Honda Accord (North America eighth generation)
Encyclopedia
The North American eighth generation Honda Accord is a mid-size
sedan and coupe
introduced for the 2008 model year. It is also marketed in parts of Asia
and as the Honda Inspire
in Japan.
The size of the 2008 Accord has been increased by 4 inches (102 mm) in length and 3 inches (76 mm) in width. As a result, the interior space is also enlarged: an Accord sedan is considered a full-size car
by EPA standards, having a combined interior space of 120 cubic feet (3.4 m³) without moonroof and 115 cubic feet (3.3 m³) with. The Accord coupe is still classified as a mid-size car
, as it has a combined interior space of 104 cubic feet (2.9 m³) without moonroof and 101.6 cubic feet (2.9 m³) with moonroof. Unlike most full-sized sedans, the parking brake lever has always remained on the center console like the previous generations, as opposed to the driver footwell.
A hybrid version is no longer offered, as Honda felt their "hybrid system works better on smaller cars".
was unveiled at the 2007 North American International Auto Show
. It previewed the production 2-door model with i-VTEC VCM V6 engine and "Advanced Compatibility Engineering" body structure.
The production sedan and coupe were unveiled on 2007-08-21. Sales of US models began on 2007-09-12 for the sedan, and on 2007-09-20 for the coupe.
Show, Honda unveiled a concept Accord coupe showcasing Honda Factory Performance products.
In Canada, sedan trims include the LX, EX, EX-L, EX V6, and EX-L V6, while coupes have the EX, EX-L, EX-L V6, and EX-L V6 6MT. The LX designation was the de facto replacement for the VP and DX-G trims in the previous generation, while the EX replaced the SE. The LX includes anti-lock brakes with brake assist and electronic brake force distribution, electronic stability control
, front and rear disc brakes, air conditioning
, keyless entry, power windows, power locks, and cruise control
as standard features, while also having body-colored door handles and mirrors. The EX includes a more powerful version of the 2.4L DOHC i-VTEC engine with 190-hp, power moonroof, 17-inch alloy wheels, 8-way adjustable driver's seat, security system, and a 6-disc CD changer. EX-L denotes Accords with leather upholstery, XM satellite radio, and an optional navigation system and hands-free Bluetooth
interface. V6 models have chrome handles, dual exhaust pipes, and fog lamps. The EX-L V6 coupe has 18-inch alloy rims, a rear lip spoiler, and an option of the six-speed manual
in lieu of the standard five-speed automatic transmission.
In the United States, additional models offered include the LX-P sedan, which adds illuminated power window switches, an 8-way driver's seat and 16-inch alloy wheels, and the LX-S coupe, which replaces the 177-hp engine with a 190-hp, 17" alloy wheels, and a 6-disc CD changer.
. Inside, Honda has added steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters to the EX-L V6 Coupe, and USB connectivity for all coupe models and EX/EX-L sedans. A rearview camera is now standard with the available navigation system on the sedan. EX-L V6 models gain memory seats and all models get new cloths and some minor instrument panel and control modifications. A new SE model will be offered mid range. New improved aerodynamics and a reworked five-speed automatic transmission help the Accord gain 23 mpg (city) and 34 mpg (hwy).
, Mercedes Benz and Lexus
, to become the number one import brand in Korea as sales of Honda vehicles surged 95% in the first seven months in that year. A right-hand-drive variant of the North American Accord model is sold as the Honda Inspire
in Japan.
The V6 i-VTEC VCM engines feature improved fuel efficiency due to the Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system, which shuts off two or three of the cylinders depending on the type of driving (i.e. city driving, uphill/downhill driving, highway driving). Engines lacking VCM results in a decrease of 4 MPG in highway fuel economy.
The V-6 engines were re-rated in 2009 model year.
models are available in PZEV configurations. V6 PZEV models include only i-VTEC VCM engines with 5-speed automatic transmission
s. PZEV engines include 2 modes of exhaust valve operation. At Below 2500 rpm, only 1 exhaust valve operates, creating a strong rotational flow in the exhaust gases that creates a "thermal reactor" effect to reduce hydrocarbon emissions. Above 2500rpm where exhaust flow increases, a hydraulically actuated pin locks the rockers for both exhaust valves together so they operate in unison, following a single cam profile.
