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Road Test: Honda Accord (2018)

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The Honda Accord has always held the distinction for quality, gorgeous design and aesthetics, and excellent drive. The 2018 year model is no stranger to these traits – Honda, in fact, has managed to take it further by offering a vehicle that is affordable, spacious, and comfortable, too.

While the new Honda Accord comes packed in a bold exterior design, the Accord’s hallmarks remain. This includes the graceful handling, a spacious interior, and reasonable pricing, and after all these years, it’s still earning our love and admiration.

This is the 10th-generation Accord and with it, Honda introduces all-new styling, technology, driving dynamics, powertrains, and lots more. The new sedan boasts a bevy of upscale features that include 10-speed automatic, soft leather, wood dash accents, interior noise cancellation, LED headlights, advanced safety features, and an elegant 8.0-inch touchscreen.

The Honda Accord is available in a 1.5-liter direct-injected VTEC Turbo with dual Variable Timing Control (dual VTC), and a 2.0-liter direct-injected VTEC Turbo with dual VTC. The one we received for this road test was the 1.5-liter EXL variant.

Standard features also include a 12-way power driver’s seat, a blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert, and support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 1.5-liter, makes 192 horsepower and 192 pound-ft of torque. The 17-inch wheels on the 1.5-liter add a measure of plushness to the overall ride quality.

You also get Honda Sensing driver aids, push-button ignition, dual-zone climate control, a multi-angle rearview camera, LED headlights, a 7-inch TFT display, Bluetooth and USB audio, automatic high beams, and daytime running lights (DRLs) on the Honda Accord.

Honda was actually one of the first automakers to test and apply these driver aids to its vehicles. The driver aids such as emergency braking and adaptive cruise control work perfectly during our tests. We also liked the fact that Honda Sensing helped a lot, especially during long drives. The Accord’s redesigned cabin feels a lot premium.

Handling the car is a pleasure and that makes the overall drive smooth and refined. The Accord is light and responsive, and we loved the quick pickup. The Accord’s ride is firmly controlled and that helps it to strike a winning balance between a sports sedan and a practical family car.

Make no mistake – the Honda Accord is not just a sedan. It is possibly the sportiest looking Accord ever made. The Honda Accord managed to nail it in every aspect – whether it was performance, styling, technology, comfort, or efficiency. It thus walks away with the Gadget Voize Editors’ Choice award.

Price: AED 119,900 (EXL variant)

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Apps

EVLAB Intros UAE’s First Electric Vehicle Marketplace App

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EVLAB, the multi-brand electric vehicle start-up, has made adopting a sustainable lifestyle easier for drivers in the UAE with the launch of the EVLAB App, an all-in-one mobility app to rent, lease and host their EVs in the UAE with phase 2 to include buy and sell electric vehicles (EVs) available in the Middle East. EVLAB’s new one-stop marketplace app addresses a growing desire among consumers in the Middle East to make a switch to sustainable mobility solutions. Electric vehicle sales have seen rapid growth in the region, with an increase of 72 per cent during 2020 alone.

In line with the goals of COP28, EVLAB is committed to reducing CO2 emissions and fostering sustainable mobility in the Middle East, striving to play a pivotal role in catalyzing positive transformation. The new platform supports the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 strategic initiative, which is a national drive to achieve net-zero emissions and make the Emirates the first nation in the MENA region to do so. The app also complements other sustainability initiatives in the country, including the Dubai Green Mobility Strategy 2030, which has resulted in the installation of more than 1,000 public charging stations across the UAE.

The EVLAB App allows eco-conscious drivers to browse a unique collection of electric vehicle brands available in the Middle East and take advantage of EVLAB’s expertise to understand the benefits of electric vehicles and make a seamless transition to sustainable transportation. Drivers can consider short-term rentals, leasing or hosting their electric vehicles through a seamless and hassle-free user journey.

The booking process is straightforward with easy navigation using the rent, lease, host and chat tabs on the homepage. Users can filter options based on brand preferences and features, such as performance and range, to save time and effort in finding an electric vehicle that suits their requirements and budget. All the listed cars and their hosts are vetted to guarantee authenticity and quality of service by the owners. In phase 2, electric vehicle owners can also conveniently sell their vehicles on the platform with guidance from EVLAB’s experts at every step of the way.

“With the accelerated pace of climate change, the adoption and transition to e-mobility is inevitable. At EVLAB, our ongoing goal is to consistently reduce emissions, and we are proud to say that we have successfully saved a cumulative total of 76,174 kilograms of CO2 to date and will further reduce with the EVLAB app. The all-in-one EVLAB App complements our EVLAB website with a broader range of functionality and services to make the eco-mobility journey easier for drivers in the region. The app allows users to rent, lease and host their electric vehicles seamlessly in a safe and trusted marketplace. As battery technology is rapidly evolving, the range of electric vehicles today will become obsolete in two to three years, so this model of renting and leasing becomes more attractive than buying. Consumers will have the additional ease of choosing their preferred electric vehicle based on their budget and lifestyle by selecting from a variety of options, including performance, acceleration, range, and charging times,” said Kevin Chalhoub, CEO and Founder of EVLAB.

