Autoblog UK: First drive: Honda CR-Z MUGEN

Not the most flattering write up but they do it with flare.....

by Mark Nichol
Anyone that's ever played Gran Turismo will be well aware of MUGEN; the PlayStation racing game's bias towards all things Japanese is well known, and what with MUGEN being to Honda in Japan what AMG is to Mercedes, it has a special place in the game.

In the virtual world, MUGEN's in-game tuning upgrades could transform the most innocuous Japanese turdbox into a Ferrari-chasing hypercar. The natural assumption to a British gamer was that it was doing the same thing in real life, too.

When MUGEN Euro set up in Northampton in 2007, therefore, it did so with a level of credibility and mystique that extended beyond a handful of Japanese modding scene enthusiasts.

Its first fully-fledged model, 2010's £40,000 Civic Type-R MUGEN, furthered its cause. We loved it. It was (and is) the ultimate iteration of the car on which it's based, improving it in every way to create a Honda that's part family hatchback, part road-legal touring car.

This, the CR-Z MUGEN, is the difficult follow up.

The regular CR-Z is a fine car. The hybrid coupé isn't very quick, but it houses an economical petrol-electric hybrid system in an accomplished chassis, so it's fun to drive and returns 56.5mpg and 117g/km.

The CR-Z is all about balance. It's front-wheel drive, so it falls at the first hurdle in terms of being a 'pure' (rear-wheel drive) sports car, but it has lovely steering and pedal feel, enough low down punch from the electric motor to be lively, yet nowhere near enough to mess up the driven wheels in a haze of torque steer. In short, anyone can enjoy the CR-Z, and feel like a better driver for it.

Unfortunately, MUGEN - in stark contrast to its efforts with the Civic Type-R - has come along and spoiled it.

It's not a car entirely without merit - in fact, parts of it are awesome - but at times it feels like an unfinished low-budget DIY modding project. The carbon fibre lined doors of our test car, for example, had to be virtually kicked to close properly. That wouldn't happen in an AMG.

To turn the 122bhp CR-Z into the manic machine you see above, MUGEN has stripped the 1.5-litre petrol engine and rebuilt it using better parts. The torque-enhancing 14bhp electric motor stays strapped on - but a supercharger is added to the mix, endowing the car with a hot hatch-matching 197bhp.

In addition, the chassis and bodywork are lightened, partly by using carbon fibre; the dampers are replaced with five-way adjustable items; the wheels are exchanged for forged lightweight ones with sticky tyres; the brakes are upgraded; and the track is widened.

And as you can see, it also has a body kit looks like it's been designed by someone with an extensive collection of tracksuit bottoms.

The result is an altogether more serious CR-Z with a 0-62mph sprint time down from ten seconds to around six and a half.

On the road it all starts off in exciting fashion. The Recaro bucket seats strap you in tightly, and the trio of bolt-on dashboard gauges suggest this is one mean machine.

Put your foot down and the supercharger inhales audibly, which is good. Problem is, there's very little associated acceleration; the MUGEN just doesn't feel that quick.

It becomes quickly apparent that there's been an epic and over-complicated technological struggle in order to eke out too much power from an ordinarily modest petrol engine. It's sort of like entering the Grand National with a donkey wearing a small jet pack.

Driving the MUGEN slowly isn't that much fun either - it's positively uncomfortable, in fact. A stiff clutch and over-sensitive throttle combination that makes smooth take-offs difficult, and after a while the combination of a small, noisy cabin and very tight seats make the whole thing feel fairly claustrophobic.

But there is credibility in MUGEN's work. It's capable of astonishing cornering speed, especially for a front-wheel drive car, and its steering rack is sublime, with more than a hint of Porsche in terms of its directness and unencumbered feedback. And the short shift gear lever is, as usual for a Honda-derived 'box, a delight to move through the gate.

But ultimately, laying down the £23,000 or so it will take to put one of these on your drive is like paying a dentist to make your teeth more yellow. It costs £19,000 for a CR-Z Sport, and £25,000 for a Toyota GT 86. Case closed.

