Honda rolls out 2010 Acura ZDX

COURTESY OF AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.

Honda apparently is aiming for a combination of all three with the 2010 Acura ZDX, the newest vehicle from the Japanese automaker's luxury brand.

Introduced in concept form at the New York auto show in April, and rolled out this past week in production form, the ZDX is probably best described as a low-slung crossover utility vehicle, although Honda officially bills it as a “four-door sports coupe.”

The vehicle goes on sale this winter, joining an already crowded field of premium crossover-style family haulers, but most are not as sleek and un-boxy as the ZDX.

It seems to be a direct answer to the BMW X6, and is similar in concept to the Toyota Venza that was introduced last fall — vehicle that Toyota refused to call a crossover, even though that's exactly what it is.

The ZDX seems to be an MDX — Acura's seven-passenger family crossover — with the rear roof steeply sloped so that there's no room for a third seat. It's almost coupe-like, but there is a power rear hatch that opens just like that of an SUV, revealing a cargo area that can be expanded to more than 55 cubic feet by folding down the second seat.

From the side, it almost looks like it has only a front door, because the rear door has no visible exterior handles. But inside, there is a usable rear seat that Acura says can hold two adults quite comfortably, and three for short rides.

The dead giveaway that the ZDX is built on the same chassis as the MDX, other than the similar name (the X at the end denotes “crossover”), is in the dimensions. Its wheelbase is 108.3 inches, the same as that of the MDX. It's 192.4 inches long, which is almost two inches longer than the MDX, but it has the same 67.7-inch track.

2010 Acura RDX Review

Now, front-wheel drive is hardly our favorite arrangement for anything that attempts to combine luxury and sport. But at a claimed 3750 pounds (add 10 pounds or so for the Tech Package), the two-wheel-drive RDX saves roughly 200 pounds over the all-wheel-drive version—previously the only available arrangement—making it one of the lightest compact luxury SUVs around. In the process, Acura says the front-to-rear weight distribution shifts forward a bit compared with the all-wheel-drive version (59/41 versus 57/43), but fuel economy goes up by 2 mpg to 19/24 from 17/22 and the price is exactly $2000 lower, starting at $33,330 for the 2010 model year. Acura expects this to be a trade-off many will be willing to make, particularly in the Sun Belt, where all-wheel drive is seen primarily as an off-road-only thing.

Specifications

VEHICLE TYPE: front-engine, front-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door wagon

PRICE AS TESTED: $36,430 (base price: $33,330)

ENGINE TYPE: turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head, direct fuel injection

Displacement: 140 cu in, 2300cc
Power (SAE net): 240 bhp @ 6000 rpm
Torque (SAE net): 260 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

TRANSMISSION: 5-speed automatic with manumatic shifting

DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 104.3 in Length: 180.7 in Width: 73.6 in Height: 65.2 in
Curb weight (est): 3750 lb

FUEL ECONOMY (MFR'S EST):
EPA city/highway driving: 19/24 mpg

Does Front-Wheel Drive Kill the Fun? Nope

Is it a trade-off, however, that enthusiasts will be willing to make? Does the RDX still have that sporting edge that we’ve liked in the past? And beyond the drivetrain, how else has the RDX benefited from its mid-cycle refresh? Well, after a first spin in the new front-driver—with an all-wheel-drive model on hand for comparison—we came away convinced that Acura has been able to preserve the delicate balance of technology, value, and dynamic prowess offered by its little ute.

We expected a truckload of torque steer with all 240 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque channeled through just the front wheels, but it simply wasn’t there. We even let go of the steering wheel during a couple of full-throttle launches—something we would never do in a Saab 9-3 or even Acura’s own front-wheel-drive TSX V-6—and found little tugging to the right that wasn’t immediately straightened out on its own. And this RDX feels as quick as ever, but we’ll have to wait until we can run numbers on a front-driver to see if it can near the 6.4-second 0–60 run our long-term 2007 RDX AWD turned in at the end of its stay with us. Steering feel seemed mostly unfazed by the concentration of power at the turning wheels, although we admit we didn’t get a chance to do much hard charging in the twisties.

