Prior to its market introduction, the all-new 2008 Honda Accord made many skeptics out of auto journalists (myself included). After all, you can't redesign such a popular car with so many qualities without potentially alienating some fans.
Still, there were a couple of aspects that needed to be improved, such as sportiness. Most will agree that the Accord did not offer the most spirited driving experience in the world. Therefore, the new generation had quite a challenge to overcome: achieving the same high standards while adding a bit more passion.
Revamped styling
The sedan got a totally different makeover than the coupe. But since the former has been the subject of many reviews by our staff, I'll be focusing on the latter.
Upon close inspection, I was amazed to see how much the 2008 Honda Accord marks a radical departure from its predecessor. The new lines are a definite improvement over the old ones.
Some might question the company's decision to stretch the exterior dimensions as much as it did. The coupe is now 79-mm longer, 38-mm wider and 17-mm taller. Of course, the wheelbase has also been extended (+64 mm).
Yet, the car looks sportier and more streamlined, with emphasized roof arches and a long hood for added presence on the road. The rear end is not quite as well executed, although the large taillights add a touch of refinement to the package.
Model behavior
That being said, looks and presence are not the main reasons why buyers opt for the Accord Coupe. And although the fully redesigned interior proves modern and nicely laid out, with comfortable, easily-adjustable front buckets, rear passengers still have to make a number of sacrifices -- as in any self-respecting coupe.
Rather, the increased performance delivered by the V6-powered coupe is the top selling argument here. From that standpoint, there are no doubts in my mind that the new model meets expectations.
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| The new lines are a definite improvement over the old ones. |
Still, there were a couple of aspects that needed to be improved, such as sportiness. Most will agree that the Accord did not offer the most spirited driving experience in the world. Therefore, the new generation had quite a challenge to overcome: achieving the same high standards while adding a bit more passion.
Revamped styling
The sedan got a totally different makeover than the coupe. But since the former has been the subject of many reviews by our staff, I'll be focusing on the latter.
Upon close inspection, I was amazed to see how much the 2008 Honda Accord marks a radical departure from its predecessor. The new lines are a definite improvement over the old ones.
Some might question the company's decision to stretch the exterior dimensions as much as it did. The coupe is now 79-mm longer, 38-mm wider and 17-mm taller. Of course, the wheelbase has also been extended (+64 mm).
Yet, the car looks sportier and more streamlined, with emphasized roof arches and a long hood for added presence on the road. The rear end is not quite as well executed, although the large taillights add a touch of refinement to the package.
Model behavior
That being said, looks and presence are not the main reasons why buyers opt for the Accord Coupe. And although the fully redesigned interior proves modern and nicely laid out, with comfortable, easily-adjustable front buckets, rear passengers still have to make a number of sacrifices -- as in any self-respecting coupe.
Rather, the increased performance delivered by the V6-powered coupe is the top selling argument here. From that standpoint, there are no doubts in my mind that the new model meets expectations.
 |
| The interior has been completely redesigned, modern and well equipped. |