Hyundai The New Honda In Engine Design Leadership

 

By Paul Niedermeyer

Honda has always been proud of the word “Motor” in its name. It’s the world’s largest producer of internal combustion engines (all those lawnmowers), and has a long history of engine technology leadership. From the CVCC to VTEC and the recent i-VTEC, Honda was a consistent leader, especially in high-efficiency and high-output four cylinder engines. No more. The Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) revolution is on in full force, and most major manufacturers have released or announced state-of-the-art DI engine programs. And none more convincingly than Hyundai, with its new 200 hp 2.4 liter Theta II GDI. Where’s Honda’s? While we’re waiting, let’s take a closer look at Hyundai’s:

Gasoline Direct injection has been around some fifteen years, when Mitsubishi introduced its GDI engine in Japan and Europe. But the Mitsubishi approach, which was imitated by many manufacturers, involved the tricky stratified charge ignition of a super-lean mixture, which takes place under low-load operation. The technical challenges of managing that approach and resultant emission problems have increasingly made that a sideline, especially in the more stringent emission limits of the US market. Honda and most other manufacturers have versions of that technology in their domestic markets.

Meanwhile, the technology of super-high pressure injection systems for diesel engines have been adapted to gas engines without the stratified charge ultra-lean mode. GM jumped on the bandwagon back in 2004, and its latest 2.4 L four in the  Buick La Crosse, Chevy Equinox and GMC Terrain have class-leading EPA numbers. And Ford has committed to GDI across its line, beginning with its Eco-Boost engines. Hyundai has also announce a wholesale adoption of GDI, and their new four has class-leading specifications.

As this chart shows, Hyundai’s GDI will deliver the goods with not only improved horsepower and torque numbers compared to the non GDI Honda, Ford and Toyota, as well as its claim of a 10% mileage improvement. With 200 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, Hyundai has wisely decided to kill the V6 option in the 2011 Sonata.For a detailed press release of the Theta II GDI, click here:

This chart also shows an anomaly with GM’s GDI four that isn’t readily explainable. GM’s EPA estimates for the 2011 Regal (20/30) are strangely low, considering that the same engine/transmission combo achieves a 22/32 rating in the heavier and much less aerodynamic Equinox/Terrain  CUVs. It’s not like GM to trumpet low mileage estimates.

Undoubtedly, Honda (and Toyota) will have current-technology GDI coming, but their reputation for leadership has clearly taken a hit. Not only have the Hyundai/Kia combination surpassed Honda in global vehicle sales, but now also in engine technology.

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Ford Gaining On Honda And Toyota In Perceived Quality

Among mainstream brands, consumers still rate Honda and Toyota highest in quality—whether that is or isn't the case on actual quality surveys. But Ford is quickly gaining ground. That's according to the latest Perceived Quality Study (PQS), from residual values expert Automotive Leasing Guide (ALG).

Perceived quality sometimes fails to mirror actual quality. Here, there's no better example than Volkswagen, which ALG says has maintained a strong perceived level of quality even though the brand has placed low in actual metrics for quality.

"Volkswagen’s emotionally appealing designs have helped strengthen perceptions of its overall brand and lift VW into third place,” said ALG general manager James Clark, in a release accompanying the results. ALG points to the recently launched Volkswagen Tiguan and CC as image-boosters.

Honda’s emphasis on engines and engineering might pay off in dividends with respect to perceived quality. ALG observes out that if a consumer thinks that a brand has reliable engines, they will rate other vehicle characteristics high as well. Both Honda and Toyota "consistently score high in perceived quality, actual quality, and residual values because they have maintained a long history of quality with specific focus on durable and reliable powertrains."

Another reason ALG attributes to the continued lofty perceptions of Toyota and  Honda are consistent lifecycle management—meaning that major redesigns occur at regular intervals (typically five years) with enhancements in between. Minimized incentives and fleet sales have also helped boost residual value and bolster perceptions.

2010 Ford Flex

The 2010 Ford Taurus SHO uses the new 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, which pairs gasoline direct injection with twin turbochargers to generate an estimated 365 horsepower.

 

Over the past year, perhaps because of the failure of GM and Chrysler, there have been some pronounced changes in perceived quality. Ford has surged, with Ford Cars showing a 10.1 percent year-over-year boost in the PQS. ALG attributes the successful launches of the 2010 Ford F-150 and 2010 Ford Flex, plus the 2010 Taurus and the hype around the 2011 Ford Fiesta.

