The 9th generation Honda Accord was given an update back in September, and we’re happy to be behind the wheel to see what’s changed. 18 months have passed since we last drove the Accord. Back then it had a 2.4-litre i-VTEC, a 5-speed electronically-controlled automatic. Now though, it comes with a… No wait, it’s the same great drivetrain. This i-VTEC engine comes with Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology, which allows it to deliver adequate, linear power (no sudden torque bursts) while being almost as economical as a 2-litre engine in the right conditions. Of course, the 5-speed is getting a little long in the tooth, but it still does its job well and we much prefer this arrangement to the CVT alternative. And we’re sure owners will appreciate its reliability.
The Accord is still one of the most balanced cars in the D-segment. Passenger comfort was Honda’s obvious goal here, but it still has Honda’s signature handling. Despite the size, it still feels lightweight and nimble. And it achieves this feel without taking the German approach of stiffening up the suspension to uncomfortable levels.
Mechanically, it’s still essentially the same great ride it was before. The biggest changes to the Accord come in terms of the aesthetics. This range-topping 2.4 VTi-L model gets the full treatment. In front, you’ll find Dynamic LED reflectors with LED Daytime Running Lights along with a revised grille and bumper design. The new headlights are simply gorgeous, and they give the Accord a air of sophistication its rivals will struggle to match.
The rear has also undergone some surgery. Here the boot lid and rear bumper have been given a sleek remoulding, which results in an altogether more elegant look. LED Combination rear lamps seal the modern look and bring the Accord’s overall appearance up to the standards set by the Civic earlier this year. The 18” rims have been updated with a two-tone finish, but otherwise very little else has been altered.
On the inside, there are also changes to be found. The dials on the instrument cluster taper to a sharper point, the grain pattern on the wood trim now flows horizontally rather than vertically, and there’s a lot more piano black pieces. This is a nicer finish overall, and we do like the updated infotainment system. The animations are really fluid and it integrates Apple’s Carplay and Android Auto now.
The changes Honda have made were necessary to keep the Accord at the head of the pack.
Material choices are very good in the Accord, with large solid plastic and leather pieces making up the majority of the interior surfaces. This translates to a longer-lasting cabin with less parts to shake loose over the years.
The Accord’s emphasis on occupant comfort is evident as Active Noise and Sound Control is present here as well. This system utilises microphones in the cabin and cancels out unwanted noises from the engine through the superb premium sound system. As a result, you get one of the quietest rides in its class. In addition, there are side and rear window blinds for the rear passengers.
Safety in the Accord is second to none. Every Accord, no matter the trim level, gets 6 airbags, vehicle stability control, ABS, EBD and BA.
They also come with 4 rear and 2 front parking sensors. Our model came with hydrophilic door mirrors that prevent water droplets from obscuring vision after or during heavy rain.
The 2016 facelift preserves the things we loved about the Accord, but brings in some important updates. It may not be ground-breaking, but it’s one of the best looking and best packaged Accords ever created and the fact that there are price reductions across the line shows just how aware Honda Malaysia is of the needs of their customers. Plus, the 5-year, unlimited mileage warranty adds a sense of security to an already famously reliable car.
Honda Accord 2.4 VTi-L Specifications
Engine Earth Dreams Technology, 4 Cylinder DOHC i-VTEC
Displacement 2,356cc
Transmission Electronically Controlled 5-Speed Automatic
Max Power 175 PS @ 6200 RPM
Max Torque 225Nm @ 4000 RPM
Selling Price RM167,239.52
