Honda Record Strong Sales Growth for 152

Honda sales increase by 73% in July 152-reg
Led by exceptional demand for new 2015 Civic (+79%) and CR-V (+169%)
Growth to continue with all-new HR-V and Jazz arriving soon

Honda are celebrating an exceptional start to the 152 registration plate with a 73% increase in sales for July when compared to last year. In a market that has shown strong growth, Honda sales and market share increased in the period, for Honda’s best sales month for the year so far.

The growth in Honda sales in 152 is fuelled by strong demand for the updated 2015 Civic and CR-V models, recently introduced as part of an ambitious plan to launch six new or revised models to the Irish market in 2015.

The Honda Civic received a series of comprehensive styling upgrades in 2015, with the introduction of new safety and connectivity technologies. Powered by Honda’s advanced 1.6 i-DTEC diesel, the leading fuel economy of the Civic is proving popular, having recently claimed a Guinness World Record for Fuel Efficiency.

The Honda CR-V posted the biggest sales increase for 152 with an exceptional 169% increase in sales. The success of the popular SUV model is being driven by a series of 2015 upgrades, including the introduction of a new fuel-efficient high-power diesel engine, and 9 speed automatic transmission.

In addition to the recently introduced Civic and CR-V, Honda will introduce four more all-new models to Ireland before the end of 2015. One of the most eagerly anticipated launches of the year will be the new Honda HR-V, a compact SUV which will arrive in September priced from €23,995. Another September arrival will be the all-new Honda Jazz supermini, featuring class-leading space, and packed with standard equipment, it will be priced from €17,395. Honda will also return to its performance roots with the introduction of two exciting new sport models, the Civic Type R hot hatchback, and the all-new NSX supercar.

Commenting on Honda’s 152 sales performance, Universal Honda Managing Director, Adrian Cole said, ‘We are very pleased with the strength of our performance in the opening month of the 152-reg period. The results for Civic and CR-V have exceeded our expectations, and are testament to the quality and appeal of our updated cars. We have made major investments to expand our Dealer Network in recent years and it is through their commitment that these results have been achieved.’

‘We are in the middle of a very exciting time for Honda here in Ireland, and we look forward to even greater success when the remainder of our new and updated range arrives with the HR-V and Jazz later this year.’ said Mr. Cole.

Honda Confirm Civic Type R Pricing

Civic Type R priced from €48,750
Optional GT pack (€2,200) adds styling and convenience features
Available to order now at Honda Dealers nationwide

Honda has announced pricing for the all-new Civic Type R, the worlds’ most keenly anticipated hot hatch. Billed as a ‘race car for the road’, Honda’s latest Type R model sets new standards in the high-performance front-wheel drive hatchback segment. Available to order now from Honda Dealers nationwide, the Honda Civic Type R is priced from €48,750.

The new Type R is available in five distinctive colours: Championship White, Crystal Black (pearlescent), Polished Metal (metallic), Brilliant Sporty Blue (metallic) and Milano Red.

While power and performance are the key features of the Civic Type R, equipment levels will also set new standards in the class. All models feature Sports Seats finished in red and black suede-type material, unique Type R body styling kit, LED headlights, 19” black gloss alloys, keyless entry and start, Honda Connect touchscreen infotainment system, +R mode, city-brake active system and climate control.

The only option – apart from paint colour – will be the GT pack, available for an additional €2,200. For the exterior of the Civic Type R the GT Pack adds signature red highlights to the front and rear splitters for enhanced visual impact. The pack also introduces a wide range of convenience features, including Satellite Navigation, upgraded high-power audio system, front and rear parking sensors, dusk-sensing headlamps, rain-sensing automatic wipers and electric-fold door mirrors.

The Civic Type R’s high levels of standard safety equipment are also boosted in the GT variant, with the addition of Honda’s Dynamic Safety Pack. This comprises a suite of sensor-based safety technologies, including Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition System, High-Beam Support System, Blind Spot Information and Cross Traffic Monitor.

Race car for the road

The new 2015 Civic Type R is powered by an all-new, direct-injected turbocharged 2.0 litre VTEC TURBO petrol engine, which delivers unrivalled performance in the front-wheel drive hot hatch segment.

The 0-to-100 km/h sprint is covered in just 5.7 seconds – making it the fastest accelerating performance front-wheel drive hatchback – and top speed, where permitted, is 270 km/h (167 mph)*. To help the driver manage the Type R’s prodigious power, the car is equipped with a high performance Brembo brake package, developed specifically for the car.

The styling changes that are unique to the Civic Type R give the car a striking yet aerodynamically-efficient design, developed to perform at speed. From the wide front splitter through a new, almost completely flat underside, to the dominant rear wing, exhaustive aerodynamic development has ensured high-speed stability and high levels of downforce.

New lightweight, high rigidity 19-inch alloy wheels, unique to the Civic Type R, complement the visual changes. They fill the enlarged wheel arches with 235/35R19 tyres that were also developed specially for the car.

A number of innovative new suspension systems have been introduced to produce rewarding handling characteristics and to maximise power transfer. A new four-point Adaptive Damper System delivers exceptional road-holding performance, while advanced Dual Axis Strut Front Suspension and H-shaped torsion beam rear suspension further enhance stability. These systems are complemented by Dual Pinion Electric Power Steering, which helps to deliver rapid yet linear steering response and abundant feel.

The new Civic Type R will mark the debut of the new ‘+R’ button that increases the response of various chassis and drivetrain systems. The result is an even more intense driving experience, ideal for the track and sure to be appreciated by the genuine sports-driving enthusiast.

A development Civic Type R has achieved a 7 minutes 50.63 seconds lap time at the legendary 20.8km Nürburgring Nordschleife in Germany, topping the fastest time ever recorded for a front-wheel drive production car.

For the latest information on the Civic Type R, please contact your local Honda Dealer www.honda.ie/dealers

Honda Jazz

1. Introduction: Third generation Honda Jazz redefines the B-segment

Longer model offers unrivalled interior space and greater versatility
New platform, new chassis deliver dynamic driving experience
New highly efficient engine and new transmissions
Bold fresh exterior design and a sophisticated cabin
New app-driven Honda Connect infotainment system
Comprehensive suite of advanced safety features

The third generation of Honda’s versatile and hugely popular sub-compact hatchback, the all-new 2015 Jazz is destined to redefine the B-segment with added space, versatility, refinement and technology.

The all-new Jazz builds on the strong reputation of its highly successful predecessors. The global car, also known as the ‘Fit’ in some markets, has sold over 5 million units worldwide since the first generation model was introduced in 2001 and it is currently being manufactured in seven countries. While the newcomer retains the classic Jazz silhouette, it exhibits distinctive contemporary styling, including a powerful new face and strong character lines.

Featuring bold yet sophisticated exterior and interior design, the all-new Jazz is 95 mm longer than its predecessor, with a wheelbase extended by 30 mm. A new platform means that the latest Jazz is proportionally even bigger on the inside than the previous generation model.

Part of Honda’s new global series, the all-new Jazz follows Honda’s ‘man maximum, machine minimum’ design concept. This concept aims to achieve a compact yet highly efficient package through maximising the space for occupants while minimising the space utilised by the car. The four-metre long Jazz employs a centre-mounted fuel tank to allow for class-leading interior space and Honda’s innovative packaging solutions. Honda’s Magic Seats system ensures the interior offers unmatched versatility as well as class-leading space, with a range of configurations for carrying cargo and passengers.

Users also benefit from increased refinement and advanced safety and infotainment technologies, as well as a highly efficient and more dynamic driving experience.

High-quality soft-touch materials and thoughtful interior design provide a sophisticated ambience complemented by a seven-inch touchscreen in the centre of the dash, featuring Honda’s new in-car infotainment system, Honda Connect – depending on model.

The all-new Jazz will be fitted with a new powerful and efficient 1.3 litre i-VTEC petrol engine from Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology series. A refined ride is allied to more responsive and engaging handling thanks to a new, more rigid and lighter chassis and re-engineered suspension that has been specifically tuned for Europe.

Honda’s all-new Jazz line-up, which will feature three equipment grades, will go on sale in Ireland in September 2015.

2. Remarkable interior space and greater versatility

Optimised packaging provides class-best passenger and cargo space
Rear seat occupants enjoy 115 mm more legroom
354 litres of cargo capacity rises to 1,314 litres with seats folded, filled up to the roof line
Magic Seats system offers four modes, maximising versatility
Wide tailgate and low load height ensure easy access

The application of Honda’s ‘man maximum, machine minimum’ design philosophy ensures that the 2015 Jazz is a compact and highly efficient vehicle. A new platform employs optimised packaging solutions to provide best-in-class space for occupants and cargo. A lower-profile fuel tank mounted under the front seats frees up underfloor space beneath the rear seats, enabling the platform to accommodate Honda’s innovative Magic Seats system.

Longer than its predecessor by 95mm on the outside and with a 30mm longer wheelbase, the 2015 Jazz is endowed with class-leading interior passenger space: leg, shoulder and headroom in the front and rear are unrivalled in the class. Compared to the (already spacious) previous Jazz, the new model gives front occupants an extra 30mm of shoulder room, while moving them 20mm further apart. Rear passengers can enjoy 115mm more leg room, 65mm more knee room and 20mm additional shoulder room.

The 2015 Jazz also gives customers class-leading cargo space. The new Jazz offers 354 litres of boot space (VDA) with rear seats in use, a 17 litre increase over the previous Jazz and 1,314 litres (VDA) with the rear seats down filled up to the roof line.

The 60:40 split Magic Seats in the rear of the 2015 Jazz can adopt numerous configurations across four modes to maximise the versatility of the spacious interior.

Utility mode – the rear seat back folds forward as the seat base itself lowers into the rear passenger footwell, creating a 1,505 mm-long flat floor (80 mm longer than in the previous generation Jazz).

Tall mode – the front of the rear seat base rises up and back and is locked in a vertical position to leave a cargo height of 1,280 mm from floor to ceiling, allowing tall objects to be placed behind the front seats. As well as this versatile height, the length of the space available in this mode is 55 mm greater than in previous generation Jazz.

Long mode – the front passenger seat back folds back to a horizontal position, while the rear seat back folds forward, forming a ‘tunnel’ to accommodate items up to 2,480 mm long (+80 mm).

Refresh mode – the front seat back reclines to a flat position meeting the rear seat base to create a 1,580 mm-long ‘couch’ (+80 mm), enabling occupants to sit in the rear and literally put their feet up after a long journey.

With a 1,090 mm wide tailgate and a low load height of just 605 mm, access to the boot is easy, while four tie-downs enable objects to be securely transported.

3. New platform, new chassis and dynamic suspension

Stiffer platform with bodyshell and suspension tailored for Europe
Lighter suspension and new damper systems improve ride quality
New ‘faster’ electric power steering increases feedback for the driver
Suspension set-up and new AHA (Agile Handling Assist) system minimise understeer
All-disc braking system ensures powerful and secure stopping

As part of Honda’s new global series, a new platform means the 2015 Jazz is 12% lighter than its predecessor and benefits from greater structural rigidity. Jazz models for the European market exclusively feature a bodyshell with additional stiffening and Europe-specific suspension settings. The changes are designed to maximise driving pleasure on typical European roads by enabling the suspension and steering to function with more precision.

Upgraded, lighter suspension components – MacPherson struts at the front and an H-type torsion beam at the rear – combine with the longer wheelbase (+ 30 mm) to provide ride stability by naturally reducing pitching motions. New damper systems also improve ride quality for all occupants and reduce the transmission of vibrations from the road into the cabin, generating a feeling of refined composure.

The front suspension features new geometry with a lower front roll centre to enhance stability, which helps the 2015 Jazz feel more accurate, natural and agile when cornering. The feeling of enhanced agility is augmented by a new electric power-assisted steering system which is 22.5% ‘faster’ to respond (the steering ratio is reduced from 18.2:1 to 14.1:1) and results in greater feedback for the driver.

The rear suspension has a raised roll centre and a new style of damper construction which better isolates the cabin from road surfaces vibrations.