What we can say, however, is that the most troublesome of the RDX’s earlier issues has been rectified, that being a painfully brittle ride. Today’s RDX offers an excellent balance of feel and composure, while still keeping body roll in check. All RDX models now feature redesigned center-stack controls and a new standard rearview mirror with integrated rear camera display. Additional ambient lighting and standard Bluetooth and USB connections have been installed, although all told, the interior still doesn’t match the sense of occasion presented by the Mercedes-Benz GLK or the Audi Q5.

The same can be said for the exterior, which wears new front and rear bumpers, subtly revised lighting elements, and the new corporate beak, as well as new 10-spoke 18-inch wheels. However, for just $36,430 loaded, the front-drive RDX is a terrific bargain that you don’t have to live in the Sun Belt to appreciate.

2010 Acura ZDX

The luxurious cockpit gives way to generous cabin that provides comfortable seating for up to 5-passengers. The ZDX's flexible utility allows it to be a perfect weekend getaway vehicle, allowing for 26.3 cubic feet of space behind the second row seats and a total of 55.8 cubic feet when the seats are folded flat. The cargo area can also be expanded to accommodate longer objects (such as golf bags) by removing side panels in the cargo-compartment sidewalls. As an added bonus, there is an integrated under-floor storage area which provides 2.2 cubic-feet of secure space.

The all-new ZDX not only boasts head-turning style but also outstanding performance. The 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 all-aluminum engine generates 300 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque for immediate acceleration response, outstanding low- and mid-range torque and superior high-rpm power. The all-new 6-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters gives the ZDX excellent acceleration while also enhancing fuel economy. EPA estimated city/highway fuel mileage of 16/22 mpg* and a large 21-gallon fuel capacity allow for the ZDX to have a long cruising range. Plus, the ZDX complies with the latest EPA TIER 2 – BIN 5 and CARB LEV II ULEV emissions standards.

Standard on the ZDX is Acura's exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system. SH-AWD® expands the ZDX's appeal by providing outstanding handling as well as excellent all-season capability. Standard on the ZDX are 19x8.5-inch 7-spoke aluminum alloy wheels- the largest standard wheel in the Acura lineup.

Adding to the dynamic capabilities of the ZDX is the available Integrated Dynamics System (IDS), which tailors the fully independent suspension's Active Damper System and speed-sensitive steering together to suit the driver's preference for a more comfortable or a more sporting ride – all available for easy change at the turn of a dial. Comfort mode prioritizes road isolation and reduced passenger fatigue, while Sport mode favors crisp handling response, heightened vehicle body control and maximum traction.

Befitting its "sports coupe" design, the 2010 ZDX is longer, lower, wider and has a significantly wider track than its primary market competitors. The ZDX rides on a 108.3-inch wheelbase with an overall length of 192.4 inches, it has an overall width of 85.6 inches with a 67.7-inch track front and rear, and it stands 62.8 inches tall. These dimensions allow the ZDX to offer a driving character that is as confident as its appearance is dramatic.

The all-new ZDX is equipped with a new generation of the 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 engine that continues Acura's longstanding mission to provide V-8 level horsepower and torque with the size and fuel efficiency of a V-6. The all-aluminum engine develops 300 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque for immediate acceleration response, outstanding low- and mid-range torque and exciting high-rpm power.

Helping broaden the powerband while simultaneously improving fuel efficiency of the latest 3.7L V-6 is a new 2-rocker arm design VTEC® (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) system applied to the intake valves. In addition, special high-lift camshaft specs during VTEC® operation, a dual-stage induction system and an electronic Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system team to improve engine performance.

2010 Acura RDX 2WD Drive Review

Now three years into its lifecycle, it is no secret that the versatile Acura RDX is about due for a refresh. Photos purported to show an updated 2010 model have surfaced online today along with a few details.

