The Honda Accord was completely redone from stem to stern for the 1994 model year. As a result, it remains pretty much unchanged for 1995, and a good thing, too - it's a wonderful sedan.
Honda leads the world in thoughtful innovation, and the Accord is so driver-friendly that the first-timer is often amazed by the sheer thoroughness of all the little details and nice touches that make the driving task - and the ownership experience - something special.
One thing that always strikes us about the Accord is its jewel-like fit-and-finish. Everything about the Accord is finely crafted and carefully fitted like a true work of art, from its elegant body lines to its smooth powertrain.
The Accord is available in three body styles: 4-door sedan, 2-door coupe and 4-door wagon. The sedan comes in three trim levels: DX, LX and EX.
The V6 engine is offered only in the sedan and only in the LX and EX trim levels. The EX V6 is a high-line vehicle with standard equipment that includes 4-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock braking - perhaps the most significant safety feature from an accident-avoidance standpoint; automatic transmission; air conditioning; an AM/FM cassette stereo system; power windows, door locks and mirrors; and other convenience features.
In addition, the EX receives a leather-trimmed interior, an 8-way power driver's seat, power moonroof, 6-speaker sound system and alloy wheels.
The Accord's base powerplant is a 2.2-liter in-line 4-cylinder, with 130 hp in the DX and LX trim levels and 145 hp in the EX. The base transmission is a 5-speed manual, and a 4-speed automatic is available as an option.
The V6 is a 2.7-liter, based on the original Acura Legend engine, rated at 170 hp and 165 lb.-ft. of torque. It's mated with a new 4-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission, with lock-up torque converter and Grade Logic programming, which allows the transmission to select and hold the gear ratio that best suits the ongoing driving situation.
One thing that hurts the Accord is that its interior volume is slightly smaller than the interiors of some of its competitors. The roomier Toyota Camry, for example, is rated by the EPA as a midsize car, but the Accord is a compact. Still, the Accord is on the upper end of the compact range, and it does make efficient use of its space - however limited.
It will seat five reasonably sized adults just fine, and the front seats are supportive and comfortable. With two in the rear there's plenty of room. However, three across in back may be a little tight, especially if the riders are on the larger size. On the bright side, there should be plenty of headroom for most folks.
As is typical of Honda, the instrument panel is arranged for near-ideal operation of the car and its functions. Every instrument, knob, switch and button is easy to see, reach and twist, flick or push.
There's lots of storage, including a coin tray to the left of the steering wheel and dual cupholders in the center console. And even with the passenger airbag, there's still a good-sized glove box.
The trunk is larger than it looks, measuring 13.0 cu. ft. A clever over-center mechanism that allows the trunk lid to open past vertical, as well as a low liftover height, aids in loading luggage or groceries.
In addition, the trunk stretches a good distance under the rear window. And for even more added versatility, the rear seat folds down to expand storage space.
Standard safety features include dual airbags and 3-point seat belts in the four outboard positions. The Accord also meets the 1997 federal side-impact standards.
From the base Civic to the Acura NSX, Honda products have always offered a superior driving experience, and the Accord is no exception. It's a wonderful driving car, offering nifty handling and maneuverability, excellent steering feel, a good ride and a light, yet precise, touch to the controls.
The 4-cylinder engine is crisp and responsive, but the optional V6 really transforms the Accord's performance into a quick, lively sedan that's able to dart through traffic with athletic ease. Seldom do you find such a willing engine in a sedan, and the characteristic Honda silky smoothness of this powerplant is an added sweet benefit.
The transmission fitted to the V6 is also a model of seamless operation. Its Grade Logic programming will be appreciated by those who drive through hilly terrain because it acts like a skilled driver. It works by sensing the driving conditions and automatically selecting - and holding - the most appropriate gear for the task.
This means it may, for example, stay in third gear while driving up and down hills, and it won't hunt between gears on long, gentle upgrades.
The Accord EX's front and rear suspension consists of double wishbone arms, coil springs and stabilizer bars.
This is one of the most sophisticated layouts to be found on any midrange sedan. The Accord matches an even, well-controlled ride with crisp steering response and a nimbleness to the handling that is almost sports carlike. Of all sedans in this price and size range, the Accord definitely offers one of the best driving experiences.
Another driving benefit is the seating position and large window area resulting from the low beltline, a Honda trademark that gives exceptional outward vision. Even shorter drivers can see well out of the Accord. This lends a feeling of security because you're able to place the car on the road when you're in tight spots.