Honda Dealership gives back to its Miami Community this Holiday

Christmas is the Season for giving, loving, and sharing, especially to those who need it most. One company that knows the very essence of giving is dealership Brickell Honda in Miami. Today Brickell Honda will be participating in a Toy drive to give over 1000 gifts to children. This is the dealerships fourth annual Holiday Toy giveaway. Over 5 organizations have been contacted and will drive school buses of children to the dealership to pick up their gifts. Overtown Youth Center, Boys and Girls Club of Miami-Dade, and Community Partnership for the Homeless will visit the dealership to receive their toys. It is important that we keep the spirit of Christmas alive. Children will be excited to find that Christmas came a little early this year.

Miami SUV: Honda Pilot vs. Chevy Tahoe

Watch as these two SUV's go head to head in Miami:

Miami Honda Dealership OutSells in Accords and Civics

It’s a FACT: Your Miami Honda has a High Resale Value

The Automotive Lease Guide, also known as ALG, has just released its 2010 Residual Value Awards and Honda didn’t disappoint. The Award, which was started in 2001, honors those vehicles that retain the highest percentage of their original price after a three-year lease.  ALG carefully studies the segment competition, sales strategy, resale performance, and residual values to come up with the winners. This year marked the 11^th annual awards, which featured only 2010 model vehicles.  A complete list of the winners can be found on www.alg.com.

Honda which came in as the runner-up in the Mainstream Brand Residual Value Award, received three segment Residual Value Awards for the Fit (Entry Compact Car), Accord (Mid-size car), and the Odyssey (Minivan). John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co. said,  “These ALG awards once again recognize Honda’s commitment to offer high-quality products with long-term value.” Since 2001, the Honda brand has earned 20 model awards and six overall brand awards from ALG. Acura, a division of American Honda Motor Company, has won the Luxury Brand Residual Value Award for the second consecutive year. General Manager of ALG, James Clark, described the Awards, “We continue to believe that residual value is the best metric for evaluating the overall strength of an automotive brand, and we congratulate all of the 2010 winners for their successful products and marketing strategies.”

There is no doubt these awards come as a deciding factor for many car enthusiast out there who are looking for a car that will last them for years to come without costing them more than what they can afford. Visit your nearest Miami Honda dealership to test drive or purchase your reliable Honda vehicle.

The Man Behind the Parts: Chandler Nelson

Here is an exclusive interview with Brickell Motors' Parts Manager Chandler Nelson, as printed in D.F.O. magazine. Although the interview may get a little "technical" at times, it is an exciting look into the inner workings of Brickell Motors, as well as the mind of a standard-setting professional. Interview is within PDF File below.

Get the Exclusive Interview Here

If you would like more information on Brickell Motors or its Parts Department, or if you would like to see the handiwork of Chandler for yourself, check out Brickell Motors, which is located in beautiful downtown Miami- or check out the "Parts" section of Brickell Honda's Website.

Designers of Honda P-NUT chime in on the P-NUT's autoshow debut, Honda's vision for the future of cars.

We know we've been talking a lot about the Honda P-NUT and its introduction at the Los Angeles Auto show, but we figured that it would help to see the concept in live action (well, live car show action, anyway) and to hear from some of the designers (Dave Marek, director of advanced design; Andy Foster, director of Exterior Design). What follows is uncut video from the unveiling of the P-NUT on December 2, 2009.

Although you will most likely never get your hands on an actual Honda P-NUT, you can get your hands on a futuristically-styled Honda today. Check out Brickell Honda Direct, which is a great way to start shopping for your next car, since you can get a personalized quickquote on a Honda in 7 minutes or less. Check out BrickellHondaDirect.com for more information.

American Honda Passes Chrysler as top automaker in U.S market

The Big Three is a term used in the automotive industry for the three major American automotive companies. The former three major automotive companies that dominated in the U.S and Canada are General Motors, Ford, and Chrysler. Not too far behind these 3 automakers is Toyota. Toyota saw success in 2007 when it beat Ford in 2007 and won against GM in sales in 2008. More recently, Honda has been getting in on the “Big Three” action by passing Chrysler as the number 4 automaker in the U.S market. Honda now sits right after Toyota Motor sales and the new General Motors company in U.S sales. Honda’s executive VP John Mendel recently told Automotive News that they made a decision to cut 200,000 from its production schedule this year.

In 2008, Chrysler was able to stay ahead of Honda in sales, but this year Honda has clearly out-done them. Honda has sold about 185,000 more vehicles than Chrysler in 2009 year to date through October sales. Automotive News also reported that through November, Honda has increased its lead with a 200,000-unit edge on Chrysler, at 1.044 million vehicles. This lead can be associated with the automakers manufacturing abilities in the U.S. As of late November, Honda has produced about 655,000 vehicles in the U.S while Chrysler has produced around 425,000 units. Honda has a manufacturing capacity of 1.62 million in North America (including Mexico) including 1.18 million vehicles in the U.S. Some of American Honda’s major manufacturing plants in the U.S are located in Ohio, Alabama and Indiana. Another advantage Honda has over its competitors is that it has the largest auto engine plant in the world in Anna, Ohio. The engine plant can produce 1.16 million engines a year. The company also has a V-6 engine plant in Alabama, a four-cylinder engine production plant in Ontario, and automatic transmission plants in Ohio and Georgia.

There is no doubt Honda is climbing its way to the top of the automotive chain. Honda has also left consumers on their toes with the addition of new models to their lineup, such as the Accord Crosstour and the CR-Z, which is due out next year. Be sure to visit your local Honda dealership to test drive and take home one of Honda’s acclaimed vehicles.

Previously Unreleased Exclusive Information on 2011 Buick Regal

The 2011 Buick Regal- "The New Class of World Class" has been one of the most talked-about debuts at the L.A. auto show, and will be a welcome addition to Buick's more daring and youthful lineup. We have obtained an exclusive PDF copy of the 2011 Buick Regal L.A. autoshow handout, which gives you an inside look at the revamped Regal. This information was previously only available to people who attended the L.A Autoshow, and the pictures within have only been seen by those people as well. We hope you enjoy this BHB exclusive. Link is below.

2011 Buick Regal Auto Show Handout

If you would like more information on the 2011 Buick Regal or other Buick or GMC models, check out BrickellGMC.com. Brickell is a full-service new and used Honda and GM dealership, financing center, and parts and repair center, and is located in beautiful downtown Miami, FL. Brickell is known for their exclusive Brickell Plus service plan, which is only available at Brickell Motors.

