Honda EV-STER Concept Going To Production!

Honda CEO Takanobu Ito revealed that a new sports car from the Japanese automaker could be launched with a roadster body like the EV-STER as well as either battery-powered electric or gasoline powertrains.

[Source] Motor Authority

Acura Debuting 3 Vehicles at Detroit

Acura will unveil three all-new vehicles at the 2012 North American International Auto Show including an all-new compact ILX sports sedan, a redesigned RDX crossover sport utility vehicle, and a concept version of the next generation Acura NSX super car.

The Acura ILX Concept is a styling study of an all-new luxury compact sedan scheduled for launch in spring 2012. To be positioned at the gateway to the Acura lineup, the ILX will feature three powertrains including Acura's first-ever gas-electric hybrid. Acura also will unveil a prototype of the 2013 RDX, the second generation of Acura's five-passenger SUV. Finally, Acura will debut the NSX Concept, which represents the styling direction for the next generation of Acura's super sports car.

Honda Manufacturing of Indiana, LLC (HMIN) today announced that it will be the exclusive manufacturer of the Acura ILX, an all-new luxury sedan going into mass production in Indiana in the spring of 2012.

The Acura ILX will join the TL sedan, ZDX crossover vehicle, and the MDX and RDX sport-utility vehicles as the fifth Acura model produced exclusively in North America. Acura finished second among all luxury brands in the J.D. Power and Associates' 2011 Initial Quality Study.

HMIN was recognized earlier this year for its outstanding quality as one of only three automobile plants globally to earn a Platinum Award for outstanding quality based on the results of J.D. Power and Associates' 2011 Initial Quality Survey℠ (IQS). The plant recently added nearly 1,000 associates to support the move to two-shift production, which started on Oct. 24, 2011, doubling the plant's capacity to 200,000 vehicles per year. The Acura ILX will be the first hybrid vehicle to be made in America at a Honda plant. Gasoline engines for the new Acura ILX will be produced at the Anna, Ohio, engine plant of Honda of America Mfg., Inc.

Honda Manufacturing Indiana, LLC (HMIN) in Greensburg, Ind., began operations with production of Civic Sedans in October 2008. HMIN added production of Honda's natural gas-powered Civic Sedan in May 2009, and began producing Civic for export to markets outside North America in September 2009. With employment of approximately 2,000 associates and capital investment exceeding $550 million, HMIN started operations as a zero-waste-to-landfill factory, meaning no waste is sent to landfills, and maintains one of the lowest environmental footprints of any automobile plant in Honda's global production network.

Some things I have been hearing:

• Acura Legend?
• Acura will get new flagship...
• The new flagship will feature the electric SH-AWD with V8 performance and better than inline-4 cylinder fuel efficiency 
• Acura NSX Concept
• Basically, the vehicle spied on the Avengers' movie set over the summer
• More production developed version and is also in hard-top form.
• Will carry on the NSX tradition of a mid-engine, rear-wheel drive layout.
• Acura ILX (the following are the different powertrain setups)
• hybrid form (1.5L IMA). 
• For automatic transmission, the ILX will be offered in a 2.0L 4-cyl flavor
• For the more sport-minded, a 6-speed manual will be offered, with a 2.4L 4-cylinder.
• Acura Strategy
• "Smart Luxury"
• Acura's model strategy will be centered around a 3-sedan lineup running in parallel with a dual-CUV offering, so because of the ILX either the TSX or TL will get axed.

Honda EV-STER Concept

TOKYO, Japan, November 30, 2011 - Honda Motor Co., Ltd. will exhibit the world premiere of the EV-STER, the next-generation electric small sports concept model, at the 42nd Tokyo Motor Show 2011, which will take place at Tokyo Big Sight from Saturday, December 3 through Sunday, December 11, 2011.

Featuring a dynamic and innovative styling design and excellent environmental performance, the EV-STER, an electric rear-wheel-drive two-seater convertible sports car, will propose a new way to enjoy a sports type model which is unique to the electromotive mobility. The adoption of carbon materials made it possible to reduce the vehicle weight contributing to the vehicle's high driving performance and range of approximately 160km. The easy-to-operate twin-lever steering was adopted for the thorough pursuit of the joy of driving. Moreover, the new concept model enables the driver to make his/her own adjustments to some vehicle characteristics such as motor output and suspension settings, to embody the joy of maneuvering to the fullest extent.

