Built on the same wheelbase, the new Accord is 89 mm (3.5 inch) longer than before and 44 mm (1.7 inches) narrower than previously. The 1.5L turbo four returns for the new-generation car car but the previous 2L range-topper engine is nowhere in sight. While a hybrid Accord was previously available in a sporadic fashion, it looks like Honda is making a greater push for the model this time, with hybrid volume expected to be 50 percent of total Accord sales. At a time when Toyota is unable to supply Camry hybrids to eager customers in a time-frame that buyers can wrap their heads around, Honda has a chance to make good sales gains if they can actually build and deliver hybrids to customers. The 2L, normally-aspirated four combines with the electric motors to create 204 total system horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. Honda make a point of saying that refinement, disappointing in the previous-generation Accord hybrid, has been improved. There is no mention yet of the 2L turbo four that was offered in the previous-generation Accord. The Honda Sensing safety suite has been enhanced with wider radar and camera angles that can detect more obstacles over a wider field than before. The blind spot detection system has also been enhanced, Traffic Jam Assist system has been added and adaptive cruise control now includes low-speed follow and traffic sign recognition.u003c/pu003e

With a full active safety suite, alloy wheels, a power driver’s seat and L.E.D headlamps, the base se EX trim, the only Accord offered with a conventional power train, is nicely equipped. Moving up the Sport Hybrid includes signals in the door mirrors, a trunk spoiler, alloy pedals, the Alexa audio concierge, a heated steering wheel and a wireless iOS-Android cellphone interface, putting the cost of the hybrid powertrain at about $3000. The Touring Hybrid range topper is equipped with an acoustic windshield, an auto dim rearview mirror, a head up display system, wireless cellphone charging, ventilated front seats, leather seating, navigation and a Bose-branded audio system, and is excellent value. In early 2023, delivery times for the new Accord are stated to be around three months, with the hybrid taking an extra month. If Honda can keep to that schedule, they could make good inroads in the segment this year from frustrated Toyota Camry intenders who are fed up with the ‘whenever’ delivery schedule offered by Toyota.

Above average reliability has been a feature of previous Accords. However, reports of engine turbo wastegate failures on Honda’s 1.5L turbo is a concern. Waranty coverage on the turbo and intercooler ends at three years/60,000 kilometres. Honda seems to have addressed the intitial issues with poor running and no heat in cold conditions on 1.5L turbo in a satisfactory fashion. Short warranty (no covered by the powertrain warranty) on the turbo and intercooler and some reports of turbo wastegate failures.