As sticker prices hammer consumers’ wallets and adventure fever rises, Honda is aiming for the sweet spot of affordability and capability with significant updates to two core midsize models. The Accord sedan is getting a sharp mid-cycle refresh in...
As sticker prices hammer consumers’ wallets and adventure fever rises, Honda is aiming for the sweet spot of affordability and capability with significant updates to two core midsize models. The Accord sedan is getting a sharp mid-cycle refresh in the second half of 2027, ditching its conservative look for a bolder, more “modern and futuristic” design, people with knowledge of the plan told Automotive News. “Customers will see a substantially redesigned Accord that will feel like a new model,” said Gary Robinson, American Honda Motor Company, Inc.’s product planning boss. The freshened Accord features a narrower grille, slimmer headlights, and a reworked front fascia. Out back, it adopts sharp angular lines, crisper detailing, and updated taillights — a departure from the current model’s softer styling. The sleeker, more aerodynamic design draws inspiration from Honda’s scrapped 0 Series electric models. “The EV prototypes went too far - the Accord strikes the right balance, a source said. Inside, the cabin feels high-tech with a larger infotainment screen and an ergonomic cockpit that still delivers everyday practicality. While powertrains are expected to carry over, Honda is considering adding the S+ Shift system — a quick-reacting simulated manual mode for its e:HEV hybrids that mimics dual-clutch shifts. Longer term, Honda continues its march toward electrification. The Accord could become hybrid-only after its next redesign at the end of the decade. A recent supplier memo suggests the gasoline version will be extended through early 2030. Honda is also amping up the ruggedness of the Passport in the fourth quarter, less than two years into the crossover’s fourth generation. The automaker is increasing the ride height of the off-road-oriented TrailSport by about an inch — part of a broader evolution of the model’s capabilities. “They are giving [the Passport] more testosterone,” a source said. “It’s a little more masculine.” The two-row Passport isn’t just receiving under-the-hood changes in Q4. A source said subtle tweaks to the front and rear give the crossover an “aggressive stance.” Honda hopes the updates will help it challenge Toyota Motor Corporation’s off-road-focused TRD trims more effectively. submitted by /u/Gullible-Pick-268 [link] [comments]
