2023 Honda Accord drops 2.0L turbo for dual-motor hybrid
Honda debuts next-gen Accord with sleek looks, new hybrid powertrain, and a simpler interior
After posting teaser images of the next-generation midsize sedan a few weeks ago, Honda has officially revealed the all-new 2023 Accord. Featuring a more mature-looking exterior and a more ergonomic cabin, the Accord looks sleeker and more dynamic than its predecessor. More importantly, it gets a new hybrid powertrain that promises to deliver an exhilarating drive while also being easy on the fuel bills.
Gone is the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine derived from the Civic Type R. Instead, the 2023 Accord comes with the fourth-generation two-motor hybrid-electric system with a pair of electric motors. They are mounted side-by-side and assist an all-new 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that benefits from direct fuel injection.
Honda claims the hybrid system puts out a combined output of 207 PS along with a meaty 335 Nm of torque. Compared to the previous 2.0L turbo, the hybrid makes 49 less PS but doles out 75 more Nm of torque. In addition, the automaker claims the hybrid system is now more responsive and refined at highway speeds thanks to Linear Shift Control. This mimics the vehicle speed-linked rev feel that's associated with a conventional powertrain that shifts gears under acceleration.
For those who still prefer a traditional internal combustion engine, the 2023 Accord still comes with a 1.5-liter VTEC turbo inline-four. Like the PH-spec Accord, the 1.5L engine generates 195 PS along with 260 Nm of torque and is mated to a CVT.
Over to the vehicle's exterior, the 11th generation Accord ditches the sporty styling for a more upscale look that appears to be reminiscent of Audi's. With an emphasis on clean lines, a prominent front fascia, and a stately-looking rear end, the Accord looks lean and mean while still looking sophisticated. It still features a long hood design that is now complemented by a flowing fastback roofline that gives it a more premium-looking exterior.
Depending on the variant chosen, the 2023 Accord can come with 17-inch alloy wheels or the bigger 19-inch black alloy wheels. Other exterior highlights present on the midsize sedan include black side mirror caps, a rear diffuser, blacked-out accents throughout the body, a power sunroof, and an integrated trunk spoiler.
Like the all-new Civic, the interior of the all-new Accord is now simpler and easier to use. While some might miss the unique identity of the sedan's distinct cabin design, the Civic-like dashboard means owners will find the layout familiar. In terms of features, it gets a 7-inch (or 12.3-inch) touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 10.2-inch digital instrument panel, and Google integration which allows users to access apps like Google Maps, Google Assistant and Google Play to download music or podcasts.
Aside from having a high-tech dashboard, Honda also made sure the interior looked more upmarket. There's a new stylish metal trim on the center dash which is different from the Civic's, piano black trim pieces for the interior accents and switchgear, new front body-stabilizing seats that Honda says will reduce fatigue on long drives, as well as heated and ventilated front seats.
Production of the all-new Honda Accord will begin soon with the US market set to receive it first. There's no word yet if the new midsize sedan will make its way here to the Philippines. But given that Honda Cars Philippines Inc (HCPI) quietly axed it from the lineup, the 10th generation Accord might be the last midsize sedan the automaker has offered.
