Next-generation Honda Accord starts testing

Expected to debut in late-2017.

The current, ninth generation Honda Accord was introduced in late-2012, and given a mid-life facelift last year. Now, Honda has started working on the tenth generation Honda Accord, as seen in the car's first spyshots published by Paultan. Like the next-gen Honda CR-V, the next-gen Honda Accord is also being developed in the USA.

The 2018 Honda Accord's test mule is heavily camouflaged, and leaves the design to one's imagination at the moment. However, cues borrowed from the tenth-gen Civic's "Flying H" grille and fastback-like rear-end are anticipated on the Camry-rival. The next-gen Accord's relation with the all-new Civic won't be just about the design, though.

In a press conference held in February, Takahiro Hachigo, President, CEO and Representative Director, Honda Motor Company, confirmed that the next-gen Honda Accord will be based on the new generation Honda Civic's platform. The same platform will underpin the next-gen 2017 Honda CR-V as well. Mr. Hachigo also said that both, next-gen Accord and CR-V will feature new technologies and have a highly competitive pricing.

Also Read: Honda Civic RS Turbo Modulo launched in Philippines

The next-gen Honda Accord will likely be offered with a 2.0- or a 2.4-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine as the base option, along with a new 2.0-litre turbocharged VTEC Turbo petrol engine. The naturally aspirated V6 petrol may be discontinued for the sake of efficiency and CO2 emissions. A market launch is expected to happen first in North America, in late-2017 or early-2018.

Meanwhile, Honda Cars India will launch the current ninth-generation Accord later this year. The sedan is expected to be offered in a hybrid variant only.

[Spyshots can be viewed at Paultan]