Driving Impressions

The base Accord models come standard with a 2.2-liter, single overhead cam 16-valve, 4-cylinder engine coupled with a 5-speed manual transmission. The engine is rated 130 horsepower. Also available, on the uplevel EX models, is the 145-hp 16-valve, VTEC four cylinder on EX models. In addition, Honda began offering a 2.7-liter V6 engine in its LX and EX sedans. These models have a somewhat longer nose and a different grille to accommodate the larger engine, the same V6 that was used in the original Acura Legend. The character of the Accord changes subtly depending on the engine and transmission combination, but all are responsive and provide an excellent sense of control. The 4-cyl. models, the most popular being the mid-level LX with the automatic, are refined family cars with somewhat sporty manners. The manual transmission adds a livelier feel. With the base engine, we recommend it be combined with the manual transmission for peppier performance. In general, the Accord accelerates responsively and smoothly whether equipped with the 4-cyl. or the V6. Honda 4-cyl. engines are typically among the best in the business. Obviously, the V6 version is faster, smoother and quieter, though somewhat less economical in terms of fuel efficiency and price. We found the V6, which is only available with the electronically controlled 4-speed automatic, created a somewhat different flavor. It's an even sportier sedan. Optional on all models (and standard on the V6 versions) is the electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transmission, which includes a feature called Grade Logic. The logic system provides smoother shifting when climbing or descending hills. Indeed, we found the transmission selected the most appropriate gears for all of the various conditions we drove in. Thanks to its sophisticated double wishbone suspension, the ride in any of the Accord models is firm but comfortable, with excellent reflexes in emergency maneuvers. That's why Accord owners enjoy driving these cars. The interior is generally quiet, though some noise is noticeable when the 4-cyl. engine is driven hard. The Accord provides very good road feel, with modest body roll in turns, and the steering is quick and accurate. Honda has always put good handling high on its list of design priorities, and that's what the Accord provides. Braking is another key element in all-around competence, and the Accord performs well in this regard, too. To keep the base price down, the basic DX models are equipped with front disc and rear drum brakes, and an antilock option isn't offered. However, mid-level and top-of-the-line versions have front and rear disc brakes, and ABS is either optional or standard. ABS is optional on LX models like our primary test car, for example, while V6-powered Accords and all EX versions have them as standard equipment. Fuel economy averages nearly 28 miles per gallon for the 4-cyl. manual transmission models, about 26 with the automatic and around 21 for the V6 models.

Final Word

Accord prices range from a base price of a DX sedan at $15,100 (including the $395 destination fee) to a fully loaded V6 at $25,100. In the better-equipped models, such as our LX tester, you still pay a bit of a premium for an Accord, but Honda has managed to whittle that premium down considerably over the last couple of years. And when you've signed the bottom line, you drive home in a car that will provide years of trouble-free driving pleasure. The Accord has earned a reputation as one of the most consistently reliable cars on the market. You simply can't go wrong with this car.