Showcased at the 2016 Auto Expo and officially launched in India last October via the CBU route – Honda Accord Hybrid is one of the few hybrid cars on sale in the country currently. Priced at about INR 40 lakh ex-showroom, Delhi as of today, its price tag will jump by about INR 8-10 lakh in less than three days. Thanks to GST coming into effect.
As per GST (Goods and Service Tax) norms, the cess levied on hybrid cars has been increased from 12% to 43%. In addition to this, the FAME subsidy has also been withdrawn. This means, the price of hybrid cars will increase substantially. In the case of Accord Hybrid, the price will increase from anywhere between INR 8 to 10 lakh, depending on the state you purchase.
Honda Accord Hybrid is powered by a 2.0 liter Atkinson Cycel i-VTEC four cylinder engine along with two electric motors. The petrol engine offers 143 bhp power at 6,200 rpm and 175 Nm torque at 4,000 rpm mated to an E-CVT transmission. It also gets a 1.3 kW lithium ion battery pack which offers combined output at 213 bhp while fuel efficiency stands at 23.8 kmpl. Drivers will be able to select from three driving modes that include – EV Drive, Hybrid Drive and Engine Drive.
In EV mode, the Accord Hybrid runs on electric power alone. One can access the engine’s complete potential but would limit range to only 2 kms before the petrol engine takes over automatically. In Eco or Hybrid mode, the engine runs to power the electric generator while in Engine Drive or Sport mode the car runs on internal combustion engine as is seen in a normal petrol sedan.
Honda Accord Hybrid measures 4,933mm in length, 1,849mm in width, 1,464mm in height and sits on a wheelbase measuring 2,766mm. On its exterior, a new front fascia with new headlamps is evident along with a new grille with chrome accents, new fog lamps, LED tail lights and 18” alloy wheels fitted with 235/45 R18 tubeless tyres.
Honda Accord Hybrid is comfortable for upto 5 adults. Its interiors boast of premium ivory leather seats, 60:40 split folding rear seats and 8 way power adjusting driver seat along with a 4 way power adjustable co-driver seat. Steering wheel is finished with piano black and wood while gear knob is leather wrapped. 7” infotainment system with audio and smartphone integration with Apple Car Play and Android Auto is also seen in its interiors along with a sun roof, while safety features include six airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist, Hill Start Assist, ABS with EBD and reverse camera.
Honda Exclusive Lane Watch feature is seen on the new Honda Accord offering enhanced passenger side visibility with Lane Watch System while added safety devices include auto dimming IRVMs, rain sensing wipers, multi rear view camera and Hydrophilic outside mirror with auto tilt in reverse. Honda Accord Hybrid in India rivals with Toyota Camry Hybrid and soon to be launched VW Passat GTE in its segment.
Honda Accord Hybrid – Photos
