It seems like fewer and fewer vehicle models survive generational changes. Nameplates get old and cannot drive sales out the door, so the marketing teams and ad agencies drum up new catchy names with the goal of attracting new buyers. However, on occasion, the power of a nameplate can produce loyalty and lives on to fight another day. This is the case for the ninth incarnation of the 2013 Accord that Honda claims is the more sophisticated, better performing, and better equipped than any other model in the vehicle’s 37-year history.
The launch of the all-new 2013 Accord is arguably one of the largest launches in Honda’s history. Coupled with a fresh new design the Accord is equipped with industry leading features. The Accord has been given a fresh start with a new platform: sheet metal, overall size, engine, transmissions, suspension, interior, electronics and safety equipment. Honda bucked the trend to grow this generation in size as has been the case in past versions. Instead, the exterior length and wheelbase of both the Accord Sedan and Coupe are slightly more compact than the prior generation. With a larger cabin they delivered more trunk space.
The 2013 Honda Accord is available in both sedan and coupe configurations. The sedan comes in five trim levels: LX ($22,470), Sport ($24,180), EX ($25,395), EX-L ($28,785), and Touring ($34,220).The Coupe offers three trims: LX-S ($24,435), EX ($25,815), and EX-L ($28,860). All prices are based on standard engine and transmission packaging.
Standard features on the new Accord include Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® with audio streaming, USB/iPod® integration, rearview camera, an audio/information screen and an Eco Assist™ driving system. As in previous EX-trim Accords, a choice of fabric or leather seating upholstery is available.
Other standard Accord features include dual-zone climate control, Pandora® internet radio integration, and an SMS text messaging function. Available features include: a hard disc drive (HDD)-based Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with Voice Recognition and FM Traffic, and Adaptive Cruise Control. New visibility technologies include an expanded-view driver’s mirror and Honda’s new LaneWatch™ feature – along with available features such as LED headlights, daytime running lights (DRLs) and brake lights.
Honda’s new LaneWatch™ feature is very cool. It is included on Accord EX, EX-L, Touring Sedan models and Accord EX-L Coupe. The LaneWatch™ Blind Spot Display provides an expanded rear view of the passenger side roadway via the audio/information screen. When you turn on your right turn signal, a camera located in the passenger side mirror shoots a running image of the passenger side road view.
The new exterior sheet metal is cut with sculptured lines and creases done with an elegant and powerful effect. To me, it projects the most upscale look of any Accord so far. The 2013 Accord sports a more angular front end and a nice chrome splitter grille. From the profile I see a front that hints at a 3-Series BMW and a rear that resembles a VW Passat.
The interior is clean and full of swooping lines. There is an array of shiny accent features throughout the cockpit. The mid-level EX trim levels come with keyless access and a red push-button start standard. The cloth interior wears faux-leather on the center armrest and doorsills – in an effort to showcase a higher grade of materials.
Power comes from the two Earth Dreams™ powertrains, including an all-new 2.4-liter 4-cylinder with Honda’s first use of direct injection in North America, and a 3.5-liter V-6 with revised VTEC + VCM functions. In early 2013, the Accord lineup will see the first application of a new 2.0-liter 4-cylinder/two-motor plug-in hybrid system in the Accord PHEV Sedan. The Accord 4-cylinder models offer a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that helps the Accord achieve outstanding fuel-efficiency, along with a new fun 6-speed manual transmission on selected models. The Accord’s V-6 engine offers a choice of a new 6-speed automatic or in the V-6 Coupe, a 6-speed manual. The Accord Plug-in Hybrid will feature a new electric coupled CVT.
Room for improvement:
- Ride quality could be improved
Cool Features:
- LaneWatch™ Blind Spot
- HondaLink (found on EX-L and Touring trims) features Internet-enabled apps that can be accessed via your smart phone
The standard safety equipment for all the 2013 Honda Accord includes six airbags (two in front, two in the front seats, and two side curtain airbags that cover the side windows. Other safety features (some are optional) are Honda’s Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning, LaneWatch™ Blind Spot Display, Adaptive Cruise Control and Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure.
In Summary – I was impressed with the changes Honda made to the 2013 Accord. The exterior is a step in the right direction; however, I do wish they would push the design envelope a little more. The well-crafted interior fit meets the expectation we have come to expect from Honda. The new Accord takes up less space outside but has a more comfortable cabin, lots of rear legroom, high-tech features, and a larger trunk.
Specifications
2013 Honda Accord 4-door EX Sedan
Base price: $25,405 as driven: $26,195 (including destination)
Engine: 2.4-Liter 4 cylinder
Horsepower: 185 @ 6400
Torque: 162 foot pounds @ 4400
Transmission: Continuously Variable
Drive: Front Wheel-Drive
Seating: 5-passenger
Turning circle: 38.1 feet
Cargo space: 15.8 cubic feet
Curb weight: 3336 pounds
Fuel capacity: 17.2 gallons
EPA mileage: City 27 / Highway 36
Wheel Base: 109.3 inches
Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles bumper to bumper
Also consider: Chevrolet Malibu, Ford Fusion, Hyundia Sonata, Kia Optima, Nissan Altima, and Toyota Camera
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