Hyundai also did well, rising 5.5 percent in the study versus a year ago, demonstrating that more shoppers perceive the once no-frills brand in a very positive way. ALG attributes the Hyundai Assurance Program and its strong performance in the Cash for Clunkers program, along with the new Genesis Coupe and sedan.

The Chrysler brand ranked at the bottom, with an 11.9-percent drop perceived quality. ALG says that some refreshed products like the redesigned 2011 Chrysler 300 might help bridge the gap. "However, the uncertainty about the brand's future and the significant time lag between today and the arrival of new products are obvious concerns for Chrysler.

Saturn, Pontiac, and Chevrolet were also down significantly in perceived quality, likely due to GM's bankruptcy filing this year rather than any difference in real quality.

The results of this survey are important, as perceived quality is one of many factors used in assessing a vehicle's residual value, which affects resale value and predicts resale value.

The twice-yearly survey was conducted by Zogby International and based on between 3,000 and 4,000 responses.

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2010 Honda CR-V Bottom Line

To properly review the 2010 Honda CR-V, the vehicle experts at TheCarConnection.com have first driven and used this utility vehicle the way that it would in the real world, then picked out the best tips and observations from around the Web.

The Honda CR-V was last significantly redesigned for 2007; at that time it grew slightly and was given an much more space-efficient interior. While some rivals cram three rows of seating into a vehicle this size, the 2010 CR-V sticks with two, and seating for five.

Depending on how you see it, the exterior of the 2010 Honda CR-V is understatedly attractive, plain, or a little weird. The rounded overall shape with a mix of sheet metal creases and arcs looks well proportioned from some angled but awkward from others. Inside, the CR-V strikes a better design balance and should appeal to nearly everyone. The upright instrument panel is a bit too upright and butch-SUV in styling, but it uses some pleasant contrasting materials and bright accents.

Despite the tall driving perch, the CR-V drives pretty much like an economical, comfort-oriented sedan; handling feels stable but not very sporty. An improved all-wheel-drive system is available, and it works with the stability control system to send power to the wheels where it's needed most. Honda has stuck with a single power train for the CR-V—a 2.4-liter four-cylinder making 166 horsepower, with a five-speed automatic transmission—even though many other models in its class offer an optional V-6. Given shoppers’ preference toward smaller engines over the past year or two, that looks like a smart decision. The engine does just fine in the CR-V, feeling surprisingly smooth and refined, with enough power for all but high-speed passing with a heavy load. Our only complaint is that the transmission is hesitant to downshift, resulting in lost momentum on steep grades. Fuel economy is impressive in the CR-V, with EPA highway estimates ranging up to 27 mpg.

The interior of the 2010 Honda CR-V is very spacious and can accommodate five adults rather comfortably (only four if you have broad-shouldered passengers in the backseat). The shifter is located at the bottom of the dash, in a layout more like that used for some minivans, but that allows more open space. The backseat itself is split into two sections and folds down to a completely flat cargo floor. Altogether, it feels larger and usable than some other vehicles in this class because of the rather low cargo floor (making it easier to load) combined with the tall roof. The hatch opens upward, rather than to the side.

Safety features are a priority in a family-friendly vehicle like the CR-V, and it has all the features that are now expected, including electronic stability control, anti-lock braking, front side airbags, and side curtain airbags as standard. But the Honda CR-V is a safety superstar—quite possibly the safest vehicle in its class—because of its excellent ratings in both major crash-test programs. It gets five-star ratings for frontal and side impact in the federal government's crash tests, as well as straight "good" ratings—the best—from the IIHS. The CR-V has also been an IIHS Top Safety Pick.

As in most Hondas, the top options are only offered on the most expensive, luxurious trims. If you can live with a somewhat basic features list, you’ll find the CR-V a bargain. That said, the base LX and mid-grade EX are quite well-equipped, but the top-of-the-line EX-L adds many of the most desirable features like dual-zone climate control, a power driver's seat, and a premium audio system. The navigation system with backup camera is optional, only on the EX-L. CHECK ON BLUETOOTH

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The Coveted Civic Type R Gets a Facelift

 

A benchmark in its own class with a cult following, the Honda Civic Type R has been given a minor makeover, as it continues to evoke the desire for performance and technology amongst Malaysians. Speed, Control and Perfection - the Type R brings performance to a new level as it allows drivers to be in control of the power within.

Speed, Control and Perfection - the Type R brings performance to a new level as it allows drivers to be in control of the power within.

The New Civic Type R is given a bolder look by incorporating diamond cluster tail and stop lights.

The stylish interiors of the New Civic Type R.

