September 28, 2006 - Honda's stand at the Paris Motor Show sets the scene for two key model unveilings.

The brand-new, third generation CR-V, which makes its International Show debut, combines SUV practicality with more car-like driving dynamics, sportier styling and a more luxurious, generously equipped interior to take it into premium SUV territory. Uniquely within the sector, it is also available with the advanced Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Collision Mitigation Brake System (CMBS), two cutting-edge technologies that deliver added driver convenience and much enhanced safety.

A brand new 2.0-liter petrol engine, together with the 2.2-liter i-CTDi diesel engine ensures that the CR-V continues to offer class-leading fuel consumption and performance.

Honda is also presenting the world debut of the keenly awaited Civic Type R which captures the same degree of fun and exhilarating performance as its predecessor, but in a more refined and mature package.

The 'superhatch' offers similar performance levels, but greater cabin refinement, fully integrated styling and handling that is tuned for enhanced predictability and responsiveness, to deliver an even more rewarding driving experience.

The 2007 Model Year FR-V is also being revealed at the Show. Honda's compact multi-purpose vehicle, featuring six seats arranged in two rows of three, now has a new engine line-up together with a series of detail exterior and interior changes.

Key elements in Honda's strategy have always been product advancement through technological innovation as well as by the expertise gained through participation in motorsport. The Stand at the Paris Show therefore features Advanced Technology and Sports zones to encapsulate these twin pillars which form the basis for the new Product zone at the heart of the booth.

The new CR-V as well as the new Civic Type R are the main ingredients of the new Product Zone. They are joined by the revised FR-V and the recently shown Civic Type S as well as the fully equipped Accord.

In the Sports zone, Honda's participation at the pinnacle of motorsport is represented on the stand by the winning RA106, raced by Jenson Button and Rubens Barrichello this season, together with the Honda RA806E V8 engine which powers this car.

Alongside is a racing variant of the new Civic Type R that fully exploits its performance potential. Developed by JAS Motorsport, the new Type R will also be homologated for racing (FIA Group N and Group A).

The Sports zone is rounded off by a special edition of the Honda S2000 roadster in Super Platinum White and with a Passion Red and Black interior.

Honda's pre-eminent role in developing highly fuel efficient and alternatively fuelled vehicles is showcased within the stand's Advanced Technology zone.

Honda is showing the very latest fuel cell technology in the form of the FCX Concept car, a sleek, premium four door sedan featuring a unique, low-floor fuel cell platform that allows a spacious cabin previously unimaginable in a fuel cell vehicle.

Displayed alongside and illustrating how such vehicles might be fuelled is Honda's Home Energy Station. This can generate hydrogen from a domestic gas supply, as well as generate electricity to power the home using its own fuel cells, and at the same time recover the heat produced to provide a supply of hot water – represented at the Show by a TV screen and hot water from a wash basin.

Honda's hybrid technology is now well established. In order to illustrate that super-efficiency and visually arresting, sporty designs need not be mutually exclusive, Honda has created the Civic Hybrid Sports concept. Fitted with deep front and rear spoilers and side skirts, the aggressive-looking body is finished in a special blue paint, and set off by chrome finish seven-spoke alloy wheels and exhaust tailpipes. The equally distinctive interior uses the stark contrast of black and white as a colour scheme, with bucket seats providing a sporting flourish.

The Civic Hybrid Cut model, also featured in the Advanced Technology Zone, uses cutaways and transparent body panels to expose key elements of the hybrid technology to provide a better understanding of the technology and the benefits achieved.

Combining SUV practicality but with more car-like driving dynamics and sportier styling, Honda's all-new, third generation CR-V is a direct response to the growing demand for quality and premium products in the SUV market. Along with class-leading fuel consumption, the latest CR-V delivers greater comfort, a series of advanced features which are new to the sector, and a more luxurious interior.

Honda's drive for expansion in the segment as a viable alternative to traditional premium brands follows on from similar, successful initiatives with the current Accord and more recently with the Civic.

Honda expects the latest CR-V to be as successful as its two predecessors, whose all-round ability and appeal have made them formidable contenders during the last 11 years, with just under 2.5 million examples sold worldwide.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Collision Mitigation Brake System (CMBS)
The latest CR-V introduces advanced technology that is unique in the compact SUV market, including the two cutting edge driver assistance features, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Collision Mitigation Brake System (CMBS). These are optional equipments depending on grade.

