Friday, December 30, 2011
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
We would like to thank this great customer for sharing their experience with us
"The salesman was very friendly and personable. We were given a reasonable quote on the new car and a good value for our trade in. Because of this we came to a price agreement quickly."
Friday, December 23, 2011
Shahbaz, thank you for providing outstanding customer service
"Shahbaz, the employee we worked with, was efficient, kind, and honest. He thoroughly answered all questions and made sure that I understood everything about my purchase. Sam was also very helpful in informing us of all the technical aspects of the purchase. He was very knowledgeable of the details of the purchase."
Lissa, thank you for sharing your experience with our dealership
"The asking price for the new car was in the range of what we expected and they gave us a very good value on our trade-in. Overall we had a very good experience and were completely satisfied, without having to haggle over the price too much."
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Honda CR-V a finalist for truck of the year
The redesigned Honda CR-V made its debut at dealers yesterday with a suggested price ranging from $22,295 for a basic model to $28,295 for the top trim level.
Also yesterday, the CR-V was named one of three finalists for 2012 North American Truck of the Year, an award to be presented early next month.
The redesigned crossover vehicle, assembled in East Liberty, this year adds $400 to $1,000 worth of features compared with the previous version, with an average price increase of $181, the company said.
Suggested prices do not include a destination and handling charge of $810.
Fuel economy is 22 or 23 miles per gallon in the city, depending on trim level, and 30 or 31 miles per gallon on the highway. The pricing and fuel-economy figures were not previously disclosed.
The North American Car of the Year and North American Truck of the Year are selected by a panel of 50 auto journalists and will be presented on Jan. 9 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
Finalists for car of the year are the Ford Focus, Hyundai Elantra and Volkswagen Passat. Finalists for truck of the year are the BMW X3, the CR-V and the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque.
Last January, the winners were the Chevrolet Volt and the Ford Explorer.
The CR-V is one of Honda’s three top sellers, along with the Civic and the Accord. The CR-V and Accord are both assembled in Ohio.
In early November, Honda said it might have to delay the introduction of the new CR-V because flooding in Thailand had disrupted parts shipments. Later that month, the company said it had recovered enough to meet its goal of releasing the vehicle in December.
Mary, we are thrilled to learn you had a quality experience at our dealership
"We just moved to the area and have previously gone to Carrs Honda in Chicago. I was a little leery b/c of other reviews. But it is 'geographically desirable' so I took my chances. I was pleasantly surprised by the professionalism and friendly service. All went as planned. Granted nothing was seriously wrong. Needed an oil change and had a warning light saying that my gas cap was loose. The service manager immediately addressed the problem. He checked to see that the seal wasn't worn. Then explained that I needed to tighten the cap with several more 'clicks' than I had been doing. I offered free 'shuttle' service to my home. While I waited for my driver, they had free WiFi, laptops to use and comp Starbucks coffee :-). Shuttle driver was nice. Dropped me off at home and picked me up (after courtesy call) when the car was finished . Bada-bing bada boom! Car was ready when they told me it would be and no more gas cap warning light. No complaints"
Monday, December 19, 2011
Friday, December 16, 2011
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
We would like to thank our staff for providing outstanding customer service
"I have been working with Andrew Tomlinson at O'Hare Honda to find just the right vehicle for my families needs. He has been amazing! I had tons of questions about lease versus buy, car versus van versus SUV, MPGs.....I thought I was driving him crazy but he was great! He answered all my questions, got us into a new Pilot which is perfect for our needs! The finance dept and their GM, Steve Foresta, were all very friendly and professional! This is a great place to get a car! Thanks to everyone at O'Hare! You definitely have a customer for life....
Kate"
"I bought my most recent Honda here and am so pleased with the staff in both the sales and service departments, I most definitely will be making my next car purchase here as well! At the time of purchase, Mark (from sales) was very helpful and informative and I most definitely did not feel as if I was given the "run-around" or misled in any way - considering I was alone making the purchase without my husband.
I've brought my vehicle in for routine maintenance and oil changes to their service department and am always greeted by friendly staff members. While waiting for service, they have a very nice lounge area with nice leather furniture, a TV, computer terminals for customer use with internet access, and free Starbucks coffee or tea. After service is complete, the service agent thoroughly explains the services performed, and my car is washed and ready to go!!! The following day, the service manager calls to inquire about the level of service received and is open to any and all feedback. Unlike the typical garage that smells like oil and grease where your seated on hard plastic chairs in a dark, cramped waiting space - I think they go out of their way to make their customers feel welcomed! I have recommended this dealership to all of my friends and am definitely going to make my next vehicle purchase at O'Hare Honda!""Love this dealership! I leased my 2011 Hyundai Sonata from O'Hare and have never had an easier car buying experience. The quote was spot on and everything I needed to know about leasing versus buying was clearly explained to me. I knew the product I wanted and how much I should expect to spend from my own research.
