Temple of VTEC Rumors and News - What's New for 2003: Model Year Overview

Torrance, Calif. 08/19/2002 -- American Honda's 2003 lineup is stronger than ever, with five new models adding to a full line of class leading cars and light trucks, 2003 is the company's most ambitious year in its history. Following the earlier introduction of an all-new Civic Si, Civic Hybrid, and Pilot sport utility vehicle, the totally redesigned Accord sedan and coupe models arrive in September and the radical new Element debuts in December.
Accord: Setting a new pace

The Accord is the defining vehicle of the Honda brand. While the current model is still going strong as the best selling car in 2001, the 2003 model is ready to quicken the pace.

Designers chose to give the new Accord a more aggressive stance, incorporating a rare combination of straight lines and organic curves to convey muscularity and vitality.

Chassis features include enhanced steering, suspension, standard anti-lock brakes (ABS) on all models, larger wheel and tire packages and the addition of a new traction control system (on V6 models).

Engine choices are:

A new 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder, i-VTEC 160hp engine (a 7% increase)
A new 3.0-liter V6 rated at 240hp (a 20% increase)
A new 5-speed automatic as standard equipment
A new 6-speed manual (EX V6 coupe)
Interior features include:

LED lighting for instrumentation and accent lighting
Enhanced audio and climate control systems
Driver and passenger climate controls (EX models)
Availability of Honda Satellite Linked Navigation System
Dual-stage front airbags
Driver and passenger side airbags (available on LX models, standard on EX and V6 models)
Available Side Curtain airbags (EX V6 models)
Setting new standards for style, comfort, and driving dynamics wrapped in legendary Honda DQR (durability, quality and reliability), the Accord intends to offer a mix of passion and practicality not seen in the mid-size passenger car segment.

Civic IMA: Hybrid to the next level

Introduced in April, the 2003 Civic Hybrid is the realization of Honda's goal to apply hybrid technology to a mainstream vehicle. Honda's next generation hybrid, which employs a gasoline engine coupled with an electric motor, has been enhanced to achieve more power, better energy regeneration and a more compact size.

The Civic Hybrid is further distinguished from other Civics by its unique front and rear styling, instrumentation, upgraded fabrics, automatic climate control and alloy wheels. Standard safety features on the Civic Hybrid include ABS and driver's and front passenger's side airbags.

Highlights of the Civic Hybrid powertrain include:

Outstanding fuel economy - 46/51 mpg 5-speed manual transmission
48/47 mpg for the automatic CVT
Newly developed 1.3 liter, i-DSI 4-cylinder gasoline engine
New "intelligent" i-DSI (Dual and Sequential Ignition and lean burn combustion technology with two spark plugs per cylinder
VTEC controlled Cylinder Idling System
Improved ultra-thin DC brushless motor
New, more compact Intelligent Power Unit (IPU)
Civic Si: The Hot Hatch Returns!

As the sporty member of the Civic lineup, the Civic Si built a reputation among sport compact enthusiasts, becoming a favorite on the autocross circuit and the street. The 2003 Civic Si is no different. The Si combines the performance, style, and functionality in the fun-to-drive package the Si moniker is legendary for.

The Si's interior features deeply bolstered racing style seats to reduce driver movement under cornering and suede-like trim for a refined look. The dash mounted shifter and the steering wheel are wrapped in leather and highlighted by red stitching. Sporty white gauges with Si badging complete the interior performance theme. A powerful 160 horsepower, i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine, gives the Si a smoother power curve with more torque available at lower engine speeds. A close-ratio 5-speed manual transmission complements the engine providing short throws and precise shifts.

For 2003, the Civic Si hatchback returns dressed in a new color. Vivid Blue Pearl replaces Euro Yellow for 2003. Other additions include green tinted, heat rejecting windows and a new wave-style key for added security.

Civic: The best selling compact

The Civic continues to impress as the best selling compact vehicle. For 2003, the Civic gets a number of enhancements for improved handling, interior comfort and convenience.

Powered by a 1.7-liter, 50-state ULEV engine, refinements to sedan and coupe models enhance steering feel, dynamic performance and reduce interior noise.

Interior refinements include upgraded seating surfaces, door linings, new rear seat adjustable headrests, a new gauge cluster, and center console with armrest and storage. Civics in LX and HX trim receive AM/FM/CD players and a manual driver's height adjustment.

Alloy wheels are now standard on EX coupe models and sedan models receive revised rear taillights. For 2003, Galapagos Green replaces Clover Green and Shoreline Mist replaces Titanium Metallic.

S2000: Racing bred performance

The S2000, Honda's race inspired roadster continues this year as the performance halo of the Honda brand. With an F1 inspired driver's cockpit, 50/50 weight distribution, electrically assisted power steering, and a high output 240hp, 2.0 liter 4 cylinder engine, the S2000 is a pure reflection of Honda racing technology.

