| go2ron |
| A Honda dealer told me today that their version of the MDX was shown in a Los Vegas Honda dealer show, and that it is expected to be out before spring 02. He said that it is 6" longer and has the same engine. Can anyone confirm or add. |
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| gokings55 |
| Unless Acura/Honda decides to follow in the steps of Nissan (i.e. making the Altima more desirable than the Maxima- IMHO) I would not think Honda/Acura would put the exact same engine in the Honda version, as well as make it bigger, thereby making it possibly more attractive than its more expensive counterpart (MDX). But...stranger things have happened. |
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| A2MDXer |
quote:
Originally posted by gokings55
Unless Acura/Honda decides to follow in the steps of Nissan (i.e. making the Altima more desirable than the Maxima- IMHO) I would not think Honda/Acura would put the exact same engine in the Honda version, as well as make it bigger, thereby making it possibly more attractive than its more expensive counterpart (MDX). But...stranger things have happened.
Not as strange as you might think. The Highlander vs. the RX300 same engine, bigger cargo area (OK, the identical V6 is an optional engine on the Highlander but most people get it that way). |
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| C&J01MDX |
Just my opintion ;)
The honda version will get the same engine as the odyssey
The honda version will receive a few goodies that the mdx doesn't have(dvd)....but the mdx will be superior for 03 model.
cya |
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| mango |
This is going to be a treat to see if the Honda version will be like the 2002 MDX.. I'm not plaining on buying till spring when the new colors get offered, but I will have to seriously look at the Honda version if it's 10k less than the MDX.
-Mango:confused: |
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| donsev |
quote:
Originally posted by C&J01MDX
Just my opintion ;)
The honda version will get the same engine as the odyssey
The honda version will receive a few goodies that the mdx doesn't have(dvd)....but the mdx will be superior for 03 model.
cya
Ahh, another teaser from C&J01MDX!
Any updates on the external dimensions/sheetmetal of the Honda?
More please on the scoop on the MDX '03! |
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| go2ron |
| Please advise the specs and est. avail. dates if known. Thanks |
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| C&J01MDX |
unfortunately this vehicle is not my project...so i can only gather info from co-workers.
I believe m/p is still end of april. and like mentioned previously the honda version is slighlty larger....maybe between the mdx and say an expedition.
I would say most definately it will be at the detroit autoshow this year. |
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| BellTeck |
Hmmm Accord -VS- TL?
TL BY FAR !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:D :cool: :cool: :cool: :D
TECK! |
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| MDXLuvr |
If Honda sells its version of the 'x for ~10k less, and it is larger, well.... that really chaps my hide(say it with your best rawhide accent).
I refuse to believe that Honda would do something this stupid! Then again look at the Highlander, and the Altima.
stranger things have happened.:mad: |
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| go2ron |
Dear C&J01MDX,
Do you think production will start in april? Honda was planning to produce it in the new factory (southern US). When is the Detroit show? Any web sights known for more info?
Thanks |
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| C&J01MDX |
Yes this will be another accord vs tl
The cheapest honda may be around 5k cheaper but I can't see being 10k cheaper.(no leather, no woodgrain, no cd, no VTM, etc)
Currently, production is still april.
The new plant in alabama is only scheduled to produce the odyssey at this time. The mdx and honda version will be produced at honda canada. The detroit autoshow is always the first-second weekend in january.
No websites that i know of.
cya |
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| Redwing |
quote:
Originally posted by go2ron
Dear C&J01MDX,
Do you think production will start in april? Honda was planning to produce it in the new factory (southern US). When is the Detroit show? Any web sights known for more info?
Thanks
Detroit show is second week of January.
If Honda makes an "MDX" where would they build it? If the MDX/Odyssey line is sold out, why build a less profitable vehicle on the same lines? If the Honda version shows up at all, it may be only when the MDX demand starts dropping off.
Just my .02 |
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| go2ron |
| The plant in canada will have added capacity when the odyssey production moves to the new alabama plant. |
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| MDXLuvr |
Thanx for your reply.
makes me feel a little better. If production starts in April'02, will the Honda be in dealerships by may? Another question, is their any history of Honda having delays in launching products?(in other words, what is the likelyhood of their being a delay in the launch?)