Due to a smaller profit margin on a PZEV for the manufacturer, Honda has forbidden sales of the Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle version of the car outside California
, Florida
, Vermont
, Connecticut
, Arizona
, Maryland
, Massachusetts
, Pennsylvania
, New York
, Oregon
, Maine
, New Jersey
, Rhode Island
, New Mexico
and Washington.
(VSA) and traction control
, anti-lock brakes with brake assist and electronic brake force distribution, tire pressure monitoring system, and active front head restraints for all models.
The Accord is the first mid-size car to include stability and traction control as standard equipment across the lineup.
In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
(IIHS) tests the Accord sedan received the top "Good" rating in 13 of 14 measured categories, while receiving an "Acceptable" rating in the structure/safety cage category of the side impact test, earning it a "Top Safety Pick" designation from the IIHS, an honor not bestowed upon most of the Accord's competitors. The Accord lost this award due to its "Acceptable" score in roof strength evaluations.
2009 Accord sedan NHSTA crash scores:
placed the 2008 Honda Accord EX first in a comparison test of four cylinder mid-size sedans against the then recently redesigned/updated Toyota Camry
, Nissan Altima
, Chevrolet Malibu
, Hyundai Sonata
, and Dodge Avenger
, as well as the Ford Fusion. Edmunds.com
InsideLine also placed the LX-P and EX-L V6 Navi sedans first in a comparison against the Nissan Altima, Toyota Camry, and Chevrolet Malibu, praising it for its all-around performance, high build quality, responsive handling, and excellent fuel economy. However, MotorTrend magazine criticized the Accord for being too heavy, feeling not so nimble as the previous model, its polarizing appearance, and for its less-than-stellar showing against the considerably improved Chevrolet Malibu
in their 2008 Car of the Year
competition. Car and Driver
also ranked the Accord EX-L first in a comparison against the second-generation Mazda6 and 2010 Ford Fusion, and the 2011 Honda Accord EX-L V6 has fared well against the newer 2012 Volkswagen Passat 3.6 SEL and the 2012 Hyundai Sonata 2.0T Limited.
Several reviewers have considered the Accord Coupe superior to its primary competition, the Nissan Altima
Coupe, in all categories such as passenger space, dynamics, and overall refinement.
The Accord is the top pick mid-size vehicle in the Consumer Reports
rankings, due to its standard stability control despite having a slightly lower score than the Nissan Altima, while Consumer Guide has named the Accord a "Best Buy". The Accord also won Car and Driver's 10Best trophy in 2008 and 2009, a total of 23 times in the nameplate's history, winning it more times than any other vehicle by far. US sales have been up 9.4%, as SUV buyers shift to the V6 Accord. The 2008 - 2011 Honda Accord was awarded a best-in-class rating of 4 1/2 stars by the JB car pages. The Accord was the most-searched vehicle on CarMax for the fourth consecutive year, due to reliability and comfort.
hatchback
manufactured and marketed by Japanese automaker Honda
. On July 7, 2009, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. announced sales for Fall of 2009 as a 2010 model. The Crosstour slots below the Pilot
in price and size in Honda's SUV
lineup; the Crosstour is longer but only has two rows of seating compared to the Pilot's three.
The Honda Accord Crosstour is a hatchback
variation of the American-market Accord sedan, with completely different bodywork but sharing the same platform and mechanical components. The Crosstour is powered by the 3.5-liter V6 engine and a choice of either front-wheel or all-wheel drive, with prices starting at $29,670, slightly more than the Accord sedan. In mid 2011 Honda has changed the "Accord Crosstour" name to just "Crosstour" reasoning for this however has not been found.
The Accord Crosstour is a competitor to the Toyota Venza
, a wagon based upon the Accord's perennial competitor, the Toyota Camry
. The Crosstour and Acura ZDX
are said to be inspired by the BMW X6
and upcoming 5 Series Gran Turismo
. The Accord Crosstour is sold currently in the US, Canada, Mexico, China and Russia. Despite common belief, the Accord Crosstour is not closely mechanically related to the Acura ZDX, although both share the same platform. Honda previously tried this approach with the 1999-2003 Honda Avancier
in Japan only but cancelled it due to disappointing sales. It also resembles the same platform as Toyota's hybrid vehicle, the Prius
.
Since October 2010, Crosstour has been built and marketed in China by GAC-Honda. Available in 3.5 V6 2WD and 4WD versions, it sells for nearly twice as much as the North American models, although the Chinese market prefers sedans over hatchback
s.
page, where it received marked criticism of its styling. In violation of Honda policy, Product Manager Eddie Okubo posted comments defending the vehicle on the Facebook page, without first declaring his conflict of interest with Honda and without noting that his posting was his opinion. Honda subsequently removed his comments and released updated photos.
