It looks like the FK8 Civic Type R wasn't the only vehicle Honda Cars Philippines Inc (HCPI) recently removed from their list of offerings.
While we were browsing and checking their website, we noticed that a certain midsize sedan was no longer on their models and price list. That vehicle is the Accord, and if you were planning on getting one, tough luck.
With their D-segment offering no longer available, we asked HCPI why was the Accord dropped from the lineup. Speaking with an anonymous source, they told us that the removal of the Accord coincided with the company's plan to simplify its lineup.
Another likely reason (although they did not officially say it) is the shrinking D-segment market. As crossovers, SUVs, and MPVs continue to dominate the market, the once thriving midsize sedan market has continued to become smaller.
Brands like Chevrolet and Nissan have since discontinued offering the Malibu and the Altima models respectively just a couple of years ago. Meanwhile, the Toyota Camry and the Mazda6 are still available in the local market but they aren't exactly volume sellers.
Last but certainly not least, the inventory used for the Honda Accord could instead be used for a newer and more popular model. While the automaker already announced they will be launching the HR-V RS at the 8th Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS), they also mentioned they will be holding a preview of an all-new model.
While HCPI is not yet saying anything about it, the signs are leaning towards the next-generation BR-V. Since the Accord is no longer in HCPI's lineup, the automaker could then use the inventory space once occupied by the midsize sedan for the all-new 7-seater crossover. In fact, there's already 1 here in the country and there could be a total of 4 variants available once it's officially launched.
With the Honda Accord no longer available in the local lineup, buyers looking for a turbocharged midsize sedan will have to settle for another D-segment four-door from a different brand.
