Hondanews Online Newsroom

Acura Automobiles: All-New 2013 Acura ILX On Sale Today with a Starting Price of $25,900

Tue, 22 May 2012 08:55:00 -0700

The 2013 Acura ILX goes on sale at Acura dealerships today, May 22, 2012, with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP*) starting at $25,900. The all-new ILX offers remarkable value for the money on a luxury scale with robust feature content and premium appeal.

Serving as the gateway to the Acura brand, the all-new Acura ILX features a choice of three powertrain options, including Acura’s first-ever gasoline-electric hybrid. Equipped with an interior that is smart, spacious and sporty, the ILX will offer a number of new, premium features including a standard Keyless Access System with smart entry and pushbutton start, along with Pandora® internet radio interface and SMS text message function for smart connectivity with the world. Like all Acura models, the ILX is equipped with a rich list of standard features including a power moonroof, aluminium wheels and Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®.

The entry-level ILX (starting at $25,900) is powered by a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine producing 150 horsepower paired with a Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission. For those seeking a more dynamic driving experience, the ILX can be equipped with a 2.4-liter engine ($29,200, includes the Premium Package) with an output of 201 horsepower featuring a close-ratio, six-speed manual transmission. The ILX Hybrid (starting at $28,900) makes use of a 1.5-liter inline engine and an Integrated Motor Assist® electric motor. Paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), the ILX 1.5L Hybrid has an EPA estimated** city/highway/combined fuel economy rating of 39/38/38 mpg.

The Premium Package (available as a $3,300 option; not available on the ILX Hybrid model) features leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, a power driver's seat, an upgraded 360 watt stereo system with XM® radio, HID headlights, foglights, 17-inch aluminium wheels, a multi-view rearview camera and an Active Sound Cancellation system to make for a quieter cabin.

Building on the Premium Package, the Technology Package (available on the ILX with 2.0-liter engine for $2,200) adds Acura's award winning ELS Surround® audio system and a full complement of relevant technologies, including AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System, Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting™, AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ with radar image maps and HomeLink®. The navigation system makes use of a hard disk drive (HDD) with 60 gigabytes of storage capacity— including 15 gigabytes that can be specifically allocated for music storage. The Technology package is also available on the ILX Hybrid for $5,500 and includes all Premium Package features except 17-inch aluminium wheels.

About Acura
Acura offers a full line of technologically advanced performance luxury vehicles through a network of 272 dealers within the United States. The Acura lineup features seven distinctive models including the RL luxury performance sedan, the TL performance luxury sedan, the TSX Sport Wagon and sedan, the ILX compact luxury sedan, the RDX luxury crossover SUV, the MDX luxury sport utility vehicle and the ZDX four-door sports coupe.

Ways to connect with Acura:
Media Information: www.acuranews.com
Consumer Information: www.acura.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Acura
Twitter: www.twitter.com/Acura_Insider
YouTube: www.youtube.com/acura

*MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, vehicle options and destination charge of $895.00. Dealer prices may vary.

**Based on 2013 EPA mileage estimates. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

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Acura Automobiles: All-New 2013 Acura RDX Joins Acura Line-Up of IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK Vehicles

Mon, 21 May 2012 07:30:00 -0700

The all-new 2013 Acura RDX has received the highest possible safety rating of TOP SAFETY PICK from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The IIHS award recognizes vehicles that do the best job of protecting vehicle occupants involved in front, side and rear crashes, plus rollover performance based on ratings in the Institute's tests.

The all-new 2013 RDX, along with the 2012 TL, MDX, and TSX sedan and Sport Wagon, have all earned IIHS 2012 TOP SAFETY PICK ratings and the highest possible score of GOOD in all four Institute tests, including the rigorous roof-strength test.

For 2013, a revised 4-wheel disc brake system on the RDX teams with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) and Brake Assist to further enhance safety and greater driver control. To meet the federal government's new standard (FMVSS 216) for roof crush resistance, the RDX body incorporates several new structural enhancements in the roof and side pillar areas.

All models in the current Acura line up utilize the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure. ACE is an exclusive body design that enhances occupant protection and crash compatibility in frontal crashes. The ACE design utilizes a network of connected structural elements to distribute crash energy more evenly throughout the front of the vehicle. This enhanced frontal crash energy management helps to reduce the forces transferred to the passenger compartment.