Mid-size car
A mid-size car is the North American/Australian standard for an automobile with a size equal to or greater than that of a compact...
sedan and coupe
Coupé
A coupé or coupe is a closed car body style , the precise definition of which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, and over time...
introduced for the 2008 model year. It is also marketed in parts of Asia
Asia
Asia is the world's largest and most populous continent, located primarily in the eastern and northern hemispheres. It covers 8.7% of the Earth's total surface area and with approximately 3.879 billion people, it hosts 60% of the world's current human population...
and as the Honda Inspire
Honda Inspire
The Honda Inspire is a luxury sedan introduced by Honda in 1990 and based on the Honda Accord chassis. The first Inspire debuted in 1990 as the Accord Inspire, a sister nameplate to the Honda Vigor, then the Honda Vigor was exported to the USA as an Acura...
in Japan.
The size of the 2008 Accord has been increased by 4 inches (102 mm) in length and 3 inches (76 mm) in width. As a result, the interior space is also enlarged: an Accord sedan is considered a full-size car
Full-size car
A full-size car is a marketing term used in North America for an automobile larger than a mid-size car. In the United States, the EPA uses "large car" to denote full-size cars....
by EPA standards, having a combined interior space of 120 cubic feet (3.4 m³) without moonroof and 115 cubic feet (3.3 m³) with. The Accord coupe is still classified as a mid-size car
Mid-size car
A mid-size car is the North American/Australian standard for an automobile with a size equal to or greater than that of a compact...
, as it has a combined interior space of 104 cubic feet (2.9 m³) without moonroof and 101.6 cubic feet (2.9 m³) with moonroof. Unlike most full-sized sedans, the parking brake lever has always remained on the center console like the previous generations, as opposed to the driver footwell.
A hybrid version is no longer offered, as Honda felt their "hybrid system works better on smaller cars".
Honda Accord Coupe concept (2007)
The Honda Accord Coupe concept carConcept car
A concept vehicle or show vehicle is a car made to showcase new styling and or new technology. They are often shown at motor shows to gauge customer reaction to new and radical designs which may or may not have a chance of being produced....
was unveiled at the 2007 North American International Auto Show
North American International Auto Show
The North American International Auto Show is an annual auto show held in Detroit, Michigan at Cobo Center, usually in January. It is among the largest auto shows in North America.-History:...
. It previewed the production 2-door model with i-VTEC VCM V6 engine and "Advanced Compatibility Engineering" body structure.
The production sedan and coupe were unveiled on 2007-08-21. Sales of US models began on 2007-09-12 for the sedan, and on 2007-09-20 for the coupe.
2008 Honda Accord Coupe HF-S concept (2007)
At the 2007 SEMASEMA
Specialty Equipment Market Association of the automobile aftermarket was formed in 1963 by Roy Richter, Ed Iskenderian, Willie Garner, Bob Hedman, John Bartlett, Phil Weiand, Jr., Al Segal, Dean Moon, and Vic Edelbrock, Jr...
Show, Honda unveiled a concept Accord coupe showcasing Honda Factory Performance products.
Trim levels
Electronic stability control
Electronic stability control is a computerized technology that may potentially improve the safety of a vehicle's stability by detecting and minimizing skids. When ESC detects loss of steering control, it automatically applies the brakes to help "steer" the vehicle where the driver intends to go...
, front and rear disc brakes, air conditioning
Air conditioning
An air conditioner is a home appliance, system, or mechanism designed to dehumidify and extract heat from an area. The cooling is done using a simple refrigeration cycle...
, keyless entry, power windows, power locks, and cruise control
Cruise control
Cruise control is a system that automatically controls the speed of a motor vehicle. The system takes over the throttle of the car to maintain a steady speed as set by the driver.-History:...
as standard features, while also having body-colored door handles and mirrors. The EX includes a more powerful version of the 2.4L DOHC i-VTEC engine with 190-hp, power moonroof, 17-inch alloy wheels, 8-way adjustable driver's seat, security system, and a 6-disc CD changer. EX-L denotes Accords with leather upholstery, XM satellite radio, and an optional navigation system and hands-free Bluetooth
Bluetooth
Bluetooth is a proprietary open wireless technology standard for exchanging data over short distances from fixed and mobile devices, creating personal area networks with high levels of security...
interface. V6 models have chrome handles, dual exhaust pipes, and fog lamps. The EX-L V6 coupe has 18-inch alloy rims, a rear lip spoiler, and an option of the six-speed manual
Manual transmission
A manual transmission, also known as a manual gearbox or standard transmission is a type of transmission used in motor vehicle applications...
in lieu of the standard five-speed automatic transmission.
