2012 Acura CSX Rendering

Considering everything that a 2012 Honda Civic EX-L has now (Navi, Leather, Power Seat....) I'm not sure what they're going to do in the price point that this car needs to be....
The Acura CSX is not only an entry level compact luxuary car but also a smallest car from Acura offering.First generation arrive in 2005 as a rebadge version of 8th gen Civic.This car is not much popular but at least got resemble among Honda/ Acura fan.

The all new CSX is in developing and will arrive around march 2012.As they say.The car will be get more excitement in order to gain more interest from the customer that not a hard core Honda/ Acura’s fan .

The CSX replacement will build from the 9th gen Civic that arrive in late 2011 but According to Mag-x the new car will have more different from Civic more than the car it replace.Expect a newly build front and rear bumper,new design and more sharp headlight and Acura brand’s grille.

The new car (codename 2TA) will get similar size to the new Civic.Expect 4540 mm long X 1750 mm width X 1445 mm height.The prefered engine will be newly introduce petrol 4 cylinder 2.0 liter and expect a Hybrid IMA petrol 1.5 liter engine will be offered at later date.Also in pipe line is current petrol 2.4 liter that will improve power and fuel economy.

Source;
http://autoten.com/2011/07/19/rendering-of-2012-acura-csx-a-compact-luxuary-sedan-based-from-civic/

MotorTrend: Is Honda Returning to Its Sports Car Roots?

At a press conference in early February, Honda CEO Takanobu Ito shocked the world's media when he nonchalantly revealed plans to launch a detuned production version of the V8-powered HSV-010 race car. Of course, he was referring to a road-going variant of the NSX successor project, which was shelved several years ago.

As it turns out, the next NSX (which is expected to be powered by a 400-plus hp V-8) features heavily in the company's renewed plan to pump out as many as three sports cars over the next several years.

Just over six weeks ago, a killer earthquake and tsunami threatened to cancel this about-face from Honda, and rob us of some of the most exciting news to come out of Japan since the Nissan GT-R surfaced three years ago.

But a reliable source close to Honda tells us that while these plans have been postponed as the company sorts out its parts supply problems, they are not dead in the water. In the last few weeks, we have been hearing that Honda is working on a high performance coupe powered by a 3.5 liter V-6 plug-in hybrid, a concept that Ito himself briefly mentioned.

The rebirth of the Acura RSX, the car you see pictured here in an artist's representation, is also on the near-term agenda. According our sources, the next-gen RSX will inherit a version of the just-launched ninth-generation Civic Si's 201 hp, i-VTEC 2.4 liter gas engine with slick 6-speed manual and helical LSD. Fitted with specially tuned sports suspension, the new RSX will also employ an interior inspired by the current Civic Type R and an exterior in a sharp, wedge shape.

Further down the line, Honda is also said to be developing a "more reasonably priced" C-segment sports coupe. Driven by a strong request from North American Honda dealers, this coupe is being developed with that market in mind and will incorporate Accord hardware.

One other concept that we have covered before and awaits the results of Honda's so-called "R-evaluation executive session" is a successor to the Beat. The original Beat was an open-top two-door, mid-engined 660cc minicar that could rev to 8500 rpm, and the next generation promises to be a new interpretation of that concept with a 1.3 to 1.5 liter gas engine. If built, don't expect the Beat to come to the U.S. We have also heard rumors of a hotter CR-Z getting a 190 hp-plus 2.0 liter gas unit, but that's all we have at the moment, rumors.

Source;
http://www.motortrend.com/features/auto_news/2011/1105_is_honda_returning_to_its_sports_car_roots/index.html

Report: Honda NSX development soldiers on

Automotive News reports that the long-dead NSX is back under development after its spiritual successor was sent to the round file in 2008. We've heard an increasing chorus of rumours that the project has been taken off the shelf, but this is the first time we can recall reading direct quotes from higher-ups within Honda confirming its existence. Takanobu Ito, Honda's President, reportedly disclosed that his company is currently working on a successor that will be both entertaining to drive and efficient, which likely means buyers can expect to be met with a hybrid drivetrain when the supercar launches. When will that be? Ito didn't give specific details on when the new-generation NSX will land, though he did say that the racer will be the brawnier bigger brother of the company's CR-Z hybrid.

That means that we can kiss the luscious V10 mounted in the old HSV-010 goodbye. That vehicle was intended to be the most recent take on the NSX, but was scrapped after the auto market at large began circling the drain back in 2008. While fans of the Japanese supercar were up in arms over the fact that the HSV-010 abandoned the mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive finesse of the original NSX for an all-wheel drive platform, we have to imagine many NSX loyalists might not have kind words for a hybridized version of the bruiser.

[Source: Automotive News – sub. req.]

Acura S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent Recruitment Center celebrating Marvel's THOR (4/21-24)

Here's something to pass along to those in the New York area....

Acura is the official vehicle of the upcoming film "Thor," Acura will open the S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent Recruitment Center for fans of Marvel's intelligence and security organization during the New York International Auto Show. The public is invited to Pier 83 for an exclusive look at the S.H.I.E.L.D. edition Acura TL loaded with custom features, including a sound cannon, smokescreen and extreme weather protection and will have a chance to make their own S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent ID badge on site.

