SUMMARY
- All-new saloon and Tourer offer premium
sector qualities;
- More dynamic, sporty styling;
- Refined interior with carefully selected
materials and outstanding fit and
finish;
- All engines Euro 5 emissions compliant;
- The debut of the 2.2-litre i-DTEC engine
- the second stage in Honda's diesel
development programme;
- Further refined petrol engines;
- 6-speed manual transmission or (on
petrol engines) a 5-speed automatic
transmission with steering wheel paddles
for manual changing;
- Double wishbone front and multi-link
rear suspensions, wider track and lower
centre of gravity for improved handling
characteristics;
- VSA now complemented by Motion Adaptive
EPS for even greater security in
slippery conditions;
- LKAS, ACC and CMBS safety systems
optionally available;
- World debut at the 2008 Geneva Motor
Show; sales commence early summer
Aimed squarely at challenging
established premium contenders in the D-segment,
Honda's all-new Accord saloon and Tourer offer
sporty styling, greater refinement and a unique
package of safety systems, together with
excellent dynamic capabilities and strong
environmental credentials in the form of an
all-Euro 5-emissions compliant engine line-up.
Significantly wider and
slightly lower, the styling adopts a more
emotional, sporty motif. The ‘sharp-edged'
design, with pronounced muscular wheelarches
that emphasise the car's wider track, gives the
Accord a distinctive, strong stance with a
solid, planted feel. The distinctive nose and
more flowing lines deliver a tauter, more
athletic shape.
The evolution from the
previous generation Accord is even more
pronounced in the case of the Tourer, where a
greater emphasis on load carrying practicality
has evolved into a more dynamic expression of
its advanced technology, while still retaining a
strong degree of versatility and practicality.
Three advanced new
engines with some of the lowest emissions in
their segment
The new range is one of the
first to offer a complete engine line-up that
will comply with the forthcoming Euro 5
emissions regulations which aren't due to be
introduced until September 2009. These
exceptional environmental credentials haven't
been achieved at the cost of driving enjoyment,
however, and greater frugality is matched by
greater performance and flexibility.
Making its debut is Honda's
second-generation diesel engine which builds on
the outstanding qualities of the award-winning
i-CTDi unit to raise the bar in the diesel
stakes once again. Its advanced technology and
overall capabilities place it firmly at the
forefront of diesel development and underpins
the Accord's claim to offer one of the strongest
combinations of dynamic performance and
environmental responsibility in the marketplace.
Like its predecessor, the new
i-DTEC engine is compact, lightweight, refined
and quiet in operation. It employs the latest
piezoelectric multi-stage fuel injection
technology, more efficient exhaust gas
recirculation and a particulate filter for
significantly reduced emissions. At the same
time both power and torque levels have been
increased for a sportier driving experience.
Output is 10 PS greater at 150
PS/110 kW at the same 4,000 rpm, while peak
torque is now 350 Nm at 2,000 rpm. Improved
engine flexibility is reflected in a 9.6 second
0-100 km/h time, yet combined fuel consumption,
is only 5.6 l/100km. Equally, CO2 emissions are
just 148 g/km.
The 2.0-litre i-VTEC offers
similar levels of performance to its predecessor
- 156 PS at 6,300 rpm - but builds on its class
leading fuel economy. Combined cycle consumption
is now 7.2 l/100 km compared to the 7.7 l/100 km
of the previous Accord saloon.
Key technological changes
include increased diameter intake valves,
further optimised valve lift and timing and
increased inlet and exhaust air flow volumes.
The 2.4-litre engine is more
powerful, delivering 201 PS at 7,000 rpm and
peak torque of 234 Nm at 4,500 rpm - up from 190
PS and 223 Nm. Its effortless performance is all
the more remarkable given the improved fuel
economy - now 8.8 l/100km.
Behind the figures are a
compression ratio increased from 10.5 to 11.0:1,
larger diameter valves, revised valve timing,
and reduced exhaust system pressures.
6-speed manual/5-speed
automatic
All three engines are matched
to a 6-speed manual transmission, while both
petrol engines have the option of a 5-speed
automatic.
Manual models feature a ‘Shift
Indicator Light' or SIL which appears in the
centre of the rev counter. ‘UP' or ‘DOWN' are
displayed to advise the driver of the optimum
point at which to change gear; Honda tests have
demonstrated fuel savings of as much as 5 per
cent simply by following these commands.
The 5-speed automatic
transmission now has a straight ‘P R N D S'
gate: using the steering wheel paddles in S mode
provides a sequential shift mode, allowing
manual shifting and gear hold.
Agile, secure handling
Enthusiastic drivers will also
appreciate the new Accord's greater agility. A
lowered centre of gravity, a wider track and the
all-new front double wishbone and rear multilink
suspension with variable rate dampers, plus
greater body rigidity mean that the Accord more
readily reacts to driver input. Handling is more
responsive and confidence-inspiring and body
roll is much reduced.
Speed sensitive electric power
steering is standard on all models and the new
axial system features a high output, low inertia
brushless motor which provides excellent
steering feel at higher speeds for a sense of
stability and confidence. A quicker steering
ratio has also been adopted in keeping with the
Accord's more agile chassis characteristics.
A comprehensive safety
package
Complementing an armoury of
passive safety features is an outstanding array
of dynamic systems delivering even greater
security.. VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist) is
standard across the range and is designed to
assist the driver in maintaining control during
cornering, acceleration and sudden manoeuvres by
applying braking to the right or left hand
wheels as necessary and modulating the engine
torque output as required.
Motion Adaptive EPS
The new Accord also features
an innovative system in which the capabilities
of both VSA and the car's Electric Power
Steering are brought to bear. Called Motion
Adaptive EPS, it 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.
The input is barely noticeable
and control of the steering remains with the
driver at all times. But this supporting
steering torque is enough to prompt the driver
to act intuitively and the driver's reaction as
a result is enough to regain stability or to
shorten braking distances, allowing control to
be maintained.
ADAS optional across
the range
Optionally available on
Executive grade on 2.2 i-DTEC and 2.4 i-VTEC is
Honda's Advanced Driving Assist System (ADAS), a
suite of three ground-breaking technologies that
raise safety to a new level. The first of these
is the Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) which
uses a camera to detect the car deviating from a
traffic lane and provides steering torque when
necessary, thereby reducing the burden of
motorway driving while at the same time
enhancing safety.
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
uses a millimetre-wave radar to maintain a
consistent distance to a vehicle directly in
front, for more relaxed, less tiring driving:
and Collision Mitigation Brake System (CMBS)
monitors the following distance and closing rate
between the Accord and the car directly in front
of it, warning the driver when a collision is
likely and helping reduce impact when a
collision becomes unavoidable.
These systems complement the
Accord's passive safety features which include
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 secure childseat fixture on all
models. There are also front seat active
headrests which are triggered when the occupant
is pushed into the seat in the event of a rear
impact, so causing a rigid plate to activate a
link to the headrest which pushes it forward to
support the head.
Advanced Compatibility
Engineering (ACE) Body Structure
Progressively introduced
throughout the Honda range, the Accord's
Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) Body
Structure provides significantly enhanced
occupant protection in a variety of real-world
crash conditions.
A front-mounted polygonal main
frame is designed to prevent cabin deformation
by distributing forces through multiple major
load bearing pathways - and away from the
passenger compartment. This is particularly
important where a frontal collision occurs
between vehicles of differing heights, weights
or frame construction.
To achieve top level, side
impact safety, Honda's engineers have increased
the side section of the frame and chosen
different material specifications to provide the
desired level of stiffness and strength for
critical areas, without adding unnecessary
weight.
The new Accord also
incorporates many of the pedestrian-protection
design features already familiar from recent
Honda models, including windscreen wiper pivots
designed to break away on impact, energy
absorbing front wing mounts and bonnet hinges
alongside an unobstructed area beneath the
bonnet allowing greater space for deformation.
Premium interior with
carefully selected materials and outstanding fit
and finish
The sporty feel of the cockpit
is reflected in a fascia design characterised by
a strong feeling of personal space for both the
driver and front passenger. Distinctive silver
trim sweeps inwards across the fascia from
either side before continuing down into the
centre console. Stylish and highly supportive
front seats have larger bolsters while a new
internal structure is designed to reduce any
transmission of vibration.
