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2011-Honda-Accord-Sedan-4small

2011 Honda Accord Sedan

2011-Honda-Accord-Coupe-1small

2011 Honda Accord Coupe

Honda's flagship in the U.S., the Accord is one of the best selling, best reviewed mid size sedans ever sold. Introduced in 1976, the Accord was the best-selling Japanese vehicle in the U.S. for 15 years from 1982 to 1997. In 1982, the Accord became the first Japanese car to be produced in the U.S., when production commenced in Marysville, Ohio. In 2006, the Accord celebrated its 30th anniversary with a restyled seventh generation model, which was mostly unchanged for the following year. The Honda Accord Hybrid was launched in 2005, but is no longer offered.[1]

The first three generations of Accords were produced in sedan and hatchback versions. A station wagon and coupe was added with the third generation in 1985. The hatchback and station wagon models were no longer offered in later generations.

In fall 2007, the 8th generation Honda Accord launched as a 2007 model with three engine options: two 2.4 liter 4-cylinder engine variants or a 3.5 liter V6. 2008 also features the debut of Honda's new Advanced VTEC system. Today, all Accord coupes and most of the sedans are still assembled in Marysville, Ohio. Some sedans are assembled in Japan (where it is known as the 'Inspire') and Mexico.

See Autopedia's comprehensive Honda Accord Review.

Recent Changes[]

  • For 2011, the JDM Accord, the Inspire receives a subtle facelift as well as an upgraded interior with more wood-trim surfaces throughout.[1]

2011 Honda Accord[]

For 2011, the US-spec Accord Sedan and Coupe recieve their first mid-cycle facelift as well as a host of interior and aerodynamic upgrades that increase luxury and fuel efficiency by 2mpg city and 3 mpg highway.

Accord Sedan

Accord Coupe

2009 Honda Accord[]

There were no changes to the Honda Accord lineup in the US for 2009.

To celebrate 40 years of sales in Australia, Honda offered the Accord Limited Edition which has a 2.4 litre i-VTEC with Bluetooth mobile connectivity, foglamps, rear park assist and deluxe tailored floor mats. This car can be had for $34,990 AUD driveaway.

2008 Honda Accord (Euro)[]

Honda Accord Euro 1

2009 European Honda Accord.

  • Early in February 2008, Honda unveiled the next-generation 2009 MY European Honda Accord hours after it leaked a teaser image of the Accord's US-bound sister, the Acura TSX. The new Euro Accord will be bristling with new technology as it prepares for its official debut at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show beginning with a host of more efficient and more powerful engines. The petrol range will be a choice between a 2.0-litre producing 154bhp @ 6300 rpm and a 2.4-litre i-VTEC producing 197bhp @ 7000 rpm and peak torque of 233 Nm at 4500 rpm. While the diesel option will boast employment of the second generation i-DTEC mated to a multi-stage fuel injection system and an emission-reducing particulate filter, good for numbers of 148bhp @ 4000 rpm and 350Nm of torque @ 2000 rpm. all engines come fixed with a 6-speed manual transmission with a 5-speed automatic as an option.[2]


2008 Honda Accord[]

Carscoop Accord 6

Interior of the 2008 Accord.

  • The 2008 Honda Accord comes in sedan and coupe bodystyles. The sedan will be available with a 177 Hp 2.4L 4-cylinder engine (up 11 Hp) or an optional 190 Hp version of the same unit (up 24 Hp). There is also the topline 268 Hp 3.5L i-VTEC V6.[3] Choices of 5-speed manual transmission or 5-speed automatic transmission power the front wheels. The Coupe is motivated by either a 190 Hp 4-cylinder engine or a 268-horsepower V-6 engine (up 24 Hp) with a choice of 5-speed manual (4-cylinder) 6-speed manual (V-6) or 5-speed automatic transmission (available all engines).
  • The interior of the sedan is 3.3 cu-ft. larger than before; the total interior volume of 120.0 cu-ft. moves the new Accord just into the EPA Large Sedan category for 2008.
  • Other enhancements include the use of four-wheel disc brakes on all models, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), and steering-wheel audio controls across the entire model range. The new Accord now offers a power lumbar support, auto-dimming inside mirror, compass, multi-line display CD/MP3 player, auxiliary-input jack and subwoofer for the first time. Active Noise Control (ANC) and 17-inch wheels are firsts on basic/four-cylinder Accords.
  • As early as late January 2008, Honda released teaser photos of its upcoming euro-model Honda Accord Tourer which is officially set to debut at the Geneva Motor Show on March 4. Loftier in ambition, the new Accord is targeted directly against the BMW 3 Series and the rest of the compact executive car market. No specifications have been released to date, however it is known that the new model will be Euro 5 compliant and will be bristling with new safety features. The new Accord Tourer is slated to begin sales in early summer.[4][5]