Acura S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent Recruitment Center for "THOR"
Recruitment Center: Pier 83, West 42nd Street at 12th Avenue, New York, NY 10036 (Take the 1, 2, 3, 7, 9, A, C, E, N, Q or R train to Times Square 42nd Street)
4/21: 9:30am – 7pm; 4/22-4/24: 10am-7pm
Open to the public; Free
Check in on Foursquare at the Pier 83 Recruitment Center for chance to win tickets to see "Thor" in theaters! https://foursquare.com/venue/19858130

http://twitter.com/acura_insider and www.joinshield.com

Acura partners up with new Thor Movie

With the release of films featuring Iron Man, the Incredible Hulk, Thor and Captain America, all roads are leading to next summer's launch of "The Avengers" -- and Marvel Studios is keen to bring its promotional partners along for the ride, offering the opportunity for the brands to appear not just in "The Avengers" but other comicbook hero pics down the line. A little more than a month before Paramount and Marvel unleash "Thor" on May 6, Acura, Dr. Pepper, 7-Eleven, Visa and Burger King are prepping to roll out TV, radio and online campaigns that tie in their brands with the god of thunder's first outing at the megaplex. Walmart is a major retail partner. All but Acura and Visa had backed previous Marvel releases in some form ("Thor" will be 7-Eleven's eighth teaming with a Marvel superhero). Honda's luxury brand had been looking for projects that could get Acura in front of more moviegoers through the branded entertainment arm of ad agency RP&, a division of RPA, and its exec Steve Rossmann, a former Gersh agent. When "Thor" offered an automaker the chance to serve as the official wheels of spy agency S.H.I.E.L.D, Acura was quick to lock down its first film partnership. "Getting to be the official car of S.H.I.E.L.D sold it for us," said Susie Rossick, Acura's national advertising manager. "To have that role in the film and in future films was attractive to us." S.H.I.E.L.D, the secret government org that recruits Marvel's superheroes as a crime-fighting force, made cameos in the two "Iron Man" pics and "The Incredible Hulk." The group will play a larger role in "Thor" and future films, guaranteeing any automaker appearances in multiple franchises for years to come. Acura especially gravitated toward a pairing with S.H.I.E.L.D due to the org's image of being advanced and innovative, aspects with which the automaker likes to associate itself. The design of Acura's own shield-like front fascia on its vehicles and corporate logo was a coincidence, but didn't hurt seal the deal. Car partners are "someone you need to spend a little more time thinking about," said Bob Sabouni, senior VP of business development and promotions for Marvel, which had previously landed Audi to serve as Iron Man's preferred carmaker. "It's something that gets noticed. You have to have the right car." As a result of its deal, Acura's lineup of recently redesigned sedans and SUVs gets roughly two minutes of screen time in the pic, a considerable amount of exposure when it comes to product placement. In return, Acura will help Marvel and Par promote "Thor" through the launch of a micro website that recruits consumers to become S.H.I.E.L.D agents, play games and design their own agency vehicle. It's also buying TV spots, print ads and installing signage and offering customers early screenings at its dealerships. Acura is also touring a series of events like Chicago fanboy fest C2E2, Florida's MegaCon and the New York Auto Show with recruitment booths that will feature a S.H.I.E.L.D agent car with weaponry like a sonic canon. In order to pull off the concept of turning each of its films into a chapter of an overall universe, Marvel said it needed to broker deals with brands that were "like-minded" and could be "dedicated to a plan" that embodies the characters and messaging of the films in programs "that is smart for both of us." Sabouni said Acura has "bought into the concept and is having a lot of fun with it." Separately, Dr. Pepper is buying TV, radio, online ads and setting up in-store displays to promote the six character cans it is producing for "Thor." It's targeting males with its core Dr. Pepper product and females with its diet and cherry varieties. Burger King will have toy-filled kids meals worldwide, backed by TV and online ads. Visa Signature cardholders get exclusive movie ticket offers at Fandango.com, a move that Par and Marvel hope will help sell more tickets to the pic but also puts the film in banks, where studios can't normally market. Meanwhile, 7-Eleven will offer up 10 different cups and other exclusive merchandise, as well as a Slurpee smartphone app at its stores, and a three-minute behind-the-scenes video on the making of the movie, produced by Marvel. It's buying radio and online ads to tubthump the products to its core Slurpee buyer that tends to be male and under 24. "Action-hero fans index high with Slurpee-lovers," said 7-Eleven VP and chief marketing officer Rita Bargerhuff. Naturally, Marvel is creating exclusive digital comicbooks for its partners to distribute individually or providing some with exclusive footage. "It's always important to give your partners a little corner of the movie," Marvel's Sabouni said. "We've learned how to do that over the years." Doing so helps giving the bad news that a partner's products will be destroyed on film a little easier. In scenes, a 7-Eleven store and Acura's vehicles are obliterated by the villainous Destroyer. "They definitely have allowed us to play a little bit more," Sabouni said. Acura approved the destruction "because there wasn't anything wrong with the car," Rossick said. "They weren't the reason things were blowing up." Given the amount of marketing coin Par is spending to promote "Thor," the pic doesn't necessarily need to generate more awareness with ticket buyers. But the ad efforts that promo partners are launching will help consumers learn about elements of the "Thor" characters and S.H.I.E.L.D org that they may not be familiar with. Dr. Pepper's ads will stress Thor's strength, speed and ability to fly, for example. "We provide activities that allow fans to engage in ways that are meaningful and fun, thus building more anticipation for the movie's release," 7-Eleven's Bargerhuff said. Ads from partners start Friday and run through July 6. Source (via autoblog); http://www.variety.com/article/VR1118034701?refCatId=13

Honda Suspends Dealer Orders on Japan-Built Cars

After Mazda announced last week that it would halt orders on U.S. deliveries of all Japan-made cars, Honda has now decided to follow a similar action. Informing dealers that they can no longer order Japan-build cars, retailers will be forced to move only what is on their lot until the Japanese supply chain can be mended.

Vehicles affected by the order include hybrid models like the CR-Z, Insight and Civic Hybrid, as well as some CR-V models (many of which are also build in North America). The Acura luxury division has also been affected, with the TSX and RL also made in Japan.

With current dealer inventories, this shouldn’t pose a product shortage unless the delay is lengthy.

Other Japanese automakers, including Mitsubishi, Nissan and Toyota, have yet to announce any such supply chain issues.

