Teresa’s View
It’s not unusual that the 2007 Honda Accord got a redesign this year. What’s odd is that it underwent a major redo in 2003 — not that long ago in the typical refreshment cycle of autos. My guess is that the little nip and tuck was needed to smooth out the 2003’s rather controversial styling. I have to say, mission accomplished.
The previous makeover was an attempt to break free of the Accord’s rep for bland styling. But like a woman who seldom wears makeup, the Accord designers made some odd choices. Never fear. The new update — both interior and exterior — helps soften the look.
It’s been 30 years since the Accord arrived on these shores. Although the current model has evolved from a compact to a midsize car, it hasn’t lost its appeal to buyers as a safe and reliable choice for working families.
This year the DX base trim has been replaced with a Value Package version that includes an impressive list of features including air conditioning, keyless entry, cruise control, power windows and door locks and an audio system with CD player.
New seat fabrics update the cabin, but there’s been no change to the perennially uncomfortable seats themselves. They are still rather flat and stiff by American bum standards.
At the top end, a new LX Special Edition has been added. It includes an in-dash, six-disc CD changer and redundant audio controls on the steering wheel. A faux-carbon fiber finish upgrades the interior.
The Accord’s V-6 engine offering got a power boost. The tidy 3.0-liter V-6 now delivers 244 horsepower. A 166 hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine is also available. Both engine choices come with a choice of manual or automatic transmissions.
A gas-electric hybrid version featuring the V-6 power plant is also offered.
Gas mileage is above average for all trim levels. EPA ratings for the four-cylinder engine are 26 mpg city and 34 mpg highway with the manual transmission. The automatic posts slightly lower numbers — 24 city and 34 highway. Ratings for the manual V-6 are 21/30. The hybrid version of the V-6 is rated at 29/37.
What hasn’t changed is Honda’s dedication to safety. Government testing revealed top scores for the safety of front-seat occupants in frontal crashes. The Accord received four out of five stars for side-impact and rollover accidents.
What Is It? The Honda Accord is a midsize sedan or coupe. The sedan includes seating for five. Prices for the new Value Package start at just under $19K with destination charges. Expect to break the $25K barrier when purchasing the LX trim with the V-6 engine.
Gadget Rating: 7 out of 10. Everything is intuitively placed for the driver to access without distracting from the task of driving. I do have one nit to pick. For some reason, the ignition has always been hard for me to locate.
Best Option: Whether to run the Accord for, like, forever or take advantage of its impressive resale value.
So, Where Are Ya From? The Accord is built at Honda’s Marysville, Ohio plant.