Honda May Revive the Accord Crosstour as a High-Riding Hatchback
Honda plans to launch a lifted Accord hatchback in 2029, featuring a new four-cylinder hybrid powertrain.
Key Takeaways
- Honda is reportedly planning to launch a high-riding Accord hatchback in 2029.
- The new Accord variant will feature Honda’s next-generation hybrid system.
- The launch of the new variant is expected to coincide with the revamped Accord sedan launch.
- The new Accord SUV will be built at Honda’s Marysville, Ohio factory.
- The high-riding Accord will compete with the Toyota Crown and Subaru Outback.
What Could Honda’s Accord SUV Look Like?
Honda recently unveiled a new prototype sedan with a wedge-shaped design, high-riding stance, and a hatch. Although the automaker did not name the prototype, it confirmed that a production version would go on sale within the next two years.
The new Accord sedan will feature slimmer headlights, new taillights, an updated grille, and revamped rear-end styling. The car takes inspiration from Honda’s wedge-shaped 0 Series electric sedan. Inside, the Honda’s sedan will have a larger infotainment screen.
Not Honda’s First High-Riding Accord
The new Accord variant sounds similar to the 2010 Accord Crosstour, a lifted version of the eighth-generation Accord sedan with a sloping roof and massive rear hatch. The Crosstour increased the model’s versatility but sales peaked in its first full year on sale.
Honda offered the crossover with four- and six-cylinder engines in front- or all-wheel drive configurations, but that was not enough to attract buyers. Honda sold only five Crosstours in 2017 after discontinuing production at the end of the 2015 model year.
Why a High-Riding Accord Makes Sense
A new high-riding Accord would give Honda a competitor to the Toyota Crown, which recently received a new hybrid powertrain. Subaru has also found success with the Legacy sedan and Outback crossover.
A lifted sedan would make the car more appealing to potential crossover buyers who might want something more affordable than a typical SUV. A new crossover-like model built on an existing platform is an affordable way to offer consumers a fresh product without the financial investment required for an all-new car.
How Does This Fit into Honda’s Broader Strategy?
With Honda’s EV lineup discontinued, the automaker needs new and refreshed products with fuel-efficient powertrains fast. Consumers are flocking to hybrids, and a high-riding Accord feels like an easy product for the company to launch.
Honda plans to invest nearly $28 billion to launch 15 new hybrid models by the end of the decade. A lifted Accord hatchback might be one of them.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Production Start | Mid-2029 |
| Powertrain | Honda’s next-generation hybrid system |
| Factory | Marysville, Ohio |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the expected launch date of the new Accord variant?
The new Accord variant is expected to launch in mid-2029, coinciding with the revamped Accord sedan launch.
Q: What powertrain will the new Accord variant feature?
The new Accord variant will feature Honda’s next-generation hybrid system.
Q: Where will the new Accord SUV be built?
The new Accord SUV will be built at Honda’s Marysville, Ohio factory.
