Has anybody seen the new gold color for the 2003 Accord at their dealer? I am curious as to how it is different from the current gold they have on previous years.
Just wondering if anyone has seen any '03 Accords in Canada? I've driven by 3 Honda dealers this weekend in the Toronto area with none in sight. And no word on pricing on Honda Canada's website either.
The new Gold is darker and less metallic looking than the Naples Gold. Overall, I liked the Naples Gold better than the new Desert Mist. The Desert Mist looks very much like the Desert Sand color available on the Camry. Redondo Red looks very similar to Salsa Red, which is available on the Camry as well.
So far my favorite colors are Graphite Pearl and Redondo Red.
And I was completely impressed. I think the car is much more attractive in person than the pictures. The interior is very nice and feels very upscale. The car is much better in every way than my wife's '01, especially the road and wind noise. The seats were way more comfortable. The interior puts the Camry to shame. Speaking of Camrys, the Toyota salesmen from the dealer next door were checking it out too. I think they will sell the pants off the Camry.
to the dealer where I saw some 03 Accords on Sunday. They had a red metalic EX-I4-L one out front. Very sharp looking from the front (The car was parked facing downward on the showroom ramp which no doubt helped). I was able to pull our '01 EX-I4 along side for a comparision. THe new car looks much more substantial and better styled. However, the wheels still don't really look like 16".
The interior on the new car looks really impressive. Like the exterior, it looks much more substantial (and more expensive) than the previous car. I noticed there is no cover over the center cup holders, but they're bigger. My wife always spills soda in the latch on our car anyway, so maybe no cover is OK. Also noted that there is an overhead dome light in the rear. Good for the kids.
I was checking out the new info on the Honda web site (thanks, cvr16 for the link) under the specifications and noticed that the interior volume for the EX4cyl. and LXv6 is listed as 97.7, compared with 102.7 for the DX and LX. Would that be because of the moonroof? If so, I thought the LXv6 was available without the moonroof, which would make it 102.7, correct? Maybe it's a typo on the new specs. Also, the EXv6 shows us as 98.4, for some reason. Maybe bowke can answer this.
Just priced a 2003 Accord ex-v6 w/ nav. Price topped 30K. That seems quite a bit much for an Accord. Granted, it was fully loaded with extra goodies like foglights and different wheels. Still seemed steep.
Maybe this isn't the right forum but to respond...
The Camry is overpriced because it is too close to the Lexus
At that price, the Passat is overpriced because it is too close to the Audi
The Altima is overpriced because it is too close to the G35.
And now, the Accord is overpriced because it is too close to the Acura.
And go to www.hondacars.com, price the accord with the goodies that I talked about (foglights are admittedly a luxury), and it tops 30k.
All that said, I understand that these are the highest priced versions of these models vs. lower priced premium alternatives. Most people will buy the LX accord (probably w/out nav) at around 24K. That I understand. But I wonder what the incentive is to get one of these fully loaded cars when the premium brand is so close? Just a thought, not an argument...
You have to admit that at the $27,800 base price the V6/NAV is very well equipped/priced when compared to its' competition. I checked out the Camry XLE and Altima SE V6 and both came out at close to $28K as well without the NAV.
As for the issue of why the "lower brand" vs the "premium brand" - the comparable vehicle of the "premium brand" will usually cost you much more than the "lower brand". The base TL with NAV runs over $36.5 MSRP. Even if you add all the goodies you did, it is $6K more than the tarted out Accord. The G35/Altima is closer as I was able to get the G35 comparable to the Altima at $30.5 vs $28.
IMHO, many buyers may also have a mental block against crossing over the $30K threshold. Either they don't want to go over the $30K or they don't want to give off what they perceive to be a bad impression.
Besides, very few top of the line Accords, Passats, Altimas, Camrys are sold - the same goes for bottom line TL's, A4's, G35's, and ES300's.
Had the day off so I decided to take a closer look at the new Accord. Local dealership had about 7; only one EX-V6 with leather, one LX-4, and the rest EX-4 with leather.
First, I test drove a beige (forget the color name) EX-4 with the tan interior and wood trim. Very nice car, but you could definitely tell you were driving a 4 cylinder. There was more engine noise than the V6, and there was a noticeable lag in part throttle response time, especially when accelerating from 30 to 50 mph. Braking was very good, with exceptional modulation (no sudden "grabs"). The suspension soaked up many bumps and a few potholes with no complaints. Interior appointments were excellent...I didn't mind the wood trim at all. Fit and finish were very good, with only a slight panel misalignment at the passenger side of the bottom center console. The glovebox did not pop open by itself on either car (as I've heard reported). The EX-4 with leather cars all had the single 5 spoke alloy wheels (not to be confused with the split 5 spoke wheels found on the EX-V6 coupe with manual trans), which look MUCH better than the 7 spoke alloys on the V6 models. I wish the V6 models had the 5 spoke wheels...much more sporty looking.