Styles and Major Options[]

2008 Accord Sedan

  • LX and LX Premium (LX-P) trim levels are powered by a 2.4-liter, 177-hp four-cylinder i-VTEC engine with either a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic.
  • EX and EX-L trim levels are powered by a 2.4-liter, 190-hp 4-cylinder i-VTEC engine with either a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic.
  • The EX V-6 is powered by a 3.5-liter, SOHC, i-VTEC® V-6 engine with VCM and a 5-speed automatic transmission.
  • The EX-L and EX V-6 are available with a Navigation system.

2008 Accord Coupe

  • LX Sport (LX-S), EX and EX-L trims are powered by a 2.4-liter, 190-hp 4-cylinder i-VTEC engine with either a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic.
  • The EX V-6 automatic is powered by a 3.5-liter, SOHC, i-VTEC® V-6 engine with VCM and a 5-speed automatic transmission.
  • The EX V-6 6MT is powered by a 3.5-liter, SOHC, VTEC® V-6 engine with a 6-speed manual transmission.
  • The EX-L and EX V-6 are available with Navigation system.

Pricing[]

Pricing for the 2008 Accord are yet to be released.

MSRPs for the 2008 Honda Accord:

Dealer Invoice for the 2008 Honda Accord:

Today's actual prices by city can be found at CarsDirect.

Gas Mileage[]

Estimates for the 2008 Accord, provided by Honda and using the latest EPA estimates [2], are as follows:

  • 4 Cylinder Coupe: 21/30 (auto), 22/31 (manual)
  • 4 Cylinder Sedan: 21/31 (auto), 22/31 (manual)
  • 6 Cylinder Coupe: 19/28 (auto), 17/25 (manual)
  • 6 Cylinder Sedan: 19/29 (auto)

Reliability[]

Consumer Reports and others rate the previous Accord's reliability 5 stars (out of 5).

In Drive, the Honda Accord is rated by owners 4 out of 5 stars. One owner said "I've tried to kill it but it just won't die."

  • RECALL ALERT: On April 16, 2008, Honda issued a recall affecting 353,000 2003 Model Year Accords. The problem stems from a possible corrosion threat in the vehicle's windshield wiper system. The defect could allow water to enter the area around the windshield wiper motor, leading to corrosion and the possible failure of the motor. If corrosion of the motor does occur, a circuit breaker inside the motor could trip, preventing the windshield wipers from operating. Honda dealers will inspect the vehicles for such corrosion. If no corrosion is found, dealers will simply add another protective cover to the potentially defective area, but if corrosion is found, the entire motor will have to be replaced.
  • RECALL ALERT: On November 24, 2008, Honda issued a recall alert affecting 3,940 USDM MY 2001 Honda Accords and Civics due to a defective driver's airbag inflator. The recall begins on December 22, 2008 and Honda urges owners to visit their nearest local Honda dealer where the defective item will be replaced free of charge.[6]
  • RECALL ALERT: On December 23, 2010, Honda issued a recall alert affecting 10,823 MY2011 Honda Pilot and Accord V6s improperly tightened bolts that attach the front dampers to the suspension, possibly resulting in a failure in the front suspension. In addition, the spindle nuts may be loose as well, and both issues could cause a loss of steering. According to USA Today, the newest problem is due to a malfunction in the software that controls the machines that tighten bolts at the factory. Dealers will inspect and replace the damper bolts and spindle nuts if necessary free of charge, and owners can expect to be notified as soon as December 23, 2010. This recall is filed under NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 10V640000. [3]

Safety[]

File:Accordcrash.jpg

NHTSA Crash Test

Safety is enhanced on all Accords by standard Anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), side-curtain airbags, new dual-chamber front side airbags, active front head restraints and pedestrian safety features.

