Accord

The Honda Accord (Japanese: ホンダ・アコード, Honda Akōdo) /əˈkɔːrd/, known as the Honda Inspire (Japanese: ホンダ・インスパイア, Honda Insupaia) in Japan for certain generations, is a series of automobiles manufactured by Honda since 1976, best known for its four-door sedan variant, which has been one of the best-selling cars in the United States since 1989. The Accord nameplate has been applied to a variety of vehicles worldwide, including coupes, station wagons, hatchbacks and a Honda Crosstour crossover.

As of 2020, the Honda Accord has sold more than 18 million vehicles.

Since initiation, Honda has offered several different car body styles and versions of the Accord, and often vehicles marketed under the Accord nameplate concurrently in different regions differ quite substantially. It debuted in 1976, as a compact hatchback, though this style only lasted through 1989, as the lineup was expanded to include a sedan, coupe, and wagon. By the sixth-generation Accord at the end of the 1990s, it evolved into an intermediate vehicle, with one basic platform but with different bodies and proportions to increase its competitiveness against its rivals in different international markets. For the eighth-generation Accord released for the North American market in 2007, Honda had again chosen to move the model further upscale and increase its size. This pushed the Accord sedan from the upper limit of what the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines as a mid-size car to just above the lower limit of a full-size car, with the coupe still rated as a mid-size car. In 2012, the ninth-generation Accord sedan, with smaller exterior dimensions, was once again classified as a mid-size car at 119 cubic feet (3.4 m3), falling just shy of the "Large Car" classification. However, the tenth-generation Accord sedan, with similar exterior dimensions, returned to full-size car status with its combined interior space of 123 cubic feet (3.5 m3); the coupe was discontinued in 2017.

In 1982, the Accord became the first car from a Japanese manufacturer to be produced in the United States when production commenced in Marysville, Ohio at Honda's Marysville Auto Plant. The Accord has achieved considerable success, especially in the United States, where it was the best-selling Japanese car for sixteen years (1982–97), topping its class in sales in 1991 and 2001, with around ten million vehicles sold. Numerous road tests, past and present, rate the Accord as one of the world's most reliable vehicles. The Accord has been on the Car and Driver 10Best list a record 30 times.

In 1989, the Accord was the first vehicle sold under an import brand to become the best-selling automobile in the United States.

Contents

1Background

2First generation (1976)

3Second generation (1981)

3.11983 refresh

4Third generation (1985)

4.1Accord AeroDeck

4.2Chassis code configurations

5Fourth generation (1989)

5.1Return of the SE (1991)

5.2Update (1992–1993)

5.310th Anniversary Edition and return of the SE (1993)

5.4Honda Ascot

5.5Honda Vigor and Honda Inspire

6Fifth generation (1993)

6.1North America, Japan and Asia Pacific

6.1.1Honda Accord SiR

6.2European model

6.2.1Rover 600

7Sixth generation (1997)

8Seventh generation (2002)

8.1Japan and Europe

8.1.1Accord Euro R (CL7)

8.2North America and Asia Pacific

9Eighth generation (2007)

9.1Accord in Japan and Europe and Spirior in China

9.2Accord in North America and China and Inspire in Japan

10Ninth generation (2012)

11Tenth generation (2017)

11.1Other markets

11.22021 model update

11.3Engines

11.4Safety

12Awards

13Motorsport

14Sales

15References

16External links

Background[edit]

Honda, after establishing itself as a leading manufacturer of motorcycles during the 1950s, began production of automobiles in 1963. Honda introduced its N360 minicar, compliant with Kei car specifications for the Japanese market, for the 1967 model year. The car had a transverse-mounted front engine, front-wheel drive (FF) layout, which would be adopted for the later N600 (1969), H1300 (1970) and Civic (1972) models. Occupying a size niche between minicars and compact sedans, the Civic offered a combination of economy and practicality with its space-efficient design that had immediate appeal. The Civic gave Honda their first market success competing with manufacturers of standard compact cars, which were the growth segment as sales of minicars plateaued and waned in the early 1970s, and their first major impact in the export market. Honda's CVCC engine technology, which had been under development since 1970, was added to the Civic in December 1973. It had the advantages of not requiring a catalytic converter or unleaded fuel to meet the emissions requirements of the 1970s and early 1980s.

After the well-received launch of the Civic, Honda started on the development of a larger companion model. Honda's original concept for a larger, quieter, more powerful and comfortable car was a four-door sedan powered by a 2000cc inline-six engine, designated Project 653. Information on that project has been interpreted as designating a V-6 powered competitor to the Ford Mustang, however that appears to be a confused interpretation of the Project 653 design concept. For reasons including managing development costs, leveraging the technology of their Civic, and ability to adapt production facilities to the new model, Honda changed their focus to building upon the Civic's successful formula in a larger package, designated Project 671. The body design of the new model was finalized in the fall of 1973, as reported in the December 1975 issue of Motor Trend magazine, which suggests that work under Project 671 had been advancing in the months prior. However, one account of the timeline reports that mechanical engineering under Project 671 got underway in 1974. Until production of the new model, intensive engineering efforts were carried out to make the CVCC engine quieter and more suited to higher cruising speeds, to refine the suspension for better ride and handling, to develop a power steering system suitable for a lightweight compact car, and to improve noise damping in the body and frame. Extensive pre-production testing was performed under a wide variety of conditions, to assure the Accord's suitability for the varied uses an export model would be subjected to.

For the new model, Honda chose the name "Accord", reflecting "Honda's desire for accord and harmony between people, society and the automobile." German manufacturer Opel unsuccessfully sued Honda, claiming that the name was too similar to their Rekord.

The Accord's final form, with an extended nose and extended coupe cabin with a sloping hatchback rear, was a logical derivation of the stubby hatchback design of the Civic and it provided ample leeway for use of Civic-derived components. It showed similarity to the Volkswagen Scirocco, which had been introduced in January 1974, leading to speculation that the form of the Accord was copied from the Scirocco. However, the Accord's form had been finalized months prior to the Scirocco's introduction.

First generation (1976)[edit]

First generation

series SJ-SM

1980 Accord sedan

Overview

Production

1976–1981

Model years

1977–1982

Assembly

Sayama Plant, Sayama, Saitama, Japan

North Jakarta, Indonesia (PT. Prospect Motor)

Johor Bahru, Malaysia (OASB)

Body and chassis

Class

Compact car

Body style

3-door hatchback

4-door sedan

Powertrain

Engine

1.6 L EL1 I4

1.6 L EF I4

1.6 L EP I4

1.8 L EK1 I4

Transmission

2-speed automatic

3-speed automatic

5-speed manual

Dimensions

Wheelbase

2,380 mm (93.7 in)

Length

4,450 mm (175.2 in) (sedan)

4,135 mm (162.8 in) (hatchback)

Width

1,620 mm (63.8 in) (sedan)

Height

1,360 mm (53.5 in) (sedan)

Curb weight

898–945 kg (1,980–2,083 lb)

Hatchback

Sedan

The first-generation Honda Accord was launched on 7 May 1976, as a three-door hatchback with 68 hp (51 kW), a 93.7-inch (2,380.0 mm) wheelbase, and a weight of about 2,000 pounds. Japanese market cars claimed 80 PS (59 kW) JIS (similar to SAE Gross), while European and other export markets received a model without emissions control equipment; it claimed 80 PS as well but according to the stricter DIN norm. It was a platform expansion of the earlier Honda Civic at 4,125 mm (162 in) long. To comply with gradually tightening emission regulations enacted in Japan, the engine was fitted with Honda's CVCC technology. The Accord sold well due to its moderate size and great fuel economy. It was one of the first Japanese sedans with features like cloth seats, a tachometer, intermittent wipers, and an AM/FM radio as standard equipment. In 1978 an LX version of the hatchback was added which came with air conditioning, a digital clock, and power steering. Until the Accord, and the closely related Prelude, power steering had not been available to cars under two liters. Japanese buyers were liable for slightly more annual road tax over the smaller Civic, which had a smaller engine.