The V6 (a silver with black leather interior and silver trim)is a beast of another nature. In fact, engine response is so good that initial throttle tip-in resulted in a lurch forward. It's something that was easily correctable by modulating the throttle pedal with a bit more finesse than with the 4 cylinder. But, MY OH MY, does this car rock with the V6! Under full throttle starts from standstill the car pushes you back in the seat and glides forward effortlessly, the engine emitting a pleasant growl as you approach redline. During normal cruising I couldn't hear the engine at all, the interior is very quiet. HOWEVER, the Accord is definitely NOT a sports sedan when it comes to handling. While it does impart a level of confidence, there was too much body roll and nose dive when braking before turns. The tires were quiet and did not howl in protest, but the car itself needs to corner flatter to elicit the kind of adrenaline-inducing fun a lot of people are looking for.
Summary: Honda has a winner on its hands, especially with the V6. Ergonomics, fit, and finish were generally superb; switchgear still has that typical Honda "feel" that other car manufacturers can only dream about. The car is very quiet (especially with the V6), the transmission shifts were noticeable but not intrusive, and interior room was generous. Honda only needs to beef up the cornering capabilities of the suspension before calling it a sports sedan.
I was looking at an EX-I4-L with automatic on Sunday. The sticker was just over 24,000. Pretty good content for the price. I don't really get the NAV thing - for $2,000 you can buy a $4 map that is probably more acurate.
NAV is one of those things we will all have in our vehicles in about 10 yrs I figure. Today, $2K is a lot to many people. But if you constantly use it (ie sales rep, contractor, visiting nurse, service technician), I could see how it can easily become very useful.
Your point is very well taken. I honestly think there is a $30k barrier to a lot of people, not because it has any real financial justification (i.e. $28,500 v. $30,000 over the life of the lease/financing isn't all that significant). But the TL w/ nav starts at 31K. The argument then is that the TL has 225hp v. 240 for the fully loaded accord, and that argument is certainly well taken. For the average family dollar, the Accord wins 9 times out of 10.
The fact is that the brains at Honda, who know a whole lot more about their products and marketing than I do, determined that cannibalization would be rare enough to offer the "ultimate accord" at nearly $30,000.
The Accord certainly is a quality car. Certainly a great value at 24k, and probably a good value at 28k, regardless of what else is available at that price.
To be clear, I don't think that the Acura brand offers a significant quality improvement over the Honda -- same engines, same fake wood accents, etc. It just goes back to that mental thing. Personally, I am still excited about the new Honda as far as value is concerned. Not enough to give up my current car, but maybe for my wife in the near future.
...I swear, when I priced out a base TL with NAV on Acura.com earlier today it came out at $36.5K. Someone at Acura is messing with me, I just know it!! LOL - Ah now I see it - the destination is $500 not $5,000 - my bad.
Well then quite a bit of my argument goes right out the window although the $30K threshold really is a mental barrier. I know that's where I will be with my next purchase and I don't want to go over it by very much!!
Personally, I await the TSX to see if it is a real sports sedan. I love my 98 Accord, but have no pretensions that it is a sports sedan by any stretch of the imagination.
I stopped by after work today at local Honda dealer to have a look, and came away impressed. They had a graphite EX4cyl. at the entrance to the showroom that was getting most of the attetion, and that color gives the car a very nice, class look. The interior gives me a slightly roomier feel than the 02s, which I like. I'm 6-0 and my son with me is 6-3 -- neither of us had any problem with legroom or headroom, and this was with a moonroof. Without the moonroof, I'm sure the headroom would be even better.
The interior felt very "together" to me -- comfortable, well laid out. I've looked hard at the Camry, but I feel like I'm rattling around a little in that interior. I won't even mention the Altima interior -- there I did it, but it's nowhere near the class of the Accord's, IMO.
They had a bunch of EX4cyls, so I didn't drive one because I'm interested in the V6. He has a couple of EXv6's and one LXv6 due in October. I'm interested in the LX because I want the extra headroom (without the moonroof). This salesperson said the LXv6 is a "rare" car, but the Honda news release says the LXv6 is the most pular V6 model.
Well, this isn't much I know because I haven't driven it, but if you're like me and looking for decent interior room (i.e., you don't feel cramped) but still want a sense of connection with the car, you should check this one out. It felt like a great compromise between sheer size and too small.
I think I'll get an LXV6, provided I can get a decent deal. May wind up ordering.
It's already been pointed out that your prices for the TL were wrong. Another couple of points:
What exactly is a "bottom line TL," and what do you mean that few are sold? The only factory options for the TL are the navigation system and the "Type S." Last I heard, most TL's sold are the base (AKA Premium) without navigation. That would make it a "bottom line TL," right?
Also, TL's can be purchased for approximately $500 over dealer invoice right now (maybe less). I'm guessing that it will be a little while before the 2003 Accord V6 comes down from MSRP. So, right now, a TL-Premium with navigation is $29371 vs. the Accord V6 with navigation for $28260. The difference is $1111. Go with the TL-S for a total difference of about $3250.
