ACURA ILX

Premium Sports Sedan: 2016 Buick Regal GS

January 19, 2016 by admin 5 Comments

Making the transition from a mainstream brand to luxury marque may mean consumers end up committing to a larger cash outlay than what they prefer. On the other hand, the Buick brand provides an intermediary step between the two choices, something few nameplates can claim. In effect, Buick makes it possible for Chevrolet owners to ease into luxury before deciding whether Cadillac or some other high-priced make is right for them.

Buick Regal Competition and Model History

Buick’s competition has faded in recent years as Ford’s Mercury brand is gone and Chrysler now competes with Chevrolet. At the same time, Acura and Lincoln products are fair game, offering a premium feel much in the same way that Buick does.

The Buick Regal is one such model that competes with the upscale brands. Its chief competition includes the Acura ILX, Audi A3, and the Lincoln MKZ. The Regal is based on the Opel Insignia and is best compared to midsize mainstream models or premium compact sedans.

Now in its sixth model year, the current generation Regal is nothing like the previous models. The name can be traced all the way back to 1973 when GM released a family of intermediate models for Chevrolet, Pontiac, Oldsmobile, and Buick. This collection of rear-wheel drive coupes and sedans were downsized in 1978 and yielded some of the most noteworthy models, including the Grand National and GNX. Beginning in 1988 and lasting through two generational changes before its cancellation in 2004, even smaller versions of the Regal were built. GM had also switched to a front-wheel drive layout by then.

After a seven-year hiatus, the Regal name was resurrected and the first models were imported from Germany. However, a factory in Oshawa, Ontario, was soon given the honors to build the North American-spec model and has served in that capacity since.

Buick offers the Regal in 1SV, Standard, Premium II, and GS trim levels. Front-wheel is standard across the model line; all-wheel drive is available in the two upper trim levels.

Two Engine Choices and a Lower Price

Upon its 2011 release, a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine was standard and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder was available. Both engines are still used and are paired with six-speed automatic transmissions. From 2012 to 2015 you could opt for a 6-speed manual gearbox. Unfortunately, sales never justified the stick’s existence, thus this option was quietly removed for 2016.

Starting in 2012, Buick began offering a mild hybrid system called eAssist, what enables the Regal to achieve 36 mpg on the highway. Originally offered to all customers, the hybrid is now provided to fleet customers only.

The 2016 Buick Regal GS is priced from $36,490 and represents a new, lower price for this sport sedan. Indeed, when I tested a 2015 version last spring, the base price came in at $39,810 or $3,320 higher than the 2016 edition. Further, the sticker price on the earlier model was an eye popping $44,670 compared with the $40,550 on the most recent driver.

Importantly, the price cut means the content is unchanged or at least it has changed for the better: Apple CarPlay is now included. So, why the drop in price? Doubtlessly there are two things at play here: the competition is selling their cars for less and consumers continue to gravitate to crossover utility vehicles. That being said, the Envision crossover joins the line this spring, a model that is certain to siphon sales from Buick’s family of sedans.

Buick Regal v. Acura ILX

The GS’ arrival followed my week with an Acura ILX. Hands down, the Buick is the better model. But that’s not an entirely fair comparison as the ILX is offered in front-wheel drive only and there is no turbo option. The ILX is slightly smaller too, as it is based on the Honda Civic’s platform. Still, the Regal offers a more elegant presence, a quieter cabin and better quality materials. You should also keep in mind that the comparison was between the top-end Regal and a more run-of-the-mill ILX.

Dressed in Buick garb, the Regal GS is a handsome little sedan. It offers room for five, but the back seat is tight. Nevertheless, the sedan should appeal to a young executive, perhaps one with a spouse and small children. Otherwise, the growing family may find the Enclave SUV more to their liking.

A Look Inside

The Regal GS comes with a thickly padded, leather-wrapped steering wheel. Behind that wheel is a three-analog display featuring a tachometer, speedometer and fuel/oil displays. At the top of the center stack is a set of six switches — it is easy to overlook them, but don’t. Besides the lane departure warning switch, you’ll find the GS’s interactive drive control system.

