Never a brand to rest on its laurels, Honda revealed an upgraded Accord model range at this year’s Geneva Motor Show. Honda South Africa recently introduced those updated versions of the highly regarded Accord sedan and tourer models — a range that retains most of the key ingredients responsible for the Accord’s success in SA, but adds several new features and improvements to offer an even more competitive package than before.
“The Accord has become a firm favourite among discerning motorists since we introduced the current model almost exactly three years ago,” says Graham Eagle, director of sales and marketing at Honda SA.
“The Accord enjoys a revered reputation for build quality, technological innovation and keen dynamics, while also scoring high marks on the efficiency and safety fronts – all of which have earned it market-leading status in its segment.
“We are proud to announce that this refreshed, 2011 Accord line-up is now available in SA,” Eagle confirms. “This latest version builds on the car’s existing virtues, but ups the ante in several important respects.
He adds that enhanced efficiency has been a consistent theme applied throughout the upgrade package, which has benefited aspects such as fuel efficiency and exhaust emissions.
“But the new model also looks fresher, rides better and continues to build on an extensive active safety package. We’re particularly proud of the high output version of the 2,2-litre i-DTEC engine, which gets a substantial power boost, while retaining its trademark sophistication,” Eagle concluded.
This engine is introduced on the six- speed manual transmission models, with the automatic transmission derivatives retaining a revised version of the 110 kW engine.
The 2011 Honda Accord features a significant package of improvements. They include updates to the exterior styling, the suspension, and the power output of the 2,2-litre i-DTEC engine.
In addition, the standard features list has been augmented while a new derivative, the 2.4 Exclusive featuring a package of advanced driver assistance systems has been added to the range. Honda has also adapted the nomenclature of the range.
While the clean-cut silhouette and aerodynamic shape of the Honda Accord have been retained, the updated version features several important changes. Both the sedan and tourer versions benefit from small but noticeable changes to the headlights and bumpers.
The headlights feature cleaner aesthetics, including the use of clear-lensed indicators, instead of the previous amber versions. Top-spec models get bi-Xenon headlights with Active Cornering Lights and High Beam Support System to improve night-time visibility.
The subtly enhanced rear of the Accord sedan features reversing light and indicators with the same red finish as the fog light for a more symmetrical look. The visual upgrade is rounded off with a light chrome finish above the rear licence plate. Buyers also get to choose from three new colours - Alabaster Silver, Graphite Lustre metallic and Celestial Blue Pearl.
The exterior styling changes have been complemented by a number of subtle changes to the interior to enhance the ambience of the cabin. Updates include new dark silver interior panels, with the door handles and handbrake finished in bright silver. In addition, the stitching on the black leather seat trim has been changed from black to grey.
Honda’s Advanced Driver Assist System (ADAS) – which is available on the new 2.4 Exclusive models, comprises three separate technologies: Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC).
• Prices start from R303 000 to R386 700 — each!
