2009 Honda S2000: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Honda S2000 is largely unchanged for what is its final model year. This two-seat convertible comes in Base and CR trim levels. The latter is aimed at club racers and has a removable hard top, track-ready sport suspension, and added body cladding. Base S2000s have a power soft top with heated-glass rear window. The sole powertrain is a 237-hp 2.2-liter 4-cylinder engine that teams with a 6-speed manual transmission. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, and an antiskid system.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. The Sporty/Performance Car class consists of two-seat roadsters, 4-cylinder hatchbacks, and V8 muscle cars. Regardless of configuration, all have an emphasis on affordable performance.

Our Best Buys include the Mazda MX-5, Mini Cooper, and Scion tC. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Challenger, Ford Mustang, and Volkswagen GTI. New this year is a coupe version of the Pontiac Solstice, and the Nissan 350Z is scheduled for a makeover.