Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Honda rolls out more information on the Honda EV Concept
[[posterous-content:pid___0]]Honda Motors used the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show to offer up a variety of low- or zero-emission vehicles including the new Honda EV Concept which applies a unique look and electric drivetrain to the 5-door, 5-passenger layout similar to the Honda Fit (or Honda Jazz as it is known in other markets).
While the Honda EV (shown on the right) looks like a dressed up Honda Fit, there is no indication as to whether or not this zero emission electric vehicle will sport the Fit name when it reaches the US market or if it will have its own unique name. We do know that the Honda EV Concept (or whatever the production version is called) will be powered by a lithium ion battery system and a coaxial electric motor derived from the one used in the Honda FCX Clarity fuel cell vehicle.
The drivetrain of the Honda EV Concept will allow the driver to select three different driving modes – Economy, Normal and Sport – to provide the ideal balance of power and efficiency for every driving condition. A similar version of this system was introduced in the US on the CR-Z Hybrid to offer optimized performance for the driving conditions. When Economy mode is selected, the Honda EV Concept will have a range of roughly 100 miles while acceleration and top speed is hindered. When the driver selects Normal mode, the Honda EV will offer better performance while offering roughly 17% less range (that would mean that it could go about 83 miles on a charge) and when shifted into Sport mode, the EV Concept will reach a top speed of 90 miles per hour but the range is chopped down to roughly 75 miles.
The Honda EV also features an assist program that coaches the driver to maximize efficiency based on the selected driving mode, including letting the driver know when to turn off certain accessories to increase the battery range. Once the battery has been run down, the Honda EV Concept will fully recharge in “less than 12 hours” with a standard 120V line and hooking up to the 240V charging station will cut charge time to under 6 hours.
Unfortunately, in addition to not giving any idea as to what the Honda EV Concept will be called once it reaches production, Honda hasn’t offered any idea as to when those production models will reach showrooms around the world. Based on what other EV-makers have done, the Honda EV (or Honda Fit EV, as it could be called) will first hit certain American markets followed by a full scale roll out later in 2012.
Friday, September 16, 2011
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Thanks to Deborah for sharing this kind review on DealerRater with us and great job to the team here at Schomp Honda, keep it up!
I stopped in for routine maintenance. The employee who greeted me did so quickly and was very professional and friendly. She told me what needed to be done and explained they were down a worker so it may take some time to complete my service. I settled in expecting to be there a couple of hours. In about one hour she came and told me it was done. She answered my questions and was very helpful and told me that they had washed my car on top of it. Obviously I would like the service to be cheaper but understand that they are competitive. I would recommend this dealership for both purchase of a vehicle and service.
Honda Teases 2012 Insight’s New Face Ahead of Frankfurt Motor Show
Judging by the sole official photo released thus far, the Insight wears a subtly restyled front fascia, which incorporates headlights styled after those on the 2012 Civic. While we’ve yet to see a shot of the car’s tail, Honda says it worked to reduce the size of the rear spoiler, wiper, and tailgate garnish — which in turn allows for better rearward visibility. These tweaks are more than just cosmetic — Honda claims they also help improve aerodynamics, although by what margin remains to be seen.
Mechanically, the new car is almost identical to last year’s model. The 1.3-liter I-4 is still paired with a electric motor and coupled with a CVT, but engineers strived to improve the system’s efficiency. Internal friction within the engine has reportedly been reduced, while minor revisions for CVT and air conditioning systems may also help improve the car’s fuel economy figures.
Honda says it’s added more features to the interior, but is otherwise mum on exactly what it’s changed. Our best guess is that the car might receive a multi-information display placed next to the speedometer, much like the 2012 Civic. If so, expect the screen to work with infotainment systems, Bluetooth phone connectivity, and if so equipped, the navigation system.
While these changes certainly apply to the European-spec Insight, there’s a very, very, very good chance these same revisions will be applied to the U.S.-spec car, which should launch by the end of the year. That’s not too surprising, considering the Insight itself was designed to be a veritable world car.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Have a look at the latest reviews for Schomp Honda on DealerRater. Thank you for your kind words, we are happy to be of service!
My experience at Ralph Schomp was wonderful. It was my first time buying a car and I was really nervous. I knew that even with the help of my mom my naiveté would be apparent. Mike Deising was so kind, patient and helpful it took all my worry away. Had it not been for Mike I am not sure I would have been ready to make a purchase so quickly. He was great! The best thing about it was that I have worked around sales before and he was unlike like anyone I had ever dealt with. He was not pushy or forward. He let me dictate the speed of the process and I felt absolutely no pressure. At all times he made sure I understood everything -- whether it be about the cars functions or any of my package options. He was also just as excited as I was when I got approved—which made the whole process fun. If anyone I know ever wants to buy a car I will definitely recommend Mike. You are lucky to have someone who is so passionate about finding people their dream car with an equally fantastic experience! If you have any way to recognize your employees for a job well done I feel Mike is a more then worthy candidate.