The biggest cosmetic change is the addition of the big "beak" that is now Acura's corporate face, though it works much better on the RDX than on other Acuras, such as the TL, likely because it appears smaller on a larger vehicle. Also modified up front are a new lower fascia and faux air ducts around the fog lights that add a bit of visual flair. A new set of wheels also helps set the new model apart. Only a partial picture of the rear end is available, but it's enough for us to see new hexagonal tail pipes and a slightly revised lower rear fascia.

On the road since 2006, the Acura RDX was about due for a makeover. Acura has delivered a relatively minor update, but one that is certainly noticeable. The RDX now sports Acura’s controversial new corporate styling and has picked up a host of minor improvements that put it back on par with modern luxury crossovers.

Most who take a gander at the new RDX for the first time are going to see one thing: the beak. Acura has updated the RDX’s exterior styling to encompass the company’s new direction, one that features a large, solid overhang on the front grille that resembles a can opener. Because the RDX is a larger vehicle than many of its corporate brethren, the new grille doesn’t look as bulky and awkward on the RDX as it does on, say, the TL. Along with the beak, Acura has added new HID headlights and a revised front fascia to spruce up the nose. Around back, the RDX gets new tail lights, satin trim pieces, and hexagonal tailpipes. Completing the sharper, edgier new look is a new set of shoes, with18-in. aluminum alloys in a split five-spoke design.
After three years on the market, the Acura RDX is getting its first comprehensive makeover for the 2010 model year. Unlike the automaker's new TSX V6, where the changes were largely restricted to the bits you don't see, the opposite is true of the RDX. Acura's cute 'ute gets a mid-cycle facelift to bring it in-line with the rest of the Acura line-up – meaning if you haven't warmed up to Acura's shield grille you might want to look elsewhere.

If, on the other hand, you're partial to the new corporate beak, the RDX benefits from a few well-designed tweaks to boost its exterior appeal. The shape of the headlamp clusters remains the same, although the internal arrangement has been shuffled around, while below the bumper you'll spot a new air intake sitting in between the revised fog-lamp housings. Out back, the taillights receive a few minor revisions that most observers probably won't notice and the satin frame around the license plate pocket now matches the finish on the front grille.

Honda to launch Acura ZDX coupe

Honda Motor Co. will roll out an all-new Acura ZDX sports coupe this winter, adding a sixth model to its premium lineup.

The four-door ZDX is based on a prototype displayed at the New York International Auto Show in April and retains some of the most striking features, such as the long, panoramic glass roof and hidden rear door handles.

Honda describes the car, which was developed and designed in North America, as a "a perfect weekend getaway vehicle." It also will be produced in North America.

The ZDX "combines the best attributes of a coupe, a sedan and a sport utility -- all wrapped in a beautifully sculpted package -- that will attract an entirely new luxury customer to the Acura brand," said Jeff Conrad, vice president of sales for Acura.

The car is powered by an all-aluminum 3.7-liter V6 engine delivering 300 horsepower and 270 pounds-feet of torque.

The ZDX will be positioned and priced between the MDX luxury SUV starting at $40,990 and the RL luxury performance sedan starting at $46,830, Honda said. Pricing details will be announced closer to the launch.

2010 Acura ZDX

Honda Motor Co. today revealed the production version of the 2010 Acura ZDX sports coupe, which arrives in showrooms in late fall. The ZDX was first shown at the New York Auto Show earlier this year but the automaker didn't release many details then. The new production version hasn't changed much from that concept, with a sharply raked roofline and bold fender flares. The car will be powered by an all-aluminum 3.7-liter V6 engine, which will deliver 300 horsepower and 270 pounds-feet of torque. It will also offer special features, such as a new rearview camera system. The ZDX is the first complete design to come from the new Acura Design Studio in Southern California.

Canadian-built Acura ZDX arriving this winter

The 2010 Acura ZDX four-door sports coupe will arrive at Acura dealerships in Canada this winter.

First introduced at the New York Auto Show this past April, the ZDX will feature "a panoramic glass roof, hidden rear door handles and bold fender flares," reads the official press release.