Pay special attention to the two switches on the outside of the row as they contain “GS” and “Sport” drive modes. Both modes adapt ride and handling, especially at high speeds; the GS mode provides the highest level of handling enjoyment.

Credit Buick with developing a model that is very comfortable for the driver. Leather-appointed seating, heated front seats, and a 12-way driver’s seat is at the ready. The only feature lacking is a seat extender, usually included in such driver’s cars as the BMW 3 Series.

Behind the Wheel

Press the ignition switch, engage the transmission and you’re ready to discover everything this sedan offers. Soon, the turbo spools and begins to deliver the full measure of its 295 foot-pounds of torque, enabling the GS to zip down the road with authority.

The all-wheel drive system includes a four-wheel independent suspension with wheel-slip management and an electronic limited-slip rear differential enhancing handling. A HiPer Strut front suspension is also at work, limiting torque steer. You’ll feel confident on twisty roads, but you’ll also sense the difference between the Buick and the high-end European sedans. Whereas a 3 Series always feels poised and planted, the Regal GS subtly reminds you that without all-wheel drive at work, it would be just another pricey sedan.

The current generation Regal is now in its sixth year. A 2014 refresh brought light changes to the exterior, update the equipment catalog and brought in additional safety features. A redesigned dashboard also was introduced. The next-generation model is probably a year or two away; keep an eye on the major auto shows for its introduction.

Buick Regal Considerations

The Regal GS is the sportiest Buick model of the millennium, although it doesn’t go far enough for people who would like to see the brand flash its high-end performance side for the first time in nearly 30 years. That may be left up to a new model based on the Avista concept, a rear-wheel drive coupe introduced at the 2016 Detroit auto show (NAIAS), one with Grand National or Riviera aspirations.

2016 Buick Regal GS AWD

Sticker price from $36,490
Price as tested: $40,550
Seats 5 occupants
2.0-liter 16-valve turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine
259 horsepower @ 5,300 RPM
295 foot-pounds of torque @ 2,500 RPM
3.39 inches bore by 3.39 inches stroke
Engine compression ratio: 9.5-to-1
6-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 107.8 inches
Length: 190.2 inches
Width: 73.1 inches
Height: 58.4 inches
Passenger volume: 96.8 cubic feet
Storage volume: 14.2 cubic feet
Towing capacity: NR
EPA: 19 mpg city, 27 mpg highway
Premium grade gasoline recommended
Fuel tank: 18 gallons
Curb weight: From 3,981 pounds
IIHS safety rating: Good — moderate overlap front, side, roof strength , head restraints & seats
Limited vehicle warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 6 years/70,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 6 years/Unlimited miles
Vehicle assembly: Oshawa, Ontario CANADA

Further Reading

Sport Ute: 2016 Mazda CX-3

Wagon Master: 2018 Buick Regal TourX

2016 Buick Regal GS photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine.

The Premium Compact 2016 Acura ILX

January 5, 2016 by admin 3 Comments

Acura’s ILX offers a sleek exterior, a prosaic interior, and a price point keeping in line with this compact gateway sedan’s contribution to the premium segment.

Acura is a nameplate searching for an identity. Launched three decades ago by American Honda to provide a line of upscale products for the US market, Acura falls under the “luxury brand” mantle, but its model line is composed chiefly of vehicles based on the Honda brand’s front-wheel drive platforms.

The lack of a clear chassis distinction between the two brands has hindered sales even as its chief competitors continue to add new models and build vehicles exclusive to these brands. That fact doesn’t mean Acura has little to offer, but it does mean shoppers should understand what the Acura marque is about and manage their perceptions and expectations accordingly.

2016 Acura ILX

A 2016 Acura ILX entered my test fleet as one calendar year gave way to the next, providing additional time for me to spend with this compact model. The ILX is the entry-level sedan in the segment and is based on the same chassis underpinning the Honda Civic sedan. The remainder of the Acura line is composed of the TLX and RLX sedans as well as the RDX and MDX crossover SUVs.

Importantly, an all-new Acura NSX super car arrives this year, a much-needed and highly anticipated halo model for the brand. The NSX’s high six-figure cost and limited availability will do little to bolster sales directly, but it should invite closer inspection of the entire brand.

