All-New 2014 Honda Accord Plug-In Hybrid Sedan Melds Power, Luxury and Efficiency with Electric-Only Driving Mode

The 2014 Honda Accord Plug-in Hybrid Sedan will provide the athleticism and craftsmanship of the all-new Accord platform, charged with a remarkable dose of hybrid efficiency and electric torque. Set to go on sale in early 2013, the 2014 Accord Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) Sedan will offer premium technology, exceptional cabin space, the ability to run in an all-electric mode for 10 to 15 miles1 and a calculated1 total driving range over 500 miles.

The 2014 Accord Plug-in Hybrid Sedan features one of four efficient new powertrains for the all-new Accord. The Accord Plug-in Hybrid will also serve as the basis for a conventional hybrid version of the Accord Sedan, which will join the Honda Accord lineup in the summer of 2013.

The 2014 Accord Plug-in Hybrid is powered by Honda's first two-motor hybrid system, and uses a new Earth DreamsTM 2.0-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower, teamed with a powerful 124-kilowatt (kW) electric motor. Electric driving is supported by a 6.7 kilowatt-hour (kWh) lithium-ion (Li-Ion) battery, and total system output is 196 horsepower.

To maximize driving efficiency, the uniquely designed two-motor hybrid system allows the Accord PHEV powertrain to move seamlessly between all-electric EV Drive, gasoline-electric Hybrid Drive; and direct Engine Drive. Fuel efficiency for the 2014 Honda Accord Plug-in Hybrid is expected to exceed 100 MPG-e, and it's also expected to receive an Enhanced AT-PZEV rating from the California Air Resources Board (CARB).

Beyond its function as a full-electric vehicle, owners of the 2014 Accord PHEV will be able to choose two additional driving modes to manage battery capacity and tailor the capabilities of the plug-in Accord to their own commute. In its default upon start-up, the Accord PHEV acts as a pure electric vehicle and will continue on in full-electric mode until battery capacity necessitates the automatic switch to gas/electric hybrid operation. At higher speeds or under high demand for acceleration, the gasoline engine can kick in to provide additional power.

In "HV" mode, the plug-in Accord acts as a conventional hybrid, blending motor power between gasoline and electric to maximize fuel efficiency while maintaining the battery charge level. In "HV Charge" mode, the Accord PHEV blends gasoline and electric power while also augmenting the battery charge level.

The 2014 Accord Plug-In Hybrid Sedan will feature an electric servo braking system similar to the setup on the Honda Fit EV, which allows for exceptionally natural brake pedal feel, while extending the range over which the regenerative braking can take place. In addition to its efficient powertrain, the Accord PHEV features remarkably swift charging times. The plug-in Accord can be fully charged from a low-charge indication point in less than three hours using a standard 120-volt household electrical outlet, and in less than one hour using a 240-volt "Level-2" charger. The free HondaLink™ EV smartphone application will allow owners to easily monitor the charging state of the Accord PHEV.

Based on the Touring trim level of standard Accord Sedan, the 2014 Honda Accord Plug-in Hybrid Sedan will feature three exterior color choices, including two standard Accord shades (White Orchid Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl) plus a model-exclusive Burnished Silver Metallic exterior color choice. The Accord PHEV will also feature a weight-saving aluminum hood, 17-inch forged alloy wheels, a unique front bumper along with enhanced underbody aerodynamic treatments.

A host of visibility technologies are standard on the 2014 Accord PHEV, including a rearview camera, an expanded-view driver's mirror, Honda's new LaneWatch™ blind-spot display, LED headlights, LED daytime running lights (DRL), and LED mirror-mounted turn indicators.

