Renault Twingo, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

• Renault Twingo, 2012

New Renault Twingo is the first vehicle in the range to feature the brand's new design identity. The car sale in early 2012, and includes a number of styling features that were unveiled on the most recent concept cars, and which  become the visual signature of all Renault cars in the future.

Outside, the front end of New Twingo has taken its inspiration specifically from this new design approach. On the bonnet, the Renault diamond is both bigger and significantly more upright. The black background highlights the badge and presents the brand in a robust, confident manner. Like the first-generation Renault Twingo, the newcomer features an expressive, appealing front end. Its dynamic, playful character is underlined by its fog lights and round sidelights which are now positioned next to the grille. The 'eyelids' of the headlights also contribute to new Renault Twingo's distinctive looks.

Warm, original new colours called Fuchsia and Bermuda Blue have been added to the existing range, and bring a touch of light-hearted fun that's characteristic of city cars. Depending on market, New Twingo can be fitted with a electrically-operated fabric sunroof as an option.

At the rear, there are new lights in addition to the main cluster. Located on the tailgate, they enhance New Renault Twingo's lines and echo the front end, bringing extra shape and punch to the car. With a rounder rear bumper and a more curved form for the lower part of the tailgate, the lines are softer. Among the 24 different alloy wheel and wheel trim options, one particularly assertive new wheel design (black diamond effect) contributes to improved aerodynamics and reduced CO2 emissions.

Inside, Twingo's bubbly side is enhanced through the harmony of colour and material. All the upholstery options have their own personality. The seats feature new patterns, with edging picked out in contrasting colours. All stitching, as well as the leather or TEP panels, are coordinated. The colours also feature on the door inserts and climate control and heater system controls. The lateral air vents come in different tones, depending on the market (Gloss Black, Majorelle Blue, Anis Green, Gunmetal), and their controls are detailed in chrome. Depending on market, the higher equipment levels offer clearly differentiated interior treatments: masculine and sporty in the case of the Dynamique, Renault Sport, GT and Gordini options; or more comfortable and feminine with the Privilege and Initiale packages.

Ever since its launch, Twingo's build quality has been one of its biggest features, and this is now more apparent than ever in its interior finish, as exemplified by the dashboard which has been enhanced through the use of more substantial and higher quality materials.

A TWINGO FOR EVERYONE
New Twingo sees Renault introduce a brand new collection of five roof decals in addition to the ten options that are already available. Each one is factory fitted and expresses a bold, attractive personality, with the contrasting motifs offering different visual atmospheres. Two of the decals can be coordinated with the interior and upholstery.

Customers can also choose different colours for the door mirrors and tips of the protective side mouldings, with colours which contrast with the main body colour. Whether 'radical' or 'graphic', the end result  not only be entirely personal but also guaranteed to be elegant. This system of personalisation  rolled out through a fun, online configurator. Renault is making customisation readily affordable thanks to attractive pricing that will allow every owner to say - "That's My Twingo!"

Interior space and versatility hit the bull's-eye
New Renault Twingo's design combines compact exterior dimensions with an impressively spacious interior. The very roomy city car provides 22 centimetres of knee room, which puts it among the segment's very best. Meanwhile, Twingo's reputation has always been sealed through its versatility-featuring separate, independently sliding, 50/50-split rear seats, Twingo is particularly practical, too. Its boot capacity can extend from 230 to 959 dm3, while the numerous cubbies and ingenious solutions available as options combine to make it the perfect partner both for shopping runs and for trips to the country.

Punchy, economical and even more respectful of the environment
The powerplants which feature in the new Renault Twingo range mean it is more than capable of devouring long distances. The 1.2 TCe 100hp engine, which boasts peak torque of 155Nm available from low revs, delivers the driving enjoyment of a larger-capacity engine, but with lower fuel consumption. Twingo's flagship engines, like the 1.2 16V 75hp petrol engine or the dCi 75 and dCi 85 diesels, have all benefited from ongoing improvements. Coupled with aerodynamic fine-tuning, this work has resulted in significant fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions improvements, yet not to the detriment of driving enjoyment. The fuel consumption for Renault Twingo dCi 75 and 85 (3.4 litres/100km) counts among the most frugal in its class. From 2012, New Twingo achieve benchmark emissions standards: 85g of CO2/km for the dCi 75 and dCi 85 diesel-powered versions and 102g/km with the 1.2 16V 75hp petrol engine. New Renault Twingo is one of the only city cars to be available with Euro5 diesel engines that combine performance and fuel efficiency.

