New Honda S660 interior photo !

What is claimed to be a photo of the brochure for Honda's new S660 open-top K-sized 'sports car' has been leaked on the internet. At the moment, the one we are aware of is put up on the indian car blog below. Eventually I think it will be put up on other blogs.

Along with the photo is also a table which is claimed to be the specifications of the car. The car will be K-car sized and will comply with the Japanese regulations for Kei-cars - with a 660cc engine and delivering a max of 63ps at 6,000rpm. It is supposed to be turbocharged (the original Honda Beat on which this S660 is supposed to be replacing is NA). 

It is said that this S660 is due to be launched in Japan this month but has since been delayed to early next year, with delivery to begin only around mid of the year. 

The link is below:

http://indianautosblog.com/2014/12/honda-s660-details-leaked-japan-163011

New NSX to debut on Jan 12th next year !

Acura NSX Production Model to Make World Debut
at 2015 North American International Auto Show

TORRANCE, Calif., Dec. 17, 2014 – The production version of the highly anticipated Acura NSX supercar, successor to the legendary original NSX, will make its world debut at the 2015 North American International Auto Show on Jan. 12, 2015. The model will reflect the production design and specifications of the mid-engine Acura supercar that is slated to launch in 2015. To celebrate the impending debut of NSX, Acura released a 30-second teaser video that gives an early glimpse of the production car and the sound of its three-motor, twin-turbocharged Sport Hybrid power unit. View the video on Acura’s YouTube channel at youtube.com/Acura.

“The next-generation NSX will deliver a ‘new sports experience’ true to its heritage and to the supercar concept that originally gave rise to the name NSX,” said Mike Accavitti, Acura division senior vice president and general manager. “The NSX will serve as the ultimate expression of Acura performance that is fueling a reenergised brand.”

An Acura NSX concept model made its debut at the 2012 North American International Auto Show, where Honda Motor Co., Ltd. President & CEO Takanobu Ito announced that development of a next-generation NSX would launch in three years, led by an American R&D team and produced at a state-of-the-art new plant in Ohio.

“After three years of intensive development work we are excited to reveal this next-generation supercar—the Acura NSX—to the world,” said Ted Klaus, chief engineer and global project leader over NSX development. “We’ve developed a human-centered supercar that responds to the will of the driver and that builds upon the NSX heritage.”

The next milestone in the launch of the NSX will be the reveal of the production version at the Acura press conference at the North American International Auto Show on Jan. 12 at 11:50 a.m. ET. Watch the press conference live at youtube.com/Acura.

The NSX is being developed by a global team of engineers led by the company’s North American R&D operations in Raymond, Ohio, with design led by the Acura Design Studio in Torrance, CA. The Acura NSX will be produced exclusively at the new Performance Manufacturing Center in Marysville, Ohio, using domestic and globally sourced parts.

Honda Civic MMC for Malaysia, official press release

HONDA UNVEILS NEW CIVIC WITH ENHANCED

PREMIUM FEATURES AND YOUTHFUL APPEARANCE

• Attractive enhancement with safety upgrades, advanced features and price reduction for all three variants of 1.8L S, 2.0L S and 2.0L Navi
• Honda Malaysia targets to sell 625 units per month

Petaling Jaya, 20 November 2014 – Honda Malaysia unveiled the New Civic today with value-added features, smart technologies and it comes with a bolder appearance with new front grille design and aggressive-looking lower grille assembly.

The New Civic is even more attractive with Honda Malaysia’s announcement of the new pricing, which is a reduction from the current price. The on-the-road price tag for 1.8L S is now at RM113,800, 2.0L S is at RM125,800 and 2.0L Navi is at RM132,800. On top of the price reduction, all three variants of the New Civic attained added features which provide better value to the customers.

