Manual mode definitely seems to change the ratio to increase acceleration, reduce the possible top speed and increase revs. This mode gives an indication of how the manual version would be except its 7 virtual sequential clutchless gears instead of 5 H pattern clutched gears.

 

I wonder what odds are that one of the "surprises" Honda mentions in their teaser is a 6 speed, with an overdrive that could drop the top gear egual or lower than the CVT. It's probably too much to ask. I would like 2000lbs, 200hp, and 50mpg for $10,000 out the door, but I know that won't happen either. You can't have it all...

 

Sounds like your describing an S2000 or successor except the price and the fuel economy.

It must be hard including safety that adds weight, improving emissions while trying to improve fuel economy and lets not forget noone wants things to be underpowered.

Its rather naive to say an ancient car that wouldn't even rate one star if it actually was ever safety tested, which churned out 100 times the quantity of toxins (probably more) is so superior because it fuel economy was better than a car which protects its occupants, pedestrians and minimises its impact on the environment. Trash the planet, place pedestrians at risk and risk your own life and those you transport for 5mpg is a bit of a priority problem.

 

One should also consider the embedded energy and emissions released during vehicle manufacturing:

http://ilea.org/lcas/macleanlave1998.html

Embedded energy in a Ford Taurus is roughly equivalent to 1/4 of the fuel used during the expected lifetime, while the emissions from manufacture are almost double that from fuel used while driving.

A small, used Echo, Civic, or Corolla is probably the more environmentally-friendly choice than a new Fit or Yaris or equivalent. Keeping the car for as long as possible (17 years is the minimum cost point according to motleyfool.com) is also a good choice.

 

The Honda museum at Twin Rings Motegii has a machine used for the recycling of cars. Shows how the wiring loom has been designed for quick, complete removal and the break down of parts for manufacture into other non automotive products. Close to 90% recyclability has been achieved. Honda is striving to reduce the impact of old cars (older than 5 years - as registration in Japan is structured such that it is cheaper to buy a new car and register than keep registering an old car) on the environment which is a major problem throughout Japan where you see collections of crushed cars stacked in lots.

The average age of cars on Australian roads is 14 years. Japanese enthusiasts come out to Australia to see historic Japanese cars still on the road that would otherwise only be found in a museum in Japan.

 

I had my 1986 Honda Civic Si for over 13 years, with 193,000 miles on it. I liked that the car was reliable and was able to last so long. That's why I would buy another Honda. I'm glad I don't live in Japan - I couldn't afford to buy a new car every 5 years. Sheesh - takes that long just to pay for it!