Once upon a time, the SUV reigned supreme as king of the road in the US. Everywhere you turned, you saw these behemoths. Soccer moms used them. Those going off-road had an SUV. Corporate executives drove leather-trimmed models. Then fuel prices skyrocketed and the SUV began its long, slow decline. Today, you’ll still find SUVs on the road, but far fewer than you might once have. Of course, there’s a strange disparity out there between what SUVs are still popular. For instance, you won’t find that many Chevy Tahoe’s or Ford Excursions cruising the roads of America. You will, however, find quite a wide range of Honda SUVs, from the Pilot to the Element to the CR-V. In addition, the 2010 models of these vehicles offer some pretty enticing reasons to turn back to the SUV. What’s the 2010 Pilot got to offer?

Utility

SUVs were created for utility and the Pilot personifies this quite well. The 2010 model goes even farther than other models once did, as well. What benefits will you find? First, the new Pilot offers 87 cubic feet of cargo space – that’s a lot! That means that no matter whether you’re hauling the kids to the soccer field, taking your crew camping or heading to the do-it-yourself store for a load of lumber and sheetrock mud, you’ll have plenty of space for whatever you need. You’ll also find that the tailgate has been modified. The 2010 version offers a power tailgate, for better convenience. Of course, the rear glass also opens, so you don’t have to raise the tailgate just to slip a few items within.

Power and Performance

The 2010 Pilot offers quite a bit in the way of power and performance. You’ll find that the 3.5-liter V6 engine puts out 250 hp, and enjoys the benefits of i-VTEC. Why do you want i-VTEC, though? You’ll find that this intelligent engine management system offers some considerable fuel savings. Which means that your SUV won’t be the gas-guzzling beast of yesteryear. Add to that the VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) and the VTM-4 system (4-wheel drive), and you have an SUV that can go anywhere you need it to go and do it easily, without burning a hole in the wallet for fuel costs.
Interior Comfort and Design

The 2010 Honda Pilot also offers more than a few nods toward comfort and enjoyment in the cabin. You’ll find seating for eight people in the Pilot, which means that your entire crew can ride comfortably and safely. You’ll also find that Honda’s unique satellite navigation system is a standard on all Touring models, which offers you the benefits of a built in navigation system, as well as a much-needed backup camera. The Bluetooth integration in the cabin also allows you to link your cell phone to your Pilot’s stereo system for hands-free benefits.

As you can see, the 2010 Pilot offers quite a few innovations and design benefits. It’s most certainly not the SUV of yesteryear.

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Almost as long as the Honda Civic has dominated the roadways, there’s been a Si version that has turned heads. The Si model has traditionally been sportier, more powerful, faster and has provided quite a bit of adrenaline-based enjoyment for drivers and enthusiasts. While the Si badge might have been a little tarnished by some of Honda’s later offerings, the manufacturer went back to the drawing board several years ago and the results are still astounding. The 2010 Civic Si offers quite a bit for drivers to get excited about, as well. While Si might not have had a facelift in a year or two, there’s really no need for one, as Honda’s advanced design still grabs the eyes and won’t let go. What else will you find with the Si, though? Let’s take a look under the hood and kick the tires, so to speak.

First, you’ll find that the 2010 Civic Si offers quite a bit of performance and power. When you pop that hood, you’ll find an i-VTEC badge staring back at you. This is attached to the top of a 2.0-liter engine that puts out a stunning 197-hp. This is particularly impressive when you realize that the S2000, Honda’s beautiful roadster, only offers 237 hp. You will also find that the Civic Si features a 6-speed transmission with the gears so close that shifting is effortless. You barely even have to move the shift lever and the Si zips to life. One of the most exciting things about the Si is the helical limited-slip differential. This enhances steering response to an enormous extent and is usually found on racecars and high-end performance models.

Within the Si, you’ll find quite a bit more to be excited about. For example, you will enjoy a USB audio interface. That means you can plug up that iPod or other MP3 player directly to the car’s enhanced stereo and enjoy all your tunes. And about that enhanced stereo – you’ll find that it now pounds out 350 watts of power and features 7 speakers spaced around the cabin. Of course, the Honda navigation system (not standard) adds usability, convenience and comfort (for the mind, at least). The navigation system also features integrated Bluetooth, so you’ll enjoy hands-free use of your cell phone through the audio interface.

Other unique additions that you’ll find on the 2010 Civic Si include the sporty aluminum wheels. You’ll find that these are actually 17-inch wheels, rather than the puny 15 or 16-inch wheels most cars come with today. The rear wing spoiler is another benefit, which actually features aerodynamic design to keep the rear end firmly on the road during high-speed runs.