Honda Accord NHSTA crash test results

Photos[]

Exterior and interior photos of the 2006 Accord. [4]

2008 Honda Accord Sedan[]

2008 Honda Accord Coupe[]

JDM Inspire[]

Colors[]

Colors available vary by trim.

Main Competitors[]

Unique Attributes[]

Sports Sedan and Mods[]

Despite its "family sedan" heritage (and name), the Accord Coupe has attracted a sports sedan following. Older generations of Accords are often purchased by youthful import tuners who perform modifications, install parts from Japanese Market Accords and sometimes engine swaps from the sporty Honda Prelude to create the likeness of a sports sedan. Several web-sites are dedicated to different generations of the Accord (see external links).The newest generation of Accord is the most spacious in its class.

Of the cars surveyed by the RACV, the 2003-2007 Honda Accord V6 is the cheapest prestige car to run on a weekly basis.

Resale Values[]

The Accord has always been a competively priced model and has always benefitted from some of the best resale values in its class. This is especially true of more scarce models such as the 1993 SE, 1989 SE-i, and 1990-1997 DX trims.

Criticisms[]

Criticisms of the 2006 Accord are relatively minor:

  • Hybrid: Honda bas been criticized for building the Honda Accord Hybrid to optimize speed over fuel economy. Although the Accord Hybrid gets no better gas mileage than the 4 cylinder Accord, it does produce a remarkable 253HP. 14 cu ft. of luggage space is unforgiveable in a family sedan. 16 cu. ft. with non-intrusive trunk hinges is more suited to the realities of the North American family's travelling needs.

Previous Generations[]

Seventh generation (2003–2007)[]

  • The 2006 and 2007 Honda Accords are both part of the seventh generation.
  • The seventh generation was introduced in 2003.[7] Larger than previous models, the Accord was given a new level of refinement with chrome interior accents and higher grade materials. The seventh generation came in a 2 door coupe and 4 door sedan. Both styles wereavailable 4 cylinder or 6 cylinder engines. The lineup still includes the seemingly de-facto LX, EX, LX-V6 and EX-V6. Mechanically, the 4-cylinder engine was the new K-series, and the 6-cylinder was the same J-series V6 as the sixth generation's, but its intake runners, exhaust, and headers contributed to a 40 hp (30 kW) increase. A 5-speed automatic transmission was also new for 2003. A vastly different car to the worldwide Accord, the North Ameican model grew larger still, gaining more interior room and weight then its international counterpart. Honda sold the North American Accord in a few other markets including Asian (now made in Thailand), Middle Eastern, Caribbean, Australian and New Zealand markets with mixed results. For the first time, Honda offered an "enthusiast" version of the Accord in the US, mating the 6-speed manual transmission from the Acura CL to the V6 Honda Accord Coupe. A specific 4-cylinder model is the first production car in the world to meet California's Super Ultra Low Emission standards. The 2003 model year also debuted Honda's GPS assisted Navigation system as an option for the Accord. Prior to 2003, it was only available on the higher end Acura line as well as the Honda Odyssey.
  • In 2004 Honda announced that they would release a hybrid version of the USDM Accord called the Honda Accord Hybrid featuring Honda's IMA technology. In 2004 Honda also first offered XM Satellite Radio as a factory installed option.
  • For 2005, the Accord received minor updates such as revised taillights (all red) and new wheel designs.
  • For 2006, Motivated by the Accord's 30th anniversary, Honda made major enhancements for the 2006 Accord and some enthusiasts argue that the 2006 model year should be called generation 7.5. The exterior was revised with new rear end styling (most noticeably for the sedan), LED taillights, daytime running lights (DRLs) and heated side mirrors for US EX models. The 2006 model year also featured new wheel designs. Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), also known as Electronic Stability Control, and Brake assist became available on the V6 models for the first time. 17" wheels also became standard on the V6 models. New interior styling freshens the cabin, with a new instrument panel, new steering wheel, new fabrics for the seats, and new satin chrome accents. The GPS Navigation system was updated (4th generation) with a faster processor, more memory, and several new features, such as restaurant information from Zagat. A revised maintenance minder system was also added which gave owners reminders for scheduled maintenance such as oil changes based on operating conditions.
  • The 2006 model year was also the first year in which the V6 sedan was offered with a 6-speed manual transmission as an option. In 2006, the trim levels were revised, with the DX trim being eliminated, instead being replaced by the VP (Value Package) trim which included air conditioning, keyless entry, power locks, and cruise control as standard features.
  • The 2006 Accord Hybrid got the same revisions as the other Accords except for a 3.0 L V6 now making 253 hp and a larger battery pack. The things that differentiate the Hybrid from other Accords are the different rear light clusters, the antenna, the wheels, the mirror turn signals and the lack of a folding rear seat. In addition, the Hybrid version does not have the 4-way passenger seat.
  • The 2007 Accord underwent a minor facelift from the prior year; the only major changes are cosmetic to the rear end of the car. The 2007 Accord coupe added white in the back lights at the bottom and the Accord Hybrid had white at the top of the back lights.