That brings us to my decision: 2003 TL-S/nav or 2003 Accord V6/nav. Or, I could wait to see the 2003 TL-S (or wait for the Accord price to drop).
.....and all I can say is, GEEZ, I love this car! I grew up with Hondas all my life and recently found myself at a crossroads with my 2000 Accord V6 --- either put in around $700 worth of tires, brake pads, and the 60,000-mile service, OR put that money toward a brand new Accord. After searching this site (which has been extremely valuable to me, I might add), I decided that it was time to "go for it" and drive the 2003 Accord. I've heard all kinds of differing comments about the body styling, but it personally impressed me. Once I took it for a drive, it was all she wrote. I fell in love with this car instantly. I tend to be a bit of a speed demon (well, OK, a LOT of a speed demon), and the power behind this V-6 blew my 2000 V-6 out of the water. I don't know all the technical language that many of you guys talk about on this site. All I can say is this car is unlike any other Honda (and any other comparable car I test-drove over the past month). I don't know the difference between engine noise, road noise, throttle tips, or body roll. All I know is it's a wonderful, exciting car to drive, strikingly beautiful (IMHO), and actually makes me want to get up in the morning and drive my normal 65 miles to my office. Each time I look at the car, I find more and more things that prompt me to say, "wow, isn't it cool they thought of that"....
Therefore, this car is now parked in my garage --- the EX-V6, graphite pearl, leather, spoiler, etc, etc, etc, (no nav, though -- I agree with the guy's comment above about buying a $4 map....hysterical!). Oh, and my buying price was strictly MSRP plus splash guards and another coat of clear coat on the hood which I asked for. No add-ons or market adjustments at this dealer whatsoever. Bottom line - around $27,400. Well worth giving this 38 year-old single mom a little "charge" in her life, even if it DOES have to come from a car!!!
Congrats, gmg! Yes, the V6 is truly a magnificent engine. It was one of the things that brought a smile to my face when I test drove the Accord today.
By the way, have you had a chance to drive your Accord at night? I read somewhere that the center console of the Accord is softly lit from an exterior source (like an overhead light). Can you verify or describe what the interior of the car looks like at night?
Saw several on a dealer's lot Sunday. The look is really nice, particularly the profile, and the way the C pillar meets the body; almost a Mercedes look. The front is good too, especially the way the headlights are a bit inboard from the fenders. The only weak point, I think, is the taillight design, but its not that bad. A very sleek, clean looking car.
I am looking forward to seeing the Coupe when it arrives.
Having only picked up the car yesterday, I didn't get a chance to drive it at night.....Even though it's after 11 pm, I'm half-tempted to sneak out to the garage in my nightgown and slippers and take the car out for a spin through the neighborhood...just to check out the "soft lighting" near the center console. I do remember seeing some kind of tiny light up near the sunglass holder/HomeLink stuff, in addition to the dual reading lights. Speaking of lighting, the "ready-set-go" dashboard illumination effect is completely cool. Definitely makes everything on the whole dashboard much easier to see - even in daylight.
One other nifty thing that I didn't have on my 2000 Accord: when you hit the unlock button on your key 3 times (and holding it down on the 3rd), your car windows all roll down. May seem like old news to some people, but this was one of those "wow-ie" things to me. (I guess I'm one of those easily-impressed saps that so many of you guys despise!) I'll check out the nighttime effects and will let you know!
I already acknowledged my error in the base (non S) TL price. You are correct in your deduction that TL Premium non Nav is base model.
What I meant by few base premium brands is that in my experience Audi, Lexus, Infiniti may have a sub $30K model on the books, but it is a rarity to find.
The TL Premium does not fit into that category as most TL's sold are just that - I jumped the gun on that one. Remember I thought acura.com listed it at $36.5K. At the $1100 extra for the TL, it's a toss up - I would go for the Accord personally.
After combing over all the new features on the accord, i am happy with it!!! However the 2 concerns i still have is that a fully decked out ex-v6 model really seems to be expensive, and the other thing that i can not seem to accept is the exterior styling, i know i know, it is subjective, but if only they could take the old skin of the 2002, and stick the 2003 interior in it, and all the new features as well!!!! My 2 cents!!!!
As shown on the Honda web site today, MSRP for the EX-V6 is $25800, including the destination charge. What was the extra $1600 for? That seems like a lot for splash guards and clear coat on the hood.
>> As shown on the Honda web site today, MSRP for the EX-V6 is $25800, including the destination charge. What was the extra $1600 for? That seems like a lot for splash guards and clear coat on the hood. <<
She stated in her original message that her Accord also had the spoiler. I know that's about an extra $500 plus installation costs...maybe something that the dealer had already added to the car before she bought it, since no Accords come standard with a spoiler.