If only MUGEN had been given carte blanche to rip out the CR-Z's hybrid drivetrain and put in a nice, simple, high-revving petrol engine...

Source;
http://uk.autoblog.com/2012/03/15/first-drive-honda-cr-z-mugen/

Honda Sells 800,000 Hybrids

As of the last few days of 2011, Honda has sold 800,000 units of hybrid vehicles across the world. This took them 12 years and 2 months, from the moment the first Insight was delivered in Japan back in November 1999.

In recent times, Honda has released the second generation Insight to challenge but not defeat the Prius back in 2009, and the complete hybrid range now includes six vehicles in total.

In 2011, the Japanese automaker sold 200,000 units, an increase of 30 percent over the previous year. And it’s the domestic market of Japan where Honda’s hybrids are in the highest demand, as 45% of all Hondas sold there we gas-electric in December.

We’d also care to mention that Honda is committed to development of fuel-cell vehicles as well, being among the leaders in the field.

Source;
http://www.autoevolution.com/news/honda-sells-800000-hybrids-41971.html

The 42nd Tokyo Motor Show 2011 Speech of Takanobu Ito President and Chief Executive Officer

Honda captured the "triple crown" that is the Contractor, Rider and Team Championships in this year's MotoGP. I would like to take this opportunity to express our appreciation for the support and enthusiasm of Honda fans around the world.Motorsports is at the origin of Honda and is part of our DNA. After watching the MotoGP races all year, I wanted to experience for myself the overwhelming acceleration of the actual MotoGP machine which took our riders to the podium. So I went to test ride it, and I felt so thrilled and excited by the riding performance of this machine.

Since its establishment, Honda has been committed to the development of personal mobility products which realize the joy and freedom of mobility. What we mean by the joy of mobility obviously includes the joy of operating the vehicle on our own. But it also includes the joy of discovering all kinds of new dreams and inspiring experiences and getting excited by new thrills that can be realized only through personal mobility.
On the other hand, in order to realize a "sustainable society where people can enjoy life", the reduction of CO2 emissions will be one of the most important challenges. In order for Honda to continue delivering environmentally-responsible, exciting and thrilling products, ever since I was appointed as the president of the company I have been prompting systems and capabilities which enable us to develop "edgy products" just like pushpins. By edgy products I mean products which have environmental and safety performance as the solid base, but also a sharp point that creates a distinctive "edge".

Today, I will introduce some models that symbolize this direction which were realized with our electromotive technologies. First, is an EV version of a super sports bike, the RC-E. RC-E was designed after the image of Honda's classic racing machine, the RC series, pursuing the joy of riding.
Next, we are exhibiting the world premiere of our small sports EV Concept model, the EV-STER. The EV-STER is a completely new next-generation EV sports model Honda is proposing. With this model, we embodied the joy of driving to the maximum extent. Starting from here at the Tokyo Motor Show, we will sequentially introduce multiple new models including a high-performance sports model which is currently under development toward market introduction in the near future.

As for EVs, we are currently conducting demonstration testing with the Fit EV in Japan, the U.S. and China. The Fit EV is scheduled to go on sale in Japan and the U.S. in summer of 2012. With the Fit EV, we achieved the world's top-class, most highly efficient electricity consumption rate. Further, while it is an EV, you can still experience sporty acceleration unique to Honda.
Now, let me introduce Honda's unique concept models of motorcycle and automobile electric mobility.
The MICRO COMMUTER CONCEPT, a four-wheel EV commuter, and the MOTOR COMPO, a two-wheel EV commuter, were created for mobility in a metropolitan area. These models are developed with new ideas and through collaboration between our motorcycle and automobile R&D centers.Honda will continue proposing the potential of a wide range of electromotive mobility products including the AC-X mid-to-long range plug-in hybrid and the FCX Clarity electric fuel cell vehicle.

