See Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure

A feature designed for inherently quiet vehicles such as electric cars. The feature produces an audible alert to pedestrians that an electric car is headed in their direction. NHTSA is finalizing a regulation that will require all new electric vehicles to have alerting systems.

Whenever Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®) puts the engine into 3-cylinder operation, an ACM control unit begins to monitor engine vibrations. It operates high-speed linear solenoids in the front and rear engine mounts to actively cancel out each individual vibration.

Designed to help reduce the likelihood of a neck injury in the event of a rear impact, this is an advanced safety feature. When a rear impact occurs, the head restraints on the two front seats (when occupied) lift up and tilt forward in a fraction of a second to decrease the space between the occupant’s head and head restraint, thus helping to reduce the chance of neck injury.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) allows the driver to set a desired speed, as well as the following distance, behind a vehicle detected ahead. While driving, engagement of Adaptive Cruise Control prompts the driver to select a short, medium or long distance behind the vehicle detected ahead. ACC then modulates the throttle and applies moderate braking, if necessary, to hold the selected following distance.

The ACE™ body structure is a Honda exclusive body design that enhances occupant protection and crash compatibility in frontal crashes. The ACE™ design utilizes a network of connected structural elements to distribute crash energy more evenly throughout the front of the vehicle. This enhanced frontal crash-energy management helps to reduce the forces transferred to the passenger compartment and can help to more evenly disperse the forces transferred to other vehicles in a crash. As a result, occupant protection is significantly enhanced, as is reduced aggressiveness toward other vehicles in a collision.
The latest generation of the ACE body structure is designed to enhance performance in small overlap frontal collisions. It debuted on the MY13 Accord and Civic.

An Advanced Technology Partial Zero-Emission Vehicle not only meets the California Air Resources Board (CARB) standards for tailpipe emissions (SULEV-2) and evaporative emissions (zero), but it also features propulsion from some type of alternative energy source. Examples include the Civic Hybrid (electric motor) and the Civic GX Natural Gas.

All Honda fuel-injection systems use special air-assist fuel injectors that mix air with the fuel as it is sprayed from the injector. Thorough atomization of fuel is critical for complete combustion. The smaller the fuel-droplet size, the more effectively it mixes with the intake air, resulting in more efficient combustion, lower emissions and improved throttle response.

See Advanced Technology Partial Zero-Emission Vehicle

Developed many decades ago, the original Atkinson-cycle engine improved fuel efficiency by reducing the volume of air and fuel introduced on the intake stroke and compressed on the compression stroke. This smaller intake charge would then burn more efficiently during ignition, while still providing adequate torque on the power stroke. Honda engineers used the flexibility of the i-VTEC® system to simulate the original Atkinson-cycle principles, with operating efficiency that goes far beyond a traditional internal-combustion engine. Specifically, one of the i-VTEC cams delays the closing of its assigned intake valve until much later than usual on the compression stroke. The resulting smaller volume of air/fuel mixture then burns more completely and efficiently during the power stroke. However, the other intake cam is timed more like a conventional engine’s for greater power output.

Eliminates multiple switches and improves audio-system ease of use. The driver or passenger need only press the desired icon to reach specified controls for that function.

The front 3-point seat belts on all Honda models are equipped with an automatic-tensioning system and load limiters. In the event of a moderate-to-severe impact, this system is designed to instantly tighten the shoulder and lap harnesses to help hold the driver and front passenger in place. The load limiters allow the seat belts to relieve their tension slightly after the automatic-tensioning system is activated.

A system designed to detect vehicles in a driver’s blind spots and provide visual alerts.

Using the Bluetooth wireless communication platform, this system allows drivers to make and receive mobile-phone calls with hands on the steering wheel and eyes on the road. Cell phones that feature the Bluetooth Hands-Free Profile are required. Visit www.handsfreelink.com for a list of compatible phones and available features.

A feature of Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® which allows users to wirelessly connect compatible music players to—and play audio files on—the vehicle’s audio system.

This safety feature is found on all current Honda vehicles. Brake Assist is designed to help drivers apply full emergency stopping power in a panic-stop situation. If Brake Assist detects an extreme rate of pedal application and pressure, the system helps drivers apply full braking force, thus helping to stop the vehicle in the shortest distance possible. When the driver releases pressure on the brake pedal, the Brake Assist system deactivates.

A safety device that automatically applies the brakes on a trailer if it should become separated from the tow vehicle while in motion. May be used with both electric and surge-type trailer-brake systems.