Standard safety equipment on all Acura models includes Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with traction control, ABS, dual-stage/multiple-threshold front airbags, front-side airbags with passenger side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS), side curtain airbags for all outboard seating positions, front seats with integrated active head restraints, front seatbelts with automatic tensioning system and load limiters, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Daytime Running Lights (DRL).

Acura's "Safety Through Innovation" initiative is based on the brand's commitment to leadership in safety— and excellent safety is a paramount element in every new vehicle that Acura builds. The initiative's goal is for all Acura models to provide a high level of safety regardless of size or price of the vehicle.

Additional ways to connect with Acura:

Media Information: www.acuranews.com
Consumer Information: www.acura.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Acura
Twitter: www.twitter.com/Acura_Insider
YouTube: www.youtube.com/acura

Acura Automobiles: Statement by Acura Regarding Power Steering Hose Recall: 2007-2008 Acura TL

Thu, 17 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700

Acura will voluntarily recall 52,615 model-year 2007-2008 TL sedans in the United States to replace the power steering hose. Over time, the power steering hose may deteriorate and develop a fluid leak. Leaking power steering fluid could lead to loss of power steering assistance or, if it leaks onto a catalytic converter it may result in smoke, or in the worst case, fire. No crashes, injuries or fires have been reported related to this issue.

Acura is announcing this recall to encourage owners of all affected vehicles to take their vehicles to an authorized dealer as soon as they receive notification of this recall from Acura. Mailed notification to customers will begin in mid-June 2012. In addition to contacting customers by mail, in mid-June, owners of these vehicles will be able to determine if their vehicles require repair by going on-line to www.recalls.acura.com or by calling (800) 382-2238, and selecting option 4.

Acura Automobiles: American Le Mans Series Monterey Race Report

Sun, 13 May 2012 11:53:00 -0700

Circuit: Mazda Raceway Laguna Raceway (2.24-mile road course) Monterey, CA
Weather: Clear, warm, afternoon high 86 degrees F

Top Fiver Overall Race Results:

Ps.	Class	Drivers	Team	Engine/Chassis	Laps/Notes
1.	1-LMP1	Klaus Graf/Lucas Luhr	Muscle Milk Racing	HPD ARX-03a	242 laps
2.	1-LMP2	Luis Diaz/Franck Montagny/Scott Tucker	Level 5 Motorsports	HPD ARX-03b	239
3.	1-LMPC	Jon Bennett/Colin Braun	CORE Autosport	Oreca FLM09 Chevrolet	236
4.	2-LMPC	Tomy Drissi/Roberto Gonzalez/Bruno Junqueira	RSR Racing	Oreca FLM09 Chevrolet	236
5.	3-LMPC	Tom Kimber-Smith/Alex Papow	CORE Autosport	Oreca FLM09 Chevrolet	236
Also:
20.	2-LMP2	David Hansson/A. Pizzonia/Martin Plowman	Conquest Racing	Morgan Nissan	227
23.	2-LMP1	Chris Dyson/Johnny Mowlem/Guy Smith	Dyson Racing	Lola B12/60 Mazda	222
29.	3-LMP2	Christophe Bouchut/Montagny/Tucker	Level 5 Motorsports	HPD ARX-03b	207
30.	4-LMP2	Jonny Cocker/Patrick Dempsey/Joe Foster	Dempsey Racing	Lola B12/87 Judd BMW	202
31.	5-LMP2	Duarte de Costa/Rusty Mitchell/A. Prendeville	Project Libra Racing	Radical SR10 Ford	185

HPD Sweeps Laguna Seca

The Muscle Milk Racing duo of Klaus Graf and Lucas Luhr dominated Saturday's six-hour American Le Mans Series Monterey at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in their HPD ARX-03a, leading from flag to flag to score its second consecutive overall and LMP1 victory of 2012.

Three laps behind the overall victors, the Level 5 Motorsports trio of Luis Diaz, Franck Montagny and Scott Tucker finished second overall and claimed the LMP2 class victory in its #95 ARX-03b, after a nearly race-long battle with the Conquest Racing Morgan Nissan of David Hansson, Antonio Pizzonia and Martin Plowman.

Following up on their victory last month at the team's "home" race at the Grand Prix of Long Beach, Graf and Luhr sprinted away from Dyson Racing's Lola Mazda on the opening lap and dominated the day in their HPD V8-powered ARX-03a, lapping the field within the first two hours of the six-hour event. The team carried on to run a flawless event, setting fastest race lap and winning its second consecutive Michelin Green X Challenge en route to the win.

