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2009 Honda Accord Full Review
Date Published: 9/16/08
2009 Honda Accord Review
The 2009 Honda Accord sees no major changes following its 2008 redesign. Four-cylinder and V6-powered coupes and sedans are available with either a 177- or 190-hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder, or a 271-hp 3.5-liter V6. The V6 includes Honda's Variable Cylinder Management cylinder deactivation. Coupes and sedans are offered in EX and EX-L trim levels. Sedans are also offered in entry-level LX and LX-P versions. An entry-level LX-S coupe is also offered. The 4-cylinder engine is available on all models. EX and EX-L sedans are also available with the V6. A 5-speed automatic transmission is available across the board. V6 EX-L coupes are available with a 6-speed manual transmission, other models can be had with a 5-speed manual. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. Leather seating is standard on EX-L models, but not available otherwise. A navigation system is also available.
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2009 Honda Accord Road Test
Pros Cons
Refinement Small trunk opening
Steering/handling Ride (coupe)
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration

LX-P sedan, automatic EX 4-cylinder sedan, automatic EX-L V6 sedan, automatic EX V6 coupe, manual Class Average
4 5 7 8 5.4

With the automatic transmission, 177-hp Accords move adequately from a stop, but passing and merging require patience. EX and LX-S 4-cylinder models, with their 190-hp engine, are stronger in all situations. Several 4-cylinder models tested have suffered from a rough idle and pronounced vibrations felt through the body and steering wheel. V6 models with the automatic are stronger still, with plenty of reserve muscle for easy passing. All manual-transmission Accords are faster than their automatic counterparts, with smooth clutch engagement and a precise feeling shifter.
Fuel Economy

LX-P sedan, automatic EX 4-cylinder sedan, automatic EX-L V6 sedan, automatic EX V6 coupe, manual Class Average
7 6 5 5 5.7

In Consumer Guide testing, an Accord LX-P with automatic transmission averaged 22.2 mpg in city/highway driving and 25.8 with more highway use. Our extended-use automatic EX 4-cylinder sedan is averaging 22.7 mpg over its first 4438 miles. V6 versions with the automatic averaged 19.5 mpg. All Accords use regular-grade gas.
Ride Quality

LX-P sedan, automatic EX 4-cylinder sedan, automatic EX-L V6 sedan, automatic EX V6 coupe, manual Class Average
7 7 7 5 6

All Accords feel refined and solid. Large bumps bring out some unexpected harshness in most models, but it's never bothersome. V6 coupes have larger wheels and tires. The result for coupes is a firmer ride and notably more impact feel.
Steering/Handling/Braking

LX-P sedan, automatic EX 4-cylinder sedan, automatic EX-L V6 sedan, automatic EX V6 coupe, manual Class Average
6 6 6 7 5.9

Accords remain on the sporty side of the midsize class, with light but direct steering and well-controlled lean in corners. Coupes feel somewhat sharper but not enough to justify reduced ride comfort.
Quietness

LX-P sedan, automatic EX 4-cylinder sedan, automatic EX-L V6 sedan, automatic EX V6 coupe, manual Class Average
5 6 6 6 5.9

Across the board, road noise is fairly pronounced, with less sound isolation from traffic din than might be expected. The coupes' larger wheels and tires contribute to a small amount of additional road noise. The LX and LX-P models disappoint for their crude-sounding engine. The 190-hp 4-cylinder is slightly more pleasant. The V6 is the most refined of the bunch.
Controls

LX-P sedan, automatic EX 4-cylinder sedan, automatic EX-L V6 sedan, automatic EX V6 coupe, manual Class Average
8 8 8 8 6.3

Though redesigned, Accord's interior will feel familiar to repeat buyers, and that's a good thing. Some of our testers, however, bemoan the large number of individual controls. Big dials and gauges are easy to read. Most major controls are logically placed and have a substantial, quality feel, though a few climate functions are just out of easy reach for some drivers. The navigation screen is generally easy to read, though it's recessed deeply in its housing, obscuring sight lines. Despite its recess, the display can wash out in certain light conditions.
Details

LX-P sedan, automatic EX 4-cylinder sedan, automatic EX-L V6 sedan, automatic EX V6 coupe, manual Class Average
6 7 7 7 5.5

