2007 Accord offers stylish sophistication
The debut of the seventh generation Honda Accord brings a high level of world-class style, performance and sophistication to the midsize passenger car segment. With a definite European flavor sculpted into the exterior lines and shapes the Accord boasts a distinctive look that turns heads and generates emotion.
Last year, the front-drive Accord received freshened front and rear styling as well as a long list of enhancements and additional standard equipment. Exterior styling changes included a new front bumper and grille design, rear bumper and trunk lid design with integrated third brake light, LED tail lights, restyled 16- and 17-inch alloy wheels and new exhaust finishers.
Available in LX, LX V-6, EX, EX-L and EX-L V-6 models, power for the popular Honda is provided by a 2.4-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder or a 3.0-liter VTEC V6 engine. Torque is transferred to the pavement through the standard five-speed manual gearbox or a sophisticated five-speed automatic. The sport-oriented EX V6 features a close-ratio, six-speed manual transmission as an available option.
On the road, the base 2.4-liter engine mated to the optional five-speed automatic turns in a peppy performance that is responsive at speed. Honda engineers designed a stiff unibody design for the Accord that makes extensive use of high-tensile steel and advanced engineering and manufacturing processes to contribute to the unibody's strength.
The front subframe uses hydroformed steel components. Attached to the body with special rubber "floating" mounts, this setup reduces noise and vibration from the engine and front suspension. On a safety note, this design allows the front subframe that supports the powertrain to slide under the passenger compartment to deflect and better disperse crash forces in the event of a frontal impact.
All V6-engined models received Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) and brake assist as standard equipment last year. In addition, the V6 equipped models received revised suspension bushings and damping rates to complement the upgraded 17-inch wheel and tire package.
While the Accord maintains its legendary four-wheel double wishbone/five-link suspension system, modifications and enhancements over the years have improved its ride and handling characteristics, giving the sedan a sportier, more European feel. Engineers paid careful attention in reducing fore and aft body motion under acceleration and deceleration and to provide flat cornering.
Inside the cabin, occupants are treated to an airy cabin with plenty of room, fore and aft. Seating is very comfortable in all positions for adults. Interior styling was also upgraded last year and included a new steering wheel design, new seat fabrics, new shift knob on automatic transmissioned models, a restyled instrument panel and satin chrome vent accents.
Nooks, crannies and cupholders galore make this interior very user-friendly. The manual height adjustment for the driver's seat makes the most of the outward view. Access to the rear of the cabin is facilitated by a passenger-side walk-in feature that allows the front passenger seat to slide forward by stepping on a lever at the bottom right rear of the seat. A lockable, 60/40 split fold-down rear seat-back adds versatility to the good-sized trunk.
Engines: 2.4-liter four-cylinder, 166 hp at 5,800 rpm and 160 lbs.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm; 3.0-liter six-cylinder, 244 hp at 6,250 rpm and 211 lbs.-ft. of torque at 5,000 rpm.
Transmissions: five-speed manual, five-speed automatic, six-speed manual.
EPA fuel economy: 2.4-liter four-cylinder, 26 city/34 hwy., (manual); 24 city/34 hwy., (automatic); 3.0-liter V6, 20 city/29 hwy., (automatic); 21 city/30 hwy., (six-speed manual).
Cargo capacity: 12.8 cubic feet
Safety features include dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, daytime running lights, engine immobilizer, remote keyless entry and side-impact door beams.
EX adds electronic brake force distribution and security system.
LX V-6 adds brake assist, traction control and vehicle stability assist.
EX V-6 adds HomeLink remote system. Optional features include navigation system.
The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2007 Honda Accord coupe starts from $20,475 for the LX up to $29,500 for the EX V-6 with navigation. Destination charges add $595. 2007 Honda Accord