The shift from levers to buttons

For some time now, having a vehicle with an automatic transmission meant having a shift lever either on the console or steering column that was used to change gears.  With the arrival of a variety of new technology in vehicles has also come the arrival of electronic transmission controls.  Gone are the days of gear shift familiarity in all cars, as consumers are now learning how to use toggles, knobs and push buttons.  Among some of the automakers who have started to employ electronic transmission controls are Acura, Chrysler, Jaguar, Lincoln and Mercedes Benz.

These new controls are giving cars a more high-tech feel, though this is not the first time that auto makers have integrated push-button shifting.  Chrysler in particular has had models in the past with push-button controls and even Ford had shift buttons in itsEdsel sedan.  Automakers are moving to electronic shifting, which is controlled by computers and thus enables the change from traditional shift levers (which require a lever control with mechanical links to the transmission) to buttons and toggles.

This change is aesthetic and practical for automakers, though for drivers it means learning a new system and adjusting to a new normal when it comes to their car’s transmission.

http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/cars/2014/08/10/cars-shifting-knobs-buttons/13721433/

Safer Cars for Teens

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has recognized several model years of Honda pre-owned vehicles as part of its first ever list of safer pre-owned vehicles for teen drivers.  IIHS conducted research and found that motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death in teenagers and that the type of vehicle driven has a large effect on the degree of risk in a crash.  Further research conducted by IIHS found that many teens drive pre-owned vehicles that are lacking important safety technology.  As a result, the list of safer pre-owned vehicles for teen drivers was created to help parents in making safer choices.  

The Honda Accord Sedan (2012 and later), Accord Coupe (2013-14), CR-V (2012 and later), Element (2007 and later) and Honda Odyssey (2011 and later) have all earned the recognition from IIHS as the best, safer choices for teen drivers under $20,000.  The Honda Pilot (2006 and later) and the Honda Odyssey (2005-10) were included in the list of safer pre-owned vehicles for teen drivers under $10,000.

“Vehicles considered "best choices" for under $20,0002 have good ratings for side crash protection, good head restraints and seats for rear crash protection, and good roof strength to protect occupants in rollover crashes. Vehicles considered "good choices" for under $10,0002 have good or acceptable side crash protection and head restraints rated better than poor. If rated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the vehicles earn a 4 or 5 Star Overall Vehicle Score, for model years 2011 and later, or 4 or 5 Stars in the front and side crash safety tests for earlier models tested under NHTSA's old rating system.” www.honda.com

Honda is the most durable, longest lasting brand in its class, according to IHS Automotive vehicle registration statistics.  Customers who choose a Certified Pre-Owned Honda vehicle from an authorized Honda dealer get added peace of mind with an extensive limited warranty.  Honda has a long history of leadership in the development and application of advanced technologies in their vehicles, keeping drivers safe in the event of a crash.

http://www.honda.com/newsandviews/article.aspx?id=7847-en

HondaJet

The first production HondaJet achieved its first successful test flight on June 27, 2014.  It took place in Greensboro, N.C. and the aircraft made an 84-minute flight, and following a smooth landing was greeted by 1,000 plus Honda Aircraft team members.  The Honda Jet is going to be single-pilot certified and is currently the world’s most advanced and fuel-efficient light jet.  HondaJet is moving towards aircraft certification and entry into service in 2015.  It can seat up to five passengers and travel at a range of 1,357 miles.  With best-in-class advantages in quality, comfort and performance as well as technological innovations in aviation design the HondaJet is sure to prove itself as the best in its class.

“The HondaJet is Honda's first commercial aircraft and lives up to the company's reputation for superior performance, efficiency, quality and value.” –www.hondajet.com

For more information, visit:

http://myfox8.com/2014/06/30/hondajet-takes-to-the-skies-with-first-successful-flight-in-greensboro/

http://www.hondajet.com

Are Connected Cars the Future?

There has been a push in the Senate to open up the band of wireless communication airwaves that automakers have had exclusive access to.  The legislation is designed to improve road safety by allowing vehicles to communicate with other vehicles on the road.  The NHTSA says that the technology could eliminate some 80 percent of traffic accidents.  But groups among the auto industry are concerned that by opening the connected car spectrum, it could create interference and put safety improvements at risk.  More study is needed before connected cars can coexist on the same wireless spectrum, according to auto industry groups.

Expanding access of the wireless communication airwaves to improve road safety is a growing debate, though a mandate for vehicle to vehicle communications may be in the near future.

http://www.autonews.com/article/20140620/OEM06/140629979/connected-car-band-would-open-to-other-wi-fi-devices-under-senate

The 2015 Fit has arrived!

The all-new 2015 Honda Fit is making its debut at Bobby Rahal Honda!  This sporty, fun to drive hatchback has been completely redesigned with a sleek modern exterior and plenty of new technology.  It comes standard with Bluetooth connectivity, Rearview camera and an Expanded View Driver’s Mirror.  The 2015 Fit also comes in three new colors: Aegean Blue Metallic, Mystic Yellow Pearl and Passion Berry Pearl.  

With a starting MSRP of $17,115.00 along with 33mpg city and 41 mpg highway, the savings never stop with the 2015 Fit.  “More than ever, the Fit is ridiculously well suited to city living. It seats four adults, swallows plenty of gear, parks almost anywhere, sips fuel, has excellent outward visibility, dices traffic and loves to get out... for weekend adventures.” -NYTimes

We have two 2015 Fits in stock and ready for you to explore!  Make sure to call us at 717-766-4300 to schedule your test drive!

http://automobiles.honda.com/fit/

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/06/15/automobiles/autoreviews/2015-honda-fit-review.html?_r=0#

Honda is Awarded Again

Honda has done it again- Automotive News has reported that Honda topped the rankings of mainstream brands, by new vehicle buyers for quality and value.  The study was done by ALG, and is based upon data that shows perception is a better predictor to forecast vehicle quality in the market. Other studies measure vehicles based upon quality in everything from long-term durability to fit and finish. "ALG’s metric isolates how consumers think about the quality of each brand.  The gap between the top tier and the rest of the field has narrowed...and buyers are clearly getting the message that overall quality levels have much more parity than ever before."

Not only has Honda received multiple awards and accolades from the NHTSA, IIHS, Edmunds.com, and KBB, they also continue to maintain and gain a satisfied customer base due to Honda's quality.

https://www.alg.com/bpq/ 

2014 Odyssey Awards

The 2014 Honda Odyssey, already the top selling minivan in the U.S. in 2013 has won the “Best Minivan for Families” award for the fourth consecutive year from U.S. News & World Report’s annual “Best Cars for Families” honors.  The award goes to vehicles that have the highest combined score in professional automotive reviews, safety and reliability ratings, seating and cargo volume and the availability of family-friendly features.  

The Odyssey leads its class in fuel economy and safety ratings, while being able to accommodate up to eight passengers.  It was also the only minivan to receive the 2014 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating and it has earned a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from NHTSA.  The 2014 Odyssey has also introduced us to theHondaVac, the world’s first in-vehicle vacuum system.  

The 2014 Odyssey is fully loaded with cutting edge technology and safety features that are sure to please everyone in the family.

http://www.honda.com/newsandviews/article.aspx?id=7642-en