Practical and versatile
Thanks to its platform which is based on that of Clio, New Twingo retains its best-in-class status with regard to handling and ride comfort. It has all the qualities of a long-distance tourer and even offers better range. Driving economically, a full tank can ensure a range of up to 1,000km (diesel version) or 750km (petrol). Meanwhile, New Renault Twingo's compact dimensions and nimble handling are ideal for slicing through city traffic, yet it is just as much in its element out of town, too.

In tune with its time thanks to a range of multimedia audio systems
All the audio systems in the New Twingo range will feature Bluetooth functionality and audiostreaming with USB connectivity as standard. This makes it easy to play digital music, from a player, phone or USB stick. In this area, too, New Renault Twingo delivers the same features as Renault models in other segments. As an option, the audio system can be used as a docking station for the iPhone and latest-generation iPod Touch. The audio system permits the use of GPS navigation thanks to a Renault-developed iPhone application. The app uses Bluetooth to communicate with the car and analyses the driver's 'eco-driving' behaviour in real time with a view to providing fuel-saving tips.

Twingo showcases Renault quality
Since its launch, Renault Twingo has enjoyed widely acclaimed reliability and a remarkable level of customer satisfaction, as confirmed by a long list of studies and surveys. Germany's ADAC, for example, considers Twingo's reliability to have ranged from 'good' to 'excellent' for several years.

Meanwhile, the French magazine L'Automobile Magazine put Renault Twingo first in its class for the second consecutive year in its overall quality ranking published in February 2011. The magazine also stressed that "with Twingo, Renault has demonstrated its ability to propel one of its cars to the top level of customer satisfaction." Thanks to the careful attention that it pays to the details, new Renault Twingo is poised to take the quality long associated with the model to an even higher standard.

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Nissan Maxima, 2012

 

 

 

• Nissan Maxima, 2012

Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) announced U.S. pricing for the 2012 Nissan Maxima, which is on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide. Maxima is again offered in two well-equipped models - Maxima 3.5 S and Maxima 3.5 SV, each featuring a standard 290-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine and Xtronic CVT transmission - and with no price increase despite a number of significant enhancements for the new model year.

For 2012, Nissan Maxima receives a refreshed exterior - with a new front grille design, new rear combination lights, and new 18-inch and 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. Inside, the roomy Nissan Maxima interior's enhancements include a new meter cluster illumination color (white), new Dark Piano-hairline trim, a new Atlantic Cherry wood tone trim, a new metallic-finish trim, and a new Cafe Latte interior color. There's also a new audio segment display and new audio/HVAC knob design. In addition, two new exterior colors are offered: Java Metallic and Dark Slate.

The other big news for the 2012 Maxima is the addition of a special Limited Edition Package for the 3.5 S model, which features smoked appearance headlights, High Intensity Discharge (HID) Xenon headlights, a compass in the rearview mirror, 18-inch aluminum-alloy Dark Hyper Silver finish wheels, a rear spoiler, dark satin chrome front grille, fog lights, outside mirrors with integrated turn signals and metallic trim. The Limited Edition Package provides excellent value at an MSRP of $710 USD.

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) for the 2012 Nissan Maxima include:
    Maxima 3.5 S CVT - $31,750 USD
    Maxima 3.5 SV CVT- $34,450 USD

About the 2012 Nissan Maxima
The flagship Nissan Maxima continues to set the bar for Nissan sedans, combining breakthrough sports sedan styling, a driver-oriented cockpit, ample comfort and luxury for passengers and an advanced drivetrain anchored by Nissan's legendary VQ-series V6 engine.

Along with its refreshed exterior - with a new front grille design, new rear combination lights, and new 18-inch and 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels - enhancements for 2012 include a new meter cluster illumination color, new available trim selections, a new Cafe Latte interior color, and two new exterior colors. A special Limited Edition Package with unique equipment is also added to the range of available packages that includes a Premium Package, Sport Package and Tech Package.

