Driving Impressions

Unfortunately, the increased size and sophistication of the Accord EX's 2.2-liter, 16-valve power plant didn't turn the car into a performance machine. The 145 hp it generated, however, did perform satisfactorily in all speed ranges and represents a significant step up from earlier Accords. From a standing start, our test vehicle accelerated briskly to 50 mph. Our test driver deemed highway passing punch to range from adequate to reassuring, even in fifth gear. We all agreed that the car responded well. Our test car's five-speed manual transmission was silky smooth. Downshifting in passing situations proved to be trigger-quick, and slipping through the gates during low speed cruising was equally precise. Throughout the test drive, our Accord EX inflicted virtually no wind or road noise upon us until it reached the highest speed ranges - and even then, we found noise to be at a minimum. The ride was firm but comfortable throughout the tests, which included several passes over bumpy roads. Cornering and other similar maneuvers proved to be flat, stable and surprisingly easy, thanks in part to a new power-steering system that Honda calls "torque-sensitive steering." We found it was easy and reassuring to bring our Accord EX to a halt. In a near-panic braking exercise from 60-plus mph, the Accord's standard anti-lock braking system brought the car to an abrupt standstill without even a hint of wheel lockup or pedal pu1sation.

Final Word

From any vantage point, the Accord EX Sedan constitutes a quantum leap forward from earlier versions of this highly regarded and immensely popular nameplate. it looks more contemporary, and transports driver and passengers more quietly and comfortably. Its larger power plant performance has been significantly improved, while still delivering excellent EPA ratings of 25 city and 31 highway. If anything, we found our Accord EX to be even better engineered and built than its high-quality predecessors. That's more than enough, we believe, to make the purchase decision automatic for previous Honda owners. For others, it may not be so easy. There are a substantial number of well-built competitors in or near this car's price range that offer a little more room or a larger V6 engine or both. Will the sleek new package and Honda's legendary reputation for quality and reliability be enough to overcome the competition? Only time, and sales reports, will tell.