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This weekend we were blessed with some sun, so as to not waste a sunny day, my partner and I hopped in to our Honda Insight for the week, and set our horizons on a cruise.

Unfortunately many others were thinking of doing the same and we soon ran into traffic. But thankfully we were in the comfort of our automatic loan. And when you are forced to slow down and speed up, starting and stopping, you really appreciate not needing the extra hand and foot motion. To be able to shut off your brain some and enjoy the breathtaking view that whizzes by as you drive fast. A beautiful backdrop on this beautiful day.

The Insight Hybrid is based on the current Honda Civic Sedan, but more refined. The interior could be confused with an Accord, with a very similar look and feel. They have also borrowed its hybrid system, strapping on an Atkinson-cycle 1.5-litre inline-four gas engine. 129 horsepower and 197 lb-ft, with a total combined power output of 151 horsepower.

Handling and steering wise the Insight feels pretty sharp. Nothing like the a Civic Si or a Civic Type R, but it does come with a sport mode! You wouldn’t consider this a sport car, but the steering has some good feedback to it, and the car doesn’t feel like a boat cornering. Including the sport mode, the insight has two other driving modes: econ and normal.

Like most hybrid cars out there, there are two paddles behind the steering wheel, which Honda calls their “deceleration selectors”. These paddles give you the choice between three different levels of regenerative braking performance, for restoring energy to the battery pack.

Although the view was constantly stunning, the drive did have some challenges. With the Insight, Honda decided to ditch the transmission all together, yes you heard that right, no transmission! This was a design formulated in 2014, spring boarding with the Accord Hybrid. The idea behind this is having a different direct drive gear to propel the car. It all sounds pretty complex, but long story short: at a low or steady speed on the highway the Insight feels the same, if not better than being behind the wheel of a regular automatic transmission car. However when you are trying to go up steep hills, something gets lots in translation. Even though there is no transmission, it still feels just like a regular automatic transmission slip. In other words the engine revs higher, yet it feels like the car isn’t going any faster, like having a hard time doing its job. And as a learned manual driver you are taught that this feeling and sensation means your clutch is broken, but in reality for the Insight this is business as usual.

And the Insight is a pretty quiet ride in general, but during those uphill stints, we wished for earmuffs. Although Honda did take this into consideration by adding “Active Noise Control” to the speakers of the audio system. Thus temper all extra road noise. They also supplemented the engine noise in Sport mode, a difference that can be clearly heard when driving more aggressively.

But realizing the market that this car was built for, and who they are targeting, you can’t blame them for the any of it. This vehicle isn’t your weekend warrior, but it is the wheels for your daily transport. City driving in small bouts, grocery shopping with multiple loads. And here is also where the economy mode shines. Using the stored electricity decreases your consumption of fuel. Meaning less trips to the gas station and less bills left on the counter.

Today it saved us plenty, as we required and guzzled quite a bit going up and down on the Sea to Sky Highway. Our goal was to chase the sun that the fog and clouds were quickly covering. To drive up and up, to get close enough to be in awe of the highest snow capped mountain. There is nothing more humbling than looking up at something and realizing how small you are to it by comparison, and in the world as a whole.

On our travel we encountered various elements. When we hit patches of sun we dawned our sunglasses and had the sunroof to roll down. In the snow, the reverse camera got covered by the excessive splashing from run-off on the side of the road. The clump of flakes obscured the camera and our visibility. But the left and right hand side cameras were left in tact, and continued to relay video images on to the infotainment system each time you land changed. I personally found them distracting behind the wheel. Checking my shoulder and preparing for said lane change, only to be startled by the quick flash of the screen in my peripheral. When it came to the rain, the automatic rain sensors kept the windshield clean and our visibility high. It was most practical in helping to wipe off the spray that was created by the cars in front of us. Spray that occurred as intermittently as the patches of wetness that riddled the road.

In short we enjoyed out time with the Honda Insight and are thankful for the grandeur it was able to take us to see.

HONDA.ca

In 2017 Honda added the Clarity to their line up of motor vehicles. This name may ring a bell to some, as the 2018 Clarity is the direct descendant of the FCX Clarity hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle that Honda offered drivers between 2008 and 2014. It was the world’s first hydrogen-powered fuel-cell vehicle intended for mass production.

