Hi everyone:

I am a somewhat new 2005 HCH CVT owner (have had the car 1 month this last Saturday). I have to say I do like my HCH, but comparing it to two other cars I have had. (This is also my first Honda, but not my first Japanese car.)

1. Volkswagen Rabit Diesel: This one would definitely give you 50MPG, but try to get the car to go faster than 70mph with the air on (I am in Miami) on a flat road was impossible. Top speed with the air off was about 75mph as best as I can remeber. Much louder than the HCH and a lot of vibration at idle compared to the HCH. HCH is much roomier and has better appointments. Manual tranny with 5 speeds.

2. 97 Vette: What can I say, I have always wanted one and when I could afford it got it. Very comfortable car for two people, plenty of room in the rear and 0-60 in 4 seconds (vs 12 secs in the HCH). The car for what it is, is really very fuel efficient (20 to 22 in the city, 30 hwy at 85.) Vette was a 6 speed. Top speed was 170+ (I was only able to get it to 155Mph one time and was amazed at how smooth the car was.) I have had the HCH to 85 and am amazed at how smooth the car is, but that is not my normal cruising speed in the HCH.

Do I regret trading in the Vette for the HCH, no, economics forced me to do it (I have my own computer repair business and do a lot of driving). Do I miss my vette, yes, I have to admit that. Do I miss my Volkswagen, no, and I will never buy another Volkswagen again.

Bottom line, so far I really like my HCH, I like the fact that I'm saving about 60% in my fuel bills, and now since I have a metal car, I can get signs for it!!!

BTW, I have a tad over 2k miles already on it in one month.

Mike V.
not a reluctant hybrid owner.