New Web Site helps consumers in Greenville with Cash for Clunkers

New Consumer Website Makes Cash for Clunkers Easy for Consumers in Greenville SC
www.cashforclunkerscarolinas.com - New consumer information website educates consumers in Greenville about Cash for Clunkers

Greenville – www.Cashforclunkerscarolinas.com was launched to help consumers in Greenville learn how they can turn a $500 trade-in car into a $4,500 trade-in by turning in an older, less fuel efficient vehicle for a government funded voucher worth up to $4,500 toward the purchase of a new car with improved gas mileage of one to ten miles per gallon, depending on the vehicle purchased. In addition to the government’s program, some large dealer groups who have a lot of excess inventory are offering extraordinary incentives to consumers who qualify and who don’t qualify for the government’s program. After all the incentives, consumers can drive away in some cars for monthly payments of less than $5 per day.

The government has set up a website to give consumers access to the legislation (http://www.cars.gov/index.php/official-information), but dealers have the job of making it simple for consumers who have been directed by the NHTSA to work through a participating dealer to retrieve their government funded rebate. www.cashforclunkerscarolinas.com is leading the private sector efforts to educate consumers through www.cashforclunkerscarolinas.com and www.DineroPorSuCarcacha.com, consumer information sites that help buyers learn about the program, determine if they qualify and connect with dealers who can give them pricing information on the new car they want.

www.cashforclunkerscarolinas.com is a consumer information portal, not a government website, so it is designed to give the consumer a simple summary of the program with tips on how to maximize the amount of the rebate based on the car they decide to buy. The NHTSA, the government agency administering the program, says, "You are not required to sign up or enroll in this program. Participating new car dealers will apply a credit, reducing the price you pay at the time of your purchase or lease, provided the vehicle meets the program requirements." To make it easy for consumers to connect with a participating dealer online rather than wasting gas driving around town, the website helps consumers inquire directly to the dealer to get pricing information from the comfort of their home.

One of the most popular features on the site is their Clunker Calculator, or MPG calculator, which helps consumers quickly determine if their current vehicle meets the 18 mpg or less requirement to qualify for the $4,500 voucher. The site also includes all of the vehicles that are ideal candidates for the $3,500 and $4,500 vouchers and helps consumers inquire online to get product, pricing and payment information directly from the dealer. The website gives consumers a five step process that makes it easy to take advantage of the program. Spanish speaking consumers can visit www.DineroPorSuCarcacha.com. Both websites are sponsored by www.cashforclunkerscarolinas.com in an effort to help educate the public about this historic opportunity. “We don’t expect to sell every clunker consumer in the market, but we want to make it easy for them to take advantage of the opportunity regardless of who they buy a car from,” said Dealer Name. “We have sponsored the regional consumer information portal for www.CashForClunkersInformation.org, a national organization that has promoted the bill since its inception in congress,” said Dealer Name.

Celebrities Support www.CashForClunkersInformation.org
CashForClunkersInformation.org and its regional consumer information sites have received an important push from celebrities like Dancing With The Stars' Cristian de la Fuente and Ugly Betty star Angelica Vale to educate consumers about the program. In addition, Alfonso Aguilar, the former Chief of the U.S. Office of Citizenship, is also a spokesperson for the organization due to the large impact the bill has on the Latino community and other immigrant groups.

“This government subsidy will make it easy for people to get a new car that is a lot less expensive to operate and maintain because of the great gas mileage and lack of repair costs,” said Cristian de la Fuente. “It is great to see the government funded automotive bailout helping hardworking people who need the financial support.” Angelica Vale added, “Finally consumers are getting a bailout, because they are benefiting by up to $4,500 a person.” Since a large number of the clunkers on the road are owned by minorities and immigrants, these communities will benefit significantly from this legislation. “We have passionately supported Cash For Clunkers because of its positive impact on the environment, economy, consumers and its benefits for hundreds of Hispanic American communities whose livelihoods are tied to the auto industry,” said Alfonso Aguilar. “This legislation will create thousands of new jobs for all Americans who work in the many businesses that serve the automotive industry.”

