All-New 2023 Honda CR-V Wins Coveted Car and Driver 10Best Award

January 17, 2023 

— Markham, ON.

  • Honda is the winningest brand in Car and Driver 10Best history
  • Completely redesigned and built in Canada, the 2023 Honda CR-V sets a new compact SUV benchmark with rugged styling, increased space and sporty hybrid-electric performance
  • CR-V has won a Car and Driver 10Best award four times

The editors of Car and Driver have awarded the Honda CR-V a coveted 10Best Award, honouring the all-new, built in Canada, 2023 CR-V for its rugged styling, increased interior space and sporty hybrid-electric performance. This is the fourth time CR-V has won a 10Best Award.

“The CR-V is a well-rounded package that punches way above its weight on multiple levels,” said the editors at Car and Driver. “That impression starts as soon as you close the door and start rolling, as the structure of the new CR-V immediately feels tight, hushed, and substantial. The body shell is more rigid, and there’s more sound insulation in the cowl, firewall, and instrument panel areas. Once you’re underway, the new CR-V delivers the kind of smoothness you expect from a more expensive vehicle. The steering is willing and pairs to a chassis that cuts a steady arc through turns. The interior feels rich, too, with an attractive styling theme shared with the Honda Civic, a 10Best Cars winner. The Sport models (Touring Hybrid in Canada) feature a hybrid system that delivers up to 40 mpg combined; they’re our most recommended versions of this much-recommended vehicle.”

“The all-new 2023 Honda CR-V has been improved upon in every way, from its rugged, sportier and sophisticated design to its enhanced driving appeal,” says Steve Hui, Assistant Vice President Honda Canada. “We are especially proud that the CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, Civic Sedan and Civic Si are built at Honda of Canada Mfg. plants in Alliston, Ontario, these built in Canada models join the all-new Accord at achieving the prestigious Car and Driver 10Best award this year.”

In a show of design and engineering excellence, Honda has earned three Car and Driver 10Best awards this year. The magazine’s editors also honoured the all-new 2023 Accord and the entire Civic lineup which includes the all-new 2023 Civic Type R, the most powerful car Honda has ever sold in Canada.

With 69 total awards, Honda is the winningest brand in Car and Driver 10Best history. At least one Honda has earned a spot on the annual list in every year since the award’s inception in 1983. Accord is also far and away the most awarded vehicle in Car and Driver 10Best history, making the prestigious list an incredible 37 times, including the last 25 years consecutively.

Perfect for daily life or weekend escapes, the new CR-V is available in five trim levels, including the new hybrid-powered and boldly styled CR-V Touring Hybrid, the top of the CR-V model line.

CR-V Touring Hybrid features an advanced fourth-generation two-motor hybrid-electric system that’s more powerful for a sporty and exhilarating driving experience, while also achieving high fuel efficiency. With 247 lb.-ft of torque it is the most powerful CR-V ever.

All-New 2023 Honda Accord

January 20, 2023 

— Markham, ON

  • All-new Accord gets sleeker design and more advanced sporty hybrid system
  • Accord hybrid models will eventually represent about 50% of Accord annual sales as key step in Honda electrification strategy
  • Modern, high-tech interior features include Honda’s largest-ever touchscreen and first integration of Google built-in
  • Pricing starts at $37,000 (MSRP) for the exceptionally well-equipped Accord EX

Sleek, powerful and electrified, the all-new 2023 Honda Accord will begin arriving at Canadian Honda dealerships in February, bringing new energy to the midsize sedan segment.

The 11th-generation Accord is available in three trim levels (one 1.5L turbo-powered and two hybrid), topped by the hybrid-powered Touring featuring Honda’s first integration of Google built-in.

The 1.5L turbocharged Accord EX has a starting manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $37,000(excluding $1,780 destination charge). The hybrid-electric powered 2023 Accord Sport starts at $41,000.

The two hybrid-electric powered trims feature Honda’s new, more powerful hybrid-electric system. With 247 lb.-ft of torque, they’re the most powerful Accord hybrids ever while achieving outstanding fuel economy ratings, with up to 5.0 L/100 KM in the city, and 5.3 L/100 KM  combined. Positioned at the top of the Accord line-up they will eventually represent about 50% of annual sales, a key step in Honda’s electrification strategy.

“The Honda Accord has long been considered one of the best mid-size sedans you can buy, I know that the all-new 11th-generation Accord, with its sophisticated design, refined and exhilarating driving experience, reliability and exceptional value will keep that reputation intact,” says Steve Hui Assistant Vice President Honda Canada. “Accord Sport and Touring Hybrid models offer performance, efficiency and connectivity as we continue our strategy to quickly transition to an electrified future.”

