.

Honda Accord Review: Difference between revisions

Wikicars, a place to share your automotive knowledge
Jump to navigationJump to search
(→‎Overview: started to rewrite overview)
mNo edit summary
 
(119 intermediate revisions by 17 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
==Overview==
[[Image:2006Accord.jpg|right|300px]]
Chosen by some reviewers as the #1 midsized sedan, the Honda Accord is consistently rated one of the very best.  The four cylinder Accord is considered a great value.


Chosen by some reviewers as the #1 midsized sedan, the 2006 Honda Accord is consistently rated one of the very best.  The Accord simply does everything well; it may not be best in class in every single area, but it does little poorly.  
A summary of all reviewers on Autos.com rates the 2007 Accord 3rd best of 20 mid-sized cars [http://www.autos.com/autos/passenger_cars/midsize_cars/reviews].  The only siginificant critique mentioned by some reviewers is that the Accord lacks a bit of excitement and crispness in handling.


For 2006, Honda has fortified both engines, the standard four-cylinder and the optional V6, with more horsepower.  
On the other hand, the Accord LX and EX sedans offer comfort and convenience features that make them great for daily commutes. With an optional leather interior, the EX dresses up to become an affordable luxury sedan.  Alternatively, combine the Coupe with a [[V6|V6]] to create a sporty two-door that is also ideal for commuting.


The Accord Hybrid, launched as a 2005 model, achieves excellent fuel economy, generates very little emissions, and delivers more horsepower than the gasoline-only model.  
See also the main fact sheets for the 2007 '''[[Honda Accord]]''' and '''[[Honda Accord Hybrid]]'''.


The popular LX and EX sedans offer comfort and convenience features that make them great daily drivers. Order the leather interior, and the EX becomes an affordable luxury sedan. The four-cylinder i-VTEC engine is powerful and responsive, delivering strong acceleration performance for passing. The V6 adds another level of sporting appeal.  
==High Points==
*  Acceleration
*  Handling
*  Roomy interior
*  Among most comfortable and supportive driver seat as in any vehicle.
*  Safety
*  Reliability
*  Best V-6 in the business
*  High Quality Tires
*  Build Quality
*  Design appeal
*  High resale value; see typical used Honda Accord prices by year[http://www.carsdirect.com/research/generations?make=HO&modelid=108].


The Accord Coupe is a quick, no-hassle, high-quality, sporty two-door that's great for commuting. Add the V6 and leather and it's an executive expressmobile.
==Low Points==
*  Small trunk.  The Accord's trunk measures 14 cubic feet (11 for the [[Hybrid Cars|Hybrid]] version because of its extra computer and battery pack), compared with the 2006 [[Toyota Camry]] at 17 cubic feet and the 2006 [[Nissan Altima]] at 16.
*  Rear seat entry for the coupe.
*  Small interior space for tall or large people.
*  Vinyl-like quality leather seats.
*  Back seat is uninhabitable by anyone but the smallest of children.
*  4 cylinder engine is coarse at low rpms and makes the car feel underpowered.
*  Low quality interior/dash (hard and hollow plastics).
*  Poor at-the-limit handling due to skinny tires.


==Model Lineup==
==Performance and Handling==
The 2.4 liter twin-cam four-cylinder Accord is powerful, with 166 [[HP]].  The engine is very smooth and responsive-- never whiney.  The 3.0-liter [[V6|V6]] is light and very powerful, with 244 [[HP]].  The [[V6|V6]] Accord is amongst the fastest in the class.


The Honda Accord comes in nearly three dozen combinations when all the engines, body styles, transmissions and trim levels are all tallied up. But choosing one is easier than it may sound. Your first choice is to decide whether you want a two-door coupe or four-door sedan. Next decide whether you want a V6 or four-cylinder engine, and whether you want a manual or automatic transmission. Then decide whether you want cloth or leather upholstery.  
The [[Honda Accord Hybrid]], with 253 [[HP]], is faster than the regular [[V6|V6]] sedan from 0 to 60 miles per hour and gets much better gas mileage. When cruising, the engine operates on just three of [[V6|six cylinders]], though you do not notice the transition. The engine shuts off at stoplights, restarting instantly when the driver releases the brake pedal. A separate compressor keeps air conditioning blowing when the engine is in its temporary off mode.
All of the Accords strike a nice balance between ride and handling. The suspension is smooth, but not mushy. When driven hard, the Accord is very stable. A few reviewers note that handling is more sporty on the Mazda 6, Nissan Altima, and perhaps the Volkswagen Jetta.  


