Honda Accord Press Kit

 

Honda Accord (2.2 i-DTEC) Saloon from                                  

Top speed (mph)                       131mph (man)               128mph (auto)

0-62mph                                   9.4 seconds (man)         10.3 seconds (auto)

Combined mpg                         53.3mpg (man)              46.3mpg (auto)

CO₂                                          138g/km (man)              159g/km (auto)

Engine                                      2199cc, Common rail i-DTEC

Power                                       150PS @4,000rpm

Torque                                      350Nm @2,000-2750rpm

Service Interval                          Variable servicing

 

Honda Accord (2.2 i-DTEC) Tourer from

Top speed                                129mph (man)               125mph (auto)

0-62mph                                   10.1 seconds (man)       10.7 seconds (auto)

Combined mpg                         51.3mpg (man)              44.8mpg (auto)

CO₂                                          143g/km (man)              164g/km (auto)

Engine                                      2199cc, Common rail i-DTEC

Power                                       150PS @ 4000rpm

Torque                                      350Nm @ 2000-2750rpm

Service Interval                          Variable servicing

 

Honda Accord (2.0 i-VTEC) Saloon from                      

Top speed (mph)                       133mph (Man)               131 mph (Auto)

0-62mph                                   9.9 seconds (Man)         11.3 seconds (Auto)

Combined mpg                         40.9mpg (Man)              38.7mpg (Auto)

CO₂                                          159g/km (Man)              168g/km (Auto)

Engine                                      1997cc, PGM-FI, i-VTEC

Power                                       156PS @6,300rpm

Torque                                      192Nm @4100-5000rpm

Service Interval                          Variable servicing

 

Honda Accord (2.0 i-VTEC) Tourer from          

Top speed (mph)                       131mph (Man)               130mph (Auto)

0-62mph                                   10.1 seconds (Man)       11.5 seconds (Auto)

Combined mpg                         40.4mpg (Man)              38.7mpg (Auto)

CO₂                                          163g/km (Man)              170g/km (Auto)

Engine                                      1997cc, PGM-FI, i-VTEC

Power                                       156PS @6,300rpm

Torque                                      192Nm @4100-5000rpm

Service Interval                          Variable servicing

 

Honda Accord (2.4 i-VTEC) Saloon from                      

Top speed (mph)                       140mph (Man)               140mph (Auto)

0-62mph                                   8.1 seconds (Man)         9.8 seconds (Auto)

Combined mpg                         32.8mpg (Man)              33.6mpg (Auto)

CO₂                                          199g/km (Man)              195g/km (Auto)

Engine                                      2354cc, PGM-FI, i-VTEC

Power                                       201PS @7000rpm

Torque                                      234Nm @4300-4400rpm (man)    230Nm @4200-4400rpm (auto)

Service Interval                          Variable servicing

 

Honda Accord (2.4 i-VTEC) Tourer from                                  

Top speed (mph)                       137mph (Man)               137mpg (Auto)

0-62mph                                   8.3 seconds (Man)         10.0 seconds (Auto)

Combined mpg                         32.5mpg (Man)              32.8mpg (Auto)

CO₂                                          201g/km (Man)              199g/km (Auto)

Engine                                      2354cc, PGM-FI, i-VTEC

Power                                       201PS @7000rpm

Torque                                      234Nm @4300-4400rpm (man) 230Nm@4200-4400rpm (auto)

Service Interval                          Variable servicing

 

Honda Accord Type S (2.2 i-DTEC High) Saloon from

Top speed (mph)                       136mph (Man)  

0-62mph                                   8.8 seconds (Man)        

 Combined mpg                                    50.4mpg (Man) 

CO₂                                          147g/km (Man) 

Engine                                      2199cc, Common rail i-DTEC

Power                                       180PS @4000rpm

Torque                                      380/2000-2750

Service Interval                          Variable servicing

 

 

Honda Accord Type S (2.2 i-DTEC High) Tourer from              

Top speed (mph)                       134mph (Man)  

0-62mph                                   8.8 seconds (Man)        

Combined mpg                         49.5mpg (Man) 

CO₂                                          150g/km (Man) 

Engine                                      2199cc, Common rail i-DTEC

Power                                       180PS @4000rpm

Torque                                      380Nm @2000-2750rpm

Service Interval                          Variable servicing

 

WHAT’S NEW?

 

The team behind the Accord range needed to boost the car’s appeal in the corporate market without sacrificing on the impressive quality and reliability the Accord is renowned for. So, with the corporate customer firmly in the forefront of their minds, the team set about improving the styling, comfort and running costs of both the Saloon and Tourer models to enhance the car’s strongest qualities.

 

• Lower CO₂ emissions across all engine derivatives
• Ride and handling updates improve refinement
• Refreshed exterior styling
• Sporty 17inch alloy wheels on ES and ES-GT grades as a complimentary upgrade
• Interior updates
• Advanced safety technology - Active Cornering Lights and High Beam Support System introduced
• 180 PS Type S continues

• The engine 2.2 i-DTEC in automatic and manual guise along with the 2.0 i-VTEC manual fit in below the all-important 160g/km Write Down Allowance threshold.

 

With rising fuel costs and CO₂ based taxation, driving down the emissions and improving the fuel economy throughout the Accord range was a priority. Honda engineers implemented a host of underbody aerodynamic aids, including a larger front air dam, underfloor and a rear subframe cover. They also set about reducing the frictional losses in the wheels and tyres with low friction wheel bearings, while Accords equipped with the automatic transmission benefitted from minimised frictional losses in the gearbox and optimised ratios to help further improve economy and emissions.  

 

Honda’s refined 2.2 litre i-DTEC diesel received some extra attention with the reduction of internal frictional losses in the engine. This revision resulted in a 9 g/km drop in CO₂ emissions for the 6-speed manual Saloon - achieving a sub-140 g/km CO₂ figure - and an 11 g/km reduction - achieving a sub 160g/km figure - for the automatic variant. All of this without affecting the power and improving refinement of the vehicle! 

 

Crucially for the corporate market, the improvements to the 2.2 i-DTEC combined with the aerodynamic revisions to the car mean the diesel engine in automatic guise along with the 2.0 i-VTEC manual now fit in neatly below the all-important 160g/km Write Down Allowance threshold for the first time.

