Likely to receive the new 9-speed AT.
Honda Cars India is reported to re-launch the Accord luxury sedan (the ninth generation Accord) at the 2016 Auto Expo, scheduled to take place in February 2016. Even prior to its Indian launch, Honda is gearing up to introduce a mid-life facelift for the sedan in the American market, with uncamouflaged prototypes revealing the final look.
The spyshots (which can be viewed at the source link below) show the Accord in a sporty and stylish avatar though its overall appearance is similar to the pre-facelift model, which was displayed at the 2014 Auto Expo.
Design updates for the front fascia include new bumpers, a larger chrome grille and new LED detailing on the headlight enclosures. The rear end is given a bootlid-integrated spoiler, chrome highlights for the bootlid and bumper, and minor changes to the design of the bumper itself.
According to reports, the Accord for the U.S.A. will get powertrain updates to its V6 engine, including the possible inclusion of direct injection and a new 9-speed automatic transmission. Further, the suspension setup would be stiffened for better road holding capability.
Also read: New Honda Jazz teased in India through a promotional video
For the Indian market though, Honda is yet to announce the engine that would power the new Accord. The manufacturer could bring the Accord Hybrid to make use of the recently-announced FAME policy (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric vehicles in India). Under this, electric and hybrid four-wheelers over 4 meters in length are eligible for incentives ranging from INR 11,000-1,38,000.
Rivals: Toyota Camry, Skoda Superb, VW Passat
Expected launch date: February 2016 in India
[You can view the spyshots at AutoBlog]
