To be totally honest, I’m more interested in Hybrid fuel economy than football.  Maybe there was something weird in the water where I grew up, or maybe I just agree with Ernest Hemmingway: “There are three real sports: mountain climbing, bull fighting, and car racing.  Everything else is just games.”

Regardless, I hard it find to fake enthusiasm for the Super Bowl.  This year some overpaid athletes in spandex played against some other overpaid athletes in Spandex for the title of something.  Yay.  But I don’t need to fake my enthusiasm for the advertisements.  Manufacturers spend vast sums of money to get ads in the superbowl; it’s the highest-viewed event every year in the US, but at $3.5M USD per 30-second spot, they try especially hard to make ‘em stick.

These are the car ads from this year’s Super Bowl -- some good, some not.  Check ‘em out, and let us know which was your favorite in the poll at the bottom.

Volkswagen’s always had good superbowl ads.  Last year it was the Darth Vader kid with the new Passat; this year it’s a dog inspired by the Beetle to lose enough weight so he can fit out the doggie door.  Adorable, and the cameo by Vader at the end is pretty funny as well.  I’d give it an A-

Is the fact that you can chuck one out of a plane supposed to make us think the Sonic’s a cool car?  Because it would’ve been a lot cooler if they’d skipped the parachute; just saying.  I give it a C.

Much better, nothing like a sarcastic pot shot at your competition while making fun of the Mayan Apocalypse prediction.  Legitimately humorous.  A.

I just wish Suzuki’s US sales were as good as their advertisements are.  This one’s for the AWD Kizashi, which is a pretty damn nice car.  An Eskimo trades his sled in for a Kizashi, with 50 cent as the background music.  I like it.

I was a fan of Fiat’s “Seduction” ad for the 500 Abarth when I first saw it a few months back.  It’s still quite good, substituting a metaphorical Italian hottie (her name’s Catrinel Menghia, and she’s actually Romanian -- here’s her twitter if you’re interested) for a 500 Abarth.  I can’t wait to drive one of these things.

I love Acura’s spot for the 2015 NSX.  Jerry Seinfeld is trying to get his hands on the first NSX, but someone else’s got it -- so he tries everything he can to trade.  Almost got it, then Leno steps in…

I’m starting to think Chrysler’s less interested in actually advertising their cars (some of which are actually quite nice) than giving us all a preachy economics lesson, which is obnoxious.  It’s less obnoxious when Clint Eastwood is doing it -- but only just.  They went through slightly more than $7m of ad money before showing us a Chrysler product; must be made of money.  Also, isn’t Clint more of a Ford man?

Kia’s ads are funny, when they don’t include Blake Griffin.  Your mileage may vary, but their spot for the Optima -- “A Dream Car. For Real LIfe” is amusing, if formulaic.  I’ll take a piece of the giant hoagie!

Kinda disappointing; Ferris Bueller should be driving a Ferrari, not a mommy-mobile Honda CR-V.  Literally: My mom has one.  Thumbs down.

Love Audi’s spot for the A7.  LED headlights kill vampires!  Perhaps this is a shot at Volvo, who sponsored the latest Twilight movie?

BMW might not be the only manufacturer who’s cars will read your texts to you, but so far they’re the only ones who’ve done something funny with it in an ad.  I like the honk censoring the swear word as he backs out of the driveway.

Speaking of BMW, why is Cadillac so intent on comparing themselves to the 3-series?  It’s cool that the ATS is basically an Americanized carbon copy of the 3, but maybe they could’ve focused more on why it’s better.

Heh.  Hyundai’s ads.  The Genesis 3.8 R-Spec can act as a makeshift AED if your boss has a heart attack while you’re on the road in the middle of no-where.

The other Hyundai ad was for the new Veloster Turbo, which I can’t wait to take for a spin.  Kudos to Hyundai for including tire smoke in both of their superbowl ads this year.  The premise is that while the Turbo is faster than a Cheetah, make sure when you let the Cheetah out you’re at a safe distance?  Thanks for the PSA, Hyundai.

And the last one.  I’m not sure if Cars.com was going for funny or creepy here, but I think they landed closer to “creepy.”

Which was your favorite car ad?  Vote in the poll below!

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

Dodge’s Dart subcompact was just revealed a few weeks ago, but we’ve already got two pieces of future speculation on where the lineup could expand.  First, Mopar will be bringing a concept Dart to the Chicago Auto Show, called the Dart GTS 210 Tribute.  It previews the two “stages” of Mopar upgrades for the new sedan.  Stage 1 will be aesthetic goodies, like the carbon fiber hood with Viper-esque scoop, and matte black side skirts, front diffuser, and other trim -- along with those good looking 18″ alloys.  Stage 2 will bump power output from 184bhp (assuming that’s the 2.4L) to 210bhp, probably through intake/exhaust/tuning.  The other piece of speculation comes from Motor Trend, who brought up the question: what will be under the hood of the next SRT-4?  Remember the original tire-smoking Neon SRT-4 packed 230 horsepower, and the ungainly but fast Caliber packed 285, so MT is guessing the Dart SRT-4 will have at least 300 under the hood.  It’s all guesses, but the smart money’s on a boosted variant of the 2.0L or 2.4L “Tigershark” I4′s, cranking out around the magic 300 mark through the twin-clutch automated manual.  Here’s hoping.

Audi’s just released details on a new engine offering for the A6 and A7 in Europe, and it’s a belter.  Called the 3.0 BiTDi, it’s a twin-turbocharged higher output version of their existing 3.0L diesel V6 engine.  The turbos are set up in a sequential arrangement, and the engine also has regenerative braking and a start/stop system.  This version cranks out a healthy 309bhp between 3,900-4,500rpm, and an even stronger 480lb-ft torque from 1,450-2,800rpm.  All models (A6, A6 Avant, A7) will come with an 8-speed automatic hooked to Quattro AWD, and it’ll be fast: the A6 3.0 BiTDI will do 0-100km/h in 5.1 seconds (the A6 Avant and A7 in 5.3.)  Average fuel mileage is 44.1mpg Imperial for all.  Prices range from £43,810 for the A6 SE Saloon 3.0 BiTDI to £53,436 for the A7 S-Line.  It’s still nowhere near BMW’s new M Performance triple-turbo diesel craziness, but it’s a start.

Dodge is reviving the iconic Viper sports car for model year 2013, and they’ve just released the first teaser image of the car (which is schedule to debut at the New York Auto Show in April).  From this image, we can tell the 2013 (SRT, not Dodge) Viper will have… headlights.  And a hood scoop, and a roof of some sort.  Not very helpful, but this is much better strip tease than the Buick Encore at least.  Supposedly the new Viper will have stability control, and a new version of the gargantuan 8.4L V10 fitted with Fiat’s MultiAir system -- we’ll see.