On 14 October 1977 (a year later in the U.S. market), a four-door sedan was added to the lineup, and power went to 72 hp (54 kW) when the 1,599 cc (97.6 cu in) EF1 engine was supplemented and in certain markets replaced by the 1,751 cc (106.9 cu in) an EK1 unit, producing 72 hp (54 kW) with the GK-5 5-speed transaxle, or 68 hp (51 kW) with the 2-speed Hondamatic. Technically, the sedan was not changed from the hatchback, and the wheelbase remained the same as well. This did result in a rather long rear overhang to fit a full-sized trunk. The roof was a bit taller so as to provide more interior comfort, and the Accord Sedan was the first Honda in Japan to be offered with typically Japanese middle-class extras such as ornate hubcaps and lace seat covers.

In the U.S. market, the sedan was available in three colors: Nivorno Beige with beige cloth interior, silver with maroon cloth interior, or dark red with maroon cloth interior. In 1980 the optional two-speed semi-automatic transmission of previous years became a three-speed fully automatic gearbox (a four-speed automatic transaxle was not used in the Accord until the 1983 model year). The North American versions had slightly redesigned bumper trim. Other changes included new grilles and taillamps and remote mirrors added on the four-door (chrome) and the LX (black plastic) models. The CVCC badges were deleted, but the CVCC induction system remained. At the same time, California-specification engines received a four-port exhaust valve head and a catalytic converter. This version of the EK1 engine was equivalent to the 1981 49 state High-Altitude engine, with the addition of an air jet controller device that helped maintain the proper mixture at higher altitudes (above 4000 feet). The horsepower increased from 72 hp (54 kW) for 5-speed cars and 68 hp (51 kW) for automatic cars with the two-port 49-state engine to 75 hp (56 kW), like the 1981-83 versions.

In North America, the 1981 model year only brought detail changes such as new fabrics and some new color combinations. Nivorno Beige (code No. Y-39) was replaced by Oslo Ivory (No. YR-43). Dark brown was discontinued, as was the bronze metallic. A bit later in 1981, and SE 4-door model was added for the first time, with Novillo leather seats and power windows. The paint color was NH-77M Glacier Gray with a gray interior. Base model hatchbacks, along with the four-door, LX, and SE four-door, all received the same smaller black plastic remote mirror. The instrument cluster was revised with mostly pictograms which replaced worded warning lights and gauge markings. The shifter was redesigned to have a stronger spring to prevent unintentional engagement of reverse, replacing the spring-loaded shift knob of the 1976 to 1980 model year cars. The shift lever was also shortened by a couple of inches, with a larger thread diameter, allowing usage of later Honda shift knobs, including the rectangular knob used on all 1986 and newer Accords.

Second generation (1981)[edit]

Second generation

series SY/SZ/AC/AD

Overview

Also called

Honda Vigor (Japan)

Production

1981–1985

Model years

1982–1985

Assembly

Sayama, Saitama, Japan

Marysville, Ohio, United States (Marysville Auto Plant)

Nelson, New Zealand (Honda New Zealand)

North Jakarta, Indonesia (PT. Prospect Motor)

Johor Bahru, Malaysia (OASB)

Bangkok, Thailand (Honda Cars (Thailand) Co.)

Designer

Yukio Kurosu (1979)

Body and chassis

Class

Compact car

Body style

3-door hatchback

4-door sedan

Powertrain

Engine

1598 cc EY 12-valve I4 (facelift)

1602 cc EL1 I4 (1981–1983)

1751 cc EK1 I4 (1981–1983)

1829 cc ES2 12-valve I4 (facelift)

1829 cc ES3 12-valve EFi I4 (1984–1985)

Transmission

5-speed manual

3-speed Hondamatic

4-speed automatic

Dimensions

Wheelbase

2,450 mm (96.5 in) sedan

Length

4,410 mm (173.6 in) sedan

Width

1,650 mm (65.0 in) sedan

Height

1,375 mm (54.1 in) sedan

European specification sedan (pre-facelift)

European specification sedan (pre-facelift)

Hatchback (pre-facelift)

Interior (post-facelift)

Debuted on 22 September 1981, in Japan, Europe, and North America, this generation of the Accord being produced in Japan, also became the first to be built in the United States, at Honda's plant in Marysville, Ohio. Since its first year in the American market, it also became the best-selling Japanese nameplate in the United States, retaining that position for about 15 years. In Japan, a sister model called the Honda Vigor was launched simultaneously with the new Accord. This allowed Honda to sell the product at different sales channels called Honda Clio, which sold the Accord, and Honda Verno, that sold the Vigor.

Modernizing the interior and exterior, the second-generation Accord was mechanically very similar to the original, using the same 1,751 cc (1.751 L; 106.9 cu in) EK-1 CVCC engine in the Japanese market. Vehicles with a manual transmission and the CVCC carburetor earned 13.6 km/L (38 mpg‑imp; 32 mpg‑US) based on Japanese Government emissions tests using 10 different modes of scenario standards, and 110 PS (81 kW; 108 bhp), and 23 km/L (65 mpg‑imp; 54 mpg‑US) with consistently maintained speeds at 60 km/h. European market cars received the tested 1.6-liter EL1 engine with 80 PS (59 kW; 79 bhp) at 5000 rpm.

This automobile included popular features of the time such as shag carpet, velour cabin trim, and chrome accents. An optional extra on the 1981 Accord was an Electro Gyrocator, the world's first automatic in-car navigation system. Models were available in Silver, Sky Blue, and Beige. The LX hatchback offered a digital clock and slightly higher fuel economy (due to its lighter weight). In Europe, the Accord was available as a fairly well equipped (for the time) standard version, as well as a very luxurious EX model at a modest upcharge.

In the United States, Federal lighting regulations required headlamps of sealed beam construction and standard size and shape on all vehicles, so Accords in North America were equipped with four rectangular headlamp units rather than the aerodynamic composite replaceable-bulb units used on Accords sold outside North America (note European specification imagery). Other Automotive lighting variations included amber front and red rear side marker lights and reflectors in North America, and headlamp washers and a red rear fog lamp for European markets. Japanese-market Accords were unique from all other markets in that they offered adjustable ride height control and side-view mirrors installed on the mid-forward fenders.