Furthermore, the instrument panel features not only meters, but also the vehicle information display which enables the driver to enjoy driving as well as the network display used for the audio and navigation systems and also for the internet access. The well-designed layout of the meters and displays enables the driver to concentrate on driving and enjoy the comfortable space.

Honda remains committed to developing sports models beyond the expectations of its customers and offering exciting and thrilling mobility products.

Key specifications of the EV-STER
Vehicle length 3,570mm
Vehicle width 1,500mm
Vehicle height 1,100mm
Wheelbase 2,325mm
Maximum speed 160km/h
Acceleration (0-60km/h) 5.0 sec
Maximum range Approximately 160km (JC08 mode)
Battery 10kWh lithium-ion battery
Maximum battery output 58kW
Charging time 200V: under 3 hours / 100V: under 6 hours

Honda Announces "Earth Dreams Technology"

"Earth Dreams Technology" is a next generation set of technological advancements which greatly enhance both driving performance and fuel efficiency at a high level, using as its base advanced environmental technologies to pursue the joy of driving unique to Honda. It is a series of measures in which efficiency of internal combustion components including engine, and transmission, as well as electric-powered motor technology, is further improved.

Through its implementation first in the mini-vehicle N BOX and gradually onto other vehicle models, Honda aims to achieve top-of-industry fuel efficiency for every category within three years, while simultaneously setting a timeline of 2020 to reduce by 30% CO2 emissions for all products sold worldwide, relative to emission figures for 2000.

Inspiration of the "Earth Dreams Technology" name: "Earth Dreams Technology" is an expression for a set of technologies which takes into account both our need to protect the environment and our desire to provide a joy of driving.

Summary of key features

1. Gasoline engine which achieves top-of-industry driving performance and fuel efficiency

• By enhancing Honda's original VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control System) technology to thoroughly improve thermal efficiency and minimize friction, a combination of high output and fuel efficiency was achieved. Further, a new engine series employing a new structure for higher expandability was developed.
• By gradually renewing the engine starting with the mini-vehicle N BOX, Honda aims to utilize this technology to achieve top-of-industry output and fuel efficiency in every vehicle class within three years.
• A wide range of engine classes including the 660cc, 1.3L, 1.5L, 1.8L, 2.0L, 2.4L, and 3.5L classes will feature the technology.

• [ 660cc class engine ]

• Employs DOHC and VTC (Variable Timing Control) to improve intake efficiency. Further, the compact combustion chamber realizes high thermal efficiency.
• By shortening the bore pitch compared to the present engine models and reducing the thickness of the cylinder block and camshaft, engine weight is reduced by 15%^*3 and fuel efficiency is improved by 10%^*3.

• [ 1.3 to 1.5L class engine ]

• Employs VTC, direct injection technology and the Atkinson cycle using the DOHC, VTEC technologies as the base.
• Extensive friction reduction measures are implemented.

• [ 1.8 to 2.0L class engine ]

• Employs direct injection technology and the Atkinson cycle using the DOHC, VTEC technologies as the base. Further, implementation of VTC and high-capacity EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) to both the intake and exhaust ports realizes significantly reduced friction.
• For the 2.0L class hybrid vehicle engines, use of an electric water pump eliminates the need for a belt in the auxiliary device and contributes to a reduction in friction. The VTC system allows fuel-efficient driving in various driving styles.

• [ 2.4L class engine ]

• Based on the DOHC and VTEC technologies, it employs VTC and direct injection technology and implements extensive friction reduction measures.
• Standalone engine features 5%^*3 improvements in fuel efficiency and output as well as a 10%^*3 improvement in maximum torque compared to the previous engine.

• [ 3.5L class engine ]

• Employs new valve train mechanisms and direct injection technology in the SOHC, VTEC, VMC systems to improve by over 10%^*3 of fuel efficiency and 5%^*3 of output, relative to the present standalone engine model.

2. A compact diesel engine which realizes the world's lightest body^*1, top-of-class^*1 acceleration performance and fuel efficiency.

• Through optimizing engine rigidity and combustion pressure, an aluminum open deck for the cylinder block was enabled in this top-of-industry lightweight^*1 1.6L class diesel engine.
• By downsizing from the present 2.2L engine and extensively reducing mechanical friction in each section, a friction level equivalent to present gasoline engine models was achieved.
• Optimized thermal management system thanks to improvements in the cooling system reduces CO₂ output by over 15%^*3.
• Employment of a compact, high-efficiency turbocharger and weight reduction in the reciprocating sliding section realizes a sporty and nimble ride.

