VTEC V6 Power
Performance buffs are more likely to be looking at the tachometer anyhow. Under the tester's hood, a 3.5-litre, SOHC V6 engine dispenses 271 horsepower to the front wheels, thanks in part to the automaker's proven VTEC variable valve timing system.
Among other things, VTEC ramps up engine output and sound effects at higher revs, creating a delightfully peaky power curve. Honda's proven J35 Z3 powerplant sounds fantastic, loves to work and moves the Accord Coupe along like absolute heck. Even pushed hard, it never feels stressed or overwhelmed. The strong, smooth and eager character of this engine, coupled with its high-revving sound effects, convey natural athleticism.
A six-speed manual transmission took centre stage in the drivetrain department. It offered up a fairly slick shift action despite a longer throw, as well as a light and easygoing clutch. It's not the world's sportiest shifter, but it is easy to bang some gears and get this rocket coupe blasting along so quickly the tires can barely keep up. Ideal pedal placement makes heel and toe shifting a breeze, too.
Torque steer is present though well managed, and in all, it's an entertaining and delightful drivetrain to put through its paces. Heavy-footed drivers can expect real-world mileage figures to land around 10.9 L/100km or better with a blend of city and highway driving.
Family sedan handling
Handling is tidy overall, though enthusiast drivers will likely wish for a little less body roll and a little quicker steering. Accord Coupe isn't a handling monster first and foremost, but it's entertaining to push hard - not to mention comfortable, compliant and relatively quiet during cruising.
Hammer it out of a corner, and the Accord Coupe holds its line nicely with a hint of tire scrubbing and understeer as the engine attempts to overpower the front wheels. More aggressive rubber would work wonders, here.
Performance buffs are more likely to be looking at the tachometer anyhow. Under the tester's hood, a 3.5-litre, SOHC V6 engine dispenses 271 horsepower to the front wheels, thanks in part to the automaker's proven VTEC variable valve timing system.
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| Under the tester's hood, a 3.5-litre, SOHC V6 engine dispenses 271 horsepower to the front wheels. (Photo: Honda) |
Among other things, VTEC ramps up engine output and sound effects at higher revs, creating a delightfully peaky power curve. Honda's proven J35 Z3 powerplant sounds fantastic, loves to work and moves the Accord Coupe along like absolute heck. Even pushed hard, it never feels stressed or overwhelmed. The strong, smooth and eager character of this engine, coupled with its high-revving sound effects, convey natural athleticism.
A six-speed manual transmission took centre stage in the drivetrain department. It offered up a fairly slick shift action despite a longer throw, as well as a light and easygoing clutch. It's not the world's sportiest shifter, but it is easy to bang some gears and get this rocket coupe blasting along so quickly the tires can barely keep up. Ideal pedal placement makes heel and toe shifting a breeze, too.
Torque steer is present though well managed, and in all, it's an entertaining and delightful drivetrain to put through its paces. Heavy-footed drivers can expect real-world mileage figures to land around 10.9 L/100km or better with a blend of city and highway driving.
Family sedan handling
Handling is tidy overall, though enthusiast drivers will likely wish for a little less body roll and a little quicker steering. Accord Coupe isn't a handling monster first and foremost, but it's entertaining to push hard - not to mention comfortable, compliant and relatively quiet during cruising.
Hammer it out of a corner, and the Accord Coupe holds its line nicely with a hint of tire scrubbing and understeer as the engine attempts to overpower the front wheels. More aggressive rubber would work wonders, here.
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| Heavy-footed drivers can expect real-world mileage figures to land around 10.9 L/100km. (Photo: Justin Pritchard/Auto123.com) |