The 2012 Maxima is offered in two well-equipped models - Maxima 3.5 S and Maxima 3.5 SV, each featuring a standard 290-horsepower 3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve VQ-series V6 engine and Xtronic CVT® with manual and "Ds" (drive sport) modes and available paddle shifters. Nissan Maxima's sporty interior design combines a driver-oriented cockpit with ample comfort and luxury for passengers. The wide range of available technology includes a premium Bose® audio system, RearView Monitor and Nissan Hard Drive Navigation system with XM NavTraffic Real-Time Traffic Information and XM NavWeather™ (XM subscription required, sold separately).

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Volkswagen Golf BlueMotion Concept, 2012

 

•  Volkswagen Golf BlueMotion Concept, 2012

The Volkswagen has revealed one of the world's most fuel-efficient cars: a concept of the new VW Golf BlueMotion. The Golf - powered by another new 1.6-litre TDI (turbodiesel) - consumes just 3.2 l/100 km; this value equates to CO2 emissions of a mere 85 g/km. Nonetheless, the 81 kW / 110 PS Volkswagen Golf BlueMotion is a five-seat well-rounded vehicle that is capable of 202 km/h and can accommodate an entire family safely and comfortably throughout the year. This third generation Golf BlueMotion will be launched into the market in summer 2013.

Fuel consumption reduced by 15 per cent
Continually better fuel efficiency. The first generation of the Volkswagen Golf BlueMotion made its debut five years ago at the Geneva Motor Show; the car was launched into the market at the end of 2007. At that time, the Golf BlueMotion set new standards for sustainability with a fuel consumption value of 4.5 l/100 km (119 g/km CO2). In 2009, Volkswagen showed the second generation Golf BlueMotion, also in Geneva (as a concept car); its fuel consumption had been reduced to 3.8 l/100 km (99 g/km CO2); first deliveries of the production version of this VW Golf BlueMotion were made in October of the same year. The fact that fuel consumption for the third Golf BlueMotion could now be reduced by another 0.6 litres or 15 per cent and CO2 emissions by 14 grams per km is a reflection of continuous technical progress. Given its 50-litre fuel tank and 3.2 l/100 km fuel consumption, the new Golf has an astonishing theoretical range of 1,562 km. Given an average annual driving distance of 15,000 km, most drivers will only have to refuel this Volkswagen ten times per year - given the current price of fuel in Germany (Source: German Petroleum Industry Association, July 2012) this would amount to a total fuel cost for the year of a manageable 694 euros.

Weight, aerodynamic drag and rolling resistance reduced
Lighter, leaner, more efficient. The car's combined fuel consumption - the lowest ever attained in a conventionally-fuelled Golf - was enabled by innovative lightweight design (including 26 kg less weight in the chassis and 37 kg less in the superstructure), engine-related modifications and a collection of other measures. These include super low rolling resistance tyres with higher air pressure, longer gear ratios (5-speed manual gearbox), the Stop/Start system and battery regeneration mode that are standard in all new Golf cars and specific aerodynamic modifications.

Aerodynamics. In the area of aerodynamics, the frontal area of the new Golf was reduced by 0.03 m2 and aerodynamic drag (cD x A) by nearly 10 per cent. Compared to other Golf models, the aerodynamics of the BlueMotion were also refined by a lowered chassis (by 15 mm), a roof spoiler, lateral air guide elements on the rear window, a radiator grille that is closed to the outside, partially closed air inlet screens, optimised cooling airflow, special underfloor panels, optimised brake cooling channels and a C-pillar spoiler. These measures take the Golf BlueMotion to a cD value of 0.27, making it one of the most aerodynamic vehicles in its class.

New generation of TDI engines. In the Volkswagen Golf BlueMotion concept car, Volkswagen is employing a 1.6-litre turbodiesel direct injection engine from the newly developed EA288 engine series. The sixteeen-valve, four-cylinder engine develops its maximum torque of 250 Nm at a low 1,500 rpm; this torque is available up to an engine speed of 2,750 rpm. Various measures and technologies such as reduced internal friction, an innovative thermal management system with shortened warm-up phase, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), cylinder pressure sensor, two-stage oil pump, switching water pump and water-cooled intercooler right in the intake manifold result in successfully reducing fuel consumption and emissions. To reduce emissions values further, Volkswagen has also implemented an oxidation catalytic converter, a diesel particulate filter and a NOx storage catalytic converter.

