The 2018 Accord, Now Featuring...

The all new Honda Accord, now in it’s 10^th generation, has been released just today. The fresh Accord will be sporting a new powertrain, a new hybrid system, and a 10 speed transmission for 2018.

“We are redefining the Honda Accord for a new generation of buyers by bringing something unexpected that challenges the idea of what a mainstream sedan can be,” said Jeff Conrad, senior vice president of the Automobile Division of American Honda.

Redefining with something unexpected, Jeff? What does this mean? I believe that Hondas senior vice president was referring to the bold move of switching out the beloved V6 engine to a smaller 2.0 liter turbo four cylinder. Honda has basically taken their turbo engine from the CR-V and the new Civic Type R and spread the love to the front running Accord. The engine is specially tuned for the Accord with low-end torque and doesn’t require premium fuel.  Horsepower and torque are up from 185 and 181 to an alluring 192/192. The engine is paired with the first 10-speed automatic to be featured in a front-wheel drive car, and is also available with a six-speed manual transmission on the Sport trim.

The hybrid will use a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated Atkinson-cycle engine and has electric motors that are the first to use magnets containing no heavy rare earth metals. The new power unit with the battery pack is now under the rear floor instead of in the trunk, and this upgrade heartily frees up some more cargo room.

The design idea was to make the Accord even more sophisticated and sporty than it has ever been. Clean lines and a simple layout with sharp details flawlessly execute the look of sophistication while the newly tuned engine brings the enhanced power.

Last, but most definitely not least, Honda brings us……

The volume knob!

Rejoice! The new, finally re-knobbed Accord is coming to our showroom this fall, and we encourage you to join us in welcoming it to our lineup!

WannaCry Attack

The widespread WannaCry ransomware virus has made its way to a Honda assembly plants computer network in Japan- and has forced Honda to temporarily shut down operations. Reports from Japan claim that the virus has affected the carmakers computer networks in North America, Europe, China, and other parts of the world as well. The shutdown has delayed production of some of the Honda’s key vehicles, including the Accord sedan and Odyssey minivan. The plant, which is located about an hour northwest of Honda’s Tokyo headquarters, produces approximately 1,000 vehicles every day.

The WannaCry virus was discovered about a month ago after rapidly infecting computer networks around the world. It briefly shut down operations at a number of British hospitals, among other things and caused production delays at both French automaker Renault and its Japanese alliance partner Nissan. More than one million computers in 150 various countries were affected by the ransomware attack. U.S. intelligence agencies have reason to believe that the virus was unleashed by the North Korean government.

Hackers wouldn’t normally be able to pull off such a feat without tricking unassuming internet users into providing their passwords to their networks, which is the traditional way that hackers capitalize on easy online revenue. However, experts on the topic say that new software is being developed to bypass this step. A security hole in outdated versions of Microsoft Windows made these particular attacks possible.  Businesses are often slow to upgrade their operating system, and many fail to update the system in order to protect it from various security holes of the like.

As for how Honda is doing, production has resumed and they have taken steps to reinforce their virus protection regimen to avoid any similar occurrences in the future.

Honda CR-Z Tribute

The Honda CR-Z was an auto anomaly that unfortunately didn’t make as many waves as it should have, and has sadly been discontinued. The best qualities about the CR-Z would be its unique style, deft handling, and surprisingly good fuel economy. This is an odd combination, and one could easily imagine that the subtle novelty and scarce demographic attributed to its minimal reach. It wasn’t unique enough to create a buzz, and still not practical enough to overtake the reigning Honda models spotlight.

From what I’ve read about the death of the CR-Z, however, I don’t think that many people ever gave it a chance. The statistics weren’t as impressive as one might have expected, but you can’t capture a cars essence in a photo or on a stat sheet. I say this because I have personally experienced the CR-Zs essence, and I absolutely adore this car.

I was working at our very own Honda dealership last year. It was my first time getting close and personal with Honda, so I was full of curiosity. Alas, supreme fuel economy and practical cargo space didn’t incite my favor. When I first saw the CR-Z, however, I was very taken with it. It was so small, so cute, and so cheeky! I couldn’t wait to take a customer on a test drive and see the inside. Alas; there were no calls, no inquiries and no bites.

My day of reckoning finally came when I had the opportunity to take a car from our inventory to another dealer for a temporary swap. I meekly asked if I could take the CR-Z, thinking that the answer would be no (I naively assumed it was the most expensive car on the lot), but I was pleasantly surprised. The CR-Z was actually the most affordable new car on the lot, and I was free to take it!

