2005 Honda Accord Hybrid

Overview:
The Accord joins the Civic as a Hybrid for 2005. Electric power aids in both fuel economy and acceleration. Like the Civic, the power transfer is smooth and seamless. I had the opportunity to spend a lot of time behind the wheel on a weekend trip to Wyoming. In spite of high winds on my return trip the Accord proved to be exceptionally comfortable, quiet and yes, economical. Two models are offered: The Hybrid and Hybrid with navigation. All Accord hybrids have leather interior. Prices start at $29.990. I drove the Navigation model priced at $31,990

Under the Hood:
The Accord is powered by a 240 horsepower 3.0 liter SOHC 24-valve i-VTEC V6. Torque is rated at 212 ft-lbs at 5000 RPM. Honda’s Integrated Motor Assist or IMA (the electric part) raises total power to 255 and torque is bumped up to 232 ft lbs. Acceleration is spirited. A bar graph located in the instrument cluster shows blue when the electric motor kicks in. Conversersly, the bar moves left and turns green when deceleration is recharging the batteries. The Hybrid is rated at 37-MPG Highway and 29 city. This is very close to what I got in real world driving. Unlike the Toyota system the Accord, like most normal cars, gets better mileage on the highway. FYI: Like any other vehicle mileage will vary depending on conditions. During high winds fuel economy dropped to under 30 MPG for a time.

Gas Saving technology:
‘Variable Cylinder Management’ or VCM enhances fuel economy. This feature disables 3 cylinders when cruising. The ‘Idle-Stop’ feature shuts the engine down when the vehicle comes to a stop. Take your foot off the brake pedal and away you go. It’s pretty slick. Engine load is reduced with electric power steering and the Air Conditioner switches to electric assist when the car is at a stop. Fuel savings are realized through weight reduction as well. The intake manifold and valve covers are made of magnesium and the hood is aluminum.

Ride/ Handling/Hauling:
The Accord Hybrid is a joy to drive. The car is very quiet although I did hear road noise with certain types of pavement. The car runs so quietly it’s hard to tell if it’s running or not. Finally a reason to have a tachometer on an automatic equipped car. By the way, Honda’s 5-speed box is smooth as silk providing power when needed and economy when cruising. I spent hours behind the wheel and can tell you this is one of the most comfortable cars I’ve driven in a long time. 4-wheel Wishbone Suspension helps smooth out the bumps and assist in cornering. I’m not sure I’m totally sold on the electric power steering. It seems just slightly disconnected at times. For the most part however, it works well and the car tracks nicely. As you come to a stop you may notice a slight braking sensation resulting from the battery regeneration. This is not a bad thing just something you will notice on your first drive and then quickly forget. A short 36.1 foot turning diameter makes parking a snap.

On the Inside:
All Accord Hybrids have 8-way power heated leather seating. XM satellite radio and a 6-disc CD player are also standard. The XM was a life saver in rural Wyoming. The seats are great and the stereo excellent. Dual-zone climate control and exterior temp display are found on all Accord hybrids. Rear seating is great for 2 adults, ok for 3. The trunk is roomy with a low lift-over. We had the top of the line Navigation model. The system works well and it’s easy to use. Those things never cease to amaze me. Handy if you are a sales person or a realtor.

Safety/Warranty:
In addition to ABS and traction control, you’ll find Electronic Brake Distribution to aid in vehicle stability. Other standard safety equipment includes dual-stage, dual threshold front airbags and side curtain airbags with occupant position detection system (OPDS) for safer airbag deployment.

Bottom Line:
The Accord Hybrid is a cutting edge car bristling with technology. It’s a pleasure to drive both in terms of comfort and performance. It looks good. It goes good. The $64 question is ‘does it make sense’? That really comes down to your priorities. Those concerned with the impact of the automobile on the environment will buy this car largely on principle. Honda has thoughtfully supplied a fuel saving calculator on it’s website (www.automobiles.honda.com) Punch in your particular set of numbers and see if the car makes sense for you. Using a side by side comparison with a regular V6 Accord with Navigation the Hybrid was not cost-effective as the additional cost of the Hybrid car exceeded fuel savings over a 5-year period by some $526.00 Then of course there is the time value of money to be considered. Test drive the car before you decide. It might just win you over.

Tom Collins
2-7-05