In LMP2, featuring a pair of HPD twin-turbocharged V6-powered ARX-03bs fielded by Level 5 Motorsports, the race was much more closer. Driving the #055 Level 5 entry, early leader Franck Montagny collided with a slower GTC Porsche, sending the ARX-03b to the garage for repairs and handing the lead to the sister #95 car, with Scott Tucker driving.

But it was not clear sailing for the #95 ARX-03b, as the Morgan Nissan from Conquest Endurance, which added former Formula One driver Pizzonia for this event, presented a strong challenge for the first five hours. But shortly after taking the lead in an exchange of pit stops during the final hour, Hansson was forced to pit the Conquest machine with transmission issues, and Level 5 reclaimed the lead to continue its perfect season of three American Le Mans Series LMP2 class victories in three races this year.

After going behind the pit wall for repairs, Level 5's #055 ARX-03b returned to finish third in LMP2, with Christophe Bouchut driving the final stint.

After its two-race swing through California, the American Le Mans Series has a one-month layoff as several leading teams – including Level 5 – take part in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in June. The series resumes July 7 with the American Le Mans Northeast Grand Prix at Lime Rock Park in Lakeville, Connecticut.

At Le Mans, HPD will field its largest effort to date in the classic endurance contest with four teams: British-based JRM Racing and Strakka Racing in LMP1; and the American teams Starworks and Level 5 Motorsports in LMP2. The 24 Hours of Le Mans takes place June 16-17.

Lucas Luhr (#6 Muscle Milk Racing HPD ARX-03a) Finished 1st overall, 1st in LMP1; Michelin Green X Challenge winner: "It was a good race for Muscle Milk Pickett Racing, especially now that we have two wins in California in front of our home crowd. It was very important for the whole team and for our motivation. It was very nice. There were so many friends and family of [team owner Greg] Picketts here to support us. We can show them back-to-back victories. Klaus [Graf] did a very good job at the beginning, and we built a good lead early. We had to keep our focus, stay out of trouble and bring it home – and that's what we did."

Luis Diaz (#95 Level 5 Motorsports HPD ARX-03b) Finished 2nd overall, 1st in LMP2: "Our goal is to develop race by race. The aero of this car is so great, you can carry so much speed into the corners. I think the mechanical side of the car is great. It's just awesome. The P1 cars are a bit quicker on the straights, but our team is very prepared to fight for overall [race] wins."

Roger Griffiths (Technical Director, Honda Performance Development) on Saturday's 6-hour American Le Mans Series Monterey: "Excellent efforts from both of our Le Mans prototype teams today were well rewarded with class victories for both Muscle Milk Racing and Level 5 Motorsports, and the first 1-2 finish overall this season for Honda Performance Development. Congratulations to both of our partner teams, which swept both California events to continue their winning streaks, and all of our HPD associates for a job well done. Now, our focus shifts back to Europe, where preparations continue for our third appearance at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and our largest effort to date for this great race."

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Acura Automobiles: American Honda Reports April Auto Sales: CR-V Sets April Record, Accord Sees 41-Percent Gain, All-New 2013 Acura RDX Fast Out of the Gate

Tue, 01 May 2012 10:46:00 -0700

American Honda today reported April 2012 U.S. sales of 122,012 units, an increase of 10 percent based on the daily selling rate*. The Honda division posted April 2012 sales of 109,837, an increase of 9.2 percent compared to April 2011. Acura's U.S. April sales of 12,175 were up 18 percent compared to April 2011.

Honda
- Honda Accord sales up more than 40 percent compared to April 2011, demonstrating the strength of Accord, even as an all-new version is set to debut this fall.

- New April sales record for CR-V. Accord, CR-V, Odyssey and Ridgeline all post double-digit percentage sales gains compared to last year.

- Honda Civic Hybrid sales up more than 600 percent on heightened fuel-price sensitivity.

"With double-digit sales growth in April, the Accord continues to be the retail sales leader in the mid-size segment," said John Mendel, American Honda executive vice president of sales. "As other manufacturers resort to fleet sales, the quality and value of the Honda Accord continues to win new customers even as we prepare to launch an all-new model this fall."

Acura
- 2013 Acura RDX is fast out of the gate, with sales of the all-new SUV up more than 65 percent compared to same period last year.

- All core Acura models (TL, TSX, RDX and MDX) post double-digit increases compared to 2011, while MDX remains Acura's best selling model.

- The all-new ILX compact luxury sedan goes on sale May 22.

"We're delighted to see customers embrace the right-sized 2013 Acura RDX," said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. "It's great to see so many new owners recognizing the remarkable combination of class-leading fuel economy, performance and luxury in our new SUV."

