoline engine leaves much to be desired for meaningful speed. Despite the sport hybrid theme playing as somewhat lame for some performance car fans, the Honda CR-Z Initial global demand two years ago was three times higher than anticipated. Selling 9,635 examples in the United States for the first 8 months of 2011, the 2012 sales year has seen the hybrid sport compact take a huge 67.6 percent plunge in sales. With just 3,126 Honda CR-Zs sold up to the end of August of this year in the United States, the magnitude of the sales drop is equal to its sister vehicle the Insight.

The CR-Z could be a casualty of Honda’s new hybrid and electrified vehicle strategy that will include a plug-in hybrid Accord in the near future.

Ford Fiesta

US Sales Drop in August 2012 Compared to Previous Year Term: 25.7%

Part of Ford Motor Company’s global brand lineup since 1976, the subcompact Fiesta has been a source of great pride for the Blue Oval badge in Europe. In the aftermath of 2008′s sudden gas price surge and a major economic slowdown, Ford decided the time has come to bring the B-segment Fiesta to North America. The Ford Fiesta was previously sold in the late 1970s but lasted a short three-year run. The early 2010 arrival of the Ford Fiesta was to counter the Honda Fit and Nissan Versa as well as provide some room for the then-upcoming 2012 Focus to achieve higher strata in the compact car arena.

Upon introduction, Ford made sure the subcompact car would provide buyers with an experience that lived up to the vehicle’s name. Presenting a large assortment of optional equipment as well as many factory-authorized custom accessories, the new Ford Fiesta sedan and hatchback launched with a party-like reception in mid-2010. Two years passing since the arrival of the Fiesta, the celebration has taken a more subtle tone in the United States. Selling 53,258 units by the end of August in 2011, the Ford Fiesta sales after the first 8 months of 2012 is down near 13,700 vehicles. In the past year, the subcompact market had become a place saturated with several all-new products including the Chevrolet Sonic as well as refreshed versions of the Kia Rio and Nissan Versa.

Changes slated in the 2013 model year for the Fiesta will simplify the trim levels ahead of Ford’s 2014 redesign of the vehicle.

Information source: American Honda Motor Company, Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Nissan North America
Photo source: Chris Nagy, Ford Motor Company, General Motors

Originally posted on

Honda’s woes are well documented. A reason it hasn’t grown along with the rest of the industry is that its attempts to expand into new segments – such as the Honda Crosstour and Honda CR-Z, have failed. Honda had high hopes for the Crosstour when it launched as a 2010 model.

Theoretically, it should have worked out great: it was a new model debuting into one of the hottest segments in the industry. Things don’t always go according to plan though, as the Crosstour had some big flaws. First was styling – the Crosstour has been universally panned. Second was naming – Honda failed to make it a distinct model.

Third was pricing – Honda charged too much out of the gate. Since launch Honda has dropped the Accord name and tried to revive sales with a four-cylinder model, but neither has worked. They aren’t giving up though; for 2013 they are trying again with an updated model. A thinly veiled “concept” was shown off in April at the New York auto show. It shows off a more rugged look, which is part of a concerted effort.

Speaking to Wards Auto, Honda executive Vicki Poponi says the problem is the car looked too similar to the Accord. “People weren’t exactly sure what it was (because) it was a ‘tweener’……we wanted to reinforce visually for customers that it was much more capable than a sedan” says Poponi. Apparently they think the 2013 will rectify the problem. It’s true the Crosstour isn’t enough like a CUV – but the bigger problem is that it (whatever you consider it) isn’t good looking period. Other changes for 2013 include upgraded interior materials and an 8-inch screen. The Crosstour’s best year of sales was its first, with just 28,851 sold. Somehow we don’t think sales are in for a huge uptick next year.

Originally posted on

It’s funny that one of the worst looking Honda Accords is being followed up with what is, to our eyes, far and away the best with the 2013 Honda Accord (pictured above). Like most of the rest of the automotive media, we’ve been hard on Honda with their current generation vehicles. That’s because they just haven’t lived up to the company’s potential.

It’s taken us a little while, but we’ve come around to the conclusion that the 2013 Honda Accord is probably just what the doctor ordered. At first it didn’t seem like a huge shakeup, but look further and you can see that the car is very much different. Honda has also released a new batch of images that show it in different settings and colors to give you an idea of what it is like in the metal.

