Reference Auto

In the wake of record sales in every other class, for instance the luxury segment (above Rs 50 lakh) as well as the Rs 5-10 lakh category, Honda, has turned buoyant on the Indian market, launching a refurbished version of its sedan, the Accord, with additional safety features.

Honda’s new Accord will come in two options, a 2.4-lt version for Rs 19.60-20.36 lakh and a 3.5-lt variant priced at Rs 25.41 lakh.

In the new car, Honda has changed the front grille and bumper completely. There are a string of other changes available in both the 2.4 lt and V6 (3.5 lt) models.

The sun-roof is now a standard feature in the new Accord. Also among the new features is a steering-mounted cruise control system with one-touch op. This improves the look of the car. Also, the wooden panel in the interior adds to the style.

The rear has been given a fresh look with chrome bezel near the taillights, indicators on ORVMs and a set of alloy wheels that are available with a new design. Also, the audio system has been enhanced.

The company had unveiled what it calls its ‘eighth generation Accord’ in May 2008 with 2.4-litre and 3.5-litre engines. The Accord logged sales of over 25,000 units since its launch in the country.

Upbeat on the launch, Honda Siel Cars India president and CEO Takashi Nagai said, “Honda Accord has become one of the most successful sedans in its category and over 25,000 units were sold since its launch in India. The Accord has set standards in exclusivity, comfort and safety. We believe in constantly upgrading our products based on customer feedback. So, we launched an upgraded version of the Accord with unique styling along with luxurious features.”

The 2.4-lt Accord is equipped with 5-speed manual transmission and 5-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifts.

The 3.5-lt V6 engine features an advanced variable cylinder management system that switches among six, four and three-cylinder combustion taking into consideration the driving conditions and thereby delivering maximum power of 275 PS during six cylinder operation and a good fuel economy in VCM mode while cruising.

The new Honda Accord comes with safety technologies that are of the highest standard. It is equipped with six intelligent airbags, including side curtain air bags, advanced compatibility engineering body and G-force control technology that provides a higher degree of safety, especially during collision.

The use of high-tensile steel enhances torsional rigidity and also comes in handy in achieving weight savings.

Now, every segment in India’s car market is doing well and even luxury car sales are almost set to breach the 100 per cent-mark in the next two-three years.

So, the new Accord, which falls way below the luxury segment in terms of price and comes with safety features that are of the highest standard, could see many takers as such advanced safety technology for a price of Rs 19 lakh onward would almost be a steal.