3. CVT which combines at a high level the fun of driving and fuel efficiency.

• Three CVT structures for mini, compact, and mid-size vehicle classes are newly developed to be adopted for a variety of engine models.
• Reinforced belt is used to realize a structure for which a wide ratio range can be set.
• Implementation of analysis technology over the contact behavior between the belt and pulley, and a high-precision hydraulic control system allows for continual optimization of hydraulic pressure to the pulley under a variety of driving conditions, contributing to improved fuel efficiency.
• Use of an electronic oil pump to realize an idle stop system with high response contributes significantly to improved usability and fuel efficiency.
• "G-Design Shift", a new coordinated control system for shift transmission, throttle, and hydraulic control responds quickly to driver demands and realizes an exhilarating, sporty drive with superior acceleration.
• In the mini-vehicle class, a control mechanism and innovations in axle placement to reduce the engine size lengthwise, while a reduction in parts by simplifying the transmission casing structure helps realize a lightweight and compact body.
• For the compact and mid-size classes, in addition to the reductions in size and weight, transmission efficiency was greatly improved by expanding the ratio range to achieve fuel efficiency improvements of 5%*3 and 10%*3 compared to the conventional CVT and comparable 5ATs, respectively.

4. A two-motor hybrid system which realizes top-of-industry efficiency^*1

• A two-motor hybrid system featuring top-of-industry efficiency^*1 enhancing driving performance and reduced CO₂ emissions has been newly developed.
• Special lithium-ion battery and charger is employed to enable mounting on plug-in hybrid vehicles.
• Mid-sized vehicles equipped with this system are scheduled to begin production, starting with the plug-in hybrid model in 2012 and the hybrid model in 2013.
• Three driving modes allowing for top-of-industry efficiency^*1 for various driving environments were developed; an "EV driving mode" for urban environments, a "hybrid driving mode" using electricity generated by the motor, and a "engine-connected driving mode" where the engine and tires are mechanically connected during high-speed cruising.
• Combination with a high-output 120kW motor allows for superior environmental performance and driving enjoyment.

5. A high-efficiency, high output electric SH-AWD hybrid system which combines superior driving and environmental performance.

• A new hybrid system, electric SH-AWD, was developed for large-sized vehicles. By combining a 3.5L, V6 engine with this hybrid system, acceleration equivalent to V8 engines, as well as fuel efficiency equal or superior to in-line 4-cylinder engines were realized.
• An electric 4WD system with independent 20kW+ motors on both sides for the rear wheels combines a 7-speed dual clutch transmission system with a built-in 30kW+ high-efficiency motor with the engine.
• By mounting a high-performance lithium-ion battery and optimally controlling the front and rear motors, a new hybrid system with high fuel efficiency and output was realized.
• By mounting two independent motors in the rear and employing a newly developed bilateral torque adjustable control system, incredibly tight cornering just like driving "on-the-rail" is realized. With this mechanism, Honda strives to provide a stable ride for various driving environments.

6. A compact, high efficiency electric powertrain for EVs.

• Thanks to the high efficiency coaxial motor, low-friction gearbox and electric servo brake system, the system realizes the highest electrical consumption capability in the world^*1, meeting the required AC consumption rate of 29kWh/100mile(116MPGe) as set forth by the United States.
• A traveling distance of 123 miles^*2(LA-4mode: unadjusted) or 210km^*2(JC08 mode) was achieved thanks to the mounting of a high capacity lithium-ion battery.
• When using the 240V U.S. electric source, a full charge takes less than 3 hours. (From the time a low-charge signal is lit till full charge)
• By offering three driving modes (SPORT, NORMAL, ECON), the driver can freely select from a number of options to meet the needs of various driving styles such as power-saving or sporty drive.

*1 Honda internal research (as of November 30, 2011)

*2 Honda calculations

*3 Compared to Honda products

 

Source: Honda World News

iPhone Apps by Acura

1. My Acura 2010 How-To Video - This useful app features how-to videos on a variety of sophisticated technologies for the complete 2010 Acura lineup. Whether you have an RL, TL, TSX, ZDX, MDX or RDX, you’ll be privy to a wealth of handy information designed to enhance and simplify your life on the road. It not only lets you retrieve your radio or navigation code, you’ll learn about a wide variety of features, from the Acura Navigation System and Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® to the Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
2. AcuraLink Roadside Assistance - Acura extends AcuraLink® to new Digital Services with the introduction of the all-new AcuraLink® Roadside App featuring support for Acura Roadside Assistance* program. This program allows users to quickly and easily request roadside and towing services, lock-out assistance, tire changes, fuel delivery and more. The app can easily deliver a GPS location to dispatched support and provide ongoing status updates for the user during an event.
   