The sense of agile handling combined with optimised ride composure is consolidated further by Honda’s AHA system. The AHA is another advanced technology that enhances the dynamic stability of the car, particularly when reacting to fast steering inputs or high cornering loads such as are experienced during emergency avoidance manoeuvres. Agile Handling Assist operates through the Vehicle Stability Assist system and applies a light braking force, imperceptible to the driver, to the inner wheels when the steering wheel is turned. The result is increased vehicle responsiveness and stability, and a more satisfying driving experience.

Powerful and stable stopping power for the 2015 Jazz is ensured by the fitting of an all-disc braking system featuring 262 mm ventilated front discs and 239 mm solid discs at the rear. Electronic aids which boost braking power and enhance vehicle stability include: Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) and Hill Start Assist (HSA).

Building on the excellent foundation provided by the low NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) characteristics of the new platform and new suspension, the 2015 Jazz features comprehensive soundproofing throughout its structure.

Honda’s all-encompassing approach to NVH brings further improvements, notably reducing engine, road and wind noise. The dashboard area of the body received particular attention to reduce noise paths, with gaps in the insulator pad reduced to the absolute minimum necessary. The steering has a floated steering SRS module which acts as a dynamic damper, reducing micro-vibrations felt in the steering wheel.

New aerodynamic covers under the vehicle reduce airflow noise while reducing aerodynamic drag to a class-leading level. The overall effect of these measures means that the 2015 Jazz feels and sounds peerlessly sophisticated, with reassuringly composed and refined dynamics, plus best-in-class refinement.

4. New highly efficient engine and new transmissions

New lighter 1.3 litre i-VTEC engine delivers performance with economy
Max power 102 PS, max torque 123 Nm
New electronic operation of variable timing control (VTC) optimises intake valve timing
Six-speed manual gearbox boosts acceleration and quiet cruising
Revised CVT gives a more natural ‘multi-gear’ driveability

At launch, the 2015 Jazz will be available with the new, highly efficient, highly responsive 1.3 litre i-VTEC petrol engine from Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology series. Delivering 102 PS at 6,000 rpm, the engine is mated to a new six-speed manual gearbox as standard (replacing the previous five-speed unit) or a newly-developed CVT transmission, as an option.

Clever design ensures that this new, port fuel injection four cylinder, i-VTEC (Intelligent Variable Timing and Lift Electronic Control) engine delivers driving performance equivalent to the previous 1.4 litre engine, together with fuel economy equivalent to the 1.2 litre unit. Maximum torque is 123 Nm at 5,000 rpm.

Overall efficiency is improved through the use of a high-flow cooled EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) system, reduced friction, improved idle-stop technologies, and electronic operation for the variable timing control camshaft (VTC) which optimises intake valve timing even with a cold engine. To improve thermal efficiency, the compression ratio is raised to 13.5:1.

The new 1,318 cc engine also weighs less than the 1.4 unit through the use of thinner journal shafts, a significantly lighter crankshaft (a 27% saving) and other moving parts, plus the adoption of an all-resin intake manifold.

The new 1.3 litre engine complies with the stringent Euro 6 emissions standard, with CO₂ emissions starting from an impressive 106 g/km, while fuel economy has improved to start from 4.6 l/100 km (combined cycle) – both achieved using the highly-efficient CVT transmission.

Choice of manual or CVT transmissions

Further exploiting the higher efficiency of the new engine and reduced weight of the new model’s structure, the 2015 Jazz is available with two new transmissions.

The previous five-speed manual gearbox is replaced by an all-new six-speed manual transmission with a wider spread of ratios which are tuned specifically for the new Jazz. Ratios 1-to-5 are closer, giving better acceleration, while a high top gear (6^th) ensures relaxed, quiet cruising with minimised fuel consumption. Transmission noise and vibration are reduced through the adoption of a helical starter ring gear.

The quality and feel of the new gear shift has been given special attention. The shift stroke is reduced by 10%, a carbon synchroniser ring is fitted to 2^nd gear making the shift 5% lighter and shift resistance is reduced overall by 25% – resulting in smoother and easier gear changes.

With manual transmission, the new Jazz accelerates 0-to-100 km/h in 11.2 seconds, and achieves a top speed of 190 km/h.

For the 2015 Jazz, Honda’s popular, optional CVT is a newly-developed unit delivering better fuel economy and significant improvements to driveability. An all-new CVT control logic was developed specifically for European markets to deliver the direct and linear feeling expected of a manual transmission. This results in vehicle speed matching accelerator pedal position more closely for a more direct feel, while engine speed increases proportionately to accelerator pedal position for a more linear feel.

The CVT’s driveability is given a more natural ‘multi-gear’ feel through the use of new control software exclusive to Europe which simulates seven speeds and provides optimised gear change mapping. Two new additional programmes provide situation-specific enhancements.

Early Downshift During Braking (EDDB) utilises the engine to assist the driver during braking. When the system recognises a deceleration, downhill, or cornering situation initiated by the braking system, EDDB automatically increases the engine speed to provide engine braking. This then allows for quick re-acceleration after slowing or quick acceleration after cornering.

Fast Off measures how quickly the driver releases the accelerator pedal and maintains engine revs to provide engine braking in situations where the driver has released the pedal quickly. This system has been extensively tested for Europe’s high speed, multi-lane roads. For example, Fast Off recognises when the driver has prepared to pass a vehicle in front, but is unable to complete the manoeuvre due to a vehicle in the next lane. As the driver quickly releases the accelerator pedal to let the vehicle behind pass by, Fast Off maintains a high engine speed in preparation for completing the overtaking manoeuvre.

This newly-developed CVT unit delivers impressive fuel economy in conjunction with these significant improvements to driveability. The CVT gearbox allows the engine to operate within its most efficient range more of the time by continuously varying the gear ratio instead of adjusting the engine throttle opening. Automatically managed by the engine management system, the CVT gearbox selects the optimal ratio within the simulated seven speeds depending on engine speed, throttle position and driver input. Economy is boosted further by the transmission’s wider ratio range and reduced weight, the result of a rationalised design with reduced pulley pressure. Reductions in friction have been achieved through an optimised oil pump capacity, reduced oil resistance, a low friction reverse brake and a reduced friction from the rotational sliding parts.

Equipped with the CVT transmission, the 2015 Jazz accelerates to 100 km/h in 12 seconds, and achieves a top speed of 183 km/h.

5. Bold, fresh exterior styling and a sophisticated cabin

Bold new face design with ‘solid wing’ grille common to 2015 Honda family
More futuristic ‘one-motion’ form creates secure, planted look
Large windscreen and front quarter lights for airy spaciousness
New Honda Connect infotainment system with 7-inch display touchscreen

An all-new exterior design brings new Jazz into line with the full range of new and refreshed Honda models being launched during 2015. A distinctive face features the ‘solid wing’ theme across the grille and headlamps that is shared across the 2015 Honda family. Compared to the previous generation Jazz, the new model exhibits a stouter and more futuristic form.

The strong lines that emerge from the bold X-shape of the front bumper and grille rise around the lower edge of the headlamps, over the bonnet, and along the roof line to the rear roof spoiler, falling to the lower bumper skirt, to create a secure, planted look.

Bodyside cut-in swage lines rise from the front wheel arch to give a forward leaning, purposeful in-motion look. Dynamic, sculpted side panels enhance the vehicle’s presence in all driving conditions. At the rear, the tailgate spoiler and near-vertical rear window provide a strong aesthetic, while angular rear combination lamps accentuate the bold design.

The new Jazz will be available in three grades: base, mid and upper. Mid-grade models are fitted with 15-inch five-spoke alloy wheels with a directional design hinting at the more dynamic driving feel of new Jazz. Upper grade models sport upgraded 16-inch alloys with a high contrast five twin-spoke silver and dark gun metal grey design.

The 2015 Jazz is available in three metallic paint finishes (Alabaster Silver, Tinted Silver and Brilliant Sporty Blue), three pearlescent finishes (White Orchid, Crystal Black and Attract Yellow) and two solid colours (Milano Red and Sunset Orange). Brilliant Sporty Blue is a new colour for Jazz, while Tinted Silver, Sunset Orange and Attract Yellow are all-new paint finishes introduced for the first time to the Honda range in Europe for new Jazz.

Inside, the cabin gives all occupants a sense of airy spaciousness thanks to a large windscreen that meets the roof panel a long way rearward. This, along with the large front quarter windows provides excellent forward visibility and admits plenty of light into the cabin, providing a comfortable outward view with an open yet secure feeling for all passengers.

Functional layout encourages driver concentration

Echoing the thinking behind making the 2015 Jazz a more rewarding car to drive, the cabin layout is designed with a functionality which encourages the driver to concentrate on driving, while also providing a passenger space in which to relax.

The centre panel is angled slightly towards the driver in order to provide good visibility and inspire confidence. Cabin user-friendliness is enhanced by the careful placement of key storage areas, together with two large-size cup holders in the front and a centre box in the front arm rest that is large enough to accommodate a tablet.

Quality materials within the cabin include high-grade, sophisticated black soft-touch dash and trim surfaces with premium detailing, contrasting upholstery materials and polished chrome trim accents.

The 2015 Jazz has an increased range of movement through both steering wheel and front seats, offering an improved degree of freedom in selecting a suitable driving position. The steering wheel has an additional 10 mm of reach adjustment, while the driver’s seat travel is increased by 36.4 mm.

The driver’s side dash features an instrument binnacle with three dials, each of which is encircled with ‘floating’ illumination rings. Honda’s ECO Assist function changes the backlight colour of the speedometer from white to green during fuel-efficient driving.

Steering wheel-mounted controls enable the driver to switch between various information views on LCD multi-information display contained on the right-hand dial in instrument binnacle. As well as typical trip computer data, such as fuel economy, fuel range and journey time, the display will show ‘interruption alerts’ when some of the advanced active safety systems have been triggered.

Base models are equipped with air conditioning as standard. A five-inch LCD audio display in the centre of the dash helps occupants control radio, CD or music from personal devices through the 180-watt four-speaker audio system. Mid-grade models are fitted with a seven-inch Honda Connect infotainment touchscreen and steering wheel-mounted audio controls.

Upper grade models also benefit from leather steering wheel, keyless entry and push-button engine start/stop, and touchpanel controls for the automatic air conditioning. The top-spec grade will also feature a unique premium seat fabrics pattern, extra applications of soft-touch materials on key touch points, and additional chrome accents throughout the cabin.

Advanced new infotainment system

Advanced connectivity and infotainment is provided in the all-new Jazz by the Honda Connect in-car infotainment system, first introduced in Europe on the 2015 CR-V. It is fitted as standard on mid and upper grade models.

Honda Connect has an app-based user interface with ‘pinch, swipe and tap’ functionality identical to that of a modern smartphone. Running on Android, the world’s most popular mobile operating system, Honda Connect gives fast access to internet-based services such as web browsing, real-time traffic information, news and weather, social media, and internet music stations.

The Honda Connect system comes with pre-installed apps, with others available for download from the Honda App Centre for owners to personalise their connected experience. The pre-installed ‘Aha’ app allows effortless access to thousands of audio stations – spanning music, news, podcasts and audio books – as well as social media feeds and location-based services.

Easy and intuitive to use, the system is accessed through a seven-inch touchscreen in the centre of the dash. The display can be customised to suit individual preferences, with two different ‘skins‘ to choose from, allowing users to make the system their own. Colour-coded icons ensure navigating through menus is quick and simple.

The Honda Connect touchscreen also displays vehicle information – such as trip information, fuel economy and journey time.

In addition, the Honda Connect system features extensive options for syncing with smartphones and other personal multimedia devices: WiFi, Bluetooth, HDMI, and MirrorLink – which ‘mirrors’ the screen of a connected compatible device, allowing it to be operated through the in-dash touchscreen.

Also available as standard on upper grade models and as an option across the range, Honda offers Jazz buyers the award-winning Garmin satellite navigation system. The system is fully integrated with Honda Connect and packed with pre-loaded maps, allowing users to navigate even in areas without mobile data reception.

