For what’s new and next in the automotive world, check our full coverage of the Detroit auto show.
The all-new ninth-generation 2013 Honda Accord is set to arrive this fall, but to give us a preview of the all-new midsize sedan, Honda has unveiled the 2013 Accord Coupe Concept. Even though the Accord Coupe Concept is being labeled as a “concept,” the final production version will be almost identical.
Overall the styling of the next Accord coupe does not veer to far from the current model. According to Honda the next Accord Coupe will feature an athletic styling direction. While the Accord coupe will remain about the same size as the current model, the next Accord sedan will shrink in size with a sportier appearance. The Accord sedan will be shorter and lighter, but will retain the current model’s cabin space.
Under the hood the 2013 Accord will get three all-new powertrains. First is the all-new 2.4L direct-injected four-cylinder that can be mated to either a six-speed manual or continuously variable transmission. The 2.4L produces more than 181 horsepower and 177 lb-ft. of torque. Next up is the new 3.5L V6 that will have more power and will be more fuel efficient than the current 3.5L. It can be mated to either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.
The more exciting news is the return of the Accord hybrid, which will be powered by a new two-motor plug-in hybrid system. In all-electric mode it will have a range of 10-15 miles and a top speed of 62 mph. It will take less than four hours to recharge using a 120-volt outlet or less than 1.5 hours with a 240-volt charger. In gasoline-electric mode the Accord hybrid uses a 2.0L Atkinson cycle four-cylinder engine paried with an electric continuously variable transmission. For more efficient high-speed cruising, the Accord Plug-In Hybrid can engage in a direct-drive mode. The Accord plug-in hybrid will launch next winter.
Follow me @marccarter01 on Twitter.