ACC, as well as providing a conventional cruise control function, uses a grille-mounted radar to adjust speed automatically, applying either brake or throttle to maintain a consistent distance from a vehicle directly in front.

CMBS is a milestone in vehicle safety and predicts and responds to potential collision situations. If the closing rate to the vehicle in front increases beyond an acceptable level, the system initiates visual and audible warnings to prompt the driver to take preventive action. If the distance further diminishes, the system provides a tactile warning by gently retracting the seatbelt and applying light braking. Where an accident appears unavoidable, the system applies strong braking and strong retraction of the front seatbelts via E-Pretensioners to reduce the speed of impact and to mitigate the damage of a collision.

A full complement of passive safety measures includes dual stage SRS front airbags, side airbags for front seat passengers, full length curtain airbags, and front and rear seatbelt reminders, all fitted as standard, with active front headrests on most grades.

As part of the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) function which is standard in all grades, the new CR-V also incorporates Trailer Stability Assist (TSA), where the resonance of a trailer being towed is constantly monitored and controlled so as to enhance the safety of driving with a trailer. In addition, towing capacity on petrol manual models rises from 1500 to 1600 kg and on the diesel engined CR-V it is increased from 1500 kg to a very competitive 2000 kg.

Active Front lighting System (AFS) in which the low beam headlamps turn in the direction the vehicle is turning so enabling early recognition of pedestrians and obstacles also becomes available as an option for the first time on CR-V.

An advanced crash performance structure uses Honda's recently introduced Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure technology. This incorporates a polygonal frontal structure to reduce the potential for vehicle to vehicle misalignment and upper and lower energy absorbing pathways to optimise energy distribution. High tensile steel makes up 58 per cent of the monocoque body. Honda anticipates a Euro NCAP 5-star rating for occupant protection, 4-stars for child protection and a 3-star pedestrian rating.

The new CR-V's more emotional styling is a subtle blend of rugged SUV elements and more organic car-like characteristics. The distinct 'cab-forward' look, projector style headlamps and a tapering side window profile reminiscent of a coupe reflect the enhanced dynamic capabilities of the new CR-V, and contrast with the muscular lower proportions which emphasize the CR-V's SUV credentials.

The bold nose with its prominent bonnet, distinctive double grille and large bumper has real presence. The equally distinctive rear end features rounded tailgate glass and a heavily sculptured, vertically opening tailgate. The whole is set off by standard 17 inch wheels giving the CR-V a firmly planted stance.

Dimensionally, the interior offers the same spacious, airy environment with the same 'command view' as the previous CR-V, with good visibility for all occupants. Larger door openings and lower sills make climbing in and out even easier. Rear seats slide to maximize either passenger or load space.

The premium interior features metallic trim elements applied to fascia and doors contrasting with soft textured black trim. Front seats are larger and more comfortable and the steering column is adjustable for reach as well as rake. The gear lever has also been repositioned to the base of the center stack which frees up floor space and means it more readily falls to hand.

The availability (depending on grade) of a driver's 8-way adjustable power seat, leather upholstery, 18 inch alloy wheels, front and rear parking sensors and a rear view camera are an indication of the CR-V's more upmarket specification.

The Panorama glass roof first seen on the Civic is now also available on CR-V. The laminated, tinted glass roof panel runs from the top of the windscreen to a point above the rear passengers to create an exceptionally light and airy cabin.

A particularly useful Double Deck load shelf allows much neater storage and sub-division of luggage. The removable shelf stretches across the load bay to create upper and lower luggage areas and at a height of 330 mm above the load floor, enables an average sized stroller to be accommodated. If the shelf is not required, it can either be removed or placed on the floor where it sits snugly in a perfectly shaped recess.

The rear seat backs are split 40:20:40 for further flexibility which means the center section can be folded down to provide a 'boot through' facility for long items while still accommodating two rear seat passengers. Each seat back can also be reclined for added comfort. The base is split 60:40 and each section slides through 150 mm allowing either leg room or luggage space to be maximised.

With the seats fully tumbled forward and stored upright, the capacious luggage space is sufficient to accommodate two mountain bikes without the need to remove their front wheels.

The new CR-V, like its predecessor, is powered by either a 2.0-liter petrol engine or a 2.2-liter diesel engine. The 2.0 SOHC i-VTEC petrol engine is an all-new unit mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox or a new 5-speed automatic.