About the Cash for Clunkers Information:
www.CashForClunkersInformation.org is a national organization that has promoted the CARS legislation from its inception in the congress and currently helps consumers learn about the program and connect with local retailers who can help them get product and pricing information. Website is a consumer information portal, not a government website, so it is designed to give the consumer a simple summary of the program with tips on how to maximize the amount of the rebate based on the car they decide to buy. The NHTSA, the government agency administering the program, says, "You are not required to sign up or enroll in this program. Participating new car dealers will apply a credit, reducing the price you pay at the time of your purchase or lease, provided the vehicle meets the program requirements." Our goal is to make it easy for consumers to connect with a participating dealer online rather than wasting gas driving around town. For this reason, consumers can learn about the program on our website and can complete a secured online form to request product and pricing information from a dealer in their market. Consumers appreciate this new way of gathering information online because it is a more pleasant purchase process that saves them time and money. Visit the website for more information about our privacy policy and visitor agreement. To get pricing information from a dealership in your area visit www.cashforclunkerscarolinas.com sponsored by Bradshaw Auto Group, Breakaway Honda, Bradshaw Infiniti, Bradshaw Acura , Bradshaw Chevy, Cadillac, Buick, Pontiac GMC and Saturn of the Carolinas

About the Name – Cash For Clunkers
Our websites refer to all the international and national vehicle scrappage programs as “Cash For Clunkers” because of the popular name given to the concept by the public and the press. While making its way through congress there were many bills with many names so the public and the press commonly referred to all versions of the bill as the “Cash For Clunkers” program. For this reason many consumer information sites, including ours, have utilized this universally understood term to refer to the many programs that exist in the world, some funded by the government (C.A.R.S) and others financed by automotive retailers.

Relevant Websites
www.cashforclunkerscarolinas.com
www.DineroPorSuCarcacha.com
www.CashForClunkersInformation.org
www.Cars.gov

Cash for Clunkers Scams

Beware of Cash For Clunkers Scams!

Just this week the “Cash for clunkers” bill was passed, however the scammers are already hard at work and fraudulent web sites have begun to pop up. The only official site is http://www.cars.gov/

In fact any site that uses the term ‘Cash for Clunkers” is not an official site since the name of the program is actually Car Allowance Rebate System. The only site to rely on is the official site at http://www.cars.gov/

Regulators have 30 days to set up all the details and a system for collecting and distributing vouchers, which would make it late July or August the before the vouchers are available.

The customer does not have to apply or register for any part of the program so be wary of any web site that requires you to give any personal information..

Program Guidelines

Your vehicle must be less than 25 years old on the trade-in date
Only purchase or lease of new vehicles qualify
Generally, trade-in vehicles must get 18 or less MPG (some very large pick-up trucks and cargo vans have different requirements)
Trade-in vehicles must be registered and insured continuously for the full year preceding the trade-in

Breakaway Honda

You don't need a voucher, dealers will apply a credit at purchase
The fuel MPG is based on the data at http://www.fueleconomy.gov/ using the new fuel economy formula under the red bar for combined City Hwy mileage.

Career Day at Breakaway Honda

On April 14th and 15th Breakaway Honda sponsored a career day for local middle schools and High Schools.

Students were introduced to both the sales and service aspects of the Automotive industry.

http://www.breakawayhonda.com/dealership/news.htm

http://www.prlog.org/10219781-greenville-honda-dealer-host-career-day.html

Dog-friendly Honda Element Concept Transforms SUV into Pet-hauling Champ

TORRANCE, Calif., U.S.A., April 8, 2009 - New dog-friendly transportation concepts designed for the Honda Element add canine-specific enhancements to one of the most dog-friendly vehicles available, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced at the New York International Auto Show

