Early look at next-generation Honda Accord Euro (Acura TSX)

A range-topping model will reportedly get a dual-clutch transmission and AWD powertrain.

The Honda Accord Euro (Acura TSX) is one of the most stylish and well rounded vehicles in the lower premium midsize sedan market. Its combination of chiselled good looks, refined and fuel-efficient powertrains, high-quality finish and craftsmanship, and extensive standard features list makes it a winner in the eyes of most new car buyers.

The latest version of the car was only introduced late last year but we already have a number of details including a preview sketch of the next model due in 2011. This will be the eighth generation of the popular nameplate, and if this sketch is anything to go by it will be the most aggressive and sportiest version yet.

According to Auto Motor und Sport, where this image was sourced, the new Accord Euro will adopt more coupe-like styling, with short overhangs front and rear, and a very high waistline. The front-end will retain the broad look of the current model but will be positioned closer to the ground for a more aggressive look.

The current 2.4L four-cylinder petrol engine should carry over as well as the six-speed manual and automatic transmissions. New, however, could be a range topping ‘Type-S’ model with a 2.3L turbocharged petrol engine with 260hp (194kW) mated to a six-speed dual-clutch transmission and Super Handling AWD powertrain. Let’s hope that the U.S.-spec Acura TSX will also get this exciting performance option.

Source;

http://www.motorauthority.com/early-look-at-next-generation-honda-accord-euro-acura-tsx.html

UK Honda Accord; 2009 Honda Accord Mugen 24sc Concept

One thing that the European and Japanese Honda line-up have in common is its Accord, they both use the sleeker, sportier and more compact version of the Accord as opposed to the large and more luxurious-looking Accord that we get, which is called the Honda Inspire in Japan. While Europe makes do with a new Type S oil burning Accord (the Type R could come back with this new generation), Japanese tuner Mugen takes the JDM Honda Accord, slaps on a bodykit and a Type-R-esque rear wing and finally supercharges the 2.4 liter DOHC engine. No power figures of the Honda Accord Mugen 24sc Concept have been released but I’d say something around the 300 horsepower range can be expected. Look after the jump for more shots of the supercharged Accord.

Source;
http://paultan.org/archives/2009/02/06/2009-honda-accord-mugen-24sc-concept/

UK Honda Accord i DTEC receives automatic transmission

Honda, recognizing the potential for growth in the demand for more economical diesel engines, has made public its plans to open its first automatic transmission for a diesel motor early in 2009.

The latest gearbox is ready to be introduced in the newest Accord Euro, but unfortunately the automatic option for the diesel engine will not arrive in the Acura TSX saloon of North America anytime soon. Reports gathered of late asserted that plans to launch a diesel TSX gas been placed by Honda on indefinite hold. Instead, Honda is hoping to make the Accord Euro version more attractive to a fresh section of buyers overseas, specifically in the corporate market, by the inclusion of an automatic in its i-DTEC turbodiesel engine.

Honda, which began producing diesel engines only in 2004, says that the automatic gearbox has been developed within as the company didn’t want to “compromise the performance” of its engine by joining it with a non-Honda transmission.

The new five-speed unit utilizes the same straight gate arrangement and paddle shift system as observed on the Accord Euro petrol automatic earlier. CO2 discharges are rated at 170g/km in the saloon version and 173-174g/km for the Touring wagon contingent on the model grade. Fuel efficiency, in the meantime, is rated at 44.1mpg (combined) for the saloon and 42.8mpg (combined) for the Tourer.

Ceiling speed is 129 mph for the sedan and 126 mph for the wagon. Top output is rated at 134 hp (100kW) and 258lb-ft (350 Nm) of torque. The fresh automatic diesel will be available for sale in Europe early next year.

The Accord i-DTEC automatic will go on sale in January 2009 priced from £22,400 (Accord 2.2 i-DTEC ES saloon) and £23,700 (Accord 2.2 i-DTEC ES Tourer).

Now, let's hope that they can perfect this transmission so they can hit emission's standards here in North America and if the moon and the stars align....maybe,.....just maybe......

Source;
http://www.4wheelsnews.com/honda-accord-i-dtec-receives-automatic-transmission/

Euro Honda Accord Luxury Navi Review (N.A. Acura TSX)

For those interested in what's across the pond in UK, here's a nice review on the Euro Honda Accord Navi, which is of course here in North America, the Acura TSX.

Here's the link to the write up;
http://www.drive.com.au/Editorial/ArticleDetail.aspx?ArticleID=56949&vf=15