 

 

	Saloon 2.2 i-DTEC manual	Saloon 2.2 i-DTEC auto	Tourer 2.2 i-DTEC manual	Saloon 2.0 i-VTEC manual
New CO2 figure from	138 g/km	159 g/km	143 g/km	159 g/km
Outgoing CO2 figures	147 g/km	170 g/km	153 g/km	168 g/km
Improvement	9g	11g	10g	9g
Fuel economy from	53.3 mpg	46.3 mpg	51.4 mpg	40.9 mpg

 

Comfort

Comfort levels are high on the priority list for those drivers who spend time on the road, and Honda engineers from Japan worked closely with their counterparts in Germany and the UK to refine the dampers of the Accord to suit the vast range of road conditions found in Europe.

 

The introduction of higher density foam in the under bonnet and dashboard areas improves the NVH performance. The underfloor noise insulation has also been revised and teamed with additional sound deadening shields on the DPF and exhaust manifold cover of the diesel engine, improving overall refinement. The series of noise reductions techniques is completed with a small 0.9 mm increase in the thickness of the rear window glass to enhance rear passenger comfort.

 

Design updates

Both the Saloon and Tourer have benefitted from small but noticeable changes to the headlights and bumpers. The head lights now feature a cleaner appearance with the previously amber indicators now in a clear finish. On top grade cars the lights are now Bi-HID and feature Active Cornering Lights to improve night time visibility. Honda is also offering 17-inch alloy wheels as a complimentary upgrade on ES and ES-GT models.

 

The rear of the Saloon model has been subtly enhanced with the reversing light and indicators now featuring the same red finish as the fog light to give balance to the styling. The updated look of the Saloon is rounded off with a light chrome finish above the rear licence plate on most models and dark chrome on Type S grade cars. These new exterior design cues are completed with the addition of three colours - Alabaster Silver, Graphite Lustre metallic and Celestial Blue Pearl.

 

The exterior styling changes have been complemented by a number of subtle changes to the interior to enhance the ambience of the cabin. Updates include new dark silver interior panels and bright silver door handles and handbrake, while ES grades now benefit from a new seat material and door lining.

 

New technology

One of the most visible changes to the top of the range Accords is the addition of Active Cornering Lights, which provide enhanced illumination when the vehicle is turning. The light unit on the relevant side will be illuminated when the driver activates the indicators in that direction or turns the steering wheel more than 90 degrees. When the vehicle is in reverse, both lights will be activated to give a good view to either side of the driver.

 

Another new lighting technology for Honda is the High Beam Support System, which is fitted on vehicles with the Bi-HID headlights. This system is controlled by a camera fitted to the windscreen behind the rear view mirror. The camera detects oncoming headlights or the taillights of a vehicle in front and automatically dips the headlights onto their normal setting if they are on high-beam.

 

 

KEY ACCORD FEATURES

 

• Sporty design with muscular wheel arches, sharp lines and a wide and low body
• Involving drive with improved chassis dynamics developed on European roads
• High-quality interior with E-sector fit and finish
• Stylish Tourer design combines practicality with contemporary looks
• Advanced technology improves safety, reduces driver fatigue and increases comfort
• Two petrol engines and two diesel variants
• Further establishes Honda’s position as an alternative to the traditional premium manufacturers

 

 

QUESTIONS ON THE TIP OF YOUR TONGUE

 

What’s the general direction for the revised Accord?

With cleaner engines, a sharper look and a smoother drive the revised Accord will continue to provide a strong challenge in the competitive D-sector. All engines in the line up meet Euro 5 legislation, and its sector-leading package of safety systems rivals most E-sector cars.

 

The revised Accord with lower CO₂ emissions and improved refinement will play an important role in continuing to strengthen Honda’s market position, particularly in the corporate sector.

 

Who will buy it?

The Accord’s key customers will be conquest, corporate customers – head office senior managers – and we also predict to pick up customers from the D-sector mass market who are looking to upgrade.

 

How many Accords do you plan to sell in the UK?

The plan for the UK is approximately 3,000 units per year – 77 per cent of which will be Saloon models and 23 per cent Tourer variants. The Fleet market is expected to account for 70 per cent of the sales - representing a 20 per cent uplift.

 

What are the Accord’s main competitors?

The Accord’s main competitors include Volkswagen Passat, Audi A4 and Ford Mondeo. The Accord’s key grades are the ES GT and EX, which offer excellent value for money versus its competitors.

 

Will the Type S model still be available?

Yes, the Type S is the halo-model for the Accord range and remains in the line up. This more powerful variant of Honda’s D-sector model uses the acclaimed 2.2-litre i-DTEC diesel engine like the standard Accord, but thanks to a revised turbo-charger, cylinder head and larger intercooler, it produces 180 PS at 4000rpm, a 30 PS increase on the standard model with the peak power coming at the same rpm. Torque has also increased 30Nm to 380Nm at 2000rpm. The Accord Type S is available in both the Saloon and Tourer guise and also benefits from 18” alloy wheels.

 

With the sportier Type S model, we’re looking to compete with S-Line trimmed Audis and M-Sport trim BMWs, rather than high power RS4s and M3s.

 

When does it go on sale?

The revised Accord range officially goes on sale on 1 July, 2011.

 

What is the predicted residual value?

High residual values are pivotal to our main target audience, fleet managers and the corporate customer and we expect the revised range to feature similar value predictions to the outgoing range. According to CAP, February 2011, the outgoing Accord 2.2 i-DTEC ES-GT manual is expected to retain 32 per cent of its value after 3 years/60,000 miles.   

 

 

EXTERIOR

 

Overall, the Accord is a wide, low and sporty car, with sleek proportions and a sharp-edged design that gives the vehicle a strong road presence. Meanwhile, the Tourer, with its compact proportions offers class-leading practicality in a stylish package.

 

Both body shapes feature muscular lines around the wheel arches, bumpers, grille and bonnet – all of which make the whole car appear athletic and powerful. The Type S in particular, has been designed to compete with the likes of Audi S-line and BMW M-Sport trimmed cars, and will appeal to those key corporate, user chooser customers that want a sportier car.