BlueMotion as Trendline and Comfortline
Until now, the most fuel-efficient Golf was only offered as a single specific BlueMotion model. That will be changing with the new model, because now it will be possible to order the production version as either a Trendline or Comfortline equipment version. The new Golf BlueMotion will also be exclusively offered with 15- and 16-inch wheels to optimise weight, aerodynamics and rolling resistance.

Volkswagen Golf BlueMotion 1.6 TDI Trendline
Like all seventh generation Golf cars, the entry-level model to the BlueMotion world is equipped with such features as seven airbags and Electronic Stability Control (ESC); the car can also be ordered as a two-door or four-door. Additional standard features in the Golf BlueMotion 1.6 TDI Trendline include a touchscreen with 5-inch TFT display, filler neck with guard against use of the wrong fuel, luggage compartment cover, ECO-HMI (display of fuel efficiency and tips on improving it in the multifunction display), the multicollision brake, electronic parking brake with Auto Hold function, XDS limited-slip differential, tyre pressure indicator and variable cargo floor.

Also standard: daytime running lights, green heat-insulating glass, air conditioning, locking glovebox, chrome rings around the interior air nozzles, Easy Entry (two-door), asymmetrically split folding rear seatbacks, electric door mirrors, electric windows, rear wiper with intermittent function, electromechanical steering, height and length adjustment of steering column, height adjustable driver's seat, dust and pollen filter, central locking with RF remote control, height adjustment and belt tensioners for the front seatbelts, disc brakes at all wheels and safety-optimised head restraints.

The Volkswagen Golf BlueMotion 1.6 TDI Comfortline
The even more extensively equipped Comfortline level adds 16-inch alloy wheels, ParkPilot front and rear, a more exclusive instrument cluster, sliding drawers under the front seats, the new Composition Touch radio system including SD card interface and a fatigue detection system. Also included are front comfort seats with lumbar supports, cargo pass-through option and centre armrest on the rear bench seat, chrome look for the rotary light switch and mirror adjustment switches, storage pockets on the backrests of the front seats, a storage bin with lid in the roofliner, a 12V accessory outlet in the boot, illuminated vanity mirrors, fabric floor mats and leather-trimmed steering wheel and leather gear shift grip.

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SsangYong Actyon Sports, 2013

 

 

•  SsangYong Actyon Sports, 2013

SsangYong Motor Company officially launched the new Actyon Sports production ready pick-up at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show.

The new SsangYong Actyon Sports reflects the growing demand from drivers with an interest in outdoor activities and extreme sports. With a fresh interior and exterior design, and equipped with its new e-XDi diesel engine, Actyon Sports has been reborn with better fuel efficiency, a more powerful performance and convenience features to meet the needs of a wide variety of customers.

Designed to be the perfect vehicle for everything from weekend leisure activities to city commuter driving, the car's sharp, contemporary design and spacious cabin reflects the unique strength and dynamics of SsangYong Motor. After two years development and an investment of over 60 million Euros, the new SsangYong Actyon Sports is a third generation model, inheriting the brand values of the first generation Musso Sports and second generation Actyon Sports.

Delivering the perfect blend of performance and economy, SsangYong Actyon Sports is powered by the latest e-XDi active diesel engine. Peak torque is delivered from only 1,500rpm, providing optimum performance on all roads and terrains including slopes, steep curves and rough surfaces. As a result, even though the car retains its frame chassis construction, fuel economy of 7.4 L/100km represents a 7.5 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency compared to the previous model.

With more frugal economy also comes increased performance. The e-XDi active engine provides maximum power of 155ps and peak torque of 360Nm, which is a 16 per cent improvement over its predecessor. Maximum torque is consistent between 1,500rpm and 2,800rpm, providing ample performance in what is typically the most commonly used part of the rev range. Ample low end torque of 190Nm allows the Actyon Sports to tackle tough off-road terrain and maintain SsangYong's legendary reputation for off-road capability.

The new car has been styled to reflect SsangYong's modern and efficient engineering. From the front, it is dynamic yet sophisticated, complemented by a mesh radiator grille and trapezoidal bumper, and stylish black headlight bezels provide a luxurious touch. In profile, the sharp belt line runs to the rear bumper emphasising the sleek, sporty appearance, and from the rear the wide glass area not only gives excellent rearward visibility but also complements the transparent rear lamps, providing the car's signature look.

