2017 Honda Accord Hybrid Release Date, Specs Reviews and Price

Aug 21, 2016 03:50 PM EDT

Honda's Accord brand is known for its top-notch design, excellent handling and comfort. This year's model is expected to boast the same features with a bunch of new improvements like high EPA gas-mileage rating.

The 2017 Honda Accord Hybrid mid-size sedan was announced in April 2016. It offers what Honda describes as "class-leading EPA fuel economy ratings" of 48 mpg combined (47 mpg highway, 49 mpg city). The second generation of Honda's two-motor hybrid system is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that uses Atkinson Cycle combustion sequence for optimum performance.

The engine and the two electric motors can produce 212 horsepower, an increase of 16 horsepower from the previous model.

The 2017 Accord Hybrid offers three drive modes. First, there's EV Drive which provides all-electric propulsion to the front wheels while the engine is off. Hybrid Drive uses the car's 2.0-liter gasoline engine to power a generator to create electricity for the electric motor. Last but not the least, Engine Drive combines gasoline-electric power for higher loads and road speeds.

On the road, the Accord Hybrid is mostly quiet but responsive and powerful. A review from Christian Science Monitor says the Accord Hybrid is an excellent car. It is perfect for buyers who want to own a mid-size sedan with the highest possible gas mileage.

Furthermore, the 2017 Accord has good outward visibility to help the driver easily navigate through crowded parking lots. The car also supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto so apps on the driver's phone can seamlessly display on the car's infotainment system. It also comes with Honda Sensing package of advanced safety features which includes adaptive cruise control, collision-mitigation braking system and lane-keeping assist.

According to AutoBlog, Honda is planning to sell 30,000 Accord Hybrids in the U.S. for the 2017 model year. If the car manufacturer achieves this feat, the 2017 Accord will double the sales of the 2015 model, which sold about 14,000 cars in the U.S. The 2017 Accord Hybrid become available in June 2016.

Honda offers three versions of the Accord Hybrid. The base model is priced at $29,155; a midlevel E-XL version costs $31,905; and the loaded Touring version has $34,905 price tag. The latter is the top of the line model and has automatic wipers, heated rear seat, LED headlights, and parking sensors.

Shipping fees are excluded in the prices mentioned above.