Spoken turn-by-turn directions are complemented by advanced guidance features to navigate drivers through the most challenging situations with ease, while photo-real junction views make it easier to identify selected junctions and exits. The system also features real-time traffic avoidance, speed limit warnings, lane guidance, sign-view, 3D building and terrain views, and Eco Routing. Free map updates will be provided for five years, a benefit unique to Honda.

The upper grade models of the new Jazz feature a rear-view safety camera, which offers three modes: Normal view, Wide view and Top down view, with the image shown on the dash centre screen . The camera projects ‘dynamic guidelines’ that indicates the path that the car will take with the current steering angle.

6. Comprehensive suite of advanced safety features

Every Jazz comes with City-Brake Active to help avoid low-speed accidents
Dynamic Safety Pack features five active safety aids, fitted as standard from ES Level 2
New Advanced Compatibility Engineering targets high scoring safety rating

As with all new Honda vehicles sold in Europe, the Jazz is fitted with a number of premium active and passive safety technologies designed to make driving both easier and safer.

Every Jazz sold in Europe will be equipped with Honda’s City-Brake Active system (CTBA). Specifically designed to help avoid or mitigate low speed accidents, the system uses laser radar technology to scan the road ahead, automatically applying the brakes if an imminent risk of collision is detected. The system is designed to operate at speeds below 32 km/h. If the system identifies that the risk of collision exists then pre-braking as well as audible and visual warning will occur, eventually followed by full autonomous braking.

Honda’s comprehensive suite of active-safety technologies known as the ‘Dynamic Safety Pack’ is available as standard on mid and upper grades. Dynamic Safety Pack includes: Forward Collision Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition System, Intelligent Speed Limiter, Lane Departure Warning and High-beam Support System.

Forward Collision Warning

Forward Collision Warning detects the risk of collision by recognising the vehicle (car or truck) directly in front, using the multi-purpose camera. The system operates when the car is at a speed of 15km/h and above. On detecting the risk of collision, it will offer visual and audible warnings. The warning distance can be adjusted to the driver’s preferences and the system can be turned off by the driver.

Traffic Sign Recognition System

Traffic Sign Recognition System uses the multi-purpose camera to detect road signs whenever the vehicle is moving forward. The system automatically recognises and displays the signs via the i-MID once the vehicle has passed the sign.

The system is designed to detect circular road signs displaying speed limits and ‘No Passing’ information. Two road signs can be displayed at any one time – the right side of the display only shows speed limit signs while the left shows ‘No Passing’ signs and speed limits with additional information; such as weather conditions, for example.

Intelligent Speed Limiter

Intelligent Speed Limiter combines two otherwise independent safety systems – Adjustable Speed Limiter and Traffic Sign Recognition system – resulting in an advanced safety assistance feature. The Adjustable Speed Limiter system –standard on every Honda car on sale in Europe – regulates the maximum speed of the vehicle at a level set by the driver.

With Intelligent Speed Limiter activated, the maximum speed of the vehicle is automatically determined by the prevailing legal speed limit detected by the Traffic Sign Recognition system. When the vehicle passes a sign indicating a lower speed limit, the vehicle will gently and automatically slow, through a reduction in power, to a maximum speed that does not exceed the speed limit. An alert sounds and the displayed speed limit blinks if the vehicle speed exceeds the limit by 3 km/h or more. The vehicle’s maximum speed – regardless of the accelerator input by the driver – will not exceed this limit. When the vehicle passes a sign indicating a higher speed limit, it will allow the driver to accelerate until the vehicle reaches the new maximum permitted speed, at which point it will prevent the vehicle from exceeding the new speed limit. The system can be turned off by the driver at any time.

Lane Departure Warning

Lane Departure Warning uses the multi-purpose camera to track lane markings on the road. If the car deviates from its current lane without indicating, Lane Departure Warning alerts the driver with audible and visual warnings. The system can be turned off by the driver.

High Beam Support System

High Beam Support System works at speeds of more than 40 km/h to switch High Beam head lights on/off automatically depending on oncoming/preceding vehicles (cars, trucks and motorcycles), bicycles and environmental brightness. The system can be turned off by the driver at any time.

Passive-safety engineered into the structure

Every 2015 Jazz incorporates Honda's proprietary Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure technology that forms the foundation for excellent passive-safety performance, enhancing occupant crash protection.

A network of connected structural elements distributes crash energy more evenly throughout the front of the vehicle, reducing the forces transferred to the passenger compartment. ACE™ also helps minimise the potential for under-ride or over-ride situations that can happen during head-on or offset frontal impacts with a larger or smaller vehicle.

Every 2015 Jazz sold in Europe is equipped with a total of six airbags, maximising occupant protection. The front, side and full-length curtain airbags are all advanced ‘intelligent’ designs and are triggered only when absolutely necessary.

The 2015 Jazz is designed and engineered to achieve a high scoring safety rating in the latest and toughest EuroNCAP crash tests.

7. Range, Equipment & Pricing

Key Equipment Summary

Jazz SE Models Feature:

Air Conditioning
Bluetooth HFT
City Brake Active System
Cruise Control
Remote Audio Controls
Auto Lights
Auto Wipers
Electric Windows x 4
CD Radio with 5” i-MID
Electric Door Mirrors

Jazz ES Models Add:

Front & Rear Parking Sensors
15” Alloy Wheels
Honda Connect
Alarm
Electrically Folding Mirrors
Heated Mirrors
Dynamic Safety Pack
- Forward Collision Warning
- Traffic Sign Recognition
- Intelligent Speed Limiter
- Lane Departure Warning
- High-Beam Support System

Jazz EX Models Add:

Smart Entry & Start
16” Alloy Wheels
Reversing Camera
Climate Control
Leather Steering Wheel
Front Fog Lights
Privacy Glass

The All-New Honda Jazz goes on sale in Ireland in September 2015. Pricing starts from €17,395 for the 1.3 i-VTEC SE, with full range and pricing details being announced at launch. Please contact your local Honda Dealer for the latest information - http://www.honda.ie/dealers

Honda HR-V

1. Introduction: A new generation of subcompact SUV – spacious and flexible like a compact MPV, tough like an SUV, charismatic and dynamic like a coupé

Characterful coupé looks with the tough stance of an SUV
Class-leading and versatile interior space
Refined and sophisticated interior design with high quality materials
An engaging drive coupled with efficient performance
Comprehensive suite of advanced safety features

Introducing a new generation of subcompact SUV to the marketplace, the all-new Honda HR-V delivers a unique proposition to the crossover segment: characterful coupé looks with the tough stance of an SUV, the space and versatility of an MPV, sophisticated-yet-fun driving dynamics and fuel-efficient performance.

From the very first glance, the new HR-V portrays a characterful youthfulness, with the distinctive, boldly-sculpted lines of a coupé merged with the tough, stance of a robust SUV. The HR-V’s taller stature (height is 1,605 mm), combined with its solid design and strong presence, provide a feeling of safety, security, confidence and usability.

Inside, the new HR-V offers occupants class-leading interior space and – thanks to Honda’s innovative Magic Seat system – high levels of versatility. High quality soft-touch materials and sophisticated design define the HR-V’s interior where Honda’s designers have married expansive spaciousness with the feel of a sporty, enclosed cockpit.

The new HR-V will be available at launch with a choice of highly efficient 120 PS 1.6 litre i-DTEC diesel or 130 PS 1.5 litre i-VTEC petrol engines, both part of Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology series. The diesel engine is matched to a six-speed manual transmission while the petrol engine is offered with either six-speed manual or CVT transmissions.

The new HR-V is part of the wave of next-generation and all-new vehicles from Honda demonstrating the brand’s pioneering approach to technological innovation which makes life better for its customers. Honda’s all-new HR-V line-up, which will feature a choice of three equipment grades, will go on sale across Europe in late Summer 2015.

2. Characterful coupé looks with the tough stance of an SUV

Distinctive coupé styling gives new HR-V an emotional appeal
Body-side swage lines and forward leaning stance promise agility
‘Solid wing face’ design shows clear Honda family lineage
Dynamic profile with sporty glasshouse and hidden rear door handles
Class-leading, smooth aerodynamics

For Honda’s design team, the all-new HR-V’s design concept was summarised as ‘Dynamic Cross Solid’. The concept was to combine the elegance and fluidity of a coupé with the utility and strength of an SUV.

“Combining a high eye-point and toughness - core values of an SUV - with a new level of emotion was the key,” says Masaki Kobayashi, HR-V styling project leader. “So we came up with an exterior concept encapsulated by ’Emotionality and Toughness’ and an interior concept called ’Personal Cockpit and Expansiveness’. We wanted to fuse apparently conflicting values to create something fresh.”

The all-new HR-V is a product borne of the determination to offer something fresh and innovative but with the real lives of real people and families at its core. The HR-V has a coupé-like cabin profile, with a powerful nose and strong lower body forms, together with finely sculpted surface detailing – creating a characterful look that will produce an emotional appeal among a target audience which highly values style and practicality.

On the road, the new HR-V boasts a distinctive and self-assured identity, while having a clear family lineage, leading with a ‘solid wing face’ nose design. The front grille is black, representing toughness and fearlessness.

HR-V’s coupé-like body shape creates a dynamic and sporty look, complemented by rear door handles ‘hidden’ in the C-pillar. Distinctive, sharply defined lines run the length of the body, giving the HR-V a purposeful, forward-leaning stance and a sense of movement and agility, even at standstill.

Honda’s designers paid attention to ensuring the new HR-V also exudes a reassuringly robust presence. Deeply sculpted lower body panels and the strong horizontal orientation of the front and rear bumpers convey the toughness, solidity and sure-footedness associated with larger SUVs.

A new class-leading aerodynamic performance is brought to the crossover segment by new HR-V. Beneath the vehicle, three covers (under the engine, front floor and rear floor) help to smooth and optimise air-flow, boosting fuel efficiency. They also enhance noise insulation for improved interior refinement. Aerodynamic development work focused on optimising front and rear aerodynamic lift to further improve vehicle stability at speed.

Kobayashi adds: “For the exterior we are very pleased with its dynamic shape, the high quality of the surfaces and the intricate but seamless detailing. I can say that when the whole team first saw the prototype vehicle together, we felt proud and special that we were able to realise our targets with this new car. I believe that the HR-V possesses the elegance to look attractive in any scene and yet exudes toughness at the same time.”

The all-new HR-V will be available from launch in four metallic (Brilliant Sporty Blue, Alabaster Silver, Modern Steel, Ruse Black) and three pearlescent (Morpho Blue, Crystal Black, White Orchid) paint finishes, as well as solid Milano Red. The newly-introduced Ruse Black and Morpho Blue are available exclusively for the new HR-V.

3. Class-leading and versatile interior space

Centre-mounted fuel tank layout creates class-leading interior space
High eye-line ensures a commanding, wide field of vision for the driver
Rear passengers benefit from an abundance of head, leg and knee room
Honda’s Magic Seat system provides unrivalled cabin versatility
Cargo space easily accessed through wide and low tailgate opening

The all-new Honda HR-V’s interior design was tailored to the dynamic and demanding preferences of the modern and discerning consumer.

The aim of Honda’s designers was to balance class-leading interior space, ease of use and storage space with dynamic and emotional design. In order to achieve this, the space and layout of the HR-V was determined ahead of Honda’s designers bringing the overall concept to life. Accordingly, HR-V boasts an interior packed with functionality but also with a sense of personal space and fun. Roomy and incredibly versatile, the HR-V’s cabin brings the virtues of an MPV into the crossover segment for the first time while providing a driving position which engenders a sense of agility and dynamism.

HR-V owners will enjoy a feeling of security and confidence when driving thanks to an eye-line 100 mm higher than the average sedan or wagon, together with a wide field of vision. The raised floor and correspondingly higher seating position contribute to improved cabin access.

The foundation of the HR-V’s spacious and versatile interior is Honda’s centre-mounted fuel tank layout. This space-efficient innovative packaging mounts the low profile fuel tank under the front seats, which frees up the underfloor space beneath the rear seats. This enables the platform to accommodate Honda’s Magic Seat system, a popular feature on many models in the Honda range.

