Tokyo, October 10, 2002 --- Honda
Motor Co., Ltd. has announced the release of a new Accord (Accord / Accord Wagon),
which will set a new benchmark for midsize automobiles. The new Accord is fitted
with a high-performance DOHC i-VTEC engine and offers world-class aerodynamic
characteristics. Equipped with HiDS*1 (Honda Intelligent
Driver Support System) for lane maintenance and vehicle distance/speed control
on freeways, a Honda DVD navigation system with voice recognition*2,
side curtain airbags*3, and more, the Accord goes on
sale October 11th and the Accord Wagon starting November 28th at Honda Clio dealers
throughout Japan.*4
Inheriting the principle of "harmony between people and society" embodied by the first Accord, the design of this
7th generation Accord (Accord / Accord Wagon) is based on the
concept of a "New Quality Tourer." The new Accord was developed to set a new benchmark
in midsize sedans and wagons, providing luxurious interior detail, excellent safety
and environmental performance, and long hours of stress-free driving, combining
sporty flair with a feeling of complete safety and comfort.
 |
|
 |
| Accord 24S |
Accord Wagon 24T
(w/ optional equipment) |
| · |
Styling: An exterior design that is both energetic and refined, aiming at
the utmost in automotive functionality. |
| · |
Driving performance: The DOHC i-VTEC engine delivers superb driving performance. |
| · |
Aerodynamic performance: The design produces world-class aerodynamic performance.*5 |
| · |
Living space: Packaging and utility with attention to detail that creates a relaxed,
functional environment. All Accord wagons are equipped with the world's first
"one-motion" rear seats that can be easily stowed away with one hand, and an auto-opening
and -closing, remote-control operated power tailgate as standard equipment. |
| · |
Equipment for advanced functionality: The next generation in advanced, highly
functional equipment, including HiDS (Honda Intelligent Driver Support System)*1,
which reduces the driver's workload by helping keep the vehicle in its lane and
controlling vehicle distance and speed during freeway driving, Honda DVD navigation
system with voice recognition*2, and a wealth of other new features make driving
more comfortable than ever before. |
| · |
Environmental performance: All vehicle types have earned Japanese Ministry
of Land, Infrastructure and Transport certification as either Ultra Low-Emissions
or Excellent Low-Emissions Vehicles. Other environmental performance features
include compliance with government regulations for fuel economy for 2010.*6 |
| · |
Safety: A newly developed, rapid-deployment side curtain airbag*3
with a large protection area, Honda's original G-Control safety technology, and
other safety features ensure superb collision safety performance. |
| *1 |
Manufacturer's option on Accord 24T, 24TL, Accord Wagon 24T (FWD vehicle),
24T Exclusive Package (FWD vehicle) |
| *2 |
Manufacturer's option on all types |
| *3 |
Manufacturer's option on the Accord and Accord Wagon, except the Accord Euro-R
and 24S equipped with front Recaro bucket seats (comes as set with i-Side airbag
system and rear center headrest) |
| *4 |
Accord Euro-R goes on sale December 10, 2002; the Accord Wagon 24E with 4WD
goes on sale February 13, 2003. |
| *5 |
According to Honda's own aerodynamic testing |
| *6 |
Accord 20EL, 20E, Accord Wagon (specs for some 24E types excluded) |
Main Features
Accord
Styling
| · |
A form exhibiting presence born of the pursuit of functional aerodynamic performance
creates an exterior design with the ideal balance of calm and motion, quality
and energy. |
Interior
| · |
The interior design combines high-quality materials with precision assembly to
achieve sure handling and superior passenger stability while driving. See it, touch
it, use it, and sense the high quality and superior performance. |
| · |
The front seats are shaped to envelope the human body naturally, for
firm support to the entire posterior region. The seat backs are larger, with optimum
seat side firmness, providing both greater comfort and holding performance. The
driver's seat also employs a Schukra*7 lumbar support, well-known
for its comfortable fit. |
| *7 |
Standard equipment on the 24TL, 24S, 24T, and 20EL types |
Performance
Body
| · |
The Accord's aerodynamic performance rates a CD value of 0.26*5 --- world top-level
performance for a sedan --- contributes tremendously to performance at high speeds,
fuel economy, and quietness. |
| · |
The lightweight, high-rigidity body delivers outstanding dynamic rigidity, in
addition to static rigidity characteristics of bending and torsional rigidity,
for a responsive front end, a stable rear end, and greatly improved comfort. |
Engine
| · |
The DOHC i-VTEC engine series combines Honda's original VTEC (variable valve timing
and lift control mechanism) with VTC (variable valve timing control mechanism),
which continuously varies intake valve timing in response to changing engine loads, for superior torque, fuel economy, and emissions performance.