In November 1982, Honda made a fully four-speed automatic available with the 1.8-liter engine, a major improvement over the earlier, three-speed semi-automatic "Hondamatic" transmission. This quickly filtered through to export markets, where the outdated Hondamatic was soon superseded entirely. The manual five-speed transmission remained unchanged. A new 120 mph speedometer replaced the earlier 88 mph unit. The Special Edition (SE) featured Novillo leather seating, power windows, a power sunroof, and door locks. Gray was added as a color option. A slightly modified EK-2 engine was introduced, replacing the earlier EK-1, albeit still carbureted.

1983 refresh[edit]

European Specification Sedan (facelift)

Hatchback (facelift)

North American Specification Sedan (facelift)

By 1983, Accords sold in the eastern United States were produced at the new Marysville plant, with quality considered equal to those produced in Japan. In June 1983, for the 1984 model year, the Accord body was restyled with a slightly downward beveled nose and a new series of 12-valve CVCC powerplants. Globally there was a 1.6 (EY) and also the slightly more powerful ES2 1,829 cc (1.829 L; 111.6 cu in), yielding 86 bhp (64 kW) in federal trim. Honda integrated rear side marker lights and reflectors into the side of the tail light units. European Accords now included a side turn signal repeater just behind each front wheel well. The U.S. requirement for standardized headlamps was rescinded in late 1983, but North American Accords continued to use sealed beams until the fourth-generation models were released in 1989.

The LX offered velour upholstery, auto-reverse cassette stereo, air conditioning, cruise control, power brakes, power steering, power windows and power door locks (sedan only), a digital clock, roof pillar antenna, along with thick black belt moldings, integrated bumpers and flush plastic mock-alloy style wheels covers that resembled the trend-setting Audi 5000. Supplies were tight, as in the Eastern states, the wait was months for a Graphite Gray sedan, a then-popular color. The LX hatchback was the only 1984 version of the Accord to include dual side-view mirrors.[citation needed]

The 1983 Accord SE Sedan carried over features of the 1981 SE Sedan, including leather interior, power windows, power antenna, and aluminum alloy wheels. Some new features included a 7-band graphic equalizer, power booster and Dolby music sensor for the AM/FM cassette stereo system, and a power glass moonroof. Only one color was offered in the SE trim: Dove Gray.

The 1984 sedan was available in four exterior colors, Greek White and three metallic options: Columbus Gray, Regency Red (burgundy), and Stratos Blue (steel). The regular hatchback was available in Greek White, Dominican Red, and the metallic Stratos Blue. The 1984 LX hatchback came in three metallic colors only: Graphite Gray, Regency Red, and Copper Brown.

It was one of the first Japanese engineered vehicles to offer computer controlled, fuel-injection with one injector per cylinder, also known as multiple port fuel injection. This arrived on 24 May 1984 on the ES series 1.8 L engine, and was known as Honda's Programmed Fuel Injection, or PGM-FI. This option was not offered until 1985 in the United States market. Vehicles with PGM-FI (ES3 series engine) earned 13.2 km/L (37 mpg‑imp; 31 mpg‑US) based on Japanese Government emissions tests using 10 different modes of scenario standards, with 130 PS (95.6 kW; 128.2 bhp), and 22 km/L (62 mpg‑imp; 52 mpg‑US) with consistently maintained speeds at 60 km/h (37.3 mph).

In 1985, the Special Edition returned as the SE-i, capitalizing on the final year of the second generation's production. A fuel-injected, 101 bhp (75 kW) non-CVCC ES3 engine was exclusive to this model. The moniker, SE-i, was adapted from the SE trim, but included the "-i" to signify the higher trim level's fuel-injected engine. This 12-valve, 1,829 cc (1.829 L; 111.6 cu in) engine was the first non-CVCC engine used in an Accord and was the same basic engine design used by Honda until 1989. Like the previous SE trim in 1983, the SE-i featured Novillo leather seating, power moonroof, bronze-tinted glass, a premium sound system with cassette, and 13-inch alloy wheels. The luxury equipment features on the SE-i paralleled the same features offered on the Honda Vigor VTL-i, which was only sold in Japan. Two colors were offered: Graphite Gray Metallic and Barley Brown Metallic.

Available options differed from market to market. The 1.8-liter engine, updated four-speed automatic transmission, and 'EX' trim level options were first made available in New Zealand during the 1984 model year refresh alongside the 1.6-liter 'LX' model.

Japan generally received more options earlier than the rest of the world. In 1981, the Accord offered an adjustable ride height air suspension in the Japanese market. From 1983 in Japan and 1984 in Europe, the second-generation Accord was available with anti-lock brakes (called ALB) as an option. This braking system was the first time that an Accord used four-wheel disc brakes. Fuel injection became available in 1984 in the Japanese market with the earlier introduction of the ES3 engine in the SE-i. Models took a year to arrive in North American and European markets with less stringent emissions laws continuing, using carburetors throughout second-generation production.

Third generation (1985)[edit]

Third generation

series CA1/2/3/4/5/6

Accord DX sedan

Overview

Also called

Honda Vigor (Japan)

Production

1985–1989

Model years

1986–1989

Assembly

Sayama, Saitama, Japan

Marysville, Ohio, USA (Marysville Auto Plant)

Alliston, Ontario, Canada (HCM)

Petone/Nelson, New Zealand (New Zealand Motor Corporation/Honda New Zealand)

Ayuthaya, Thailand (Honda Cars (Thailand) Co.)

North Jakarta, Indonesia (PT. Prospect Motor)

Johor Bahru, Malaysia (OASB)

Designer

Toshi Oshika (1983)

Body and chassis

Class

Compact car

Body style

2-door coupe

3-door hatchback

3-door shooting-brake (AeroDeck)

4-door sedan

Powertrain

Engine

1.6L A16A1 I4, 88 hp (66 kW)

1.8L A18A I4, 100 hp (75 kW)

1.8L B18A I4, 115 hp (86 kW)

2.0L A20A/A20A1/A20A2 I4, 98–108 hp (73–81 kW)

2.0L A20A3/A20A4 I4, 110–122 hp (82–91 kW)

2.0L B20A I4, 145 hp (108 kW)

2.0L B20A2 I4, 137 hp (102 kW)

2.0L B20A8 I4, 133 hp (99 kW)

Transmission

4-speed automatic

5-speed manual

Dimensions

Wheelbase

2,600 mm (102.4 in)

Length

Hatchback: 4,440 mm (174.8 in)

1985–1987 Sedan: 4,549 mm (179.1 in)

1987–1989 Sedan & Coupe: 4,564 mm (179.7 in)

Width

Hatchback & Coupe: 1,694 mm (66.7 in)

Sedan: 1,712 mm (67.4 in)

Height

Hatchback & Coupe: 1,336 mm (52.6 in)

Sedan: 1,356 mm (53.4 in)

Accord EX sedan without hidden headlamps

The third-generation Accord was introduced in Japan on 4 June 1985 and in Europe and North America later that year. It had a very striking exterior design styled by Toshi Oshika in 1983, that resonated well with buyers internationally. One notable feature was the hidden headlamps. Because this generation was also sold as the Honda Vigor, the Accord received the hidden headlamps. Honda's Japanese dealership channel called Honda Verno all had styling elements that helped identify products only available at Honda Verno. As a result, Japanese market Accords had a Honda Verno styling feature but were sold at newly established Japanese dealerships Honda Clio with the all-new, luxury Honda Legend sedan, and international Accords were now visually aligned with the Prelude, the CR-X, and the new Integra.