Obviously, the new Honda Civic Si has quite a few benefits that will appeal to anyone who enjoys adrenaline (or just wants a ride that looks smoking hot!). However, you’ll also find that this little car can even save you some money on gas – it’s rated at 29 mpg on the highway and 21 in the city.

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If you are in the market for a new vehicle, you have a plethora of options from which to choose. You’ll have options from Detroit’s Big Three, as well as other options from around the globe. Currently, Honda stands in the top echelons with both the buying public, as well as governmental regulators (emissions regulators, safety regulators, etc). This has led more and more consumers to choose Honda than almost any other automaker out there. If you are one of those currently considering a new Honda vehicle, you might be finding it difficult to choose the option that best fits your needs. How do you ensure that you get the right vehicle?

The first step is to define your needs in a vehicle. For instance, do you routinely haul a large number of people to different locations? Perhaps you shuttle the kids back and forth between soccer, cheerleading, dance class or other extracurricular activities. Perhaps you simply have a need for extra cargo room without sacrificing seating capabilities or comfort.

If this sounds like you, then you’ll want to check out the Odyssey or the Pilot. Both are capable of seating quite a few people, plus their associated cargo. Therefore, your usage needs are the very first thing that you should consider when contemplating the purchase of a new Honda.

Of course, price will play a factor in determining which vehicle to buy. What is your budget? How much can you afford to pay for a new vehicle? You might find that, while a Pilot would be a great option, your budget constrains you to an Accord. Honda makes available a wide range of different vehicles, all at disparate price points. You must know your operating budget, how much you can afford to pay each month for a new vehicle and your usage needs before you make any decision.

You might also find that you have a desire to benefit the environment. In this case, you’ll want to decide if you want the Accord hybrid, the Civic hybrid or the Insight. Even non-hybrid models are available with ULEV (Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle) ratings, which will help ensure that you are able to obtain a vehicle that performs well without spewing harmful emissions into the air.

In addition, you will need to ensure that you are able to locate they vehicle type that you need. While most Honda dealers keep a decent stock of the most popular models, you might find that those vehicles newer to the market, such as the Insight, are more difficult to locate. Your dealer might be willing to order the vehicle on your behalf, but it’s important that you find a like model to test drive in order to ensure that the vehicle does fit your needs and desires.

In short, the process can be summed up as follows: define your needs, define your budget, define your model and shop around. Shopping around not only allows you to find the right model, but it can help you find better pricing, as well.

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There’s no doubt about it, Honda makes a long-lasting vehicle. In fact, when polled, most consumers rank Honda within the top two manufacturers in the world, in terms of dependability, reliability and durability – chances are good that these three items were all factors in your decision to purchase one in the first place.

That said, you will have to ensure that you utilize proper maintenance procedures if you want your Honda to stand the test of time. All vehicles require maintenance in order to continue working properly. A lack of such maintenance can certainly leave you stranded on the side of the road. What types of maintenance should you use?

Oil Changes – Oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle. Without clean oil, the metal parts within your vehicle’s engine would begin grinding together, creating even greater heat and reducing their effectiveness. In short, without clean oil, your vehicle’s engine would soon cease to operate.

Over time and use, oil loses its viscosity, or ability to lubricate. This is due to a natural breakdown of compounds within the oil. The only way to prevent this is to ensure that you have regular oil changes. Most newer Honda vehicles, built after 2004, can safely go 5,000 miles between oil changes. Older vehicles should have their oil changed every 3,000 miles. Use the weight of oil recommended in your owner’s manual, or follow your dealership’s instructions.

Tire Rotation and Balance – This is yet another form of basic maintenance, common to every type of vehicle. It’s highly recommended that you have your tires rotated at every other oil change, if you follow the 3,000-mile rule. If you follow the 5,000-mile rule, you will need to rotate your tires at each oil change.

Why rotate your tires? A tire rotation takes the two tires from the drive position (front) and replaces then with the two from the non-drive position (rear). This is essential, because tires in the drive position wear more quickly. Only through proper rotation can you hope to ensure that your tires wear evenly and last as long as they are supposed to. A tire balance can help your vehicle ride more smoothly by eliminating vibrations within the tires and wheels.

Air Filter – Like most modern vehicles, all Hondas have an air filter, or air cleaner. This item filters the air that is sucked into your engine, preventing dirt, dust and other debris from chocking the life out of your engine. However, over time, your air filter will become blocked and clogged with this debris. It’s recommended that you change it every 15,000 miles (sooner in areas with extreme weather conditions).