Sixth generation (1998–2002)[]

  • 01 Honda Accord
    1998 saw a major redesign. The larger Accord reverts to a more conservative style. The wagon has been discontinued in the US and Canada but remains in other parts of the world including Europe and Japan. Internationally, the Accord split into three distinct versions, one for European markets, one for the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) and one for the US and Canadian Domestic Markets (USDM). These are commonly referred to as the European Honda Accord, JDM Honda Accord and USDM Honda Accord. The USDM Honda Accord is based on the JDM Honda Inspire while the JDM and European versions are sold in the US as the Acura TSX. In the US, quite a few changes have taken place for the Accord including a distinctive differentiation of the sedan and coupe models. Since the coupe was released in 1988, it had borrowed all exterior parts including lights and body panels from the sedan. Some minor differences were hardly noticeable and coupe sales were lack-luster compared with sedan sales. The 1998 Accord coupe is now known as the "Accord Coupe" and has styling cues borrowed from the exotic Acura NSX. An exclusive front facia, rear tail lights, wheels and many other body panels now set the Accord Coupe away from the more family-oriented sedan version. The sedan keeps the DX, LX, EX, LX-V6 and EX-V6 trims while The Accord Coupe is offered only in LX, EX, LX-V6 and EX-V6 trims. On the sedan, the DX model is fitted with a 2.2 litre, 130-HP 4 cylinder engine while the LX and EX trims include a more spirited 2.3 litre, 150 HP 4-cylinder VTEC engine. All 4-cylinder models come with a 5-speed manual transmission standard with an automatic optional. The DX remains the value-oriented trim with no audio system, manual windows, manual locks, no cruise control and 14" steel wheels. The DX Value-Package adds a radio-cassette player, air conditoning, and cruise control. The LX trim adds power windows, power locks, cruise control, door courtesy lights and 15" steel wheels. The EX trim adds a power sunroof, a single-disc radio/CD player, alloy wheels, keyless entry, ABS and upgraded cloth. Leather seating is a factory installed option for the EX. All V-6 sedan and coupe models receive the new 3.0 litre, 200 HP VTEC engine. The LX-V6 includes all features of the 4-cylinder LX except 16 inch steel wheels. The EX-V6 receives standard leather trim, ABS, automatic transmission, automatic headlights, and a fully automatic climate control. Some dealer-installed options include: Gold finish kit, gold finish exhaust tip(s), gold finish wheel center caps, 6-disc in-dash CD changer, tape deck, fog lights, wing spoiler, alarm system, sunroof visor, car cover and accessory chrome wheels.
  • 1999 The Accord was given foldable mirrors.
  • In 2001, both the Accord sedan and coupe underwent a minor facelift. A new front fascia, rear bumper, side skirt alteration, new taillights and wheel designs freshen the Accord's look. The interior sees little changes with the exception of some fabric and audio configuration changes. The LX and LX-V6 now include a standard CD player, and the EX and EX-V6 now include a 6-disc in-dash CD changer with cassette player and automatic climate control. The Special Edition returns to the coupe and sedan models. It includes all the features of the LX, but adds exclusive alloy wheels, keyless entry and a 6-disc in-dash CD changer with cassette. Honda makes the decision to continue this generation of Accord an extra year. The typical Accord generation cycle was a 2:4 trend. A new model would be released and run for years 1 and 2 unaltered. It would then receive a facelift for years 3 and 4 and be replaced by a re-design and repeat. This generation will run a total of 5 years until being replaced by the seventh generation (2003) Accord. The move proved interesting for Honda because Accord sales remained steady despite the additional year.
  • In 2000, the JDM Euro R Accord/Torneo was released (CL1) - this offered a 220hp H22a7a Engine, 5 speed manual with short ratios, Helical torsen LSD, 300mm front brakes, upgraded suspension and chassis. It was also visually enhanced with a full body kit, 16inch lightweight magnesium wheels and different taillights. The Euro R also had Recaro seats, Momo steering wheel and titanium gear knob.
  • In 2001, the Special Edition is dropped and the DX Value-Package is re-introduced.
  • In 2002, the Special Edition returns for the last time on the Accord.

