Honda will launch its first automatic transmission for a diesel engine in 2009, with the new gearbox featuring in the Accord.

The Japanese manufacturer expects automatic transmission in the Accord to appeal to a new segment of customers, particularly in the corporate market, where it considers high mileage user choosers often will only consider an automatic transmission.

“Company car tax legislation has driven much growth in diesel sales and resulted in traditional petrol heads re-assessing their choice of powertrain,” said Graham Avent, manager – corporate sales, cars, Honda UK.

“For many of these drivers, the final hurdle in their transition to driving a diesel is whether or not it is available as an automatic,” added Avent.

The Accord i-DTEC automatic will go on sale in January 2009 priced from £22,400 (Accord 2.2 i-DTEC ES saloon) and £23,700 (Accord 2.2 i-DTEC ES Tourer).