In the United States, additional models offered include the LX-P sedan, which adds illuminated power window switches, an 8-way driver's seat and 16-inch alloy wheels, and the LX-S coupe, which replaces the 177-hp engine with a 190-hp, 17" alloy wheels, and a 6-disc CD changer.
2011 update
Both the Accord sedan and coupe went through a mid-life cycle update. Both cars feature new front fascias and updated tail lamps. The sedan features the reflective strips seen on the Japanese Honda InspireHonda Inspire
The Honda Inspire is a luxury sedan introduced by Honda in 1990 and based on the Honda Accord chassis. The first Inspire debuted in 1990 as the Accord Inspire, a sister nameplate to the Honda Vigor, then the Honda Vigor was exported to the USA as an Acura...
. Inside, Honda has added steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters to the EX-L V6 Coupe, and USB connectivity for all coupe models and EX/EX-L sedans. A rearview camera is now standard with the available navigation system on the sedan. EX-L V6 models gain memory seats and all models get new cloths and some minor instrument panel and control modifications. A new SE model will be offered mid range. New improved aerodynamics and a reworked five-speed automatic transmission help the Accord gain 23 mpg (city) and 34 mpg (hwy).
Production
The North American 4-cylinder and V-6 Accords were first produced in Honda's Marysville, Ohio, plant. With the eighth generation this plant is now the sole global source of the Accord coupe. Beginning in mid-2009, the majority of the V-6 Accord sedan production was moved to the Honda auto plant in Lincoln, Alabama. Honda's Anna, Ohio, Engine Plant produces the 4-cylinder engines. The US plants supply the majority of Accords to both North and South America.Global marketing
The North American Accord model is also manufactured in Thailand and sold in Southeast Asia, Australia and New Zealand. Variants of the North American Accord models are manufactured for the domestic markets in China and Taiwan. The Japanese-built Accord is sold in the Australian and New Zealand markets as the Accord Euro. In New Zealand the North American Accord is badged as the Accord V6. In 2008, it powered Honda ahead of BMWBMW
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG is a German automobile, motorcycle and engine manufacturing company founded in 1916. It also owns and produces the Mini marque, and is the parent company of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. BMW produces motorcycles under BMW Motorrad and Husqvarna brands...
, Mercedes Benz and Lexus
Lexus
is the luxury vehicle division of Japanese automaker Toyota Motor Corporation. First introduced in 1989 in the United States, Lexus is now sold globally and has become Japan's largest-selling make of premium cars. The Lexus marque is marketed in over 70 countries and territories worldwide, and has...
, to become the number one import brand in Korea as sales of Honda vehicles surged 95% in the first seven months in that year. A right-hand-drive variant of the North American Accord model is sold as the Honda Inspire
Honda Inspire
The Honda Inspire is a luxury sedan introduced by Honda in 1990 and based on the Honda Accord chassis. The first Inspire debuted in 1990 as the Accord Inspire, a sister nameplate to the Honda Vigor, then the Honda Vigor was exported to the USA as an Acura...
in Japan.
Engines
| Model | Years | Type/code | Power, torque@rpm |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accord LX/LX-P Sedan | 2007- | 2354 cc DOHC i-VTEC I4 (K24Z2) | 177 bhp@6500, 161 lbft@4300 |
| Accord EX-L/EX-L Sedan, LX-S/EX/EX-L Coupe | 2007- | 2354 cc DOHC i-VTEC I4 (K24Z3) | 190 bhp@7000, 162 lbft@4400 |
| Accord EX/EX-L V-6 Sedan/Coupe 5AT | 2007–2008 | 3471 cc SOHC i-VTEC VCM V-6 (J35Z2) | 268 bhp@6200, 248 lbft@5000 |
| Accord EX/EX-L V-6 Sedan/Coupe 5AT | 2008- | 3471 cc SOHC i-VTEC VCM V-6 (J35Z2) | 271 bhp@6200, 254 lbft@5000 |
| Accord EX-L V-6 Coupe 6MT | 2007–2008 | 3471 cc SOHC VTEC V-6 (J35Z3) | 268 bhp@6200, 248 lbft@5000 |
| Accord EX-L V-6 Coupe 6MT | 2008- | 3471 cc SOHC VTEC V-6 (J35Z3) | 271 bhp@6200, 251 lbft@5000 |
The V6 i-VTEC VCM engines feature improved fuel efficiency due to the Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system, which shuts off two or three of the cylinders depending on the type of driving (i.e. city driving, uphill/downhill driving, highway driving). Engines lacking VCM results in a decrease of 4 MPG in highway fuel economy.
