“Sport” Takes on a New Meaning

It used to be when you hear about or see an Accord Sport, you’d think “grandpa’s car” or “nothing really exciting.” And you’d probably be right. Granted there are a few exceptions, a few niche markets or certain demographics that enjoy it. But overall, the public’s general opinion of the Accord Sport has always been “meh.”

With a 2.4L four-cylinder engine that put out roughly 190hp (less than the Civic Si), 19” wheels and no other actual performance upgrades, the “Sport” badge was purely aesthetic. It didn’t handle differently, it didn’t have any more get-up to it than a regular Accord, it just let you “shift” the gears on its CVT for a little more fun. “Meh” indeed.

That was until the 2018 Accord Sport 2.0T released this month, with a plethora of new features that made it truly live up to its “Sport” badge. Along with the safety features, which come standard on every trim in the 2018 line-up, there are quite a few performance upgrades that come with the badge.

 

 

Under the hood, the Accord has a 252hp 2.0L four-cylinder turbocharged engine, mated to your choice of a 10-speed auto with paddles, or of course a 6-speed manual transmission, available only on the Sport trims. Equipped with 19” wheels and Macpherson Strut suspension in the front and a Multi-Link rear suspension, it’s not going to feel like a regular front-wheel-drive car.

So while many prefer the manual transmission, I had the chance to drive the 10-speed auto. Having driven dozens of different cars with different CVTs, DCTs, and DSGs, I’m used to paddles and slushboxes. However, the Accord’s CVT is by far Honda’s best-feeling shift, as far as an alternative to a six-speed goes. Even compared to a V6 Coupe, the shifts felt snappier and more responsive, and the car just seemed to play along. There wasn’t any lag between gears whereas the V6’s CVT just didn’t want to leave the gear it was in. The 2018 felt light and compact, compared to the V6 that just felt heavy and lumbering around corners and getting back up to speed.

 

 

Everyone has a different opinion on this whole V6-vs-Turbo 4 engine debate; on one side you have “no replacement for displacement,” while on the other side you have the trend of the nearly every car manufacturer that has fuel economy in mind. While I cede that six-cylinder engines are quite formidable and terribly fun to drive, turbocharged 4-cylinders can make the case – if done right.

Honda hit the mark on producing a fuel-efficient family car that also makes case for a respectable and fun daily driver and a good substitute for the V6 Accord. If you were looking for a racecar, try the Type-R.

-Christian Olsson

 

 

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What Makes the Honda’s CR-V Business Insider’s Favorite SUV in America?

Numbers don’t lie – with almost 4 million sold since its introduction in 1997 and an impressive seven years of documented sales gains for Honda, the CR-V is the best selling crossover SUV in America right now. But what is it about this compact SUV that continues to bring new drivers to the wheel? We wanted to take a closer look at the car that Business Insider recently touted as their Favorite SUV in America to find out what keeps the CR-V at the head of the pack in a market that is definitely not lacking in options. Here’s what we found.

The Feeling of Effortless Driving

One of the most obvious highlights of this exceptionally popular little crossover is the overall ease of use that it projects and delivers to the driver. This is something that Honda seems to understand well and has improved on with every iteration of the CR-V, honing it even further in the newest 2017 model. New technological driving assistance features actually deliver the increased performance and reduced steering effort that are promised. Driving, parking and overall wheel and steering control feel easy, precise and smoothly responsive.

Comfortable Convenience

The interior and famously comfortable and supportive seats of the CR-V have received a bit of an upgrade as far as style goes in the newest model, but these are almost entirely aesthetic touch ups. The driver and front passenger seats still offer some of the most comfortable seating that can be found in a crossover SUV – or just about any car, honestly – with great back support for long drives. The spacious storage between the front seats, as well as the two convenient USB outlets, combined with the comfort of the seating and the easy ride of this car make it a pretty perfect road trip machine.

Straightforward Simplicity

Another oft-mentioned draw of the Honda CR-V has always been its simplistic but well thought out functionality when it comes to loading, unloading, and altering the backseat and cargo areas of the car. The cargo compartment opens with ease and is spacious and uncomplicated – something you’d think would be standard in crossover SUV vehicles, but which can be cluttered and frustrating in other options on the market. There is no struggle or searching for hidden controls when you need to move or fold the back seat – just a one-motion pull tab that is visible and does what you think it should intuitively do. It’s this kind of detail, that eliminates guesswork from what should be a simple process but often isn’t with cars like this one, that has brought the CR-V to the forefront of its class and kept it there.

