DOWN THE ROAD: The world’s first V-6 powered gas-electric hybrid will stun you. The ride may be firmer than the non-hybrid Accord but it is quiet and indeed quick. All new for 2005, the Accord Hybrid is Honda’s guinea pig for testing its new Active Noise Control, which works to reduce road and wind disturbances.

Whether you are cruising on the road or stopped at a traffic light, you won’t notice that this is a hybrid. It runs and drives like any non-hybrid on the road.

TECH & PERFORMANCE: Available in two trims, the 3.0-liter V-6 Accord Hybrid offers 255 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 232 pounds-feet of torque at 5000 rpm.

The 5-speed automatic transmission offers the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) along with Vehicle Cylinder Management (VCM). Basically, the 12-kw electric motor adds 100 pounds-feet of torque to the engine during acceleration.

But while slowing down or braking, the recaptured kinetic energy is saved in the battery pack. It is then that only three cylinders are activated to save fuel. If the speed of the vehicle is below 10 mph, the IMA system shuts off.

And of course, the moment you take off, the gasoline engine goes into gear. Lending assistance to the vehicle is a four-wheel double-wishbone suspension, which ensures a stable and balanced ride.

Instead of power rack-and-pinion steering in the traditional Accord EX V-6, the hybrid gets electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering. The result is the driver has total control of the steering system when the car is at an idle stop mode. Four-wheel-drive brakes along with Electronic Brake Distribution and antilock brakes contribute to the vehicle’s chassis features.

LOOK AND FEEL: Yes, it is an Accord but with a slightly different look. The hybrid features a distinct black chrome-style front grille, rear decklid spoiler, 16-inch alloy wheels, aluminum hood and exclusive badging.

Apart from the IMA display monitor located below the speedometer, the interior offers leather seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, driver’s eight-way power seat, a front center console with armrest and storage area, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls.

The gauges on the instrument panel are easy to read and reach, and the navigation system with voice recognition is a great asset.

SAFETY FIRST: It’s nice to see a carmaker offer standard driver- and front-passenger airbags as well as side airbags and a side curtain for back-seat passengers.

Honda’s Instant Mobility system, which offers an easy repair solution for a flat tire, should come in handy.

BY THE NUMBERS: Tires, P215/80R16 all-season; wheelbase, 107.9 inches; length, 189.5 inches; weight, 3,059 pounds; fuel capacity, 17.1 gallons; highway 37, city 29 mpg. OUT THE DOOR: $31,990, plus tax, tag, delivery and destination charges.

WHY DIG IT: Folks may recall that Honda was the first carmaker to sell a hybrid vehicle — the Insight — in the United States back in 1999. Since then, the Civic also has gone hybrid followed by the Accord.

“The Accord Hybrid requires no sacrifice in power, performance or comfort and delivers on the expectations of the customer for advanced technology and improved fuel efficiency,” said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co.

And of course, the reliability and resale value that goes with owning a Honda are an added bonus. Not many carmakers can beat that either.

Nitish S. Rele is an Advertising Staff Writer for The Tampa Tribune.