Honda has officially
unveiled the 2018 Accord. Set to go on sale this fall, the redesigned sedan has
a unique front fascia with a prominent grille that sits above a large lower air
intake. The model also has a sculpted hood, a sportier roofline, and uniquely
shaped windows behind the rear doors. Out back, the Accord features an
integrated rear spoiler, LED taillights, and a dual exhaust system with chrome
accents.
The exterior styling will likely prove polarizing
but the cabin is different story as it features high quality materials and an
upscale design. Once seated behind the three-spoke steering wheel, drivers will
find a new soft-touch instrument panel, chrome accents, and an 8-inch Display
Audio system with physical knobs for tuning and volume.
Elsewhere, Honda installed more deeply padded arm
rests and improved seats with taller shoulder bolstering for additional
support. Rear seat passengers will be grateful for the car's longer wheelbase
which results in nearly two inches of extra rear seat legroom.
A variety of options will be available including
heated and ventilated front seats as well as 6-inch head-up display. Other
highlights include a wireless smartphone charger and 4G LTE connectivity.
Entry-level models will be powered by a turbocharged
1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that develops 192 hp and 260
Nm of torque. It can be connected to either a six-speed manual or a
continuously variable transmission.
The Accord will also be available with a
turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 252 hp and 369 Nm of torque. A six-speed manual is available on Sport variants but most
models will come with a new 10-speed automatic transmission.
Buyers looking for something more eco-friendly can
check out the Accord Hybrid which features a 2.0-liter Atkinson cycle engine
and two electric motors. Performance specifications will be announced closer to
launch but Honda says the powertrain offers "improved power delivery with
no compromise to interior or cargo space."
All Accords will benefit from a lighter and more
rigid body structure which uses ultra-high-strength steel. This enables the
model to weigh between 49.9-79.8 kg less than its predecessor.
On the handling front, the 2018 Accord has been
equipped with a new MacPherson strut front suspension and a more compact rear
multi-link setup. Other highlights include an adaptive damper system and a
lower center of gravity.