The New Civic Type R is now made to look more aggressive with the rear combination lamps redesigned to give a bolder look by incorporating diamond cluster tail and stop lights. The side mirrors are now power retractable for convenience and safety. Not forgetting the interiors, the New Civic Type R is now spotted with a new radio player complete with USB port, giving drivers the extra joy of being behind the wheels of an acknowledged performance car.

Commenting on the launch of the new Civic Type R, Mr. Toru Takahashi, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Honda Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. said, "The Type R is in a class of its own, having achieved cult status with a huge following in Malaysia, whether directly or indirectly. We are pleased to constantly improve on our products and services to fulfill the demands of the market, bringing the joy of ownership to our customers."

"The Type R is designed for high performance at high speed, symbolically reflected by the invigorating Championship White and its sleek black and red trademark inside. While maintaining safety for both driver and passengers, the Type R gives speed and control to drivers at their fingertips. It is a true driver's car," added Mr. Takahashi.

Type R was first introduced in 1992 on the NSX as a specially tuned model that provided racing car-like feel. It was later extended to the Integra in 1995, and the Civic in 1997 in response to meeting customers' request for more opportunities to own a Type R. Malaysia is the only country in the world, besides Japan that is making available this version of the Civic Type R. To date, there are close to 200 units on Malaysian roads.

The Civic Type R is well recognised worldwide for its driving performance, futuristic design, functionality and efficiency. In Malaysia, it is well received and was named as Car of the Year in the performance car category for the Autocar Asean Car of the Year Awards 2008 and New Straits Times/Maybank Car of the Year 2008 Awards.

On a different note, Honda Malaysia recently treated 48 Civic Type R owners, their guests and winners of the Civic Type R Challenge online contest to a Track Day event at the Sepang International Circuit. They had the opportunity to put their vehicle on the tracks to test and discover its full performance potential.

"The Honda Civic Type R was my first choice of vehicle due to its performance, fun-to-drive element and its ideal size but what closed the deal was the after sales service which truly impressed me. The Track Day was very well organised and I truly enjoyed myself especially at the ‘slalom' challenge where we had to zigzag between cones at a fast speed. I was able to test my handling and driving skills on the vehicle. It was also then that I discovered the handling of the Type R which was to my amazement, really good!", said Amirul Imran bin Amirin, a 30 years old Engineer.

"Our customers are our priority. In showing our appreciation for their support and loyalty, the track day event provided them with the optimum and yet safe environment to test their Type R, pushing the limits of the vehicle while discovering its performance. We were also able to obtain direct feedbacks and ways to improve on our products and services", commented Takahashi on the Type R Owners Track Day event.

Check out the latest edition of Civic Type R at your nearest authorised Honda Showroom today! For more information, please call Honda Toll Free number at 1-800-88-2020 or visit www.honda.com.my.

2009 Honda Pilot Review

 

The 2009 Honda Pilot, Automobile reports, “looks like a more muscular caricature of its predecessor, with enormous headlights, a menacing grille, and thick C-pillars.” The transformation from the previous Pilot is complete; while the 2008 model looked lean and vanlike, the 2009 Honda Pilot “tries hard to look more like a utility and less like a minivan,” Edmunds says. They call the look “bluff and hearty, like an American wearing a simple white T-shirt,” but point out its “self-consciously truck-style grille that strikes the same note of authenticity as a sumo wrestler wearing a belt buckle from the Salinas Rodeo.”

The grille on the 2009 Honda Pilot is a lightning rod for critics. USAToday thinks the Pilot is “not swoopy and sexy like the CX-9, nor graceful like the GM's GMC/Saturn models,” in part because of its “big, ugly grille—a visual sore point.” They also refer to the Pilot’s proportions as “off a bit,” though Cars.com thinks there are some “interesting angles in the liftgate near the taillamps.” Car and Driver says, “there are more right angles on the thing than you’ll find in a T-square factory.”

In the end, most reviewers found the Pilot “boxy-looking (and, to my eye, stodgy),” BusinessWeek reports. “The new model looks more friendly than tough,” the Detroit News adds. “None of its edges are sharp; instead, it's soft and curvy.”

The 2009 Honda Pilot’s interior is radically changed from the previous car as well, and it’s not entirely successful. “The interior is the biggest upgrade for the 2009 Pilot,” Automobile says. “The instrument cluster is especially cool, with black numbers floating on a transparent surface and orange needles below.” Motor Trend thinks its “3D-look analog gauges” are “highly legible,” but its “center stack layout [is] a trifle busy, especially in Touring trim.” Cars.com notes the “new dash” and its “white-faced gauges and translucent turquoise trim,” and thinks “the design works well.” The Detroit News observes that the “center stack, when the navigation system is included, becomes a confusing mess of buttons, switches and knobs.”