Heck, if i was waiting on a march or april delivery date for a '02 MDX, i might as well wait for the Honda to come out.
as usual, just my 2 cents worth.:) |
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| C&J01MDX |
It is very possible for a delay in production...I would suspect the honda if on time will be at dealers during the month of may.
If you remember the MDX was slated for production around this same time frame and was delayed until sept/oct. Mostly due to the development of the new Tranny (VTM-4). |
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| TDLoftin |
| Why would you choose the Honda over the Acura? |
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| MDXLuvr |
quote:
Originally posted by TDLoftin
Why would you choose the Honda over the Acura?
I wouldn't. I already have an 'X. But, If it is larger and is 5-7k cheaper, and has the same drivetrain(engine, chassis, tranny) then it would be something to consider. In other words, if you are already waiting for a '02MDX until april or may, then u might as well wait and check out the Honda SUV.
btw, anybody know what its going to be called?
cya |
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| mango |
| Boy I hope that is not it, but I really don't think so, because Hondas model is supposed to be from the same foundation as the MDX, kind of like the RX and Higlander. |
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| 2Labs |
From what I've seen in chat rooms, etc., that is not it. I don't think the X is expected until late 03 or early 04.
The Honda version has been called the New Passport, the MDX (neither of which is likely to be the actual name), and the MAV. I don't have any inside info, just what I've dug up in various chats. any info welcome, since my MDX is not likely to come until Feb. or March, and I'd be interested in learning all I can about the Honda version before I buy the Acura. |
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| Skizzerinkus |
If that pic on the Edmunds website is even close....who would pick that over the MDX? Even if it was the same running gear and $5K cheaper...WHAT A DOG!
_________
02 GG on order due Feb |
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| TDLoftin |
| Arf, Arf. Who wants to wait!! |
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| vicpai |
| That is a COMPLETELY SEPARATE MODEL. It is coming out in a couple of years (2003 or 2004). I've read several press releases about it and it will be called the Model X. IT IS NOT the Honda version of the MDX!!! :) |
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| C&J01MDX |
Correct...that it not the Honda MDX....
that vehicle is in development now and is slated for oct-nov. 03....and ran along side the civic. |
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| gokings55 |
| Looks pretty sharp, however, key difference, "less powerful engine". |
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| A2MDXer |
| Also, everything I have seen indicates the "Honda MDX" will be built in Canada with the Ody moving to Alabama. |
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| go2ron |
Can anyone confirm the status of the new Alabama plant, as this will affect the intro. date.
Since upgrading the Odyssey engine to 240hp this year, it is like that honda will use this in the new SUV also. The honda version will also likely have body side molding to protect against dings. |
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| MDXLuvr |
That look pretty sharp to me. It sounds more and more that the Honda is aimed more at the bread and butter suv crowd. In other words, it will compete with the exploder,and the turdblazer.:D
still, sounds like a pretty good deal. I would much rather buy that than a exploder!
just my 2 cents |
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| C&J01MDX |
The alabama plant is starting to roll out mininvans now....and will soon take over all production of the minivan....the honda mdx will take the minivans spot in canada.
That rendering is defenately a rendering.....and yes there are plastic moldings on the doors....both painted(not sure if body color) and metallic plastic appearance.
I am still guessing on the engine for the honda mdx....my opinion is it will be the same as the minivan....however last i heard the 03 mdx is likely to receive 2 new engines(small v6 & large v6 or v8)...so i'm not for sure what is planned for the 02.5 hondamdx
I'll try to find out. |
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| go2ron |
| Thank you for the good info. I spoke to two honda dealers today. One said they were informed of a 12/01 intro date, the other said they expect it by 5/02. Please advise new model name if known yet. |
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| Geoff |
THERE IS NO WAY THE HONDA MDX WILL BE OUT ANY TIME SOON!!!!!!!!!!. It's already November, there have been no prototypes out, no spyshots etc. More is known about the "03 VW Colorado that the new Honda SUV. For publicity reasons Honda would probably want to wait for the next large auto show that Americans would be very concerned with (the Detroit auto show). Honda will want to wait for the MDX sales to die down some what. Also if Honda was going to use the 240hp engine in the first of the Honda MDX's they would want to wait for a more powerful option to be available for the MDX, Honda has always kept a large enough line between Honda and Acura so I am sure that they will not introduce a 240hp Honda MDX before there are more power options for the MDX.
