When the Honda Accord Hybrid burst onto the scene in 2014 with a classically handsome appearance and innovative two-motor design, it stood out in its class. 

The 2017 R is built on the current generation Mk7 Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) platform, shared throughout the Golf range and with subsidiary brands such as Audi, Seat and Skoda.

One of the biggest upgrades is the switch to front-to-back LEDs for the headlamps, turn signals and taillights. 

Now more than half a century later, the company’s most recognizable offering hasn’t changed all that much on the outside, but continues to innovate pretty much everywhere else. 

Stylistically, the Levante – named after “a warm Mediterranean wind that can change from mild to gale force in an instant” – is really just a bigger, off-road-ier version of the Ghibli executive sedan upon which the small SUV is based.