Conclusion

The 2009 Honda Pilot takes a new direction in styling, with a cumbersome grille and a dash with too many buttons.

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Honda opens new Asia, Oceania R&D centre

Honda R&D Asia Pacific (HRAP) was officially launched today with the Minister of Industry, Mr. Chanchai Chairungruang, presiding over the inaugural ceremony.

The primary focus of this new centre is to address the rapidly changing consumer needs and market demands as well as strengthening Honda’s competitiveness in Asia and Oceania region.

“Today’s opening of Honda R&D Asia Pacific represents an important step in Honda’s history and commitment to Thailand, which has become one of our core operation bases for motorcycles, automobiles and power products. We are currently producing 3.3 million units of Honda products annually for export to more than 80 countries around the world. We have steadily grown our Thailand functions into an important operation for Honda, not only in the Asia-Oceania region, but also for global markets,” said Mr. Fumihiko Ike, President & Chief Executive Officer, Asian Honda Motor Co.

“Honda, as a frontrunner in the environmental area in Thailand, is working to develop a variety of fuel-efficient vehicles including one for the Eco-car project that was initiated by the Thai government. We are now developing a new small car that meets Eco-car requirements and making every effort to introduce it in the near future. With today’s opening of HRAP, Honda will further accelerate the development of this Eco-car.”

“Since it was established in Thailand 45 years ago, Honda has been one of the leading global automobile manufacturers that have continuously worked with the government to develop Thailand’s automotive industry,” said Mr. Chanchai Chairungruang, Minister of Industry.

“This includes manufacturing both automobiles and motorcycles, creating a parts supply chain, and establishing its regional headquarters in Thailand.  Today’s opening of its automobile research and development centre represents Honda’s commitment as a private sector company to support the government’s policy to further develop Thailand’s automotive industry.  This new R&D Centre will also promote technology transfer and skills development while generating employment in the country.”

The new Honda R&D Centre will accelerate local content development to help stimulate the Thai and regional automotive industry.

All Honda Malaysia cars can use RON95, except Civic Type R

Honda Malaysia today announced that all models distributed by the company are compatible with petrol RON95 (Research Octane Number 95). The Company announced this following the government's decision to increase the price of RON97, along with the introduction of a more affordable option, RON95, which will replace RON92. The new fuel is available at RM1.80 per litre effective 1^st September 2009.

Honda Accord 2.0 VTi-L.

Honda's premium sedan-driving SUV in a new sophisticated colour - Taffeta White.

As RON97 is most commonly used, many are doubtful in switching to fuel with lower RON. Honda Malaysia assured all Honda drivers that RON95 should not affect any model distributed by its authorised dealers with the exception of Civic Type R.

"Since 2001, all Honda cars require a minimum RON91, hence, any number above the minimum RON is safe. The switch therefore will not affect the performance and fuel efficiency of the vehicle. Compromisation of performance and fuel efficiency will only occur when the RON is lower than the minimum requirement," said Mr. Toru Takahashi, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Honda Malaysia.

"Except for Civic Type R, of which we recommend RON97 because of its high performance engine. A higher RON will thus produce more power for this performance sedan. Otherwise, the performance and fuel consumption may be affected," he added. 

In the event when fuel with lower RON is used, a condition called engine knocking will happen, which will result in reduced performance and fuel efficiency.

In order to prevent engine knocking, all models from Honda Malaysia are equipped with knock sensors. Knock sensors are detectors that signal engine operation to slow down the ignition timing (spark plug action) in case of engine knocking, which would consequently affect the vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency. These knock sensors can also run on fuel with a minimum octane number of 91.

For models distributed before 2001 or distributed by non-authorised Honda dealers, owners are advised to cross check the vehicle's minimum RON requirement by referring to their owner's manual.

For more information, please visit www.honda.com.my or call 1-800-88-2020 for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What exactly is RON?

RON stands for Research Octane Number, which measures the quality of fuel. It represents the fuel's ability to resist premature & uncontrolled combustion that occurs when fuel pre-ignites before the ignition spark plug.

2. What is engine knocking?

Engine knocking is caused by self-ignition of the fuel or air mixture, which is a result of using RON levels that is lower than the minimum requirement.

3. What is the minimum RON requirement of my Honda Car?

For all Honda cars produced in year 2001 onwards, the minimum RON requirement is 91. Honda cars are equipped with 'Knock Sensors' that detect the octane quality of the fuel used, enabling it to automatically adjust spark timing to prevent engine knocking.