Source;

http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2011/03/honda-suspends-dealer-orders-on-japan-built-cars.html

Transformation - Acura TSX Sport Wagon commercial

Credit goes to www.autospies.com for this find.

Scoop: Next Gen Honda/Acura NSX Rendering

This car has has so many renderings that I am starting to get dizzy just trying to keep up with what all the speculations are, - V8? 3.5v6? High performance 4cyl? Hybrid (please no)? 4WD? Boxter? and so on....

Click on the link to get even more speculations!
Source;
http://jp-cardesigncorner.blogspot.com/2011/02/latest-honda-nsx-successor-rendering.html

Jim Smail, Acura Dealer Advisory Board: Acura Q and A.

Jim Smail was into motorcycles before he was into cars. Grabbing a Yamaha franchise in 1974, he added Honda bikes in 1975, saw their engineering strengths and added Honda automobiles the year after that.

Smail Auto Group has expanded significantly since then, and it now sells nine brands. Smail has gained such respect among his peers that, in addition to chairing the Acura Dealer Advisory Board, he also becomes chairman of the American International Automobile Dealers Association this month.

Smail spoke with Staff Reporter Mark Rechtin about what the future holds for Acura.

Q: How was 2010 for Acura dealers?
A: It was a significant improvement over 2009. Not only were sales up 27 percent, which is right up there with the best increases in the industry, but dealer profitability made significant strides as well. We saw increases in profits, not just with new-car volume but also in the certified pre-owned brand and with service and parts contributing as well. I was at the December dealer board meeting, and that was the sentiment of all the members of the board.

What will be the big issues for Acura dealers in 2011?
The company has to continue to have the marketing, incentives and advertising to support a brand with only one new product coming this year. That's the TSX wagon, which, being realistic, the company isn't looking for significant volume. And we have a facelift on the TL. But for the whole line to continue to sell, the biggest thing is going to be keeping the incentives strong, and keeping the marketing strong.

What about beyond 2011?
Starting in 2012, in terms of product launches, it is going to be some of the best years possible for Acura coming up. They are getting back to their core values in terms of value, in terms of pricing, and adding a lot of content in these vehicles.

Are dealers satisfied with Acura?
Looking at the NADA survey last summer, Acura had made some progress. And when I was leaving our dealer meeting in October in Denver, I heard all the positive comments. Management did a great job communicating the direction of the company. They said, "We know we had some challenges, but we are sharing information with you about where the brand is going." I hope I'm right, but I think the brand will take a step forward in terms of dealer confidence as the product portfolio gets stronger. There's a good sense of optimism.

Do you get that feeling from Japanese management, too?
Earlier in his career, Mr. Ito [Honda Motor Co.'s current CEO] was instrumental in development of first NSX and the first MDX, and he met with the dealer advisory board in October. He shares a passion for the Acura brand, even though it only is here in America. There are a few vehicles exported to China and Russia, but those numbers are small. But if the brand does build back up to 200,000 units, he told us there might be consideration of putting the brand in other markets around the world.

What is your feeling about Acura styling? Does the factory ask dealers about that sort of thing, or do Acura designers not want feedback?
We have had many discussions about it. Acura was criticized for not having aggressive-enough styling. But now, quite frankly, particularly on the TL, they went too far the other way in being aggressive. We have been very robust in our conversations, saying this went way too far, it is out of hand. Customers like the car, but not the styling, particularly the front end. In seeing the 2012 enhancement of the TL, if we had that initially, we would have sold a lot more cars. I think Acura got the message loud and clear. We want highly styled cars with great content, but we don't need boy-racer looking vehicles or whatever.

Acura SUVs seem to be selling well, but what are you going to do to get car sales revved up again?
We had a minor change to the TSX this year for the 2011 model year, and as we have other products joining the portfolio, I think that's going to be the resurgence. As calendar 2013 comes around there will be additional products, which might be all-new or full-model changes. It's going to take a little bit of time, but we're not that far away from seeing a significant amount of product arriving over a 15- to 18-month period, where virtually everything in the lineup will be changed.
Should Acura get back into the compact luxury segment with a rebirth of the Integra/ RSX?
We've had discussions about that. The Integra and RSX were great vehicles, and we sold 25,000 or 30,000 units a year of them. The strategy was that the RDX crossover would replace the RSX, but we've never hit those types of numbers, even with the two-wheel-drive version. The compact luxury segment is a great opportunity, and we would like to see that part of the market come about, and there are all indications it may happen.

Is there anything else missing in the product lineup?
A revised RL will be coming. You will see further derivatives of the vehicles that we currently have, new segments we will be entering that we have not had in the lineup in a number of years. Once the core products are re-established and put into the marketplace, that's going to give Acura the chance to explore opportunities with other derivatives. Whether that's convertibles, sports cars or coupes, that's a long way off.

What's your opinion on Acura not having rear-drive or a V-8 and trying to compete in the luxury game?
Where we are today, with more powerful V-6s, I like to call Honda Motor Co. with the emphasis on "Motor." They have the ability to create anything they want to. Whether it's through direct injection or turbo, Honda has done things with engines that no one else has done.
Rear-drive has its advantages, but as a Mercedes dealer outside Pittsburgh, I don't stock rear-drive. All my customers want all-wheel drive. Acura will be a solid player. Not that the TL and TSX are bad cars, but to get back to 200,000 units, we're going to have to offer cars that the consumer is looking for.

What is the best way for Acura vehicles to be more than just Honda-plus?
We're getting away from that, to a great extent. The content of the vehicles is different. There will be further separation in styling, for both divisions. I see more familiarity between Lexus and Toyota than between Honda and Acura. I realize the Europeans are different in that regard. But I think we'll have enough differentiation in our products.