Standard Features
The Accord PHEV is available in a single highly equipped trim level, based on the standard features of the premium Accord Touring model. Standard Accord PHEV features include:

• Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®
• USB/iPod® connectivity
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Pandora® internet radio compatibility
• Smart Start and Smart Entry
• Honda LaneWatch™
• Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with Voice Recognition2
• Multi-view rearview camera
• HondaLink™ EV telematics system
• Heated front seats
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel
• Driver's 10-way power seat with 2-position memory
• HomeLink®
• Intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID)
• Audio with touchscreen interface
• Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
• Bio-Fabric seating surfaces
• Expanded-view driver's mirror
• LED mirror-mounted turn signals
• LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
• LED headlights
• Fog lights
• Chrome-plated door handles
• Decklid spoiler

Powertrain
The Earth Dreams technology used on the Accord PHEV includes an i-VTEC 2.0-liter  4-cylinder Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine coupled with a two-motor hybrid drive system. The hybrid system features a 124-kW electric motor powered by a 6.7-kWh Li-Ion battery pack. The gasoline engine produces a maximum 137 horsepower (hp) at 6200 rpm. In conjunction with the two-motor hybrid-drive system, the total power output peaks at 196 hp, which surpasses the Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid, Chevrolet Volt and projected output of the Ford Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid. The EarthDreams engine horsepower alone surpasses the total gas-electric output of the Prius Plug-In Hybrid.

Although not finalized at press time, anticipated fuel economy ratings for the 2014 Accord PHEV are expected to exceed 100 MPG-e1 in full-electric mode, provide a 10- to 15-mile1 EV driving range and a calculated1 total driving range over 500 miles. When in gasoline-only mode, it is expected to return one of the top EPA fuel economy ratings among mid-size sedans, and is also expected to earn an Enhanced AT-PZEV rating from the California Air Resources Board (CARB).

The two-motor hybrid system in the 2014 Accord Plug-in Hybrid allows power from the gasoline engine to flow directly to the front wheels, power the generator to supply electrical propulsion or even charge the battery pack. The Accord PHEV hybrid system moves seamlessly and automatically through its three powertrain states to maximize performance, efficiency and range.

From a low-charge indicator point3, recharge time for the Li-Ion battery pack when plugged into a standard 120-volt wall outlet is less than three hours, among the fastest in the Accord PHEV's class. And when plugged into a Level-2, 240-volt charger the recharge time is less than one hour - the quickest in the class. This is about half the required charge time of the Prius Plug-In Hybrid. The battery pack is mounted above the rear suspension, which helps maintain interior and trunk space and provides protection for the battery pack in a collision.

Body
The Accord body received further improvements in weight reduction, aerodynamic efficiency and rolling resistance in its transformation to Accord PHEV. All are designed to help Accord PHEV drivers maximize their driving range from every watt of electrical energy and every gallon of gasoline. Weight reduction features include:

• All-aluminum front subframe
• 17-inch forged aluminum wheels
• Aluminum brake pedal
• Aluminum hood
• Aluminum rear bumper beam
• Puncture repair kit (in place of gasoline-engine Accord's spare wheel and tire)

Aerodynamic advancements include:

• Powertrain undercover
• Cabin floor undercovers
• Rear decklid spoiler
• Aerodynamic wheel covers

Reductions in rolling resistance include:

• Low rolling-resistance tires
• Low-friction wheel bearings

Chassis
The Accord PHEV chassis begins with the core engineering of the Accord Sedan, but then adds an all-aluminum front subframe (replacing the steel and aluminum version on the gasoline-engine Accord). The Accord PHEV uses proprietary 17-inch forged-aluminum wheels with a special low-aero drag design, fitted with 225/50-17 tires.

As with the gasoline-engine Accord models, the Accord PHEV uses an electric power steering (EPS) system that automatically adjusts the amount of steering assist for conditions. The EPS system is more efficient than a traditional hydraulic system, and it operates consistently whether the vehicle is using electricity, gasoline, or both.

The Accord PHEV features a braking system similar to the system in the Honda Fit EV, which provides fully electronic control of the hydraulic brake system. This system results in an improvement in regenerative braking efficiency compared to a hydraulic booster system used in other hybrids.

Interior
Sophisticated and contemporary, the redesigned 2013 Accord Sedan interior serves as the ideal basis for the 2014 Accord PHEV interior. Like the Fit EV, the Accord PHEV features a next-gen Honda Bio Fabric seat material, a new fabric that offers conventional softness and durability, but with reduced manufacturing environmental impact. The interior features several brighter trim accents and is available in gray to compliment the choice of three exterior colors.

