Acura’s stride to become a Tier 1 luxury brand came to a halt when the brand decided to cancel its rear-wheel-drive platform and V8 dreams last year. The brand’s executives have now told dealers that they have a new plan, which will rely heavily on hybrids – a plan they believe will help them move upmarket.
Last month, an anonymous Acura dealer confirmed that a hybrid version of the TSX is planned for 2011 and that two other hybrid models are to follow.
Click here to get prices on the 2010 Acura TSX.
Until hybrids arrive, which could take a year or longer, Acura is providing dealers with incentives and has increased marketing funds.
Honda’s luxury brand is also planning a small car below the TSX (most likely a successor to the RSX) to compete with the likes of the BMW 1-Series, Audi A3 and the Volvo C30. The vehicle is also expected to help decrease the brand’s average fuel-economy levels to meet CAFE regulations. Acura must reach 37.5 mpg by 2016 to avoid paying fines.
– By: Omar Rana
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)