Sedans are available in VP, LX, and EX trim.  
The five-speed [[Automatic transmission|automatic]] transmission is remarkably smooth. The [[drive-by-wire throttle]] has perfect timing.  


The VP is new for 2006 and replaces last year's DX. It's better equipped, and comes standard with air conditioning, cruise control, daytime running lamps, power locks and keyless entry. The VP comes with the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and a choice of five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission ($17,995).  
The five-speed manual gearbox is smooth and fun to drive as is the Accord EX [[V6|V-6]] with six-speed manual transmission.


LX ($19,775) and EX ($22,200) sedans add higher levels of standard equipment. The new LX Special Edition adds 16-inch alloy wheels, four-wheel-disc brakes with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), in-dash six-CD changer, steering wheel audio controls, body-color side sills and carbon fiber interior accents. The EX is available with leather upholstery, a DVD navigation system, and XM Satellite Radio.  
Though an admirable performer in its class, critics seem to ding the Accord for its boring driving characteristics. Car and Driver notes, "[The] EX four-door was exactly as passionate as Lt. Commander Data running a routine systems check on the bridge of the Enterprise."  That may be true relative to a European sportscar, but the Accord has great zip compared to most other mid-sized sedans.


LX V-6 ($23,950) and EX V-6 ($26,850) add not only a 3.0-liter V6 and automatic transmission, but 17-inch wheels and tires and more luxury equipment as well, including a power glass sunroof and heated side mirrors. All V6 models now come with Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) and brake assist. Leather is standard on the EX V6. A six-speed manual transmission is now available in EX V6 sedans as well as coupes.  
The Accord seems to do well in most weather conditions. One driver notes, "It handles securely in ice and snow and gives an excellent feel for clean roads without imparting fatigue."


Accord Hybrid ($30,140), combines a V6 gasoline engine and an electric motor to provide significantly more power: 253 horsepower vs. 244 for the gasoline-only V6. It also gets substantially better fuel economy: 30/37 miles per gallon City/Highway vs. 21/30 for the standard V6. It also comes with more standard equipment for '06, including a power glass sunroof, heated side mirrors with integrated turn signals, and VSA stability control.  
==Gas Mileage: 1st Place==
According to EPA estimates summarized on Autos.com, the 4 cylinder Honda Accord ranks 1st of 20 mid-sized cars [http://www.autos.com/autos/rankings_mpg?cat=passenger_cars&segment=midsize_cars&rank=mpg&year=0]in fuel economy:
*  4 Cylinder: 24/34
*  6 Cylinder: 20/29
*  [[Hybrid Cars|Hybrid]]:    25/34
It's worth noting, though, that the gas mileage of the top vehicles in this class varies only slighty-- by a few miles per gallon.


Coupes are available in LX ($19,875) and EX ($22,300) trim only and come standard with the four-cylinder engine and five-speed manual transmission. An automatic transmission is available. The LX V-6 coupe ($23,900) comes with the V6 and automatic. The EX V-6 coupe ($26,950) is a performance-oriented model, and comes with either the five-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission as a no-cost option; it also has leather seating surfaces.  
==Safety: 5 Stars (out of 5)==
All Accord models achieved five-star safety ratings for driver and front-seat passenger in the federal government's frontal crash test. See the Honda Accord NHSTA crash test results[http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/ncap/cars/3654.html].


Safety is enhanced on all Accords by side-impact and curtain airbags, in addition to the required dual front airbags. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) come standard. All V6 models come with Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) and Brake Assist. EX V6 models are also equipped with traction control.
[[ABS]] is standard on all models. Luxury models are equipped with [[Electronic Brake-Force Distribution]]. [[Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)|ABS]] helps prevent skidding; [[Electronic Brake-Force Distribution|EBD]] distributes braking force to the tires with the best grip.


==Walkaround==
All Accords have side-impact and curtain airbags, in addition to the required dual front airbags. All [[V6|V6]] models come with [[Electronic Stability Control|Vehicle Stability Assist]] (VSA) and Brake Assist. EX [[V6|V6]] models are also equipped with traction control.
Both the Honda Accord sedan and coupe have been face-lifted for 2006, with a new grille and front bumper, and a new rear bumper, deck lid, and tail lights. Wheels and exhaust finishers have also been restyled.  


