November 11th 2022
Modifying a successful vehicle is a tricky business, and undoubtedly, the Honda Accord has garnered a huge fan following in the USA. Even though the sales of midsize sedans are declining generally, the Accord stood second in the race of best-sellers last year after the Toyota Camera.
It also secured a position in the top 20 best-selling cars of 2021. There is more to cheer for mid-size enthusiasts now as Honda introduces the new generation of the Accord.
Embrace the 2023 Accord boasting a more impressive look, additional tech, and an improved hybrid powertrain.
Powertrain
Let’s jump straight to the powertrain realm because that is a point of discussion for many. Honda has axed the available 252-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. Another surprising change is the lower power output of the Accord Hybrid, which produces a total of 204 hp (the 2022 Accord produces 212 hp).
The 4th-generation hybrid powertrain is improved with a new layout for the two electric motors. With a bit lower horsepower, Honda boosted the torque from 232 lb-ft. to 247 lb-ft. This change, according to the Japanese automaker, makes it a more fun-to-drive hybrid. The automaker also believes that the new-generation Accord Hybrid will comprise 50% of the Accord sales.
It means lots of customers would still want to buy the petrol-powered models featuring an old 1.5-litre turbocharged engine, pumping out 192 hp. The engineers made some changes to it to render a more refined and responsive drive. A CVT gives the duty to transfer power and torque to the front wheels.
The automaker has also tweaked the suspension by adding the latest damper mount bearing and ball joints. It also comes with improved chassis firmness and tougher body reinforcements, along with updated front brace bars.
Exterior
These are the tweaks we, unfortunately, can only feel while driving, but nobody can deny the gorgeous looks. We saw the teaser and leaked pictures, but it is now shining in its fully glory, borrowing styling cues from its little sibling, the Civic.
The front look attracts you with its slim headlights and a small grille. The profile is clean, with lines mildly curving backwards. Honda has made the new-generation 2.8-inches longer and 0.5-inch wider and equipped it with regular 17-inch wheels. Nineteen inchers are available on the higher-spec variants.
Interior and Safety
Similar to the outside, the Civic influence is visible inside, starting with the metal mesh design on the dashboard. The high-end models get a 12.3-inch centre display, the biggest ever presented by the Japanese automaker.
A 7.0-inch display is regular otherwise, and so is a 10.2-inch digital driver display. The new Honda Sensing driver assist and safety tech is a part of the standard package, along with freshly created airbags for the front passengers. Besides, the knee and rear-occupant side airbags appear for the first time for the mid-size sedan.
Technology
Honda says the 2023 Accord will be able to download Over the Air (OTA) updates for almost all systems controlled by the computer. Another new for the flagship Accord Touring is the availability of the Google built-in, comprising a wide selection of Google apps that the occupants could control through Google Assistant.
Trim Levels and Price
The new 2023 Honda Accord will be accessible in six variants – the base LX and the EX are two non-hybrid models. Hybrid fans should pick from the Sport, EX-L, Sport-L, and the range-topping Touring. The pricing information will be available before the on-sale date.
Source and Images: Motor1