Miami Drivers Choose a Honda for Functionality and Design

Many people recognize Honda for its reliability and safety. Over the years, Honda has gathered many awards for its safety features and its durable parts. Its no wonder so many people driving through Miami’s hectic streets choose a Honda over other vehicles.

Recently, Honda has been capturing international attention with its new and edgy designs. Nobuki Ebisawa, the corporate managing director and general manager of styling and design development for Honda, says dynamism and functionality are the two themes for Honda’s latest designs. According to Ebisawa, the company still draws inspiration from designs of the first-generation Civic and Accord models. And at the same time, they look back all the way to the 1963 S500 sports car to channel the dynamism that helps set the brand apart. The upcoming Honda hybrid CR-Z shows just how dynamic and design savvy Honda is getting to be. Functionality for the new CR-Z will be characterized by the fuel-efficient hybrid drivetrain, and dynamism will be expressed by the car’s style and fun-to-drive nature. Honda has always been praised for its excellent choice in interior design and features. Ebisawa cites his group’s intense study of the “man-machine interface” for this, noting that Honda has long relied on the philosophy “Man maximum, machine minimum” in its designs. This means that Honda’s controls are intended to be intuitive, not intrusive: to help the driver, not to challenge the driver or to make a design statement for design’s sake.

The Honda CR-Z will bring all of these elements together: functionality, dynamic, and emotion, making it once very appealing hybrid. The new design presents a new face for the company as well as one that has yet to be seen. The CR-Z will be available next year at your local Miami Honda dealership. Make sure to stop by and test drive the new functional Honda hybrid.

Honda Continues Dominance of Car and Driver 10 Best; Honda Classed With Porsche, BMW, Cadillac, and Audi

Once again, Honda's Accord and Fit (2010 models) have taken their place alongside models from automakers like Porsche, BMW, Cadillac, and Audi on "Car and Driver" magazine's annual "Ten Best" list. This marks Accord's 24th (and 13th consecutive) appearance in the 28 years since first appearing on the list in 1983, and marks Fit's 4th appearance on the list since first appearing in 2007. To add perspective to these accomplishments, no other car even comes close to Accord when it comes to number of appearances on the list, and Fit has appeared on the list every single year it has existed here in the United States.

In the words of others:

Car and Driver on the Accord: "In 28 years of 10Best competition, Honda’s Accord has made the list 24 times. Somewhere in Japan, there are about 200 engineers wringing their hands and asking each other, “Where’d we go wrong in those four losing years?” Maybe that’s why the car is so good."

Car and Driver on the Fit:  "It’s all the car anyone needs—big fun, and as cheap to own and operate as a hamster. Despite the Fit’s microbial footprint, it takes truly Sasquatchian dimensions to be discomforted inside, and all that space is surrounded by quality materials and thoughtful design unmatched in many vehicles costing much more....Everything about this Honda feels like a more expensive, more upmarket vehicle. It is the marriage of a number of seemingly paradoxical concepts, but its greatest accomplishment is the association this little runabout dissolves: The Fit proves more decisively than any other vehicle that affordable and cheap are mutually exclusive concepts."

American Honda Executive Voice President John Mendel on the selections: "The Car and Driver ‘10Best' awards recognize Honda's ongoing emphasis on performance, quality and safety. Honda is honored to have its vehicles regarded so highly over the years with one of the most coveted awards in the industry."

Honda's appearances within the 10Best rankings:
 Accord    24 times (1983-'91, '94-'95, 1998-2010)
Civic        5 times   (1988-'91, 1996)
CRX        2 times   (1985, 1988)
Fit            4 times   (2007-2010)
Prelude   10 times  (1984-'86, 1992-98)
S2000      3 times   (2000-2004)

If you would like to get your hands on the Fit, Accord, or any other Honda, then there is no better place to start than Miami's Brickell Honda. Brickell Honda is a full-service Honda center that works in new and Certified used Honda Sales, Honda financing, and is also an official Honda parts and service center. Brickell is located in beautiful downtown Miami, and can also be found on the web at BrickellHonda.com. Brickell is well known for its website BrickellHondadirect.com, where you can get a quote on a Honda in 7 minutes or less.

What does the Honda Crosstour have in common with the 2011 Ford Mustang?

There is no doubt that these two sedans, or shall I say sports cars, are in different playing fields. The new and improved 2011 Ford Mustang is aimed to target fast, young and old drivers alike. The sports car is also geared towards men, not to discriminate against women who enjoy living on the edge as much as their counterpart. The Honda Accord Crosstour on the other hand was designed and targeted towards a much older crowd who enjoys a spacious a comfortable vehicle. After the release of the Crosstour, critics have realized that younger crowds have also become fans of the spacious hatchback.

But what exactly is it that these two vehicles have in common? Can it be their amazing gas mileage? The new 2011 Ford Mustang will reportedly reach 30 mpg on the highway, which is a big improvement from the 2010 model that only gets 20mpg on the highway. The Crosstour, like most Honda’s, was designed particularly for those who are fuel efficient conscious. The EX model of the Crosstour gains 27mpg on the highway, which is pretty good for a 3.5L i-VTEC V6 engine. Although the two vehicles score exceptionally decent on the highway fuel mileage, this isn’t the feature that makes these two vehicles alike. What makes these two vehicles similar is what’s under the hood. The 2011 Ford Mustang comes with a high performance due to its all-powerful 3.7-liter DOHC Ti-VCT V-6 engine that delivers 305 horsepower. Along with its six-speed automatic transmission, the 2011 Ford Mustang is by far one of the fastest vehicles to come into the industry. The Honda Crosstour doesn’t lag to far behind with its 3.5L i-VTEC V6 engine which delivers 271 horsepower. The Crosstours 5-speed automatic transmission along with Honda’s Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system, allows the engine to run on as few as 3 cylinders to conserve fuel.

There is no doubt these two vehicles are the more powerful and efficient vehicles available (or soon to be available) on the market. Depending on whether you’re a driver that enjoys a sportier vehicle or a driver who looks for comfort and safety in a vehicle, you will know which of the two to choose. Make sure to visit your local Miami Dealership to test drive these powerful vehicles.

Miami Drivers Choose the Honda Insight for Efficiency and Price

With the growing competition of hybrid vehicles on the market, it gets hard for consumers to choose which is the right fuel-efficient car for them. Every hybrid seems to offer something different- style, design, extras ect… But essentially they all deliver the same result, environment friendly motors. Some of the hottest hybrids on the market include the Toyota Prius, Honda Insight, Civic Hybrid and the Ford Fusion. The 2010 Honda Insight comes in as the cheapest of the hybrids with a starting price of $19,800. You will pay at least $1,500 more for the Toyota Prius, which has a starting/base price of $22,400. The 2010 Ford Fusion comes in as the most expensive of the group with a base price of $ 27,625.

