Long-Term Test: 2008 Honda Accord

Honda's "franchise player" got a major makeover for the 2008 model year. Long a benchmark of midsize sedan design and refinement, the 2008 Accord gained passenger space and power. The editors at Consumer Guide could not pass on the chance to welcome this perennial best seller to our extended-use fleet.

For this long-term test, we are evaluating what should be the most popular Accord model, the mid-level EX. Ours has Honda's new 190-horsepower 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine and a 5-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain has sufficient verve for everyday commuting and long-distance travel. The engine makes its best showing above 3500 rpm. At that point, however, it sounds unusually coarse, even for a 4-cylinder.

Long-Term Tests
Over the course of a year, each editor drives approximately 200 new cars and trucks. Most vehicles are evaluated over a two-week period; some are evaluated for six to 12 months. The vehicles we drive for this extended period of time are called Long-Term Testers.

Some of our testers also take issue with what they feel is an unusual amount of engine vibration that can be felt through the steering wheel, particularly at idle and from a cold start. We'll keep an eye on this as we rack up more miles.

Ride quality continues in the Accord tradition of leaning toward the firm side of the spectrum. It's never uncomfortable, though. The tight suspension tuning contributes to fine handling response.

Inside, the seats are generally comfortable, and the rear bench is particularly hospitable for those who need to sit back there. Most controls are large and clearly marked, though we think there a few too many buttons on the center dashboard stack. Some climate functions sit a bit out of reach. Materials and assembly quality are top-notch, as we expect from Honda.

This next-generation Accord offers improved passenger comfort while maintaining its trademark sporty character. On the other hand, it seems that this car lacks some of the overall polish that made its predecessor such a stand out. Accord remains a Best Buy in our eyes, but time will tell if it can retain its status as valedictorian of the midsize-car class.

The Vehicle

Body Style: 4-door sedan

Model: EX

Engine: 190-horsepower 2.4-liter 4-cylinder

Transmission: 5-speed automatic

Base Price: $23,860

Price As Tested: $24,495

Major Options: None

Total Measured Miles: 3,396

Consumer Guide Observed Fuel Economy: 22.5 mpg

Problems During Test: None

Editors' Comments

John Biel: The Accord has long been a rock-solid choice in the midsize segment and continues to be with this new generation. But the field of good choices in this class is a little more crowded these days with the arrival of the Saturn Aura and Chevrolet Malibu. Critical shoppers will do well to make certain the Accord truly meets their needs for price and features before shelling out for one.

Jennifer Geiger: While the redesign did lend it a bit more character, and Accord strikes me as a fine, solid midsize car, I'm not blown away by any one of its attributes. This 4-cylinder model is adequately powered in most situations, the cabin is comfortable but nothing to look at, materials quality is fine, and at $24,000+, it's just an OK deal.

Ed Piotrowski: This generation of Accord still hits the mark for passenger comfort, driving dynamics, and overall packaging. Honda's grip on its status of benchmark in the midsize-car class may be slipping a bit. Its rivals have caught up in terms of quietness and overall refinement. Accord is still an excellent car, but now it just rubs elbows with its competitors, rather than standing head and shoulders above them.

2008 Honda Accord
Some testers complain that the Accord's center dashboard stack is cluttered with too many buttons.