Public debut for new 2012 Honda Pilot at Dubai Motor show

The new 2012 Honda Pilot made its public debut yesterday at the Dubai International Motor Show. With a new styling for front facia and refined instrument panel, the 8-seater SUV receives significant improvements in exterior and interior styling.

For the 2012 model other significant improvements include the introduction of top-of-the-line Touring grade and includes new features like HDD navigation system, DVD rear entertainment system, intelligent MID (i-MID), wide mode rear view camera, Bluetooth hands free phone and Bluetooth Audio Streaming, 18” alloy wheels and many more.

The 2012 Honda Pilot is available in 4 grades in the UAE: EX (AED 129,999/-), EX-C (AED 139,999/-), EX-D (AED 144,999/-) and Touring (AED 164,999/-).

Al-Futtaim Honda is the exclusive distributor for Honda vehicles, motorcycles, marine engines, power products and parts in the UAE.

REFINED EXTERIOR & INTERIOR STYLING

The front fascia with three bar chrome grille imparts stronger yet refined appearance. The large multi-reflector halogen headlights and front fog lights also contribute to Pilot’s bolder character. The front air dams and air deflectors reduce turbulence and enhance fuel economy while adding a touch of style.

The Touring grade includes 6-spoke 18-inch aluminum wheel with a striking design and the EX grade is equipped with 5-spoke, 17-inch aluminum wheel.

Interior styling is simplified with the AC selector knob now easier to use. Speedometer and tachometer gauges are sharper and easy to read with new, large clear digits and brilliant white background lighting at night. Redesigned center stack features a U-shaped character line that breaks the flat look. The varying textures on the dashboard surface create layers that are easily distinguishable with touch and sight.

BODY DESIGN

The 2012 Honda Pilot uses 52% of high strength steel (HSS) for more rigidity and better fuel efficiency. In addition, it incorporates underbody features like front and rear strakes, rear mudguards and optimized splash shield for improved aerodynamic and under body cooling.

Pilot’s excellent ride handling and comfort for all occupants are achieved due to high performance suspension geometry with hydraulic bushings, large tires, large front and rear brake package, active control mounts and high flow dual exhausts reduced road vibration and improved stability under all driving conditions.

The Noise, Vibration, Harshness (NVH) levels are improved in 2012 Honda Pilot by improving the body seam sealing around the unit-body connection points and retuned rear suspension sub-frame mounts. Furthermore, the acoustic windshield glass and Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology cancels booming noise by emitting identical out of phase sound from audio speakers ensuring lower NVH levels under all conditions.

POWERTRAIN

The 2012 Pilot is equipped with 3.5 – liter i-VTEC V6 engine with VCM technology to ensure optimal balance of power and fuel efficiency. The maximum (NET) power and torque output (NET) is 257 PS @ 5,700 rpm and 35.4 kg-m @ 4,800 rpm – respectively.

The Pilot engine is mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission system that has Grade Logic Control to maintain the appropriate gear thus preventing gear “hunting” while uphill or downhill drive. The VTM-4 system on Pilot delivers seamless 4-wheel-drive when needed. The VTM-4 system also provides a "lock mode" (available when in first or second gears up to 28 kmph) which is activated by a button on the instrument panel. In “lock model” the VTM-4 delivers maximum possible torque transfer to the rear wheels which aids extraction from extremely low traction or stuck conditions.

SAFETY

The principal safety feature used on all Honda models is the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure for enhanced frontal collision energy management and vehicle-to-vehicle frontal crash compatibility.

Standard on all grades, the passive safety features include dual-stage front airbags, side airbags, 3-row/ full length side curtain airbags and front active head restraints. The side curtain airbag system includes three satellite sensors and a main unit, and detects a crash within 5-7 milliseconds. It also includes a rollover sensor which deploys the airbags if there is a risk of vehicle overturning.

Another important feature is the LATCH system with 4 locations in securing child seats. This gives flexibility to both parents and children to choose their seats.

