A Week With: 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid Touring - Paul Eisenstein

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Life is nothing if not cyclical. And so it’s time to welcome back inflation, something most millennials know nothing about, since the last time it reared its ugly head was the 1980s, before their parents were dating. 

The new Accord hybrid is tough to differentiate from its gas-powered sibling.

But there’s evidence that it may be returning as companies are hiking wages to attract workers to fill job openings. Production bottlenecks are increasing the cost of manufacturing. Prices are rising for everything from peanut butter and toilet paper to gasoline.

Currently, the national average for a gallon of gas is $3.041 a gallon, up 5.1% from its $2.885 price a month ago, according to AAA. But other states are averaging higher prices, such as California, at $4.175, or Nevada at $3.617. In fact, gas prices are the highest they’ve been since 2014.

So that makes the 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid, with an EPA combined rating of 48 mpg, a midsize sedan well worth considering, especially given its $27,565 base price — nearly 33% less than the average price of a new car. 

The new Honda Accord Hybrid Touring gets a combine EPA rating of 43 mpg.

Overview

Given the Honda Accord Hybrid’s thrifty nature, it’s hard to understand why an Accord buyer would opt for any other model. Offered in ascending base, EX, EX-L and Touring models, all Accords get a modest facelift for 2021 that fine-tunes the grille, LED headlights, fog lights and 19-inch alloy wheels. 

Inside, you’ll find the 8-inch infotainment screen is now standard, and comes with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and wireless charging. Hybrid models get powertrain revisions that furnish stronger acceleration, more pure EV range and other tweaks. Honda provided a top-of-the-line Touring for a weeklong evaluation.

The interior of the 2021 Accord Hybrid offers plenty of room and technology.

Exterior

If you have a hard time discerning what was changed for the new model year, don’t feel badly. The styling updates are minimal at best. Thankfully, the Accord’s styling remains largely unchanged, remaining elegantly extroverted, with a sweeping beltline that accents the front grille, sweeping back across the top of the headlights. Arching rearward, the beltline subtly mirrors the arched roofline, which tapers rearward in tasteful sportiness.

Interior

Drivers face a comfortably thick steering wheel that is nestled in a horizontally themed instrument panel with an upscale feel and anchored by a large infotainment screen. Below it, the climate controls are separated from the screen above it, making it easy to find them quickly. 

Cabin storage is very good. The seats prove comfortable and supportive. Road noise is moderate. Cabin space is impressive, and the 16.7 cubic-foot trunk seems capable of swallowing all but the bulkiest of lifestyle debris.

The 2021 Accord gets a new two-motor system that produces a combined 212 hp and 232 pound-feet of torque.

Powertrain

All Accord Hybrids are powered by a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and a pair of AC synchronous permanent-magnet electric motors mated to a continuously variable automatic transmission that generates 212 horsepower and 232 pound-feet of torque. In the Base, EX and EX-L models, this driveline returns a combined EPA rating of 48 mpg. But in the Touring, that drops to 43 mpg. Blame the larger 19-inch wheels for the lower rating. Yet those same shoes supply remarkable handling. Of course, the added grip increases fuel consumption. Thankfully, the Accord Hybrid uses regular unleaded fuel. 

Safety and Technology

The Accord Hybrid Touring came well equipped with a number of advanced driver-assistance systems, including lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, traffic-sign recognition, auto high-beam headlights, and blind-spot alert with rear cross-traffic alert. In addition, Touring models get low-speed braking control, and a head-up display, while base models lack blind spot alert with rear cross traffic alert.

There’s a notable upgrade in technology, thanks to the standard 8-inch infotainment screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as wireless charging and rear-seat USB ports. The two large knobs that flank the screen are a welcome relief from Honda’s previous infotainment system designs. Unfortunately, Honda’s infotainment systems continue to lag the industry in design and reliability. The wireless Apple CarPlay refused to recognize my iPhone upon vehicle start up, requiring that I manually go in and connect it. 

Driving Impressions

The Accord’s noteworthy equilibrium of comfortable ride and sporty handling is one that few automakers seem to perfect, yet Honda does with remarkable ease. Pockmarked streets are absorbed without fuss or excess ride motions.