 

Both the Saloon and Tourer have benefitted from small but noticeable changes to the head lights and bumpers to complement the revisions under the bonnet.

 

The headlights have been given a cleaner, crisper appearance with the previously amber indicators now in a clear finish. On top grade cars the lights are now Bi-HID and feature Active Cornering Lights to improve night time visibility and High Beam Support System. The grille has been subtly remodelled with the two central spars finished in the same chrome material as the outer grille, for a sportier look.

 

The cooling duct and fog light recesses on all models have been re-profiled with the taper of these areas given a more aggressive line, giving the car a more planted appearance.

 

The rear of the Saloon model has been subtly enhanced with the reversing light and indicators now featuring the same red finish as the fog light to give balance to the styling. The updated look of the Saloon is rounded off with a light chrome finish above the rear licence plate on most models and dark chrome on Type S grade cars.

 

Honda is also offering 17-inch alloy wheels as a complimentary upgrade on ES and ES-GT models.

 

Dimensions

The Accord’s platform is shared by both the Saloon and Tourer with approximately 75 per cent commonality between the two. They have an identical 2705 mm wheelbase and both models are 1840 mm wide creating a roomy cabin front and rear, while the 1590 mm track is a key element in the Accord’s responsive handling.

 

Aerodynamics

An excellent aerodynamic drag coefficient pays dividends in the form of lower wind noise, improved fuel economy and enhanced stability and Honda has paid particular attention to underbody air flow management to reduce drag and lift in the Accord. Key elements include a chin spoiler, front and rear strakes ahead of the wheelarches, an engine undercover, and middle and rear undercovers. Other significant features include a front spoiler that reduces front lift, the rear boot spoiler and a particularly aerodynamic cabin area.

 

Aerodynamic updates for 2011 include a larger front air dam, underfloor and a rear subframe cover. All of which help improve fuel economy.

 

Paint colours

A range of paint colours is available on the Accord. Alabaster Silver, Graphite Luster metallic and Celestial Blue Pearl are new for 2011 while Cobalt Blue, Crystal Black, Polished Metal, Milano Red, Premium White and Basque Red continue to be available across the range.

 

 

INTERIOR

 

Honda engineers concentrated on achieving outstanding fit and finish – benchmarking E-sector cars for refinement and the result is a stylish, comfortable, spacious cabin, with a driver-focused design and layout that wraps around the front seats, giving a cockpit-style feel. Advanced technology also features strongly, and instruments are positioned to ensure they appear in ‘line of sight’, with controls in easy reach of the driver.

 

Every ‘touch-point’ on the Accord looks and feels premium, particularly the seats, steering wheel, pedals and other key controls.

 

There have been a number of subtle changes to the interior of the Accord to enhance the ambience of the cabin. Updates include new dark silver interior panels and bright silver door handles and handbrake, while ES grades now benefit from new seat materials and door linings.

 

Cockpit style cabin

The Accord’s interior layout has been carefully considered, and centres around the most important person in the car – the driver. The cockpit style cabin is enveloping, with the controls ‘wrapped around’ the driver.

 

The Accord is 1840mm wide which translates directly into a roomy, airy cabin and while the Accord’s overall height was reduced (the saloon by 5mm, the Tourer by 30mm) in 2008, the cabin floor was lowered by 10mm at the same time, to give a sportier driving position.

 

A stubby, sporty, gearstick with short ‘throw’ ensures gear changes are snappy, while the three-spoke steering wheel – in a similar design to that in the Civic and CR-V – is black with silver trim and hosts a complete suite of controls – audio buttons on the left, cruise control on the right and the telephone buttons on the lower spoke. It is fully adjustable for reach and rake.

 

An impressive main instrument panel with blue and red back-lighting and ‘floating’ needles on the rev counter and speedometer dials form the centre-piece of the dash and underline the sporting feel of the Accord.

 

The LCD instrument display (in the centre of the speedometer) has a host of features. Linked to the on-board computer, it’s able to display vehicle mileage and trip mileage, instant and average fuel economy, range, average speed, journey time, as well as outside temperature, seatbelt status (including rear seats) and displays status information on ACC, LKAS and CMBS, where fitted.

 

The Accord also features a service reminder that lights up in the centre of the speedometer providing the driver with either the distance or days remaining to a required service, while an enlarged warning symbol appears when the service due date is imminent.

 

In addition, a shift-indicator appears here too, advising the driver of the best point to change gear, in order to maximise fuel economy. Automatic transmission models instead feature the shift gate pattern and the lever position.

 

Seats

A key area of focus on the inside of the Accord was the front seats, built to maximise both comfort and support, with a blend of the best upholstery materials. Large, supportive bolsters in the front seats are designed to reduce any vibration transmission and their sporting shape hugs the driver, holding them comfortably in position.

 

Depending on specification, the seats are upholstered with either cloth (ES), half leather sports upholstery (ES GT) or full leather (EX and Type S). On EX and Type S grades, seat memory switches are located in the driver’s door, and can hold up to three seat positions.

 

Eliminating noise

We’ve listened closely to customer feedback, and improvements have been made to reduce NVH and interior noise levels on the revised Accord, in order to create a relaxing driving space.

 

The car now uses a higher density of foam in the under bonnet and dashboard areas to improve refinement. The underfloor noise insulation has also been revised and teamed with additional sound deadening shields on the DPF and exhaust manifold cover of the diesel engine. The suite of noise reductions techniques is completed with a small 0.9 mm increase in the thickness of the rear window glass, improving the rear passenger experience.

 

How about this for imaginative engineering? There’s floor carpeting with both sound insulation and sound absorption; a series of dimples and beads incorporated into the floor panel which reduce acoustic radiation; a floating rear subframe which lessens road noise; insulation within the door pillar structures and a lightweight noise package that includes an acoustic roof lining, acoustic trunk side lining, wheelarch insulators, and sound absorbing/insulating dashboard elements. Plus lightweight materials are used wherever possible to eliminate even the smallest of rattles.

 

Intelligent climate control

The Accord comes equipped with a dual-zone automatic climate control system that lets the driver and front passenger adjust the temperature settings to their individual liking. Intelligent climate control is available on all Accords with satellite navigation.