The retractable headlamps of the third generation Accord sedan were in Japan, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, KY region (Arabian countries), and on cars in Taiwan that were imported from the United States. In other countries, the Accord sedan had conventional headlamps, including in Japan from July 1987, on "Accord CA", with CA standing for "Continental Accord". Accords in all other bodies (hatchback, AeroDeck, coupe) had only retractable headlamps worldwide.

At its introduction in 1985, it won the Car of the Year Japan Award.[citation needed]

The third-generation Accord became the first Honda to employ double wishbones at both the front and rear ends. While more expensive than competitors' MacPherson strut systems, this setup provided better stability and sharper handling for the vehicle. All had front sway bars and upper models had rear sway bars as well. Brakes were either small all-wheel discs with twin-piston calipers (only available on the Japanese-market 2.0-Si model), larger all-wheel discs with single-piston calipers or a front disc/rear drum system. ABS was available as an option on the 4-wheel disc brake models, though not in North America. Base model Accords rode on 13-inch steel wheels with hubcaps with more expensive models having the option of 14-inch alloy wheels.

The Accord's available engines varied depending on its market: Japan received the A18A, A20A, B18A, B20A and A20A3 (US imported cars); Europe received the A16A1, A20A1, A20A2, A20A3, A20A4, B20A2, and B20A8; Australia and New Zealand received A20A2 and A20A4; other regions received A20A2 and/or A16A1; while United States, Canada and Taiwan (US imported cars) received the A20A1 and A20A3. On Accord 1986 model year engine block was marked as BS and BT in the United States, BS1, and BT1 in Canada, these cars had chassis code BA. Since 1987 the engine block in Indonesia was marked as NA instead of A20A2. The engine block in Thailand was marked as A.

The Accord's trim levels ranged from spartan to luxurious. In the Japanese home market, the Accord was available with a full power package, heated mirrors (optional), a digital instrument cluster (optional), sunroof (optional), cruise control, and climate control (which was also optional). Some North European export models also had heated front seats and headlight washers. North American and Australian Accords were not available with most of these options, presumably (and in the U.S. in particular) because Honda was seen as a builder of economy cars, and not to cannibalize sales from the recently introduced[when?] Acura line.

Throughout the different markets, in addition to the sedan model, the Accord was available with different body styles which included a three-door hatchback, a three-door shooting-brake called Accord AeroDeck, and a two-door coupe which was added in 1987 for the 1988 model year. The coupe, which was built exclusively in Honda's Marysville, Ohio factory, was "reverse exported" back to Japan where it was known as the US-coupe CA6.

In 1989, the last year of production for the third generation, the SE-i trim returned again to the American market in sedan and coupe models. Standard features in the SE-i included leather-trimmed seats and door panel inserts, alloy wheels, power assisted 4-wheel disc brakes, tinted glass, air conditioning, power steering, power windows, power moonroof (sedan only), dual outlet exhaust, dual body colored power mirrors, and a Bose audio system with steering wheel mounted controls. Additional standard features included cruise control, fold-down rear seat backs, adjustable steering column, quartz digital clock, remote trunk release, rear window defroster and intermittent wipers. Two color combinations were available for the sedan: Charcoal Granite Metallic with gray leather interior trim or Tuscany Taupe Metallic with beige leather interior trim. For the coupe, two different color combinations were available: Asturias Gray Metallic with gray leather interior trim and Brittany Blue-Green Metallic with beige leather interior trim.

Accord AeroDeck[edit]

Accord AeroDeck

The third-generation Accord was sold in Japan, Europe, and New Zealand as a three-door hatchback with a flat roof over the rear seats, known in Europe as a shooting-brake. The body style of a flat roof hatchback was also used on the third-generation Honda Civic (third generation) subcompact, the second-generation Honda City supermini and the first-generation Honda Today kei car. The Honda CR-X was the only three-door hatchback that adopted a fastback, sloping rear hatch "kammback" appearance, demonstrating a performance car appearance identified with Honda Verno products during the mid-1980s.

In North America, the Accord coupe and hatchback models were offered instead. The "AeroDeck" name was reused on the Honda Civic 5-door station wagon, sold in the UK from 1996 to 2000. In parts of Continental Europe, the Accord five-door station wagon was also called the Accord AeroDeck from 1990 until 2008, when the name of the station wagon was renamed the "Accord Tourer". The AeroDeck was only available in Japan at Honda Clio dealerships as a variation of the Accord.

The cargo handling abilities of the AeroDeck were ceded to the fourth-generation Accord station wagon in 1990. The AeroDeck was unique to the Accord model line, as the AeroDeck was not available as a Honda Vigor, as the Accord and Vigor were mechanically identical. The AeroDeck returned an aerodynamic value of .34, and the 2,600 mm (102.4 in) wheelbase returned a spacious interior for both front and rear passengers, on par with a mid-size sedan. Unfortunately, the appearance was not well received in Japan, as the introduction of the Accord Coupe was more well-liked. The appearance was more popular in the United Kingdom.

The AeroDeck was equipped with a four-wheel double wishbone suspension, which gave both a comfortable ride and cornering performance. In addition, speed-sensitive power steering is included, which gives the car easy turning assistance at speeds below 40 kilometres per hour (25 mph) during operation, such as parallel parking. Note that the top model in Japan "2.0Si" is to 4w-ALB (4-wheel ABS) is standard equipment (with an option to upgrade in other trim packages).

Visibility from the driver's seat and the passenger seat was better due to the lower instrument panel design of the front window and a large windshield. And switches are arranged efficiently and at the time was the driving position can be fine-tuned adjustments.

Because of the shape of the vehicle and the flat roof that continued to the rear of the vehicle, opening the rear hatch had some drawbacks in low clearance environments. The lower part of the hatch was not like one used on a station wagon that went all the way down to the rear bumper, so loading cargo into the back wasn't as convenient as a conventional station wagon with a one-piece hatchback. The rear hatch also wrapped into the rear roof, similar to a gull wing door so that the rear glass was in two pieces, one for the back window, and another part on the rear roof. When open, the hatch rose above the roof at a right angle, providing additional overhead clearance when the hatch was open.

Moreover, because of the emphasis on aiding rear-seat passenger entry, a longer front door was installed, and because power windows were not installed on the lower trim packages "LX", "LX-S" and as such, the window regulator opening felt heavy.

