Honda's Second Attempt at Luxury: The Second-Generation Inspire

Original Author: Hon‧‧ Magazine | Date Updated: Today at 10:00 AM
Topic: #Honda Inspire

The second-generation Inspire's dimensions are nearly identical to the first-generation Honda Legend introduced in 1986. However, its exterior closely resembles the third-generation Legend. If you're not deeply familiar with these two models, distinguishing between the Inspire and Legend without checking the rear nameplate can be quite challenging. Having closely observed their details, here’s how you can differentiate them:

🔍 Key Difference: Focus on the rear doors. The Inspire’s rear door extends past the glass, while the Legend’s door aligns flush with the window.

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Second-Generation Inspire Overview

The second-generation Inspire was launched in Japan on February 23, 1995. Its body dimensions and interior were nearly identical to the US Acura TL. The powertrain inherited the first-generation G20A and G25A engines, with chassis codes UA1 and UA2. The G25A engine was the main highlight and came in two versions: “low-spec” with 180 horsepower for the 25G and 25XG trims, and a “high-spec” variant producing 190 horsepower in the 25S trim, requiring high-octane fuel.

In July 1995, Honda introduced a 3.2L V6 version with the UA3 chassis code, sharing the same C32A V6 engine as the Legend. The V6 version had slightly increased dimensions to meet Japan's stringent regulations for cars with larger engines. For Japanese cars exceeding 3.0L, body dimensions must meet specific standards. Thus, the Inspire stood uniquely as a borderline luxury sedan, bridging the gap between D-segment and E-segment vehicles.

Key Dimensions:

• 2.0L/2.5L: 4840mm (L) x 1785mm (W) x 1405mm (H)

• 3.2L V6: 4870mm (L) x 1800mm (W) x 1415mm (H)

The 3.2L version featured leather seats with a brown interior, while advanced trims post-November 1996 included navigation and ABS. Lower trims used fabric upholstery but offered similar interior features, such as multifunction steering wheels for cruise control.

Inspire vs. Acura TL

The second-generation Inspire also debuted in the US as the first-generation Acura TL. To compete in the American luxury market, Honda positioned Acura as a premium brand. Early Acura models were even dubbed “Honda’s masterpieces” in Hong Kong.

The first-gen TL launched in 1996, equipped with a 2.5L G25A inline-5 engine producing 176 horsepower. Notably, this SOHC 20-valve engine offered a distinctive inline-5 design, rare for its time.

The 3.2L C32A V6 engine generated 200 horsepower, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. However, don’t confuse the C32A engine with the NSX’s C32B—these are entirely different beasts.

Performance Highlights

Both the 2.5L Inspire/TL aimed for sporty driving dynamics, while the 3.2L variants focused on luxury. Despite minimal configuration differences, the 3.2L’s performance was superior, benefiting from wider tires and improved acceleration. With a longitudinally mounted V6 engine set farther back, these models offered balanced weight distribution and minimized front-end dive, ensuring a smoother ride.

Unique Engineering

The G25A inline-5 engine also featured a longitudinal layout. Inline-5 engines can exhibit vibration due to asymmetric piston movement. By mounting the engine longitudinally, Honda mitigated vibrations more effectively than a transverse layout would have allowed. This design also reflected competition with brands like Audi.

Inspire’s Japanese Counterpart: Saber

In Japan, the Inspire was sold through the Belano network under the name Saber, featuring a sportier design while sharing the same mechanical configuration.

However, due to US-Japan trade tensions in 1995, sales of the 3.2L Inspire and Acura TL were delayed until fall. The US government threatened a 100% tariff on high-priced Japanese cars to address trade imbalances. To avoid tariffs, both Inspire and Saber models were manufactured in Honda’s Marysville, Ohio plant.

Challenges and Demise

By 1998, Japan’s economy began to suffer following the Plaza Accord, leading to a decline in luxury car sales. Consumers shifted toward more practical models like the Odyssey and CR-V. The Inspire, positioned awkwardly between the Accord and Legend, struggled to gain traction and was discontinued in October 1998. Its production run of just three and a half years highlighted the harsh realities of the market.

The third-generation Inspire was a direct badge-engineered Acura TL produced in Ohio, marking Honda’s efforts to streamline costs.