Accord Type S: high-power Honda

Honda Accord 2.2 i-DTEC Type S 4dr

What is it?

THERE’S a new sporting Type S model for the Honda Accord range: with all the proper go to accompany the special Type S badge.

But rather than a high-revving petrol engine, Honda has slotted in a high-power version of its 2.2-litre diesel.

The Accord Type S features a bigger turbo, bigger intercooler and bigger alloy wheels. Plus a bit of engine management remapping. The result is 180PS with fuel economy – despite the enhanced performance – of nearly 50mpg.

Due to go on sale in May, the likely cost is around £26,000.

What’s hot?

• Exclusivity of Type S badge and trim
• Additional power (180PS and 380Nm) really makes a difference
• There’s seemingly unlimited reserves of mid-range acceleration
• Giving you the security to power past slower traffic safely
• Yet, despite additional power (+ 30PS) there’s still 48.7mpg economy
• And emissions are only up 4g/km to 154g…
• …which is under new 160g/km tax break
• Gearchange has machined engineered precision…
• …you’ll want to change gear just for the sake of it
• Ride on unique 18 inch alloys is sportingly firm…
• …but beautifully supple over bumps and ruts
• And those high-winged leather seats keep you comfortably located
• Brakes provide quick and progressive stopping power
• Engine noise now more muted than standard Accord diesel
• Extensive standard spec: sat-nav; leather; 18 inch alloys; air con
• Capacious interior and boot

What’s not?

• New Accord still suffers from road roar – although it’s improved in Type S
• And there’s still some wind noise around the door mirrors
• Interior dashboard is too complex: needs simplifying
• No self-shifter for auto fans

What you need to Know?

Business Car Manager Road Test Rating

The high-power Honda Accord Type S is some car. It’s an inspirational drive. There’s bags of overtaking power, and oodles of delicious mid-range turbo surge. But no real fuel penalty. It’s tax efficient; it’s comfortably well featured; and at around £26,000, very well priced. It all adds up to an extremely tempting business car. And a very satisfying drive.