Overview
When the seventh-generation Accord Sedan debuted in 2003, it was designed to be a more dynamic overall package. The goal was to package traditional Accord features and value into a new, more sensual design. Now, the Accord Hybrid Sedan takes that original, tall-sedan style and adds features intended to conserve weight and better the aerodynamics of the Accord.
Unique aerodynamic features of the Accord Hybrid include 16-inch alloy wheels and a standard rear decklid spoiler. Unique appearance features include a black chrome-style front grille, exclusive Accord Hybrid badging and a roof-mounted AM/FM/XM radio antenna.
The Accord Hybrid also makes use of lightweight aluminum in its frame and body panels to further reduce body weight for both efficiency and to maintain the same dynamic character of the Accord V-6 Sedan.
Key Body and Exterior Features
- Rigid, unibody construction
- Active Control Engine Mounts (ACM)
- Black chrome-style front grille
- Standard rear decklid spoiler
- Lightweight 16-inch alloy wheels
- Larger 215/60 R16 tires
- Unique AM/FM/XM roof antenna
- Exclusive Accord Hybrid badging
Unibody Construction
The Accord Hybrid is built from a unibody frame that combines the principal body panels and platform into one integrated assembly. Greater use of aluminum in many frame parts, including the entire hood, helps contribute to the Accord's excellent fuel efficiency but maintains a rigid foundation for a smooth, controlled ride at all speeds. The Accord Hybrid's unibody continues to incorporate front and rear subframes that are designed to deform in a controlled manner in the event of frontal or rear impacts. By doing so, the subframes absorb a substantial amount of the impact energy before it enters the passenger cabin. In conjunction with seat belts and the Accord Hybrid's dual-stage front airbags, the frame is a primary contributor to the Accord's projected 5-star frontal impact rating from the federal government.
Exterior dimensions
Outside of curb weight, there are no measurable exterior differences between the Accord Hybrid and the Accord EX V-6, which makes it the largest and most spacious hybrid car on the U.S. market to date. Though the Accord Hybrid's frame uses more aluminum, the shape and dimensions all remain unchanged from the traditional Accord Sedan. It continues with a 107.9-inch wheelbase, with an overall length of 189.5 inches. Front and rear track are unchanged at 61.1 and 61.2 inches, respectively, as is the Accord's 71.5-inch overall width and 57.1-inch height. By keeping the Accord Hybrid's footprint and dimensions in line with the traditional Accord Sedan, few changes are needed in the suspension and steering arenas to keep ride and handling characteristics on par with the nimble Accord EX V-6.
Extensive use of aluminum
From the top of the Accord Hybrid to its wheels, lightweight aluminum plays a very important role in helping to reduce weight, but maintaining structural rigidity and long-term durability. Most noticeable are the lightweight aluminum-alloy wheels, but underneath the paint, much more aluminum is present. In addition to many non-structural elements of the Accord Hybrid's frame, the hood, front and rear bumper beams and rear suspension knuckles are made from aluminum.
Safety design
With the same basic body frame and design as an Accord EX V-6 Sedan, the Accord Hybrid is designed to surpass all current government regulations for safety. With a rigid unibody frame, front and rear crush zones that reduce impact energy before it gets to the passenger cabin and side impact door beams, Accord Hybrid is designed to achieve 5-star safety ratings for frontal impact protection by the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration. The 2004 Accord Sedan was awarded 5-star ratings for frontal impacts by NHTSA and was given a good rating - the highest possible - and designated a "best pick" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in 40-mph offset frontal impacts.
Lightweight alloy wheels
Like all performance cars, Accord Hybrid comes with a set of aluminum-alloy wheels to keep unsprung weight down and to give the car a distinctive look. Measuring 16 inches, the wheels on the Accord Hybrid display a distinct 5-spoke design and are machine finished for a luxurious, yet understated look. They are accompanied by larger 215/60 R16 tires (vs. 205/60 R16 tires on the Accord EX V-6) to match the vehicle's increased performance.
NVH performance
Numerous technologies on the Accord Hybrid are intended to help reduce noise, vibration and harshness (NVH), among them new Active Control Engine Mounts (ACM) (See Powertrain) and an interior Active Noise Control (ANC) system (See Interior).
Accord Hybrid's frame continues to use hydro-formed steel components that maximize the effects of high-tensile strength steel. This precise way of forming steel reduces the manufacturing inconsistencies for the unibody frame and major subframe components, and creates a stronger, more rigid frame than previous generations of Accord.
Additionally, special floating rubber mounts that connect the frame and each of the front and rear subframes, help minimize both road and engine noise. To insulate the Accord Hybrid's interior from external noises, it uses a number of sound damping materials and special melt sheets on the cabin floor to further isolate the interior cabin.
Aerodynamics
Already one of the more aerodynamically slick sedans in the mid-sized segment with a 0.30 coefficient of drag (Cd), the Accord Hybrid adds a rear decklid spoiler and aerodynamic wheels to slightly reduce drag even further. The result is a .29 Cd, which is similar to many sport coupes on the market today.
As with all Accords, an aerodynamic design translates into greater fuel efficiency and a quieter interior cabin, virtually void of any wind noise even at higher speeds. Design details that contribute to this low drag include windshield wipers that are recessed below the hoodline, side mirror design and distinct A-pillar design that smooths air flow over the windshield and around the side of the car.
Available Colors
Three current Accord Sedan colors form the foundation of Accord Hybrid's color palette - Taffeta White, Graphite Pearl, and Desert Mist Metallic. A hybrid-exclusive Silver Frost Metallic will also be offered. The new Silver Frost Metallic and Graphite Pearl will be paired with a leather-trimmed Charcoal (light gray) interior, while Taffeta White and Desert Mist Metallic will come with an Ivory-colored interior.