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% [?]

At this years Frankfurt Motorshow, Honda hasn’t been resting on it’s laurels. Instead they’ve given us a beautiful concept tourer (or wagon, depends on what your idea of a wagon is). It’s clear Honda have their sights set on giving us back a solid Honda wagon along the lines of the Accord Wagon, not seen in the US and Australia since the fifth-generation Accord - although wagon production continues in European and Japanese markets.

Specifications remain relatively unchanged from the Accord Euro, with the the 2.0- and 2.4-litre gas engines, although Honda’s 2.2-litre diesel will be an option when it goes into production. The Tourer concept also sports 4 doors, a longer track and width to improve handling and cargo space.

Honda Accord Tourer Concept Pics:

Popularity: 18% [?]