The only thing that is somewhat annoying is that there is never anyone around when I drop off my car for service the next day. Several people told me that "someone will be right with you", but why isn't this person in the area, especially since I made an appointment? Alli is always great to work with and I appreciate her being informative and friendly. I was a Kuni customer but after they lied to me a couple of times I found Ralph Schomp Honda. Hooray for Kuni!
I loved the way the sales person wasn't pushy. Was very upfront and informative about the car. It wasn't as long of a process as I thought. Went very smooth. Thanks for your help.
Reason for Visit: Sales (Used) I recommend this dealer: Yes Employee(s) Dealt With: Karl Broman and Chad Spjuth My Review of Ralph Schomp Honda:
Buying a car on my own was a new experience for me, and being able to do so without feeling "pushed" into making a purchase was appreciated. I enjoyed being able to look through the used cars and then talk with Karl as to what I was interested in driving and learning more about the vehicle. My thanks to Karl!
Bernice
Excellent sales experience. Everything handled to our satisfaction. We thoroughly love our new vehicle. We knew that we wanted an Accord and are very happy to have what we wanted.
Easy buying experience with nothing hidden...from trade value to final pricing. The sales manager was friendly and informative and Fred made the transition to the new vehicle a breeze.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Civic, Other Compact Sedans Earn Praise of KBB
Kbb.com unveiled the winners of the 2011/2012 Compact Sedan Comparison Test this morning and tied atop the test group was the 2012 Civic EX-L Navi, which shared the spot with the 2011 Hyundai Elantra Limited.
Editors gave both vehicles a score of 7.5 out of 10. The four models in the group received overall scores in addition to the categorical scores for interior, exterior, performance, comfort/convenience and value.
Interestingly enough, the Civic and Hyundai were each praised for different reasons and also had different “weak spots,” KBB noted.
The Civic was strongest in performance and value, while the Elantra was tops in style and design. Coming in third overall was the 2012 Ford Focus SEL, scoring a 6.9 rating, with the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze placing fourth (6.7).
Sharing some more commentary on the Civic, KBB said in listing its strengths that the Civic is “the Mercedes-Benz of compact sedans,” with its weakness being that it is “no longer a class style leader.”
KBB’s synopsis of the Civic stated that it is a “superb example of balance, value and pedigree.”
“To understand why the 2012 Honda Civic EX-L Navi shares the top honors with the Hyundai Elantra Limited in this comparison test, you need to understand what made Mercedes-Benz great. Once, in an era when luxury cars were great and the competition was strong, Mercedes-Benz was the greatest luxury carmaker in the world,” editors commented.
“Now, other automakers build faster cars than Mercedes-Benz, and prettier cars than Mercedes, and more reliable cars, more comfortable cars, better-handling cars, more value-laden cars than Mercedes … but not all at once,” they added. “That ‘nobody does it better all at once’ territory is prime Honda real estate, and the all-new Civic still rules that land. How the Civic does it, however, is a bit of a mystery.”
Explaining that sentiment in more detail, editors said the model “tanked” when it came to exterior style training and was the lowest on the totem pole for interior styling and trunk space.
KBB said the 1.8-liter engine stacked up well when it came to fuel efficiency, editors said the power output was lacking, also suggesting that the “five-speed automatic transmission seems iffy at best in a class where six forward gears is now the norm.”
“Yet somehow, the 2012 Honda Civic EX-L Navi pulls it off. The underpowered engine and under-geared transmission work together beautifully, seamlessly to make certain that you're never stranded at the deep end of the onramp,” they shared. “Like most Honda engines, the Civic's 1.8 really shines at higher revs. The four-wheel disc brakes do a superb job of nestling the Civic to a stop, and while the ride/handling balance places ride far above handling, the steering feel and response belong in a ‘How to Do Everything Right’ textbook.”
Moving along to discuss all four models in the group in more detail, editors said they were fairly pleased with each of them, calling them a “fresh-foot forward for their manufacturers.”
“At some point in time, most everyone drives a compact sedan, whether it is a commuter car, second car, empty nester car or even a rental car,” stated Jack Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kbb.com.
“Because this vehicle class is an inevitable part of most American drivers’ lives, we wanted to put the top new models up against each other head-to-head to see how they would fare,” he continued.
“While the caliber of vehicles is better than ever in the compact sedan category across the board, each model proved to have different strengths and weaknesses that potential buyers should know about before they make their final decision,” Nerad added. “The cars are in the same segment, but they certainly aren’t the same, and we found that each meets the needs of a particular set of consumers.”
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Friday, August 19, 2011
Take a look at the latest reviews of Schomp Honda on DealerRater. Thank you everyone for your kind words, we appreciate you!
We really enjoyed working with Bruce. He was more like a friend than a car salesman/adversary. We felt like we got a fair amount for our trade and it was nice having the price up front so we aren't wondering if we might have been able to pay less if we bargained harder.
They were outstanding, friendly, welcoming and no pressure; They even brought my car to the house as i didn't have anyone who could pick me up. I would highly recommend them for new or used car buying. I look forward to a positive relationship especially around maintenance and service.