How much real contact do you dealers have with factory management?
I have a good rapport with John Mendel, Jeff Conrad in sales, Chuck Kendig in service, Bruce Smith in parts, Richard Kent in marketing. These fellows really do reach out. We have their numbers and they like to talk to us. I've been in this business for 40 years, and the Acura and Honda advisory process is the best in the industry, from a grass-roots, district, zone level, gathering that information up and meeting as a group to discuss the issues that are a national concern to dealers. When we sit down with John and other American management, they really pay attention. There's lots of note-taking and questions back.

What about talking to the Japanese leadership at American Honda?
Mr. Iwamura and the Japanese staff really want to know what's on our minds. They tell us what they can and can't do, what the costs and benefits are, and they get back to us with answers. After representing GM, Ford, Mazda, Kia and so forth, I think Honda and Acura really have the best process for dealers. Sure, the last few years have been challenging for Acura, but things are changing as quickly as we could expect at this moment.

What are Acura dealers doing to attract more service business?
They have developed some of the most forward-thinking programs in direct-marketing and digital formats. Our service departments are going to be wireless, instead of having to go to a dedicated computer. An adviser can take a laptop or service tool and get all his information wirelessly. It lets the technician stay with the vehicle. It's a great enhancement for how service departments are going to work in the future. He'll have service codes at his fingertips. He won't have to look it up.

You mentioned Acura's certified pre-owned program. How goes it?
I think we have a great opportunity with certified used cars. Companies are looking to establish a certified brand, but it's now going to be the entry-level for those who are competing the in the luxury segment. The research we see for Acura is that 70 percent of those who buy a certified pre-owned Acura end up buying a new Acura later on. So there's a lot of upside there.
Should Acura get more involved in leasing? Your residuals are so strong, it would seem like a no-brainer.
I think the whole industry is going to be more aggressive in leasing. I see a real upside for Acura. As long as you have great products, the residuals should be there. By not playing in the fleet business, that has helped our residuals dramatically. There's a tremendous amount of leasing in the Northeast, but not so much in other areas. It's a matter of educating the customer. We are growing our lease portfolio because we want that customer to come back in three years, and for us to have that certified used car. As we hit the fourth quarter of this year, the industry is going to have some difficulties acquiring used cars.

What do you think of Acura's advertising?
After hearing the presentations in October, I get the "Advance" message. It's simple. It's saying, "Advance your thinking." But the consumer can interpret it however they would like to. Is Acura advancing the value, the styling, the features? But we also want Acura to keep the theme that Acura is where you will find the most innovative thinking.

Is Acura ahead of the game, behind the game or in the game when it comes to social media?
It's getting better. Acura is taking their time to make sure they get it right. Our dealership is involved in social media. It's where marketing has gone in the past year. I think it's less of a factor with luxury brands than mass-market brands.

You also are chairing AIADA. What are the issues there?
The international nameplates have 54 percent of the market. There are a lot of opportunities for the international manufacturers to work together, to make sure there aren't moves within the Beltway to make it more difficult on us. When the U.S. government still owns a significant amount of GM, and has significant interest in Chrysler, and the UAW has a significant stake in both, we need to watch for actions being taken.
We dealers are all local businessmen, and the international players have spent billions of dollars on plants here, employing tens of thousands of workers. You can't favor one set of manufacturers over another.

Source;
http://www.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110206/RETAIL06/302079985/1379

2011 Chicago Auto Show: 2012 Acura TL Video

2012 Acura TL B-Roll
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2012 Acura TL Chicago Auto Show Press Conference Remarks Jeff Conrad, Vice President, Acura Sales

02/09/2011 - CHICAGO

Good morning everyone and thank you for joining us. As you just saw, 2011 marks Acura's 25th anniversary.

From day one, we've succeeded by offering premium luxury vehicles that deliver an appealing blend of sophisticated style, outstanding performance, rich content and the very latest in automotive technology, all at a compelling value to our customers.

Over the years, our strong suit has been innovation, and if you need proof, just look at our track record. As I'm sure most of you know, Acura was the world's first Japanese luxury brand. And over the past 25 years, we've continually added to our list of "firsts" – especially in the area of advanced automotive technology.

Just a partial list of the innovations Acura has introduced to U.S. buyers over the years includes: VTEC – for an extra shot of horsepower at high RPM, drive-by-Wire electronic throttle control, in-dash navigation systems and Bluetooth as standard. You'll find these features on virtually every luxury automobile today, but again, Acura was the first with the vision and the capabilities to develop and introduce them.

In addition, Acura was the first brand to have every vehicle in its line-up achieve a five star safety rating.

These innovations and accomplishments have contributed to an impressive line-up of Acura vehicles. And in just a few minutes, we'll introduce you to the latest addition to our line-up, the 2012 Acura TL. Or as we like to call it – Innovation Refined.

Now, I have to say that we're starting this landmark year with an exciting new car – and with a high degree of optimism.

Automotive sales are starting to come back and the industry outlook is much better today than it was a year ago. The premium car segment is forecasted to return to near 2007 levels by 2012.
For Acura, in 2010 we enjoyed 11 straight months of double digit sales increases compared to 2009 and we finished out the year with a strong 27 percent sales increase. We're starting 2011 just as strongly, as our streak of consecutive sales increases continues.

We think a lot of Acura's recent success can be attributed to a couple of things. First, a more rational approach by buyers in the luxury car market since the economic downturn. Strategic vision data indicates that three of the top five purchase reasons for luxury vehicles are: value for money, quality of workmanship and reliability. All three happen to be core strengths of the Acura brand.

The second reason for our recent success can be attributed to our philosophy of "smart luxury." Smart luxury refers to a pronounced shift in the luxury market away from the idea of excess and extravagance, and to vehicles offering useful and relevant technology, rich content, premium quality, environmental sustainability and lasting value, all wrapped up in a sleek design.