The compliance doesn’t come at the expense of handling, although the body leans somewhat when cornering, but that’s to be expected given its mission. Yet it’s fun-to-drive factor remains high, feeling nimble and light. Driveline refinement is very high; you won’t feel a kick when the gas engine comes on, a noticeable difference from many automakers.  

Wrap Up

With a meager appetite for fuel, athleticism that doesn’t come at the expense of comfort, a roomy, comfortable cabin, a classically handsome wardrobe and a starting price that mere mortals can afford, the 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid has much to recommend it. With the specter of inflation looming, the Accord’s trio of handling, poise and fuel economy make for a proposition that’s hard to resist.

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May 28, 2021 at 02:15AM
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A Week With: 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid Touring - Paul Eisenstein

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AT&T and Honda Extend In-Car Wi-Fi and Entertainment App - Telecompetitor

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AT&T and the American Honda Motor Company have extended the content and model compatibility of their WarnerRIDE App entertainment partnership. The entertainment app comes courtesy of unlimited in-car Wi-Fi provided through AT&T.

The partnership hit the road in 2017. The extension will give passengers access to more than 1,000 hours of live and on-demand entertainment including the Cartoon Network, CNN, HBO Max, TBS, TNT and TruTV. It also now is possible to set up multiple profiles and personalize them with avatars from the WarnerMedia library. Adults can restrict access by use of an access code.

WarnetMedia RIDE is free for unlimited data plan subscribers in the U.S. It features auto detect of vehicle WiFi and therefore requires no login. The app is available for use on devices running iOS 11 or later in the App Store and Android 9 or later in Google Play.

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“We’re always looking for new and innovative ways to elevate the connected car experience for our customers,” Joe Mosele, the vice president of Mobility & Internet of Things for AT&T, said in a press release. “With WarnerMedia RIDE, we are delivering a connected experience that’s perfect for journeys. Our collaboration is keeping Honda and Acura owners connected wherever they travel with hours of news and entertainment for the whole family.”

The app now is available on all trims of the RDX (from 2019) and TLX (from 2021). It will be on all trims of the MDX next year. It is available on the Accord (touring trim since 2018), Odyssey (touring and elite trim since 2018), Insight (touring trim since 2019), Passport (touring and elite trim since 2019) and Pilot (touring, elect and black edition trim since 2019).

In April, Verizon said that it is cooperating with Honda on road safety research at the University of Michigan’s Mcity test bed for connected and autonomous vehicles. The goal is to use the carrier’s 5G Ultra Wideband and 5G Mobile Edge Compute (MEC) platforms to speed communications between infrastructure, vehicles and pedestrians.

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May 28, 2021 at 03:46AM
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2021 Honda Odyssey vs. 2021 Toyota Sienna: Familiar Foes, Clear Winner - Motor Trend

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Toyota Sienna Full Overview

When the new 2021 Toyota Sienna minivan debuted last year, it was a bit of a shock that the lineup was hybrid-only. But the move makes sense: In order to differentiate itself from the rest of the minivan pack, Toyota left the traditional powertrain behind while still offering a competitive price. The Sienna is also the only minivan to offer all-wheel drive with a hybrid setup. And although the nameplate has spent most of its life aligned closely with the Honda Odyssey and Chrysler's vans (currently the Pacifica), the hybrid-only move and bold styling set this generation farther apart. 

Meanwhile, the 2021 Honda Odyssey doesn't feel as avant garde as the Sienna, but it continues to deliver on the basics that make a minivan great. The Odyssey is the most popular minivan nameplate sold in the U.S. market, and it received some minor upgrades for the 2021 model year. Updates include making the Honda Sensing safety technology bundle standard across the lineup, as well as other small changes like second-row seat backs that fold flat.

These minivans certainly look different on the outside, but each continues to foster followers among America's families, thanks to thoughtful features for adults and children. So, which is better? We drove the 2021 Toyota Sienna and 2021 Honda Odyssey back to back and spent ample time aboard each one to find out. 

Minivan Features

Sit in the Toyota Sienna's front seats, and you'll find a thoughtfully considered cabin layout. The bridge-like center console is a useful and clever design that allows front passengers to place large items like a purse in the bottom while having easy access to cupholders and cubbies up top. A wide tray that runs along the front passenger's dashboard is deep enough to accommodate your wallet, phone, or keys, and there's a deep storage compartment that can keep items like digital tablets from prying eyes. The armrests are not adjustable, but the driver's seating position is still comfortable. 