In short, the newest model of the CR-V does everything that the majority of drivers would expect it to do and it does those things well. Aside from a few aesthetic details that improve the look the of the car both inside and out, the reliable simplicity and overall comfort of the CR-V is still the standout reason that this car remains a favorite among modern drivers.

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What? Easter Egg in the 2016/2017 Honda Civic Center Console?

There may seem to be few mysteries to uncover under the practical Honda Civic. But Honda isn’t immune to spicing things up every once in a while, and unlike other car companies, they don’t feel the need to broadcast it from sea to shining sea. The 10th generation of these cars (2016 and 2017) has been redesigned, and Honda apparently wanted to have a little fun with their customers by putting an Easter egg into the center console. This little gem is all about celebrating the history of the car company.

The Hidden Meaning

The designers were behind this little addition to the car, not some flashy PR or marketing stunt to score more sales. The Honda PR team didn’t even know about the Easter egg, which is probably a good thing when it comes to keeping secrets. When you ask people what they think of when they think of Honda, they might say they’re a reputable company that makes long-lasting cars. But if you asked people 50 years ago what Honda was known for, they might have their fast motorcycles and race cars capabilities. The Easter egg embraces both the past and the future of Honda.

Finding the Treasure

It isn’t available in every car, but it can be found in any 2016 or 2017 year in an EX trim or higher. The egg is actually the rubber mat at the bottom of the center console that protects the compartment from spills and scrapes.

You have to take the rubber mat out, and turn it over. You’ll find a picture that shows many of Honda’s older accomplishments that have managed to break the old racing and engineering standards of the day. They must be particularly fond of their first private plane, as it’s present in each one of their designs.

First Design: RA106 F1, S800, RC213V, HondaJet

When it comes to motorsports, this design covers it all. In 2006, Jenson Button raced the RA106. At the time, Honda hadn’t appeared in an F1 event since 1968. The S800 won the GT-1 class in the endurance race in Japan in 1968,and their RC213V motorcycle was driven by champion Marc Márquez at MotoGP.

Second Design: RC166, McLaren Honda MP4/4, HondaJet

Motorcycle legend Ayrton Senna sits in the seat of the Honda MP4/4 race car. The RC166 is manned by Jim Redman, who won 6 times at the Grand Prix.

Third Design: NS800, Asimo, HondaJet

No cars in this one, but rather a celebration of Honda’s humanoid robot Asimo.The NS500 motorcycle was ridden by Freddie Spencer in 1983 when he won the world championship at the Grand Prix.

Fourth Design: Curtiss Special, RA272 Race Car, HondaJet

In 1920, these racing cars were brand new, and came about long before Honda was even a company name. Soichiro Honda (founder of Honda) was the riding mechanic for the Curtiss Special during the Fifth Japan Motorcar Championship in 1924. The other race car was raced in 1965, and was Honda’s first F1 race win.

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Why Buy Used Cars For Sale at Honda World

When you shop for used cars for sale at Honda World in Louisville, KY, you can be assured of a host of benefits you wouldn’t necessarily expect. Check out this list of reasons why your next vehicle purchase should come from us.

Better Value

When you buy a used car from an individual or even some other dealers, you can never truly be certain of the value you’re getting. The used car you’re getting may have a bevy of issues that isn’t apparent upon visual inspection. Or, it may not be priced competitively.

At Honda World of Louisville, KY, we promise excellent value on all our pre-owned vehicles. How do we do that? First, we vet each car that we sell. We accept only used cars for sale that are in the best condition for their age. Once in our care, our factory-trained technicians do a thorough inspection of the vehicle, checking both cosmetic and mechanical condition. Next, we recondition the car to our exacting standards. This may include repair or replacement parts, as well as complete detailing of the vehicle. In fact, after we’ve finished reconditioning the vehicle, many customers almost can’t tell it’s a used car!

Better Selection

Our pre-owned inventory of cars totals over 1,000 vehicles, ensuring that you have a better selection of used cars for sale than anywhere else. Why spend days or weeks driving from place to place in search of the used car you want, when you can find it on our lot at Honda World? We can almost guarantee that you’ll find the exact used car you’re looking for on the day you stop by our showroom.