Those attributes define the Acura brand and certainly the newly refined TL you're about to see.

But first, some TL history.

In 2004, the TL was introduced, taking the entry luxury segment by storm with its combination of sporty performance and style.

In 2009, the TL again took a step forward, introducing Acura's most powerful engine ever.

Features like Acura's first hard drive-based navigation system and our innovative torque vectoring SH –All Wheel Drive system, made the TL one of best performing cars in its class.

In addition, the TL was recognized for excellent quality, finishing second in its class in the JD Power and Associates IQS study and for long-term value as ALG's 2011 top choice as the entry luxury segment leader in resale value.However, the 2009 TL launched at the worst possible time…literally as the economy crumbled, and its aggressive styling may have been a bit too bold in the evolving market. So how did we respond?

For the 2012 model year, we focused on taking the already innovative TL and refining it even further to ensure it remains a leader among luxury sports sedans, an automobile that will continue Acura's legacy of ground-breaking style, performance, refinement and value.
Ladies and gentlemen, the 2012 Acura TL.

Bold, yet, refined. Sophisticated. Beautifully proportioned. Certainly first impressions count – and from any angle, this latest TL makes a powerful first impression.

But when all is said and done, a luxury performance sedan has to provide everything its buyer expects – and the newly refined TL does. By delivering, performance refined, technology refined and luxury refined.

Let's start with performance. The 3.5 and 3.7 liter V6 engines found in the TL already deliver excellent performance. But now, they deliver that performance with even more impressive fuel economy because of reductions in engine friction – along with aerodynamic enhancements and an all-new six speed automatic transmission.

The added transmission gear and optimized ratios further improve fuel economy while actually boosting the TL's acceleration. The TL now delivers 20 miles per gallon in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. This is an improvement of 3 highway Miles Per gallon over the current model. All while retaining the TL's speed and responsiveness.

And, all that refined performance is available in the TL Advance which you see here, as well as the TL, and the TL Tech --all available in front wheel and Super Handling All Wheel Drive configurations. And not to worry, the 6-speed manual transmission will continue to be offered on the TL Super Handling All Wheel Drive model.

But, performance is just the start. The new TL is also luxury refined. Upgrades to interior styling and quality provide an executive class cabin, regardless of trim. And extraordinary efforts have also been made to reduce noise, vibration and harshness resulting in a three decibel improvement in cabin noise at higher speeds.

Naturally, all models offer the amenities you'd expect in a car of this caliber.

The TL Tech features an impressive new 60 GB hard drive system powering and controlling the improved navigation, entertainment and phone functions.

The TL with Advance package further adds to the TL's comfort level with new ventilated front seats offering heating and cooling.

The TL Advance also offers a radar-based blind spot information system to warn the driver when another vehicle is in close proximity.

Put it all together and you've got a tantalizing blend of superior performance, progressive technology and first-class appointments highlighted by outstanding levels of quality and craftsmanship all at a moderate price. In other words, innovation refined in a sleek and striking sports sedan.

That's the newly refined 2012 Acura TL -- and at this time I'd like to invite you all to come on up for a closer look.

Source;
http://www.hondanews.com/channels/acura-automobiles-headlines/releases/2012-acura-tl-chicago-auto-show-press-conference-remarks-jeff-conrad-vice-president-acura-sales

Newly Refined 2012 Acura TL Debuts At Chicago Auto Show

That is a much better front than the outgoing TL....
Fresh Looks, a New 6-speed Automatic Transmission and Upgraded Technology Highlight 2012 TL Changes

Making its debut at the 2011 Chicago Auto show, Acura's newly refined TL delivers fresh looks, improved performance and upgraded technology. Most apparent are the visual changes that incorporate new front and rear styling, but also present is a new Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic transmission for improved performance and fuel economy, a revised interior and a host of technology upgrades.

"The 2012 Acura TL is refined, yet aggressive," said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales.

"Already known for its great performance, the enhanced TL has a sophisticated new look and an all-new 6-speed automatic transmission that will take performance to the next level."

The 2012 TL's refined new look includes a redesigned front bumper with improved aerodynamics, a revised grille, updated headlights and turn signals, a new fog light design and a shorter front overhang. At the rear, a new rear bumper incorporates a significantly repositioned license plate opening and smaller rear reflectors, while updated taillights and a thinner rear trunk edge trim add to a sophisticated new look.

To increase performance, a new Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic transmission is applied on all TL models with automatic transmission. In addition to incorporating engineering enhancements aimed at improving efficiency, a sport-minded double-kick-down feature lets the driver command a double downshift— such as from Fifth to Third gear. The Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system also creates a "blip" of the throttle to help match gear speeds while downshifting.

In addition, the transmission teams with a new multi-clutch torque converter that not only reduces heat build-up during operation, but also allows for lock-up activation during a much wider range of driving conditions— which helps generate improved fuel economy. As a result, city/highway fuel economy is now 20/29 mpg*— an increase of 3 mpg in highway driving over the 2011 TL. To further improve operating efficiency, the TL's standard 3.5L V-6 engine receives a host of friction-reduction technologies while a revised air inlet system provides cooler air for both the 3.5L and 3.7L engines.

For 2012, two distinct versions of Acura's performance luxury sedan remain: a 280 horsepower, front-wheel-drive TL along with a powerful 305 hp TL paired with Acura's exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™). The performance-minded 6MT model will continue to be offered in the 2012 TL SH-AWD lineup, helping broaden the TL's appeal among luxury performance sedan buyers.

Both the TL and TL SH-AWD™ models offer an available Technology Package which includes the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting™ and AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™, and an Acura/ELS Surround® 410-watt Premium Audio System. For 2012, the hard disk drive (HDD) based navigation system increases in size to 60 gigabytes, map coverage is more expansive, USB connection speed is faster, and the full VGA monitor is brighter with even richer colors. Also available is a new Advance Package that incorporates all-new ventilated front seats along with a new blind spot information (BSI) system that alerts the driver of other vehicles that are in close proximity.