Maybe her final price included taxes, dealer paperwork fees, registration?
I know it is weird, but Honda's quoted MSRP etc don't include the destination charge of $460. There is just a note at the bottom of all the pricing sheets that the destination of $460 isn't included.
So between the $460 you missed and the spoiler that shado pointed out, I guess she paid somewhere in the "MSRP+a little" vicinity.
$460 d&d= $26260. a total increase of $500. you are all talking about the accord getting expensive, but for all the new gadgets and gizmos, $500 is quite a bargain, IMO. $26260 + $699 for an installed spoiler = $26959 + $219 for installed muds = $27178, which leaves $222 for the clearcoat to arrive at $27400...sounds like good math to me.
austinman...i honestly have no clue to the reasons why the interior volume is different on each car...ill check into it though.
gmg1031...you only have to hold the unlock button on the 2nd punch to open the windows...also, did you know that the windows close too???
all you have to do is insert the key into the driver door lock, turn it to lock, then turn it to lock a second time and hold it there. fun, fun, fun! by the way, your salesperson should have shown you everything from top to bottom on the car...if you feel the delivery process was incomplete, go back and ask for a proper demonstration! the salesperson needs to do it right to earn his/her scores of '5' on the survey you will get!
The price of the new EXV6 without the Navi system is $25,800 plus Destination: $26,260 The 2002 model went for $25,300 plus Destination: $25,760. A $500 increase! My goodness. Really, the Accord doesn't look all that expensive until you add the Navi, which is useless to me. Nothing like a good ole map. I could see where someone might need the Navi though, but for $2000 extra! Nope! I've got my $4 dollars on the table, and I'll go to Wal-Mart and buy my map, thank you very much. That's way cheaper than some Altima prices. Heck an Altima at INVOICE can cost $26,260 and more, but this is the Accord at MSRP. $500 more is worth it if you ask me. You get 40 more horsepower, dual climate control that is automatic, better seats, new styling, key operated window down feature, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, a better looking and feeling interior, bigger alloy wheels and those cool new gauges. Now, the Accord V6 as a car is not expensive or overpriced, IMO, it's the Navigation systems that are expensive. Same goes for the ones in the Acuras, Nissans, Hondas, Toyotas, and other makes. $2000 for a system that shows you how to go from place to place is just too much. Did I mention that I love the new Accord? Especially the EX with Leather trim models. I also LOVE the Black leather interior trim. Beautiful!
GMG1031
Congrats to you on the purchase of the new Accord, do you have a digital camera? If so, take some pics and post them of your new ride in the Accord Owners section. I have two Accords myself, and I can tell you that they last forever. I have a 1991 EX and 1992 DX and both run great and get great gas mileage. You can't beat Honda for value and dependibility, but you already know that since you had a 2000.
Hmmm.....Honda Accord EX or EX with Leather.....
Also, I have a question for everyone.
Do you think it's worth the price difference to go ahead and get an EX as opposed to the LX? I was sitting at home yesterday evening looking at the specs for the new Accord, I noted all the features that come with the EX as opposed to the LX. You get 16 inch alloys, a sunroof, driver's seat power height adjustment-still no power driver's seat for the EX security system, steering wheel audio controls, body-colored door trim and a different seating cloth, although I think the EX's cloth looks somewhat cheap-looking. Also you get the faux wood or metallic trim with the EX models.
Which do you think would be the better choice. I am on a budget and would like to keep my prices in line. I also consider the Camry LE/SE Altima 2.5S, Mazda 6i and VW Passat GL/GLS as competitors.
Which Accord model would you choose, and why. Right now I am looking more at the EX, but I think the LX is a better value for some reason. Boy I sound like my father.
college hills honda lists 03 spoiler for like $360 and muds for like $60. I will never buy these things with the car. It upsets what can otherwise be a good deal. INKY
I am asking myself the same question. I really like the V6 but will be using as a commuting car so the I4 makes more sense. I would rather not have the sunroof and I don't like the fake wood, but do want the 16" wheels. If the alloys can be added (like on the 2002) I would really consider the LX.
However, for the 2002 the tires were the same size for the LX & EX so the only cost would be for the rims. To upgrade to 16" you will need new tires as well pushing the price up to $1000+. This narrows the gap and for an additional $1500, or so, you can get all the other stuff with the EX.
Value is always an interesting question, because I feel it all depends on what you're looking for.
Let's say you walk onto a lot, and you don't want to spend more than $24K. That's it, that's all. The most car for your money, maybe an LX. Now the dealer says, "Hey now, hey now, hey now. I got this sweeeet little ride here, an EX with leather and mud flaps, and I'll throw in a smile and a wink for free! Only $26K!" Sure, it's a good value. Nice car, nice feature content (the EX over the LX). But it's more than you wanted to spend. He could offer you a brand new Porshe 911 Turbo for $26k, and it would still be more than you wanted to spend!