Acura prices the ILX from $27,900, effectively undercutting the starting price for models from BMW, Cadillac, Lexus and Mercedes-Benz. All ILXs are powered by a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine making 201 horsepower and comes paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The front-wheel drive ILX is also available in Premium ($29,900) and Technology Plus & A-Spec models ($34,890). Thus, a well-equipped model should cost about $35,000.

Not Available: All-Wheel Drive

The ILX is also the only Acura model without available all-wheel drive. That’s an option you can find in the competing Buick Regal and Volvo S60 as well as in higher-end rear-wheel drive-based luxury models, such as the BMW 3 Series, Lexus’ IS, and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

Although the dimensions of the ILX parallel the Honda Civic, happily there is much that is different for Acura’s most affordable product. Introduced in 2013, the ILX provides a sleek style with a bold front fascia marked by jewel-eyed headlamps and LED accents. Acura’s upswept be-chromed grille is present, along with distinct embrasures housing the available fog lamps. Together, Acura presents a look that is at once sporty as it is upscale.

The ILX has a long hood, a short rear deck, and a sporty profile with a sweeping roof line, an even belt line, upper and lower character lines, and fashionable 17-inch alloy wheels. At the rear is a trunk lip spoiler, wrap around combination lamps, and reflector lights.

A-Spec Enhanced Interior

Inside, Acura provides room for five, but is much more useful for four. Fold down the rear center seat arm rest and you lose a seating position, but you end up with a more comfortable passenger arrangement. The rear bench seat also folds flat, providing access to the trunk. Leg room is tight, making this model more ideal for the single person or young couple or for the young family with small children.

Up front, the seats are adequately bolstered and comfortable. The driver sits behind a tilt and telescopic steering column; on the face of the leather-stitched wrapped steering wheel are the phone, audio and secondary driver controls.

My test model, a top-of-the-line A Spec, came with aluminum pedals. This model features a two-analog display instrument panel with a digital driver’s information center. At the top of the center stack is the telematics display panel for navigation followed by a second display underneath for the audio system. Switches and knobs for managing the audio and climate control systems follow.

At the base of the stack is a large, enclosed storage compartment, suitable for holding your smartphone. Smartphone connectivity is achieved by running your cord to the covered storage compartment between the front seats, itself doubling as an armrest. Also present between the seats are the switches for seat heating and a transmission stick as well as a pair of cup holders.

Refinement and NVH

Refinement, unfortunately, is not the ILX’s strong suit. The interior has more than its share of plastics, brightwork trim and other materials that do little to amplify this model’s high-end status. Standard “leatherette” seats can be replaced with perforated leather or suede, but the overall look still comes across as utilitarian.

On the NVH spectrum (noise, vibration and harshness), I detected a constant rattling emanating from the center stack — noise not especially noticeable with the audio system blaring, but otherwise discernible when the cabin should have been relatively quiet. Opening and closing various compartments did nothing to mitigate the rattling, which seemed entirely out of place in the Acura.

Another area where the ILX falls short is with the doors. Access and egress is tight, especially at the rear. Shut the doors and the unmistakable solid thump common to more expensive cars is just not there.

Peppy Engine and a DCT

One of the strongest attributes of the ILX is its powertrain. Here, Acura offers a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine and pairs it with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). The combination yields sufficient power while enabling exceptional fuel economy — 36 mpg on the highway.

The DCT shifts faster than a normal automatic, using one clutch for odd-numbered gears and a second clutch for even-numbered gears. A torque converter is also present to ensure smooth acceleration from a stop. Yes, you can operate this model in manual mode to shift your way up and down the 8 gear-step range.

With the ILX, Acura also employs a drive-by-wire throttle system. Instead of using a conventional throttle cable to accelerate the sedan, Acura uses electronics to achieve the same result. This electronic connection between the accelerator pedal and engine throttle is designed to achieve quicker and more efficient response and will probably be hardly noticed by most drivers. It wasn’t something I thought about much while behind the wheel and that’s probably a good thing.

