NEW models and a stream of facelifts are to be launched by Honda this year, with the line-up being led by the new Accord five-door aimed directly at Ford Mondeo and Vauxhall Vectra territory when it hits showrooms in August. The range will start with an entry-level 1.6-litre engine. In April, there will also be a powerful Type-R version.

First, in March, will come the launch of the new HR-V (High Rider Vehicle), a budget-priced city car with four-wheel-drive and a 285-litre cargo area with underfloor storage. It will come with either five-speed manual or continuously variable transmission, powering a 1.6-litre engine offering 105bhp and 38.6mpg. Prices are expected to be about £13,000 to £15,000. Twin airbags and anti-lock brakes will be fitted as standard. User-choosers are likely to be among the main buyers, with 5,000 registrations a year expected.

Towards the end of the year, around September to October, will come the three-door Logo, a 1.3-litre city car, while the BMW Z3 and Porsche Boxster rival, the S2000, arrives on the streets in September. Facelifts will include an update for the flagship Legend, followed by a revamp for the Civic, which will also include the introduction of a new VTi coupe. An update of the Prelude is also planned later in the year.