I tell this ridiculous tale only to illustrate a point: the EX is more than the LX. So you have to ask yourself, what do you want to spend? What are your limits? What do you feel fits into your budget? Both the LX and the EX offer great feature content for the cash, but if you don't like your payment, then it was a poor value for you.
is an important consideration for me as are spending limits. I'd sacrifice the auto transmission to get an EX for the CD/sunroof/wheels. I may even have to splurge for the leather just to get dual-zone climate controls - try a road trip with my wife...
If money is your key factor, now would be a good time to look at Camry or Altima. They will probably be more willing to deal not having the current "hot" product. I wouldn't associate value and Passat in the same sentance. Its a nice enough car, but really a half-step up in price from the Accord/Camry/Altima (and a half-step down in size). The new Mazda6 may be worth waiting for too becauase Mazda will likely be agressive with its pricing in order to re-establish itself in this segment.
I think this is a quandry many of us face in looking at these products.
I think the SE package won't be offered for another 2 years at least. Right now, with new model and trim levels, wouldn't make sense to offer an SE.
I saw the new Accord yesterday - black with I think black or charcoal interior (was locked, could not get inside).
I think it looks awesome. I don't know what cameras people have been using but pictures don't do it justice. There is a real substantial feel to it, especially in the C-pillar and hind quarters.
I think the tail is reminiscent of the 90 Accord and believe it will be nicely updated over the next 3 years.
The overall shape is very sleek. The headlights are very cool from all angles, even from the back side.
It's not overly-styled like the Altima, and I think it will age much more gracefully than the Altima.
It's not as sophisticated a looker as the Camry (IMO), but does impart a sporty impression.
I'm not crazy about wheel covers - I would get the alloys.
Overall, a very good job, Honda. Can't wait to see it more this weekend.
I'm also eager to see the Accord Coupe - I've had the pic of the black coupe as my wallpaper for like a month and I'm still enthralled by it. Can't wait ...
is typically offered right at the end of the model cycle to boost or sustain sales for the outgoing car. Its typically an options package that puts the car between an LX and EX. They also had a VP available on the '02 that bridged the DX and LX.
>> >> As shown on the Honda web site today, MSRP for the EX-V6 is $25800, including the destination charge. What was the extra $1600 for? That seems like a lot for splash guards and clear coat on the hood. <<
She stated in her original message that her Accord also had the spoiler. I know that's about an extra $500 plus installation costs...maybe something that the dealer had already added to the car before she bought it, since no Accords come standard with a spoiler.
Maybe her final price included taxes, dealer paperwork fees, registration? <<
OK, subtracting the $460 from the $1600, that's $1140 for a spoiler, splash guards and clear coat on the hood. Does anybody really think that's a good deal?
Does anyone here know if the new Accord V6 has the same auto trans as the Acura TL-S? The Acura tranny is notorious for failure. It's a real shame because the TL-S is a terrific auto except for that major flaw.
If the Accord tranny is different, that would definitely give it an advantage over the Acura, IMO.
On the Honda website, when you build your own Accord sedan, destination is not charged to you until you click on the subtopic "Summary" then that's when the price jumps to $26,060. It's $25,800 before you add the $460 destination charge.
I would've never pictured myself posting messages to an auto-related site, but this car has really done it to me. Lots of debate over the price I paid...I guess all I can say is, like most other people have said on this site, it's all about perceived value. To me, what I paid is more than justified. I'm nuts about this car, moreso than any other Honda I've ever had (I've had two other Accords and a Prelude in-between during my trying-to-feel-10-years-younger phase). Perhaps I AM crazy for having the accessories installed at the dealer, and maybe what I paid for them sounds ludicrous to some of you, but I guess I have a higher degree of confidence in the work my dealer does, even on something as "cosmetic" as a spoiler. I've taken my other Hondas to them for service for several years, and they have always treated me with honesty and respect -- which is sometimes hard to find when you're a mechanically-challenged female walking into the service department all by yourself. Perhaps I subconsciously put a dollar value on that positive history when I bought this car.
By the way (bowke), my dealer did go over everything with me in great detail. I was just too excited to pay close enough attention (a fleeting moment of ADHD). I will definitely give them all "5" scores on the survey.
P.S. Dealer is in Knoxville, TN, and they had all the accessories in stock. Didn't have to wait more than an hour to have my car "complete" and just the way I wanted it.
2003 redesign looks UGLY! My god, the 2 door's back looks EXACTLY like a volvo I saw the other day and the front looks like a CIVIC ??? What are these guys thinking ? I won;t even mention the 4 door because that is the ugliest looking sedan from any manufacturer. Anyway, I have a 2000 Accord EX V6, I was waiting for the new model to trade it in and get a new one, but after I saw these cars, sorry. Instead I'm heading to my Nissan dealer and get myself fully loaded Altima with 3.5L engine for less money and that is one good looking car! Good Bye honda!