Continues in the Accord tradition of offering good quality materials and solid assembly. Cabin impressions vary widely based on interior color palette. Depending on color, EX and EX-L sedans are available with woodgrain accents that go a long way toward creating a warm, upscale ambiance. Some testers find models without woodgrain trim lack character. Coupes have unique interior accents that impart a sportier feel.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

LX-P sedan, automatic EX 4-cylinder sedan, automatic EX-L V6 sedan, automatic EX V6 coupe, manual Class Average
8 8 8 7 6.6

Accord sedan and coupe seats are more comfortable since 2008 redesign. The seats are more supportive than in previous Accords. There's ample headroom and legroom, even for taller adults. Larger door openings and a higher roof make entering and exiting Accord easy. Visibility is good all around in all models, but coupes have a more rakish roofline that obscures the view to the rear corners.
Room/Comfort (rear)

LX-P sedan, automatic EX 4-cylinder sedan, automatic EX-L V6 sedan, automatic EX V6 coupe, manual Class Average
7 7 7 3 5.1

Accord is longer after 2008 redesign, and much of that space went to the rear seating area. Sedans have good headroom, vast legroom, and comfortable seats. Again, large door openings and a high roof contribute to easy entry and exit. Coupes offer more space this year as well, though seating is still best left to children.
Cargo Room

LX-P sedan, automatic EX 4-cylinder sedan, automatic EX-L V6 sedan, automatic EX V6 coupe, manual Class Average
4 4 4 3 4.1

Sedans have a large, deep, usefully shaped trunk, though a smallish opening may prevent loading of bulkier items. Intrusive hinges force cautious loading of crushable items. Note that the folding rear seatback is one piece, rather than split like on most cars. Coupes have a smaller trunk with a somewhat smaller opening. Sedan and coupe interior storage includes roomy center console with handy divided compartments, 12-volt power outlet, and MP3 port.
Value within Class

LX-P sedan, automatic EX 4-cylinder sedan, automatic EX-L V6 sedan, automatic EX V6 coupe, manual Class Average
7 9 9 7 6.4

This perennial benchmark for midsize value and performance was redesigned for 2008, gaining power and passenger space. Though Accord is not leaps and bounds ahead of competitors, its rewarding balance of price, performance, and passenger accommodations make it a great value for shoppers in this class.



Total Score

LX-P sedan, automatic EX 4-cylinder sedan, automatic EX-L V6 sedan, automatic EX V6 coupe, manual Class Average
69 73 74 66 62.9
Scores for all Midsize Cars