As with every SsangYong, practicality is at the core of the new pick-up's appeal. A large, flat rear deck provides a 2.04m2 load area, accessed via a tailgate which takes only half the effort to open (11kgf) compared to that of its predecessor (21kgf).

Inside the cabin there's a smart and sophisticated environment, created by using black and metallic finishes along with an LED illuminated instrument cluster. Quality leather can be specified to trim the comfortable seats, while passengers in the rear can recline their seats by up to 29 degrees.

Occupants can also enjoy many convenience features including heated seats, Bluetooth connectivity, Eco-cruise control, a sliding sunroof and more. There are also ample spaces for storing both oddments and essential items.

Safety is maximised with the SsangYong Actyon Sports' super strong tri-structure frame. Manufactured using SsangYong's cutting edge frame technology, this strength will help protect occupants in the event of a collision. Furthermore, accident avoidance is also enhanced by ESP and the option of an advanced 4WD system to provide the ultimate road grip.

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Land Rover Defender, 2013

 

 

 

 

 

•  Land Rover Defender, 2013

Land Rover Defender customers seeking a higher level of specification can now enhance their vehicle even further with three additional options and a choice of two new body colours, Barolo Black and Havana.

Options of a new premium seat design, upgraded in-car entertainment and a choice of four new contrast roof colours are now available to Land Rover Defender customers.

Substantial improvements were made to the specification last year, including introduction of the EU5 2.2-litre diesel engine, ventilated discs, detail improvements to the interior and new option packs to the 'S' and 'SE' trim levels. Three speed-limiting options were also added for fleet users wanting to benefit from effective control of fuel costs.

Three New Options
In 2012, the Land Rover Defender gained a number of new option packs in addition to the 'S' and 'SE' trim levels. Customers can now further enhance their Defender's looks, comfort and versatility with a choice of three more options as well as the choice of two new body colours, Barolo Black and Havana.

Choice of Contrast Roof
Smart new, contrast roof colours can now be chosen against the majority of the Land Rover Defender paint palette. In addition to the standard Fuji White, customers can now opt for Santorini Black, Indus Silver, Orkney Grey or Firenze Red. The Firenze Red for example, can be chosen with the Santorini Black roof and the Baltic Blue with Indus Silver or simply retain their body colour.

New Premium Seat Design
Premium part leather seats which contour your body are available to the driver and front seat passenger, sporting the Land Rover logo on the backrest. The style of the seat naturally enhances driving support and comfort over the toughest of terrain. An integrated, centre stitch line on the headrest is also visible and adopted to the current standard seat in the Land Rover Defender.

Upgraded In-Car Entertainment System
The base audio system for the Land Rover Defender has a single-slot CD player, USB, Aux jack and 4x50W amplification with an optional audio upgrade available for Bluetooth connectivity with remote microphone. This can be enhanced further with the optional, Alpine-branded Hi Line 150W low profile subwoofer system with 10cm coaxial speakers replacing the standard units.

The Land Rover Defender continues to offer four option packs which comprise of the following:

•     Comfort Pack- Air conditioning, CD Player with auxiliary input and convenience pack.
•     Exterior Pack- Brunel grille and headlamp surrounds, body coloured roof, wheel arches and side runners.
•     Leather Pack- Part leather seats and leather steering wheel available on all body styles.
•     Off-Road Pack- ABS, heavy duty rim and MTR tyre, tow ball and under-ride protection bar.

A plain black Pick Up hood is also available as an option and a plain beige hood for the 110 Double Cab Pick Up. Both options are in addition to existing styles.

All models have tinted glass and there's the option of part leather standard seats in addition to the new premium seats.

2.2-litre diesel engine
The EU5 2.2-litre diesel engine replaced the EU4 2.4-litre diesel in 2012, matching it for power, torque and fuel consumption, whilst a full acoustic engine cover replaced the previous splash cover, reducing radiated engine noise and improving driving refinement.

The 2.2-litre diesel engine produces 122PS@3,500rpm and torque of 360Nm@2,000rpm, giving a 0-60mph time of 14.7 seconds and a top speed of 90mph. CO2 emissions on the combined cycle are 266g/km for the Land Rover Defender 90 and 295g/km for the 110 and 130.

