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Why Acura should build a hybrid Integra successor using NSX tech

Yes, it sounds like a heresy. Yes, the Honda CR-Z was not a good hybrid sports car. Yes, we know the RSX officially replaced the Integra here (but was called the Integra in Japan). But, no, we're not crazy. Well, maybe a little bit. But hear us out. At the moment Acura is a bit of an unfocused mess. Its line-up is thoroughly uninspiring, save for its $200,000 NSX supercar – a great mid-engined supercar with an impressive, performance-oriented hybrid AWD system. And yet few people would draw a line connecting Acura's other SH-AWD hybrids, the RLX Sport Hybrid and MDX Sport Hybrid, to the NSX. The first NSX told the world that Acura built cars with world-class technology and performance, and the Integra carried it to people with normal pocketbooks. Since the new NSX communicates a similar message as its forbearer, so too would a new Integra. Now making an entry-level sports car with hybrid technology is tricky business. As we already established, the Honda CR-Z was a colossal flop. It's balance was all off: heavy, expensive, and not very sporty – and it didn't even get very good fuel economy. However, Honda and Acura can learn from these mistakes. First, to keep costs in check, Acura can borrow from Honda's ever-improving parts bin. It would logical to borrow the excellent Civic coupe platform – something the old Integra did as well. It could also attach the proposed hybrid powertrain to the upcoming Si turbocharged four-cylinder. Some added cost will be unavoidable, since the batteries and motors will have to go somewhere. That will cost some engineering dollars, and inflate the price tag a bit. However, since Acura is a premium brand, it has some wiggle room to bump up the price without losing buyers. Weight is another potential issue this hypothetical hybrid will face, and was one of the chief complaints with the CR-Z. Looking at the RLX and the RLX Sport Hybrid, the hybrid bits weigh about an extra 340 pounds. That's not insignificant, but added to the turbocharged Civic EX-T coupe's 2,900 pound curb weight, you would have a car that would weigh 3,240 pounds. That's comparable to the very fun Mustang EcoBoost. As long as Acura keeps the weight under 3,500 pounds, the brand should have an entertaining coupe on its hands. The final piece of the puzzle is to make sure it isn't compromised. Every bit of hybrid tech in the NSX is there for performance. It helps eliminate turbo lag, and it improves acceleration and handling.

Honda Super Cub first vehicle to receive 3D trademark in Japan

The term "iconic" gets thrown around a lot, but if there was ever a design worthy of the honorific, surely it's the Honda Super Cub. That's not just our opinion, though: it's the official word from the Japanese Patent Office, which has recognized the classic scooter's shape with a three-dimensional trademark.
The category was introduced in Japan back in 1997 to immortalize distinctive designs, and is subject to very strict criteria. In fact, this marks the first time it has been applied to a vehicle - and one of the few industrial products to be awarded the recognition.
Little wonder it was applied to this little wonder, too. With over 87 million units made since its introduction in 1958, Honda claims the Super Cub to be "the world's largest selling vehicle," with production taking place at 15 factories in 14 countries and sales in 160 markets around the world.

Honda to reveal new Civic Coupe in LA

Honda will reveal 2016 Civic Coupe next week at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The company isn't saying much, but promises the two-door will "showcase even sportier lines" than the sedan that launches this week. The coupe will also feature the same engines as the four-door model, which is powered by either a 2.0-liter inline-four or a 1.5-liter turbo. These will just be the tip of the iceberg in what Honda promises will be "the most diverse and innovative lineup in Civic's 43-year history." Additional variants to follow, including a five-door hatchback, a warmed-up Si model, and a smokin' hot Type R version that will be the first of its kind to be offered in the US. The first sedans will begin arriving at dealers this month, with the coupes to follow in the new year. For now, the 2016 Honda Civic Coupe will be showcased alongside the new Clarity FCV that debuted in Tokyo last month and will be marking its North American debut in LA. Honda to Debut 2016 Civic Coupe and Next-Gen Clarity Fuel Cell at 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show Nov 10, 2015 - TORRANCE, Calif. - World debut of all-new 2016 Civic Coupe elevates sporty styling and dynamic performance on 10th-generation Honda Civic platform - 2016 Civic Coupe marks next step of ambitious cadence in new Civic lineup - Clarity Fuel Cell vehicle makes North American debut in advance of U.S. launch in 2016 Honda will reveal details on two exciting new expressions of its Clean, Safe, Fun brand values at the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show with the world debut of the all-new 2016 Civic Coupe, the second in a line of new 10th-generation Civic models that will be launching over the next 18 months, and the North American debut of the all-new Honda Clarity Fuel Cell sedan, providing an early look at Honda's next-generation approach to low-carbon mobility, scheduled to launch in the U.S. next year. 2016 Honda Civic Coupe Built on the same athletic Civic platform that underpins the highly anticipated 2016 Civic Sedan that goes on-sale at Honda dealerships nationwide on November 12, the 2016 Civic Coupe will showcase even sportier lines, with an intimate, high-tech interior and engaging powertrain options to continue Honda's focus on launching the sportiest and most expansive Civic lineup in brand history.