The Honda Odyssey, on the other hand, has a more traditional front compartment. There's wide, open space you can use to place big items like a purse, grocery bag, or even a briefcase. As in the Sienna, a deep center console can hide valuables, although this one seems more spacious. Instead of a traditional shifter like the Sienna's, the Odyssey uses a push-button gear selector, which helps increase the perception of openness within the cabin. 

Our Sienna Platinum test minivan came with second-row seats that slide back through more than 20 inches of travel to provide plenty of legroom. There's also an option to add built-in footrests, but it's not available in all-wheel-drive versions like the one we tested. Two USB ports (one type A, one type C) are located at the back of the center console, but their location is not exactly ideal; passengers need a longer cable in order to sit comfortably while plugged in. 

The Odyssey plays a different game: Its MagicSlide seats can move fore, aft, and sideways, which not only provides the interior with more versatility but also leaves more room for passengers to enter the third row. People who might have some difficulties getting into vehicles—like elderly parents, for instance—will find less of a struggle to access the third row. Two USB-A ports are located on the back of the center console, and, as in the Toyota, they require a long cable in order to charge and use your device. 

Once you make it into the third row, the Sienna's small window makes things feel a bit claustrophobic, but the seating position and comfort are great. Two USB ports (one type A, one type C) are located on the right side, which means whoever sits on the left side of the third row will need an extra-long cable to charge and use their device. There are, however, headphone jacks on both sides for the optional rear-seat entertainment package. 

The Odyssey's third row feels more spacious thanks to larger windows. Unlike the Sienna, there's only one USB port in the third row, but there are two headphone jacks for the rear entertainment package. We disliked the location of the air vents on the pillars instead of the ceiling: The effect of airflow is enhanced when the vents are located closer to your head, and it makes a huge difference on hot days. 

Although both minivans are quite spacious for passengers, cargo room is better in the Odyssey. It offers 38.6 cubic feet behind the third row, compared to 33.5 in the Sienna. 

The Drive

The Sienna's heart is a 2.5-liter l-4 engine mated to two electric motors that deliver 245 combined horsepower. An electronically controlled continuously variable transmission sends power to all four wheels. This combination allows the Sienna to deliver an eye-popping 35 mpg combined, which makes it 60 percent more fuel efficient than the Odyssey. 

However, this powertrain comes with caveats. The engine feels stressed even when driving at city-street speeds, and it makes a noticeable din. We also noted a brake pedal that was hard to modulate—the regenerative brakes had us pressing the pedal harder, as we felt like the initial bite wasn't enough to slow down. The first sensation is soft and squishy before the brakes bite and the vehicle begins to slow.

On broken pavement, the suspension did a nice job of keeping vibrations out of the cabin, and on a couple of twisty hills, the body felt well controlled. The steering is tuned on the lighter side, but it feels balanced. 

The Odyssey is only available with a 3.5-liter V-6 that produces 280 hp and 262 lb-ft, which is punchier and more dynamic than the Sienna. Its 10-speed transmission is quick to shift and does so in a smooth manner. Its 22-mpg combined rating is way down from the Sienna's, but the driving experience is livelier in the Honda. You note its extra power and torque, especially when merging on the freeway. The Odyssey's respectable 3.3-second time to accelerate from 45 to 65 mph can make a significant difference in passing on a two-lane road compared to the Sienna's 4.1 seconds.

Overall, the Odyssey shares the familiar driving characteristics we find in other Honda vehicles, such as excellent brake feel, nicely weighted steering, and a slightly oversprung ride that can cause the wheels to patter over rough pavement.

Safety

Both Toyota and Honda prioritize safety across their lineups, which is why we see the Toyota Safety Sense and Honda Sensing bundles baked into most of their vehicles. Both the Sienna and Odyssey include their maker's systems standard, boasting features like adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and automatic emergency braking, among others. This is another reason both minivans scored the Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, the highest possible. 

In terms of the active systems we tested, the Sienna's lane keeping setup was better at keeping the minivan centered in its lane while keeping a safe distance from the car in front. The Odyssey's works well, too, but there was a portion of our drive where it had a difficult time reading lane lines the Toyota cruised with no issues. 