Black with silver trim, the
sporty three spoke steering wheel holds a
complete suite of controls - including audio ,
cruise control and mobile telephone control. It
is fully adjustable for reach and rake, with an
extra 10 degrees of tilt adjustment compared to
the previous Accord.
The new Accord features
‘floating' backlit instruments and contained
within the centre of the speedometer face is an
LCD multi-information display showing a variety
of information - controls positioned on the
steering wheel allow the driver to cycle the
display through multiple screens of information.
A new feature is a service
reminder that presents the driver with either
the distance or days remaining to a required
service, with an enlarged warning symbol
appearing when the due date is imminent.
Storage space includes two
centre console side pockets; a lidded storage
area to side of the steering wheel; large front
door pockets able to hold bottles and maps;
bottle holders in the rear door panels, and a
large centre console box. Rather than a
fold-down pocket design, the large glovebox now
has an independent lid and is subdivided with a
tissue box compartment as well as space secured
for a manual. The lid of the centre console box
doubles up as an armrest and is slide-adjustable
by 89 mm. Two cupholders are provided in the
centre console, while rear seat passengers have
access to a further two contained in the centre
armrest, revealed when it is folded down.
Comprehensive
equipment availability
The Accord's comprehensive
specification includes power windows all round,
those in the front with auto up and down and an
obstruction detection device; auto lights and
wipers on Sport and Executive models; dual-zone
automatic climate control and, on higher grade
models, rear seat vents with a feed to the
centre console storage box to enable drinks to
be cooled or warmed..
Entry level Accords are
equipped with a radio/single CD player with
built-in 30W 4 channel amp and six speakers.
Higher grade models have a premium audio system
with 6 CD changer unit located in the centre
console, a separate high power amp delivering
45W x 8 channels and no fewer than 10 speakers.
Fifth generation and later
iPods can now be played via the USB docking
point located in the centre console storage box,
where an auxiliary jack point and power outlet
can also be found.
The advanced satellite
navigation system - standard on Executive grade
and optional on other models - now boasts an
8-inch screen, RDS, voice recognition in five
languages (English, French, German, Italian and
Spanish) and covers most European countries
including for the first time Poland, Slovakia,
Hungary and the Czech Republic.
Load Capacity
At 467 litres (VDA), the
saloon's luggage capacity is best in class
measured against other premium contenders. The
boot loading height is also a convenient 678 mm,
down 80 mm. Further practicality is provided by
highly visible and easily reached rear seat
release catches located just within the upper
edge of the boot opening.
Despite its dynamic styling,
the Tourer's luggage capacity at 406 litres
(VDA) with all seats in place, is one of the
best in the sport wagon category. In practical
terms, that is sufficient to comfortably
accomodate four 46 inch golf bags or four large
suitcases. Larger loads can be carried with the
rear seats folded, and in this configuration the
Tourer is able to transport a mountain bike,
without the need to remove the bike's wheels
first. .
To open up the Tourer's
luggage area, the one-motion rear seats can be
readily collapsed in a single action to create a
virtually flat load space with flush, clean
sides.
Set within the rear half of
the load area is an underfloor storage space
which is a useful 250 mm deep and adds 53 litres
to the Accord Tourer's overall load space. On
either side are two smaller compartments
accessed by means of their own covers.
The highly practical,
retractable tonneau cover features a large,
easy-to-grip handle, and large guides on either
side of the luggage area into which it can be
quickly and easily slotted.
Like its predecessor, the new
Accord Tourer is available with a power operated
tailgate, operation is via the key fob or via a
switch located in the tailgate's lower edge.
DETAILS
SAFETY SYSTEMS
- Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE)
Body Structure disperses collision
forces over a larger frontal area;
- Optional Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC),
Collision Mitigation Brake System (CMBS)
and Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS);
- Standard driver and front passenger
airbags, side airbags and full-length
curtain airbags; ISOFIX anchors and
tethers;
Safety
The new Accord is equipped
either as standard, or optionally, with a
comprehensive array of the latest active
(accident avoidance) and passive (crash safety
performance) safety technologies to place it at
the forefront of its class. Features like
Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with traction
control, heightened handling agility, the new
Motion Adaptive EPS and ABS enhance the new
model's accident avoidance capability. HID xenon
low-beam headlights contribute to superior
night-time visibility.
Perhaps the most notable
element of Accord's safety armoury is Honda's
Advanced Driving Assist System (ADAS), a suite
of three innovative elements available as an
option and for the first time in combination
with all three engines: Lane Keeping Assist
System (LKAS) which assists the car to help the
driver remain in a traffic lane by providing
steering torque when necessary; Adaptive Cruise
Control (ACC) which automatically maintains a
consistent distance to a vehicle directly in
front, for more relaxed, less tiring driving;
and Collision Mitigation Brake System (CMBS)
which monitors the following distance and
closing rate between the Accord and the
car directly in front of it, warning the driver
when a collision is likely and helping reduce
impact when a collision becomes unavoidable.
Should a collision prove
unavoidable, the Advanced Compatibility
Engineering (ACE) Body Structure of the Accord
is designed to provide a protective cocoon for
passengers. Inside, a network of eight airbags
work together with sophisticated restraint
systems to minimise injury.
Adaptive Cruise
Control (ACC)
In addition to maintaining a
set speed, as with a conventional cruise
control, ACC is able to automatically regulate
the distance to a vehicle travelling ahead in
the same lane, thereby reducing the burden of
motorway (or similar road) driving and enhancing
driver comfort and safety.
It uses a millimetre-wave
radar mounted inside the front grille to
recognise the presence and the speed of the
vehicle ahead; the frequency difference between
the transmitted-wave and the reflected-wave
makes it possible to calculate the exact
distance and the relative speed between the
vehicles. When this distance falls below a
predetermined value, the system instantly
decelerates the vehicle through throttle control
and, if necessary, by application of the brakes
(via communication with VSA).
In instances where quicker
deceleration is required, such as sudden braking
by the vehicle in front, the system will alert
the driver with a warning light and a buzzer to
prompt the driver to apply the brakes. If the
vehicle ahead changes lane or the distance
increases again, then the system increases the
vehicle speed to the predetermined value.
ACC operates between 30-180
km/h (or 20-110 mph) and the driver can increase
the Accord's speed via the ACC button on the
steering wheel in 5 km/h (or 2 mph) increments.
The driver can monitor the
status and function of the ACC system by
referring to the specific display in the centre
of the speedometer. This unit will indicate when
a vehicle is detected ahead, when the radar
sensor is out of commission and when there is
insufficient braking capability, as well as the
selected cruise control speed and the selected
distance to the vehicle ahead.
Collision Mitigation
Brake System (CMBS)
The Collision Mitigation Brake
System (CMBS) is a revolutionary safety
technology which takes the ACC technology to the
next, logical stage by predicting collision
situations and reacting accordingly.
When the closing rate between
the Accord and the vehicle in front increases to
a point where a collision is likely to occur,
the system uses visual, and audible warnings to
prompt the driver to take preventative action.
If, based on the driver's response, the system
determines that the likelihood of a collision
has decreased to an acceptable level, the CMBS
system will disengage. If, however, the driver's
response does not sufficiently reduce the risk
of a collision, the system will issue a
secondary warning, consisting of audible, visual
and tactile elements as well as light braking,
to alert the driver to take action. If the
closing rate increases so much that a collision
becomes unavoidable, CMBS can initiate hard
braking to reduce the vehicle's speed, and
E-pretensioner can tension the driver's and
front passenger's seatbelts to help maximize the
restraining ability of the seatbelts.
Stage one:
When there is a risk of a collision with the
vehicle ahead or if the distance between the
vehicles has dropped below the pre-set level, a
buzzer sounds and the word 'BRAKE' appears on
the Multi-information display.
Stage two: If
the distance between the two vehicles continues
to diminish, CMBS applies light braking, and the
driver's E-pretensioner activates an electric
motor which retracts the seatbelt gently two or
three times, providing the driver with a tactile
warning. The buzzer sounds again and the word
'BRAKE' appears again on the Multi-information
display.