   Towing and roadside assistance services are performed by and/or through Cross Country Motor Club, Inc., except in Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon, Wisconsin and Wyoming, where services are performed by and/or through Cross Country Motor Club of California, Inc.
   
   • Works with all iPhones running version 4.0 software or later
   • Not functional on an iPod Touch
   
   * Roadside Assistance no-cost benefits apply during warranty period only. See your program details for specific warranty coverages. Beyond warranty coverage, AcuraLink may still be used for non-covered services requiring a separate payment at the time of service.
   

[Rumors] New 2013 Acura NSX?

1. Known internally as the "Super Sports."
2. Honda’s long-awaited NSX successor will be unveiled at the Detroit Motor Show in January.
3. Will be a hybrid: likely to feature an electric motor as well as conventional power. 
4. Will probably have SH-AWD.
5. Likely to go on sale by 2013.
6. Yoshikazu Kigoshi, R&D boss, said: "It will define the new face of Acura (Honda’s premium US brand)."
7. The car is set to go on sale worldwide, and it will wear the Honda badge in Europe and possibly even resurrect the revered NSX name.
8. Some are speculating that the new Acura Tony Starks is driving will be the new Acura NSX.

Source: AutoExpress

Thanks Anonymous for the tip!

[Rumors] Acura AX2?

I got an Anonymous tip that the spied sub-TSX sedan will be the Acura AX2.

ACURA AX2

By: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

Automobiles and structural parts therefor

Perfect for these industries	Words that describe this logo
Vehicles and Products for locomotion by land, air or water	automobiles   structural   parts   therefor

This is a brand page for the ACURA AX2 trademark by Honda Motor Co., Ltd. in Tokyo, , 107-8556. Write a review about a product or service associated with this ACURA AX2 trademark. Or, contact the owner Honda Motor Co., Ltd. of the ACURA AX2 trademark by filing a request to communicate with the Legal Correspondent for licensing, use, and/or questions related to the ACURA AX2 trademark.

On Friday, April 08, 2011, a U.S. federal trademark registration was filed for ACURA AX2 by Honda Motor Co., Ltd., Tokyo 107-8556. The USPTO has given the ACURA AX2 trademark serial number of 85290733. The current federal status of this trademark filing is NOTICE OF ALLOWANCE - ISSUED. The correspondent listed for ACURA AX2 is ANTHONY L. FLETCHER of FISH & RICHARDSON P.C., PO BOX 1022, MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55440-1022 . The ACURA AX2 trademark is filed in the category of Vehicles and Products for locomotion by land, air or water . The description provided to the USPTO for ACURA AX2 is Automobiles and structural parts therefor.

Word Mark:	ACURA AX2
Status/ Status Date:	NOTICE OF ALLOWANCE - ISSUED 10/18/2011
Serial Number:	85290733
Filing Date:	4/8/2011
Registration Number:	NOT AVAILABLE
Registration Date:	NOT AVAILABLE
Goods and Services:	Automobiles and structural parts therefor
Mark Description:	NOT AVAILABLE
Type Of Mark:	TradeMark
Published For Opposition Date:	8/23/2011
Last Applicant/Owner:	Honda Motor Co., Ltd. Tokyo 107-8556
Mark Drawing Code:	Standard Character Mark
Design Search:	(NO DATA)
Register Type:	Principal
Disclaimer:	(NOT AVAILABLE)
Correspondent:	ANTHONY L. FLETCHER FISH & RICHARDSON P.C. PO BOX 1022 MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55440-1022
Classification Information
International Class Code(s): 012 US Class Code(s): 019, 021, 023, 031, 035, 044 Primary Class: Vehicles; apparatus for locomotion by land, air, or water. Class(es) Status: Active First Use Anywhere: NOT PROVIDED First Use In Commerce: NOT PROVIDED

Source: MyTradeMarkia.com

Thanks Anonymous!

Spied 2013 Acura RSX??

