While a number of technical specifications as well as even a glimpse of its new interior treatment will have to wait until closer to its fall on-sale date, Honda has released the first official images of its completely redesigned 2013 Accord Coupe and 2013 Accord Sedan. Calling it "the most sculpted and the most dynamic Accord yet," the ninth-generation variant is one of the most ambitious remakes ever for this perennially popular Honda offering. The bold new look, first previewed last January in Detroit by the Accord Coupe Concept, will be accompanied by the introduction of several enhanced technologies aimed at further bolstering both the Accord’s fuel efficiency and passenger protection capabilities. Honda feels confident this comprehensive recasting process will ensure that the new Accord can more than hold its own against a host of formidable rivals including vehicles like the Chevrolet Malibu, Hyundai Sonata, Toyota Camry, Volkswagen Passat and soon-to-launch Ford Fusion.
The 2013 Honda Accord introduces a far bolder grille treatment that is complemented by prominent greenhouse, more sensual side sculpting and smartly flared fenderwells that house more stylish wheel/tire treatments. Distinctive new lighting treatments – including the availability of LED headlamps, taillamps and running lights – round out the exterior design highlights while subtle tweaks like semi-flush front glass, flush-mounted windshield wipers and under body fairings help further enhance its already improved aero characteristics.
Although slightly shorter overall and weighing less than their respective predecessors, Honda says both the new Accord Coupe and Sedan offer more passenger and cargo space. Beyond that extra roominess, Honda also promises the yet-unseen inner sanctums of each will be more stylish and sophisticated, offering upgraded appointments as well as various enhanced in-car infotainment/connectivity features including Bluetooth, SMS text messaging, a color intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) and a Pandora Internet Radio interface. In addition to a standard
Multi-Angle Rearview Camera and an Expanded View Driver’s Mirror, the new Accords will be the first Hondas to offer the firm’s LaneWatch blind-spot information system.
While providing no additional information on powertrains, Honda had previously revealed in Detroit that the 2013 Accord lineup would offer buyers three unique motivation choices, all driving the front wheels. Base engine in both Coupe and Sedan will be the all-new "Earth Dreams" 2.4-liter direct-injected 4-cylinder tuned to make "at least 181 horsepower" and 171 lb-ft of torque. Backed by a new continuously variable automatic (CVT) transmission that uses Honda’s new G-Design Shift optimized controller system, it’s expected to give both models best-in-class EPA marks. A new version of the automaker’s 3.5-liter V6 will be optional. Making more power and torque than the current engine, it will be pairable with either a 6-speed manual or new 6-speed automatic transmission. When teamed with the latter, the upgraded V6 will feature Honda’s Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) technology, a bonus aimed at netting it best-in-class mpg stats.
Topping the 2013 Accord efficiency charts will be a new Plug-in Hybrid Sedan. Set to arrive this winter, it will feature the first application of Honda’s new 2-motor hybrid system that can seamlessly transition from electric-only to hybrid to pure-gasoline modes to maximize mileage. Teaming a 2.0-liter i-VTEC four with Atkinson Cycle timing, a 161-horsepower electric motor fed by a 6kWh lithium-ion battery and a specially adapted continuously variable automatic transmission, it will allow the Accord Plug-in Hybrid to reach 62 mph in pure EV mode and travel 10-15 miles in the city. Recharge times will be equally impressive: less than four hours using a standard 120V outlet and under 1.5 hours on a 240V line.
Additional details, a first look at the interior and pricing on the new 2013 Honda Accord Coupe and Sedan will be released closer to the on-sale date.