The ZDX will be produced at the Honda of Canada Mfg. assembly plant in Alliston, Ontario.

Here's an excerpt from the press release:

Along with dynamic styling, the ZDX will boast outstanding performance from a 3.7-litre V-6 engine combined with an all-new 6-speed automatic transmission. The 3.7-litre SOHC V-6 all-aluminum engine will generate 300 horsepower and 270 lb.-ft. of torque for quick acceleration response, outstanding low- and mid-range torque, and superior high-rpm power.

The new 6-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters gives the ZDX excellent acceleration while also enhancing fuel economy. Standard on the ZDX is Acura's exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system. The SH-AWD® system expands the ZDX's appeal by providing outstanding handling as well as excellent all-season capability. Standard on the ZDX are 19-inch, 7-spoke alloy wheels; the largest standard wheel in the Acura lineup....

The flexible utility of ZDX allows great utility, coupled with sleek styling. The ZDX can seat up to five adults while maintaining a generous amount of cargo space behind the second row of seats. The cargo area can also be expanded to accommodate longer objects, such as golf bags, by removing side panels in the cargo-compartment sidewalls. As an added bonus, there is an integrated under-floor storage area.

The Canadian-built Acura ZDX will be available in two distinct trim levels: ZDX & ZDX with Technology Package. Like all Acura models, the ZDX will come generously equipped from the start. The panoramic glass roof with moveable sunshades, hand-stitched leather interior, HandsFreeLink™ Bluetooth® connectivity, power tailgate, and a high powered audio system with CD player, AM/FM/XM radio, and USB audio interface with iPod® integration are all standard features.

The ZDX with Technology Package adds several features, including a Navigation System with Bilingual Voice Recognition™, an Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system and a new multi-view rear camera.

Acura unveils 2010 ZDX crossover

tHE 2010 Acura ZDX adds a sport-focused vehicle to the brand's luxury SUV lineup.

The BMW X6 and Infiniti FX have not demonstrated a pressing market demand for luxury car-based SUVs that sacrifice practicality for sportiness and unique styling. Neither has lit sales charts afire, with Infiniti moving fewer than 6,000 FXs so far this year -- despite a fresh redesign -- and BMW unloading barely a third of that volume of X6s.

But that hasn't stopped Acura from giving the same approach a try, matching the established competition from the look to the X-required name; it unveiled the ZDX this week that will go on sale this December as a 2010 model.

Acura has yet to release full specifications and pricing for the ZDX, but said it will share a 3.7-liter 300-horsepower V6 and six-speed automatic transmission with the brand's TL and RL sedans and cost more than the midsize MDX SUV, which starts at $40,990. The Infiniti FX35 starts from $42,150, the BMW X6 from $55,900.

In a press release, Acura boasted that the ZDX will provide "a generous amount of cargo space behind the second row of seats," but the shape of the car raises the question of how much generosity it can afford without abandoning the eye-catching look that will distinguish it from Acura's existing midsize MDX and compact RDX.

On the outside, the new ZDX shares Acura's controversial shield-style grille but few other styling cues with the rest of the model line. A panoramic sunroof covers most of the roof. The interior is more familiar, following Acura styling cues that first appeared in the 2005 RL and differing little from the basic look of the other two Acura SUVs. However, the spacious rear seat of the RDX and MDX may be a casualty of the ZDX's steeply-sloped roofline; Acura's press release boasts space for up to five adults but doesn't say they'd be comfortable.

Acura NSX On-Again as 370Z Competitor?

Unfortunately for those hoping to see a Honda-built alternative to the Nissan GT-R emerge within the next few years, the rumored Acura NSX is still dead - at least in the form of an exotic sports car.

Speaking with Car and Driver, John Watts, the senior manager of product development for the Honda luxury brand, said the NSX as planned was "too high a halo," but a scaled-down version of the NSX is still a prospect.

"For it to be fully effective, it couldn't be too far removed" from Honda's other products, he said. In an automotive world that has become highly focused on fuel efficiency, Honda probably couldn't afford the negative green cred - let alone the high development price tag - of a high-performance car to compete with the GT-R.