O'Hare's price was competitive and straight forward. However, I ultimately chose to make my purchase from O'Hare because of their reputation. Everyone from the salesman(Mark J) and service writer(Robyn) to the man who did my financing(Dan Chatfield) and the porter(Jack) who washed my car, were friendly and accommodating. I get all my service done at O'Hare, I enrolled in the Drive Sure Program, got a flat tire a couple months ago, they came out and fixed it, no charge, no problem!Had ignition issue which was under warranty , they got me in and out fast and easy. I also purchased two older model used Honda's from O'Hare for my sons and have been very happy! I wouldn't go anywhere else!"
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
2011 LA: 2012 Honda CR-V Arrives With New Features, Fuel Economy Improvements
With the fourth generation of the popular SUV, set to be delivered to dealerships December 15, Honda seeks to improve upon the features that made it popular, while improving refinement. It remains a five-passenger model, still powered by a four-cylinder—a 2.4-liter with i-VTEC, with 185 hp and 163 lb-ft of torque, backed by a five-speed automatic. Fuel economy is better now, an improvement of 2 mpg city, 3 highway for front-drive models (now 23/31), and up 1 mpg city/3 highway for AWD models (22/30 mpg). Also standard is Motion-Adaptive electric power steering. The Honda’s all-wheel-drive system is said to be all new, as is Eco mode. According to Honda, other improvements include a smoother ride, quieter interior, and a more comfortable cabin.
Inside, more features will be offered as standard: Bluetooth, Pandora, multi-angle rearview camera, and an SMS text-messaging system. The cabin still looks very familiar—there’s no doubt it’s a Honda—but the overall look is more upscale than it was in the past. Honda also worked to improve ease of use of the interior, making the Easy-Fold split rear seat standard and lowering the cargo floor. According to Honda, these seats will nearly fold flat. Options include a power moonroof, upgraded stereo systems, navigation, and DVD rear entertainment. One odd decision, though, was that the rear entertainment system will not be available on CR-Vs equipped with navigation. No surprise, there is a long list of safety equipment, something else Honda is known for. Stability control, VSA, ABS with Brake Assist, front, side, and side-curtain airbags, and ACE body structure are all standard.
There have been numerous improvements and upgrades to the CR-V, but unfortunately, Honda didn’t announce pricing. The company did say, though, that the MSRP will be highly competitive.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Friday, December 9, 2011
Kathleen, thank you so much for your loyalty
"My Element & I have been a part of the O'Hare Honda group for almost 9 years. They are terrific over there from Sales to Service. My Element has only been serviced by O'Hare Honda and I will never take it anywhere else. I have heard the nightmares from the competitive oil change facilities. Once, I overheard a gentleman telling his story to the cashier as he was paying his $800.00 bill to fix the damages caused by the quick oil change that shall remain nameless company. Never at Honda, and they do and inspect more for you there. I feel confident when I drive off that everything was serviced properly and it always has been. My only complaint (and it won't affect the rating) is that Dave, my service adviser, may be a bit color blind. You see my car color is "shoreline mist" and not "olive" as Dave described. I forgive you Dave! Happy Holidays!!!"
"I have been a long tern O'Hare Honda owner , Civics for my children and Accords for me primarily because of the the stellar service department headed by Paul Benedetto . Paul and Dave Strickland truly care about the customers needs and treat me as if my car (s) are their own . Time after time they have gone the extra mile to help make the service experience better in every way. I just leased my 6th Honda last week and it mainly was because of Paul and Dave's service ( the rest of the service team are amazing too) but I have worked with Paul and Dave the longest. I considered purchasing a Lexus IS250 and the lease cost was only slightly higher than the new Accord but I went back to Honda because of the service team . I highly recommend you purchase your next Honda at O'Hare Honda as they are the best in the business of taking care of their customers."
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Take advantage of awesome special offers at O'Hare Honda
Friday, December 2, 2011
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Moy, thank you for sharing your experience
"My wife and I recently bought a new 2011 CR-V from O'Hare Honda. This is our 2nd purchase from this dealership in 10 years. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable. I was particularly impressed when they showed my wife all the 'new' toys this car has compared to her last car (a 2001 Civic). The service department has been quite helpful over the years. The last time we brought our Civic in for an oil change they replaced the seat belts for free (due to a recall). We will continue to shop at O'Hare Honda and recommend others do as well. 5 Stars all around. We'll be back after the holidays to replace the Civic with a brand new Accord!!"
Monday, November 28, 2011
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Tim, thank you so much for this five-star review
"I've bought 4 cars from them. The service and people are wonderful. They wait on you hand and foot. Steve Foresta and his crew are the best. Love them and my Honda!!!!"
"I bought my 2011 Honda Pilot from this dealership in July. They have great prices, there's no haggling. The service department is the best for oil changes and they really know their stuff. O'Hare Honda is a great place! Buy from here!"