Decision Time

We asked Honda and Toyota to send us their most fully equipped models, and despite both being outfitted similarly, their prices were quite different. The 2021 Toyota Sienna Platinum's $54,138 price is higher than the 2021 Honda Odyssey Elite's $49,390, but we'd chalk that up mostly to powertrain and all-wheel drive. The standard hybrid setup makes the Sienna a bit pricier than other minivans when comparing base stickers, but customers are likely to recoup some or all of the premium in fuel savings. 

Both minivans are well equipped and tailored to satisfy families, but overall we preferred the 2021 Honda Odyssey's spaciousness, fantastic packaging, and more confidence inspiring chassis and handling. We're fans of the 2021 Sienna's thoughtful center console and fuel efficiency, but its comparative lack of overall refinement puts it in second place in this showdown.

2nd Place: 2021 Toyota Sienna

• Smart center-console design
• Sliding seats have lots of travel
• 35 mpg combined, even with AWD

• Powertrain feels stressed
• Vague brake pedal
• No family-monitoring camera

Verdict: The Sienna has racy styling and a properly useful interior, but it lacks refinement on the road. 

1st Place: 2021 Honda Odyssey

• Spacious cabin
• Versatile interior
• Competitively priced

• Its technology feels dated
• Mediocre fuel economy
• Short on USB ports

Verdict: The Odyssey doesn't feel as modern as the Toyota, but it still does more things right.

Looks good! More details?

POWERTRAIN/CHASSIS	2021 Honda Odyssey Elite	2021 Toyota Sienna Platinum Hybrid AWD
DRIVETRAIN LAYOUT	Front-engine, FWD	Front-engine, AWD
ENGINE TYPE	60-deg V-6, alum block/heads	I-4, alum block/head, plus rear permanent-magnet electric motor
VALVETRAIN	SOHC, 4 valves/cyl	DOHC, 4 valves/cyl
DISPLACEMENT	211.8 cu in/3,471 cc	151.8 cu in/2,478 cc
COMPRESSION RATIO	11.5:1	14.0:1
POWER (SAE NET)	280 hp @ 6,000 rpm	189 hp @ 6,000 rpm (gas), 180 hp (elec), 245 hp (comb)
TORQUE (SAE NET)	262 lb-ft @ 4,700 rpm	176 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm (gas), 199 lb-ft (elec)
REDLINE	6,800 rpm	Not indicated
WEIGHT TO POWER	16.2 lb/hp	19.5 lb/hp
TRANSMISSION	10-speed automatic	Cont variable auto
AXLE/FINAL-DRIVE RATIO	3.61:1/1.87:1	NA
SUSPENSION, FRONT; REAR	Struts, coil springs, anti-roll bar; multilink, coil springs, anti-roll bar	Struts, coil springs, anti-roll bar; multilink, coil springs, anti-roll bar
STEERING RATIO	14.4:1	14.3:1
TURNS LOCK-TO-LOCK	3.0	3.0
BRAKES, F; R	12.6-in vented disc; 13.0-in disc, ABS	12.9-in vented disc; 12.5-in vented disc, ABS
WHEELS	7.5 x 19-in cast aluminum	7.5 x 18-in cast aluminum
TIRES	235/55R19 101H Bridgestone Turanza EL440 (M+S)	235/60R18 102V Bridgestone Turanza LS100 (M+S)
DIMENSIONS
WHEELBASE	118.1 in	120.5 in
TRACK, F/R	67.3/67.2 in	67.7/68.5 in
LENGTH x WIDTH x HEIGHT	205.2 x 78.5 x 69.6 in	203.7 x 78.5 x 68.5 in
TURNING CIRCLE	39.6 ft	38.3 ft
CURB WEIGHT	4,541 lb	4,781 lb
WEIGHT DIST, F/R	55/45%	53/47%
TOWING CAPACITY	3,500 lb	3,500 lb
SEATING CAPACITY	8	7
HEADROOM, F/M/R	38.7/39.2/38.3 in	40.1/39.3/37.4 in
LEGROOM, F/M/R	40.9/40.9/38.1 in	40.3/39.9/38.7 in
SHOULDER ROOM, F/M/R	63.1/61.6/60.0 in	62.4/62.7/58.5 in
CARGO VOLUME, BEH F/M/R	140.7/91.0/38.6 cu ft	101.0/75.2/33.5 cu ft
TEST DATA
ACCELERATION TO MPH
0-30	2.6 sec	2.4 sec
0-40	3.7	3.8
0-50	5.2	5.5
0-60	6.7	7.6
0-70	8.7	10.1
0-80	11.1	13.0
0-90	13.8	16.6
PASSING, 45-65 MPH	3.3	4.1
QUARTER MILE	15.2 sec @ 94.5 mph	15.8 sec @ 87.8 mph
BRAKING, 60-0 MPH	123 ft	125 ft
LATERAL ACCELERATION	0.75 g (avg)	0.82 g (avg)
MT FIGURE EIGHT	29.1 sec @ 0.56 g (avg)	28.2 sec @ 0.59 g (avg)
TOP-GEAR REVS @ 60 MPH	1,500 rpm	NA rpm
CONSUMER INFO
BASE PRICE	$48,995	$51,635
PRICE AS TESTED	$49,390	$54,138
AIRBAGS	8: Dual front, front side, f/m/r curtain, front knee	10: Dual front, front side, middle side, f/m/r curtain, driver knee, passenger thigh
BASIC WARRANTY	3 yrs/36,000 miles	3 yrs/36,000 miles
POWERTRAIN WARRANTY	5 yrs/60,000 miles	5 yrs/60,000 miles*
ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE	3 yrs/36,000 miles	2 yrs/unlimited miles
FUEL CAPACITY	19.5 gal	18.0 gal + 1.9 kWh Ni-MH battery
EPA CITY/HWY/COMB ECON	19/28/22 mpg	35/36/35 mpg
ENERGY CONS, CITY/HWY	177/120 kWh/100 miles	96/94 kWh/100 miles
CO2 EMISSIONS, COMB	0.87 lb/mile	0.55 lb/mile
RECOMMENDED FUEL	Unleaded regular	Unleaded regular
*Hybrid system coverage extends to 8 yrs/100,000 miles, hybrid battery coverage to 10 yrs/150,000 miles