In addition to the development of electromotive mobility products, Honda also has been focusing on the creation of clean energy using a solar photovoltaic system and a cogeneration system independently developed by Honda.
As of today, Honda is the industry leader in installing solar power generation systems to our factories and offices in Japan. Next year, we will be installing a mega solar power generation system to our Yorii Plant, which will be the largest solar power system to be installed to an automobile production plant. Furthermore, we will accelerate our effort to install solar power systems to our dealership locations as well.Based on these initiatives we will strive to achieve the "Triple Zero" - which means "zero" CO2 emissions well-to-wheel (from the point of creating electricity until it is used to power the vehicle) through our own renewable energy technologies; "zero" energy risk through our energy management technologies; and "zero" waste through our effort to reduce, reuse and recycle, the 3Rs.
Under this "Triple Zero" concept, Honda will address climate change and energy/resource issues with our own technologies and business activities. With these efforts, Honda envisions a future with "zero environmental burden society".

For such a future, the most important challenge we need to address right now is the improvement of the efficiency of gasoline and diesel-powered internal combustion engines.Under the name "EARTH DREAMS TECHNOLOGY," Honda has created a new next-generation engine and transmission series, which we will apply to our products to realize both "fun" and "environmental" values at a high level.
This EARTH DREAMS TECHNOLOGY will be applied first to the N BOX, a new mini-vehicle model we are announcing today, and then we will gradually expand the applications. By combining it not only with gasoline engines, but also with diesel engines, and the new CVT series, we will strive to be number one in fuel economy in each category within the next 3 years.Accelerating these initiatives, Honda will set a goal to reduce future CO2 emissions from our motorcycles, automobiles and power products sold around the world by 30% compared to the level of the year 2000. And we will strive to attain this goal by the year 2020.

Now, I would like to talk about the mini-vehicle business in Japan.Honda originally entered the automobile business with mini-vehicles. We made a fundamental review of our origin, that is to say mini-vehicles, and will largely renew our product lineup. I would like you to have high expectations toward the N BOX and the N Concept Series. We put our huge passion into the small body of those vehicles.

Finally, I would like to introduce our all-new ASIMO humanoid robot which is now equipped with the world's first autonomous behavior control technologies.
With improved physical capability and autonomy, this all-new ASIMO was further advanced so that it can now continue moving without being controlled by an operator.
In addition to further improvement of the physical capability of its legs, we advanced the capability of ASIMO's fingers so that each finger now moves independently. These changes were made so that ASIMO can coexist with and be useful for people.
We are utilizing the technologies we have amassed through ASIMO and humanoid robotics research for our mobility products such as motorcycles and automobiles.
In addition, we will apply such technologies to other devices such as the task-performing robot arm which performs tasks in places where people cannot access and the walking-assist device which supports walking for people with weakened leg muscles. We will continue our R&D activities to put those technologies into practical use so that we can offer more technologies that are useful for people.

The motivation behind our ASIMO research and, the development of mobility products in the areas of motorcycles, automobiles and power products is our passion to create products that are useful to people and that utilize technologies to make people happy. That is Honda's philosophy as a manufacturing company which has remained unchanged since the establishment of the company.
Honda will remain true to its origin - manufacturing for people - and continue creating "edgy products" that move people's hearts, so please keep your expectations high!


Source;
http://www.hondanews.info/news/en/corporate/c111130aeng

Honda Announces Revolutionary Next-generation "Earth Dreams Technology" -New plan calls for top-of-industry fuel efficiency in every vehicle class wit

TOKYO, Japan, November 30, 2011 - Honda Motor Co., Ltd. today announced the outline for a revolutionary next-generation technology for automobiles called "Earth Dreams Technology."

"Earth Dreams Technology" is a next generation set of technological advancements which greatly enhance both driving performance and fuel efficiency at a high level, using as its base advanced environmental technologies to pursue the joy of driving unique to Honda. It is a series of measures in which efficiency of internal combustion components including engine, and transmission, as well as electric-powered motor technology, is further improved.

Through its implementation first in the mini-vehicle N BOX and gradually onto other vehicle models, Honda aims to achieve top-of-industry fuel efficiency for every category within three years, while simultaneously setting a timeline of 2020 to reduce by 30% CO2 emissions for all products sold worldwide, relative to emission figures for 2000.