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Honda Civic Natural Gas Gets 2012 Green Car of the Year Award
Monday, November 21, 2011
Friday, November 18, 2011
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Honda hopes to get momentum back with new CR-V
A lot has changed since the Honda CR-V crossover went on sale in 1997 facing just a few rivals. The entry-level crossover market has exploded to become the industry's fastest growing segment while attracting more than 20 entrants.
Honda Motor Co. -- aiming to stay ahead of the pack -- is reloading with a fourth-generation CR-V that aims to build on the model's styling, packaging, fuel economy and features.
The redesigned 2012 CR-V crossover was introduced at the Los Angeles Auto Show Wednesday and is scheduled to go on sale Dec. 15.
In a year that has produced setback after setback for Honda, to say the new CR-V faces an incredible sales burden would not be an understatement.
It has been the top-selling crossover since 2007 but has been surpassed by the Ford Escape this year, partly because of inventory shortages after the March earthquake and tsunami in Japan.
The Honda brand's overall U.S. sales -- dented by depleted stockpiles -- have dropped 5 percent so far this year, though CR-V demand has jumped 11 percent in a market that has advanced 10 percent.
The CR-V -- sold in more than 160 countries and boasting all-time sales of nearly 5 million -- has become a bona fide franchise and profit generator for Honda.
It is one of four core models the brand is introducing over a 24-month period. An all-new Odyssey minivan went on sale a year ago, followed by a new Civic compact last spring. Next fall, a new Accord will go on sale.
The four models account for nearly 80 percent of the Honda brand's U.S. sales this year.
But after the lukewarm reception the redesigned Civic has received -- sales of the compact are down about 15 percent this year -- Honda is counting on the new CR-V to rebuild momentum.
"We have a lot of good product coming starting with the new CR-V," said Mike Accavitti, Honda's new head of U.S. marketing. "The pipeline is chock full of mojo."
Honda plans to continue selling more than 200,000 CR-Vs a year in the U.S. market. The automaker is confident enough in the revamped crossover that it plans to build the vehicle at three North American plants for the first time — in East Liberty, Ohio; Alliston, Ontario; and El Salto, Jalisco, in Mexico.
It will face stiff competition from the Escape, Toyota RAV-4, Chevrolet Equinox, Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe.
The redesigned 2013 Escape, which also debuted at the L.A. Auto Show today, will go on sale next year.
The entry-level crossover market has ballooned and is expected to grow 35 percent between 2010 and 2015. It will rival in size the full-sized pickup market, analysts say.
More standard features
For the 2012 CR-V, Honda will offer more standard equipment -- rear seats that fold flat at a single touch, steering wheel-mounted controls, full center console – and, for the first time, an optional rear entertainment system, to appeal to more buyers.
Honda says the rear entertainment system will be affordably priced at $700 to $800.
Honda also is making more technology features standard: USB audio, Bluetooth connectivity, a 5-inch color rearview monitor, Pandora radio and SMS text messaging.
"Honda isn't going to rock the boat with a controversial design," said Dave Sullivan, head of product analysis at AutoPacific Inc. "They are fixing what was wrong -- like the folding rear seat."
While Honda moved the Odyssey minivan upscale last year, offering a premium package that topped $40,000, the CR-V will remain a value proposition, in part because the compact crossover market includes premium offerings such as the BMW X-3 and Acura RD-X.
The price will remain between $21,000 and $30,000, Honda says.
Honda says it will feature segment-leading fuel economy of 22 mpg city and 30 mpg highway in four-wheel drive mode and improved fuel economy of 23/31 mpg in two-wheel drive mode.
"For us, the heart of the market is the basic buyer or young family willing to spend $25,000 for a well-equipped, safe and functional crossover," said Sage Marie, manager of truck product planning for Honda.
The Equinox, with a new connected color radio for 2012, and the Escape will offer more technology and connected capability than the CR-V, while appealing to the same Gen Y market that Honda is after, AutoPacific's Sullivan said.
He said: "The CR-V will make Hondaphiles happy but doesn't offer a convincing reason to buy one over the competition."
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Honda previews EV lineup for Tokyo Motor Show
The AC-X is the more practical of the two and is a plug-in hybrid designed for both short and long commutes. It can be driven purely on a charge of its onboard battery or can switch to engine mode, allowing it to take on much longer trips than can be achieved on an electric-only vehicle. The Small Sports EV concept, on the other hands, is aimed at “fun” driving and looks to be a two-seater with a convertible top. Both models have only been revealed in renderings with Honda likely saving the big unveil for the show in Tokyo next month. Honda will also be showcasing a new N Concept series that emphasizes the creation of ample space and will be debuting the first production model from that line called N BOX. Planned production models of various motorcycles such as the NC700S, INTEGRA, and NC700X will also be on hand.
Monday, November 14, 2011
Friday, November 11, 2011
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Honda says new CR-V won't be delayed, due next month
Although no U.S.-bound Honda vehicles come from Thailand, parts sourcing — including certain electrical components, Honda says — prompted the automaker to trim production at its U.S. plants beginning last Wednesday. That could continue for several weeks, Honda says, but it won't affect CR-V timing.