With the Accord PHEV's free and convenient HondaLink™ EV smartphone app, owners can remotely schedule charging of the Li-Ion battery pack (taking advantage of "off-peak" electricity rates), monitor the state of charge, and even pre-warm or pre-cool the vehicle's interior while charging before they drive. This suite of capabilities is similar to those offered on the new 2013 Fit EV. HondaLink EV features include:

• Charge scheduling
• Charge status
• Charge complete notification
• Drive range display
• Charge station locator
• HVAC pre-conditioning

Safety
Like the all-new Accord, the new Accord PHEV offers a greater range of standard active and passive safety features than any other vehicle in Honda history. These include Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW). The Accord PHEV also has an Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS) to audibly warn pedestrians when it is approaching in EV Drive mode. Based on internal testing, the 2014 Accord PHEV is expected to earn a TOP SAFETY PICK rating from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) and 5-Star ratings in federal National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests.

Source: Honda Media Newsroom

Join us as we honor those who were lost on 9/11/01.

Russell & Smith Honda's "Car Tip of the Week"

Happy Monday fans! Your “Car Tip of the Week” is here and it'll help keep your vehicle looking brand-new while ensuring your safety while driving in all different types of lighting.

It’s important to use a soft damp cloth when cleaning dust from the clear plastic lenses that cover the gauges in your dash. Using too much pressure or an abrasive material will leave scratches in the plastic making it difficult to read your vehicle’s gauges while driving under certain lighting conditions.

Check out these great reviews earned by the Russell & Smith Honda Team!

"I'm really glad that I went to Russell and Smith Honda and Jon was nice enough to get the perfect Fit for me..." - Ari

2013 Honda Pilot Video Adventure and Features Overview

2013 Honda CR-V Combines Remarkable Value, Functionality, Features and Efficiency in Right-Sized Package

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The all-new, fourth-generation Honda CR-V debuted late last year with upscale styling, excellent fuel efficiency, and a host of standard convenience features, making it one of the most fun and functional compact SUVs in America. The CR-V returns for 2013 as an IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK and is distinguished by a NHTSA 5-star Overall Vehicle Score(1). Along the way, it has also earned awards from Edmunds.com, Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com and J.D. Power and Associates. The 2013 Honda CR-V goes on sale September 6, and pricing begins at $22,695.

Compact on the outside and roomy inside, the CR-V represents an unparalleled balance of size and capability in the entry SUV segment. With its car-like interior comfort, a smooth and quiet ride, plus innovative features, the versatile CR-V is a great fit for families or anyone with an active lifestyle.

The CR-V model lineup carries over for 2013, starting with the exceptionally well-equipped CR-V LX with standard air conditioning, cruise control, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink, rearview camera, color i-MID display, remote entry, 160-watt 4-speaker audio system and Motion-Adaptive Electric Power Steering (EPS). The CR-V EX adds a number of features including an upgraded 6-speaker audio system, power moonroof, and 17-inch alloy wheels.

The CR-V EX-L builds on the rich content of the CR-V EX by adding more features including a leather-trimmed interior, 10-way power driver's seat, automatic dual-zone climate control, and a 328-watt 7-speaker audio system with XM® Radio(3). Available features for the CR-V EX-L include the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System(4) with Voice Recognition™ and FM Traffic, or a DVD Rear Entertainment System(5). Real Time AWD (all-wheel drive) with a swift-acting electronic Intelligent Control System™ is available on each model.

Body
The Honda CR-V's body is designed to contribute to high fuel efficiency and vehicle safety while enhancing the functional and refined aspects of this entry-level SUV. The CR-V has an aggressive and aerodynamic stance with deep sculpting of the bodylines and a bold front fascia. The highly rigid unibody construction combines with lightweight suspension components, noise insulation and aerodynamic features including underbody covers and a rear spoiler to enhance quietness and ride quality.

Large 5-spoke wheels (17-inch alloy for the CR-V EX and EX-L, and 16-inch steel for the CR-V LX) and bold fender flares emphasize the vehicle's dynamic presence and capability. All CR-V models feature an exterior Expanded-View Driver's Mirror that adds an additional 5.5 degrees of visibility at the outer edge of the mirror's field of view, which can assist the driver in detecting other vehicles or road conditions that they might not otherwise see in a conventional mirror.

