TORRANCE, Calif. - A prototype of the next-generation Honda Pilot will be unveiled at the January 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today.

The prototype will convey design features of the more boldly-styled, next-generation Pilot and will emphasize authentic SUV styling, clever interior packaging and advanced technologies for safety, fuel efficiency and convenience.

The current-generation Pilot offers versatile eight-passenger seating and all-weather, medium-duty off-road capabilities while earning a distinctive reputation in the midsize SUV class for its refined handling and ride comfort. Among its numerous accolades, the Honda Pilot has earned Car and Driver magazine’s prestigious “5Best Truck” award for six straight years (2002 thru 2007).

Additional Honda vehicles to be on display at NAIAS include the FCX Clarity hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, introduced at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show, and the CR-Z concept vehicle, introduced at the 40th Tokyo Motor Show. Limited retail marketing of the FCX Clarity will begin in summer 2008. The CR-Z is a next-generation lightweight sports car concept equipped with Honda’s original gas-electric hybrid system.

Share This

Tokyo, Dec 12, 2007 (Jiji Press) - Isuzu Motors Ltd. <7202> President Susumu Hosoi on Wednesday indicated that the a new diesel engine being codeveloped with Toyota Motor Corp. <7203> may be used not only in cars for the European market but also in models intended for other regions.

Under their partnership, Isuzu and Toyota plan to start production of the new diesel engine around 2012 for use in Toyota models targeted at the European market.

“It is unlikely that this will be limited to Europe from the viewpoint of costs,” Hosoi said in an interview, referring to the need to cut the manufacturing costs by expanding production volume.

Hosoi said the new engine may also be used in Isuzu cars, although he noted that the two companies have not yet discussed specifics relating to this matter.

Isuzu plans annual production of around 20,000 units of the new engine, Hosoi said. The location of the production has yet to be decided.

Share This