The sharpened noses of the 2006 Accord sedan and coupe are reminiscent of an Acura RSX. The corners and sides of both bodies are carefully sculpted with a combination of concave and convex surfaces, in an attempt to achieve a muscular and agile look, with subtle and unique three-dimensional window glass, also intended to reduce wind noise. The aerodynamically efficient side-view mirrors are one of the results of wind tunnel testing. The sedan's drag coefficient, or Cd (a measure of how easily it moves through the air), is 0.30, which is quite slippery. The Accord Hybrid sedan is even more aerodynamic, with a Cd of 0.29, thanks to its rear spoiler and angled antenna.  
See also the Accord safety info page[http://automobiles.honda.com/models/safety_overview.asp?ModelName=Accord+Coupee] at Honda's corporate site.


Those in the know can spot the Hybrid by its unique front and rear spoilers and (new for '06) distinctive tail lights.  
==Reliability and Maintenance: 5 Stars==
The Accord is low maintenance. There's no scheduled maintenance for at least 105,000 miles, except for oil changes, and even those are required only every 10,000 miles. Both engines run on regular gas.


The two-door coupe is a different beast from the four-door sedan, sharing a family resemblance in its face but no actual sheet metal. Its flanks and rear deck are more shapely, flowing naturally and gracefully from the roofline. It yields an aerodynamic Cd of 0.29, which is quite slippery.  
Consumer Reports and others rate reliability 5 stars (out of 5).


The Accord's doors are built using a unique method that makes them light and strong. You can clearly hear the quality in the sound when you close them. You feel quality, also, in the light touch required to open the trunk.  
==Interior and Comforts==
[[Image:06-accord-interior.jpg|right|300px]]
Front seats are wide and tall; legroom is generous. A tilt-and-telescope steering wheel is standard. Seats are lower in the coupe and the side bolsters are more snug.  


All Accord models achieved five-star safety ratings for driver and front-seat passenger in the federal government's frontal crash test. Additionally, the coupe earned a five-star rating for front- and rear-seat passengers in the side-impact test.  
Rear seat legroom is standard for the class.


All Accord coupes and most of the sedans are assembled in Marysville, Ohio. Some sedans are assembled in Japan and Mexico.  
Interior space is used efficiently, with a good-sized glovebox, a big center console, and a bin under the audio system that holds 12 CDs.  The Accord offers coinholders, cellphone cord hooks, grab handles over every door, console lights, power outlets, and sunglasses holders. Up to eight cupholders are provided.


 
The EX's leather seats are of what may be considered sturdy, but not of the soft glove-like leather furniture quality found in many other vehicles.  Heavily dimpled, feels like a high quality vinyl, or a cheap leather jacket or shoes. 
==Interior Features==


New interior styling freshens the cabin of the 2006 Honda Accord. A new instrument panel, a new steering wheel, new fabrics for the seats, new satin chrome accents around the vents highlight the changes for 2006.  
Honda and Acura's [[Navigation System|navigation]] systems are among the best. The navigation system uses voice technology. By pressing a button, you can use your voice to enter commands, change temperature, or change songs on a CD.


The seats are great, generously wide and tall in the sedan, with springs and urethane padding designed to reduce vibration. The driver's seat provides a one-with-the-car feel thanks to good side support. It features a manual height adjustment (power on premium models) that jacks up plenty high for even the shortest drivers, and yet drops low enough to provide good headroom for taller folks. Front legroom is generous. A tilt-and-telescope steering wheel is standard.  
Honda's intelligent dual climate control, packaged with the [[Navigation System|navigation system]], attempts to maintain the perfect temperature for driver and passengers.


The seats in the coupe seem a bit different and feel even better than those in the sedan. You sit lower in the coupe. The side bolsters are more aggressive, providing a more secure fit at the torso. The leather is nicer than the cloth.  
==Exterior==
Both the Honda Accord sedan and coupe were face-lifted for 2006, with a a sharper snout, and a new grille, bumpers, and tail lights employing LEDs which light up faster and provide longer life.


The sedan's rear bench seat is roomy and comfortable, especially for two people with the center armrest flipped out. It offers decent support, though it's fairly flat. Rear-seat legroom is slightly better than in the Nissan Altima, but the Toyota Camry provides an inch more.  
The two-door coupe is very different from the four-door sedan in styling, sharing a family resemblance, but little more.


