The Concept RA has appeared in Detroit looking like a cross between the new Lancer EVO and (perhaps) the latest generation USDM Mitsubishi Eclipse, or even an Audi TT.

The strictly concept only (Sorry, guys and girls) Concept RA sports a 2.2 litre, DOHC 16-valve 150kw/201HP/420nm high output, clean burn diesel engine, as part of Mitsubishi’s new drive towards eco-friendly performance sports cars.

In order to achieve low consumption while not sacrificing performance means the Concept RA features Mitsubishi’s proprietary MIVEC variable valve control technology, an all aluminum space frame, variable diffuser/variable geometry turbocharger, peizoelectric injector system and also sports some impact resistant, recyclable plastic resin panels as part of it’s construction.

Environmental features include a new catalytic converter system that combines a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), NOx trap catalyst (NTC) and diesel particulate filter (DPF) in addition to the highly efficient 2.2 litre clean burning diesel.

Of course, the Concept RA sports Fulltime 4WD, Twin Clutch SST Transmission, and the new S-AWC (Super-All Wheel Control) most notably seen on the new EVO. As mentioned before on IJ, S-AWC is a combination of existing technologies, Active Center Differential, Active Yaw Control, ABS and Active Stability Control.

Unfortunately though, all this is to be shelved as the car is designed purely as a concept, and won’t challenge either Honda’s offering in the new CRZ (CRX) or Toyota’s rumored new ‘AE86’.

Popularity: 57% [?]

Just in time for Christmas, Honda’s dropped the all new, 5th generation Inspire.

The new Inspire features styling cues seen on the new USDM Accord, and a V6 3.5-liter i-VTEC engine featuring a Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system. The VCM enables cylinder switching (based on driving conditions) between 6, 4 and 3 cylinders.

The V6 produces 206kW (280PS) of power and 342N�m (34.9kg�m) of torque while maintaining emission levels 75% below 2005 Japanese government standards.

Other features include

• Collision Mitigation Brake System (CMBS)
• ABS (Anti-lock Brake System)
• EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution)
• G-CON (G-force Control) technology
• VGR (variable steering gear ratio)
• Intelligent, dual fully automatic air conditioner (uses GPS information and a sunlight sensor to determine the direction and intensity of the sun�s rays and regulate temperature and air output accordingly.)
• HID (High Intensity Discharge) Headlights

Unfortunately, the Inspire is only available in a 5 speed automatic transmission.

[Source: Honda]

Popularity: 52% [?]

According to LeftLane and the Acura TSX Community, there’s some speculation as to wether Acura is going to offer the TSX in a Type-S guise.

Known as the Honda Accord in other markets, the TSX is a highly polished, front-wheel-driven, mid-size sedan powered by an i-VTEC 2.4L DOHC 4cylinder motor. The new 2009 model is expected to develop between 220-230HP, but rumours are abound of a new TSX Type-S producing anywhere from 260HP from a turbocharged i-VTEC motor. Coupled with Honda’s SH-AWD (Super Handling All Wheel Drive) and the possibility of a DSG gearbox or 6 speed, this could be a serious bit of kit.

We’re taking this with a grain of salt. The Acura/Honda’s i-VTEC 4cyl is a considerably advanced peice of motor, and is known for technical wizardry in terms of it’s management system. Honda hasn’t produced a turbocharged car in quite some time, at least one with a wide adoption rate, let alone on a mainstream, popular model.

Coupled with V-TEC technology, a turbocharged motor may be a steep challenge to Honda - but we wouldn’t dismiss them on this alone. After all, Honda have surprised us before with fantastic technical achievements. We also hope Honda/Acura considers a turbo-diesel variant of the 2009 TSX as well to round out a solid model lineup.

We haven’t heard anything on the technical side of this rumor from Japan, but we’re watching with interest. Fingers crossed, we’ll see a boosted Type S in 2009.

[Sources: LeftLane, Acura TSX Community]
[Credits: Thanks for the tip, Kris!]

Popularity: 42% [?]

It looks like we can expect a new CR-X coupe at the Tokyo Motor Show. In fact, Winding Road says we can go the unusual step of saying this car will see production! Featuring a svelte, almost Volvo-esque front, curves that seem to evolve from the old CR-X, neat dual exhausts and 19’s, the possibly hybrid CR-Z would make a welcome addition to Honda’s line up.

What do we want to see in this?

• 1.8L VTEC, or just the MUGEN RR’s powerplant
• RWD or if we’re really talking fantasy, AWD
• 6 speed manual
• 1100kg’s or less

Popularity: 39% [?]

We’ve been asked a few questions on exactly who imports cars in Australia, specifically Japanese cars.

Well there are quite a few, and if you’re in Australia you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to decent service, price and model availability. Here we have a short and sweet list of some we hear have done very well by their customers.

1. Prestige Motorsport
2. J-Spec
3. Iron Chef
4. Preferred Autos

Had a good or bad experience importing cars? Feel free to share in the forums

Popularity: 26% [?]