The Super Bowl is apparently happening soon -- I don’t really do the NFL thing, so I don’t care -- but that does mean there are some great car ads on the way.  There’s also this Honda ad, which reincarnates Matthew Broderick as Ferris Bueller.  Only he’s actually Matthew Broderick, and instead of his friend’s dad’s Ferrari, he’s driving a Honda CR-V on his “day off.”  I’m sorry, I’m pretty sure Ferris Bueller would be more interested in joyriding in an Aventador.

There are some other funny ads coming out, but Audi’s always a strong contender for best Super Bowl ad.  I think they’ve got this year in the bag, with their minute-long “Vampire Party” spot.  The premise is that Audi’s new LED headlights are so bright, they cause vampires to explode.  I think they’re just poking fun at Volvo, who has gotten on board promoting for the silly “Twilight” tween sparkly vampire franchise.  Still hilarious.

Under the “What are intellectual property rights?” heading, we have the upcoming JAC 43R, made in (you guessed it) China.  Hmm.  It does look a little bit like a Ford F-150.  Surely consumers won’t get them confused, it’s not like it has a blue oval in the front grille… Wait, yes it does.  The continued theft of designs from China is one of the many reasons why they’ve made almost no headway into real automotive markets.  Wonder what’s under the hood?  A Mitsubishi 4G63?

Another terrible teaser image, this one from American electric-car maker Tesla.  This is the silhouette of the upcoming Model X crossover, which has me so excited I can’t stay conscious.  Just kidding, electric pseude SUV’s aren’t my thing -- although the company claims it’s “faster than a Porsche 911 and more spacious than an Audi Q7,” so that’s something.  The Model X will be revealed on February 9th in a live webcast as well as at Tesla’s design studio in Hawthorne, CA.

And finally, I’m curious: how do you stall a car that has an automated manual transmission?  Does this guy just suck at driving, or does Aston Martin have some more programming work to do on the transmission of the One-77, their nearly 2 million dollar bespoke hypercar?  Either way, it’s a mixture of “The sound, oh the glorious sound” and laughter at this dude failing to make a right turn in city traffic.

There’s a long precedent of rappers referencing cars in their songs.  It’s part of the baller lifestyle: huge house, lots of skeezy women, and a gold-plated Range Rover with 38″ gold-plated wheels.  Since rap these days is all about conspicuous consumption, it’s part and parcel.

But as much as we like seeing Jay-Z and Kanye cut the doors off a Maybach, weld sheet metal fenders on it, and drift it around an industrial parking lot, there’s something amusing about local rappers laying down a track about… their Volvo.  Awww, hell yeah son!

The above video is by Seattle-area rapper Grynch, and I actually kinda like the song.  I mean, not just because I’m partial to ancient Volvo station wagons -- it’s a pretty good song.  I like the shot of the Bentley Continental GT pulling away and the camera panning back to the Volvo. See if “Tank on empty, whippin’ my mama’s Volvo” doesn’t get stuck in your head.

This one’s definitely not safe for work; you’ve been warned.  How you can make a gangster-rap video about a W201 190-class Benz is beyond me -- these guys have a great sense of humor.  No points for technical accuracy, though:  in the first verse they’re talking about the car smelling like burgers and french fries, cause they keep grease in the tank -- like it’s a 190D converted to veggie oil.  Later they’re talking about a twin-turbo 3.0L, but the car’s clearly a 190E 4-cylinder gas with some AMG wheels.  Still, hilariously offensive.

Alright, how about a rap video dedicated entirely to Nissan’s S13-chassis cars?  You know -- 240SX, 180SX, 200SX, Silvia.  Mostly about drifting and bass and riding low, but still pretty funny.  Notice the grey car with the “Akina Speed Stars” logo on the fender?  Initial D reference!

Awesome from the first line: “Aww shit, is that an NSX rolling on some 18 inch TE37′s?”  An entire song devoted to modified Hondas!  It’s so funny you’ll get a headache.  “Stand back jack, car’s sicker than Anthrax.  And it’s a damn fact underneath the hood there’s dual camshafts, and the cam’s packed hooked up with them VTEC lobes, whoopin’ the shit out of your little riced-out weak-ass Probes.”  I just died.  A classic among the Honda community.

Let’s be honest, one Honda song is enough.  This is terrible, see how far you can get through “The VTEC song.”

A rapper bragging about how stock his ’91 Buick Park Avenue is?  Golden.  “You know I’m reppin’ 15′s.  The hater’s always ragging cause the headliner’s sagging, but you know I’m always swaggin’ in my ghetto G-wagon.”  Points for creativity!

Alright, we’ve got a winner here: “Rollin’ in my Prius” by Casual Mafia.  Anyone with the balls to make this video deserves some respect.  “When I lost it all in the Maddof Scheme, the market sank, they repossessed my Beem, I thought ‘what can I do?  Have I lost my game?’ And now my cru-cru-cruisin’ in the car pool lane!”  Hey, you won’t ever see me hit “E” with my MPG’s!

What’s your favorite?  Did I miss a funny car rap video?  Comment box below!

…oh, sorry, got caught up in Auto Show mode there.  I’m just glad we don’t have to deal with teaser images of a small SUV any more.  Look, I love auto show season.  Even after years of this, it still gets my blood going – who doesn’t like seeing new stuff for the first time?  But not everything that comes out at the auto shows are worth an entire article.  Thus, Car Throttle News Bites: Detroit Auto Show Edition.  If you missed the earlier coverage, you can find it under the Detroit 2012 Category.

Speaking of that Buick Encore, did you hear?  The Buick Encore is here!  Let’s get an Encore!  Buick’s small crossover debuted yesterday to the thunderous applause of… Alright, I’m stretching this.  The Encore is a tiny SUV, riding atop a stretched version of GM’s Gamma II architecture, so think Chevy Sonic or Opel Corsa.  Tiny?  Quite tiny.  A Sonic has a 99.4″ wheelbase and a 159″ overall length – the Encore is 100.6″ and 168.5.”  It’s pitched against other small luxury SUV’s like the BMW X1 and Audi Q3.  Thanks to the transverse front-drive layout, it’s got more interior space than both.  Power comes from the same 1.4L Turbo EcoTec four-cylinder that powers the Cruze and Sonic, with 140 horsepower and 148lb-ft, hitched to a 6-speed auto.  It will come standard with front-drive, but AWD will be an option.  That’s great, but can we have an Insignia VXR shipped over here as a Grand National for Buick’s real “product renaissance” please?