Sleek, Powerful and Electrified, All-New 2023 Honda Accord Set to Re-energize the Midsize Sedan Segment

November 10, 2022 

— Markham, ON.

  • Hybrid models feature a more advanced and powerful two-motor hybrid-electric system for a sportier driving experience
  • Accord hybrid models will eventually represent about 50% of Accord sales as a key step in the Honda electrification strategy
  • Accord marks Honda’s first integration of Google built-in for seamless on-the-go connectivity

The all-new 2023 Honda Accord will re-energize the midsize sedan segment with an elegant and sophisticated design, and an advanced hybrid-electric system that’s more powerful for a fuel-efficient, sporty, and exhilarating driving experience. Accord hybrid models are positioned at the top of the 11th generation Accord line-up and will eventually represent about 50 percent of sales.

“Honda’s commitment to building world-class sedans continues with the all-new, 11th-generation Accord Hybrid, which is an integral piece of our North American electrification strategy,” says Steve Hui, Assistant Vice President Honda Canada. “The Accord’s reputation is already solidified but this new Accord is our best ever maintaining its class leading attributes of sophisticated styling reliability, efficiency, performance and connectivity.”

The new 2023 Accord is longer and sleeker with premium proportions and a broad stance, further advancing the new Honda design direction with a low horizontal beltline and a long, powerful front end. The all-new Accord backs up its sleek new looks with more confident and refined dynamics, improved responsiveness, and a more fun-to-drive personality.

Accord will be available in three trim levels, starting with the turbocharged EX and topped by the hybrid-powered Sport and Touring. With 247 lb.-ft of torque from Honda’s new 4th-generation two-motor hybrid system, they’re the most powerful Accord hybrid models ever.

Inside, a new sporty and modern interior offers fine craftsmanship, high-quality materials and must-have tech features including Honda’s largest touchscreen ever and Honda’s first integration of Google built-in for seamless on-the-go connectivity. Accord is also more comfortable, with new front Body Stabilizing Seats that reduce fatigue on long drives.

Standard class-leading safety features include a new Honda Sensing® safety and driver-assistive technology, next-gen front airbags, as well as new front knee airbags and rear side-impact airbags.

Key 2023 Accord Features:

  • Sleek and sophisticated all-new exterior design
  • 4th-generation two-motor hybrid system (Sport and Touring) is more powerful, makes Accord more fun to drive
  • Sporty, modern, spacious, and comfortable interior
  • Standard 10.2-inch digital driver instrumentation display
  • 12.3-inch colour touchscreen for top trims with wireless Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™ compatibility (Sport and Touring)
  • Standard 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™ compatibility (EX)
  • Honda’s first integration of Google built-in (Touring), including Google Assistant, Google Maps and Google Play capability with the latest apps and services
  • New Over the Air (OTA) software updates to nearly all vehicle computer modules, enhancing functionality and capability
  • Enhanced global Honda Architecture supports improvements in ride, handling and overall refinement
  • Updated 1.5-litre turbo engine (EX) adds refinement and responsiveness while remaining fuel efficient 
  • Standard Honda Sensing® system, plus Low-Speed Braking Control, Traffic Sign Recognition system (TSR), and new Traffic Jam Assist (TJA)
  • Next-gen front airbags designed to reduce traumatic brain and neck injuries
  • New standard knee and rear passenger side-impact airbags

Sleek New Styling
The 2023 Accord features all-new elegant and sophisticated styling that further advances the new Honda design direction, with long, clean body lines and a strong, powerful front end with an upright grille and blacked out LED headlights. A sharp upper character line running the length of the body creates a sense of motion and highlights its increased overall length, which has grown 70mm.

A longer hood and a flowing fastback roofline create a premium silhouette. Along the roof line, Accord uses laser brazing technology, eliminating the need for roof molding for a smooth and clean roof line. Distinctive horizontal LED straight-line taillights accentuate Accord’s wide stance.

EX trim features a black grille mesh, body-colour side mirrors and standard 17-inch alloy wheels. Sport gets even sportier styling with black side mirrors, a black rear spoiler and black 19-inch alloy wheels. The top-level Touring features unique gloss-black 19-inch alloy wheels along with silver and black exterior trim for a sharp, high-contrast look. All 2023 Accords feature a 10mm wider rear track for a broader stance and improved stability.

Accord will be available in six exterior colours, three of which are new: Meteorite Gray Metallic, Urban Gray Pearl and Canyon River Blue Metallic.

