1998 Honda Accord

Almost every time Honda redesigns a car it steps to the head of the line in automotive greatness-at least for awhile. We think this is true of the all-new Honda Accord. Completely redesigned for 1998, this is the sixth generation of this popular car and it appears to have established a new benchmark for midsize sedans-a post most recently occupied by its arch-rival, the Toyota Camry. Honda says it has made more changes to this new Accord than any other model in its 22-year history. Like the previous model, the Accord does everything well. Even more impressive, it's a much better car than the previous model. The interior is roomy and comfortable, the suspension is responsive and well damped, the brakes are excellent, and both brand-new VTEC engines-a 3.0-liter V6 and a 2.3-liter inline four-cylinder-are incredibly smooth. This is a car that a family can buy, then quickly turn their attention to other concerns. Reliability should not be an issue. It is, after all, a Honda. And it's Honda's most important car. It's easy to drive and every aspect of it is user friendly. Obviously, those brilliant Honda engineers have once again done their homework.