The calendar might have just flipped over to a new year, but that doesn’t mean that auto show fever is subsiding anytime soon, especially since the 2012 North American International Auto Show->ke222 just opened its doors. Many automakers are on hand to show off their newest concepts and production models, including Honda->ke34 and their first preview version of the ninth-generation 2013 model set to go on-sale in Fall 2012. The Honda Accord Coupe Concept shows off a new exterior and interior design, as well as a choice of three all-new powertrains, including the first U.S. application of both a 2.4-liter direct-injected engine and two-motor plug-in hybrid system.

At the front of the new Accord->ke237 will be a revised four-sided honeycomb grille and deeply set multi-reflector headlights, lower fog-light spoilers accented by crystallized chrome inlays, a trunk -lid spoiler, and larger exhaust finishers integrated into the bumper.

"Marking the 30th anniversary of U.S. production, this new ninth-generation Accord will raise the bar again through a tour de force of new Honda powertrain and safety technologies, geared to ensure that Honda and the Accord continue to lead in fuel economy, safety and fun-to-drive performance," said John Mendel, executive vice president of sales for American Honda.

Hit the jump to read more about the 2012 Honda Accord Coupe Concept.

2012 Honda Accord Coupe Concept

Specifications
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  • Model: 2012 Honda Accord Coupe Concept
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Pros
Cons

Exterior and Interior

The Accord Coupe Concept features a new front exterior design language defined by a revised four-sided honeycomb grille and deeply set multi-reflector headlights. There are also lower fog-light spoilers accented by crystallized chrome inlays and new 20", machine-finished, 5-spoke wheels that contribute to its solid stance. At the rear of the vehicle, Honda has placed new rear taillights that aggressively sweep into the body, a trunk -lid spoiler, and larger exhaust finishers integrated into the bumper.

The sedan version will be built on a shortened length and will weigh less for more responsive handling and improved driving dynamics.

Engine

The 2013 Accord will be offered with a choice of three engines, including a new Earth Dreams 2.4-liter, 16-valve DOHC i-VTEC four-cylinder engine featuring direct- injection (DI) combined with a 6-speed manual transmission or a new Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). There will also be a new 2.4-liter DI engine that produces more than 181 HP and 177 lb-ft of torque.

The top version will be offered with a re-engineered 3.5-liter, 24-valve, SOHC, i-VTEC V-6 engine, paired to a new 6-speed automatic transmission or an available 6-speed manual transmission.

As a first for the Accord model, Honda will be offering a hybrid version that will feature a two-motor hybrid system that moves continuously through three modes - all-electric, gasoline-electric, and direct-drive.

When can I buy one?

The ninth generation Honda Accord will go on sale in Fall 2012. Prices will be announced at a later date.

Competition

The list of competitors for the Accord will still be the Toyota Camry and the Kia Optima. The Camry is offered with two engine options - a revised 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a 3.5-liter V6 engine - with power ranging from 178 HP to 268 HP. The Optima will be offered with three different engines: a 2.4-liter GDI four-cylinder with 200 hp, a 2.0-liter GDI V6 turbo engine that delivers 274 hp, and a 2.4-liter hybrid.