VTEC.net posted some images of what is supposedly the 2013 Acura sub-TSX. Some people are referring to it as the RSX sedan. But wait a minute, I thought the TSX was a "RSX sedan". Rumor has it that this future model is based off the Civic platform. But wait a minute times two! An Acura based off the Civic?? Isn't that just an Acura CSX?? My head hurts. My little brain is not powerful enough for Honda and Acura's ingenious ideas...

Spied 2013 Acura RDX?

VTEC.net has up some photos of a super camo-ed compact SUV that they are speculating to be the 2013 Acura RDX.

Tony Stark in an Acura?

Acura has been selected in the Marvel Comics Universe films as the official car of their fictional law enforcement agency called S.H.I.E.L.D. That relationship continues for The Avengers, so it comes to no surprise that we find Tony Stark in an Acura now instead of the usual Audi R8.

There are lots of rumors flying around for this thing. A popular one I have heard is it's a modified version of the Honda HSV with a hybrid powertrain. The HSV is a front engine, rear-wheel drive vehicle that Honda races in the Super GT. Others have speculated that this car is mid-engine with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. There has also been some assumptions that Acura is using this to debut the production version when the movie releases. All we know for sure is according to an Acura spokesman this open-top sports car that was photographed on the set of The Avengers is "a one-off, fictional car that was made just for the movie and will not be produced." Awww... :(

Continue to read rumors here.

2012 Acura TSX Special Edition

Continuing the celebration of its 25th anniversary, Acura today announced the availability of a new version of the popular TSX sports sedan for the 2012 model year. Designed to evoke the fun-to-drive 4-cylinder Acuras of the past, the TSX Special Edition will add even more sportiness to the TSX lineup thanks to numerous exterior and interior upgrades for Acura's entry-level sedan.

"The Acura TSX has long been known for its high-revving 4-cylinder engines and sporty driving nature," said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. "With the new Special Edition, the TSX becomes even more youthful and sporty in character, furthering its appeal to performance-minded buyers."

The 2012 TSX Special Edition package consists of numerous upgrades to the exterior including a more aggressive front spoiler, a new rear bumper fascia, unique side sills and an exclusive "Special Edition" badge on the trunklid. Finally, the TSX's 17x7.5-inch, 5-spoke aluminum wheels will feature a polished finish with dark grey background, unique to the Special Edition model.

Inside, the TSX Special Edition makes use of sport-minded appointments including exclusive seating surfaces with perforated black Lux Suede® inserts with red backing. Unique red stitching, used for the seats, steering wheel and the shift knob, combines with red lighting for the instrument cluster gauges, overhead lighting and footwell lighting. Adding more appeal to the driver's footwell are aluminum pedal covers with a race-inspired look. Rounding out the Special Edition's interior upgrades is the use of bright silver plating for the steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters along with black headliner material (standard TSX have grey headliner material).

The TSX Special Edition package makes use of Acura's acclaimed K24 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine and will be available with either the close-ratio 6-speed manual or Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmissions. The TSX Special Edition will go on sale in late September and will make its public debut at the Orange County International Auto Show on September 22nd. 


Acura
Acura offers a full line of technologically advanced performance luxury vehicles through a network of 271 dealers within the United States. The 2012 Acura lineup features six distinctive models including the RL luxury performance sedan, the TL performance luxury sedan, the TSX sports sedan and Sport Wagon, the turbocharged RDX luxury crossover SUV, the award-winning MDX luxury sport utility vehicle and the ZDX four-door sports coupe.

Along with every new Acura, the 2012 TSX is covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000 mile new vehicle limited warranty and a 6-year/70,000 miles powertrain limited warranty. Additional benefits include Acura Total Luxury Care® (TLC®), which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service and trip routing.

Source: AcuraNews.com

Acura is beyond confused. We got Type-S models and now an SE model? And all the SE model has is a bunch of red color and Lux Suede seats. I don't get it.

www.AboutAcura.com now Mobile!

Mobilized this site so now it looks better when browsing on a smartphone! Yay!

Acura - How It All Started

As Acura celebrates its 25th anniversary, it stands as a leader in the luxury performance market with vehicles like the RL, TL, TSX, RDX, MDX and ZDX. By combining technological innovation with world-class performance, contemporary design and luxurious appointments, Acura has captured the public's imagination.