I giddily skipped my way to our shiny, iridescent little gem. I was greeted by attractive performance seats upholstered in black cloth with sporty accents. I hastily plopped into the sunken driver’s seat, shut the door and immediately began feeling and smelling the materials. I inhaled its lovely new car scent, flung myself around to test the space, and concluded my tour by blissfully resting my face against the steering wheel for a few minutes. I really like this car.

As I looked out the window, the symmetry of the control buttons in my peripherals was very satisfying. The buttons were all close to the wheel, and exactly where I wanted them to be. Once I ventured out, I felt an irrepressible need to speed down every road and whip around every corner. The car felt incredibly lightweight and deft- offering me boundless fun! I happily soaked up the LED lights glowing from the gauge cluster at a stoplight. I ceremoniously twisted my hands over the smooth, slightly plush steering wheel... I thoroughly enjoyed my little escapade, and could barely stand to leave the car when I arrived at the other dealership!

There aren’t many of these little gems left out there, but if you ever have to opportunity, be sure to check it out. They’re quite unique, and they’re a lot of fun to drive. I’m so glad I had the chance.

Farewell for now, CR-Z.

Honda Odyssey the Fifth

The Honda Odyssey has reigned as king of minivans since its second generation debut in 1999. The Odyssey was the first minivan to offer navigation, and consistently innovates at the front of the herd. Honda continues to light the way for the entire market with decisive strides by a marvelous team of designers and engineers.

2018 brings us the Odysseys long awaited fifth generation. The fifth generation is familiar enough to be recognized, but has been notably enhanced- the signature lightning bolt accents have been cut deeper, the rear has been given a lift, and the body sits lower- amplifying the overall sportiness of the design. A sporty minivan may seem like an allusion, but Honda offers a compelling argument with enhanced performance alongside the striking new design.

The chassis rigidity has been strengthened by a whopping 44 percent- a key element of sport performance. You’ll experience more power this year as well via the new 3.5 L V-6 engine that takes the current years 248 horsepower output all the way up to 280. The V-6 can be paired with a remarkable 10 speed transmission that was developed in house by Hondas engineers, but most will simply opt for the already more than capable 9 speed. Considering that there weren’t any complaints about the previous models performance, the 2018 Odysseys vast advancements put some serious command behind this family hauler.

The interior of the Odyssey has been given a plethora of new options and convenience amenities. The new Magic Slide seats enable easy movement and removal of the second row, alleviating the stress of standard 3^rd row seat maneuvering. Another neat new feature bestowed upon the new Odyssey is the Cabin Watch system. This new service enables the driver and front seat passenger to monitor the cabin (even at night-via infrared vision) on the 8 inch center screen. The cabin talk option allows the front seats to communicate with the back via the audio system. However, not every family will be inclined take advantage of this feature considering that the Odyssey also now sports an enhanced rear seat entertainment system with video streaming, PBS Kids, iHeartRadio, and Spotify apps via a new 4G LTE Wi-Fi connection.

The 2018 Odyssey hasn’t yet been released, but you can expect to start seeing them appear in dealerships sometime this spring. Visit our site here for more information/updates on the new Odyssey.

2017 Honda Civic

The Honda Civic has been a mainstay for entry-level buyers throughout many generations. The Civic has gained a shining reputation for possessing the utmost reliability and value in the compact market. The new Civic expertly incorporates substance and comfort without compromising any of its prevailing values that have earned its renowned name.

The 2017 Honda Civic is offered in three body variations; sedan, coupe, and the re-emerged hatchback. Honda is a well-known and esteemed manufacturer recognized for offering continuous quality and value. Hence any of the 3 body styles or 5 trim level options possess something to be sought after.

Conservative consumers simply looking for better than average performance, quality, and efficiency will be more than happy with Civics base model, but the highest overall value undeniably lies within the EX-T. Not only does the EX-T get an upgraded turbocharged engine; this model offers leather interior, heated front and rear seats, navigation, Honda LaneWatch, power driver’s seat, and dual automatic climate control- in addition to the standard amenities and connectivity Honda is known to offer.

The Civics exterior is decidedly handsome with sleek LED headlights hovering over glossy, black honeycombed ducts. Acute cuts and ridges along the side of the body that extend to the rear enhance the masculinity and aero-dynamicity. The cabin retains the upgrades given in last years redesign, with a confident center console featuring ergonomically placed controls and quality, soft touch materials.