The new 2.0-liter unit offers improved performance and economy and uses the finest of Honda's VTEC and control systems expertise together with comprehensive friction reduction technology and introduces an extra element to the mix: delayed intake valve closure combined with a wide open throttle valve during low-load driving conditions to reduce pumping losses and boost fuel economy.

With a maximum power and torque figure of 110 kW/150 PS at 6,200 rpm, and 190 Nm at 4,200 rpm, the engine's greater efficiency, the new gearboxes and a 12 per cent reduction in the drag coefficient mean fuel economy is boosted from 9.0 and 9.3 l/100 km/h to an outstanding 8.1 and 8.2 l/100 km/h for the manual and automatic models, respectively, compared to the existing model. Performance also gets a boost and the 0 to 100 km/h time drops from 10.8 to 10.2 seconds (manual) and from 13.1 to 12.2 seconds (automatic).

The fuel economy of Honda's advanced 140 PS 2.2-liter i-CTDi diesel engine has become even more impressive as a result of the improved aerodynamics, falling to just 6.5 l/100 km on the Combined cycle.

The CR-V continues to offer a sophisticated four-wheel drive system which provides added on-road security and good 'grass and gravel' terrain capability. The Real Time 4WD system automatically engages four-wheel drive only when required, thus delivering all of the safety and flexibility advantages of an all-wheel drive system, while maximising fuel economy.

The Real Time 4WD system combines a quiet, fuel-efficient, dual-pump system with a one-way cam unit to significantly enhance sensing of front-wheel slippage – all in a lightweight, compact design. The system transfers power - 20% more torque compared to existing unit - to the rear wheels promptly, and significantly improves stability during startup and cornering on snow-covered roads and other slippery road surfaces.

A center of gravity lowered by 35 mm, a 30 mm wider track and larger 17 inch wheels in combination with a number of chassis improvements and greater body rigidity create a package that brings greater agility and more car-like handling characteristics.

The new CR-V continues to use compact toe control link MacPherson struts at the front and the reactive link double wishbones at the rear. However, substantial geometry revisions, particularly to the steering, deliver crisper responses to driver input and greater directional stability. Measures such as improved compliance bushes and increased suspension travel bring greater comfort.

Honda's much anticipated Civic Type R, making its world debut in Paris, takes the concept of the 'superhatch' into new realms of desirability. Compared to its predecessor, the new Type R is just as exhilarating to drive, but greater cabin refinement, fully integrated styling, and handling that is tuned for enhanced predictability and responsiveness, deliver an even more rewarding driving experience.

There will be different levels of equipment available, ranging from a fully equipped car to one that even has the rear parcel shelf removed. With these variants, the new Civic Type R therefore looks set to endear itself to a whole new wave of enthusiasts and to repeat the cult success of the first 'CTR' which exceeded all sales predictions. First deliveries will begin in early 2007.

Given the outstanding performance credentials of its predecessor, Honda saw little purpose in increasing engine output. The new Type R therefore continues to be powered by a naturally-aspirated 2.0 liter DOHC i-VTEC engine with similar output, but reworked for greater refinement and responsiveness thanks to a new balancer shaft and a drive-by-wire throttle. The 201 PS maximum power output is now reached at 8,000 rpm (previously 200 PS at 7,400 rpm).

While the headline performance figures are expected to be virtually identical to the 6.6 second 0-100 km/h time and 235 km/h top speed of the Type R in its previous incarnation, the engine enhancements mean the new car is more responsive generally, while improved aerodynamics ensures the new car cuts through the air more cleanly. Slightly lower gearing compensates for a small increase in kerb weight.

VTEC variable valve timing and VTC variable inlet camshaft technology continue to underpin the engine architecture. Its exhilarating, high revving nature is retained, but the switch to high lift, long duration valve timing now takes place at a lower 5,200 rpm, and continues all the way to the 8,000 rpm red line. There is a new i-VTEC indicator just to the right of the digital speedometer which is illuminated within this rev range.

Widely praised for its ride and handling balance, the chassis of the Civic 5-door forms the basis for all 3-door models and provides an ideal platform for a high performance derivative. Building on the Civic Type S suspension which is fine-tuned for sharper chassis dynamics to match its sportier profile, the Type R takes those modifications on to the next level. Like the Type S, its rear track is 20 mm wider than that of the 5-door model, but otherwise damper, bush and spring characteristics are all unique to Type R.

225/40 ZR18 tyres provide added grip, while the 15 mm reduction in ride height further reduces body roll. What's more, the fuel tank's central location beneath the cabin floor lowers the center of gravity and the body's inertia moment. Firmer steering, a quicker ratio and stiffer steering box mountings in combination provide pin-sharp responses to steering wheel input.

