2006 Honda Accord: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Freshened styling highlights 2006 for Honda's popular midsize coupes and sedans. Both body styles come in LX, EX, and EX-L trim. Sedans also offer price-leader VP, step-up LX-SE, and gas/electric Hybrid models. The base engine is a 166-hp 4-cyl. LX V6 and EX V6 models have a 244-hp V6. The Hybrid has 253 hp from a V6 assisted by an electric motor. The system self-charges the electric batteries; there's no plug-in charging. To save fuel, the Hybrid V6 can deactivate three cylinders while under way, and automatically stops and restarts at idle. A 5-speed automatic transmission is standard in the Hybrid and available for other Accords. A 5-speed manual is standard with the 4-cyl engine, a 6-speed manual is available in V6 coupes and, for the first time, in EX V6 sedans.

All Accords come with ABS; V6 models add traction control. Front side airbags and curtain side airbags are standard. For '06, nose and tail styling is revised, and interior trim is altered. Leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, and heated front seats are standard on EX-L, EX V6, and Hybrid. Those models also offer a navigation system with voice control for some navigation, audio, and climate functions. The Hybrid has a unique grille and standard rear spoiler. It also includes Honda's 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 Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. Our Recommended picks include Chevrolet Malibu, Hyundai Sonata, Mazda 6, Nissan Altima, and Subaru Outback and Legacy.

New or significantly redesigned models include Chevrolet Impala, Chevrolet Monte Carlo, Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan, and Volkswagen Passat.