Sporty and Modern Interior 
With clean surfaces, high-quality materials and upscale touches, Accord’s all-new sporty and modern interior builds on the new Honda design direction while offering class-leading passenger volume (2911 litres, without moonroof) and rear seat legroom (1037mm).

Premium materials are used throughout the cabin, especially on touchpoints, with close attention paid to the operation of all switchgear and controls for a premium feel. The shift knob has been angled toward the driver by 5 degrees, allowing the cup holders to be positioned to the right of the shift knob and still hold large-size cups.

Materials were chosen with an eye toward style, such as the new elegant Piano Black trim. A striking metal mesh spanning the dash serves both form and function, concealing the air vents that would otherwise mar the uncluttered and harmonious design.

Accord is also more comfortable with all-new front Body Stabilizing Seats. The new-generation seat frame firmly holds the body, reducing fatigue on long drives. An open and airy greenhouse and thin A-pillars provide excellent outward visibility.

The 2023 Accord has the most cargo room in its class, with all models providing 473 litres of trunk space and standard fold-down rear seats.

Accord EX features black cloth upholstery with an 8-way power driver’s seat. EX also includes a moonroof, heated front seats and dual zone climate control. Sport features unique black cloth upholstery, aluminium pedals, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a leather shift knob. Touring comes standard with leather seating surfaces and a 4-way power adjustable passenger seat and ventilated front seats and heated rear seats. 

Smart Technology
Intuitive technology has been smartly integrated into Accord with a focus on the driver, including a standard 10.2-inch digital instrument panel with unique display functions depending on powertrain. A digital power flow meter replaces the tachometer in the hybrid-electric powered Sport and Touring. The multi-information display features user-selectable functions such as Honda Sensing® settings, vehicle information and more.

Accord hybrid models (Sport and Touring) come standard with Honda’s largest ever touchscreen, a 12.3-inch unit with a physical volume knob, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility and a simplified navigation structure with fewer menus. Qi-compatible 15W wireless smartphone charging is available on Touring. A 1-inch finger rest at the bottom of the touchscreen makes it easier to use by providing a stable surface to rest your hand. 

The top-line Touring features Honda’s first integration of Google built-in, including Google Assistant, Google Maps and Google Play capability with the latest apps and services. Seamless integration of navigation, live traffic updates, and voice-control of vehicle functions such as climate control are all offered through Google built-in.

Accord Touring also comes with a standard 6-inch head-up display and a 12-speaker Bose premium audio system. Featuring Bose Centerpoint technology and Bose SurroundStage digital signal processing, the new system was custom-engineered precisely for the Accord’s new interior so drivers and passengers – regardless of their seating position – are placed in the middle of the music, with a clear and spacious listening experience

A new 7-inch touchscreen audio system is standard on EX with physical knobs for volume and tuning, Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ usage and a simplified menu structure. Two illuminated 3.0A USB-C ports as standard on EX and Sport models. On Touring rear seat passengers get two illuminated 3.0A USB-C charging ports as well.

All Accords can now receive quick and easy Over the Air (OTA) software updates to nearly all vehicle computer modules, enhancing functionality and capability. OTA wireless updates improve the ownership experience.

More Powerful Hybrid Models
The more fun-to-drive 2023 Accord sets a new benchmark for sporty, yet comfortable and refined driving dynamics. Based on Honda’s enhanced global architecture, Accord’s increased chassis rigidity with stiffer body supports and new front brace bars further supports improvements in ride, handling and overall refinement.

Suspension and steering updates make Accord more fun to drive, while simultaneously improving ride quality. A retuned four-wheel independent suspension provides a more engaging driving experience. New front suspension damper mount bearings and ball joints reduce friction to improve steering smoothness.

Accord hybrid models (Sport and Touring) feature an all-new, more powerful 4th-generation two-motor hybrid-electric system with a pair of electric motors that are now mounted side-by-side and an all-new 2.0-litre Atkinson cycle 4-cylinder engine that adds direct fuel injection. This new configuration allows for the use of a larger propulsion motor with increased torque output. Combined system output is 204 hp1, while traction-motor peak torque is 247 lb.-ft. of torque (up 15 lb.-ft.).

The hybrid-electric system also is more responsive and significantly more refined at highway speeds. Linear Shift Control elevates the driving experience by mimicking the vehicle speed-linked rev feel associated with a conventional drivetrain shifting gears under acceleration. Changes to the hybrid control system also improve the management of engine and electric power in different conditions for a better driving experience.