Fifth generation (1994–1997)[]

File:94accord.jpg

1994 Honda Accord

  • In 1994, the fifth generation Accord was released based on the "CD" chassis. With styling cues again borrowed from the Honda Prelude as in 1986, the Accord gains overall size and is now classified as a "mid-size" automobile. It was also a break from the previous generation's boxy, rectangular shape. This more contoured and rounded look broke the Accord away from its conservative past. The Accord becomes Car and Driver Import Car of the Year in 1994. Trim lines are back to DX, LX and EX while Canada retains the EX-R. The DX and LX receive a slightly more powerful 2.2 litre 130 HP engine while the 145 HP VTEC is standard on EX models. The 4-speed automatic transmission remains an $800 option on all trims but now includes a "Grade-Logic" shift program. The wagon is included in the lineup for 1994. A more streamlined rear facia and lights give it a sportier look. The wagon is available as an LX or EX trim only. All Accords receive a more ergonomic interior with standard safety features such as dual airbags and reinforced side-impact beams. The EX gets standard ABS (now an option for the LX.) Leather seating is offered on the EX as a factory option. Dealer accessories include: Fog lights, gold-finish kit, gold finish grille, cornering lamps, CD player, CD changer, security system, trunk wing spoiler, car cover, full nose mask, half-nose mask, and sunroof visor. In Australia, the fifth generation Accord proved an instant success. It set a new sales record in 1994, with 6,446 sales, or a 1% share of the Australian new vehicle market. This figure would remain unsurpassed until 2004. This generation was also the first where Honda produced the Accord in its Swindon plant in the UK for European markets. This European Accord was based on the JDM Honda Ascot Innova, which in turn was based on the fourth-generation Accord. Europe is a market where Honda did not conquer, as Japanese cars then were deemed plain and characterless. This marketing strategy sowed the seeds for future Accords, as Honda tried to accommodate customer requirements of different markets.
  • In 1995, the Accord debuted a V6 engine, the 2.7 L C27 from the Acura Legend in the U.S. market to compete with other V6-powered mid-size cars such as the Ford Taurus, Mazda 626, and Toyota Camry. The V6 is only offered in LX and EX versions of the sedan. Both versions of the V6 received dual exhaust, a 4-speed automatic transmission, 15" wheels and a slightly updated front grille. The Accord saw very little other changes in 1995 with the exception of a few different color combinations.
  • In 1996, the Accord underwent the usual mid-generation facelift. More rounded bumpers, front facia and rear taillights give the Accord a softer look. All Hondas now comply with the Federal Government's requirement of OBD II engine diagnostics though all three engine choices remain the same. In order to increase the Accord's competitiveness against its rivals in different international markets, Honda CEO Nobuhiko Kawamoto decided on one basic platform for the sixth-generation Accord, but with different bodies and proportions for local markets.
  • In 1997, Honda releases the "Special Edition" version of the Accord (not to be confused with the SE). It is offered in two colors: Heather Mist Metallic and Dark Currant Pearl. The Special Edition receives a factory installed security system with keyless entry, single-disc CD player, body colored side molding, distinctive alloy wheels and a sunroof. It is only offered in an automatic and is fitted with the same engine as the LX.