Standard on the 2012 TL are new 17x8-inch 7-spoke aluminum wheels with P245/50R17 all-season tires for confident year-round performance. The TL SH-AWD® comes standard with new 18x8-inch 5-spoke aluminum wheels with low-profile P245/45R18 tires for more agile handling. Finally, when equipped with the available Advance Package, the TL comes with 18x8-inch 5-spoke wheels while TL SH-AWD™ is fitted with 19x8-inch split five-spoke aluminum wheels with new performance minded P245/40R19 all-season tires.

Along with every new Acura, the new 2012 TL is covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty and a 6-year/70,000 miles powertrain limited warranty. Additional benefits of ownership include Acura Total Luxury Care® (TLC®), which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service and trip routing.

Acura

Acura offers a full line of technologically advanced performance luxury vehicles through a network of 270 dealers within the United States. The 2011 Acura lineup features six distinctive models including the RL luxury performance sedan, the TL performance luxury sedan, the TSX sports sedan and all-new Sport Wagon, the turbocharged RDX luxury crossover SUV, the award-winning MDX luxury sport utility vehicle and the ZDX four-door sports coupe.

Source;

http://www.hondanews.com/channels/acura-automobiles-headlines/releases/newly-refined-2012-acura-tl-debuts-at-chicago-auto-show

Honda/Acura NSX a go!

Honda heads, rejoice! In Japan today Honda president Takashi Ito announced that the company will renew development of the NSX. The next generation of Honda’s supercar was put on hold as a result of the Lehman Shock (Japanese for Global Financial Crisis) in 2008. However, Ito says that the marketplace has a demand and it is one that “we must answer.” Details are sparse and no release date was given, but with the LFA ant GT-R, we might just have another Japanese supercar renaissance on the horizon. It’s a shame they didn’t announce this at the New Year Meeting.

Source (via autoblog);
http://japanesenostalgiccar.com/2011/02/04/honda-restarts-development-of-the-nsx/

The New Honda Accord/Acura TSX Debuts at Geneva

The revised Honda Accord sedan and Tourer models will make their debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March. Both cars receive a host of changes with the styling, emissions, ride and handling all enhanced for 2011.

Summary of Changes:
• Revised exterior styling
• Detail changes to interior finishes
• Improvements to emissions and economy on all engines
• 138 g/km 2.2 i-DTEC introduced
• Ride and handling improvements for all models
• Auto High-Beam Support System and Active Cornering Lights debut on Accord
• 180 PS Type S model now available across Europe with bespoke interior and exterior styling

Exterior Design
Both the sedan and Tourer have benefitted from small but noticeable changes to the head lights and bumpers to complement the changes under the skin. The head lights have been given a cleaner, crisper appearance with the previously amber indicators now in a clear finish. On top grade cars the lights are now bi-xenon and feature Active Cornering Lights to improve night time visibility. The grille has been subtly remodelled with the two central spars finished in the same chrome material as the outer grille, for a sportier look. The cooling duct and fog light recesses on all models have been re-profiled with the taper of these areas given a more aggressive line, giving the car a more planted appearance.

The rear of the sedan model has been subtly enhanced with the rear lights having a light red finish for the reversing light and indicators to match that of the fog light, giving a balance to the rear styling. The exclusive styling of the sedan is rounded off with a light chrome garnish above the rear licence plate on most models and a dark chrome finish on Type S grade cars. The new exterior design cues are finished off with three new colours consisting of Alabaster Silver, Graphite Lustre and Celestial Blue Pearl added to the line up.

Interior Design
The exterior styling changes have been complemented by a number of subtle changes to the interior with most grades having new seat materials and door linings, changing the ambience of the cabin. Type S models have exclusive half leather, seats in a dark grey finish and a black head lining to further distinguish the top grade. The metal-look finish interior trim that covers the hand brake, gear lever surround, steering wheel garnish, door inlays, with a red background and sweeps up across the centre of the dash is now in a darker hue, to complement the new interior fabrics. The footwells of the majority of models are now illuminated blue if the headlights are on and red on Type S models.

Fuel Economy and Emission Improvements
The refined 2.2 litre 150 PS i-DTEC diesel engine has had internal frictional losses reduced to improve fuel economy and emissions. The result of these changes is an 9 g/km drop in CO2 emissions for the sedan with the 6-speed manual transmission and an 11 g/km reduction for the automatic variant. These internal changes have been combined with a host of underbody aerodynamic aids, including a larger front air dam, underfloor and a rear subframe cover Honda's engineers have also put effort into reducing the frictional losses in the wheels and tyres with low friction wheel bearings and reduced rolling resistance tyres. Accords equipped with Automatic transmission have also benefitted from minimised frictional losses in the gearbox and optimised ratios to improve economy and emissions.

Quieter Cabin
The already impressive NVH performance of the current Accord has been further improved with the adoption of higher density foam in the under bonnet and dashboard areas. The underfloor noise insulation has also been revised and teamed with additional sound deadening shields on the DPF and exhaust manifold cover of the diesel engine. The suite of noise reductions techniques is completed with a small 0.9 mm increase in the thickness of the rear window glass, improving the rear passenger experience.

Chassis
Engineers from Japan worked with their counterparts in Germany and the UK to further refine the dampers of the Accord Tourer and sedan for the vast range of road conditions found in Europe. Detailed refinement of the dual mode dampers has given improvement in both high speed stability for highway driving and a significant improvement in ride quality, even over poor road surfaces.