Stage three:
If, after issuing the primary and secondary
warnings, the system determines that a collision
is unavoidable, the E-pretensioner retracts the
driver's and front passenger's seatbelts with
enough force to compensate for seatbelt slack or
baggy clothing and activates the brakes
forcefully to reduce the speed of impact and
mitigate the effects of the collision on the
Accord and its occupants.
CMBS functions only when the
Accord is travelling at over 15 km/h and when
the speed differential between it and the car
directly in front is 15 km/h or more. It can be
turned off using a switch located on the side of
the instrument panel.
Lane Keeping Assist
System (LKAS)
LKAS maintains the position of
the car in its lane by providing steering torque
when necessary - significantly reducing driver
fatigue and helping to prevent accidents.
The system identifies the
boundaries of the vehicle's lane by processing
images from a C-MOS camera mounted behind the
windscreen. It then calculates the optimum
steering torque - a combination of human input
(minimum 20 percent) and the assisted steering
torque (maximum 80 percent) - to keep the
vehicle in the centre of the lane. A continuous
beep sound will be emitted when the vehicle is
about to cross the lane marking.
LKAS operates when the
following conditions are fulfilled:
- On roads with left and right lane
boundary markings (where markings are
clear and visible);
- On motorways or roads that are
equivalent to motorways (excluding sharp
curves/bends);
- At vehicle speeds between 72 and 180
km/h (45 and 112 mph);
- Driver has to keep contact with the
steering wheel - if the system fails to
recognise the driver's input on the
steering, it switches itself off;
- Side indicators are not activated;
- Steering torque generated by the driver
does not indicate imminent lane change
manoeuvre;
- Only operates on bends that have a less
than 230 metre radius (at 80 km/h);
Advanced Compatibility
Engineering (ACE) Body Structure
Progressively introduced
throughout the Honda range, the Advanced
Compatibility Engineering (ACE) Body Structure
is designed to deliver significantly enhanced
occupant protection in a variety of real-world
crash conditions. These may include a frontal
collision between vehicles of differing heights,
weights and frame construction.
The ACE Body Structure has
been developed after extensive research by
engineers, at the vehicle to vehicle crash
testing facility at Honda's Tochigi R&D base. A
number of different vehicles were used during
the testing in a selection of realistic
scenarios to ensure good real-world crash
performance.
The ACE Body Structure uses
the engine compartment to efficiently absorb and
disperse collision energy during a
vehicle-to-vehicle collision. It features a new
frame structure composed of a highly efficient
energy-absorbing main frame, a bulkhead (upper
frame) which absorbs the upper part of the
collision energy, and a lower member that helps
prevent misalignment of the frames of the
vehicles involved. This design disperses
collision forces over a larger frontal area,
which enhances energy absorption of the engine
compartment, reduces the chance of deformation
of the passenger compartment and results in
enhanced occupant protection. At the same time,
the structure reduces the chance of vertical or
lateral misalignment between the Accord and
another vehicle's safety structures.
During a frontal collision, a
conventional body structure generally
concentrates the loads from the impact through
two pathways running longitudinally through the
lower portion of the frame. The ACE Body
Structure's front-mounted polygonal main frame
is designed to prevent cabin deformation by
distributing forces through multiple major load
bearing pathways - and away from the passenger
compartment.
To achieve top -level
side-impact safety, Honda's engineers have
increased the side section of the frame and
chosen different material specifications to
provide the desired level of stiffness and
strength for critical areas, without adding
unnecessary weight.
The new Accord incorporates
many of the pedestrian-protection design
features already familiar from recent Honda
models. Research shows that features such as
these 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 mitigate injuries;
- the bending structure of the bonnet
hinges which help mitigate injuries;
- a bonnet frame which is designed to bend
and deform;
- an unobstructed area beneath the bonnet
allowing greater space for deformation;
The new 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
secure childseat fixture. The side airbags now
have a dual chamber structure designed to
deliver optimum protection for both the pelvis
and the torso.
Since offset frontal impacts
can lead to a rebound in which there are strong
lateral forces, the curtain airbags are now
deployed in such situations to protect
occupants' upper bodies.
The front passenger seat
airbags can be deactivated when using a
childseat and the airbag status is displayed
electronically in the information display in the
centre console.
BODY
- Sharp-edged', dynamic styling - Tourer's
design moves away from emphasis on load
carrying practicality;
- High tensile steel contributes to
excellent body rigidity;
- Underbody airflow management optimised;
The new Accord adopts a more
emotional, more sporty styling motif compared to
the previous model. The new sharp-edged design
gives it a distinctive, strong character with a
solid, planted feel. The significantly wider,
lower - and in the case of the saloon - longer
proportions, distinctive nose and more flowing
lines deliver a tauter, more athletic shape.
The frontal styling is
dominated by the strong shield-like grille which
now features three horizontal chrome bars and a
chrome surround. Its lines sweep back into the
front light cluster, while beneath it, the upper
edge of the bumper runs back, arrow-like into
the front wheelarches.
The deep front bumper features
three openings in its lower edge, a long central
one flanked by smaller elements which house the
front fog lamps, where fitted.
Visually strong elements of
the design are the pronounced wheelarches, their
surrounds ‘squared' off and muscular and
emphasising the car's wider track and greater
sportiness. Scallops in the lower door panels
and in the front and rear bumpers provide a
strong contrast to the wheelarch surrounds. The
beltline now runs through more sculptured door
handles and terminates in a shorter rear deck
and a rear taillight treatment, which is similar
in concept and shape to the front light
clusters.
The evolution from the
previous generation Accord is even more
pronounced in the case of the Tourer, where the
emphasis on load carrying practicality has
evolved into a more dynamic expression of its
sportiness and advanced technology, while still
retaining a strong degree of versatility and
practicality. Its smarter, sleeker proportions
are characterised by a gently sloping rear roof
line and a steadily rising lower window edge,
the tapering profile conveying the Tourer's
performance credentials. The curved tailgate
glass and the sculpted lower panel, with a
pronounced raised profile, add further
distinction at the rear.
The standard roof rails are
finished in silver provide a finishing touch.
Common platform
The Accord's completely new
platform is shared by the saloon and Tourer with
approximately 75 per cent commonality between
the two. They now have an identical 2705 mm
wheelbase, representing an increase of 35 mm for
the saloon, and a reduction of 15 mm for the
Tourer. Both models are 1840 mm wide, up 80 mm,
helping to create a roomier cabin front and
rear. The greater width is also reflected in a
75 mm wider track which is now 1590 mm and a key
element in the Accord's more responsive
handling.
Higher rigidity
In the continuing quest for
greater in cabin refinement and improved
handling for a sportier driving experience, the
new Accord's body shell has been 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, while
specific items include 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. Rear suspension
vertical rigidity is improved by 20 per cent,
while front suspension horizontal rigidity is
increased 35 per cent.
Particular attention has been
paid to the rear structures of saloon and
Tourer. Thus, on the saloon a key component is
formed by the C pillars, the wheel housings and
the floor cross member which form a complete
structural ‘hoop'. A similar arrangement in the
Tourer is created by the tailgate opening, the
frame of the rear side windows and again the
wheel housings. Torsional rigidity in the Tourer
is up by 20 per cent as a result.
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
manufactured from high tensile steel, providing
greater strength without a weight penalty. Ultra
high tensile steel makes up 42 per cent of the
total.
An excellent aerodynamic drag
coefficient pays dividends in the form of lower
wind noise, improved fuel economy and enhanced
stability and Honda's engineers have paid
particular attention to underbody air flow
management to reduce drag and lift in the new
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 are a
front spoiler that reduces front lift, the rear
boot spoiler and a particularly aerodynamic
cabin area.
INTERIOR
- Greater cabin space as a result of
increased body width;
- Interface Dial provides quick, intuitive
access to navigation, audio, climate
control and other features;
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
system;
- Audio system with iPod compatibility;
- Satellite navigation system with voice
recognition and RDS-TMS traffic
information;
- Rear-view parking camera;
- Bluetooth hands-free enabled;
There's an air of quality
throughout the interior of the new Accord, with
soft tactile surfaces, carefully selected trim
materials and plush, supportive seating offering
excellent comfort. Elegant luxury and clean,
efficient design create an environment in tune
with the car's clearly defined sporting
character. And an air of refinement has been
achieved through the careful application of
noise absorbing materials in combination with a
highly rigid body, a floating rear subframe and
variable rate damping.