Unparalleled Customer Service Features

We offer a long list of additional services with every used car purchase. This includes:

• Full Seven Days Return Policy – If for any reason you change your mind about your purchase, no problem. Just come on back and get a full refund, or pick out a different car.
• Clean Title Guarantee – You can be assured that there are no outstanding liens or claims on a vehicle you purchase from Honda World in Louisville.
• Factory-Trained Technicians – Our service techs are certified and experienced.
• No Charge Appraisals – Get a free price appraisal on any trade-in.
• CARFAX Report – You’ll know the precise history of any used car you are considering.
• Extended Service Plan Available – Bump up your service plan with this valuable option.

Buying a pre-owned car from Honda World is unlike any other used car purchase experience. We treat every customer as special and valuable. Our business is about building relationships, and we do everything in our power to become your go-to place when you, your family and your friends are in the market for a vehicle. Come on in to Honda World and find out what everyone else is talking about.

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How To Unlock Your Honda’s Radio Device

In rare instances you may find yourself needing a radio code to fix your Honda radio. There are a few ways of getting this code. To get this code, you will need:

VIN Verification

The first step in obtaining the radio code is to figure out what your Honda’s Vehicle Identification Number, or VIN, is. You can find this in a number of different locations, including:

• On the driver’s side of the windshield near the bottom
• On your auto insurance card
• In your vehicle’s insurance statement
• In your registration for the vehicle
• In the financial services statement for the vehicle
• In any customer satisfaction or new owner questionnaires you have received from Honda

VIN codes are 17 digits in length and include numbers 0 through 9, as well as all letters of the alphabet other than I, O, and Q. If the number you enter does not work, check to see if you entered O in the place of 0.

Serial Number Savvy

Besides the VIN, you will also need to find the radio’s Device Serial Number. For some models, you can find this data on the anti-theft identification card in the glove box; it will be the second code listed under “Radio”. If you are unable to find your code using this method, you can find your code through instructional videos found on YouTube.

If your Honda was made before 2001, the number will not be visible to you; you must instead visit the dealership to obtain it.

Personal Data

In addition to the Device Serial Number and the VIN, you must enter personal data, namely your Zip Code, a phone number, and a working email address. Honda needs this information to confirm that you are the owner. It will also send a record of the code to your email address so that you can access it at any time.

Timing Tenacity

Once you have all of this information, you must enter it during a designated period of time. Honda allows you to retrieve the code:

• On Monday through Friday between 4AM and 9PM PST
• On Saturdays between 4AM and 6:30PM
• On Sundays between 4AM and 9PM

Dual Devices

Some Honda models provide navigation devices in addition to radio devices, both of which must be unlocked with the same code. If this is the case, make sure to check the “I have two devices box.” This will inform Honda that you need a code that works for both the radio and the navigation.

Honda World provides a wide variety of vehicles and performance packages. For more information on unlocking your radio, navigation system, and other key features, contact us today.

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2017 Honda Accord vs 2017 Toyota Camry

The 2017 Honda Accord and the 2017 Toyota Camry are their respective manufacturer’s entry into the same niche of the auto industry: a mid-size sedan for those whose primary concerns are reliability, comfort and safety. With both vehicles having long-established fan bases and being extremely popular, it can be difficult to choose between the two. Here’s a breakdown of what the base model of each vehicle offers:

2017 Honda Accord LX

With a MSRP of $22,455, the 2017 Honda Accord LX comes equipped with a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder direct fuel injection engine that generates 185 horsepower. This is paired with a six-speed manual transmission and delivers an EPA-estimated 23 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. Its 16-inch alloy wheels contrast nicely with its metallic Modern Steel exterior paint.

Inside, the Accord is equipped with a dual-zone automatic climate control system, cruise control and a steering wheel with illuminated controls. The i-MID system features a 8-inch screen, Bluetooth, Radio Data System (RDS), SMS text message function, Speed-Sensitive Volume Control (SVC), HondaLink and more.