The Magic Seat system allows each of the 60:40 split second-row seats to adopt numerous configurations to maximise the people and load carrying versatility of the cavernous interior. The Magic Seat system can adopt one of three ‘modes’ from the standard seating position.

Utility mode – the rear seat back folds forward as the seat base itself lowers into the rear passenger foot-well, creating a maximum 1,845 mm-long flat floor.

Tall mode – the front of the rear seat base rises up and back and is locked in a vertical position to leave a cargo height of 1,240 mm from floor to ceiling, allowing tall objects to be placed behind the front seats.

Long mode – the front passenger seat back folds back to a horizontal position, while the rear seat back folds forward, forming a ‘tunnel’ to accommodate items up to 2,445 mm long.

Occupants will appreciate the class-leading cabin space, with headroom, legroom and shoulder room in the front and rear so generous that they match the dimensions more commonly found in larger vehicles.

The cargo bay also offers impressive space, challenging for best-in-class honours with a capacity of 470 litres with the rear seats upright increasing to 1,533 litres with the rear seats folded. The new HR-V’s wide tailgate opening (1,180 mm) and low loading height (650 mm) ensure that the capacious cargo space is easily accessible.

Travelling long distances in the new HR-V will be a comfortable and fatigue-free experience for the driver and passengers thanks to Honda engineers’ determination to provide this model with class-best levels of refinement.

A new, highly efficient acoustic insulation package was developed for the new HR-V, featuring a top quality, non-woven underlay and sound-absorbing carpets of a type usually found only in high-grade sedans. The front and rear inner wheel arches have been treated with sound-absorbent material, while the floor carpet, underfloor cover and dashboard acoustic pad inserts all contribute to achieving a refined and relaxing atmosphere throughout the cabin. At a constant speed of 100 km/h, occupants can enjoy a whisper-quiet 65 dB of cabin noise.

4. Refined and sophisticated cabin with high quality materials

Sophisticated cabin ambience with high quality, soft-touch materials
Honda Connect delivers convenience and connectivity on the road
Broad range of functions presented on seven-inch touchscreen
Large panoramic tilt-and-slide glass sunroof unique in class

Honda’s designers sought to marry conflicting themes in the new HR-V’s interior, striving to achieve spaciousness, reassuring solidity and – for the driver – a cockpit with the wraparound feel of a coupé.

The expansive, airy cabin is fitted with high quality, soft-touch surfaces, subtly accented with brushed chrome highlights and sophisticated stitching lines to provide a premium ambience. The dashboard design combines a solid feel with premium detailing, including a piano-black feature panel that emphasises the sense of quality, class and refinement.

Sensual colour and texture coordination options will enable customers to express their youth, intelligence and maturity through their personal choices while giving the new HR-V’s interior a feeling of high fashion.

Facing the driver, a three-dial instrument binnacle features ‘floating’ illumination rings and Honda’s ECO Assist function, which changes the backlight colour of the speedometer from white to green during fuel-efficient driving.

Facing the front seat passenger, the new HR-V’s interior features a new ‘wide flow’ air outlet with three adjustable air vents across the dashboard, resulting in a comfortable airflow for all passengers. The air flow volume settings are optimised to deliver: high volume for the outlet nearest the side window; low volume for the centre outlet; and medium volume for the air outlet closest to the centre panel.

The new HR-V will be available in three grades. Depending on the grade and market, buyers will have a choice of high quality fabric, half-leather or full-leather upholstery, each in a classic black finish. The sense of spaciousness is amplified on top grade models in the new HR-V line-up by the availability of a unique-in-class opening panoramic glass sunroof. With one-touch opening tilt and slide operation, the 846 mm-long panoramic sunroof features a sliding sunshade that opens automatically with the roof and can be closed manually to block sunlight. The front section – which tilts to a height of 27.5 mm at its rear – measures 475 mm in length.

Honda’s new ‘Smart Touch Interior’ will enable operation of certain functions with the smallest movement and effort. These functions include: Electric Park Brake, Touch Panel Climate Control and One-Touch Indicator.

Advanced new infotainment system

Advanced connectivity and infotainment is provided in the all-new HR-V by the Honda Connect in-car infotainment system, first seen in Europe on the 2015 CR-V. It is fitted as standard on the mid and upper grade HR-V, and as an option on the base model.

Easy and intuitive to use, the system is accessed through a seven-inch touchscreen in the centre of the dash. The display can be customised to suit individual preferences, with two different ‘skins’ to choose from, allowing users to make the system their own. Colour-coded icons ensure navigating through menus is quick and simple.

The Honda Connect touchscreen also displays vehicle information – such as trip information and fuel economy – and images from the rear-view parking camera (depending on model).

Also available as standard on the upper grade and as an option across the range, Honda offers HR-V buyers the award-winning Garmin satellite navigation system. The system is fully integrated with Honda Connect and packed with pre-loaded maps, allowing users to navigate even in areas without mobile data reception.

Spoken turn-by-turn directions are complemented by advanced guidance features to navigate drivers through the most challenging situations with ease, while photo-real junction views make it easier to identify selected junctions and exits. The system also features real-time traffic avoidance, speed limit indications, lane guidance, sign-view, 3D building and terrain views, and Eco Routing. Free map updates will be provided for five years, a benefit unique to Honda.

HR-V base models are fitted as standard with a five-inch LCD colour display screen in the centre of the dash and a 160-watt AM/FM/CD Audio system with four speakers. Mid and upper grade models are fitted with a 180-watt six-speaker audio system.

5. An engaging drive coupled with efficient performance

Choice of 130 PS petrol and 120 PS diesel four cylinder engines
Fuel economy up to 4.0 l/100 km, with CO₂ emissions from 104 g/km
Six-speed manual gearbox and newly developed CVT for petrol models
Stiff structure gives confidence-inspiring secure driving feel

Honda’s all-new HR-V will be available with choice of highly efficient 130 PS (96 kW) 1.5 litre i-VTEC petrol and 120 PS (88 kW) 1.6 litre i-DTEC diesel engines, driving the front wheels. Both four cylinder engines are part of Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology series, engineered to deliver responsiveness performance together with high levels of efficiency. Both engines comply with the stringent Euro 6 emissions standard.

Combining a high output with low fuel consumption, the 1.5 litre i-VTEC petrol engine produces 130 PS at 6,600 rpm and maximum torque of 155 Nm at 4,600 rpm. Honda’s VTEC (Variable Timing and Lift Electronic Control) and VTC (Variable Timing Control) technologies combine with direct injection, strong tumble intake ports and an optimised piston shape to provide benefits in output and efficiency. Weight savings are made through a reduction in weight of the crankshaft and the adoption of independent bearing caps.

With this 1,498 cc petrol engine, the new HR-V powers from 0-to-100 km/h (62 mph) in 10.7 seconds (manual) and 11.2 seconds (CVT). Fuel economy can be up to an impressive 5.2 l/100 km (54.3mpg) (combined cycle) with CO₂ emissions from as low as 120 g/km – both achieved using the highly-efficient CVT transmission.

The 1.6 litre i-DTEC engine is unique to Honda vehicles on sale in Europe. The common rail turbo-diesel unit incorporates extensive technologies that reduce friction, improve emissions and increase fuel economy. The 1,597cc engine features a small, high-efficiency turbocharger, low-pressure EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) system and a high-intake flow, high-swirl cylinder head port. A new high-strength, lightweight slender crankshaft and all-aluminium, open-deck, high-pressure, die-cast engine block reduce the engine’s weight.

Powered by the diesel engine – which generates 120 PS at 4,000 rpm and 300 Nm of torque at 2,000 rpm – the new HR-V can accelerate to 100 km/h in just 10.0 seconds, placing it among the most dynamic vehicles in its class. With manual transmission, fuel economy is an impressive 4.0 l/100 km (70.6mpg) (combined cycle) with CO₂ emissions of 104 g/km.

Both the petrol and diesel engines are equipped with a six-speed manual transmission as standard, featuring several improvements for their application in the new HR-V. Optimisation of the physical gear width and layout arrangement allowed engineers to shorten the gearbox, while a lightweight and higher-rigidity shaft improves overall efficiency. The feel and quality of the gear shift is enhanced, improving the oblique shift operation and achieving a smoother, one-movement shift pattern. The effort required to engage reverse gear is reduced and the gear noise when driving in reverse is minimised.

Fitted to the new HR-V, Honda’s popular optional CVT (also available in the forthcoming 2015 Jazz) is available with the 1.5 litre i-VTEC petrol engine. An all-new CVT control logic was developed specifically for European markets to deliver the direct and linear feeling expected of a manual transmission. This results in vehicle speed matching accelerator pedal position more closely for a more direct feel, while engine speed increases proportionately to accelerator pedal position for a more linear feel.

The new HR-V is one of the global compact series that Honda has developed to deliver a sophisticated, fun, sedan-like driving experience, while also engendering a feeling of security.

The platform and bodyshell of the new HR-V form a highly rigid structure, with 27% of the body made of high-strength steel and featuring improved frame joint rigidity. The stiff bodyshell gives the suspension (MacPherson struts at the front and an H-type torsion beam at the rear) a solid foundation, which – together with a low centre of gravity and minimised body roll – delivers a reassuring solidity and inspires a feeling of security when driving.

The feeling of agility is augmented by a new motion adaptive electric power-assisted steering system with a brushless motor. To minimise understeer, the front suspension features a lower front roll centre to enhance stability and the rear suspension has a raised roll centre. The result is exceptionally linear driving behaviour making new HR-V one of the most confidence-inspiring cars in the crossover segment, especially when driven enthusiastically.

Powerful and stable stopping power for the new HR-V is assured with an all-disc braking system, featuring 293 mm ventilated front discs and 282 mm solid discs at the rear. Electronic aids which boost braking power and enhance vehicle stability include: Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Assist and Hill Start Assist.

Every new HR-V in Europe is fitted with alloy wheels. Base and mid grades feature 16-inch wheels with 215/60 R16 tyres, while upper specification models are equipped with 17-inch wheels shod with 215/55 R17 tyres.

6. Comprehensive suite of advanced safety features

Every HR-V has City-Brake Active System to help avoid low-speed accidents
Advanced Driver Assist System features five active safety aids

Front seats feature anti-whiplash head restraints to minimise injury

New Advanced Compatibility Engineering targets five-star safety rating

As with all new Honda vehicles sold in Europe, the HR-V is fitted with a wide range of active and passive safety technologies designed to make driving both easier and safer, while maximising occupant and pedestrian protection.

Every new HR-V sold in Europe will be equipped with Honda’s City-Brake Active System. Specifically designed to help avoid or mitigate low speed accidents, the system uses laser radar technology to scan the road ahead, automatically applying the brakes if an imminent risk of collision is detected. The system is designed to operate at speeds below 32 km/h. If the system identifies a risk of collision then pre-braking as well as audible and visual warning will occur, eventually followed by full autonomous braking to bring the car to a stop.

Mid and upper grade models will feature Honda’s Advanced Driver Assist System, which uses radar sensors, plus forward and rear facing cameras, as standard. This comprehensive suite of active safety technologies includes: Forward Collision Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition, Intelligent Speed Limiter, Lane Departure Warning and High-beam Support System.

Forward Collision Warning

Forward Collision Warning detects the risk of collision by recognising the vehicle (car or truck) directly in front, using the multi-purpose camera. The system operates when the car is at a speed of 15 km/h (9 mph) and above. On detecting the risk of collision, it will offer visual and audible warnings. The warning distance can be adjusted to the driver’s preferences and the system can be turned off by the driver.

Traffic Sign Recognition

Traffic Sign Recognition uses the multi-purpose camera to detect road signs whenever the vehicle is moving forward. The system automatically recognises and displays the signs in the instrument binnacle screen once the vehicle has passed the sign.