Material quality, fit and
finish have received exacting attention;
plastics have been chosen for their quality and
feel and production techniques introduced to
ensure the highest standards of finish. This can
be seen with the use of slush moulding for the
fascia, which eliminates mating lines and
creates a pleasant texture. The soft-touch
switchgear is engineered for a positive,
satisfying feel.
Wider, more spacious
cabin
The Accord is now wider by 80
mm and that translates directly into a roomier,
airier cabin which promotes a greater sense of
well-being and comfort; shoulder width is now 65
mm greater, for example.
While the Accord's overall
height has been reduced (the saloon by 5 mm, the
Tourer by 30 mm), at the same time the cabin
floor has been lowered by 10 mm, to give a
sportier driving position.
There are two cabin
treatments: premium black in which all trim
elements are black with the exception of a grey
roof lining, and premium grey, in which grey
trim is complemented by a black upper dash
section. Selective use of metallic finish trim
provides a stylish contrast.
The sporty dynamic of the
cockpit is reflected in a fascia design
characterised by a strong feeling of personal
space for both the driver and front passenger;
distinctive silver trim sweeps inwards across
the fascia from either side before continuing
down into the centre console - at this point its
flying buttress style creates a side pocket for
both front seat occupants.
Soft-finish grab handles on
the front and rear doors flow into padded
armrests and hold the seat memory, door locking
and mirror switches. The inner door handles have
an aluminium finish and all four doors
incorporate courtesy lights in their lower edge.
All four windows are powered, while those in the
front feature auto up and down complete with an
obstruction detection device.
Stylish and highly supportive
front seats have larger bolsters while their new
internal structure is designed to reduce any
transmission of vibration.
Good visibility is ensured by
a field of vision enhanced by the large
windscreen and thinner, stronger A-pillars.
Black with silver trim, the
sporty three spoke steering wheel holds a
complete suite of controls - audio buttons on
the left hand spoke, cruise control on the right
hand spoke and the telephone buttons on the
lower spoke. It is fully adjustable for reach
and rake, with an extra 10 degrees tilt
adjustment compared to the previous Accord.
The indicators have a soft
touch mode: gently touching the appropriate
lever causes that indicator to flash three times
before self-cancelling, which is of particular
use in motorway lane change manoeuvres.
The Accord's ‘floating', LED
backlit instruments have red needles, white
letters and numerals, and a black background
with a subdued blue accent hue provide a
striking but easily legible display. The smaller
temperature gauge on the left and fuel gauge on
the right flank the larger rev counter and
speedometer.
Contained within the centre of
the speedometer face is an LCD multi-information
display showing a variety of information -
controls positioned on the steering wheel allow
the driver to cycle the display through multiple
screens of information including vehicle
mileage, trip mileage, instantaneous and average
fuel economy, range, average speed, elapsed
time, outside temperature, seatbelt status
(including rear seats) and where fitted, ACC,
LKAS and CMBS status.
Shift Indicator Light
Within the centre of the rev
counter on manual models is the new SIL (Shift
Indicator Light) informing the driver of the
best shifting points to maximise economy, while
automatic transmission models feature a display
of the shift gate pattern and the lever
position, including the gear selected when using
the steering wheel paddles for manual changes.
There is for the first time a
service reminder that appears in the centre of
the speedometer - this presents the driver with
either the distance or days remaining to a
required service, with an enlarged warning
symbol appearing when the service due date is
imminent.
Convenient storage
As well as the two centre
console side pockets, storage space in the
Accord includes, a large glovebox, a lidded
storage area to side of the steering wheel,
large front door pockets able to hold bottles
and maps, bottle holders in the rear door
panels, and a large centre console box. Rather
than a fold-down pocket design, the glovebox now
has an independent lid and is subdivided with a
tissue box compartment as well as space for the
manual. The lid of the centre console box
doubles up as an armrest and this is
slide-adjustable by 89 mm. Two cupholders are
provided in the centre console, while rear seat
passengers have access to a further two which
are contained in the centre armrest, revealed
when it is folded down.
The Accord is equipped with a
dual-zone automatic climate control system that
lets the driver and front passenger set
temperature modes to their individual liking.
Information from a solar sensor located on top
of the instrument panel is used to adjust the
temperature and airflow from side-to-side as
needed to compensate for asymmetrical solar
heating.
Upper-grade models also
feature adjustable rear vents to the rear of the
centre console to provide rear seat passengers
with their own dedicated outlets for the air
conditioning. A duct is taken from this to feed
air into the centre console storage, thereby
warming or cooling drinks; a valve is provided
enabling this to be opened or closed.
Eliminating noise
To address customer feedback
on road noise levels perceptible within the
cabin of the previous Accord, the new generation
represents a step change in interior refinement.
In particular high frequency and
middle-frequency noise suppression has been
significantly improved.
A range of measures have
increased sound absorption as well as sound
insulation and wherever possible lightweight
materials have been used. Key initiatives
include:
- Floor carpeting with both sound
insulation and sound absorption;
- A series of dimples and beads
incorporated into the floor panel which
reduce acoustic radiation;
- The new floating rear subframe which
lessens road noise input;
- Improved insulation within door pillar
structures;
- A lightweight noise package that
includes an acoustic roof lining,
acoustic trunk side lining, wheelarch
insulators, and sound
absorbing/insulating dashboard elements;
Sound systems
Entry level Accords are
equipped with a radio/single CD player with
built-in 30W 4 channel amp and six speakers -
two fascia mounted tweeters, and four 17 cm
neodymium speakers - two in the lower front door
panels, and a further two either in the rear
shelf (saloon) or in the rear doors (Tourer).
Radio stations or CD tracks selected are
displayed on the standard multi-information
display in the centre console.
Higher grade models have a
premium audio system with 6 CD changer unit
located in the centre console, a separate high
power amp delivering 45W x 8 channels and no
fewer than 10 speakers - two tweeters and an 8
cm centre speaker in the fascia, four door
speakers, two rear speakers in the parcel shelf
(saloon) or in the rear cargo sides (Tourer) and
a 20 cm sub-woofer (in the rear shelf panel of
the saloon or in the rear side panel in the case
of the Tourer). Volume of the sound system is
linked to the speed of the vehicle, so the
higher the speed, the higher the volume of the
music.
Fifth generation and later
iPods can now be played via the Accord's audio
system using the docking point located in
the centre console storage box, where an
auxiliary jack point and power outlet can also
be found.
Satellite navigation
The advanced satellite
navigation system - standard on Executive grade
and optional on other models - now boasts an
8-inch screen, voice recognition in five
languages (English, French, German, Italian and
Spanish) and covers most European countries
including for the first time Poland, Slovakia,
Hungary and the Czech Republic.
There is a directional
microphone which only picks up the driver's
voice, despite surrounding noise, for more
effective operation:
- Voice operation is possible even in the
middle of a conversation with a
passenger as a microphone can discern a
driver's voice;
- Voice operation is available even with
open windows and sunroof;
- It can learn different voice qualities
of different drivers.
- The same directional ability also
applies to hands-free telephone
conversations;
Activation is via the
push-to-talk button on the steering wheel; a
command such as 'home' will prompt the system to
plot the best route to the driver's house.
Similarly, for the nearest restaurant or petrol
station, the driver simply states his or her
requirement and the system finds the closest
location and provides navigation to it.
Another useful feature of the
navigation system is the RDS function; the
system can recognise live traffic hotspots and
recalculate the ideal route so as to avoid the
congestion.
Bluetooth enabled
The Accord is also provided
with a Bluetooth wireless mobile phone
interface, allowing further hands-free
operation, with steering wheel mounted buttons
to control its operation. A series of speakers
and microphones installed in the car can connect
to any Bluetooth-enabled communications device,
allowing calls to be made safely while driving.
The new phone system allows
the driver to automatically transfer a call
started outside the car onto the HFT once the
ingnition has been turned to the ACC position.