 

Hi-tech optical sensors determine the sun’s position and automatically adjust the interior climate accordingly, so that a constant and comfortable temperature is maintained throughout the cabin at all times. To use intelligent climate control, the ‘auto’ button on the centre console must be selected.

 

Higher specification models feature adjustable rear vents which provide rear seat passengers with their own air conditioning. The centre console can also have cool or warm air pumped into it from this air feed – perfect for cooling or warming drinks.

 

Voice Activated Satellite Navigation

We’ve worked hard to improve the quality and usability of our technology. DVD Satellite Navigation comes as standard on the EX grades and as an option on the ES GT grade. It boasts an 8-inch screen, voice recognition in five languages (English, French, German, Italian and Spanish) and covers most European countries, including Poland, Slovakia, Hungary and the Czech Republic.

 

A directional microphone ensures only the driver’s voice is picked up and there are some other clever features, too:

• Voice operation is possible even in the middle of a conversation with a passenger as a microphone can distinguish between the driver’s and a passenger’s voice
• Wind down the windows, open the sunroof and the voice operation will still work
• It can learn different voice qualities of different drivers, so great for pool cars or if different people will be driving it on a regular basis
• All of this detection and directional ability also applies to the Bluetooth hands-free telephone kit (HFT)

 

The push-to-talk button on the steering wheel activates the voice control. A command such as “home” will prompt the system to plot the best route to the driver's house. To find the nearest restaurant or petrol station, just say the command and the system will find the closest and navigate to it.

 

Another useful feature of the navigation system is the RDS function which means the system can recognise live traffic hotspots and recalculate the ideal route to avoid the congestion.

 

Bluetooth Hands-Free Telephone

All Accord models are fitted with the Bluetooth wireless hands-free telephone kit (HFT).

 

The phone system allows the driver to automatically transfer a call started outside the car onto the HFT once the ignition has been turned to the ACC position. The user can also utilise the phone’s keypad to make calls as well as storing up to 50 names with a speed-dial number. More importantly all numbers can be accessed by HFT and speech recognition.

 

Thanks to the satellite navigation, it is also possible to import the phone books of up to six separate mobiles via the Interface Dial, up to 1000 names with a potential of 10,000 numbers! Once imported, numbers are accessed through voice command or by selecting ‘search imported phonebook’ on the screen, followed by a keyword search or by listing all records.

 

Reversing and parking

Where fitted, the centre screen, used for satellite navigation, doubles up as a rear-view camera when reverse gear is selected. Located above the rear registration plate, the camera provides a view of the area directly behind the car (138 degrees wide and 91 degrees vertically).

 

In addition, the passenger side wing mirror automatically tilts downwards, when reverse gear is selected. A switch mounted in the driver-side door enables this function.

 

EX grades and Type S models are fitted with parking sensors as standard – four front sensors and four rear.

 

Sound systems

ES and ES GT Accords come with a radio and single CD player while EX grades and Type S models equipped with the Advanced Navigation Pack have a premium audio system with 6 CD changer unit located in the centre console. Volume of the sound system is linked to the speed of the vehicle to maintain an optimum volume throughout the entire journey.

 

MP3 players or iPods can be connected via a docking point in the centre console storage box, where an auxiliary jack point and power outlet can also be found.

 

Key fob

The key fob has a variety of functionality. There are separate buttons for the boot release, door locking and door unlocking. The first push of the door unlocking button unlocks the driver’s door only, a second push unlocks all four doors. On higher grade models it is also possible to close and open the windows and sunroof by holding down the door lock button (conversely, holding down the unlock button opens windows and sunroof).

 

Rather than a lever on the door sill, the fuel filler cover is linked to the driver’s door lock switch. Once it is unlocked, you simply press on the flap and it springs open.

 

Luggage space

Even with the Tourer’s compact and stylish proportions, there’s still ample luggage space. With all seats in place, there’s 406-litres (VDA), meaning it is one of the best in its class. When the Tourer’s rear seats are folded down, luggage capacity increases to 660-litres (VDA – to window line) or 1183-litres (VDA – to roof) ensuring larger loads can be accommodated. As an example, there’s still room for a mountain bike, without needing to remove the bike’s front wheels first.

 

The Tourer has a range of practical accessories to organise luggage and protect the boot interior. A cargo space divider and dog guard maximise the use of space while a tailor-made boot tray, a cargo mat and a boot edge protection mat, reduce wear and tear. There’s also a tie down belt to hold luggage in place, a cargo net and boot side net.

 

The Saloon’s luggage capacity remains best in class against other premium saloons with 467-litres (VDA) and a lower loading position of 678mm. Like the Tourer, it also has an exclusive boot pack which includes a cargo net, side pocket, and utility hooks on the underside of the rear shelf to hang shopping bags, all providing even greater practicality and flexibility.

 

Pull out point

In real terms 406-litres equates to four medium-sized golf bags or four large suitcases.

 

The Tourer has easy to use, one-motion rear seats that can be collapsed easily in one motion and without removing the headrests, creating a virtually flat load space.  The child seat tether anchors and seatbelts are also fully integrated into the seats, leaving a neat, flat surface for loading.

 

There’s additional under-floor storage too, adding 53-litres to the overall load space, plus storage areas concealed in the boot side walls – the left hand compartment used to store a hazard warning triangle and first aid kit.

 

Other practical touches on both Saloon and Tourer models include two lined pockets either side of the centre console, great for storing sunglasses, a large glovebox, lidded storage area to side of the steering wheel, large front door pockets, bottle holders in the rear door panels, and a large centre console box which doubles up as an armrest and is slide-adjustable. There are two cupholders in the centre console, and rear passengers have two more in the rear centre armrest.

 

The Accord Tourer is available with a power operated tailgate – the key fob or a switch located in the boot’s lower edge operates this. When opening, an audible warning sounds and the indicators flash. There’s also an automatic close function, to save slamming it, which is ideal if there’s a sleeping child (or grown up!) in the car. Safety measures include auto reverse when any resistance is detected, backed up by touch sensors located around the sides of the tailgate. The power tailgate is standard on EX and Type S models

 

The tailgate design uses a thin motor unit located in the roof lining which is quiet and impacts less on rear visibility.

