Honda has canceled its last electric vehicle and will now focus on its shift to hybrids. The automaker plans to invest nearly $28 billion to launch 15 new hybrid models by the end of the decade. A lifted Accord hatchback might be one of them.
A new report from Automotive News claims that the company will launch a high-riding hatchback version of its popular mid-size sedan. The Accord SUV is expected to start production in mid-2029 and may be built at Honda's Marysville, Ohio factory.
The new Accord variant will feature Honda's next-generation hybrid system, which will also power the Civic, CR-V, and updated Accord sedan. Honda is preparing to update the Accord with a major redesign, and the launch of the new variant should coincide with the revamped sedan launch.
View Price on AmazonIn May, Honda unveiled a new prototype sedan featuring a wedge-shaped design, high-riding stance, and a hatch. Although the prototype was not named, Honda confirmed that a production version would go on sale within the next two years.
The new Accord sedan will have slimmer headlights, new taillights, an updated grille, and revamped rear-end styling. It will also have a larger infotainment screen and take inspiration from Honda's wedge-shaped 0 Series electric sedan.
The new Accord variant sounds a lot like the 2010 Accord Crosstour, a lifted version of the eighth-generation Accord sedan with a sloping roof and massive rear hatch. The Crosstour increased the model's versatility but sales peaked in its first full year on sale.
Honda offered the crossover with four- and six-cylinder engines in front- or all-wheel drive configurations. However, that was not enough to attract buyers, and Honda sold only five Crosstour units in 2017 after discontinuing production at the end of the 2015 model year.
A new high-riding Accord would give Honda a competitor to the Toyota Crown, which recently received a new hybrid powertrain. Subaru has also found success with the Legacy sedan and Outback crossover. A lifted sedan would make the car more appealing to potential crossover buyers who want something more affordable than a typical SUV.
Source: motor1.com
