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| Honda Inspire | |
|---|---|
_China_(4)_(cropped).jpg) Sixth-generation Honda Inspire (China) | |
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Honda |
| Also called |
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| Production |
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| Assembly |
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| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Mid-size car |
| Body style | 4-doorsedan |
| Layout | Front-engine, front-wheel-drive |
TheHonda Inspire (Japanese:ホンダ・インスパイア,Hepburn:Honda Insupaia) is amid-sizesedan derived from theHonda Accordchassis. The first Inspire debuted in late 1989 as the Accord Inspire, a sister nameplate to theHonda Vigor. It was sold at different retail channels in Japan, known asHonda Verno for the Vigor/Saber, and as the Inspire atHonda Clio stores.
In 1995, the Inspire was updated and exported to the US as theAcura 3.2 TL, while the Vigor nameplate was replaced with theHonda Saber. The longitudinal 2.5Lstraight-five engine layout and platform remained and was sold as the Acura 2.5 TL.
In 1999, these cars were replaced by the second generation TL that was based on the US-spec Accord platform, and largely designed and engineered in the US byHonda R&D Americas, Inc. in Raymond, Ohio. Manufactured in the US, these were imported into Japan as the new Inspire and Saber.
In June 2003, the fourth-generation Inspire was introduced in Japan derived from the North American Honda Accord V6. This Inspire marks the first time Honda introduced theirVariable Cylinder Management technology. In October 2005, the fourth-generation Inspire received a mild restyle, with new headlights, new tail lights, revised interior and new colors. The Inspire targeted theNissan Teana, theToyota Mark X and numerous other entry level luxury cars from Japan.
In October 2007, the fifth-generation Inspire was previewed at theTokyo Motor Show. It is essentially a rebadged 2008 North American market Accord with minor exterior and interior modifications.
In September 2012, after six generations and 23 years, along with the introduction of theninth-generation Accord, the Inspire ended production for a six-year period. It was then relaunched in 2018 as a China-only model based on thetenth-generation Accord.
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| First generation | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Also called | Honda Accord Inspire (CB5) Honda Vigor Acura Vigor |
| Production | 1989–1995 |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 2.0 LG20A1I5 (CB5/CC3) 2.5 LG25A1 I5 (CC2) |
| Transmission | 4-speedautomatic 5-speedmanual |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,805 mm (110 in) |
| Length | 4,690 mm (185 in) (CB5) 4,830 mm (190 in) (CC2/CC3) |
| Width | 1,695 mm (67 in) (CB5) 1,775 mm (70 in) (CC2/CC3) |
| Height | 1,355 mm (53 in) (G20 engine) 1,375 mm (54 in) (G25 engine) |
| Curb weight | 1,270 kg (2,800 lb) (G20 engine) 1,440 kg (3,170 lb) (G25 engine) |
On October 12, 1989, theHonda Accord Inspire was introduced. The platform was shared with theHonda Vigor, aJDM Honda Accord derived five-cylinder luxury sedan available only atHonda Verno dealerships. The Inspire was introduced during the bubble developed in Japan which would burst in the early 1990s (known in Japan as the "bubble economy").[1] TheSOHC four valves per cylinderG20A inline-five engine was all new and was also used in the JDMHonda Rafaga, which was a shorter sedan shared with the second generationHonda Ascot. In Japan, the smaller G20A engine used regular grade fuel, while the larger G25A engine used premium grade fuel.
The body style was a four-doorhardtop, but it wasn't a true hardtop, using a"B" pillar between the front and rear passenger compartments, and instead it used frameless doors. The Inspire was available in two versions; a shorter and narrower version badged as the Accord Inspire, with a G20A 2.0-liter engine in compliance with Japanesevehicle size requirements for cars classified as "compact". The CB5 Inspire was offered in three trim levels: the base AZ-i with manual transmission, AG-I with fog lamps and optional sunroof as well as central locking, and the top spec luxury AX-i with leather upholstery, more safety features and full cruise control as well as power seats. A longer and wider version with the G20 (CC3) or with the new G25A 2.5-liter engine (CC2) debuted in early 1992, similar in dimensions to the first generation Legend. The larger CC2 and CC3 Inspire was a mild makeover of the first CB5 Inspire, featuring updated full-width boot lamps (the updated Vigor had conventional single lamp units) with less chrome, larger bumpers with new wrap-around cornering lamp design (instead of the optional separate units like the CB5) and mesh alloy wheels. The new Inspire offered fewer trim levels and the 2-liter inline-five received a minor upgrade, with power creeping up from 160 to 165 PS (118 to 121 kW). The new 2.5 develops 190 PS (140 kW). The CC2/CC3 Inspire shared more features with the Acura Vigor under a 'wide-body' marketing campaign with minor differences. The smaller-bodied Accord Inspire continued to be available alongside the larger CC2/CC3 until the introduction of the second generation Inspire, as it fit a much lower tax category.