 

CHASSIS

 

Comfort levels are high on the priority list for those drivers who spend time on the road, and Honda engineers from Japan worked closely with their counterparts in Germany and the UK to refine the dampers of the revised Accord to suit the vast range of road conditions found in Europe. Enhancements include detailed refinement of the dual mode dampers to offer improvement in both high speed stability for motorway driving and a significant improvement in ride quality - even over poor road surfaces.

 

Chassis platform

The Tourer and Saloon models share the same platform as well as a double wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension, which together with increased rigidity, create a chassis that offers an involving yet comfortable ride.

 

The front suspension geometry has been configured to reduce pitch under braking, while a large compliance bush enhances ride comfort. Similarly the rear suspension is designed to minimise lift under braking. Featuring two diagonal links, three lateral links and a high rigidity bearing, it is tuned to match the Accord’s quick steering responses and contributes to a nimble yet solid feel.

 

Lowered centre of gravity and higher roll centre

The low position of the engine and fuel tank within the Accord platform helped lower the car’s centre of gravity, improving cornering stability, while the wide front and rear tracks offer greater roll stiffness.

 

Furthermore, the suspension geometry has been set up to raise the Accord’s roll centre axis (the point about which it rolls during cornering). The result, in simple terms, means passengers can enjoy a stable, flat ride, minimal body roll, linear cornering feel and more control.

 

Ride comfort

Finding the right balance between sharp handling and ride comfort is an eternal challenge for chassis engineers, and with the Accord, a lot of time and effort was invested on delivering a car that cornered well, but also felt smooth and refined over bumps in the road.

 

This comfortable ride is delivered through an increase in suspension rebound travel at both front and rear, larger compliance bushes in the front suspension and a floating rear subframe capable of greater absorption of bumps and road noise.

 

The Accord also features dampers that use internal deflector plates. While most conventional dampers are tuned to provide a compromise between ride comfort and sporty handling at different speeds, a ‘Super Progressive Valve’ is engineered to provide ideal damping rates at both low and high speeds.

 

With a typical suspension unit, damping forces rise with the speed of damper compression, for example, hitting a series of bumps at high speed. This can cause significant ride harshness and noise inside the cabin. However, the dampers are tuned to provide the ideal damping rates for comfort at low speeds, while also limiting maximum damping forces to reduce ride harshness at higher speeds.

 

In this way the Accord provides a wider range of comfortable ride quality and exceptional road holding under a wide variety of driving speeds and conditions.

 

Deflector plate technology

Honda’s dampers automatically adjust compression damping characteristics to suit the car’s speed, cornering forces and road surface. The dampers use an ingenious “deflector plate stack” that deflects when the compression forces reach a certain level, such as when encountering a large bump or dip in the road at high speeds. When these severe forces act on an ordinary damper, oil cannot move quickly enough through the damping orifices and the effective damping rate climbs, resulting in an excessive shock transmitted into the vehicle body.

 

With the Honda system, when severe conditions are encountered, the plate stack deflects, allowing oil to pass through at a higher rate and in essence “capping” the damping rate at a preset level. This markedly reduces the shock transmitted into the body while enhancing handling stability and road holding.

 

While the amount of oil passing through the damper orifices always remains consistent in different situations, the Accord’s system allows an increased flow rate in extreme situations, thereby limiting the maximum damping rate. Deflection of the plate stack is carefully calibrated and controlled by spring pressure behind the plate stack. The simplicity of this system also means that no electronics or movable valves are required.

 

Higher rigidity

To offer excellent handling and a sporty driving experience, the Accord’s body shell is engineered to provide even greater body rigidity and reduced torsion.

 

Highly efficient load absorbing pathways in both the front and rear frames effectively deal with suspension input, through specific items such as an upper bar running between the two front suspension struts and additional strengthening in the fascia panel area and in the junction between the door pillars and roof structure.

 

High tensile steel

Around 50 per cent of the Accord’s body, including the complete passenger cell frame and front and rear side members, is made from high tensile steel, which provides greater strength without additional weight. In fact 42 per cent of this is made up from ultra high tensile steel.

 

Superb braking

Excellent stopping power is achieved by large brake callipers and discs. The braking system also includes Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), anti-lock braking and Brake Assist, the latter helping drivers to apply full braking pressure when required.

 

Vehicle Stability Assist

All Accords are fitted with Honda's Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system which is designed to help the driver maintain control during cornering, acceleration and sudden manoeuvres by applying braking to the right or left hand wheels as necessary and managing the engine torque systems.

 

At its simplest level, VSA has a traction control function whereby it detects wheel slip under acceleration and coordinates the use of braking and engine torque to regain traction. In situations where the driven wheels are on surfaces with different levels of traction, such as a partially wet road surface, the system applies braking action to the wheel that's slipping, allowing the tyre with better grip to move the vehicle. In addition, the system reduces engine output to minimise wheelspin.

 

An indicator light flashes on the instrument panel while the system is actively enhancing the car’s stability. There is also a switch to the side of the instrument panel which disables the VSA.

 

Trailer Stability Assist

Trailer Stability Assist, fitted across the entire Accord range, is a development of VSA which detects if the trailer is starting to yaw while being towed at speed. TSA uses a combination of torque reduction and individual wheel braking to bring the car and trailer back under full control.

 

Motion Adaptive EPS

Motion Adaptive EPS is an innovative system using the capabilities of both VSA and EPS. The system detects instability in slippery conditions both during cornering and under braking and automatically initiates steering inputs aimed at prompting the driver to steer in the correct direction.

 

Steering control remains with the driver at all times, but this supporting steering torque is enough to prompt the driver to act and regain stability, allowing control to be maintained.

 

EPS is an advanced, speed sensitive Electric Power Steering system fitted on the entire Accord range which features a high output, low inertia brushless motor with enhanced rigidity providing excellent, precise and stable steering. A quicker steering ratio is also used in keeping with the Accord’s agile chassis characteristics.

 

 

ENGINES

 

The Accord range is powered by an engine line-up which exceeds Euro 5 emission regulations and combined with the aerodynamic revisions, all variants now offer lower emissions whilst retaining the same power and improving refinement.