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May 28, 2021 at 05:30AM
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2021 Honda Odyssey vs. 2021 Toyota Sienna: Familiar Foes, Clear Winner - Motor Trend

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2021 Yamaha Sniper 155, 155R Scooter unveiled - Illinoisnewstoday.com

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2021 155R Scooter Announcement-R15 V3 Base

Yamaha is proud of its 155cc VVA motor. This engine is currently used in many models of the company’s international lineup. In addition to motorcycles, this powertrain has recently been extended to Yamaha scooter products.

Motorcycles in this range include the YZF R15, MT-15 and XSR 155, but scooters with this motor include the Aerox 155, NMax 155 and NVX 155. With the launch of the Snipers 155 and 155R in the Philippines, which operate at the same factory, the lineup has been further enhanced.

styling

Pursuing a compact yet sporty design as well as styling. The design is inspired by the flagship YZF-R1 and gives a sharp and sporty impression. The two-piece LED headlight setup is an interesting feature. A low beam unit is mounted on the handlebar to improve visibility at night, and a twin LED high beam unit is placed on the front apron.

The scooter incorporates a heavy front faired silhouette with a short, upwardly sloping tail section. Overall, the scooter looks stylish, agile and lightweight, and Yamaha has succeeded in bringing the best of both worlds by offering versatile performance on the racetrack and on the street respectively.

Classified as a scooter, its riding dynamics are similar to a bike with a foot peg instead of a floorboard. In addition, the body has been redesigned to fit more ergonomically inside the thighs.

Features provided

Once in function, the sniper comes standard with all-LED lighting, a negative LCD instrument cluster, and a new non-slip seat that provides even better grip. Equipped with a large 5.4 liter fuel tank. The higher performance 155R comes with additional gizmos such as a smart key system and a 12V power socket. In addition, the top spec trim uses special materials and stitching for the seat.

Mechanical specifications and improvements

As mentioned earlier, it is powered by a 155cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine with an output of 17.7bhp at 9,500rpm and a peak torque of 14.4Nm at 8,000rpm. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via a 6-speed manual gearbox and chain final drive. Variable valve timing (VVA) technology ensures linear output over the entire rotation range. The motor is powered by a new 4.6 liter air cleaner box.