We advice drivers that bought their cars from non-authorised dealers to check their owner's manual for minimum RON requirement.

4. Type-R RON Issue

It is recommended to use RON97 for Civic Type R because of its high performance engine, as it was tested in Japan with RON100 for optimum engine performance. Please note that this engine version with knock control can also run on fuel with a minimum octane number of 91; but performance and fuel consumption are affected as a result.

5. What is a Knock Sensor? Are all Honda cars equipped with Knock Sensors?

A knock sensor is a detector, which identifies engine knocking during spark ignition. When engine knocking occurs, the knock sensor signals the engine operation to slow down the ignition timing that will eliminate the knock, which may result in some power loss.

All Honda cars are equipped with Knock Sensor.

6. What fuel should I use & what RON works best for my car?

As long as the fuel used is not below the minimum RON requirement (RON91), it will be appropriate for all Honda Cars.

7. What is the effect to the engine if petrol of a different RON is mixed together?

As long as the fuel meets or exceeds the minimum RON required by the engine, mixing is fine & should not damage your engine. (except Civic Type R, recommended RON97). However, do note that different fuel brands come with different levels & types of additives, so mixing different fuels may not provide the optimum performance & efficiency for your vehicle.

8. Do I have to always pick the highest octane rating petrol for my vehicle?

Anything above the minimum RON requirement, which is RON91 for all Honda cars will be appropriate. (except Civic Type R, recommended RON97).

9. Will there be a reduction of fuel efficiency & performance with the use of RON95 from RON97?

The efficiency & performance will not be affected  if the car uses above its minimum requirement RON which is RON91 for all Honda Cars. (except Civic Type R, recommended RON97). Loss of power & fuel efficiency will only occur when the minimum RON requirement is not met as the knock sensor signals the engine operations to retard its spark timing to eliminate engine knock.

Honda 2010 Super GT Series

Honda To Race Shelved V10 NSX-Replacement Model At 2010 Super GT Series

When news broke out that Honda was pulling the NSX out of all Super GT competition a number of questions arose among the fans. One of the most nagging ones was what will replace the current NSX GT racer for the 2010 season considering Honda had already confirmed it’s participation in the 2010 Super GT series where new regulations require all race cars to be of Front-Rear layout.

Earlier this month, fans of the NSX GT saw the last race at the Twin Ring Motegi Circuit in Japan. In its 13 years of racing since it’s debut back in 1997, the NSX has claimed 49 poles with 36 race wins from 105 starts. With such an illustrious race career, it is unsurprising then that Honda will continue racing in the series, but not with the NSX, not even the FR S2000 but Honda will race none other than it’s shelved FR Super Sports V10 – the original NSX replacement model.

According to reports, the shelved project, which had to be put on permanent hold along with Honda’s F1 involvement due to the economic crisis, will find new life as the base for the GT car in the 2010 season.

As to the ability of the car to handle race conditions, the FR V10 was apparently under going development on a Super GT variant before it was given the axe, so the car is pretty much ready for race use.

The GT racer’s original release was to coincide with the release of the road going version into the market but not anymore. It seems sure that the race version of the car will be released next year but not for the road going version. We don’t know if it ever will but with the changing of times and economic conditions plus a few race wins, we’re sure that the FR V10 Super Sport will make it to the road.

The FR V10 Super Sport is obviously not a production model so Honda will have to obtain special permission from the organisers of the Super GT to allow the car to compete in the GT500. If that happens, Honda will also be off the homologation hook as there will be no need for the production of a limited run of V10s to allow the car to compete, something that has happened before in the past with the NSX-R GT.

Details are still scarce at this point but it is believed that Honda will be releasing more details shortly.

2010 Honda Accord Crosstour

First Drive: 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour goes down the road nicely… but is that enough

We hadn’t been parked but a minute or two when it happened.

After about a half an hour wringing out our test subject on what few curvy stretches of road suburban Detroit had to offer, we opportunistically pulled into a roadside fruit stand to snap a few photos before our ride got any dirtier. It was at exactly this point that a Lincoln MKZ rolled up, a window whirred down, and two gray-tufted heads popped out. “What is it?” inquired the couple in boisterous unison. Silence. “It’s the 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour,” we eventually blurt out, my co-driver sounding suspiciously apologetic. “It’s… it’s gorgeous!” The late-sixty-something man isn’t being facetious – in fact, he’s gushing – taking his hands off the Lincoln’s wheel and gesturing as if to reinforce his sincerity.