As for the engine, it spools up and delivers sufficient power around town, as you enter the freeway as well as on the open road. Had Acura gone with something less powerful, it would only have amplified this model’s basic status. On the other hand, although a more powerful motor might be welcome, it wouldn’t be adequate apart from the positive handling effects of all-wheel drive.

The engine is noisy and raspy, making its presence known especially as you press hard on the accelerator. Noisy four bangers seem more appropriate for a Focus RS or a Civic Si, but less so with the ILX. Nevertheless, it is what it is and that issue may not be an especially big deal for most people.

Steering and Handling

Among the more positive features of the ILX are its suspension system. For 2016, the front suspension system bushings have been revised and the rear stabilizer bar thickened. These changes provide an improved road feel while increasing overall stability. Further, the reactive dampers help absorb minor road vibration while also reducing body roll.

Handling for the ILX is as you would expect it to be in any small, front-wheel drive model. Fortunately, torque steer is not a concern and this sedan manages curves without drama.

Your Choice of Entry-Level Models

As far as choosing the ILX, there are many other models from competing manufacturers, which might also be considered. The Audi A3 is one of the better ones in this price range and offers superior refinement all around. In addition, Buick and Volvo bring in all-wheel drive and offer additional powertrain options.

To sum up, the ILX is not a strong entry-level model for the Acura line. What it does have going for it is superior reliability and a host of safety features, all part of the AcuraWatch Plus package.

2016 Acura ILX

Sticker price from $27,900
Price as tested: $35,000 (estimated)
Seats 5
2.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine
201 horsepower @ 6,800 RPM
180 foot-pounds of torque @ 3,600 RPM
3.43 inches bore by 3.90 inches stroke
Engine compression ratio: 11.6-to-1
8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 105.1 inches
Length: 181.9 inches
Width: 70.6 inches
Height: 55.6 inches
Passenger volume: 89.3 cubic feet
Storage volume: 12.3 cubic feet
Towing capacity: Not rated
EPA: 25 mpg city, 36 mpg highway
Premium grade gasoline
Fuel tank: 13.2 gallons
Curb weight: From 3,115 pounds
IIHS safety rating: Top safety pick+
Limited vehicle warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 6 years/70,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 5 years/unlimited miles
Vehicle assembly: Greensburg, Indiana

Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine.

On Sale Now: 2016 Acura ILX

February 11, 2015 by admin Leave a Comment

New 2016 model year vehicles are beginning to trickle out and the Acura ILX is among them. This entry-level premium sedan has been redesigned and is priced from $27,900. A new, high-performance, direct-injected engine is now paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, to deliver improved performance and efficiency.

2016 Acura ILX

The 2016 Acura ILX made its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show last November. While there, Acura outlined its ideal demographic for the sedan — under 35 luxury buyers, including people interested in making the transition to a premium marque for the first time.

To that end, Acura has priced the ILX competitively with all six package options retailing below $35,000. Indeed, beyond the base model an ILX with AcuraWatch —its safety and driver-assisted features — is priced from $29,200. When equipped with a premium package — what brings in blind spot information, cross traffic monitor, a 7-inch color display, HD Radio, Siri Eyes Free, a smartphone-linked navigation and additional power accessories — the price point climbs to just $29,900.

Further enhancements can be had by choosing an A-SPEC package, what embellishes the sedan with 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels, all-season tires, sport seats with lux-suede inserts and contrast stitching, fog lights, a rear deck spoiler and aluminum pedals. It is added to the premium package or it can be combined with the available tech plus package.

That tech plus package includes everything found in the premium package plus AcuraLink connectivity and AcuraWatch.

2016 Acura ILX

New, More Powerful Engine

Under the hood, the ILX gains a significant power boost in its lone engine choice, a 2.4-liter, in-line four-cylinder engine rated at 201 horsepower and 180 foot-pounds of torque. That engine compares to the 150 horsepower and 140 foot-pounds of torque served out by the previous 2.0-liter engine. Indeed, one of the more consequential complaints with the earlier model was a lack of power. In the new model that problem has been eliminated.

