SPY PICS: Honda Accord caught in California

Honda is forging ahead with its next-generation Accord model and these spy photos snapped in California provide a few clues about its overall shape, although detail information is more than a little sketchy given the total-body cladding.

Although it's impossible to be definitive, the profile view does suggest that the Accord will remain a pretty substantial mid-size sedan, with a relocation of the cabin within the wheelbase lending what appears to be a slightly extended boot, and placement of the rear seat further ahead of the rear axle than it is in the current model.

Word is that the Accord will be based on the same modular platform as the current Civic model and which will also underpin the next-generation CR-V SUV. A future AWD Accord to take on the sportier mantle of the discontinued Euro perhaps?

There's also speculation in some quarters that Honda will attempt to straddle the gap between the full-size Accord and the sadly-missed Euro model by constraining its body growth. However the spy photos suggest a slightly larger next-gen Accord, maybe with a longer wheelbase than the current version.

And with the industry trend towards developing new, lighter platforms using alloy and high-strength steel structures, it's probably reasonable to expect the new Accord will, if nothing else, keep a tight rein on overall weight.

Engine availability is pure speculation: Some sources are saying that, similar to expectations with Toyota's next Camry, the existing V6 Accord could give way to a new turbocharged four-cylinder variant, possibly powered by a larger-capacity, 2.0-litre-plus version of the 127kW/220Nm 1.5-litre engine now seen in the Civic. Otherwise, it's expected that the current 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, undoubtedly slightly tweaked, will continue to be available.

And although it might also be speculative, it would be pretty fair to expect Honda will continue with a hybrid version using the same basics as the current petrol-electric model.

The next-gen Accord is expected to make its debut some time in the second half of 2017, which is likely to mean an Australian introduction towards the end of the same year.