"02 MB MDX w/ sport bars, cargo net and trailer hitch.
"02 Mahogany MDX w/ sport bars, cargo net and trailer hitch. |
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| tjwid |
quote:
Originally posted by C&J01MDX
The alabama plant is starting to roll out mininvans now....and will soon take over all production of the minivan....the honda mdx will take the minivans spot in canada.
Sorry for getting off the topic. My dealer just told me my 2002 MDX will be built by Alabama plant the week of Nov 12. Is he giving my wrong information? Or, Alabama plant will be building both MDX and Odyssey? |
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| slapidus |
To those out there who think they are going to get a Honda version of the MDX for 10K less, are sadly mistaken.
First of all- the HONDA MDX is replacing the PASSPORT, which is currently priced higher than the Ody, even in it's most lowly form. My guess is that Honda will have at least 2-3 trim levels of the "MDX", most likely an LX, EX, EX-L, & maybe EX-L w/Nav.
For what it's worth, here are my retail prognostications for each-
(MSRP including transportation) LX- 28,860 EX- 31,460 EX-L- 33,260 and EX-L w/Nav 35,260. Of course, these numbers and models are a total guess, but I'll be interested to see how close I get. The EX-L w/Nav would be the closest to the real MDX Touring w/Nav, but would be close to 5K less. I think that is morte realistic expectation. I also believe that if Honda is looking to compete with the Tahoe/Yukon, this price point would put them in a good competitive position. |
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| C&J01MDX |
quote:
Originally posted by tjwid
Sorry for getting off the topic. My dealer just told me my 2002 MDX will be built by Alabama plant the week of Nov 12. Is he giving my wrong information? Or, Alabama plant will be building both MDX and Odyssey?
Easy explanation here......
Your dealer is totally smoking crack!!!! |
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| C&J01MDX |
quote:
Originally posted by slapidus
To those out there who think they are going to get a Honda version of the MDX for 10K less, are sadly mistaken.
First of all- the HONDA MDX is replacing the PASSPORT, which is currently priced higher than the Ody, even in it's most lowly form. My guess is that Honda will have at least 2-3 trim levels of the "MDX", most likely an LX, EX, EX-L, & maybe EX-L w/Nav.
For what it's worth, here are my retail prognostications for each-
(MSRP including transportation) LX- 28,860 EX- 31,460 EX-L- 33,260 and EX-L w/Nav 35,260. Of course, these numbers and models are a total guess, but I'll be interested to see how close I get. The EX-L w/Nav would be the closest to the real MDX Touring w/Nav, but would be close to 5K less. I think that is morte realistic expectation. I also believe that if Honda is looking to compete with the Tahoe/Yukon, this price point would put them in a good competitive position.
You pretty much hit the nail on the head!
One other side note....you won't be able to get the dvd system and navi system on the same vehicle....no space for both head units. |
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| lwberry |
To answer the big question..."Why buy the Honda version and not the MDX?"...I'm in the Air Force stationed in Germany and the local US spec Honda dealer doesn't sell Acura's. Therefore, since I'm over here for a few more years my options are to spend a huge amount of money on a BMW X5 or get the Honda version. I'm partial to Honda/Acura's since my current Integra GS is almost 12 years old and running/looking great.