Acura is another brand that’s trying to desperately re-invent themselves.  I’d say the sexy, high-tech NSX Concept is a great start, but they brought two other new products with them.  The new RDX (pictured above) is the second generation of the CR-V based luxury ute, and while the styling is familiar, under the hood is new.  Two things that have never really mixed: Hondas and turbos.  The old RDX was the only factory-turbo Honda in production, and despite decent power density (240bhp and 260lb-ft from 2.3L) it was a reliability concern – and a gas hog, at 19/24 for EPA numbers.  The turbo K-series is dropped in favor of a more conventional 3.5L J-series SOHC V6, which pulls off a triple crown of more power (273bhp), more cylinders (6), and better fuel economy (20/28).  It also gets a sixth gear in the box.  Although the looks are familiar, the new RDX is based on the fourth-generation CR-V now.  I guess my dream of a 2.3 Turbo Acura TSX isn’t going to happen.

Speaking of the TSX, this is it’s likely replacement.  It’s the ILX concept (can Acura go back to actual names now?  I know Integra is taken, but damn!), and it’s a preview of a new entry-level Acura.  Based on the current-generation Civic, this will leave a wider gap between the bottom Acura (TSX) and middle (TL) than before, when there was some overlap.  The ILX thankfully doesn’t look much like either the current Civic or the overstyled Acura TL; it’s actually an attractive design.  Word is the ILX will come with 3 powertrains.  First is a direct-injection 2.0L I4 with an automatic for base models.  The performance model (probably Type-S) will get the 2.4L VTEC 4-cylinder from the Civic Si/TSX, with a 6-speed manual.  And the ILX will be Acura’s first hybrid offering – with the 1.5L/IMA/CVT combo from the Civic Hybrid.  Can you believe Honda – the pioneer of Hybrid tech – has never made a hybrid Acura?

Honda presented the 2013 Accord Coupe Concept, which is an accurate preview of what the all-new 2013 Accord will look like.  Answer: somewhat disappointing, especially next to the new Fusion.  Still, crazy styling has never been the Accord’s forte, and that won’t change.  Like the current Civic, it looks more like an evolution of the outgoing model than something entirely new.  No weird rocket turbines under the hood either.  The base engine is a revised version of the 2.4L K-series, now with direct injection and a CVT (sigh), rated at 181bhp and 177lb-ft.  The 3.5L V6 remains, with 6 speed manual or autos.  Honda says the V6 makes more power (not how much), the auto gearbox gets another ratio, and V6/Autos will get cylinder shutdown.  At least you can still get a torque-steering V6/6spd coupe.  Bigger news is the Accord Plug-In Hybrid.  It uses a 2.0L Atkinson I4 combined with a 6 KwH lithium ion battery and a 120 Kw electric motor, putting power through a CVT.  This is Honda’s first parallel hybrid: that is, it can move on electric, gas, or combined power.  (Previous Honda hybrids just had the electric motor assisting the gas, basically).  They claim 10-15 miles on all electric power up to 62mph, and some quick recharge times: 4 hours on 120 volts, or 1.5 hours on 240 volts.  It’s no new S2000, but Honda’s gotta keep up with the Joneses.

With the new Fusion comes a new Lincoln version, called the MKZ.  Lincoln showed the next-generation MKZ concept today at Detroit, as an attempt to revive any kind of interest in the moribund Lincoln brand.  Compared to the Cadillac ATS (the MKZ’s likely competitor), it’s a bit of a weak showing – but at least the styling is noticeable now.  As to whether it’s in a good way, I’ll leave that up to you – but I think they should be doing something besides “make the baleen grille bigger” if they want to attract buyers.  Good stuff?  the Genesis-esque swell of the front end, stretched green house (terminating nearly at the end of the decklid), the panoramic glass roof, those pronounced “shoulders”, and the clean rear end.  The MKZ concept is an inch wider and 5″ shorter in wheelbase than the current version – giving it a squat stance that would look really nice without all that chrome.  The interior has the latest high-tech Ford stuff: a 10.1″ TFT display in the cluster, an 8″ touch screen in the dash, a push-button transmission(!), and poplar wood and satin metal trim with two-tone leather.  No word on powertrain – it’s “based on a new midsized sedan platform,” so it’s a Fusion, and FWD or AWD will be available.

In their continued attempts to scare off the enthusiasts that continually shout the brand’s merits to anyone who will (or won’t) listen, Volkswagen is introducing a Jetta Hybrid.  If you’re wondering “Why would they do that, they have a Jetta diesel?” then you’re not alone.  The gas-electric version of the milquetoast new Jetta is powered by a 150bhp 1.4 TSI engine, combined with a 20 Kw electric motor fed by a 1.1 KwH battery.  It uses a 7-speed twin clutch ‘box with decoupling, which allows the Hybrid to run on gas, electric, or both.  By the numbers: 170 combined horsepower, 1.3 miles on pure electric power up to 44mph, 220lbs heavier than a normal Jetta, 0-60 in around 9 seconds, and 45mpg (US) average fuel economy.  Sounds like a more complicated Prius; I’ll pass.  Why wouldn’t you just get the diesel?

Slightly goofier (and a lot cuter) is the E-Bugster concept.  Just the name is adorable.  The E-Bugster is a new Beetle with a chopped roof, A-pillars, blanked out rear windows, and an electric drivetrain.  Called E-Blue Motion, it’s a 114bhp (85kW) electric motor up front, and a lithium-ion battery in the back.  It’ll take 120 or 240v charges, can do 100 miles on a full charge, and if they make it, will be filling up parking lots at a Whole Foods near you soon.

Audi brought a concept and some news to Detroit. The concept is called the Q3 Vail.  The Vail is named after the ski resort by the same name in Colorado – so this Q3 is a winter-sports themed concept version of the production Q3 compact SUV.  The biggest difference between it and the normal Q3 is under the hood:  the 2.5L turbo I5 from the RS3 takes the place of the normal 4 cylinders, putting out 314bhp and 295lb-ft through a 7-speed twin clutch and AWD.  There are some other neat add-ons: what looks like an Audi-designed coffee mug in the cupholder, some flashlights mounted in a charging station in the back, and roof racks with wide-angle lighting up top.  I could dig an RS3-powered SUV; it would be pretty great for bombing around a ski town!

