Honda Accord 2011

Overview

The Honda Accord is a perennial top seller in the highly competitive family sedan segment -- and for good reason. It has historically been an affordable, well-appointed vehicle tailored to fit the American family. Clever engineering gives the Accord sedan the exterior dimensions of a mid-size car, but a large car classification by EPA interior volume standards. Coupe and sedans are available, with two 4-cylinders and one V-6 engine option available. Standard transmissions are all 5-speeds, with a 6-speed manual available for the V-6 coupe only. All come bundled with an impressive array of standard and optional features.Though compelling, Accord's formula is starting to feel dated. Despite a substantial redesign for 2011 that upgrades styling, interior appointments, and fuel economy, a key opportunity has been missed. Nearly all of the competition offer 6-speed automatics or CVTs, while the 2011 Accord sedan still has only five forward gears. Others offer a quieter and smoother ride as well, though few can touch the Accord's light and tight handling.

The Range

Bodystyle: Sedan, coupe
Engines: 2.4L I-4, 2.4L I-4, 3.5L V-6
Transmissions: 6-speed manual, 5-speed manual, 5-speed automatic
Models: LX sedan, LX-P sedan, EX sedan, EX-L sedan, EX V-6 sedan, EX-L V-6 sedan, LX-S coupe, EX coupe, EX-L coupe, EX-L V-6 co

What's New

All Accords receive a refresh for 2011 that includes a restyled front grille and bumper, new tail lights and a new wheel design. In addition, sedans get revised trunk lid. Interior styling has dated as well, and the EPA estimated fuel economy improves on many trim levels. A new leather trimmed special edition (SE) trim level debuts as well.

Exterior

The eighth generation Accord is Honda's largest by a significant margin, and most controversially styled. Time and sales volume no longer make it stand out among the crowd, despite the exterior tweaks for 2011.

Interior

Tight fits, quality materials and a console awash with buttons define the Accord cabin. Rear passengers are rewarded with impressive leg and shoulder room. For 2011, paddle shifters are available for V-6 coupes.

Performance & Handling

The Accord traditionally receives high marks for its tactile steering, quick throttle response, and an excellent ride and handling balance. Smooth powertrain performance is another Accord hallmark, especially in the V-6 coupe. Not so smooth: this latest generation transmits a bit too much wind and road noise under certain conditions. Wallet watchers will appreciate the 4-to-8 percent improvement in combined fuel economy.

Safety

Dual front, front-side, and side curtain airbags come standard on the Accord, as do driver and front passenger active head restraints, stability/traction control and a host of braking aids (ABS, EBD, and BA). All passengers have 3-point seatbelts.

EPA Fuel Economy

LX, LX-P, EX sedan, EX-L sedan: 22 mpg city/31 mpg highway (manual): 21 mpg city/31 mpg highway (automatic)
EX V-6, EX-L V-6 sedan: 19 mpg city/29 mpg highway
LX-S, EX, EX-L coupe: 22 mpg city/31 mpg highway (manual); 21 mpg city/31 mpg highway (automatic

You'll Like

• Crisp handling
• Responsive engine
• Improved fuel economy
• Roomy cabin
• Large trunk

You Won't Like

• Lack of six speed auto
• Still no looker
• Wind and road noise

Sum Up

Improved, but competition is overtaking

If You Like This Vehicle You Might Also Like

• Chevrolet Malibu
• Ford Fusion
• Hyundai Sonata
• Nissan Altima
• Toyota Camry