Civic 1.8L S	Civic 2.0L S	Civic 2.0L Navi
ü  Smart Entry with Push Start Button ü  Auto Headlamp ü  Cruise Control ü  Chrome Handle	ü  Side Curtain Airbags (6 Airbags) ü  Auto Headlamp	ü  Side Curtain Airbags (6 Airbags) ü  Auto Headlamp ü  New Enhanced  7” Display Audio  + HDMI / Navigation / MirrorLink

Table: Upgraded features of the New Civic

Honda Malaysia Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Mr.Yoichiro Ueno said, “The upgrades and enhancements in the New Civic are based on our customers’ feedback and from our evaluation of the market expectations. We are determined to deliver customer satisfaction at the highest level by providing high quality products with the best value for money in order to increase the joy of owning a Honda car.” Incorporating the “Youthful and Premium” concept, the New Civic introduced with smart technologies and safety features is targeting at working adults, young families and urbanites who demands for a stylish yet practical daily companion for their busy, exciting and varied lifestyles.

The engine platform of the New Civic for 1.8L delivers maximum output of 141PS and 174NM while the 2.0L delivers 155PS and 190NM. The trusted SOHC i-VTEC powertrain combined with a five speed automatic transmission gearbox delivers high level driving performance while achieving better fuel economy. The smart ECO Assist function guides the driver to drive more efficiently and the ECON Mode button improves the vehicle’s fuel efficiency with a push of a button.

In terms of exterior, the New Civic appears more aggressive with the new front grille and lower grille assembly. The 1.8L variant comes with 16-inch alloy wheel while the 2.0L obtains the 17-inch.

Additionally, an upgrade for the 1.8L S and 2.0L S includes the refinement of its interior door handle where the thickness and quality of material has been improved by 30% and the 2.0L Navi variant is refined with ‘Piano Black Finish’. The 2.0L Navi is also further enhanced with a futuristic cockpit featuring 7” Display Audio with Navigation, HDMI and MirrorLink. All three variants are equipped with the advanced Smart Entry with Push Start button for extra convenience to the customers.

With safety being a commitment and priority for Honda, the New Civic will be equipped with highest safety specifications as all three variants comes with Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system that combines with Motion Adaptive EPS (Electronic Power Steering) system to stabilize the vehicle and driving controls during understeer and oversteer conditions. Through the innovation of Honda’s Advance Compability Engineering (ACE) body structure, it provides improved crash compatibility between different sizes of vehicles. The New Civic is now equipped with 6 Airbags (2.0L S and 2.0L Navi variants). Customers of the 9^th Generation Civic would be pleased to note that the Civic is known for being a safe family sedan with a 5-star ASEAN NCAP achievement.

Sales target for the New Civic is 7,500 units a year which is an increase of 44% compared to when it was first launched in 2012. Moreover, the 9^th Generation Civic has contributed more than 16,900 units of sales as of October 2014. The much loved Civic in Malaysia has sold more than 75,000 units since the introduction of the 7^th Generation in 2003. The New Civic will feature a new colour (Twilight Blue) added into the lineup of existing colours of Taffeta White, Alabaster Silver Metallic, Modern Steel Metallic and Crystal Black Pearl. Currently, the waiting period for the New Civic is one month upon booking.

The New Civic will also carry one of the most attractive after-sales service packages of 5-year warranty with unlimited mileage, service interval of 10,000 km and free labour service up to 6 visits for every alternate paid service until 100,000km.

For more information on the New Civic or to book a test drive, visit any of the 78 authorized Honda dealers nationwide or please call Honda’s Toll Free number at 1-800-88-2020, or log on to www.honda.com.my.

New Civic Type-R video

Honda has published a new teaser video featuring the 10G Civic Type-R. Many of the new info from the recent press release are repeated in this video, including confirmation that the engine will be 2.0l VTEC Turbo with a max power of over 280ps and a red-line of 7,000rpm. And that it will be the most hardcore and highest performing Type-R, even faster, it is claimed, than the legendary NSX-R. The link to the video is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oAHI9XD8nzA.

New : High resolution photo of Honda's Formula-1 engine

Honda has published an official page for their Formula-1 engine that they will be supplying to the McLaren team as part of their joint F1 racing efforts in next year's season. The page can be accessed by going to the link http://world.honda.com/Formula-1/powerunit/05/ .

