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Competition in the mid-sized executive sedan segment is arguably one of the most hotly contested around. It probably doesn't help either that the buyers in this class typically stick to their guns as far as brand loyalty is concerned.

With each successive model launch, Honda has demonstrated its ability to re-define each respective segment and uproot entire goal-posts, especially at a time when its closest rivals are busy standing still and showcasing face-lifts, one after the other. The Accord has always been the choice of businessmen who were up for a class-leading executive sedan that projected just the right mix of sporty and serious notes.

Exterior styling

After the mixed reactions to the last generation Accord's aesthetics, the latest car boasts strong styling that gives it an unmistakable road presence. A prominent rising belt-line, dynamic rear tail-lights and sleek front end with distinctive six-sided grille give the new Accord an identity that sets it apart from the rest of the executive suspects. Powerfully flared fenders and the dynamic sweeping roof-line create the illusion of constant motion, with the entire package topped off with the smart 16-inch sports alloys.

However, critics continue to have a good time playing "spot-the-model" - depending on the angle you're scrutinising the car from, you can just about spot the uncanny aesthetic elements from BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz and even Hyundai.

Interior

Like the Civic, the Accord's cabin is well appointed and put together with a level of cohesiveness that would give more expensive cars a run for their money. Again like the new Civic, a "zone" styling approach separates "operation" instruments and "information" related instruments. Front bucket seats are both snug yet comfortable regardless of whether one is cruising or enthusiastically running the car ragged.

With the commodious 2,800mm wheel-base, the car offers a generous amount of interior room that will accommodate a full complement of adults with ease. Based on the Japanese market's Honda Inspire, our local car is also likely to be larger than the Japan Domestic Market's Accord that the parallel importers will be bringing in.

The new Accord is noticeably longer, taller and wider than the car it replaces and Honda's use of high-technology manufacturing processes mean it is torsionally more rigid than before. Most importantly, the Accord has moved up in class from the mid-sized sedan segment to the large-sized sedan segment. It also has all the premium amenities that give it the fire-power to compete in this hotly contested class of cars.

Dual-zone climate control with accompanying rear air-vent, an 8-way electric-adjustable driver's seat and a comprehensive in-car entertainment system keep the occupants happy, while the contoured console and dashboard architecture inject some form to go with all the function, which reinforces the fact that the Accord is not just another utilitarian beast of burden.

The drive

Under the bonnet of this Accord resides a new and improved 2.0-litre formula that is cleaner, more efficient and more powerful than before. The 1,997cc in-line 4 produces 156bhp at 6,300rpm and 189Nm at 4,300rpm. The car is remarkably agile in spite of its 1.5-tonne kg kerb-weight, while the ratios of the five-speed auto transmission are decently spaced for brisk urban progress as well as sedate highway cruising. Shifts are smoothly-slurred and it's possible for the box to up-shift discreetly in the background, that one never notices its operation.

True to form, the engine revs keenly and cleanly to the redline. Like all the earlier Accords, this new car offers reasonably sporty performance that some may find incongruous with its sophisticated styling. The front double wishbone and rear multi-link suspension set-up endows the Accord with a well-sorted ride that is almost European in its refinement. The Accord competently soaks up the roads' imperfections yet provides enough body-control for adequately dynamic road behaviour - at least it doesn't pitch and roll like a drunken sailor!

Sum Up

Too many misinformed people associate the Accord with older, more conservative owners. However, the truth is the Accord has shaken off its "uncle image" from at least three generations ago. In the same way the Odyssey has re-defined the MPV segment by offering "no-choice daddies" with something remotely entertaining to drive, own and modify, the Accord has carved out a convincing niche for itself by offering upwardly-mobile young executives a Japanese premium sedan that projects the right image to business associates, yet offers a pliant and entertaining drive to ensure it garners ample respect and sufficient street credibility from the masses.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

Engine: 1,997cc, 4-cylinders in-line
Power: 156bhp @ 6,300rpm
Torque: 189Nm @ 4,300rpm
Transmission: 5-speed automatic
0-100 km/h: 11 seconds

Length / Width / Height: 4,945 / 1,845 / 1,475 mm
Wheelbase: 2,800 mm

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