Although the 2010 Honda Insight is known for its tight backseat space, its affordable price and excellent fuel economy more than make up for it. The Honda Insight also scores significantly high in Crash test results, earning 5 and 4 stars for driver, passenger, side impact, and rollover resistance. EPA mileage for the Honda Insight is 40mpg city and 43mpg highway. The Insight has Honda's Integrated Motor Assist system, which uses a small electric motor (13 horsepower) to supplement the 98-horsepower gasoline engine, which runs nearly all the time except when the vehicle comes to a stop, such as at a traffic signal. There is no doubt that the Insight is the most practical hybrid car on the market. As for the Insight, even the base LX is well equipped at its under-$20,000 price. Standard are front seat-mounted side air bags, roof-mounted side-curtain air bags for both rows, antilock brakes, continuously variable automatic transmission, automatic climate control, tilt-and-telescopic steering column, manual driver's seat height adjustment, power windows and door locks, a four-speaker AM/FM audio system with CD player and auxiliary input for iPods and other music players, and more. The EX comes with everything available on the Insight, with the most expensive model running just $23,100; in comparison, the 2010 Prius ranges from $22,400 to $27,670 plus $750 freight and the buyer's choice from a list of options.

Did we mention this hybrid is a Honda? Honda’s are known for their reliability, affordability and safety. Rest assure that your hybrid will last you for longer than you bargained for. Be sure to stop by your local Miami Dealership to check out the new Honda Insight.

Millions Couldn't be Wrong: Honda is Tops for Quality Autos, Miami Drivers Agree

According to Automotive Lease Guide (ALG), which is "the leading source for automotive residual values and analytical data products, as well as consulting services for automotive manufacturers, finance companies, and fleet companies" and also offers "tips and tools for vehicle leasing to help... calculate monthly payments, understand residual values, and gain knowledge about the automotive industry in general" to consumers, Honda is one of the top performers in their Perceived Quality Score (or PQS) survey. This survey monitors consumer confidence in mainstream car brands. Honda has placed in this survey for many years running. In the words of James Clark, ALG's general manager, (Honda has) "maintained a long history of durable and reliable powertrains, which resonates with consumers and often leads them to rate other characteristics like safety and design positively as well."

If you would like to purchase a new or certified used Honda, or perhaps lease a Honda vehicle, then there is no better place to start than Brickell Honda of Miami. Check out BrickellHonda.com for more information, or visit BrickellHondaDirect.com to get a free quickquote on a Honda in 7 minutes or  less.

Everyone Loves a Honda: How Honda Connects Miami Residents

Honda has a new theory: Everyone knows someone who loves a Honda. If that's true, then Honda love can connect everyone- and Honda is out to prove it. This video features 2010 model-year Hondas, including (in order shown) Element, Odyssey, Accord, Civic, CR-V, and Insight.

If you would like to find out more about one of the cars shown here, or would like to get a personalized quick quote on any one of these vehicles, then check out BrickellHondaDirect.com, where you will get a quote in 7 minutes or less.

Honda: Leading Fuel Efficient Car in Miami

On Friday, November 20, 2009, the Environmental Protection Agency announced its preliminary figures for the most efficient vehicles in 2009.  It was no surprise to hear that Honda Motor Co. has the most fuel-efficient line of vehicles in the United States. All Honda vehicles sold in 2009 are expected to average 23.6 miles per gallon in driving. Not far behind Honda were Hyundai and Toyota, each with 23.4 mpg and 23.2 mpg respectively. Honda has launched new vehicles for its up coming model year, such as the 2010 Honda Insight and followed by the 2011 Honda CR-Z hybrid. These vehicles are expected to be popular buys among young adults in urban cities, such as Miami. Honda also plans on keeping its reputation by future sales of a Honda Fit Hybrid. Honda is most known for its Civic and Accord models but has been determined to bring new model line ups to the market. There is no doubt Honda has made some good decisions that are evidently paying off.  Be sure to stop by your local Miami Honda dealership to see the latest model lineups Honda has to offer.

The Honda Civic is More Powerful than the Toyota Corolla

Honda Introduces New Vision to the World; Miami Honda lovers await

If you're a car lover or a Honda fanatic, then make sure to mark the week of December 2 on your calendar. That week is the week of the Los Angeles Car Show, and during that week, Honda will reveal just a little more of its vision of the future of automobiles, when it reveals its Personal Neo-Urban Transport concept to the world. Traditionally, concept car presentations are not always "rough drafts" for future vehicles, but can instead represent a company's vision for society's future relationship with automotive technology. If you use the most recent displays by automakers as examples, then it is obvious that carmakers envision the future as an urban, efficient, compact one- and the name Honda "Personal-Neo Urban Transport" (yes, P-NUT) seems to evoke all those qualities.  We have no clue what the P-NUT actually looks like, except that it is an "ultra-compact, agressively designed coupe", and it follows the introduction of concepts like Honda's Skydeck and CR-Z (both pictured here).

If you don't want to wait several years for the ideas presented in concepts to hit the streets, why not look into getting your own futuristic car right now? Honda has several "cars of the future" on sale now. Whether you prefer futuristic styling (the Honda Fit) or futuristic technology (Honda Insight), Honda has something for you. You can get a quick quote on the Honda of your choice in less than 8 minutes time from BrickellHondaDirect.com, or visit Brickell Honda of Miami- Miami's favorite car dealership- in person to see the future for yourself. And for you car enthusiats- we will have more information on the P-NUT as it comes.

Honda Passes Safety Test for 2010

Only 27 new vehicles made the list for the safest cars of 2010. In 2009, 94 vehicles made the list for top safety cars, which are 67 less than this year. Apparently the safety rating got a lot tougher, like the addition of a new roof strength requirement. The roof strength requirement aims to protect passengers against rollover crashes. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety added the roof strength test to address the increasing circumstances where people are injured or killed in accidents.