Honda has also provided a high resolution photo of the engine which is only available for download by media. We have downloaded that photo for you below.

Honda will also be providing a video of the F1 engine on October 6th so make sure to visit their worldwide website at http://world.honda.com on that date.

Honda also provided the following comments by Yasuhisa Arai, Senior Managing Officer of Honda R&D Co., Ltd., who is heading the F1 Project: 

"Working toward Honda's F1 participation starting in the 2015 season, development of the power unit is entering its prime phase at our R&D facility in Sakura (Tochigi, Japan), where we transferred our automobile motor sports development earlier this year. In addition to conducting simulations, we have moved onto the next stage where we conduct full-fledged bench tests of the engine while connecting the turbocharger and energy recovery systems. In the meantime, our racing operation base in Milton Keynes, United Kingdom, has become fully operational. At this time, we are unveiling an image of our power unit that is under development. The whole team is concentrating on this development, getting ready for the forthcoming start of F1 participation in 6 months. Please stay tuned for further updates."

Honda Europe Press Release : New 10G Civic Type-R

All-new Honda Civic Type R: unrivalled against the brand's iconic performance flagship models

Highlights: 

• Unmatched performance compared to all previous Type R cars, including Civic, Integra, Accord and NSX
• Thrilling turbocharged 2.0 litre i-VTEC engine producing more than 280 PS, sets new standards on power, torque and engine response
• All-new ‘+R’ mode for enhanced on-track driving thrills
• High-revving performance red-lining at 7,000 rpm, mated to slick-shifting six-speed manual transmission
• Innovative new four-point adaptive damper system delivers ultimate handling for enthusiastic driving
• Additional ‘steer axis’ system minimises torque steer for exceptional traction
• Striking luminous blue Type R Concept model shown on Honda stand

With the automotive world about to descend on the 2014 Mondial de l’Automobile, Honda has released exciting new details about its eagerly anticipated Civic Type R.

The all-new hot hatch – due in European showrooms next year – will be the most extreme Type R yet, signalling the start of a new performance era for the brand.

Power will come from a 2.0-litre i-VTEC engine from Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology series. Developing over 280 PS, it will deliver unmatched performance compared to any previous Type R car. That includes all generations of the Civic, plus the iconic performance-oriented versions of the Integra, Accord and even the NSX.

While complying with strict Euro 6 emissions regulations, this is a Honda Type R powerplant like no other. While its predecessors were naturally aspirated, the new unit benefits from a turbocharger, boosting low-end power delivery. Combined with the high-end performance that’s synonymous with Honda’s VTEC technology – and much-loved by enthusiastic Type R owners – they will deliver a sensational driving experience.

Suehiro Hasshi, Large Project Leader for the Civic Type R at Honda R&D, commented: “Honda has had four Type R model derivatives – the Civic, Integra, Accord and NSX. The engine in this new Honda Civic Type R is unrivalled against all of them in terms of raw power, torque and engine response.”

Hasshi-san emphasised the car’s appeal will be far greater than (just simply) a new high-performance engine under the bonnet. A number of engineering innovations and enhancements will make the new Civic Type R a true driver’s car, worthy of wearing the famous red ‘H’ badge.

For example, the Civic Type R will mark the debut of Honda’s new ‘+R’ button. Located to the side of the steering wheel, once pressed it activates ‘+R‘ mode for the most exhilarating driving experience. The engine response is heightened, with torque-mapping changed to a more aggressive and performance-focused setting. Steering becomes more responsive and, together with the new four-point Adaptive Damper System, delivers the ultimate handling experience.

Hasshi explained: “In default standard mode, the Civic Type R is exceptionally agile, an everyday sports  car with an enjoyable and fluid acceleration. The  ‘+R’ button brings out a more dynamic and athletic car for the driver, to set pulses racing. The difference in character is immense. The ‘+R’ mode is extreme; the car is ideal for track use and will be appreciated by the genuine sports-driving enthusiast.”