Accord Si hatchback

Accord coupe

Accord EX sedan

Interior

Chassis code configurations[edit]

CODE

ENGINE CODE

REGION(S)

-

CA1

A18A

Japan

-

CA2

B18A

Japan

-

CA3

B20A

Japan

JHM

CA4

A16A1

Europe, Turkey, Pakistan, Singapore and some other

JHM/1HG

BA'86

BS/BT

USA

BS1/BT1

Canada

JHM

CA5'87+

A20A1/A20A3

USA, Canada

1HG

USA, Canada'89

Taiwan (US import)

2HG'87-'88

USA'88, Canada

-

CA5'87.05+

A20A

Japan

-

CA5

A20A2

Malaysia

JHM

A20A1/A20A2/A20A3'87+/A20A4/B20A2'87+/B20A8'88+

Europe

A20A2/A20A4'87+

Australia

A20A4

New Zealand (Aerodeck only)

A20A2

other

1HG

CA6'88+

A20A1/A20A3

USA, Canada

-

CA6'88.04+

A20A3

Japan (US import)

-

SE3

A20A2'86/NA'87+

Indonesia

-

AC

A

Thailand

-

different

A20A2/A20A4'87.10+

New Zealand (except Aerodeck)

Fourth generation (1989)[edit]

Fourth generation

series CB7 (Wagon is CB9)

1993 Accord SE

Honda Accord (facelift)

Overview

Also called

Yangcheng YCZ7130M (China; JV)

Production

14 September 1989 – August 1993

Model years

1990–1993

Assembly

Marysville, Ohio, U.S. (Marysville Auto Plant)

Sayama, Japan

Nelson, New Zealand (Honda New Zealand)

East Liberty, Ohio (East Liberty Auto Plant)

North Jakarta, Indonesia (PT. Prospect Motor)

Johor Bahru, Malaysia (OASB)

Ayuthaya, Thailand (Honda Cars (Thailand) Co.)

Guangzhou, Guangdong, China (1992–1993)

Designer

Toshihiko Shimizu (1987)

Body and chassis

Class

Mid-size car

Body style

2-door coupe

4-door sedan

5-door station wagon

Related

Honda Ascot

Honda Ascot Innova

Honda Inspire

Honda Vigor

Rover 600

Powertrain

Engine

1.8 L F18A I4 SOHC

2.0 L F20A I4 SOHC

2.0 L F20A I4 DOHC

2.2 L F22A I4 SOHC

Transmission

4-speed automatic

5-speed manual

Dimensions

Wheelbase

2,720 mm (107.1 in)

Length

1989–91 Coupe & Sedan: 4,694 mm (184.8 in)

1991 Wagon: 4,724 mm (186.0 in)

1991–93 Coupe & Sedan: 4,704 mm (185.2 in)

1991–93 Wagon: 4,745 mm (186.8 in)

4,680 mm (184 in) Sedan & Wagon (Japan only, all years)

Width

1989–91: 1,725 mm (67.9 in)

1991–93 Coupe & Sedan: 1,704 mm (67.1 in)

1991–93 Wagon: 1,714 mm (67.5 in)

1,695 mm (67 in) (all bodystyles in Japan)

Height

1989–91 Coupe: 1,369 mm (53.9 in)

1989–91 Sedan: 1,389 mm (54.7 in)

1991 Wagon: 1,400 mm (55.1 in)

1991–93 Coupe: 1,326 mm (52.2 in)

1991–93 Wagon: 1,351 mm (53.2 in)

1991–93 Sedan: 1,341 mm (52.8 in)

Curb weight

1,237 kg (2,728 lb)

Pre-facelift Honda Accord

Interior

The fourth-generation Accord, introduced on the "CB" chassis, was unveiled in 1989 for the 1990 model year. Although much larger than its predecessor the sedan's styling was evolutionary, featuring the same low slung design and wraparound rear window as the third-generation Accord. For the first time, a 3-door hatchback was no longer available internationally.

This was one of the first U.S. production cars to feature optic reflectors with completely clear lenses on the headlamps. The styling reflected influences from the flagship Honda Legend (sold in North America as an Acura), as Japanese Accords were now sold at Honda Clio dealerships, where the Legend, and the Honda Inspire, were sold. The growing popularity of the Accord internationally was evident in the ever-increasing dimensions, which now matched almost exactly with the first-generation Legend introduced in 1985.

For this fourth-generation Accord, Honda made significant engineering design improvements. All Accords sold in North America came with a completely new all-aluminum 2.2-liter 16-valve electronic fuel-injected engine standard, replacing the previous 2.0-liter 12-valve model from the past generation. Also noteworthy, all Accords equipped with automatic transmissions used an electronically controlled rear engine mount to reduce low-frequency noise and vibration. The mount contained two fluid-filled chambers separated by a computer-controlled valve. At low engine speeds, fluid is routed through the valve damping vibration. Above 850 rpm, fluid is routed around the valve making the engine mount stiffer.

In the U.S., the LX-i and SE-i designations were dropped, being replaced with the DX, LX, and EX trim levels. The Canadian Accord trim levels varied slightly from the U.S. models with LX, EX, and EX-R roughly corresponding to the American DX, LX, and EX, respectively. Fourth-generation Japanese-assembled EXi Accords sold in Australia offered the same 4-wheel steering technology as was available optionally on the U.S. Honda Prelude, but was not included on the New Zealand-assembled versions. The four-wheel steering system was also available on the Accord's Japanese platform-mate, called the Honda Ascot FTBi. U.S. Accord Coupes were available in the same DX, LX and EX trims as the U.S. Accord Sedan (LX, EX, and EX-R in Canada).

A 125-horsepower (93 kW) 4-cylinder engine was offered in the DX and LX models (F22A1), while the 1990 and 1991 model year EX received a 130 hp (97 kW) version (F22A4). Cruise control was dropped from the DX sedan, with air conditioning remaining a dealer-installed option. The LX kept the same features as the previous generation including air conditioning, power windows, door locks, and mirrors. The 90–91 EX added 5 horsepower due to a different exhaust manifold design, slightly larger exhaust piping, and a twin outlet muffler. 15-inch machined aluminum-alloy wheels, sunroof, upgraded upholstery, rear stabilizer bar, and a high-power 4-speaker stereo cassette were standard on all EX models. Some models though rare were special ordered with an anti-lock braking system (at that time abbreviated as ALB, now all automakers refer to it as ABS). A redesigned manual transmission with a hydraulic clutch was standard equipment in all trims while an all-new electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transmission was optional for all models.

Some new dealer-installed accessories were now offered including a single-disc in-dash CD player or trunk-mounted 6-disc CD changer, stereo equalizer, fog lights, security system, rear wing spoiler, trunk lip spoiler, luggage rack, full and half nose mask, center armrest, window visors, sunroof visor, car cover, and a cockpit cover.

Because of tightening auto safety regulations from the NHTSA, all 1990 and 1991 model year Accords sold in the United States came equipped with motorized shoulder belts for front passengers to comply with passive restraint mandates. These semi-automatic restraints were a two-component system; a motorized shoulder belt along with a non-integrated and manually operated seatbelt. The shoulder belts automatically raced around each window frame encircling both the driver and front-seat passenger whenever the front door closed. The process reversed to release them when opened. The lap belts, however, still required manual fastening.

