Go back 30 years and the Honda Accord was a very popular model on the Australian market – it first arrived here in 1977 and was a very popular upmarket sedan. Of course, SUVs have since taken over the world and in recent years Accord sales slowed to a trickle. However, the 11 th generation Accord sedan has arrived – the Accord e-HEV RS – just one hybrid variant at a national $64,900 drive-away price. A much more technically advanced sedan to the previous model that finished here last year – the hybrid sitting on the same wheelbase but now 75mm longer overall, 2mm wider and 1mm lower. The fourth generation Honda hybrid system in the Accord is interesting – a front wheel driver with a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine mated to two electric motors mounted side by side – the combined output 152kW. The electric motors do most of the work, the internal combustion engine charging the battery almost constantly although when the going gets a little tough the petrol motor can also power the front wheels. Built in Thailand this new Accord is roomy with leather seats, well equipped and nicely finished as a premium sedan but misses out on some touches like an electric boot release. Drive details next segment. I’m David Berthon.

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