Intelligent Speed Limiter

Intelligent Speed Limiter combines two otherwise independent safety systems – Adjustable Speed Limiter and Traffic Sign Recognition system – resulting in an advanced safety assistance feature. The Adjustable Speed Limiter system –standard on the majority of Honda cars on sale in Europe – regulates the maximum speed of the vehicle at a level set by the driver.

Lane Departure Warning

High Beam Support System

High Beam Support System works at speeds of more than 40 km/h to switch High Beam head lights on or off automatically depending on oncoming or preceding vehicles (cars, trucks and motorcycles), bicycles and environmental brightness. The system can be turned off by the driver at any time.

Passive-safety engineered into the structure

Every all-new HR-V incorporates Honda's proprietary Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure technology to form the foundation for excellent passive-safety performance, enhancing occupant crash protection.

A network of connected structural elements distributes crash energy more evenly throughout the front of the vehicle, reducing the forces transferred to the passenger compartment. ACE also helps minimise the potential for under-ride or over-ride situations that can happen during head-on or offset frontal impacts with a larger or smaller vehicle.

Every new HR-V sold in Europe is equipped with a total of six airbags, maximising occupant protection. The front, side and full-length curtain airbags are all advanced ‘intelligent’ designs and are triggered only when absolutely necessary. The front seat head restraints are designed to reduce the effects of whiplash injury.

The new HR-V is designed and engineered to achieve a top scoring five-star safety rating in the latest and toughest Euro NCAP crash tests.

7. Specification & Availability in Ireland

The Honda HR-V will launch in Ireland in late September 2015, priced from €23,995 for the 1.5 i-VTEC petrol, and from €25,995 for the 1.6 i-DTEC diesel. For the latest information, please contact your local Honda Dealer on www.honda.ie/dealers or email info@honda.ie

Key Specifications

HR-V SE models feature:

16" Alloy Wheels
Bluetooth HFT
City-Brake Active System
Climate Control
Cruise Control
Alarm
Automatic Lights
Electric Windows x4
CD Radio with 5" i-MID Display
Remote Audio Controls
Idle Stop

HR-V ES models add:

17" Alloy Wheels
Honda Connect with 7" Touchscreen Display
Front & Rear Parking Sensors
Dual-zone Climate Control
Automatic Wipers
Electrically Folding Mirrors
Rear Centre Armrest
Front Fog Lights
Dynamic Safety Pack
- Forward Collision Warning
- Traffic Sign Recognition
- Intelligent Speed Limiter
- Lane Departure Warning
- High-beam Support System

HR-V EX models add:

Leather Upholstery
Panoramic Opening Glass Roof
Satellite Navigation
Smart Entry & Start
LED Headlamps
Heated Front Seats
Reversing Camera
Auto-dim Rearview Mirror
Roof Rails
Privacy Glass

For further details, please contact your local Dealer www.honda.ie/dealers or email info@honda.ie

Honda Civic sets new GUINNESS WORLD RECORD for Fuel Efficiency

Honda has set a new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title for fuel efficiency, setting the ‘Lowest fuel consumption – all 24 contiguous EU countries (all cars)’, recording an average 2.82 litres per 100 kilometres (100.3mpg) over 13,498 kilometres, in a 25 day drive across all 24 EU contiguous countries.

Behind the wheel of a Honda Civic Tourer 1.6 i-DTEC for the entire journey were two members of Honda’s European Research & Development (R&D) team, Carlow native Fergal McGrath and Julian Warren, who took on the challenge to further demonstrate the impressive real-world fuel economy of the Tourer.

The remarkable distance travelled is similar to the team driving from Ireland to Australia, stopping just nine times to refuel. The car achieved an incredible average 1,500 kilometres on each tank of fuel, at a total fuel cost for the whole journey of just €645.

The team set out on their epic road trip from Aalst, Belgium, on Monday June 1^st, navigating the continent in a clockwise direction. They returned to their start point on Thursday June 25^th, recording the incredible fuel economy figures which exceed the Tourer’s quoted efficiency of 3.8 litres per 100 kilometres by more than 25%.

Fergal McGrath comments: “It was tough, but we really enjoyed it, and setting this new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title has made all of the hard work worthwhile. This was a huge team effort so I’d like to thank everyone involved for all of their commitment and support. After spending so much time behind the wheel Julian and I are just happy to be back behind our desks for a while!”

The official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title is ‘Lowest Fuel Consumption – all 24 contiguous EU countries’, measured in litres per 100km and miles per gallon calculated over the entire journey.

Under the rules the same two drivers must be in the car for the whole journey, giving Fergal and Julian, Honda R&D colleagues of some 18 years, the challenge of driving an average of approximately 600 kilometres, taking around 7.5 hours, each day.

Based on strict and rigorous guidelines, the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title attempt required the car to enter each of the 24 countries specified, collecting a range of evidence including a fuel/mileage logbook, GPS readings, video and photographs and independent witness signatures to prove that it has done so. To ensure accurate monitoring of the route, journey time and distance driven, the record car was fitted with a tracking device, provided by fleet telematics and stolen vehicle recovery expert, TRACKER.

Under the rules of the record title attempt the car must be a standard model in every respect, with no modifications to create an advantage, to replicate ‘real world’ conditions. This was judged by independent witnesses at the beginning and end of the attempt. Fuelling was carried out at regular filling stations, with the tank filled to the maximum at each stop to ensure no weight advantage. Additionally, tyres were inflated to the recommended pressures and the wheel alignment set to factory specification to represent the experience of the regular customer.

The team, both amateur drivers, were also keen to show that through adopting some simple but very effective driving techniques, anybody could achieve such remarkable fuel economy. They simply used some very logical methods including careful and sensible route planning, driving smoothly and consistently without harsh acceleration or braking, anticipating the road conditions ahead, carrying no unnecessary weight, and ensuring that the car was correctly maintained at all times. Driving speed was always within the law and keeping up with traffic conditions.

Emmet Kavanagh, Marketing Manager at Universal Honda Ltd., comments: "This is an incredible achievement and the team should all be very proud of the efforts that they have put in to set this new GUINNESS WORLD RECORD. The fuel economy figures are remarkable – particularly when you consider that this is not a unique eco car specially designed and tuned for the challenge, but a spacious diesel family car, identical to the Civics available at Honda Dealers nationwide.”

Discover more about the record-breaking Honda Civic Range - discover the Civic 5dr here and the Civic Tourer here

Pictured are the Honda drivers, (l-r) Fergal McGrath and Julian Warren

Honda Civic Type R

All-new Honda Civic Type R is the most extreme and high-performing Type R ever built, setting new standards in Europe’s high-performance front-wheel drive hatchback segment

Characterful, high-revving all-new 2.0 litre VTEC TURBO engine

Function dictates form – eye-catching styling enhancements optimise airflow to aid performance and stability

Advanced new suspension systems ensure rewarding handling characteristics and maximise power transfer

New +R mode increases the response of chassis and engine for enhanced driving thrills

GT Pack provides a comprehensive suite of styling, convenience and safety features

Tested to success, Civic Type R represents the next generation of hot hatch with class-leading performance

After a five year wait, 2015 sees the arrival of the world’s most keenly anticipated hot hatch, the Honda Civic Type R. Billed as a ‘race car for the road’, the all-new Honda Civic Type R is powered by the most extreme and high-performing Type R engine ever built, and will set new standards in the high-performance front-wheel drive hatchback segment.

Taking their direction from the Japanese word ‘Buttigiri’, meaning ‘to break on through and leave the rest behind’, Honda’s engineers sought to develop a Type R that would more than live up to this high expectation of the red badge. The new Civic Type R has been engineered to deliver a dynamic, class-leading performance whether on fast roads, winding roads or the circuit. At the same time it delivers the ease of use and practical packaging expected of a Civic.

A world-first application of Honda’s new 2.0 litre VTEC TURBO engine, a sensuous sporting sound, aggressive function-led styling, and pioneering new chassis technologies combine to deliver one of the most immersive and rewarding driving experiences available in any sector. Civic Type R is equally at home delivering this experience on the road as it is on the track, at the push of a button.

The new 2015 Civic Type R signals the start of a new performance era for Honda, drawing on the brand’s racing DNA to deliver the peak of the Civic line-up.

Part of the wave of next-generation and all-new vehicles from Honda in 2015, the new Civic Type R demonstrates the brand’s pioneering approach to technological innovation which makes life better for its customers. Available only as a five-door, with two trim grades, it is set to catapult Honda back to the top of the two-wheel drive performance hatchback league when it goes on sale across Europe from Summer 2015.

Characterful, high-revving all-new 2.0 litre VTEC TURBO engine with greater power, torque and response than any previous Honda Type R engine

Direct-injected turbocharged 2.0 litre VTEC TURBO petrol engine
Advanced technologies improve power, response and efficiency
Cooling systems allow high output and sustained high speed performance
Slick-shifting, six-speed manual transmission safeguards an intimate, rewarding connection with the driver
Four-exit exhaust is tuned for noise as well as performance

At the heart of the new Civic Type R is an all-new, direct-injected turbocharged 2.0 litre VTEC TURBO petrol engine, which delivers power, torque and performance figures unmatched in the front-wheel drive hot hatch segment. Peak power output is 310 PS at 6,500 rpm, and peak torque is 400 Nm between 2,500 and 4,500 rpm – both higher than for any previous Honda Type R model.

As a visual reference to the inspiration behind the Type R brand, a bright red engine cover and aluminium intake pipe echo those of the successful Civic racing cars participating in the 2015 World Touring Car Championship.

Red-lining at 7,000 rpm, the engine – part of Honda’s next-generation Earth Dreams Technology series – features an advanced new turbocharging system which incorporates Honda’s legendary Variable Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) and Dual-Variable Timing Control (VTC) technologies to boost low-end response while delivering sustained acceleration.

Combining a turbocharger with Honda’s VTEC and Dual-VTC technologies provides a number of benefits in output, efficiency and packaging. Dual-VTC allows a degree of valve timing overlap which is finely controlled across a broad rev range to improve responsiveness and efficiency. VTEC varies the degree of exhaust valve lift to reduce turbo lag through increased exhaust pressure at lower rpm while delivering a high output at higher rpm. As a result of the benefits these technologies bring, a mono scroll turbocharger can be used to produce a class-leading peak output, while maintaining response at lower engine speeds and a high-revving power delivery. In order to further improve responsiveness, the turbocharging system incorporates an electronic wastegate which offers a higher degree of freedom in induction pressure control over a conventional unit.

The mono scroll turbocharger combines with cast aluminium pistons, aluminium VTEC rocker arms, forged conrods and a lightweight crankshaft to minimise the overall weight, size and rotational mass of the engine.

High precision combustion technologies not only assist with improving engine output, but also lead to improvements in fuel efficiency and competitive emissions. At the core of these technologies is a direct injection system that prevents fuel sticking to the intake ports by injecting fuel directly into the cylinders and drawing only air through the ports, aided by Honda’s multipoint injection control. A high pressure (20MPa) injector is used to greatly increase fuel atomisation and is supported by an 85% improvement in flow rate and 45% increase in fuel pressure over a conventional fuel pump-based system.

Honda’s engineers worked exhaustively to ensure that once the fuel has been injected into the cylinder, strong tumble intake ports promote fuel mixture consistency within the cylinder. The shapes of the intake port and piston crowns were optimised through extensive Computer Aided Engineering modelling and analysis to ensure that they combine to generate a strong tumble flow. This optimises the fuel / air mixture and therefore the effectiveness of combustion. Idling Stop further enhances efficiency, and speedy ignition response assures the driver of rapid acceleration from standstill. The Idling Stop function is disabled in +R mode.

The new Civic Type R’s blistering performance is unmatched in the front-wheel drive hot hatch segment: the 0-to-100 km/h (62 mph) sprint is covered in just 5.7 seconds and top speed, where permitted, is a class-leading 270 km/h (167 mph). Despite its astonishing performance, the Civic Type R achieves low CO₂ emissions of just 170 g/km, exceptional high speed fuel consumption and compliance with Euro 6b emissions regulations.

