With the launch of the totally redesigned, seventh generation 2001 Civic and the restyled 2001 Accord leading the way, Honda's 2001 models offered enhanced safety features across the vehicle lineup.
2001 Honda Division Highlights
All-New Civic: In a Class By Itself
America's best-selling compact car, the Honda Civic has become an icon of the Honda line. Since its launch nearly 30 years ago, the Civic has responded to changes in the marketplace while becoming more refined and distinctive. The new Civic is no exception. Enhanced safety features with all-new styling and a larger, more refined interior and environmental performance (certified as a ULEV in all 50 states) not only keep Civic at the top of the class, but elevate it into a class all its own. Offered in sedan and coupe styles, the Civic is available in a wide variety of trim levels and engine/transmission combinations to suit the needs of the economy-minded, comfort-obsessed or performance seeker.
Accord: An American Favorite
Honda adds new styling, enhanced safety, more features and greater refinement to the 2001 Accord. Available in Sedan and Coupe styling, the Accord remains a class leader in quality, safety, sophisticated engineering, refinement and value. Advanced dual stage front airbags that detect crash severity and seatbelt use and adjust bag deployment accordingly are now standard for both front seat passengers. Side SRS airbags are standard on all V6 models and 4-cylinder EX models, and available on DX and LX models. Honda's advanced side airbag system uses sensors to detect the size and position of the front seat occupants and deactivates the side airbag if an occupant is too small or out of position. In addition, all Accords sold nationwide now meet or exceed California's Low Emissions Vehicle (LEV) standards.
Also new for 2001, Accord EX models feature a new three-in-one stereo with AM/FM, cassette and in-dash 6-disk CD player. All V6 Accords also add Honda's TCS traction control system. Body-colored side moldings and illuminated power window switches are added standard features on all models except the DX sedan.
Insight: First Gasoline-Electric Hybrid Sold in America
Due to popular consumer demand, Honda Insight availability increased by more than 50 percent from 4,000 vehicles to 6,500 in the 2000 calendar year and the 2001 Honda Insight continues its forward-thinking approach to the transportation and environmental challenges of the next millennium.
At an EPA-certified 68 mpg, the Insight has the world's best gas mileage rating. Available with a 5-speed manual transmission, the 2001 model lineup includes an automatic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) beginning spring 2001.
The Honda Insight earned a wide range of industry awards in its first year on the market including The Sierra Club "Excellence in Environmental Engineering," the first time the organization has given an award for a product in its 108 year history; Popular Mechanics, "Design & Engineering" award; Automobile Magazine's "2000 Technology of the Year"; Popular Science "Best of What's New Award"; American Woman Motorscene "Most Likely to Change the World"; Edmunds.com "Most Significant Value"; and the Clean Car Coalition "Clean Car Salute."
S2000 Roadster Wins Widespread Acclaim In First Year
The essence of Honda's racing spirit and heritage is reflected in every aspect of the S2000. A true driver's car, the S2000 springs to life at the touch of a button. Its 16-valve, DOHC (dual overhead cam) VTEC (variable valve timing and lift electronic control) engine is rated at 240 horsepower, giving it class-leading performance. Optimum 50/50 weight distribution and a highly rigid body design contribute to exceptional handling qualities.
Exceptional performance is coupled with world-class safety, thanks to the S2000's X-bone frame, and world-class environmental engineering. The new S2000 roadster qualifies as a LEV.
Odyssey: Establishing New Standards in the Minivan Category
When the all-new Honda Odyssey entered the market in 1999, it immediately established itself as the standard against which all other minivans are measured. For 2001, this award-winning minivan has added "LATCH" (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) to second row seats for both LX and EX models. In addition, in tests conducted during its 2000 model year by the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA), Odyssey earned the government's highest (five-star) rating for occupant protection in front and side impact collisions.
Other new features included on the Odyssey LX and EX models are upgraded front stereo speakers, floor mats and an intermittent rear wiper. The Odyssey claims several industry awards including Consumer Digest Magazine's "Best Buy", voted #1 Best minivan over $22,500 by Intellichoice, and MotorWeek Drivers' Choice Best Minivan.
Prelude: Highest Brand Loyalty among Honda Products
For Prelude owners, it's all about driving excitement and performance. Nearly 75 percent of all Prelude buyers have previously owned an Acura or Honda product. The 2001 Prelude receives standard floor mats, rear child seat tether anchors and an emergency trunk opener. Honda's sporty "Electron Blue" is added to the paint pallet along with Satin Silver.
CR-V: Best Selling Small SUV
The sporty, fun-to-drive CR-V continues to be the leader in the fastest growing segment in the auto industry, the compact SUV category. This continues for 2001 with the retention of the CR-V SE model, introduced midway through the 2000 model year and an immediate favorite. It includes leather trimmed interior and steering wheel, three-in-one AM/FM/Cassette/CD stereo system and body colored side moldings and bumpers. Also, all 2001 CR-V's add child safety seat tether anchors for rear seats. Floor mats are now standard on EX and SE models.
The 2001 CR-V is available in both two-wheel drive (2WD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) versions. The 2WD LX is equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission and the 4WD LX and EX trim levels offer a choice of 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.
Passport: Rugged Off-Road Leader
The Honda Passport adds important equipment and safety features for 2001, with rear disc brakes for all 4WD models, "LATCH" (Lower Anchor Tethers for CHildren) system, and an eight speaker stereo system for all models. In addition for 2001, the top-of-the-line EX luxury model features 4-way power driver's seat, special two-tone paint, and in-dash 6-CD changer. All Passports now get UV treated glass for front doors and rear hatch.