California state agency that gathers air-quality data, designs and implements air-quality models, and sets ambient air-quality standards for the state. It also regulates the emissions produced by various products and entities in the state. Other states have adopted the California standards.

An energy source that offers a clean, efficient and powerful method of fueling a vehicle. The Civic Natural Gas uses CNG.

A type of automatic transmission that uses a drive belt and continuously variable ratio pulleys instead of gears. Advantages include smooth, shiftless acceleration and more efficient engine operation. CVTs give vehicles the convenience of an automatic transmission with the performance and fuel economy of a manual transmission.

Allows the driver and front-seat passenger to maintain visual awareness of rear-seat passengers. This mirror also doubles as a sunglasses holder.

A storage compartment that is cooled by the vehicle’s HVAC system.

A vehicle that incorporates a unit-body construction similar to most cars, as opposed to the body-on-frame construction of a typical SUV. CUVs have the seating and cargo versatility of an SUV (Sport-Utility Vehicle) but tend to have more car-like handling and ride performance, and improved fuel economy over body-on-frame SUVs.

Daytime Running Lights turn on automatically after the engine is turned on and the parking brake is fully released. They make it easier for other drivers and pedestrians to detect the approaching vehicle.

This system features an electrostatic touch-screen. It allows interaction with the vehicle’s audio system as well as with select apps on the user’s smartphone to access Web content. And Display Audio with navigation incorporates the navigation-system functions on models so equipped. The screen provides smartphone-like functionality, such as pinching to zoom in and out, sliding for volume control, and swiping to move between displays. The connection between the system and the user’s smartphone can be made through the Bluetooth®2 HandsFreeLink system, the USB port, or an HDMI port—depending upon the type of smartphone used. The system provides the interface for the HondaLink® Next Generation connectivity platform.

All Honda engines use individual direct-ignition spark coils at each cylinder. This design offers several advantages over a more conventional ignition coil and distributor, including a hotter, more consistent spark and great latitude in spark timing, as well as less complexity.

The DOHC i-VTEC system enhances the effect of VTEC by adding Variable Timing Control (VTC). VTC is a hydraulically operated system that controls the timing of the chain-driven intake camshaft, advancing or retarding it during the intake cycle. This results in more precise control over the timing of the intake charge, relative to crankshaft position.

Instead of a mechanical linkage from the accelerator pedal to the fuel-injection throttle plate, all Honda models use “Drive-by-Wire” technology. The system uses an electronic position sensor connected to the accelerator pedal that sends an electronic signal to the vehicle’s powertrain control module (PCM). The PCM combines the accelerator-position signal from the driver with data such as engine rpm, coolant temperature and road speed, and then optimizes the movement of the throttle plate to the desired position.

When the rear-wheel ABS sensors detect impending lockup, EBD signals an additional solenoid to reduce braking force to the rear wheels and distribute more force to the front, thereby maximizing braking force.

A method of increasing the fuel efficiency used on select models, Eco Assist consists of two parts: ECON mode and the Driver Feedback System. While each method can work independently, together they help drivers maximize fuel efficiency for their specific driving conditions.

Located within the Multi-Information Display (MID), the Eco Score feature on hybrid models encourages and rewards drivers for efficient driving. Points are accumulated when the driving style is fuel efficient, and points are deducted when the driving is not fuel efficient. The system shows the drivers’ real-time score as they drive. Drivers new to the system will typically see a two-leaf icon (a total of 5 icons with 10 leaves). When they reach the second Eco Stage, they will see 4 leaves per icon (a total of 20 leaves). Fuel-efficient third Eco Stage experts will see a fully bloomed flower icon (a total of 5 icons with 20 leaves and 5 flowers).

ECON mode on select models improves fuel efficiency by changing or limiting the operation of some energy-consuming practices. In addition, when ECON mode is engaged on hybrid vehicles, idle-stop operates more frequently and for longer periods of time, and regenerative braking is stronger.

An indicator on the instrument panel that illuminates whenever the driver is operating in the most fuel-efficient manner possible. Please note: It doesn’t necessarily indicate that the VCM system has deactivated cylinders.

A system that supplies steering assist electrically rather than by other means, such as a hydraulic system.

This driver’s side mirror helps increase visibility to the rear of the vehicle. Optically curved at its outer edge, the mirror helps the driver see vehicles that might be in the blind spot on the driver’s side of the vehicle.

