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.