The V-6 engines were re-rated in 2009 model year.
Transmissions
| Model | Years | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Accord LX/LX-P Sedan | 2007- | 5-speed manual, 5-speed automatic |
| Accord EX-L/EX-L Sedan, LX-S/EX/EX-L Coupe | 2007- | 5-speed manual, 5-speed automatic |
| Accord EX/EX-L V-6 Sedan/Coupe 5AT | 2007- | 5-speed automatic |
| Accord EX-L V-6 Coupe 6MT | 2007- | 6-speed manual |
Chassis
The North American Accord uses the CP2 chassis code for the 2.4-litre 4 cylinder sedan and CS1 for the 4 cylinder coupe. CP3 is for the V6 sedan and CS2 is for the V6 coupe. CP1 is for the 2.0-litre 4 cylinder saloon in Chinese market.PZEV models
All 4-cylinderStraight-4
The inline-four engine or straight-four engine is an internal combustion engine with all four cylinders mounted in a straight line, or plane along the crankcase. The single bank of cylinders may be oriented in either a vertical or an inclined plane with all the pistons driving a common crankshaft....
models are available in PZEV configurations. V6 PZEV models include only i-VTEC VCM engines with 5-speed automatic transmission
Automatic transmission
An automatic transmission is one type of motor vehicle transmission that can automatically change gear ratios as the vehicle moves, freeing the driver from having to shift gears manually...
s. PZEV engines include 2 modes of exhaust valve operation. At Below 2500 rpm, only 1 exhaust valve operates, creating a strong rotational flow in the exhaust gases that creates a "thermal reactor" effect to reduce hydrocarbon emissions. Above 2500rpm where exhaust flow increases, a hydraulically actuated pin locks the rockers for both exhaust valves together so they operate in unison, following a single cam profile.
Due to a smaller profit margin on a PZEV for the manufacturer, Honda has forbidden sales of the Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle version of the car outside California
California
California is a state located on the West Coast of the United States. It is by far the most populous U.S. state, and the third-largest by land area...
, Florida
Florida
Florida is a state in the southeastern United States, located on the nation's Atlantic and Gulf coasts. It is bordered to the west by the Gulf of Mexico, to the north by Alabama and Georgia and to the east by the Atlantic Ocean. With a population of 18,801,310 as measured by the 2010 census, it...
, Vermont
Vermont
Vermont is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. The state ranks 43rd in land area, , and 45th in total area. Its population according to the 2010 census, 630,337, is the second smallest in the country, larger only than Wyoming. It is the only New England...
, Connecticut
Connecticut
Connecticut is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States. It is bordered by Rhode Island to the east, Massachusetts to the north, and the state of New York to the west and the south .Connecticut is named for the Connecticut River, the major U.S. river that approximately...
, Arizona
Arizona
Arizona ; is a state located in the southwestern region of the United States. It is also part of the western United States and the mountain west. The capital and largest city is Phoenix...
, Maryland
Maryland
Maryland is a U.S. state located in the Mid Atlantic region of the United States, bordering Virginia, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia to its south and west; Pennsylvania to its north; and Delaware to its east...
, Massachusetts
Massachusetts
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. It is bordered by Rhode Island and Connecticut to the south, New York to the west, and Vermont and New Hampshire to the north; at its east lies the Atlantic Ocean. As of the 2010...
, Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is a U.S. state that is located in the Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States. The state borders Delaware and Maryland to the south, West Virginia to the southwest, Ohio to the west, New York and Ontario, Canada, to the north, and New Jersey to...
, New York
New York
New York is a state in the Northeastern region of the United States. It is the nation's third most populous state. New York is bordered by New Jersey and Pennsylvania to the south, and by Connecticut, Massachusetts and Vermont to the east...