Thailand is a major hub for Southeast Asian auto manufacturing, with assembly plants from Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Mazda and Mitsubishi, not to mention numerous suppliers, according to Automotive News. The country's worst flooding in 50 years has Toyota trimming production at U.S. facilities, but other major automakers tell us their U.S. operations will remain unaffected.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Honda gives new car to million-miler
Honda’s North American division has awarded Joe LoCicero a brand new 2012 Accord sedan after he hit the one-million mile (1 609 000) mark in his 1990 model.
Joe's million-mile journey over the past 15 years is “a testament to Honda's reliability, and reinforces Honda's reputation for building rock-solid, dependable cars”, says the car maker.
Joe drives an average of 100 500km a year and began keeping detailed records at around 480 000km.
He has taken more than 661 photos of his odometer and Honda fans have been following his journey on www.millionmilejoe.com as he approached the one-million mile mark.
Joe was presented with his new set of keys in a surprise parade in Saco, Maine in America on October 23.
The one-block-long celebratory parade included a giant odometer float, marching bands from local schools and theatre stilt walkers.
Honda's strong reliability is renowned and has been recognised by publications such as What Car? and Which? In the 2011 What Car?/Warranty Direct survey, Honda was rated the UK's most reliable car manufacturer for an unprecedented sixth year in a row. Honda also retained the No2 spot in the 2011 JD Power Vehicle Ownership Satisfaction Study - the highest-placed volume manufacturer - with the Accord topping the family car category.
Monday, November 7, 2011
Friday, November 4, 2011
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Honda reveals hot Civics, supercharged Accord coupe at SEMA
Following the launch of the new 2012 Civic, Honda used the SEMA show to announce news surrounding the ninth-generation model and to debut a prototype Accord sporting a supercharger.
For the regular road-going enthusiast is the Civic Si Coupe HFP (for Honda Factory Performance). The dealer-installed kit includes a HFP sport suspension which lowers ride height by 15 millimeters and adds stiffer springs, shocks and 18-inch HFP wheels with Yokohama AVID W4S tires.
The Civic Si Coupe HFP is also the first product on which HFP has collaborated with Honda's in-house racing arm, Honda Performance Development (HPD) to test and verify the package's performance improvements on the track compared with those of the stock Si. According to Honda, the relationship between the two will further strengthen on future products.
To dress up the outside, the HFP kit includes a front lip spoiler, side sills and a rear bumper underbody spoiler, while the interior gains LED ambient lighting. The entire package retails for $4,244 and carries a three-year/36,000-mile warranty when installed at the time of the new-car purchase.
For the track warriors, Honda had a race-prepped 2012 Civic Si coupe prepared by Compass360 Racing, which had its first shakedown run at the World Challenge season finale at Road Atlanta in September. In hopes of expanding its racing presence, HPD will offer the Civic coupe body-in-white for $3,500, which will save potential Civic Si racers from having to purchase a fully equipped stock vehicle and tear it apart. To date, Honda has sold close to 10 bodies, which can be fully built up through HPD's parts catalog that includes engines built by longtime Honda/Acura racers RealTime Racing out of Wisconsin.
Finally, Honda showed off an Accord coupe V6 concept outfitted with the HFP package with upgraded suspension, body kit and rims. The concept part of the equation comes from a HPD-tuned supercharger, intake and exhaust system. Estimated output figures according to Honda come in at 333 hp and 285 lb-ft of torque, which is up from the stock V6's output of 271 hp and 254 lb-ft of torque.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Friday, October 28, 2011
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Honda to Debut Two All-New Models at the Los Angeles Auto Show
Honda will debut two all-new models, the 2012 CR-V and 2013 Fit EV, at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 16th at 1:05 pm PST. As one of the best-selling SUV's in the United States, the fourth-generation 2012 CR-V will showcase new exterior and interior styling, improved fuel economy and added technology features. The all electric zero-emissions Fit EV concept vehicle debuted at last year's Los Angeles Auto Show and the production model will be revealed this year.
The Honda press conference at the Los Angeles Auto Show can be viewed live via webcast at www.hondanews.com
For high-resolution photos and media information on Honda's current product offerings, please visit www.hondanews.com. Consumer information is available at automobiles.honda.com.
Monday, October 24, 2011
Eileen, thank you for sharing your experience. We are honored to have you as a customers.
"Working with Mary Rycerz was a complete pleasure. I felt she was very helpful and there for me with my questions. I would definitely recommend her and O'Hare Honda to everyone I know."
Friday, October 21, 2011
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Cars.com™ Names the 2012 Honda Pilot the Best $37,000 SUV
"The Honda Pilot won for its great mixture of comfort, roominess, features and efficiency," said Patrick Olsen, Cars.com editor-in-chief. "It is the perfect SUV for buyers who want to comfortably haul the entire family and all of their gear.
