Here is a nice video picturing the new Honda NSX Concept, which was premiered at the last Geneva Motor Show following a first appearance at the North American Internationa Auto Show in New York, where it was displayed with an Acura badge (the final version of this car will in fact be marketed in US and Canada as a model from Honda’s luxury brand).

The production version of the NSX should be ready in 2015 and is supposed to retain most of the elements of the concept. The prototype measures 4.33 meters in length, 1.90 in width, 1.16 in height and has a wheel base of 2.58 meters. Under the bonnet pulses a naturally aspirated, mid-mounted V6 VTEC engine mated to a pair of electric motors that allow the car to increase its power while keeping the fuel consumption down.

The model comes with the SH-AWD (Super Hybrid All Wheel Drive) system which makes sure that the right amount of torque is delivered to each wheel of the car at all time in order to obtain the maximum traction and performance in every situation. The transmission is a dual clutch auto, while the wheels are 19″ on the front axle and 20″ at the back.

Honda’s engineers have developed a system that should prevent traffic congestion problems in cities. The technology is based on the impact of acceleration and deceleration of a single vehicle on the whole traffic. Still in the developing stage, the Honda Congestion Prevention Technology will be tested on Italian and Indonesian roads starting from May, in order to assess its functionality.

Honda’s new system will allow cars to communicate with each other and will send important information to the driver on how to maintain a suitable pace, in order to not create queues. Some studies have proven that traffic jams are mainly caused by sudden braking followed by accelerations; this driving pattern eventually decreases the space between cars, gradually slowing traffic.

The traffic prevention system is connected to an on-board terminal in the car, which is further connected to a cloud server that transmits traffic conditions to the driver. The signals are elaborated and then displayed on the dashboard, with a colour-coded pattern. Honda engineers have demonstrated that the system helped increasing the average traveling speed in traffic, by approximately 23%, improving fuel efficiency by 8%.

Honda showed up at the 2012 Beijing Motor Show with two new concept cars: the Concept C and the Concept S. These two prototypes are supposed to be an anticipation of the future design theme of the Japanases manufacturer and use sleek lines as well as futuristic aesthetics, although several details are very reminiscent of certain models that are already out there. Another pretty interesting model at the Honda stall in Beijing is the EV-Ster Concept, a little electric 2-seater that got unveiled at the latest Tokyo Motor Show.

The Concept C is a quite large sedan that boasts a pretty athletic look - especially as far as the rear end is concerned - with both tense and rounded lines. The aggressive aesthetic of the car uses is maybe a little too daring, with a massive and somewhat peculiar front grille, while the bumpers feel a little out of place in the comparison with the overall elegance of the model.

The Honda Concept S is supposed to be the prototype of a future global model that is like a small MPV. Apparently, the future model that will be based on this concept will carry on using the Odissey name in North America while in other markets will be introduced with a brand new name. Its streamlined design is pretty nice and doesn’t look too futuristic, which would have us believe that the final model will not look too different from this concept car. The model is pushed by an hybrid powertrain that - according to Honda - will allow for a comfortable ride and environmental protection.

View the full Honda Concept C and S @ the 2012 Beijing Motor Show photo gallery

Acura - Honda’s luxury brand for the North American markets - has chosen the 2012 New York International Auto Show to introduce its new flagship, the Acura RLX Concept, and here is a video as well as a few pictures documenting its presentation. This classy and sophisticated sedan is the first model to be equipped with the Acura Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system, and is credited with an output of 370 hp and an average fuel consumption of 7.8 l/100km.

Under the bonnet pulses a brand new 3.5-litre V6 VTEC engine that works in combination with three electric motors and is coupled to a 7-speed dual clutch DCT transmission. Acura says that thanks to the large use of light materials, the RLX Concept sprints like a V8 and has the fuel consumption of a 4-cylinder car. However, the model currently on display in New York is still a concept version of the definitive model, whose range will probably also feature less powerful front-wheel drive variants with an output of about 310 hp. However, it is already known that all versions of the production-RLX (which should become available at some point next year) will come with the Precision All Wheel Steer system, which provides for four turning wheels.