Acura teases possibility of TSX wagon

when we first saw pictures of the forthcoming Honda CrossTour? The mules were using European Honda Accord Tourer bodywork that had been extended. It made perfect sense, a smart boxy wagon extended for American duty! Then we saw revealing shots of the CrossTour and it has the same sloping shape as the Acura ZDX. The rejoicing stopped.

Get into the Accord Tourer in the slideshow below.

Well, now Car & Driver has us all giddy like little schoolgirls with news that the Euro wagon may yet make it to our market as an Acura TSX wagon. This (again) makes perfect sense, the TSX is basically the Euro Accord, so why not take a chance on what could be a burgeoning market? Well, it could be déjà vu all over again. Firstly, we are basing this all off a Car & Driver blog post that quotes Acura’s senior manager of product planning, John Watts “We’re closely, closely looking at it.”

Well, I have “closely, closely looked” at a lot of things in my life and I’m here to tell you this: Nothin’ happened except the occasional poke in the eye. Does “closely looking at it” mean that certification groundwork is already being done or Mr. Watt’s is just thinking a lot about a TSX wagon while he sits on the can? I don’t know, do you?

Acura's all-new 2010 TSX V-6 has more power and punch

Acura's all-new 2010 V6 TSX has more power and punch

At a recent press conference in New York City for Acura’s 2010 models, specifically, the all-new V-6 TSX and the enhanced RDX & MDX light trucks, I asked if they were going to launch any new advertising blitzes.

The answer,” We’re going to focus on the brand, rather than the individual cars.”

It makes sense. While Acura seems to keep a low profile, it has a high standing in the market place. For instance, all of Acura’s brands have earned a 5-star safety rating from NHTSA, “TOP SAFETY PICK" FROM IIHS and ALG’s ranking for highest resale value.

So, let’s talk about the V-6 TSX, a sedan that Acura is gearing towards Generation X; in the late 30’s, 60% male, 85% college educated, married with a household income of $110,000.

In other words, they are upping the ante with a higher performing, more aggressive automobile that is poised to compete with the Audi A4 2.0T, BMW 328i and the Lexus IS 250.

2009 Acura RDX Technology Review

For any brand that sells prestige, looks are fundamental. After years of identity crisis and soul searching, Acura finally seems to have found its defining character. The company’s slogan is "Advance", but I would rather call it "The Future is Now".

Saving the brand’s reputation for spirited driving dynamics is the Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD).

The 2009 RDX compact SUV did not escape from the energetic claws of Acura designers. The front fascia is ultra-modern and what looks like a lack of structural coherence is actually a highly-complex design with zero orphan lines in the bodywork. While the front overhang is a bit too long, especially for off-road trips, the side profile still manages to look athletic and balanced.

The RDX appears to be crouching and ready to pounce, as emphasized by the 18-inch wheels and low ground clearance. Aesthetically speaking, the rear end is not quite as well integrated to the rest of the vehicle; in fact, it looks unfinished compared to the nose and midsection.

Beautiful functionality
The great thing about Honda/Acura products is that interior quality is generally beyond reproach. The RDX is certainly no exception. Fit and finish are superb; the same goes for material selection and overall styling. However, like every other model from this Japanese automaker, the cockpit is littered with buttons and controls.

Paradoxically, the dashboard remains simple and easy to use. The friendliness of Acura’s navigation system alone is worth an honorary mention. Ergonomics are considerably improved by the control knob and the bilingual voice recognition software proves very competent.

Audio controls are a bit too low for easy manipulation; however, redundant buttons on the steering wheel fix the problem. Right behind is an absolutely-magnificent set of instruments. The configuration and backlighting are nearly perfect.

Since the Acura RDX sits relatively close to the ground, access to the cabin is easy. Expect to find a good driving position and, given that it’s a Japanese product, the seats offer adequate side support.

Fit and finish are superb; the same goes for material selection and overall styling.

