As we are using up fossil fuel reserves at a rapid pace, let's figure that every little bit of oil conservation is going to help. While there are no perfect technologies in place yet, the hybrid automobile concept is a baby step in the right direction. As drivers we are directly linked with oil consumption, contributing to the greenhouse effect and slowly proceeding to mess up our environment. That's what makes this new model from Honda—with its affordability, accessibility and very low emissions—so essential.

You have heard of the hybrid concept that traps energy in deceleration and braking, which is then stored in batteries and used for power in different ways. In the case of the Accord, that stored energy is used when more power is required. So you get a more powerful engine that uses less fuel and pollutes less.

You could get involved in all the price discussions and comparisons, but we felt that for what you get, the Accord is a good deal and you can drive around with a better conscience.

As far as the basic look, feel and components, the hybrid is quite similar to the gas-only powered vehicles in the Honda line-up. Even a look under the hood might not reveal too much. The Hybrid denomination on the rear will set it apart, however, and the gauges let you know that something different is going on. Start the car and as you get going, you’ll start picking up on a few idiosyncrasies. One notable peculiarity is how the gas engine shuts off when the brake is depressed and the car is at full idle. With 255 horsepower (240 gas and 15 electric), it actually goes faster than the regular V6.

In this green car you get all the creature comforts that a gas model has, such as heated leather seats, great sound components, a comfortable ride and good distribution of space, and you score points with your environmentally-conscious neighbors. Surely you will save gas and pollute very little, as it meets the strict ULEV-2 emission standards.

Two details of note: there is no sunroof available, and you’ll have to think about battery replacement.

To combine all of these technologies in a smooth, quiet environment is a great achievement for the engineering team. If you were to brake down all of the concepts, parts and systems assembled here (24-Valve SOHC iVtech®, drive-by-wire throttle system, idle stop, Variable Cylinder Management, Active Control Engine Mount System, Active Noise Cancellation), you’d wonder how they were able to keep the price so low. Bravo!

For more information on the Honda Accord Hybrid, click here.

Warranty/Service: 3-year/36,000-mile limited warranty, battery pack comes with an 8-year/80,000-mile warranty.

Technical Specifications

Vehicle type: front-engine, front-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan

Engine: 3.0-liter V6 with electric assist
Horsepower: 240 bhp @ 6000 rpm (gas);
16 bhp @ 840 rpm (electric)
Torque: 217 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (gas);
100 lb-ft @ 840 rpm (electric)
Transmission: 5-speed automatic

Curb weight: 3,501 lbs
Wheelbase: 107.9 in
Length/Width/Height:
189.5/71.5/57.1 in
Turning circle: 36.1 feet

Brakes: four-wheel disc with ABS and regenerative braking
Suspension: independent front and rear
Traction: traction control

Safety: front air bags, front side air bags, side curtain air bags

0-60 mph: 6.7 seconds
Top Speed: 131 mph (governed)

EPA City: 29 mpg
EPA Highway: 37 mpg