Go back 30 years and the Honda Accord was a very popular model on the
Australian market – it first arrived here in 1977 and was a very popular upmarket
sedan. Of course, SUVs have since taken over the world and in recent years
Accord sales slowed to a trickle. However, the 11 th generation Accord sedan has
arrived – the Accord e-HEV RS – just one hybrid variant at a national $64,900
drive-away price. A much more technically advanced sedan to the previous model
that finished here last year – the hybrid sitting on the same wheelbase but now
75mm longer overall, 2mm wider and 1mm lower. The fourth generation Honda
hybrid system in the Accord is interesting – a front wheel driver with a 2.0-litre
naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine mated to two electric motors
mounted side by side – the combined output 152kW. The electric motors do most
of the work, the internal combustion engine charging the battery almost
constantly although when the going gets a little tough the petrol motor can also
power the front wheels. Built in Thailand this new Accord is roomy with leather
seats, well equipped and nicely finished as a premium sedan but misses out on
some touches like an electric boot release. Drive details next segment. I’m David
Berthon

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.