Transmission Service – The transmission of your Honda is essential; without it, your vehicle won’t move. Just like your engine, the transmission has fluid that helps lubricate the moving parts and helps to cool the transmission during operation. Most Honda dealerships recommend having your fluid drained and refilled every 30,000 miles on average, though your dealership might have different mileage recommendations.

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While fuel prices are certainly lower than they were a year ago, the fact remains that a price hike is just one greedy price markup away. Most consumers are savvy enough to understand that the good times have not returned to stay. No matter where you stand on the question of oil drilling and petroleum production, the fact remains that finding a more fuel-efficient vehicle is more than important. Thankfully, Honda has you covered. You’ll find that Honda offers a wide range of vehicles that get top marks for fuel economy. What are they?

The Insight – Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve heard about the return of the Honda Insight – the only vehicle that seems capable of giving the Toyota Prius a run for its money. In fact, the Insight actually gets better fuel economy than the Prius in some circumstances, according to recent test drives by a well-known automotive authority. The Insight brings new style, a more lively feel, better handling and great performance (though don’t make the mistake of thinking this is a speed demon.)

The Fit – The Fit was met with mixed reviews when it debuted on US soil a few years ago. For compactness and that sheer “neat-o” factor, it earned high marks. However, it certainly did seem to have wheels that were just too small for the fender wells (even though they were 15-inch wheels) and the car met with lukewarm approval for its style. Honda has revamped the Fit and it now offers better styling and even better fuel economy. If you want a great little car to save you massive amounts of green on that daily commute, then the Fit might just be it!

The Civic Hybrid – The Honda Civic has long been a hallmark of the automaker, from day one. However, with the Civic Hybrid, Honda brought an entirely new level of popularity to this perennial favorite. The Civic Hybrid offers immense fuel savings, great looks (award-winning style, as a matter of fact) and more. Drivers can’t seem to get enough of this peppy little car and you’ll find that the new Civic Hybrid offers a decent amount of comfort to round out the offering.

The Civic – While the hybrid version is certainly popular, you shouldn’t dismiss the standard gas-powered Civic. Even the Civic SI (wow!) gets some decent marks for fuel economy, though if you drive with a lead foot those savings will certainly go out the window. The Civic (no matter the type) offers great style, plenty of performance and the ability to save some of the cash in your wallet.

These are just a few of the top offerings from Honda in terms of fuel economy, though they all rank highly in terms of style, as well. Other options on the market include the new Accord, which gets excellent fuel mileage, without sacrificing a thing, and the CR-V and Element, both of which get decent scores for fuel economy, as well.

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Honda offers a wide range of vehicles, from the nimble, fuel-efficient Fit to the triumphantly returning Insight and the inimitable Odyssey. However, the fact remains that two of Honda’s top offerings, in terms of buyer popularity, are the Element and the Pilot. Which should you choose? If you find yourself in this conundrum, you’ll need to know the differences between the two vehicles.

While it might seem odd to contrast the two vehicles, with the Element built on the CR-V platform and the Odyssey, Pilot and Ridgeline sharing a platform, it can be done with little real trouble. So, what do these two vastly different vehicles have in common?

Well, for starters, they’re both SUVs, though the Pilot is certainly the larger of the two. However, the Element is no slouch and offers almost as much interior space as the Pilot, even though the package is definitely smaller.

In terms of potential cargo space, the Pilot comes in with 87 cubic feet, while the Element serves up an impressive 74.6 cubic feet (that’s maximum cargo space, though; you’ll find only 25.1 cubic feet behind the second row seats).

In terms of power, the two differ, as well. The Pilot offers Honda’s powerful V6, which also powers the Odyssey and the Ridgeline. The Element uses the CR-V 4-cylinder engine, which offers 166 hp, at 5800 RPM. The Pilot, in comparison, offers 250 at 5700 RPM. Of course, the Element weighs in less than the Pilot, so that power to weight ratio might not mean as much as it looks like in black and white.

For those who want to take their ride off-road, the Pilot is available in 4-wheel drive, while the Element only comes in 2-wheel drive. Of course, the body style of the Element doesn’t exactly lend itself to off-road use (but who in their right mind wants to muddy up their Pilot?).

In terms of passenger capacity, the Pilot wins out, as well, bringing three rows of seating to the party (thought that back row might not be the most comfortable place for long-legged folks to recline). The Element has only two rows of seating, but offers 64 seating arrangements (the seats are removable and completely adjustable – flexibility that you will not find in the Pilot).

Therefore, it seems that we have two worthy, though very different SUVs. The Pilot is an excellent choice for those who have to haul things (or burn rubber), while the Element is the perfect solution for drivers who want flexibility and plenty of options.