Aesthetically, the lines of the RLX have been developed according to Acura’s own ‘Keen Edge’ design theme, that surely marks a step forward in terms of styling in the comparison with the outgoing RL model. The model obviously boasts a very elegant interior with top-notch materials, high quality finishing and all sorts of electronic devices and connectivity options that are just mandatory on a model of this level. If you want more details on the Acura RLX Concept, the official press release is right after the ‘jump’.

View the full Acura RLX Concept photo gallery

Acura RLX Concept - Official Press Release
2012 New York International Auto Show

Acura today held the world debut of the Acura RLX Concept at the New York International Auto Show, providing luxury buyers with a first look at the design and engineering direction for its all-new Acura RLX flagship sedan, slated for launch at the beginning of 2013.

The RLX Concept employs an extraordinary array of new Acura technologies, including the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® system, in combination with sophisticated styling and smart packaging to deliver an entirely new level of performance, sophistication and comfort.

Utilizing highly efficient packaging, the RLX Concept delivers the interior space of a large luxury sedan with the footprint and agility of a midsize luxury sedan. The RLX Concept’s all-new 3.5L direct-injected VTEC® V-6 engine and Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® system combine to generate more than 370-horsepower, and are paired with a 7-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT) and lightweight body to deliver V-8 acceleration with four-cylinder fuel economy-with an estimated EPA (city/highway/combined) rating of 30/30/30 mpg.

“We have created a true luxury sedan based on our Acura DNA,” said American Honda president & CEO, Tetsuo Iwamura. “This means achieving advanced performance through engineering efficiency to create a unique synergy between the vehicle and its driver. Inside and out, on the open road or city streets, the sophisticated and elegant Acura RLX will offer a level of connectivity, comfort and advanced performance demanded by today’s luxury buyers.”
Acura also announced that the production RLX will be offered in a 310-horsepower, front-wheel-drive version, which will also deliver superior handling performance through the application of another new Acura technology- Precision All Wheel Steer™.

Styling-Design

The RLX Concept styling builds on Acura’s ‘Keen Edge’ design motif with its taut and aerodynamic shape, carefully tailored proportions, and sophisticated and distinctive detailing. Its athletic stance is accented by 20-inch forged aluminum wheels and 255/35 R20 high-performance tires. Dimensionally, the RLX Concept is approximately the same length as the current RL, but with a two-inch longer wheelbase and two-inch shorter front overhang. Both the track and vehicle width increase by approximately two inches.

Acura’s exclusive new Jewel Eye™ LED headlamps debut on the RLX Concept. The Acura signature Jewel Eye™ headlamps use a dual-stacked array with a total of eight separate high-intensity LED lamps, with ultra-reflective optical lenses and high-gloss trim, to provide powerful down-the-road illumination while simultaneously giving the RLX a highly distinctive and bright-eyed look in both daytime and nighttime conditions.

Body and Chassis

Through engineering efficiency, including substantial use of high-strength steel and aluminum, the RLX Concept achieves an ultra-rigid and light body design, with the front wheel drive version to weigh in at well under 4,000 pounds. An all-new double wishbone front suspension, multi-link rear suspension, Amplitude Reactive Dampers and electronic power steering with a variable gear ratio team to provide the foundation for the RLX’s precise and intuitive handling control - termed by Acura as “Inomama” or “at the will of the driver.”

Front-wheel-drive versions of RLX will utilize Acura’s all-new Precision All Wheel Steer™ system. This system provides for independent control of the steering (toe) angle of the right and left rear wheels by utilizing electrically controlled actuators. Precision All Wheel Steer™ works in tandem with Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) and Variable Gear Ratio (VGR) steering to deliver an extraordinary level of cornering control and steering precision.

