Honda CEO Takeo Fukui wasn’t kidding when he said that Honda would renew its focus on small, fuel efficient vehicles. The latest news, courtesy of UK outfit AutoCar, indicates that Honda is looking to axe a number of models from its future line-up.
When Honda cancelled the NSX, we didn’t sleep properly for days. The latest round of cuts is sure to have us watching ‘infomercials’, counting sheep and listening to Parliament for weeks. (Is there a help-line we can call?)
Honda’s luxury brand for the US, Acura, has taken the brunt of the bad news and is now to lose its previously-planned RWD architecture. The V8 engine Honda had confirmed for the range has also been deleted.
There’s also word that the Honda Legend, sold in small numbers here, is to join the RWD Acura on the chopping block as will the top-less version of Honda’s upcoming CR-Z hybrid vehicle.
But worse, far worse, is the apparent loss of the Honda S2000. This year, 2009, will be its last scheduled production year with no replacement in sight. We’re hoping Honda blows us away with a surprise unveiling at one of the 2009 Motor Shows… but it’s a faint hope.
We’ll be following this story closely, and keeping tabs on Honda for an official comment. If even half of what’s reported is accurate then Honda fans will have to make do with some pretty slim pickings in the year or so ahead.
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Without the Legend and the S2000, the Honda range is reduced to just family sedans and SUVs. It’s a formula that works for Toyota though.
The world doesn’t need another Toyota though Babs…one is more than enough!
What I think Honda should do is lead the way in its chase for economical hybrid vehicles - producing a hybrid lineup that includes family sedans, hot hatches, coupes and convertibles.
What honda has gone weak next thing you know they will cancel all Type R models. They have already pulled out of the F1.
The S2000 and NSX would have to be the only Honda I would consider owning. Very sad to see they are stopping the production of the S2000 looks like in Aus the MX5 will own the Roadster market once again.
Toyota has the sedated driving feel with family reliability appeal. Honda should do a complete 180 and create a company that would be known for it’s sports car that can compete the the majority of the best. God knows Nissan is losing out on profit with the micra it may balance the debt when the GTR hit the shore but still how long can Renault allow such a slump margin from cars that shouldn’t even been able to make it to production like the Dualis.
Honda PLEASE MAKE Big Litres V-TEC V8! V10! I will save up every penny for it as long as it can keep up with the likes of Lambos, Porches and prancing horses and the GTR plus the new Lexus. Super V-Tec Burnout!! POP POP
No sports car no RWD Acura what next? people in Honda ads jumping into the air and saying Oh what a feeling Hon-da.