Honda & Acura at Detroit - RDX Info

[Vonie]

The media days for the 2006 North American International Auto Show are quickly approaching and Honda has been uncharacteristically quiet about their plans. Generally by this time they will at least release a few sketches of the concepts that they plan to show, but so far we haven't seen anything come down the pipe this year.

Honda is planning to debut the production version of the American Fit:

That being said, it's been no secret that the production Fit will make its North American debut in Detroit this Sunday, and we don't really expect any major surprises. A few details have leaked out, and it seems that we're pretty much getting what we've been expecting, and that means a 1.5L 105hp 4-cylinder motor, coupled to your choice of a 5-speed manual transmission or 5-speed automatic. According to dealer order sheets, the Fit will be offered in base and "Sport" trim levels.

Acura is planning to debut a prototype of the upcoming RDX:

Over on the Acura stand, the big news is the reveal of the production protoype of Acura's upcoming RDX sport ute. There's been virtually nothing coming our way from official channels, but apparently the owner magazine "Acura Style" has quite a bit of info on the prototype. In their piece, it's reported that the long rumored turbo motor is in fact a reality. There's no mention of the power of this unit, but it's said to displace 2.3L, which confirms another part of the rumor. SH-AWD has already been announced as was DVD-A 5.1 audio system, Bluetooth, VSA, and Navi, but "Acura Style" adds to the list and reports that the RDX's audio system will be an Panasonic ELS design, just like on the TL and the Navi will feature the realtime traffic capabilities currently found exclusively in the RL. Additionally the RDX prototype is said to be fitted with HID headlights. And if that's not enough, the photo of the RDX Prototype seen to the left of this paragraph is reportedly shown in the magazine.

Now for the fun part:

Now on to the mysterious portion of our headline. Before we share this, we can't emphasize enough that everything you are about to read is based upon a completely unsubstantiated rumor. Furthermore, if this rumor is correct, it could spoil a surprise, so you may not wish to read any further if you like surprises. We don't even know what to think of it ourselves because we're hearing about it so late and it seems a little bit too good to be true. So PLEASE treat it as such and don't be surprised if it proves to be 100% false. Anyhow, with all these disclaimers in place, we very recently heard from unnamed sources that there are plans for Acura (or possibly Honda) to surprise everyone in Detroit this year by revealing a never-before-seen concept vehicle. According to the rumor, this concept is said to be a mid-engined, V6 sports car, and though the details are sketchy, from what little we've heard, (if there are in fact plans for such a concept) we would assume that this could possibly be a concept of the rumored "sub-NSX" sports car that some of the Acura dealers have been mumbling about for a year or two. We don't know if this rumor even has a 50/50 chance of being true because it would seem odd that Acura (or Honda) would deflect attention away from their official Detroit intros, but it's not unprecedented. Of course we'd love it if such a concept were shown, but until we get some sort of other confirmation, we're playing it safe and straddling the fence on this one. We've contacted Honda representative Sage Marie and he stated that there are no such plans for Honda at the Detroit show. We also left a voicemail with Acura representative Mike Spencer, and have not heard back from him yet. We will provide updates if we learn anything else.

Link-izzle.

 

[YSSMAN]

Its interesting, because it sounds (so far) that much of the Detroit show is going to be all about the American automakers and their big announcements... Not to deminish the Honda story...

I am excited to check out the Fit, as it seems like a great car for a pretty good price. Now if we can just get Volkswagen to import the Polo, then we would be in business.

As far as the RDX is concerned, is there even a part of the market that is calling for what is essentially an Acura CR-V?

It is also interesting that the sub-NSX may pop up. I personally was never a fan of the NSX, and I really dont see that a sub-NSX sports car is even needed in the Acura lineup. Wouldnt it just be fighting against the S2000?

 

[Onikaze]

Mid Engine, V-6 Powered, Hard Top Sports Coupes don't compete with Front Engine, 4 Banger Powered, Convertibles.

At least not in most cases I've seen.

 

[Joey D]

I think it would be a bad idea for any Japanese company to release something in Detroit, because honest the Detroit media doesn't give a damn about anything that isn't American. You have to rememeber where I live though and you'll see why that is.

