After months of catching 2013 Honda Accord prototypes, the redesigned midsizer has finally been revealed. The first official 2013 Accord photos show more sophisticated styling that should work in the midsize Honda’s favor when the car rolls into showrooms this fall.
2013 Honda Accord Coupe – Front 3/4 view
Honda has only slightly updated the styling of the previous generation, adding a new sculpted look and a few premium touches. Key design traits are sharper and more focused lines, with the overall design dominated by a bold grille, angular headlights and sweeping character lines running the length of the body. Honda hasn’t revealed the interior just yet, though we suspect the premium look of the exterior will filter across into the cabin.
2013 Honda Accord Coupe – Rear 3/4 view
Honda hasn’t confirmed Accord powerplants yet, but a direct-injected 2.4-liter four cylinder is anticipated to power most Accords via either a six-speed manual or an all-new CVT. The dual overhead cam 2.4-liter four cylinder is believed to be rated at 181 horsepower and 177 lb-ft. of torque
An updated 3.5-liter V6 mated to a six-speed automatic will be optional for some of the higher-specification trim levels. Though power outputs have not been announced, the engine is rated at 271 horsepower and 254 lb-ft. of torque in the outgoing Accord. Honda has promised class-leading V6 fuel economy, so look for an improvement over the current car’s 20/30 mpg rating.
A plug-in hybrid will also be available, although probably not until the 2014 model year. Look for a 6 kwH lithium-ion battery and a 120 kW electric motor to give an EV-only range of 10-15 miles and a top speed of 62 mph. Recharging will take just four hours when a 240V outlet is used, Honda claims. The electric motor mates to a 2.0-liter gas four-cylinder and a CVT.
2013 Honda Accord Sedan – Front 3/4 view
On the road, an overall aerodynamic shape combined with low-drag exterior surfaces including nearly flush windshield glass, flush-mounted windshield wipers and careful under-body tailoring promise enhanced fuel efficiency. Premium details like available LED daytime running lights, headlights and taillights hint at the sophisticated technology and luxury available inside.
2013 Honda Accord Sedan – Rear 3/4 view
The Accord is a crucial model for Honda; a leader in performance, safety, efficiency and value since its introduction in 1976, the Accord remains one of the top-selling cars in America though its age has seen that popularity drop in recent times. Key rivals in this segment is also some of the stiffest in the auto industry and includes the recently refreshed Ford Fusion, as well as the Chevrolet Malibu and would also included the Hyundai Sonata, Toyota Camry and recently revealed 2014 Mazda 6.