Available as standard, the active safety features include Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), 4-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and Hill Start Assist (HSA). The HSA maintain brake pressure momentarily longer and prevent roll-back as the driver moves from the brake to accelerator pedal during a hill start.

NEW ADVANCED FEATURES

Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System

Available on Touring grade, the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System features an 8-inch, high-resolution QVGA color display and uses GPS technology to provide guidance to destinations. It comes with 60GB HDD memory system (includes 15GB allocated for user media) with voice guidance both in Arabic and English languages.

Honda DVD Rear Entertainment System

Available on Touring grade, DVD Rear Entertainment System with 9-inch display allows the video or audio to be played either on wireless headphones or front speakers for all occupants’ enjoyment. The screen flips down from the second row roof at one push button.

Audio System

The 2012 Honda Pilot Touring grade includes a premium audio system with 10 speakers and Bluetooth Audio Streaming (with selected phones only). The premium audio system includes 1 CD player and a 15GB audio hard disk drive memory. The EX grades audio system includes a new 2GB CD Library (CD-L) function with 1 CD player (it replaces the previous 6 CD changer). USB and AUX jacks are standard on both grades.

Bluetooth- Hands Free Telephone (HFT)

Available on Touring grade, this essential communication tool allows the driver to use his Bluetooth-enabled mobile phone while driving without taking his/her eyes off the road or hands off the steering wheel.

i-MID (Intelligent Multi-information Display)

The i-MID feature is available as standard on 2012 Honda Pilot. Through a conveniently located steering wheel control, the i-MID displays important information such as instantaneous fuel consumption, average fuel consumption, range, Bluetooth HFT phonebook, caller ID, audio song/album/artist details, radio station frequency, outside temperature, etc. Another fun option is the personalized wallpaper display photo uploading. On the Touring grade, it also displays images from the wide mode rear view camera and HDD navigation system map.

Rear View Camera

Available on Touring grade, the wide-view rear camera captures real time parking situation and displays it on navigation system’s 8” TFT screen. The wide-view options of rear view camera allows to view for approaching vehicles from the side, normal view for bumper line and top view for best distance perception.

BODY & INTERIOR COLORS

·         Taffeta White with beige interior

·         Alabaster Silver Metallic with beige interior

·         Crystal Black Pearl with beige interior

·         Dark Amber Metallic with beige interior

·         Dark Cherry Pearl with beige interior

Honda launches all new 2011 Odyssey for GCC markets

Honda Motor Co. (Middle East Office) announced the launch of all new Honda Odyssey in GCC markets.

The completely redesigned 2011 Honda Odyssey improves on its award-winning1, class-leading design with a more distinctive style, higher fuel economy and greater interior versatility. Improvements to the fourth-generation Odyssey represent a new Honda vision for the "ultimate in family transportation."

The 2011 Odyssey's enhanced aerodynamic shape with a lower roofline contributes to class-leading highway fuel economy, while the improved interior packaging maintains similar functionality as the previous model. A wider stance creates a more accommodating interior while accenting the exterior's dynamic appearance. Significant improvements for convenience include a new "3-mode" second-row seat design along with a simpler-to-operate, 3rd-row Magic Seat®. The third row provides improved legroom, along with better visibility from the side windows - a functional improvement resulting from the exterior's signature "lightning-bolt" belt line.

Exterior Styling

The 2011 Odyssey dramatically departs from conventional MPV styling with its low and wide stance. Compared to the previous generation, the 2011 Odyssey's slightly lower roofline and wider stance contributes to a sleeker, stronger and more dynamic presence with improved aerodynamics. The “lightning-bolt” belt line further emphasizes the 2011 Odyssey's sporty appearance while enhancing outward visibility for third-row passengers. Aggressive body-to-wheel proportions reduce the perception of vertical height common to most MPV designs. Fender flares further accent the vehicle's secure and stylish persona. The availability of projector beam HID headlights and form-fit fog lights further contributes to a sophisticated and upscale appearance on applicable models.

Interior Styling

The interior of the 2011 Odyssey embraces a "cool and intuitive" theme consistent with its increased levels of technology and family versatility. The dashboard's simple and clean lines accent the depth of the cabin for an open and spacious feeling.