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Hyundai Launches the All-Electric IONIQ Range

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Hyundai Motor Middle East and Africa Headquarters unveiled its sustainability and electric mobility plans at a media event held at the SEE Institute in the Sustainable City, Dubai. The event featured the debut of Hyundai’s electric car range under the IONIQ sub-brand, showcasing the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 models.

Bryan Park, Head of Hyundai Motor Company Middle East and Africa Headquarters, emphasized Hyundai’s commitment to humanity’s progress through pioneering electric technologies. He stated, “Today, we are proud to launch our sustainable strategy and our confident direction towards electric mobility, aligning with the ambitious plans of Middle East countries for emissions-free transportation.”

Suliman AlZaben, Director of Hyundai UAE, expressed pride in Hyundai UAE’s role in the electric revolution, highlighting the company’s dedication to providing environmentally friendly, innovative, and efficient transportation.

The event included a hands-on experience for attendees, enabling them to drive the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 fully electric cars. The IONIQ 5, inspired by Hyundai’s ’45’ EV concept, boasts a unique exterior design, spacious interior, and sustainable features. Its 531-litre trunk space and eco-friendly materials, including recycled PET bottles, emphasize Hyundai’s commitment to sustainability.

The IONIQ 6 Electrified Streamliner, a new addition to the IONIQ lineup, was also introduced. With an estimated electric range of over 610 km, this model showcases Hyundai’s advanced technologies, personalized interior space, and fast charging capabilities.

IONIQ 6’s interior, leveraging the Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), prioritizes comfort with Dual Color Ambient Lighting, Relaxation Comfort Seats, and a customizable driving experience through the EV Performance Tune-up system. The vehicle supports both 400-V and 800-V charging infrastructures, allowing for an 18-minute charge from 10% to 80% with a 350-kW charger.

Notably, IONIQ 6 is the first Hyundai model to feature Over-the-Air (OTA) Software Updates, allowing drivers to enhance controllers for electric devices, autonomous driving, and more, ensuring a safer and more convenient driving experience. The advanced driver assistance systems, including Highway Driving Assist 2 and Smart Cruise Control, prioritize safety on the road.

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Inter Emirates Motors Intros Four Electric Vehicles (EVs) From MG Motor

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Inter Emirates Motors has announced the introduction of four innovative electric vehicles (EVs) from MG Motor, marking a significant stride in bolstering sustainable mobility across the United Arab Emirates. The introduction of MG4, MG Marvel R, The New MG ZS EV, and MG HS PHEV to the UAE market brings forth a suite of vehicles that seamlessly blend performance, efficiency, and eco-friendly technology, catering to a diverse range of consumer preferences and driving needs.

The recently launched MG4 is a compact electric hatchback that is set to redefine sustainable mobility in the United Arab Emirates. The MG4 Electric is not just a vehicle; it’s a statement on wheels, offering a Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) design, ensuring optimal weight distribution and a nimble driving experience.

The MG4 is powered by an E-Motor that promises 180kW power and features 3-Level Energy Recovery, presenting a perfect amalgamation of performance and efficiency. With its sleek design, interactive ambient light with 64 colours, a 12-inch full virtual dashboard, and a 10-inch touchscreen, the MG4 is a testament to MG Motor’s commitment to providing technologically advanced vehicles without compromising on style or performance.

Mohamed Ali Khalfan Al Dhaheri, Managing Director of Inter Emirates Motors, stated, “The introduction of the MG4 to the UAE market marks a significant milestone for both Inter Emirates Motors and MG Motor. This vehicle is not only a testament to the innovative spirit of MG Motor but also aligns seamlessly with the UAE’s vision for sustainable and technologically advanced mobility solutions. We are incredibly excited to offer our customers not just the MG4, but three more vehicles that perfectly blend performance, technology, and sustainability.”

The MG Marvel R Electric, a mid-sized SUV, is equipped with a large module cell pack solution, ensuring a longer range and employs hair-pin winding technology in its electric motors, guaranteeing an efficient and powerful driving experience. The MG ZS EV, a practical and well-equipped small electric family car, introduces a new long-range version, offering an impressive range at an affordable price, making electric driving accessible to a wider audience.

Lastly, the MG HS PHEV combines the best of both worlds with its plug-in hybrid technology, offering various interior colour options, ambient light, a driving mode selection with a Super Sport button, and sport synthetic leather seats, ensuring a comfortable and dynamic driving experience.

These models are pivotal in aligning with the UAE’s vision towards sustainability and reducing carbon footprints. With the UAE’s robust infrastructure for EVs and a growing emphasis on adopting green vehicles, these models from MG Motor represent not only a luxurious and technologically advanced driving option but also a step towards eco-friendly mobility.

Hisham ElSahn, General Manager of Inter Emirates Motors, added, “The addition of the MG Marvel R, MG ZS EV, and MG HS PHEV to our portfolio underscores our dedication to providing diverse and sustainable mobility solutions. These models are equipped with cutting-edge technology and provide efficient, yet powerful performance, ensuring that our customers in the UAE experience the future of driving, today.”

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