Anyway, the local dealer just attended a regional dealer meeting this weekend and was told the Honda version is going to be shown at the Detroit car show at the end of Jan. Honda is going to keep quiet about the car until then. The plan is for the first models to be off the production line in late Mar/early Apr. No further information. |
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| Strong |
| On the topic of Honda vs. MDX - lets face it Honda is just not going to have the bells and whistles (ie. memory seat, wood trim, etc) that Acura has. Personally I would (and do) spend a little more for the "extras" - otherwise I would go for some cheap matchbox. I did a lot of looking before deciding on the "X" and narrowed it down by the extras they offered. I'm into "creature comforts" to the max. The only minus the "X" had was not having the one-touch sunroof that some others did (maybe they will fix that in the future). Thanks to this forum I was able to make my final decision without much difficulty (compared to the agonizing I did to narrow the initial search down). After reading the discussions on problems, comparisons and opinions from owners - I was hooked. Thanks to all of you for making the decision easier by far. |
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| donsev |
This information is from a close friend who is an associate at one of the Ohio Honda plants (while I do vouch for the friend, I can not vouch for the information - he was being very coy on the details)
The rolling prototype for the Honda MDX based SUV was at the plant a couple of weeks ago (under extremely tight wraps). While he did not personnally see the SUV (only the product development team did) he did speak with them later and here is some info:
It will be sized BETWEEN the CRV and the MDX - not larger than the MDX.
The styling is similiar to the MDX.
It "may" have the 3.2l instead of the 3.5l.
It "may" be built in Alabama.
I can not account for the discrepancies b/w this info and the previously reported info other than postulating that:
A)Honda is doing an incredible job of providing disinformation, including carting around a "false" prototype
B)There are TWO new SUV's coming. or C)this is the real thing.
Again, take this information however you wish. |
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| Iceman |
quote:
Honda has always kept a large enough line between Honda and Acura so I am sure that they will not introduce a 240hp Honda MDX before there are more power options for the MDX.
Actually, that's not true. My CL, for example, has the exact same engine as the Accord that was available that year. Surprisingly, if you bought an Accord EX-V6 and got all the options (which still wouldn't have all the goodies of the CL), it cost MORE than a CL. This was also the case when we bought my wife's '97 Integra GS-R--a Civic Si loaded up cost more and simply didn't have some of the stuff the Acura did.
The big kicker for me is the difference in treatment I've gotten at Acura and Honda dealers. I know that Acura doesn't have its dealer network as consistently excellent as Lexus, but every Honda dealer I've dealt with seemed like just another slimy place trying to steal my money. Add the better warranty and improved support from corporate, and I can see no reason to go Honda instead of Acura. |
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| C&J01MDX |
quote:
Originally posted by donsev
It will be sized BETWEEN the CRV and the MDX - not larger than the MDX.
The styling is similiar to the MDX.
It "may" have the 3.2l instead of the 3.5l.
It "may" be built in Alabama.
I can not account for the discrepancies b/w this info and the previously reported info other than postulating that:
A)Honda is doing an incredible job of providing disinformation, including carting around a "false" prototype
B)There are TWO new SUV's coming. or C)this is the real thing.
Again, take this information however you wish.
Sorry donsev....i will post what my sorces still are confirming to me....as this is not my project.....another honda RV is.
The honda version of the mdx...is slightly larger....the styling is similiar to the mdx....not sure about the engine size...it will never be built in alabama, it is a honda canada project only!
I'm pretty sure the first trial builds of M/P parts are taking place now at HCM.
cya |
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| RedMdxMemphis |
quote:
Originally posted by slapidus
...) LX- 28,860 EX- 31,460 EX-L- 33,260 and EX-L w/Nav 35,260. ...
My guess is that you may be quite right, especially on the high models. Don't know if they will offer Navigation since that will cut into the Acura territory. I started my search with a Toyata Highlander and ended with a MDX Touring Navi. :) The high-end of the Highlander is closer to a Lexus RX300's base model on the street price. Funny is that Highlander is priced on the higher end closer to its MSRP while the Lexus is dropping close to the Highlander.
On the other end, MDX comes with its style and enjoyment. If you try to make MDX frame a simple Honda truck out of it, I don't know if I would then go with other brands. There is a time when the low low end of a good thing if not as worthy as other's fully loaded SUV at comparable price. :cool: |
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| merrillcrosbie |
The Jan 02 Motor Trend has a blurb on Honda's version of the MDX. It says it will indeed be BIGGER than the MDX, and then commented on how much Honda has changed since it will now build a Tahoe sized vehicle, but that the original Civic was one of the smallest cars on the road.