All-wheel-drive RLX models add even more handling performance with Acura’s highly advanced Sport-Hybrid SH-AWD® (Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive), recently introduced at the 2012 North American International Auto Show on the NSX Concept. The performance hybrid system utilizes a unique dual electric motor drive unit with a bilateral torque adjustable control system to instantly generate negative or positive torque to the rear wheels during cornering. This provides a new level of agility and confidence to create an “on-the-rails-cornering” experience.

Safety

The Acura RLX will offer an extensive array of passive and active safety features. These include a Collision Mitigation Braking System™ and the first application of Acura’s Lane Keep Assist System. In addition, Forward Collision Warning and Lane Departure Warning will be offered as standard equipment on the RLX.

Passive safety features will include front, side and side-curtain airbags for the driver and front passenger, and a driver’s knee airbag. The RLX also incorporates the second generation of Acura’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, with reinforced front frame members for further enhanced frontal crash energy management. The RLX is expected to achieve a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from NHTSA and TOP SAFETY PICK status from IIHS.

Advanced Telematics
In keeping with the ‘human-centered synergy’ focus of Acura, the RLX will feature state-of-the-art communications, navigation and infotainment technologies with intuitive and easy-to-operate controls. Dual LCD screens (8-inch display and 7-inch touch screen) will provide easy and direct one-touch access to key functions - including audio, heating and cooling, navigation and voice-to-text SMS text message function.

The RLX will also feature the first application of the next-generation AcuraLink® Communication System, which incorporates built-in two-way cellular communication to deliver an array of new convenience features, including airbag deployment notification, stolen vehicle tracking, remote locking and unlocking, security alarm notification and concierge service.

An all-new, 14-speaker ultra premium audio system will be offered in addition to Acura’s award winning ELS Surround® sound system. Both audio systems provide MP3 connectivity via USB along with integration of HD radio™, Pandora® internet radio interface and Aha Radio® interface via Bluetooth® smart phone pairing. Using Aha Radio®, RLX drivers can create personalized web-based radio stations and receive audio updates from Facebook and Twitter. In addition, a new Acura-exclusive smart phone application integrates smart phone functions (such as email, text messaging and contacts) into the RLX’s on-demand touch screen functions. Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® calling and pre-loaded text message replies provide for easy two-way communication.

The RLX also will be available with Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™. This innovative system offers the driver a wide range of search options including Bing™ search functionality and the option for an AcuraLink® concierge to send a destination to the vehicle’s navigation system. In addition, the RLX navigation system will feature AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ for both highways and surface streets.

Acura Brand
With a focus on ‘human-centered synergy,’ Acura is embarking on its next 25 years as a pioneering and innovative performance-luxury nameplate and is undertaking an aggressive revitalization of its Acura product and technology portfolio.

The RLX Concept is Acura’s fourth new model debut since January 2012, when Acura took the wraps of its redesigned RDX Protoype crossover SUV, all-new Acura ILX Concept sedan, and next-generation Acura NSX Concept supercar, at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Following the introduction of the production versions of the more powerful and fuel-efficient 2013 RDX in March, and the all-new 2013 Acura ILX and ILX Hybrid sedans in May, the production RLX will launch in early 2013. The next-generation Acura NSX, being developed by Honda R&D Americas in the U.S., will be produced in Ohio using domestically and globally sourced parts and launched within the next three years.

Acura is projecting annual an annual sales volume of 180,000 vehicles for the brand in 2012, which would represent a nearly 50 percent increase over 2011 sales results.

Acura introduces the ad that will promote the new NSX during the XLVI SuperBowl, which will see the New York Giants and the New England Patriots battling each other at the Lucas Oil Stadium of Indianapolis, Indiana. The model is basically the long awaited heir of the iconic Honda NSX sportscar of the 90s, but will be marketed in North America with Honda’s luxury brand Acura. The car was unveiled in mid January in Detroit, at the North American International Auto Show, and is powered by a V6 Vtec engine in combination with two electric motors. Its innovative Super Handling All Wheel Drive system makes sure that the ideal torque in any situation gets constantly transferred to all four corners of the car, implying an obvious benefit to its overall performance.