Another example of Honda’s innovative approach is the car’s ‘steer axis’. In order to deliver the power of the turbocharged 2.0-litre i-VTEC engine, the new Civic Type R’s front suspension system includes this additional mechanical system involving two supporting ‘kingpins’. They minimise torque steer and allows the driver to fully exploit the car’s exceptional driveability.

Furthermore, a new four-point Adaptive Damper System has been developed specifically for the Civic Type R. It automatically adjusts the front and rear suspension damping force stiffness in a split second, based on driving conditions. This allows the new Civic Type R to provide a comfortable ride during cruising, yet become firm and agile when high-performance handling is required.

The new Civic Type R will follow in the footsteps of its predecessors with a six-speed manual transmission. The development team selected this option to maximise driving enjoyment.

Hasshi explained: “The manual transmission allows the drivers to select the gear they want, for example, down from fifth to third when approaching a corner. The concept of the new Civic Type R is to be the complete driver’s car so this was the best option.”

The all-new Civic Type R has been developed and engineered for European driving tastes. To be built at Honda’s state-of-the-art plant in Swindon, UK, it will arrive in dealerships during 2015.

Type R History (provided in the Honda Europe press release)

1992 First Generation NSX Type R (Available in Japan only)

This car marked the beginning of the Type R story. The aim was to develop a car which delivered overwhelming driving pleasure and the speed of a racing car. The design language of NSX Type R echoes the image of an F1 racing machine. This was also the first time that the red Honda Emblem and Championship White body colour was introduced.

Engine: 3.0L Six-cylinder DOHC VTEC

Maximum Output: 280PS / 7,300 rpm

Maximum Torque: 30.0kg · m / 5,400 rpm

1995 First Generation Integra Type R (Available in Japan only)

Engine: 1.8L Four-cylinder DOHC VTEC

Maximum Output: 200PS / 8,000 rpm

Maximum Torque: 18.5kg · m / 7,500 rpm

1997 First Generation Civic Type R (Available in Japan only)

Engine: 1.6L Four-cylinder DOHC VTEC

Maximum Output: 185PS / 8,200 rpm

Maximum Torque: 16.3kg · m / 7,500 rpm

1998 Integra Type R (Available in Europe and U.S. This was the first Type R model introduced in Europe)

Engine: 1.8L Four-cylinder DOHC VTEC

Maximum Output: 190PS / 8,000 rpm

Maximum Torque: 178 N · m / 7,300 rpm

1999 Accord Type R (Available in Europe only)

Engine: 2.2L Four-cylinder DOHC i-VTEC

Maximum Output: 212PS / 7,200 rpm

Maximum Torque: 215N · m / 6,700 rpm

2001 Second Generation Integra Type R (Available in Japan only)

Engine: 2.0L Four-cylinder DOHC i-VTEC

Maximum Output: 162kW [220PS] / 8,000 rpm

Maximum Torque: 206N · m [21.0kg · m] / 7,000 rpm

2001 Second Generation Civic Type R (First Civic Type R available in Europe)

Engine: 2.0L Four-cylinder DOHC i-VTEC

Maximum Output: 162kW [220PS] / 8,000 rpm

Maximum Torque: 206N · m [21.0kg · m] / 7,000 rpm

European version:

Engine: 2.0L Four-cylinder DOHC i-VTEC

Maximum Output: 200PS / 7,400 rpm

Maximum Torque: 196N · m / 5,900 rpm

2002 Second Generation NSX Type R (Available in Japan only)  

Engine: 3.2L 6 cylinder DOHC VTEC

Maximum Output: 206kW [280PS] / 7,300 rpm

Maximum Torque: 304N · m [31.0kg · m] / 5,300 rpm

2007 Third Generation Civic Type R

Engine: 2.0L Four-cylinder DOHC i-VTEC

Maximum Output: 165kW [225PS] / 8,000 rpm

Maximum Torque: 215N · m [21.9kg · m] / 6,100 rpm

2007 Third Generation Civic Type R (European Version)

Engine: 2.0L Four-cylinder DOHC i-VTEC

Maximum Output: 148kW [201PS] / 7,800 rpm

Maximum Torque: 193N · m /5,600 rpm

New rumour - 2G S2000 coming, 2G NSX delayed

One of our members with insider connections told us this latest 'news':

1)The 2G S2000 just got the greenlight from Management.
 