Known for being a safe car, the Accord LX is equipped with an array of both active and passive features including:

• Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD)
• Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with Traction Control
• Brake Assist (BA)
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• Multi-Angle Rearview Camera with Dynamic Guidelines
• Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)
• Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
• Side curtain airbags with rollover sensor
• Dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags (SRS)

2017 Toyota Camry LE

The 2017 Toyota Camry LE begins with a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine that delivers 178 horsepower. This is married with a six-speed electronically-controlled automatic transmission with overdrive, sequential shift mode, ECT-i Intelligence and paddle shifters. It delivers an EPA-estimated 24 MPG in the city and 33 MPG along the highway. The Camry SE has a MSRP of $23,840.

Outside, the Camry SE comes equipped with projector-beam halogen headlights with auto on/off feature, daytime running lights (DRL), color-keyed heated power outside mirrors that fold manually and 16-inch steel wheels with wheel covers.

The interior of the Camry was designed for comfort, safety and entertainment. The included Entune Multimedia Bundle contains:

• 6.1-inch touch screen display
• auxiliary audio jack
• Bluetooth wireless technology with hands-free phone capability, music streaming and phone book access
• six speakers
• USB 2.0 port with iPod connectivity

Ten airbags — including an Advanced Airbag System with seat-mounted side airbags, rear seat-mounted airbags, knee airbags and other strategically-placed airbags — driver and front passenger Whiplash-Injury-Lessening (WIL) seats and a backup camera complement its Star System System. This system bundles features such as:

• Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
• Traction Control (TRAC)
• Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
• 4-wheel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)
• Smart Stop Technology (SST)
• Brake Assist (BA)

The Camry’s remote keyless entry system is a multi-function, in-key design that puts features such as trunk release, illuminated entry, two-stage unlock and panic functions right in the palm of the driver’s hand.

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8 Tips for Winter Driving

Winter is one of the toughest seasons on a vehicle. If you want your vehicle to continue to run well all season and make things easier on yourself, there are a few simple steps you can take. Use these tips to prep your car for winter so all you have to worry about is staying warm.

1. Get winter tires. If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, then winter tires can help keep you safe on the slick roads. All season tires are not the same and you may even need winter tires on all four of your wheels.
2. Get a battery test. You may not need a new battery, but it is better to have your battery tested just to be sure. During the winter, your battery has to work harder than it does during other seasons and you should make sure your battery is going to be reliable all season with a free test.
3. Get some extra floor mats. This is something that most people do not think about getting before winter but they can come in very handy if you get stuck in the snow. You can use them to gain traction and get your car out of the snow.
4. Get a roadside assistance membership. You never know when you are going to need help when you are driving and you are more likely to need it during the winter. You can usually add this to your auto insurance policy but you can also get one that is completely separate and does not cost a lot of money. It is better to have this in your back pocket than find yourself stranded in the cold.

5. Create your car emergency kit. Things are unpredictable on the road and you should consider making a car emergency kit that includes things like a flashlight, a blanket, food and water, and other things you may need in the winter if you get stranded.
6. Get your oil changed. If you live in a particularly cold environment, you may need to have a different type of oil put in your car for winter. You should be getting this performed regularly but you should also know if you need a thinner oil for winter. Check your owner manual and get your oil changed before it gets too cold.
7. Get a basic tune-up. While you should also be getting this done on a regular basis, it is a good idea to get it done before winter to ensure everything is working the way it should be. The last thing you want is to fid out there is something wrong with your vehicle in the cold of winter.
8. Change your windshield wipers and fluid. You want to have fluids that can keep up with the freezing temperatures and you should have new windshield wipers that can help you maintain visibility when driving in the snow.

Your vehicle is something that you want to ensure you have access to all season long. Taking these steps will help you ensure that your vehicle will not only be safe but you will be able to take care of issues as they pop up.

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How Does HondaLink Work?

If you are planning on buying a new Honda, then you can skip the factory navigation system and level up to HondaLink. With this advanced technology, Honda is providing a less expensive option to consumers who buy a new car – one that takes advantage of something most people carry with them wherever they go. HondaLink uses a smartphone to manage the cars built-in touchscreen system and seamlessly connect you to your car no matter where you go. What is HondaLink and how does it work?

What is HondaLink?

HondaLink is a vehicle telemetric service designed to replace and update the in-car navigation system. Honda first introduced this product as Internavi in 1997. It was available only in Accords and Torneo sold in Japan, though.

The newest generation service is an application-based platform that connects you to your car via a smartphone, tablet or desktop computer. With downloadable apps at your disposal, you can customize the service to suit your needs.

