Honda has updated its Legend sedan flagship, giving the car extra power and torque plus a new look to help keep it fresh as it reaches its mid-life. Honda hopes the changes will boost sales before the introduction of the next-generation model, which is expected to arrive early next decade.

While Honda is reportedly planning some major changes for its next-generation Legend, including a possible change to rear-wheel drive and the addition of a V8 option, the updates for the current model are somewhat more modest in scope. The updated appearance puts a new face on a car that is essentially mechanically unchanged aside from the expanded engine, which grows from 3.5-litres to 3.7-litres.

Revised powerplant improves responsiveness and feel
Boosting the V6’s displacement by 0.2-litres generates peak power of 226kW and 370Nm, and particular focus has been placed on improving low-end performance and acceleration. The engine also bears the distinction of being the first implementation of Honda’s intake and exhaust VTEC (variable valve timing and electronic lift control) system for a single overhead-cam (SOHC) engine. VTEC works by offering a variable camshaft profile to enable the valves to operate at different points in the cylinder’s combustion and exhaust phases as engine revs change.

The previous version’s drive-by-wire throttle system is retained, as is the advanced Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, which Honda claims is capable of enhancing both handling and safety via its ability to transfer torque on-demand to any of the four wheels.

Exhaust emissions remain compliant with strict Euro 4 standards, while fuel efficiency has actually improved despite the increase in engine size and power. The ADR rated fuel consumption for the outgoing model was 11.8L/100km, while the new car rates at 11.3L/100km.

Appearance changes give more purposeful appearance to match enhanced power
Honda says it has made exactly 12 updates to the exterior of the car, most of them focused on the front and lower side portions. Aerodynamic efficiency was improved in the process, contributing at least part of the car’s overall fuel economy gains.

An all-new aluminium bonnet drops weight and has been revised to accommodate the new model’s bi-xenon headlights and freshened pentagonal grille. The new front bumper features redesigned fog lights and new lower intakes. New rocker panels, a boot lid spoiler, updated tail lights, and a restyled rear bumper and exhaust system complete the aerodynamic and aesthetic body work.

Seven-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels shod with 245/45 rubber provide an aggressive stance and abundant grip, and the shocks and springs supporting them receive some tuning to improve handling accordingly. Wrapping up the exterior upgrades is a unique windscreen that sandwiches a layer of butyl alcohol between two sheets of glass, which nearly eliminates the intrusion of exterior sound.

Inside, the new car features 10-way adjustable electric seats, a Bose 10-speaker stereo system, satellite navigation, leather upholstery and redesigned climate control functions. All of the previous model’s safety features, including a full slate of airbags and stability control features, carry over.

Pricing for the new Legend starts at $77,500, with the first cars set to arrive in dealerships on September 1. 

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