Thanks to the improved exhaust pipe and muffler, the output of the scooter is optimized over the entire rev range, in addition to reducing noise. The role of the scooter suspension is handled by the front telescopic forks and the rear swingarm suspension. The brakes are equipped with a telescopic fork on the front and a swing arm suspension on the rear as standard equipment, and the 155R uses a 2-piston front brake caliper and a 245mm disc to improve stopping power.

The 2021 Sniper 155 is available in three color options: Yellow Hornet, Race Blu and Black Raven, but the 155R is only available on the Matte Titan. Both trims are offered at prices of PHP 1,14,900 (equivalent to INR 1.74 lakh) and PHP 1,20,900 (equivalent to INR 1.84 lakh). Like other scooters in Yamaha’s 155cc lineup, the Sniper 155 is unlikely to arrive in India.

1/4

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May 28, 2021 at 04:44AM
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Honda Aircraft unveils upgraded HondaJet Elite S - Skies Magazine

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By Skies Magazine | May 27, 2021

Estimated reading time 5 minutes, 19 seconds.

During its first ever virtual product launch, Honda Aircraft Company on May 26 unveiled the HondaJet Elite S, which features numerous upgrades “that expand operational capability and improve flight operation,” the company said. 

The HondaJet Elite S has an increased maximum takeoff weight of 200 pounds, allowing operators to fly up to 120 nautical miles further at a higher payload, or take an additional passenger* during their typical mission. The aircraft has a range of 1,437 nautical miles, and a maximum cruise speed of 422 KTAS at 30,000 feet — which the company said makes it the farthest-flying and fastest business jet in its class. The Elite S also has a weather-topping maximum cruise altitude of 43,000 feet.

The Elite S features new exterior paint schemes available in Gunmetal, Luxe Gold, and Deep Sea Blue. Honda Aircraft Photo

The Elite S features a “highly customizable avionics suite,” according to the manufacturer. New avionics in the aircraft include FAA Data Comm and ACARS, which replace traditional voice commands with text-based messaging to improve the clarity and efficiency of communications. ACARS also allows pilots to access terminal weather and departure clearances from supported airports, and communicate with operations centers. If the Data Comm function is disabled, the system can be used as a third VHF radio to increase dispatch reliability.

As well, an Advanced Steering Augmentation System (ASAS) is intended to reduce pilot workload and enhance safety in certain weather conditions. 

Honda Aircraft Company took its signature exterior profile “to the next level” when designing the Elite S, introducing new styling with brand new exterior paint schemes available in Gunmetal, Luxe Gold, and Deep Sea Blue. The manufacturer is also offering several color options for the new Elite S logo on the aircraft’s exterior, with the bold red “S” as a standard offering.

Honda Aircraft Company debuted the Elite S with a special paint scheme, “which represents the company’s continued commitment to research and development of leading-edge technology.” Honda Aircraft Photo

During the virtual event, Honda Aircraft Company debuted the Elite S with a special paint scheme, “which represents the company’s continued commitment to research and development of leading-edge technology to realize new possibilities and propose new value for business aviation,” the company said. 

Michimasa Fujino, Honda Aircraft Company’s president and CEO, stated: “Since its introduction in 2018, the HondaJet Elite has achieved the best performance in its class while also being the most efficient. And with the new Elite S, we take another step forward in expanding the aircraft’s capability. As a result of the innovation, design, and engineering on the new Elite S, we are once again setting a new standard in business aviation.”

The HondaJet Elite S cabin features four fully adjustable leather seats in a classic club configuration, plus an optional side-facing fifth seat. Honda Aircraft Photo

Honda Aircraft Company brought its aeronautical developments, found in its other models, to the Elite S design, including the Over-The-Wing Engine Mount configuration — which creates a natural sound barrier; Natural Laminar Flow fuselage nose and wing; and composite fuselage. These aerodynamic design features contribute to the aircraft’s fuel efficiency, resulting in reduced carbon emissions and greater savings on fuel costs.

First deliveries of the HondaJet Elite S are slated for June 2021.

*additional range benefit begins to phase in above 650 lbs. of payload; additional passenger/payload benefit ranges from 170-200 lbs. depending on range of mission.

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May 28, 2021 at 04:24AM
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Is a Limited Edition Honda Civic Ever Worth $120,000 to You? - The Drive

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This one-of-300 JDM special edition is on sale in the UK, but it won't come cheap.