The Odyssey exemplifies quality from its ergonomically friendly controls and sensible human factors, such as the positioning of grab handles, bins and pockets; intuitive switches and controls.

Interior Versatility and Functionality

To fulfill its mission as the ultimate family vehicle, the 2011 Odyssey interior focuses on providing three rows of comfortable, adult-friendly seating together with a large interior volume and plentiful storage capabilities. Multiple seating configurations can accommodate between one and eight adult passengers simply by adding, folding or removing the modular seats.

Improved body rigidity for 2011 Odyssey has resulted in a quieter cabin at highway cruising speeds with less background noise, which helps make conversations inside the cabin more audible.

Numerous storage pockets and cup holders are included for every passenger. A convenient flip-up trash bag ring extends from behind the center console and can secure a small disposable bag to help keep the inside of the vehicle clean.

The Odyssey's seating, instruments and controls are designed around the driver. For driver comfort, the driver's seat features 10-way power adjustable seating (8-way power adjustable on Odyssey LX). Meters, gauges and displays are easy to locate and read, and the controls for audio system, navigation system and climate control system are within reach and feature large buttons and knobs.

The “3-mode” design feature of the second row seat provides the ability to expand the distance between the seats by up to 40 mm each to increase comfort and enhance third-row access when child seats are being used in the second row. The second-row middle seat has the ability to move forward, which brings child seats within a more convenient reach of the first row. The third mode can transform the middle seat into a large, comfortable armrest with cup holders and a center tray for electronic devices.

The 2011 Odyssey's 60/40 split 3rd-row Magic Seat provides a comfortable seating area and can quickly and conveniently folds down into the floor to accommodate cargo.

New Technology Highlights

Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™

Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System is available on the Odyssey Touring grade. The system features an 8-inch, high-resolution VGA color display and uses GPS technology to provide turn-by-turn guidance to a destination. The 2011 Odyssey navigation system provides voice guidance both in Arabic & English languages and has a wide variety of features and functionality like 60GB hard drive, and the option to import a favorite photograph to use as "wallpaper."

DVD Rear Entertainment System with 16.2-inch Ultra-Wide Display

A state-of-the-art, factory-fitted Rear Entertainment System (RES) with an ultra-wide display is standard on the Odyssey Touring grade. The RES can simultaneously display two different sources of programming side-by-side, such as a video game and a movie. The two programs being played can be easily switched from side to side, so the viewers don't have to change seats. The wireless headphones supplied with this system can be tuned to either input source as desired. The system includes a High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) port for attaching high definition players and certain gaming consoles.

"intelligent" Multi-Information Display (i-MID)

The Odyssey EX-L model has an 8-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) screen with customizable features. Called the i-MID, this screen provides the driver with a variety of information. It can keep the driver updated about such items as the audio system, Bluetooth® Hands Free Telephone information, general vehicle information and the rearview camera image. Personalized wallpaper using a JPEG-format photo can be added via the USB Audio Interface.

Audio System

The Odyssey Touring grade comes equipped with a state-of-the-art 15GB memory Hard Disc Drive (HDD) audio system that can digitally store approx. 175 CDs. And the EX-L grade comes equipped with 2GB flash memory that can digitally store approx. 18 CDs, thus eliminating the need for a 6-CD changer.

Safety

An extensive list of safety equipment comes standard on every Odyssey. The Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure is a Honda-exclusive body design that enhances occupant protection and crash compatibility in frontal collisions. Additional standard safety equipment includes Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®), anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist; three-row side-curtain airbags with a rollover sensor; driver's and front passenger's side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); dual-stage, multiple- threshold front airbags; and active front seat head restraints. Also, a pedestrian injury mitigation design in the front of the vehicle is intended to help absorb energy in the event of a collision.

Powertrain

Powering the Odyssey is a robust, yet efficient 3.5-liter i-VTEC V6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM). To conserve fuel when power requirements are low, the VCM technology can allow the engine to operate using only three or four of its six cylinders as conditions permit. A six-speed automatic transmission, standard on the Odyssey Touring, helps it achieve a best-in-class city/highway fuel-economy. A five-speed automatic transmission is standard on the Odyssey LX and EX-L.