Last year Honda re-introduce a newer version of this hydrogen powered car. It was the same as the 2008 hydrogen version of the Clarity, but only available in parts of California, where hydrogen stations are actually assessable. Now, fast forward to 2018, where Honda releases a plug-in hybrid version of the Clarity. This is what we had the pleasure of test driving this week. Right off the bat, being behind the wheel of the Clarity put me at ease (although this may just be because I have been driving around in large trucks and SUVs as of late). The size and handling was reminiscent of my very first car: the Honda Civic. It was the right size for a driver like myself, quick to speed up and smooth to jet around in, all in the ideal compact size for easy parking.

However, visually the Civic and the Clarity differ greatly in terms of their styling. The Clarity’s appearance isn’t for everyone, you might not even call it traditional “pretty” (for a car). The height of the trunk’s lid felt misplaced and odd in shape. Although its design did serve a purpose. The trunk was was crafted to accommodate the large, high-pressure hydrogen tanks mentioned easier. Similarly, the design of the rear wheel arch covers were function over appearance. They were moulded to reduce drag, thus making the Clarity more fuel efficient. Although for those who preferred form over function, it could be seen as an eye sore.

Thankfully the front end made up for this with its sleek look. The Honda Clarity has very distinctive LED headlights. It and the futuristic and aerodynamic looking 18” wheels make the mid size sedan easy to spot in a parking lot or rolling down the street. (This is what they mean by “a head turner”.)

While the exterior is up for debate, the interior is very pleasing to the eye. It is clearly a step up from other plug-in hybrids. Perforated leather, open pore wood trims, chrome strips, and suede-like fabric; all blended on the dashboard seamlessly. We really like the “floating” gear selector console in the middle of the cabin, surrounded by the above mentioned beautiful wood trim. It also has some fancy cup holders that accommodate larger and smaller beverage cups; a small, but very thoughtful commuter detail.

Honda decided to stick with their old infotainment system for this new vehicle, meaning you have two choices when adjusting the volume or changing the radio station. You can either use the touchscreen, or toggle through on the steering wheel’s controls. Unfortunately, having a few settings only accessible by touch screen can be troublesome. For example, trying to put your finger on the right “button”, when trying to keep your eyes on the road, can prove challenging. Although who really uses the radio anymore anyways? Actually, I do actually… and after the climate setting, it is the second most touched, pushed, and toggle thing in my car. Luckily the first is climate control; and there are buttons to adjust it, conveniently mounted bellow the 8” touchscreen.

On the road the Clarity basically drives like a slower, less-sporty Accord, with a curb weight of 4000lbs. It is actually quite heavy for a mid size sedan, but being heavy seems to be an inevitability for lithium-ion battery powered cars.

A point, that bring us to the question of what propels the plug in? The Clarity has roughly 75 km of electric-only range from the 181-horsepower electric motor and 17kWh lithium-ion battery. There’s also a little 1.5-litre gas engine under the hood, to provide up to 212 total horsepower and a total range near 600km. But the artistry of this car is not the amount of power it has, but the various ways it can harness it. Honda is known for pushing the envelope when it come to technology, and the Clarity proves to be a great example of that.

The only real negative comment we can make is regarding the powertrain’s small 1.5L gas engine and its noise level. It is fairy of loud with a heavier load, going up a steep hill. Although I guess that is to be expected with all that extra weight the midsize sedan has to carry around.

The CVT-type transmission includes three possible drive modes: Eco, Normal and Sport. Each mode delivers progressively more aggressive acceleration, and an increased pedal response. Its regenerative braking system also has a few modes. Four that can be selected by paddles on either side of the steering wheel.

It is also equipped with the latest in road safety technology. Honda Sensing gives you everything from adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, to collision and road departure mitigation. And like the new Civic, there is no blind-spot warning; instead, Honda uses a passenger-side camera. More is visible, but I am more partial and more responsive to a warning of sound, rather than any additional sight.