The Accord's trunk is smaller than that of other mid-size sedans, but the flat trunk floor makes loading easy. The Accord's trunk measures 14 cubic feet (11.2 for the Hybrid version because of its extra computer and battery pack), compared with the 2006 Camry's nearly 17 cubic feet and the 2006 Altima's 15.6. The Accord coupe's trunk is slightly smaller than the sedan's, holding less than 13 cubic feet.  
The Accord's build quality is very high-- you hear the quality when you close the doors.


The instrumentation is excellent, comprising large, clear analog faces with LED illumination, the latter a feature associated with higher-priced luxury cars. A big speedometer in the center dominates the instrument panel. The switchgear, primarily three big dials located in the center of the dash, is simple, if not particularly attractive. Automatic dual-zone climate control is available on EX models.  
A common critique is the bland styling of the vehicle, but owners seem to quickly overlook this because of all its other strong attributes. One driver says, "It's not an ugly car, but it's not striking...Once you sit in the car, though, you'll forget about what the outside looks like."


Interior space is used efficiently, with the audio, climate and optional navigation system controls integrated into a single unit. This frees up space for exceptional cabin storage, including a good-sized glovebox, a big center console, a bin under the audio system that will hold 12 CDs, and door pockets deep and wide enough for a purse.
==Styles and Options==


Honda's interior fit and finish is good. Attention to detail is seen everywhere: coinholders, cellphone cord hooks, grab handles over every door, console lights, power outlets, sunglasses holders, adjustable armrests, convenient and versatile access to the trunk from the rear seat. By holding down the Unlock or Lock buttons, all four windows on LX and EX models can be raised or lowered. Up to eight cupholders are provided; a couple of them are big enough to hold a liter-sized water bottle yet feature spring-loaded prongs that can grip a paper coffee cup. If you wanted to distill this attention to detail down to one example, it might be the solid, pleasurable sound of the turn-signal click.
The major decisions with the Honda Accord are:
*  Coupe or Sedan
*  4 cylinder or [[V6|V6]]
*  Cloth or leather upholstery
*  Trim


Three sound systems are available for the Accord. LX V-6 models and above come with a six-disc in-dash CD changer, a 180-watt amplifier, and four twin-neodymium speakers with polypropylene cone woofers and soft dome tweeters. But here's the real-world test: We took the V-6 coupe six-speed on a flat-out blast through the Malibu hills, engine revving to redline, windows wide open, CD celebrating Bob Marley, and even with all that exterior noise, max volume on the sound system wasn't necessary for the full effect.
Sedans are available in VP, LX, and EX trims:  


The available XM Satellite Radio is a great feature to have when traveling, because the stations don't change as you drive across the country. You still get ads, but fewer and less obnoxious ads than you would hear on FM. XM Satellite Radio is nice to have around town, also, for listening to the 24-hour news and sports broadcasts, or for staying tuned into your favorite types of music (classical, jazz, '50s, '60s, '70s, '80s).  
The VP is new for 2006, replacing the DX. The VP is better equipped and comes standard with air conditioning, cruise control, daytime running lamps, power locks and keyless entry. The VP has a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and a choice of five-speed manual or five-speed [[Automatic transmission|automatic]] transmission (MSRP of $17,995).  


Honda and Acura's navigation systems are among the best. The system is programmed with 8 million destinations. The Accord's system offers a voice-activation feature. Say, "Find nearest Japanese food" to the dashboard, and it will guide you there. If you know the phone number of a business establishment you're trying to reach, it will take you there. Of course, you can press the buttons and avoid one-way conversations with your car.  
LX ($19,775) and EX ($22,200) sedans add more. The new LX Special Edition has 16-inch alloy wheels, four-wheel-[[4-wheel disc brakes|disc brakes]] with Electronic Brake-force Distribution ([[Electronic Brake-Force Distribution|EBD]]), in-dash six-CD changer, steering wheel audio controls, body-color side sills and carbon fiber interior accents. The EX is available with leather upholstery, a DVD [[Navigation System|navigation system]], and XM Satellite Radio.  