I can't wait to get my V-6 since reading your posts. How do you ask for extra clear coat on your car and is it some type of protection package? I, also, take my Honda to the dealer for service and have been for over 20 years. I am now purchasing my 5th Accord since 1981. They all seem to know my name now at the dealership - but I do go their every few days to check on the delivery of my car.
Comments
Just wondering if anyone has seen any '03 Accords in Canada? I've driven by 3 Honda dealers this weekend in the Toronto area with none in sight. And no word on pricing on Honda Canada's website either.
So far my favorite colors are Graphite Pearl and Redondo Red.
http://www.hondacars.com
The interior on the new car looks really impressive. Like the exterior, it looks much more substantial (and more expensive) than the previous car. I noticed there is no cover over the center cup holders, but they're bigger. My wife always spills soda in the latch on our car anyway, so maybe no cover is OK. Also noted that there is an overhead dome light in the rear. Good for the kids.
Sign me up!
Passat GLX-V6 is over 30k WITHOUT nav
Altima SE-V6 is over 28k WITHOUT nav
Accord EX-V6 is 28,260 WITH NAVIGATION
I think the Accord is priced right......
The Camry is overpriced because it is too close to the Lexus
At that price, the Passat is overpriced because it is too close to the Audi
The Altima is overpriced because it is too close to the G35.
And now, the Accord is overpriced because it is too close to the Acura.
And go to www.hondacars.com, price the accord with the goodies that I talked about (foglights are admittedly a luxury), and it tops 30k.
All that said, I understand that these are the highest priced versions of these models vs. lower priced premium alternatives. Most people will buy the LX accord (probably w/out nav) at around 24K. That I understand. But I wonder what the incentive is to get one of these fully loaded cars when the premium brand is so close? Just a thought, not an argument...
As for the issue of why the "lower brand" vs the "premium brand" - the comparable vehicle of the "premium brand" will usually cost you much more than the "lower brand". The base TL with NAV runs over $36.5 MSRP. Even if you add all the goodies you did, it is $6K more than the tarted out Accord. The G35/Altima is closer as I was able to get the G35 comparable to the Altima at $30.5 vs $28.
IMHO, many buyers may also have a mental block against crossing over the $30K threshold. Either they don't want to go over the $30K or they don't want to give off what they perceive to be a bad impression.
Besides, very few top of the line Accords, Passats, Altimas, Camrys are sold - the same goes for bottom line TL's, A4's, G35's, and ES300's.
First, I test drove a beige (forget the color name) EX-4 with the tan interior and wood trim. Very nice car, but you could definitely tell you were driving a 4 cylinder. There was more engine noise than the V6, and there was a noticeable lag in part throttle response time, especially when accelerating from 30 to 50 mph. Braking was very good, with exceptional modulation (no sudden "grabs"). The suspension soaked up many bumps and a few potholes with no complaints. Interior appointments were excellent...I didn't mind the wood trim at all. Fit and finish were very good, with only a slight panel misalignment at the passenger side of the bottom center console. The glovebox did not pop open by itself on either car (as I've heard reported). The EX-4 with leather cars all had the single 5 spoke alloy wheels (not to be confused with the split 5 spoke wheels found on the EX-V6 coupe with manual trans), which look MUCH better than the 7 spoke alloys on the V6 models. I wish the V6 models had the 5 spoke wheels...much more sporty looking.
The V6 (a silver with black leather interior and silver trim)is a beast of another nature. In fact, engine response is so good that initial throttle tip-in resulted in a lurch forward. It's something that was easily correctable by modulating the throttle pedal with a bit more finesse than with the 4 cylinder. But, MY OH MY, does this car rock with the V6! Under full throttle starts from standstill the car pushes you back in the seat and glides forward effortlessly, the engine emitting a pleasant growl as you approach redline. During normal cruising I couldn't hear the engine at all, the interior is very quiet. HOWEVER, the Accord is definitely NOT a sports sedan when it comes to handling. While it does impart a level of confidence, there was too much body roll and nose dive when braking before turns. The tires were quiet and did not howl in protest, but the car itself needs to corner flatter to elicit the kind of adrenaline-inducing fun a lot of people are looking for.
Summary: Honda has a winner on its hands, especially with the V6. Ergonomics, fit, and finish were generally superb; switchgear still has that typical Honda "feel" that other car manufacturers can only dream about. The car is very quiet (especially with the V6), the transmission shifts were noticeable but not intrusive, and interior room was generous. Honda only needs to beef up the cornering capabilities of the suspension before calling it a sports sedan.
INKY
The fact is that the brains at Honda, who know a whole lot more about their products and marketing than I do, determined that cannibalization would be rare enough to offer the "ultimate accord" at nearly $30,000.
The Accord certainly is a quality car. Certainly a great value at 24k, and probably a good value at 28k, regardless of what else is available at that price.
