New Honda Accord, sleeker now with added fun from the Civic Type R template
FOR years, the Accord has been a sensible choice for anyone looking for a mid- sized family sedan that’s high on reliability and standard equipment and low on depreciation.
However, until now, it couldn’t exactly be described as a driver’s car.
But with the official US launch of the Accord 2.0T, it could be about to change. Quite dramatically.
The new 2.0T keeps everything that’s great about the Accord and that has made it one of America’s most popular cars, but adds a direct injection, turbocharged straight four- cylinder engine with double overhead cams and Honda’s phenomenal VTEC variable valve timing.
If that engine description sounds familiar, it’s because it’s the same block Honda uses to power its phenomenally entertaining and lightning- quick Civic Type R hot hatchback.
In the Accord, the turbocharger force-feeding the engine with air is smaller and with lower inertia, so the engine isn’t quite the firebreathing 306hp powertrain found in the Civic.
Nevertheless, it still outputs 252hp and 370Nm of torque, making it the most powerful US Accord in history.
And because the turbo is of the low inertia variety, turbo lag should be minimised.
Yet, even with all that torque, the 2.0T is good for 26mpg on the combined cycle when mated to a six-speed manual transmission.
Opt instead for the new 10speed automatic – a segment first – and it edges up to 27mpg on the EPA confirmed combined cycle.
The car will be available in five different trim and equipment levels, from Sport to Touring and creature comforts though dependent on trim level, include wireless device charging, a headup display, 12-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat and a new infotainment system.
Prices for the new Honda Accord 2.0T start at US$ 31,200 ( RM131,000) rising to US$ 36,690 for the 10- speed automatic Touring model.
Like the well-used cliche goes – configure it the way you want it – and have fun.— Relaxnews