The new Civic Type R’s engine has a high compression ratio of 9.8 and is turbocharged, both of which make thermal management particularly important. As a result, the engineering team incorporated numerous cooling technologies, such as cylinder head and piston cooling, sodium-filled exhaust valves and a high-capacity air-to-air intercooler. The cylinder head has a two-piece water jacket, lowering exhaust gas temperature and effectively lowering the combustion chamber temperature, while each piston individually features a cooling channel to provide increased oil flow. Together, the cooling technologies ensure the engine always delivers a high output even under the high load, high speed driving conditions of a race circuit.

Whether setting lap times around race circuits, engaging the driver on a favourite country road or providing day-to-day comfort, an exceptional engine requires an exceptional transmission. A slick-shifting, six-speed manual transmission was chosen to safeguard an intimate, rewarding connection with the driver while making the most of the engine’s high output, strong torque and high revs.

The gear-change feel is designed to be the best in Type R history. Gear change speed relates directly to race circuit lap times, while gear change feel is fundamental to the joy of driving. The same 40mm shift stroke as the 2002 NSX-R contributes to an exceptionally quick shift time, but this would not be possible without at the same time reducing the force required to move the gear lever. A significant reduction in mechanical resistance has been achieved through a large capacity synchromesh, and vibration each time the clutch engages is supressed by a dual-mass flywheel. Through increasing the rigidity of each component part, shift control when shifting diagonally between second and third, fourth and fifth gears has been greatly enhanced.

Each of the six gear ratios has been optimised for performance and matches the engine’s output and torque curve. For example, the maximum speed of 270 km/h is achieved in sixth gear when peak power is reached at 6,500 rpm.

Final drive is through an exceptionally responsive helical limited slip differential. This type of differential aids strong cornering traction, even during hard cornering. This technology, when compared to a traditional differential, reduces the new Civic Type R’s lap time by five seconds per lap around the Nürburgring Nordschleife.

In keeping with the focus of the new Civic Type R, an oil cooler specific to the gearbox provides a cooling performance capable of enduring consistent high load situations such as those encountered on the race circuit. The oil cooler is fitted to the lower part of the transmission and is fed cool air by the fin-shaped transmission case which is matched to wind-channelling vanes in the engine undercover. Despite the addition of an oil cooler, the use of a high-rigidity transmission case assists in making the new Civic Type R’s transmission the lightest in its class.

Making the purpose of the new Civic Type R clear from the first moment the engine is started, the four-exit exhaust is tuned for sound as well as performance. The system is able to handle a higher exhaust gas flow rate due to a straightened pipe with deleted silencer in the front section, while the exhaust sound is enhanced by the deletion of the silencer generally used to dampen noise. Instead, a resonator in the rear section maintains noise within certification levels and reduces only specifically selected frequency bands. The exhaust’s mounting bushes have also been re-tuned to allow the inclusion of a secondary noise element within the overall sound while ensuring the power of the exhaust sound increases in line with the torque of the engine.

Function dictates form – eye-catching styling enhancements optimise airflow to aid performance and stability

Aerodynamic features ensure zero lift and minimum drag
Effective heat management supports efficient cooling of engine and brakes
Distinctive exterior styling and colours mark out the Type R
Performance focus extends to interior design and features

The styling changes uniquely applied to the new Civic Type R give it an aggressive, purposeful stance, yet almost all have a functional purpose. The size of the holes in the front bumper grille, which serve air to the intercooler, are specifically shaped to minimise aerodynamic losses. The sleek and aerodynamically-efficient design reflects a car developed first and foremost to perform at speed. The focus on aerodynamics has ensured a zero lift coefficient and a minimum of drag which provides a class-leading overall aerodynamic performance.

The Civic Type R’s unique aerodynamic package utilises specific downforce-generating elements to create overall negative lift which is unusual in the industry and unique for this class in particular. The focus on airflow, not only around but also through the car, has ensured negative lift (or airflow pushing the car onto the road) at both axles combined with a minimum of drag. This is particularly noteworthy at the front of the car and allows high speed stability with a class-leading top speed of 270 km/h.

To achieve this, the fourth generation Civic Type R was subject to exhaustive aerodynamic analysis, testing and development. The development team tirelessly pursued its objectives through computer-based CFD modelling and wind tunnel testing at Honda’s dedicated motorsports facility in Sakura, Japan; home of Honda’s Formula One engine programme.

This development work was validated through extensive prototype testing both on the road and on track, including at the Suzuka Formula One circuit, the Nürburgring Nordschleife and at the company’s Takasu test facility.

A new, almost completely flat underside aids airflow under the vehicle and combines with a rear diffuser to optimise downforce – effectively ‘sucking’ the car onto the road. A wide front splitter and deep side skirts also manage airflow to generate downforce on the front axle and reduce lift, while the front bumper has been designed specifically to inhibit air turbulence around the front wheels, enhancing high-speed stability and further reducing lift forces.

The structure of the rear wing aerofoil – its angle, height and shape as well as its vertical end plates – have been carefully engineered to optimise downforce on the rear axle without causing a significant increase in drag at higher speeds. This helps improve road-holding abilities, particularly through high-speed corners.

Heat management was another major focus for the design team, influencing several prominent external design modifications. Enlarged upper and lower grilles in the front bumper allow a greater volume of cooling air into the engine bay. The airflow is channelled through the engine bay to outlet vents above the wheels on the front quarter panels and vents at the trailing edges of the widened front wheel arches to provide cooling and ventilation for the high-output engine while minimising the drag caused by the enlarged grilles.

The new Civic Type R’s front and rear wheel arches are widened to accommodate an increase in front and rear track. The integrated arch extensions are in aluminium, providing a 42% weight saving over a conventional steel panel.

The front spoilers and door spoilers wear a piano-black gloss finish to highlight the car’s wide and low appearance. At the rear of the car, a pair of dual-exhaust tailpipes emerge prominently at the flanks of the rear diffuser. Clearance between the tailpipe finishers and the piano-black gloss rear diffuser has been reduced to an absolute minimum. This imbues the car’s rear-view with an extra degree of aggressive tautness.

At the front, running along the lower edge of each combination headlamp cluster is an LED daytime running light. Its sharply ‘up-ticked’ shape, produced using two LED light sources and a light guide, highlights the headlamp’s shape and creates a more appealing and aggressive front mask. The rear combination lamps also feature distinctive LED light bars.

New lightweight, high rigidity 19-inch alloy wheels, unique to the new Civic Type R, complement the visual changes. They fill the enlarged wheel arches with 235/35 R19 tyres that were developed specially for the Type R in conjunction with Continental.

The new Civic Type R is available in five distinctive colours that give the purposeful new styling added impact. As well as Championship White – shared with successive generations of iconic Type R vehicles – buyers can choose from Crystal Black (pearlescent), Polished Metal (metallic), Brilliant Sporty Blue (metallic) and Milano Red.

Inside, a range of aesthetic and functional upgrades, designed exclusively for the new Type R, provide a cockpit that is not only suited to driving on a circuit, but also makes day-to-day driving feel sporty. The seats, steering wheel and gear stick are all unique to the Type R model and take into account driving position, visibility of key information and driver control requirements.

Exclusively designed high-backed sports seats, trimmed in suede-effect black and red fabric with red double stitching, fit the body perfectly while a modified seat frame provides driver and front-seat passenger with superlative support whether during day-to-day driving or harder cornering. An important factor in providing a suitable driving position for the new Civic Type R is the seat height. By reviewing the density and height of the urethane foam used in the seat, engineers were able to make the front seats 20% leaner, while maintaining comfort for day-to-day driving. This translated into a structurally low seat and enabled a hip point that sits 20 mm lower in the seat than that of the standard car. The floor was also lowered by 10 mm, meaning the overall hip point is fully 30 mm closer to the road than in the standard car.

A redesigned rear seat bench unique to the Type R, with revised frame and reduced material thickness, accommodates two passengers and offers a 60/40 split fold function and flat loading space when folded. The modifications result in a weight saving of 17% compared to the standard Civic five-door while retaining the same maximum load volume.

In light of the front seat’s low hip point, the steering wheel has been lowered to ensure clear visibility of the information displays. A flat-bottomed steering wheel preserves maximum knee room. The driver’s feeling of control has been enhanced by reducing the thickness of the steering wheel spokes, making the feel and the position of the grip feel more familiar. The red centre-position marker at the top of the steering wheel rim gives the driver a visible indicator of the steering angle when cornering.

Red double stitching on the black leather-clad steering wheel and black gear-lever gaiter matches those on the seats and the roof-lining is trimmed in black fabric, augmenting the focused ambience. As with previous Type R models, the gear stick is made from machined aluminium alloy.

The intelligent Multi Information Display (i-MID) includes display information specific to the Civic Type R. Additional information screens unique to Type R can be individually selected by the driver and include:

• G-meter and brake pressure / accelerator pedal position

• Boost pressure, water temperature, oil pressure and oil temperature

• Lap time

• Acceleration time (0-100 km/h or 0-60 mph)

• Acceleration time (0-100 m or 0-1/4 mile)

A rev indicator above the main tachometer provides the driver with visual information to aid optimum performance gear shifting. When engine revs increase, lights from both edges of the indicator converge to give the driver a visual reference on the optimum timing of the next gear shift without distracting any attention from the road. A gear shift display shows the currently selected gear and responds within 0.2 seconds of a gear change.

Advanced new suspension systems, unique to the new Civic Type R, ensure rewarding handling characteristics and maximise power transfer

Four-wheel Adaptive Damper System developed specifically for the Type R
Advanced Dual Axis Strut Front Suspension system enhances high speed stability, on-the-limit cornering and steering feel
Revised rear suspension and steering system are retuned for Type R
Bespoke brakes and tyres complete a compelling sporting package

A number of advanced new suspension systems, unique to the new Civic Type R, have been introduced to produce rewarding handling characteristics and to maximise power transfer to the road.

A new four-wheel Adaptive Damper System was developed specifically for the Type R model. It enables continuous independent control of each wheel to deliver exceptional road holding performance, limit wheel-load transfer during sharp acceleration and deceleration, and maintain a stable, flat ride. It also means that the ride is more comfortable and supple in everyday driving and cruising.

The Adaptive Damper System utilises multiple sensors to monitor the car’s status in milliseconds. In real-time, the current to the electromagnetic coils inside the dampers is adjusted, altering the oil flow channels and thereby controlling the damping force. Independent control of each wheel through a logic developed specifically for the suspension and tyres, improves contact with the road surface (including on uneven surfaces) and maintains high levels of traction at all speeds. Further, it ensures sharp handling and stability during cornering at higher speeds through limiting body roll, while in normal driving maintaining an exceptionally supple ride.

The Adaptive Damper System also limits wheel load transfer during acceleration (through the front of the car lifting) and deceleration (through the nose of the car diving) which secures greater traction during acceleration and maximises braking performance. This assists in achieving a stable, flat ride longitudinally (on pitching roads, for example) and latitudinally (in strong cross winds, for example).

An advanced Dual Axis Strut Front Suspension system enhances high speed stability, on-the-limit cornering and steering feel. As opposed to ADS, the Dual Axis Strut Front Suspension is a mechanical system featuring two supporting ‘kingpins’. Instead of an integrated knuckle-and-strut set-up of a conventional strut system, the knuckle and strut are separated, so that the knuckle receives steering input and the strut receives information from the road surface. An independent knuckle translates into a smaller centre offset, thanks to a reduced kingpin inclination, which helps reduce torque steer by 55% compared to the standard Civic’s suspension system. Also contributing significantly to the minimisation of torque steer are drive shafts which are precisely balanced for rigidity and a revised wheel offset.

The front suspension system is able to provide a larger caster angle which translates into excellent straight-line stability at high speeds. Meanwhile, finely tuned camber characteristics keep the tyres on the road when turning to increase the car’s cornering performance. In pursuit of increased rigidity and weight reduction, the lower arms and damper forks are made out of aluminium and the very high resistance compliance bushes also contribute to the car’s responsive handling.

