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Leading Japanese automobile maker Honda Motor Company today, (Thursday, September 29,2005) announced the Middle East launch of the 2006 version of its highly successful luxury sedan, Accord. The 2006 Accord will have restyled exteriors, enhanced horsepower and safety features and plusher interiors, adding value to Accord's already popular brand image in the Middle East.
The 2006 Accord comes in four variants - 2.4 VTi-L, 2.4 VTi-E, 3.0 VTi-L and 3.0 VTiE and takes on a dynamic new and sporting character, with stylish front and rear bumpers, front grill, trunk lid design with integrated LED brake lamp. The rear has got new dynamic styling to accommodate the newly designed LED taillights.
"The Accord has been one of Honda's most successful models across the globe, and the Middle East is no exception. The car has been known for its striking good looks and remarkable engine performance, and every change in the 2006 version had to be made to provide a clear value addition to the customer," said Hajime Yamada, General Manager of the Middle East & Africa Sales Division at Honda Motor Company. "With the 2006 Accord, we have raised the bar with regard to luxury, style, comfort and performance, and we are sure that customers in the Middle East will welcome this change, especially as it comes at no extra cost."
"We are anticipating a marked increase in sales in the Middle East during the coming months with the launch of this new version," he added.
The interior of the new Accord also gets an enhanced look with a new steering wheel, new automatic transmission shift knob and restyled gauge cluster with a new Maintenance Minder function, which indicates factors like oil life. Additionally, new seat fabrics are applied in all cloth models and extensive application of new lightweight sound deadening material to improve NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) even further. The car comes with a new rear window tray, since the third brake light is relocated to the trunk lid, in addition to a front passenger seat belt reminder.
In keeping with Honda's industry-leading initiative by safety, all Accords come equipped with a comprehensive list of advanced safety features, including dual stage front SRS airbags, front seat side airbags, side curtain airbags (optional) and anti-lock brake system (ABS). Also new for 2006, 2.4 VTi-E, 3.0 VTi-L and 3.0 VTi-E models come standard with Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA) system.
The engine performance of the 2006 has also been bolstered, with the V6 engine's horsepower increased to 275HP (+5HP) and the 4-cylinder engine's horsepower increased to 187HP (+14HP). Horsepower gains were achieved with extensive improvements to the airflow of the intake and exhaust systems. The 4-cylinder engines are now controlled with Drive-By-Wire (DBW), like the V6 engines, rather than a throttle cable, providing a smooth operation and enhanced throttle response.
The well-equipped 2.4 VTi-L is the most affordable Accord. It comes with a range of standard features including air conditioning, keyless entry, power windows, power door locks, AM/FM/CD audio system, center console with armrest, tilt & telescopic steering column, remote trunk/fuel lid release, rear window defroster, folding/lockable rear seatback and immobiliser theft deterrent system.
The new 2.4 VTi-E model added VSA for safety driving, and AMIFMI6CD audio system, 16 inch wheels, power adjustable driver's seat and dual zone control auto air conditioning.
The Accord 3.0 V6 VTi-E, added as new trim, offers an even more extensive list of premium features, including 16 inch alloy wheels, twin exhaust, AMIFMI6CD audio system, and steering wheel audio controls. This version remains as the most premium trim level for the Accord line-up and offers side airbags and side curtain airbags for utmost safety for the driver and passengers.
As for the exterior colours, luxurious Premium White Pearl, sporty Alabaster Silver Metallic and noble Royal Blue Pearl are added to the line up.
"The Accord has a 30 year history of being associated with reliability, luxury and comfort. With the Accord 2006, Honda is keen to extend its offering to its loyal customer base and further boost the brand value of this highly successful model," concluded Yamada.