For 2003, a new exterior/interior color combination is available. For the first time a tan interior is available, in combination with Grand Prix White.

Insight: Transportation technology leader

The Insight continues as the technological leader of the Honda brand and the most fuel-efficient car sold in America. Matched with a 5-speed manual or advanced continually variable automatic transmission, the Insight achieves an EPA rating of 61 city/ 68 highway in the 5 speed and 57 city/ 56 highway in the CVT. With a rage of over 500 miles the Insight is the most fuel-efficient vehicle in America.

The Insight shouldn't be viewed just on the basis of its advanced powertrain however. The Insight's entire development revolves around maximum efficiency. The Insight's lightweight aluminum frame, flat underbody, tapered design and low rolling resistance tires, work together to reduce wind drag, rolling weight, and frictional forces allowing for maximum engine efficiency.

CR-V: All-around best in class

With its all-new styling, larger interior cabin, and a more refined ride, the CR-V makes what was good about the original CR-V even better. The CR-V continues to hold its leadership position in the small SUV segment, recently being named to Car and Driver's "5Best Trucks" list.

A more powerful i-VTEC, 160-horsepower, 4-cylinder engine, and 4-wheel independent suspension, gives the CR-V the same fun-to-drive, sedan-like handling owners have come to enjoy. The CR-V is available in LX and EX trims, with 2WD or 4WD models available to suit the needs of day-to-day driving or light off road duty.

The CR-V also has a class leading safety record, achieving 5-star safety levels for all seating positions, for models with and without side airbags. Standard safety features include Dual-Stage Front airbags, 3-point seat belts for all five passengers, dual seatbelt pre-tensioners for front passengers, and the LATCH anchor system for child safety seats. Side Airbags are also standard on EX models (available on LX models).

For 2003 the center pocket has been enlarged to accommodate CD jewel cases and rear grab rails now have coat hooks.

Pilot: The new benchmark in mid-sized SUVs

Honda's all-new 2003 Pilot SUV establishes a new benchmark in the mid-sized sport utility class. With its versatile eight-passenger interior, advanced V-6 engine, VTM 4-wheel drive system, and innovative design features, the Pilot hits its target as the "Ultimate Family Adventure Vehicle".

The Pilot takes traditional SUV strengths (rugged image, ride height, four-wheel drive, utility) and combines them with core Honda values including fuel efficiency, low emissions, precise handling, superior ride comfort, packaging efficiency, excellent build quality and Honda DQR (dependability, quality and reliability).

The Pilot provides the best balance of on and off road capabilities while maintaining a high level of comfort and stability in the environments the average SUV customer would encounter.

Pilot features include:

Advanced 240-hp, V-6 engine with VTM-4(TM) four-wheel drive system
Three rows of seating for up to eight passengers
Multi-function center console with dedicated cell phone cradle and power outlet
Dual stage, dual threshold front driver and passenger airbags
Side airbags with front passenger Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS)
Three point seatbelts for all seating positions
Second row activity tray (EX models)
Pilot EX Model Options Include:

Leather trimmed seating
Honda DVD Entertainment system
Honda Satellite Linked Navigation System
Odyssey: The Biggest Honda gets better

The 2003 Odyssey continues to set the standard by which other minivans are measured. The largest Honda ever comes with a 240 horsepower engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, 4-wheel disc brakes, plus the availability of leather seating with heated front seats, a DVD-based rear entertainment system or the Honda Satellite Linked Navigation system.

For 2003, the Odyssey gets upgraded with a rear spray washer, and a driver's auto up/down window. Wave keys first seen on the Honda CR-V now appear on the Odyssey for added security. Safety enhancements include airbag systems with more sophisticated sensors.

New colors for Odyssey include:

Sage Brush Pearl (replaces Granite Green)
Midnight Blue Pearl
Sandstone Metallic (replaces Mesa Beige)
Nighthawk Black Pearl (EX trims only)
Element: The dorm room on wheels

The newest model in the Honda lineup debuts in December as a 2003 model. The Element was designed from the inside out for maximum interior space and functionality. The Element accommodates up to four adults and their gear. Fold-away rear seats create an open cargo area with a tough easy to clean resin floor. Seating surfaces are waterproof and washable. A high power 270-watt stereo has an auxiliary input for use with external audio sources like MP3 players. The center opening side cargo doors lack a B-pillar and create a wide opening for cargo loading flexibility.

The Element is powered by a 2.4-liter, 160 horsepower, i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine matched to a front wheel drive or Honda's Real Time 4WD(TM) automatic and manual transmissions will be available.

Color choices for the Element include:

Satin Silver Metallic
Galapagos Green
Shoreline Mist
Nighthawk Black
Eternal Blue Pearl
Sunset Orange Pearl