 

[niky]

@YSSMAN: The Fit IS nice. I've driven one. Not a rocket in a straight line... not even close even in the top-of-the-line 1.5 trim, but it's light and fun-handling at 8/10ths, even if the steering is pretty arcade-ish (electric). Has great head and leg room considering its size, but it feels as wide as just 2/3rds a real car. It's a hoot on the track, and the boot is big enough to swallow a mountain bike or two. (with the front wheels off)

Oh, and I've seen 54 mpg... in traffic, and 35 mpg on the track. Amazing little car... who the hell needs a Prius?

 

[Vonie]

Official RDX info:


DETROIT 01/09/2006 -- The highly anticipated Acura RDX Prototype SUV debuted today at the North American International Auto Show. Combining sport utility with sports sedan handling and performance, RDX features an innovative 2.3-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, Acura's exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(TM)), and is designed to redefine the entry premium SUV segment. This near-production prototype provides an advance preview of the all-new RDX that will go on sale this summer.

"The RDX Prototype represents the forward thinking that will be seen in the next generation of Acura light trucks," said John Mendel, senior vice president, Auto Operations. "It is loaded with leading edge technology and it exemplifies what we call intelligent performance: a sporty, luxurious and functional SUV that has outstanding performance yet is also fuel efficient."

RDX features an all-new 2.3-liter i-VTEC(R) four-cylinder turbocharged engine that generates 240 horsepower and 260 lbs-ft of torque. This is the first application of forced induction technology in Acura history. The revolutionary i-VTEC Turbo technology uses a variable flow turbocharger, which is exclusive to the RDX, and provides dramatic performance benefits while maintaining excellent fuel efficiency. To complement the all-aluminum high-performance engine, the RDX utilizes Acura's steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters to manually operate the 5-speed sequential SportShift(TM) automatic transmission.

Acura's Super Handling-AWD system is tuned specifically for the new RDX platform. SH-AWD's sophisticated electronic controls automatically distribute torque fore and aft, as well as splitting the rear torque left to right. The result is dramatically enhanced handling, traction and stability during sporty driving as well as in inclement weather. A sophisticated chassis with fully independent front and rear suspension complement the SH-AWD. Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA(R)) combines with large disc brakes and ABS to enhance control.

The RDX is built on an all-new global light truck platform. Reflecting Acura's commitment to safety through innovation, the RDX is equipped with the Advanced Compatibility Engineering(TM) (ACE(TM)) body structure and additional state-of-the-art safety features. The ACE structure helps to disperse collision forces over a larger frontal area. The system also helps to provide enhanced protection for vehicle occupants while at the same time increasing compatibility with other vehicles in a frontal collision. Front, side and side curtain airbags, in addition to rollover sensors add an extra measure of safety.

The chiseled exterior styling combines with a generous greenhouse to provide excellent visibility for driving in city traffic or on twisty mountain roads. RDX employs a compact upper body with an aggressively raked belt line, sporty wheel flares and a substantial hood that flows down from the windshield to an aggressive Acura signature five-sided grill. Custom 19-inch alloy wheels give the RDX Prototype an aggressive stance. Dual exhaust tips, HID headlights, and a rear spoiler add to the sporty appearance of the vehicle.

Inside, the RDX combines richly appointed materials with a sporty, driver-oriented cockpit. The center console features an innovative storage system, which allows for hidden and lockable storage of a briefcase or laptop computer. The prototype's interior features an assortment of leading-edge technologies, such as the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition(TM), AcuraLink(TM) satellite communication system with real time traffic and HandsFreeLink(TM) wireless telephone interface. A premium Acura/ELS(TM) DVD-Audio system is tuned to deliver rich surround sound to the cabin.

The RDX offers seating for five and a versatile rear cargo hatch allows for easy load-in and storage. The second row seats split and fold flat into the floor, providing ample cargo space for an active, on-the-go lifestyle.

The RDX will be assembled at Honda of America Manufacturing in Marysville, Ohio and will go on-sale in the summer of 2006. Pricing has not been determined.

Yes, that's right a turbocharged 2.3L I-4. With 240 horsepower and 260 lbs-ft of torque, that coupled with SH-AWD should make it quite a peppy little car.