, Oregon
Oregon
Oregon is a state in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. It is located on the Pacific coast, with Washington to the north, California to the south, Nevada on the southeast and Idaho to the east. The Columbia and Snake rivers delineate much of Oregon's northern and eastern...
, Maine
Maine
Maine is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and south, New Hampshire to the west, and the Canadian provinces of Quebec to the northwest and New Brunswick to the northeast. Maine is both the northernmost and easternmost...
, New Jersey
New Jersey
New Jersey is a state in the Northeastern and Middle Atlantic regions of the United States. , its population was 8,791,894. It is bordered on the north and east by the state of New York, on the southeast and south by the Atlantic Ocean, on the west by Pennsylvania and on the southwest by Delaware...
, Rhode Island
Rhode Island
The state of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, more commonly referred to as Rhode Island , is a state in the New England region of the United States. It is the smallest U.S. state by area...
, New Mexico
New Mexico
New Mexico is a state located in the southwest and western regions of the United States. New Mexico is also usually considered one of the Mountain States. With a population density of 16 per square mile, New Mexico is the sixth-most sparsely inhabited U.S...
and Washington.
Safety
The Accord received several key safety updates for the 2008 model year, most notably vehicle stability assistElectronic stability control
Electronic stability control is a computerized technology that may potentially improve the safety of a vehicle's stability by detecting and minimizing skids. When ESC detects loss of steering control, it automatically applies the brakes to help "steer" the vehicle where the driver intends to go...
(VSA) and traction control
Traction control system
A traction control system , also known as anti-slip regulation , is typically a secondary function of the anti-lock braking system on production motor vehicles, designed to prevent loss of traction of driven road wheels...
, anti-lock brakes with brake assist and electronic brake force distribution, tire pressure monitoring system, and active front head restraints for all models.
The Accord is the first mid-size car to include stability and traction control as standard equipment across the lineup.
In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is a U.S. non-profit organization funded by auto insurers, established in 1959 and headquartered in Arlington, Virginia. It works to reduce the number of motor vehicle crashes, and the rate of injuries and amount of property damage in the crashes that...
(IIHS) tests the Accord sedan received the top "Good" rating in 13 of 14 measured categories, while receiving an "Acceptable" rating in the structure/safety cage category of the side impact test, earning it a "Top Safety Pick" designation from the IIHS, an honor not bestowed upon most of the Accord's competitors. The Accord lost this award due to its "Acceptable" score in roof strength evaluations.
2009 Accord sedan NHSTA crash scores:
- Frontal Driver:
- Frontal Passenger:
- Side Driver:
- Side Rear Passenger:
- Rollover:
Brake wear class action lawsuit
In September 2009, a class action was filed alleging that "the braking system on 2008, 2009, and certain 2010 Honda Accord vehicles as well as 2009 and certain 2010 Acura TSX vehicles ... suffers from a defect that causes excessive force to be applied to the vehicles' rear wheels. One consequence of this defect is that the vehicles' rear brake pads wear out and require replacement about every 15,000 to 20,000 miles, far more frequently than in a properly functioning braking system." On April 6, 2010, a preliminary settlement to the class action was announced where Honda would reimburse owners for a portion of their prior brake repair expenses, and Honda would also pay up to $150 for owners to have redesigned brake pads installed. Final court approval of the settlement is pending a "fairness hearing", scheduled for July 26, 2010.Awards and reception
The eighth generation Accord has garnered mostly positive reviews, with some noting that its chiseled looks and Teutonic styling is reminiscent of the BMW 3 Series and 5 Series. In its March 2008 issue, Car and DriverCar and Driver
Car and Driver is an American automotive enthusiast magazine. Its total circulation is 1.31 million. It is owned by Hearst Magazines, who purchased prior owner Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S. in 2011...
placed the 2008 Honda Accord EX first in a comparison test of four cylinder mid-size sedans against the then recently redesigned/updated Toyota Camry
Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry is a series of mid-size automobiles manufactured by Toyota since 1982, and sold in the majority of automotive markets throughout the world...
, Nissan Altima
Nissan Altima
The Nissan Altima is a mid-size automobile manufactured by Nissan, and is arguably a continuation of the Nissan Bluebird line, which began in 1957. It has historically been larger, more powerful, and more luxurious than the Nissan Sentra but less so than the Nissan Maxima. The Altima is available...
, Chevrolet Malibu
Chevrolet Malibu
Malibus and all other Chevelles were completely restyled for 1968 with semi-fastback rooflines on two-door hardtops and wheelbases split to on two-door models and 118 for four-door sedans and station wagons. Engine offerings included a new V8 rated at that replaced the V8 that had served as the...