 

2.2-litre i-DTEC

Key features:

Capacity:          2199cc

Power:              150PS

Torque:             350Nm @ 2,000-2750rpm

Max speed:       131mph (man)   128 (auto) (saloon), 128mph (man) 125 (auto) (Tourer)

CO₂:                 138g/km (man) 159 (auto) (saloon), 143g/km (man) 164 (auto) (Tourer)

 

The i-DTEC engine uses a combination of the latest injection technology, an efficient exhaust gas recirculation and a diesel particulate filter to create a diesel engine that’s quiet, clean and smooth. The engine is available with 5-speed automatic transmission and a 6-speed manual transmission.

 

The i-DTEC delivers 150PS at 4,000 rpm, and peak torque is 350 Nm at 2,000 rpm. Together both power and torque provide smooth acceleration, with the diesel cracking 0-62 mph in 9.7 seconds (Saloon ES grade) and a top speed of 131mph (saloon) and 128mph (Tourer).

 

Fuel consumption levels have also been improved by reducing internal frictional losses, with the diesel now recording 53.3mpg (saloon), making it well suited to the mile-munching regime of many corporate cars. Another result of this improvement is a 9 g/km drop in CO₂ emissions for the saloon to achieve a sub-140 g/km CO₂ figure (6-speed manual) and an 11 g/km reduction for the automatic variant.

 

Crucially for the corporate market, the improvements to the 2.2 i-DTEC mean the diesel engine in both manual and automatic guise fit in neatly below the all-important 160g/km Write Down Allowance threshold.

 

Euro 5 compliance – NOx and Particulates

We all know that diesel engines emit lower levels of CO₂ than petrol engines, but they generally emit much higher levels of NOx (oxides of nitrogen) and particulates. High levels of these emissions can contribute to poor local air quality (NOx) and contribute to human ill-health (particulates).

 

The challenge for engineers was to create an engine that emits low levels of CO₂, NOx and particulates. That’s what Honda is striving to achieve.

 

Euro 5 legislation limits the amount of NOx and particulates that can be emitted from vehicles. The i-DTEC engine – like all Accord engines at launch – was one of the first Euro 5 compliant engines to the market, delivering dramatic reductions in NOx and particulates.

 

i-DTEC - NOx and Particulates improvement:

	NOx	Particulates
Original Accord 2.2 i-CTDI Sport GT (manual)	175mg/km	14.5mg/km
2008 Accord 2.2 i-DTEC ES GT (manual)	146mg/km	2.4mg/km
2012 Accord 2.2 i-DTEC ES GT  (manual)	141.5mg/km	1.10mg/km
Euro 5 Limits	180mg/km	5mg/km

 

Refined Power – Accord Type S

Key features:

Capacity:          2199cc, N22B1, Common rail i-DTEC

Power:              180PS @4000rpm

Torque:             380Nm @2000-2750rpm

Max speed:       134mph (Tourer) 136mph (Saloon)

CO₂:                 150g/km (Tourer) 147g/km (Saloon)

 

The higher-powered, sportier Accord Type S was first unveiled at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show in March 09 and went on sale in June 09.

 

This more powerful variant of Honda’s D-sector model uses the acclaimed 2.2-litre i-DTEC diesel engine, but thanks to a revised turbo-charger, cylinder head and larger intercooler, produces 180PS at 4000rpm, a 30PS increase on the standard model with the peak power coming at the same rpm. Torque has also increased 30Nm to 380Nm at 2000rpm.

 

i-DTEC in detail

The i-DTEC is a diesel engine from Honda that builds and improves on the performance, fuel economy and emission efficiency of the award-winning i-CTDi diesel engine. Like its predecessor, the refined i-DTEC engine is compact, lightweight, smooth and quiet.

 

The i-DTEC engine is all-aluminium, transversely mounted, with 4-cylinders, DOHC, four valves per cylinder, a variable nozzle turbocharger and a second order balancer shaft.

 

However, the big difference is that the engine has been turned 180 degrees in the engine bay. This has allowed for the fitment of an integrated diesel particulate filter and catalytic converter.

 

Diesel particulate filter

The exhaust arrangement dispenses with the underfloor catalytic converter and places the diesel particulate filter (DPF) in a close coupled position on the side of the engine. This location reduces the fall-off in exhaust gas temperature, and means the DPF reaches working temperature more quickly, both of which improve DPF regeneration.

 

Contributing to a reduction in NOx levels is an improvement in Exhaust Gas Recirculation efficiency, with finer valve control and a water cooling system that can now be bypassed when required – to feed higher temperature gasses to the DPF, which aids regeneration.

 

A continuously variable swirl control valve, located in the intake manifold, provides fine control of the swirl ratio, to give the ideal combustion environment within the cylinders at all times. This helps to reduce noise levels (through reduced knocking) and produce smoother performance.

 

Piezo-injectors and multi-stage injections

One of the key developments on the i-DTEC engine is the installation of Piezo-injectors. The traditional injector system used on the i-CTDi – a 1600 bar common rail system using solenoid injectors - has been swapped for an 1800 bar one using Piezo-injectors, able to provide more precise, multi-stage injections.

 

In the i-DTEC system there are up to five fuel injections per phase, giving more precise fuel delivery, reducing noise and improving fuel consumption.

 

1. A pilot injection in the low to medium engine speed range
2. A pre-injection in high load and low engine speed conditions
3. The main injection – under all conditions and in isolation at high load/high speed
4. An after-injection at low loads and in the middle engine speed range for cleaner emissions
5. A post injection at low load designed to improve the CAT purification rate and allow regeneration of the particulate filter.

 

The fuel injection system interacts with a variable nozzle turbocharger to ensure optimum intake pressure is created. This allows higher pressures at lower speeds, as well as better fuel economy and reduced emissions through lean burn combustion.

 

It’s this constant ability to make adjustments to the combustion characteristics across all driving conditions that helps achieve improved performance while still meeting the increasingly stringent emissions requirements.

 

Petrol Engines

Honda’s advanced Euro V compliant 2.0-litre and 2.4-litre i-VTEC petrol engines have benefited from a reduction in CO₂ emissions thanks to a host of aerodynamic revisions to the car. CO₂ emissions have dropped from 170g/km to 159g/km for the 2.0 i-VTEC and from 209g/km to 199g/km for the 2.4 i-VTEC (Saloon, manual versions).