Honda of America badge (installed on the "C" pillar)

In early 1990 for the 1991 model year, Honda unveiled the Accord wagon, manufactured at the Marysville, Ohio plant. The Ohio plant exported right-hand drive wagons and coupes to Europe and Japan, and in Europe, the station wagon (station wagon) was called the "Aerodeck" (in reference to the 1985–1989 2-door vehicle). All station wagons sold outside the United States were affixed with a small badge on the "C" pillar denoting the vehicle was built at the Ohio facility. European and Japanese vehicles had options not available within the U.S. including automatic climate control systems, power seats, and several other minor features. The Accord Wagons were available from November 1990, only in LX and EX trim in North America or just 2.2i in Japan. They had larger front brakes to compensate for the added weight and unlike other U.S. Accords, including a driver's side airbag as standard equipment. Other than a retractable tonneau cover in the rear cargo area and keyless entry on EX models, the wagons were equipped the same as their coupe and sedan counterparts.

Return of the SE (1991)[edit]

Honda reintroduced the SE (previously SE-i) sedan for 1991. It returned to the lineup without the traditional Bose high powered audio system but with an AM/FM stereo cassette 4x20 watt EX audio system; leather-trimmed steering wheel, leather seats and door panels, a fuel-injected 140 hp (104 kW) engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, and 4-Wheel disc brakes w/ ABS as standard equipment. For the first time, a manual transmission was not offered in the SE. Two colors were available: Solaris Silver Metallic with Graphite Black interior and Brittany Blue Metallic with Ivory interior. Unlike previous editions, the 1991 SE was not equipped with uniquely styled alloy wheels but instead carried the EX model wheels.

Update (1992–1993)[edit]

Accords received a minor facelift in 1991 for the 1992 model year. The SE trim was dropped again but left behind its 140 hp (104 kW) F22A6 engine for use in the EX models. This engine added 15 hp over the DX and LX trims and 10 hp over the 90–91 EX trim due to a further revised exhaust system. The system used the same EX-SE twin outlet muffler, a revised air intake tract, a revised camshaft, and a revised intake manifold using IAB butterfly valves which open at 4600 rpm to increase air intake breathing at high rpm. It was similar in design to the 92–96 Prelude Si and VTEC models. For the 1992 and 1993 model years, the motorized shoulder belt system was replaced with a standard driver-side airbag and conventional shoulder/seatbelt arrangement for all but the center rear passenger. Anti-lock 4-wheel disc brakes became standard on the EX. The front and rear facias received a more rounded and updated look. Coupe and sedan models received a new grille, new headlamps, amber parking lights, slightly thinner body side molding, updated wheel designs and for the first time, the EX coupe used wheels different from the EX sedan. The sedans received restyled shortened taillamps with an inverted amber turn signal and backup light positions. The wagon taillamps though still resembled those from the 1990–1991 Accord. The US-market coupe used the new revised inverted positioning of the signal and backup lights, but the shape of the taillamps still resembled those of the 90–91 models. EX trim levels included a radio anti-theft function to deter stereo theft. A front driver's seat armrest was now standard on LX and EX models. Some dealer-installed accessories were dropped including the luggage rack, trunk-lip spoiler, and cockpit cover. A gold finish kit was added.

Coupe (1991 facelift)

Coupe (1991 facelift)

Sedan (1991 facelift)

Sedan (1991 facelift)

Wagon (1991 facelift)

Sedan (1991 facelift)

Sedan (1991 facelift)

Interior (1991 Facelift) 1993 SE

Dash (Cockpit) (1991 Facelift) 1993 SE

Engine (1991 Facelift) 1993 SE - 2156cc Displacement - 140HP (SAE Net) @ 5600 RPM - 142 lb-ft @ 4500 RPM - 8.8.1 Compression

10th Anniversary Edition and return of the SE (1993)[edit]

In 1992, Honda introduced the 10th Anniversary Edition sedan to commemorate the 10th year of U.S. Accord production. The 10th Anniversary Edition was based on the Accord LX sedan but came equipped with several features not available in the LX trim. The upgrades included ABS, 4-wheel disc brakes, 15" EX coupe six-spoke alloy wheels, body-colored side moldings, chin spoiler, and standard automatic transmission. Three colors were offered for the 10th Anniversary Edition: Frost White, Granada Black Pearl, and Arcadia Green Pearl. The 10th Anniversary models also included the same premium seat fabric found in EX models. The Frost White and Arcadia Green cars were paired with the same interior color as their LX/EX counterparts, Blue and Ivory, respectively. The Granada Black cars were paired with Gray interior, while the Granada Black EX had an Ivory interior.

The SE returned in late 1992 as both a sedan and for the first time since the 1989 SE-i, as a coupe. The SE sedan featured standard dual front airbags; the first Accord to do so. An 8-button, 4-speaker Honda-Bose audio system, automatic transmission, leather trim, body-colored bumper, and body side moldings were standard. The SE coupe included a factory rear wing spoiler which differed slightly in design from the already available dealer-installed accessory rear wing spoiler. In Canada, the SE came with heated front seats and heated side-view mirrors. Both the sedan and coupe received distinctive 15-inch alloy wheels as well. All SE sedans during 1990–1991 (1991 MY) and 1992–1993 (1993 MY) were manufactured in Japan, while all SE coupes were produced in the U.S. The 1993 MY sedan was available in two colors: Cashmere Silver Metallic and Geneva Green Pearl, both with Ivory interior. The coupe was offered with two colors as well: Cashmere Silver Metallic and Atlantis Blue Pearl, both again with Ivory interior. Sadly, 1993 would be the swan song for the SE as exclusive, high content, limited edition Accord model. Later generations would use a "Special Edition" designation rather than the previously used "SE" designation. These models were a combination of an Accord LX with several EX features similar to the 1993 10th Anniversary Edition LX.

At the end of the model life of the CB Accord, a "pillared hardtop" model called the Honda Ascot Innova was launched in Japan, based on the CB Accord chassis, but with a different, much more modern-styled body, taking cues from the 1992 Honda Prelude.

Honda Ascot[edit]

Main article: Honda Ascot

Japan-spec series CB Honda Ascot

The fourth-generation Accord spawned a sister model in 1989, called the Honda Ascot which, while mechanically identical to the Accord, featured unique sedan bodywork, although it bore a resemblance to the Accord. The Ascot was sold through the Honda Primo network in Japan while the Accord was distributed through the Honda Clio network.

Honda Vigor and Honda Inspire[edit]

Main articles: Honda Vigor and Honda Inspire

1989 Inspire

1989 Inspire

Unlike previous generations of the Honda Vigor, which were simply upmarket versions of the Accord, the third generation 'CB5' model was spun off as a model in its own right and was based on a different platform which featured a longitudinal engine layout compared to the transverse set-up of the Accord. A sister model to the Vigor, the Honda Inspire, was also unveiled in 1989 and, bar a different front grille, front and rear lights, and bumpers, sported identical bodywork. The Vigor was available in the United States and Canada under the Acura brand.

Fifth generation (1993)[edit]

For the first time in the model's history, Honda developed two distinct versions of the Accord when the fifth-generation model was launched in the Fall of 1993; one version for the European market and one for the North American and Japanese market. Honda and the Rover Group created the European Accord and the Rover 600, a reflection of the past success they had with the Honda Legend and the Rover 800. This generation Accord was also sold in Japan as the Isuzu Aska, while some Isuzu products were sold as Honda products there also.

At its introduction in 1993, it won the Car of the Year Japan Award for the second time.

