2005 Honda Accord: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

A new gas/electric hybrid sedan marks 2005 for this popular midsize car. Accord offers coupes and sedans in LX and EX trim, plus price-leader DX and VP sedans, and SE coupes. All use a 160-hp 4-cyl engine. LX, SE, and EX models also offer a 240-hp V6. The 4-cyl teams with 5-speed manual transmission or optional 5-speed automatic. The automatic is standard on V6 models. The sporty EX V6 coupe also offers a 6-speed manual.

The Hybrid has 255 hp from a V6 assisted by an electric motor. The gas engine essentially charges the electric batteries; there's no plug-in charging. The Hybrid V6 employs Honda's new Variable Cylinder Management system that deactivates three cylinders when cruising or decelerating to save fuel. All Accords come with ABS; V6 models add traction control. Front torso side airbags and head-protecting curtain side airbags are standard. The manual-transmission V6 coupe has 17-inch wheels; other Accords have 16s or 15s. EX-L, EX V6, and Hybrid models come with leather upholstery, satellite radio, dual-zone automatic climate control, and heated front seats. Those models also offer a navigation system with voice control for some navigation, audio, and climate functions. The Hybrid has a unique grille, a decklid spoiler, special instrumentation, and electric power steering vs. hydraulic. It also includes Honda's new active noise-control system, designed to electronically quell mechanical, road, and wind noise.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Midsize Cars represent the heart of the U.S. car market. Most are price-sensitive, conservatively designed, family oriented sedans and wagons.

Our Best Buys include the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. Our Recommended picks include the Chevrolet Malibu, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Mazda 6, Nissan Altima, and Subaru Outback and Legacy.