*The daily selling rate (DSR) is calculated with 24 days for April 2012 and 27 days for April 2011. Year-to-date, the DSR is calculated with 101 days for 2012 and 102 days for 2011. All percentages reflect DSR.

For more information about Honda vehicles, please visit www.automobiles.honda.com. For media inquiries please visit www.hondanews.com. For more information about Acura vehicles, please visit www.acura.com. For media inquiries please visit www.acuranews.com.

Acura Automobiles: Beijing Motor Show Acura NSX Concept

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 11:15:00 -0700

Beijing Motor Show Acura NSX Concept

Acura Automobiles: Beijing Motor Show Acura NSX Concept

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 11:15:00 -0700

Beijing Motor Show Acura NSX Concept

Acura Automobiles: Beijing Motor Show Acura NSX Concept

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 11:15:00 -0700

Beijing Motor Show Acura NSX Concept

Acura Automobiles: Beijing Motor Show Acura NSX Concept

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 11:15:00 -0700

Beijing Motor Show Acura NSX Concept

Acura Automobiles: Acura Announces $25,900 Starting Price for 2013 ILX

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 05:57:00 -0700

The all-new 2013 Acura ILX will go on sale at Acura dealerships May 22, 2012, with a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP*) starting at $25,900 Acura announced today. The ILX offers remarkable value for the money with robust feature content and premium appeal.

"The 2013 Acura ILX will serve as the gateway to the Acura brand," said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. "At the leading edge of a new, sporty compact segment, the ILX delivers style, value, performance and connectivity to younger buyers looking to move into the luxury market.

"The all-new Acura ILX features a windswept exterior design with 5-passenger cabin, a choice of three powertrain options, including Acura's first-ever gasoline-electric hybrid, and a well appointed interior that is smart, spacious and sporty. It will offer a number of new, premium features including a standard Keyless Access System with smart entry and pushbutton start, along with Pandora® internet radio interface and SMS text message function for smart connectivity with the world. Like all Acura models, the ILX is equipped with a rich list of standard features including a power moonroof, aluminium wheels and Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®.

As with all Acura models, the ILX will have a long list of standard features, multiple trim levels (a Premium Package and Technology Package), and excellent standard safety features— including Acura's acclaimed Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, front, side and side-curtain airbags, 4-channel anti-lock brakes and Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®). Although yet to be tested, Acura anticipates that the ILX will achieve top crash safety ratings from both NHTSA and the IIHS.

The Acura ILX will be manufactured (using U.S. and globally sourced parts), exclusively at the company's state-of-the-art Greensburg, Indiana plant, one of only three plants worldwide to receive J.D. Power and Associates' 2011 Platinum Award for outstanding product quality, and the top award for any factory in North America.

TRIM	MSRP*	EPA**
ILX	$25,900	24/35/28
ILX with Premium Package	$29,200	24/35/28
ILX with Technology Package	$31,400	24/35/28
ILX 2.4 L with Premium Package	$29,200	22/31/25
ILX Hybrid	$28,900	39/38/38
ILX Hybrid with Technology Package	$34,400	39/38/38

Ways to connect with Acura:
Media Information: www.acuranews.com
Consumer Information: www.acura.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Acura
Twitter: www.twitter.com/Acura_Insider
YouTube: www.youtube.com/acura

*MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, vehicle options and destination charge of $895.00. Dealer prices may vary.
**Based on 2013 EPA mileage estimates. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

Acura Automobiles: Acura Awarded Edmunds.com Best Retained Value Award for a Luxury Brand

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 16:30:00 -0700

Acura has earned the 2012 Best Retained Value® Award for a luxury brand from Edmunds.com. The Acura MDX also captured the model award for best SUV Over $45,000. Acura was given the awards for maintaining the highest projected residual values after five years of ownership as a percentage of value when new.

"It is an honor for Acura to win this award from Edmunds.com," said Jeff Conrad vice president of Acura sales. "Acura is committed to the philosophy of smart luxury, offering customers vehicles with robust feature content and premium appeal providing lasting value on a luxury scale."

"With Acura beating out all other luxury brands" said Joe Spina, Director of Remarketing at Edmunds.com. "Acura's family of vehicles continues to expand the brand's status as one of the best values available to luxury car buyers today."

For more information about the Edmunds.com Best Retained Value Awards, please visit http://www.edmunds.com/car-reviews/best-retained-value-cars.html.

