Although the current-generation Honda Accord midsize sedan and its coupe sibling are reaching the end of their lifespans, they still represent solid options thanks to the blend of comfort, efficiency, handling and value they offer.
The Accord Sedan was recently refreshed with a number of updates inside and out. The exterior expresses a more upscale and powerful presence with a new look for the front grille, front bumper and rear deck lid, along with a new wheel design for EX models.
Improvements to vehicle aerodynamics, engine friction and transmission gear ratios all contribute to a fuel economy uptick. The EPA fuel-economy ratings for Accord models equipped with the four-cylinder engine improve by two mog in the city and three mpg on the highway, for a city/highway rating of 23/34 mpg.
The four-cylinder engine in question is a 2.4-liter, 16-valve DOHC i-VTEC unit 4-cylinder engine that makes 177 horsepower and 161 lb-ft of torque in LX, LX-P and SE models and 190 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of twist in EX and EX-L models.
The available 3.5-liter, 24-valve SOHC i-VTEC V-6 engine produces 271 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque and takes advantage of Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) technology that can deactivate up to half of the cylinders while cruising to improve fuel economy.
EPA fuel-economy ratings for the latest model year Accord V6 Sedan are 20/30 mpg, an improvement of one mpg in each cycle.
A five-speed manual transmission is standard on four-cylinder models and a five-speed automatic is available. A five-speed automatic transmission is standard on V6-powered models.
For the latest model year, Honda has seen fit to improve the cabin with revised ergonomics and enhanced climate controls. The most frequently used climate control buttons are now positioned on the left side of the control stack, closer to the driver for ease-of-use. Less-frequently used buttons are now positioned on the right side.
The front seats are designed to provide good lateral support while complementing the Accord's sporty side. The fold-down, rear seatback offers cargo-carrying versatility and also includes a lockable pass-through for long items like snow skis.
The fully independent, double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension systems inspire confident handling performance while also providing a comfortable ride. The latest Accord Sedan comes standard with 16-inch steel wheels with wheel covers (alloy on LX-P and SE); and 17-inch alloy wheels are standard on EX and above sedan models. All Accords feature four-wheel disc brakes.
Three audio systems are available – all with MP3/Windows Media Audio (WMA) playback capability and an auxiliary input jack. The standard system provides a single-disc CD player, six speakers and 160 watts of power. Radio Data System (RDS) displays information broadcast by participating FM radio stations that often includes call letters, station type (searchable by genre) and programming information. Steering wheel-mounted audio controls come standard on every Accord. The Accord EX Sedan adds a six-disc in-dash changer.
A premium 270-watt audio system comes standard on Accord EX-L Sedan models, which includes a six-disc CD changer and seven speakers including an eight-inch subwoofer. XM Radio is standard equipment on all Accord EX-L models.
The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System (available on Accord EX-L) uses an eight-inch screen and an interface dial for user input. The navigation system features the Zagat Survey guide for restaurants, nightlife, hotels and attractions.
Accord EX and EX-L Coupe and Accord EX-L Sedan models include Bluetooth HandsFreeLink as standard equipment for connecting wirelessly with compatible mobile phones.
Charting the Equipment Changes
Balancing value and luxury, the new Accord SE Sedan trim level offers all of the standard features from the popular Accord LX-P while adding leather-trimmed seating, heated front seats, driver's power-lumbar support and a leather-trimmed steering wheel.
New features on certain models include a USB Audio Interface on Accord EX and EX-L Sedans, a rear-view camera on sedans equipped with the available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System, and all Accord EX models gain the auto on/off headlight feature.
Additionally, Accord EX-L V6 models receive a two-position memory system for the driver's seat. Additional interior updates on all models include new seat fabrics on models with cloth seats, an updated instrument panel design and more-refined accent points throughout the interior.
Occupant Safety
For safety, the Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure is an exclusive body design that enhances occupant protection and crash compatibility in frontal crashes. The ACE design utilizes a network of connected structural elements to distribute crash energy more evenly throughout the front of the vehicle. This enhanced frontal crash energy management helps to reduce the forces transferred to the passenger compartment.
Every Accord model also comes standard with dual front, front side and side curtain airbags along with traction and stability control systems, active front head restraints and electronic brakeforce distribution.
Key Competitors
The Honda Accord has no shortage of rivals in the fiercely competitive mid-size sedan segment. While far from exciting, the latest Toyota Camry remains the default choice in this class on the basis of its reputation for quality and reliability, whereas Accord shoppers who would prefer something American would be well served by either the Ford Fusion or the Chevrolet Malibu. The Hyundai Sonata provides excellent value to go along with its dramatic looks, and the little-publicized Suzuki Kizashi brings a high level of driving enjoyment to the table.