· 2.4-liter DOHC i-VTEC engine: 147 kW (200PS) / 232 Nm (23.7kg-m)*
· 2.0-liter DOHC i-VTEC engine: 114 kW (155PS) / 188 Nm (19.2kg-m)*,*8
All types have earned Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport
certification as either Ultra Low-Emissions or Excellent Low-Emissions Vehicles.
The 2.0-liter DOHC i-VTEC engine, with low fuel consumption of 13.8 km/L*9, complies
with government fuel economy regulations for 2010. |
| · |
Employs a DBW (drive-by-wire) electronic throttle control system*10. Throttle
valve control by the accelerator pedal is converted to an electric signal, and
the ECU calculates the optimum throttle opening based on vehicle speed and engine
rpm. The actuator directly controls the throttle valve, for precise, linear throttle
control. |
| * |
Net values |
| *8 |
20EL and 20E FWD models |
| *9 |
20EL and 20E FWD models (Fuel consumption when driven in 10-15 mode. Japanese
Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport figures) |
| *10 |
Standard equipment on 24TL, 24S, and 24T types |
Transmission
| · |
Honda has developed a compact yet highly-efficient 5-speed automatic transmission*11
that employs a low-friction clutch, a high-efficiency, ultra-thin torque converter,
and double-row idle gear for use in the Accord. This transmission contributes
to high fuel economy during cruising, together with linear speed changes during
acceleration. It also couples S-Matic operation with manual-feel shifting for
added driving enjoyment. |
| *11 |
All types, except the Euro-R |
Chassis
| · |
A double-wishbone suspension in the front delivers superb straight-line stability. |
| · |
The rear employs a 5-link, double-wishbone suspension with its geometry optimally
tuned for improved stability while cornering. |
| · |
In an improvement over the previous system that only controlled the two front wheels, the
side-slip control system in the VSA (ABS + TCS + side-slip control)*12 now
controls the brakes on all four wheels for more precise control. This
results in more stable vehicle behavior when cornering. |
| *12 |
Standard equipment on the 24TL; available as a manufacturer's option on the
24T as a set with HIDS |
Packaging and Utility
| · |
The Accord's interior provides a relaxed living space with an environment that
is easy on the driver helping prevent fatigue on long drives. |
| · |
The 6:4 split rear seats accommodate even large luggage items. |
| · |
Available with rear center seat headrest*13 and 3-point ELR/ALR seatbelts on all
seats, for greater safety when three people are riding in the back seat. |
| · |
A newly designed trunk hinge prevents the hinge arm from striking luggage stored
in the trunk, while at the same time securing a large opening. |
| · |
An electronic trunk opening switch allows the trunk to be opened with the push
of a button, even from outside. |
| *13 |
Manufacturer's option on all types except the Euro-R and 24S equipped with
Recaro front bucket seats; available as a set with the front seat i-Side airbag
system (equipped with passenger positioning detection system for the front passenger
seat) and side curtain airbag system |
Accord Euro-R: Enhanced Driving Performance
| · |
An exterior design with accentuated sportiness throughout, including aero-form
bumpers, honeycomb mesh front grill, and 17-inch aluminum wheels. |
| · |
Springs, anti-sway bars, and bushings are firmer, and shock absorbers have been
tuned for optimum damping. In the front, a strut tower bar connects the left and
right struts for sporty, responsive, and stable driving, without
sacrificing comfort. |
| · |
The 2.0L DOHC i-VTEC engine outputs 162kW (220PS) / 206Nm (21.0kg-m)*, while at
the same time earning Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport
certification as an Excellent Low-Emissions Vehicle, combining high power output
with better environmental performance. |
| · |
The lightweight, compact, 6-speed manual transmission offers highly responsive
performance. |
| · |
The Momo leather-wrapped steering wheel, Recaro front bucket seats, aluminum shift
knob, and other interior appointments impart a sporty feel that enhances the joy
of driving. |
Accord Wagon
Styling
| · |
The exterior is designed to provde a sense of ease and comfort, expressing the idea "just load it up and go." The Accord Wagon's characteristic wing roof,
based on the image of a diving peregrine falcon, was designed to impart a
feel of freedom and solidity. |
Interior
| · |
The interior features the same high quality and functionality as the Accord, with
a design that imparts a feel of spacious luxury from the cabin right back to the
luggage space. |
| · |
The spacious tailgate opening features a simple design, with a low luggage floor
and rear seats that stow flat to create a large space, resulting in a clean, spacious
stowage area. The tailgate lining is also carpeted, further enhancing the interior's
luxury feel. |
Packaging and Utility
| · |
Packaging was developed to maximize ease of use in the luggage space, the most
important functional aspect of a station wagon. A different body design than that
of the Accord is used, with more compact shock absorber housings in the rear,
a floor height of 570 mm (50 mm less than the previous model), and a low 865-mm floor
in the luggage compartment for a flat, wide luggage space. |
| · |
Luggage space volume is at the top of its class, with 576L*14 (87L more than the
previous model) during normal use and 921L*14 (114L more than the previous model)
with the rear seats stowed. |
| · |
The electronic power tailgate can be opened and closed automatically using the
keyless entry system's remote control. A safety mechanism incorporates a touch
sensor and torque sensor to reverse the operation if resistance exceeds a predetermined
limit, thus preventing hands or objects from being pinched during automatic operation. |
| · |
With the newly developed one-motion rear seats, simply folding down the rear seatback
causes the headrest to automatically fold forward and the seat bottom to lift
up toward the front seat, allowing the seatback to be stowed neatly away. This
system allows conversion of seats with one hand, for simple, convenient seat
rearrangement. |
| · |
The rear seats have three sets of seatbelts built in. The seats have also been
made wider, for more luggage space when the seats are stowed and a more spacious
interior feel. |
| · |
The open stay, which supports the tailgate when it is open, is built into the
space between the roof side and the roof lining, resulting in a wider tailgate
opening, improved ease of use, and a neater look. |
| *14 |
Honda in-house measurement according to VDA formula |
Driving Performance
Body
| · |
The rear floor, rear doors, rear quarter panels, and rear suspension were all
specially designed for the wagon in order to achieve both a flat, low-floored
luggage space for better packing and improved rigidity for better driving performance.
