Honda Accord - 2003 Redesign

tllover

I read someone earlier who asked whether the new 2003 would have the select shift transmission found on the Acura 3.2 TL. It is not the same. It is a 5 speed bandless type, without the ability to shift like a stick shift found on the TL. I have been waiting for a better color choice on the TL before buying one. Now that I have seen the Accord for 2003, I will probably save some $$ and buy the Accord. It's engine outperforms the TL engine and you can use unleaded Regular gas!

robertsmx

I would guess that the 5-speed transmission in TL, CL, Accord, Pilot, (2002+) Odyssey and MDX are identical. Strange that there is so much fuss about TL/CL tranny, and not with MDX. I noticed at NHTSA's website that somebody complained that he/she got into 'Park' position in highway and that locked up the wheels. I've never tried that in my car going 65 mph, and don't intend to, but Honda may have skipped on 'SportShift' for that reason, may be not. Believe me, if Honda knows there is a problem with 5-speed auto, they will not use it in their best seller. there may have been a few cases with problems, not unlike those that appeared in the 4-speed auto in Accord V6 in about a month's inventory due to some kind of problem with the supplier, but I doubt Honda will let it continue and risk its business.

The Four cylinder 5-speed auto may be the same as that in base RSX (5-speed auto with SS).

ticos

Just saw the 2003 European Accord. The European version is much better looking than the one meant for the U.S.A. (although there are a lot of styling cues in the Accord that say "Mazda 6"). I don't understand why Honda would deliberately shoot itself in the foot with the american 2003 Accord when they already had a winning design with the european version (in car styling sometimes trying to be different for the sake of it does not pay-off).

talon95

I guess that's your opinion... I don't believe Honda felt it was doing that with the new US Accord. And I don't, either... but to each his own.

In the pictures of the European Accord, I saw a lot of similarity to the Integra sedan... looks good, but it's hardly groundbreaking. For that matter, the Mazda 6, while also attractive, is hardly groundbreaking either.

Finally, the European version of the Accord would not work as a direct replacement for the American version... interior room is quite a bit smaller, especially in the back seat. The US Accord was designed specifically to compete in a larger size class than the European version.

crv16

I stopped by the local Honda dealer yesterday to look at the new Accords. Overall -- wow - almost a home run.

When the original spy shots came out a couple months ago, I was initially disappointed in the styling. Slowly, with better pics coming out, I've been warming up to it's design. Now that I've seen it in person....

It looks great - the appearance is "hunched up", meaning a more aggresive stance over the "slumping shoulders" of the last generation accord. Side view is terrific, and the rear is great. I hated the rear view from the initial pictures that came out, but I've made a complete about-face. I think the rear looks great. Weakest aspect of the new Accord is the front. It is definately an improvement, but lacking _something_ -- just can't quite put my finger on it. The 16" wheels on the EX finally fill out the wheel wells adequately.

The interior is a knock out. This interior easily can hold it's own with cars costing twice as much. Especially with the stunning leather upholstery.

Overall grade: A-

Great job, Honda!

inky4

Could you take a minute to clear up for me something about Honda ordering process. Correct?
1. Dealers order color preferences based on allocations say like they order October builds in late July
2. At some point dealers have access to build dates?
3. At some point VIN is given
4. Shipping status changes to shipped
--I want to know if dealers are capable of knowing any of this as I have heard several stories.
College Hills honda post all kinds of things like
build date and status as shipped etc. is this fiction or truth
INKY and thanks!

ral

I just came from my local Honda dealer in MA, and they had the brochures for the coupe! I scanned a couple of pictures, but I have to figure out how to post them. Any ideas? There are some great pictures of it, but some are too big to scan.

robtfl

Did you ever find out what dealer cost is on the new Accords, plus what the markups are on the accessories? If so, please post what the cost is on the Accord EX-V6 w/ navi, and the following accesories: chrome exhaust finisher,splash guards,fog lights,and premium floor mats. Thanks! If anyone else knows, input is welcomed. maybe Bowke will enlighten us on the dealer's costs.

fredjoseph

Take a look on the british website www.autoexpress.co.uk under previews for 11 sep 2002 for a really delectable design. Just seeing it made me want to buy it. The American design is so WIMPY it S#$^@S.

