2012 Detroit: Honda Accord Coupe Concept unveiled, info on next-generation Accord lineup

Naturally, I’d be getting a little bit aroused by this latest introduction: Honda has just pulled the sheets off its new Honda Accord Coupe Concept with some new details regarding the entire ninth-generation lineup as well earlier today at the 2011 North American International Auto Show.

Set to launch with the introduction of the all-new ninth-generation Accord later this fall, this new Accord Coupe Concept dons some even sexier sheetmetal than ever before. Sure, the eighth-generation facelifted coupe that I hop around in is a very attractive automobile that completely lies to rest the typical anonymous looks of the Accord from yesteryear. But I think this one looks even better.

“Marking the 30th anniversary of U.S. production, this new ninth-generation Accord will raise the bar again through a tour de force of new Honda powertrain and safety technologies, geared to ensure that Honda and the Accord continue to lead in fuel economy, safety and fun-to-drive performance,” said John Mendel, executive vice president of sales for American Honda.

While most manufacturers in this segment have been resorting to smaller powerplants for the more fuel-conscious buyers and times, Honda said that they will be maintaining the option for a 3.5L V6 while the base engine continues to be an updated 2.4L four-banger good for 181-hp and 177 lb-ft of torque. New for the first time ever in an Accord is the option for a six-speed manual for the four-cylinder while the V6 also gets a new six-speed automatic—another first for the Accord.

Also new for the first time in the Accord is the option for a plug-in hybrid powertrain on the sedan only. Combined with a 2.0L i-VTEC Atkinson-cycle four-banger and a 120 kW electric motor mated to a six kW/hr lithium-ion battery, the Accord Plug-In Hybrid can travel up to 10-15 miles in city driving on a full charge with a top-speed of 100 km/hr or 62 mph. Transferring the power to the front wheels an electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission or E-CVT.

Full details on pricing and availability have yet to be announced, but being projected for a 2013 model year launch in the fall of 2012, we could expect pricing to be announced closer to that time as well.

All Photos Copyright © Omar Rana – egmCarTech.

– By: Chris Chin