Inspiration of the "Earth Dreams Technology" name:
"Earth Dreams Technology" is an expression for a set of technologies which takes into account both our need to protect the environment and our desire to provide a joy of driving.

Key features of "Earth Dreams Technology"
1. A gasoline engine which realizes top level driving performance and fuel efficiency.
2. A compact diesel engine which realizes the world's lightest body*1, top-of-class*1 acceleration performance and fuel efficiency.
3. CVT which combines at a high level the fun of driving and fuel efficiency.
4. A two-motor hybrid system which realizes top-of-industry efficiency*1.
5. A high-efficiency, high output electric SH-AWD hybrid system which combines superior driving and environmental performance.
6. A Compact, high efficiency electric powertrain for EVs.

Summary of key features
1. Gasoline engine which achieves top-of-industry driving performance and fuel efficiency
・By enhancing Honda's original VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control System) technology to thoroughly improve thermal efficiency and minimize friction, a combination of high output and fuel efficiency was achieved. Further, a new engine series employing a new structure for higher expandability was developed.
・By gradually renewing the engine starting with the mini-vehicle N BOX, Honda aims to utilize this technology to achieve top-of-industry output and fuel efficiency in every vehicle class within three years.
・A wide range of engine classes including the 660cc, 1.3L, 1.5L, 1.8L, 2.0L, 2.4L, and 3.5L classes will feature the technology.

[660cc class engine]
・Employs DOHC and VTC (Variable Timing Control) to improve intake efficiency. Further, the compact combustion chamber realizes high thermal efficiency.
・By shortening the bore pitch compared to the present engine models and reducing the thickness of the cylinder block and camshaft, engine weight is reduced by 15%*2 and fuel efficiency is improved by 10%*2.

[1.3 to 1.5L class engine]
・Employs VTC, direct injection technology and the Atkinson cycle using the DOHC, VTEC technologies as the base.
・Extensive friction reduction measures are implemented.

[1.8 to 2.0L class engine]
・Employs direct injection technology and the Atkinson cycle using the DOHC, VTEC technologies as the base. Further, implementation of VTC and high-capacity EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) to both the intake and exhaust ports realizes significantly reduced friction.
・For the 2.0L class hybrid vehicle engines, use of an electric water pump eliminates the need for a belt in the auxiliary device and contributes to a reduction in friction. The VTC system allows fuel-efficient driving in various driving styles.

[2.4L class engine]
・Based on the DOHC and VTEC technologies, it employs VTC and direct injection technology and implements extensive friction reduction measures.
・Standalone engine features 5%*2 improvements in fuel efficiency and output as well as a 10%*2 improvement in maximum torque compared to the previous engine.

[3.5L class engine]
・Employs new valve train mechanisms and direct injection technology in the SOHC, VTEC, VMC systems to improve by over 10%*2 of fuel efficiency and 5%*2 of output, relative to the present standalone engine model.

2. A compact diesel engine which realizes the world's lightest body*1, top-of-class*1 acceleration performance and fuel efficiency.
・Through optimizing engine rigidity and combustion pressure, an aluminum open deck for the cylinder block was enabled in this top-of-industry lightweight*1 1.6L class diesel engine.
・By downsizing from the present 2.2L engine and extensively reducing mechanical friction in each section, a friction level equivalent to present gasoline engine models was achieved.
・Optimized thermal management system thanks to improvements in the cooling system reduces CO2 output by over 15%*2.
・Employment of a compact, high-efficiency turbocharger and weight reduction in the reciprocating sliding section realizes a sporty and nimble ride.