Torque GT

The Honda Civic is one of the all-time most popular tuner cars. With a low bar for entry and a huge community built around the car, parts are cheap and inspiration plentiful. For those of greater means, the sky is the limit, with models like the Type R promising uprated hardware and spirited performance in return for a higher purchase price. Rarer still is a car like the Mugen RR. A special edition built by Honda's own tuning house, it turns the dial not up to eleven, but something more like ten and a half. Of course, it naturally commands an even higher price, with one example of the 2007 model currently selling for £89,990 at Torque GT in the UK.

Given the rather stellar number, which equates to over $120,000 US dollars, you'd be forgiven for asking what you get for your money. The Mugen RR, made in a run of just 300 cars, does come with a few niceties above and beyond the FD2 Type R on which it is based. Weight is reduced by around 30lbs or so, thanks to carbon fiber bumpers and an aluminum hood. The engine has been fitted with uprated Mugen camshafts, along with a freer flowing exhaust system and an ECU tune, bumping power to 237hp, up from 222hp in the stock JDM Type R. 

All 300 examples of the Mugen RR came finished in Milano Red. Speaking of other cosmetic details, there's Recaro bucket seats inside, a smattering of badges, logos, and interior touches, and a set of 18-inch Mugen wheels equipped as standard. There's a suitably large carbon fiber wing out back, as well, with an inset Mugen logo and adjustments for tweaking the angle. There's also a gauge cluster in the center of the dash for keeping an eye on the car's vital statistics, which does a lot to reinforce the boy racer look.  

The particular example on sale at Torque GT does present well, of course. The original wheels are still there, the paint presents beautifully, and it's hard to find a hair out of place in the interior, either. But, at the end of the day, it's a huge sum of money for what is fundamentally a 14 year old Civic. For those seeking performance, it makes little sense; any number of second-hand Hondas could be built to outdo the Mugen RR for less than half of the purchase price. 

However, rare cars will always trend higher; we've seen one-of-20 Mugen special editions priced at $90,000 before. With that said, this example is significantly less rare and also significantly pricier, too. Whatever happens, this Mugen RR is likely to go to a home that wants the genuine article—a near-perfect example of a finely fettled JDM special edition. Whether it fetches the full asking price will remain to be seen. 

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May 28, 2021 at 05:42AM
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Yamaha WaterCraft joins Rightwaters initiative - Boating Industry

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Yamaha WaterCraft Group today joined forces with Yamaha Marine’s Rightwaters initiative to extend the program’s focus on marine stewardship, product responsibility, and manufacturing advancements across Yamaha’s WaveRunner and boat product lines.

Yamaha Rightwaters is a leading national marine sustainability program, focusing efforts toward sustainability from factory floors to the great outdoors. Pursuit of these initiatives includes protecting the environment, improving water quality, increasing energy conservation and recycling, as well as promoting product education.

"For years now, we have quietly worked behind the scenes to promote habitat conservation, increase energy savings and recycling at our manufacturing facilities, and to promote product education so that everyone can enjoy our public waterways," said Bryan Seti, Yamaha WaterCraft general manager. "Now, together with our colleagues across the Yamaha Marine Business Unit, we are formalizing our efforts under the Yamaha Rightwaters umbrella to better collaborate with key stakeholders on the local, state, and federal level."

Marine Stewardship

An important issue for Yamaha WaterCraft is habitat conservation that includes invasive species mitigation. Yamaha is also working at the state and federal level, advocating on behalf of boaters for equal access to public waters.

Product Responsibility

Yamaha WaterCraft is at the forefront of promoting product education and responsibility, ensuring that new and existing Yamaha WaveRunner and Boat owners use their products responsibly on the water, which is paramount to the future of recreational boating.

Manufacturing Advancements

Yamaha WaveRunners are manufactured in Newnan, GA and Yamaha Boats are manufactured in Vonore, TN.  These state-of-the-art facilities are part of Yamaha Motor Group's Global ISO14001 Environmental Management Certification and support Yamaha Motor Corporations’ 2050 Environmental Goals and Action themes.

"Yamaha is the #1 marine brand on the water today," said Seti. "We will lead the industry on these important fronts, and we can accomplish big things to make recreational boating even more enjoyable by working in concert with our employees, dealers, and industry partners."

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May 27, 2021 at 09:57PM
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Yamaha WaterCraft joins Rightwaters initiative - Boating Industry

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