Honda's intelligent dual climate control, packaged with the navigation system, factors date, time, latitude, longitude, and vehicle direction into its calculations in an attempt to maintain the perfect temperature for driver and passengers.
LX [[V6|V-6]] ($23,950) and EX [[V6|V-6]] ($26,850) add not only a 3.0-liter [[V6|V6]] and [[Automatic transmission|automatic]] transmission, but 17-inch wheels and tires and more luxury equipment as well, including a power glass sunroof and heated side mirrors. All [[V6|V6]] models now come with [[Electronic Stability Control|Vehicle Stability Assist]](VSA) and brake assist. Leather is standard on the EX [[V6|V6]]. A six-speed manual transmission is now available in EX [[V6|V6]] sedans as well as coupes.
Coupes are available in LX ($19,875) and EX ($22,300) only and come standard with the four-cylinder engine and five-speed manual transmission. An [[Automatic transmission|automatic]] transmission is available. The LX [[V6|V-6]] coupe ($23,900) comes with the [[V6|V6]] and [[Automatic transmission|automatic]]. The EX [[V6|V-6]] coupe ($26,950) is a performance-oriented model, and comes with either the five-speed [[Automatic transmission|automatic]] or a six-speed manual transmission as a no-cost option; it also has leather seats.


==Driving Impressions==
Coupes are available in LX ($19,875) and EX ($22,300) only and come standard with the four-cylinder engine and five-speed manual transmission. An [[Automatic transmission|automatic]] transmission is available. The LX [[V6|V-6]] coupe ($23,900) comes with the [[V6|V6]] and [[Automatic transmission|automatic]]. The EX [[V6|V-6]] coupe ($26,950) is a performance-oriented model, and comes with either the five-speed [[Automatic transmission|automatic]] or a six-speed manual transmission as a no-cost option; it also has leather seats.
From a driving standpoint, you're getting an outstanding automobile whether you choose a cloth-upholstered Accord sedan with a four-cylinder and automatic, a sporty V6 coupe, or anything in between.  


We think the four-cylinder Accord sedan is the best car in its price class. It strikes a perfect balance between ride and handling. The Accord rides more smoothly and more comfortably than the Nissan Altima. Yet its handling is controlled. The Accord handles better than the Toyota Camry yet it rides well. Its suspension smooths out bumps and ripples in the road, but isn't so mushy that your back-seat passengers get motion sickness. When pushed hard, it's balanced and fun to drive. We found it stable at high speeds with crisp handling on winding roads. It's smooth, poised and supremely stable.  
[[Honda Accord Hybrid]] ($30,140), combines a [[V6|V6]] gasoline engine and an electric motor to provide more power: 253 vs. 244 for the gasoline-only [[V6|V6]]. The Accord [[Hybrid Cars|Hybrid]] gets substantially better fuel economy: 30/37 miles per gallon City/Highway vs. 21/30 for the standard [[V6|V6]]. It comes standard with a power glass sunroof, heated side mirrors, and VSA.


The 2.4-liter twin-cam four-cylinder engine is smooth and powerful, with a high-quality, mature feel. It's strongest at higher rpm, but never gets buzzy. With new drive-by-wire throttle control and revised valve timing, the 2006 version delivers 166 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 160 pound-feet of torque at 4000 rpm. (Torque is that force that propels you away from intersections and up hills.) That's 6 more horsepower than 2005 models had, and about the same torque delivered 500 rpm sooner; those new power figures would be more impressive if they weren't adjusted to meet new test procedures instituted by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). Honda says the actual improvement is closer to 10 horsepower. Additionally, Accord's four-cylinder engine is equipped with Honda's i-VTEC valvetrain, which means the valve timing is continually adjusted according to conditions for strong torque over the entire rpm range. So it's responsive at all engine speeds. Yet it delivers excellent fuel mileage: 24/34 mpg City/Highway with the automatic. It gets even better mileage around town when equipped with the manual, earning an EPA-estimated 26/34 mpg.
==Main Competitors==
* [[Toyota Camry]]: [http://www.carsdirect.com/research/compare/honda/accord/toyota/camry side-by-side comparison]


The five-speed automatic transmission is incredibly smooth. The drive-by-wire throttle is programmed to cut the gas during upshifts, and its timing is perfect. It's not often that the performance of an automatic transmission is so tight that it stands out.
* [[Nissan Maxima]]


The five-speed manual gearbox is especially wonderful. The gear ratios are perfect and the shifting is buttery smooth. It seems to love aggressive downshifts. With the manual transmission, acceleration was strong.
* [[Mazda Mazda6]]