robtfl

Did you ever find out what dealer cost is on the new Accords, plus what the markups are on the accessories? If so, please post what the cost is on the Accord EX-V6 w/ navi, and the following accesories: chrome exhaust finisher,splash guards,fog lights,and premium floor mats. Thanks! If anyone else knows, input is welcomed. maybe Bowke will enlighten us on the dealer's costs.

hkhurana

I am about to purhase the 2003 in the EX-L 4cyl 5 speed. Dealer will begin receiving them in 2 -3 weeks. I went to a variety of dealers and not all were discounting. One dealer took 1200 off (very painfully). Any other experiences yet in delivery of the EX-L in 5 speed? While I would prefer a V-6 the idea of being forced an automatic hurts me...I test drove the 5 speed/4 cyl and felt like it had plenty of punch.

inky4

No news on invoice price. It will show up soon on the various sources--but still would like to know.
INKY

ickes_mobile

you'll have the change to buy that car as the Acura TSX next spring...

ral

Invoice prices are now available at www.collegehillshonda.com
I went out today and inquired about a price for a EX-L 5 spd coupe also, and the dealer took $1500 off of sticker right away. Sounds good for a start. I'm in the Boston area. I also asked about XM radio, and the dealer didn't seem to know anything about it. It's not listed in either of the 2003 brochures that I also picked up today.
Anyone know more about the XM radio option? Dealer installed??

saturnfreak01

Was just wondering if there is going to be a DX model Accord also? and, will the 03 DX finally have factory installed standard air cond, or is the consumer out o luck? Any word on base price?

maxamillion1

But it still doesn't have air conditioning standard, which is a SHAME! I'd just get the LX model. The DX also now comes with power windows, but it doesn't have power door locks and mirrors.

lippolds

ral,

If you don't mind my asking, what dealer in the MA area took $1500 off the EX-L 4 Manual? I live in MetroWest

silverk21

is a DIO and will be available Oct. 1. Check out xmradio.com for more info.

ral

Lippolds, the dealer was Honda Barn in North Reading. They seemed pretty nice, unlike Honda North in Danvers, where they have this RIDICULOUS policy of "no dickering". You pay the price they feel is market value, or you leave.

billiam70

I just read an article that Honda plans on importing the new European Accord as an entry level Acura sedan to replace the 4 door Integra. Engine is likely to be the same 200hp as in the RSX-S. I think it would be an 04 model. I'm don't remember if it was Car and Driver or Motor Trend that I read it in.

austinman

...an EXv6 after work tonight and was very impressed. Quiet running, plenty of power, great seating position. I took a few curves at 60 mph and did not experience much body lean at all, and great road grip.

This dealer said he would negotiate. They didn't have what I want -- an LXv6 in graphite -- but if they had, I think I would have negotiated tonight. He did say he had sold several at sticker, but I get the feeling that people paying that, at least at this dealer, are just not pushing very hard.

bowke -- I answered my own question about interior volume when I got a brochure tonight. There are, indeed, two typos on the Honda Web site. The interior volume for the LXv6 should be 102.7, just like the DX and the LX, because all three models do NOT have the moonroof. The EX and EXv6 should be 97.7 because of the moonroof. The Web site is mistakenly showing 97.7 for the LXv6. It also shows 98.4 for the EXv6, which should be 97.7. Odd mistake, that last one.

Again, the correct figures in the brochure are 102.7 without moonroof, 97.7 with.

"Value" has been discussed on this thread. I've driven, recently, the Camry and Altima as direct competitors to the Accord, and the BMW 5 series just for fun (great car, but a little out of my price range) and an Acura (the $30,000 model) just for comparison. The Accord cannot be compared to the 5 series, of course, in many ways, however...when you realize you can almost buy TWO LXv6's like I'm going to get for ONE 5 series, and you look at what Honda has put into this new Accord, well, Honda is offering me a heck of a value, IMO.

jud95accord

My V-6 satin silver came in today! It is not ready for pick up yet. I was wondering if any body is familiar with TSW wheels. They showed an 03 LX with 17" TSW wheels and Bridgestone tires. I could have them put on my new car. What do you think??

Also, my dealer here in Houston is selling the car at MSRP - no dealing for now.

Does anyone in a different part of the US get their windows tinted. It is the thing to do down here in the extreme heat (hot from April through November). Just curious

ickes_mobile

Where'd your version of #674 go? Great deal, especially the 61% residual. What was your capitalized cost (what price did you negociate).