To give the front-wheel drive Acura ILX an edge in the segment, an eight-speed dual clutch transmission with torque converter and paddle shifters is present. Acura claims that when operated in manual mode, the transmission will shift fast and smooth, and comes with rev-matching downshifts to enhance its sporting persona. Further, the powertrain combination is an efficient one as the 2016 ILX is rated at 25 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. In addition, this model takes regular grade gasoline.

Other improvements for the 2016 ILX extend to its exterior, now outfitted with Jewel Eye LED headlights, a fresh grille design, a burly lower front fascia and standard, 10-spoke 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels. To the rear, new LED combination lights and lower fascia embellishments are present.

Quiet, More Refined Interior

Acura says that the cabin is quiet, benefiting from additional noise-abating materials along with thicker front door glass, active noise control cancellation technology, and wheels that also mitigate noise.

The revamped interior also includes refined materials, contrasting European-style stitching on the steering wheel, shift knob and the parking brake, energetic silver trim surrounding the instrument panel and other areas. Moreover, this model receives additional embellishments through various package upgrades mentioned earlier, including red instrument illumination and swank gray interior stitching and aluminum brake and throttle pedals.

Among the standard and available features across the 2016 ILX line are heated front seats, an Acura/ELS Studio premium audio system, handsfree Bluetooth connectivity, GPS-linked automatic climate control, and a seven-inch touchscreen. In addition, ILX shoppers will enjoy a suite of safety features, including airbags, stability control, and various pedestrian injury-mitigation design features.

Battling With its Competitors

As an entry-level model, the 2016 Acura ILX has its share of competitors. The Audi A3, BMW 2-Series, Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class and the Buick Verano are just a few that come to mind. However, Acura’s powertrain choice and low price point just may be the drawing cards that first-time luxury buyers will gladly receive, reversing lagging sales that have recently plagued this model.

Photos courtesy of Acura.

New Acura ILX Set for Los Angeles Debut

October 22, 2014 by admin Leave a Comment

Smallest Acura set for a big refresh.

A hint of what the 2016 Acura ILX will look like.

Among entry level premium models, the Acura ILX has found its place in the market. Its sales, however, are down by 15.8 percent for the year through Sept. for a model that is clearly overmatched by competing vehicles, including the Buick Verano, Lexus IS250, Audi A3 and the Mercedes-Benz CLA250.

Hybrid Model Canceled

Introduced in gas and hybrid configurations for the 2013 model year, Acura dropped the hybrid for 2015, relying on a pair of gasoline engines going forward. Since its introduction, Acura has sold fewer than 3,000 hybrid ILXs, a paltry number covering two full model years.

This week, Acura announced that it would show a “substantially new 2016 ILX” at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show next month. “Substantially new” is a code phrase for “mid cycle refresh,” not a generational shift — instead, its debut is keeping with the industry’s usual practice of refreshing a model in the third or fourth year, before readying an all-new model after six years.

Acura ILX Midcycle Refresh

Acura hasn’t said much about its refresh and offered only a light-restricted three-quarter view of the sedan from the rear as featured here. In a related press release Acura noted, “…the 2016 ILX will bring a sharper performance focus while delivering a greater set of high-value comfort, convenience and safety features that consumers desire in the increasingly competitive entry-luxury field.”

That “increasingly competitive” field includes new models from Audi and Mercedes-Benz as well as the next generation Buick Verano, the latter expected to arrive within the next 12 to 16 months.

Acura says that it attracts more under 35 buyers than its competitors, a good thing for a brand that wants to bring in new customers and keep them. Even so, the Acura ILX has been criticized for its bland looks, anemic performance and the fact that it is based on the Honda Civic Si. Not that the Si is a dud, its just that the Acura ILX hasn’t met even modest expectations. You might do better buying the Honda and pocketing the difference.

Engines and Transmissions

The current Acura ILX is powered by a standard 2.0-liter four cylinder engine making 150 horsepower and 140 foot-pounds of torque. Those numbers are certainly not meant to suggest performance, instead the ILX is a fuel economy leader with its 24 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway rating.

You can also choose a 2.4 liter four cylinder engine making 201 horsepower and 170 foot-pounds of torque. It gets 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. Choose the base engine and you get a 5-speed automatic transmission. Go with the larger engine and you’ll work with a 6-speed manual transmission.