A system designed to detect vehicles ahead and determine whether a collision is likely and, if so, issue visual and audible warnings to alert the driver. The system will not automatically brake, and the driver remains responsible for safely operating the vehicle and avoiding collisions. The FCW system cannot detect all objects ahead and may not detect a given object; accuracy will vary based on weather, speed and other factors. System operation may be affected by extreme interior heat.

Excessive engine revving is a common negative characteristic of conventional CVTs. The latest generation of Honda CVTs uses a G-Design Shift feature to bypass this condition through improved pairing of CVT and torque-converter functions. The result is an optimized CVT driving experience that is more linear and sporty than competitive CVT systems. In brief, the G-Design Shift allows the transmission to distribute greater power from the engine to the wheels. As a result, the driver and passengers will feel like the engine is revving less to propel the vehicle than in typical CVT-equipped vehicles.

It uses throttle position, brake-pedal position, road speed and rate of deceleration and acceleration to determine actual driving conditions. It then uses this information to select the appropriate program from its stored computer shift maps. For example, when driving uphill, Grade Logic senses that despite a large throttle opening, the car is not accelerating and picks the uphill driving shift map that holds in gear and delays upshifts, thereby eliminating hunting between gears.

Hill Start Assist helps prevent a vehicle stopped on a grade from rolling when the driver’s foot moves from the brake pedal to the accelerator. Sensors inform the brake-system ECU when the vehicle is stopped on a grade. The ECU maintains brake-line pressure for a brief moment while the driver moves their foot from the brake pedal to the accelerator pedal.

See Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®

Enables vehicles to receive digital broadcasts from stations on AM and FM bands, with significantly enhanced audio quality. HD stations also have the ability to broadcast multiple signals, called subchannels.

Uses a camera located below the passenger-side mirror to display an expanded rear view of the passenger’s side roadway through the intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) or Display Audio screen. The image appears when the right-turn signal is activated or a button on the end of the stalk is pushed.

A connected technology that allows customers to easily and seamlessly connect their vehicle with music and media resources, Internet apps and a number of other important assets. An application that is already developed and available via a compatible smartphone is Aha™ mobile radio.

This is an app-based platform that connects the driver to a world of online content both inside and outside the car—all powered by the driver’s smartphone. The Display Audio touch-screen provides the interface to operate the system. HondaLink® apps as well as Honda-approved third-party apps can be used.

The intelligent Multi-Information Display provides engaging graphics and interactive elements that allow users to operate various vehicle systems, such as audio and others, with greater ease.

An insurance industry-sponsored organization that conducts research on crash safety and accident prevention. It studies the effects of human, vehicle and physical environmental factors on highway safety. IIHS also conducts tests on crashworthiness.

The innovative, Honda-designed Integrated Motor Assist IMA hybrid-drive system consists of a highly fuel-efficient gasoline engine assisted by an electric-motor drive, which is powered by a compact battery pack. Unlike other hybrid systems that can operate in either a gasoline-powered or low-speed electric mode, the IMA system’s gasoline engine provides primary propulsion. When additional power is required, for example when accelerating from a stop, passing another vehicle or climbing a hill, the permanent-magnet electric motor mounted between the engine and transmission provides added torque to the drivetrain.

The next generation of VTEC®, i-VTEC is an intelligent valve-control system that, on some vehicles, adds Variable Timing Control™ (VTC™) of the intake camshaft to Honda’s renowned VTEC. VTEC still operates the same—using a low-profile cam lobe at low rpm and activating a high-profile cam lobe at high rpm—but its performance is augmented by VTC, which allows infinitely variable control over camshaft phasing.

A system designed to visually detect lane lines in the road. If the driver begins to drift out of a detected lane without using the turn indicators, the system will alert the driver with visual and audible warnings, though the driver remains responsible for safely operating the vehicle and avoiding collisions. LDW may not detect all lane markings or lane departures; accuracy will vary based on weather, speed and road condition. System operation may be affected by extreme interior heat.

When used with a LATCH-compatible child seat, it provides attachment points between the child seat and vehicle to help make it easier to properly mount a child seat.

Maintenance Minder indicates when routine maintenance is due based on how the vehicle is driven, rather than on a fixed schedule. If the vehicle is seeing harder-than-normal use, such as hot-weather operation or a lot of short trips, Maintenance Minder will indicate that the vehicle should receive service sooner than the regularly scheduled interval. It also monitors standard prescribed maintenance procedures and intervals, such as tire rotation, transmission service and replacement of coolant, spark plugs and filter.