Interior and Features

The interior of the 2013 Honda CR-V combines a sedan-like driving position with abundant comfort and convenience features, and standout utility and versatility. The CR-V's "small on the outside, big on the inside" packaging is the key to its appeal. The roomy 5-passenger seating layout provides plenty of space to stretch out, front and rear, and there's abundant storage, including a large center console. When it comes to utility, the low cargo floor and lift-over height ease loading, and the innovative Easy Fold-Down 60/40 Split Rear Seatback can quickly drop the seatback using release levers located near the tailgate opening or via a pull-strap accessible from each rear door.

The CR-V is well equipped with sophisticated instrumentation that includes an average fuel-economy indicator, instant fuel economy, miles-to-empty indicators, an engine oil-life indicator and more. A standard full-color "intelligent" Multi-Information Display (i-MID) offers a range of customizable features via fingertip controls on the steering wheel. A multi-angle rearview camera, standard on all models, provides a choice of three different views on the i-MID or navigation screen, offering more visual information for the driver when backing up.

The CR-V LX comes standard with a 160-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with four speakers; the CR-V EX and EX-L have six-speaker systems. The audio system offers impressive connectivity, with a Pandora® internet radio interface (with compatible iPhones) and a convenient SMS text messaging feature (with compatible smart phones) that can read incoming texts aloud through the audio system. The standard Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink™ phone interface offers convenient hands-free calling. Models equipped with the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ include FM Traffic, which has no monthly fee. A DVD Rear Entertainment System (RES) with a 7-inch screen and a wireless remote control is available on the CR-V EX-L.

Safety

The 2013 CR-V exemplifies the Honda approach to safety. As standard equipment, every CR-V incorporates: VSA electronic stability control system with roll-over sensor; ABS with Brake Assist; driver and front-passenger airbags; side-curtain airbags; front-side airbags with a passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); and a front seat design that can help reduce the severity of neck injury in the event of a rear collision. An Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure helps make the CR-V highly effective at absorbing and dispersing the energy of a frontal crash. A pedestrian injury mitigation design in the front of the vehicle is also included, as are daytime running lights (DRL).

Third-party analysis highlights the CR-V's safety credentials. The CR-V has been named a TOP SAFETY PICK (the highest rating possible) by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The rating recognizes vehicles that do the best job of protecting vehicle occupants involved in front, side and rear crashes. The rating also factors in standard electronic stability control as well as rollover performance based on ratings in IIHS tests. The CR-V earned the highest-possible score of GOOD in all four ratings, including the rigorous roof-strength test. The CR-V also earned NHTSA's best-possible Overall Vehicle Score of 5-Stars, with 5-Star ratings for the frontal crash safety test and both side crash safety tests(1) in all evaluated front and rear seating positions and scenarios.

Powertrain

The CR-V features a sophisticated powertrain that offers a refined balance of versatile performance for city and highway driving and high levels of fuel efficiency for an SUV. All CR-V models are powered by a 2.4-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine with 185 horsepower and 163 lb-ft. of torque (SAE net). In keeping with Honda's proven commitment to the environment, the CR-V engine meets strict California Air Resource Board (CARB) Ultra Low Emission Vehicle-2 tailpipe emissions standards and Federal Tier 2-Bin 5 emission standards.

The engine is paired with a standard 5-speed automatic transmission that works in conjunction with the engine's Drive-By-Wire™ throttle control to smooth shifting action, and Honda's unique Grade Logic Control system can intuitively hold the most appropriate gear on hilly roads, reducing unnecessary shifting. For the all-season confidence of all-wheel drive, the Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System is available to help access available traction in low-grip driving conditions such as snow, rain and unpaved road surfaces.

The CR-V has an EPA fuel economy(6) rating of 23/31/26 mpg city/highway/combined (FWD) and a compact SUV-class leading 22/30/25 mpg city/highway/combined rating for the AWD CR-V. Standard Eco Assist indicates to the driver when the vehicle is being operated in an efficient style via "green" visual cues surrounding the speedometer, and a selectable ECON Mode alters operating characteristics of the vehicle to support an efficient driving style.