3. CVT which combines at a high level the fun of driving and fuel efficiency.
・Three CVT structures for mini, compact, and mid-size vehicle classes are newly developed to be adopted for a variety of engine models.
・Reinforced belt is used to realize a structure for which a wide ratio range can be set.
・Implementation of analysis technology over the contact behavior between the belt and pulley, and a high-precision hydraulic control system allows for continual optimization of hydraulic pressure to the pulley under a variety of driving conditions, contributing to improved fuel efficiency.
・Use of an electronic oil pump to realize an idle stop system with high response contributes significantly to improved usability and fuel efficiency.
・"G-Design Shift", a new coordinated control system for shift transmission, throttle, and hydraulic control responds quickly to driver demands and realizes an exhilarating, sporty drive with superior acceleration.
・In the mini-vehicle class, a control mechanism and innovations in axle placement to reduce the engine size lengthwise, while a reduction in parts by simplifying the transmission casing structure helps realize a lightweight and compact body.
・For the compact and mid-size classes, in addition to the reductions in size and weight, transmission efficiency was greatly improved by expanding the ratio range to achieve fuel efficiency improvements of 5%*2 and 10%*2 compared to the conventional CVT and comparable

5 ATs, respectively.

4. A two-motor hybrid system which realizes top-of-industry efficiency*1.
・A two-motor hybrid system featuring top-of-industry efficiency*1 enhancing driving performance and reduced CO2 emissions has been newly developed.
・Special lithium-ion battery and charger is employed to enable mounting on plug-in hybrid vehicles.
・Mid-sized vehicles equipped with this system are scheduled to begin production, starting with the plug-in hybrid model in 2012 and the hybrid model in 2013.
・Three driving modes allowing for top-of-industry efficiency*1 for various driving environments were developed; an "EV driving mode" for urban environments, a "hybrid driving mode" using electricity generated by the motor, and a "engine-connected driving mode" where the engine and tires are mechanically connected during high-speed cruising.
・Combination with a high-output 120kW motor allows for superior environmental performance and driving enjoyment.

5. A high-efficiency, high output electric SH-AWD hybrid system which combines superior driving and environmental performance.
・A new hybrid system, electric SH-AWD, was developed for large-sized vehicles. By combining a 3.5L, V6 engine with this hybrid system, acceleration equivalent to V8 engines, as well as fuel efficiency equal or superior to in-line 4-cylinder engines were realized.
・An electric 4WD system with independent 20kW+ motors on both sides for the rear wheels combines a 7-speed dual clutch transmission system with a built-in 30kW+ high-efficiency motor with the engine.
・By mounting a high-performance lithium-ion battery and optimally controlling the front and rear motors, a new hybrid system with high fuel efficiency and output was realized.
・By mounting two independent motors in the rear and employing a newly developed bilateral torque adjustable control system, incredibly tight cornering just like driving "on-the-rail" is realized. With this mechanism, Honda strives to provide a stable ride for various driving environments.

6. A compact, high efficiency electric powertrain for EVs.
・Thanks to the high efficiency coaxial motor, low-friction gearbox and electric servo brake system, the system realizes the highest electrical consumption capability in the world*1, meeting the required AC consumption rate of 29kWh/100mile(116MPGe) as set forth by the United States.
・A traveling distance of 123 miles*3 (LA-4mode: unadjusted) or 210km*3 (JC08 mode) was achieved thanks to the mounting of a high capacity lithium-ion battery.
・When using the 240V U.S. electric source, a full charge takes less than 3 hours. (From the time a low-charge signal is lit till full charge)
・By offering three driving modes (SPORT, NORMAL, ECON), the driver can freely select from a number of options to meet the needs of various driving styles such as power-saving or sporty drive.

*1 Honda internal research (as of November 30, 2011)
*2 Compared to Honda products
*3 Honda calculations

Source;

http://www.hondanews.info/news/en/auto/4111130aeng

Upgraded 2012 Honda Insight Hybrid Offers New High-Tech Look, Improved Fuel Economy and More Features

10/17/2011 - TORRANCE, Calif.
A significantly updated 2012 Insight hybrid debuts today with new exterior styling, an enhanced interior, additional features on select models and an EPA fuel economy-rating1 improvement of 1 mpg. The Insight’s city/highway/combined EPA fuel economy rating1 of 41/44/42 mpg, up from 40/43/41 on the prior model, continues to offer the highest EPA fuel economy rating of any new vehicle currently available with a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starting under $20,000.