However, the real star of this commercial is Jerry Seinfeld, the famous American comedian that owes his worldwide popularity to the successful “Seinfeld” sit-com of the 90s. Simply put, Seinfeld finds out he is just number two on the customers’ waiting list for the new Acura, and tries to convince the holder of the number one spot to switch places through a number of different odd offers, with no success. Then, as soon as the number one guy gets persuaded, another special guest gets in the way..

The car is frankly a bit neglected in the commercial, but if you want to take a closer look, check out our photo galleries: the official one dispatched by Honda and an exclusive one taken live at the 2011 NAIAS a few weeks back by our colleagues from Autoblog.it.

View Honda/ Acura NSX Concept at the 2012 NAIAS photo gallery
View Honda NSX Concept official photo gallery

Honda announces that its cumulative worldwide hybrid vehicle sales reached the 800,000 mark in December 2011, 12 years after the first generation of Honda Insight went on sale in Japan in November 1999.

Honda is currently selling seven hybrid models in approximately 50 countries around the world, which allowed the Japanese carmaker to score a worldwide hybrid sales for 2011 of about 200,000 units (+30% compared to 2010), while its total hybrid sales in the last three years reached the half-million mark.

Surely these figures are nowhere near Toyota’s results in the hybrid vehicles department - they are credited with over three million of units sold so far - but nonetheless they emphasize the continuous growth of this slice of the market as well as Honda’s commitment to expand its offer of hybrid cars in the forthcoming years.

via | Auto-Media.Info

The new NSX is definitely the undisputed star at the Acura’s stall, but there are another two interesting concepts that Honda’s luxury vehicle division has brought to the 2012 NAIAS: a Civic-based sedan called ILX and a mid-sized SUV called RDX.

The ILX showcased in Detroit is still said to be in a concept form, but it is actually quite close to the final production version of the car which is scheduled to enter the market in the Spring. Its engine range will be made of two units, both of which will be borrowed from the American version of the Civic: a 2.0 and a 2.4-litre 4-cylinder petrol engines coupled with a 6-speed manual gearbox. It is likely that a third, hybrid powertrain with a 1.5 engine will also join the fold at a later time.

The Acura RDX concept is a prototype version of the 2013 RDX, the second generation of Acura’s five-passenger crossover SUV. It is equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 delivering 273 hp mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with a new lock-up torque converter. The RDX also gets a new, lighter all-wheel-drive system that provides the required performance and safety with increased efficiency. Other highlights of this model include a smart entry keyless access system, pushbutton start, and a three view rear camera.

View Acura ILX at the 2012 NAIAS pictures
View Acura RDX at the 2012 NAIAS pictures

One of the most eagerly awaited concept cars currently on display at the 2012 NAIAS is definitely the Honda/Acura NSX, the model that is going to inherit the glorious NSX name from the famous Honda sports car of the 90s. This mid-mounted concept uses a V6 Vtec petrol engine with direct injection as well as two electric motors, and somewhat anticipates the production model, that is expected to debut within 3 years and will eventually be marketed in North America with the Acura badge.

The NSX adopts an all-new hybrid all-wheel-drive system that can instantly generate negative or positive torque to the front wheels during cornering, called new Sport Hybrid SH-AWD (Super Handling All Wheel Drive™) hybrid system. To make it work properly, the NSX boasts a quite complex and advanced ‘dual-clutch’ transmission system that distributes the power coming from its three engines to all four wheels in order to obtain the best possible traction and torque distribution at all times, also improving the overall performance of the car.

