Honda has just unveiled the Accord Coupe concept at the Detroit motor show, which showcases the future of one of the company’s most successful models.
Although technically a concept, if we ignore the massive 20-inch wheels, the Accord Coupe is very close to production specification, both in terms of design and technology.
From the outside the new front bumper features a four-sided honeycomb grille and multi-reflector headlights whilst the rear has seen a big redesign with big exhausts and sharp taillights.
From certain angles there are elements of other medium-sized cars in the Accord coupe’s design but Honda has produced a well-proportioned and modern vehicle to take the Accord into its ninth-generation.
Although Australia doesn’t get the Accord Coupe, the Japanese company says the Accord Sedan will keep a very similar look but feature a more compact exterior footprint and weigh less. The company claims the new Accord will still keep the current model’s cabin space.
On the engine and transmission side, the Accord will feature Honda’s new Earth Dream engine system. John Mendel, Executive Vice President, American Honda Motor Co said “this is the series of new engines and transmissions we debuted at the Tokyo Motor Show late last year that will ultimately replace every powertrain in our lineup.
“These new engines completely re-envision the structure of Honda’s legendary VTEC technology for more efficient combustion and reduced friction. The bottom line is engines that achieve both outstanding fuel efficiency and high output for clean and fun driving performance.”
In the US, Honda will have a 2.4-litre four cylinder engine coupled to a CVT transmission (which Mr Mendel says will not have a “rubber-band” feeling), the company’s existing V6 engine will gain additional power and torque whilst an Eco-Assist function and ECO button will be added as well.
The American market will also see the introduction of Honda’s first Plug-In Hybrid Vehicle utilizing a two-motor hybrid system, which continuously moves through three possible modes depending on driving requirements. It can drive up to 24km on all-electric and can switch to petrol-electric and if you want all the power you can get, direct-drive mode is the go. Honda says it will take just 1.5 hours to charge its battery.
We are waiting on comment from Honda Australia if we will get the plug-in hybrid variant.
Responding to criticism about Honda’s lack of sporty drive, Mr Mendel said “believe me; the new Accord will live up to our mission to deliver new products that are unquestionably fun-to-own and fun-to-drive. And even with the more compact exterior design and lower roofline Accord will boast the same sizable interior space as the current Accord.”
What do you think of the new Honda Accord?