Additional ways to connect with Acura:
Media Information: www.acuranews.com
Consumer Information: www.acura.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Acura
Twitter: www.twitter.com/Acura_Insider
YouTube: www.youtube.com/acura

Acura Automobiles: Statement from Acura

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 11:43:00 -0700

We apologize to anyone offended by the language on the casting sheet used in the selection of actors for one of our commercials.

We sought to cast an African-American in a prominent role in the commercial, and we made our selection based on the fact that he was the most talented actor.

The casting sheet was only now brought to our attention. We are taking appropriate measures to ensure that such language is not used again in association with any work performed on behalf of our brand.

Acura Automobiles: Actor Robert Downey Jr. arrives at Marvel's The Avengers in Acura-created sports car

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:02:00 -0700

Actor Robert Downey Jr. arrives at Marvel's The Avengers in Acura-created sports car

Acura Automobiles: Actor Samuel L. Jackson with militarized Acura MDX at Marvel's The Avengers premiere

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:01:00 -0700

Actor Samuel L. Jackson with militarized Acura MDX at Marvel's The Avengers premiere

Acura Automobiles: Acura Teamed With Marvel's The Avengers as Official Sponsor of Red Carpet World Premiere

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:00:00 -0700

Thousands watched with amazement as actor Robert Downey Jr. ("Tony Stark") drove onto the red carpet in a custom Acura-created sports car at the Marvel's The Avengers Hollywood premiere on Wednesday, April 11, at the El Capitan Theater. The premiere, co-sponsored by Acura, featured militarized S.H.I.E.L.D.-Edition Acura MDX and TL models that were used in the film to escort the actors on Hollywood Blvd.

In addition to Downey's impressive arrival, Marvel's The Avengers stars Chris Evans (Captain America), Mark Ruffalo (The Hulk), Chris Hemsworth (Thor) and Jeremy Renner (Hawkeye) also arrived in a fleet of Acura vehicles.

"Acura is excited to continue our presence as the official vehicle of S.H.I.E.L.D. in Marvel films (Captain America: The First Avenger, THOR, and The Avengers)," said Mike Accavitti, Vice President of National Marketing Operations. S.H.I.E.L.D. agents and Marvel's The Avengers' characters including Hawkeye and Black Widow can be seen driving militarized Acura vehicles throughout the highly anticipated film, including the MDX, ZDX and TL models, along with a cameo from the entirely new 2013 RDX.

Fans can further immerse themselves in the world of S.H.I.E.L.D. and Marvel's The Avengers by visiting http://www.SHIELDops.com and testing Avengers-inspired technology mounted to S.H.I.E.L.D.-Edition Acura vehicles. Fans can earn the chance to win movie passes and S.H.I.E.L.D. gear. The grand prize is an all-expense-paid Tony Stark-inspired trip to New York City.

Marvel's The Avengers opens in theaters nationwide Friday, May 4, 2012.

About Marvel's The Avengers

Marvel Studios presents "Marvel's The Avengers"—the team up of a lifetime, featuring iconic Marvel Super Heroes Iron Man, The Incredible Hulk, Thor, Captain America, Hawkeye and Black Widow. When an unexpected enemy emerges that threatens global safety and security, Nick Fury, Director of the international peacekeeping agency known as S.H.I.E.L.D., finds himself in need of a team to pull the world back from the brink of disaster. Spanning the globe, a daring recruitment effort begins.

Starring Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Hemsworth, Scarlett Johansson, Jeremy Renner and Tom Hiddleston, with Stellan Skarsgård and Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury, directed by Joss Whedon, from a story by Zak Penn and Joss Whedon with screenplay by Joss Whedon, "Marvel's The Avengers" is based on the ever-popular Marvel comic book series "The Avengers," first published in 1963 and a comics institution ever since. Prepare yourself for an exciting event movie, packed with action and spectacular special effects, when "Marvel's The Avengers" assemble in summer 2012.

"Marvel's The Avengers" is presented by Marvel Studios in association with Paramount Pictures. The film is being produced by Marvel Studios' President Kevin Feige and executive produced by Alan Fine, Jon Favreau, Stan Lee, Louis D'Esposito, Patricia Whitcher, Victoria Alonso and Jeremy Latcham. The film releases May 4, 2012, andis distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures.

About Marvel Entertainment

Marvel Entertainment, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is one of the world's most prominent character-based entertainment companies, built on a proven library of over 8,000 characters featured in a variety of media over seventy years. Marvel utilizes its character franchises in entertainment, licensing and publishing. For more information visit www.marvel.com.

