Honda Malaysia just took the covers off the all-new Accord, replacing the previous generation model that was on sale since 2013.
That begs the question – is it still worth getting the older model in 2020?
Pricing – It is the cheapest D-segment sedan, period
Considering that some Honda dealers are offering discounts of up RM 14,000 for a brand-new, previous-generation Accord, it brings the price down to the RM 140,000 to RM 150,000 range, making the Accord one of the cheapest D-segment sedans you can buy.
Performance – No turbo, no problem
Unlike the all-new model, the outgoing Accord gets the choice of a 2.0- and 2.4-litre naturally-aspirated engines.
We are aware that turbocharged mills offer more torque from a lower rpm range, but there is no replacement for displacement – the Accord’s 2.4-litre unit is a gem, even by today’s standards.
Compared to the more expensive Toyota Camry and its port-injection engine (184 PS, 235 Nm), the Accord 2.4 features a more sophisticated direct-injection unit.
Output figures of the Accord 2.4 may trail the Camry, but in real-world driving conditions, the former's engine outshines the Camry, as it is much smoother and rev-happy. Power delivery is linear, with a generous shove of torque delivered past the 4,000 rpm mark.
Couple that with the smooth-shifting 5-speed torque converter automatic, the Accord still has what it takes to keep up with newer rivals.
Cabin – Still a great place to be in
Old as it may be, the outgoing Accord’s cabin is still a great place to be in, as it offers generous rear leg room, rear head room, and rear knee room.
That is in addition to the excellent interior packaging, with storage spaces that are conveniently located and within reach, making it easy to store and retrieve items.
The older Accord also has support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, something which the pricier Toyota Camry lacks.
Being an Accord, ride comfort is its top priority, and it excels in that aspects - in spite of wearing 18-inch alloy wheels, the Accord soaks up bad roads with ease.
Despite its age, the Accord's cabin quietness is remarkable - road and wind noises are well insulated from the cabin.
Safety – Also with Honda Sensing
The Honda Sensing ADAS suite was made available on the Accord back in 2017, which bundled features like:
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
- Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)
- Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
- Road Departure Mitigation (RDM)
The model is also fitted with the Honda LaneWatch system, which we reckon works better than traditional blind spot monitors.
What the previous-generation Accord lacks is Low Speed Follow (LSF), as this model uses a foot-operated parking brake. LSF requires an electric parking brake to function.