Active Cornering Lights
One of the most visible changes to the top of the range Accords is the addition of Active Cornering Lights, which provide enhanced illumination when the vehicle is turning. Additional lights units have been subtly integrated into the existing lights units, casting all of their light to the side of the vehicle to help the driver in low visibility conditions. The light unit on the relevant side will be illuminated when the driver activates the indicators in that direction or turns the steering wheel more than 90 degrees. When the vehicle is in reverse, both lights will be activated to give a good view to either side of the driver.

High-Beam Support System
Another new lighting technology for Honda is the High Beam Support system, which is fitted on vehicles with the bi-xenon headlights. This system is controlled by a CMOS camera fitted to the windscreen in the area of the driver rear view mirror. The camera detects oncoming headlights or the taillights of a vehicle in front and automatically dips the headlights onto their normal setting if they are on high-beam. This allows the driver to fully concentrate on the road conditions, without having to manually control the high-beam setting.

The new Accord goes on sale across Europe from April this year.

Source;
http://www.hondanews.eu/en/news/index.pmode/modul,detail,0,1690-DEFAULT,21,text,1/index.pmode

Newly Refined 2012 Acura TL To Debut At Chicago Auto Show

01/24/2011 - TORRANCE, Calif.
Acura today announced it will debut the newly refined 2012 TL at the Chicago Auto Show. The TL, which recently received the 2011 ALG Residual Value Award for Best Near Luxury Car, further enhances its position in the segment with aggressive, yet refined styling and performance.

Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales, will introduce the production vehicle at the press conference, to be held on February 9, 2011 in the Acura booth. The press conference will be webcast live on www.acuranews.com.

Source;
http://www.hondanews.com/channels/corporate-headlines/releases/newly-refined-2012-acura-tl-to-debut-at-chicago-auto-show

Road and Track: 2011 Acura TSX Wagon Review

Hatching a plan for sporty, stylish and practical transport.
By Douglas Kott

What’s Hot:
Tight handling
Swoon-worthy styling
Crossover carrying capacity
What’s Not:
No V-6 offered
No manual gearbox offered
Inline-4 merely adequate

Small, sporty wagons are a little like Elvis or Colin Chapman: By most accounts they’re dead, but occasionally there will be sightings. Truth is, we wonder why there aren’t more of them as they’re likable adversaries to sport utes and crossovers, lacking the tippy “command” seating position and pretense of off-road capability yet endowed with car-like handling and truly useful cargo capacity. Consider that Acura’s latest here has a storage volume aft of the rear seats that’s roughly the same as its RDX crossover, albeit differently shaped. With its 60/40-split rear seats folded down, there’s a full 60.5 cu. ft. of space, which slots the TSX slightly ahead of marketplace rivals Audi A4 Avant and BMW 328i Sport Wagon.

Acura chose not to compare acceleration times in its presentation, as the TSX Sport Wagon comes just one way, with a 201-bhp 2.4-liter inline-4 paired with a paddle-shift torque-converter 5-speed automatic. Let’s just say the combination makes for, er, adequate acceleration with, um, reasonable roll-on torque, the quick-reacting gearbox doing its best to keep the engine in the feel-good upper half of the rev range. Shifts are snappy….with the selector in S, both kickdown reaction and throttle response are really crisp, and shifts summoned by the paddles are laudably fast. The only transmission demerit? There’s no auto-blip on downshifts.
On a twisty road, the TSX Sport Wagon carries its additional 130 lb. and 3.5 in. of length well, the extra rear overhang reducing the nose-heaviness by a couple of percentage points…now 57/43 front/rear, versus roughly 59/41 for a comparably equipped TSX sedan. The electric-assist steering weights up nicely as more steering angle is cranked in, and roll control is excellent, with spring/damping rates definitely skewed toward the sportier end of the spectrum.

The same could be said of looks. With its wedgy beltline, snazzy 17-in. alloys (with P225/50R-17 Michelins) and brightwork for both the sturdy roof rails and side window trim, the Sport Wagon appears anything but utilitarian. Up front, the oft-criticized “Power Plenum” grille has been tastefully toned down—it now has a platinum-look horizontal element ringed with chrome.

Inside, all the standard TSX trimmings are there—thick-rimmed sport wheel, futuristically styled center stack, and great seats with perforated leather inserts and substantial up-high shoulder bolstering. The cargo area is well finished also; dual brushed stainless sill plates for the hatch are a nice touch, as are chrome tie-down hooks and a total of four hidden storage spaces beneath and to the left side of the load floor. The main compartment is square and quite shallow, perfect for shady types involved in the pizza smuggling trade.

Across the model line, all TSXs for 2011 benefit from slightly better fuel economy (the Sport Wagon’s numbers are 22/30 city/hwy) through measures such as low-friction engine coatings, lower-viscosity ATF, an ATF heater (!) and underbody fairings that improve aerodynamics. A noise-insulating windshield and thicker rear side glass are said to further reduce cabin noise. And the Sport Wagon featured here has a generous roster of standard equipment including a power moonroof, heated leather seats, a 360-watt 7-speaker sound system, Bluetooth, etc. Opting for the Tech Package ($3650 dearer than the base Sport Wagon’s MSRP of $30,960) buys the excellent nav system/high-def display screen, the 460-watt ELS sound system with hard drive storage for roughly 3500 songs, and a power tailgate.

Acura’s sales goals are modest for the Sport Wagon, about 4000 units for the 2011 model year. With its slick styling, sporty road manners and considerable utility, this tailgated TSX might jump-start the resurgence of the small sporty wagon. Is it possible that Elvis has re-entered the building?

Source;
http://www.roadandtrack.com/tests/impressions/2011-acura-tsx-sport-wagon

Congratulations to Honda, and its associates

There were many lessons to be learned during the Great Recession that seems to be loosening its grip on the nation and our part of the world.

One lesson learned was that quality still pays off. Quality products sold at reasonable prices continue to be bought, even in tough times.