About Acura

Acura offers a full line of technologically advanced performance luxury vehicles through a network of 272 dealers within the United States. The Acura lineup features six distinctive models including the RL luxury performance sedan, the TL performance luxury sedan, the TSX Sport Wagon and sedan, the RDX luxury crossover SUV, the MDX luxury sport utility vehicle and the ZDX four-door sports coupe.

About rp&

rp& is a full-service marketing communications division of RPA, headquartered in Santa Monica, Calif. Established in 2008, rp& has been responsible for the development of all Acura National, Regional, Online and Event Marketing communications. For more information, visit http://rp-and.com/.

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Acura Automobiles: Actor Robert Downey Jr. arrives at Marvel's The Avengers in Acura-created sports car

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:00:00 -0700

Actor Robert Downey Jr. arrives at Marvel's The Avengers in Acura-created sports car

Acura Automobiles: Militarized Acura MDX at Marvel's The Avengers premiere, side view

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:00:00 -0700

Militarized Acura MDX at Marvel's The Avengers premiere, side view

Acura Automobiles: Sunrise Coigney and Actor Mark Ruffalo with militarized Acura MDX at Marvel's The Avengers premiere

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:00:00 -0700

Sunrise Coigney and Actor Mark Ruffalo with militarized Acura MDX at Marvel's The Avengers premiere

Acura Automobiles: Acura and Marvel’s The Avengers Red Carpet World Premiere Video

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:00:00 -0700

Thousands watched as actor Robert Downey Jr. ("Tony Stark") drove onto the red carpet in a custom Acura-created sports car at the Marvel's The Avengers Hollywood premiere on Wednesday, April 11, at the El Capitan Theater. The premiere, co sponsored by Acura, featured militarized S.H.I.E.L.D.-Edition Acura MDX and TL models that were used in the film to escort the actors on Hollywood Blvd.

Acura Automobiles: Director Joss Whedon with militarized Acura MDX at Marvel's The Avengers premiere

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:00:00 -0700

Director Joss Whedon with militarized Acura MDX at Marvel's The Avengers premiere

Acura Automobiles: Militarized Acura MDX at Marvel's The Avengers premiere, front view

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:00:00 -0700

Militarized Acura MDX at Marvel's The Avengers premiere, front view

Acura Automobiles: Executive producer Jon Favreau arrives via Acura at Marvel's The Avengers premiere

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:00:00 -0700

Executive producer Jon Favreau arrives via Acura at Marvel's The Avengers premiere

Acura Automobiles: Writer & Producer Stan Lee with militarized Acura MDX at Marvel's The Avengers premiere

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:00:00 -0700

Writer & Producer Stan Lee with militarized Acura MDX at Marvel's The Avengers premiere

Acura Automobiles: Actor Robert Downey Jr. arrives at Marvel's The Avengers in Acura-created sports car

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:00:00 -0700

Actor Robert Downey Jr. arrives at Marvel's The Avengers in Acura-created sports car

Acura Automobiles: Actors Clark Gregg and Jennifer Grey arrive via Acura at Marvel's The Avengers premiere

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:00:00 -0700

Actors Clark Gregg and Jennifer Grey arrive via Acura at Marvel's The Avengers premiere

Acura Automobiles: Actor Chris Evans arrives via Acura at Marvel's The Avengers premiere

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:00:00 -0700

Actor Chris Evans arrives via Acura at Marvel's The Avengers premiere

Acura Automobiles: Acura, official vehicle of S.H.I.E.L.D., at Marvel's The Avengers premiere

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:00:00 -0700

Acura, official vehicle of S.H.I.E.L.D., at Marvel's The Avengers premiere

Acura Automobiles: Actress Scarlett Johansson with militarized Acura MDX at Marvel's The Avengers premiere

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:00:00 -0700

Actress Scarlett Johansson with militarized Acura MDX at Marvel's The Avengers premiere

Acura Automobiles: Actor Clark Gregg with militarized Acura MDX at Marvel's The Avengers premiere

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:00:00 -0700

Actor Clark Gregg with militarized Acura MDX at Marvel's The Avengers premiere

Acura Automobiles: Actress Cobie Smulders with militarized Acura MDX at Marvel's The Avengers premiere

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:00:00 -0700

Actress Cobie Smulders with militarized Acura MDX at Marvel's The Avengers premiere

Acura Automobiles: Actor Chris Hemsworth arrives via Acura at Marvel's The Avengers premiere

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:00:00 -0700

Actor Chris Hemsworth arrives via Acura at Marvel's The Avengers premiere

Acura Automobiles: Acura, Robert Downey Jr. Stunt Footage and Sound Bites at The Avengers Premiere April 11, 2012

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 07:59:00 -0700

Acura, Robert Downey Jr. Stunt Footage and Sound Bites at The Avengers Premiere April 11, 2012.