The story of how Acura was created, launched and then grew into a major force in a competitive marketplace is a compelling testament not just to the company's products, but to the people who had the foresight to establish the first premium Japanese luxury car brand. History shows that Acura not only redefined the luxury car, it permanently changed the luxury marketplace from a slow evolution among a handful of brands to fierce competition between many. While today Japanese luxury brands are taken for granted, this was not the case in the early 1980s, when the groundbreaking Legend sedan was still on the drawing board.

Click here for the rest of the story at Acura News.

25 years of Acura photo gallery.

Pretty interesting read. The article talks about how Acura was internally known as "Channel II", the Legend, Integra, NSX, the importance of keeping the Acura division separate from Honda, dealership selection, and etc...

Acura To Serve As The Official Wheels Of Spy Agency S.H.I.E.L.D.

A little more than a month before Paramount and Marvel unleash "Thor" on May 6, Acura, Dr. Pepper, 7-Eleven, Visa and Burger King are prepping to roll out TV, radio and online campaigns that tie in their brands with the god of thunder's first outing at the megaplex. Walmart is a major retail partner.

All but Acura and Visa had backed previous Marvel releases in some form ("Thor" will be 7-Eleven's eighth teaming with a Marvel superhero).

Honda's luxury brand had been looking for projects that could get Acura in front of more moviegoers through the branded entertainment arm of ad agency RP&, a division of RPA, and its exec Steve Rossmann, a former Gersh agent. When "Thor" offered an automaker the chance to serve as the official wheels of spy agency S.H.I.E.L.D, Acura was quick to lock down its first film partnership.

"Getting to be the official car of S.H.I.E.L.D sold it for us," said Susie Rossick, Acura's national advertising manager. "To have that role in the film and in future films was attractive to us."

S.H.I.E.L.D, the secret government org that recruits Marvel's superheroes as a crime-fighting force, made cameos in the two "Iron Man" pics and "The Incredible Hulk." The group will play a larger role in "Thor" and future films, guaranteeing any automaker appearances in multiple franchises for years to come.

Acura especially gravitated toward a pairing with S.H.I.E.L.D due to the org's image of being advanced and innovative, aspects with which the automaker likes to associate itself.

The design of Acura's own shield-like front fascia on its vehicles and corporate logo was a coincidence, but didn't hurt seal the deal.

Car partners are "someone you need to spend a little more time thinking about," said Bob Sabouni, senior VP of business development and promotions for Marvel, which had previously landed Audi to serve as Iron Man's preferred carmaker. "It's something that gets noticed. You have to have the right car."

As a result of its deal, Acura's lineup of recently redesigned sedans and SUVs gets roughly two minutes of screen time in the pic, a considerable amount of exposure when it comes to product placement.

In return, Acura will help Marvel and Par promote "Thor" through the launch of a micro website that recruits consumers to become S.H.I.E.L.D agents, play games and design their own agency vehicle. It's also buying TV spots, print ads and installing signage and offering customers early screenings at its dealerships.

Acura is also touring a series of events like Chicago fanboy fest C2E2, Florida's MegaCon and the New York Auto Show with recruitment booths that will feature a S.H.I.E.L.D agent car with weaponry like a sonic canon.

In order to pull off the concept of turning each of its films into a chapter of an overall universe, Marvel said it needed to broker deals with brands that were "like-minded" and could be "dedicated to a plan" that embodies the characters and messaging of the films in programs "that is smart for both of us."
Sabouni said Acura has "bought into the concept and is having a lot of fun with it."

"It's always important to give your partners a little corner of the movie," Marvel's Sabouni said. "We've learned how to do that over the years."

Doing so helps giving the bad news that a partner's products will be destroyed on film a little easier. In scenes, a 7-Eleven store and Acura's vehicles are obliterated by the villainous Destroyer.
"They definitely have allowed us to play a little bit more," Sabouni said.

Acura approved the destruction "because there wasn't anything wrong with the car," Rossick said. "They weren't the reason things were blowing up."

The full article can be found here. Thanks to Marcus D. for emailing in the article.

I think this is a really good move for Acura. Far too long I have seen other automakers like Audi and Mercedes get featured in movies and thought to myself, "Why doesn't Acura do the same?" The only time I remember seeing an Acura vehicle featured in a movie was in Pulp Fiction, when The Wolf shows up to help out the fellas.

My Acura Wheel Lock Lug Broke!

Oh boy, my year has been off to an unlucky start.

