The Honda Accord has always been regarded as one of the best-selling vehicles in one of the world’s largest automotive markets—the United States of America. Since it entered the scene in 1976, the car has grown dramatically over the generations, becoming more upscale in the process. Now, the all-new model continues this trend, boasting what is arguably the most advanced and luxurious Honda Accord to date.
Honda North America revealed the 10th-generation Honda Accord in Detroit, saying that it is a redefinition of a best-seller. This claim can be seen in the bolder and more athletic stance, highlighted by a lower and wider stance, a longer hood, and more sweeping greenhouse. While the overall length is cut by 10mm, the wheelbase has actually grown by 55mm. At the center of it all is Honda’s signature chrome wing grille, this time done in a larger and sportier iteration, flanked by 9-lamp LED headlamps.
Thanks to the added girth, the all-new Honda Accord gets a bigger cabin that is filled with a ton of tech-savvy bits and boasts a more premium vibe. Material quality, Honda says, is up from the already rich feel of the previous model. The low and wide stance makes for better overall visibility, helped in no small part by the thinner pillars and expansive glass area. And the lower seating position equates to better driver and passenger comfort.
As for the tech bits, the cabin gets a cool 7-inch TFT meter set for the driver, and an 8-inch Display Audio interface at the center. These allow one to monitor vehicle, infotainment, navigation, and other functions by a mere glance, touch, or voice command. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with goodies like Remote Start and available Emergency Roadside Assistance are part of the package. Higher-spec models even come with geeky goodies like a 6-inch Head-Up display that shows speed, engine revs, and navigation, as well as 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, wireless device charging, stolen vehicle tracing, and remote diagnostics, just to name a few.
In line with its sporty character, the 2018 Honda Accord will be powered by a host of turbocharged gasoline mills, as well as an innovative two-motor hybrid. First up is a 1.5-liter direct-injection turbocharged four-cylinder mill with 192hp and 260Nm. Then there is the larger 2.0-liter equivalent, also with DOHC and turbocharging, putting out 252 horses and 370Nm. The former motor comes with a Continuously Variable Transmission (C|VT), while the 2.0-liter turbo will be matched with Honda’s 10-speed automatic—which is a first for a front-wheel drive car.
And while it didn’t reveal any specs just yet, Honda will likewise be offering the Accord with a 2.0-liter Atkinson’s cycle-equipped gas motor paired with an electric drive system. This makes for potent yet efficient motoring.
These drivetrains are complemented by a lighter and more rigid chassis. The unit now utilizes more high-strength steel, making it stronger yet lighter. In fact, overall vehicle weight has been cut by as much as 80kg, larger vehicle dimensions notwithstanding. Plus, the Honda Sensing suite of safety gear makes this Accord one of the safest to date.
The 2018 Honda Accord will go on sale in the US later this year.
