2009 Honda Ridgeline Dallas Texas
Reader’s Question:
I just saw a 2009 Ridgeline parked at my neighbor’s garage here in Texas. From the outside, it looked “WOW.” Care to share what else is in that truck?
Tony
Dallas, TX
Hey, hey, hey, Tony! Yes, the 2009 Ridgeline does look handsome on the outside. The tough-looking exterior gives you a hint that what’s under the hood is a monster hauler. Well, it is. I do suggest you try to schedule a road test or a test drive, so you can get to experience the vehicle. I bet a local Honda dealer in Texas can offer that to you.
Since you already know much about the exteriors and the styling of the Ridgeline, let’s talk about how this baby can move. Okay, first, how much load can it carry? In trunk or bed, it can carry about 1,500 lbs., which is true for all three trims (the RT, RTS & RTL). However, with proper towing equipment attached, the Ridgeline can haul up to 5,000 lbs. The Ridgeline can carry this much load with its 3.5 Liter 24-valve SOHC VTEC engine that generates almost 2,500 lb-ft of torque and 250 horsepower. It also doesn’t scrimp on space as it can comfortably seat 5 inside the cab. And for those concerned about safety, it even incorporates 3 side-curtain airbags to provide more-than-adequate protection even if the car tumbles. I guess those are the main features that I would check out if I decide to buy this vehicle.
2008 Honda Element in Dallas TX
Reader’s Question:
What particular feature does the 2008 Honda Element makes it a considerably great buy?
Tori
Dallas, TX
I really liked the utility value of the car. I was able to wrestle (by myself) one of the back seats out of the vehicle and the missing seat made it easy to roll in my road bike (sans front wheel). Wrestle is an apt description of the multiple levers/pull handles that have to be used in order to remove the seat. And then it’s heavy and awkward to hold. I’m sure with two people and a bit of practice; one could remove both seats in just a minute or two. Having both rear seats removed you’re rewarded with a tall, boxy and functional space with a flat floor. Honda conveniently provided chrome plated tie down rings placed conveniently throughout the rear cargo area which would elegantly run through any terrain and road in Dallas.
The projector beam headlights are among the best by providing a void-less blanket of light.
I spoke of the uneven gaps in some of the dash pieces, but relative to a BMW 335i, they were minor. I saw larger, uneven gaps in the fit of the ashtray (and other dash pieces) on the BMW … and that car lists at almost $50K. You’d have to look hard on the Element to notice the gaps which speaks highly of a vehicle less than half the cost of the Bimmer. The doors of the Element close solidly and absence of the B-pillar does not diminish the structural rigidity of the Element. Squeaks or rattles during the test drive were non-existent. Road noise does make it way into the cabin, but this could be due to a limited amount of sound dampening materials on the floor and firewall.
2008 Honda Odyssey Dallas Texas
Reader’s Question:
I’m not really a fan of Honda, but I’ve heard that their latest minivan is impressive. Is that true? What makes it different from the Accord?
Jason
Dallas, TX
Honda’s main objective with Odyssey is to produce a minivan with the handling of a European sedan, and it has not missed the mark by much. The Odyssey offers everything you could ask for in a minivan: a nice and smooth ride, responsive handling, stability, speed and a smooth, powerful engine.
The Odyssey besieges its size on the road and handles like a sedan. It’s not as dynamic as a European sports sedan, by any chance, but it handles far better than any traditional SUV. It is best compared to the newer crossover SUVs. We find it impressive to drive around town or for long drives.
The Odyssey offered a perfectly pleasant ride during a test drive along country roads in Dallas, Texas. Considering, there is some road vibration. And there is some lax in the steering on-center: You can turn the steering wheel a few degrees in either direction before the vehicle starts to move. Generally, the Honda Odyssey is a good vehicle .It has impressive performance and perfect for out of state or long drives. You may want to check your Honda Dealers in Dallas for a test drive and quotation.
Dallas Texas New Honda 2008 Accord
Reader’s Question:
What’s in store for the New 2008 Honda Accord?
Justin
Dallas, TX
About eight generations ago, the Accord was Honda’s biggest car but no one saw it as a large car then. Here comes the all-new 2008 Honda Accord, a mid-size sedan that’s big enough to move into the EPA’s Large Car segment. The all new two door Honda Accord coupe was then introduced at the same time.
The all-new, 2008 Honda Accord continues refinement and adds more power, room, safety, and features to cost and value. Content and engines determine the model designator, though all have the same roomy, functional cabins, spectrum of safety equipment, and driving characteristics.
For 2008, the Accord is offers a choice of four-cylinder and V6 engines, two transmissions, and LX and EX trim levels. Further subsets include a new premium package that adds more convenience bits to an LX, and EX-L models which add leather and luxurious comfort and features. Just in case you are wondering, the hybrid model and V6 sedan with manual transmission have been dropped.
The Accord is very efficient, be it having the most power and range from a gallon of gas with the minimal emissions, making the largest interior available, or providing the smoothest, most quiet ride possible in the lightest weight. Be it moving four people comfortably at 30 mpg, or enjoying the long way home, the Accord is up to the task.
It is not the perfect car in any single respect but it has its approaches that point to many significant aspects you can’t talk about family sedans without mentioning it. And if the past is any indicator, there’s absolute reliability here. Talk about cruising the busy traffic suburbs of Houston, this coupe would surely make your day. Check you Honda Dallas, Texas dealers for a test drive and feel the passion.
