VIDEO: New Honda Civic TYPE R Mugen UK-Spec Model Promotional Film

Following up on our previous story with the first photographs of the Mugen Honda Civic Type R hatchback, we now bring you an official promotional video of the special edition hatchback that's inspired from the JDM Civic Mugen RR sedan. In spite of the fact that in the two-and-half minute long film, Mugen describes the model as a 'UK Spec' edition, in the press release, Honda's dedicated tuning arm makes word of Euro-wide availability. Apparently, we'll have to wait for Mugen to clear things up.

We're still short on official info about the range of upgrades, but aside from the overly-aggressive aero kit, it is rumored that the hot hatch has received a similar treatment to the Japanese market Civic Mugen RR sedan.

If true, this means that we'll most likely see a modified version of the Civic Type R's 2.0-liter VTEC engine delivering close to 240HP, a limited slip differential (already available on the limited run Civic Type R Championship White), chunkier tires, tweaked suspension and a high-performance brake system.

Also expect a pair of body-hugging bucket seats from Recaro while it is possible that Mugen may eliminate certain comfort features in the interior in order to shave a few pounds.

What we can say for certain is that the Mugen Civic Type R will arrive on European shores sometime at the end of summer. In the meantime, and until Honda's official tuner reveals more details, check out the high-quality promotional film below.

NY Show Preview: Honda's Dog-Friendly Element Concept Study

We knew that Honda was going to unveil some sort of concept study other than the Acura ZDX at this week's New York International Auto Show, but up until now, we didn't know what that car was. Well, thanks to the folks over at USA Today, we just learnt that Honda's "surprise" is a concept study for a dog-friendly version of the Element.

The new variant which might find its way into production later on this year has been equipped with numerous canine-friendly features like a built-in bed in the cargo area, a private electric cooling fan, a spill-proof water bowl and a mesh net that keeps the animal(s) separated from the human passengers (or is it the other way around...). Guess Honda gives a new meaning to the term "it's a dog's life".

Via: USA Today

Video: Smoking Hot 701-WHP Turbocharged Honda S2000

Honda's S2000 may be reaching the end of its life this year, but we're pretty sure that the rev-happy roadster will continue to draw our attention in the future with proposals such as this modified version that cranks out a jaw-dropping 701 wheel-horsepower. Built by T1 Race Development, the S2000's stock 4-cylinder engine benefits from a Borg Warner S372R turbocharger, a T1 race manifold and 1,000 cc Bosch Injectors. As you can see, T1 also rerouted the exhaust pipes to the side of the S2000.

In this video that ends in with a humoristic notice from the behalf of its creators, the Honda-licious S2000 Roadster smokes about anything that it meets on the road, including a Suzuki GSXR 1000 sportsbike - though it does seem that the latter kinda let off in the end.

Via: Diariomotor

Videos: Honda Insight Paris Show Unveiling and first Driving Footage

Unquestionably one of the stars of the Paris Mondial de L’Automobile 2008 was the Honda Insight, a hybrid concept car that previews the brand’s long-awaited Prius fighter. We’ve already given you a thorough report (see details and a mega photo gallery by clicking here) on what Honda supports will be the cheapest hybrid on the market when it reaches showrooms in spring 2009. But now it’s time to show you a live video of the hybrid from Honda’s Paris stand as well as the very first video of the Insight on the road. Watch both videos after the jump. -Continued

HONDA INSIGHT PARIS SHOW UNVEILING

HONDA INSIGHT DRIVING FOOTAGE