What is it?
A BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi rival, or at least that's how Honda hope you'll see it. With its new Accord, Honda is extremely confident that it has got the measure of the premium contenders in the D-segment. That's a bold aim, as, however good the car might be, Honda isn't a name that's usually mentioned in the same exalted company as those oh-so-desirable German models. In its bid to achieve these upmarket aspirations Honda has worked hard on the details, the Accord coming comprehensively equipped, it also offering some segment-first technology and improved quality and styling inside and out.
Is it any good?
There's no denying that Honda has produced a very impressive contender in the D-segment. Larger than its predecessor, its styling is more assertive, the bold chrome grille giving it real presence. The increase in size is clear inside in particular, the Accord's cabin feeling as wide as cars in the class above. The interior follows the exterior's bolder look, the dash a busy environment that's absolutely littered with buttons for the Accord's plentiful functions. Honda has certainly loaded the Accord with technology - and with its Advanced Driver Assist System (ADAS) available as an option on EX and EX GT models, Honda is offering some genuine segment firsts.
The ADAS incorporates three different technologies. There's Lane Keeping Assist System, which does as its name suggests by adding small steering input to keep the car between the lanes on the motorway. In addition there's Active Cruise Control that monitors the road ahead and keeps a regular gap between you and the traffic. And finally there's Collision Mitigating Braking System, a feature that warns you visually and audibly to brake, the seatbelt too tugging to warn you of an impending collision. If no action is taken the car will activate the brakes to reduce the severity of any impact. Choosing these safety systems costs between £1,750 and £2,000 depending on the model you specify it for.
Should I call the bank manager?
If you like a refined, comfortable drive you might just want to. Three engines are offered: a pair of petrol units of 2.0- and 2.4-litres with 154bhp and 198bhp, and a new i-DTEC 2.2-litre turbodiesel with 148bhp. The petrol units are refined, the 2.0-litre in particular feeling very eager. But for most the diesel is the choice engine in the range. That's not just down to its 47.8mpg combined fuel economy figure, but also its torque-rich delivery and excellent refinement. Its easy performance suits the Accord's big car feel and excellent cruising ability. The ride impresses in all, and although there's very little feel from the steering, the handling is neat, the six-speed manual gearshift being typically Honda precise and short in throw.
The interior is spacious, though the rather fussy fascia does rather ruin Honda's upmarket aspirations. Space is good inside, even if foot room in the back is limited. However, with Honda aiming the Accord at business users it's surprising that every model doesn't come with Bluetooth telephone preparation as standard.
Summary
Honda isn't alone in aiming to have its D-segment contender considered as a rival for premium badged rivals. Ford, Volkswagen, Mazda and most other mainstream firms are keen to take sales away from the Germans. The Accord is an impressive attempt, but however good it is, it's unlikely buyers will ever see it in the same light as BMW, Audi or Mercedes. That's no bad thing for D-segment buyers though, as while Honda and others continue to pursue the premium players each model gets demonstrably better than the one that preceded it. And that's certainly true of the new Accord.
More news and reviews from Honda
Buying Guide : All models Honda
New & Used Car : all offers Honda
Picture Gallery Honda
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