Unfortunately the near 100-year tradition of Aston Martin will have to take a step back: Ulrich Bez, desginated administrator of the British company, has announced that the production of the Aston Martin Rapide will occur outside the United Kingdom’s borders. Manufacturing will be trusted to Magna Steyr, who will assmeble the berlina-coupè at its facility in Graz, Austria.

Bez has also suggested that the production (estimated at over 2000 units a year) will start sometime in the next year with quality standards similar to Gaydon. Gaydon, Aston Martin’s historic locus amoenus in Warwickshire, has in fact reached saturation point, with 8,000 cars produced annually. And it’s not capable of quickly accommodating the annual production of the 2000 Rapide that Aston Martin is expecting to sell. Obviously, Bez also reinforced that he believes in the capability of Magna Steyr to offer levels of construction quality equal to those of Gaydon.

Via | Caradvice (Thanks Reggiani)

Honda unveils the new Accord for Europe, with a sportier design, a whole slew of new safety systems and three new engines, all Euro 5 compliant. The new Accord is both wider and slower than the current model, with sharp edges and a wider stance.

The engine line up includes a 2.0-liter i-VTEC gasoline engine (156 ps). Power output is unchanged compared to the current model but fuel economy and emissions are much improved. The 2.4 i-VTEC engine gains 10 ps (200 ps now), as does the new 2.2 i-DTEC diesel engine compared to the i-CTDi engine of the current Accord. The i-DTEC engine outputs 150 ps with 350 Nm of torque. All engines are matched to a 6 speed manual gearbox, Automatic transmissions are an optional for the gasoline engines. Below you can find the full text of the Honda EU press release.

Honda Accord 2008 - official press release

Honda announced the all-new Accord for Europe. Aimed squarely at challenging established premium contenders in the D-segment, Honda’s all-new Accord saloon and Tourer offer sporty styling, greater refinement and a unique package of safety systems, together with excellent dynamic capabilities. Strong environmental credentials in the form of an all Euro 5 emissions compliant engine line-up further emphasize Honda’s intent with the the all-new Accord.

Significantly wider and slightly lower, the styling adopts a more emotional, sporty motif. The ‘sharp-edged’ design, with pronounced muscular wheelarches that emphasise the car’s wider track, gives the Accord a distinctive, strong stance with a solid, planted feel. The distinctive nose and more flowing lines deliver a tauter and more athletic shape.

The evolution from the previous generation Accord is even more pronounced in the case of the Tourer, where a greater emphasis on load carrying practicality has evolved into a more dynamic expression of its advanced technology, while still retaining a strong degree of versatility and practicality.

Three advanced new engines with some of the lowest emissions in their segment

The new range is one of the first to offer a complete engine line-up that will comply with the forthcoming Euro 5 emissions regulations which aren’t due to be introduced until September 2009. The exceptional environmental credentials haven’t been achieved at the cost of driving enjoyment, however, and greater frugality is matched by greater performance and flexibility.

Making its debut is Honda’s second-generation diesel engine which builds on the outstanding qualities of the award-winning i-CTDi unit to raise the bar in the diesel stakes once again. Its advanced technology and overall capabilities place it firmly at the forefront of diesel development and underpins the Accord’s claim to offer one of the strongest combinations of dynamic performance and environmental responsibility in the marketplace.

Like its predecessor, the new i-DTEC engine is compact, lightweight, refined and quiet in operation. It employs the latest piezoelectric multi-stage fuel injection technology, more efficient exhaust gas recirculation and a particulate filter for significantly reduced emissions. At the same time both power and torque levels have been increased for a sportier driving experience. Output is 10 PS greater at 150 PS/110 kW at the same 4,000 rpm, while peak torque is now 350 Nm at 2,000 rpm.

The 2.0-litre i-VTEC offers similar levels of performance to its predecessor - 156 PS at 6,300 rpm - but builds on its class leading fuel economy. Key technological changes include increased diameter intake valves, further optimised valve lift and timing and increased inlet and exhaust air flow volumes.

The 2.4-litre engine is more powerful, delivering 200 PS at 7000 rpm and peak torque of 233 Nm at 4500 rpm - up from 190 PS and 223 Nm. Behind the figures are a compression ratio increased from 10.5 to 11.0:1, larger diameter valves, revised valve timing, and reduced exhaust system pressures.

6-speed manual/5-speed automatic

All three engines are matched to a 6-speed manual transmission, while both petrol engines have the option of a 5-speed automatic.

Manual models feature a ‘Shift Indicator Light’ or SIL which appears in the centre of the rev counter. ‘UP’ or ‘DOWN’ are displayed to advise the driver of the optimum point (in terms of best fuel economy) at which to change gear; Honda tests have demonstrated fuel savings of as much as 5 per cent simply by following these commands.