The Inspire offered a luxurious approach to the interior as a lower price alternative to the top levelLegend, and both vehicles were sold atHonda Clio dealerships. Interior appearance was provided by the Japanese furniture company,Tendo Mokko, offering unique leather interior and a choice of genuine wood inserts for the dashboard and center console.
The transmission is attached behind the engine, with a driveshaft that sends power to the front of the car to anasymmetrically installedlimited-slip differential which then supplies power to the front wheels usinghalf shafts; this allowed the powertrain to remain slightly behind the front wheels. This also gave the car a 60:40 front to rearweight distribution. The turning radius of the Inspire also was not as tight as its competitors due to the use ofConstant-velocity joint installed on the front axle half shafts, but the Inspire did have an advantage in adverse traction conditions.
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| Second generation | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Also called | Acura 3.2 TL Acura 2.5 TL Honda Saber Honda Vigor (Thailand &GCC) |
| Production | 1995–1998 |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | |
| Transmission | 4-speedautomatic |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,840 mm (111.8 in) |
| Length | 4,840 mm (190.6 in) 4,870 mm (191.7 in) V6 |
| Width | 1,785 mm (70.3 in) 1,800 mm (70.9 in) V6 |
| Height | 1,405 mm (55.3 in) 1,415 mm (55.7 in) V6 |
| Curb weight | 1,360 kg (3,000 lb) 1,430 kg (3,150 lb) V6 |
The second generation Inspire was almost identical in its dimensions to the first generation 1986 Honda Legend, with that vehicle having been updated and enlarged to better fit the role of flagship for the Honda and Acura brands. The second generation Inspire was available with the Type I 3.2 L V6 offered in the Legend on July 6, 1995, while still offering the straight 5 in both 2.0 L and 2.5 L versions. The profile of this vehicle was reduced somewhat to 1,405 mm (55.3 in). The luxury approach was enhanced. A carryover from the previous generation saw marginal increases in length, width, and height dimensions for vehicles installed with the V6 engine, but the smaller dimensions were not in compliance with Japanese governmentregulations concerning dimensions and maximum engine displacement, thereby giving buyers an incentive in interior accommodations when purchasing the V6 model. Each engine choice obligated the Japanese buyer with increased annualroad tax liability, and one trim level package was designated with the engine choice, offering stepped levels of standard and luxury equipment for each selection.
The Inspire, sold atHonda Clio dealerships, was also known as the (Japanese:Honda Saber) and sold at theHonda Verno sales network, and mechanically identical to the UA1-UA3 Inspire. Starting with this generation, all Inspire and Saber vehicles were manufactured at Honda'sMarysville Auto Plant in Ohio, USA.
November 8, 1996 saw the introduction of dual airbags for front seat passengers and anti-lock brakes as standard.
This version of the Inspire competed with theToyota Camry Gracia,Mark II,Cresta andChaser, theNissan Cefiro andSkyline, theMazda Millenia, and theMitsubishi Diamante.
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| Third generation | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Also called | Acura TL Honda Saber |
| Production | 1998–2003 |
| Body and chassis | |
| Related | US-specHonda Accord |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine |
|
| Transmission | 5-speedautomatic 4-speedautomatic |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,745 mm (108.1 in) |
| Length | 4,840 mm (190.6 in) |
| Width | 1,785 mm (70.3 in) |
| Height | 1,420 mm (55.9 in) |
| Curb weight | 1,520 kg (3,350 lb) |
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The third generation Honda Inspire/Saber was introduced October 15, 1998, and was the first Honda designed and built in the US and exported to Japan. In North America, this vehicle was sold as theAcura TL, while in Japan it was the second model that accompanied the flagshipHonda Legend atHonda Clio Japanese dealerships. The Saber version of this car was sold as the top level sedan atHonda Verno. Honda's internet-based navigation systemInternavi was introduced with this generation.
The Inspire no longer offered thestraight-five engine, and instead offered theVTEC-equipped 3.2-litre J32A and 2.5-litre J25AV6 engines, and a choice of a 4- or 5-speed automatic transmission. The bodystyle was changed from hardtop to sedan as a result of the USA-spec Accord having been upgraded to meet USA requirements for improved side impact protection. A cabin air filter, also known as a pollen filter is introduced with this generation and is located behind the glove compartment for all vehicles sold internationally.
