Honda will put a new dual-stage front passenger air bag in all 2000 model year Accords, and many of the upscale models of this popular mid-size car will get front seat side air bags.
Honda's dual-stage inflator air bag automatically adjusts the deployment speed of the front passenger's airbag based on the severity of the crash and whether or not the seat belt is done up or not. The best level of force needed to protect each passenger in each situation is what the air bag will use.
The side airbag system uses seven sensors in the front passenger's seat to monitor the size and position of the passenger and is capable of deactivating the passenger's-side airbag if the sensors determine the passenger is too small and out of position.
If the experience in the U.S. is anything to go by, we can expect Canadian Accord prices to rise slightly to pay for these safety advances. Honda Canada says more details on Accord and its pricing will be revealed in late September.