Developed specifically for the Element, the Dog Friendly™ components demonstrate the potential for a dedicated pet restraint system designed to meet the needs of dog owners. A finalized version of the Dog Friendly Element is scheduled to debut this fall. Major components will likely include:
a cushioned second row and cargo area pet restraint systems;
pet bed in the cargo area with an elevated platform;
an extendable cargo area load-in ramp;
a 12V DC rear ventilation fan;
second-row seat covers with a dog pattern design (matches the bed fabric);
all-season rubber floor mats with a toy bone pattern;
a spill-resistant water bowl; and
Dog Friendly exterior emblems

"In an interesting turn of events, cars are now chasing dogs," said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda. "Factory integration of a cushioned pet bed, restraint systems and other components is intended to transform the Element into the ultimate dog car." The Dog Friendly equipment, engineered specifically for the Element, is designed to accommodate the transportation of dogs in the second-row passenger seats or in the cargo area. The restraint system concepts were designed and fabricated by Takata Corporation, one of the world's leading automotive safety systems suppliers, exclusively for display on the Dog Friendly Honda Element concept vehicle. The restraint concepts are intended to complement the potential of the vehicle's existing restraint systems by helping to protect the dog and helping to prevent injuries to other vehicle occupants due to an unrestrained dog impacting them in a collision. For convenience, a ramp is included to help dogs access the rear cargo area. The ramp stores underneath the bed platform and can be conveniently accessed when the rear tailgate is down. "In-vehicle pet restraints should be part of every dog owner's safe travel practices," said Wayne Pacelle, President and CEO of The Humane Society of the United States. "The expanded availability of manufacturer-based restraints and features can help elevate pet comfort and convenience for owners. Good ventilation and access to water on longer trips should also be primary concerns." The Element has long been recognized for its dog-friendly interior with an easy-to-clean urethane floor and expansive, flat cargo area (up to 74.6 cu-ft. with rear seats removed), wide-opening side cargo doors, low lift-in height, and accommodating dimensions for tall items. The consumer pet travel advice Web site, Dogcars.com, honored the 2007 Honda Element with its first-ever "Dog Car of the Year" award. According to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association, Inc., 39 percent of all households own at least one dog with an estimated total U.S. dog population of 74.8 million. All pet purchases and related products and services comprise an estimated total market value of more than $43 billion (2008 est.). Substantially restyled for the 2009 model year and available with new features, the Honda Element builds on its spacious and versatile SUV character with a more chiseled exterior appearance and a refreshed interior design. Three unique Element styles are available that range from the rugged and simple Element LX, to the more refined Element EX, to the sporty Element SC.

Breakaway Honda

Tax Breaks for New Cars

New car buyers may be eligible for tax breaks on their new car purchase. According to the IRS consumers who purchase a new car, light truck, motorcycle or motor home with a value less than $49,500 will be eligible for a tax deduction for the amount of sales tax paid on that vehicle. To qualify the purchase must of been made after Feb 16Th 2009 and before January 1st 2010. The amount of the deduction is phased out for taxpayers whose modified adjusted gross income is between $125,000 and $135,000 for individual filers and between $250,000 and $260,000 for joint filers. The deduction is available regardless of whether a taxpayer itemizes their return.
It may not be taken on 2008 tax returns.

Breakaway Honda

Breakaway Honda earns 2008 Honda Presidents Award

Breakaway Honda Earns 2008 President's Award

Breakaway also won the Award in 2006, 2003 and 2002



The Honda President's Award is the most prestigious and coveted honor that Honda can grant to its dealerships.

Each year the Honda President’s Award is given to dealerships that rank in the top 15 percent nationwide for achieving excellence in:

• Customer Treatment
• Sales
• Training
• Facility Image

With over 950 Honda dealerships in the United States, Honda is pleased to recognize 149 dealerships with this esteemed distinction. President's Award recipients realize what this honor demands - excellence, which can only be achieved by working as a team. The President's Award reflects a total commitment to customers; it is the highest award that a Honda dealership can receive because it demands the highest personal investment and stimulates the greatest results satisfied, loyal customers.

