New Car Overview of the 2005 Honda Accord Compact Hybrid Fuel Sedan
Description: Compact Hybrid Sedan
Base MSRP Range: $26,890 - $28,777
Invoice Price Range: $22,990 - $31,990
Where built: USA
A third hybrid vehicle for Honda's line emerges in 2005 with a high-tech gas-electric treatment for the Accord V6 sedan. This hybrid differs on the exterior with a unique design for the front grille, special hybrid badges and a spoiler added to the trunk lid.
The Accord V6 Hybrid employs Honda's IMA power control unit to manage all energy produced by the gasoline-based V6 engine and electric motor, then apply it in a frugal manner to turn the front wheels. Honda's 3.0-liter V6 with i-VTEC valve controls adds variable cylinder management (VCM) to trim the number of cylinders firing when a power boost is not required. The six-pack produces a robust 255-hp but pushes fuel economy figures akin to a small 4-cylinder plant -- up to 38 mpg.
Other special equipment aboard ranges from a hybrid-powered twin-zone automatic climate control system to electric variable assist power rack and pinion steering, special IMA display on the instrument panel with a fuel economy meter indicating both instantaneous and lifetime figures, and larger 16-inch alloy wheels with P215/60R16 tires.