News?  Well, Audi will be bringing the A4 Allroad (pictured) to America next year.  The Allroad is an off-roady version of Audi’s regular wagons; the last one they sold here was the A6 Allroad in 2005.  The Allroad will be replacing the Avant in the US lineup, which brings light to an alarming trend:  manufacturers are slowly replacing their wagons with pseudo-off-roaders, even wagon stalwarts.  Audi won’t sell the Avant here, Subaru replaced the Legacy Wagon with the Outback, and we aren’t getting Volvo wagons much longer- the V60 doesn’t come here (though the dealer would be happy to sell you an XC60) and the regular V70 and V50 won’t be around soon.  Still, the Allroad is a pretty cool wagon – it will come standard with Quattro, a 2.0T, and an 8-speed automatic.

The other Audi news?  The brand will sell a version of the A8 large sedan in the US next year with the oddly-named 3.0T V6, which is most definitely supercharged.  This same engine is already under the hood of other cars in the US (S4, A6, Porsche Cayenne/Panamera Hybrid), and it will be sold in high-output form in the A8: 333bhp and 325lb-ft.  The A8 3.0T is the first six-cylinder A8 Audi will sell in the US, but with Mercedes and BMW both selling six cylinder versions of their largest sedans again (740i, S400) it makes some sense.

Hyundai’s stand featured two performance cars: the new turbo version of the Veloster (above) and the updated Genesis Coupe.  The nifty Veloster hatchback/coupe/thing has been met with a pretty resounding “meh” by the press, mainly for being about 25% as fun to drive as it is to look at.  Hyundai is looking to rectify that with the Veloster Turbo, aiming directly at fun-to-drive stuff like the Golf GTI and Mini Cooper S.  On paper, there’s a lot of promise – but the same was said about the regular Veloster.  Hardware?  The Turbo retains a 1.6L engine, which is boosted to high hell.  Direct injection, twin-scroll turbocharging, and a free flowing exhaust add up to 201bhp@6,000rpm, and 195lb-ft from 1,750-4,500rpm.  The Turbo will be available with a 6-speed manual or automatic, and Hyundai says the 3-pedal will do 27/38 for fuel economy numbers – handily beating the Si, GTI, and Cooper S.  There’s a more aggressive front bumper and foglights, turn signals in the mirror, and special wheels to differentiate it from the normal Veloster.

We’ve talked about the updated Genesis Coupe before, but Detroit saw the official debut of the facelifted, more powerful 2013 model.  The biggest outside change is the new front clip, bringing it more in line with the styling of the rest of Hyundai’s current range.  There are also LED taillights.  The bigger changes are under the hood: the 2.0L Turbo base model jumps from 210 to 275 horsepower, and 223 to 275lb-ft torque.  The 3.8L V6 now has direct injection, and is rated at 348 horsepower and 295 lb-ft torque now.  Both models have standard 6-speed manual transmissions, with a new 8-speed automatic optional.  Hyundai says the new 3.8L Genesis Coupe will hit 60 in the low 5′s – right quick.  Other changes include interior refinements, recalibrated suspension, and a shorter steering rack ratio.

Photo via carscoop.blogspot.com

Chrysler brought a few other things to Detroit in addition to the new Dodge Dart.  That bizarre looking thing above is the Chrysler 700C concept, based on the underpinnings of the current Town & Country minivan.  It’s supposed to show the future of the minivan – assuming that the minivan actually has a future seems pretty bold, but it’s a pretty well-styled concept.

The Chrysler 200 might just be a rehashed Sebring with a nose job and new interior, but at least Chrysler’s trying to drum up some interest.  This is the Chrysler 200 Super S by Mopar, a concept showing off some of the factory accessories for the 300′s little brother.  It’s basically a body kit with some black satin trim, coilover suspension (on a 200?), and intake and exhaust mods.  If it’s got some Dre Beats speakers, Eminem would probably approve.

They also brought two concept Chargers to Detroit.  Pictured right is the Redline, which will be a three-stage upgrade package for the large sedan from Mopar.  (I guess since Saturn’s dead they don’t mind the stolen name?)  Stage 1 is cosmetic stuff and wheels, Stage 2 includes a strut tie bar, cat-back exhaust, and brake upgrades.  Stage 3 sounds like the most fun, with a non-street-legal Mopar 426(ci) Hemi crate motor.  This 7.0L V8 is a punched out version of the 6.4L SRT V8, with a hot cam and trick cylinder heads good for 590 horsepower.  Om nom nom.  The other is the Charger Beats, with – you guessed it – a “Beats by Dr. Dre” Stereo.  Fabulous.

And finally, by far the most exciting debut at Detroit – or at least, moreso than the Buick Encore – is this sick lawn tractor.  Called the Craftsman CTX, it’s the Sears brand “luxury” tractor, with amenities like cupholders, power steering, a push-button deck adjustment, and a blistering top speed of 8mph.  It’s appearance at NAIAS is just a publicity stunt by Craftsman, but an amusing one.  That is, except to GM bigwig Bob Lutz, who was not amused – he said “It’s an automobile show, stupid, not motorcycles or garden implements.  What’s next? Plumbing and bathroom fixtures? A Toto-toilet stand? An Art Van furniture stand?”  (Reuters).  Geez Bob, chill out.  Rumors that the CTX would have an optional LS9 V8 from the ZR-1 Corvette were apparently unfounded.  Hopefully Craftsman will realize soon the ultimate tractor luxury is burnouts.

From the 1972 Civic to the new Honda Civic 2012, the Civic car has undergone several facelifts in the past 30 years. Yet, it remains true to the very first design and holds the same values at heart.

The Honda Civic 2012 brings a new twist to the car and is an adaptation of their current range. The car offers more to drivers with new technologically advanced features and innovative design.

Performance is key and the latest model from Honda is at the forefront of car design allowing drivers to have the ultimate motoring experience. The powerful and strategic car handles the demands of 21st century living with ease. The new Honda Civic 2012 features the latest petrol engine with the reliable i-VTEC system. This has been redeveloped with specialist cylinder heads and a range of light components.

The diesel model, with an impressive 2.2 litre i-DTEC system, has had an extensive redesign which features a host of new materials and internal components. The new stronger and lighter engine also features a revised oil-flow system, which makes the car run smoother and more economically. The clever little car from Honda even shuts down the engine when the vehicle is stationary in a bid to save fuel when stuck in traffic. The new ‘Idle Stop’ system, which is available on manual modes, also restarts the car instantly when you are ready to commence your journey again.

Over 40 years of innovative design from some of the most highly regarded engineers have placed Honda at the top of the automotive industry. Since The first Honda motor in 1963, which was the S500, the car manufacturer has proved their excellence time and time again.

The original Honda car, which featured a twin-cam engine and chain-drive to the wheels, was a groundbreaking motor equipped with the latest technology. It was a stark warning to other car manufacturers of the exciting future Honda had in mind. During the 1970s Honda reached out to the American market who were in desperate need of improving their levels of vehicle exhaust emissions. They pushed forward the 1972 Honda Civic, which was an amazing new design unlike any other seen before.