Honda not only got one of its vehicles to make the top 27 list, but two. The Honda Civic and the Honda Element were two of the Honda vehicles that performed very well on these rigorous safety tests. The Honda Accord missed the list by a synch due to minor details. The Institute named 19 cars and eight sport-utility vehicles as the top safety vehicles for 2010. Among them are the Audi A3, Honda Civic, Dodge Journey and Ford Taurus. Among major automakers with no top picks is Toyota Motor Corp. Toyota's Camry came close with good front, side and rollover protection, but fell short in the rear-impact test. To become a top safety pick, a vehicle has to have the insurance group's top rating of "good" in front, side, rollover and rear-impact crash tests and also have electronic stability control, which helps drivers maintain control of their vehicles in situations that might otherwise result in crashes.

Roof strength has long been a point of contention between the Insurance Institute and the auto industry, as well as among safety experts. Carmakers have never been fond of roof strength testing because they say these test do not show a conclusive relationship between roof strength and occupant safety. Carmakers also conclude that roof strength testing does not show how well a vehicles structure performs in crash collisions. A representative of the Institute, Mr. Lund, responded by stating that their research on rollover crashes showed that weaker vehicles roofs more often than not result in death.

Honda has been known for over a decade for its reliable and safe vehicles and once again has been recognized for it. Make sure to stop by your local Miami dealership to test drive your safe Honda vehicle.

Looking for an auto deal? Black Friday may be the Best Time to Get Deals on a Car, Truck, or SUV

According to recently released research from TrueCar.com "the authority on car pricing", Black Friday is the best day of the year to buy a new car- this may come as a shock for many who may think only think of Black Friday as a day to purchase TV's, computers, and clothes. TrueCar.com's research reveals that car buyers are likely to pay about 3% less for a car than they would on any average day during the rest of the year, thanks to manufacturer's incentives and dealership discounts. Experts believe that this trend is caused by dealers who want to get in on the Black Friday madness, and many dealers say that they produce incentives to stand out from the noise in consumer markets.

Black Friday isn't the only day to get a good deal on a Honda, GMC, or Buick at Brickell Motors of Miami. As a matter of fact, you can get your Black Friday shopping done early at Brickell, because when you buy any new vehicle at Brickell, you will receive a FREE 42" Plasma TV! Brickell also has great deals on certified used cars.  For more information, check out BrickellMotors.com/specials.

Black Friday: Best Day to Buy Your new Miami Honda Car

Black Friday is typically one of the busiest days in retail store history. Many people go shopping for clothes, electronics, and toys to find the greatest deals and steals of the year. Now you can find new vehicles on Black Friday for the same amount of added discounts. According to research done by the website Truecar.com, discounts for new vehicles on average are the biggest of the year on the day after Thanksgiving. Analysts looked at the day-by-day car pricing for the last several years, which pointed to Black Friday being the best day to purchase vehicles. "The discounts from dealerships, as well as manufacturers' incentives, generate the highest discounts of the year on Black Friday," said Jesse Toprak, an analyst for Truecar.com.

You can kill two birds with one stone when you shop for your next vehicle at Brickell Motors in Miami. For a limited time only they are offering a free 42” plasma TV with every new vehicle purchase. Brickell Motors sells a long line of used and new vehicles ranging from Honda, Buick, Pontiac, and GMC. Other dealerships in the Miami area are also offering great sales and specials this time of year. South Motors and The Collection are just a few of the highly reputable dealerships in town. Be sure to stop by your local Miami dealership to see what they have to offer you.

Local Miami Dealerships See a Rise in Sub-compact Car Sales

It seems like people are falling away from the big muscle car trend that we saw not too long ago. Those gas-guzzling vehicles are no longer on the radar for many due to fuel-efficient vehicles. Top sales analyst, George Pipas, predicts sales of small cars to keep increasing. Pipas named a couple of factors that could be contributing to this such as government policies and gas prices. The government has recently come up with many policies encouraging the use of more fuel-efficient vehicles, like the Cash for Clunkers Bill that was passed earlier on this year. The high price for gas these days has also led people to purchase a car that has better mileage. Small cars currently account for 21 percent of all US vehicle sales and these numbers are predicted to increase to 36 percent in 2013.

Carmakers, such as Ford, Honda, and Nissan, are coming up with new model lineups for the coming year that are small in size. Ford has found much success with its compact car the Ford Focus. Honda has also seen much success from the Honda Civic and Insight, which are both small sub-compact cars. Honda has also recently come out with the Accord Crosstour, which is expected to do significantly well in the market. Make sure to visit your local Miami Dealership and take a look at compact cars in their showroom. Now is the time to purchase a new or used small compact car before prices go up.

In the news today: Some Folks Really Love Hondas.

Aleh Kot, a 32-year old Massachusetts man, went into a Honda dealership Thursday afternoon with the intent on test-driving a brand-new black 2010 Honda Accord.

The salesman who assisted him probably didn't know just how desperately this man wanted to get behind the wheel of a brand-new 2010 Accord. When the salesman thought that the test drive may have gone just a bit too long, and finally asked Kot to turn around, Kot refused to stop and continued to drive.... and drive, and drive- at speeds up to 120 miles per hour. The salesman eventually jumped out of the car when Kot slowed down at a toll booth near the Massachusetts state line- but Kot did not stop driving. Kot continued to drive until he was stopped in Wisconsin, and had racked up a number of charges, including kidnapping, unarmed robbery, speeding, and larceny of a motor vehicle. He is currently awaiting extradition from Wisconsin to Massachusetts.

If YOU would like to get your hands on a new Honda Civic, then Miami's Brickell Honda will have no problem letting you take a test drive- as long as it's not a 1000-mile version. Of course, Brickell's prices are so low, that stealing a car would just make no sense, especially with the finance specials that are being offered right now. To get your personalized quickquote on a Honda Civic, check out BrickellHondaDirect.com- where you can get a personalized quickquote in 7 minutes or less. For more information on Brickell Honda and their unique programs, visit BrickellHonda.com.

The Secret Behind Hybrid Cars Near You

The hype for driving fuel-efficient vehicles continues to drive vehicle sales, as seen with the newer versions of hybrid cars being introduced by carmakers. Every automobile maker must come out with a new hybrid line for the coming year if it wants to succeed in the industry. But why are hybrids so popular? Everyone knows that hybrids are the “green” products of the future by using electricity to achieve good gas mileage. But many fail to think about costs, savings, and the technology put into a hybrid. Do these factors still make the hybrid an appealing choice?

Although electric motors are efficient at accelerating, they are costly, heavy and take up a lot of space in a car. As a result, automakers came out with a hybrid vehicle. What makes a hybrid so appealing is the fact that it uses two powertrains, an electric motor and a gasoline engine, that draw power from a battery pack. The large battery pack is recharged by the gas engine and energy recouped from the brakes. Hybrids have their faults as well. The dual drivetrain found in the fuel efficient vehicles can be more expensive than a traditional gas engine alone, the battery pack takes up space, and the pack adds weight to the vehicle.