This system works with VSA to help the driver maintain the vehicle’s intended course. During a skid, it modifies the steering assist provided to encourage the driver to turn the wheel in the most beneficial direction.

The auxiliary input jack lets users hook up many iPod®²⁵ or MP3 players, which can then be played through the vehicle’s audio system. The input jack uses a standard headphone-jack plug. The volume of the input source can then be controlled through the audio system.

Federal agency of the U.S. Department of Transportation that carries out safety programs, conducts research on traffic safety and driver behavior, sets and enforces vehicle safety standards, and provides consumer information on a variety of motor-vehicle safety topics. Among its most public activities are the NCAP (New Car Assessment Program) and Side Impact Occupant Protection crash tests. Using advanced crash dummies, these tests measure the likelihood and extent of trauma on humans. Ratings are based on a one- to five-star system, with five stars indicating the highest score.

The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™³⁴ uses 24 Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites, as well as on-board gyroscopic sensors, speed sensors and software to pinpoint the current position of the vehicle provide the best route to a destination.

In some Honda vehicles, the front passenger's seat is equipped with OPDS, a multi-sensor system designed to disable side-airbag deployment if a child (or small-statured adult) is leaning into the side-airbag deployment path. If this determination is made, then the side airbag will not deploy and a “side airbag off” indicator will illuminate on the instrument panel. The airbag will not deploy as long as the passenger remains in the deployment path. When the OPDS determines that the passenger is no longer in the airbag-deployment path, the airbag will reset and the “side airbag off” indicator will go out within a few seconds.

Unlike a full-frontal impact, an offset-frontal impact involves only a portion of the width of the vehicle. Offset-frontal impacts are a common form of frontal-impact collisions and can subject the passenger compartment to a greater degree of vehicle intrusion and deformation. There is currently no federal requirement for offset-frontal impact testing or performance; however, Honda has designed offset-frontal impact protection into all current models.

When the driver touches the directional signal stalk lightly, the vehicle’s signal indicators automatically flash three times.

This popular audio application offers drivers a rich, personal music experience. When a compatible smartphone—on which the Pandora app has been downloaded and installed—is connected to the USB Audio Interface, or via Bluetooth® on some models, Pandora can be opened and menus selected that show up on the vehicle’s i-MID or Display Audio screen. Pandora functions are controlled by using the AUX button and the audio-selector knob on the control panel.

Select models feature front and rear parking sensors to help the driver detect objects close to the vehicle. When parking, a warning beep will alert the driver of close proximity to an object. The closer the vehicle gets to the object, the faster the alert will beep. The sensors are body-colored to help them blend in and enhance the overall appearance of the vehicle. On some models, the rear sensors can be switched off to prevent false alerts when towing.

At the heart of PGM-FI is a computer called the PCM, or powertrain-control module. The PCM is connected to sensors that monitor inputs such as throttle position, engine temperature, cylinder firing position, intake manifold pressure, atmospheric pressure, exhaust-gas oxygen content and intake air temperature. The PCM constantly receives information from these and other sensors and uses it to determine the fuel requirements of the engine. It then activates each fuel injector at precisely the right moment for optimum efficiency. The result is outstanding power and driveability, with reduced emissions and better fuel efficiency.

This system enables the transmission of digital information over the FM band. It allows the display of such items as station call letters, artist names and song titles on compatible radio head units.

A 4-wheel-drive system that automatically and proactively distributes drive torque to the front and rear wheels. No shifting is necessary and no driver intervention is required to engage and/or disengage the system.

A 4-wheel-drive system that automatically distributes drive torque to the front and rear wheels in response to traction conditions. No shifting is necessary and no driver intervention is required to engage and/or disengage the system.

Passengers in the rear seats can enjoy DVD movies and other sources of entertainment with this system, keeping them occupied and creating less of a distraction for the driver. The system features an LCD display that folds down from the ceiling, a pair of wireless headphones and a control panel in the roof that can be removed and used as a remote.

A full-color rearview camera that enables drivers to see what is behind them via the instrument panel-mounted display or a monitor in the rearview mirror when the vehicle is put in Reverse.

