Honda Accord Hybrid (2017MY Minor Change, CR7)

It's been three years ago when Honda made the Accord, the last of the Honda sedans, into a full-fledged hybrid saloon to compete against Toyota's hybrid-only Camry, and this saloon introduced Honda's new 2-motor hybrid system labeled under the Sport Hybrid banner: i-MMD or Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive. It should have been a good midsize saloon that delivers a good blend of performance or efficiency but...don't know how but Honda finally responded with the 2016 minor change of the Honda Accord Hybrid with an upgraded powertrain.

2017 Honda Accord Hybrid

For the 2017MY minor change, the Accord Hybrid now features a much simmered front view and a mildly revised rear view looks broadly similar to its pre-facelifted model. With the design becoming more mild-mannered compared to the old one, Honda claims that their newest update will be more fuel efficient and technologically advanced than the old one.

2017 Honda Accord Hybrid interior

2017 Honda Accord Hybrid interior

Nothing's changed on the interior design but the hardware's gone revamp courtesy of the application of the available Apple Carplay, a first for Honda. Of course, you don't need to explain what's what about the Apple CarPlay feature but if customers opt in for the top spec EX model, you can get sports combination seats, driving position system, engine start button with Honda Smart Key System, and so on.

Now, let's talk about the upgraded powertrain of the 2017 Accord because there is now a brand new H4 electric motor which replaces the old model's MF8 electric motor. Working alongside the 2.0L Atkinson Cycle DOHC i-VTEC engine, it now produces a combined power output of up to 215PS of power output when set to Hybrid Drive Mode as well as fuel consumption of up to 31.6km/L based on Japan's JC08 Mode standards. Believe it or not, the new 2017 Accord Hybrid now features a Sport button on the electronic gear selector. Push that button and not only it will become sharper through handling but it allows you to change simulated gears via paddle shifters. Sounds good but it's not worth the cut to be a decent sports saloon.

Apart from its newly updated drivetrain, the Accord Hybrid now comes with Honda Sensing, meaning this saloon now comes with lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, and blind-spot warning.

2017 Honda Accord Hybrid

The 2017MY Honda Accord Hybrid is priced at 3,850,000 up to 4,100,000 Japanese Yen, which is still more costly than the Toyota Camry, but with all that improvements implemented on it, the new Accord Hybrid is slowly becoming a nice car to drive on Japanese roads. With the new Sport mode, added power, and some tech, this hybrid sports saloon is just one step further to seize the competition.

Available colors: Deep Aurora Metallic, Luna Silver Metallic, White Orchid Pearl, Premium Sparkle Black Pearl, and Premium Deep Rosso Pearl.

Photo: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.