To be clear, I don't think that the Acura brand offers a significant quality improvement over the Honda -- same engines, same fake wood accents, etc. It just goes back to that mental thing. Personally, I am still excited about the new Honda as far as value is concerned. Not enough to give up my current car, but maybe for my wife in the near future.
Well then quite a bit of my argument goes right out the window although the $30K threshold really is a mental barrier. I know that's where I will be with my next purchase and I don't want to go over it by very much!!
Personally, I await the TSX to see if it is a real sports sedan. I love my 98 Accord, but have no pretensions that it is a sports sedan by any stretch of the imagination.
The interior felt very "together" to me -- comfortable, well laid out. I've looked hard at the Camry, but I feel like I'm rattling around a little in that interior. I won't even mention the Altima interior -- there I did it, but it's nowhere near the class of the Accord's, IMO.
They had a bunch of EX4cyls, so I didn't drive one because I'm interested in the V6. He has a couple of EXv6's and one LXv6 due in October. I'm interested in the LX because I want the extra headroom (without the moonroof). This salesperson said the LXv6 is a "rare" car, but the Honda news release says the LXv6 is the most pular V6 model.
Well, this isn't much I know because I haven't driven it, but if you're like me and looking for decent interior room (i.e., you don't feel cramped) but still want a sense of connection with the car, you should check this one out. It felt like a great compromise between sheer size and too small.
I think I'll get an LXV6, provided I can get a decent deal. May wind up ordering.
What exactly is a "bottom line TL," and what do you mean that few are sold? The only factory options for the TL are the navigation system and the "Type S." Last I heard, most TL's sold are the base (AKA Premium) without navigation. That would make it a "bottom line TL," right?
Also, TL's can be purchased for approximately $500 over dealer invoice right now (maybe less). I'm guessing that it will be a little while before the 2003 Accord V6 comes down from MSRP. So, right now, a TL-Premium with navigation is $29371 vs. the Accord V6 with navigation for $28260. The difference is $1111. Go with the TL-S for a total difference of about $3250.
That brings us to my decision: 2003 TL-S/nav or 2003 Accord V6/nav. Or, I could wait to see the 2003 TL-S (or wait for the Accord price to drop).
Therefore, this car is now parked in my garage --- the EX-V6, graphite pearl, leather, spoiler, etc, etc, etc, (no nav, though -- I agree with the guy's comment above about buying a $4 map....hysterical!). Oh, and my buying price was strictly MSRP plus splash guards and another coat of clear coat on the hood which I asked for. No add-ons or market adjustments at this dealer whatsoever. Bottom line - around $27,400. Well worth giving this 38 year-old single mom a little "charge" in her life, even if it DOES have to come from a car!!!
By the way, have you had a chance to drive your Accord at night? I read somewhere that the center console of the Accord is softly lit from an exterior source (like an overhead light). Can you verify or describe what the interior of the car looks like at night?
I am looking forward to seeing the Coupe when it arrives.
One other nifty thing that I didn't have on my 2000 Accord: when you hit the unlock button on your key 3 times (and holding it down on the 3rd), your car windows all roll down. May seem like old news to some people, but this was one of those "wow-ie" things to me. (I guess I'm one of those easily-impressed saps that so many of you guys despise!) I'll check out the nighttime effects and will let you know!
What I meant by few base premium brands is that in my experience Audi, Lexus, Infiniti may have a sub $30K model on the books, but it is a rarity to find.
The TL Premium does not fit into that category as most TL's sold are just that - I jumped the gun on that one. Remember I thought acura.com listed it at $36.5K. At the $1100 extra for the TL, it's a toss up - I would go for the Accord personally.
She stated in her original message that her Accord also had the spoiler. I know that's about an extra $500 plus installation costs...maybe something that the dealer had already added to the car before she bought it, since no Accords come standard with a spoiler.
Maybe her final price included taxes, dealer paperwork fees, registration?
So between the $460 you missed and the spoiler that shado pointed out, I guess she paid somewhere in the "MSRP+a little" vicinity.
austinman...i honestly have no clue to the reasons why the interior volume is different on each car...ill check into it though.
gmg1031...you only have to hold the unlock button on the 2nd punch to open the windows...also, did you know that the windows close too???
all you have to do is insert the key into the driver door lock, turn it to lock, then turn it to lock a second time and hold it there. fun, fun, fun! by the way, your salesperson should have shown you everything from top to bottom on the car...if you feel the delivery process was incomplete, go back and ask for a proper demonstration! the salesperson needs to do it right to earn his/her scores of '5' on the survey you will get!
