Honda says its new 2023 Accord, which goes on sale in January, will be available in six trim levels, starting with the turbocharged LX and EX and topped by the hybrid-powered Sport, EX-L, Sport-L and Touring. With 247 lb.-ft of torque from Honda’s new fourth-generation two-motor hybrid system, the 2023 Accord hybrids are the most powerful ever.

The company says Accord hybrid models are positioned at the top of the 11th-generation Accord lineup and will represent about 50% of sales.

“The all-new 11th-generation Accord is essential to our lineup as a critical driver of brand loyalty, and with hybrid models representing 50% of sales, a key part of Honda’s electrification strategy.” said Mamadou Diallo, vice president of auto sales, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “This is our best Accord ever, a true benchmark in its class, offering an unbeatable combination of style, efficiency, performance and connectivity.”

The 2023 Accord features a retuned four-wheel independent suspension and new front suspension damper mount bearings and ball joints to reduce friction to improve steering smoothness.

Accord hybrid models (Sport, EX-L, Sport-L, Touring) feature a new, more powerful fourth-generation two-motor hybrid-electric system with a pair of electric motors that are now mounted side-by-side and an all-new 2.0-liter Atkinson cycle 4-cylinder engine that adds direct fuel injection. This new configuration allows for the use of a larger propulsion motor with increased torque output. Combined system output is 204 hp, while traction-motor peak torque is 247 lb.-ft. of torque (up 15 lb.-ft.).

The hybrid-electric system also is more responsive and significantly more refined at highway speeds, Honda says. Linear Shift Control elevates the driving experience by mimicking the vehicle speed-linked rev feel associated with a conventional drivetrain shifting gears under acceleration. Changes to the hybrid control system also improve the management of engine and electric power in different conditions for a better driving experience.

Under the hood of the LX and EX, Accord’s 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with VTEC variable valve lift technology has been updated with additional refinement and improved emissions performance. Enhancements include an upgraded direct-injection system and new cold-active catalyst, plus a high-rigidity crankshaft and oil pan to reduce engine noise.

The continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) for the 1.5-liter turbo has been updated to reduce noise. Significant drivability and performance improvements were also made and include Step-Shift programming that simulates gear changes at full throttle.

Drivers can seamlessly switch between four selectable drive modes to optimize the Accord’s driving experience for various conditions. Econ, Normal, and Sport (hybrid only) modes feature pre-set performance settings for powertrain response, steering assist level, gauge cluster layout and adaptive cruise-control settings. Hybrid models (Sport, EX-L, Sport-L, Touring) also feature a new Individual mode that enables customization of the driving experience.

Accord hybrid models (Sport, EX-L, Sport-L, Touring) come standard with Honda’s largest ever touchscreen, a 12.3-in. unit with a physical volume knob, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility and a simplified navigation structure with fewer menus. A 1-in. finger rest at the bottom of the touchscreen makes it easier to use by providing a stable surface to rest your hand, and Qi-compatible 15W wireless smartphone charging is available (Touring).

The top-line Touring features Honda’s first integration of Google built-in. This includes apps like Google Assistant, Google Maps and more on Google Play for a helpful, personalized and connected driving experience. Control select vehicle functions by voice with Google Assistant, get directions and live traffic updates with Google Maps, and download music, podcasts, audiobooks and more with Google Play.

Accord Touring also comes with a standard 6-in. head-up display and a 12-speaker Bose premium audio system. Featuring Bose Centerpoint technology and Bose SurroundStage digital signal processing, the new system was custom-engineered precisely for the Accord’s new interior so drivers and passengers – regardless of their seating position – are placed in the middle of the music, with a clear and spacious listening experience

All Accords can now receive Over the Air (OTA) software updates to nearly all vehicle computer modules, enhancing functionality and capability.

Key 2023 Accord features include:

• Fourth-generation two-motor hybrid system (Sport, EX-L, Sport-L, Touring)
• Standard 10.2-inch digital driver instrumentation display
• 12.3-inch color touchscreen for top trims with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility (Sport, EX-L, Sport-L, Touring)
• Standard 7-in. touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility (LX, EX)
• New Over the Air (OTA) software updates to nearly all vehicle computer modules, enhancing functionality and capability
• Updated 1.5-liter Turbo engine (LX, EX) adds refinement and responsiveness while remaining fuel efficient
• Standard Honda Sensing system, plus Low-Speed Braking Control, Traffic Sign Recognition system (TSR), and new Traffic Jam Assist (TJA)