TORRANCE, CA — The all-new 2005 Honda Accord Hybrid, the world´s first V-6 powered gasoline-electric hybrid vehicle and Honda´s third hybrid, will carry a manufacturer´s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $29,990. It went on sale at Honda dealerships nationwide on December 10. The Accord Hybrid, outfitted with an available voice-activated Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System, is priced at $31,990. Powered by an advanced V6 hybrid powertrain and equipped with a long list of standard comfort and convenience features, the Accord Hybrid is the most powerful, luxurious and refined hybrid vehicle to date. The Accord Hybrid with a 5-speed automatic transmission has earned EPA city/highway fuel economy ratings of 29/37 mpg, on par with a compact class Civic 4-cylinder Sedan. The Accord Hybrid employs the third-generation of Honda´s advanced Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid system in combination with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) cylinder deactivation technology to provide fuel efficiency along with highly responsive performance. The Accord Hybrid generates 255 peak horsepower (versus 240hp for the Accord V-6 Sedan) with a broad and flat torque curve for driving performance. In addition to its performance, the Accord Hybrid´s EPA fuel economy rating is 38 percent better than the current Accord V-6 in city driving and 23 percent in highway driving. The Accord Hybrid comes equipped with a high level of features and equipment, including a leather trimmed interior, dual zone automatic climate control (with industry first hybrid air conditioning system), 8-way power driver´s seat, XM(R) Satellite Radio and in-dash 6-disc CD changer. An exclusive rear deck lid spoiler and specially designed alloy wheels add to the Accord Hybrid´s enhanced aerodynamic performance. In keeping with Honda´s industry-leading "Safety for Everyone" initiative, all Accord Hybrids come equipped with a comprehensive list of advanced safety features, including driver and front passenger side airbags, side curtain airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), and Traction Control System (TCS). With the addition of the Accord Hybrid, American Honda expects sales of its hybrid models -- Insight, Civic and Accord -- to nearly double to a total of 45,000 units in calendar year 2005. Honda hybrid sales in 2004 through the end of November are up 12.7 percent to 24,048.