Dual Pinion Electric Power Steering (EPS), developed from that fitted to the standard Civic, helps to deliver rapid yet linear steering response and abundant steering feel with increased power and torque. Pinion gears which transform the turning movements of the steering wheel into a straight movement are placed in two locations. This layout enables steering and tyre input to be transmitted to the driver without any negative influence from the power assistance, which operates exclusively through the second pinion gear. Furthermore, a steering angle feedback control logic has been developed which provides a solid feel when steering around the central position while still providing good response under cornering. An increase in the rigidity of the area around the rack gear bearing, the aluminium housing and the mounting helps further increase feel and response.

The Type R’s H-shaped torsion beam rear suspension enhances high speed stability, even in high speed corners, thanks to its contribution to maximising roll rigidity. Unlike that of the standard Civic, the Type R’s H-shaped torsion beam is made of crushed pipes rather than a solid block which improves rear roll rigidity by 177% and removes the need for a rear anti-roll bar, thus saving weight. Very high resistance trailing arm bushes also help to improve lateral rigidity.

An increase in body rigidity by 18% was achieved by optimising the bracket designs and application of adhesive instead of using additional structural steel material, this strategy saved 4.5 kilograms.

Agile Handling Assist is another advanced technology that further enhances the dynamic stability of the car, particularly when reacting to fast steering inputs or high cornering loads such as are experienced during emergency avoidance manoeuvres. Agile Handling Assist operates through the Vehicle Stability Assist system and applies a light braking force, imperceptible to the driver, to the inner wheels when the steering wheel is turned. The result is increased vehicle responsiveness and stability, and a more satisfying driving experience.

Unable to find a tyre that naturally suited the character and nature of the new Civic Type R, Honda’s engineers worked with Continental to create a bespoke tyre that delivers enhanced grip and cornering stability.

The car is also equipped with a high performance Brembo brake package developed specifically for the Civic Type R. At the front, four-piston calipers apply braking force to 350 mm discs – the largest ever to have been installed on a production Type R model – which are drilled to stabilise braking friction between the disc and pad at high temperatures.

The diameter of the rear discs was increased by 20 mm, as well as the thickness, in order to increase heat capacity and improve performance.

New +R mode increases the response of chassis and engine for enhanced driving thrills

+R mode activates several dynamic changes to the Type R’s systems
Provides an even more intense driving experience ideal for the track
Changes to the dash display and i-MID screen indicate +R mode is engaged

The new Civic Type R will mark the debut of the new ‘+R’ mode that increases the response of various chassis and drivetrain systems. This delivers an even more intense driving experience, ideal for the track and sure to be appreciated by the genuine sports-driving enthusiast.

The +R button is located to the left of the steering column for left-hand drive cars, and to the right for right-hand drive cars. When +R mode is activated a number of visual changes inform the driver. The floating dial surrounds in the instrument binnacle change from glowing white to glowing red. A +R logo is displayed to the left of the rev indicator and the Idling Stop system is disabled.

With +R mode selected, several dynamic changes are activated within the Civic Type R’s powertrain and dynamics systems.

Engine responsiveness is heightened, with torque-mapping changed to a more aggressive and performance-focused setting allowing more of the available torque to be unleashed at lower engine speeds. The electronic power steering reduces the level of power assistance to provide a heavier and tighter steering feel.

Basic damping force from the new four-point Adaptive Damper System is increased by 30% making the behaviour of the car firmer and more agile for high-performance handling. The Vehicle Stability Assist programme is adjusted to focus on acceleration and performance, allowing a greater yaw and slip rate before intervening.

+R mode also brings a more dynamic focus to the i-MID screen in front of the driver. When in +R mode, it is possible to access the Type R layers directly from any of the four basic information screens, or to directly access the first specific Type R screen. The selection of a specific performance screen is indicated by the display of an image of the Type R. In +R mode it is also possible to display vehicle information content even when the stopwatch is running.

High standard specification can be enhanced by optional GT Pack and a wide range of accessories

High standard equipment levels ensure the new Civic Type R is as comfortable on the road as on the track
Optional GT Pack provides a comprehensive suite of styling, convenience and safety enhancements
A range of accessories offers exterior and interior customisation options

Standard Equipment and Safety

The all-new Honda Connect infotainment system is fitted as standard to the new Civic Type R, offering convenience and connectivity while on the road. Easy and intuitive to use, Honda Connect runs Android, the world’s most popular smartphone operating system – and employs the familiar ‘pinch, swipe and tap‘ functionality of a smartphone to access its features.

Honda Connect gives front-seat occupants rapid access to everything from vehicle information, rear-view parking camera and music, to Bluetooth connectivity. The new system’s functions include: internet access, pre-installed apps, Honda App Centre, AM/FM/DAB and internet radio, phone interface and Bluetooth connectivity and steering wheel controls and rear-view parking camera with dynamic guidelines. Sound is fed through a six-speaker 180-watt sound system.

The new Honda Connect system – which debuted on the 2015 CR-V earlier this year – offers excellent connectivity to keep Honda owners safely in touch while on the road. Honda Connect is also MirrorLink-enabled, delivering seamless connectivity between the system and the user’s compatible smartphone – provided it is compatible. This technology enables the user to mirror their smartphone display through Honda Connect and gain access to their smartphone applications.

With Honda Connect you can also connect to the internet through Smartphone Wifi tethering or Mobile Wifi Router, allowing for full internet browsing while in the car, provided it is stationary, making it possible to search for local amenities or learn about landmarks near to the vehicle’s location.

The system comes with a range of pre-installed apps and the user can download other apps from the Honda App Centre.

Pre-installed apps include ‘Aha’, which allows effortless access to content and lets the driver keep their eyes on the road. Aha offers thousands of stations of audio – spanning music, news, podcasts and audio books – as well as social media news feeds and location-based services. The easy-to-use, integrated interface makes finding everything from a Twitter account to weather updates as safe and easy as the push of a button. Aha also includes POI searches, helping users locate the nearest restaurants or hotels.

Automatic climate control air conditioning and cruise control with speed limiter complete an extensive list of standard equipment.

The new Civic Type R retains the same five-star Euro NCAP rating as achieved by the standard Civic five door. It shares the same Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure and system of airbags (driver, passenger, side and side curtain), restraint systems (including whiplash lessening front headrests) and active electronic safety systems.

Developed in the car-to-car crash testing facility at Tochigi, the ACE™ body structure is now a well-established strength of Honda’s safety credentials. The ACE™ body structure provides significantly enhanced occupant protection in a variety of real-world crash conditions. A front-mounted polygonal main frame is designed to prevent cabin deformation by distributing forces through multiple major load bearing pathways - and away from the passenger compartment. Additionally, it helps to minimise the potential for under- or over-ride situations, this is particularly important where a frontal collision occurs between vehicles of differing heights, weights or frame construction.

The City-Brake Active system is specifically designed to help avoid or mitigate low speed accidents and utilises a laser radar system that scans the road ahead and automatically applies the brakes if an imminent risk of collision is detected. The system operates at speeds below 32 km/h and is designed to detect cars and trucks.

GT Pack

Customers will have the option to choose an all-new GT Pack to add further styling, convenience, infotainment and safety technology enhancements to their new Civic Type R.

Externally, the GT Pack adds signature red highlights to the front and rear splitters for even greater eye-catching impact, but it’s under the skin where the GT Pack’s most significant upgrades are found.

The driver will benefit from extra convenience features such as front and rear parking sensors, dusk sensing headlamps, rain sensing automatic wipers, electrically folding door mirrors.

With the GT Pack specified, integrated Garmin satellite navigation (including four years of free map updates) is added to the standard Honda Connect infotainment system. Audiophiles will be attracted by the addition of a CD player and a premium eight-speaker, 212-watt stereo system upgrade.

All occupants will appreciate automatic dual zone climate control air conditioning, and sophistication in the cabin is boosted by red ambient lighting.

The GT Pack also includes Honda’s Advanced Driver Assist Systems. This comprehensive suite of sensor-based safety technologies includes Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, High-Beam Support System, Blind Spot Information, Cross Traffic Monitor and Traffic Sign Recognition System..

Forward Collision Warning

Forward Collision Warning detects the risk of collision by recognising the vehicle (car or truck) directly in front, using the multi-purpose camera. The system operates when the car is at a speed of 15 km/h and above. On detecting the risk of collision, it will offer visual and audible warnings. The warning distance can be adjusted to the driver’s preferences and the system can be turned off by the driver at any time.

Lane Departure Warning

High Beam Support System

Blind Spot Information

Blind Spot Information uses radar technology to automatically detect vehicles in the driver’s blind spot and warn of potential dangers when the vehicle is travelling at speeds of more than 20 km/h. The system is designed to detect cars and trucks and can help to support drivers in situations such as passing other vehicles and merging or changing lanes.

When a vehicle enters the driver’s blind spot a visual warning is displayed on the door mirror. This remains until the vehicle leaves the blind spot. If the driver operates the indicator whilst the vehicle is in the blind spot, the visual warning will blink and an audible warning will sound to further alert the driver to the potential danger.

Cross Traffic Monitor

Honda’s Cross Traffic Monitor system uses rear side radar sensors to warn the driver of approaching vehicles when reversing. The direction of an approaching vehicle is shown either on the rear-view camera screen or displayed using arrows showing the direction of the travelling vehicle on the i-MID and an audible warning sound. The system is designed to detect cars and trucks travelling up to 25 km/h.

Traffic Sign Recognition

Traffic Sign Recognition system uses the multi-purpose camera to detect road signs whenever the vehicle is moving forward. The system automatically recognises and displays the signs via the i-MID once the vehicle has passed the sign.

7. Tested to success, Civic Type R represents the next generation of hot hatch with class-leading performance

Prototype Civic Type R recorded a time unmatched by any other front-wheel drive performance hatchback around the Nürburgring

As part of a rigorous and detailed development and testing programme, a pre-production development Civic Type R achieved a 7 minutes 50.63 seconds lap time of the legendary 20.8 km/12.9 mile Nürburgring Nordschleife in Germany. This time is unmatched by any other front-wheel drive performance hatchback.

The lap time was achieved during the final phase of pre-production testing in May 2014 by a Civic Type R development car. The development car was in a standard state of engine tune, with suspension, drivetrain, exhaust, brakes and the aerodynamic package identical to those of the production Civic Type R.

The removal of equipment such as air conditioning, the front passenger seat and audio equipment offset the additional weight of a full roll cage (installed specifically for safety reasons and not to add rigidity).

Standard Equipment for the Civic Type R:

19" Alloy Wheels
Smart Entry & Start
Honda Connect
Black Gloss Styling Pack
Rear Wing Spoiler
Privacy Glass
LED Headlights
Sports Seats with Red/Black Suede-type Upholstery
Front Fog Lights
Alloy Pedals
Alloy Gear Knob
R+ Mode with Adaptive Dampers
Limited Slip Differential
City Brake Active System
Idle Stop
Climate Control
Bluetooth HFT
Alarm

Optional GT Pack adds the following:

Garmin Satellite Navigation
Front & Rear Parking Sensors
Dual-zone Climate Control
Red-line Styling Pack
High Power Audio System
Automatic Wipers
Automatic Lights
Auto-dim Rear-view Mirror
Electrically Folding Mirrors
Ambient Cabin Lighting
Tonneau Cover
Dynamic Safety Pack
- Forward Collision Warning
- Traffic Sign Recognition
- Lane Departure Warning
- Blind Spot Information
- Cross Traffic Monitor
- High-beam Support System

The Civic Type R is available to order now at Honda Dealerships nationwide, priced from €48,750. The optional GT Pack is priced at €2,200. Please consult with your local Honda Dealer for the latest information www.honda.ie/dealers

Honda Civic Tourer Wins Best Real MPG Performer Award

The Honda Civic Tourer 1.6 i-DTEC has once again proved its impressive fuel economy by claiming the 2015 Honest John Award for the Best Real MPG Performer.

The Best Real MPG Performer award is new for 2015 and demonstrates the rising trend among consumers for increased efficiency and fuel economy as a priority in the decision making process when buying a new car. The award is based on real world fuel consumption data submitted by thousands of drivers.

