First Drive: 2008 Honda Accord EX 4DR
10/06/2007
Shahed Hussain
The midsize Accord, along with the smaller Civic, has been the one of the pillars of Honda's success in the USA. From its beginnings in 1976 as compact hatchback, each Accord grew progressively larger through the years. In that time, the Accord steadily increased its market share until it became the 2nd best-selling car in the US; an enviable position it has held for years, consistently ahead of any midsize challengers.
We tested an Accord EX sedan equipped with the standard 2.4L inline-4 and 5-speed automatic. An Accord EX equipped with the standard 5-speed manual starts at $23,060, while the LX/manual combination anchors the bottom of the lineup at $20,360. Most customers will specify the 5-speed automatic ($800 extra for 4-cylinder models). For the most luxurious Accord, choose the range-topping EX-L V-6/automatic, which begins at $28,060.
For 2008, the redesigned Accord's passenger compartment volume grows from 102.7 cu. ft. to 106 cu. ft. (non-moonroof Accord LX/LX-P models). Compared to the Altima (100.7 cu. ft.) and Camry (101.4), the Accord is significantly roomier; moonroof-equipped Accords lose 5 cu. ft., which reduces interior volume to 101 cu. ft. The Accord LX/LX-P is even more capacious than the Chevrolet Impala (104.5 cu. ft.), although the 2008 Ford Taurus (108 cu. ft.) does edge the Honda in interior passenger volume.
As advertised, the Accord is exceptionally spacious; 6-ft. + passengers will find adequate room to stretch out in the front and back seats. The Accord's cloth upholstered seats are certainly firmer than other sedans in its class, which may be good or bad, depending on your preferences. The Accord EX includes an 8-way power driver's seat with adjustable lumbar settings. During our test drive, we found that the driver's seat actually had excessive lumbar support, even at its minimum setting. Overall, we think the seats offer above average support, but recommend that potential customers spend a few minutes testing the lumbar settings to ensure that the seats are acceptably comfortable for their respective physiques.
We were disappointed to find that Honda chose black molded plastic for the steering wheel rim, but real leather is available on EX-L models. Although the Accord has excellent interior trim fits and minimal panel gaps, there seems to be more hard plastic that one might expect at this price point. Mounted high on the dashboard is the standard 160-watt AM/FM/MP3/6-CD changer audio system; sound quality from the six speakers is unexceptional. XM(R) satellite radio and a 270-watt, 7-speaker audio system with subwoofer is available on EX-L models. Honda includes an auxiliary input for external MP3 players on all Accords.
Although the Accord is a mainstream sedan, Honda didn't forget to keep the fun-to-drive aspects alive. Tight, accurate steering and quick turn-in response entice drivers to push the handling limits. Suspension tuning is biased towards a firmly damped ride, without a trace of wallow. Honda engineers were obviously aware that to preserve the desired handling traits, some sacrifices in ride comfort were inevitable. Credit the all-season P225/50R17 V-rated tires for the Accord's sharp reflexes, but they also contribute to noticeable tire noise at 50-60 MPH. Honda retains its customary double wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear setup for the Accord, along with front and rear stabilizer bars. For additional chassis rigidity, all Accords except the LX model have a brace between the front shock absorber towers. Honda equips all Accords with standard 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS, stability control (VSA(R)), and Brake Assist. We think the Accord has exceptional ride and handling for a FWD family sedan, but some potential customers may find Honda's suspension settings too stiff for their tastes.
The Accord's 2.4L inline-4 (190-bhp/162 lb.-ft.) has above average power, but feels slightly buzzy from midrange RPM up to redline. Engine noise intrudes into the passenger compartment while cruising at 50-60 MPH as well. Large displacement inline-4 engines, unless equipped with balance shafts, are never particularly smooth or silent, and the base 2.4L powerplant is no exception. Mated to the DOHC inline-4 is the optional 5-speed automatic, a smooth-shifting transmission that goes about its job unobtrusively. Passing traffic requires the automatic to kick down a couple of gears, which it does willingly; accompanied by considerable droning from the engine bay. In all fairness, even when equipped with the automatic, the 2.4L hauls around the Accord with ease. The standard 5-speed manual is slightly more fuel-efficient in the city (22 vs. 21 MPG), but has no advantage on the highway (31 MPG for both transmissions). If the inline-4 isn't powerful enough, Honda also offers a new 3.5L V-6 with 268-bhp/248 lb.-ft., available solely with the 5-speed automatic.
Honda rethought and retooled the Accord with an eye towards pleasing its loyal customers, as well as further separating itself from the rival Camry and Altima. The Accord's newly expanded proportions yield noticeable interior room improvements, without detracting from its driving manners. We do wish that Honda had chosen to include more inviting interior materials, but in this brutally competitive sedan segment, cost control is understandably paramount. Nonetheless, the Accord should continue to hold its 2nd place ranking in the mainstream sedan sales race, and may edge out the Camry for buyers who value sporty road manners over ultimate isolation.