Breakaway Honda

Demand for New Honda Insight Soars

Honda said that demand for hybrid vehicle Insight is soaring in Japan with orders topping its monthly target of 5,000 in just over a week.

The launch of the cheapest hybrid vehicle came amid a devastating slump in the global car market.

But Honda said demand for the Insight has been so brisk that the company has received more than 5,000 orders, easily beating its monthly target.

"This is so much better than expected.

Even before the launch, Honda had received about 5,000 orders for the Insight, Asanuma said. The Insight goes on sale in April in the US, and in March for Europe.

Honda's Insight is cheaper than Toyota's Prius, the most popular hybrid.
Hybrids tend to be more expensive than regular cars because they come packed with both a petrol engine and an electric motor. Switching between the systems, depending on speed, boosts mileage.

We are taking orders for the new Insight coming April 22 2009

http://www.breakawayhonda.com/

How does your Truck Stack Up

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/uptospeed/2009/02/pickups-fail-sa.html

Honda RidgeLine chosen as a top safety pick by IIHS

The battle to produce the biggest, toughest, meanest pickup is never-ending. Carmakers spend breathtaking amounts of time, energy and money boosting horsepower, features, towing capacity and the like. Apparently, amid all the brawn and dust and sweat and steel-alloyed testosterone, a little something called safety sometimes gets left behind.

According to newly released safety ratings by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, of the six vehicles it places in the full-size pickup category, only three receive the highest marks for side-impact protection, and only four make the cut for rear-impact protection.

The safety laggards are the Nissan Titan and the Chevy Silverado, the second-best selling pickup in the country. For side impact safety, both are rated as "poor" in the IIHS's four-grade rating system (good, acceptable, marginal and poor), and both rank only "acceptable" in rear-end crashes. The Dodge Ram was only a bit better, scoring an uninspiring "marginal" for side impact.

A shining star, meanwhile, is the Honda Ridgeline , which netted perfect "good" ratings for front, side and rear impact.

Tough break for the Titan, Silverado and Ram. But hey, at least they're safer than cars, right?
Wrong, said David Zuby, senior vice president of the IIHS. "The size, weight and height of these large pickups should help them ace the side tests, just like the other large pickups we’ve tested," he said. "Not these three; they perform worse than many cars we’ve evaluated.” In fact, according to the IIHS, not a single midsized sedan scored lower than "acceptable."
Ouch....
According to the IIHS, the side-impact test is a good test for comparing vehicle safety since the institute uses the same size, weight and speed of an object to smack into the car being tested every time (it uses a truck or SUV-shaped barrier moving at 31 miles per hour). A frontal test is not so hot for that, because the mass of the test vehicle will differ.
So all things being equal in a side-impact test, trucks should always be safer, the IIHS said, since the passengers are higher off the ground, not to mention that trucks weigh more and tend to use more thick steel and nifty steel runners and the like. Get side-smacked in a truck, the thinking goes, and break a leg, but not much else. Cars, on the other hand, tend to put human livers, hearts and lungs right at bumper level.
What gives?

The Honda kept the crash on the outside of the cabin, where it belongs. Meanwhile, said the IIHS, the Silverado's lack of side torso airbags is a major problem, as are its insufficiently strong side structures. Nada bien. Crash-test dummies got broken ribs and internal organ damage. Adding the optional side curtain airbags did nothing to improve the picture.

The Ram and the Titan have beefier sides and doors, apparently, but the Ram also lacks side-torso airbags, and on the Titan they're only available as an option. With the airbags, the Titan jumps up to a "marginal" rating -- hardly confidence-inspiring. The Ram, well, it has a Hemi.
To be fair, the other major crash testing body, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, throws its top rating, five stars, to the Silverado for side impact, while it awards four stars to the Titan and the Toyota Tundra (the Ram is not yet rated).
But the NHTSA side-impact test, unlike IIHS', uses a low-height barrier to smack into the test vehicle, rather than a high one, and high impact is considered a much better test of structural integrity. It's like a body blow versus a uppercut to the jaw. As a result, NHTSA tends to rank most vehicles with four of five stars in side impact, whereas many vehicles score poorly in IIHS testing.