That, we believe, is one of the reasons the Honda plant in Lincoln ended 2010 with a stable work force that not only had jobs, but needed to work overtime to increase output of the vehicles built at the plant.

That’s a compliment to the company, of course, and to the men and women who work there, producing more than 270,000 vehicles in 2010. They build the popular Odyssey mini-van in Lincoln, the Pilot SUV, Ridgeline pickups and some Accord V-6 sedans.

Honda employs a flexible manufacturing system that allows management to adjust the mix of vehicles coming out the back door to meet the demand on their dealers’ lots. That means they are producing the cars, trucks, vans and SUVs the buying public wants.

So, congratulations to Honda. And to the 4,000 associates who work there, producing quality products that remain popular, even in difficult economic times.

We are fortunate to have Honda in our community. And Honda is fortunate to have developed a workforce of Alabamians whose work ethic and attention to detail pays off in more sales.

Source;
http://www.dailyhome.com/view/full_story/10858268/article-Congratulations-to-Honda--and-its-associates?instance=home_opinion

Honda Customers Affected By E-Mail Hack

Honda doesn't request personal information online, so, DO NOT supply any if you recieve a email from Honda recently.
Just the Facts:

American Honda says thieves have hacked 2.2 million customers' personal data.

Names, e-mail addresses and VINs are among the data, but no financial information.

A second list of 2.7 million Acura owners was also stolen but included e-mail addresses only.

TORRANCE, California — It sounds bad, but perhaps it's not as bad as it could have been: American Honda has notified 2.2 million customers that a list including e-mail addresses, VINs and login information has been stolen by unknown hackers. Company officials say the list didn't include Social Security numbers, birthdates, bank information or other data that would leave people vulnerable to identity theft.

The Columbus, Ohio, Dispatch reported that the list belonged to an outside vendor who was using it to send "welcome" e-mail messages to customers with OwnerLink or MyAcura accounts. Reportedly, 2.7 million Acura owners were on a separate list that was also stolen, but that one had only e-mail addresses on it.

American Honda contacted its customers to apologize and remind them about the possibility that bogus e-mail could come to them asking for private information. Owners can get more information on this FAQ page.

Source;
http://www.insideline.com/honda/hackers-hit-honda-steal-millions-of-customers-data.html

Honda's Sportscar plans for 2012 and beyond?

A Temple of Vtec member AznSupastar came across a MagX style magazine with some renderings/illustrations of what the next gen S2000 and NSX may look like....
Here's the link to the TOV forum that I found this on, some of the other members have translated the text;
http://www.vtec.net/forums/one-message?message_id=946550
Awesome find!

Car and Driver: 2011 Acura RL SH-AWD - First Drive Review

2011 Acura RL SH-AWD - First Drive Review

One more gear and one more year for Acura’s aging flagship.
BY STEVE SILER December 2010

What Is It?
A mildly refreshed version of Acura’s generally capable but unremarkable and slow-selling flagship sedan. On sale in much the same form since the 2005 model year, the 2011 Acura RL gets a tweaked front fascia with chrome spears in the outboard air intakes and a slightly toned-down version of the much-maligned, guillotine-esque beak that was fitted a couple of years ago. It’s still unattractive, natch. Also new are the decklid trim; power-folding side mirrors; and 15-spoke, 18-inch wheels. Inside, the infotainment interface has been revised (although the quality of its graphics remains largely the same), and genuine maple trim and a new Sea Coast interior color are now available. (Yes, Sea Coast could refer to just about any color, from sandy beige to watery blue to oil-slicked black. Here, it’s a light tan.) The most significant alteration is the upgrade from the previous five-speed auto to a six-speed box. It’s the only transmission available.

How Does It Drive?
Just fine, as before. It’s easy to forget what a nice car the RL is to drive—as consumers seemingly do on a regular basis—until you slide back into it. The naturally aspirated 3.7-liter V-6 (generating 300 hp at 6300 rpm and 271 lb-ft of torque at 5000 rpm) pulls with zest and remains silky smooth all the way to its 6800-rpm redline, the latter a consistent trait of Honda’s engines. Acura claims the six-speed automatic’s extra ratio allows the RL to hit 60 about 0.5 second quicker than before, while gaining 1 mpg in the city and 2 on the highway. For reference, the 2011 is rated at 17/24 mpg, and we tested a 2009 RL to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds.

And as always, Acura’s torque-vectoring Super Handling All-Wheel Drive makes sure little of the power at hand goes to waste, with absolutely tenacious grip and an impressive ability to mitigate understeer. Indeed, as the nose starts to push, the outside rear wheel gets the lion’s share of the torque, realigning the RL’s pointy snout with the driver’s intended line. If we had to find one nit to pick, it would be the brakes. They need to be a little stronger to match those of the RL’s more-performance-inclined competitors.

Acura claims the 2011 is quieter inside, thanks to resonator devices that are said to chop 1.3 decibels off the tire-noise scale. With the new resonators, the RL isn’t yet as quiet as, say, a Lexus LS, although the Acura’s noise levels can hardly be characterized as loud.

How Does It Stack Up?
The RL is good to drive, but as fine as it is in that area, the fact remains that the car is down on power and/or torque compared with many competitors in the $50,000 arena. This includes the Infiniti M37X, the Lexus GS350, and the BMW 535i—all of which offer V-8 alternatives for those wanting even more power. Just as egregious is the RL’s distinct lack of, well, distinction. Sure, it has the grille that no one likes, but other than that, it has little identity. Shoppers in this segment are often looking for some cachet, and this car doesn’t have it. Further, more room in the rear seat and trunk would help Acura cajole fifty large out of more than 200 to 300 people per month. In other words, the RL needs more than this refresh—it needs a replacement. Fortunately, one is around the corner, likely in a year. See our blog post on the next RL for details.

Source;

http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/car/10q4/2011_acura_rl_sh-awd-first_drive_review