One year after launching the new CSX as a replacement for the EL and a luxury copy of the Honda Civic, Acura is set to introduce another product exclusive to the Canadian market: the CSX Type-S compact performance sedan.
Who does it target? On one hand, the customers who find the CSX in need of a little punch; on the other hand, those who think the Civic Si is not luxurious enough.
Indeed, the new CSX Type-S borrows from the latter its 2.0-litre, 197-horsepower i-VTEC engine that features "intelligent" valve-control systems. The car also uses a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission that delivers performance and good fuel economy (average of 8.5 L/100 km).
"There was a time when the 100-horsepower-per-litre benchmark was an exclusive calling card of race car engines," said Jim Miller, executive vice-president, Honda Canada. "The CSX Type-S produces this kind of power in an engine that will be favoured for its top-end performance and range of power."
In addition, the Type-S benefits from a sport-tuned suspension with stiffer springs, firmer damping and thicker stabilizer bars. With performance-rated 215/45R17 tires on top of that, driving enthusiasts will surely love the handling of this car.
In terms of design, the modifications are sometimes subtle, sometimes
striking. Outside, there is obviously specific Type-S badging, but also a rear wing spoiler, fog lights and upgraded 17-inch wheels. The cabin is differentiated by leather-trimmed seats with high-contrast stitching and embossed Type-S identification, metallic-finished pedals and the Type-S logo on the floor mats.
However, there's more than just looks and performance. For instance, the standard navigation system can respond to nearly 600 bilingual voice commands. These commands can also be used for such functions as climate control and audio system settings. Speaking of audio, passengers will be delighted by the AM/FM/CD radio with MP3 and WMA compatibility and auxiliary input for music playback devices (like the iPod). Even more impressive, the seven speakers -- including an 8-inch sub-woofer -- pump out 350 watts of power.
The list of standard safety features should not be overlooked either: six airbags, 4-wheel disc brakes, vehicle stability assist with traction control as well as an Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure.
The 2007 CSX Type-S will go on sale on November 6 at a retail price of $33,400.
Who does it target? On one hand, the customers who find the CSX in need of a little punch; on the other hand, those who think the Civic Si is not luxurious enough.
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| (Photo: Acura) |
"There was a time when the 100-horsepower-per-litre benchmark was an exclusive calling card of race car engines," said Jim Miller, executive vice-president, Honda Canada. "The CSX Type-S produces this kind of power in an engine that will be favoured for its top-end performance and range of power."
In addition, the Type-S benefits from a sport-tuned suspension with stiffer springs, firmer damping and thicker stabilizer bars. With performance-rated 215/45R17 tires on top of that, driving enthusiasts will surely love the handling of this car.
In terms of design, the modifications are sometimes subtle, sometimes
 |
| (Photo: Acura) |
However, there's more than just looks and performance. For instance, the standard navigation system can respond to nearly 600 bilingual voice commands. These commands can also be used for such functions as climate control and audio system settings. Speaking of audio, passengers will be delighted by the AM/FM/CD radio with MP3 and WMA compatibility and auxiliary input for music playback devices (like the iPod). Even more impressive, the seven speakers -- including an 8-inch sub-woofer -- pump out 350 watts of power.
The list of standard safety features should not be overlooked either: six airbags, 4-wheel disc brakes, vehicle stability assist with traction control as well as an Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure.
The 2007 CSX Type-S will go on sale on November 6 at a retail price of $33,400.