Consumer Reports Releases Ratings

Honda's 2011 Fit won Best Value and Best Used Small Car

Honda topped Consumer Reports' annual rankings of automakers for 2011. No Honda product scores less than average in reliability and CR recommends 76% of Hondas it has tested. Recent Honda models including the CR-Z and Insight have been disappointing and have not been recommended due to their low score. The redesigned Odyssey is also down a couple of points compared to the 2010 model.

In other categories, the Honda Fit won Best Value for a Small Car along with Best Used Small Car, the Acura TSX 4-cyl won Best Value for Upscale Sedan, the Acura RL won Best Used Luxury Car, the Honda CR-V winning Best Used Compact SUV and the Ridgeline winning Best Used Pickup Truck.

Acura TSX Wagon Review

"Regardless of your position on Acura's brand-identifying proboscis, the TSX is, and has always been, a well-equipped sport sedan. And for 2011 Acura is offering a wagon version as an alternative for those who want the utility of a wagon without the burden of a taller SUV.
Burden, you say? Yes. You see, we're car fans here. And short of a few stiffly sprung German exceptions, SUVs, even crossover SUVs, rarely handle as well as cars. And when they do, they really aren't all that fun to drive. We'll forgo the Newtonian physics needed to explain this phenomenon. Trust us here. SUVs aren't cars. And some people want cars with utility. Us included."

For more on this review, visit Edmunds InsideLine's website @ http://www.insideline.com/acura/tsx-sport-wagon/2011/2011-acura-tsx-sport-wagon-full-test.html

Acura News

Acura TSB

In an Acura TSB issued earlier on November 19 2010, some MDX and TL models may squeak when started. The noise coming from 2007-2008 MDX models and 2008 TLs are caused by the engine's accessory drive belt, as well as a misaligning AC compressor. Using properly sized bolts to hold the compressor in place and replacing the belt will stop the noisy startup.

Popular Mechanics' and Winding Road's 2011 Acura TSX Sports Wagon Review

@ http://www.popularmechanics.com/cars/reviews/drives/2011-acura-tsx-sport-wagon-test-drive?src=rss
@ http://www.windingroad.com/articles/reviews/driven-2011-acura-tsx-sport-wagon/

Acura TSX Wagon Reviews

Initial driving/reviews sound great! Check them out!

http://www.automobilemag.com/reviews/driven/1012_2011_acura_tsx_sport_wagon/index.html
http://www.autoweek.com/article/20101208/CARREVIEWS/101209915

Acura TSX Wagon Pricing Revealed

The 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon arrives in showrooms soon wearing a base price tag of $30,960, not including destination charges.

The Sport Wagon shares most of its basics with the TSX sedan, which showed up to this year's 2010 Los Angeles auto show with some new spiffs of its own. But while the TSX sedan has an entry price of $29,610, the TSX Sport Wagon is $1,350 higher--which roughly accounts for the wagon's standard five-speed automatic transmission and the included shift paddles, which are an option on the four-door.

Standard features on the wagon include a USB port and iPod/iPhone integration; satellite radio; Bluetooth; leather seats, with heating on the front buckets; a sunroof; and roof rails. Opt up to the $34,610 TSX Sport Wagon with the Technology Package, and more features are bundled in, including navigation with voice controls and real-time traffic; a rearview camera; a15GB music hard drive and 415 watts of speaker power; and a power remote-operated tailgate.

What's up with Acura come 2012+?

• Expect a more diluted TL version coming 2012 with a less aggressive front and rear ends. A new Advance Package with blind spot information system and other new technological features will be introduced. 
• The TSX is getting a slightly revised front end and other tweaks along with the new TSX wagon.
• A entry level compact luxury vehicle smaller than the TSX will be shown next year, being edgy and affordable (think Lexus IS). 
• Rumors are calling that the next RL will be somewhat in the form of a Mercedes CLS (4-door sports coupe) but with sufficient room and hybrid/advanced engine fuel efficiency technology being introduced.
• RDX may be losing its turbo engine. 
• ZDX will remain as the top flagship model pushing Acura forward for now. 
• For Canadians, the CSX will no longer be sold come the new entry level compact vehicle. 

Acura Canada Car Deals

2011 Acura TSX Sports Wagon Interior Pics

Nothing too exciting or flashy. Just downright wagon-ness. Lots of cargo space back there!