The Civic 5-door already offers one of the stiffest body structures in the C-segment; and the Type R's body is further enhanced, playing a key role in the particularly responsive chassis dynamics. Extra strengthening has been introduced into the floor cross member just ahead of the central fuel tank, around the upper front suspension mountings, while the lower cross member just ahead of engine bay provides greater rigidity. The overall result is a chassis offering more predictable characteristics than the old model, with levels of responsiveness and stability that are some of the best in class. At the same time, the damper settings deliver enhanced ride comfort in keeping with the increased refinement of the new Type R.

The new Type R's bold styling is undeniably assertive in its appearance. The aggressive looking body has a series of fully integrated aerodynamic parts that together with a 15 mm reduced ride height – compared to 5-door and Type S models – and standard seven-spoke 18" alloy wheels, are a clear indication of the car's potent nature. The deep front spoiler incorporates a larger air intake as well as triangular foglamps whose shape mirrors the large exhaust tailpipes at the rear. There's a distinct body coloured tailgate rear spoiler for added downforce that splits the rear tailgate glass rather than the raised glass profile featured on Civic 5-door and Type S models.

Other identifying features are deliberately discrete: Type R logos feature on the front brake callipers and the glass panel grille of the Civic Type S is replaced with a honeycomb mesh and central red 'H' logo.

Step over the stainless steel door sill inserts, complete with 'Type R' logo, into the cabin, and again there is no mistaking that this is a car developed for driving excitement. Front seat occupants are gripped by bucket seats with large black Alcantara bolsters with red stitching and red fabric seat cushions and backs. Two distinct rear seats repeat the same colour coordination. The highly effective and strikingly stylish Dual Link concept fascia common to other Civic models naturally features in the Type R, but with red illuminated dials set off by gun metallic switch panels on either side of the meter display. The driver grips a black, perforated leather covered steering wheel with red stitching and central 'H' logo, while the matching gear shift knob with aluminium-finish has a black boot with red stitching.

And, as a finishing touch and for added exclusivity there is a plaque engraved with the car's unique serial number placed just ahead of the gear lever.

For those customers who want added convenience and an enhanced specification, there will be a fully equipped version available. Additional features include curtain SRS bags, cruise control, fog lights, automatic lights and wipers and dual zone air conditioning. A state-of-the-art Navigation system, with voice control functionality as well as RDS traffic monitoring, is offered as an option.

Taking the Type R philosophy to its logical conclusion, a lighter Civic Type R will be available. The deletion of items such as the audio system, rear load cover, engine under cover and reduced noise insulation material brings weight down by 40 kg. Like its predecessor, the new Type R will also be homologated for racing (FIA Group N and Group A), meeting a large demand from existing customers. A full range of competitive racing parts and racing service will also be made available for them to fully enjoy their passion.

All the range of Type R and Type S, are to be built exclusively alongside the Civic 5-door range at the Honda of the UK Manufacturing Ltd. (HUM) in Swindon.

Sharing the same dynamic silhouette and overall dimensions as the acclaimed 5-door model, the Type S continues to move the Civic range into the premium sector, but in a sportier, more fun-to-drive direction, since it is designed to appeal to a younger audience. The styling is therefore more assertive and the suspension is tuned for sharper chassis dynamics, with revised spring and damper settings and a 20mm wider rear track.

Further emphasizing its sporty nature, the Civic Type S is powered by either a 1.8 liter petrol engine, or a 2.2 liter diesel engine, both of which produce 140 PS (103 kW). Both are combined with a 6-speed manual gearbox with the petrol engine also having the possibility of being mated to a 6-speed i-SHIFT (Automated Manual Transmission).

Two model grades will be offered. The extensive specification of the standard Type S includes 17 inch alloys, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), air conditioning, cool box, remote audio controls and curtain airbags. The higher equipped Type S adds dual zone air conditioning, cruise control, front foglights, retractable mirrors, and automatic wipers and headlamps. Certain markets also gain HID headlamps, heated front seats and a panorama glass roof.

Sculpted and fully integrated side skirts flare outwards towards front and rear wheels and seamlessly blend into the wheelarch surrounds familiar from the 5-door model. These in turn flow into the front and rear spoilers to complete the lower body structure, all of which is finished in a gun metallic colour for added visual appeal. The deep front air intake, together with the 17 inch alloy wheels and wider rear track provide the Type S with a particularly muscular, planted look.