Fourth generation (1990–1993)[]

  • In 1990 the Accord underwent a major re-design based on a larger "CB" chassis. The more conservative Accord now bears resemblance to the Acura Legend. All Accords sold in North America now come with a 2.2 litre fuel injected engine standard. The Accord has matured into a larger car now approaching the likes of the Ford Taurus but still given "compact" status. The LX-i and SE-i trims are dropped. Available trims in the US were DX, LX, and EX. The Canadian Accord trims varied slightly from the US models with LX, EX and EX-R. (In some countries, EX stands for 'Extra') A 125 HP engine is offered with the DX and LX trims. Cruise control was dropped for the DX and air conditioning remains a dealer-installed option. The LX keeps the same features as the previous generation including air conditioning, power windows, locks, and mirrors. The EX adds 15" machined aluminum-alloy wheels, sunroof, upgraded upholstery, dual exhaust, rear stabilizer bar, and a 135 HP engine. A redesigned manual transmission with hydraulic clutch remains standard equipment while an all-new electronic controlled 4-speed automatic transmission is optional on all trims. Some new dealer-installed accessories are now offered. They include a single-disc CD player or 6-disc CD changer, fog lights, security system, trunk wing spoiler, trunk lip spoiler, luggage rack, full and half nose mask, center armrest, equalizer, window visors, sunroof visor, car cover, and cockpit cover.
  • In 1991 Honda unveils the Accord Wagon to the US. The wagon includes a driver's side airbag and is available only in LX and EX trims. The SE returns and includes leather seating, a 140 HP engine, automatic transmission and Anti-Lock Brakes. The SE is only offered with an automatic and as a sedan. It is available in two colors: Solaris Silver Metallic with Graphite Black interior and Brittany Blue Metallic with Silky Ivory interior.
  • In 1992 the Accord underwent a minor facelift. The SE is dropped again and the SE 140 HP engine moves down to the EX model. To the cheers of many, the Accord loses the automatic shoulder belts used in 1990-1991. All models now include a standard driver's side airbag. Anti-Lock Brakes are now standard on the EX. The front and rear facias receive a more rounded and updated look. Coupe and sedan models receive a new grille, new headlights, new taillights, slightly thinner body side moulding and updated wheel designs. The EX includes an anti-theft function to deter car stereo theft. A driver's side armrest is now standard on LX and EX models. Some dealer-installed accessories are dropped including the luggage rack, trunk-lip spoiler and cockpit cover. The gold finish kit is added.
  • In 1993 Honda releases the 10th Anniversary Edition sedan marking the 10th year for the Accord's US production. It is basically an LX trim but includes ABS, 15" alloy wheels, and body colored side moldings and is available in an automatic transmission only. Only three colors are offered on the 10th Anniversary Edition: Frost White, Granada Black Pearl, and Arcadia Green Pearl. The SE returns for 1993 in both the sedan and coupe. Dual airbags are included on the sedan, but not the coupe. A Honda-Bose music system, automatic transmission, leather trim and body colored side moldings are standard. The SE coupe gets a factory wing spoiler. In Canada, the SE comes with heated front seats and heated sideview mirrors. Both the sedan and coupe receive distinctive 15" alloy wheels as well. All SE sedans are manufactured in Japan, while all SE coupes in the US. The sedan is available in two colors: Cashmere Silver Metallic and Geneva Green Pearl both with Silky Ivory interior. The coupe is offered with two colors as well: Cashmere Silver Metallic and Atlantis Blue Pearl with Silky Ivory interior. This will be the last year for the high-level SE trim package.

Third generation (1986–1989)[]

File:86accord.jpg

1986 Honda Accord

  • In 1986, the third-generation Accord was introduced. Pop-up headlights and a sporty hoodline were borrowed from the Honda Prelude. Three versions were available in the US. The low-end DX featured standard items such as cruise-control, rear window defogger and digital clock. The mid-grade LX was loaded with standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, high-power AM/FM cassette, body colored bumpers and rear seat armrest. Both the DX and LX models featured a 98 bhp carbureted engine. The top of the line LX-i featured in addition, a 122 BHP. fuel injected engine, sunroof, 14" alloy wheels, and full-logic cassette player. Manual transmissions are standard on all 1986-1989 Accord models. A 4-speed automatic transmission is optional on all trims.
  • In 1988, the Accord coupe was introduced. Built in Marysville, Ohio, this was the first car to be produced in a factory located in the United States and exported back to Japan.
  • In 1989 Honda brought back the SE-i trim which included leather seats, a Honda-Bose music system, bronze-tinted glass, machined 14" alloy wheels, dual exhaust and 4-wheel disc brakes. The SE-i was available in both coupe and sedan versions. Only two colors were offered in the sedan and coupe.