Chassis & Body

A long 3,000 mm wheelbase, wide track dimensions, advanced suspension design and features such as VSA with traction control contribute to the Odyssey's excellent overall handling. The Odyssey's hydraulic power-steering automatically increase the power assist at slow speeds, like while parking, and it also automatically reduces the power assist, like while on highway, so that the driver has more feedback.

Standard on the Odyssey LX and EX-L are 17-inch wheels, while 18-inch wheels are standard on the Odyssey Touring. The tires on all models feature low-rolling resistance construction to aid in maximizing fuel economy.

The 2011 Odyssey is extensively redesigned to become more lightweight and rigid allowing for the vehicle's high levels of safety, increased fuel economy, refined handling and a comfortable ride. Aerodynamically, the Odyssey is more efficient with a 5.5-percent reduction in Cd (aerodynamic drag) compared to the previous model.

Colors

The 2011 Odyssey is available in 7 exterior colors:

 Tafetta White.

 Alabaster Silver Metallic.

 Smoky Topaz Metallic.

 Crystal Black Pearl.

 Celestial Blue Metallic.

 Mocha Metallic.

1Awards

Automobile Magazine 2011: One of the winner of “All Star” awards

Edmunds.com 2010: "Top Recommended" minivan award

U.S. News and World Report 2010: "Best Minivan for the Money"

Automotive Lease Guide 2010: "Best Minivan for the Money"

Kelley Blue Book: One of the ten "Best New Family Vehicles of 2009"

Kelley Blue Book: "2009 Best Resale Value Award" in the van category

Honda Jazz 2010 Review

The Honda Jazz remains an interesting choice in a segment dominated by boring cars that do not push the boundaries of conservatism. With space-age styling, space-age cargo management and space-age fuel economy, its focus is obvious. The superior handling is a bonus, while its downfalls in ride and power may be overlooked by those who simply refuse to be seen in a City. 

Current Model Introduced in:
2009

Body Styles:
5-door hatchback

Engines:
1.5L 118 hp 4-cylinder / 146 Nm

Transmissions:
5-speed automatic

Setup:
Front-wheel-drive

Suspension:
Front: independent
Rear: live

Brakes:
Front: discs
Rear: drums
ABS on all models

Curb Weight:
1170 kg

Length:
143.5 in.

Wheelbase:
98.4 in.

Top Speed:
190 kph

Test Acceleration 0-100 kph:
12.7 sec.

Observed Test Fuel Economy:
6.9 litres/100km

The Honda Jazz is the anti-thesis of the small-car genre. Redesigned for 2009, the Jazz aims to offer as much space as possible, without extending beyond the footprint of a sub-compact hatchback. The Japanese firm has truly outdone itself in its quest for storage volume.

Now in its second generation, the exterior design has evolved to become even more of a wedge. The mousy design isn't attractive in the traditional sense, but appealing in its own futuristic alien-loving kind of way. Unlike Yaris and Tiida drivers, no Jazz owner has ever been accused of being a boring person, or a soul-less drone, or an accountant.

Our somewhat-pricey Jazz had all the optional goods possible, the most obvious being the 16-inch alloys, the paddle-shifters, the panoramic glass roof, the 16-inch alloys and, of all things, rear power windows. And yet, the cabin still feels like the economy car that it is, with hard plastics on every inch of the interior beyond the seats, floor and ceiling. But at least the textures are pleasant and the door panels get a thin layer of cloth.

The basic fabric seats can be manually-adjusted high enough to give a high driving position, which gives the feeling of driving around in a glass bubble, especially since the Jazz has quite possibly the largest windshield ever. Indeed, legroom front and back is good for most adults under six feet, and merely adequate for those taller, but there is enough headroom for Shaq and his Taliban headgear, if he chose to wear one. Frankly, no car needs this much upward space.