Acura Automobiles: 2010 Olympic Gold Medalist Ashleigh McIvor

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 11:45:00 -0700

2010 Olympic Gold Medalist Ashleigh McIvor

Acura Automobiles: Detroit Lions Wide Receiver Calvin Johnson

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 11:45:00 -0700

Detroit Lions Wide Receiver Calvin Johnson

Acura Automobiles: Acura Wins Best Luxury Campaign from Nielsen Automotive Advertising Awards

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 11:31:00 -0700

The 2012 Acura TL campaign was awarded Best Luxury Campaign earlier this week at the Nielsen Automotive Advertising Awards event held at the 2012 New York International Auto Show.

Created by Acura's agency of record, rp&, a division of RPA, the campaign relied on visual metaphors to communicate the refined yet bold performance of the 2012 Acura TL sedan—"aggression in its most elegant form."

Two 30-second TV and in-theater spots ("Football Player," "Skier") featured two well known athletes: Detroit Lions football player Calvin Johnson and 2010 Olympic gold medal winning skier Ashleigh McIvor. Johnson and McIvor were made over into their most elegant selves to represent the aggression and elegance inherent in the luxury TL.

"2012 has been an exciting year for Acura with the launch of the all new Acura ILX and RDX, the long awaited NSX Concept and most recently, the RLX Concept, Acura's new flagship sedan," said Mike Accavitti, Vice President of National Marketing Operations. "We are honored to add Nielsen's award to that list as we continually strive to create campaigns that further Acura's brand philosophy of innovation and advancement."

Acura's first-ever national Super Bowl ad "Transactions" http://cot.ag/Hm45bu, featuring Jerry Seinfeld and Jay Leno in a battle against one another for the first NSX, also created significant buzz for the brand this year capturing more than eighteen million viewers on YouTube alone. The announcement to resurrect the NSX has generated a lot of attention to the Acura brand and our products," said Mike Accavitti. "The NSX is the ultimate expression of advanced performance through engineering efficiency which lies at the core of Acura's own unique DNA and further promotes our focus of human-centered synergy."

The only awards program measuring effectiveness of automobile TV ads, the Nielsen Automotive Advertising Awards are based on response data from 2.5 million viewers of national television advertising collected by Nielsen. Nielsen measures the effectiveness of every ad and product placement on 24 measured networks. All national auto ads that began airing in 2011 were eligible for the award.

About rp&
rp& is a full-service marketing communications division of RPA, headquartered in Santa Monica, Calif. Established in 2008, rp& has been responsible for the development of all Acura National, Regional, Online and Event Marketing communications. For more information, visit http://rp-and.com/.

Acura Automobiles: 2012 NYIAS Acura Wrap Up

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 06:00:00 -0700

Acura's new flagship sedan made its world debut at the 2012 New York International Auto Show. Employing an array of new Acura technologies, including the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® system, the concept vehicle will deliver an entirely new level of performance, sophistication and comfort.

Acura Automobiles: New Video Available from the 2012 New York International Auto Show

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 05:58:00 -0700

Exclusive video from the 2012 New York Auto Show is now available on www.acuranews.com.

If you missed the press conference, an archive of the live event is now available. The video includes exclusive interview and live footage with Acura executives from the press conference. To view, please visit:

http://www.hondanews.com/channels/acura-automobiles-concepts/releases/new-video-available-from-the-2012-new-york-international-auto-show/videos/2012-nyias-acura-wrap-up

Acura Automobiles: Acura RDX Avengers Commercial

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 09:00:00 -0700

Acura RDX Avengers Commercial

Acura Automobiles: Acura and Marvel Entertainment Announce Exclusive Co-Promotion Campaign for Marvel’s The Avengers

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 09:00:00 -0700

Acura and Marvel Entertainment, LLC, announced today the details of their promotional campaign for this summer's most anticipated film, Marvel's The Avengers. Following the luxury automaker's integration with THOR last summer, Acura is building on its established role as the official vehicle of S.H.I.E.L.D.