2011 Acura TSX Sports Wagon

Acura has just unveiled the 2011 Acura TSX sports wagon at the New York Auto Show, this is a direct copy of the European Honda Accord Wagon. The only differences so far looks to be the Acura badging and front end and a slightly more upscale interior. The Sport Wagon will be powered by the same 2.4 4-cylinder engine as the TSX sedan and Acura claims the wagon will reach 30mpg on the highway. It will arrive in Acura dealerships this fall. Here is the Acura Press Release.

NEW YORK, March 31, 2010 – The all-new 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon made its world debut at the New York International Auto Show today. The TSX Sport Wagon offers a smart solution to modern utility needs with its balanced and efficient driving performance coupled with bold styling and versatile cargo capabilities.

"The TSX Sport Wagon represents a smart choice for those seeking a vehicle with utility," said John Mendel, executive vice president, sales. "It's practical, fun to drive, luxurious and technically advanced, all while achieving an outstanding estimated highway fuel economy rating of 30 miles per gallon*."

The TSX Sport Wagon delivers flexible utility and generous interior space- perfect for those with a growing family or an active lifestyle. The TSX Sport Wagon boasts an innovative and highly functional rear cargo space that includes a removable side panel to accommodate wider items such as golf clubs and integrated under-floor bins for hidden storage. Along with this sizeable cargo space, the TSX Sport Wagon features a comfortable and spacious cabin with seating for up to five adults.

The TSX Sport Wagon's practical utility is cleverly masked behind crisp lines and a sleek, European-inspired exterior. Bold wheel arches frame the 17-inch, 5-spoke aluminum wheels, giving the Sport Wagon an aggressive stance. The chiseled, muscular body and sloping roofline emphasize its performance capabilities while making it more aerodynamic.

Powering the TSX Sport Wagon is a 2.4-liter, DOHC i-VTEC®, inline four-cylinder engine paired with a Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission fit with steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters. The TSX Sport Wagon delivers brisk performance while achieving an EPA-estimated 30 mpg* on the highway. Drawing from its sports sedan roots, the TSX Sport Wagon features agile handling and quick off the line acceleration, allowing it to easily tackle a twisty mountain road or swiftly navigate through city streets.

To enhance the driving experience, the TSX Sport Wagon features the latest in advanced technologies including an available hard disk drive-based Acura Navigation System™ with an all-new 8-inch full VGA high-resolution color display and AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic and Weather™ featuring radar image mapping. For the audiophile, the TSX Sport Wagon will be available with an Acura/ELS Surround® Premium Audio System and a hard disk drive (HDD) for media storage. Additionally, the TSX Sport Wagon is equipped with an impressive list of standard features, including a power glass moonroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather seats, a premium sound system, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, and USB port and AUX jack music interface. Like all Acura vehicles, the TSX Sport Wagon will come with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including Acura's acclaimed Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure.

TSX Sport Wagon Specifications:
Length: 189.4 inches
Width: 72.4 inches
Height: 57.9 inches
Wheelbase: 106.5 inches
Wheel: 17x7.5- inch 5-spoke aluminum alloy wheels
Seating capacity: 5-passenger

Overall, I'm disappointed that Acura has not fitted a SH-AWD version to the wagon as it should be key safety equipment, nor am I surprised that the wagon does not have a V6 version. Enthusiasts were also hoping for a 6MT version but it looks like Acura has disappointed them as well. So what do you think? Worth it? Interested? Or a total downer from Honda?

Rumor - Acura Considering TSX Wagon?

For years, the European and American auto companies have been offering wagon variants of their compact sport models and now it's time for the Japanese to turn up the heat! It's always been a question why the wagon wasn't part of the TSX lineup before, it makes perfect sense right now. With unstable gas prices and terrible SUV emissions and ugly crossovers, wagons suddenly didn't sound as bad as they did before. According to Car and Driver, Acura is very close to giving the TSX Wagon a green light. The only problem is, wouldn't it kind of cannibalize the Honda Accord Crosstour's (which should've never been introduced nor thought of at all) sales?

Vote in our weekly poll to the right side if you want the TSX Wagon in North America!

Rumor - Acura TSX V6 to get SH-AWD?

