What To Know
- If there’s a strong enough demand for an AWD Accord, it’s certainly possible that the company will consider adding it to the lineup in the future.
- The Toyota Camry, a direct competitor to the Accord, offers AWD as an option on its higher trim levels, catering to customers who desire enhanced capability.
- The Honda Accord remains a strong contender in the midsize sedan segment, offering a compelling combination of comfort, efficiency, and technology.
The Honda Accord has long been a staple in the midsize sedan segment, known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride. But one feature that has consistently been absent from the Accord lineup is all-wheel drive (AWD). This has led many to wonder: will the Honda Accord get AWD? While the current generation doesn’t offer it, the future remains uncertain.
The Case for AWD in the Accord
The demand for AWD vehicles is steadily rising, particularly in regions with unpredictable weather conditions. AWD provides enhanced traction and stability, especially on slippery surfaces like snow, ice, and rain. This makes it a desirable feature for drivers who encounter challenging road conditions regularly.
For the Accord, AWD could offer several advantages:
- Improved Safety: AWD systems can help prevent skidding and loss of control, enhancing overall vehicle stability and driver confidence, especially during inclement weather.
- Increased Capability: AWD allows the Accord to handle more challenging road conditions, expanding its appeal to drivers who live in areas with frequent snow or heavy rain.
- Enhanced Performance: AWD can improve acceleration and handling, particularly on loose surfaces, making the Accord more enjoyable to drive.
The Challenges of Adding AWD to the Accord
Despite the potential benefits, there are several reasons why Honda might be hesitant to add AWD to the Accord:
- Cost: AWD systems are more complex and expensive than front-wheel drive systems, which could increase the Accord’s price tag.
- Fuel Efficiency: AWD systems can slightly reduce fuel efficiency compared to front-wheel drive systems.
- Weight: Adding AWD adds weight to the vehicle, potentially affecting performance and handling.
- Competition: The Accord already faces stiff competition from other midsize sedans that offer AWD, and adding it might not necessarily give Honda a significant advantage.
The Current Generation’s Limitations
The current 10th generation Honda Accord (2018-present) is only available with front-wheel drive. While some competitors in the segment offer AWD, Honda has chosen to focus on other aspects of the Accord, such as its fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and advanced technology features.
Hints of a Potential Future for AWD
While there’s no official confirmation from Honda, there are some hints that the Accord might eventually get AWD:
- Growing Demand: The increasing popularity of AWD vehicles, particularly in North America, suggests that Honda is aware of the market trend.
- Competitor Offerings: As more competitors in the midsize sedan segment offer AWD, Honda might feel pressure to match their offerings.
- Platform Sharing: The Accord shares its platform with other Honda models that offer AWD, making it technically feasible to implement the system.
The Future of the Accord and AWD
The future of the Accord and AWD remains uncertain. Honda has not publicly announced any plans to introduce AWD in the next generation. However, the growing demand for AWD, the competitive landscape, and the technical feasibility make it a possibility.
It’s important to note that Honda is constantly evaluating market trends and customer preferences. If there’s a strong enough demand for an AWD Accord, it’s certainly possible that the company will consider adding it to the lineup in the future.
What Honda Could Learn from Other Brands
While Honda has yet to offer AWD in the Accord, other brands have successfully integrated it into their midsize sedans. Looking at these competitors can provide valuable insight into the potential benefits and challenges of offering AWD in the Accord.
- Subaru Legacy: The Subaru Legacy has been a long-standing champion of AWD in the midsize sedan segment, offering it as standard across all trim levels. This has made the Legacy a popular choice for drivers who value all-weather capability.
- Mazda6: Mazda offers AWD as an option on the Mazda6, providing drivers with the choice of adding this feature for increased traction and stability.
- Toyota Camry: The Toyota Camry, a direct competitor to the Accord, offers AWD as an option on its higher trim levels, catering to customers who desire enhanced capability.
A Final Thought on the Future of the Accord
The Honda Accord remains a strong contender in the midsize sedan segment, offering a compelling combination of comfort, efficiency, and technology. While AWD is currently absent, the future remains open. If Honda decides to embrace the growing demand for AWD, the Accord could become even more attractive to a wider range of buyers.
The Future of the Accord: More Than Just AWD
While the potential for AWD in the Accord is a hot topic, it’s important to remember that Honda’s future plans for the model will likely involve more than just drivetrain technology. The Accord is a versatile and adaptable vehicle, and we can expect to see continued innovation in areas such as:
- Advanced Safety Features: Honda is renowned for its commitment to safety, and we can anticipate further advancements in driver-assistance systems and autonomous technologies.
- Hybrid and Electric Powertrains: As the automotive industry shifts towards electrification, Honda is likely to introduce hybrid and fully electric versions of the Accord.
- Connectivity and Infotainment: The Accord is already equipped with a sophisticated infotainment system, and we can expect to see even more integration of smartphone connectivity and cloud-based services.
Ending Thoughts: The Accord’s Evolution
The Honda Accord has a long and successful history, adapting to changing market trends and customer preferences. Whether or not AWD becomes a part of the Accord’s future, one thing is certain: the Accord will continue to evolve and innovate, ensuring its place as a leading contender in the midsize sedan segment.
Popular Questions
Q: Will the next generation Honda Accord have AWD?
A: There is no official confirmation from Honda about AWD in the next generation Accord. However, given the growing demand for AWD and the competitive landscape, it’s a possibility that Honda might consider adding it.
Q: Why doesn’t the current Honda Accord offer AWD?
A: Honda has focused on other aspects of the Accord, such as fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and advanced technology features. Adding AWD would increase the cost and potentially affect fuel efficiency.
Q: What are the benefits of AWD in a sedan like the Accord?
A: AWD provides enhanced traction and stability, especially on slippery surfaces, making it safer and more capable in challenging road conditions.
Q: Is AWD a necessity for a midsize sedan?
A: Whether AWD is a necessity depends on individual needs and driving conditions. For drivers who frequently encounter snow, ice, or heavy rain, AWD can be a valuable safety feature.
Q: Are there any other Honda models that offer AWD?
A: Yes, several other Honda models offer AWD, including the CR-V, Pilot, and Ridgeline.