Linky-Pinky

 

[Joey D]

Acura RDX Prototype SUV
Source: www.leftlanenews.com

The highly anticipated Acura RDX Prototype SUV debuted today at the North American International Auto Show. Combining sport utility with sports sedan handling and performance, RDX features an innovative 2.3-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, Acura’s exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), and is designed to redefine the entry premium SUV segment. This near-production prototype provides an advance preview of the all-new RDX that will go on sale this summer.

“The RDX Prototype represents the forward thinking that will be seen in the next generation of Acura light trucks,” said John Mendel, senior vice president, Auto Operations. “It is loaded with leading edge technology and it exemplifies what we call intelligent performance: a sporty, luxurious and functional SUV that has outstanding performance yet is also fuel efficient.”

RDX features an all-new 2.3-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder turbocharged engine that generates 240 horsepower and 260 lbs-ft of torque. This is the first application of forced induction technology in Acura history. The revolutionary i-VTEC Turbo technology uses a variable flow turbocharger, which is exclusive to the RDX, and provides dramatic performance benefits while maintaining excellent fuel efficiency. To complement the all-aluminum high- performance engine, the RDX utilizes Acura’s steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters to manually operate the 5-speed sequential SportShift automatic transmission.

Acura’s Super Handling-AWD system is tuned specifically for the new RDX platform. SH-AWD’s sophisticated electronic controls automatically distribute torque fore and aft, as well as splitting the rear torque left to right. The result is dramatically enhanced handling, traction and stability during sporty driving as well as in inclement weather. A sophisticated chassis with fully independent front and rear suspension complement the SH-AWD. Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) combines with large disc brakes and ABS to enhance control.

The RDX is built on an all-new global light truck platform. Reflecting Acura’s commitment to safety through innovation, the RDX is equipped with the Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure and additional state-of-the-art safety features. The ACE structure helps to disperse collision forces over a larger frontal area. The system also helps to provide enhanced protection for vehicle occupants while at the same time increasing compatibility with other vehicles in a frontal collision. Front, side and side curtain airbags, in addition to rollover sensors add an extra measure of safety.


The chiseled exterior styling combines with a generous greenhouse to provide excellent visibility for driving in city traffic or on twisty mountain roads. RDX employs a compact upper body with an aggressively raked belt line, sporty wheel flares and a substantial hood that flows down from the windshield to an aggressive Acura signature five-sided grill. Custom 19-inch alloy wheels give the RDX Prototype an aggressive stance. Dual exhaust tips, HID headlights, and a rear spoiler add to the sporty appearance of the vehicle.

Inside, the RDX combines richly appointed materials with a sporty, driver- oriented cockpit. The center console features an innovative storage system, which allows for hidden and lockable storage of a briefcase or laptop computer. The prototype’s interior features an assortment of leading-edge technologies, such as the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition, AcuraLink satellite communication system with real time traffic and HandsFreeLink wireless telephone interface. A premium Acura/ELS DVD- Audio system is tuned to deliver rich surround sound to the cabin.

The RDX offers seating for five and a versatile rear cargo hatch allows for easy load-in and storage. The second row seats split and fold flat into the floor, providing ample cargo space for an active, on-the-go lifestyle.

The RDX will be assembled at Honda of America Manufacturing in Marysville, Ohio and will go on-sale in the summer of 2006. Pricing has not been determined.

 

[YSSMAN]

I guess it looks nice... But are they trying to outdoo the Civic at it's own interior game?

 

[Duke]

Yeah, our TSX looks much better inside - less overdesigned.

I am wondering about the possibility of adding that turbo setup to our car, though... another 30 hp and 80 lb-ft of torque wouldn't suck.

 

[YSSMAN]

Pros: A step above the CRV without having to go to Toyota or Nissan, Civic-esque looks inside and out, capable powertrain.
Cons: Still a CRV with a bit of Acura touches, Civic-esque look inside and out, where is the V6 option?
Verdict: The best Honda SUV since the Pilot, the RDX will appeal to the sporty/active adults in all of us.

 

[Vonie]

The looks aren't bad, it's distincive enough.