The GFT MT 82 six-speed gearbox has an excellent ratio spread, high top gear for cruising and enhanced low-speed crawl capability. The lower first gear offers low crawl speed making towing on-road and off-road much easier. The low-down engine torque also helps in-gear acceleration and the tall sixth gear ensures excellent real-world cruising, refinement and fuel economy. Ground gears in both the gearbox and transfer box help contribute to the refinement of the transmission.

Versatile Interior
The Land Rover Defender's facia continues to be based on a single, large moulding supported on a robust steel rail to help eliminate squeaks and rattles. The instruments provide clear, concise information to the driver with LED illumination. Versatile stowage shelves are conveniently located for both the driver and passenger and two console options are available: a practical open-tray design that keeps contents to hand and a large, lidded design that provides an impressive 14 litres of stowage.

A powerful heating and ventilation system is designed to cope with the most extreme climates and features aluminium plate and fin heat exchangers to deliver impressive performance.

Tall front seats are designed to improve maximum back support and headrest ergonomics in the most demanding of driving conditions and there are robust, supportive second row seats too. The 110 Station Wagon, 110 Double Cab Pick Up and 130 Crew Cab models, can comfortably accommodate three occupants on an asymmetrically-split second row seat. The Station Wagon derivatives have a spring-assisted fold mechanism which helps when folding the seats and when carrying large or awkward loads.

Land Rover Defender 90 Station Wagon second row occupants benefit from a pair of individual, full-size, forward-facing rear seats. Providing excellent comfort levels, these seats are also available as a third row option on the 110 Station Wagon. Accessed either through the rear door or by folding the second row seats, they can be easily folded and stowed sideways in the loadspace.

Seat trims include durable all-vinyl and cloth specifications as well as the half-leather standard seat option and new Premium seats. Three-point safety belts are specified for all seating positions.

Unique Vehicle Architecture
Land Rover Defender's unique vehicle architecture remains unchanged. The chassis frame is available in three different wheelbases and in both standard and heavy-duty guise (for even greater load-bearing capabilities). A total of 14 separate body styles - from pick-ups and soft-tops to crew cabs and station wagons - are produced on the mainstream production line. Beyond this, Land Rover's Engineered To Order team offer a range of products from standard drop-side or box-body conversions to bespoke design and build adaptations.

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Honda Insight, 2012

 

 

 

 

• Honda Insight, 2012

A significantly updated 2012 Honda Insight hybrid features new exterior styling, an enhanced interior, additional features on select models and an EPA fuel economy-rating improvement of 1 mpg.

The Honda Insight's city/highway/combined EPA fuel economy rating of 41/44/42 mpg, up from 40/43/41 on the prior model, continues to offer the highest EPA fuel economy rating of any new vehicle currently available with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starting under $20,000.

The aerodynamically styled, five-passenger, five-door dedicated hybrid vehicle receives extensive changes inside and out for 2012. Exterior changes include a more distinctive grille design that introduces a thin, blue accent bar representative of the Honda Insight's high-tech hybrid identity. Restyled front and rear bumpers, along with changes under the vehicle, contribute to a 2-percent increase in aerodynamic performance. New designs for the headlight and brake light internal reflectors further complete the refreshed look. Insight and Insight LX models have new 15-inch wheel covers and the Insight EX has newly styled 15-inch alloy wheels. Slightly wider 185/60R15 tires, up from 175/65R15 tires on the prior model, contribute to confident driving performance.

The Honda Insight's interior refinements for 2012 include a reconfigured rear seat area for better leg and head room; a redesigned gauge cluster background with a more technically sophisticated appearance; reshaped center-console beverage holders that accommodate larger drinks; and a more supportive front armrest (Insight LX and EX).

The Honda Insight LX has new, more premium seat fabric, while the Insight EX is upholstered with a combination of synthetic leather (new) and premium fabric. Rear-seat headroom improves by 0.6 inches with changes to the rear headliner shape and deeper sculpting of the rear seat cushion to improve rear passenger comfort. Rearward visibility improves with a more compactly mounted rear-wiper motor housing and a thinner rear spoiler that creates a larger viewing area out the lower back window. The Insight becomes quieter for 2012 with increased thickness to the vehicle's existing noise-insulation materials and additional insulation panels in the cargo area.

