Honda is launching an all-new Accord.

The Honda Accord saloon goes on sale in June.

And the Accord Tourer estate follows in September.

The new Honda Accord is wider and lower than the current model. Aggressively flared wheel arches, a wider road stance and deep front spoiler give the Accord a sportier presence.

A new generation diesel engine, called i-DTEC, will be one of three engines powering the new Accord. The new i-DTEC is more powerful, while its emissions are cleaner than the current 2.2-litre diesel engine.

The other two engines are petrol units. Both the 2.0-litre i-VTEC and 2.4-litre i-VTEC engines are more powerful than the engines they replace, while also being cleaner and more fuel efficient.

A fourth diesel i-DTEC engine – said to have ‘superclean’ emissions – arrives in September. The first Accord diesel auto will be launched early in 2009.

Anti-skid VSA is standard on all models, while a variety of active safety features – such as CMBS Collision Mitigation Braking System – will also be available. A more user-friendly Hands-Free Telephone system is also promised.

“We think the new Tourer model will appeal especially to small businesses,” commented Graham Avent, manager – corporate operations, Honda.

“It suits a variety of purposes that small businesses demand from their cars: it can carry loads, looks smart for client visits, and can carry the kids around at the weekend. Along with those practical aspects it will also have low ownership costs and low-emission tax-efficient engines.”

Prices will be announced later.

The new Honda Accord

• Honda Accord saloon on sale 01 June
• Honda Accord Tourer on sale 01 September
• 2.2-litre i-DTEC diesel 150PS, 350Nm torque
• 2.0-litre i-VTEC petrol 156PS with 5-sp auto option
• 2.4-litre i-VTEC petrol 200PS with 5-sp auto option
• 2.2-litre ‘superclean’ i-DTEC arrives September
• Diesel auto transmission arrives early 2009

Road tests of current Honda Accord models

• Click here for a road test of the Honda Accord Sport GT
• Click here for a road test of the Honda Accord Tourer Sport

Cleaner engines and premium appeal for new Accord