The aerodynamically styled, five-passenger, five-door dedicated hybrid vehicle receives extensive changes inside and out for 2012. Exterior changes include a more distinctive grille design that introduces a thin, blue accent bar representative of the Insight’s high-tech hybrid identity. Restyled front and rear bumpers, along with changes under the vehicle, contribute to a 2-percent increase in aerodynamic performance. New designs for the headlight and brake light internal reflectors further complete the refreshed look. Insight and Insight LX models have new 15-inch wheel covers and the Insight EX has newly styled 15-inch alloy wheels. Slightly wider 185/60R15 tires, up from 175/65R15 tires on the prior model, contribute to confident driving performance.

The Insight’s interior refinements for 2012 include a reconfigured rear seat area for better leg and head room; a redesigned gauge cluster background with a more technically sophisticated appearance; reshaped center-console beverage holders that accommodate larger drinks; and a more supportive front armrest (Insight LX and EX).

The Insight LX has new, more premium seat fabric, while the Insight EX is upholstered with a combination of synthetic leather (new) and premium fabric. Rear-seat headroom improves by 0.6 inches with changes to the rear headliner shape and deeper sculpting of the rear seat cushion to improve rear passenger comfort. Rearward visibility improves with a more compactly mounted rear-wiper motor housing and a thinner rear spoiler that creates a larger viewing area out the lower back window. The Insight becomes quieter for 2012 with increased thickness to the vehicle’s existing noise-insulation materials and additional insulation panels in the cargo area.
Available on Insight EX models, the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with voice recognition2 receives several notable upgrades including the addition of a rearview camera. The system provides routing and guidance to individual addresses and more than 7-million points of interest within the continental United States. A 16-GB flash memory system replaces the 4.7-GB DVD-based system used on the prior model. The new system offers faster route calculation and includes FM traffic, a subscription-free service that alerts drivers to traffic conditions.

The Insight is powered by an Integrated Motor Assist™ (IMA™) system comprised of a 1.3-liter i‑VTEC® gasoline 4-cylinder engine and a 10-kilowatt electric motor. The combination develops 98 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 123 lb-ft. of torque at 1000-1700 rpm. For 2012, friction-reducing measures in the engine and the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) contribute to the new model’s increased fuel economy. A 10.6-gallon fuel tank provides an estimated maximum driving range exceeding 400 miles.

The Insight features the Eco Assist™ System, an innovation that can enhance efficient vehicle operation while providing feedback related to individual driving styles. Eco Assist can help drivers improve fuel efficiency, both by altering vehicle functionality and providing driver feedback, with fuel economy dependent on their given set of driving conditions. Pressing the ECON button can further enhance the efficiency of multiple vehicle systems: throttle control, CVT operation, idle-stop duration, air conditioning and cruise-control operation (if equipped). Eco Assist also provides feedback about driving style via a 3D-like background within the speedometer. The background changes colors from green to blue to reflect how efficiently or inefficiently the driver is accelerating or braking (green is more efficient).

Aerodynamic refinements for 2012 include changes to the shape of the engine bay underbody cover and the addition of air diffusers under the rear bumper to smooth airflow exiting behind the vehicle. The strakes ahead of the front wheels have been extended by 0.4 inches to better direct air around the wider front tires.

Standard safety features on all Insight models include dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags; front-side airbags with a passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); side-curtain airbag system; anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution (EBD); driver’s and front-passenger’s active head restraints; and a front body structure designed to mitigate pedestrian injuries. The Insight also features Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, which provides improved occupant protection and crash compatibility between vehicles of different sizes and ride heights in frontal crashes.

The 2012 Insight is offered in three distinct models. The value-oriented base model, simply designated as "Insight," is well equipped with a 160-watt, two-speaker audio system, automatic climate control, power windows, remote entry and more.

The Insight LX adds a four-speaker audio system, USB audio interface, armrest console, floor mats and a security system. New for 2012, the LX has map lights and steering wheel audio controls.