Hybrids offer significant gas savings for drivers. The Honda Civic Hybrid returns 37 mpg, while the Toyota Camry hybrid returns 34 mpg. In terms of emissions, hybrids typically produce 29 percent less smog-forming nitrogen oxide than conventional cars, according to a study by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy. And every gallon of gas saved reduces carbon dioxide emissions by 19 pounds, which reduces global warming.

Most of the information gathered was taken from a Consumer Reports article on Hybrids. Make sure to visit your local Miami dealership to see what hybrids they are offering and which ones fit your tastes.

The Honda Crosstour's Interior Design makes for a Comfortable Ride

With all of the hype about the exterior design of the 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour, it's a wonder that not too many people have given thought to the interior design of the the new automobile. After a first look inside the new Honda Crosstour, it is obvious the interior is quite impressive: it has a versatile, upscale 5-passenger interior with an innovative rear storage area, which functions as a "trunk" to keep goods away from prying eyes. The rear storage area features an innovative 8-inch deep under-floor Hidden Removable Utility Box with a reversible lid, featuring both plush-carpeted and durable-plastic sides. Levers near the interior fender wells, conveniently accessible from the tailgate opening, which allows for one-touch conversion of the seats into the floor for additional cargo space.

"Honda has a longstanding reputation for maximizing interior space and utility in its vehicles," said Erik Berkman, vice president of corporate planning and logistics for American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "Like the award-winning Honda Fit, the Accord Crosstour uses a versatile design to create an interior that functions with the practicality of a larger vehicle."

If you would like some information on how to get your own Crosstour, including how to get your quickquote in less than 7 minutes, checkout BrickellHondaDirect.com. For information on Brickell's current finance specials, click here.

GM Looks to Redeem Itself with its Two New Vehicles

General Motors is in the midst of introducing its two newest additions to the GM lineup in dealership showrooms next year. The two new vehicles are the Buick Regal and the Chevy Cruze. GM is targeting new customers in hopes of turning around the market and make themselves a household name once again.

The 2011 Buick Regal is an all-new sedan that is much like its kin the 2010 Buick LaCrosse. The 5-passenger Regal Sedan has already been receiving 5 star safety ratings in Europe and China. The Regal will feature three different four-cylinder engines and the first models will have the 2.4-liter direct-injection engine. The sportier and smaller version of the LaCrosse will hit the market next spring and is aimed to attract more fuel-conscious drivers.

Another eagerly awaited Sedan introduced by GM is the Chevy Cruze. The 2011 Chevy Cruze is aimed to go against the 2012 Ford Focus, Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, and Nissan Sentra. The Cruze, which has already been introduced in Europe and Asia, has already started to see good reviews. The Cruze is powered by a turbocharged and direct-injected 1.4-liter engine that will offer fuel efficiency as high as 40 miles per gallon, with the same power as the 2.4-liter engine in today's 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt.

Make sure to stop by your local Miami GM Dealership to see these latest additions of the GM family. Sales for these two vehicles are expected to be high so make sure to see them before its too late.

Mugen Accessories for the 2010 Honda Accord Sedan

Honda has announced new accessories from Mugen for its 2010 Honda Accord Sedan and Honda Fit models. Mugen is a Japanese tuning company that focuses on Honda parts. Mugen is a top contender in the Japanese market for racing circuits. Some exclusive Mugen accessories that are available for the 2010 Honda Accord Sedan include: sports mat, oil filler cap, Mugen front emblem, 18-inch alloy wheels, front under spoiler, side under spoiler, rear under spoiler, and front grille. The complete line of Mugen accessories will be available at your local Honda dealership on November 11, 2009. All panels will come pre-painted in one of five Accord colors: Polished Metal Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, Alabaster Silver Metallic, White Diamond Pearl and Taffeta White.

Mugen works closely with Formula One and has become a favorite among car lovers in many nations. Most experts believe Mugen's consumer parts are some of the most consistent and technologically sophisticated you can get without a team of mechanics running quick changes in the pits. There is no doubt about Mugen’s performance when it comes to accessories. Be sure to stop at an authorized Honda dealership near you to pick up Mugen parts for your Honda vehicle. Even if you don’t have an authorized Honda dealership near you, you can purchase the parts online. Many dealerships now offer their parts for sale online.

2010 Honda Pilot- Miami's Gentle Giant

It's that time of year again... when new car models are introduced and prospective car buyers are in a frenzy, trying to get their hands on the latest version of their prospective ride. Honda has several 2010 models with revamped features and/or design, and the Honda Pilot is one of these vehicles.
This year's Honda Pilot features several updates to last year's extensive redesign of the Pilot. Most notable among them include:
-the newest generation of Variable Cylinder Management on all models (an engine which helps make the Pilot even more powerfully efficient)
-a tailgate with lift-up glass hatch
-Standard integrated tow hitch
-Hill Start Assist
-Humidity Control System as part of standard air conditioning
-Four Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH), increased from two
-Driver’s and front passenger’s active head restraints
-Tilt and telescopic steering column
-Aluminum hood
And in addition to these, the touring edition has:
-Interface Dial with Scrolling and Multi-Line Display
-Bluetooth HandsFreeLink
-Power tailgate
These additions help improve on Pilot's famous comfort, room of a minivan, and Honda-smooth ride (to quote one review, "Pilot may look tough- but it drives like an angel). For more information on the Pilot's other features and pricing, contact Brickell Honda of Miami at Brickellhondadirect.com, where you can get a quick quote in 7 minutes or less.

The Rise in Demand for Used Cars affects Sales in Miami Dealerships

The main focus on dealership sales usually comes from new vehicles yet now more than ever, people are looking for used vehicles. According to Edmunds.com, used vehicle prices jumped to an average of 16 percent in October compared to last year. It seems consumers are willing to pay for used cars at whatever the cost may be, well at least to a certain extent. A lot of factors can be the cause for such high demands of used car vehicles, especially when supply is low. One reason might be the most recent incentive proposed by the government, Cash for Clunkers. Reports estimated that around 700,000 older vehicles that were traded in during the incentive were destroyed. These vehicles could have been potentially sold in the used car market for a good price. Now, new car sales are down and fewer customers are willing to trade in their used vehicles.