The 2013 is a big improvement – and we stress big – improvement over the 2012 Honda Accord. While the 2012 model looks like Hyundai, the 2013 is the most dynamic Accord ever. It makes the current car pale in comparison. While we can’t say the same about the styling of the (pictured above, majorly overwrought) 2014 Accord Plug-In Hybrid model, it is the one we’re focusing on today because it is a big milestone for the company. The Accord PHEV is the company’s first “two-motor” hybrid system. That means the car is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder making 137 horsepower, along with an electric engine making 124 kW.

The combined power output is 196 hp. A 6.7 kWh lithium ion battery pack will offer an all-electric range of 10 to 15 miles. The car’s primary competitor will be the Ford’s Fusion Energi. A mid-size segment class of vehicles with pure electric capability is emerging and Honda looks to be a big player in it with this car. Honda expects the Accord PHEV o return at least 100 MPGe on the EPA’s test cycle. With a 240 volt power supply, the battery pack can be recharged in as little as an hour. The specs sheet is impressive – it’s just too bad it doesn’t look any better.

Originally posted on

Change comes slowly at Honda – particularly given that the company’s research and development budget got cut significantly during the economic downturn. The models we’ve seen today are a result of those cuts – such as the “all-new” sixth-generation Civic. The 2013 Accord is a more significant update than that car, but doesn’t appear to be an all-new, clean slate model.

A long time stalwart in the mid-size segment, the Accord is a bread-and-butter model for Honda. The problem is that the mid-size segment is fiercer than ever before; Accord has fallen behind given a raft of more stylish competitors. Conservative design has always worked for Honda in the past though, and that is the modus operandi for the 2013 model. Although we haven’t seen the interior, it is already a more meaningful update than the 2012 Civic. All-new though? Not quite.

That greenhouse is the same, and the overall shape is similar. The details are what is important though. Body panels all-around have been significantly reworked for a more sculpted appearance, a la Honda’s press release. So while not exciting, it does look good. The new headlights up front add LED and projector elements for a dose of modernity. Out back, the taillights are LED again (something the 2006 Accord had, then ditched to save money) and look very Genesis-like. Will this cut it in the mid-size segment?

We doubt it will conquest many sales, but it will likely keep loyal buyers on board. It is definitely better than the dowdy previous-generation-Hyundai-like design of the current model. The ridiculous reflectors on the trunk since 2011 were a particularly egregious offense. We’ll see what’s in store for the interior of the 2013; right now only exterior images have been released. Powertrain options will include a naturally-aspirated 2.4-liter direct-injected 4-cylinder, a 3.5-liter V-6 and a plug-in hybrid. Honda says it expects each of these to “achieve class-leading fuel efficiency.” A Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is on the docket to help boost fuel economy. Stay tuned for more details. We know you’re just on pins and needles to find out…..

Originally posted on

If there is one car in the Honda lineup that has remained well-regarded, it is the Honda Fit. The Fit was a pioneer in the U.S subcompact/B-segment and it when it was introduced, it clearly outshone its competitors. Since then the bar has been raised, but the Fit remains a good value.

That has put Honda into something of a bind regarding sales figures. The Fit is one Honda product line that is built exclusively in Japan. Thanks to an unfavorable currency exchange situation, the company is losing money on each one sold. With a loss-management strategy in place, demand is much higher than Honda is willing to oblige.

The situation is going to be fixed once Honda’s new plant in Mexico comes online in 2014. There, the next-generation Fit will be produced for North America as well as other export markets around the world. With the new (profitable, might we add) capacity now available, Automotive News reports that Honda is looking to add a crossover variant to the Fit platform. Currently, around 800,000 units of the Fit are sold worldwide. Honda is hoping a new crossover model would boost that over the 1,000,000 mark, potentially adding as much as 400,000 units of volume globally.

The new crossover would be targeted at the U.S and Europe in particular. The smallest crossover Honda currently sells is the popular CR-V. The new Fit CUV would be aimed at models like the Buick Encore and Nissan Juke. Honda’s model strategy runs counter to conventional industry thinking right now; while everyone else is moving toward globalization, they are breaking up research and development regionally. That means specific models for different markets, along with local production. Volkswagen has done this as well. Given Honda’s long-term history of hitting the U.S market sweet spot, this could be a good formula for boosting sales, as long as costs can be kept in check.

Originally posted on