After the V6 version was introduced, rumors has it that the TSX could get its own SH-AWD version. An Acura exec said that they've definitely looked at such a setup, but nothing was set in stone yet. A TSX SH-AWD hasn't been officially confirmed yet, but it looks like the possibility is high. One would think, won't the TSX cannibalize TL sales which in turn cannibalized RL sales? Some food for thought.

Future - 2010 Acura/Honda Model Changes

Acura -
2010 Acura TSX - New V6 model, revised EPS programming and revised pedal ratio, improved navigation system and improved MID. Available Now.
2010 Acura TL - No changes expected.
2010 Acura RL - No changes, available now.
2010 Acura RDX - MMC, new front and rear ends, slight interior revision, new FWD model, available now.
2010 Acura MDX - MMC, redesigned front end, slight revisions on the rear end and interior, new 3.7 V6 engine with 6-speed auto, additional technology originally exclusively featured on the RL now passed onto the MDX.
2010 Acura ZDX - New model, BMW X6-type vehicle (CUV), glass roof expected, expect SH-AWD with 3.7 V6 engine and a 6-speed auto, to be priced above the MDX.

Honda -
2010 Honda Accord - Redesigned HVAC controls and an improved look to the interior trim on all models. EX gets more trunk lining, and finally, rear air vents are added to the EX sedan. EX-L models now receive Bluetooth on non-nav and nav-equipped models. There are two new colors, Bali Blue Pearl and Dark Cherry Pearl.
2010 Honda Civic - There are no changes, including no colour changes.
2010 Honda Crosstour - New model, based on Accord platform, a mix of hatchback and wagon styles, expect arrival in November 2009.
2010 Honda CR-V - The CR-V will receive it's MMC for 2010, expect a more "Honda" look for the front end, minimal rear end revisions and a slight freshening of the interior look along with new colors.
2010 Honda Element - Will it survive till the 2010 year? If it does, expect little to no changes.
2010 Honda Fit - Expect no changes with the exception of a few color changes.
2010 Honda Insight - Available now.
2010 Honda Odyssey - A new cloth rear entertainment trim and PAX tires are gone from the Touring model. Available now.
2010 Honda Pilot - No changes, available now.
2010 Honda Ridgeline - The RTX model is gone, FMC arrives in 2011.

News - Honda Accord (Acura TSX) Most Reliable UK Car

Honda's 2009 Accord (Acura TSX) was named UK's most reliable car by Which?'s car survey achieving 99%, followed by the 2009 Honda Jazz (Honda Fit) at 98%. A total of 77,000 drivers across the UK took part in the Which? survey to assess customer satisfaction. The survey based its results on breakdowns, faults and general niggles over a 12 month period.

Honda cars hold four of the top ten places in the recent survey. The first generation Jazz scored 95.9% achieving sixth place in the survey. The Civic Hybrid achieved pole position in the hybrid vehicle sector with 95.7%, seventh place in the overall survey and edging ahead of its rival the Toyota Prius with 95%.

Honda have maintained their position at the top of the Which? overall reliability index. Matt Gibson, Head of Customer Services for Honda UK said, 'A reliable car is something every customer deserves; knowing that your car will simply get you from A to B without any problems makes a huge difference to a customer’s enjoyment of their car. We always strive to give our customers the best experience. It is fantastic news that four of the top seven cars featured in the survey are Hondas.'

2009 Acura TSX

Acura has now released the first photo of the 2009 Acura TSX sedan. It is scheduled to be on sale in spring and will be shown to the world at the 2008 New York Auto Show next month.

"The new 2009 TSX speaks clearly to the direction we are taking our Acura sedans in the future," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president for auto sales.

Now, expect to see more of that "signature" grille coming.

Spied! 2009 Euro Honda Accord Tourer

There you go. Almost uncovered.

BREAKING NEWS! 2009 Euro Honda Accord/US Acura TSX Spotted!

These 2009 Euro Honda Accords were spotted on a transporter truck. As you can see, they evoke the same front ends as the teaser pictures originally posted by Honda a few weeks ago.

Not bad, it'll do good in the US, but it'll take more than that to budge the more modern-looking sedans in Europe.

Spied! 2009 Acura TSX

The 2009 Acura TSX was spotted and caught with a cell phone camera.

As you can see in the picture, the car is more rounded and is larger than the previous model. Would this mean the TL and RL will also move and become larger for the 2009/2010 redesign/revisions? Could be.

