Honda has announced details of its next generation 2.2-litre four-cylinder diesel due in three years.
Honda says exhaust emissions will be as clean as a petrol engine, yet the 2.2i-CTDi unit will deliver far superior economy. Currently the Accord 2.2 diesel achieves 51.4mpg compared to 35.3mpg for the 2.0-litre petrol version.
In addition, changes to the common-rail injection and Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) systems have also boosted the unit’s power output, although Honda declined to be more specific. The current 2.2 produces 140PS.
The secret to the new diesel’s cleanliness is a world first system that uses the reductive reaction of ammonia generated within the catalytic converter to change harmful nitrogen oxides (NOx) into harmless nitrogen (N2).
Although the new diesel is initially destined for the US market – where it meets stringent Environmental Protection Agency emission requirements – its introduction is likely to coincide with the all-new Accord replacement.
“Because we don’t know the exact configuration of the new Euro 5 emission regulations, we cannot confirm any launch date in the UK,” commented Stephen Hollings, head of corporate sales, Honda.
The new four-cylinder isn’t the only diesel due from Honda. The company is also developing an ultra-clean V6 diesel for the luxury Legend model.