The 3.0-liter V6 is light and powerful, now rated 244 horsepower and 211 pound-feet of torque. Equipped with VTEC, its broad torque range begins at relatively low rpm. The V6 gets excellent fuel economy: 21/30 mpg with the automatic transmission.
* [[Volkswagen Passat]]


The Accord is a carefree car. Both engines run on regular gas, and there's no scheduled maintenance for at least 105,000 miles, except for oil changes, and even those are required only every 10,000 miles. In terms of emissions, the Accord is a clean car. Models with four-cylinder engines qualify as LEV-2 Low Emissions Vehicles; PZEV-rated LX and EX four-cylinder automatic sedans are sold in California, New York, Massachusetts, Vermont, and Maine. (Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle means almost no evaporative emissions.)
==External Links==
WikiCars Contributor Favorites
*[http://www.allaboutauto.us Daily reviews]
Honda Manufacturer Sites
*[http://automobiles.honda.com/models/model_overview.asp?ModelName=Accord+Sedan Honda Accord Sedan - Official Site]
*[http://automobiles.honda.com/models/model_overview.asp?ModelName=Accord+Coupe Honda Accord Coupe - Official Site]
*[http://automobiles.honda.com/models/model_overview.asp?ModelName=Accord+Hybrid Honda Accord [[Hybrid Cars|Hybrid]] - Official Site]
*[http://www.world.honda.com/ACCORD/ A full history of the Honda Accord]


The Accord Hybrid combines exceptional fuel economy with even better performance. With 253 horsepower and 232 pound-feet of torque, the Hybird beats the regular V6 sedan from 0 to 60 miles per hour by half a second, and gets much better gas mileage. With a calculated range of 633 miles, the Hybrid can go 120 miles more between fill-ups than the standard Accord V6 models.
Community Sites
*[http://www.steelcitysfinest.com/HondaAccordAd.htm Famous Honda Accord - The Cog - TV Advert]
*[http://www.carsdirect.com/research/honda/accord/2006/24_vp/reviews Honda Accord Review Summaries]
*[http://www.honda-acura.net Top Honda and Acura web board]
*[http://www.faqfarm.com/Q/FAQ/637 Honda Accord FAQ (best for maintenance tips)]


Though revised for 2006, the Accord Hybrid still doesn't shout its environmentally friendliness, whether viewing it from outside or inside the car. Unique spoilers and tail lights, plus a small HYBRID badge on the trunk lid barely hint that this car has a different powertrain. Inside, the only changes are a badge on the dashboard and a bar graph below the speedometer that lets the driver know when the batteries are recharging and when the V6 engine is in its three-cylinder mode. Yes, you read that correctly: When cruising or in other light-load situations, the engine is designed to operate on just three of its six cylinders, though while driving you do not feel it make that transition. The engine also shuts off completely at stoplights, restarting instantly when the driver releases the brake pedal. A separate compressor keeps air conditioning blowing cold even while the engine is in its temporary off mode.
[[Category:Model Reviews]]
 
Driving enthusiasts will find the Accord EX V-6 with six-speed manual transmission particularly enjoyable. The smooth gearbox shifts beautifully and loves aggressive downshifts that would cause many other gearboxes to cry abuse. Obviously, Honda spent great attention to detail in designing the gear ratios and synchronizers. A special resonator in the intake system gives the EX V-6 a sportier sound. Stand on the gas and the engine responds with a growl that's music to an enthusiast's ears. The sporty EX V-6 is available as sedan or coupe.
 
The Accord offers an excellent balance between smooth ride quality and responsive handling. Its double-wishbone suspension, front and rear, was engineered to reduce fore and aft body motions under acceleration and deceleration, and to provide flat cornering. New shocks and bushings for the 2006 V6 models are tuned to maximize the benefit of new 17-inch wheels and tires.
 
ABS is standard on all models. Uplevel models with four-wheel-disc brakes are equipped with Electronic Brake-force Distribution. ABS helps the driver maintain steering control under hard braking by preventing skidding; EBD distributes braking force to the tires with the best grip, improving stability and stopping performance. The V6 coupe stops nicely, and the pedal feel is firm and sensitive. The brakes faded on us after driving hard on a twisty road, however. (Fade occurs when brakes get hot and results in diminished braking performance.)