Once you download the apps, you can pair a smartphone to the Honda system using your vehicle’s VIN to get the most benefit from this technology. By connecting the app to your car, you gain access to your digital address book, are able to make phone calls, can get directions and even schedule your next service appointment. HondaLink also includes an onboard service for emergencies much like OnStar.

Required HondaLink Apps

There are two required apps for HondaLink and a few options ones – each one with different benefits. The HondaLink app Launcher allows you to find and organize approved apps and even points out third-party platforms that work with the system. This app integrates your phone with the onboard touchscreen that comes with select Honda automobiles.

The HondaLink Connect app is designed to enhance your driving experience by offering convenient access to the:

• Owner’s manual for your vehicle
• Local weather updates
• Nearby points of interest
• Destination information
• Messages

The Maintenance Minder that comes with the Connect app keeps you on track with recommended upkeep for the vehicles and allows you to schedule an appointment remotely.

Optional HondaLink Apps

HondaLink comes with some options apps that enhance the experience for you. The HondaLink Aha App offers a large selection of audio content such as:

• Radio stations
• Podcasts
• Audiobooks

It also connects you to mainstream social media platforms and helps you navigate to nearby businesses like restaurants, gas stations and hotels.

The HondaLink Navigation provides a 3D navigation system and traffic program. You can use this app to search for specific addresses or to find the easiest route to wherever you are going. While the other apps come at no cost, this one you must pay to download.

The downside of using the HondaLink service is compatibility. HondaLink apps will not work with all model smartphones, so be sure to check to make sure yours is compatible. The apps are available via iTunes and Google Play for your convenience.

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Honda Dashboard Warning Lights On? Here’s What They Mean

Seeing one of your dashboard indicator lights pop on when you’re in your car can be scary. By knowing exactly what all of the dashboard warning lights mean, you can save yourself a lot of unnecessary panic. To be safe, whenever you see a warning light on in your car, be sure to stop by Honda World so that a mechanic can take a closer look at the problem.

Parking Brake
You have your parking brake on, so remember to turn it off before driving.

Low Oil Pressure
Your car may be leaking or burning oil, which could severely damage the engine if unheeded.

Charging System
There is a problem with the electrical charging system.

Supplemental Restraint System
There may be a problem with the airbags, meaning they won’t deploy in a crash.

Smart Entry System
Your car might have a problem with smart entry system or push button starting system.

Check Engine Light
This light comes on for a number of dangerous problems including a misfire in your engine’s cylinders, problems with emissions, or a loose fuel cap.

Anti-Lock Brake System
There might be a malfunction with the ALB system or you have your handbrake on while driving.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System
Your tires might be underinflated.

High Temperature
Your car is overheating.

Low Temperature
Your car is too cold.

Daytime Running Lights
Your daytime running lights are on.

Vehicle Stability Assist System
VSA is on, or there’s a problem with the VSA system.

Electric Power Steering
The EPS system is not functioning correctly.

Seat Belt Reminder
If you don’t wear your seatbelt while driving, this light will come on.

Door Open
A door is open.

Trunk Open
The trunk is open.

Low Fuel
You are low on fuel and should top off soon.

Washer Fluid Level
It’s time to add more washer fluid to your car.

System Message
This light will come on with another light and will mean there is a message on your multi-information display.

Maintenance Minder
A reminder that it’s time for routine maintenance.

Immobilizer
Your car does not recognize your key or remote transmitter, meaning you might not be able to start the engine.

VSA Off
Helps remind you that VSA is off.

Cruise Main On
Cruise main is on.

Cruise Control On
Cruise control is on.

Turn Signals
Your turn signal is on.

Fog Lights On
Your fog lights are on.

High Beams On
Your high beams are on.

Exterior Lights On
Your exterior lights are on.

ECON Mode On
Your ECON mode is on.

Lane Keeping Assist System
The LKAS is on.

Collision Mitigation Braking System
The CMBS is on.

Road Departure Mitigation
The RDM system is on.

Blind Spot Information
There is a vehicle in your blind spot.

All-Wheel Drive
AWD is on.

Auto Idle Stop
Auto Idle Stop is on.

Adaptive Cruise Control
You are using adaptive cruise control.

Auto High Beam System
Your high beam lights are being automatically controlled.

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