Second generation (1982–1985)[]

  • Debuting in 1981 in Japan and Europe, and as a 1982 model in North America, this generation of the Accord became the first one to be built in the USA, at Honda's plant in Marysville, Ohio. Since its first year in the American market, it also became the best-selling Japanese nameplate in the US, holding that position for 15 years. In Japan, a sister model called Honda Vigor was launched simultaneously with the new Accord.

Modernizing both the interior and exterior, the second generation Accord was mechanically very similar to the original, using the same 75 hp, 1751 cc EK1 CVCC engine. Fuel economy increased by nearly 15%. Vastly improved quality control, however, made this one of the most reliable cars on the US market, a position it still holds today. This automobile included popular features of the time such as shag carpet, velour cabin trim and chrome accents. Models were available in Silver, Sky Blue, and Beige. The LX hatchback offered a digital clock and slightly higher fuel economy (due to its lighter weight.)

The U.S. Department of Transportation had stringent lighting requirements which prevented Honda from including the aerodynamic molded headlight units which were used on Australian, European and Japanese Accords. The U.S. D.O.T. required the use of rectangular sealed beam glass units to prevent fogging and allow for easy and readily available replacement of units damaged by rocks or other road hazards. U.S. Accords were also required to have a side marker light installed on the side of the rear fenders. German Accords included additional reflectors which were embedded into the rear bumper as well as washer sprayers for front and rear lamps. The Japanese Accords were unique from all other markets in that they included adjustable ride height control and were unique in that their side view mirrors were installed on the mid forward fenders.

  • In 1983, Honda upgraded the automatic transmission to a four speed, a major improvement over the three speed Hondamatic. The manual, five speed transmission remained unchanged. The Special Edition (SE) featured novio-leather seating, power windows, power sunroof, and locks. Columbus Slate Grey was added as a color option.
  • By 1984, Accords sold in the eastern US were produced at the new Marysville plant, with quality considered equal to those produced in Japan. The body was restyled with a slightly downward beveled nose; and, the slightly more powerful ES2 1829 cc CVCC powerplant was used, bringing 86 hp. The redesign in 1984 is often called the second series of the second generation. Honda integrated side marker lights into the side of the tail light units which satisfied the U.S. D.O.T.'s side marker requirements and ended the difference between cross market tail light configurations. European Accords, however, now included signal lights on the forward fenders, just behind the wheel well. The U.S. Accord still lacked the molded head light units which were used everywhere else. The LX offered velour upholstery, cassette stereo, air conditioning, power brakes & steering, power windows, power locks, a digital clock, and roof pillar antenna, along with thick black belt moldings and integrated bumpers. Flush plastic mock-alloy wheels covers instead of caps on steel wheels that resembled the trend-setting Audi 5000. Supplies were tight, as in the Eastern states, the wait was months for a Columbus Slate Grey sedan, a then-popular color. Sky Blue, Beige, and Silver paint options were eliminated, and white was added. These models are still common on US roads today.
  • In 1985, the Special Edition returned as the SE-i, capitalizing on the final year of the second generation's production. A fuel injected, 101 hp non-cvcc ES3 engine was exclusive to this model. The moniker, SE-i, was adapted from the SE trim, but included the "-i" to signify the higher trim's fuel-injected engine. This 12-valve, 1829 cc engine was the first non-CVCC engine used in an Accord, and was the same basic engine design used by Honda until 1989. Like the previous SE trim in 1983, the SE-i featured novio-leather seating, power moonroof, bronze tinted glass, a premium sound system with cassette, and 13" alloy wheels.

First Generation/Origins[]

File:74accord.jpg

1974 Honda Accord

Original plans for the Accord were to make it a midsize car, along the lines of the Ford Mustang. The Accord was originally planned to be a V6-powered car with a long hood and sporty pretensions. Honda chose the name Accord, reflecting "Honda's desire for accord and harmony between people, society and the automobile."[8]

The initial design was changed to a fuel efficient, low emission vehicle since it was introduced during the fuel crises of the 1970s. In the United States and Japan, a version was produced using Honda's CVCC technology, meeting emission standards of the 1970s and 1980s without a catalytic converter.

Like the smaller Honda Civic, the Accord uses front wheel drive and a transverse (sometimes called "East/West") engine layout.

Worldwide[]

The European Honda Accord has smaller size and a more Acuralook.

