2005 Hybrid Preview

2005 Honda Accord Hybrid
MPG & MSRP:
Automatic 29/37, $29,990

The latest Honda hybrid, the Accord represents Honda's slow and steady march toward an all-hybrid lineup. The Accord Hybrid should give them plenty of reasons to soldier on, as it offers Civic-like gas mileage with better V6 performance. Powered by an advanced V6 hybrid powertrain, the Accord Hybrid has a 5-speed automatic transmission and earns an EPA city/highway fuel economy rating of 29/37 mpg, similar to a Civic 4-cylinder sedan. The Accord Hybrid employs the third-generation of Honda's advanced Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) full hybrid system in combination with new Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) cylinder deactivation technology to provide perhaps the world's best V6 fuel efficiency along with highly responsive and powerful V6 performance. The Accord Hybrid generates 255 horsepower (versus 240hp for the Accord V6 sedan) with fuel economy that is reportedly 27 percent better than the current Accord V6 in city driving and 19 percent in highway driving. The new Accord Hybrid comes equipped with a leather trimmed interior, dual zone automatic climate control (with industry first hybrid air conditioning system), 8-way power driver's seat, XM® Satellite Radio and in-dash 6-disc CD changer. An exclusive rear deck lid spoiler and specially designed alloy wheels. All Accord Hybrids come equipped with driver and front passenger side airbags, side curtain airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), and Traction Control System (TCS).