It might not look like the Accord has changed much but it is wider as well as lower and significantly stiffer for optimum chassis dynamics due to its use of ultra high-tensile steel in its body construction. It possesses a bold front facade with its prominent ‘H’ logo on the grille,a longer, taller bonnet, and aggressively flared fenders.

The new Accord has been made available in South Africa with a 2litre i-vtec petrol engine producing 154bhp and the 2.4litre i-vtec delivering 197bhp at 7000rpm. According to Honda SA, “The six-speed manual version accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 9,3 seconds, and achieves a top speed of 215 km/h.” Transmission choices include quick-shifting five-speed automatic and a six speed manual gearbox with F1-style shift paddles.

The interior is described as a “cock-pit like” interior with a central LCD display. It comes standard with leather upholstery and blue-tooth hands-free telephone interfaces. Seats exude comfort and like the mirrors and windows are all electronically operated.

The new Accord includes Motion Adaptive EPS which works with the stability system and electric power steering to detect instability and makes steering inputs helping the driver to steer in the right direction. It also has the options of Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Mitigation Breaking System.

The recommended retail prices are:

Honda Accord 2.0 i-VTEC Manual R237 500
Honda Accord 2.0 i-VTEC Automatic R250 500
Honda Accord 2.4 i-VTEC Executive Manual R280 000
Honda Accord 2.4 i-VTEC Executive Automatic R293 000

Tags: Accord, honda, Honda Accord