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Fuel economy has become pretty high on the list of demands for new car buyers. However, for some, that need forces them to neglect vehicles that do not meet their criteria for fuel consumption and environmental friendliness when shopping for a new ride. For those discerning individuals with a decidedly green bent, Honda offers quite a few options. However, you’ll need to know a bit more about the line of Honda hybrid vehicles before you purchase one. What’s on the lot?

Accord Hybrid – The big brother of the Civic has enjoyed a hybrid option for a number of years now. The Accord hybrid gives drivers the power of the standard Accord (in a V6, no less), with all the benefits that come along with hybrid technology. While the hybrid Accord certainly costs a bit more than its conventional brethren, you will find that the price is more than offset by the fuel savings.

Civic Hybrid – The Civic has long been a mainstay of Honda’s lineup around the world. Small, economic, fun and peppy, the Civic now offers a hybrid option, as well. While the conventional Civic has always enjoyed decent fuel economy, the hybrid model kicks this up quite a bit. Of course, you won’t have quite as much interior room with the Civic as with the Accord, but you’ll enjoy better overall fuel savings, simply due to the smaller size of the engine and the lessened weight of the vehicle.

The Insight – When Honda’s Insight first hit the roads several years ago, it made decent waves. However, the newly redesigned Insight is set to change the way you look at hybrid vehicles. With its unique Eco Assist system, regenerative braking properties, streamlined body and enhanced hybrid drivetrain, the Insight is a tremendous option for anyone who demands the very best in fuel consumption, as well as having a bit of style and panache. In fact, the Insight is the very first hybrid to become a “best seller” in Japan – how will the renewed option rank in the rest of the world?

Still to Come – the Fit Hybrid and the CR-Z

Debuting in 2010, Honda’s set to bring two more hybrid cars to the market. The Fit is Honda’s smallest and lightest vehicle for sale in the Western world. The Fit hybrid will bring even more fuel savings than those found with the Civic hybrid, due to its reduced size and weight. The CR-Z is a sporty hybrid that gives drivers an edge in both the looks and the fuel savings departments. In fact, if you’ve been holding off buying that hybrid just because you don’t see an option you find attractive, the CR-Z will be your dream car.

You’ll find that Honda’s dedication to fuel savings and benefiting the environment doesn’t only show in their range of hybrids. Even their conventional vehicles are available in ULEV ratings, and provide dramatically reduced emissions and fuel consumption, so even those who want a conventional vehicle can still do their part for the environment.

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If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, you have more than a few choices. The domestic automakers are offering some seriously slashed pricing and numerous other incentives to sway the buying public into believing they are still viable choices. However, more and more people are finding out what many have known for years now – Honda makes an excellent vehicle. If you’re considering purchasing a new Honda, you’ll need to know a few things before you hit the lot. What should you look for in order to determine which ride is right for you?

Honda makes several excellent vehicles from which to choose. Therefore, the first thing you must do is determine your particular needs. For instance, do you need the people hauling capabilities of an SUV, but the performance of a truck? If so, then the Ridgeline is a great choice. Named the best truck in its class, the Ridgeline offers excellent performance, thanks to its V6 engine and plenty of cargo room in the bed (and don’t forget the lockable trunk!). You’ll also find that the Ridgeline gives you plenty of passenger room in the cab.

If you want a full size SUV, then you might want to consider the Honda Pilot. This SUV shares the same engine and drivetrain as the Ridgeline, but it lacks the bed. However, don’t think that you’ll sacrifice cargo capacity here, as the Pilot has plenty to spare. The rear seats fold down to give you even more room, as well. Of course, the fact that it’s built with Honda quality is another huge bonus.

If you’re more into the car thing, then you’ve got several from which to choose including the Accord and the Civic (not to mention the Civic Si and the newly revamped Insight). The Accord comes in either a 4-cylinder version or a V6 version (the V6 gives you more than enough power, while the 4-cylinder is no slouch, but offers better fuel mileage). The debate between the Civic and the Accord might take you some time, as both vehicles are incredibly popular.

You will also find the Honda Element, which is a midsize SUV, with a bit of a utilitarian aspect, while the CR-V is a small SUV that offers ample room and decent pickup on the highway. Surprisingly, both the Element and the CR-V share the same engine and drivetrain, though the Element certainly offers a bit more in the area of roominess.

If you have a green frame of mind, then the Insight is likely high on your list of possibilities (though hybrid Accords are still available). The Insight, which rivals the famed Prius in terms of fuel savings and betters it in terms of style, offers those who exude environmental consciousness a way to ride in style, without sacrificing their environmental mores.

