A nice, safe bet?
Honda designers have finally shown us what they're capable of. With the new Civic, the transformation was original and well executed. And while the automaker's best-selling car in North America, the Accord, has been redesigned a little more conservatively, the final product is nonetheless sleek and sharp-looking. Larger than ever and displaying a wider stance, it can once again rival other midsize sedans in terms of styling and visual execution.
Bigger, yet again
The exterior dimensions were stretched and the benefits are mostly felt inside: improved driving position as well as more room for front and rear passengers. The new Accord is right up there with the best in its class, offering a more intelligent layout and additional storage compared to its predecessor. Also, the seats provide better side support, although I found the leather somewhat slippery.
For the driver, the only real drawback is the overly complex yet homogeneous center stack. I had a hard time locating the right controls and buttons while driving. This is strange, considering how Honda is usually known for making things simple and clear. Here, you have to rely on colors and shapes to differentiate the controls and feel more relaxed behind the wheel.
On the plus side, my tester came with a navigation system which I found easy enough to use and read to remain focused on the road ahead.
Safe on the road
With regards to driving dynamics, the Accord still has it. The new model is every bit as good as the best entry-level touring sedans out there. In addition, the Accord remains a benchmark in terms of handling. Driving this car is a lot more pleasant than what you experience with competitors. The steering is precise and the suspension is well calibrated, making the Accord a safe, enjoyable travel companion, particularly in tight turns. You never get caught off-guard and you always know exactly where you're headed. And despite a more rigid platform, the new 2008 Accord proves to be more comfortable than the old one on bumpy roads.
Honda designers have finally shown us what they're capable of. With the new Civic, the transformation was original and well executed. And while the automaker's best-selling car in North America, the Accord, has been redesigned a little more conservatively, the final product is nonetheless sleek and sharp-looking. Larger than ever and displaying a wider stance, it can once again rival other midsize sedans in terms of styling and visual execution.
 |
| The new Honda Accord is sleek and sharp-looking. |
Bigger, yet again
The exterior dimensions were stretched and the benefits are mostly felt inside: improved driving position as well as more room for front and rear passengers. The new Accord is right up there with the best in its class, offering a more intelligent layout and additional storage compared to its predecessor. Also, the seats provide better side support, although I found the leather somewhat slippery.
For the driver, the only real drawback is the overly complex yet homogeneous center stack. I had a hard time locating the right controls and buttons while driving. This is strange, considering how Honda is usually known for making things simple and clear. Here, you have to rely on colors and shapes to differentiate the controls and feel more relaxed behind the wheel.
On the plus side, my tester came with a navigation system which I found easy enough to use and read to remain focused on the road ahead.
Safe on the road
With regards to driving dynamics, the Accord still has it. The new model is every bit as good as the best entry-level touring sedans out there. In addition, the Accord remains a benchmark in terms of handling. Driving this car is a lot more pleasant than what you experience with competitors. The steering is precise and the suspension is well calibrated, making the Accord a safe, enjoyable travel companion, particularly in tight turns. You never get caught off-guard and you always know exactly where you're headed. And despite a more rigid platform, the new 2008 Accord proves to be more comfortable than the old one on bumpy roads.
 |
| Driving the new 2008 Accord is a lot more pleasant than what you experience with competitors. |