, Hyundai Sonata
Hyundai Sonata
The Hyundai Sonata is a mid-size car/full-size car manufactured and marketed globally by Hyundai Motor Company. From the sixth generation onwards, it is known as the i45 in the Australian, Singaporean and New Zealand markets...
, and Dodge Avenger
Dodge Avenger
The Dodge Avenger is a front-wheel drive, mid-size sedan, built by the Chrysler Corporation for the Dodge marque. In its initial debut, the Avenger was produced from 1995 to 2000 as a 2-door coupe...
, as well as the Ford Fusion. Edmunds.com
Edmunds.com
Edmunds.com is a provider of automotive information via Web sites, books, and other media. The company is headquartered in Santa Monica, California and maintains an office outside of Detroit, Michigan...
InsideLine also placed the LX-P and EX-L V6 Navi sedans first in a comparison against the Nissan Altima, Toyota Camry, and Chevrolet Malibu, praising it for its all-around performance, high build quality, responsive handling, and excellent fuel economy. However, MotorTrend magazine criticized the Accord for being too heavy, feeling not so nimble as the previous model, its polarizing appearance, and for its less-than-stellar showing against the considerably improved Chevrolet Malibu
Chevrolet Malibu
Malibus and all other Chevelles were completely restyled for 1968 with semi-fastback rooflines on two-door hardtops and wheelbases split to on two-door models and 118 for four-door sedans and station wagons. Engine offerings included a new V8 rated at that replaced the V8 that had served as the...
in their 2008 Car of the Year
Car of the Year
Car of the Year is a phrase usually considered to have been invented by Motor Trend magazine in the 1950s for their annual award for best American automobile...
competition. Car and Driver
Car and Driver
Car and Driver is an American automotive enthusiast magazine. Its total circulation is 1.31 million. It is owned by Hearst Magazines, who purchased prior owner Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S. in 2011...
also ranked the Accord EX-L first in a comparison against the second-generation Mazda6 and 2010 Ford Fusion, and the 2011 Honda Accord EX-L V6 has fared well against the newer 2012 Volkswagen Passat 3.6 SEL and the 2012 Hyundai Sonata 2.0T Limited.
Several reviewers have considered the Accord Coupe superior to its primary competition, the Nissan Altima
Nissan Altima
The Nissan Altima is a mid-size automobile manufactured by Nissan, and is arguably a continuation of the Nissan Bluebird line, which began in 1957. It has historically been larger, more powerful, and more luxurious than the Nissan Sentra but less so than the Nissan Maxima. The Altima is available...
Coupe, in all categories such as passenger space, dynamics, and overall refinement.
The Accord is the top pick mid-size vehicle in the Consumer Reports
Consumer Reports
Consumer Reports is an American magazine published monthly by Consumers Union since 1936. It publishes reviews and comparisons of consumer products and services based on reporting and results from its in-house testing laboratory. It also publishes cleaning and general buying guides...
rankings, due to its standard stability control despite having a slightly lower score than the Nissan Altima, while Consumer Guide has named the Accord a "Best Buy". The Accord also won Car and Driver's 10Best trophy in 2008 and 2009, a total of 23 times in the nameplate's history, winning it more times than any other vehicle by far. US sales have been up 9.4%, as SUV buyers shift to the V6 Accord. The 2008 - 2011 Honda Accord was awarded a best-in-class rating of 4 1/2 stars by the JB car pages. The Accord was the most-searched vehicle on CarMax for the fourth consecutive year, due to reliability and comfort.
Crosstour (2010–present)
The Crosstour is a full-sizeFull-size car
A full-size car is a marketing term used in North America for an automobile larger than a mid-size car. In the United States, the EPA uses "large car" to denote full-size cars....
hatchback
Hatchback
A Hatchback is a car body style incorporating a shared passenger and cargo volume, with rearmost accessibility via a rear third or fifth door, typically a top-hinged liftgate—and features such as fold-down rear seats to enable flexibility within the shared passenger/cargo volume. As a two-box...
manufactured and marketed by Japanese automaker Honda
Honda
is a Japanese public multinational corporation primarily known as a manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles.Honda has been the world's largest motorcycle manufacturer since 1959, as well as the world's largest manufacturer of internal combustion engines measured by volume, producing more than...
