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Acura will add a sport wagon version of its TSX sedan range in fall 2010 as a 2011 model. The automaker is mum on other details, but much can be inferred. Just as the TSX is based on the European-market Accord, the TSX Sport Wagon will be an Americanized Accord Tourer (shown here). Except for the rear cargo section, the interior is likely to carry over from the TSX. Same underhood, where a 2.4-liter, 201-horsepower four-cylinder and 3.5-liter, 280-horsepower V-6 should carry over. The overall package for the current car delivers an appealing balance of performance, driver-centric feel, high-tech amenities, just-right sizing, and competitive pricing. The same should hold true for the hatchback. The TSX sport wagon will probably make the show circuit rounds this coming season, before it competes against the Audi A4 Avant, BMW 3 Series , and Mercedes-Benz C-Class next fall. See our Acura TSX V6 and Acura TSX reviews .
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It’s hard not to be a fan of the Acura TSX. In its first generation, the lithe and nimble sedan offered great looks and refinement, with a rev-happy four-cylinder engine thrown in to boot. In 2009, a new TSX appeared, larger, more luxurious, but still enjoying that incredible fun-to-drive feeling, and keeping that sweetheart four-cylinder. But the marketplace can be a fickle thing, and just about every competitor of Acura’s near-luxury sedan either featured a standard six-cylinder engine, or offered one as an option. So for 2010, we now have a new TSX V6 model to top out the range. And this is no mild-mannered six, but a very powerful 3.5-liter V6—taken from the Acura TL—that pumps out 280 hp (79 more hp than the four-cylinder) as well as 254 lb.-ft of torque. The V6 comes standard with a five-speed automatic with paddle shifters. That the added power makes a quantum leap in performance is not a big surprises—40 percent more horsepower will do that, but it also makes a huge change in the personality of the TSX. Where the four-cylinder feels light and spirited, the V6 moves out with real authority, yet feels much more serious. Tap on the gas and you’re gone. And the sound is a rich deep...
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So, CNN Money is reporting that Ford is recalling more than 4 million vehicles due to a potential fire hazard that can be created by a faulty cruise control deactivation switch. A friend of mine sent me an email that said " See? This is why people don't buy American. " The recall covers 1995-2003 Windstars, 2000-2003 Excursion diesels, 1993-1997 and 1999-2003 F-Super Duty diesels, 1992-2003 Econolines, 1995-2002 Explorers and Mercury Mountaineers, 1995-1997 and 2001-2003 Rangers and 1994 F35 motorhomes. This is the eighth recall that involves a specific faulty switch manufactured by Texas Instruments, and brings the total to more than 16 million Ford vehicles recalled because that switch. The article at CNN Money advises that "Ford drivers should look for warnings of possible imminent fires, including malfunctioning cruise control systems and brake lights and antilock braking system and brake light warnings on the dashboard. The safety agency also said difficulty in getting the vehicle out of the park mode should be treated as a warning." Ford says it has not used that switch in any model years after 2003. It's disappointing that this is what people think...
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Acura announced today changes to their quintessential MDX SUV for the 2010 model year. Updates include a revised grille, a new hood and front fascia, new rear bodywork, improvements to its 300-horsepower, 3.7-liter V6 powertrain (that includes better fuel economy), and a new six-speed automatic transmission. An all-new Advance Package offers a revised Active Damper System and new, 19-inch wheels and tires. New, 18-inch wheels are standard. As with recent MDX model years, the 2010 MDX transfers power to the wheels through its renowned Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system that actively distributes the optimum amount of power to all four wheels. On the inside, the 2010 MDX features a new, bolstered, Milano-leather steering wheel with paddle shifters, new gauges and available AcuraLink Real-Time Weather and Traffic Rerouting via a new, full VGA eight-inch navigation screen. A new rear-view camera is also on the options list, and features three different view choices. Acura says, “ In keeping with Acura’s leadership in the application of advanced, customer-relevant features, the 2010 MDX is available with an array of technologies to improve convenience, including an all-new blind...
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Acura has provided an official look at its new ZDX four-door sports crossover thingy, and it looks much like the concept vehicle last seen at the 2009 New York auto show . The ZDX is based on the MDX SUV platform, and it will be positioned between the MDX and flagship RL luxury sedan . While it shares basic bodystyle with the upcoming Honda Crosstour , the two vehicle are not related. The ZDX touts a 3.7-liter V-6 engine with 300 horsepower and 270 lbs.-ft. of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. All ZDX models will use Acura’s “Super Handling” all-wheel-drive system, and standard wheels measure 19 inches. Befitting a premium car, the ZDX will be outfitted with a panoramic glass roof, hand-stitched leather interior, Bluetooth connectivity, power tailgate, and AM/FM/XM stereo with CD player and USB input. The Technology Package adds a navigation system, premium surround-sound audio system, and rearview camera. The Advance Package adds a blind-spot detection system, active anti-collision system, and adaptive cruise control. Pricing has not been announced yet, but it is expected to start in the low to mid $40k range when it goes on sale this coming winter. For a more...