Acura Plans Scaled Down NSX Replacement

The last official word on Acura’s replacement for the NSX supercar was that the project was canned due to poor profit results at Honda as well as the poor state of the economy and auto industry in general. However, with Acura’s internal goal to reach ‘tier 1’ status in the luxury segment, a halo model like the previous NSX may just be what the brand needs.
Cars > Acura Acura NSX Sports Car" title="Left click to visit related sites, or right-click to save picture." width="512" border="0" height="384">

So where does that leave the NSX replacement that has been sighted on numerous occasions lapping it up at Germany’s Nurburgring? Back in February, Dick Colliver, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., revealed that development on the NSX replacement was “mostly done” and that it would be a quick move to market if given the green light.

Now, John Watts, Acura’s senior manager of product development, has revealed that the notion of an Acura sports car is not dead but just revised. Instead of targeting expensive supercars and performance thoroughbreds like the Ferrari F430, Nissan GT-R and upcoming Lexus LF-A, Acura is planning to release a much tamer sports car, possibly derived from one of the brand’s current platforms.

The NSX was “too high a halo,” Watts explained. “For it to be fully effective [as a halo vehicle for the brand], it couldn’t be too far removed” from Acura’s other products. This means that the new sports car will likely be priced much lower than the NSX and performance will probably more along the lines of the Nissan 370Z rather than the GT-R.

Though it’s good to hear that Acura is still planning to launch a sports model, it is somewhat sad that the world may never see the 600 horsepower V10 supercar rumored to be in the works.

Acura's MDX is a fav car in Canada

Built in Canada, the 2009 Acura MDX (Elite Package shown) debuted in 2001 and has constantly been refined keeping it a hot seller in the mid-size luxury SUV/CUV segment. '




Acura's MDX mid-size luxury crossover (CUV) is part of a Canadian success story.

It is one of three Acura vehicles (CSX and ZDX) being constructed in Alliston where the Honda Civic sedan is also built.

It's been a win-win for everyone involved and that includes the federal and provincial governments who never had to worry about shelling out money to Honda. Parsimoniously run while producing vehicles people want is why Honda and Acura have been so successful since the first Civics started arriving on the Canadian market way back in 1973.

Introduced in 2001, the MDX (which stands for Multi Dimensional luXury) was the first mid-size CUV to come with a third row seat. Designed to do battle with the Lexus RX300/330, the MDX now faces a host of competitors in its segment.

The 2009 version is equipped with a 3.7-litre V6 producing 300 hp and 275 lb/ft of torque using Honda's VTEC variable valve timing system for a fuel consumption rating of 13.8L/100 km city and 10.0L/100 km highway on premium.

The only transmission available is a five-speed automatic with sequential SportShift mode that allows "manual" selection of the gears.

All MDX models are fitted as standard with a heavy-duty version of the automatic transmission and heavy-duty radiator with dual fans. That enables the MDX to tow up to 5,000 lb.

Cargo volume with the second (50/50 split) and third row (60/40 split) seats folded is 2,364 litres.

The integrated ABS and Vehicle Stability Assist (Acura's term for electronic stability control) also features Trailer Stability Assist that senses when the trailer is starting to wander and gets both it and car back on an even keel.

The 2009 Acura TL AWD Tech

At $34,955 the re-designed Acura TL for 2009 boasts a blazing list of kudos to make it the most visually appealing and best performing TL creation to date.
2009 Acura TL Tech

Although the TL and RL have always boasted hot looks, they have been known to lack a certain luster, or by urban standards, "bling" in years past. This year’s big, bodacious, drop down bumper with integrated fog lights scoops up air so that it flows over, across and down the alloy accessorized trunk, leaving the sleek side lines to fin off all the excess in the process. Overall, the new design is a larger vehicle, boasting more room inside and power under the hoot than in years past. You really put your foot in this one, Acura!