Under the hood of the EX, Accord’s 1.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with VTEC® variable valve lift technology has been updated with additional refinement and improved emissions performance. Enhancements include an upgraded direct-injection system and new cold-active catalyst, plus a high-rigidity crankshaft and oil pan to reduce engine noise.

The continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) for the 1.5-litre turbo has been updated to reduce noise. Significant drivability and performance improvements were also made and include Step-Shift programming that simulates gear changes at full throttle.

Drivers can seamlessly switch between four selectable drive modes to optimize the Accord’s driving experience for various conditions. Econ, Normal, and Sport (hybrid only) modes feature pre-set performance settings for powertrain response, steering assist level, gauge cluster layout and adaptive cruise-control settings. Hybrid models (Sport, and Touring) also feature a new Individual mode that enables customization of the driving experience.

Honda and LG Energy Solution Announce Ohio as Home to Joint Venture EV Battery Plant

October 11, 2022 

— MARYSVILLE, Ohio

  • New joint venture company to produce battery modules in Fayette County, Ohio
  • EV batteries produced at JV plant to be provided to Honda plants for EV production

Honda and LG Energy Solution (LGES; KRX: 373220) today announced that their new joint venture (JV) battery plant will be located in Fayette County, Ohio, about 40 miles southwest of Columbus, where the two companies will commit to investing $3.5 billion and creating 2,200 jobs, pending final government approvals. The companies’ overall investment related to the JV is projected to reach $4.4 billion.

The joint venture between Honda and LGES will be formally established in 2022, pending regulatory approvals. The two companies plan to begin construction in early 2023, in order to complete the new production facility by the end of 2024. The plant aims to have approximately 40GWh of annual production capacity as it starts mass production of pouch-type lithium-ion batteries by the end of 2025.

Honda already has announced plans to begin production* and sales of Honda EVs in North America in 2026, based on its new Honda e:Architecture. The EV batteries produced at the new JV plant will be provided to Honda auto plants to produce EVs to be sold in North America.

“In another major step toward electrification, LG Energy Solution’s innovative battery technologies will not only power Honda’s brand-new EV models but support Ohio’s green economy. We extend our gratitude to everyone who played a role in making this happen,” said Dong-Myung Kim, Executive Vice President of Advanced Automotive Battery Division at LG Energy Solution. “With our commitment to building the world-best quality products, together with Honda, we look forward to not only creating thousands of quality jobs here in Ohio, but growing together with the community.”

In April 2022, Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced that it was exploring the possibility of creating a joint venture company for battery production in North America, and that the battery plant would be established near a dedicated EV production line to be created in North America. The joint venture with LGES represents the fulfillment of this strategy.

“Honda is proud of our history in Ohio, where our U.S. manufacturing operations began more than four decades ago. Now, as we expand Honda’s partnership with Ohio, we are investing in a workforce that will create the power source for our future Honda and Acura electric vehicles,” said Bob Nelson, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “We want to thank the leaders of the state of Ohio, as well as in Fayette County, Jefferson Township, Jeffersonville, and Washington Court House for welcoming this new joint venture between Honda and LG Energy Solution and giving us another Ohio community to call home.”

This latest JV announcement with Honda reflects the recently announced LG Energy Solution’s mid- to long-term strategy to focus on North America, the fastest growing EV market. LGES plans to further expand its production capacity in the region, as well as reinforce its local supply chain for key critical minerals.

As part of its goal to achieve carbon neutrality for all products and corporate activities by 2050, Honda announced a vision to make battery-electric and fuel cell electric vehicles represent 100% of its vehicle sales by 2040.

All-New, Built in Canada, 2023 Honda CR-V and CR-V Hybrid Set to Arrive this Fall

September 21, 2022 

— Markham, ON.

  • Completely redesigned CR-V sets a new compact SUV benchmark with bold styling, increased space, comfort and performance
  • New hybrid model will be sold in Canada for the first time and features a bolder look and new hybrid system for a sportier driving experience
  • CR-V offers exceptional value with starting MSRP at $34,790
  • Honda of Canada Mfg. is lead global plant for building the CR-V

The all-new 2023 Honda CR-V is now available for pre-sale through Honda dealerships and will begin arriving in Canada this fall.

The 6th generation of Honda’s best-selling SUV amps up the appeal with a first time for sale in Canada, hybrid-powered Touring Hybrid trim that is positioned at the top of the CR-V lineup as well as three turbocharged trim levels, LX, Sport and EX-L. All CR-Vs feature a rugged and sophisticated exterior, a sporty and modern interior and a more emotional, adventurous and fun-to-drive experience.