The seven SUV's were tested over three days in order to measure all of the needs of family SUV buyers including gas mileage, storage, features and comfort. The testing included:
- 230-miles of highway driving to determine each SUV's accurate gas mileage.
- Driving of each car by each expert to measure each vehicle for features, ride quality, styling and comfort.
- A day of family testing and driving where a family of four joined our experts to give their impressions of the family-friendliness of the vehicle. They inspected every vehicle and its features and took the vehicles on a test drive.
"Interest in large SUV's took a hit during the gas-price spike in 2008," said Olsen. "However, the reality is that if a family doesn't want a minivan, these vehicles are really the only other option. Manufacturers have realized this and now 3-row SUVs are more competitively price, and more fuel efficient than ever before."
Other vehicles competing for the title included the Chevrolet Traverse, Dodge Durango, Ford Explorer, Kia Sorento, Mazda CX-9 and Toyota Highlander.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Monday, October 10, 2011
Friday, October 7, 2011
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Monday, October 3, 2011
Friday, September 30, 2011
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Kudos to Mark for providing great customer service. Excellent job!
"Coming from the evil empire near Woodfield Mall, I was looking for a Honda dealership that tuned in to my needs rather than that of the dealership. The first encounter at O' Hare Honda was to service the Odyssey that was purchased in Schaumburg.The first person to meet me was Mark Ashkan and without knowing anything of my previous Honda disappointment, he attentively took care of what was needed and assured me service would be complete . A check list was presented to me describing favorable status for most areas, followed by future areas to manage which displayed foresight and integrity. Since that first meeting he has always served my needs and I have never noticed the needs of the dealership affecting the service I received at O' Hare Honda."
"From my first encounter with Mark I was most impressed with his listening skills.His attention to my needs were excellent and his appreciation of my time were as well,knowing my responsibilities as a Mom dominated the day and the service would not be any longer than scheduled. The thoroughness of his evaluation of other areas allowed for future service to be scheduled with proactively ,which again was a reflection of his respect for my time."
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Honda Reveals 2012 CR-V Concept
Honda Motor Co. unveiled its 2012 CR-V concept at the Orange County International Auto Show in Anaheim, Calif. The concept is a thinly disguised version of the coming production CR-V compact sport-utility vehicle that is set to go on sale by the end of this year.
The new vehicle will be the fourth generation of the CR-V, which entered the U.S. market for the 1997 model year and has essentially defined the small-SUV segment ever since. The 2012 model has a more aggressive look compared with past CR-Vs and represents a bolder styling language the company plans to increasingly adopt.
“The 2012 CR-V concept strongly hints at the more dynamic and refined look of the upcoming model,” said John Mendel, executive vice president of sales for American Honda. The new SUV will come with a more fuel-efficient engine and lower weight. Inside the new vehicle will be more spacious than previous versions.
The new CR-V will make its official debut at the Los Angeles auto show in November and is set to go on sale in the United States by the end of the year.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Friday, September 23, 2011
Kudos to Mark for providing 100 percent customer satisfaction.
"Mark in the service department has always given me excellent service and paid close attention to detail. I could easily go to 4 or 5 other Honda dealerships between my home in Naperville and O'Hare Honda in Des Plains, but I take my cars to them because of Mark and the service he provides."
Thursday, September 22, 2011
We would like to thank Gary for providing exceptional customer service
"My experience with Gary Flaksman at O'Hare Honda was very positive.I cannot say this for the other 4 auto dealerships I went to. I received an internet quote from Gina DiGiacomo, brought it in and was received by Gary Flaksman. As a comparison to the other salesmen I dealt with at the other places Gary's approach was different. He did not come across as a salesman but as a businessman in a meeting wanting to negotiate a fair deal. My purchase? A 2011 Accord: Gun metal grey with charcoal interior. I have owned it for a three weeks and I am very pleased. Gary was attentive, explained the the new features as well as the service department and made a few follow-up calls to make sure I was fully satisfied. Phil E."
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Kudos to Mark for consistently providing outstanding customer service. Great job.
"I bought my car from this dealership and currently live out of state. I blew a fuse in my car and the radio security went out. With my busy schedule, I had no time to stop at a dealership. Mark walked me through three different steps and was even able to retrieve my radio code to make sure it was done right and got the radio back working and got me back on the road. Definitely recommend Mark and this dealership."
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
2012 Honda Civic delivers what you expect from classic compact sedan
The Honda Civic has long been known for being, as the Japanese manufacturer points out, "a fun-to-drive compact that is simultaneously fuel efficient, sporty, … and durable." The company tried to throw in "stylish" too but I can't concede that point. In the 38 years the Honda Civic has graced our shores, the sedan has never made me do a double take. (I had a used 1995 Honda Civic with a 5-speed manual transmission that served me well for many years.)