“It’s certainly possible to design a large pickup that offers good occupant protection in side crashes,” Zuby said. Unfortunately, according to his group's testing, Nissan, GM and Chrysler didn't quite do that this time around.

-- Ken Bensinger

http://www.breakawayhonda.com/

Honda Fit dominates Consumer Reports subcompact test


[Source: Consumer Reports via PR Newswire]

PRESS RELEASE:Redesigned Honda Fit Tops Consumer Reports' Ratings of Subcompact Cars Fit easily outscores competitors including Toyota Yaris, Nissan Versa, Chevrolet Aveo and Suzuki SX4YONKERS, N.Y., Feb. 2 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The newly-redesigned Honda Fit outpointed competitors including the Toyota Yaris and Nissan Versa in Consumer Reports' tests of six subcompacts and small sedans for the March issue. The Fit remains CR's highest-rated subcompact.The Honda Fit became a hot-selling vehicle when gasoline prices topped $4 a gallon. A redesigned and slightly larger Fit arrived last fall, and it improves on the space-efficient formula that made the last one such a hit with buyers."The Fit seems roomier on the inside than you might expect, with an interior that is unusually versatile and flexible--and cargo capacity rivaling that of a small SUV," said David Champion, senior director of Consumer Reports' Auto Test Center in East Haddam, Connecticut. "Lightness and agility make the Fit fun to drive, the powertrain is smooth and willing, and fuel economy is enviable."Consumer Reports tested two trim lines of the Fit, a base model with an automatic transmission and a manual upscale Sport model, both of which earned "Very Good" overall road test scores. CR also tested two other subcompacts--a base model Toyota Yaris and a Chevrolet Aveo5, both of which scored "Good" overall, and two small sedans--the Suzuki SX4 and Nissan Versa, both of which were rated Very Good overall.Prices for the six cars in CR's tests range from $16,020 for the base Fit to $17,378 for the Suzuki SX4.Full tests and ratings of the test group appear in the March issue of Consumer Reports, which goes on sale February 3. The reports are also available to subscribers of www.ConsumerReports.org.The Fit and the SX4 are the only vehicles from this month's test group that are Recommended by Consumer Reports. CR only Recommends vehicles that have performed well in its tests, have at least average predicted reliability based on CR's Annual Car Reliability Survey of its more than seven million print and web subscribers, and performed at least adequately if crash-tested or included in a government rollover test.The Versa sedan's reliability is much below average; reliability for the hatchback Versa has been average. The Aveo and Yaris scored too low in CR's tests to be recommended.CR's engineers found the new Fit the most practical and enjoyable car in this month's group. It has easy cabin access and a panoramic view out. It also comes well equipped and has comfortable seating. The base Fit ($16,020 Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price as tested) and Fit Sport ($16,730 MSRP as tested) are powered by a 118-hp, 1.5 liter four-cylinder engine that delivers quick takeoffs but doesn't brim with power. The Fit Sport's easy shifting five-speed manual transmission adds sportiness; the five-speed automatic in the base model is more relaxed, with lower engine speed on the highway. Braking was rated Very Good. Fuel economy is an impressive 33 mpg