Honda

Honda Overview:

Honda redesigned the Civic and CR-V in 2012 and stays busy for 2013 with a complete redesign for its most iconin model, the Accord.

The entry-level Fit starts things off and the diminutive five-door hatchback offers a surprising amount of interior room for a car of such small stature.

Although it got a makeover just last year, the Civic and Civic Hybrid are once again being refreshed. We will have the details on these two models when they debut late in 2012.

To keep up with many of its rivals which were redesigned in 2012 and 2013, the Accord sedan/coupe gets brand new styling inside and out, as well as a slew of mechanical changes that make it a top player in the segment once again. It gets the first of Honda's new lineup of "Earth Dreams" engines, that offer more efficiency even if the name leaves much to be desired. Honda is also planning to bring to market a plug-in hybrid version of the Accord for even greater fuel economy.

The hatchback Crosstour returns sporting updated V-6 power borrowed from the Accord along with the new six-speed automatic. It also offers plenty of standard features including Bluetooth® connectivity and a backup camera.

Now two years removed from its redesign, the Odyssey minivan still offers seating for eight-passengers and a few unique styling cues, including that lightning-bolt beltline that improves third-row visibility.

Honda also offers a pair of hybrids with completely different aims. The CR-Z looks to prove that a hybrid can offer an engaging drive in addition to great fuel economy and the sport coupe is still the only hybrid on the market to offer a six-speed manual transmission. The efficient Insight hatchback goes the other direction, putting a premium on fuel economy (42 combined mpg) and a low base price.

The CR-V compact crossover SUV remains one of the most compelling options in its crowded segment. It has plenty of useful features, like rear seats that fold forward for more cargo space with the pull of one handle and a new “Econ” button that maximizes fuel economy. The standard rear view camera remains a segment exclusive.

Rounding out the crossovers is the midsize Pilot. It features seating for eight and a V-6 that offers ample power to go with cylinder deactivation technology which improves fuel economy.

And last but not least is the Ridgeline pickup truck. The Ridgeline is less of a pickup in the traditional sense and more like an SUV with a truck bed. As such it features a more comfortable cabin than you’d find in most trucks.