2003-2007 Honda Accord: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

For 2003, Honda answered arch-rival Toyota and its 2002 Camry redesign with a reworking of its midsize front-drive Accord coupe and sedan. In addition to new styling and more power, Honda added several first-time features. Dimensions changed only modestly, but for the first time, Accord offered curtain side airbags, a five-speed automatic transmission, and a 240-horsepower V6 (40 more than before). Returning were four-cylinder and V6 sedans and coupes, in LX and upscale EX trim, plus a price-leader four-cylinder DX sedan. The four-cylinder grew from 2.3 to 2.4 liters, to gain as much as 25 horsepower. A five-speed manual transmission was standard on four-cylinder models. Optional for them, and included with all V6s, was a five-speed automatic (replacing a four-speed). Also new for 2003 was a sportier V6 EX coupe with a six-speed manual gearbox--Accord's first--plus special trim and 17-inch wheels (versus the usual 16s or 15s). ABS became standard for all Accords, not just high-line models. V6s and four-cylinder EX models continued with four-wheel disc brakes. Traction control was exclusive to V6 models, where it was standard. Front side airbags were standard on V6 models and the four-cylinder EX, and available on LX models. Curtain side airbags were exclusive to EX V6s, where they were standard. EX models could have an optional navigation system with voice control for navigation, audio, and climate functions. All models got a tilt/telescope steering column, and all but the base DX included remote keyless entry that could open the side windows from the keyfob. Joining leather upholstery as standard on EX V6 models were dual-zone automatic climate control and heated seats, which were also available in leather-upholstered four-cylinder versions. V6s and four-cylinder EXs included an in-dash CD changer. Compared with previous Accords, sedans added an inch to wheelbase, were fractionally taller and wider, and had slightly more head room. But they lost a little rear leg space. Coupes grew an inch wider and slightly longer and taller, on an unchanged wheelbase, but shrunk a bit in rear head and leg room. Curb weights changed little. Rivals included the Nissan Altima, Toyota Camry, and Volkswagen Passat.