There are eight cup-holders moulded into the plastics, although it isn't as impressive when we realised four are door-mounted bottle holders, and the other four are all for front passengers. There are even two glove-boxes, with the upper one cool-able by redirecting a/c air towards your stored drinks. The regular boot is easily accessible, but only good for one big suitcase. Aside from other uncovered cubbies and pockets, the real interesting bit is the "Magic Seats" setup in the back. The trademark rear bench can split-fold flat just like in any other hatchback, but the rear-seat bottoms can also fold up instead and create a tall cargo space where the rear seats used to be. While the applications for such a feature are dubious, we liked how easy it was to configure them either way.

The extra-long dashboard is even stranger in its non-symmetrical design, but the controls are big and easy to figure out. The manual a/c is good in January afternoons, helped a bit by the 3M tint on our tester, while the 4-speaker stereo is acceptable if you place more importance on USB/iPod connectivity than on bass. Other than the usual power accessories, keyless entry, front-side airbags, cruise control and the huge panoramic glass roof, there aren't any other tech features to speak of. Its simplicity may be a good thing in the long run.

Also simple is the 1.5-litre 4-cylinder engine, good for 118 hp at 6000 rpm and 146 Nm of torque at a high 4800 rpm. For all its i-VTEC gimmickry, we only managed 12.7 seconds during our 0-100 kph test, with lots of loud high-revving action and seemingly weighed down by the glass roof. The 5-speed automatic does fine on its own, but there are optional paddle-shifters that can be somewhat fun, even with a slight delay in responding to inputs. On the other hand, the trip computer on our tester seemed pegged at a remarkable 6.9 litres/100 km during the entire two days we had the car. Coincidentally, our recent Honda City tester was almost 2 seconds quicker and slightly more economical, with the same engine.

The Jazz handles very well too. Indeed, the suspension tuning is very sporting, and the Jazz might've given the expensive Mini Cooper a run for its money if it had wider tyres and proper brakes. As is, the 185/55 tyres run out of grip too early and the rear drum brakes allow a bit of sideways swaying under hard braking. Still, body roll is limited and the tyres behave predictably at the limit, gradually understeering without drama. The steering is soft and yet has some useful feel, while the ABS-assisted brakes can be precisely controlled. And the proper handbrake was a great diversion on wet roads.

The Jazz isn't the most comfortable of cars though. Its sporting suspension and short wheelbase also deteriorates ride quality to almost the same level as our BMW M Roadster. It is bearable of course, but we'd assume buyers of econo-boxes do not prioritise a firm suspension when shopping in this category. It is also rather loud at highway speeds due to wind noise and minimal noise insulation. It is no wonder then that its Thai-built cousin, the City, is an intentionally softer-handling car.

Honda CR-Z hybrid

The brochure reveals some of the specifications for this much anticipated new model. The car will have a 1.5 liter V-TEC engine rated at 114 horsepower and 107 lb-ft of torque and an electric motor providing an additional 13 horsepower and 57 ft-lbs of torque. Both a CVT (continuously varialbe transmission) and a 6 speed manual transmission will be offered. 0 - 60 time is said to be 9.7 seconds.
While those performance numbers are not startling, the package that Honda has created certainly is. For the moment, it ranks as one of the sleekest, sexiest hybrids ever seen. The upgraded aero package from Mugen, Honda's performance division, shown below, is especially tasty.

Honda undercuts popular Prius with new hybrid Insight EX

2010 Honda Insight EX
BASE PRICE: $19,800 for LX; $21,300 for EX without navigation system.
AS TESTED: $21,970.
TYPE: Front-engine, front-wheel drive, five-passenger, compact hatchback.
ENGINE: 1.3-liter, inline four cylinder with i-VTEC and 10-kilowatt electric motor.
MILEAGE: 40 mpg (city), 43 mpg (highway).
TOP SPEED: NA.
LENGTH: 172.2 inches.
WHEELBASE: 100.4 inches.
CURB WEIGHT: 2,727 pounds.
BUILT AT: Japan.
OPTIONS: None.
DESTINATION CHARGE: $670.

2011 Honda CRZ