Demand for used vehicles seems to be going up due to the economic state. Traditional car buyers are not in the economic state to be purchasing new vehicles and since then have been on the market for used vehicles. More people are saving money and putting cash down on used vehicles. The fact that the credit market remains tight makes it difficult for buyers to finance new vehicles. Finding quality used vehicles has also raised a problem for these high demands.  Buyers have to shop around and find a dealership that is offering certified and quality used vehicles. Many dealerships are starting to feature their used vehicles and lowering prices in order to attract more customers. Be sure to check around for the best deals local dealerships are offering before you make a decision.

Honda Introduces Long-Awaited Pricing on 2010 Crosstour

Today, Honda announced that its new crossover, the All-New Accord Crosstour, will have a MSRP of $29,670, and will carry an additional destination and handling charge of $710. Honda also released pricing for other models of the new vehicle: the Honda Crosstour EX-L will have an MSRP of $32,570, and and the Navi version of this Crosstour is priced at MSRP $34,770 . All-wheel drive versions start around $34,020; a Navi version of this will start around $36,220.
The Crosstour is Honda's latest vehicle release in the US, and some experts compare it to Toyota's Venza. However, the Crosstour is incomparable to any other automobile anyone else has ever produced, except for Honda Accord, which is the platform Crosstour is built upon. Experts have already compared the Crosstour's comfort, smoothness in ride and handling, and overall utility to the Accord, but have noted the Crosstour's unique features and usage of space. These same experts and critics have also noticed the wide range of features available on the Ohio-built automobile, whether under the hood, inside the cabin, or on the exterior of the vehicle.
To get a personalized quickquote on a NEW Crosstour- go to BrickellHondaDirect.com,  or visit BrickellHonda.com for more information on Hondas in Miami.

The Honda Civic is Named Most Reliable Car, Once Again!

There was no surprise when reports showed the Honda Civic as the most reliable vehicle in Europe. According to the trade publication Fleet News whose study covered over a million vehicles, the Honda Civic along with the Toyota Avensis were named in the top ten most reliable cars. This isn’t the first time the award winning Civic has received accolades for its reliability. Consumer reports has recently come out with its list of most reliable vehicles, where the Honda Civic and Toyota are top picks for reliability. The Honda Insight was also recognized, as it was the highest scoring vehicle in predicted reliability. Consumer reports also showed Honda as the top, among all automakers, with every Honda vehicle or Acura surveyed having average or better than average predicted reliability.

Honda’s success can be seen through the head to head competition between local Honda Dealerships. Local Miami dealerships are fighting for your business and are luring potential customers into their dealership by offering attractive promotions. The government is also trying to stimulate vehicle sales by offering a tax deduction on purchases of new vehicles. More information on the bill can be found online at www.irs.gov. Be sure to stop by your local Honda Dealership and check out the latest specials they are offering.

Honda Insight Video! 

End of Year Sales on New Honda Purchases in Miami

It is no surprise Honda Dealership’s all over town are finding new ways to lure customers into their showroom this time around. Many Miami Honda Dealership’s are offering different promotions and “give-aways”, but which Honda dealership is actually giving away the best deal?

Honda Corporate has just released new lease options on all new 2010 Honda models, which all dealerships will be participating in. The Sales Tax Deduction on New Vehicles has also stirred up excitement with new Honda sales. These national offers might sound appealing to some customers but little do they know these aren’t dealership specific bargains. Consumers must look at what the dealership can offer them besides the national lease price or national incentives. One dealership in particular, Brickell Honda, runs a program called Brickell Plus where people who purchase new or used vehicles receive up to $3,000 in coupons and free gas. Under the Brickell Plus program, new vehicle customers will also receive up to 60,000 miles in free oil changes.

Your local Miami Honda Dealership is also having a limited time only promotion where every new vehicle purchase gets you a Free 42” Plasma TV. Also included in the promotion is any new vehicle purchase available for sign and drive no money down as well as 0% financing. Honda financing specials are also available with no payments until February 2010 on all vehicles. Don’t wait to long to purchase your new Honda vehicle in Miami because this deal won’t last forever!

First Impressions of the 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour in Miami

The development of the 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour has stirred much excitement in the car industry. Honda has differentiated this vehicle more than any other model with its unique exterior structure. The exterior of the crosstour looks more like an Accord than the average crosstour you would see on the streets of Miami. The interior design and structure also feels more like an Accord with its sleek and structured front panel and seats. All Accord Crosstour models come standard with a 3.5-liter i-VTEC V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) designed for power and efficiency. Power delivery on the new Honda Crosstour is particularly smooth, would you expect any less from a Honda?

The Accord Crosstour is available in two model choices, the EX or the EX-L.  Standard features on the Accord Crosstour EX include: dual-zone automatic air conditioning with second row ventilation, 360-Watt AM/FM 6-disc audio system with seven speakers, easy fold-down 60-40 split rear seat back, 17-inch aluminum wheels with 225/65 R17 all-season tires, hidden removable utility box, cruise control, moon roof, auto up/down driver and front passenger side windows, rear privacy glass, steering wheel-integrated audio controls, compass and outside temperature indicator, projector beam headlights with auto-off, fog lights, chrome door handles, body-colored power side mirrors with defrost, and more. 

Honda recently announced the starting price for the new 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour. The suggested retail price for the Crosstour, which will debut on November 20, starts at $29,670.  Honda expects sales to rise on the new Crosstour and advises to visit your nearest Miami Honda Dealership and inquire more about the new Crosstour.

The Internet drives Pre-Owned vehicle sales

There is no doubt that the Internet has changed the way consumers make everyday choice and purchases. Technology has made it easier for people to buy items with just a click. These trends seem to be affecting the purchase of pre-owned cars all over the U.S. According to a report by J.D Power and Associates, Internet shopping for used vehicles is the primary method for locating used vehicles.   The report tells us that 31 percent of buyers found their vehicle on the Internet, compared with 28 percent of buyers who found their vehicle by visiting the dealership.  Awareness of Certified Pre-owned vehicles on the Internet has gone up as well; more than 60 percent of used-vehicle buyers have indicated that they intend on purchasing certified pre-owned vehicles at the start of their search.  The study examined overall customer satisfaction and revealed that import luxury brands provide the highest levels of satisfaction, compared to other vehicles.

According to Kelly Blue Book, some of the most popular searched used vehicles include the 2007 Honda Accord, 2007 Toyota Camry, 2005 Nissan Altima, and the 2006 Honda Civic to name a few. Visit your local Miami dealership’s website to view their extensive line of certified used vehicles.

