Road Test and Review: 2017 Honda Accord Hybrid Touring
The new hybrid gets a more powerful 2.0-liter Atkinson cycle four banger along with what Honda refers to as a “second-generation two-motor hybrid system.” This means Honda’s Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive or i-MMD powertrain, which has been shrunk in size and weight and exhibits significantly increased efficiency. This in turn provides noticeably more power and much improved fuel economy. Cargo capacity benefits from the shrunken components as well.
DRIVING THE 2017 HONDA ACCORD HYBRID
Once underway, the 16 horsepower increase to 212 was noticeable and the car came close (in our week with it) to meeting the 49 mpg (4.8 l/100 km) city and 47 (5.0) highway EPA figures. We averaged 46 mpg (5.1 l/100 km) in a combination that was roughly 50% city and 50% highway driving.
The cabin was noticeably quieter than the 2016 we had last year and passenger comfort as well as fit and finish were excellent. Acceleration from a standstill was smooth and silent. The 1.3-kWh battery pack supports up to 60 mph (97 km/h) in EV Drive mode for a minimum of a mile (1.6 kilometers) without firing up the engine.
When the internal combustion engine awakens, it spins a generator to provide AC power to the always-engaged electric motor and it simultaneously sends power to the battery pack. The drive motor will convert unwanted momentum to electricity that is then used to recharge the battery when the driver backs off the accelerator pedal.
The continuously-variable transmission, as it’s paired to the hybrid powertrain, didn’t really seem to appreciate kickdown mode very well and we noticed a momentary delay before things realign the way they should be.
We found driving in slippery conditions was a bit maddening as the Michelin Energy Saving tires seemed to be closer to summer sport tires in wintry conditions than the all-seasons they were touted to be.
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