S.H.I.E.L.D., the international peacekeeping agency of the Marvel Universe, has a leading role in this film portrayal of the iconic comic book series. Throughout Marvel's The Avengers,S.H.I.E.L.D. agents drive various Acura vehicles, including the MDX, ZDX and TL models; the completely redesigned 2013 RDX will make a cameo appearance. In addition, an Acura convertible sports car was created specifically for the film.

"Acura is developing an impressive second chapter as the official vehicle of the cutting-edge S.H.I.E.L.D. organization, enabling us to reinforce Acura's brand philosophy of innovation and advancement, and leverage excitement for the new ILX, RDX and NSX supercar concept product news announced earlier this year," said Susie Rossick, Acura Brand Manager.

Acura kicked off its campaign with Marvel at the New York Auto Show on April 4, 2012, where a militarized S.H.I.E.L.D.-Edition MDX was on display with a S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent Product Specialist. S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent street teams are scheduled at PAX East, Boston and C2E2, Chicago.

As the exclusive automotive sponsor of the world premiere of Marvel's The Avengers on April 11 at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood, a surprise special stunt is planned to make an impactful, red-carpet entrance. A fleet of Acura vehicles will also be used as talent transportation during the premiere.

The hub of Acura's national advertising campaign for Marvel's The Avengers, http://www.SHIELDops.com, allows fans to immerse themselves in the world of S.H.I.E.L.D. and Marvel's The Avengers. Users can rise within the ranks of S.H.I.E.L.D. by testing Avengers-inspired technology mounted to S.H.I.E.L.D.-Edition Acura vehicles. The tests take place within different combat simulation environments that correspond with the four main characters: Iron Man, Hulk, Captain America and Thor. As users attain a specific S.H.I.E.L.D. rank, they earn the chance to win movie passes and S.H.I.E.L.D. gear, including a branded tactical flashlight, a replica Acura convertible sports car (created for and featured in Marvel's The Avengers) and a virtual keyboard. The grand prize is an all-expense-paid Tony Stark-inspired trip to New York City.

Social media will be leveraged throughout the campaign to recruit fans to test their skills at http://www.SHIELDops.com. The Acura.com Avengers section will also feature Marvel's The Avengers content, including trailers and movie stills.

The advertising campaign, developed by Acura's agency of record, rp&, a division of RPA, is composed of a multiplatform media buy, retail tie-ins and national ABC screenings of Marvel's The Avengers with after-parties in select markets. The entirely new 2013 Acura RDX will be featured throughout the campaign, including a 30-second TV spot which incorporates the new vehicle with scenes from Marvel's The Avengers. The spot, "Re-re-routed," http://www.acura.com/Avengers.aspx, begins April 16 on spot TV, cable and sports.

Unique S.H.I.E.L.D.-themed videos will run on comic and entertainment websites such as Marvel and Rotten Tomatoes and will drive traffic to http://www.SHIELDops.com.

In addition, more than 130 Acura dealers will be hosting pre-release screenings of Marvel's The Avengers in early May in their respective markets.

About Marvel's The Avengers
Marvel Studios presents "Marvel's The Avengers"—the team up of a lifetime, featuring iconic Marvel Super Heroes Iron Man, The Incredible Hulk, Thor, Captain America, Hawkeye and Black Widow. When an unexpected enemy emerges that threatens global safety and security, Nick Fury, Director of the international peacekeeping agency known as S.H.I.E.L.D., finds himself in need of a team to pull the world back from the brink of disaster. Spanning the globe, a daring recruitment effort begins.

"Marvel's The Avengers" is presented by Marvel Studios in association with Paramount Pictures. The film is being produced by Marvel Studios' President Kevin Feige and executive produced by Alan Fine, Jon Favreau, Stan Lee, Louis D'Esposito, Patricia Whitcher, Victoria Alonso and Jeremy Latcham. The film releases May 4, 2012, and is distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures.

About Marvel Entertainment
Marvel Entertainment, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is one of the world's most prominent character-based entertainment companies, built on a proven library of over 8,000 characters featured in a variety of media over seventy years. Marvel utilizes its character franchises in entertainment, licensing and publishing. For more information visit www.marvel.com.

About rp&
rp& is a full-service marketing communications division of RPA, headquartered in Santa Monica, Calif. Established in 2008, rp& has been responsible for the development of all Acura National, Regional, Online, Direct Mail and Event Marketing communications. For more information, visit http://rp-and.com/.

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Acura Automobiles: Acura Sports Car Avengers

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 09:00:00 -0700

Acura Sports Car Avengers