Miami Honda: Another word for the most reliable car.

Consumer Reports has just released the 2009 version of its annual report on the most reliable cars and car manufacturers, and as usual, Honda was near the top in almost every category. Consumer Reports ’ rating is based upon a combination of performance and reliability factors, as well as the input of consumers nationwide; Civic, Fit, and Accord are just some of Honda’s car models represented on this list. If you consider Honda’s standing over the years in the Annual report, as well as their standing in the hearts and minds of those who drive Honda, it is obvious that Honda makes some of the best cars out there, and has built their company upon the pillars of dependability, price, and performance. What more could you ask from a car company?

Brickell Honda is a dealership located in beautiful downtown Miami, and is located online at BrickellHonda.com. For more information on YOUR Honda, go to BrickellHondaDirect.com for a quote in less than seven minutes.

Get the best deal on Used Cars in Miami

It is no secret that the “Cash for Clunkers” program was a rousing success for auto dealers everywhere. Over 700,000 used cars were traded in for new cars, and automakers and dealers actually suffered a severe shortage of new vehicles. This has also affected the supply of used cars, because there are a whole lot less to go around these days. As the laws of money go, the more rare something is, and the more people want that something, the higher prices go. Long story short, thanks to Cash for Clunkers, used car prices have skyrocketed, and new vehicle prices have jumped as well.

With all that being said, if you are looking to buy a car, but would like to save money by buying a used vehicle, then why not ensure that you are getting a quality product? Miami’s Brickell Honda offers Honda Certified Used Cars, which are arguably the best deal on used vehicles out there. Not only do you get the quality and longevity that comes with every Honda, but you get a CARFAX®-certified automobile that comes with a 7 year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty. Only vehicles with less than 80,000 miles or younger than six years old or less are eligible to wear the “Certified” tag. Also, each Certified Honda undergoes a 150-point inspection before it can wear the “Certified” tag. Once you decide on a certified used Honda, then you can take advantage of Honda financing, and Brickell’s Honda financing experts will work with you to build a financing plan that is right for your budget. Certified Used Hondas: if you're looking into buying used, then there is no better way to go.

Get a Great deal on your next visit to the dealership

Its no surprise many people dread visiting their local auto dealer. Long lines, price haggling and pushy salesman alone will eliminate any desires of purchasing a new car. In a perfect world, potential car owners could walk into a dealership with no obligation to purchase a new vehicle. What if we told you we are living in that perfect world? With over 100 dealerships in the Miami area all catering to different makes including Honda, Mitsubishi, Toyota, Acura, and Ford, we can name a few dealerships that make customers feel secure and safe. Some of the popular Miami dealerships include Braman Motors, Brickell Motors, South Motors and Maroone.
The key to getting a great deal on your next car purchase is competition. Every auto dealer around the block is competing with one another to give you the best deal; use this against them. When competing for good car prices remember to be persistent and patient, remember that this is a trial and error process. If one auto dealer doesn’t budge, visit the next dealership that meets your needs. A number of websites have extensive free information on car prices and other matters. These include edmunds, carprice and kbb.

Buy American - Buy a Honda Accord at your Miami Honda Dealership

You are probably thinking, What is this person talking about? Honda Accords are not American. Let me tell you a secret. Just because a car wears a foreign nametag doesn’t mean that it was not built in the United States.

Since 1982, the Honda Accord became the first Japanese branded automobile built in the United States. There has been such an expansion since then, that 80 percent of Hondas sold in the United States are built here. You can identify the birth place of an automobile by its vin number. Those bearing a vin number starting with 1, 4 or 5 are American made. Also, if the automobile contains at least 50 percent of American parts, it is also recognized as American made.

That is one more thing to add to your list of why to buy a Honda Accord. You will be purchasing a reputable vehicle known for its quality and reliability. Your Honda Accord can be the best family sedan you have purchased. You will know that others agree with you because the Honda Accord has made it on the Car and Drivers 10 best list.

Show your patriotism and make a smart investment. Do your research by visiting http://www.brickellhonda.com and see what Accords are now available through limited time lease specials. You can call Brickell Honda directly at 888-407-9334 to get more information on the newest Honda's. Buy an American made Honda Accord.

A choice for Men and Women - The Honda Civic in Miami

The Honda Civic is ranked by women as their number one choice for a compact car. It is a few paces behind for the men. The men place the Honda Civic as their forth choice when purchasing a compact car. The Civic appeals to the practical side of a women’s mind. They are thinking, cost, efficiency and reliability. The men, on the other hand, are impressed by style, power and of course, the available technology.

The Honda civic ranges in cost between $15, 000 - $25, 000 for sedans and coupes.
The efficiency, based on gas mileage, ranges between 21 – 26 miles per gallon. The Honda civic is known as a reliable car with minimal repairs.

As viewed by men, the Honda civic is hot, flashy and goes really fast. What more can I say? It has the attention of the guys. The Honda civic has new exterior styling. Depending on the model chosen, the engine will deliver horsepower within ranges of 113 – 197. Technology is at its best. It now includes the Bluetooth hands free link and the USB audio interface.

You can see why the Honda Civic is ranked number one and number four by women and men, respectively in the compact car division. Read up on the Honda Civic at Brickell Honda online, just go to http://www.brickellhonda.com to see the latest deals this Miami Honda dealership is offering.

Here is why You Should Lease a Honda Accord in Miami

Thinking about getting into a lease? You should know that the answer to that is to put the Honda Accord at the top of your list. Leasing is the alternative to buying. It gives you the flexibility to have a different car within fewer years. We all enjoy some changes in our life sometimes, and being able to drive a new car every few years is a good change.

The Honda Accord lease is the answer for many. According to Car & Driver 10 Best Awards, the Honda Accord has won the record 22 times. It is by far one of the best all around cars in the market. It features a comfortable and roomy interior. It has an outstanding safety record. The Honda Accord is known as a family sedan but it is also a fun ride.

On the monetary side, leasing a Honda Accord allows you to pay only a portion of the cost of the car. Essentially you are only paying for what you are using. A lease also gives you the option to make a down payment. Your lease payments will be lower than loan payments, giving you the option to put your money into more productive uses. You will not have to worry on major repairs.

Leasing a Honda Accord is a smart decision. You will enjoy driving a new car every 2-3 years, have lower monthly payments and you will always be driving a car with the latest safety features. Leasing a Honda Accord can be your smart decision. Visit Brickell Honda online at www.brickellhonda.com to see how easy it is to lease a Honda Accord in Miami. You can also call them at 888-407-9334 for more information.

