New Cars for 2012: Honda Full Lineup Info

New Cars for 2012: Honda Full Lineup Info

Charting the changes for the 2012 model year.

[ MARKET SHARE 2012 EST., CHANGE FROM 2011: 8.26%, -1.23% ]
–CR-V: Due late in 2012, Honda’s fourth-gen CR-V will feature edgier styling that we expect to be very close to that of the concept vehicle shown above. Honda has hinted that we can expect the 2.4-liter four-cylinder/automatic transmission powertrain to continue with incremental upticks in engine output and fuel economy. We also expect extensive interior upgrades, including improved space utilization and cargo versatility.

Civic: On sale since April, the Civic’s gen-seven makeover emphasizes fuel economy and comfort across an expanded range of models and body styles. The Civic hybrid continues to be the fuel-economy standard-bearer, with EPA ratings of 44 mpg city and highway. Honda also offers a thrifty conventional version, the HF, with a 140-hp, 1.8-liter four and low-rolling-resistance tires; it’s capable of 29 mpg city and 41 highway. A natural-gas model will be available later this year. The sporty Civic Si returns with a modest horsepower gain from a new 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine. Honda took no chances with the styling.
Crosstour: Updated features include a rearview camera, Bluetooth capability, a USB interface, and automatic on/off headlights, but the bigger news is its name: The Accord prefix is gone.
Insight: Honda has freshened the front and rear fascias, updated the interior, and upgraded the audio and nav systems. The company predicts better fuel economy through improved aero, low-rolling-resistance tires, and reduced friction in the 1.3-liter engine. It’s due in showrooms by November.
Pilot: For 2012, the Pilot goes with the contemporary crossover flow, featuring smoother contours and a more urbane appearance. The interior has upgraded feature content, a new instrument panel, improved materials, reduced control-button count in the center stack, and updates to the audio and nav systems. Honda cites improved fuel economy, but specifics will have to wait for the Pilot’s September on-sale date.
Ridgeline: Once thought to be on the discard list, Honda’s unique pickup survives, with new front styling and the addition of a Sport trim package. Honda also forecasts improved highway mileage.