Reliability, functionality and Honda always seem to go together and the 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid in Touring guise reinforces that belief.
The Honda Accord has been reborn in its new-generation avatar bringing with it state-of-the-art engineering and technology while retaining the essential everyday car features and feel. Honda has been wise in maintaining the levels of equipment and finish expected from their popular sedan while adding a plethora of fuel-saving technology. The 2014 Accord Hybrid brings the best of what Honda has to offer to the table while also being a great car to drive and be in.
Look at the new Accord and you know it means business. Everything you need is there, presented smartly in all its functionality with nothing skimped out on whatsoever. The smooth, clean lines sort of lend it an aggressive stance even when standing still. The Accord is actually quite large, but the muscular design belies its size. The trunk is ample and swallows up enough luggage to last each occupant for more than a few days.
On the inside, the Accord does have a dark theme to it. The balance of black, grey and brushed metal elements add a fine balance. That said, everything feels top quality and very well put-together. The seats are snug and feel comfortable even on long drives. The ergonomics are impressive and everything is within easy reach. The large dials with blue backlight and Eco Assist help you keep track of fuel consumption and real-time savings. The steering mounted controls bring the audio, telephone and adaptive cruise control to your fingertips. Easy access is important when considering the amount of connectivity available.
Safety is one of the top priorities and it shows. The 2014 model is packed to the gills with equipment to make life not just safer, but easier and more controllable. Apart from the ABS and EBD-equipped brakes, grade logic, stability assist and traction control, you also get the Adaptive Cruise Control system with Forward Collision Warning. Dual-stage front, side and curtain airbags are present to prevent injuries in the worst case scenario. Child safety is also very well taken care of.
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Get going and the Accord Hybrid impresses. There are three drive modes – EV, Hybrid and Engine – which have the electric motors dominant, the pair of which deliver 124kW, or 166 hp and 226 lb-ft of torque and net combined 196 hp. The engine acts as a generator for the most part, only stepping in when more thrust is needed on the highways or to recharge the hybrid battery. The eCVT is basically just the electric motors driving the front wheels via a single-speed reduction and provides instant torque. Drive with a light foot and you can extract some serious MPGs. Honda claims up to 50 mpg and that’s quite achievable. The car feels planted and solid and gives you the confidence to push it without breaking into a sweat.
As far as warranty is concerned, Honda offers a 3 year or 36,000 miles basic warranty which includes genuine accessories, with 5 years or 60,000 powertrain warranty together with unlimited mileage corrosion warranty. You also get limited warranty on the battery pack.
The 2014 Accord Hybrid is the result of decades of development and pioneering culminating in the creation of a thoroughly modern everyday hybrid car which doesn’t feel like an economy box on wheels. It’s well-built, safe and hugely practical and can get most jobs done without batting an eyelid.
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Make, Model & Trim Package:[attr style=”width:120px;font:inherit;font-size:small;”]*** 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid, Touring
Base Price:*** $34,905
Body style:*** Four-door, mid-size sedan
Engine:*** 2.0L, four-cylinder, DI with i-VTEC, 141 hp, 122 lb-ft, 124kW electric motor, 196 hp, 226 kb-ft
Transmission:*** e-CVT (electronic continuously variable transmission)
Curb weight:*** 3,602 lbs
Wheel & Tire size:*** 17-inch, 225/50 R17
Warranty:*** 3 years/36,000 miles, 5 years/60,000 miles for the drivetrain
Fuel economy MPG:*** City 50 / Hwy 45
0-60 MPH:*** 7.1 seconds
Quarter Mile:*** 15.6 seconds
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