Honda officially announced that the 2016 Accord models will come equipped with Android Auto and CarPlay.
These features will make the ninth generation Accord cars as Honda's first vehicles that will sport Google and Apple's smartphone-based infotainment systems, according to 9to5Google.
During a press event held at Honda's facility in Silicon Valley, the company unveiled the 2016 edition for its Accord line of automobiles. Inside, the vehicle features two display screens integrated in the dashboard. These two serve as the main interface that shows the functions of the CarPlay and Android Auto.
To interact with the high-tech features, drivers can either use the dashboard control panel or activate them through voice commands. In addition, the steering wheel also houses control buttons which drivers can easily reach and tap.
With Android Auto and CarPlay, drivers will have access to a wide range of entertainment features and information tools designed for the 2016 accord. These include apps for music, navigation and for sending messages, CNET reported.
Of course, in order to utilize these features, an Android or iOS-based smartphone must be connected to the vehicle using a USB cable.
But aside from the infotainment features, one of the most important aspects of the CarPlay and Android Auto are their safety apps.
Bringing in the concept of driver assistance technology, motorists will be able to access the rear-view and LaneWatch cameras through the dashboard displays. With the help of these extra viewing angles, Honda is aiming to market the 2016 Accord as one of the safest cars on the road.
As for its exterior design, Autoblog noted that the 2016 Accord appears like it came from Acura, Honda's line of luxury vehicles.
Like most cars available in the market today, the new Accord edition sports expanded LED lighting. Under the hood, the base model of the 2016 Accord features a 2.4-liter engine. The premium line, on the other hand, will come with a 3.5-liter V6 engine.
The new Accords from Honda are expected to debut in car dealers in August of this year. They will be available in sedan and coupe body styles as well as manual and automatic transmissions.
Future buyers of the high-end model of the 2016 Accord will have the option to upgrade to the larger 19-inch wheels.
There are no official announcements yet regarding its regional availability or how much the car will cost once it appears in dealer showrooms.