overall in the Fit Sport and 30 mpg overall in the base model with the automatic.The SX4 LE was conceived as a subcompact, but its price and 26 mpg overall fuel economy makes it compete more closely with cars one size bigger. The SX4 has a stiff, choppy ride on rough and smooth roads. Steering isn't quick or communicative. The SX4 LE ($17,378 MSRP as tested) is equipped with a 143-horsepower, 2.0-liter, four cylinder engine that is mated to a fairly smooth four-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration feels a bit lethargic. Braking performance is very good.The Versa has a nicely made, well-appointed interior. It rides pleasantly and quietly, and the powertrain feels refined. The rear seat is enormous for a small car. Handling is sound but not really agile, and it's tricky at the limits. Its 27-mpg overall fuel economy is not impressive. The Versa 1.8S ($16,130 MSRP as tested) is powered by a 122-horsepower, 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine that accelerates adequately; the four-speed automatic is smooth and responsive. Interior storage is modest, but trunk space is quite generous. Braking is very good.The compactly-sized Yaris is ideal for tight spaces, making it a good city car. Its gets very good fuel economy at 30 mpg overall and has some nice interior touches such as a rear seat that adjusts fore and aft and three glove compartments. Handling is responsive but can be tricky at the limits. The base model Yaris ($16,095 MSRP as tested) is equipped with a 106-horsepower, 1.5-liter, four-cylinder engine that feels lively enough around town but lacks reserve power for the highway. The four-speed automatic shifts smoothly. Braking is excellent.Despite recent updates, the Aveo remains unpleasant, outdated, and overpriced for what you get. Acceleration is slow, the engine is rough and noisy, handling is clumsy, and the ride is jumpy. Fuel economy at 26 mpg overall is poor for its class, and reliability has been below average. The Aveo51LT ($16,470 MSRP as tested) is powered by an anemic 106-horsepower, 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine, and the four-speed automatic transmission isn't very responsive. Braking performance is very good.With more than 7 million print and online subscribers, Consumer Reports is one of the most trusted sources for information and advice on consumer products and services. It conducts the most comprehensive auto-test program of any U.S. publication or Web site; the magazine's auto experts have decades of experience in driving, testing, and reporting on cars. To become a subscriber, consumers can call 1-800-234-1645. Information and articles from the magazine can be accessed online at www.ConsumerReports.org.MARCH 2009The material above is intended for legitimate news entities only; it may not be used for commercial or promotional purposes. Consumer Reports(R) is published by Consumers Union, an expert, independent nonprofit organization whose mission is to work for a fair, just, and safe marketplace for all consumers and to empower consumers to protect themselves. To achieve this mission, we test, inform, and protect. To maintain our independence and impartiality, Consumers Union accepts no outside advertising, no free test samples, and has no agenda other than the interests of consumers. Consumers Union supports itself through the sale of our information products and services, individual contributions, and a few noncommercial grants.