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In what has to be among the shortest press releases ever issued, Honda announced today that the Accord Crosstour would go on sale this fall. Honda promises real information will be provided closer to when the vehicle arrives at dealers. However, Honda may having given us a glimpse at this genre-bending car type with the Acura ZDX concept shown at the 2009 New York International Auto Show . Recent spy photos posted at AutoBlog and elsewhere reveal a similar coupe-profile with Accord bodywork on a Crosstour test mule. These cars have a sloped rear like the Volkswagen Passat CC , though it features hatchback. The body style seems distinctly European, where automotive versatility is highly prized. However, the Crosstourer will be based on the American-market Accord platform, which is larger than the Euro Accord seen Stateside as the Acura TSX . The Accord Crosstour will be a distinctive vehicle that offers a more sedan-like alternative to the heavy Toyota Venza . We’ll share more information on the Accord Crosstour as it becomes available. The MDX-based ZDX also goes on sale in the fall. See our complete 2009 New York auto show coverage . Research Honda models in the 2009 new car buyer...
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It's the week ending June 12, and we've browsed our favorite automotive blogs all week long to gather a collection of what we feel is the highlight from each. The biggest auto news of the week is that Congress approved the first "Cash for Clunker" legislation, Penske is buying Saturn, and American Honda turned 50. Read below for more bits and pieces from the auto world this week....
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Today marks the official 50th anniversary since American Honda Motor Co. opened its first store in Los Angeles, California, selling Honda 50 motorcycles and establishing Honda’s commitment to fuel-efficient, affordable, quality transportation for its U.S. customers. Since then, Honda has pioneered many innovative, industry-changing technologies that have solidified their strength in the market and their place in the hearts and driveways of many American families. Such Honda breakthroughs include being the: First automaker to meet U.S. Clean Air Act without a catalytic converter (1974 Civic CVCC) First automaker to build a vehicle to top U.S. EPA list of most fuel-efficient cars (1977 Civic) First Japanese automaker to build motorcycles (1979) and automobiles (1982) in the U.S. First Japanese automaker to establish a luxury automobile brand (Acura, 1986) First automaker to introduce a mass-produced gas-electric hybrid car in America (1999 Insight) First automaker to develop a government-certified hydrogen fuel cell vehicle (2002 FCX) 2009 also marks the 40th anniversary of the first Honda automobile sold in the United States—the Lilliputian N600 sedan that stickered for just $1,275 at...
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After much pre-show teasing , Acura unveiled its swoopy ZDX four-door coupe at the 2009 New York International Auto Show . Looking right at home next to the Acura TL and RL , the ZDX takes a sleeker approach to the high-tech Acura formula. (See our 2009 Acura TL review .) Drawing clear inspiration from the Mercedes-Benz CLS and Volkswagen Passat CC, the ZDX finds a niche within the Acura product line. Think of it as a more versatile alternative to the TL, with a liftgate and flip/fold rear seats. Acura says it will be powered by a V6 engine, ensuring at least 280 horsepower are on tap to be routed to the all-wheel-drive system. True to form, the ZDX will offer advanced features, such as a blind spot information system, multi-view rear camera, navigation system with voice recognition and real-time traffic, Bluetooth connectivity, and premium surround sound system. Acura says it will position the ZDX above the MDX , suggesting a price that extends in the $50k region. The ZDX goes on sale in the fall. See our complete 2009 New York auto show coverage . Research Acura models in the 2009 new car buyer’s guide .
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Acura has been increasingly cheeky with its pre-auto show releases, and the luxury division is outdoing itself with an ongoing series of shadowy images it has been trickling out. Shown here from the rear, the unnamed crossover vehicle looks to be a sloped sedan in the Mercedes-Benz CLS and Volkswagen Passat CC tradition. However, spy images suggest the vehicle is a crossover, more akin to the BMW X6 . Expect the Acura to be powered by a 3.7-liter V-6 producing about 300 horsepower routed to a super-handling AWD system. Like other Acura models, the crossover will likely be a technical tour de force, with leading-edge convenience, entertainment, and safety features. However, abundant rear-seat headroom doesn’t appear to be in the cards. We expect Acura to release more information in the days leading up to the 2009 New York auto show, and we’ll share the details here when they become available. Research Acura in our new car buyer's guide , and check out our BMW X6 review .