 

2.0-litre and 2.4-litre petrol i-VTEC

Key features:

                                    2.0-litre                                     2.4-litre

Capacity:                      1997cc                                      2354cc

Power:                          156PS  @ 6,300rpm                  201PS  @ 7,000rpm

Torque:                         192Nm @ 41,000-5000rpm         234Nm @ 4,300-4400rpm

CO₂: (saloon)                159g/km (Man)                          199g/km (Man)

168g/km (Auto)                         195g/km (Auto)

(Tourer)                         163g/km (Man)                          201g/km (Man)

170g/km (Auto)                         199g/km (Auto)

                       

The two petrol engines offer a combination of impressive performance and fuel economy to meet customer demand. Both are available with 5-speed automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual transmission.

 

The 2.0-litre engine’s class leading fuel economy offers combined fuel consumption of 40.9mpg (saloon) and 40.4mpg (Tourer). Fitted with automatic transmission, the 2.0-litre engine uses 38.7mpg (saloon) and 38.7mpg (Tourer).

 

Power output remains at 156 PS at 6,300 rpm, along with peak torque at 192 Nm at 4,100-5000rpm.

Comparatively, the 2.4-litre engine delivers a significant 201 PS at 7,000rpm and peak torque of 234Nm at 4,300-4,400rpm (manual transmission).

 

Getting technical

Both petrol engines use Honda’s long-established VTEC system which is able to adjust the lift and opening duration of the valves. The system is complemented by Variable Timing Control (VTC) which takes into consideration engine load, controlling the phasing of the inlet camshaft. These work together to produce a remarkably broad and smooth power band with exceptional torque and horsepower.

 

Based on input from a position sensor located at the rear end of the inlet camshaft, the engine’s ECU varies the inlet camshaft position relative to that of the exhaust camshaft. In this way it can advance and retard the opening of the inlet valves.

 

During acceleration, VTC is set at a relatively small degree of valve overlap which provides the best output, the valve opening angle using the inertia of the intake air. In addition, as engine speed builds, the VTEC mechanism switches from the low speed cam to the high speed cam, but with the same degree of overlap.

 

At high engine speeds, there is much greater overlap which reduces pumping losses, maximises exhaust gas recirculation, and provides the best balance between fuel consumption and output.

 

Finally, at idle and low engine speeds during light load conditions, inlet valve opening is retarded for minimal overlap, generating strong swirl and therefore stable combustion. 

 

Transmissions

All three engines engines are available with a 6-speed manual and 5-speed automatic transmission (6-speed manual is the only gearbox available on Type S models).

 

The six-speed gearbox gives optimised gear ratios and flexibility, excellent cruising characteristics and economy. Gear changes are characterised by short, quick, low effort shifting, helped by multi-cone synchronisers on first and second gears for lighter, more fluid gear change.

 

A ‘Shift Indicator Light’ (or SIL), which appears in the centre of the rev counter, is included on manual transmission Accords. ‘UP’ or ‘DOWN’ is displayed to advise the driver of the optimum point at which to change gear, ultimately improving fuel efficiency. Honda’s testing has found following SIL commands achieved a fuel saving of five per cent!

 

5-speed automatic

The option of the 5-speed automatic transmission on both petrol and diesel engines will appeal to a broad range of customers, particularly in the corporate market, where user choosers munching motorway miles will often only consider an automatic. The automatic gearbox in the revised Accord has benefitted from minimised frictional losses in the gearbox and optimised ratios to improve economy and emissions.

 

The gearbox features a wide spread of ratios to maximise ‘off-the-line’ acceleration and provide fuel-efficient cruising.

 

Its operation is simple and logical in order to fully exploit its capabilities. Instead of two interlinked gates – one for conventional operation in auto and a parallel gate for sequential shifting – the design is a simple ‘P R N D S’ gate. Slot the gear lever into Drive and the Accord will provide conventional automatic changing; if a more urgent response is required, then you can simply change down a gear using the steering wheel paddles, and once the car is identified as returning to cruising mode, the system reverts back to automatic operation.

 

Alternatively, move the shift lever to S mode for sportier change points and added engine braking effect. Using the steering wheel paddles in S mode provides a sequential shift mode, allowing manual shifting and gear hold. To heighten control and driver involvement, the shift logic in manual mode delivers quicker, firmer shifts than in fully automatic mode.

 

To help protect the engine and drivetrain from damage, an array of preventative features are active when the transmission is in manual mode. In second, third and fourth, the logic changes, and the transmission ECU cuts off fuel flow to the engine if there is a possibility of over revving.

 

In the rare situation where the fuel cut-off alone is unable to prevent engine over revving (as could happen on a steep downhill) the transmission will change up to prevent engine damage. And finally, when changing down, the transmission won't execute a driver-commanded downshift that would send the engine beyond the redline in the lower gear.

 

The system will also automatically select first gear as the Accord comes to a stop, to prevent pulling away in a high gear.

 

The automatic gearbox has a kick-down ‘click’ system. Instead of a vague stab of the pedal to initiate the kick-down mechanism, the driver is given a clear indication of the point in the accelerator pedal’s travel at which the gear change will operate – once a ‘click’ is sensed, a further slight movement of the foot will initiate the down change.

 

A graphic of the shift lever position is provided in the centre of the rev counter dial for added convenience.

 

Grade Logic Control

When in automatic mode, the transmission includes an advanced Grade Logic Control System and Shift Hold Control, both of which help reduce gear 'hunting' and unnecessary gear changes.

 

Grade Logic Control alters the shift schedule when travelling uphill or downhill, reducing shift frequency, and improving speed control. Throttle position, vehicle speed and acceleration/deceleration are continuously measured, then compared with a map stored in the transmission computer. The Grade Logic Control System determines when the car is on a hill; if this is the case, the shift schedule is adjusted to automatically hold the transmission in a lower gear for better climbing power or increased downhill engine braking.

 

Shift Hold Control keeps the transmission in its current (lower) ratio when the throttle is quickly released and the brakes are applied (like when decelerating to enter a corner). Shift Hold Control leaves the chassis undisturbed by excess shifting during spirited driving, ensuring that abundant power is immediately available without a downshift, maintaining momentum and allowing rapid acceleration out of a corner.

