Introduction

Honda Accord is arguably the best mid-size sedan available. It does everything well. The interior is roomy and comfortable, the suspension is responsive and well damped, the brakes are excellent, and both of its VTEC engines-a 3.0-liter V6 and a 2.3-liter four-cylinder-are incredibly smooth. It is a remarkably easy car to drive and every aspect of it is user friendly. But most people buy an Accord because they feel it is a safe choice. It is, after all, a Honda, so reliability should not be an issue. The Accord is a car that a family can buy, then turn its attention back to the other concerns of a hectic daily life. An entire generation has grown up with Hondas and the Accord has been one of America's best-selling cars for the past 10 years. For 2000, all Accords feature Honda's patented dual-stage inflator airbag technology, which automatically adjusts the deployment of the front passenger airbag based on the severity of the crash and whether seatbelts are being worn. Top Sedan trim levels are also fitted with a side airbag system; the system is capable of deactivating the passenger's side-airbag if a matrix of seven sensors determines the passenger is too small or out of position.

Walkaround

Completely redesigned for 1998, the Accord features sharp edges and rounded corners that lend an understated, refined look, while an aggressive stance gives it the air of a European sedan. The nose is short, the hood and cowl are low, which complement the glassy cabin to provide excellent visibility from inside. Honda designed the Coupe to have its own identity. It is distinguished from the Sedan by its unique styling. Only the headlights and door handles are shared. The Coupe is a handsome car, and a good choice for busy executives who want a car that is both sporty and practical.

Interior Features

Honda used airline business-class seating as a model for the Accord interior and it is a marvel of space efficiency. The front seats are wide and comfortable and there's a surprising amount of room for rear seat passengers. While pre-1998 Accords were considered big compacts, the current-generation Accord is a true midsize sedan. Generous front and rear door openings make it easy to get in and out of the car. It's also easy to load cargo because the trunk opening is large and offers good cargo capacity. The instrument panel features a two-tone finish with big gauges that are highly legible. Features associated with luxury cars abound, particularly on the high-level models. Leather interiors are available in light tones that are warm and inviting. Sun visors offer sliding extensions, a HomeLink remote control system can be programmed to open garage doors, turn on house lights and turn off security systems. The air conditioning system, designed to quickly cool the car down after getting in on a hot day, uses an air filtration system to keep pollen out and reduce diesel fumes from buses and trucks.