This feature is available for phones that have the Message Access Profile (MAP) software. It gives drivers the ability to receive text messages and send pre-written replies. When this system first launched, only select phones—including some BlackBerry® models—were MAP-compatible. As more compatible phone models become available, they will be added to the list of compatible devices at handsfreelink.honda.com.

Designed to deploy and inflate quickly in a sufficient side impact to maximize potential protection for properly seated occupants to help protect the driver’s or front passenger’s upper body from injury. The system is also designed to vent before fully inflating if an occupant is in the side-airbag deployment path, thereby decreasing the likelihood for an airbag-related injury.

The single-overhead-camshaft valve train uses an i-VTEC system, but one with a different technology that represents a variation on i-VTEC technology. This intelligent VTEC system switches the valve timing for maximum efficiency during startup and acceleration.

Select models offer the Song By Voice (SBV) feature. With so much audio content potentially available on the HDD or from a customer’s iPod®9, Honda engineers set out to make it easy to find content. From most navigation screens, the driver can simply press the TALK button on the steering wheel and say “iPod search” or “HDD search.” Then drivers can give a voice command, such as “Play song ‘Parkway Garden,’” and the system will automatically begin playback. Song By Voice also lets the driver choose music by artist, album, track name, genre, playlist and even composer.

This system is designed to warn the driver if a tire’s pressure is significantly low. For optimal tire wear and performance, tire pressure should be checked regularly with a gauge.

The maximum figure in pounds that a vehicle can tow. Many factors influence towing capacity, including the engine type, transmission, tires, brakes and passenger and cargo capacity.

This hybrid system consists of a powerful electric drive motor as well as a high-output generator; this generator can also function as a motor when needed to start the engine. The electric motor produces peak torque immediately as it starts turning, so it delivers a strong response that feels like a much larger engine is aboard. The system recharges the battery in two ways. During deceleration, the drive motor becomes a generator and uses regenerative braking to capture the car’s kinetic energy and convert it to electricity. And while the engine is operating, it spins the big generator to recharge the battery as well. The system moves continuously through three distinct drive methods during normal operation. In EV Drive, the car is propelled solely by the electric motor and the lithium-ion battery. During Hybrid Drive, the engine powers the generator, which in turn supplies the motor with electricity. And finally there’s Engine Drive, wherein a clutch inside the transmission locks up to mechanically link the engine to the drive wheels for the greatest efficiency at highway speeds.

The USB Audio Interface enables users to dock, charge and control a variety of current digital audio players directly through the audio system. USB mass-storage devices such as flash drives can also be used to play back MP3, WMA or AAC music files, and can display the song title, artist and other information on the audio screen. However, some USB devices with security software and digital rights-protected files may not work.

This technology enables a V-6 engine to provide full power on demand while also delivering impressive fuel economy. When maximum power isn’t needed, the VCM system can deactivate cylinders—depending upon the torque requirements to maintain cruising speed—by shutting off the appropriate fuel injectors and stopping valve operation with the VTEC® system. And when full torque output is required, all six cylinders are employed immediately. Some versions can deactivate two or three cylinders, while others can shut down only three.

This system enables a vehicle to provide a very confident, linear on-center steering feel on the open road, combined with more responsive turning ability in tighter maneuvers, such as when turning at an intersection or parallel parking.

A feature on some i-VTEC® engines that hydraulically controls the phasing of the chain-driven camshaft, resulting in optimal timing ratios between the valves and the pistons.

A 4-wheel-drive system that automatically distributes torque to all four wheels as needed. VTM-4 Lock® temporarily locks both rear clutches of the rear wheels for maximum traction in low-speed situations.

Honda’s variable valve-timing system enables its engines to produce increased power across a broader torque band while still maintaining good fuel efficiency. At low rpm, the first cam profile operates the valves to increase driveability and/or efficiency. At higher rpm, a second cam-lobe profile operates the valves to increase their opening and duration, resulting in increased power.

VSA with traction control is designed to help the driver retain steering control while cornering and during maneuvers that could cause a loss of traction and directional control.* VSA works by controlling brake pressure or engine power—or a combination of the two—depending on the situation. It is especially helpful when driving in low-traction conditions, such as snow or rain.

Vehicles equipped with SiriusXM® Radio can receive a clear digital signal coast to coast without ever being out of range (within the 48 contiguous United States). Customers can drive state to state and listen to the same channel without static. Over 170 different channels are available, some of which are commercial-free. After a 90-day trial period, customers who wish to continue to receive the broadcasts are required to pay a monthly subscription fee.