The new Honda version is suppose to be bigger than the Honda concept that is on the car show circuit. It is suppose to be available for purchase in mid-2002. |
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| Robbie |
| I think "C&J01MDX" is right on the money when he said that the Honda will be built in Canada. We are a fastener manufacture in Canada and were ask to quote on a part today for the "2003 Honda GX". Considering that we are within 2 hours of the Allison plant I'm sure these parts are heading to Allison for the Honda SUV :confused: |
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| Hondaboi026 |
I work for a Honda dealer and can confirm most of what everyone has said about the Honda version MDX.
The vehicle will be built at the Canada plant once Odyssey production is shifted to the new plant here in Alabama. We have been told not to look for the Honda version until Summer 02. This will be the final month for Passport allocations (thank God!!!)
The Honda version will offer a navi system as well as a rear entertainment package (dvd). I have also heard that the navi models will offer a rear park assist that will display the area behind the vehicle on the navi screen.
I have personally seen the vehicle and can tell you it is much larger than the MDX. The rumors of this vehicle being Tahoe sized
are pretty much true.
As far as the name goes, we were told Honda is doing market research to determine if the name Passport carries a bad stigma , or if they should continue to use the Passport name. I say change it. |
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| go2ron |
Dear Hondaboi026,
Thanks for the update. How does it look? Is it more than 6" longer than the MDX?
Is it expected to be at the US car shows in January?
What engine (s) will be used? |
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| theanimala |
From Today's USA Today:
12/05/2001 - Updated 01:18 AM ET
Honda officially opens Odyssey plant
By David Kiley, USA TODAY
LINCOLN, Ala. — Those 6-month waits for Honda Odyssey minivans should be over soon.
Honda officially opened its new plant here Tuesday, where Odysseys already are being built, 6 months ahead of schedule.
The automaker plans to build at least 150,000 of the highly desired, hard-to-get Odysseys a year here.
And by shifting Odyssey production here, Honda also will be able to free up its Ontario plant to build the popular Acura MDX sport-utility vehicle and a new Honda SUV due next summer to compete with Ford Explorer and Chevy Trailblazer.
The plant, which eventually could turn out 240,000 vehicles a year, and the growing flexibility makes Honda "scary," says Ron Harbour of Harbour and Associates, which measures manufacturing productivity.
"They built a state-of-the-art, flexible manufacturing factory on what was a green field in 14 months. And they will build the hottest-selling and highest-quality vehicle in its class with mostly raw workers who weren't even making cars in their last job," Harbour says. "The Big Three can't touch that."
Hiroyuki Yoshino, Honda's chief executive, said Tuesday that it is that speed, flexibility and efficiency that will let Honda do what many analysts say it shouldn't be able to: stay independent.
Japanese automakers Nissan, Mazda, Suzuki, Isuzu and Subaru and Europeans Volvo, Saab and Fiat have sold all or part of their companies to either General Motors or Ford Motor. But Honda sees no reason for such a deal.
Yoshino said there are three reasons to sell or align with another company: financial help; expansion into global markets; and sharing big technology costs such as fuel cells.
"We don't need any of those things," he said.
Even of the fuel cell — which could gradually replace the internal combustion engine over the next few decades and which no company wants to develop on its own — he said emphatically: "We have it.
"I can run faster myself than in a three-legged race," he said of aligning with another automaker.
Yoshino relentlessly attacks costs to stay lean. Honda's product development costs have come down 40% in recent years thanks to a team that designs every gear and panel to make the best use of Honda's plants and tooling.
Harbour says Honda is by far the best at building the most cars with the least number of machine tools. Chrysler and GM are next best, but use twice as many to make the same number of vehicles.
At the plant here, for example, Honda builds V-6 engines for the Odyssey under the same roof as it assembles the minivan to eliminate production delays waiting for engines from some other factory. It's the first plant in the world to do that.
Harbour says Honda's insistence on engineering its own tools and integrating those tools into each plant gives it a competitive advantage over GM, Ford and Chrysler Group. The U.S. automakers have given up that task to suppliers and contractors, leaving them with little more than exterior and interior design to differentiate their vehicles.