Base sedan and coupe Civics will sport a 2.0 L 4-cylinder engine available with manual transmission or Hondas signature CVT. The 2.0 L runs at 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque. Higher trim levels and all Hatchbacks will be powered by a throatier 1.5 L turbocharged engine that can also be paired with your choice of a manual or CVT transmission.

The Honda Civic is a hallmark among the sedan/coupe market. It offers unbeatable fuel economy, reliability, versatility, and quality compliant with higher end cars on the market, including Hondas own Acura. Whether you’re looking for quality, value or zippy performance- the new Honda Civic belongs at the top of your prospective list. Schedule a test drive or receive information/updates on the new Civic at our site.

2017 Honda Pilot

The Honda Pilot is a highly renowned SUV for its consistent delivery of top of the line features, exemplary space and storage, and dependable performance. Honda gave the Pilot a complete redesign last year, and it upholds the strong traits given but also offers a more appealing exterior design.

The first two generations of the Pilot had very linear bodies with boxy corners. This was an aggressive styling that accurately portrayed the strength and durability the SUV has to offer. The previous design was suitable, but the new sleek lines and sharp LED accents really help to pull the whole look together. On the inside, we find soft touch surfaces on the dash and doors and a friendly center console with lots of space for your belongings.

There's only one engine available for the 2017 Honda Pilot: a 3.5-liter V6 putting out 280 horsepower. This engine is offered with either a 6-speed automatic or, in Touring and Elite models, a 9-speed automatic. All models offer AWD, and the sophisticated system is standard on Elite models. Interestingly, a traction-management system that optimizes the AWD and FWD function for snow, mud or other surfaces is standard on all but LX models. The engine offers an Eco mode that shuts off half the cylinders under light throttle to help improve fuel economy.

Available on all but the base LX trim, Honda Sensing bundles lane-keeping assist with rear cross-path detection, adaptive cruise control and road-departure mitigation as well as the Pilot EX’s LaneWatch monitor in a safety suite designed to help the driver both see and avoid potential hazards. The basic front-wheel-drive (FWD) 2017 Honda Pilot LX comes standard with a multi-angle rearview camera and a tire-pressure-monitoring system that flashes the lights when you've filled a tire to its proper pressure. Cruise control, audio and phone controls are all located on the steering wheel, and all Pilots come with Bluetooth, a 4.2-inch information screen between the gauges, and push-button start.

 Looking for more information? Get updates or schedule a test drive with us here!

The all new 2017 Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V is currently in its fifth generation. The 2017 model was given a drastic redesign and offers improvements in fuel economy, power, size, and a new suite of safety features. The CR-V has also been given a much more aggressive and confident exterior style and an overall nicely enhanced interior.

The base LX model comes standard with automatic climate control, a backup camera, cruise control, and a 5” color screen display with Bluetooth wireless connectivity. The EX model and above will also include a power drivers seat, dual-zone climate control, moonroof, push-button start, heated front seats, and a 7” display audio-infotainment system that’s Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatible. Ex and above are also offered Hondas Sensing Safety Suite. Honda Sensing bundles accident-avoiding features such as collision-mitigation braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring (which replaces the LaneWatch system).

The base CR-V LX is fitted with a 184-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder, carried over from the 2016 model. But the EX, EX-L, and Touring trim levels sport a 1.5-liter turbo engine with 190 hp. Both engines are coupled with a CVT automatic transmission that has a sport mode for added responsiveness. The new CR-V is rated to tow 1,500 pounds with either engine, which is not bad for a compact SUV.

The CRV has been given a 7” lift off the ground. Combined with AWD, this is great news for those of us who deal with the extreme weather of all four seasons. Not only is the CR-V taller, it appears to have spent the entirety of 2016 in the gym. The body has been given a sumptuous hourglass figure with clearly defined muscles wrapped around the hood and rear. Hondas unique Active Shutter Grille nicely compliments the redesigned fascia whilst increasing aero-dynamicity.

The interior of the CR-V is nearly unrecognizable. Plasticky looking surfaces have been replaced with more sophisticated materials, and the outdated interface system has been given an upgrade. The layout is much more ergonomic, resulting in better aesthetic and a more spacious looking cabin. The previous CR-Vs cabin space was already leagues above its competitors, and yet Honda has increased the cargo carrying capacity to 40 cubic ft or nearly 76 with the seats folded, and legroom is currently at a lofty 40 inches.

Now in its fifth generation, the CR-V has flawlessly proven itself time and time again and happily retains its throne in the SUV market. If you’re interested in a test drive or would like more information on the new CR-V, you can visit us here.