The 5-speed automatic transmission now has a straight ‘P R N D S’ gate: using the steering wheel paddles in S mode provides a sequential shift mode, allowing manual shifting and gear hold.

Agile, secure handling

Enthusiastic drivers will also appreciate the new Accord’s greater agility. A lowered centre of gravity, a wider track and the all-new front double wishbone and rear multilink suspension with variable rate dampers, plus greater body rigidity mean that the Accord more readily reacts to driver input. Handling is more responsive and confidence-inspiring and body roll is much reduced.

Speed sensitive electric power steering is standard on all models and the new axial system features a high output, low inertia brushless motor which provides excellent steering feel at higher speeds for a sense of stability and confidence. A quicker steering ratio has also been adopted in keeping with the Accord’s more agile chassis characteristics.

A comprehensive safety package

Complementing an armoury of passive safety features is an outstanding array of dynamic systems delivering even greater security. Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) is standard across the range and is designed to assist the driver in maintaining control during cornering, acceleration and sudden manoeuvres by applying braking to the right or left hand wheels as necessary and modulating the engine torque output as required.

Motion Adaptive Electric Power Steering (EPS)

The new Accord also features an innovative system in which the capabilities of both VSA and the car’s Electric Power Steering are brought to bear. Called Motion Adaptive EPS, it detects instability in slippery conditions both during cornering and under braking and automatically initiates steering inputs aimed at prompting the driver to steer in the correct direction.

The input is barely noticeable and control of the steering remains with the driver at all times. But this supporting steering torque is enough to prompt the driver to act intuitively and the driver’s reaction as a result is enough to regain stability or to shorten braking distances, allowing control to be maintained.

Advanced Driving Assist System (ADAS) optional across the range

Optionally available on Executive grade on 2.2 i-DTEC and 2.4 i-VTEC is Honda’s Advanced Driving Assist System (ADAS), a suite of three ground-breaking technologies that raise safety to a new level. The first of these is the Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) which uses a camera to detect the car deviating from a traffic lane and provides steering torque when necessary, thereby reducing the burden of motorway driving while at the same time enhancing safety.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) uses a millimetre-wave radar to maintain a consistent distance to a vehicle directly in front, for more relaxed, less tiring driving.

The third ADAS system is the Collision Mitigation Brake System (CMBS) which monitors the following distance and closing rate between the Accord and the car directly in front of it, warning the driver when a collision is likely and helping reduce impact when a collision becomes unavoidable.

These systems complement the Accord’s passive safety features which include front seatbelt pre-tensioners and load limiters, dual stage front airbags, driver and front passenger side airbags, full length curtain airbags and ISOFIX fittings and tether anchor points for secure childseat fixture on all models. There are also front seat active headrests which are triggered when the occupant is pushed into the seat in the event of a rear impact, so causing a rigid plate to activate a link to the headrest which pushes it forward to support the head.

Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) Body Structure

Progressively introduced throughout the Honda range, the Accord’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) Body Structure provides significantly enhanced occupant protection in a variety of real-world crash conditions.

A front-mounted polygonal main frame is designed to prevent cabin deformation by distributing forces through multiple major load bearing pathways - and away from the passenger compartment. This is particularly important where a frontal collision occurs between vehicles of differing heights, weights or frame construction.

To achieve top level, side impact safety, Honda’s engineers have increased the side section of the frame and chosen different material specifications to provide the desired level of stiffness and strength for critical areas, without adding unnecessary weight.

The new Accord also incorporates many of the pedestrian-protection design features already familiar from recent Honda models, including windscreen wiper pivots designed to break away on impact, energy absorbing front wing mounts and bonnet hinges alongside an unobstructed area beneath the bonnet allowing greater space for deformation.

Premium interior with carefully selected materials and outstanding fit and finish

The sporty feel of the cockpit is reflected in a fascia design characterised by a strong feeling of personal space for both the driver and front passenger. Distinctive silver trim sweeps inwards across the fascia from either side before continuing down into the centre console. Stylish and highly supportive front seats have larger bolsters while a new internal structure is designed to reduce any transmission of vibration.

Black with silver trim, the sporty three spoke steering wheel holds a complete suite of controls - including audio, cruise control and mobile telephone control. It is fully adjustable for reach and rake, with an extra 10 degrees of tilt adjustment compared to the previous Accord.

The new Accord features ‘floating’ backlit instruments and contained within the centre of the speedometer face is an LCD multi-information display showing a variety of information - controls positioned on the steering wheel allow the driver to cycle the display through multiple screens of information.

A new feature is a service reminder that presents the driver with either the distance or days remaining to a required service, with an enlarged warning symbol appearing when the due date is imminent.