Black Alcantara seating and a leather trimmed steering wheel, both with silver stitching, plus aluminium pedals, set the tone for the equally sporty interior. Large seat bolsters provide reassuring support during cornering. Mirroring other Civic models, the cabin is focused around the unique and visually arresting Dual Link concept fascia introduced on the 5-door model, in which key driving information, including vehicle speed is displayed in the upper part of the instrument panel, while other information is provided in the lower section.

Although the Civic's coupe-like styling might suggest compromised cabin space, the interior instead succeeds in providing a high degree of flexibility and passenger accommodation. The distance between the hip point of front and rear passengers at 803 mm, for example equates to that in higher segment cars.

The rear seats also incorporate Honda's familiar one-motion, dive-down feature that instantaneously creates a flat loading space, mirroring that of the Civic. The cargo floor can also be dropped down to reveal an under-floor compartment. A centrally positioned fuel tank located beneath the front seats, rather than impinging on the luggage area, plays a key role in achieving this packaging efficiency.

All Civic Type S models are equipped with ABS, Electronic Brake force Distribution and VSA. In addition, the comprehensive passive safety features include double seatbelt pre-tensioners on both front seats as well as active headrests for protection against dangerous whiplash injury. Front and side SRS airbags for front seat passengers and full length curtain airbags are standard on all models. The instrument display also features an innovative seatbelt reminder for both front and rear seat passengers.

Since its introduction into amateur racing in 2002, the Civic Type R has proved a popular and successful addition to the sport across Europe. However Honda is aiming for even greater success with its new model and since June 2006 JAS Motorsport, the official partner of Honda in customer racing support, has worked closely with Honda R&D to develop the new Civic Type R in the GrN and GrA specifications as a first step.

This development programme has produced an exciting range of advanced racing parts for competition level racing, making the Type R a highly competitive contender in the world of amateur racing.

The racing Civic Type R on display has been developed under the current GrA specifications and features:

The current production plans would allow the Civic Type R to obtain its FIA homologation in GrA & GrN on 01 April 2007. Orders for racing kits and parts can be placed at JAS Motorsport (www.jasmotorsport.com) from October 2006, with first deliveries forecasted for February 2007.

In addition to this engineering relationship, JAS Motorsport continues to provide an extensive range of services to the Honda racing customer, including a free of charge telephone advice facility and full racing support on race tracks and rally events.

Honda's compact multi-purpose vehicle, featuring six seats arranged in two rows of three, now has a new engine line-up together with a series of detail exterior and interior changes for the 2007 Model Year.

The 2.2-liter i-CTDi engine now has a particulate filter available as an option, and the 1.7 and 2.0 liter petrol engines are replaced by the 140 PS 1.8 liter SOHC i-VTEC unit familiar from the Civic range.

Offering exceptional performance and economy and as well as the latest VTEC and friction reduction technology, it also introduces an extra element to the mix: delayed intake valve closure combined with a wide open throttle valve during low-load driving conditions to reduce pumping losses and boost fuel economy.

Externally, 2007 models can be distinguished by a new dark chrome finish to the grille, headlights, door handles, rear combination light and lower licence plate trim. Inside a new greyish blue soft touch fabric is applied to seats and doors (grey leather seats together with beige soft touch fabric on the doors continue on right-hand drive EX grade models) while all models now have a high-tech metal finish applied to the fascia panel. An additional boot light provides added convenience.

A number of items have also been improved, including the front seat headrests, the back seat armrest, while the front middle seat tray, revealed by flipping forward the front half of the seat squab, now features two compartments and cup holders with lids.

The FR-V is now also provided with an auxiliary jack for an iPod or similar audio storage device (all right-hand drive models and Comfort and Executive left-hand drive models).

Otherwise the FR-V continues to offer an outstandingly flexible, practical and intelligent interior in a stylish body and fun driving dynamics. With all six seats in two rows, it's easy for everyone in the car to talk to each other, making it a more friendly way to travel.

It also leaves space for a large boot, and when more space for luggage is needed, the FR-V comes into its own. Not only do the three rear seats fold individually, they fold flat into the floor. So maximum space is achieved without having to remove and then store bulky seats. They can also be folded one-handed, simply by reaching in from the boot and unfastening a single latch.

To add to the numerous space combinations, the back of the central front seat also folds down to allow extra-long items to be carried, or to form a table.