“The CR-V has always been a segment leader that has played a crucial role in our lineup,” said Steve Hui, Assistant Vice President, Honda Canada. “Now with a new hybrid model built and sold in Canada, the all-new CR-V once again sets the benchmark for safety, technology, design, performance, and most importantly it’s the most fun-to-drive CR-V ever.”  

All-New 2023 Honda Civic Type R Revealed, Sets New Benchmark

July 20, 2022 

— Markham, ON.

  • All-New 2023 Honda Civic Type R is the most powerful Type R ever
  • Engineered from the ground up to deliver a thrilling, addictive driving experience, both on road and the racetrack
  • Low and wide design is sleek and sophisticated with beautifully integrated advanced aerodynamics
  • This year Honda celebrates 30 years of Type R and 50 years of Civic

A global high-performance icon revered by driving enthusiasts around the world, the 2023 Honda Civic Type R was revealed this evening at a special event in Los Angeles with NTT INDYCAR SERIES superstar driver Colton Herta behind the wheel. 

The all-new Honda Civic Type R is the most powerful model in Type R’s 30-year history, and has been engineered from the ground up to deliver thrilling performance with an addictive driving experience – both on road and on the racetrack.

The pinnacle of Honda factory performance, the new Civic Type R is the fastest, most powerful Honda-branded vehicle ever offered in Canada. Based on the all-new 11th generation Civic Hatchback, the Civic Type R combines its class-leading performance with a low and wide design and a new immersive high-performance cockpit experience that enhances the exhilaration of driving.

“The Civic Type R has been thrilling Canadian drivers since 2017 and the all-new Type R has once again taken it to a higher level of performance, handling and fun,” says Steve Hui, Assistant Vice President Honda Canada. “We are introducing many all-new vehicles as part of our ‘year of the Honda SUV’ this year, but we will continue to make cars, like the new Civic Type R, that create passionate and exhilarating feelings in all who drive them.”

Civic Type R is celebrated around the world as a symbol of extreme performance and desirability with six variants since it debuted in Japan as a 1997 model. The all-new 2023 Civic Type R recently set a new production-car front-wheel drive track record at the Suzuka Circuit in Japan, home to the Formula 1 Honda Japanese Grand Prix 2022, securing its legacy as the best performing Civic Type R ever.

Performance-Focused Engineering
A new lightweight and highly rigid body helps improve high speed stability and scalpel-sharp responses. Track-ready, Nürburgring-tuned and tested, Civic Type R’s famously addictive driving feel is increased even further by enhanced suspension and steering performance.

An even more powerful and responsive version of Honda’s award-winning turbocharged 2.0-litre engine is paired with an improved six-speed manual transmission and rev-matching system for an even more intimate and rewarding connection with the driver.

Powerful Aerodynamic Design
Longer, lower and wider, the new Type R’s muscular yet sleek and sophisticated design features beautifully integrated advanced aerodynamics to achieve well-balanced downforce, as well as a reduction of drag.

Brawny fenders flare out over lightweight wheels wrapped in wider tires. A new more aggressive front bumper design features a sporty honeycomb grille mesh that echoes the intricate honeycomb trim inside the cabin. Larger front fender grilles and new side sill spoilers behind the front wheels enhance airflow efficiency. Its more aggressive stance is accentuated by wider rear doors exclusive to Type R, a redesigned rear spoiler, and a reshaped rear bumper that reveals its signature three round exhaust outlets and new rear diffuser.

Civic Type R will be available in three striking colours: Historic Championship White – a Type R exclusive finish revered by Honda enthusiasts, Sonic Gray and Rallye Red

Immersive Cockpit Experience
Civic Type R’s all-new interior supports intense driving experiences with emotive, performance-focused details and features. Type R’s iconic red seats, carpet and trim, aluminum shift knob, and a serialized Type R plate on the dash are new for the 2023 model year. Suede-like upholstery with a high friction coefficient reduces body slippage in high-G driving situations.

A new +R driving mode exclusive meter design allows the driver to obtain necessary information instantly, with a graphic engine rpm display, rev indicator lights, and gear position indicator placed at the top. A lower multi-information display can show vehicle information selected by the driver.

Honda’s LogR data logger provides real-time information on the mechanical movements of the vehicle and vehicle behaviour resulting from the driver’s input. Other key features include a stopwatch to record lap times and the ability to share driving videos.

Pricing and additional details on the 2023 Civic Type R will be provided closer to launch this fall.