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The tragic trend continues, car sales continue to slide from bad to worse as the nation reels amidst the troubled economy. As automakers, suppliers, and dealers struggle to survive and restructure to face the changing challenges, the plummeting sales figures do mean that tremendous deals can be found for those in the market for a new or even a used car . Few companies were spared deep double-digit declines in Februrary when comparing the month year to year. In the 40-50 percent range, Acura , Ford , Lincoln , Mercury , Pontiac , and even Toyota saw such steep declines. The 50-60 percent range includes Buick , Cadillac , Chevrolet , GMC , Mitsubishi , Saturn , and Volvo . The scariest thing, there are brands in the 60-70 percent range, such as Chrysler , Hummer , Saab , and Suzuki . At the corporate level, the numbers still look dreadful. BMW is down 32.7 percent, proving that even the well-heeled are sheepish about new car buying. Chrysler is down 44 percent—notably less than Ford Motor Company at 48.4 percent and General Motors at 52.9 percent. Even Honda saw a 38 percent decrease, made higher by the 41.5 percent drop in Acura sales. Nissan is off by 37 percent, and Toyota Motor Company...
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At a time when automakers are scrambling to improve fuel efficiency and fit their models with smaller, thriftier engines and alternative-fuel powerplants, Acura heads in the other direction. At the Chicago Auto Show this week, Acura introduced a new, higher-performance version of the TSX . Once known as the entry-level Acura sedan, the TSX will be available for the 2010 model year with a 280-horsepower V-6. Borrowing its powerplant from the larger TL, the TSX employs the age-old formula to boosting performance—a bigger engine. It worked for the original GTO, it still works today. The 3.5-liter engine will be teamed with a sequential automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The power will be routed through the front wheel; there is no all-wheel-drive version to be offered. The balance the car’s character, the independent suspension is tuned for sportier ride and handling. Standard fitment is 18-inch split five-spoke aluminum wheels, shod with Michelin Pilot all-season tires. The 2010 Acura TSX V-6 goes on sale summer 2009. Read our Acura TSX review , and research the TSX in the new car buyer’s guide .
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Since Honda began production in Marysville, Ohio, in 1982, the automaker has built 20 million vehicles in North America. In 2008, more than 77 percent of all Honda and Acura vehicles sold in the U.S, were produced in North America- a total of 1,421,427 units. Further, 11 different models are produced exclusively in North America- the Honda Accord Coupe, Civic Coupe and Si, Civic GX natural gas vehicle, Odyssey, Pilot, Element, and Ridgeline and the Acura TL, MDX, RDX, and CSX (Canadian exclusive model). By the numbers Honda currently partners with more than 620 North American suppliers, including 545 in the U.S., and purchased more than $19.5 billion in parts and materials from its North American suppliers in 2008. Honda has four U.S. automobile plants in Marysville and East Liberty, Ohio; Lincoln, Alabama; and Greensburg, Indiana; two plants in Alliston, Ontario, Canada; and a plant in Jalisco, El Salto, Mexico. In addition, Honda is celebrating the 50th anniversary of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., its first overseas subsidiary. U.S. production began with motorcycles in 1979 in Ohio and soon expanded automobiles. Today, Honda has 16 major manufacturing facilities employing more than...
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Securing sporty credentials, the redesigned Acura TL will be available with a manual transmission for the 2010 model year. We referenced the availability of the stick shift in our 2009 Acura TL review , and since posting, Acura has officially confirmed will be available next fall. The six-speed manual transmission will be available on the TL with SH-AWD, marking it as the best performing TL ever. Choosing the manual over the six-speed automatic saves 110 lbs., aiding acceleration, braking, and cornering. The new transmissions is substantially stronger than the previous generation TL manual transmission, and it is engineered for improved shifter action and feel. Likewise, it uses a new self-adjusting, dual-mass clutch promises constant pedal effort throughout the entire stroke of the pedal. The manual-equipped sedan will have a Hill Start Assist system that helps prevent the vehicle from rolling backwards when the driver switches from the brake to the accelerator while stopped on a hill—a welcomed convenience. The car’s character is further enhanced with a tauter suspension, reflect with stiffer damping to reduce body roll and pitch, and thereby aid handling and braking. This ultimate...
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Larger, more powerful, and overloaded with technology, the 2009 Acura TL will start at $34,955 when it goes on sale nationwide on September 24th. When the all-wheel-drive models hit the market in November, just in time for winter, pricing will start at $38,505. The base TL is motivated by a 3.5-liter V-6 producing 280 horsepower and 254 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine is backed by a five-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel- mounted paddle shifters and Grade Logic Control. Fuel economy is EPA-rated at 18 city, 26 highway. Stepping up to the TL SH-AWD puts a new 3.7-liter V-6 engine under hood, cranking out 305 horsepower and 273 lb.-ft. of torque. The increased power and AWD have a negligible impact on fuel economy, with mileage pegged at 17 city, 26 highway. Inside, the TL is loaded with standard features such as a power moon roof, dual-zone adaptive climate control, 10-way adjustable (eight-way power seat with two-way power lumbar support) driver seat, and eight -way adjustable power front passenger seat. In addition, an eight -speaker 276-watt audio system with six-disc CD changer, AM/FM/XM, Bluetooth Audio, USB port and auxiliary jack connectivity, and wireless telephone...
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