Taking the world by storm, Honda soon became one of the most popular car brands, creating strong roots in the motor sport industry. Throughout the 1980s, whilst other manufacturers were playing catch up, Honda’s intuitive designs ensured that the company remained one step ahead. In 1988 Honda created the Variable Valve Timing and Electronic Lift Control otherwise known as VTEC. This is typically deigned to allow the engine to shift between two different camshafts for maximum performance and efficiency.

With the new VTEC Honda launched in the 1990s a range of new supercars, defining a generation of vehicles in the process. Since then Honda has gone on to create and develop trusted cars which define the modern world.

We’ve prayed, we’ve hoped and Honda have responded.

Car Throttle had the opportunity to take the CR-Z Mugen prototype for a quick test drive at the SMMT test day back in October as well other test cars (which you can check out here) and it was the most fun Adnan had that day.

This little Honda coupe is fast. It can go from 0-62mph in 6.1 seconds thanks to a rebuilt 1.5L IMA engine from Mugen which pumps out 200hp and 158lb-ft of torque. This is much better than the standard car and you can check out our review of that here. Mugen also changed the suspension to improve the handling and Honda themselves took 50kg off the original weight.

All this means that if you are a Type-R nut there’s now something new to satisfy that Type-R addiction. It’s the reason why Honda put the CR-Z Mugen into production in the first place since there are no hot Hondas in their showrooms at the moment. This also means that there’s now a more solid relationship between the British tuning firm and their Japanese parents leading to a possibility of more spiced up Mugen Hondas in the future. Play with the new Civic next I say.

Any differences to the prototype we tested and the production version? Yes, the price. The one Adnan had his hands on costed £150,000 then again that was a one-off prototype at the time. You can get your hands on one from next February at around £23k, similar to the Renaultsport Megane 250 Cup and much cheaper than the Volkswagen Scirocco R (£29,745).

First up is the new Honda Accord Saloon. Available with three different types of engine, a 154bhp 2.0-litre petrol, 198bhp 2.4-litre petrol or a 2.2-litre diesel with either 148 or 177bhp, there’s a saloon for all drivers. All models, as well as being both smooth and strong, are built with motorway comfort in mind. The suspension quality ensures even the most arduous of commutes or family trips will be taken in comfort. As you’d expect from Honda, the engines and gearshifts both operate with a seamless, perfect smoothness.

Few other eco cars can claim to be as trouble-free to own as a Honda, and the Accord Saloon is no exception. As the miles increase, the performance of the vehicle stays at the same high level as when it was brand new.

On the smaller side of Honda’s family range is the equally impressive Civic Hatchback. The great aesthetics of the vehicle are matched by the excellent build quality and superb handling, while the boot is up there with the largest of its class. With a fun, funky and futuristic-looking interior and swathes of legroom in both the front and back, the Civic is built to last and represents excellent value for money.

In among the new car offers from Honda is a must-have for lovers of 4×4 motors. Quite simply, the CR-V is one of the best 4x4s out there. Comfortable both on and off road, it is safe, practical and, as is standard with a Honda, extremely good value for money. Ticking all the boxes, the CR-V handles neatly, while the steering is both light and accurate.

The wide range of seat and steering wheel adjustments also means you can fiddle until you are entirely comfortable with the set up. The boot size leaves most of its rivals behind and can be further increased with folding seats and a movable panel that creates a useful two-tier boot floor.

Honda has become synonymous with the advent of the hybrid motor and, in this regard, the new Jazz Hatchback stands out among the new range. With an automatic gearbox fitted as standard, the hybrid offers good performance given the type of driving it is likely to undertake. The overall balance is of a high standard, while light steering makes parking in even the most confined of spaces a breeze. With a fuel economy of 62.8 mpg, it’s a real money saver.

In terms of safety, the Jazz Hatchback simply cannot be beaten. Six airbags, anti-whiplash head restraints and Honda’s renowned Vehicle Stability Assist system all combine to ensure your drive is safe, fun and environmentally-friendly. Surprisingly spacious, the boot features an ingenious shelf that can be stashed in four different ways to hold any load.

As you’d expect, the latest Honda offerings keep them one step ahead of the competition.

Pardon the overused meme.  It’s nice to see Honda focusing on their new Civic Si for SEMA, rather than – oh, I don’t know, Elements outfitted for dogs.  They brought a wide array of the new 2.4L powered Si’s to SEMA this year, ranging from mild (the HFP package) to wild (the 450-horsepower Fox Marketing turbocharged one I showed you earlier.)  They also brought along a supercharged V6 Accord Coupe, just because.

The Tjin Edition Civic Si Sedan (Above, left) is interesting.  Most notable are the 19″ Rotiform BLQ Concave wheels, in orange on the driver’s side and purple on the passenger.  Why?  Don’t know.  Rotiform is quickly becoming a standard go-to wheel choice for the stance crowd, so it’s not particularly shocking to see a set on a SEMA show car.  Tjin’s Si is lowered, sports a Thule roof rack, a Wraptivo vinyl body wrap, and some Recaro baby seats in the back.  A Nitrous Express laughing gas system makes the car scoot, and a set of Baer big brakes makes it stop.  This car would fit right in at an I/S/O show.

Altogether crazier is the Civic Si Coupe built for SEMA by Bisimoto engineering.  I’ve featured the work of California-based Bisimoto before, in an article about the Honda CR-Z which you can read here.  If you’re familiar with Bisi, you know they don’t make half-ass cars:  like their 724whp single-cam 1.6L EF wagon, or the crazy boosted CR-Z.  With their Si, boost was needed, with a goal in mind:  four-digits of wheel horsepower.  Mission accomplished, with 1,004whp and 620wtq.  The K24 is fully built from the crank up, running a giant Turbonetics/Bisimoto turbo, and sucking down copious amounts of VP Racing E85R – bioethanol.

The HFP Package – Honda Factory Performance – is a little more subtle.  HFP goodies usually aim to improve the handling of Honda’s vehicles, and the new HFP is largely the same components as the old one.  There are higher-rate lowering springs, stiffer dampers, and 18″ rolling stock with summer tires for grip.  The body kit, HFP floormats, badges and “red interior illumination” don’t make it go any faster.  I’m interested to see what kind of Mugen Si they’ll cook up for the US.  The HFP package is limited to 500 units per year and is available now.

