Strengths

Sporty driving feel; stylish coupe styling; plush interior appointments on EX trims

 

Changes

The availability of Bluetooth HandsFreeLink-for hands-free calling-has been expanded to more models for 2010. Now all Accords with leather get the system. Accord EX and EX-L models get new rear-seat ventilation ducts for better air flow to passengers in back, while EX models also get a new trunk roof lining.

 

Value

It's already been a couple of years since the Accord was completely redesigned, yet it's still a step ahead of most rivals in overall interior appointments. For those who want more of a performance feel, the Accord Sedan is one of few to offer a manual transmission with a V6 engine. All three of the engines are refined and powerful, while base LX and LX-P models look like a remarkable bargain for those who want a reasonably stylish sedan with low running costs. The Accord maintains an enviable reputation for longevity, reliability, and excellent resale value, which makes it hard to beat for those hoping to keep their car for many years. And for those interested in the coupe, it sacrifices a little bit of space and convenience but gets a rakish silhouette and most of the sedan's practicality.

 

Overview

The Honda Accord remains available in a wide range of models and in two different body styles-a 4-door sedan and 2-door coupe.

The powertrain lineup in the front-wheel-drive Accord consists of three different engines and three transmission possibilities. Standard on the base Accord Sedan LX and LX-P is a 177-horsepower, 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, while Sedan EX, EX-L, and Accord Coupe LX-S, EX, and EX-L get a 190-horsepower version of the same engine. EX V6 and EX-L models get a 271-hp, 3.5-liter V6 engine. Four-cylinder engines are paired with a standard 5-speed manual gearbox or optional 5-speed automatic, while most V6 models get the automatic; a 6-speed manual is available.

Either of the two 4-cylinder engines in the Accord provides reasonably fast acceleration and a peppy, responsive feel overall, especially with the manual transmission. The combination of manual transmission and V6 is a relative rarity in a mid-size sedan, bringing more of a performance feel to the Accord. All three engines use Honda's i-VTEC system, which helps keep the engine smooth and responsive both at low revs or during high-speed passing. The V6 gets Variable Cylinder Management, which cuts off half of the cylinders when cruising to aid efficiency.

The 2010 Honda Accord is one of the better-handling mid-size sedans, thanks to a well-tuned double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear setup, along with rack-and-pinion steering that's very precise and responsive.

Along with performance and smoothness, interior appointments are an Accord strength. The instrument panel features a curvy, distinctive design, and controls are quite intuitive and upper trims include steering-wheel controls. Upper trims also come with plush-looking, leather-upholstered 2-tone themes and rich materials. While base models have the same design themes, they are done in stylish, but more drab, plastic. Across the board, seating is comfortable and supportive, with a back seat that's large enough to fit three adults across in a pinch. In all models, the rear seatback folds forward to expand trunk space, and there's also a lockable pass-through.

Coupe models are several inches shorter and a couple of inches lower than the sedan, so they come with a slightly different seating arrangement, with a smaller back seat and more restricted headroom. Access to the back seat is easier than most coupes thanks to the long doors, but those doors might prove difficult in tight parking situations.

Honda's newly upgraded navigation system has voice-activation functions and has an attractive high-contrast color screen. Zagat guidebook information and ratings is now integrated. Other features on top models of the Accord include a 270-watt premium sound system with XM satellite radio, a 6-disc changer and subwoofer.

From the base Accord LX Sedan to the top-of-the-line Accord EX-L V-6 Coupe, the Accord spans a wide range in price and equipment. The LX Sedan comes with all the basics and a bit more, including air conditioning, cruise control, power accessories, a tilt/telescopic steering wheel, and keyless entry, but at the top of the range features include such items as heated leather seats, big 18-inch alloy wheels, and upgraded trim.

The 2010 Honda Accord comes with all the requisite safety features, including electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes with brake assist, front side airbags, side curtain bags and front-seat active head restraints.