Available on Honda Insight EX models, the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with voice recognition receives several notable upgrades including the addition of a rearview camera. The system provides routing and guidance to individual addresses and more than 7-million points of interest within the continental United States. A 16-GB flash memory system replaces the 4.7-GB DVD-based system used on the prior model. The new system offers faster route calculation and includes FM traffic, a subscription-free service that alerts drivers to traffic conditions.

The Honda Insight is powered by an Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system comprised of a 1.3-liter i-VTEC gasoline 4-cylinder engine and a 10-kilowatt electric motor. The combination develops 98 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 123 lb-ft. of torque at 1000-1700 rpm. For 2012, friction-reducing measures in the engine and the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) contribute to the new model's increased fuel economy. A 10.6-gallon fuel tank provides an estimated maximum driving range exceeding 400 miles.

The Honda Insight features the Eco Assist System, an innovation that can enhance efficient vehicle operation while providing feedback related to individual driving styles. Eco Assist can help drivers improve fuel efficiency, both by altering vehicle functionality and providing driver feedback, with fuel economy dependent on their given set of driving conditions. Pressing the ECON button can further enhance the efficiency of multiple vehicle systems: throttle control, CVT operation, idle-stop duration, air conditioning and cruise-control operation (if equipped). Eco Assist also provides feedback about driving style via a 3D-like background within the speedometer. The background changes colors from green to blue to reflect how efficiently or inefficiently the driver is accelerating or braking (green is more efficient).

Aerodynamic refinements for 2012 include changes to the shape of the engine bay underbody cover and the addition of air diffusers under the rear bumper to smooth airflow exiting behind the vehicle. The strakes ahead of the front wheels have been extended by 0.4 inches to better direct air around the wider front tires.

Standard safety features on all Insight models include dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags; front-side airbags with a passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); side-curtain airbag system; anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution (EBD); driver's and front-passenger's active head restraints; and a front body structure designed to mitigate pedestrian injuries. The Insight also features Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, which provides improved occupant protection and crash compatibility between vehicles of different sizes and ride heights in frontal crashes.

The 2012 Insight is offered in three distinct models. The value-oriented base model, simply designated as "Insight," is well equipped with a 160-watt, two-speaker audio system, automatic climate control, power windows, remote entry and more.

The Honda Insight LX adds a four-speaker audio system, USB audio interface, armrest console, floor mats and a security system. New for 2012, the LX has map lights and steering wheel audio controls.

The Honda Insight EX adds alloy wheels, steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, an audio system with six speakers, heated side mirrors with integrated turn signals and much more. For 2012, the EX gains Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®3, automatic headlights and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. The Insight EX is available with the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with voice recognition and rearview camera.

New exterior colors include Frosted Silver Metallic and Truffle Pearl, which replace Clear Sky Blue and Crimson Pearl.

Honda Insight accolades include J.D. Power and Associates "Highest Ranked Compact Car in Initial Quality in a Tie" in their 2011 Initial Quality Study SM (IQS) (the Insight tied with the Civic). The IQS names the highest performers within the first 90 days of vehicle ownership. And for the past three consecutive years, the Insight was named a Top 10 Green Car by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com4. The Insight was also named one of the "Greenest Vehicles of 2011" by the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE).

Honda is a leader in developing cleaner, more fuel-efficient vehicle technologies, including the original Honda Insight, introduced as America's first mass-produced hybrid car in December 1999. Honda is also a leader in the development of advanced alternatives to gasoline, including the zero-emission, hydrogen-powered FCX Clarity fuel-cell electric car, the world's most-advanced production fuel cell automobile.

Honda's diverse lineup of environmental vehicles also includes the Civic Natural Gas sedan, the only retail CNG passenger vehicle currently available from any automaker in the U.S., and three distinct gasoline-electric hybrid models: Civic Hybrid, CR-Z sport hybrid and Insight hybrid.

Honda was named America's "Greenest Automaker" for the fifth consecutive time by the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) in late 2010. The award is earned by the company with the lowest combined score of its smog-forming and greenhouse gas emissions (primarily CO2) in its U.S. automobile fleet. Honda has led the UCS rankings of overall vehicle environmental performance since the first UCS study in 2000, marking a decade of Honda leadership in reduced vehicle emissions. Honda earned the recognition with an industry-best score based on model year 2008 data, the latest available for analysis.

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