North America, Japan and Asia Pacific[edit]

Fifth generation

Japan, North America and Asia-Pacific

series CD3/4/5/6/7/9

Overview

Also called

Isuzu Aska

Datong Accord (China; JV)

Xinkai HXK6360 (China; JV)

Production

September 1993–1997

Model years

1994–1997

Assembly

Marysville, Ohio, U.S. (Marysville Auto Plant)

Sayama, Japan

Jalisco, Mexico (Honda De México)

Nelson, New Zealand (Honda New Zealand)

North Jakarta, Indonesia (PT. Prospect Motor)

Santa Rosa City, Laguna, Philippines

Johor Bahru, Malaysia (OASB)

Ayuthaya, Thailand (Honda Cars (Thailand) Co.)

Hsinchu, Taiwan

Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China

Designer

Yukio Kurosu, Kohichi Hirata (1990, 1992)

Body and chassis

Class

Mid-size car

Body style

2-door coupe

4-door sedan

5-door station wagon

Related

Acura CL

Acura TL

Acura Vigor

Honda Inspire

Powertrain

Engine

1.8 L F18B I4 (CD3)

2.0 L F20B I4 (CD4)

2.0 L F20B3 I4 (CD9)

2.2 L F22A3 I4 (CD5)

2.2 L F22B I4 (CD5, CD7)

2.2 L F22B1 I4 (CD5, CD7)

2.2 L F22B2 I4 (CD5, CD7)

2.2 L F22B5 I4 (CD7, CF2)

2.2 L H22A I4 (CD6, CD8, CF2)

2.7 L C27A4 V6 (CE6)

Transmission

4-speed automatic

5-speed manual

Dimensions

Wheelbase

2,715 mm (106.9 in)

Length

1994–95 Wagon: 4,770 mm (187.8 in)

1994–95 Sedan & Coupe: 4,674 mm (184.0 in)

1996–97 Coupe & Sedan: 4,714 mm (185.6 in)

1996–97 Wagon & V6 Sedan: 4,785 mm (188.4 in)

Width

1,781 mm (70.1 in)

Height

1994–95 Wagon: 1,420 mm (55.9 in)

Coupe: 1,389 mm (54.7 in)

Sedan: 1,400 mm (55.1 in)

1996–97 V6 Sedan: 1,405 mm (55.3 in)

1996–97 LX Wagon: 1,422 mm (56.0 in)

1996–97 Wagon: 1,458 mm (57.4 in)

Curb weight

1,295 kg (2,855 lb)

Sedan (pre-facelift)

Coupe (pre-facelift)

Interior (pre-facelift)

The fifth-generation North American Accord was launched on 9 September 1993, for the 1994 model year and was based on the new 'CD' chassis. Larger than its predecessor, primarily to better suit the requirements of the North American market, the new model grew in width but shrunk in length, leaving it classified as a mid-size car in North America. It thus became too wide to fit within the favorable tax bracket in Japan, where its role was to be partially taken over by the slightly narrower second-generation Honda Ascot (sold at Honda Primo Japanese dealerships) and Honda Rafaga (sold at Honda Verno). Previous generations of the Accord sold in Japan were limited to a width dimension of 1,695 mm (67 in) while international models were slightly wider, however, this generation no longer complied. The engines offered with the Accord also exceeded the maximum limit of 2000cc to remain in the favorable "compact" tax bracket. The installation of a 2.0-liter engine in Japanese models made buyers liable for more annual road tax over the smaller 1.8-liter engine, which affected sales.

Development began in September 1989, along with the design process in June 1990. The final design was selected by an early date of 18 December 1990 and frozen by mid-1991. Design inconsistencies in early 1992, caused several alterations to be made until April 1992, when a secondary design freeze took place, ahead of scheduled 1993 production. Design patents were later filed in the United States on 16 December 1992 for the "CD". Production later began at Marysville assembly on 24 August 1993.

Honda of Japan marketed four different size engines in the Japanese-spec Accord sedan: 1.8, 2.0, 2.2 VTEC, and 2.2 DOHC VTEC. The Japanese-spec Accord models were marketed as the following: EF, EX, 2.0EX, 2.0EXL, 2.2VTE, 2.2VTL, 2.2VTS, and SiR. All Accord versions were sold at Honda Clio locations in Japan.

The fifth-generation Accord became the first Accord to be built and sold in the Philippines.

Coupe (facelift)

Sedan (facelift)

The DX, LX, and EX models remained the American trim lines while Canada retained the LX, EX, and EX-R. The 5-speed manual transmission remained mostly unchanged, while the 4-speed automatic noted for its hard shifts, now included Honda's "Grade-Logic" shift program, which would prevent "gear-hunting" by holding the current gear while driving on a sloped incline. All Accord models received a more ergonomic interior with standard safety features such as dual airbags and reinforced side-impact beams. Exclusive to the EX was the F22B1 SOHC VTEC version of previous-generation 2.2-liter 4-cylinder (making 145 hp (108 kW) up from 140 hp (104 kW) on the previous generation EX), anti-lock brakes (now an option for the LX), 4-wheel disc brakes, 15-inch alloy wheels, and a rear stabilizer bar. Leather was an option in the EX trim with leather equipped models now being referred to as EX-L. DX and LX models came equipped similarly to the previous generation and were fitted with a revised version of the previous generation's 2.2-liter non-VTEC 4-cylinder engine. This F22B2 engine was rated at 130 hp (97 kW) up from 125 hp (93 kW) the previous generation. The Accord was again named Motor Trend Import Car of the Year for 1994. The Accord coupe as in the previous generation looked almost exactly like the sedan and was the last generation of the Accord to offer a wagon variant in North America until the introduction of the Accord Crosstour in 2009.

Accord Wagon LX (rear)

In 1994, the 1995 Accord debuted a V6 engine, the 2.7 L C27 borrowed from the first-generation Acura Legend, in the U.S. market. The V6 was offered in both the LX and EX versions of the sedan, LX models being referred to as LX-V6 and EX models as EX-V6. EX-V6 models came equipped similarly to the EX-L with leather seats being the only option in the EX-V6. The addition of the taller C27 engine required substantial alterations to the CD platform, with V6 models sporting a redesigned engine layout, taller front fenders, and a different hood than I4 models; however, these differences are difficult to spot without both models parked side by side. Both versions of the V6 received a dual-outlet exhaust, a 4-speed automatic transmission, 15-inch machined aluminum-alloy wheels on the EX-V6, and 15-inch steel wheels with full covers on the LX-V6, and a slightly updated front grille (which would be later used in all 96–97 Accords). The Accord saw very few other changes for 1995 with the exception of a few different exterior and interior color combinations.

In 1995, the Accord underwent the usual mid-generation facelift for 1996. More rounded bumpers, a slightly modified front fascia (which was originally exclusive in the V6 models in 1995) with new signal lights and rear taillamps gave the Accord a softer look. All Hondas now complied with the federal government's requirement of OBD II engine diagnostics though all three engine choices remained the same. In order to increase the Accord's competitiveness against its rivals in different international markets, Honda CEO Nobuhiko Kawamoto decided on one basic platform for the sixth-generation Accord, but with different bodies and proportions for local markets. In the U.S., the 1996 model lineup included the 25th Anniversary Edition, a model positioned between the DX and LX. The Special Edition trim package was introduced.