Accords sold worldwide such as in Japan vary greatly from the US models. In Japan, more feature-rich Accords are offered because of a lack of competition with Honda's upscale brand, Acura. Until 1997, the Accord bi-yearly facelift or four-year redesign was always released a year prior in Japan. Older generations of Accords such as the US 1990-1993 (4th Generation) was actually offered in years 1989-1992 in Japan, and 5th Generation from 1993-1996. Other differences were in features. The 1989-1992 (4th generation) offered in other countries received unheard of equipment for an Accord (until recently) such as a Navigation System, TV, mini-disc player, digital automatic climate control, traction control, Anti-Lock brakes, side-marker lights, heated mirrors, outside temperature gauge, an in-cabin air refiner, map lights, seat heaters, standard fog lamps, headlight washers, rear fog light, full-power seats, telescoping bumper pole, half-mast antenna switch. Trims also vary widely in other countries. An Accord Si and Si-T model can also be found in some countries including Japan along with a "Euro R" trim in Europe.

In 2003, the North American Accord grew even larger to satisfy American demands, while the worldwide Accord (the European and Japenese models) were redesigned without as much of an increase in size. Comparing the two different Accords, it is clear that the North American version is distinct from the worldwide model, with worldwide model being sportier and the North American model being heftier and larger. The F-series VTEC engines made its debut in the European and Japanese Accords, and the 90° C-series V6 engine was replaced by a more-compact 60° J-series unit for the US Accord. Honda offered the North American Accord in a number of Asian markets, with mixed sales. Both variants of the Accord are sold in Australia -- the North American model and the worldwide model. The worldwide model sold in Australia is called the "Accord Euro". The worldwide Accord is sold in North America as the Acura TSX, where as the USDM Accord is sold in Japan as the Inspire. Each model had a number of minor differences. The worldwide model offered a number of hi-tech features not seen elsewhere in the North American range, and minor adjustments to body styling. The Japanese Accord and Inspire also feature Honda's Intelligent Driver System or HIDS which feature safety enhancements such as the Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) and adaptive cruise control.

For trim levels for the ADM Honda Accord, go to Trim Levels for ADM Honda Accord.

Design quirks and oddities[]

In the US only, the 1990 Accord included what ended up being an unpopular safety feature: automatic shoulder belts. These belts would automatically retract around the driver and passenger upon entry of the vehicle. They were sometimes referred to "suicide" belts because of their quick activation. The lap belt was still required to be worn requiring extra work by the driver and passenger. Honda discontinued the automatic belts in 1992 on all models in the US.

In 1993, there were a total of 11 different trims offered for the Accord. The DX, LX, 10th Anniversary Edition, EX, and SE. All trims included a driver-side airbag, however only the SE sedan received both a driver and passenger-side airbag. The passenger-side airbag became standard on all Accords in 1994. Opinions at the time were Honda attempting to lure customer's into purchasing the high-priced SE because of the safety benefit. Other reasons may relate to the SE Sedan being exclusively produced in Japan. This SE also lost some of the features previously seen on the 1989 SE-i such as bronze-tinted glass, steering wheel audio controls and luxury carpeting.


In popular culture[]

Since the Accord V6 won Australia's Best Luxury Car Under $57,000, the latest advertisement depicts that the Accord can make Audis more jealous.

Awards[]

  • Accord DX Sedan wins IntelliChoice® "Best Overall Value of the Year" in the midsize class
  • The Accord has been voted Car of the Year in Japan on numerous occasions.
  • The Accord set the FIA speed record of Diesel cars in 2004, using a European Accord fitted with a 2.204 liter I-CTDI engine, the first Diesel engine by Honda.
  • The Accord has been on Car and Driver magazine's annual Ten Best list 21 times, in years 1983-1991, 1994-1995, and 1998-2007. In the 25-year history of the award it is the vehicle that has appeared the most times.
  • The Accord was Wheels magazine's Car of the Year for 1977.
  • The Accord was Motor Trend's Import Car of the Year for 1994.
  • The 1978 Honda Accord hatchback was placed on Forbes Magazine's list of the Worst Cars of All Time.
  • The Accord V6 has been voted Drive's Car Of The Year in 2008.
  • The Accord V6 won RACV's Australia's Best Luxury Car Under $57,000.
  • The Accord won Japan's Car Of The Year in 1985.

See Also[]


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Keihin · Showa Corporation · Nippon Seiki · List of Honda engines · Mugen


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References[]

External links[]

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