Although the side looks a lot in favour of a Ford Fusion, the front end has a little in line with the Jaguar XF, although not bad, but this wasn't what I was expecting.

Do you like it? Comment!

2009 Acura Model Update

Another round of updates for the 2009 TSX, TL and RL have supposedly been coming in. Starting off with the 2009 TSX, its onsale date has been confirmed once again as 4/24/08. From this source, it is believed that the TSX will be front wheel drived first with a possible revised turbocharged engine, it is also believed that an XM weather function will be offered in the 2009 TSX. For the 2009 RL, it will supposedly get the XM weather function and get cooled front seats for the US (as has been offered in Canada for the past few years). It is also reumoured that the RL may get the same 3.5L motor but with a power increase to 306hp. But the 2009 TL will get a 3.5L with front wheel drive and a 3.7L with SH-AWD so this seems awkward the RL will get the smaller engine. (strangely, these were always offered in Canada). From reports, it is believed that the RL now has an edgier look to it. Supposedly the RL will continue with a 3.5L motor, but it will now deliver 306hp. Considering that the '09 TL will supposedly be getting a 3.5L (FF) and 3.7L (SH-AWD), it seems odd that the RL would stick with the 3.5, so this might be an error.

2009 Acura Information

2009 Acura TSX Information:

On-sale Date: April 24, 2008.

Standard Package Model Features : Similar to RDX and 2008MY TSX's standard features with new luxury amentities and audio capabilities that all contribute oth the new TSX's added appeal.

Technology Package Model Features : Similar to RDX's Technology Package features and will continue to "Advance" the image of Acura. Tech Package includes Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition with new functionality, AcuraLink Satellite Communication system and Acura/ELS Surround Sound Premium 10-speaker Sound System.

TSX Rumours : There are rumours that suggest the TSX will receive a four-cylinder FWD version first, then a V6 SH-AWD will appear later, suggesting 2010/2011 as possible model years. There are also rumours that suggest there will also be diesel version arriving in 2009.

2009 Acura RL Information:

On-sale Date: Spring 2008

The substantial redesign of the 2009 Acura RL combines added performance, improved technology, more aggressive exterior styling and even greater safety to a top-tier luxury performance sedan.

Standard Package Model Features : Similar to 2008MY RL with better functionality for the HVAC system, HandsFreeLink and the audio system.

Technology Package Model Features : Similar to 2008MY RL with new luxury amentities and will continue to "Advance" the image of Acura by adding more functionality to the Acura Navigation System.

CMBS Package Model Features : CMBS will be available as a stand-alone option.

RL Rumours : It is rumoured that the 2009 RL model will get 300+hp from a 3.7 V6 from the MDX and continue to have SH-AWD tuned to deliver more torque to the rear wheels. It is also rumoured that this MMC will be the most significant mid-cycle refreshed in Honda Motor Co.'s History with supposedly only 2 body panels remaining the same in the 2009 model. It is believed that interior will be lengthened and increased and the "bling" column will be addressed as well.

2008 Canadian vs. US Acura Prices

Now that the Canadian dollar is already past on-par with the US dollar, here is a comparison of prices of Acura models in Canada compared to models in the states. I've compared similarily equipped models that are the same on both sides of the border.

Note: All Prices are MSRP with no additional charges.
Note 2: The Acura CSX premium compact car is not listed because it is a Canada-only model.

2008 Acura TSX Base (Automatic) US vs. Canada
$28 190 in US vs. $37 500 in Canada

2008 Acura TSX NAVI (Automatic) US vs. Canada
$30 290 in US vs. $40 300 in Canada

2008 Acura TL Base (Automatic) US vs. Canada
$33 725 in US vs. $42 700 in Canada

2008 Acura TL Type-S (Manual/Automatic) US vs. Canada
$38 225 (Both) in US vs. $46 500 (Manual)/$47 800 (Automatic) in Canada

2008 Acura RL Technology/CMBS/PAX / Elite (Automatic) US vs. Canada
$53 700 in US vs. $69 500 in Canada

2008 Acura MDX Base (Automatic) US vs. Canada
$40 195 in US vs. $52 500 in Canada

2008 Acura RDX Base (Automatic) US vs. Canada
$33 195 in US vs. $41 400 in Canada

2008 Acura RDX Technology (Automatic) US vs. Canada
$36 695 in US vs. $45 100 in Canada