The Accord now allows the user to utilise the
phone's keypad to make calls as well as holding
up to 50 names with one number for each of those
names, and all numbers can be accessed by HFT
and speech recognition. If the Accord is also
equipped with satellite navigation, then it is
possible to import the phone books of up to six
separate mobiles via the Interface Dial - and up
to 1000 names with 10 numbers per name for each
phone. Once imported, numbers are accessed
through voice command or by selecting ‘search
imported phonebook' on the screen, followed by a
search by keyword or by listing all records.
Rear-view camera
With the satellite navigation
driver's also have the additional benefit of a
rear-view camera, which activates when reverse
gear is engaged. Located in the trim above the
rear licence plate, it provides a view of the
area directly behind the car 138 degrees wide
and 91degrees vertically. The image is displayed
on the sat-nav screen.
Additionally, it is possible
via a door-mounted switch to set the
passenger-side door mirror to automatically tilt
down when reverse is engaged to allow the area
in the vicinity of the rear tyre to be observed
on that side. Parking sensors - all models can
be equipped with up to 8 parking sensors, with 4
front sensors and 4 rear, the Executive grade
receives these as standard.
Auto lights/wipers
Sport and Executive models are
equipped with automatic headlamps. With the
switch set to auto, a light sensor located on
the windscreen detects low light conditions so
that the headlamps are automatically lit as the
car enters a tunnel, a garage or any zone which
is dark enough to trigger the sensor. Similarly,
there is also a rain sensor that activates the
wipers when the first drops of rain fall.
The headlamp washers operate
either with every 40th windscreen washer
operation (when the headlamps are on) or via a
push switch on the fascia.
Key fob
The key fob has added
functionality. There are separate buttons for
the boot release, door locking and door
unlocking. The first 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 open 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 now linked
to the driver's door lock switch. Once it is
unlocked, you simply press on the flap and it
springs open.
Luggage space
At 467 litres (VDA), the
Accord saloon's luggage capacity is best in
class against other premium saloons. The boot
loading height is also a convenient 678 mm, down
80 mm. Further practicality is provided by
highly visible and easily reached rear seat
release catches located just within the upper
edge of the boot opening.
Despite its dynamic styling,
the Tourer's luggage capacity at 406 litres
(VDA) with all seats in place, is one of the
best in the sport wagon category. In practical
terms, that is sufficient to comfortably
accomodate four 46 inch golf bags or four large
suitcases. Larger loads can be carried with the
rear seats folded, and in this configuration the
Tourer is able to transport a mountain bike,
without the need to remove the bike's wheels
first. .
To open up the luggage area,
the new Tourer offers easy to use, one-motion
rear seats that can be readily collapsed in a
single action to create a virtually flat load
space with flush, clean sides. There is no need
to remove the headrests and the release catches
reside on top of the seat backs, one either side
of the car. Since the child seat tether anchors
and seatbelts are fully integrated, once folded,
there are no obstructions to become tangled when
a load is being carried.
Set within the rear half of
the load area is an underfloor storage space
concealed by a lid which is opened by means of a
flush fitting handle. Hinged at its forward
edge, the lid split-folds when opened and can
either be propped open using notches cut in the
edges of the storage well, or folded right back.
The underfloor well is a useful 250 mm deep and
adds 53 litres to Accord Tourer's overall load
space. Either side of the main well are two
smaller compartments accessed by means of their
own covers.
Other practical touches
include luggage tie down hooks and a utility
hook below the rear window to carry a shopping
bag. Additional storage areas concealed by
panels are located in the load bay side walls
with that on the left hand side used to store a
hazard warning triangle and first aid kit.
The highly practical,
retractable tonneau cover features a large,
easy-to-grip handle, and large guides on either
side of the luggage area into which it can be
quickly and easily slotted. Available as an
option is a vertical cargo net which can be
positioned either behind the rear seats or
behind the front seats where it hooks to the
grab handle fixings.
High quality fabric trim
covers the whole of the luggage area to give the
sense of a fully integrated, stylish interior.
Like its predecessor, the new
Accord Tourer is available with a power operated
tailgate, operation is via the key fob or via a
switch located in its lower edge. Imminent
operation is signalled by an audible warning and
flashing indicators. Safety measures include
auto reverse when any resistance is detected,
backed up by touch sensors located around the
sides of the tailgate. Manual operation is
possible at any time, while the final automatic
closure feature is useful if you don't want to
disturb a sleeping child by slamming the
tailgate, for example. The latest design uses a
thinner motor unit which is much quieter in
operation and impacts less on the rear interior
roof line, improving rear visibility for
the driver.
DRIVETRAIN
- Engine line-up fully compliant with new
Euro 5 emissions legislation due for
introduction September 2009;
- New 2.2 i-DTEC diesel engine uses third
generation injection technology to boost
output and reduce environmental impact;
- 2.0 and 2.4 litre i-VTEC petrol engines;
- 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic
transmissions;
- 5-speed automatic (petrol engines only)
features Grade Logic Control and
steering wheel-mounted paddles for
sequential shift mode;
- Shift Indicator Light (SIL) on manual
models;
At first glance the engine
line-up in the new range appears broadly similar
to the previous generation Accord. However
extensive development of the 2.0 and 2.4-litre
petrol engines has brought significant
improvements in power delivery and fuel
consumption, while the 2.2-litre diesel is an
all-new engine that uses the latest technology
to boost power and combustion efficiency.
The development programme has
focused in particular on environmental impact
and the new range is one of the cleanest on the
market. Indeed the Accord range is one of the
first to offer an engine line-up compliant with
the new Euro 5 emissions legislation, well in
advance of their expected introduction in
September 2009 for new type approvals.
i-DTEC builds on the
qualities of i-CTDi
The Accord's new 2.2 i-DTEC
(intelligent Diesel Technology) engine builds
and improves on the superb performance, fuel
economy and emission efficiency of the current
award-winning i-CTDi diesel engine.
Honda's involvement in
developing its own diesel engine started with
Kenichi Nagahiro, the company's chief engine
designer and the inventor of the celebrated VTEC
engine. His dislike of the technology meant he
at first refused to design Honda's first diesel,
and it was only when he was allowed to start
with a clean sheet of paper that he agreed to
the project. The result was the 2.2 i-CTDi, one
of the cleanest, most refined diesel engines on
the market today, and used in the Civic, CR-V
and FR-V, as well as the current Accord.
Nagahiro has masterminded the
Honda diesel development programme since its
conception in 2002 and the i-DTEC is the next
exciting stage of Honda diesel engine
technology, redefining the diesel concept once
again.
This second generation Honda
engine boasts a combination of the latest fuel
injection technology, more efficient exhaust gas
recirculation and a particulate filter for
significantly reduced emissions. However, this
is not at the expense of engine performance, and
both power and torque levels have been increased
for a sportier driving experience.
Particulate levels within the
exhaust gasses are well below the Euro 5 limit
of 5mg/km (compared to 25 mg/km for Euro 4); and
oxides of nitrogen levels (NOx) are well below
the new limit of 180 mg/km (down from 250 mg/km
under Euro 4).
Power output is up from 140 PS
to 150 PS/110 kW at the same 4,000 rpm, while
peak torque is now 350 Nm at 2,000 rpm compared
to the 340 Nm of the i-CDTi engine. That means
improved engine flexibility reflected in a 9.6
second 0-100 km/h time and a top speed of
212 km/h. Yet even with these improvements and
emissions below Euro 5 levels, fuel consumption,
at 5.6 l/100km, is even more frugal. Equally,
carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions are just 148
g/km.
Like the i-CDTi unit, the new
engine is all-aluminium, transversely mounted,
with 4-cylinders, DOHC, four valves per
cylinder, a variable nozzle turbocharger and a
second order balancer shaft for added
refinement. Honda believes that the 4-cylinder
configuration and the 2.2 litre capacity are the
optimum combination for a car of the Accord's
size and in terms of its blend of qualities it
remains best in class, and engines of higher
output tend to be 6-cylinder units offering
inferior economy.
Piezo-injectors and
multi-stage injections
Like its predecessor, the new
i-DTEC engine is compact, lightweight, refined
and quiet in operation, but there are a number
of key changes designed to enhance overall
efficiency. Most fundamental is a switch from a
1600 bar common rail system using solenoid
injectors to an 1800 bar one using
piezo-injectors able to provide more precise,
multi-stage injections.