Thorough attention was given in creating the large cross-sections in the load-bearing
members and smoothly curving surfaces, resulting in a high level of rigidity. |
Chassis
| · |
The front suspension employs the same double-wishbone design as the Accord. |
| · |
The rear employs a trailing arm double-wishbone suspension specially developed
for the wagon. The springs and shock absorbers are independent, with the springs
positioned under the floor and a special configuration used for shock absorber
installation that results in a much more compact shock absorber housing with higher rigidity. This configuration makes a major contribution to the wagon's
flat, low-floor luggage space and superb handling stability. |
| · |
The wagon uses the same VSA (ABS + TCS + side-slip control)*15 as the Accord,
for increased stability during cornering. |
| *15 |
Manufacturer's option for the 24T series (FWD models) |
Engine
| · |
The wagon is fitted with the DOHC i-VTEC engine, which employs the intelligent
i-VTEC system. The powerful engine lineup includes the same 2.4-liter DOHC i-VTEC engine
with output of 147 kW (200 PS) / 232 Nm (23.7 kg-m)*,*16 that is used in the Accord,
as well as a 2.4-liter DOHC i-VTEC engine outputting 118 kW (160 PS) / 218 Nm (22.2 kg-m)*,*17
that was specially developed for the wagon. All vehicle types have earned Japanese
Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport certification as either Ultra Low-Emissions
or Excellent Low-Emissions Vehicles. Other environmental performance features
include compliance with government regulations for fuel economy for 2010.*18 |
| · |
The wagon also comes equipped with the same DBW (drive-by-wire) electronic throttle
control system as the Accord*19, for precise, linear throttle control. |
| * |
Net values |
| *16 |
24T series FWD models |
| *17 |
24E series FWD models |
| *18 |
Except for 24E FWD models equipped with manufacturer's optional 16-inch wheels
and tires alone, or with the 16-inch wheels and tires and privacy glass set. |
| *19 |
Standard equipment on 24T series models |
Transmission
| · |
As with the Accord, the wagon is equipped with a high-efficiency, 5-speed automatic
transmission and S-Matic, for the sporty fun of shifting with a manual feel. |
Accord / Accord Wagon
Equipment for advanced functionality
| · |
The Accord and Accord Wagon are the first available with HiDS (Honda
Intelligent Driver Support System)*1, which reduces the burden on the driver by
helping to keep the vehicle in its lane and control vehicle distance and speed
when driving on the highway. LKAS (Lane-Keeping Assist System) identifies the
vehicle lane based on the image captured by a C-MOS camera mounted in the front
window, then the ECU calculates the amount of steering assist required to maintain
the vehicle in its lane and the appropriate steering assistance is provided. The
system operates at speeds of 65 km/h or higher, on straight roads or curves with
a radius of 230 m or more, making it functional on most freeways. IHCC (vehicle
speed and distance control system) uses a weather-resistant millimeter-wave radar
built into the front of the vehicle behind the emblem to measure the distance
to vehicles up to 100m ahead within a 16° field in combination with speed and
yaw rate sensors to determine the driving state of the vehicle on which it is
mounted. In addition to maintaining the vehicle at a set speed, as with an ordinary
cruise control, this cruise control system automatically regulates vehicle speed
and distance depending on whether or not there is a vehicle in the same lane ahead.
This HIDS driving assist system, which can be used on almost all freeways, has
earned the Accord certification by the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport
as an ASV (Advanced Safety Vehicle). |
| · |
The Accord and Accord Wagon are available with the Honda Smart-Card Key System*20.
