Honda getting 3 more hybrids and 3 diesels in the next few years
Honda has always had one of the cleanest and most efficient model lineups in the U.S. market and they look set to continue that trend over the next several years. We already knew that the Japanese automaker would be adding three more hybrids to its lineup over the next two years: the five-door hatchback coming next spring will be followed by the CR-Z-based coupe and a hybrid version of the new Fit. Honda has been saying for over a year that they would keep the hybrid powertrains in these smaller cars which are used more often for urban driving. For the bigger models, they have decided diesel is the way to go. The first diesel model will show up next year in the Acura lineup, most likely starting with the TSX. According to Automotive News, diesels will then spread to the Honda side of the house starting with the Accord and CR-V. Both will likely get the same 2.2L four cylinder diesel that's going into the TSX. The next generation of the Odyssey minivan, which is due in 2010, may be the first Honda vehicle to get the 3.0L diesel V6 that the company is developing. That same engine will probably eventually end up in several other models - possibly the Pilot and Ridgeline - as well as in Acura vehicles like the MDX.
[Source: Automotive News, sub. req'd]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Kooshball 10:36AM (8/13/2008)
it the CR-Z comes out with RWD... sign me up.
Reply
amg 11:51AM (8/13/2008)
Diesel minivan eh? About time. The Fit Hybrid could be a Prius fighter in and of itself, even without the dedicated hybrid, especially if they kept the cost down. I saw a review of the Fit, aka the Jazz in the UK, on Top Gear, and it looks like a very versatile vehicle. Where can I put my $99 deposit down for the hybrid?? If only...
Reply
Phil 1:02PM (8/13/2008)
Honda need an eco version of the Fit / Jazz, because the existing model is way off the pace for mpg and CO2 compared with the likes of Citroen. Something to do with the high roof line probably.
I looked at buying one, but 137 g/km CO2 wrote it off straight away. The larger and much, much quicker Civic diesel has a lower CO2 figure (0-60 mph in 8.6 vs 13 seconds).
The future looks good for Honda.
My diesel CR-V has a lifetime average of 40 UK mpg (33 US mpg), and it is getting better as the mileage increases.
Reply
Steve 1:30PM (8/13/2008)
ALRIGHT!!! I DON"T HAVE TO BUY A VW NOW TO GET MY DREAM DIESEL CAR! But I still might if they don't hurry up on these!
Reply
Andy 3:10PM (8/13/2008)
haha AMEN!!!
Gordio 2:54PM (8/13/2008)
The hatchback prius fighter is irrelevant if the fit has a hybrid version. What's the big deal of making a hybrid-only car? if it looks like a prius, it will end up being a prius clone than a prius killer.
I like honda wish they didn't try so hard for an iconic prius killer. Isn't the CRZ enough? sporty, muscle, efficient. They should be happy this car will occupy a niche no one has taken.
Reply
Yanos 3:46PM (8/14/2008)
...seems like the Element would be a good canidate for a diesel powerplant.
Reply
john metcalf 5:31PM (8/14/2008)
I agree, I love the Element as a concept (perfect dog and kid car), but don't like the dismal mileage numbers.
Honda just needs to bring a wagon back to the American market.
John Metcalf 5:33PM (8/14/2008)
Accord wagon with diesel please.
Reply