The Honda Saber was discontinued April 2003 along with the consolidation of the Honda Japan sales networks Primo, Clio and Verno.
| Fourth generation | |
|---|---|
 2003–2005 Honda Inspire | |
| Overview | |
| Also called | Honda Accord (US-spec) |
| Production | 2003–2007 |
| Body and chassis | |
| Related | Acura TL |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 3.0 LJ30A5i-VTECV6 |
| Transmission | 5-speedautomatic |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,740 mm (107.9 in) |
| Length | 4,805 mm (189.2 in) |
| Width | 1,820 mm (71.7 in) |
| Height | 1,455 mm (57.3 in) |
| Curb weight | 1,580 kg (3,480 lb) |
The fourth generation Honda Inspire was introduced June 18, 2003. This vehicle was built at the Saitama Prefecture facility inSayama, Japan. It was built on the same platform as theNorth American seventh generation Honda Accord. Unlike the North American variant it was based on, the Inspire would only come in the sedan body style, while powertrain was only available with the 3.0 LJ30A (marked as J30A-60) V6 withi-VTEC, and a 5-speed automatic transmission + Smatic[2]. It was available in three trims including 30TE, 30TL, and AVANZARE, with the latter being the highest trim.[3] A 30TE limited trim would be available for the 2005 model year.[4]
Styling would be consistent between the Inspire and Accord it was based upon. Notable differences would include standard fog lights on all trims, a redesigned grill, and a new light on the trunk lid.[3] The headlights are different as well featuringHigh-intensity discharge lamp bulbs for the low beams.[3][5] A new styling was introduced November 4, 2005, changing both the front grille and rear tail lights, in which LED lighting would be implemented.
This was the first vehicle to showcase Honda'sVariable Cylinder Management (VCM) technology. Another technology introduced on the Inspire was Honda'sCollision Mitigation Brake System (CMBS, originally introduced as CMS).[6] Honda also made available itsIntelligent Highway Cruise Control (IHCC), "C-MOS", which utilized a front-mounted camera toassist in unwanted lane drifting.Honda Intelligent Driver Support(HIDS)[7]. An Internet-based navigation service calledInternavi is available for drivers in Japan. A notable change would be the change toElectric power-steering (EPS). This was in effort to reduce power demands on the engine, thereby improving fuel economy.
| Fifth generation | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Also called | Honda Accord (US-spec) Proton Perdana |
| Production | 2007–2012 |
| Designer | Daisuke Sawai[citation needed] |
| Body and chassis | |
| Related | Honda Crosstour Acura ZDX |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 3.5 LJ35Z2i-VTECVCMV6 |
| Transmission | 5-speedautomatic |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,800 mm (110.2 in) |
| Length | 4,940 mm (194.5 in) |
| Width | 1,845 mm (72.6 in) |
| Height | 1,475 mm (58.1 in) |
| Curb weight | 1,620 kg (3,570 lb) |
| Chronology | |
| Successor | Honda Accord (ninth generation) |
The fifth generation Honda Inspire was released on December 21, 2007 in Japan. Like the fourth generation Inspire, the fifth generation would be based on theNorth American eighth generation Honda Accord. Unlike the North American car it was based upon, and like its predecessor, the fifth generation Inspire would only be available as a sedan with a V6. It would use a similar 5-speed automatic transmission, but power would be increased by switching to the 3.5 LJ35Z2i-VTECVCM V6 (marked as J35A-80).[8]
Unlike its North American relative, the Inspire continued to have technologies such asCollision Mitigation Brake System (CMBS), IHCC is replaced with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), and Honda'sInternavitelematics subscription service. One significant change was the switch to hydraulic power steering, replacing Electric power-steering[9].
There are few exterior and interior differences between this Inspire and the Southeast Asian Honda Accord. Sales of this generation of the Inspire ended September 2012 in Japan.
| Sixth generation | |
|---|---|
 Sixth generation Honda Inspire | |
| Overview | |
| Also called | Honda Accord (tenth generation) |
| Production | 2018–2023 |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 1.5 LL15B7turboI4 2.0 LLFA1/LFB1 PGM-FI DOHC i-VTEC I4 + 2 electric motors (hybrid) |
| Transmission | CVT |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,830 mm (111.4 in) |
| Length | 4,882 mm (192.2 in) |
| Width | 1,862 mm (73.3 in) |
| Height | 1,450 mm (57.1 in) |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | Honda Spirior |
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The sixth generation Inspire was released in 2018 as a sedan designed exclusively for the Chinese market. It is based on theNorth American tenth generation Honda Accord with a redesigned front and rearDRG. The sixth generation Inspire is made byDongfeng Honda to replace theSpirior.[10]
It is available with either the 1.5-literL15B7 inline-four or the 2-literLFB11/12 inline-four.
| Seventh generation | |
|---|---|
_China_(5).jpg) Seventh generation Honda Inspire | |
| Overview | |
| Also called | Honda Accord (eleventh generation) |
| Production | 2023–present |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 1.5 LL15B7turboI4 2.0 LLFA1/LFB1 PGM-FI DOHC i-VTEC I4 + 2 electric motors (hybrid) |
| Transmission | CVT |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,830 mm (111.4 in) |
| Length | 4,970 mm (195.7 in) |
| Width | 1,860 mm (73.2 in) |
| Height | 1,450 mm (57.1 in) |
_China_(6).jpg)
The seventh-generation Inspire, based on the eleventh-generation Accord, went on sale in late May 2023.[11]
