Geneva 2008: Honda Accord

The styling may be an 'evolution of the current model', rather than a radical departure, but the new-generation Honda Accord is indeed all-new.

Wider and lower-riding than the outgoing car, it comes with revised petrol engines and a new diesel, much-modified suspension and improved safety features.

All engines meet the upcoming Euro 5 legislation, including the i-DTEC diesel. This 150bhp/258lb-ft engine is more powerful than its predecessor, but cleaner-running and smoother; it uses piezo-electric fuel injection, plus a particulate filter and improved exhaust gas recirculation to keep emissions down.

The continuing 2.0-litre petrol i-VTEC engine (156bhp) has received wider-diameter intake valves, further-optimised valve lift and timing, and increased inlet and exhaust air-flow. The 2.4-litre petrol engine has been boosted to 200bhp/187lb-ft, with an increased compression ratio, larger valves, revised valve timing and reduced exhaust pressure. All three engines come with six-speed manual transmission, with a five-speed automatic gearbox optional with the petrol engines; an auto option will follow for the diesel early in 2009.

Suspension modifications include a lowered centre of gravity, a wider track,variable-rate dampers and new double-wishbone front and rear multilink layouts. Body rigidity has been improved and the speed-sensitive electric power steering revised with quicker ratios. Honda claims that handling is more responsive and body roll has been reduced. Honda also promises 'excellent steering feel at higher speeds', and 'a more involving, communicative drive'. Engineers took the BMW 3-Series as their benchmark in the development process.

The increased width has allowed for a redesign of the dashboard - now with a more wraparound effect - and new features include a LCD display screen in the centre of the speedo, a service reminder display, and, in manual models, a shift indicator light to advise on gear changes for optimised fuel economy. The redesigned front seats are better bolstered and the new steering wheel, with controls for audio, cruise control and phone, is adjustable to a higher degree of tilt. Cabin storage solutions include two side pockets in the centre console, a lidded storage area beside the steering wheel, large door pockets, rear bottle holders and a large central console box.

All models have stability control and a new system called Motion Adaptive EPS, which incorporates the stability control and the electric power steering to aid steering input in slippery conditions and during moments of instability.

Options include collision-mitigation braking, which monitors the distance to the car in front and alerts the driver if a shunt is imminent or applies the brakes to reduce the effect of an impact; lane-keeping assist, which helps the driver stay in lane; and adaptive curise control. All three features have been combined into a single integrated network. Side and full-length curtain airbages are standard, along with front seatbelt pre-tensioners with load-limiters, Isofix child seat mounting points and active front head restraints.

More details, pricing and full technical specifications will be announced nearer to the launch. Both saloon and roomy Tourer estate models are on offer again.

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• Top 10: Geneva Motor Show 2008
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• Geneva 2008: Honda Accord
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