In conclusion we were highly impressed by Honda’s plug-in hybrid. They have made this vehicle easily accessible for the average driver. The Clarity is perfect for that someone who just wants to get in and move about from point A to B, without spending $100 on gas on their weekly commute. And driving an electric vehicle, such as this, has additional perks. There are government incentives to be taken advantage off if you live in one of three provinces in Canada. Purchasing a brand new Honda plug-in, and decreasing your carbon footprint with it, will save you $5,000 in B.C., $8,000 in Quebec, and $14,000 in Ontario. In short, not just a good ride for you, but a great drive for your pocket and the planet.

Thank you for the opportunity Honda, until the next one!

HONDA CLARITY 2018
honda.ca
#HondaClarity

A fun little hatchback with a surprisingly big interior~

This is the 3rd generation of the Honda Fit, therefore it was about time that it received its obligatory mid-generation refreshment in 2018. A refresh that helped to make what was already a great little hatchback into something even better. And while they were at it, Honda added a new trim level to their line up. But this review is just on the Fit Sport, which we had the chance to test drive a few weeks ago.

The main difference between the Fit Sport compared to the other models, is its new aerodynamic additions. A re-styled front and rear bumper, side skirts, foglights, an orange-highlighted splitter, glossy black 16 inch wheels, a rear diffuser, and a chrome-tipped exhaust.

Inside, you get different fabric seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather armrest, and a leather shift knob. The Fit Sport also comes with a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. All with a complimentary upgraded sound system to best enjoy the above.

The rest is as you expect. The interior has always been where the Fit shines, and that hasn’t change. Its trademark 60/40 split rear seats fold down to provide a long flat cargo area, perfect for hauling larger household items or sport equipment. The quality of the material used overall looked and felt good. Along with the touchscreen display, it gives the vehicle owner and driver the feeling of value. You definitely can’t tell that they work working towards a price point when designing this.

Our little hatch of the week made for a perfect daily driver. We drove it around town and the Fit offered composed, nimble and precise handling. The engine isn’t the most powerful thing out there, but its just enough to have some fun with during free stretches and winding bits. 1A .5L DOHC inline-four that uses Honda’s i-VTEC (variable valve timing) technology and makes 130 hp 114 lb-ft. It come with a manual 6 speed transmission, a transmission that is just like the Civic Si we had the previous week: precise and effortless. In short, I can see what this is such a popular model for every day driving and modifying. A great vehicle at a great price point. Thanks for this #WhipOfTheWeek Honda!

#HondaFitSport
honda.ca

The Honda Civic Si is a sportier version of the standard Honda Civic, available as a coupe or sedan. And recently we got a chance to try out the more practical latter.

My partner was most excited to get behind the wheel of this one, because like me, his first car was also Honda Civic. Although, where as I had the standard, he was sporting a 90’s Si. And back then (when he was but a teenager), this was THE car to have, if you wanted to be cool. And he was. Although, as he aged, his desire for the Civic Si dampened. Admittedly, as the generations of Civics to follow evolved, he found the models heavier, with the sporty and fun factor that you once found in early Si’s, a mere memory. Therefore when he first got behind the wheel of the 2018 edition, he wasn’t expecting much. He expected a “gutless” vehicle with a new 1.5litre turbo engine, that would handle like the regular Civic Hatchback Sport, that we test drove last year. Though he would soon eat his words. He was surprised by how the little 1.5litres turbo engine pulled hard. It went 0-100 in less than 6.5sec, with a crisp 6speed manual transmission, and an active dampers suspension system (which he deemed the “cherry on top”). Having all those three together made him look forward to his daily commute, even if it was partly sitting in Vancouver traffic.

Honda opted for a 1.5L turbocharged engine instead of the 2.0L naturally aspired engine found in the last few generations of Si. The throttle response is a little slower than the 2.0L, but the turbo gives it a nice little push between 2500-5000rpm, with a different powerband than his predecessors. This made it very fun and quite addictive, if you asked my partner. He has always been a fan of Honda, declaring that they always “kill it” when it comes to manual transmission for their sport cars, and it looks like things haven’t changed in that department. Except now the shifting is more precise and effortless.