All-Wheel Drive Possibilities

With little product information offered by Acura, the speculation has begun. Tweaks to the body and interior are a given. More performance seems likely and an all-wheel drive option may be readied, in keeping with the direction Acura has promised as reported by Auto Trends here last week. If Acura does go with the latter, it will match what Audi, Lexus and Mercedes-Benz offer. It might also force GM to seriously explore an all-wheel drive option for the Verano.

AWD may yet show up, but it may have to wait until the next generation ILX is released. If that is the case then figure Acura would keep the refresh around for two years before debuting its next generation model. Wait any longer and both its current and new competition could move further ahead.

For Acura fans who have been patiently waiting for the brand’s next move, the ILX refresh may be just the start of greater things. Anything less and its competitors will widen the sales gap, hardly the outcome parent Honda Manufacturing wants to entertain.

Photo courtesy of Acura.

Entry Level Premium Sedan: 2013 Acura ILX

February 9, 2012 by admin 1 Comment

A hybrid option comes to Acura.

Up until now, Honda’s Acura brand has not had a hybrid model. That may seem strange given that Honda and Toyota both got started with hybrids at about the same time, and Toyota’s Lexus division has had hybrids for several years. The 2013 Acura ILX is about to change things for Honda’s premium brand, by introducing a “gateway” model to introduce a new group of shoppers to Acura including a hybrid edition.

All-New Model

As a gateway model, the Acura ILX is designed to appeal to Generation Y buyers who prize luxury, are seeking value and want a vehicle that reflects their concerns for the environment.

“First-time luxury buyers tend to place a high value on exterior styling, affordability and environmental issues, and that’s what we have created with the new Acura ILX,” said Jon Ikeda, head of the Acura Design Studio. “The strategy behind this new model is to position ILX as the first opportunity for many young buyers to enter the luxury market.”

Chicago Auto Show

Acura used the 2012 Chicago Auto Show to introduce its newest model. The 2013 Acura ILX will offer three powertrain choices starting with a 2.0-liter four cylinder engine that is rated at 150 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 140 foot-pounds of torque at 4,300 rpm. This engine is paired with a sequential shift 5-speed automatic transmission and will achieve an estimated 24 mpg city, 32 mpg highway.

Giving the ILX more zip is a 2.4-liter four cylinder engine that is rated at 201 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 170 foot-pounds of torque at 4,300 rpm. This engine is paired with a 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission and is expected to achieve 20 mpg city, 29 mpg highway.

Hybrid Drive System

Acura’s first use of a hybrid drive system will pair a 1.5-liter four cylinder engine with an Integrated Motor Assist electric motor. Combined the two systems will produce 111 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 127 foot-pounds of torque at range from 1,000 to 3,000 rpm. This model allows the engine to enter idle-mode at stops, effectively shutting down the engine until the gas pedal is engaged again. Acura expects that this model will get 35 mpg city, 38 mpg highway.

Amenities and Packages

The 2013 Acura ILX offer numerous sought after amenities. Keyless access with smart entry and push button start is standard. The way that this works is that a sensor in the driver’s key fob detects that person’s proximity and automatically unlocks the driver’s door with one tug of the door handle. Once inside, the drive need only close the door, buckle up, push the ignition button, engage the transmission and drive off.

A Pandora Internet radio interface is also featured and includes an SMS text message function for connectivity. Choose the available premium package and this model adds leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, an upgraded 360-watt stereo system and a rear view camera.

Its technology package adds to the premium package by bringing in an ELS Surround audio system along with AcuraLink Satellite Communication System, Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition, AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting, and AcuraLink Real-Time Weather with radar image maps. Its navigation system makes use of a 60-gig hard disk drive including 15 gigs that can be specifically allocated for music storage.

Made in the USA

Honda has yet to announce pricing for the Acura ILX which will go on sale this spring. The ILX will be manufactured solely by Honda Manufacturing Indiana, LLC (HMIN) at the company’s Greensburg, Ind., manufacturing plant, one of four manufacturing plants the Japanese automaker operates in the United States.

See Also — Acura ILX Hybrid Takes a Bow