While the base model is equipped with a 280 horsepower engine front wheel drive VTEC engine, the top of the line “Tech” model boasts a 305 horsepower engine with a five-speed automatic sequential shift transmission and all wheel drive. Translation: power and glory behind the wheel. Tune up? That can wait till you reach the 100,000 mile mark (conditions may vary). And although this year’s model is larger than the previous generation, the handling and cornering capabilities of this luxury sport sedan are no less than superb. A test drive alone will leave you smiling for days.

2010 Acura vehicles get Bluetooth, XM Radio, iPod connectivity as standard

Acura is looking to upgrade the experience for customers by adding a few oft-requested features as standard, starting with their 2010 lineup. Look forward to Bluetooth, XM Radio, and even iPod connectivity to all be included. This is definitely a sign of the times, as just about even mobile phone sold today supports Bluetooth, and that can only result in a bit more safety on the road.

Honda Expands Airbag Recall For Accord, Civic, Acura TL

If you own a Honda Accord—and there are plenty of you out there, it being a longtime mid-size sedan favorite—there’s a small chance that your airbag might detonate with an unpleasant bonus: some shrapnel.

In some isolated incidents in specific Hondas and Acuras made earlier this decade, inflators can over-pressurize the airbag, causing the inflator itself to rupture and projecting metal fragments that could puncture the airbag material.

“Metal fragments could pass through the cloth airbag cushion material, possibly causing an injury or fatality,” Honda states in a release.

A Honda spokesman told CNNMoney.com last week that the defect has caused six known injuries and one known death so far.

The airbag-related recall is an expansion of one initiated in November 2008 and now affects about 440,000 vehicles in all, including some 2001-2002 Honda Accords, 2002-2003 Acura TL, and 2001 Honda Civic models.

Visit this link for Honda owners or this one for Acura owners for more information specific to your VIN (vehicle identification number), or consult with the federal government for general recall info on these recalls or those concerning other vehicles.

2010 Acura TSX V-6

Long before a V-6 was ever in the cards, Acura told the world that its four-cylinder TSX was perfectly equipped to do battle with entry-level luxury sedans like the Audi A4 and BMW 3-Series. Sure, it had the looks, the technology, the interior refinement, and the size, but when it came down to performance, the 201-horsepower, 2.4-liter inline-four running through only the front wheels just couldn’t hold its own. So in a segment full of six-cylinder (and turbo four) engines and rear- or all-wheel drive, the TSX sort of became the bargain basement choice in the class.

Acura is hoping to change all of that in the 2010 model year, because the TSX now gets a 3.5-liter V-6 which produces a healthy 280 horsepower and 254 pound-feet of torque, all starting at a price point of just $34,850. For those keeping track, that’s much more powerful than the BMW 328i, Audi A4 (2.0T and 3.2), Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and Lexus IS250. What’s more, the TSX is cheaper than a few of these stable-mates, as well. But before Acura claims a victorious checkmate, we must remember that the TSX is still only offered in front-wheel drive; and when we hit the open country roads in and around southeast Michigan’s Macomb County, a whole barrel of flaws were exposed.

After a few hours of driving around a series of backroads, it became crystal clear that the front suspension—though revised to handle the weight of the V-6—was not properly tuned to handle the power running through the wheels it supports. On more than one occasion, the front tires chirped as we pulled away from a stop (under moderate throttle with the traction control on) and then torque steer guided the way through first and second gears. After experiencing these problems over and over again, we pulled aside some Acura engineers and asked when the TSX would be getting the all-wheel drive option that it sorely needs; not only to save the front suspension dynamics, but to even better have it compete within the entry-level luxury segment where every other contender has available all-wheel drive. The Acura folks looked slightly to the left and responded with, “That isn’t in the cards for the TSX,” simply because they want the V-6 TSX to still slot below the base TL in their lineup. We really like Acura’s Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive system, and we think it’s a damn shame that the TSX won’t benefit from this technology.

But we aren’t ready to completely write off the TSX’s driving dynamics as horrible. Far from it, in fact. Tuning the front suspension allows for crisp, tight steering which, if anything, makes the torque steer a bit easier to overcome. The brakes are good with minimal front-end chatter during hard stops, and when traveling quickly down long stretches of road, the TSX stays planted to the ground with minimal body roll. Fitting the V-6 model with larger eighteen-inch wheels helps out in all of these areas, too.

