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Honda Accord i-CTDI

When Honda builds a new engine, you know it's going to be good. The company's VTEC units are powerful, economical, reliable and smooth. Yet with diesel models accounting for up to 75 per cent of rivals' sales, the main barrier to their UK success is the fuel they use - petrol.

By Gavin Ward

July 2003

When Honda builds a new engine, you know it's going to be good. The company's VTEC units are powerful, economical, reliable and smooth. Yet with diesel models accounting for up to 75 per cent of rivals' sales, the main barrier to their UK success is the fuel they use - petrol.

But now the firm's boffins have developed its first-ever 'home-grown' diesel. We drove a pre-production version, and reckon the market is set for a revolution come the January launch date. Not only does the new 2.2-litre unit boast emissions of 143g/km, but it is also capable of returning 52mpg. What's more, this Accord is easily the quietest, smoothest machine in its class. Once underway, its performance doesn't disappoint, either. Peak torque of 340Nm is available at 2,000rpm, making in-gear overtaking effortless. And it's only when hustling along at higher speeds that the 138bhp model struggles a little. In addition to this version, Honda is looking at a higher-output variant of the same 2.2-litre powerplant, along with a six-speed transmission. At this rate, petrol cars will soon become obsolete.

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FIRST OPINION

    The Honda Accord has already shaken up the family car sector, and the addition of a highly refined and cost-efficient diesel powerplant to the range is sure to make things even better. The new model's January on-sale date cannot come soon enough.
 
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