Storage space includes two centre console side pockets; a lidded storage area to side of the steering wheel; large front door pockets able to hold bottles and maps; bottle holders in the rear door panels, and a large centre console box. Rather than a fold-down pocket design, the large glovebox now has an independent lid and is subdivided with a tissue box compartment as well as space secured for a manual. The lid of the centre console box doubles up as an armrest and is slide-adjustable by 89 mm. Two cupholders are provided in the centre console, while rear seat passengers have access to a further two contained in the centre armrest, revealed when it is folded down.

Another Honda concept in Detroit: after the Acura Advanced Sports Concept, it’s time for the Accord Coupè Concept.

The prototype shown in Detroit doesn’t have an engine or a transmission, but Automobile Magazine surmises that the next Accord (both coupè and saloon) should get plenty more muscle with its V6 engines, as signaled by the quadruple exhaust tubes peeking from the rear apron. More power should be coupled with more fuel efficiency thanks to the usual VTEC magic and to the Honda Variable Cylinder Management system (selective cylinder disactivation).

Don’t expect the Accord coupè in Europe: it seems that Honda Europe is bent on selling only saloons, MPVs and SUVs.

Honda is showing in Detroit the Acura Advanced Sports Concept, a concept car that, according to the press release, “provides a preview of the design direction for the successor to the Acura NSX.”

The Advanced Sports Concept is a 2-door, 2-seater sports car, with a front mounted V10 engine and the Super Handling All Wheel Drive system. No word yet on performance and engine specs. The full text of the press release follows below the fold.

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

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

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

The concept’s exterior demonstrates a dynamic fusion of advanced technology and emotion. The long, pronounced hood features deeply sculpted lines and embossed air vents, both of which hint at the powerful engine beneath. The exterior lines run the length of the body, creating a ribbon-like effect from the front headlights to the rear wheel arches, evoking a feeling of movement and power.

Although modern in its appearance, the Advanced Sports Car Concept retains the subtle cues associated with its predecessor, the NSX. The concept’s slim, LED headlights are pushed wide and designed to mimic the pop-up headlights found on the first generation NSX. Other styling hints include a modern take on wraparound rear taillights and the all black cockpit.

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

Wide and low to the ground with a 108.8 inch wheelbase, the concept is anchored by grippy 19 inch front and 20 inch rear performance tires which are mounted to custom billet-machined, polished aluminum wheels. Powerful, ventilated carbon ceramic brake discs and eight-piston calipers accent the wheels. Bold wheel arches and flares add to the concept’s aggressive appearance.

The low slung cabin is constructed entirely of tinted glass and sits flush against the body. Door handles are also flush mounted, allowing the sports car to retain a clean and aerodynamic appearance. The Advanced Sports Car Concept features a carbon fiber underbody and the rear is finished with aggressive quad exhaust pipes and integrated rear diffusers, further communicating its high performance potential.

The Advanced Sports Car Concept was designed by the Acura’s Los Angeles-based design team that will be based at the new Acura Design Center, opening this summer.

Additional Acura information and downloadable high-resolution images are available at www.acuranews.com.

###

Advanced Sports Car Concept dimensions:
Width: 78.6 in
Length: 181.5 in
Height: 48.1 in
Wheelbase: 108.8 in
Tires:
Front:
255/40R19
Rear:
295/35R20

The Civic Type-S will be available from the beginning of 2007 with two engines (1.8 i-VTEC and 2.2 i-CTDi, both with 140 ps) in two different model grades, Type-S (already with with pretty rich specifications) and Type-S Plus.

The silhoutte and external size is unvaried, compared to the 5-door Civic, but the Type-S will have a 20 mm wider rear track and different suspension settings, to give it a sportire character.

Below the fold you can find more images and the complete Honda press release. Now the wait is on for the Paris motor show, where Honda will show the production version of the Civic Type-R.

Honda Motor Europe Ltd. today announced the new Civic TYPE S, a 3-door hatchback which is the latest model in the transformation of Honda’s iconic C-segment brand into a premium, individual, sporty range. Sales are expected to commence in early 2007.

This new model makes its world debut at the British International Motor Show, to be held at ExCeL, London, in July 2006 (Press day: 18 July; Public days: 20-30 July).

Sharing the same dynamic silhouette and overall dimensions as the acclaimed 5-door model, the Civic TYPE S further emphasizes the Civic’s sporty and fun-to-drive direction to appeal to a young audience. The styling is therefore more assertive and the suspension is tuned for sharper chassis dynamics, with revised spring and damper settings and a 20mm wider rear track.

Further emphasising its sporty nature, the Civic TYPE S is powered by either a 1.8 litre petrol engine or a 2.2 litre diesel engine, both of which produce 103kW/140PS and are mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox.

