New Honda Accord better equipped than predecessors

“The introduction of this all-new model sees the dawn of a new era for Accord in South Africa,” says Graham Eagle, director of sales and marketing at Honda Motor Southern Africa.

“To strengthen this positioning, and after thorough investigation and consideration, Honda Motor Southern Africa decided to move to the Accord primarily designed for the North American market for introduction to the local market,” says Eagle.

Three models are available with Elegance, Executive and Exclusive trim levels and a choice of 2.0-litre and 2.4-litre four-cylinder engines, and – for the first time in South Africa – a muscular 3.5-litre V6 engine.

The 2.0-litre and 2.4-litre models feature a refined, smooth-shifting five-speed automatic gearbox, while an advanced six-speed auto gearbox is reserved for the range-topping V6.

According to Eagle, the new Accord range has all the hallmarks of greatness.

“It elevates the Accord nameplate into even loftier territory than before, while providing its occupants with a premium-grade motoring experience.

“The addition of the V6-model means Accord can now compete at the top end of the mid-size executive segment, something not possible before,” says Eagle.

“We expect that discerning South Africans will recognise the excellence of this truly sophisticated, elegant sedan.”

At 4 885mm, the new model, while decreased in length and with a shorter wheelbase than its North American predecessor, is 160mm longer than the previous Euro-model, with a 10mm wider stance, while it stands 25mm taller.

A bright, full-colour “intelligent” Multi-Information Display (i-Mid) serves as the control centre for the Accord’s electronic functions while also housing the display for the rear view camera available in all three models.

A new audio system with touchscreen display and Bluetooth hands-free calling, as well as a USB and auxiliary connection, is standard. In the 2.0-litre Elegance this is connected to six speakers, while in the 2.4-litre Executive and V6 Exclusive models six speakers and a subwoofer ensure superior sound quality.

Electric windows, heated leather seats as well as eight-way electrical adjustment with memory function for the driver’s seat are standard – as is is the multifunction leather steering wheel, outside temperature display and a rear air-conditioning vent.

The new Honda Accord is offered with a choice of two in-line four-cylinder petrol-engines, and a V6. The entry-level 2.0-litre SOHC i-VTEC, carried over from the previous model, produces 114kW of power, together with 190Nm of torque.

The 2.4-litre DOHC i-VTEC engine uses Honda’s Earth Dreams technology, dedicated to enhancing fuel efficiency and minimising the company’s environmental footprint.

With programmed fuel injection (PGM-Fi) its maximum output is rated at 132kW, combined with a 225Nm torque peak. This is said to propel the Executive from 0-100km/h in 10.6 seconds. Fuel consumption for this model is 8.1 litres/100 km in the combined cycle with a CO2 emission level of 192g/km, at least according to the fantasy-world standards set for manufacturers.

The 3.5-litre V6 i-VTEC engine with Earth Dreams technology and Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) produces a muscular 207kW with peak torque of 339Nm.

The V6 accelerates from 0-100km/h in 7.2 seconds and uses 9.2 litres/100 km in the combined consumption cycle, with a CO2 emissions level of 217g/km.

An all-new MacPherson strut front suspension replaces the previous Accord’s double-wishbone system. This is significantly lighter than the previous system and is combined with an independent multilink rear suspension.

A new electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering (EPS) replaces the conventional hydraulically assisted power-steering system used on the previous generation Accord.

The V6-engine with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) switches cylinders on and off as needed.

All the new Accord models also use an Active Noise Cancellation system (ANC) using microphones and a signal processor and the Accord’s audio speakers to further counteract unwanted exterior sounds.

Advanced active and passive safety systems, including ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution (EBD) and emergency brake assistance (EBA), vehicle stability assist (VSA), hill start assist, trailer stability assist (TSA), daytime running lights, multiple airbags and active head restraints are standard in all Accord models.

The Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) uses radar to monitor the distance and speed difference between the Accord and vehicles ahead of it. Should the distance become unsafe the system will alert the driver via audible and visual warnings on the i-MID.

Should an accident become more likely, not only will the system continue with audible and visual warnings, it will also tug and release the driver’s seat belt, while at the same time applying light braking.

When a collision seems unavoidable, the audible and visible warnings will continue while both the driver and front passenger’s seatbelts will be retracted and hard braking applied in preparation for impact. Should the accident be avoided, the system will disengage.

Adding value

The Accord 2.0 Elegance and 2.4 Executive come standard with a five-year/90 000km service plan while the 3.5 V6 Exclusive comes with a five-year/100 000km service plan.

The recommended retail prices also include one year of roadside assistance.

• Honda Accord 2.0 Elegance R389 000
• Honda Accord 2.4 Executive R449 000
• Honda Accord 3.5 V6 Exclusive R549 000