The `New' Reliable: 2009 Honda Accord

Cars

By Ken Chester Jr., Motor News Media Corporation

Last update: October 30, 2009 - 10:34 AM

Honda's 2009 Accord is refined, dynamic and sophisticated. The Accord styling theme expresses a powerful presence with sharp and strong character lines.

John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., says, "As the Honda brand's flagship automobile, the Accord is designed to exceed expectations with premium technology, a more spacious interior and increased power, while retaining the fun-to-drive character and innovative feel that has always distinguished Accord."

The Accord, available as a four-door sedan or two-door coupe, has several trim versions. Coupe versions include: LX-S, EX, EX-L and EX-L V-6. Sedan versions are the LX, LX-P, EX, EX-L, EX V-6 and EX-L V-6..

Base power for the Accord is generated by a 2.4L, 177-horsepower, four-cylinder engine. A 190-horsepower four cylinder also is available. Beyond the base engine, for 2009, an available 3.5L, V-6, 271-horsepower engine receives more horsepower over last year's model. The V-6 engine features a new generation of the automaker's Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) variable displacement technology. VCM works with a special valvetrain that allows the engine to operate in three different modes. Depending on driving conditions, the engine operates on three, four or all six cylinders to help boost fuel economy or power as needed. Engine torque is transferred through a standard five-speed manual gearbox. A five-speed automatic transmission is an available option. EX-L V-6 Coupe models are equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox.

The Accord's precise control is accomplished with a lower center of gravity, designed to flatten the Honda's handling in turns - resulting in less body roll and increased passenger comfort. The control hardware was developed to maximize driving enjoyment as well as passenger comfort. It features a highly developed double-wishbone front and multi-line rear suspension systems, along with four-wheel disc brakes and new Variable Gear Ratio (VGR) steering.

Inside the airy passenger cabin, comfort, style and functionality are the watchwords in how displays, controls and switchgear are presented and interact with the driver and passengers. Honda designers call the Accord interior the "Simply Premium" design concept. Seating is comfortable with plenty of room front and rear for four adults to ride in opulent comfort. The dashboard is a case study in what Honda always seems to do best.

EPA fuel economy:

City: 17 to 22, Highway: 25 to 31

Base Price:

$20, 905 to $28,955

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