Welcome to Honda's R&D department. The auto maker opened up its research and development facility over in Japan, and representatives from top Honda Dealers across the US and Canada, including Brandfon Honda in Branford, CT, were there to see what the future holds.
First up, the company showed off their Honda Accord with fuel-savings Atkinson Cycle engine. With the ability to keep power without the loss of torque, the engine range will span from 1.0 to 2.4 -liter, and maybe even include a 3.5-liter V6.
Vehicles powered by a new 148-horsepower, 1.8-liter were also present, which may find a home in a mid-cycle version of Honda Civic for 2012. This car was able to consume 10% less fuel than current powerplants.
Honda also had another Civic on hand, powered by an intensely powerful yet small 1.6-liter turbo diesel engine.
A concept 'Accord-size sedan' was also set loose on the Twin-Ring Motegi race track in Japan. It came with a V6 sending 310 horsepower and 265 lb.-ft. of torque to the vehicle's front end, with a pair of electric motors powering the rear.
INFO: http://thechronicleherald.ca/wheelsnews/39887-first-drive-honda-hosts-rd-centre