The new, re-styled 2017 Accord Hybrid features the 2nd generation 2-motor hybrid powertrain, which continues to establish its reputation as a leader in environmental friendliness. It consists of two smaller motor/generators, a more powerful 2.0 L Atkinson-cycle i-VTEC 4-cylinder Earth Dream engine, and a more compact lithium-ion battery pack.
This sophisticated power plant delivers 212 hp combined. Topped off with an Electronic-Continuously Variable Transmission (E-CVT), this new hybrid with sport mode achieves EPA fuel economy ratings of 49 mpg city, 47 mpg highway, and 48 mpg combined.
There are three trim levels: the $29,605 base Hybrid, the $32,905 EX-L, and the $35,955 Touring.
Even though this is a hybrid model, it still has all the sophistication and comfort you have come to expect in an Accord.
Advanced capabilities like Honda Sensing, an umbrella branding for a whole list of safety and driver-assist technologies, are standard on all trims. More about that later. Also, the five-star overall score from the NHTSA covers all models.
Inside the Accord Hybrid Touring, it is spacious and refined with a fresh styling, polished accents, intelligent features, plus a whole wealth of technology. Heated 10-way power adjustable leather seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and Dual Zone Automatic Climate Control with air filtration system add to the styling and comfort.
A 7-inch Touch Screen Display Audio with Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System, voice recognition, and multi-angle rearview camera are upper class technological examples. At the same time, steering wheel-mounted controls, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink and Streaming Audio, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, HD Radio, and Pandora Internet Radio further bolster the technological portfolio.
The Honda Accord is as attractive outside as it is comfortable inside.
A new, bold front grille gives Accord an aggressive appearance, as the LED fog lights, heated power door mirrors with indicators, and one-touch power moonroof contribute to the new styling. All this beauty rests atop 17-inch x 7.5-inch alloy wheels.
Technologies in the previously-mentioned Honda Sensing go the extra distance to ensure safety. There are six very valuable safety features: Collision Mitigation Braking System, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Road Departure Mitigation System, Lane Keeping Assist System, and Adaptive Cruise Control.
All but one of these features was helpful. Lane Departure Warning was very sensitive. Crossing any road marking even such as an old faded lane marking, would trigger an audible alert. When roads are under construction and littered with old unused markings, numerous false alerts were prompted. And there was no simple way to disable just this feature.
Accord has been on Car and Driver’s 10-Best list a record 30 times. It seems just about a step ahead of most competitors when it comes to technology, design, performance, and price.
This Honda felt spacious, but even though my vehicle was a hybrid, it felt powerful. While 0-60 mph in 7.2 seconds was not necessarily the quickest, and a top speed of 114 mph did not make it Indy competitive, nevertheless the Accord Hybrid never let me down, getting me anywhere quickly and safely.
Accord offered me a fun and exciting week of driving. Its versatility and handling ability may be the reason it is the official vehicle of the National Hockey League.
Warranty
3-year/36,000-mile Limited Overall Vehicle Warranty
5-year/60,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty
8-year/100,000-mile Battery-Pack Limited Warranty
3-year/36,000-mile 24-hour Emergency Road Service
Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or at [email protected]
