Honda Accord

Honda Accord Preview

The Honda Accord has been around for more than 15 years now and it has grown bigger, roomier and aggressive over the years. While a whole lot of us still swear by the Accord when it comes to a refined luxury experience this side of the German saloons, the car has lost out in the diesel frenzy. Honda has confirmed that it will bring the latest generation of the Accord at the Auto Expo for a showcase.

Exterior

Honda is going to get the ninth generation of the Accord that is sold in North America to India. The new Accord has not changed radically in terms of looks. The car looks like an updated version of the current car with a wider grille, headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lamps and an aggressive bumper. While the side profile stays the same (albeit a little bit shorter), it gets brand new LED tail lights.

Interior

The interior of the Accord has always been plush and stately and the new Accord carries the legacy forward with modern touches. The car will get a touch-screen infotainment system, keyless entry, automatic headlamps and a rear-view camera with parking sensors. For comfort, you have dual-zone climate control with rear AC vents, power seats for the front row, leather upholstery and probably a sunroof too (the top-spec Honda City gets one).

Engine and Transmission

While the standard 2.4-litre i-Vtec four-cylinder petrol engine may continue performing its duty under the hood, the Accord will certainly get the hybrid setup. A 2.0-litre i-MMD four-pot petrol engine works in consonance with an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack to deliver over 190bhp power and 306Nm of torque. While the 2.4-litre engine may be available with manual and automatic options, the hybrid will get a CVT to transmit power to the front wheels.

Price and Competition

The Honda Accord will fight it out with its age-old competitor, the Toyota Camry along with Volkswagen Passat and Skoda Superb. Expected to be priced about Rs 25 lakh, Honda will certainly be looking forward to get the hybrid car benefits and the rising sales of the Toyota Camry Hybrid.