For those who like their gadgets, the new Accord boasts an impressive specification that includes rain sensitive wipers on selected models, an optional DVD satellite navigation system with touch screen operation and CD/radio packages offered as standard throughout the range. Although the wheelbase remains unchanged, overall dimensions are increased, which should make for improved head and legroom.

To help keep your cool in those motorway jams, all Accords will feature dual—zone climate control air conditioning. This allows the driver and front seat passenger to select their own preferred temperature independently of the other.

With safety a key issue for most of the people who buy these cars, Honda is expecting strong results in up—and—coming Euro NCAP crash testing. This is thanks largely to a comprehensive safety package, which includes front and side airbags as well as curtain airbags. The side curtain airbag deploys over a wide area to protect both front and rear seat occupants, especially from head impacts to the centre pillar.

If you're the sort of person who likes to climb trees to stop them from being cut down then you'll appreciate the environmentally friendliness of the Accord. Its predecessor introduced the world's first fully recyclable fascia. This model aims to continue this caring of Mother Earth by using even less non—recyclable plastics material, and minimising the lead usage. Even certain components on the car are themselves constructed from recycled plastics.


As you would expect for most launches in the family car market, there's a 'take the rubbish to the tip' estate version also on the way. Expected in spring next year, the Accord Tourer will share much of the styling characteristics, which makes the Accord saloon stand out from its rivals.

It's also grown compared with the model it replaces. The Tourer measures 85mm longer than the saloon thanks to a growth spurt of 50mm to the wheelbase as well as a 35mm extension to the rear overhang. This growth means a boot space of 571 litres with all seats in place, bigger than the Mondeo.

Like the saloon, the Tourer will pack an impressive specification list including dual zone climate control air conditioning, front, side and curtain airbags and optional DVD satellite navigation system with touch screen operation.

However, one of the key features of the new estate is its power—operated tailgate. This opens or closes in seconds and is operated by the key fob, or alternatively closed using a switch located on the lower edge of the tailgate. But don't worry, opening the boot can be done the old—fashioned way.

A wide tailgate opening should offer further easy of use, and under floor storage secured by a lockable lid provides further out of sight space large enough for a briefcase or laptop bag. Pull the seat back lever and the head restraints will flip forward as the seat base rises into a vertical position. The seat back then folds totally flat, in one simple movement, with the seat integrated seatbelts ensuring minimum inconvenience.

Lifting the back rest restores both seat base and head restraints, with no seat belt manoeuvring required. One action to provide a totally flat floor, and one to restore comfortable and safe seating.


Honda will be calling on its impressive I—VTEC engines to power its latest range of family cars. The entry—level version will be equipped with a 2.0—litre 155bhp engine in place of a 134bhp 1.8. It is capable of a combined 37.7 mpg with CO2 emissions of just 179 g/km, handy for business users concerned about company car tax.

A 190bhp 2.4—litre version with a six—speed gearbox is also expected to top the estate line—up. A five—speed auto will be optional with both power units.

All models will be fitted with anti—lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution and brake assist, while 2.4—litre variants have the added advantage of VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist).

Emphasising the new Accord's technological sophistication and performance, power is provided by two all—aluminium DOHC i—VTEC engines of 2.0 and 2.4 litre capacity.

For business users who spend most of their days trugging up and down motorways, Honda has aimed to improve on refinement by adding extensive sound proofing and vibration isolation. Additional and more effective sound absorption materials are used extensively throughout the bodyshell and the adoption of a floating front sub—frame significantly reduces the levels of noise and vibration reaching occupants.