What's got me sold most on the 2012 Honda Civic I spent a week with courtesy of Honda? It's comfort and lack of pretense. The 2012 Honda Civic EX is a car I wanted to drive. Sure, my two daughters, ages 6 and 3, were probably underwhelmed (the oldest really wants a Hyundai Equus that she calls a Korean limo) but I had nary a complaint with the ride or quality of this car.
For 2012, the Civic chassis was developed to maximize driving enjoyment as well as passenger comfort and safety. It's against my nature to agree when a manufacturer calls a compact sedan "fun to drive," but the Civic really is.
Is it sports sedan fun to drive? Let's be realistic. It's not but Honda's highly developed MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension systems, along with Motion-Adaptive Electric Power Steering for excellent steering performance, contribute to deliver a fun driving experience.
One of the reasons I envy engineers is for their ability to do illogical things. The 2012 Honda Civic sedan has a wheelbase that is reduced 1.2 inches to 105.1 inches, with the overall length, width and height the same, yet the interior space is somehow increased. A roomier cabin on a shorter wheelbase does make for a more enjoyable driving experience. (Automotive engineers – please don't write me. I do understand the basic engineering. I just admire what you can do.)
Fuel economy was strong in the week I had with the 2012 Honda Civic EX loaned to me by Honda. With my usual mix of city and highway driving, I was able to obtain about 33 mpg. The EPA rates the Civic at 28-mpg city and 39-mpg highway from its re-engineered 140-horsepower, 1.8-liter I-4 engine.
On the safety forefront, every Civic has as standard equipment the newest generation of vehicle stability assist, an anti-lock braking system (ABS) with brake assist, side-curtain airbags, front-side airbags with a passenger-side occupant position detection system and a front seat design that can help reduce the severity of neck injury in the event of a rear collision.
Similar to the previous-generation Civic, an Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure in the front of the vehicle helps make the vehicle highly effective at absorbing and disbursing the energy of a frontal crash. The Civic also gets IIHS's top score.
It's amazing how far small cars have come in terms of energy absorption in crashes. Dispersing the energy around the passenger cabin is an effective means for protecting the occupants. Cabin integrity along with things like airbags is an important key to walking away from crashes that once routinely killed people.
Let me give Honda the floor to explain this a little more in depth (and explain why you should strongly consider this when buying a car): "Unlike most conventional designs that direct frontal crash energy only to the lower load-bearing structures in the front end, the ACE system actively channels frontal crash energy to both upper and lower structural elements, including the floor frame rails, side sills and A-pillars. By creating specifically engineered 'pathways' that help distribute these frontal impact forces through a greater percentage of the vehicle's total structure, the ACE system can more effectively route them around and away from the passenger compartment to help limit cabin deformation and further improve occupant protection."
The only area I can quibble about the Civic EX is price. It has an MSRP of $20,505 that I don't feel is a great value when compared to vehicles like the Hyundai Elantra, which cost $20,195 in a similar trim level but offers so much more, and the Toyota Corolla, which has an MSRP of $18,600. The EX, with its cloth seats, seems a bit overpriced above $20,000. It feels more like an $18,000 car.
Vivian, thank you for sharing your experience. We are honored to have you as a customer.
"Mark is terrific! He is always so professional, helpful, prompt with call backs, and right there to greet me when my car is ready for pickup! I appreciate how he values my time and is proactive with letting me know the items that may need to be replaced at certain mileage points! Thank you for the wonderful customer service!!!!!"
Monday, September 19, 2011
Mark, thank you for your hard work and outstanding customer service.
"I have dealt with Mark four times recently and he has been very helpful every time. He goes out of his way to do a good job. I appreciate it very much."
"Every time I visit this dealership, they are concerned about providing quality customer service and repairs. this is exactly what I have experienced. I am very happy with the service and timeliness of repairs."
Friday, September 16, 2011
We would like to thank our staff for going above and beyond for our customers. Achieving 100 percent customer satisfaction is our No. 1 goal.
"Every time I visit this dealership, they are concerned about providing quality customer service and repairs. this is exactly what I have experienced. I am very happy with the service and timeliness of repairs."
"Mark Ashkan Green makes all of our service appointments pleasurable. Everything runs smoothly and the communication is great. All service and charges are explained and services are completed promptly."
"I've been going to O'Hare Honda for years and usually look for Mark when I go. He is always helpful and is sincere with his recommendations for service. I usually ask him how long I can go without getting the service done and he's been honest and upfront with his suggestions. When I had some problems with my Civic, he even got me a loaner car so I could go to work the next day. I appreciate his help and recommend the work he does at O'Hare Honda."
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Kudos to Mark for achieving 100 percent customer satisfaction. Great job!
"Mark Ashkan Green makes all of our service appointments pleasurable. Everything runs smoothly and the communication is great. All service and charges are explained and services are completed promptly."
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Honda will reveal new CR-V concept at Orange County auto show
The start of the 2012 model year in the auto business also marks the beginning of the auto show season. One of the first will be held in Orange County next week and will offer some of the first test drives of vehicles such as the new-generation Volkswagen Beetle, the Prius station wagon and Hyundai’s sport Veloster compact car.