He described the 2018 Civic Si as being “sleek and sporty”, pointing out its Lamborghini-like tailpipe, rear spoiler, 18″ wheels, aggressive front end with fog light.

On the inside you can find well-bolstered seats to keep you tight while cornering, yet still comfortable with lumbar support and heating. The Si also comes equipped with all the amenities you’d expect from a modern daily driver: sunroof, dual zone climate control, and apple car play, But best off all, there is a neat digital instrument cluster that allows you to display some cool and race car-ish features. Features like a g-force monitor, turbo pressure, and shift light. Little details that a younger driver would enjoy, as their one step closer to actually owning a race car. Especially if you push the “Sport” button on the centre console. This has the dampers firming up slightly, and the throttle response sharpening, thus giving you more steering input, making the car more analog and more fun to drive. And boy did we take the Civic Si on plenty of joy rides. And even after a week of doing everything, but being polite with the accelerator, we were still averaging around 10litres /100km, which is very impressive.

In short, it is no wonder why the new Si was a contender for the motor trend car of year. Bang for the buck, we challenge you to find something as fun as the new Si to drive, with its fuel economy. This is definitely one of the most satisfying to handle front wheel drive cars currently on the market. Thank you for the loan Honda!

#HondaCivicSi
honda.ca

This week we were spotted cruising around the Lower Mainland in what many affectionately call a “mom van”, given how much it does and how it makes your life easier, it wears this moniker well. Your mom can do it all, while ensuring you are safe, and having fun. Just like what the Honda Odyssey does for you on the road. However, in my review, I have deemed it more a “party van”, given how it fits into our particular lifestyle.

Just because we don’t have kids, it doesn’t mean that we can’t get excited to get behind the wheel of a mini van, especially knowing how practical this one would be. The redesigned and reengineered Odyssey 2018 is filled with some really cool features, that you won’t find in any other regular coupe or sedan. A redesign complete with new exterior styling, a revised V6 engine, a new 10 speed automatic transmission (for the elite and touring model), and an all new infotainment system.

Admittedly it isn’t the sexiest thing on the road, but Honda has done what it could to carve this into the menacing, sporty, and futuristic minivan that it is. A crystal black pearl paint job with chrome accents and 2 tone 19 inch aluminum wheels; all to match the black leather interior with silver trims. Most noticeable is the van’s shorter front to offset the elongated back. Although looking at from front to back, my biggest concern was parallel parking it. Thankfully there is always reverse assist.

Which brings me to the interior, and all that it has – everything. So for the sake of fluidity, let’s work our way front to back. The first thing I noticed was the centre console. We likened it to the chest plate of a transformer. Especially with the symmetry and the LED blue highlighting.

The first thing my partner noticed stepping in, is the modern instrument cluster. He stated that it looked like it belonged on the dash of an expensive race car. At the centre you’ll find the new infotainment system, with an easy to navigate system. It is not unlike a tablet, but with some more child-focused features. Like the baby monitor that Honda calls its “cabinwatch” video and intercom system. “Cabintalk” lets you communicate with the rear passenger via the speaker or headphones (the van comes with a wireless pair). It allows you to survey all that happens within the back seats, without you having to physically look back. Ideal for the family on the go, and when a fight erupts while you are driving, and you shouldn’t/can’t take your eyes off the road to deal with it. Or in my “party” scenario, when you are driving and don’t want to miss any of the happening ons in the backseat or the conversation therein. This way those in the front are not left out.

A minivan’s primary function is hauling people and things, and in this, the Odyssey doesn’t disappoint. The front seats are fully adjustable with the option to heat and cool. Its third row is amongst the roomiest in its class. And all the three offer plush cushions and seats that recline. Plus enough cup holders to service them all. A total of 15 cup holders to the would be 8 passengers. Plenty of room to store drinks and have them within arm’s reach when enjoying the entertainment the Odyssey provides. Like the 550watt audio system and the 10.2inch high resolution screen that folds down from the room.

There is even shop vac vacuum built in, to clean up after those you invite into your “party van”. Its hose extends all the way to the front cabin. A cabin that was quiet at low and highway speeds. A smooth ride where you can only hear the engine when the accelerator pedal is to the floor.