Latest revision as of 05:30, 16 May 2009

2006Accord.jpg

Chosen by some reviewers as the #1 midsized sedan, the Honda Accord is consistently rated one of the very best. The four cylinder Accord is considered a great value.

A summary of all reviewers on Autos.com rates the 2007 Accord 3rd best of 20 mid-sized cars [1]. The only siginificant critique mentioned by some reviewers is that the Accord lacks a bit of excitement and crispness in handling.

On the other hand, the Accord LX and EX sedans offer comfort and convenience features that make them great for daily commutes. With an optional leather interior, the EX dresses up to become an affordable luxury sedan. Alternatively, combine the Coupe with a V6 to create a sporty two-door that is also ideal for commuting.

See also the main fact sheets for the 2007 Honda Accord and Honda Accord Hybrid.

High Points

  • Acceleration
  • Handling
  • Roomy interior
  • Among most comfortable and supportive driver seat as in any vehicle.
  • Safety
  • Reliability
  • Best V-6 in the business
  • High Quality Tires
  • Build Quality
  • Design appeal
  • High resale value; see typical used Honda Accord prices by year[2].

Low Points

  • Small trunk. The Accord's trunk measures 14 cubic feet (11 for the Hybrid version because of its extra computer and battery pack), compared with the 2006 Toyota Camry at 17 cubic feet and the 2006 Nissan Altima at 16.
  • Rear seat entry for the coupe.
  • Small interior space for tall or large people.
  • Vinyl-like quality leather seats.
  • Back seat is uninhabitable by anyone but the smallest of children.
  • 4 cylinder engine is coarse at low rpms and makes the car feel underpowered.
  • Low quality interior/dash (hard and hollow plastics).
  • Poor at-the-limit handling due to skinny tires.

Performance and Handling

The 2.4 liter twin-cam four-cylinder Accord is powerful, with 166 HP. The engine is very smooth and responsive-- never whiney. The 3.0-liter V6 is light and very powerful, with 244 HP. The V6 Accord is amongst the fastest in the class.

The Honda Accord Hybrid, with 253 HP, is faster than the regular V6 sedan from 0 to 60 miles per hour and gets much better gas mileage. When cruising, the engine operates on just three of six cylinders, though you do not notice the transition. The engine shuts off at stoplights, restarting instantly when the driver releases the brake pedal. A separate compressor keeps air conditioning blowing when the engine is in its temporary off mode.

All of the Accords strike a nice balance between ride and handling. The suspension is smooth, but not mushy. When driven hard, the Accord is very stable. A few reviewers note that handling is more sporty on the Mazda 6, Nissan Altima, and perhaps the Volkswagen Jetta.

The five-speed automatic transmission is remarkably smooth. The drive-by-wire throttle has perfect timing.

The five-speed manual gearbox is smooth and fun to drive as is the Accord EX V-6 with six-speed manual transmission.

Though an admirable performer in its class, critics seem to ding the Accord for its boring driving characteristics. Car and Driver notes, "[The] EX four-door was exactly as passionate as Lt. Commander Data running a routine systems check on the bridge of the Enterprise." That may be true relative to a European sportscar, but the Accord has great zip compared to most other mid-sized sedans.

The Accord seems to do well in most weather conditions. One driver notes, "It handles securely in ice and snow and gives an excellent feel for clean roads without imparting fatigue."

Gas Mileage: 1st Place

According to EPA estimates summarized on Autos.com, the 4 cylinder Honda Accord ranks 1st of 20 mid-sized cars [3]in fuel economy:

  • 4 Cylinder: 24/34
  • 6 Cylinder: 20/29
  • Hybrid: 25/34

It's worth noting, though, that the gas mileage of the top vehicles in this class varies only slighty-- by a few miles per gallon.

Safety: 5 Stars (out of 5)

All Accord models achieved five-star safety ratings for driver and front-seat passenger in the federal government's frontal crash test. See the Honda Accord NHSTA crash test results[4].

ABS is standard on all models. Luxury models are equipped with Electronic Brake-Force Distribution. ABS helps prevent skidding; EBD distributes braking force to the tires with the best grip.

All Accords have side-impact and curtain airbags, in addition to the required dual front airbags. All V6 models come with Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) and Brake Assist. EX V6 models are also equipped with traction control.

See also the Accord safety info page[5] at Honda's corporate site.

