By Autoreviewman
For 2017, the Honda Accord Hybrid sedan is back with a refresh for 2017. The four –door hybrid is almost the same as its non-hybrid twin, apart from the powertrain, sharing the same roomy four/five passenger cabin. Hybrid badges distinguish it on the outside along with cool blue tints to the front and rear lights. On the inside, the Accord hybrid features a slightly different interior display screen on the dash. New changes include a touch-sensitive center display that now supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration with suitable smartphones. On the technology front, changes include front suspension tweaks with new bushings to help improve control; along with revised power steering for better driver feel. New engine and electronic technology also means the Honda Accord used smaller, energy efficient, and lighter engine and hybrid components for increased weight reduction and efficiency
The Honda Accord hybrid is powered by a unique “Two-Motor” powertrain using two electric motors, a 181 horsepower (135 kilowatts) traction motor and a 142 horsepower (106 kilowatts) generator motor.) A clutch, and a single fixed gear ratio instead of a conventional multi-speed or Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) link the engine and wheels. Using its Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive (I-MMD), the hybrid Accord can accelerate solely on battery power from a stop and also uses electric mode under low torque demand and when slowing the car by regenerating electricity back into the 1.3-kWh lithium-ion battery. The technology behind the Accords drive system is very clever. There are three operating modes called “EV Drive,” “Hybrid Drive,” and Engine Drive.” The car’s hybrid powertrain computer automatically switches between these modes while driving. It works by utilizing the small and larger electric motors used in the system. Once running, the engine can use the smaller motor to generate electricity for use by the larger motor (known as series “Hybrid Mode”). The larger traction motor can also draw at least 30 horses (23 kilowatts) from the hybrid battery during acceleration.
In terms of accessories and feature content, the standard base Accord ($31,200) features a generously equipment roster and such goodies as the Honda Sensing package of advanced safety features. The Sensing package in the hybrid Accord includes camera and radar-based features like Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Forward Collision Warning, Collision Mitigation Braking, and Active Cruise Control. Other hybrid trims include the top line Touring model ($37,030) with leather seating, moonroof LED headlights, parking sensors, rain-sensing windshield wipers, wireless phone charging and a host of power conveniences. On the road the Accord hybrid features a roomy comfortable interior with ample front and rear head and legroom as good as any of its competitors. There is an ample 13.5 cubic feet of rear trunk space. Fit and finish all around is superb with a ton of cool creature features. The Accord feels responsive, with good road dynamics and handles curves and sharp corners very well. There have been some improvements in the 2017 model in terms of its braking –with a smoother more linear feel. Honda’s hybrid engine and transmission system operates flawlessly with barely noticeable shifts between the different drive modes. Fuel economy figures for the Honda hybrid Accord are rated at a very respectable 4.9/5.1/5.0 100km/L (City/Hiway/Combined). All in all, not a lot to complain about with the 2017 Honda Accord Hybrid. It is a rather refined, stellar car that offers awesome build quality, features and family value. The new technological improvement definitely make it a winner. Reliability, resale and the ownership experience will be very high as it’s a Honda. Highly recommended for those looking for a fuel efficient, green credentialed family car.
2017 Honda Accord Hybrid sedan priced from $31,200 to $37,030