Honda shaved 6 months off the time it took to build the plant here because it was losing too many minivan customers who wearied of months of waiting.
"Let's keep this short and let them get back to work. ... We need the cars," Thomas Acheson, a Birmingham dealer, said of the plant's 1,200 workers at the opening ceremony Tuesday.
Dealers have just a 15-day supply of Odysseys, compared with an industry standard of 60 days.
In a slumping minivan segment, Odyssey has held steady, increasing its share from 9.9% to 12.7% this year.
But the automaker has worried that Honda customers shopping for a minivan have switched to Chrysler, the top minivan seller, because of the long wait for Odyssey. Honda spokesman Andy Boyd says the cars most often traded in for Chrysler minivans are Honda Accords and Civics.
The plant here is Honda's fifth North American factory. It will boost the company's capacity to at least 1.2 million units by 2003.
Despite being stingy with incentives, Honda says it will post its seventh consecutive US sales record this year. It projects it will set another record next year, even with industry sales expected to fall by as much as 2 million.
And Yoshino hinted that the automaker might do one thing its Detroit rivals surely hope it doesn't: add pickups to its lineup.
"We are studying it closely," he acknowledged. |
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| C&J01MDX |
quote:
Originally posted by Hondaboi026
The vehicle will be built at the Canada plant once Odyssey production is shifted to the new plant here in Alabama. We have been told not to look for the Honda version until Summer 02.
Thanks for backing me up on the production location..as I've mentioned it numerous times but there must be alot or rumors floating around....also production is still slated for end up april...so homefully you will see them before memorial day.
quote:
The Honda version will offer a navi system as well as a rear entertainment package (dvd). I have also heard that the navi models will offer a rear park assist that will display the area behind the vehicle on the navi screen.
As I posted before the only bad thing is there is not enough head unit room on the IP for the navi and dvd player so only one option per vehicle.....and i'm not sure about ther rear park assist....I know its available on the 03 MDX :)
quote:
I have personally seen the vehicle and can tell you it is much larger than the MDX. The rumors of this vehicle being Tahoe sized are pretty much true.
My co-workers were saying slightly less then expedition size...so Tahoe sounds about right.
quote:
As far as the name goes, we were told Honda is doing market research to determine if the name Passport carries a bad stigma , or if they should continue to use the Passport name. I say change it.
Even suppliers don't here product names until the last minute...so least to say I am no help in this area.... |
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| dfroim |
When I visited one of the dealers for a test drive it was mentioned that optional Video System can be installed: player in the compartment behind the 3rd row and screens(2) were installed into headrests. I can't recall if it was DVD or just VHS system, but in term of location/space available, - does not matter.
So, I think it should be possible to get them both. Also, for Touring model with no need for optional 6 CD changer - there's space under the driver seat. All the controls - a matter of making another software version.
It's hard to belive in not being able to have them both. IMHO. |
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| mdxpursuit |
Story in a Canadian newspaper today whereby the President of Honda stated that the new SUV will be made in Canada, at the Alliston Ontario plant.
While Alabama is producing Ody's (something like 240 so far) it will be a while before the Ody is shifted full time to Alabama and the new SUV is produced.
Once the shift takes place, then Alliston will produce the MDX and the new honda SUV, with the continued ability to produce the Ody, if Alabama cannot meet North American demand. |
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| federico |
quote:
Originally posted by Hondaboi026
I have personally seen the vehicle and can tell you it is much larger than the MDX. The rumors of this vehicle being Tahoe sized
are pretty much true.
Hi,
How did you personally get to see it? Is it at selected Honda dealers? How do we mere mortals get to see it as well?
Thanks for your answer,
Federico.
P.S. You should've taking pictures. :D |
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| mpk |
quote:
Originally posted by C&J01MDX
One other side note....you won't be able to get the dvd system and navi system on the same vehicle....no space for both head units.
