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Wednesday 10th September 2003
D-day For Hot Honda Accord
Looking for a sporty load-lugger with excellent fuel economy? Here's a new Honda that could well fit the bill. Wowing the crowds at this week's Frankfurt Motor Show, the Accord Tourer Diesel Sports Study Model uses the firm's first high-performance oil-burner.
Delivering 140bhp to the front wheels through a five-speed manual gearbox, the all-new 2.2-litre i-CDTi unit propels the Honda from 0-60mph in around nine seconds and on to a top speed of more than 130mph - while returning 52mpg. The powerplant is set to join the Accord line-up in February, before being added to the firm's CR-V off-roader range later next year.
The sporty Tourer features a deep front airdam and flared wheelarches filled with magnesium-look five-spoke alloys. At the back, a large spoiler and twin tailpipes add to the effect. The concept is as appealing inside as it is out, with leather sports seats and extensive aluminium trim.
A Honda spokesman revealed: "The styling is a teaser for a forthcoming performance vehicle." That's a clear hint the firm's engineers are working on a hot Accord Type R... and it could come in estate and diesel forms. Mat Watson
