Honda & Acura: A Rush of New Models | Honda & Acura

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Honda & Acura Unveil a Rush of New Models

Honda and AcuraShanghai Motor Showexhibited a large number of models. They presented proposals for new driving enjoyment, and emphasized the strengthening of local development and local production.

Text by SUZUKI Fumihiko (OPENERS)

Four Models from Honda

At the Shanghai Motor Show, Honda world-premiered one concept model and two production models.

First is the concept model, "Concept M." This is a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) intended for the current Chinese market, which is primarily commercial vehicles, and is proposed as a passenger car that balances a spacious interior with driving enjoyment, offering new value. It is scheduled for release in 2014.

Last year's Beijing Motor Show The model that appeared under the name "Concept C"has been unveiled as a production model named "Crider (凌派)." Its design motif is the dragon. This is a mid-size sedan created by a team of Chinese staff, primarily for the Chinese market. Its release is imminent, scheduled for June 2013.

Meanwhile, the production model of "Concept S" is "Jade (傑徳)." As its name suggests, this model, inspired by jade, is described by Honda as having keywords of beautiful appearance and noble quality. Its target audience is young Chinese people born in the 1980s. This will be released by Dongfeng Honda Automobile Co., Ltd. (Dongfeng Honda) in September 2013.

Additionally, Guangqi Honda's independent brand "Everus," established in 2011, will introduce a minor change model of its first production vehicle, the "Everus S1." The changes include exterior and interior updates, along with the introduction of new technology.

Acura World Premieres Design Concept

From the Acura brand, a compact SUV, the "SUV-X," was exhibited as a design concept model. This marks the first time Acura has held a world premiere of a concept model outside of North America. Production in China is being considered within three years.

The flagship luxury sedan "RLX," scheduled for release in China in June, made its appearance in its Chinese specification. The front-wheel-drive model is equipped with the unique "Precision All-Wheel Steer" technology, which enhances cornering performance by altering the rear wheel toe angle in response to steering input. The powertrain is a 3.5-liter V6 direct-injection SOHC i-VTEC engine.