Honda is showing off two Si race concepts – the HPD (Honda Performance Development) Compass360, and a plain ole’ Si Coupe body in white, for if you want to build your own race car.  The shell is just a basic Si chassis, and will run you $3,500.  The Compass360 is built to show off a number of performance parts to make the Si track ready.  Mostly supporting components like bushings, motor mounts, a heavy-duty clutch, brakes, suspension – that kind of thing.

Finally, we have the HFP Accord V6 Supercharged Coupe.  The V6 2-door Accord is arguably the sleeper of Honda’s US lineup – a sedate looking car that seems well suited for real-estate agents and accountants, not really the type of thing someone would want to take to the drag strip.  Then again, the upper level Accord Coupe comes with a 3.5L 24v V6 that makes 271bhp and 251lb-ft of torque.  With the optional six-speed manual, it’s good for mid 5-second 0-60 runs, and it will definitely show tail lights to an Si.  If you can manage the torque steer.  Nice car, actually.

The HFP concept adds a Rootes-type supercharger (pictured left), similar to the Eaton units used on some GM vehicles.  The way the V6 is mounted (drive belts on the passenger side, airbox on the driver’s) necessitates that long jackshaft running over the front cam bank to the blower; this is a setup Jackson Racing and others have used before to supercharged Honda’s J-series.  Along with an intake and exhaust system, the blower helps the big V6 produce 335bhp and 285lb-ft of torque, an increase of 64bhp and 34lb-ft of torque, so one can assume this is at a fairly low level of boost. It’s also probably safe to assume the torque steer is biblical.  Not surprisingly, Honda isn’t planning on selling supercharged V6 Accords (that would be way too cool), but this is doable if you’re interested in replacing front tires on a monthly basis.

]]> http://www.carthrottle.com/sema-2011-hondas-vtec-kicks-in/feed/ 0 http://www.carthrottle.com/the-all-encompassing-sema-preview-coverage-pt-1/ http://www.carthrottle.com/the-all-encompassing-sema-preview-coverage-pt-1/#comments Mon, 31 Oct 2011 20:08:42 +0000 James http://www.carthrottle.com/?p=28492

The yearly SEMA (Special Equipment Manufacturers Association) show happens in Las Vegas.  That’s enough reason to want to go to it.  But more than the exotic locale (way better than, err, Detroit), SEMA is a hotbed of aftermarket parts.  If you’re inclined to think this is a no-big-deal sort of affair, that’s not the case.  The SEMA show attracts so much attention that manufacturers themselves have been getting into the SEMA game for a few years now, whether directly or through various 3rd party companies.

There are so many “new car” debuts prior to SEMA that I would literally flood your RSS feed with them.  I don’t want to do that.  Plus, I can’t write an entire article about a Chevy Sonic with a bodykit.  So here are some of the goods that are coming out at SEMA this year, split up into two convenient posts for your reading pleasure, by manufacturer.

Chevrolet is bringing a whole bunch of Sonics and Cruzes decked out with aftermarket goodies.  This is a definite change from the Sonic’s predecessor, the Aveo – to which the best modification would be the addition of plastic explosives.  Above is the Z-Spec #1, which has Torch Red paint, a mild bodykit, and a vinyl job.  There are also upgraded 4-piston front brakes, a new exhaust, and suspension bits – as well as a short shifter, flat-bottomed wheel, etc.  The Z-Spec #2 (white one) has all the same upgrades but with a more aggressive body kit.

Chevy will also be bringing two other Sonics to SEMA – the Z-Spec 4D (with the same modifications as the two 5-door concepts) and a Sonic Dusk, which is a dark blue with 18″ wheels, etc.  There will also be a Cruze Z-Spec and a Cruze Dusk concept to match the Sonic concepts – both of which get Z-Spec body kits, 18″ wheels, and interior modifications (like the shifter, flat-bottom wheel, and specific trim) as well.

Chevy is also showing a pair of concept Corvettes at SEMA – the Carlisle Blue Grand Sport, and the Ron Fellows Z06 Hall of Fame Tribute.  The Carlisle Blue concept (pictured) features a new paint color that will be available on the Corvette next year, as well as a set of staggered-size wheels (18″ front, 19″ rear) called Torque 2′s that will be available soon.  There are also six-piston brakes, a dry-sumped LS3 under the hood, Magnaride shocks, and a lot of aesthetic goodies.  The Ron Fellows edition Z06 is a Z07 package car built to honor the Corvette Racing driver’s induction into the Corvette Hall of Fame, and features a lot of cosmetic enhancements like a raised carbon hood, black headlight housings, and a custom interior.

Chevrolet will also bring no less than four Camaro concept cars to SEMA.  Two of them are just sticker, paint and alloys type of deals – the Red Zone and Synergy concepts – but the 1LE and ZL-1 Carbon concepts are more interesting.  The Carbon concept (pictured right) is a regular ZL-1 Camaro – all 580 supercharged horsepower of it – with a smattering of carbon fibre trim to liven it up.  Carbon fibre gills in the hood lump and a carbon rear spoiler along with a set of lightweight 20″ wheels (10″ front, 11″ rear) give the ZL1 a meaner appearance, and the massive two-piece front Brembo rotors with 6-piston calipers will probably help the heavy ZL-1 slow down.  There’s also a lot of suede and carbon-fibre (with a flat-bottom wheel, which Chevy is apparently fond of) inside.  The other interesting concept – the 1LE package – combines parts from the SS and ZL1 Camaro to make a more track-ready SS.  It adds a lot of things not normally available on the SS- Magnetic Ride Control, ZL1 rolling stock, the same two-piece front rotors with six-piston calipers, a ZL-1 style active dual exhaust in a diffuser, and some ZL1 interior pieces.  Chevrolet says the 1LE could become a production option, and I certainly don’t see why not – the SS could benefit from the ride and handling improvements that Magnaride offers.

Mopar is bringing a bevy of concept to SEMA as well.  Pictured above is the Challenger ACR concept, made to celebrate the defunct Viper ACR’s recent ‘Ring lap time record.  It has a pile of Mopar performance accessories to make it go, turn, and stop faster: a cat-back exhaust, long-tube headers, and a short throw shifter help with the accelerating, while a set of adjustable coilovers as well as front and rear strut braces help the big Dodge turn.  Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar tires provide the grip.  The black-on-white color scheme with a single red stripe and mirror caps is pretty menacing, as well.  Inside, the rear seats are gone, and front buckets with harness pass-throughs, a roll cage, and a flat-bottom wheel make it lighter and more focused.  Dodge:  build it!

Less interesting, but far more, umm, orange is the Durango Tow Hook concept.  (Tow Hook?  Why?)  It’s basically a Durango painted really freaking orange with a black roof, huge wheels, and 25mm lower ride height.  There’s apparently a custom orange interior, which I can’t wait to see, and the Hemi makes lovely noises through a Corsa cat-back exhaust.