The injection pattern of the
i-CTDi engine, under most conditions except high
load and high engine speeds, consists of a pilot
fuel injection, followed by the main injection.
In the new system there are up to five
injections:
- A pilot injection in the low to medium
engine speed range;
- A pre-injection in high load and low
engine speed conditions;
- The main injection - under all
conditions and in isolation at high
load/high speed;
- An after injection at low loads and in
the middle engine speed range for
cleaner emissions;
- A post injection at low load designed to
improve the CAT purification rate and
allow regeneration of the particulate
filter.
It is this constant ability to
make adjustments to the combustion
characteristics across all driving conditions
that plays such a large part in improved on-road
performance while meeting ever more stringent
emissions requirements.
The fuel injection system
continues to interact with the variable nozzle
turbocharger to ensure optimum control over
intake pressure, facilitating higher pressures
at a lower speed, as well as better fuel economy
and reduced emissions through lean burn
combustion.
Diesel particulate
filter
The new 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 new location reduces
the fall-off in exhaust gas temperature and
combined with its in engine bay location,
reduces the period of time taken to reach
working temperature. This reduced warm up time
minimises the quantity of fuel used for the post
injection phase in the combustion cycle and
improves DPF regeneration.
The Exhaust Gas Recirculation
efficiency is also improved, with finer valve
control and a water cooling system that can now
be bypassed when required. Playing a key role in
the intelligent combustion control system is the
continuously variable swirl control valve
located in the intake manifold; this provides a
smoothly graded control of the swirl ratio,
varying from a high setting during idling and
mid range operating conditions to a low setting
at higher rpm to give the ideal combustion
environment at all times. In the new engine,
this is even more responsive to demand.
2.0 and 2.4-litre
i-VTEC petrol engines
The new Accord models are once
again offered with two advanced i-VTEC petrol
engines, in 2.0 and 2.4 litre capacities,
offering outstanding performance, fuel economy
that places them firmly at the forefront of
their class, and compliance with the
requirements of Euro 5 emissions legislation.
The choice of transmission is either a 6-speed
manual - for the first time on the 2.0-litre
model - or a 5-speed automatic.
Revisions to the 2.0 litre
engine have concentrated on achieving class
leading fuel economy while retaining similar
levels of performance. Combined cycle
consumption is now 7.2 l/100 km compared to the
7.7 l/100 km of the previous Accord saloon.
Power output increases slightly to 156 PS at
6,300 rpm, while peak torque increases slightly
to 192 Nm at a slightly lower 4,300 rpm.
Equipped with the automatic transmission, the
Accord 2.0 litre saloon uses 7.5 / l/100 km. Key
technological changes include increased diameter
intake valves, optimised valve lift and timing
and increased inlet and exhaust air flow
volumes.
The 2.4 litre engine is more
powerful, delivering 201 PS at 7,000 rpm and
peak torque of 234 Nm at 4,500 rpm - up from 190
PS and 223 Nm. Its effortless performance is all
the more remarkable given that fuel economy is
improved - now 8.8 l/.
Behind the performance boost
are a compression ratio increased from 10.5 to
11.0:1, larger diameter valves, revised valve
timing, and reduced exhaust system pressures.
Both petrol engines feature a
drive-by-wire (electronic) throttle, ensuring
very smooth and responsive adjustments directly
proportional to driver input. Integration with
the software of the automatic transmission
(where fitted) and cruise control enhances the
precision of those systems for driver enjoyment.
The engine can be throttled by the engine
management system during upshifts and
downshifts, for faster, seamless shifting and
the elimination of shift shock.
Catalytic converters - one
close-coupled and one underfloor - ensure
emissions fall below the Euro 5 requirements (a
25 per cent reduction in NOx emissions (a limit
of 60mg/km)).
Both petrol engines use
Honda's long-established VTEC system which is
able to adjust the lift and opening duration of
the valves. In this application it is
complemented by Variable Timing Control (VTC)
which takes into consideration engine load,
controlling the phasing of the inlet camshaft.
These systems work in concert 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, together with a whole range of other
data, the engine control unit varies the inlet
camshaft position relative to that of the
exhaust camshaft by means of a hydraulically
driven, compact vane-type pump located on the
front end of the inlet 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 utilising 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 (ie optimal torque to
optimal power), but with the same degree of
overlap.
At high engine speeds, during
motorway cruising for example, 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.
Service intervals for all
three engines are 20,000 km or once every year,
with a 40,000 km air filter change. The new
Accord features for the first time a service
reminder that appears in the centre of the
speedometer - this provides 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.
Transmissions
In place of a 5-speed manual
gearbox, the 2.0-litre petrol engined Accord is
now matched to a 6-speed 'box, like the
2.4-litre model, for optimised gear ratios and
superb 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
changes.
The Accord i-DTEC is equipped
with a 6-speed manual transmission specifically
designed to cope with the engine's enhanced
output.
Manual transmission-equipped
Accords are provided with a ‘shift indicator
light' or SIL in the centre of the rev counter.
This displays ‘up' or ‘down' to provide the
driver with optimal gear shift points. Honda
tests have demonstrated fuel savings of as much
as 5 per cent by simply following these
commands.
5-speed automatic with
manual mode
The 5-speed automatic
transmission offered on petrol engined models
features a wide spread of ratios to maximise
off-the-line acceleration and provide relaxed
and fuel-efficient cruising.
Its operation is now simpler
and more logical to fully exploit its
capabilities. So instead of two interlinked
gates - one for conventional operation in auto
and a parallel gate for sequential shifting -
the new 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
you momentarily want a more urgent response 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 you can 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.
A further enhancement of the
latest automatic gearbox is 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 incorporates an advanced Grade
Logic Control System and Shift Hold Control,
both of which work to reduce gear 'hunting' and
unnecessary 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 then 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 (such as 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.
CHASSIS
- All-new platform with wider track;
- New front double wishbone suspension and
rear multi-link suspension on both
saloon and Tourer;
- Variable rate dampers;
- High rigidity body;
- Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) for even
greater security;
- EPS rack and pinion steering;
- New Motion Adaptive EPS provides
steering inputs for stability;
- Ventilated disc brakes front and rear
with ABS, EBD and Brake Assist;
Building on the smooth ride
and precise, stable handling of their
predecessors, the saloon and Tourer share an
all-new platform and all-new double wishbone
front suspension and multi-link rear suspension
Sharper, more responsive
handling with a flatter ride, designed to reward
the enthusiast driver, is matched to greater
ride comfort and refinement, while good straight
line stability and a solid steering feel about
the centre position ensure confidence-inspiring
high speed stability. The high rigidity body
provides an ideal suspension platform.
The front suspension geometry
has been configured to reduce pitch under
braking compared to the previous Accord, while a
larger 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 quicker steering responses
and contributes to a nimble yet solid feel.
Lowered centre of gravity and
higher roll centre
Lowering the engines and fuel
tank within the Accord platform has helped to
shave 18 mm off the car's centre of gravity,
improving cornering stability. And greater roll
stiffness results from the 75 mm wider front and
rear tracks.
Furthermore, the suspension
geometry has been set up to raise the new
Accord's roll centre axis (the point about which
it rolls during cornering).
Since the amount of body roll
is related to the distance between the roll
centre and the centre of gravity (if they were
at the same height, the car would not roll at
all) the aim is to raise the roll centre
relative to the centre of gravity. Suspension
design plays a key part in determining the
location of the roll centre and by optimising
the hypothetical suspension arm length, the
chassis team have achieved a higher roll centre
axis, while minimising suspension jack-up.
The result, in simple terms,
means passengers can enjoy a stable, flat ride,
minimal body roll, linear cornering feel and a
high level of controllability at all times.
Greater ride comfort
Contributing to a comfortable,
smooth ride are an increased suspension rebound
travel 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 features dampers
utilising internal deflector plates, a first for
a production Honda vehicle. While most
conventional dampers are tuned to provide a
compromise between ride comfort and sporty
handling at different speeds, the new 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, such as occurs when the
vehicle encounters road irregularities at high
speed. This can cause significant ride harshness
and noise that reduces passenger comfort and
enjoyment. However the new dampers are tuned to
provide the ideal damping rates for comfort and
smoothness at low speeds, while also limiting
the 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 new dampers
automatically adjust compression damping
characteristics to suit the vehicle 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 new 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 the new system also means that no electronics
or movable valves are required.
