Honda's Tour(er) De Force

Aside from the automatic tailgate opening, ‘one motion’ rear seat and rear screen wash/wipe – all standard on all UK models – equipment levels mirror those of equivalent 4-door models. All Tourers feature alloy wheels, dual zone climate control, outside temperature indicator, 6-speaker CD audio systems and blackout 3D dashboard illumination. Front, side and the largest side curtain SRS airbags in class are also standard throughout.

Safety considerations are not just restricted to occupants, because the Accord incorporates the industry-leading pedestrian-protection features already familiar from the Civic, Stream, Jazz and CR-V. These features include an unobstructed area beneath the bonnet (allowing it to deform on impact), bonnet hinges and front wing mounting brackets that compress under impact, energy-absorbing front bumper and energy-absorbing wiper pivots.

Power for the Tourer is provided by the 155 PS 2.0 litre and 190 PS 2.4 litre petrol engines mated to 5-speed and 6-speed manual transmissions respectively, or a 5-speed automatic with Sequential Shift. Both engines use DOHC i-VTEC technology to deliver consistently high output across all engine speeds without the penalty of high fuel consumption and emissions.

Sales of the Tourer start on 3 May. The range comprises four distinct models graded 2.0 SE, 2.0 Executive, 2.4 Type S and 2.4 Executive. Carrying a £1000 premium over their Saloon equivalents, the new models span the price range £17,495 to £22,095, with Sequential Shift automatic transmission (available on all models bar the Type S) adding £1000 extra.

As with the recently launched Accord Saloon, the Tourer will be among the most affordable cars to run in its sector.

Low Fuel Costs

Both 2.0 and 2.4 litre petrol engines are extremely efficient – giving a performance / economy balance that’s hard to better. This results in a direct saving in fuel bills, as well as an indirect one through lower CO2 emissions – and reduced Benefit In Kind taxation for the business user.

Low BIK Tax

Over 50% of D-sector estate car sales in the UK are to fleet drivers, so the combination of competitive P11D pricing and excellent CO2 figures reduce tax liability for the business user.

Low Insurance Costs

ABI insurance group ratings for the Tourer mirror those of the saloon, recommended as Group 11 for 2.0 litre and Group 14 for the 2.4 models.

Low Depreciation

CAP Monitor forecasts 3 year / 60,000 mile future values for the Tourer at £500 more than their saloon equivalents. Percentage RV figures range from 39 to 41% in the publication’s March edition.

Click here to read our review of the Honda Accord Tourer 2.4 i-VTEC Executive

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