New Delhi : Accord has been a power performer for Honda over several years but at a time when
SUVs are making their presence felt in several international markets, it faces a growing challenge to its
popularity and presence on global roads. Honda has nonetheless showcased the 2021 Accord with the
promise of a drive that is not just visually attractive but one that is loaded with features while holding on
to the same engine options as before while also offering a hybrid option.
The 2021 Honda Accord’s exteiror styling seems to emphasize on a clean profile with a wider front grille,
sleek LED head light units – Honda claims these are more adept in lighting up roads, and a smart casing
for the fog lamps on either side of the front bumper. The LX, EX-L and Touring trims all receive new
alloy wheel designs, while a new color – Sonic Gray Pearl – is available for Sport, Sport Special Edition
(SE) and Touring trims.
On the inside, the upcoming Accord will make use of an eight-inch infotainment unit which will be
standard across all trims. Support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will also be standard. While
there are USB ports to charge phones, compatible devices can also be juiced up using the wireless
charger in the cabin.
All Accords also receive a new Rear Seat Reminder, while upper grades gain a new Low Speed Braking
Control system. The other highlights include leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters, leather
-wrapped shift knob, and an 8-speaker audio system, depending on the trim.
Significantly, the 2021 Accord will get an update to the company’s two-motor hybrid system for a more
direct and immediate throttle response. There is 209 bhp of max power for the taking and 314 Nm of
torque. Honda claims that the hybrid Accord can now have a longer running time on only electric power
although it does not attach a numeric range figure to the claim.
Under the hood, there are three engine options to be made available – 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder
unit, 2.0-liter, DOHC, i-VTEC motor and a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder with 10-speed auto
transmission box.
Additionally, there will also be an Accord Sport SE coming in to the lineup for select international
markets.
Honda appears to be prepping the new Accord for a fight not just against its direct rivals but also against
SUVs because the product still does good numbers in markets such as the US where SUVs and pickups
are the established rage. And while the Japanese car maker is also focusing on its big car lineup, the
sedans are not ready to throw in the towel just yet.