 

The use of low friction clutches for all gears and the super-thin, highly efficient torque converter in the 5-speed automatic transmission contributes to the Accord’s excellent fuel economy.

 

 

SECTOR-LEADING SAFETY TECHNOLOGY

 

The Accord features a whole suite of advanced safety technology which places it firmly at the forefront of the category. New additions to the range include Active Cornering Lights and High-Beam Support System.

 

Active Cornering Lights

One of the most visible changes to the top of the range Accords is the addition of Active Cornering Lights, which provide enhanced illumination when the vehicle is turning. Additional lights units have been subtly integrated into the existing lights units, casting all of their light to the side of the vehicle to help the driver in low visibility conditions. The light unit on the relevant side will be illuminated when the driver activates the indicators in that direction or turns the steering wheel more than 90 degrees. When the vehicle is in reverse, both lights will be activated to give a good view to either side of the driver.

 

High Beam Support System

Another new lighting technology for Honda is the High Beam Support system, which is fitted on vehicles with the Bi-HID headlights. The camera detects oncoming headlights or the taillights of a vehicle in front and automatically dips the headlights onto their normal setting if they are on high-beam. This allows the driver to fully concentrate on the road conditions, without having to manually control the high-beam setting.

 

Bi-HID headlights together with the High Beam Support System and Active Cornering Lights are standard on Type S models and included with the ADAS option on EX grades.

 

ADAS

Honda’s Advanced Driver Assist System (ADAS) – which is available as an option on the EX and Type S grades – comprises three separate technologies: Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). Bi-HID headlights are also available as part of the ADAS option.

 

Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)

One of the most common causes of accidents is the delay between the driver acknowledging an oncoming accident and the taking of evasive action.

 

As a result, Honda has concentrated on pre-crash developments like CMBS, which improve the car’s response to critical situations. CMBS is particularly effective at minimising rear-end impacts.

 

A millimetre-wave radar sensor in the Accord’s front grille recognises a collision is imminent. CMBS reacts in three ways; the driver is given an audio warning and a visual brake warning. If no action is taken the alarm is given again and an E-pre-tensioner lightly tugs at the driver’s seatbelt as light braking is applied. If still no action is taken and the system decides that a collision is unavoidable, strong braking is applied along with strong seatbelt retraction.

 

CMBS will not bring the car to a complete stop, but it will aid the driver to avoid a collision, or lessen the severity if an accident does occur. As with all Honda driving aids, the driver remains in control at all times.

 

CMBS has also been officially recognised as one of the best safety innovations, offering proven benefits, by Euro NCAP and was presented with one of the first Euro NCAP Advanced awards at the Paris Motor Show in 2010.

 

Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)

Fatigue and distraction are serious issues for drivers, particularly those pounding the motorways for long periods of time, which is why Honda originally developed the Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS).

 

LKAS uses images from a camera mounted inside the upper front windscreen to recognise which lane the car is travelling in.  If the car begins to cross the lane markings without driver input on the steering or indicators, it calculates the optimum steering torque to keep the car in the centre of the lane.

 

A continuous warning beep is emitted when the car is about to cross the marking, and if no response is taken the system self-steers using Electric Power Steering (EPS) to maintain the correct course.

 

LKAS operates within a speed range of 45-112mph.

1. If the LKAS system detects the car is straying or changing lanes without driver input, it will give a visible warning on screen and then steer the vehicle back into position by applying up to 80 per cent torque to the steering
2. The system doesn’t intervene if you use the indicators or if you make a positive steering movement
3. Never be tempted to take your hands off the wheel – LKAS detects this after a few seconds and switches itself off…it’s not there to replace the driver completely.
4. Pressing the LKAS button turns the system off

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

Using the same millimetre-wave radar as CMBS, mounted in the grille, ACC measures the time (thus distance) to the vehicle ahead, while vehicle speed and yaw rate sensors detect the vehicle’s driving parameters.

 

ACC can maintain a set speed like a conventional cruise control, but in addition it can also automatically control vehicle speed and distance relative to the car in front, travelling in the same lane.

When the distance to the car in front falls below a predetermined value (set by the driver), the system instantly decelerates the car through throttle control and if necessary by braking (with a force of up to 0.25 g).

 

In instances where quicker deceleration is required e.g. sudden braking by the car in front or being cut up, the system will alert the driver with a warning light and a buzzer, prompting them to apply the brakes. If the car in front changes lane or increases speed again, then the system will increase the speed back to the predetermined value. ACC operates at speeds between 20-112 mph and providing the M ‘main’ switch is activated.

 

Safety in detail

The Accord, as well as most other current Honda models, features an Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) Body Structure, designed to enhance passenger safety in the event of a collision between multiple vehicles. ACE disperses and absorbs collision forces over a larger frontal area, and prevents misalignments with another vehicle’s safety structures helping to reduce damage to that car as well.

 

The Accord incorporates many of the pedestrian-protection design features already familiar from recent Honda models. Research shows that features such as ACE dramatically improve a pedestrian's chance of survival if struck by a moving vehicle. Items include:

 

• windscreen wiper pivots designed to break away
• a new collapsible boxed frame structure beneath the base of the windscreen which provides impact energy absorption
• energy absorbing front wing mounts which help lessen injuries
• the bending structure of the bonnet hinges which help mitigate injuries
• a bonnet frame designed to bend and deform
• an unobstructed area beneath the bonnet allowing greater space for deformation

The Accord is equipped with front seat active headrests which reduce the likelihood of neck injury in rear impacts. As the occupant is pushed against the seat back, a rigid plate in the seat presses a link to the headrest pushing it up and forward to support the head.

 

All models feature front seatbelt pre-tensioners and load limiters, dual stage front airbags, driver and front passenger side airbags, full length curtain airbags and ISOFIX fittings and tether anchor points for child seats.

 

The side airbags now have a dual chamber designed to offer optimum protection for the pelvis and the torso. As offset frontal impacts can lead to a rebound where there are strong lateral forces, the curtain airbags are now deployed to protect occupants’ upper bodies in such situations.

 

The front passenger seat airbags can be deactivated when using a childseat and the airbag status is displayed in the information display in the centre console.