New Powerful Honda CR-V is available in Miami

From Consumer Reports
More powerful 2010 Honda CR-V
2010-Honda-CR-V Honda has announced some power and feature upgrades to the best-selling Honda CR-V for the 2010 model year. Most notable is a 14-hp increase to 180-hp. Along with more power, the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine also boasts an increase in EPA-estimated fuel economy by one mpg in both city and highway driving, which becomes an estimated 21/27/23 for city/highway/overall for the EX AWD model. In our tests of the previous version, we measured 15/29/21. We also found the CR-V only had adequate acceleration, but the new increase in horsepower could help.
 
Besides the changes under the hood, the front grille gets a facelift with a single horizontal cross bar instead of the double trim accent from the previous design. The front fascia now has more paint color instead of the black lower valence and the hood now is flush into the grille, instead of wrapping down and around.
 
Other detail changes include a new interior door handle design with a rubberized grip and the front seat center arm rests increases in width by one inch. Ten-spoke alloy wheels, standard on the EX and EX-L, replace the seven-spoke design. Bluetooth connectivity will now be available on models equipped with the navigation package and automatic on/off headlights will be standard on the EX-L line.
 
Retail prices will range from $21,545 for the base 2WD LX to $29,745 for the top of the line EX-L AWD with navigation system. A $710 destination charge will be added. The 2010 CR-V will hit dealerships in the coming weeks.
 
The CR-V is one of the top-scoring small SUVs Consumer Reports has tested. For more on our Ratings, reliability, fuel economy, safety and more, see our Honda CR-V model overview.                       
 
More information on the new Honda CR-V, including a personalized quick quote engine, is available at http://www.brickellhondadirect.com . You can also visit Brickell Honda of Miami to test drive or get your own 2010 CR-V. Call them

Get Your Accord EXL in Miami

Honda Accord EX-L Review
By Megan Benoit

December 7, 2007

The Subaru Legacy GT, Infiniti G35 and Acura TSX are paid-in-full members of the practical power automotive niche. They cater to financially responsible enthusiasts who want their reliability served with a supersized side of hoon and a la carte cog-swapping. Although Honda’s new Accord V-6 packs a 268-horsepower punch, the four-door’s a pedal short in the row-your-own department. Fortunately, the Accord EX-L coupe boasts a six-speed manual transmission. So is the EX-L a category killer or just another vanilla thrilla?

The EX-L coupe is a rolling homage to BMWs 3 through 8, adorned with a small sprinkling of performance cues: chrome door handles (ew), coffee can chromed pipes (huh?) and 18” rims (bow-chicka-bow-wow). And get a load of that teeny little spoiler– no compensating for anything here. In terms of sporting proportions, the EX-L is the automotive definition of cognitive dissonance: a two-door vehicle that stretches farther than a standard four-door. Clearly, this baby has a lot of ass to haul.
On the upside, the EX-L’s bootylicious bounteousness makes the rear seats roomy enough for at least two adults. Unfortunately the back seat is a journey, not a destination; ensconcing oneself in the EX-L’s rearmost chairs is a convoluted and agonizing process. Returning to the positive spin, the Accord's huge trunk compensates for the back seats’ limited access– especially for coupe drivers familiar with the fine art of securing grocery bags with shoulder belts.

The view from behind the EX-L’s wheel is strangely… feminine. Like the Dodge logo and the Subaru Tribeca, the EX-L’s interior offers-up a pistonhead paean to the female reproductive system. From the way the dashboard curves sweep inward like fallopian tubes into the uterus slash radio/climate control unit, to the oversized, top-heavy H on the steering wheel, Freud would have had a heyday.

Yes, well, the outward edges of the dash connected with my knees more than once while I was entering and exiting the vehicle, leading to some decidedly un-Ladylike cursing. (Take it from me, fallopian tubes are not known for their ergonomics.) As for the radio head unit (so to speak), Honda's answer to complaints of overly-complex controls is the engineering equivalent of talking louder. They've made the buttons bigger and the writing larger. It may be easier for fat-fingered folks to grope through the ICE menus, but it's no more intuitive than before– or BMW's iDrive.

Ergonomics be damned. Practical funsters focus on less prosaic matters, like sheer horsepower. Turn the key, fire-up the filly and slip into the bliss that is a well-tuned Honda V6. This mill’s got torque all over and horsepower galore, all mated to yet another blissfully smooth and easy-shifting Honda gearbox. Girth aside, Road and Track’s resident tire shredders mustered a very respectable 5.9 seconds on the zero to 60 sprint– a hair behind most of the competition. The EX-L won’t light your hair on fire, but at this price you’ll shut up and drive. 

The ridiculous pipes provide a terrific aural balance between a savory exhaust note and cruising silence. Punch the gas and you’ll be cackling before you know it. The exhaust's sexy bwaaahhhhh is almost enough to drown out the unholy road noise those 18” tires unleash beneath you. (I had to double-check to make sure some bureaucrat didn’t accidentally ship a car with snow tires to the dirty South.) Charitable drivers should consider the EX-L’s din a not-so-subtle advertisement for Acura.

In a straight line, the EX-L coupe is silken joy. Try to throw this porker around a corner and you’ll get an abrupt reminder of why God invented rear wheel-drive. It’s like talking your inebriated, obese buddy into being the rear part of a two-person horse costume. No matter how hard you try, the EX-L's rear end is sluggish and unwieldy. Eventually you give up and just drag the stupid ass along behind you. 
Honda’s point-and-shoot steering and crisp turn-in are also absent, sacrificed on the altar of a comfortably numb ride. Anyone wanting a manual EX-L is probably more interested in sampling some Si-style driving dynamics than keeping the cups in their holders; failing to tune the EX-L’s suspension to match the coupe’s demeanor one of da meanest things Honda’s done to enthusiasts in quite some time.

The EX-L coupe is a conflicted vehicle. It’s got a powerful engine with a snick-happy transmission mated to an average suspension. It’s got all the appearance of a luxury vehicle, with none of the quiet and little of the luxuriousness. It’s fun to drive, but not REALLY fun.

Yes, the EX-L's a strange offering, given Honda aspirations for the Accord as the nü full-size family sedan. With a sport-tuned suspension, SH-AWD and a few more toys, the EX-L would blow its competitors into the weeds. As it is, the EX-L is… um… I’m sorry. What were we talking about?

Get your Accord EXL at Brickell Honda in Miami. Visit them online at http://www.brickellhonda.com or call them directly at 888-407-9334.