Introduction

Even though it was already arguably the best mid-size sedan you could buy, the Honda Accord enters 2001 with a longer list of standard equipment, plus improvements in safety and appearance. What hasn't changed is Accord's fundamental character: It is still one car that does everything well. The interior is roomy and comfortable, the chassis 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. Not surprisingly, Accord has been one of America's best-selling cars for the past 10 years. But we suspect that most people buy Accords for their legendary reliability. An entire generation has grown up with Hondas, and 26 years of Accords have proven the model to be a safe choice, a car that a family can buy and more or less forget, turning their attention back to the other concerns of a daily life. For 2001, 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. A side airbag system is standard on EX models or with the V6, and optional on four-cylinder DX and LX models. 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

Accord was completely redesigned for 1998, and the 2001 sedan is significantly freshened, with a new engine hood and fascia up front and a new deck lid and tail lights in the rear. The overall effect is even more sharply chiseled than before. Accord still features an understated, refined appearance, but with an aggressive stance that gives it the air of a European sedan. The nose is short, and 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, enhanced for 2001 by a more aggressive look to the bumpers, a body-colored front grille, and new alloy wheel designs. As before, only its headlights and door handles are shared with the sedan. 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, which 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 real luggage 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.