On my way to lunch, I noticed my Acura TSX was pulling weird. My coworker and I hopped out of my car when we arrived at our destination and found that my driver side rear tire was flat due to a nail. I thought that it wasn't a big deal and that I will change the tire later at my work's parking lot when the sun went down a little bit, then take it to Discount Tires.

So around 3pm I went down to the parking and pulled all the equipment and spare tire out of my trunk to change my flat. I popped on the wheel lock key and started to loosen the wheel lock. That lug was on pretty tight so I stepped on the tire iron then all of a sudden SNAP! I thought to myself what just happened? When I looked down I saw bits of metal on the pavement. Crap I thought! I tried to use the key lock to see if I can get the rest of the lug that is stuck on my car off, however that did not work. So I ended up calling the Acura dealership that I take my car to sometimes and had a conversation with one of the service manager. He said if it was the key that broke that was easy and to come by and borrow the key, however if it was the lug then tow it to them where they can take a look at it for $150/hr. I told him, "No thanks."

Rear driver side tire flat due to nail; notice broken wheel lock lug.

My friend told me to drive my car to his place and he will try to cut the rest of the lug off. So I left work early and drive 5 miles with a flat to his house where we struggled for about an hour with not much success. While at it, we notice my front driver side tire was splitting and was able to explode. I was like "Jeez... How did it go from a flat because of a nail to a broken wheel lug to another tire needing replacement?" I assumed it was from hitting a pothole and confirmed later by Discount Tires.

Front tire about to explode; damaged because of pothole.

It was then I we decided to quit trying to cut of the rest of the lug and just tow my car to my mechanic's shop, but since it was late I would have to just leave my car there and come back in the morning and tell him what's going on. I need to remind myself to sign up for AAA because my tow cost me $65 and a 2 hour wait.

Close up of broken wheel lock lug.

In the morning, I showed my mechanic what's up. He looked for a special spiral socket and spent 20 or so minutes struggling with trying to wrench it off and then trying to cut the lug off. He was finally able to use an impact gun to torque it off with the special socket which he had to hammer in. He didn't charge me anything and just told me to get my car over to Discount Tires and get it taken care of.

Broke lug finally off and the bits that broke off.

Had to drop like $250 for 2 new tires to make things right again... *sigh*

I know I'm not the only one this has happened to:
http://tl.acurazine.com/forums/showthread.php?t=624329
http://rl.acurazine.com/forums/showthread.php?t=735498

Anyone else ever had experience with an Acura wheel lock lug disintegrate on them? I feel like Acura should reimburse part of my repair cost or at least give me a set of new wheel locks.

The Refreshed 2012 Acura TL

The 4th generation Acura TL got a new look. I think it looks better than the refresh, but not as good as the 3rd gen Acura TL.

he 2012 TL's refined new look includes a redesigned front bumper with improved aerodynamics, a revised grille, updated headlights and turn signals, a new fog light design and a shorter front overhang. At the rear, a new rear bumper incorporates a significantly repositioned license plate opening and smaller rear reflectors, while updated taillights and a thinner rear trunk edge trim add to a sophisticated new look.

Below is a video from VTEC.net, interviewing 2012 Acura TL Lead Designer Damon Schell. Schell explains how the look of the TL was refined. Jon Ikeda (who penned the 3rd generation 2004 TL) also weighs in briefly with a few of his comments on the TL refresh

Biggest Reason Buyers Reject Acura - Styling

"J.D. Power reports that exterior styling is the number one reason new car shoppers are rejecting the marque, followed closely by Acura's interior styling." - AutoBlog

Why am I not surprised? Acura should know they have a problem if dealers have to paint the grill to the current generation TL to make it more appealing to consumers. Instead of taking that as a sign, Acura puts the ugly grill on ALL their cars. I actually liked the MDX's old grill.

The problem with Acura's current interior styling is that it is way too "button happy." I had the hardest time locating the HVAC (fan) controls while driving a 2010 Acura TSX loaner from the dealership. It definitely felt good to be back in my 2005 Acura TSX.

Acura needs better stylists.

My New Year's Resolution for www.AboutAcura.com

First off, HAPPY NEW YEAR!

My New Year's Resolution for www.AboutAcura.com is to post more often. I not only want to post about Acura related articles, news, recalls, rumors, but also add a little bit more focus on problems & fixes, and technical service bulletins (TSBs). I noticed a large number of visits are from people who are researching an issue related to their Acura.

Feel free to share your New Year's Resolution (doesn't have to be Acura related).