For driving enthusiasts, the engine and transmission combo is nirvana. I don't think there is a sweeter pair anywhere within this vehicle's price structure- period. I was absolutely smitten with how quietly, smoothly and confidently the two hustled the Accord's curb weight of 1,443 kg (3,175 lb) about town or down the open highway. Perhaps more so than with its acceleration, I was astounded by the outstanding operational refinement of the spirited Honda drivetrain.
I've always been a stickler about operational refinement, and quite frankly I'm often disappointed to find only moderate levels of such refinement in vehicles touting themselves as "premium" offerings. How some manufacturers can get it so right while others get it so wrong continues to be one of life's deep mysteries. Trust me- Honda got it right.
Not only does the Accord EX-L V6 six-speed impart refinement to the max, it also serves up a tremendously well composed ride. For my taste, the ride-versus-handling conundrum that vexes all vehicles has been dealt a serious blow by the Accord. This week's tester exhibited rock-solid body structure over the most deteriorated portions of pavement I could come up with. Nary a rattle, thump or shudder permeated the rigid cabin as the fully independent suspension soaked-up the degradation of pot-holed roads.
The solidity of the Accord was further impressive to me than its ride comfort. That said, my tester was much more athletic on its 17-inch rubber than any Toyota Camry or Buick Allure I have driven lately, although in fairness both examples cited treat occupants to a slightly smoother ride. Road and wind noise intrusion in the three vehicles is roughly equal, which is to say, very little in the way of such irritation makes into the quiet cabins.
Applying the antilock binders in my tester was in keeping with its athleticism. In fact, I found the certainty and effectiveness in their operation quite similar to the immediacy that German binders seem to deliver over those more domestic. Sharp, responsive braking arises out of light, easy pedal pressure giving the Accord short, predictable sure-footed stops with very little nosedive or fanfare.
 |
| The Accord offers unmatched dynamics in this price range. |
I've always been a stickler about operational refinement, and quite frankly I'm often disappointed to find only moderate levels of such refinement in vehicles touting themselves as "premium" offerings. How some manufacturers can get it so right while others get it so wrong continues to be one of life's deep mysteries. Trust me- Honda got it right.
Not only does the Accord EX-L V6 six-speed impart refinement to the max, it also serves up a tremendously well composed ride. For my taste, the ride-versus-handling conundrum that vexes all vehicles has been dealt a serious blow by the Accord. This week's tester exhibited rock-solid body structure over the most deteriorated portions of pavement I could come up with. Nary a rattle, thump or shudder permeated the rigid cabin as the fully independent suspension soaked-up the degradation of pot-holed roads.
The solidity of the Accord was further impressive to me than its ride comfort. That said, my tester was much more athletic on its 17-inch rubber than any Toyota Camry or Buick Allure I have driven lately, although in fairness both examples cited treat occupants to a slightly smoother ride. Road and wind noise intrusion in the three vehicles is roughly equal, which is to say, very little in the way of such irritation makes into the quiet cabins.
 |
| Good quality materials are assembled flawlessly. |
Applying the antilock binders in my tester was in keeping with its athleticism. In fact, I found the certainty and effectiveness in their operation quite similar to the immediacy that German binders seem to deliver over those more domestic. Sharp, responsive braking arises out of light, easy pedal pressure giving the Accord short, predictable sure-footed stops with very little nosedive or fanfare.