A key contributor to the
Accord's chassis dynamics is the body/platform
rigidity. As a result of careful analysis of the
body structure, the rear suspension vertical
rigidity is increased by 20 per cent, while
front suspension horizontal rigidity is
increased by 35 per cent, compared to the
previous model. Similarly, torsional body
rigidity is up by 20 per cent.
Enhanced braking
Greater stability when slowing
from high speeds and a more rigid feel
characterise the new Accord's braking system.
Excellent stopping power is delivered by larger
brake callipers and discs.
The system includes Electronic
Brake force Distribution (EBD), anti-lock
braking and Brake Assist, the latter helping
drivers apply full braking pressure in an
accident avoidance situation.
EPS on all models
An advanced, speed sensitive
Electric Power Steering system is now used
across the Accord range. The axial system
features a high output, low inertia brushless
motor with greatly enhanced rigidity which
provides excellent steering feel at higher
speeds for a sense of stability and confidence.
In particular, the on-centre feel is very
precise and linear, with no discernible 'dead
spot'. A quicker steering ratio has also been
adopted in keeping with the Accord's more agile
chassis characteristics.
Vehicle Stability
Assist
All Accords have Honda's
Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system which is
designed to assist the driver in maintaining
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.
New for the latest generation
of Accord is an additional safety system known
as Motion Adaptive EPS in which the VSA, working
in conjunction with the Electric Power Steering
system, initiates steering pulses to prompt the
driver to steer intuitively.
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.
By monitoring input from a
series of vehicle sensors, VSA calculates a
predicted range of vehicle response while
constantly monitoring the vehicle's actual
response and the driver's control inputs. If the
actual response is outside the predicted
response range, as when cornering forces exceed
the tyres' performance, VSA automatically
intervenes with corrective action.
In the case of oversteer
(which may lead to a spin), VSA applies braking
to the outside wheel to counter the yawing
tendency. On the other hand, if understeer is
detected, VSA applies braking to the inside
wheel and reduces engine power to turn the car
back on to the intended course.
An indicator light flashes on
the instrument panel while the system is
actively enhancing the stability of the vehicle.
A cockpit switch to the side of the instrument
panel is provided to disable the VSA.
Motion Adaptive EPS
A stability system which
automatically initiates steering inputs aimed at
prompting the driver to steer in the correct
direction in situations where the car is
threatened with instability is the latest
addition to Honda's dynamic safety systems
armoury.
Called Motion Adaptive EPS, it
relies on the integration and networking of the
VSA and EPS systems and is standard on Accord
models.
Typical situations are where
low grip, slippery conditions cause the car to
understeer or oversteer when entering a corner
or during sharp braking where the performance is
affected by a road surface which has different
friction coefficients - for example where it is
dry on one side and slippery on the other
because of, say, wet leaves or snow and where
there is a danger of the car becoming unsettled
as a result of the overbraking of a wheel.
The VSA sensors immediately
identify the instability and via the EPS a
steering impulse in the required direction is
initiated.
The input from the EPS is
barely noticeable and represents just a small
amount of steering wheel movement; control of
the steering remains with the driver at all
times. But this supporting steering torque is
enough to prompt the driver to act intuitively
and to choose the optimum steering movement -
steering into the skid when oversteering or
prompting greater steering movement into the
turn when understeering.
This steering support and the
driver's reaction as a result is enough to
regain stability or to shorten braking
distances, allowing control to be maintained.
Towing weights raised
Towing weights have also been
increased and while that of the 2.0 litre
remains at 1500 kg with a braked trailer, it
rises to 1600 kg for the 2.4-litre models and
1700 kg for 2.2 iDTEC models.
Trailer Stability Assist (TSA)
is fitted to all models in the Accord range to
enhance driver's safety when towing. The system
is an enhancement of the Honda Vehicle Stability
Assist (VSA) system which detects when the
trailer is starting to oscillate while being
towed at speed. TSA utilises a combination of
torque reduction and individual wheel braking to
bring the car and trailer back under full
control.
APPENDIX I - ACCESSORIES
Sports exterior
accessories
For the saloon, front and rear
sports bumpers are offered with matching side
skirts in a new sports package. For the Tourer,
the rear sports bumper is replaced by a rear
add-on underspoiler. These sports bumpers and
skirts can be combined with a front sports
grille and an aerodynamic boot spoiler (only for
saloon), all available in the car's bodywork
colour. In addition to the body accessories,
Honda Accessories has developed a new range of
alloy wheels including sporty and premium 18"
designs.
Interior accessories
The car's interior can be
personalised with metal or wood-effect interior
exchange panels and come with matching gear
shift knobs. A perforated leather sports
steering wheel further enhances interior
ambience.
Child seat safety
This year, a new version of the largest child seat (Group 2&3) will be available which can be secured in the car using Isofix anchors, providing quick, easy and proven security for children up to twelve years old.
New Rear Entertainment System
The new portable Rear Entertainment System compliments the style of the Accord's interior and is installed in the back of the front seat(s). Importantly the new system does not interfere with the function of the active headrests. It offers the option of adding a second monitor on the passenger side. A compact remote control is included & wireless headphones are available in two sizes.
New Honda Compact Navigation System
The newly developed widescreen portable navigation system is also designed to
complement the car's interior. Its attachment fits perfectly to the dashboard; no more suction cups falling down and almost no wiring on show. It includes full European mapping, and the latest European Points-of-Interest including a complete list of Honda car & motorcycle dealers. The unique anti-glare back reduces distracting windscreen reflections. Extra features include Bluetooth wireless technology, WMA/MP3 function, JPEG viewer & audio book player.
Saloon Exclusive
A new trunk room pack adds to the practical side of the Accord. This package has been specially designed for the saloon's boot. It includes a cargo net, a side pocket and hooks that attach to the underside of the rear shelf to hang your shopping bags.
Tourer Exclusive
The Tourer also benefits from a range of highly practical accessories to organise luggage and protect the boot interior. A cargo space divider and a dog guard make the most of the available space, while a tailor-made boot tray, a cargo mat and a boot edge protection mat, reduce wear and tear. To hold luggage in place there's also a tie down belt, a cargo net and a boot side net.