I hope somebody does something about this. On PC's, it no big deal to do CD-audio and DVD-video on the same drives. Home units do it too, with changers even. For $2k when the home versions are about 1/7 of that, I hope it filters to cars soon! I guess it takes a lot of lead time to design something into the console of a car. |
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| dmcdlj |
Will the Honda version of the mdx have the fold down rear seats that give it capacity of 7 psgrs like the MDX does? Do Honda dealers have information on these cars? Anyone know the price? We are planning to buy an MDX in about 2 weeks - but might wait if the price is considerably lower.
thx |
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| SUVNOT |
| Autoweek recently ran a special issue listing vehicles by manufacturer with a forecast for each, i.e., termination for the Passport (Izuzu). The '03 MDX is to have a 3.8L with 280 hp. Autoweek did not mention a new SUV for Honda. But all the pieces seem to fit together. Honda has to enter the SUV market - it is where the growth is, and '03 US sales overall may be down 2 million units.. They have an existing model and production facility to serve as a base. No one is better at mixing and matching platforms and engines to come up with different models which are "new" to the buying public. With the advent of the Alabama plant Honda can have the Odyssey sales and the sales from a SUV. |
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| MK23666 |
| If any of you MDX owners decide after seeing the Honda Pilot to switch, just let me know. I'll take that old MDX off your hands for ya. Especially if it is GG Touring w/Navi. Mmmm |
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| vicpai |
Is the '03 MDX your project?? Do you know if the '03 MDX will come with the "much desired" Xenon headlamps (HIDs) as an option?? How about the option of a Vehicle Stability Assist system (VSA)??. Also do you think they'll upgrade the engine to produce at least around 260hp or so (especially considering that Honda is on a "add-as-much-power-as-you-can" mission - I heard that the next TL-S will have a 295hp engine!!)??
Thanks for all your info!
Vic |
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| C&J01MDX |
quote:
Originally posted by vicpai
Is the '03 MDX your project?? Do you know if the '03 MDX will come with the "much desired" Xenon headlamps (HIDs) as an option?? How about the option of a Vehicle Stability Assist system (VSA)??. Also do you think they'll upgrade the engine to produce at least around 260hp or so (especially considering that Honda is on a "add-as-much-power-as-you-can" mission - I heard that the next TL-S will have a 295hp engine!!)??
Thanks for all your info!
Vic
Not alot of info on the 03 mdx...espically the headlamps or VSA...those are not related to my company...I do know we are receiving designs for this model....so it won't be long....unfortunately....I believe the v8 is axed for the 03mdx...instead I think the 3.8 is the next engine...not sure on hp.
From looking at the new designs coming in...I do know there is some sort of camera or back up assist that will be on the 03 mdx along with dvd...a change to the woodgrain is likely...maybe brushed aluminum...carbon...etc....
Sorry no definates right this minute...I'll keep checking....
It is no doubt an extensive minor model change...
cya |
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| Sullyman |
Here is a picture and link to info on pilot from Honda. If this was posted somewhere else already my apologies.
http://hondanews.com/ |
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| BDMDX |
go to the link below for the pictures from Detriot News.
http://pc99.detnews.com/autosinside...dex.hbs?myrec=8
December 14, 2001
2002 Honda Pilot
Honda slates Pilot SUV for introduction
The Detroit News
DETROIT -- Honda Motor Co. plans to introduce a sport-utility vehicle called the Pilot for the U.S. market in the summer of 2002. The Japanese automaker said the new vehicle will seat up to eight passengers, and come equipped with a V-6 engine and four-wheel drive system.
It is scheduled to be formally introduced at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January, and will be assembled at a plant in Alliston, Ontario. |
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| C&J01MDX |
guess the project name HP makes sense now....
Honda Pilot
To me...that is a strange name for a automobile? |
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| mpk |
quote:
Originally posted by C&J01MDX
guess the project name HP makes sense now....
Honda Pilot
To me...that is a strange name for a automobile?
I had done some internet searching to find out more. It seems there is a Honda all terrain vehicle / motorcycle also named the Pilot.