For the 1997 model year, Honda released the "Special Edition" version of the Accord (not to be confused with the SE). It was offered in three colors: Heather Mist Metallic, San Marino Red, and Dark Currant Pearl. The Special Edition received a factory installed security system with keyless entry, single-disc CD player, body-colored side molding, distinctive alloy wheels, and a sunroof. It was offered in automatic transmission only and was fitted with the same engine as the LX. Acclaimed for its handling, the 1996 Accord has been known[by whom?] as one of the best-handling Japanese midsized sedans of all time, posting impressive lateral g figures of up to .89 g's.[citation needed]

In New Zealand, the fifth-generation Accord was assembled at Honda's manufacturing site in Nelson and was released in March 1994. It was available in LXi, EXi and EXi-S trim levels. A facelift was released in December 1995, which coincided with the release of VTEC engines in the upper-spec models. Trim levels were LXi, VTi, and VTi-S. These were the first NZ-market Accords to have airbags – two in the VTi-S, one in the VTi.

U.S.- and Japan-built coupe and wagon models of this generation were shipped to Europe with both left and right-hand-drive but there was no V6 option.

This generation of the Accord is one of the most frequently stolen cars in the U.S.

Honda Accord SiR[edit]

1996 Accord SiR Wagon

Honda of Japan produced three high-performance models of the Accord for the Japanese domestic market referred to as the SiR, which was available for sale at Honda Clio dealerships in Japan. The sports car approach to the Accord SiR was aimed at aligning the Accord with the Honda Verno sports sedan that replaced the Vigor, called the Honda Saber a platform-mate shared with the Honda Inspire. The compact sedan role the Accord previously filled was now relegated to the Honda Rafaga and Ascot. The Accord SiR models came equipped with the Japan-spec H22A DOHC VTEC engine instead of the F22B1 SOHC VTEC engine found in the EX. The Japan-spec H22A DOHC VTEC engine specs were 190 bhp (142 kW; 193 PS) at 6800 rpm; peak torque 152 lb⋅ft (206 N⋅m) at 5500 rpm with a compression ratio of 10.6:1. The Japan-spec H22A DOHC VTEC engine was similar to the H22A1 engine found in the North American market used in the Prelude DOHC VTEC of the same era.

The Japan-built SiR sedan (94–97) was available with a 5-speed manual transmission as standard equipment or an optional "Grade-Logic" four-speed automatic transmission. The Honda of America-built (HAM) Accord SiR coupe and then the 1997 SiR wagon had the "Grade-Logic" four-speed automatic transmission as standard equipment (5-speed manual transmission were not available for these two models). It came with cloth sport seats styled similar to the Prelude or optional leather seats, both exclusive to the SiR. The SiR also had some power options found on the Accord EX. The Accord SiR coupe (94–97) and the Accord SiR wagon (1997) were exclusively available for the Japanese market. SiR chassis codes for the sedan were the CD6, the coupe-CD8, and the 1997 wagon-CF2 (production began in September 1996 for the 1997 SiR wagons which lasted for almost one year). The Accord SiR Coupe and the Accord SiR wagon (1997), which were exclusively built in the United States at Honda's Marysville Ohio plant (HAM) but were marketed for Japan export only for this particular model, was not offered in North America.

The Accord SiR Coupe and then Accord SiR wagon was built with the Japan-spec H22A DOHC VTEC powertrains which were shipped from Japan and were installed into the HAM-built Accord SiR models. The 1994–1997 "CD" Accord chassis was designed for the H22A DOHC VTEC powertrain to be installed; because the firewall was curved at the top to allow more space for the tilting backward of the H22A DOHC VTEC engine near the middle of the firewall. The H22A DOHC VTEC engine was the most powerful inline four-cylinder engine Honda built for the Prelude and the Accord before the 1995 U.S.-spec V6 sedan. The Accord SiR suspension was improved with a stiffer front sway bar (27.2 mm x 4.0 mm), stiffer rear sway bar (16 mm), stiffer front coil springs, and stiffer rear coil springs.

Features for the 94–95 Accord SiR models (sedans and coupes) included the following items: cruise control, automatic climate control (Similar to the first-generation Acura CL), Bose stereo system, 7,400 redline tachometer, optional electronic traction control, and optional limited-slip differential for automatic transmission, optional SRS and airbags, factory-installed driving lights, optional factory-installed "pop up" navigation radio head unit, sound insulation liner under front hood, black-housing headlamps, no side molding was available on the Accord SiR sedan, optional rear sunscreen, optional sunroof, and power-retractable outside mirrors. Features for the 96–97 Accord SiR models (sedans, coupes, and wagons) included the same as above while adding; optional cruise control, rear window wiper on the sedan, optional leather interior, and a colored side molding for the sedan as well.

European model[edit]

Fifth generation

Europe

Overview

Also called

Honda Ascot Innova

Production

1993–1998

Assembly

Swindon, England (HUKM)

Designer

Shigeo Ueno (1989)

Body and chassis

Class

Mid-size car

Body style

4-door sedan

Related

Rover 600

Powertrain

Engine

1.8 L F18A3 I4

2.0 L F20Z I4

2.2 L F22Z2 I4

2.3 L H23A3 I4

2.0 L Rover 20T2N I4 diesel

Dimensions

Wheelbase

2,720 mm (107.1 in)

Length

4,675 mm (184.1 in)

Width

1,715 mm (67.5 in)

Height

1,380 mm (54.3 in)

Curb weight

1,240–1,375 kg (2,734–3,031 lb)

The fifth-generation Accord for the European market was unveiled in 1993 and was completely different than the global model ('CD'). It was in fact the Japanese-market Honda Ascot Innova which was based on the previous fourth-generation 'CB' Accord. It was the result of a joint effort with the Rover Group that provided Rover with the 600 series. The exterior was designed by Shigeo Ueno, was finalized in 1989.

In 1996, the European Accord received a minor facelift and was given a new front end (new headlamps, bumper, hood, and grill) and slightly different taillamps (see images). The styling of the facelifted Accord remained identical to the styling of the Ascot Innova (although the frameless doors were replaced with conventional items) and featured the design language first introduced on the fifth-generation Honda Civic. The styling of the European Accord differed dramatically from the North American which featured a more conventional sedan styling compared to the European model's low slung, fastback inspired look which also incorporated rear quarter windows. The facelifted Accord was also equipped with two airbags as standard.

However, the European Accord did not spawn a station wagon nor a coupe version. Instead, Honda opted to import the coupe and station wagon (Aerodeck) versions of the global Accord.

The diesel model of the Accord was fitted with the direct injection Rover L-Series diesel engine, as also fitted in the Rover 600.

European-spec Accord (pre-facelift)

1996 European-spec Accord (facelift)

1996 European-spec Accord (facelift)

Rover 600[edit]

Rover 600

As part of the tie-up with the Rover Group the European Accord spawned Rover's replacement for the Austin Montego in 1993. Called the 600, the car shared its platform with the European Accord and, with the exception of the front doors, lower rear doors, and windscreen, sported unique styling which dispensed with the rear quarter windows. The interior design of the 600 was very similar to the Accord's however, while the dashboard design was identical.