Take the class-action filed, in the name of some 120,000 Honda Civic owners, in the United States District Court for the Central District of California way back in 2007 and whose resolution (read settlement) is expected sometimes next month.
In the class action, owners of model year 2003-2008 Honda Civic hybrids argued that the factory claimed 49 mpg city and 51 mpg highway is somewhat of an elusive dream, as the cars can barely reach 31 mpg. As a consequence, they sued...
Of course, Honda (whom, in our opinion, is the real victim here) argues that the complaint is illogical, as the estimated mileage was calculated by the EPA and followed all the federal regulations required.
According to the New York Times, the plaintiffs may get, is the court finds them to be right, a coupon for $1,000 off a new Honda. All the participants, that is, apart from the two primary plaintiffs, John True and Gonzalo Delgado, who will receive $12,500 and $10,000, respectively.
Honda's revenge? The aforementioned $1,000 coupon cannot be used to purchase its most fuel efficient vehicles, like the Insight, Civic Hybrid and Fit. Furthermore, the settlement package also includes a DVD on which Honda explains to the plaintiffs' how revving the car in the red line, while in second gear, will NEVER get them the fuel economy they want.
The single winners of this bad deal (for both sides)? The attorneys. While Honda loses money and the plaintiffs gain little from their action, attorneys are likely to receive $2.95 million for their services. A sum which, according to Jonathan W. Cuneo, one of the lawyers, doesn't even cover the expenses. (!!!)
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