Low Score
48
Average Score
62
High Score
74
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2009 Honda Accord Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 08/14/2008
Trim Name Retail Price Dealer Invoice Destination Charge
LX 4-door sedan, manual $20,775 $18,830 $635
LX 4-door sedan, automatic $21,555 $19,553 $635
LX-S 2-door coupe, manual $21,255 $20,185 $635
LX-S 2-door coupe, automatic $23,055 $20,908 $635
LX-P 4-door sedan, manual $21,755 $19,734 $635
LX-P 4-door sedan, automatic $22,555 $20,456 $635
EX 2-door coupe, manual $23,555 $21,360 $635
EX 2-door coupe, automatic $24,355 $22,083 $635
EX 4-door sedan, manual $23,455 $21,270 $635
EX 4-door sedan, automatic $24,255 $21,993 $635
EX V6 4-door sedan, automatic $26,455 $23,981 $635
EX-L 2-door coupe, manual $25,555 $23,167 $635
EX-L 2-door coupe, automatic $26,355 $23,890 $635
EX-L 2-door coupe w/navigation, manual $27,755 $25,155 $635
EX-L 2-door coupe w/navigation, automatic $28,555 $25,878 $635
EX-L 4-door sedan, manual $25,455 $23,077 $635
EX-L 4-door sedan, automatic $26,255 $23,800 $635
EX-L 4-door sedan w/navigation, manual $27,655 $25,065 $635
EX-L 4-door sedan w/navigation, automatic $28,455 $25,788 $635
EX-L V6 4-door sedan, automatic $28,555 $25,878 $635
EX-L V6 2-door coupe, manual $28,805 $26,104 $635
EX-L V6 2-door coupe, automatic $28,805 $26,104 $635
EX-L V6 2-door coupe w/navigation, manual $31,005 $28,092 $635
EX-L V6 2-door coupe w/navigation, automatic $31,005 $28,092 $635
EX-L V6 4-door sedan w/navigation, automatic $30,755 $27,866 $635
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker. Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options. The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
LX
Powertrain
2.4-liter 177-hp 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, antiskid system, tire-pressure monitor, front-seat active head restraints, emergency inside trunklid release, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, interior air filter, tilt/telescopic steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, height-adjustable driver seat, center console, folding rear seat, trunk pass-through, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, digital-media player connection, tachometer, variable-intermittent wipers, illuminated visor mirrors, rear defogger, automatic-off headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, 195/60HR16 tires, wheel covers.
LX-S adds to LX:
Powertrain
2.4-liter 190-hp 4-cylinder engine.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Active noise control, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: trunk pass-through.
225/50VR17 tires, alloy wheels.
LX-P adds to LX:
Comfort and Convenience Features
8-way power driver seat.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Alloy wheels.
EX/EX-V6 adds to LX:
Powertrain
2.4-liter 190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine or 3.5-liter V6 engine w/cylinder deactivation.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Active noise control, 8-way power driver seat w/lumbar adjustment (sedan), heated power mirrors, power sunroof, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, active noise control, automatic headlights (EX-V6).
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: trunk pass-through (coupe).
Fog lights (EX-V6), 225/50VR17 tires, alloy wheels.
EX-L/EX-L V6 adds to EX:
Powertrain
6-speed manual (EX-L V6) or 5-speed automatic transmission.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Dual-zone automatic climate controls, leather upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated front seats, 8-way power driver seat w/lumbar adjustment, 4-way power passenger seat (EX-L V6 sedan), satellite radio, automatic day/night rearview mirror, outside-temperature indicator, compass, universal garage door opener (EX-L V6), automatic headlights.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
235/45VR18 tires (EX-L-V6 coupe).
EX-L/EX-L V6 w/navigation adds to EXL:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Navigation system, wireless cell phone link.
Optional Equipment
No factory options.
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2009 Honda Accord Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
Specification Honda Accord 2-door coupe Honda Accord 4-door sedan
Wheelbase, in. 107.9 110.0
Overall Length, in. 190.9 194.1
Overall Width, in. 72.7 72.7
Overall Height, in. 56.4 58.1
Curb Weight, lbs. 3297 3213
Cargo Volume, cu. ft. 11.9 14.0
Standard Payload, lbs. -- --
Fuel Capacity, gals. 18.5 18.5
Seating Capacity 5 5
Front Head Room, in. 39.1 41.4
Max. Front Leg Room, in. 42.5 42.5
Rear Head Room, in. 35.9 38.5
Max. Rear Leg Room, in. 33.0 37.2
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
  dohc I4 dohc I4 sohc V6
Size, liters/cu. in. 2.4 /144 2.4 /144 3.5 /212
Horsepower @ rpm. 177 @ 6500 190 @ 7000 271 @ 6200
Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. 161 @ 4300 162 @ 4400 254 @ 5000
Availability Standard Standard Standard
EPA City / highway mpg
     
5-speed manual 22/31 22/31 --/--
6-speed manual --/-- --/-- 18/27
5-speed automatic 21/31 21/30 22/32
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft; dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders; V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
Antilock Brakes
Traction Control
Antiskid System
Front Side Airbags
Curtain Side Airbags
Rear Side Airbags
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Test Honda Accord 2-door coupe Honda Accord 4-door sedan
Front Impact, Driver 5 5
Front Impact, Passenger 5 5
Rollover Resistance 5 5
Side Impact, Driver 4 5
Side Impact, Rear Passenger 5 3
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
Class Years/Miles Comments
Powertrain 5/60,000 8-years/100,000-miles on hybrid battery.
Bumper-to-bumper 3/36,000 --
Corrosion 5/unlimited --
Free roadside assistance None/-- --
Free scheduled maintenance None/-- --
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive. There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for 2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in: USA
Drivewheels: front-wheel drive
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