The advent of an all-new Honda Accord is an event worth noting in the
automotive industry. Honda¹s midsize model has been one of the world¹s most
popular and influential automobiles. The new 2003 Accord marks its seventh
generation in the U.S.

The new Accord delivers a host of improvements and refinements that move it
to the top of the highly competitive mid-size sedan class, where it competes
with an excellent range of automobiles including the Toyota Camry, Nissan
Altima and the Volkswagen Passat. The Accord offers three levels of standard
content that culminate in the EX model. The Accord presents two engine
choices, a 240-horsepower V-6 and a 160-horsepower inline four.

What¹s really so amazing about the new Accord is the huge range of
improvements that make it so competitive, but also the host of standard
features in our EX model at a very attractive $26,000. In an era where many
families are facing tight budgets, there isn¹t a better value on the road
for a sophisticated, refined automobile.

Our test model represents the four-cylinder EX model with leather interior
and satellite navigation system. Our sample had no optional equipment, but
offers an amazing range of standard features, including a five-speed
automatic transmission and power moonroof. Safety equipment consists of
anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution, side-impact air
bags and a security system with keyless entry. The EX model is also chock
full of luxury content that extends from dual-zone climate control and an
audio system with a six-disc CD-changer to a tilt-and-telescope steering
column. The front seats are heated and the driver¹s seat features an
eight-way power adjustment. This is in addition to all of the standard power
accessories.

The Accord strikes an excellent balance between a comfortable ride and
responsive handling. The Accord features a double-wishbone front and rear
suspension that is about as sophisticated as anything on the road right now.
The suspension offers good compliance, but also provides excellent feedback
on twisting country roads. All in all, the vast majority of mid-market
buyers should find the Accord¹s vehicle dynamics first rate.

Although one would expect the V-6 Accord to be a ball to drive, I was very
satisfied with the economical inline four. Honda engineers obviously have
mated the engine and the advanced five-speed automatic to work in perfect
harmony. The result is that the four-cylinder Accord always seems to have
enough available torque for acceleration and passing. Thanks to two balance
shafts, the engine is surprisingly smooth and quiet. And if good performance
and great gas mileage isn¹t enough, Honda states that the engine meets the
most restrictive Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) standards.

Although I would not grant the new Accord a home run based on its exterior
styling, it is a huge improvement over the previous model, which was as
bland as possible. The new design is more sculptured and distinctive. The
new body design also incorporates some important engineering accomplishments as well. The new Accord is significantly stiffer in terms of its ability to resist twisting forces. This improvement ultimately provides a more stable platform for the car¹s ride and handling. The new body has improved its
aerodynamic rating to a drag coefficient of 0.30. This results in a reduction in wind noise at cruising speed. The new Accord is much quieter on the road.

Although the new Accord is tops my list of recommended vehicles in its
segment, I have a few reservations. First, the center control console is
complicated and not exactly user friendly. This is in stark contrast to
previous Accords that set a high standard for ergonomics. Certainly, the
additional features contribute to the complexity, but I expected a more
elegant solution from Honda designers. And finally, while the Accord V-6
models are equipped with Honda¹s Traction Control System, the option is not
available on the four-cylinder models. This technology can prevent a skid by
selectively braking one or more wheels and can potentially prevent a car
from spinning out of control on a slippery road. 

 
Vehicle: Honda Accord

Price as tested: $26,160

Engine:

         Type: 2.4-liter inline 4

         Horsepower: 160 @ 5,500 rpm

         Torque: 161-ft. lbs. @ 4,500 rpm

Fuel economy, automatic transmission

         City - 24 mpg

         Highway - 33 mpg

Curb Weight: lbs. 3,166