ACCORD SALOON TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
ENGINE
|
2.0 SOHC i-VTEC
|
2.4 DOHC i-VTEC
|
2.2 i-DTEC
|
Engine type
|
R20A3
|
K24Z3
|
N22B1
|
Bore x stroke
|
mm
|
81×96.9
|
87×99.0
|
85×96.9
|
Capacity
|
cc
|
1997
|
2354
|
2199
|
Compression ratio
|
10.6
|
11.0
|
16.3
|
Max power
|
PS/kW
|
156/115
|
201/148
|
150/110
|
@ rpm
|
|
6,300
|
7,000
|
4,000
|
Max torque
|
Nm
|
192
|
234
|
350
|
@ rpm
|
|
4,300
|
4,500
|
2,000
|
Fuel system
|
PGM-FI
|
PGM-FI
|
Common Rail
|
Fuel rating
|
UNLEADED(95)
|
UNLEADED(95)
|
DIESEL
|
ELECTRICAL
|
Battery
|
Ah
|
12V-45Ah
|
12V-45Ah
|
12V-74Ah
|
Alternator
|
A
|
12V-105A
|
12V-105A
|
12V-105A
|
TRANSMISSION
|
Gear ratios MT/AT
|
1st
|
3.266/2.785
|
3.266/2.651
|
3.933/-
|
2nd
|
1.884/1.684
|
1.884/1.613
|
2.037/-
|
3rd
|
1.297/1.128
|
1.361/1.081
|
1.297/-
|
4th
|
1.023/0.772
|
1.023/0.772
|
0.975/-
|
5th
|
0.829/0.592
|
0.829/0.566
|
0.777/-
|
6th
|
0.720/-
|
0.686/-
|
0.634/-
|
Reverse
|
3.583/2.000
|
3.583/2.000
|
4.008/-
|
Final
|
4.388/4.437
|
4.764/4.437
|
3.550/-
|
SUSPENSION
|
Front
|
Double wishbone, coil spring, variable gas pressurised shock absorbers, anti-roll bar
|
Rear
|
Multi-link, coil spring, variable gas
pressurised shock absorbers, anti-roll
bar
|
STEERING
|
Type
|
Electric, power-assisted, rack and pinion
|
Turning circle at body
|
m
|
5.85m
|
5.86m
|
5.86m
|
at wheel
|
m
|
5.49m
|
5.49m
|
5.50m
|
Turns, lock to lock
|
2.61
|
2.61
|
2.61
|
BRAKES
|
Front
|
Ventilated disc
|
Rear
|
Disc
|
WHEELS AND TYRES
|
Wheels
|
16x6.5
|
17x7.5
|
16x6.5
|
Tyres
|
205/60 R16
|
225/50 r17
|
215/60 R16
|
DIMENSIONS, WEIGHTS, CAPACITIES
|
2.0 SOHC i-VTEC
|
2.4 DOHC i-VTEC
|
2.2 i-DTEC
|
Overall length
|
mm
|
4726
|
4726
|
4726
|
Overall width
|
mm
|
1840
|
1840
|
1840
|
Overall height
|
mm
|
1440
|
1440
|
1440
|
Wheelbase
|
mm
|
2705
|
2705
|
2705
|
Front track
|
mm
|
1590
|
1590
|
1590
|
Rear track
|
mm
|
1590
|
1590
|
1590
|
Ground clearance
|
mm
|
150
|
150
|
150
|
Luggage space VDA
|
litres
|
460-467
|
460-467
|
460-467
|
Kerb weight MT/AT
|
kg
|
1414-1514/1443-1544
|
1484- 1575/1518-1607
|
1540-1632/-
|
MMax. permissible weight MT/AT
|
kg
|
1935/1960
|
1995/2030
|
2030/-
|
Max. towing weight braked MT/AT
|
kg
|
1500/1500
|
1600/1600
|
1700/-
|
unbraked MT/AT
|
kg
|
500/500
|
500/500
|
500/-
|
Max. trailer nose weight
|
kg
|
75
|
75
|
75
|
Max. roof load
|
kg
|
60
|
60
|
60
|
Fuel tank
|
litres
|
65
|
65
|
65
|
PERFORMANCE
|
|
|
|
|
Maximum speed MT/AT
|
km/h
|
215/212
|
227/227
|
212/-
|
Acceleration M/T/AT 0-100 km/h
|
secs
|
9.3/10.7
|
7.8/9.5
|
9.6/-
|
FUEL CONSUMPTION *
(93/116/EC)
|
|
|
|
|
Urban MT/AT
|
l/100km
|
9.4/10.2
|
11.9/12.0
|
7.3/-
|
Extra urban MT/AT
|
l/100km
|
5.9/5.9
|
7.0/6.6
|
4.6/-
|
Combined MT/AT
|
l/100km
|
7.2/7.5
|
8.8/8.6
|
5.6/-
|
CO2 emissions MT/AT
|
g/km
|
170/178
|
209/204
|
148/-
|
ACCORD TOURER TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
ENGINE
|
2.0 SOHC i-VTEC
|
2.4 DOHC i-VTEC
|
2.2 i-DTEC
|
Engine type
|
R20A3
|
K24Z3
|
N22B1
|
Bore x stroke
|
mm
|
81×96.9
|
87×99.0
|
85×96.9
|
Capacity
|
cc
|
1997
|
2354
|
2199
|
Compression ratio
|
10.6
|
11.0
|
116.3
|
ax power
|
PS/kW
|
156/115
|
201/147
|
150/110
|
@ rpm
|
|
6,300
|
7,000
|
4,000
|
MMax torque
|
Nm
|
192
|
234
|
350
|
@ rpm
|
|
4,300
|
4,500
|
2,000
|
Fuel system
|
PGM-FI
|
PGM-FI
|
Common Rail
|
Fuel rating
|
UNLEADED(95)
|
UNLEADED(95)
|
DIESEL
|
ELECTRICAL
|
Battery
|
Ah
|
12V-45Ah
|
12V-45Ah
|
112V-74Ah
|
Alternator
|
A
|
12V-105A
|
12V-105A
|
12V-105A
|
TRANSMISSION
|
|
|
|
Gear ratios
|
|
|
MT/AT
|
1st
|
3.266/2.785
|
3.266/2.651
|
3.933/-
|
|
2nd
|
1.884/1.684
|
1.884/1.613
|
2.037/-
|
|
3rd
|
1.297/1.128
|
1.361/1.081
|
1.297/-
|
|
4th
|
1.023/0.772
|
1.023/0.772
|
0.975/-
|
|
5th
|
0.829/0.592
|
0.829/0.566
|
0.777/-
|
|
6th
|
0.720/-
|
0.686/-
|
0.634/-
|
|
reverse
|
3.583/2.000
|
3.583/2.000
|
4.008/-
|
|
final
|
4.388/4.437
|
4.764/4.437
|
3.550 /-
|
SUSPENSION
|
|
Front
|
Double wishbone, coil spring, variable gas pressurised shock absorbers, anti-roll bar
|
Rear
|
Multi-link, coil spring, variable gas pressurised shock absorbers, anti-roll bar
|
STEERING
|
|
Type
|
Electric, power-assisted, rack and
pinion
|
Turning circle at body
|
m
|
5.85m
|
5.86m
|
5.86m
|
at wheel
|
m
|
5.49m
|
5.49m
|
5.50m
|
Turns, lock to lock
|
2.61
|
2.61
|
2.61
|
BRAKES
|
|
Front
|
Ventilated disc
|
Rear
|
Disc
|
WHEELS AND TYRES
|
|
Wheels
|
16x6.5
|
17x7.5
|
16x6.5
|
Tyres
|
205/60 R16
|
225/50 r17
|
215/60 R16
|
DIMENSIONS, WEIGHTS, CAPACITIES
|
2.0 SOHC i-VTEC
|
2.4 DOHC i-VTEC
|
2.2 i-DTEC
|
Overall length
|
mm
|
4740
|
4740
|
4740
|
Overall width
|
mm
|
1840
|
1840
|
1840
|
Overall height
|
mm
|
1470
|
1470
|
1470
|
Wheelbase
|
mm
|
2705
|
2705
|
2705
|
Front track
|
mm
|
1590
|
1590
|
1590
|
Rear track
|
mm
|
1590
|
1590
|
1590
|
Ground clearance
|
mm
|
150
|
150
|
150
|
Luggage space VDA
(to window line)
|
litres
|
406-672
|
406-672
|
406-672
|
Kerb weight MT/AT
|
kg
|
1432-1585/1462-1613
|
1489-1640/1524-1672
|
1559-1702/-
|
MMax. permissible weight MT/AT
|
kg
|
1990/2015
|
2050/2085
|
2100/-
|
Max. towing weight braked MT/AT
|
kg
|
1500/1500
|
1600/1600
|
1700/-
|
unbraked MT/AT
|
kg
|
500/500
|
500/500
|
500/-
|
Max. trailer nose weight
|
kg
|
75
|
75
|
75
|
MMax. roof load
|
kg
|
80
|
80
|
80
|
Fuel tank
|
litres
|
65
|
65
|
65
|
PERFORMANCE
|
|
|
|
|
Maximum speed MT/AT *
|
km/h
|
212/210
|
222/222
|
207/-
|
Acceleration M/T/AT 0-100 km/h
|
secs
|
9.4/10.8
|
7.8/9.6
|
9.8/-
|
FUEL CONSUMPTION *
(93/116/EC)
|
|
|
|
|
Urban MT/AT
|
l/100km
|
9.8/10.7
|
12.3/12.5
|
7.5/-
|
EExtra urban MT/AT
|
l/100km
|
5.9/6.0
|
7.1/6.8
|
4.9/-
|
Combined MT/AT
|
l/100km
|
7.3/7.7
|
9.0/8.9
|
5.9/-
|
CCO2 emissions MT/AT
|
g/km
|
173/183
|
215/211
|
155/-
|
** In-house data