2013 Honda Accord Coupe Concept
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From a power train perspective, Honda’s playing a bit of catch-up to the
industry. Like many of its competitors, the next Accord will finally
boast a direct-injection four-cylinder- in this case, a 2.4-liter I-4
from Honda’s new “Earth Dreams” power train portfolio. This engine can
be mated with either a five-speed manual or a new CVT. Honda’s 3.5-liter
V-6 will also return, albeit in a slightly modified form that should
yield a bit more power.
Honda’s
also already playing up the tech angle, noting the next Accord will
offer its new multi-angle rear-view camera, lane departure warning, and
forward collision avoidance systems. All models will receive a
conventional rear-view camera, Bluetooth phone connectivity, a SMS text
messaging function, and Pandora internet radio compatibility as standard
equipment.
The new Accord will also be the first to offer
Honda’s new LaneWatch blind-spot detection system, which uses a camera
mounted on the lower corner of the passenger-side rear-view mirror, and
is tied to a display embedded in the mirror itself.
How
much, how soon? The production version of the almost-there concept is
expected to arrive in showrooms this fall, at a price in line with the
Accord’s current range of $22,000 to $32,000, though the plug-in’s
pricing is a wild card.
How’s
it look? A curving roofline extends nearly to the end of the rear deck.
A side line begins at the front wheel well and races up toward the
tail. The headlights and parking lights are elaborately bejeweled and
would be unlikely candidates for production. Over all, this is a trim
and stylish coupe, if not a bona fide head-turner.
