Following its market introduction in Thailand earlier this year, Honda is now bringing the refreshed model to the Philippines.
Exterior-wise, the new Accord gets a more aerodynamic styling with its sharply creased and contoured hood and more pronounced front grille. Seamlessly complementing its new look is Honda’s signature LED Lighting, which includes full LED headlights, Daytime Running Lights (DRL), Active Cornering Light and LED Multi-Projector fog lights. The rear also receives updates with new bumper and LED guide tail lamp design. On the side, new and sportier alloy wheel designs complete the look. The 3.5 V6 variant gets 18-inch alloy wheels while the 2.4 variant gets 17-inch alloy wheels.
Under the hood, Honda retained its revolutionary Earth Dreams Technology engines in the new Accord for improved fuel efficiency without sacrificing its aerodynamic driving performance. The 3.5-litre i-VTEC V6 engine on the Accord is capable to produce maximum power output of 281PS at 6,200 rpm. The 3.5-litre i-VTEC V6 engine is still accompanied by Honda’s Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) and comes with 6-speed automatic transmission and paddle shifters for enhanced fuel economy. The 2.4-litre DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder model on the other hand, offers 175PS at 6,200 rpm and comes with a 5-speed automatic transmission also with paddle shifters.
For the new Accord, both variants are now equipped with cruise control and a Remote Engine Start Function that conveniently starts the vehicle engine and turn on its Intelligent Dual-Zone Climate Control System from the outside, which allows the cabin to cool even before entering the vehicle.
New to the Accord’s cabin is the elegant piano black trimming for a more sophisticated finish on the center console and dashboard.
In terms of infotainment, the refreshed Accord retains the dual screen set-up. To allow for more versatility and utility, the top screen or the intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) with improved display resolution can now show several information simultaneously such as trip computer, audio and compass. The bottom screen has been updated with Honda’s new advanced 7-inch touch screen display audio with navigation which is standard for both variants. These screens work hand-in-hand to operate the hands-free telephone function and audio streaming via Bluetooth connectivity which is now available in its 2.4 variant. The i-MID and advanced display audio can still be controlled easily via the controls mounted on the leather-wrapped steering wheel with wood accent.
To provide uncompromised driver and passenger comfort, HCPI also retained in its latest Accord thoughtful features such as leather seats, power adjustable front seats, push start button, intelligent dual-zone automatic air-conditioning, sunroof (3.5 SV Navi only), rear air-con vents, a pair of pull-up rear window shades, power operated rear windshield sunshade, and rear center armrest audio controls. An auxiliary switch which was an exclusive feature to the 3.5 variant has been included in the 2.4 variant as well. This switch allows rear seat passenger to adjust the front passenger seat according to his or her preference.
In terms of safety, six airbags are now standard in both variants, besides the LaneWatch Technology. The LaneWatch technology help improve visibility of the driver’s blind spot. This can be activated by engaging the right turn signal or by pressing the LaneWatch button on the turn signal switch to view a constant real-time display on the vehicle’s i-MID.
The new Accord’s wide array of passive and safety features include Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Hill Start Assist (HSA), multi-view reverse camera, front and rear sensors, and Emergency Stop Signal (ESS).
Available in five colour options; White Orchid Pearl (additional Php 20,000 (RM1,727)), Modern Steel Metallic, Lunar Silver Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, Carnelian Red Pearl (by order), the new Accord is now available at all Honda car dealership in Philippines with a starting price of Php 1,788,000 (RM154,443) for the 2.4 S Navi (5-speed AT with Paddle Shifters) and Php 2,288,000 (RM197,632) for the 3.5 SV Navi (6-speed AT with Paddle Shifters).