It will be hybrid and MR. The engine will be a version of the CTR Engine, redesigned to be higher revving than the one in the CTR. Unlike current IMA implementations however, here, the electric motor will be used to counter the effect of turbo-lag. I.e. it will be used to supply low-end torque to fill in the 'gaps' in the powerband when the turbocharger is spooling up. Gearbox will be Honda's i-DCD with a '50/50' odds of a manual version as well. He also thinks Honda will be looking at making it a 2+2 instead of the original 2-seater. 

This new 2G S2000 will be built in Ohio next to the new 2G NSX. 

2)Speaking of the 2G NSX, it seems that Nurburgring fire will now delay it from 6-12 months ! This means the new 2G NSX will now be launched in 2016 instead of the original plan of 2015.

As usual, all these 'info' are un-verified.

New 2G NSX spied at the Nurburgring

At last, spy photos have been taken of the new 2G Honda/Acura NSX being tested at the Nurburgring, under heavy camouflage. Many have been saying that the development schedule of the new NSX have slipped as it was originally supposed to make a hill run at the famous Goodwood Festival of Speed event last month. As a result, the car's debut which is supposed to be in Detroit Motor Show beginning of next year is also in doubt. Nevertheless, we still believe the new NSX will debut next year, maybe towards the end of the year. 

According to the latest insider infor, Honda has scrapped their original plan of using a transverse MR platform in favor of a longitudinal layout with a bespoke 90-degree twin-turbo V6. This powerplant is paired with an electric SH-AWD system and a dual clutch transmission, and the latest rumors peg the output of this system to total more than 600hp. The price however is expected to be at Ferrari/Porsche mad levels. 

More photos at our TOV News and Rumours report at http://vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=1198056

Technical details behind the Honda airbag recall

A number of manufacturers have recently issued urgent recalls for their vehicle's airbags. Here are the technical details for the background to those recalls.   

Basically, Honda is one of the manufacturers who source their airbags from Takata. One of our insiders sums it up very precisely in our TOV/TOVA forums :

4G CR-V MMC coming soon for the U.S.

Spy shots of the MMC CR-V for the U.S. is showing up on the net now. We (TOV/TOVA) were offered the shots but Jeff decided not to take them because he felt the changes were relatively mild. 

Good call as the shots were taken up by another site www.autos.ca who have already published them. Checking the spy shots, we can see new wheels and reworked plastics on the front and rear - new bumpers, new font grill, and a possibility of DRLs (Daylight driving lights). The headlights are projector type possibly with HID (btw, the current ASEAN CR-V 2.4s already have HIDs). 

Other TOVers have also noticed turn signal lights on the door mirrors  which suggests Lanewatch camera on the Right side mirror. Plus a tiny square button on the driver's side door handle - which suggests push button start/keyless entry for the U.S. in this MMC (which is surprising because ASEAN 2.4 CR-Vs are already getting keyless entry).

The feature photo here is taken from the autos.ca website but you should visit their website to see their full set of photos. Their url is http://www.autos.ca/general-news/spied-facelifted-honda-cr-v-caught-testing-new-sheetmetal/

New CTR teaser at Honda UK website !

As a sure sign that the 2015 debut date for the super new 10G Civic Type-R is on schedule is the new CTR teaser page on Honda U.K.'s website. The link is at http://www.honda.co.uk/cars/campaigns/2014/civic-type-r/ and the anchor photo is a screen capture off that page. Of course no details are given but the photos at least are awesome. Check it out (warning, network intensive).