Honda Shows Off "Earth Dreams" Diesel
November 19th, 2012 12:22 PM
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While the Earth Dreams gasoline engines will underpin everything in Honda’s lineup going forward, Europe will get at least one diesel version – and we’ll probably miss out.
Said to be the lightest diesel engine in its class, the 1.6L mill makes 118 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. The turbocharger’s turbine is apparently controlled via an electronic unit to cut down on lag and optimize engine response – though it’s still powered by exhaust gases, and has nothing to do with the long rumored electric turbochargers that never seem to materialize. The new diesel will debut in early 2013 in the European and World Market Civic.
More by Derek Kreindler
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"Earth Dreams" gag... Just guarantees I'll never own a Honda with that on the engine cover. "Eco-Boost" is treading close to the line. At least "Sky-Active" is catchy without the eco-weenie overtones.
I like the slogan. We're all talking about it, it's memorable, and its easy to comprehend when written as English in all markets.... it communicates the basic idea that Honda is inspired by the Earth and that products under this banner seek to minimize harm to the Earth and are leading edge in that regard... maybe I'm crazy, but that's what the slogan says to me
I hate to talk about something other than the name of Honda's new engines or how America's unions are to blame, but I for one am excited to see whether or not this once great engine maker can get its engine making groove back.
I don't care what they call it, when can I get an Odyssey with 35MPG and monster-minivan torque? I'm a former TDI owner and that little 96hp engine moved my 3300lb Jetta better than any engine I've had before or since, including the 200hp V6 engine in my 3400lb Escape. It's a pity you have to buy (and maintain) a Volkswagen (BMW and Mercedes aren't for me) in order to drive like that here in the USA...