I can see it now, a guy walks up to the parts counter and wants the distributor cap for a Honda Pilot... :)
I just hope Honda doesn't make the Pilot too big. I need a bit more room than an MDX, but I don't want a gas guzzler Expedition clone either ! |
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| charlieinnj |
| For what it's worth, the Philadelphia Auto Show begins this weekend. I've seen the commercials on TV and Honda is a major sponsor of the show. Perhaps this much awaited vehicle will appear there. You may wish to keep an eye on the website for a pic...www.phillyautoshow.com. |
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| proskunetes |
More pictures here...
www.vtec.net/news/
Click on: 2003 Honda Pilot Prototype Photos (date: 01/06)
From the PICs:
I guess the Pilot can seat 8 people since the 3rd row seats 3 instead of 2.
Looking at the instrument cluster, it seems like it's only a 4 speed automatic (rather than 5). The layout of the indicator for PRND... seem unique too.
*And I kinda like that interior metallic trim over the wood... |
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| go2ron |
| I went to the philly auto show this weekend. As expected, there wasn't much there that couldn't be seen at the local dealer. They should of had it after Detroit's so the new intros could be seen. |
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| Fireblade6 |
Well my opinion on the Pilot versus the MDX is this-
Pilot is for people will wants to buy their own options..like leather, cloth, DVD or no DVD, nav or NO nav. Oddyssey engine normally aspirated or the 240HP Acura engine etc etc etc...HONDA is very famous for this...By doing this..Honda buyers can control the budge they put into their cars...As oppose to Acura where people buy Acuras for one thing..and that is for luxury and ride with little options because it comes built from the plant that way.
These are some of the subtle things I see in each of the vehicle..Keep in mind that Acura was made for Americans because we want luxury.
I dont think Acuras are available in europe or Japan other than Canada and North America right??/then again..I could be wrong. |
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| C&J01MDX |
quote:
Originally posted by Fireblade6
I dont think Acuras are available in europe or Japan other than Canada and North America right??/then again..I could be wrong.
Acura's are available in other countries....for example there is no Acura in Japan it is actually sold as a Honda...
MDX's will be available in foreign countries for the 03 models...there will be RH drive version. |
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| Fireblade6 |
quote:
Originally posted by C&J01MDX
Acura's are available in other countries....for example there is no Acura in Japan it is actually sold as a Honda...
MDX's will be available in foreign countries for the 03 models...there will be RH drive version.
Like I said "Acura" badge are NOT available to foreign countries other than Canada and Northern America..In Japan they are ALL Hondas. Europe they are HONDAS..I doubt if any countries outside of Canada and America will the Hondas be badged as Acuras....
Honda did this for the purpose of distinguishing luxury versus affordability for NORTH AMERICA. HOWEVER in current years certain Honda products are pretty pricey comparing to certains Acuras...For example a Honda S2000 is running at 30K compare to a CL that is about 4K more.
Anyway..I think its getting pretty interesting how Honda and Acura is getting to be somewhat competitive of each other instead of complimenting. |
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| richardallen |
I've just seen the actual pics of the Honda Pilot and it is one ugly SUV. It's completely bland and actually looks like an older CRV. The MDX looks downright elegant and classy in comparison. I figure engine configuration and suspension components will be similar to the 01/02 MDX. The up and coming Toyota 4runner might give this Honda Pilot a run for it's money if it looks anything like the GX470. The new Volvo suv doesn't look that bad either.
The GX470 actually the Toyota Prado in other parts of the world can be had with either a 2.7 litre inline 4 or a 3.4 litre V6. N American buyers get the V8. :confused: |
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| burr32 |
| The Pilot can be seen at the carpoint sight covering the Detroit Auto Show |
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| GatorGreg |
| I kind of like the look of the Pilot. Most of the CR-Vers at the CR-V forum seem to really like it. I certainly prefer the looks of the MDX derived Pilot to the looks of the RX300 derived Highlander. Bing posted the following two pics over at the CR-V forum. Looking at these two pics, the Pilot looks like a giant 1st gen CR-V to my eyes (which I actually prefer over the 2nd gen 'V) |
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| GatorGreg |
| Here's the Pilot, looking like a CR-V on steroids ready to kick some Highlander butt :p |
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| GatorGreg |
| Dagnabit, the comparison pics ended up on different pages :( Here's the 'V pic again so you can see them side by side, so to speak: |
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