The only transmission available is a five-speed automatic with wheel-mounted paddle shifters, though Acura says that they’re working on bringing a six-speed tranny to the TSX soon. The added gear will be much welcomed, as the current five-speed unit isn’t geared as well as it should be, and when you allow the transmission to shift on its own, it doesn’t hold each gear long enough to use the most of the 280 available horses. Even so, there’s a robust 254 pound-feet of torque available, but in true Honda/Acura fashion, the torque isn’t incredibly noticeable because it peaks too high up in the rev range.

Acura's TSX sedan

The first V-6 version of Acura's entry-level TSX sedan joins the lineup for 2010 with a list price of $34,850 (plus $810 freight) for the base model, and $37,950 for the version with the Technology Package.

The 3.5-liter V-6 engine, with 280-horsepower and 254 foot-pounds of torque, gives the compact TSX a big boost in power. Until now, only a 201-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine has been available.

With the V-6, the only transmission is a five-speed automatic, which the four-cylinder comes with either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic.

For 2010, four-cylinder models begin at $29,310, and with the technology package, the price is $32,260. Either transmission is available at the same prices.

“With strong V-6 power, the 2010 TSX can go toe-to-toe with the top sports sedans in its class,” said Jeff Conrad, Acura's vice president for sales.

The V-6 comes with unique 18-inch wheels and a revised suspension, he said.

EPA fuel-economy estimates for the V-6 are 18 mpg city/27 highway, compared with 20/28 for the four-cylinder with manual transmission, and 21/30 with the automatic.

The V-6 adds to the choices for the second generation of the TSX, which went on sale in April 2008 as an early 2009 model. With the re-do, the TSX was updated throughout.

The V-6 model, on sale now, falls between the highest-priced four-cylinder model and the midsize Acura TL sedan, which also was redesigned for 2009.

With that redesign, the TL was moved farther upscale, with the starting price raised to $34,955 from 2008's $33,725. No prices have been announced yet for the 2010 TL. But the 3.5-liter engine in the base TL is the same one used in the new TSX model, while the TL's all-wheel-drive model comes with a 3.7-liter V-6.

As for the TSX V-6, it comes with Acura's Sequential SportShift automatic transmission, with such features such as grade-logic and shift-hold control. The transmission can be operated in full automatic mode, or the driver can shift it manually, although without having to use a clutch, of course.

For sporty handling, Acura uses a specially tuned double-wishbone front and multilink rear suspension system, and the car has five-spoke aluminum wheels and Michelin Pilot all-season tires.

Also different from the four-cylinder model is a revised front fascia and a V-6 badge on the trunk lid, Acura said.

Acura called the new TSX exterior design “Keen Edge Dynamic,” which it said was intended to give the car “a cutting-edge appearance” to resonate with the youthful consumers the car is intended to appeal to — typically, young, single professionals or couples.

It's 2.4 inches longer and three inches wider than its predecessor, and it has a 1.3-inch longer wheelbase. For greater stability, it has a 2.6-inch wider track, which adds to the car's sporty driving experience.

The inline four-cylinder engine offers 201 horsepower and 172 foot-pounds of torque with the manual transmission, and 170 foot-pounds with the automatic.

For 2009, the TSX got a new suspension system engineered to give the car great handling along with improved ride quality — two features that often are at odds with each other. Tuning a suspension for crisp handling usually means making the ride rougher, and premium cars often have to emphasize handling or comfort, rather than embracing both fully.

Even the four-cylinder model is well equipped. Standard amenities include leather interior, a power moon roof, high-intensity headlights, Bluetooth hands-free phone link, and a great audio system with standard XM satellite radio and USB connection point.

The TSX also comes with Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering front body structure, designed to minimize damage to other vehicles and injury to pedestrians hit by the car.

Nighthawk Black Pearl 2005 Acura TSX Sedan with Parchment interior