The 2002 model went for $25,300 plus Destination: $25,760. A $500 increase! My goodness. Really, the Accord doesn't look all that expensive until you add the Navi, which is useless to me. Nothing like a good ole map. I could see where someone might need the Navi though, but for $2000 extra! Nope! I've got my $4 dollars on the table, and I'll go to Wal-Mart and buy my map, thank you very much. That's way cheaper than some Altima prices. Heck an Altima at INVOICE can cost $26,260 and more, but this is the Accord at MSRP. $500 more is worth it if you ask me. You get 40 more horsepower, dual climate control that is automatic, better seats, new styling, key operated window down feature, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, a better looking and feeling interior, bigger alloy wheels and those cool new gauges. Now, the Accord V6 as a car is not expensive or overpriced, IMO, it's the Navigation systems that are expensive. Same goes for the ones in the Acuras, Nissans, Hondas, Toyotas, and other makes. $2000 for a system that shows you how to go from place to place is just too much. Did I mention that I love the new Accord? Especially the EX with Leather trim models. I also LOVE the Black leather interior trim. Beautiful!
GMG1031
Congrats to you on the purchase of the new Accord, do you have a digital camera? If so, take some pics and post them of your new ride in the Accord Owners section. I have two Accords myself, and I can tell you that they last forever. I have a 1991 EX and 1992 DX and both run great and get great gas mileage. You can't beat Honda for value and dependibility, but you already know that since you had a 2000.
Hmmm.....Honda Accord EX or EX with Leather.....
Also, I have a question for everyone.
Do you think it's worth the price difference to go ahead and get an EX as opposed to the LX?
I was sitting at home yesterday evening looking at the specs for the new Accord, I noted all the features that come with the EX as opposed to the LX. You get 16 inch alloys, a sunroof, driver's seat power height adjustment-still no power driver's seat for the EX
Which do you think would be the better choice. I am on a budget and would like to keep my prices in line. I also consider the Camry LE/SE Altima 2.5S, Mazda 6i and VW Passat GL/GLS as competitors.
Which Accord model would you choose, and why.
Right now I am looking more at the EX, but I think the LX is a better value for some reason. Boy I sound like my father.
INKY
However, for the 2002 the tires were the same size for the LX & EX so the only cost would be for the rims. To upgrade to 16" you will need new tires as well pushing the price up to $1000+. This narrows the gap and for an additional $1500, or so, you can get all the other stuff with the EX.
As you can see, I can't decide either.
Let's say you walk onto a lot, and you don't want to spend more than $24K. That's it, that's all. The most car for your money, maybe an LX. Now the dealer says, "Hey now, hey now, hey now. I got this sweeeet little ride here, an EX with leather and mud flaps, and I'll throw in a smile and a wink for free! Only $26K!" Sure, it's a good value. Nice car, nice feature content (the EX over the LX). But it's more than you wanted to spend. He could offer you a brand new Porshe 911 Turbo for $26k, and it would still be more than you wanted to spend!
I tell this ridiculous tale only to illustrate a point: the EX is more than the LX. So you have to ask yourself, what do you want to spend? What are your limits? What do you feel fits into your budget? Both the LX and the EX offer great feature content for the cash, but if you don't like your payment, then it was a poor value for you.
If money is your key factor, now would be a good time to look at Camry or Altima. They will probably be more willing to deal not having the current "hot" product. I wouldn't associate value and Passat in the same sentance. Its a nice enough car, but really a half-step up in price from the Accord/Camry/Altima (and a half-step down in size). The new Mazda6 may be worth waiting for too becauase Mazda will likely be agressive with its pricing in order to re-establish itself in this segment.
I think this is a quandry many of us face in looking at these products.
I saw the new Accord yesterday - black with I think black or charcoal interior (was locked, could not get inside).
I think it looks awesome. I don't know what cameras people have been using but pictures don't do it justice. There is a real substantial feel to it, especially in the C-pillar and hind quarters.
I think the tail is reminiscent of the 90 Accord and believe it will be nicely updated over the next 3 years.
The overall shape is very sleek. The headlights are very cool from all angles, even from the back side.
It's not overly-styled like the Altima, and I think it will age much more gracefully than the Altima.
It's not as sophisticated a looker as the Camry (IMO), but does impart a sporty impression.
I'm not crazy about wheel covers - I would get the alloys.
Overall, a very good job, Honda. Can't wait to see it more this weekend.
I'm also eager to see the Accord Coupe - I've had the pic of the black coupe as my wallpaper for like a month and I'm still enthralled by it. Can't wait ...
She stated in her original message that her Accord also had the spoiler. I know that's about an extra $500 plus installation costs...maybe something that the dealer had already added to the car before she bought it, since no Accords come standard with a spoiler.
Maybe her final price included taxes, dealer paperwork fees, registration? <<
OK, subtracting the $460 from the $1600, that's $1140 for a spoiler, splash guards and clear coat on the hood. Does anybody really think that's a good deal?
If the Accord tranny is different, that would definitely give it an advantage over the Acura, IMO.
By the way (bowke), my dealer did go over everything with me in great detail. I was just too excited to pay close enough attention (a fleeting moment of ADHD). I will definitely give them all "5" scores on the survey.
P.S. Dealer is in Knoxville, TN, and they had all the accessories in stock. Didn't have to wait more than an hour to have my car "complete" and just the way I wanted it.