Honda’s dominating run is set to continue with the launch of one of its most important product – the 10th generation Honda Accord, and it’s kitted to the brim.
The styling approach is similar to the highly successful 10th-generation Civic, with the fascia adorned by fat chromed grille and sleek LED headlamps. The C-pillars taper a tad bit for that fastback-esque styling, but it’s nowhere near as deliberate as that of the Civic. Meanwhile, the shorter overhangs give the new Accord a sportier outlook – an approach similarly undertaken by the US-bound Camry.
The new Accord rides on a lighter chassis (shaves 50kg to 100kg over the old model) and has a more rigid body structure. Compared to its predecessor, it’s lower, wider, and shorter, but the wheelbase grew by 54mm, making it one of the most spacious vehicles in its class.
Inside is entirely new, flanked with a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel. Affixed to the centre dash is an 8.0-inch infotainment screen supporting Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and HondaLink systems. As for the driver, there is a 7.0-inch TFT digital display built into the instrument cluster, whereas the 6.0-inch driver’s Head Up Display is available as an option for selected variants.
The biggest change to the Accord is its powertrain. As with the Civic and the CR-V, the 10th-gen Accord will share one thing in common with the duo – it’ll be the first ever Accord to be turbocharged. At launch, three four-cylinder powertrains can be had with the Accord, and the predecessor’s 3.5-litre V6 is now retired.
It begins with the all familiar 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbocharged VTEC engine that outputs 192 hp and 260 Nm of torque, mated with either a six-speed manual or a CVT. The 2.0-litre turbo is a detuned version of the Civic Type R’s and replaces the 3.5L V6. This unit deploys a healthy 252 hp and 370 Nm of torque. There’s a new 10-speed automatic ( same as that in the Odyssey) that is strictly for the 2.0, but a six-speed stick shifter is also available for keener drivers.
There’s also a hybrid option, combining a 2.0-litre Atkinson Cycle petrol engine that’s paired with an electric motor. According to Honda, thermal efficiency is up by 40 percent thanks to more liberal use of insulating materials. The battery is located under the rear floor, meaning boot volume is not compromised. However, Honda has yet to reveal the output and fuel efficiency figures for the hybrid.
The 10th-generation Honda Accord also comes with Honda Sensing as standard. No price for the US-bound Accord has been announced at press time, but it will go on sale later this year. Which are you expecting, the 1.5L turbo or the 2.0L turbo?
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