We have been going to Schomp for over 15 years and trust your advice, work and your product. That goes along way in the car industry. Will continue to refer friends to Schomp.
We gave this rating b/c Mark was absolutely wonderful! We will definitely recommend him to anyone looking to buy a car. I have never had such a pleasant car-buying experience & have never felt so strongly about recommending anyone in this particular industry (which for the most part has always left a bad taste in my mouth). He exceeded our expectations in every respect. Thanks to Mark Kereszturi you just bought yourself a loyal customer. Heather James, Esquire. P.S. We are also VERY happy with our Pilot. =)
This was a routine oil change. My car was serviced in a timely fashion. When my car was ready, the bill was reviewed with me along with what was found on the brief inspection that was done. I know the price of your service has increased, but what hasn't? Your employees were courteous. This is my third Honda Accord. This is the first one we purchased from Schomp. I am not sure I will ever purchase another make of car. Keep up the good work. Mary R
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Have a look at the latest all 5 Star Reviews on DealerRater
Ralph Schomp Automotive has always been very helpful, from their new car sales department to the service department. They are extremely helpful and honest, and their entire staff has a great attitude. Service prices are quite reasonable and I never feel like more work is done that necessary. I recommend them to anyone I know with a Honda.
No hassle. No unexpected charges. Here's the price - here's the car. Done deal. Henry was informative but straight to the point. Financing was a breeze.
We hate the process of buying cars - but the people and the way the pricing works at Schomp made it all as pleasant as possible. Bruce was very knowledgeable, helpful and available when we needed him to be. Sam had all our paperwork in order and made the finance process as simple as possible. Thanks to all!
Friday, August 12, 2011
We are thankful of the multiple new 5 Star Reviews on DealerRater. Great job to our team for continuing to take such great care of our guests!
Even though I had decided to purchase a White Honda Fit Sport, Robert spent a lot of time reviewing the features of the total inventory of White Fits to make certain I picked the one that "fit" my needs. He then reviewed additional accessories available. His "low-keyed" approach was refreshing. I had already visited another Honda Dealer and the salesman that I dealt with actually tried to get me to finance the car that very evening until the money that I had already decided to cash in was available. His reasoning was "the car probably won't be available for long". I couldn't believe that he even suggested such a thing! I told him that there were other Honda Dealerships in Denver. Ralph Schomp Honda took my personal check as down payment until the money was available and I was able to hold the Fit of my choice (without financing). I LOVE my Fit!!
For a new warranty & Schomp Care purchase I worked with Jennifer in Finance. She was able to cancel my old warranties and instate the new ones on my new vehicle. Because her computer was down she had to do everything by hand. But she got the job done very well. Then I went over to purchase a bug shield and they were very friendly also, showing me to the waiting room. They obtained the shield from the Parts Dept and it was installed as I waited. Very great service, always. Very thorough on both instances.
We originally were looking for a used Honda Pilot but after reviewing options and pricing it wasn't that much more to get a new vehicle and then be able to take advantage of the excellent loan percentage. Will and Sam were very helpful and friendly.
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Honda is proud to be a national sponsor of Little League® Baseball and Softball for the 15th consecutive year.
So here's a big thanks to all the players, coaches, volunteers, parents and countless others who make Little League® such a success. Your selfless dedication has made the baseball diamond a great place to play, learn and grow. We're thrilled to grow with you.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
We are grateful of the latest 5 Star Reviews for Schomp Honda on DealerRater
Everything handled professionally and timely. I had a potential issue with the license plates and the finance department came up with a solution to expedite things. We should have our plates to leave for our fall extended stay.
There was no pressure sales and every question we ask was answer in a way that we understood.. Beau was a pleasure to deal with he made us feel real comfortable, we have and will recommend Schomp Honda......
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Continued praise for the Schomp Honda team. We thank you for your kind reviews.
A great place to buy a car. They are extremely courteous and knowledgeable and make buying a car easy. I have recommended them to family and many friends.
I have used Ralph Schomp for my vehicle from the orginial purchase date. This visit as well as all the rest have been handled very professionally. The service people are always pleasant and take any time necessary to clarify any questions I might have for all visits. This visit was for a regular oil change and to purchase tires both where done quickly and very well. I will continue to use Ralph Schomp Honda for all my automotive needs today and in the future. This the reason that they are definitely a GREAT dealership.
Visiting Ralph Schomp is comfortable as opposed to other dealerships I was visiting during my search for a used car. While I have purchase used cars from Schomp before, I wasn't sure this time they would have something in my limited price range. They treated me like a valued customer, helped me find what I was looking for in my price range and made the whole experience easy.
Each time I return to Ralph Schomp, I know that my experience will be great! The customer service and mechanical service of my vehicle have always been top notch. My first Civic was still running great with over 1/4 million miles and I anticipate my new Civic will follow in the same tire treads in part due to the service provided Schomp staff. I expect to continue using them for another 15 years!