Choosing the right Honda for you will mean defining your wants and your needs. Test-drive a couple of different Hondas before making your final choice, as the ride may well determine your ultimate choice.

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If you find yourself in the market for a new automobile, you’ll be faced with a glut of choices. It seems that some automakers have resorted to offering everything but the kitchen sink in an effort to incite renewed interest in their products. However, Honda has never had to resort to such tactics, which is a dramatic testimony to their “staying power” in a depressed market. When other automakers are closing dealerships and accepting government handouts, Honda simply goes about business as normal.

How can Honda do this? First, they lead the industry in terms of owner loyalty. They’re renowned for producing vehicles that combine cutting edge style, design, quality and an impressive list of included features. Hondas are also known for their impressive durability. Honda owners find that their vehicle will continue to operate perfectly well long past the point that most other automakers’ offerings have headed to the scrap heap.

Does this mean that Honda is the right brand for you? To answer this question, you’ll need to answer a few other questions first. Do you want to have a vehicle that maintains its value, long past the point that other cars, trucks and vans are worth less as a functioning vehicle than as scrap metal? Do you want a vehicle that will continue to operate long past the 100,000-mile mark? Do you want a vehicle that rides well and performs as great as it looks? If you answered “yes” to these questions, then Honda is the perfect brand for you.

Your next step will be to check out the long list of models available from the manufacturer. For instance, those interested in a conventional vehicle that gets great fuel mileage, has an incredible look and is a ton of fun to drive will be impressed with the Civic and the Civic SI. Those who want to haul their kids to assorted after-school commitments will find that the Pilot, Odyssey and the Element have room to spare, as well as great looks. Those who want to benefit the environment will find Accord hybrids, Civic hybrids and, of course, the Insight available. All of these models offer ultra low emissions, tremendous savings in fuel costs and have some of the leading design and style elements in the world of automobiles.

In fact, you will find that Honda has a vehicle for almost any needs at all. The CR-V is a great choice for those who want the capabilities of a small SUV, without the excess space that comes with larger models. The Accord has lead the coupe and sedan market for decades and continues to be the primary choice for consumers ranging from commuters to college students and more.

As you can see, Honda is the right choice for almost anyone out there interested in a great vehicle that maintains its worth, is comfortable to drive and will remain on the road long past the time that other automakers’ offerings call it quits.

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There’s no shortage of vehicles for sale on the market today. If you are in the market for a new car, truck or minivan, you’ll have options ranging from the Big Three to Toyota, Kia, BMW and quite a few more. However, you’ll find that Honda stands pretty high in the eyes of consumers these days. In fact, Honda is the number one choice of a growing number of consumers. How does Honda stack up against other automakers? Are they the correct choice for your needs? What’s the true story here?

Honda Ranks Higher in Existing Customer Loyalty

Customer loyalty can seem an ephemeral thing these days, particularly when budgets are strained to the breaking point and it seems like more and more families are making sacrifices in their purchasing habits. More people seem to be going with the “bottom dollar” choice when it comes to everything from food to gasoline, from air conditioners to clothing. However, Honda customers remain loyal to the brand, even in the face of an economic downturn. Why, you ask?

It seems that almost all Honda owners, whether first time buyers or those who’ve owned multiple Honda vehicles, would prefer to purchase a Honda as their next vehicle. Here are some of the prime reasons that Honda leads the pack in terms of owner loyalty.

Reliability – Honda has made a name for itself as one of the most reliable vehicles on the market. The level of engineering that goes into each vehicle is astounding and ensures that whether you purchase an Odyssey, an Accord, Civic, Pilot, Ridgeline, Element, CR-V, Insight or something else, it will be one of the most reliable vehicles you’ve ever owned. That counts for a lot in a world where it seems that you have to stretch every penny to the utmost.

Quality – Unlike some other automakers out there, you’ll find that Hondas feel solid and comfortable. This is because the company goes the extra mile to ensure that every vehicle they produce conforms to the highest in quality standards, in order to deliver to their customers a vehicle that will not only stand the test of time, but be a vehicle their customers want to continue to drive three or four years down the road.

Style – Honda leads the pack in another area, as well. When it comes to style and design, Honda has consistently ranked within the top echelons of the industry, far outstripping many other automakers. This means that customers will have a vehicle that continues to look great for as long as they choose to drive it. With their forward thinking stance to exterior and interior design, Honda is able to consistently deliver a product that looks as good as it performs.

Of course, there are numerous other reasons why Honda is so popular with such a wide range of different consumer subsets. You’ll find that their green initiative is one of the largest, though their commitment to owner satisfaction certainly doesn’t hurt their rankings.

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