Reliability and Maintenance: 5 Stars

The Accord is low maintenance. There's no scheduled maintenance for at least 105,000 miles, except for oil changes, and even those are required only every 10,000 miles. Both engines run on regular gas.

Consumer Reports and others rate reliability 5 stars (out of 5).

Interior and Comforts

Error creating thumbnail: Unable to save thumbnail to destination

Front seats are wide and tall; legroom is generous. A tilt-and-telescope steering wheel is standard. Seats are lower in the coupe and the side bolsters are more snug.

Rear seat legroom is standard for the class.

Interior space is used efficiently, with a good-sized glovebox, a big center console, and a bin under the audio system that holds 12 CDs. The Accord offers coinholders, cellphone cord hooks, grab handles over every door, console lights, power outlets, and sunglasses holders. Up to eight cupholders are provided.

The EX's leather seats are of what may be considered sturdy, but not of the soft glove-like leather furniture quality found in many other vehicles. Heavily dimpled, feels like a high quality vinyl, or a cheap leather jacket or shoes.

Honda and Acura's navigation systems are among the best. The navigation system uses voice technology. By pressing a button, you can use your voice to enter commands, change temperature, or change songs on a CD.

Honda's intelligent dual climate control, packaged with the navigation system, attempts to maintain the perfect temperature for driver and passengers.

Exterior

Both the Honda Accord sedan and coupe were face-lifted for 2006, with a a sharper snout, and a new grille, bumpers, and tail lights employing LEDs which light up faster and provide longer life.

The two-door coupe is very different from the four-door sedan in styling, sharing a family resemblance, but little more.

The Accord's build quality is very high-- you hear the quality when you close the doors.

A common critique is the bland styling of the vehicle, but owners seem to quickly overlook this because of all its other strong attributes. One driver says, "It's not an ugly car, but it's not striking...Once you sit in the car, though, you'll forget about what the outside looks like."

Styles and Options

The major decisions with the Honda Accord are:

  • Coupe or Sedan
  • 4 cylinder or V6
  • Cloth or leather upholstery
  • Trim

Sedans are available in VP, LX, and EX trims:

The VP is new for 2006, replacing the DX. The VP is better equipped and comes standard with air conditioning, cruise control, daytime running lamps, power locks and keyless entry. The VP has a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and a choice of five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission (MSRP of $17,995).

LX ($19,775) and EX ($22,200) sedans add more. The new LX Special Edition has 16-inch alloy wheels, four-wheel-disc brakes with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), in-dash six-CD changer, steering wheel audio controls, body-color side sills and carbon fiber interior accents. The EX is available with leather upholstery, a DVD navigation system, and XM Satellite Radio.

LX V-6 ($23,950) and EX V-6 ($26,850) add not only a 3.0-liter V6 and automatic transmission, but 17-inch wheels and tires and more luxury equipment as well, including a power glass sunroof and heated side mirrors. All V6 models now come with Vehicle Stability Assist(VSA) and brake assist. Leather is standard on the EX V6. A six-speed manual transmission is now available in EX V6 sedans as well as coupes. Coupes are available in LX ($19,875) and EX ($22,300) only and come standard with the four-cylinder engine and five-speed manual transmission. An automatic transmission is available. The LX V-6 coupe ($23,900) comes with the V6 and automatic. The EX V-6 coupe ($26,950) is a performance-oriented model, and comes with either the five-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission as a no-cost option; it also has leather seats.

Coupes are available in LX ($19,875) and EX ($22,300) only and come standard with the four-cylinder engine and five-speed manual transmission. An automatic transmission is available. The LX V-6 coupe ($23,900) comes with the V6 and automatic. The EX V-6 coupe ($26,950) is a performance-oriented model, and comes with either the five-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission as a no-cost option; it also has leather seats.

Honda Accord Hybrid ($30,140), combines a V6 gasoline engine and an electric motor to provide more power: 253 vs. 244 for the gasoline-only V6. The Accord Hybrid gets substantially better fuel economy: 30/37 miles per gallon City/Highway vs. 21/30 for the standard V6. It comes standard with a power glass sunroof, heated side mirrors, and VSA.

Main Competitors

External Links

WikiCars Contributor Favorites

Honda Manufacturer Sites

Community Sites

Retrieved from "https://wikicars.org/index.php?title=Honda_Accord_Review&oldid=125991"