SOURCE Consumer Reports

http://www.breakawayhonda.com

Redesigned Honda Fit Tops Consumer Reports' Ratings of Subcompact Cars

Fit easily outscores competitors including Toyota Yaris, Nissan Versa, Chevrolet Aveo and Suzuki SX4

YONKERS, N.Y., Feb. 2 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The newly-redesigned Honda Fit outpointed competitors including the Toyota Yaris and Nissan Versa in Consumer Reports' tests of six subcompacts and small sedans for the March issue. The Fit remains CR's highest-rated subcompact.
The Honda Fit became a hot-selling vehicle when gasoline prices topped $4 a gallon. A redesigned and slightly larger Fit arrived last fall, and it improves on the space-efficient formula that made the last one such a hit with buyers.
"The Fit seems roomier on the inside than you might expect, with an interior that is unusually versatile and flexible--and cargo capacity rivaling that of a small SUV," said David Champion, senior director of Consumer Reports' Auto Test Center in East Haddam, Connecticut. "Lightness and agility make the Fit fun to drive, the powertrain is smooth and willing, and fuel economy is enviable."
Consumer Reports tested two trim lines of the Fit, a base model with an automatic transmission and a manual upscale Sport model, both of which earned "Very Good" overall road test scores. CR also tested two other subcompacts--a base model Toyota Yaris and a Chevrolet Aveo5, both of which scored "Good" overall, and two small sedans--the Suzuki SX4 and Nissan Versa, both of which were rated Very Good overall.
Prices for the six cars in CR's tests range from $16,020 for the base Fit to $17,378 for the Suzuki SX4.
Full tests and ratings of the test group appear in the March issue of Consumer Reports, which goes on sale February 3. The reports are also available to subscribers of www.ConsumerReports.org.
The Fit and the SX4 are the only vehicles from this month's test group that are Recommended by Consumer Reports. CR only Recommends vehicles that have performed well in its tests, have at least average predicted reliability based on CR's Annual Car Reliability Survey of its more than seven million print and web subscribers, and performed at least adequately if crash-tested or included in a government rollover test.
The Versa sedan's reliability is much below average; reliability for the hatchback Versa has been average. The Aveo and Yaris scored too low in CR's tests to be recommended.
CR's engineers found the new Fit the most practical and enjoyable car in this month's group. It has easy cabin access and a panoramic view out. It also comes well equipped and has comfortable seating. The base Fit ($16,020 Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price as tested) and Fit Sport ($16,730 MSRP as tested) are powered by a 118-hp, 1.5 liter four-cylinder engine that delivers quick takeoffs but doesn't brim with power. The Fit Sport's easy shifting five-speed manual transmission adds sportiness; the five-speed automatic in the base model is more relaxed, with lower engine speed on the highway. Braking was rated Very Good. Fuel economy is an impressive 33 mpg overall in the Fit Sport and 30 mpg overall in the base model with the automatic.
The SX4 LE was conceived as a subcompact, but its price and 26 mpg overall fuel economy makes it compete more closely with cars one size bigger. The SX4 has a stiff, choppy ride on rough and smooth roads. Steering isn't quick or communicative. The SX4 LE ($17,378 MSRP as tested) is equipped with a 143-horsepower, 2.0-liter, four cylinder engine that is mated to a fairly smooth four-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration feels a bit lethargic. Braking performance is very good.
The Versa has a nicely made, well-appointed interior. It rides pleasantly and quietly, and the powertrain feels refined. The rear seat is enormous for a small car. Handling is sound but not really agile, and it's tricky at the limits. Its 27-mpg overall fuel economy is not impressive. The Versa 1.8S ($16,130 MSRP as tested) is powered by a 122-horsepower, 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine that accelerates adequately; the four-speed automatic is smooth and responsive. Interior storage is modest, but trunk space is quite generous. Braking is very good.
The compactly-sized Yaris is ideal for tight spaces, making it a good city car. Its gets very good fuel economy at 30 mpg overall and has some nice interior touches such as a rear seat that adjusts fore and aft and three glove compartments. Handling is responsive but can be tricky at the limits. The base model Yaris ($16,095 MSRP as tested) is equipped with a 106-horsepower, 1.5-liter, four-cylinder engine that feels lively enough around town but lacks reserve power for the highway. The four-speed automatic shifts smoothly. Braking is excellent.
Despite recent updates, the Aveo remains unpleasant, outdated, and overpriced for what you get. Acceleration is slow, the engine is rough and noisy, handling is clumsy, and the ride is jumpy. Fuel economy at 26 mpg overall is poor for its class, and reliability has been below average. The Aveo51LT ($16,470 MSRP as tested) is powered by an anemic 106-horsepower, 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine, and the four-speed automatic transmission isn't very responsive. Braking performance is very good.
With more than 7 million print and online subscribers, Consumer Reports is one of the most trusted sources for information and advice on consumer products and services. It conducts the most comprehensive auto-test program of any U.S. publication or Web site; the magazine's auto experts have decades of experience in driving, testing, and reporting on cars. To become a subscriber, consumers can call 1-800-234-1645. Information and articles from the magazine can be accessed online at www.ConsumerReports.org.

http://www.breakawayhonda.com

The 2010 Honda Insight

Hondas 2010 Insight is scheduled to go on sale April 22nd which just happens to be Earth day 2009. The new Insight will be an affordable fun car that just happens to use Hybrid technology for good fuel economy. The New Insight is expected to get 40/45 MPG and have more power and punch to make driving a little more fun than previous hybrids.


The unveiling of the 2010 Insight cements the fact that hybrid technology is more than just a passing fad, and is finally accessible to all car buyers. The gas/electric hybrid is really just the next step forward in the evolution and advancement of the internal-combustion engine

http://www.breakawayhonda.com