Chassis

With its fully independent front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link suspension, the 2013 CR-V chassis is designed to maximize passenger comfort, driving enjoyment, and confidence. All CR-V models feature Motion-Adaptive Electric Power Steering (EPS) that works with the standard VSA and Electric Power Steering to detect instability in slippery road conditions both during cornering and under braking, and automatically initiates steering wheel inputs to prompt the driver to steer in the correct direction. This advanced new technology supports the driver's action in operating the vehicle more comfortably and with greater confidence. CR-V EX and EX-L models are equipped with 225/65-17 all-season tires with 17x6.5-inch aluminum alloy wheels. The CR-V LX is equipped with 215/70-16 all-season tires with 16x6.5-inch stamped steel wheels.

Manufacturing and Awards

The CR-V is sold in more than 160 countries throughout North and South America, Europe, Asia, Australia and Africa. In the U.S., CR-Vs are manufactured at the Honda of America Manufacturing, Inc., East Liberty Auto Plant in Ohio from domestic and globally sourced parts.

In the relatively short time it has been on sale, the fourth-generation CR-V has earned significant recognition. Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com named it a "2012 Best Redesigned Vehicle." According to the editors, the CR-V "boasts greater comfort, improved fuel economy and enhanced dynamics across the range while offering impressive options that include a more sophisticated version of its Real Time AWD."

The 2012 CR-V was ranked number one in Best Retained Value in the SUV $25K–$35K category by Edmunds.com and named one of the Top 10 cars with Best Resale Value by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. The 2012 CR-V was also named the top Compact Crossover SUV in J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study (IQS), which looks at owner-reported problems in the first 90 days of new vehicle ownership.

 

**  Courtesy of Hola Arkansas

Monday Maintenance Tip: Checking Your Coolant

What is it?

Coolant is the fluid that absorbs heat from the engine and then dissipates it through the radiator. It is also dissipated through the heat exchanger in the passenger compartment when you crank your heat in the winter.

Coolant, which is commonly called antifreeze, is a mixture of ethylene or propylene glycol and water, usually in a 50/50 ratio.

Servicing the coolant involves draining and/or flushing your car's cooling system and then replacing the old coolant with fresh coolant.

Should I do this service when it's recommended?

Yes. Draining out the coolant and refilling the system removes dirt and rust particles that can clog up the cooling system and cause problems in winter and summer.

Why do I have to do this?

Because it is operating in a hot, hostile environment, coolant will break down over time. Most importantly, the coolant's rust inhibitors get used up, leaving the small cooling passages in your engine and radiator vulnerable to corrosion. Even with these rust inhibitors, some corrosion will inevitably take place, contaminating the coolant with debris.

What happens if I don't do this?

If the rust inhibitors stop working, the cooling system will rust from the inside out. The biggest source of rust in a car's cooling system is the engine block.

In time, these bits of rust will also clog the tiny passages within the radiator and heater, causing your engine to overheat. When an engine overheats, the result is a bonus yacht payment to your mechanic that someone else should be making.

Is there any maintenance required between intervals?

Check your coolant level periodically. Your owner's manual will have a recommended interval in which to check the coolant level.

If you check your coolant level when the engine is cold, the coolant should be at or above the "minimum" or "fill" line on the transparent refill container. If you check your coolant level when the engine is hot, the coolant should be at or just below the "max" line.

Disappearance of coolant could be caused by either an external or internal leak, the latter being more expensive. Either one should be addressed quickly, since running low or out of coolant can lead to catastrophic engine failure and many boat payments to your mechanic.

If you live where the temperature dips below freezing, we suggest that you ask your mechanic to check the concentration of the coolant. Coolant that's diluted or weak can freeze when the temperature drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

Check your owner's manual to see if your car uses "long-life" coolant. For the first 100,000 miles, it is necessary to check the coolant level simply to be sure you're not leaking or burning coolant.

Car Talk Tip: Antifreeze has a sweet aroma and taste, which pets find particularly appealing. As little as a half teaspoon of the stuff can kill an average-size cat, and eight ounces will do in a 75-pound dog. There's no substance that you can add to antifreeze to make it less appealing to animals, but antifreeze made with propylene glycol instead of the usual ethylene glycol is about a third as toxic. Propylene glycol is sold under the brand names Sierra, Prestone Low Tox and Texaco PG.

Courtesy: CarTalk.com