Speaking of engine, it is a 280hp 3.5l V6 with a new 10speed automatic transmission. And is surprisingly quick off the line. The new transmission shifts quickly and precisely, it propels you 0-100kmh in 6.6sec. And according to my partner, this falls into the “hot hatch territory”, making it very quick for a minivan. It is actually almost a second faster than most of his rivals. The Odyssey handles fairly well, it changes direction crisply, and the steering wheel gives you a light bite, resulting it competent cornering.

But it doesn’t end there. There are additional features like earphone jacks and USB ports on every arm rest, eliminating the need to share. Digital climate control for the rear, built in garage door opener, heated steering wheel and mirrors, lane departure, and sun shade screens on every window that pull up and clip into place for the covering necessary on road trips. The doors and trunk open and close with a push of a button. And the head rests at the very rear even slides down to support for those who are shorter or have smaller bodies. There is even a funnel that comes with the van, in cause you need to jerry can in your oil.

Then there are the easy stowing seats for extra trunk room. The seat in the middle of the second row is especially handy. One, it comes with built-in catches to easily strap in any baby car seat. Two, you can push the back down to become a spacious arm rest with more cup holders, and even a snack compartment. Three, you can just pull it out completely and have more room with single person chairs. Or four, push the individual chairs together to have a love seat giving you more room between you and the door, and less between you and your seat mate.

In short the Honda Odyssey is everything you need as the modern parent. Or as I have been pitching, the Honda Odyssey is the ultimate party bus, road trip vehicle, or moving van. Thank you for the opportunity to try a vehicle we might not otherwise get a chance to.

#HondaOdyssey
Honda.ca

I am not a car person, I have a vehicle to get me from point A to point B, and have only been behind the wheel of two different ones, long enough to get a feel of how they actually handle.

So when I was given the opportunity to test drive a 2017 Honda Civic, hatchback turbo, I jumped at the opportunity; after all my first car was a 1988 Civic. I called him “Rusty” he was brown and old, and as you can surmise, had much of a certain identifying feature to earn him his nick name. He served me well and I never wanted another car, until he was on his last legs and was forced into retirement. So I figured, to be behind the wheel of a newer Civic would be nostalgic, I was wrong. The technology in the 2017 and its features, made it feel like a whole different species, and that’s not even mentioning its exterior.

Now excuse the next part, as I eluded to above, I am no car expert and therefore will be fumbling my way trough the terminology used to describe one. For any car enthusiasts reading this, please considerate it satirical?

The curvature of car and the vents up front helped to make the vehicle more aerodynamic, not to mention giving it a more streamline look. Where as my “Rusty” was a functioning brick. Block, pointy, and as slow looking as it actually was. In retrospect I don’t know why I loved it as much as I did.

Inside, the patchy fabric interior of my ’88 Civic looked grungy compared to the matted leather of the hatchback. And don’t even get me comparing how each smelled.

The 2017 had plenty of cargo space thanks to the hatchback. It was practical, reminiscent of the Civic hatchbacks from the 90’s. It is small and agile, perfect for driving in big city centres. And best of all, its fuel economy is amazing, we spent a week cruising unnecessary and it only cost it $50 for our efforts. This was given the power you get from its turbo engine, which was surprising considering it isn’t a top of the line model; and the fact that it was automatic not manual.

In fact the hatchback was automatic everything; it had every modern convenience, and then some extras that I didn’t know existed. (My current vehicle is a 2002. It has a cassette tape player and a 8 CD changer in the trunk.) With “Rusty”, you had cracking handles, to literally wind down each windows, and were forced to pull a knob up to unlock each door. With the hatchback it was a mere push of a button for most things.

This is the only photo I have of that Civic: my partner working hard to fix yet another issue that arose with it. Brown interior in a brown car…

Here is a stock photo for reference.

So to get this 2017 model for a week meant I enjoyed all its modern comforts and improved handling for a week. And there is nothing like trying a new Honda Civic to reset your previous expectations on the brand and name.

@hondacanada
#hondacivic.
honda.ca