Anyone carrying the ultra-slim card key can unlock the doors by simply grasping
the driver-side door handle. The doors lock automatically when you close the door
and push the button on the driver-side door handle, or when you step away from
the car. The ignition switch can also be operated without a key simply by turning
the knob to turn the engine on or off. Both the mechanical key and the card key
are equipped with an engine immobilizer function for superior anti-theft protection. |
| *20 |
(Standard equipment on the Accord 24TL; manufacturer's option on other types,
except the 20E) (Standard equipment with the Accord Wagon 24T Exclusive Package;
manufacturer's option on other types, except the 20E) |
| · |
The new Honda DVD Navigation System with voice recognition*2 features a large,
7-inch-wide monitor and DVD-ROM map memory. In addition to improved basic functions,
such as faster searching and map scrolling, it is also equipped with voice recognition
and other features for greater ease of operation. Just press the voice-recognition
button on the steering wheel and give voice commands for navigation, hands-free
telephoning, or even to operate the audio and climate controls. |
| · |
Inter-Navi Premium Club is an original Honda interactive information network service
available to owners of vehicles equipped with the Honda DVD Navigation System
with voice recognition. This service, offered for the first time to Accord and
Accord Wagon owners, gives broad-based support to drivers for a more comfortable driving experience. Membership in the club, which is free for the first three years (no
monthly or annual user fees) includes the following five services: |
| |
| 1. |
New route traffic information: highly accurate dynamic route guidance
using on-demand VICS with route traffic information covering all of Japan. |
| 2. |
Vehicle maintenance information: the Inter-Navi Information Center notifies
the owner when regular maintenance is due via e-mail or a personal home page. |
| 3. |
Car navigation-related information: provides in-vehicle driving information
and e-mail reading function. |
| 4. |
Personal home page: provides the owner with a personal home page accessible
by computer or cell phone. |
| 5. |
Map DVD exchange: a new map DVD is provided every year for three years, until
the vehicle's first inspection. |
|
Safety
| · |
Honda has incorporated its original G-CON (G-force Control) technology to
create a new body with a crash safety design that is among the best in the world.
It can protect vehicle occupants in 55-km/h full-frontal, 64-km/h front offset, 55-km/h side, and 50-km/h rear collisions.
To further improve safety in "real-world" collisions, Honda has implemented its
own vehicle-to-vehicle collision testing program*21 with its own independently-established
research standards. This collision testing is much more demanding than conventional
tests, in which the car is crashed into a fixed barrier. The Accord and Accord
Wagon's safety design meets even these stringent testing requirements. |
| · |
The number of body sections designed to reduce pedestrian injury has been increased
to protect pedestrians' lower limbs as well as their heads. |
| · |
The interior is designed to protect occupants' heads in a collision, and front
seats are also designed to reduce shocks to the neck. |
| · |
A newly developed side curtain airbag system*3 deploys in just 0.015 seconds,
providing a wide area of protection that covers almost the entire side window
for major reduction to head injuries during side collisions. |
| · |
An SRS airbag system for the driver and front passenger seat comes as standard
equipment on all types. |
| · |
ISO FIX compatible child seat anchoring bars and tether anchors (left and right
rear seats) are also standard on all types. |
| · |
HID (High-Intensity Discharge) headlights (low beam) are standard equipment on
all types. |
| *21 |
Testing involves a 50% front offset collision with a 2-ton class passenger
car, with both vehicles traveling at 50km/h. |
Environmental Performance
| · |
Atmospheric pollutants (HC, NOx) in exhaust gases have been greatly reduced.
Both the Accord and the Accord Wagon achieve superb environmental performance, clearing
government emissions regulations for 2000 by a substantial margin. As a result,
all types have earned Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport
certification as either Ultra Low-Emissions or Excellent Low-Emissions Vehicles. |
| · |
The i-VTEC engine's high-efficiency combustion technology and rear-port exhaust
system contribute in achieving a fuel economy of 13.8 km/L*22, which complies with government
regulations for fuel economy for 2010.*23 |
| · |
Almost all interior injection-molded parts are made of olefin resin for superior
recyclability. This and other measures result in an overall vehicle recyclability
of over 90%*24. |
| · |
Use of lead has also been reduced to less than 1/3 of 1996 levels. |
| *22 |
Accord 20EL and 20E FWD models (Fuel consumption when driven in 10-15 mode.
Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport figures.) |
| *23 |
Accord 20EL, 20E, Accord Wagon (Except for 24E FWD models equipped with manufacturer's
optional 16-inch wheels and tires alone, or with the 16-inch wheels and tires
and privacy glass set.) |
| *24 |
According to independent Honda measurement standards |
|
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October
10 , 2002 