Two model grades will be offered. The extensive specification of the standard TYPE S includes 17 inch alloys, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), air conditioning, cool box, remote audio controls and side curtain airbags. The TYPE S Plus adds dual zone air conditioning, cruise control, front fog lights, retractable mirrors, automatic wipers and automatic headlamps. Certain markets also gain HID headlamps, heated front seats and a panorama glass roof.

Sculpted and fully integrated side skirts flare outwards towards front and rear wheels and seamlessly blend into the wheel arch surrounds, familiar from the 5-door model. These in turn flow into the front and rear spoilers to complete the lower body structure, all of which is finished in a gun metallic colour for added visual appeal. The deep front air intake, together with the 17 inch alloy wheels and wider rear track provide the TYPE S with a particularly muscular and planted look.

Black Alcantara seating and a leather trimmed steering wheel, both with silver stitching, plus aluminium pedals, set the tone for the equally sporty interior. Large seat bolsters provide reassuring support during cornering.

The cabin is focused around the unique and visually arresting Dual Link concept fascia introduced on the 5-door model. Key driving information, including vehicle speed, is displayed in the upper part of the instrument panel, while other information is provided in the lower section. This design is particularly effective in presenting information without compromising the driver’s concentration on the road.

The Civic’s coupe-like styling has not compromised the cabin space. The interior instead succeeds in providing a high degree of flexibility and passenger accommodation. The distance between the hip point of front and rear passengers at 803 mm, for example, equates to that in higher segment cars.

The rear seats also incorporate Honda’s familiar one-motion, dive-down feature that instantaneously creates a flat loading space of a spacious 485 litres, mirroring that of the 5-door model. The cargo floor can also be dropped down to reveal an under-floor compartment. A centrally positioned fuel tank located beneath the front seats, rather than impinging on the luggage area, plays a key role in achieving this packaging efficiency.

The comprehensive safety features include ABS, Electronic Brake-force Distribution with brake assist, VSA, front and side SRS airbags, full length side curtain airbags, double seatbelt pre-tensioners on both front seats and active headrests. The instrument display also features an innovative seatbelt reminder for both front and rear seat passengers. Honda anticipates a Euro NCAP result of 5 stars for front and side impact safety, 3 stars for pedestrian safety and 4 stars for child protection safety, making it one of the safest cars in its class.

The Civic TYPE S forms the basis for the forthcoming Civic TYPE R, which is scheduled to be launched in early 2007. While the reputation of its predecessor makes it a tough act to follow, the new model will offer greater sophistication without compromising the TYPE R philosophy of exhilarating performance achieved through advanced engineering. More details will be provided when the Civic TYPE R makes its debut at the Paris Motor Show later this year.

The only changes are the colour (a dark grey, way less gaudy than the concept’s yellow) and the fake rear doors, that can’t do much to hide the shorter wheelbase and the much longer front doors, compared to the 5-door version.

The engine should be pretty much the same as the previous Type-R (a 2.0 liters i-VTEC with 200 ps), while there’s talk of un upgrade to the suspensions. If anyone wants more, one can only hope that the gossip about a Civic Type-RR turns out true …

I guess this version will put to rest once and for all Top Gear’s saying that only old people buy Hondas in Europa, nowadays.

The concept has the 200 ps 2.0 liters i-VTEC engine of the previous Type-R. We still don’t know it the production Type-R will have the same engine.

Both would get 2.2 liters i-VTEC engine, in two power steps: 200 hp for the Type-R, at least 225 hp for the Type-RR. There’s talk of mods to lighten the car, and of a revised chassis (will the torsion-bars that so disappointend honda purists remain ?).

In less than a month Honda should dissipate all remaining doubts about the looks of the Civic Type-R with the concept version it will show in Geneva.

According to the germans, the new Honda NSX will be a GT with front-middle engin and 4 wheel drive. So, no more a mid-engined sports car, but a Gran Turismo, which might have aspirations as a Maserati, or even Aston Martin, fighter. This should not be a problem from an engine standpoint, with its rumoured V10 VTEC engine, which might be followed by a V8. Might be interesting to see a show off between this rumoured NSX and the upcoming Lexus LF-A, which has similar specifications (apart from being RWD).

Another interesting gossip from AMS: the return of the CRX, a “sportcoupè” version of the new Civic. Last but not least, there’s talk of a city-car which, like the Suzuki Swift, might take an inspiration from the Mini-format.

Seeing the giant strides of the competition, Honda should give a boost to the i-CTDi engine, which develops 140 hp, while Toyota’s 2.2 D-4D develops nearly 180 hp and other car makers are all busy squeezing at least 170 hp from the new generation of 2.0 turbodiesels.