Pricing for the new Accord saloon has been announced, sending a powerful statement of intent to the established premium car makers in the D-sector.

Offering exceptional value for money, the new Accord features superior levels of equipment, advanced technology and cleaner, more powerful engines. It goes on sale in the UK on 1 June.

The key grade of saloon, ES GT, starts at £20,100 – which includes 17-inch alloy wheels, half-leather seats, cruise control, aero kit, sports suspension and climate control.

Meanwhile, EX grades start from £22,250 and come as standard with DVD sat nav, Bluetooth hands free telephone, full leather seats, electric/heated front seats, rear parking camera and a premium 6CD stereo.

Continuing Honda’s quest to bring E-sector advanced technology to lower segments, the ADAS Pack is available as an option, adding Collision Mitigation Braking (a first for the D-sector), as well as Lane Keep Assist, Advanced Cruise Control and HID lights.

“The new Accord is more stylish, has an impressive amount of equipment, and a high quality interior,” says Tom Gardner, Head of Marketing for Honda (UK). “We know this car can mount a credible challenge to Audi and BMW in those key areas. This announcement shows we can offer that premium experience through our products, at an accessible price.”

The Accord will be launched with three engines – all of which are Euro 5 compliant. Making its debut in Accord is Honda’s second-generation diesel engine – the i-DTEC – which builds on the outstanding qualities of the award-winning i-CTDi unit. The new diesel unit is smoother and more powerful – offering 150PS at 4,000rpm.

Joining the i-DTEC are two petrol engines. A 2.0-litre petrol i-VTEC offers 156PS at 6,300 rpm, and improves on its class-leading fuel economy, while the 2.4-litre i-VTEC engine is more powerful, delivering a respectable 201PS at 7,000 rpm.

The Tourer version of Accord goes on sale in the UK on 1 September. Pricing for the Tourer will be announced during the spring.

Accord saloon pricing:

Honda’s key grade Accord versus key competitor