The Orange County International Auto Show opens at the Anaheim Convention Center on Sept. 22 and runs through Sept. 25.
The biggest reveal will be the unveiling of the concept for the next Honda CR-V sport utility vehicle.
"This will be the first time we have done a debut like this at the Orange County show. It was a matter of timing with the car going on sale by the end of 2011," said Honda spokesman Chris Martin.
Generally, Honda reveals its concepts late in the development cycle and they are a fairly close represenation of the actual production vehicle.
The show also will feature a $595,000 Gumpert Apollo, a supercar with a reported top speed of 203 miles per hour and acceleration from zero to 60 in less than three seconds.
Mark, thank you for going above and beyond for our great customers. We appreciate your dedication to excellent customer service.
"I have had my cars serviced for the past 9 years at O'Hare Honda. Mark is my service rep and I will always ask for him! Talk about great service and follow through. He is the reason I keep coming back. I know my 2001 and 2008 Hondas will be taken care of. Mark is the best!"
"Mark is by far the best service coordinator I have ever dealt with.
I have had many before him, he is truly the best in EVERY way.
He is courteous, friendly, tells you all options, follows through,
what more can I say.
Further more I would recommend O'Hara Honda to everyone, both in
service and sales."
He is courteous, friendly, tells you all options, follows through,
what more can I say.
Further more I would recommend O'Hara Honda to everyone, both in
service and sales."
"Brought my car in for the drivers side seat shutters while moving it forward and aft. Mark meet me with a smile and was very friendly. Car was fixed quickly and correctly. Seat still going good. Thank you Mark."
"I have been so fortunate to have found the greatest car I've ever owned and the best dealership I've ever been too. The salesman, finance person and the sales mgr. Andrew Tomlinson have been great to us. But my all-time favorite is Mark Ashkan. He is a service writer and has gotten me in and out on time. Reported everything wrong and right with my car and he has explained things to me in detail. Also I had a day where I left the key in axillary and used up the battery. So I called Mark who directed me to the free jump/tow service they offer. Turned out it was 2 hrs late and a shady guy and his girlfriend came in their own car. I called Mark and asked if I should let this guy jump me he said "If you're not comfortable I can send 2 porters right now to give you a jump." In the end I let the guy jump my car and Mark stayed on the phone and talked to me while I drove it for 1/2hr to re-charge the battery. He is the best! I can't say enough good things about the dealership and this wonderful employee Mark Ashkan!!!"
Monday, September 12, 2011
We would like to thank our staff for going above and beyond for our customers. Achieving 100 percent customer satisfaction is our No. 1 goal.
"I cannot say enough about this dealership. Even though I have one closer to my home I choose to buy my cars and service them here. From the moment I walked in they have attended to my needs in a professional, timely and friendly manner. The service is awesome and very personal. I mainly deal with Mark Ashkan who is the main reason I service both my Honda's at this location. He is extremely knowledgable and takes care of me and my vehicles as though I was the only customer he has, though I have seen him with others and he gives them outstanding service as well. I am old school and service like the one Mark gives his customers is very rare these days. This dealership is very lucky to have someone like Mark! No I am not a relative and he hasn't tried to bribe me to write this letter. I am writing this so that this dealership REALLY realizes the importance of good service and doesn't become like most of the other dealerships who think the customer needs them instead of the other way around!
Kind Regards, Ron Trevinio""I have bought both of my cars from O'Hare Honda. I also have only had O'Hare Honda service my cars(approx 7 yrs). I began to work with Mark Ashkan about 4 yrs ago and his professionalism has been nothing but admirable. We have had numerous instances where he has been very accommodating with both my wife and me. He has been very helpful with our schedules and our emergencies. Just recently he was very helpful to a friend from out of state. Mark went above and beyond the call of duty in this instance, but what I've come to realize is that this just then way he operates. He is a very valuable asset to O'Hare Honda! We are and will continue to be loyal customers!"
"Had to replace my 1998 Civic, so started looking for a new car. My adult son and I went to McGrath first. It was the Saturday of Labor Day weekend. Hyundai side of dealership was nearest the side we were walking on so went inside and looked around. No one came over so we decided to go over to the Honda side of the street. On the way out, a salesman said he couldn’t help us right then so I asked for a business card for when we came back. He didn’t have one. Went across the street. Someone finally came over to ask us if we needed help. Then left. Eventually came back. I told him I was thinking about another Civic but was curious about another car in the showroom…a hatchback called a Fit, which I’d never heard of before. He began extolling its virtues and told us they only had 2, a Fit/Base and a somewhat more expensive Fit/Sport. Decided to go home and do research since I’d never heard of the car. Did so. Liked what I read. Unable to go out on Sunday.