Since Chrysler and Fiat are now linked at the hip, the Mopar boys are bringing a pair of tuned Fiat 500 concepts to SEMA as well, although they didn’t bother to release any pictures other than a close-up of a headlight.  The 500 Titanium will feature a matte Titanium paint finish, 16″ two-piece alloy wheels, a body kit, and lowered suspension and upgraded brakes.  the 500 Carbon will of course have a bunch of carbon-fibre components attached to it; stay tuned for pictures and info on these two.

In the “not too surprising” category is the Ram SRT 392 Quick Silver concept.  Dodge isn’t exactly unfamiliar with the fast-truck genre; they basically invented it with the late 70′s “L’il Red Express.”  And for a while they were scaring the bejeesus out of unsuspecting passengers with the Viper-powered Ram SRT-10, all 8.3L and 500bhp of it.  The SRT 392 Quicksilver is exactly what you’d guess- a single cab Ram R/T that’s had the SRT Group’s 392ci (6.4L) Hemi V8 shoved under the hood.  With 470 horsepower, plus a cold-air intake and a set of long tube headers with electronic cutouts added (mmm!), this concept truck seems like a no-brainer, considering Ford has abandoned the fast-truck market.  Turning and stopping are improved with custom suspension providing a 2″ drop, while 15″ rotors are pinched by Brembo 6-piston calipers up front.  The truck rides on 22″ alloy wheels with massive meats – 275/45/R22 front and 305/40/R22 rear.

Honda hasn’t exactly been on a roll lately with cars appealing to drivers, but that doesn’t mean the aftermarket is any less fond of them.  The new 2012 Civic Si is just rolling into dealerships now, and here’s a crazy widebody boosted one already.  The biggest change for the 2012 Si was the replacement of the high-revving torqueless 2.0L K20Z3 with the larger 2.4L K24Z7 that can be found under the hood of the Acura TSX.  On paper, I’m not a huge fan – it’s only got 4 more horsepower than the old one, and while the much higher torque output at low rpm’s is nice for a daily driver, I’d rather have my high-winding 8,000+ rpm Honda engine back.

Add in some boost though, and the story is different.  With more displacement and a lower compression ratio, the new K24 is a natural for some turbocharging, which is just what Fox Marketing did.  They claim their intercooled turbocharger setup is good for 450 horsepower (more than double the original amount) while retaining Honda civility and reliability.  I just want to experience how much torque steer a 2.4L, turbocharged Civic with a helical LSD has.

Being a SEMA show car, there is of course a wide-body kit, gigantic wheels and tires, custom paint and interior work, and stickers everywhere.  But I mostly am interested in that boosted K24.  Do want.

Hyundai will also have a pretty full stand.  The Genesis coupe has been with us for two years now, and it’s a great car, but like most other cars, it could use another hundred horsepower or so.  Hyundai (with the help of Magnuson, Rhys Millen Racing (RMR), Harman and Torvec) has just the thing: the Genesis Coupe Hurricane concept.

Beyond the badass matte-black paint and huge wheels, what’s important is under the hood.  The Genesis 3.8′s V6 engine, which normally makes 306 horsepower, is boosted by a Magnuson supercharger breathing through an air-to-liquid intercooler to the result of more than 450 horsepower.  Helping put all that supercharged grunt down is a new IsoTorque limited slip differential and 19″ Enkeis with sticky Hankooks.  (No Goodyears?  Hey, gotta keep it KDM, son!)  A new exhaust provides more growl, and six-piston Brembos with cross drilled rotors help with the stopping.  Finally, an RMR front clip and a Lexicon stereo amp up the pimpin’ factor.

The big news for the slanted H this year is the Veloster, though.  So Hyundai is bringing a few tuned Velosters to whet the appetite of the aftermarket.  First up is the turbocharged, wide-body ARK Veloster.  The engine gets a twin-scroll turbocharger and intercooler, oil cooler, custom turbo manifold, underdrive pulleys, and new exhaust from the turbo to the tips.  There’s also a six-piston braking system, a roll cage, and a pretty comprehensive suspension overhaul – including coilovers, sway bars, camber plates and adjustable control arms, and a strut tie bar.  ARK claims 210bhp for their turbocharged version of the Veloster’s 1.6 GDI motor, up from 138 stock.  Considering the factory Veloster Turbo will have 208bhp, this is right on point.  Then there are the cosmetic modifications, which basically replace everything but the roof.  Looks wicked.

The other Veloster that will be on Hyundai’s stand is a partnership between PM Design and UTI technical school.  This bright-blue on black Veloster was designed to showcase the kind of modifications people can do in their own garages.  To that point, it’s mostly a lot of bolt-on modifications.  Power comes from an AEM intake and a Magnaflow exhaust with high-flow cat, as well as a Nitrous Express giggle gas setup.  Preventing it from blowing up are an external oil cooler, Flex-A-Lite radiator and thermostat, and a SPEC clutch.  There’s also the usual chassis mods – big brake kit, KW coilover suspension, and 18″ Konig wheels.  PM Design claims 163 horsepower for their Veloster; presumably before the hit of nitrous.  On the outside, a custom BASF paint job mixes with some Seibon carbon-fibre goodies to increase the pimp factor.  Nicely done on this one.

Over at the Kia division, work continues (quite successfully, I might add) on ridding Kia of it’s barrell-scraper image.  To help with that, Kia is bringing two concepts to SEMA, a new Rio Hatchback (pictured left) and a Forte (below.)  The Rio is surf-themed, but to me it just looks like a stanced-out Rio Hatch with a roof-rack.  The paint is custom golden-brown, and there’s a wooden front splitter to match the surf board on the roof.  The Rio is obviously dropped to the ground on some sort of aftermarket suspension, with a set of gold-hued 3-piece 17″ wheels.  Is this the first stanced-out new gen Rio?  If so, the future is looking great for Kia’s smallest car, whose previous claim to fame was “cheapest, nastiest new car you can buy.”  Both of these concepts were made in conjuction with Antenna Magazine, who outfitted the trunk of the Rio concept with a custom “entertainment center” that can play 80′s arcade games and records.  Why?  Well, why not I suppose.

The Forte Concept is hockey-themed, which is also odd.  Built off of the newish Forte 5-door hatchback, the concept has the front clip from the Forte Koup SX grafted onto it, which is actually pretty good looking.  On the outside, there’s custom “Aviator Gray” paint and some very blue 18″ alloy wheels along with a custom body kit, a carbon fibre roof, lowered suspension, quad tailpipes (one for each cylinder?) and LED accents.  Inside, a miniature air-hockey table slides out of the hatch – maybe it’s the cargo cover when it’s inside? – and there is of course a hockey-stick holder in the interior.  The rear seats are individual buckets, and there are 7″ LCD screens in the back of the headrests hooked up to a PS3.  Pretty standard show car stuff, but I vote that Kia starts slapping Koup SX bumpers on 5-doors, pronto.

