Honda has confirmed that its venerable Accord midsize sedan will live on for its all-new 11th generation in Australia as part of a single-model hybrid-only lineup.
The new mid-sizer will be available in a sole e:HEV RS specification when it lands in Australia in the second quarter of this year, debuting a new look, a latest-generation hybrid system, an all-new interior, and tech.
Prices have not yet been confirmed, however an increase beyond the current 10th-generation’s range-topping VTi-LX $61,900 driveaway cost is expected.
The Honda Accord will live on in Australia for an 11th generation
The confirmation ensures that the long-running Accord nameplate – which has existed in Australia since 1977 – is safe in Australia for now despite continually decreasing demand for sedans.
What’s new for the 11th generation Accord?
The new Accord e:HEV RS will feature Honda’s latest fourth-generation hybrid system which was first released with the CR-V e:HEV RS midsize SUV.
Powered by a 2.0-litre Atkinson cycle inline-four cylinder engine, the hybrid is mated to two electric motors, which Honda says are now mounted side-by-side rather than in-line with the engine crankshaft as in the two-motor previous generation.
The new Honda Accord will be available in a single hybrid-only grade
Details have not yet been confirmed however the new CR-V e:HEV RS has outputs of 135kW/ 335Nm.
A 1.5-litre turbo-charged variant offered on the previous two-grade 10th generation will no longer be available.
As well as the updated powertrain, the new Accord will debut a more contemporary and cleaner design which is more in line with other current-generation Honda vehicles.
Inside, the cabin is familiarly Honda with the now recognisable honeycomb metal mesh that runs the length of the dashboard.
The 2024 Accord has a recognisably Honda interior
A new feature visible in the new interior is a multi-function dial beneath the centre air vents that can be used to control various functions ranging from air-conditioning to sound controls.
Honda also says that the new Accord will be the first Honda in Australia to come with Google built in, which essentially means it will have an Android-based media system with Google applications.
Carolyn McMahon, Honda Australia Director said: “The Honda Accord has a rich history in the Australian market as a sophisticated, luxurious flagship model which has been a customer favourite since its arrival in 1977.
The current 10th-generation Honda Accord
“This new model offers the premium feel that Accord is renowned for, coupled with all the additional technological advances that customers are becoming accustomed to, including Honda’s e:HEV hybrid powertrain that delivers a dynamic combination of performance and efficiency.”
Last year Honda delivered 144 10th-generation Accords, enough for a one percent market share. This trailed behind other vehicles like Hyundai’s Sonata (335), the Skoda Octavia (1395), Mazda 6 (1528) and the segment leading Toyota Camry (10,581).