Honda Motor Co’s president and CEO, Mr. Takanobu Ito, commented: “Like the first NSX, we will again express high performance through engineering efficiency. In this new era, even as we focus on the fun to drive spirit of the NSX, I think a supercar must respond positively to environmental responsibilities.” This NSX prototype measures 4.33 meters in length, 1.89 meters in width and just 1.16 meters in height, and uses 19″ wheels on the front axle and 20″s at the back, fitted with 255/37 and 275/30 tyres respectively. The new Honda/Acura supercar will be developed by an engineering team led by Honda R&D Americas Inc. and manufactured in Ohio, at a yet to be named facility.

View Honda/ Acura NSX Concept at the 2012 NAIAS photo gallery
View Honda NSX Concept official photo gallery

Honda has released a first bunch of video commercials starring its all-new CR-V crossover, whose first generation was launched in 1995. You can watch the whole lot - a one minute long video and two 30 second long ones as well as an exhaustive 2 minute long video presentation of the model - by clicking on the ‘Continue Reading’ link below you will be able to see

The 2012 Honda CR-V comes with a 2.4-litre 4-cylinder engine producing 186 hp and 220 Nm (163 lb/ft) of peak torque mated to a 5-speed automatic gearbox. This combination is the only poweretrain option for now, but more engine and transmission choices are expected to appear at a later time. The model is also equipped with 17″ alloys, fog lights, automatic climate control, retractable cargo cover and automatic headlights.

This ad is for the American version of the CR-V that is now available for order whereas the European CR-V (presumably boasting just a few cosmetic differences) will be presented in October at the 2012 Paris Motor Show and hit the market shortly afterwards. In Japan, the new CR-V made its commercial debut in December 2011.

Here are the three commercials:

And here is the two minute long video presentation:

Honda Motor Co. is about to recall 304,000 vehicles globally because of an issue concerning the air-bags. Apparently, in case of a crash, the air-bags may inflate with too much pressure, sending metal and plastic pieces flying around and consequently increasing the chances of a serious injury. Honda said that there have been 20 accidents so far related to this problem, including two deaths in the US in 2009. The recall concerns Accord, Civic, Odyssey, Pilot, CR-V and other models, manufactured in 2001 and 2002. The country that will be affected the most is the US, with 273,000 vehicles recalls, then Canada with 27,000 and then Japan with 2,000. According to Honda, only 359 vehicles in Europe will be subjected to the recall: 200 in Germany, 158 in Israel and one in Great Britain.

via | AOL Autos

Honda Motor Co. CEO Takanubo Ito confirmed in an interview with German magazine Auto Motor Sport that the Japanese manufacturer is working on a new sporty roadster based on the EV-STER Concept, that was revealed at Tokyo Motor Show just a few weeks ago. The EV-STER concept, as the name suggest, is an all-electric roadster, powered by a 10 kWh lithium-ion battery delivering 78 hp with 160 km/h (100 mph) of top speed a maximum range of approximately 160 km (100 miles). However, Mr. Ito also hinted that the model might eventually use a more traditional petrol powertrain too, a move that will probably lead to a change of name as well. Honda is really concerned about reducing its CO2 emission level on the long-term, and cars like this will help reaching that goal.

View the full Honda EV-STER Concept photo gallery

Honda will show up at the upcoming North American International Auto Show in Detroit with a concept car that should be quite close to the final version of the Accord Coupe. The model will also anticipate the styling that most Honda models will adopt in the future. In the related press release, Honda describes this concept as “dynamic and aggressive”, confirming that the final version of Accord’s 9th generation will eventually be launched in the Fall of 2012 as a 2013 model year.

No further details about the model have been released, but rumor has it that a plug-in hybrid system working with its 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine will provide the new Accord with a combined output of 161 hp, allowing the model to travel up to 22 km (15 miles) on electric power alone. The official unveiling of the concept will be broadcasted worldwide on the 10th of January through its dedicated webpage.