Mazda is bringing a pair of concepts to SEMA as well:  an ultralight-weight Miata concept like they’ve been teasing us with for years, and a turbocharged Mazda 2 hot hatch.  Mazda didn’t give a lot of details on either concept, so I’ll put on my conjecture hat.  The Miata Spyder has a much more aggressive looking front fascia grafted onto the current NC chassis Miata, with a grille opening that looks like it was borrowed directly from the RX-8.  There’s also a Boxster Spyder-style tent where the roof would normally be, presumably because it weighs less.  They say it has a “new, more aggressive look” – and that’s about it.

I’m more interested by the Mazda2 Turbo.  Mazda’s PR department says it combines “one of our most powerful, turbocharged engines in our lightest platform.”  (That’s no lie – the Mazda2′s curb weight is actually lower than that of the Miata, closer to 2,000 pounds than 2,500.)  What could that mean?  If I’m guessing (and I am!), I’d say there’s a 2.3 DISI-Turbo under the hood, the 2.3L direct-injected, turbocharged and intercooled I4 that powers the MazdaSpeed3 and the CX-7.  If the weight is kept around 2,200lbs, this 263bhp motor would make for an absolutely wicked little beast.  More details on this toy very soon.

I’ll cover the rest of the preview posts for SEMA in part II of this, so stay tuned!  SEMA opens it’s doors tomorrow, so there will likely be more cool stuff rolling out afterwards as well.

The Honda CR-Z has a lot of potential.  It’s really a neat little car.  I drove one a while back, and there’s a lot to like about it.  It’s got a well-appointed, comfortable and high-tech interior.  It’s light, and it handles pretty well.  Fuel economy is decent, and in sport mode the IMA battery assist gives you a useful thump of torque.  But frankly, for those expecting a CRX Si, it’s a massively disappointing car.  I mean, here’s this sporty looking low-slung hatchback with a racy interior, and it has less power than a lot of garden tractors.  It’s terribly slow, and after a while the game of “how many corners can I take at wide-open throttle?” becomes boring.  Adnan drove one too, (check out his video review, it’s very slick), and I think we came to the same conclusion: cool car, why am I getting beat off the line by a minivan?

This is weird.  Because Honda use to make some seriously exciting cars.  They weren’t especially complicated like the CR-Z, either.  Remember the old DC2 Integra Type-R?  Or the Acura RSX-S, Honda S2000, even the Del Sol VTEC?  They were all lightweight, razor-sharp compacts with engines bursting with energy well beyond their weight class.  The zing of the high-lift cam on a GS-R or Prelude is still alluring after all these years.  The CR-Z?  It’s a guy wearing a muscle shirt -- with no muscles.

Why is it then, that everyone but Honda has come up with a solution to the CR-Z’s boringness?  And why won’t Honda build any of them?  Of course, there’s the well known Mugen CR-Z RR concept, which won’t be going into production, at all, no way.

Perhaps over the top, yes.  The widebody fenders, carbon-fiber everything, 4-piston brakes, lightweight wheels and all that would make this a pretty expensive production car.  But the engine is what we really need -- Mugen adapted a small centrifugal supercharger to the CR-Z’s 1.5L gas motor, while retaining the IMA Hybrid system.  191bhp and torque, strong low-end response, enough power to actually be fun, all while retaining good fuel economy.  Honda hasn’t ruled out the possibility of the Mugen supercharged engine entirely, but I wouldn’t cross my fingers.  Then again, that’s not the only hot CR-Z out there.

This is a CR-Z built by LHT tuning in Pinellas Park Florida, as feature in Honda Tuning magazine (as you can tell from the water mark).  These are the same people that built the K-Sight (1st generation Insight with a 2.0L K20 Civic Si motor.)  So not surprisingly, they’ve called it the KR-Z, and taken out all that Hybrid junk.  In goes a K20Z3 (the 2.0L VTEC motor from a 2006-2009 Honda Civic Si).  They custom tune it with Hondata FlashPro and stick on a free-flowing header and exhaust, good for 210+whp -- more than double what the CR-Z puts to the wheels stock.

This is a turn-key package that retains A/C, cruise, power steering, VSA, all that.  Here’s what boggles my mind:  if a small performance shop in Florida can do this in a streetable, emissions legal package -- umm, why can’t Honda?  Or rather, why won’t they?  Talk about a money maker:  Take one CR-Z and one K20Z3 with LSD transmission, blend, bam -- CR-Z Type R.

Not the greatest video, but you get the point -- it idles quiet, no check engine light (although the “Check IMA” light is funny, considering there is no more IMA), everything works, and it’s fast.  Of course, when it comes to building tuned Hondas with something different, there’s no one quite like Bisimoto Engineering in Ontario, California.  (Not Canada.)

Wild looking, huh?  Unlike the LHT car, the Bisimoto CR-Z still has it’s 1.5L L-series motor.  And the IMA Hybrid setup.  Thing is, this car is making a little more than the original 122bhp -- try 533.  That’s a useful jump.  (Perhaps the intercooler was a hint.)

Of course, multiplying a car’s power by more than 5 requires some fortification.  The bottom end is built (Arias pistons, sleeved block, custom rods, ARP fastening hardware) as well as some head work (ported, Bisi valvetrain, Bisi custom cams) -- but the big change is obviously the turbo.  A Turbonetics 70mm turbo and a whole slew of other trick parts lets the CR-Z put down 464 horsepower and 327lb-ft of torque at the wheels -- correcting for drivetrain loss and you get 533 crank horsepower.

Now, of course a built-motor huge turbo show car/dyno queen isn’t what Honda is going to build and sell to customers.  But this was just to show what’s possible using a modified version of the stock CR-Z powertrain, which is apparently quite a lot.

On a low-boost shakedown run (11psi, 287whp) it ran a 14.2 second quarter mile at 98mph.  This is also with the stock ECU programming in place that closes the throttle for a full second during every full-throttle shift, which you can clearly see in the 1-2 upchange.  Considering that’s a lot faster than most Civic Si’s run in the first place, there’s potential for serious awesomeness here -- low 11′s?  High 10′s?

Yes, the Bisi CR-Z is extreme.  And the Mugen RR is pretty ridiculous as well.  But what I’m saying is, Honda needs to take a hint.  Right?