I'd been thinking that buying the car for 95% of MSRP at this point and with an estimated (guestimated) a residual of 55% would have been a good deal...

bkm119

After I posted, I decided it might be seen by more people on the general Accord board.

I think its #5876 over there.

Sorry for the inconvenience.

To provide a little more info on the residuals, I was thinking 60% at 12k would have been good, putting me at 58% for 15k. The residuals for 15k are as follows: 36 mos. 63%, 39 months. 62%, 42 months 61%, 48 mos. 56%. The bottom line is going from 36 mos to 42 mos. saved me $35 - 40/mo. because the residual only drops 1% for each 3 month period. Going to 48 mos. saves only 50 cents more per month. Plus, because American Honda will let you extend your lease for up to six months, it gives me great flexibility at the end without costing me anything.

ickes_mobile

back and forth several times looking for it from the bookmark i set. Thanks!

inky4

Tinting is huge in Oklahoma as well. People look to get it as standard as AC. Cost is $150 to $175 and the UV heat blocking films are really important. I use 3m films with lifetime warranty.
INKY

jagadees

I was checking the specs for DX model. A/C with air filtrations system is an accessory. I am not really sure whether it comes with car or dealer installed

jrct9454

...and frankly, once pricing settles down, if you want AC, there is just about no reason at all to buy a DX - the LX is and always has been the value leader in the lineup. Once you pay a dealer to install AC on a DX, it makes no sense not to pay the next couple of hundred bucks and get the LX, which is always in good supply, as well.

tjstromain

Does anyone know if it's possible to put an EX drivers seat into an LX model? I like the electronic control and lumbar support of the EX seat, but the additional EX perks seem trivial for a $3000 price difference.

jar1945

Just bought a 2003 sedan, silver with black leather.

Price including all but taxes...$22,660. Good price?

In Boulder, Colorado.

gorban

We have paid for DX model automatic, $3000 down, 330 a month for 60 month - this is for buy ... and the price also includes Air cond and whatever protection they have there they gave us for free... 4.75% apr.

inky4

Finally saw the V-6 in person (V-6 made in USA and intitial 4 bangers from Japan). Anyhow, the rear wing spoiler and moonroof visor are way cool and make car look so much better. I still like the 4 banger wheels over busy 7 spoke v-6. Anyhow
not moving real fast out of dealerships. I am surprised to here about so many discounts.

jar1945-if that is automatic you did nicely. enjoy

INKY

jagadees1

Hi Gorban, what is actual deal for 2003 DX. which dealer.

inemer

Check this article in "Los Angeles Times" about Acura TL automatic transmition

http://www.latimes.com/la-hy-acura11sep11.story

yhari

Hello,

I test drove the 2003 accord this week and really like it. I am worried that there will be a lot of bugs in this first release. Do you know if this model was test marketed in japan first? Also, is it better to buy a japaneese or an american made one?

Thanks
YHARI
yhari@yahoo.com

mazda6s

Probably not. Since the US Accord design is only sold here, it is unlikely that it was test marketed in Japan, though they certainly must have done some engineering testing there.

irish24

got the best of me...went to a shoreline dealer in CT to see if they had the new ones in...saw 5...two LX's and two EX's...looked like they were all 4's...a coupe was in the showroom....think two were the graphite someone was looking at one of them ...a couple that looked to be in their 70's....can't say I liked the back end at all...just looked too short like it had been cut off...didn't drive them....3 were not even prepped yet...

ickes_mobile

appears to be a compromise between a long roof line for better rear headroom and short overall length...

masroz

I test drove a new Accord EX 4 today and was very impressed. Felt solid, handled well and was quiet. I am considering a purchase of the EX, but am concerned about the 5 spoke alloy wheels allowing dirt, mud, snow, water, etc. through the spokes and onto the rotors and brake components. Does anyone know if this is a problem for wheels of this type? They look sharp, but I don't want to end up paying for new components prematurely.

mazda6s

There are so many cars out there with wheels like this that if it was a problem everyone would know about it by now. Mine are a 6 spoke open design and I don't have any problems.

pda97

Driving next to one this morning on the freeway. It's just as UGLY up close as in the pictures. From the rear, I thought it was a Saturn L until I saw the "H" badge.

Funny how no one here commented on the LA Times article about Acura transmissions "inemer" dug up. Maybe it's because no one wants to admit that even the mighty Honda isn't bulletproof after all ??

ken27

Yes...I agree, the rear design of new accord look from far away just like a saturn, I guess it's all made in the usa, sign of pretty soon GM or Ford will buy or own it again.

wolverine_x

every car has problems even honda, but the thing is that the problems in a honda are much less compared to others.

