Honda is reportedly developing an all-new vehicle aimed at expanding its appeal in the U.S. market with a direct competitor to the Subaru Outback. According to a report from Automotive News, the automaker is planning a lifted Accord-based model that combines the practicality of a hatchback with increased ride height, a more versatile cargo area, and Honda’s next-generation hybrid technology.
Report Points to New Accord-Based SUV
Automotive News reports that a Honda planning document references a lifted Accord midsize hatchback designed with greater utility, a higher driving position, and expanded cargo space. The concept has drawn comparisons to the Accord Crosstour, which exited the market in 2015.
The planning document reportedly identifies the vehicle as the “Accord SUV.” According to an unnamed inside source cited in the report, production is expected to begin in the middle of 2029, with Marysville, Ohio, identified as a potential manufacturing location.
The report also says the new model is not expected to launch on its own.
Redesigned Accord Expected Alongside New SUV
According to the report, the redesigned Honda Accord and its new SUV counterpart, which could receive a different name before launch, are expected to arrive around the same time.
Concept vehicles revealed in May reportedly preview the styling direction for both Honda and Acura. While the sedan concept is said to preview the next-generation Civic, its design is also expected to influence the future Accord.
Both vehicles are expected to use Honda’s next-generation hybrid powertrain. Honda declined to comment on future products so far ahead of their expected release, according to the report.
Dealers See Opportunity in the Segment
The report cites Edmunds analyst Ivan Drury, who said that from 2020 through 2025, the Subaru Outback consistently ranked among the 10 most popular vehicles selected by customers who left Honda.
Dealers have also reportedly expressed concerns that Honda lacks a vehicle for buyers seeking more cargo space than a sedan offers without moving to a larger SUV such as the Pilot.
AutoForecast Solutions believes the lifted Accord variant could become even more popular than the Accord sedan itself. While the original Accord Crosstour struggled in the marketplace, the report notes that consumer preferences have shifted, with vehicles such as the BMW X2, Acura ADX, and other coupe-like crossovers gaining popularity.
Honda’s Next-Generation Hybrids Target More Power and Efficiency
The report says Honda’s upcoming hybrid systems are expected to deliver increased power, improved towing capability, and better fuel economy than the company’s current hybrid lineup.
In addition, the Honda Odyssey minivan and Honda Pilot are expected to receive a new V6 hybrid powertrain with all-wheel drive. The system is targeting a 30% improvement in fuel economy and 10% quicker acceleration compared with their current gasoline-powered versions.
If the reported plans move forward, Honda would expand the Accord lineup with a more utility-focused model while introducing its next-generation hybrid technology across multiple vehicles. Honda has not officially confirmed the reported future products.
