Last month, we told you about how Honda was amid recovery efforts in their Thailand and Japanese factories. In all, 2011 was a pretty tough year for the automaker. But at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the automaker made some bold moves to assure everybody they aren't going anywhere. "We're here to serve notice...that Honda is again firing on all cylinders," says John Mendel, Honda America Executive VP.

How will they make that known? Well, they're starting with the next-gen Honda Accord Coupe concept. Historically, the Accord has been Honda's top selling model, and this year, they're expecting to sell nearly 300,000 units. With a more aggressive look and the introduction of new powertrain options, we're sure they'll have no problem doing just that.

Along with the ninth-generation of the Accord, Honda will be introducing an all-new plug-in hybrid variant. The two-motor hybrid system allows the driver to choose between pure electric driving, gasoline "direct-drive" and the combined gasoline-electric mode. And, it can be fully charged in less than four hours in a standard outlet (a 240-volt charger cuts the time to one-and-a-half hours).

Honda will also be taking this opportunity to introduce their new Earth Dreams 2.4-liter inline four engine. The 188-hp engine is mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for optimal efficiency. This will be in addition to the V6 engine already offered in the Accord, a 3.5 liter engine available with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.

The all-new Honda Accord will also come standard with the latest safety technology - including Lane Departure Warning, Forward Crash Warning, Blind-Spot Detection and a new, multi-angle rearview camera.

We loved the Accord Coupe concept that debuted in Detroit. But, it was just the concept.  The production model (which we don't expect to be too different from the concept) is set to roll into the Tameron Honda showroom later in the fall, with the plug-in hybrid version following shortly thereafter, early in the winter. That said, be sure to stay tuned with us for more news on this and all other forthcoming new Honda models. And, as always, we invite you to stop by our showroom to chat with a member of our team to learn more - we're conveniently located at 1675 Montgomery Hwy, Birmingham, AL 35216.

Source:¹http://www.freep.com/article/20120110/BUSINESS03/120110016/1014/business01