. On July 7, 2009, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. announced sales for Fall of 2009 as a 2010 model. The Crosstour slots below the Pilot
Honda Pilot
The Honda Pilot is a mid-size crossover SUV. The Honda Pilot is built in Lincoln, Alabama, and was also produced in Alliston, Ontario, Canada up until April 2007. The first generation Pilot was released in the summer of 2002 as a 2003 model, and in 2006 it received new front and rear fascias, a...
in price and size in Honda's SUV
Sport utility vehicle
A sport utility vehicle is a generic marketing term for a vehicle similar to a station wagon, but built on a light-truck chassis. It is usually equipped with four-wheel drive for on- or off-road ability, and with some pretension or ability to be used as an off-road vehicle. Not all four-wheel...
lineup; the Crosstour is longer but only has two rows of seating compared to the Pilot's three.
The Honda Accord Crosstour is a hatchback
Hatchback
A Hatchback is a car body style incorporating a shared passenger and cargo volume, with rearmost accessibility via a rear third or fifth door, typically a top-hinged liftgate—and features such as fold-down rear seats to enable flexibility within the shared passenger/cargo volume. As a two-box...
variation of the American-market Accord sedan, with completely different bodywork but sharing the same platform and mechanical components. The Crosstour is powered by the 3.5-liter V6 engine and a choice of either front-wheel or all-wheel drive, with prices starting at $29,670, slightly more than the Accord sedan. In mid 2011 Honda has changed the "Accord Crosstour" name to just "Crosstour" reasoning for this however has not been found.
The Accord Crosstour is a competitor to the Toyota Venza
Toyota Venza
The Toyota Venza is a mid-size crossover SUV produced by Japanese automaker Toyota and unveiled at the 2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit...
, a wagon based upon the Accord's perennial competitor, the Toyota Camry
Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry is a series of mid-size automobiles manufactured by Toyota since 1982, and sold in the majority of automotive markets throughout the world...
. The Crosstour and Acura ZDX
Acura ZDX
The Acura ZDX is a mid-size luxury crossover developed by Honda for its upmarket brand Acura. The car was originally scheduled to be called the Acura MSX. The ZDX debuted at the 2009 New York International Auto Show on April 8, 2009...
are said to be inspired by the BMW X6
BMW X6
The BMW X6 is a mid-size luxury crossover released for sale in the second quarter of 2008 by German automaker BMW. The X6 was marketed as a Sports Activity Coupé by BMW...
and upcoming 5 Series Gran Turismo
BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo
The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is an executive or mid-size car from German manufacturer BMW, which was first displayed at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show as a concept car...
. The Accord Crosstour is sold currently in the US, Canada, Mexico, China and Russia. Despite common belief, the Accord Crosstour is not closely mechanically related to the Acura ZDX, although both share the same platform. Honda previously tried this approach with the 1999-2003 Honda Avancier
Honda Avancier
The Honda Avancier is a 5-seat CUV, sold exclusively in the Japanese market.The Avancier's concept is similar to the Renault Vel Satis, Toyota Opa, Nissan R'nessa, and the Opel Signum—based on the Honda Accord's platform, its tall height allows for an interior more spacious than the Accord...
in Japan only but cancelled it due to disappointing sales. It also resembles the same platform as Toyota's hybrid vehicle, the Prius
Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius is a full hybrid electric mid-size hatchback, formerly a compact sedan developed and manufactured by the Toyota Motor Corporation...
.
Since October 2010, Crosstour has been built and marketed in China by GAC-Honda. Available in 3.5 V6 2WD and 4WD versions, it sells for nearly twice as much as the North American models, although the Chinese market prefers sedans over hatchback
Hatchback
A Hatchback is a car body style incorporating a shared passenger and cargo volume, with rearmost accessibility via a rear third or fifth door, typically a top-hinged liftgate—and features such as fold-down rear seats to enable flexibility within the shared passenger/cargo volume. As a two-box...
s.
Marketing
Honda unveiled the Crosstour on a dedicated FacebookFacebook
Facebook is a social networking service and website launched in February 2004, operated and privately owned by Facebook, Inc. , Facebook has more than 800 million active users. Users must register before using the site, after which they may create a personal profile, add other users as...
page, where it received marked criticism of its styling. In violation of Honda policy, Product Manager Eddie Okubo posted comments defending the vehicle on the Facebook page, without first declaring his conflict of interest with Honda and without noting that his posting was his opinion. Honda subsequently removed his comments and released updated photos.