So what's your point again other than tell us how ugly the new accord is which is by the way subjective or you just wanna troll around?

yugoboy

Thought you guys and gals might want to check this article out, some very scary stories indeed!!!! They better get these honda trannies fixed quick!!!!!
http://www.latimes.com/classified/autos/highway1/la-hy-acura11sep11.story?coll=la-headlines-highway1-manual

pda97

Hmmm...let's see now, if one bad mouths Honda, he/she is either a "Honda basher" or "trolling". Gee, maybe they should call this a "Honda Groupies Only" forum instead of a discussion forum ?

Your silence on the L.A. Times articles speaks volume !! Yeah, Honda may have "fewer" problems. But if it's a problem that can instantly kill the driver and others on the road, then it's worse than 10 little problems other brands have put together.

Another funny thing, there is a flashing Honda ad on the USA Today site that says.."240hp European Styling The Accord EX V6". I almost rolled over laughing. There isn't a trace of European styling on the sedan. At least, the coupe has a copy cat MB tail lamps.

mazda6s

"every car has problems even honda, but the thing is that the problems in a honda are much less compared to others."

This generalzed perception the main reason why most people buy Hondas. The really don't know the facts, but they believe that the quality is much higher and they will have less problems, when in fact the difference between late model cars is actually pretty small. The fact that Honda could mess up big time on the Acura trans proves that they are no better than the rest. If you check the 2001 JD Powers awarda for highest initial quality, out of 16 categories you'll see the following numbers (not ranks) of winners:

Toyota - 4

Lexus - 2

Honda - 2

Nissan - 2

Acura - 1

GMC - 1

Saab - 1

Chevrolet - 1

Chrysler - 1

Ford - 1

Reference:

http://www.jdpower.com/auto/search/winners.asp?StudyID=517&CatID=1

If you're looking for real winner there, it's Toyota, not Honda.

If you look at the individual award winners, Honda didn't get a single one:

http://www.jdpower.com/auto/search/winners.asp?StudyID=625&CatID=1

mazda6s

My last post was for the 2001 JD Powers Initial Quality Awards. Here are the numbers of awards (not ranks) for for 2002:

Toyota - 4

Lexus - 3

Honda - 1

Nissan - 2

Acura - 1

GMC - 1

Saab - 1

Chevrolet - 1

Chrysler - 1

Ford - 1

Reference:

http://www.jdpower.com/auto/search/winners.asp?StudyID=517&CatID=1

As you can see, not much difference from 2001 to 2002. Lexus got 1 more, Honda 1 less.

robertsmx

Be it transmission problem, sludge issue, airbag blowing on the face, engine fire, front suspension collapse, and so on, no automaker is immune. And JD Power and like are not going to catch them either. What they do catch is a list of problems reported by a fraction of consumers in the first three months of ownership.

As far as my car goes, it will be 5-year old in a month, with over 72K miles. And if my experience with the car doesn't count, what does? The biggest (and the only) problem I have had since I brought my 1998 Accord (and one of the 'first ones after the redesign' too)... squeaky moonroof. And I have a fix, provided by the service department, lubrication of the rubber seals, and it works.

Some issues are more political than reality, atleast that is how I see it. Is there a problem with the transmission? I don't know, but people have experienced, so there should be. There was a problem that Honda acknowledged over a year ago due to a parts defect, affecting a number of cars built over a period (about a month). But then, someone has to to blow it enough to make a case. not worth a time. I will leave such issues for NHTSA to investigate and fix. Apparently, nobody (even the LAT's "investigative journalism") thinks in that direction.

jmellenb

Yes, I was disappointed with Honda quality after I bought a new 2000 Odyssey. It was my first Honda. After much reading, I was expecting near perfection. Then I had sliding door problems, struts that sqeaked, a 1-2 shift that is so late that it almost goes from 1st to 3rd and the worst stereo I've ever heard.

gotribe

Can anyone confirm that 03 EX V-6 has Electronic brake force distribution? The dealer claims it does, but there is no mention of it in the 03 brochure/specs. You'd think they'd list it as a safety selling feature. Also, a minor gripe, but why do you think they came out with a red exterior color so close to the Odyssey's Red Rock Pearl?