On Monday went back and asked for a test drive in the Base model. I thought the extras on the Sport were somewhat unimportant. The salesman stayed around for the drive around the block while my son drove. Then he said he had to get back so I drove it around the block again without him. Loved it. When we got back from the drive, he came over and told us that, while we were gone someone else had bought the car but they still had the Sport model. He began to extol the virtues of the Fit/Sport and talk down the Fit/Base. We said we’d think about it. He reminded us that the .90 financing was only good through Tuesday so we needed to act. Decided to look at some other dealerships. Who knew it would be so difficult to find one open on Labor Day? We did look at some other Fits that were in open lots and noted who had them in stock. After work on Tuesday evening we went back to McGrath. Again, stood around. Finally someone came over and we told him we were working with someone else so he said he’d find him. While waiting around, we were looking out the window and my son pointed out the blue Fit/Basic sitting right outside. Our salesman came over and told us that the other people’s financing hadn’t gone through so it was still available, but, oh by the way, the Base Model was a 2012 and the financing was only good on the 2011 models. 2012 models were 2.99% or something. He told us that we had to decide whether the better car or the better financing was most important. That didn’t make me happy, but decided I wanted one or the other so, I started filling out credit application. He took the application and disappeared for quite awhile. While he was gone, we checked the time. It was 7pm. I asked my son to check to see how late O’Hare Honda was open. When our salesman came back he said that another salesman had accepted a deposit on the Fit/Sport, but maybe his financing wouldn’t go through either. So, I should decide whether I wanted to chance it or take the Base model. The good news, he said, was he could get the Base at 1.9% because my credit was good. Then he started up-selling the Base and talking down the Sport. I’d pretty much had enough and said thank you and we left. Drove over to O’Hare (open until 9pm)…got there at about 8. Every once in awhile you realize why certain idioms are still with us. “The difference between night and day” comes to mind. Manager came up immediately and said all salespeople with others but he’d be happy to get us started. Told him what we wanted and he took us outside to look. Not long after, Adolpho came out. He said the manager wanted him to talk with us because he owned a Fit. Told us all about his experience with it. We went for a test drive in the Sport. He showed us all the features. Wanted it. He had us wait for a little while in the lounge and offered coffee. Came back and got some basic information and sent us back to the lounge (with TV, magazines, etc). Lots of paperwork and various warranty options and service agreement options, etc. later, we signed on the bottom line. They took the car back to the service area and gave it a complete inspection. The difference was night and day. Where the people at McGrath kind of shuffled around and didn’t seem to know what was going on, O’Hare was friendly and knowledgeable and all too willing to help us buy a car from them.""I have found the sales, service and finance employees all very knowledgeable and helpful in answering any and all questions I have asked about Honda. As to sales, service for our CR-Vs & finance when purchasing our CR-Vs."
"I purchased my car from O'Hare Honda about four years ago. Every time I go back to the service department, I get great customer service. I always ask for Mark Ashkan, and he takes good care of me. Everyone there is very friendly, and I've never wanted to take my car anywhere else. The quality of service is well worth the price, which is fair and reasonable. Usually, I just go in for an oil change or routine maintenance. Recently, I brought my car in for a flat tire. They fixed it for very cheap, and all my questions were answered and concerns addressed. I never felt like I was being ripped off, and I have been ripped off at other places.
I purchased my car from O'Hare Honda about four years ago. Every time I go back to the service department, I get great customer service. I always ask for Mark Ashkan, and he takes good care of me. Everyone there is very friendly, and I've never wanted to take my car anywhere else. The quality of service is well worth the price, which is fair and reasonable. Usually, I just go in for an oil change or routine maintenance. Recently, I brought my car in for a flat tire. They fixed it for very cheap, and all my questions were answered and concerns addressed. I never felt like I was being ripped off, and I have been ripped off at other places."
Friday, September 9, 2011
Thursday, September 8, 2011
2012 Honda Pilot gets updated cabin, sips less fuel
The dimensions of the 2012 Pilot will be similar to those of the outgoing model, though it will be 12.7 mm longer and its 202.44-mm ground clearance will barely be lower than the 2011 Pilot’s with its 203 mm.
Same V6, but not as thirstyThe 250-hp i-VTEC V6 with its Variable Cylinder Management system, which deactivates three cylinders when they’re not needed, will be back, mated once again to the five-speed automatic transmission. Honda still found a way to boost the Pilot’s already decent fuel economy, though, by improving the SUV’s aerodynamics to reduce turbulence. The Transport Canada ratings aren’t available at the moment, but we’ll pass on the information as soon as it’s announced. Welcome interior upgrades
The changes inside will no doubt be appreciated most. The Pilot will feature a more unified colour palette, and the panel hosting the sound controls will now be black instead of silver. One of the downsides we noted in our comparo was the complex centre console buttons, and Honda changed them around to create a more intuitive experience. Kudos for that. Finally, the speedometer and rpm counter will feature white backlighting at night instead of aqua blue, the sound insulation will be improved and the sound system will have cell phone integration and allow you to stream music via Bluetooth (EX and EX-L).
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Monday, August 29, 2011
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