The Insight EX adds alloy wheels, steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, an audio system with six speakers, heated side mirrors with integrated turn signals and much more. For 2012, the EX gains Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®3, automatic headlights and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. The Insight EX is available with the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with voice recognition and rearview camera.

New exterior colors include Frosted Silver Metallic and Truffle Pearl, which replace Clear Sky Blue and Crimson Pearl.

Insight accolades include J.D. Power and Associates "Highest Ranked Compact Car in Initial Quality in a Tie" in their 2011 Initial Quality Study SM (IQS) (the Insight tied with the Civic). The IQS names the highest performers within the first 90 days of vehicle ownership. And for the past three consecutive years, the Insight was named a Top 10 Green Car by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com4. The Insight was also named one of the "Greenest Vehicles of 2011" by the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE).

Honda is a leader in developing cleaner, more fuel-efficient vehicle technologies, including the original Honda Insight, introduced as America’s first mass-produced hybrid car in December 1999. Honda is also a leader in the development of advanced alternatives to gasoline, including the zero-emission, hydrogen-powered FCX Clarity fuel-cell electric car, the world’s most-advanced production fuel cell automobile.

Honda’s diverse lineup of environmental vehicles also includes the Civic Natural Gas sedan, the only retail CNG passenger vehicle currently available from any automaker in the U.S., and three distinct gasoline-electric hybrid models: Civic Hybrid, CR-Z sport hybrid and Insight hybrid.

Honda was named America's "Greenest Automaker" for the fifth consecutive time by the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) in late 2010. The award is earned by the company with the lowest combined score of its smog-forming and greenhouse gas emissions (primarily CO2) in its U.S. automobile fleet. Honda has led the UCS rankings of overall vehicle environmental performance since the first UCS study in 2000, marking a decade of Honda leadership in reduced vehicle emissions. Honda earned the recognition with an industry-best score based on model year 2008 data, the latest available for analysis.

Insight Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price*Insight: $18,350Insight LX: $20,125Insight EX: $21,815Insight EX with Navigation: $23,540* MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, $770 destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary.

Connect with Honda:
Honda Media Newsroom (for journalists): www.hondanews.com
Honda Insight (for consumers): http://automobiles.honda.com/insight-hybrid/
Honda Insight on Facebook: www.facebook.com/hondainsight
Honda on YouTube: www.youtube.com/honda
Honda on Flickr: www.flickr.com/hondanews
Honda on Twitter: www.twitter.com/honda

1 Based on 2012 EPA mileage estimates. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

2 The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ is available on Insight EX models in the United States, except Alaska. See your Honda dealer for details. Certain functions that rely on a satellite signal will not work correctly in Hawaii and Alaska. These functions include, but are not limited to, automatic clock updates and time zone adjustments.

3 The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and any use of such marks by Honda Motor Co., Ltd., is under license.

4 For more information about the 2011 Top 10 Green Cars from Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com, visit www.kbb.com. Kelley Blue Book is a registered trademark of Kelley Blue Book Co., Inc.

Source;
http://www.hondanews.com/channels/corporate-headlines/releases/upgraded-2012-honda-insight-hybrid-offers-new-high-tech-look-improved-fuel-economy-and-more-features

Honda Insight with 1.5 liter IMA system to debut soon?

Check out the Honda Insight section on Honda Japan’s website and you’ll be greeted by the teaser image above, which seems to indicate that an Insight with a larger 1.5 liter i-VTEC IMA engine will be available soon. So far, most Honda hybrids including the Honda Insight sold here in Malaysia use the 1.3 liter system, while the 1.5 liter system is reserved for the sporty Honda CR-Z.

A larger more powerful system in the Insight would certainly be welcome for those looking for a little more fun in their green motoring, but do not want to go for the 3-door body of the CR-Z. With the hybrid tax exemptions just recently extended by the Malaysian government, perhaps Honda Malaysia can introduce this 1.5 liter variant of the Honda Insight as well? I’m sure there’s a market!

Source;
http://paultan.org/2011/10/11/honda-insight-with-1-5-liter-ima-system-to-debut-soon/