Dan Harrison, Editor at HonestJohn, commented: “When it comes to real world fuel economy, no other car comes close to the Honda Civic Tourer 1.6 i-DTEC.

Practical and spacious, the estate version of the Civic is a winner when it comes to fuel efficiency, with the diesel surpassing all of its rivals. According to Real MPG submissions for the past 12 months, the Civic Tourer diesel achieves an impressive 93% of its official economy rating, with a real world average of 68mpg (4.1l/100km).”

Emmet Kavanagh, Marketing Manager at Universal Honda Ltd., commented: "Our 1.6 i-DTEC diesel engine has been winning many awards for the real-world fuel efficiency which it offers. We are particularly pleased to win this award as it is based on real-world consumption feedback from drivers, showing exactly what they are getting from their cars and proving how fuel efficient our cars are for our customers. It is a fantastic recognition of the capabilities and efficiency of both the Civic Tourer and the 1.6 litre diesel engine."

The updated 2015 Honda Civic 1.6 i-DTEC is available at Honda Dealers nationwide now.

To discover the Civic 5dr Hatchback Range, click here

To discover the Civic Tourer Range, click here

Upgrade to Honda for 152

Across Honda Dealers nationwide this 152 buying season, buyers are being urged to Upgrade their current car to a brand new Honda. Not just because of the leading reliability, fuel economy, driving pleasure and customer satisfaction for which Honda cars have long been renowned, but also because of a new range of updated and redesigned models featuring attractive finance offers and highly-equipped model upgrade options. Drivers can choose a new Honda from as little as €189 per month, or upgrade to a higher specification model with increased features or power for less than you might think. The Honda 152 Upgrade programme is being launched at Honda Dealers across Ireland this June, with highly-equipped models, low CO2 engines and great deals.

New 2015 Honda Civic from €235 per month, Upgrade to Civic Sport from €255 per month
New 2015 Civic Tourer from €275 per month, Upgrade to Sport from €295 per month
New 2015 Honda CR-V from €355 per month, Upgrade to CR-V ES from €370 per month
Honda Jazz from €189 per month, Upgrade to the Jazz ES from €209 per month
Honda Accord from €389 per month, Upgrade to the Accord ES from €409 per month

The new Honda Civic range is available from just €235 per month. Comprehensively redesigned for 152, the latest model is in showrooms now with a dynamic new look, a sportier drive with standard Agile Handling Assist, and increased specification across the range. All Civic models now come equipped with City-Brake Active System, Bluetooth, Alloy Wheels and Climate Control. Buyers can also upgrade to the Civic Sport from €255 per month, bringing Honda’s advanced new internet-enabled touchscreen infotainment system, Honda Connect, with Reversing Camera, Parking Sensors, Front fog lights, Cruise control and more.

The Award-winning Civic Tourer, which is currently being driven across Europe targeting a new GUINNESS WORLD RECORD for fuel efficiency, also features all of the new updates available on the Civic hatchback, and is now available from €275 per month on PCP, with the option to upgrade to Sport trim from €295 per month.

The class-leading Honda CR-V has also been redesigned for 152 and is available from €335 per month. Already a hit with Irish buyers thanks to award-winning economy, reliability and customer satisfaction, the World’s Best-selling SUV now features a new 1.6 i-DTEC 160 engine with all-wheel drive, and the option of an advanced new 9 Speed Automatic transmission. For 152, the CR-V has also received updates to the styling, interior, drive and equipment. Standard features include City—brake active system, Bluetooth, Cruise Control, Alloy Wheels and Dual-zone Climate Control. Upgrading to the CR-V ES grade from €370 per month will bring the internet-enabled Honda Connect infotainment system, Front and Rear Parking Sensors, Reversing Camera, Front fog lights and Auto lights and wipers.

Speaking at the launch of the Honda 152 Range, Adrian Cole, Managing Director of Universal Honda Ltd. commented, ‘2015 is one of the most important years for Honda in recent times as we renew every model in our range during the year. From superminis, to supercars, we will introduce a dynamic and exciting new range of vehicles equipped with the latest in safety and connectivity technologies. Our updated Civic, Civic Tourer and CR-V are already generating great interest in Showrooms, and the arrival of the exciting new HR-V, Jazz, Civic Type R and NSX supercar later in 152 will complete the updated range. With increased equipment, new active safety technologies and tablet-like in-car connectivity, the Honda Range for 152 is very exciting and our Dealer Network across Ireland look forward to welcoming customers into our showrooms.’

Honda target GUINNESS WORLD RECORD for Fuel Efficiency

Honda will put the real-world fuel economy of its super-efficient 1.6 i-DTEC engine to the ultimate test in a 13,000km drive across all 24 contiguous EU countries, with the aim of setting a new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title for fuel efficiency.

On Monday 1^st June 2015, two members of Honda’s European Research & Development (R&D) team, including Carlow native Fergal McGrath, will climb into a Honda Civic Tourer and set out on an epic journey from Aalst, Belgium. Heading towards the Netherlands and Germany, their trip will see them navigate the Continent in a clockwise direction, with the aim of returning to their starting point some 25 days later, on June 25^th, having covered a planned total of 13,614km.

The GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title attempt comes on the back of several independent tests which have proven Honda’s 1.6 i-DTEC engine to consistently out-perform its quoted fuel efficiency in real-world driving conditions. Keen to once again underline this performance and in the challenging spirit for which the brand is famed, Honda aims to set a benchmark with a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title never before attempted in Europe.

Under the rules of the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title attempt, the same two drivers must be in the car for every kilometre of the journey. Step forward Honda R&D colleagues of some 18 years, Irishman Fergal McGrath and Julian Warren, both based at Honda’s European manufacturing facility in Swindon. The pair volunteered to take up the challenge and will be charged with driving an average 592km, taking around 7.5 hours, each day.

Fergal McGrath, who hails from Tullow Co. Carlow, comments: “We are very much looking forward to the record attempt, and while we’re excited we’re both a little nervous about the scale of the task that awaits us. A huge amount of planning has gone into taking on this challenge and we look forward to what we hope will be a successful result when we return to Brussels on June 25^th. But we’ve got more than 170 hours behind the wheel to contend with first!”

The official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title is ‘Lowest Fuel Consumption – all 24 contiguous EU countries’, measured in litres per 100km and miles per gallon calculated over the entire journey. If successful the new record will apply to all cars, including hybrid and electric models. Based on strict and rigorous guidelines, the record attempt requires the car to enter each of the 24 countries specified, collecting a range of evidence including a fuel/mileage logbook, GPS readings, video, photographs and independent witness signatures to prove that it has done so.

To ensure accurate monitoring of the route, journey time and distance driven, the record car has been fitted with a tracking device, provided by fleet telematics and stolen vehicle recovery expert, TRACKER. The unit will provide a superior level of journey information, in real-time to ensure that Honda can supply robust and reliable automated data-evidence to meet the requirements stipulated by GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS. Supporters will even be able to follow the progression of the two drivers live by visiting http://www.tracker.co.uk/RealFuelChallenge.

The car which attempts the record must be a standard model in every respect, with no modifications to give an advantage. This will be judged by an independent witness at the beginning and end of the record attempt. The car can only travel by road, therefore the route does not extend to the UK, Ireland, Cyprus and Malta, which make up the remainder of the 28 EU countries. In order to ensure no unfair advantage by reducing weight, the tank of the car must be filled to the maximum at each fuel stop.

Adrian Cole, Managing Director, Universal Honda Ltd., comments: “Since its launch in 2013 we have seen our 1.6 i-DTEC engine consistently win awards for real-world fuel efficiency in Civic, Civic Tourer and CR-V models, and this is our opportunity to put it to the ultimate test on a huge scale. We are very confident of a great result and we wish the team all the very best of luck as they take on the challenge.”

The 24 countries which are covered in the route, in alphabetical order, are as follows: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden.

Follow Honda’s record attempt and get involved on socail media using #RealFuelChallenge

Honda HR-V Design Story, a Unique Crossover

Fusion of Coupé and SUV themes creates a unique vision
Exterior concept delivers ‘Emotionality and Toughness’
Interior concept encapsulated by ‘Personal Cockpit and Expansiveness’
New HR-V set for summer launch across Europe

Masaki Kobayashi is passionate about the all-new Honda HR-V. As the Project Leader for the styling of the HR-V he knows every line and curve, the feel of every material in its class-leading interior space and is proud of how it fuses pragmatism, precision and emotional design to create something unique. Here he provides an insight into how the HR-V was conceived and realised.

‘We didn’t want to just create a downsized SUV,’ he explains. ‘Honda already has the CR-V, which combines the virtues of an SUV and a lighter, more nimble conventional car, so the HR-V needed to offer something different. The development team set a goal to create a new value or theme from the very start of the project.’

That new theme was to combine the elegance and fluidity of a Coupé with the utility and strength of an SUV. ‘Combining high eye-point and toughness - core values of SUV - with a new level of emotion was the key,’ Kobayashi says. ‘So we came up with an exterior concept encapsulated by “Emotionality and Toughness” and an interior concept called “Personal Cockpit and Expansiveness”. We wanted to fuse apparently conflicting values to create something fresh.’

This approach was tailored around a dynamic and demanding buyer profile. Kobayashi and his team targeted ‘active people who enjoy both their work and home life. These people have a high sense of the balance between fashion and practicality.’ Achieving that balance in the HR-V was a challenge. ‘It was very difficult to create the desired interior space, ease of use and sheer capaciousness hand-in-hand with dynamic and emotional design,’ Kobayashi begins. ‘However, the process is relatively simple: Package designers take charge of determining the space and layout of the vehicle and set hard points. From there the exterior and interior designers take over to bring the concept to life within those hard points.’

If the theory is simple the intense period of melding a dynamic but versatile interior with an aerodynamically efficient, exciting and innately tough profile is hugely demanding. ‘Of course it’s not so straightforward in reality!’ Kobayashi says with a smile. ‘The designers and engineers discuss everything on a millimetre level… You might even call them arguments! But by having these open discussions the project can really take shape.’

Once this conceptual phase is complete the job of modeling the HR-V begins. ‘We spent the longest time on this process,’ says Kobayashi. ‘Designing, modeling and then repeating the verification using full-scale models to get a real sense of how the HR-V would look out on the road. This is where the design starts to come to life and we can experiment with shapes and forms that still let the interior space breathe but also create a tension and fluidity in the design.’

The cohesiveness of the HR-V design is a testament to that intense and highly-detailed process and something of which Kobayashi is proud. ‘Fusion of a cabin shape with good aerodynamics and a strong lower body became the basis of HR-V’s dynamic form,’ he begins, ‘and what’s satisfying is that we were able to create a product with no compromise in terms of size, function and design.’ That means an interior packed with functionality but also a sense of personal space and fun. ‘The driving position is very much like a Coupé and engenders a sense of agility and dynamism, yet because the architecture features a central fuel tank layout and elements like the Magic Seats the HR-V offers masses of space for passengers and great flexibility. This combination gave the design team a great deal of satisfaction.’

‘For the exterior we are very pleased with its dynamic shape, the high quality of the surfaces and the intricate but seamless detailing,’ says Kobayashi. ‘I can say that when the whole team first saw the prototype vehicle together, we felt proud and special that we were able to realise our targets with this new car. I believe that the HR-V possesses the elegance to look attractive in any scene and yet a sense of toughness at the same time. And my determination to make it look like a real ‘driver’s car’ was achieved.’

The all-new HR-V is a product borne of the determination to offer something fresh and innovative but with the real lives of real people and families at its core. Honda offers a unique environment in which to create new products. ‘Honda is a place where we use our will to create new values without being bound by the past,’ explains Kobayashi. ‘That is our driving force. From a creator’s perspective it is an interesting and stimulating environment. That sense of moving forward and also listening to the users who live with our products around the world is very exciting.’

Adrian Cole, Managing Director of Universal Honda Ltd., added: “Having created the segment back in 1999 with the original HR-V, it’s not long now until the all-new HR-V arrives in the showrooms. We have high expectations for this practical, pretty and refined Qashqai competitor which has already generated huge levels of customer interest.”

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