2009 Honda Accord

madpistol

Just a word to the wise, the Taurus may be a better value for the money, but Ford did skimp on several things. The Interior quality on the Accord is much much better, the drive is sportier, and if you like your cars having a little "growl" to their exhaust note, you're going to hate the new Taurus... it almost sounds like a 3.0L 4-cyl. It's sad that Ford didn't do more with their exhaust. The Fusion 3.0L V6 IMO sounds far better than the Taurus's 3.5L V6.

That's subjective though. If you don't care how your car sounds, I guess it doesn't make much of a difference.

kingpcgeek

I have the first lease rates. 09 V6 coupe residual is 61% for 36/12 but the MF is a whopping .0028 or 6.72%. Considering there is zero changes between 08 and 09 if leasing its time to jump on an Accord before all of the 08's are gone.

thegraduate

That's subjective though. If you don't care how your car sounds, I guess it doesn't make much of a difference.

Some would rather have it sewing machine smooth than have any real personality. With a large highway-style car, it makes sense in the Taurus (to me, anyway). I'm guessing the majority of buyers in the $25k sedan market don't have "exhaust note" on their checklist for new car shopping.

thegraduate

Horsepower and torque ratings for V-6-equipped automatic transmission models modified to the correct, higher values:

2008→2009 hp @ RPM: 268@6200→271@6000~6200
2008→2009 lb-ft. @ RPM: 248@5000→254@5000

Horsepower and torque ratings for V-6-equipped manual transmission models modified to the correct, higher values:

2008→2009 hp @ RPM: 268@6200→271@6200
2008→2009 lb-ft. @ RPM: 248@5000→251@5000

tankbeans

If you don't care how your car sounds, I guess it doesn't make much of a difference.

Personally as long as the car doesn't sound like a freight train going down the street I'm good. I also usually have my radio on, fairly loud, and I can't hear the engine much anyway. As long as the exhaust line is intact I'm good. I had a 93 Escort whose catalytic converter fell off, so there was no connection between the engine and the muffler, and the car sounded like death. That is the only thing I could go without.

iwantone

I am considering the 2009 honda accord sedan v6 but I have been reading up on the new 2009 nissan maxima. The 2009 maxima SV is a little pricey even without all the options. I was thinking about the 2009 maxima S base but it comes with cloth. I have been a honda driver for years and I am a little caution about nissan. Could anyone help me the pros and cons. I really want leather and price is a concern. Besides maxima is a redesign this year might be risky correct?
Also reality,safety,and value mean a lot to me. I want a smooth ride. I currently have a 2001 accord ex and I differently don't want another 4 cyclinder ride.

bvdj84

I think that both cars are good contenders this time around, but if you have been a Honda driver, then moving to another brand might cause you to regret doing so. Getting the Max would not be a bad choice on the first redesign, but might have a few bugs needing worked out, but I wouldn't be worried. Drive them both on a decent test drive, seriously consider how it feels in the drivers seat, which appeal more to you, how is the quality, fit and finish. See how both drives out on the open road. The new 08 4cyl, compared to the 2001 is going to seem quite fast. I really think you''ll be impressed with both cars, but its all on what you want. You perhaps could get a better price on an 08 Accord now, than the 09 Max, You could get an EX-L 4cyl for a pretty good lease, or price. Look at the lease forums. Do not rule out the 4cyl, because your 2001 accord, because like I said it is going to feel much different than the 2001. If you want the Accord V6, with leather, you could get one for about $26k, not too bad. The Accord is going to hold its value so well!!! It really sounds like your a Honda fan! I can tell, but drive both cars, keep an open mind, other cars are catching up. Its really tough, but drive both, then think it over, then make a decision, don't impulse buy, cause that could suck later on. I know this, because I did it..lol. It really pays to take your time on this kind of stuff.

tankbeans

It's been suggested, here I think, but if you can afford maybe rent both cars that you are looking at for a couple of days and take them through the paces. Or more correctly your everyday driving and see which one works best for your needs. Try to 4 cylinder of each, again if you can afford it and then determine if you really need the power.

Personally I couldn't give a fig about 4 cyl vs 6 cyl as long as I'm not left lagging behind everybody else. In my car I'm able to keep pace with "sane" drivers. I have on 03 Accord LX.

It's too bad that Honda doesn't do the 24 hour test drive that I believe Chrysler advertised for a while. Not sure if they still do that. They may have had too many stolen cars.

iwantone

Yes, I am a honda fan. I am not to keen on the premium gas on the mac. Also I just think the accord will retain value better than the max. In our region, I think the insurance is a little more on the max too, might be the cost of the vehicle causing that. I have test driven the accord, but not the max. I love the body style of the new 2009 max. If I choose the honda it will be 2009 . I know no difference from 2008. It's just that my finances wont be in semi order for about 6 months.

bvdj84

I think that should be a standard option for a dealer. They should offer a true demo, so that if you could perhaps get on a list to be able to take the car out longer than you average test drive with a salesguy next to you. It would be great to do this, as you can better determine if that is the exact car for you. But, usually if you keep coming back to the same car, or keep talking about it, typically that is the one you want, I have always found that.

blufz1

Resale! Resale! Resale! Get the Honda,but wait for a diesel. You can have high torque,high mpg,and high resale with a Honda diesel.

sttkailua

Purchased a 2008 Accord V6 sedan for wife back in March. She loves the car,
but the VCM technology has been giving her only 22 MPG average. Mediocre, considering 3 or 4 cylinders are off alot of the time. She is NOT an aggressive driver.

I was driving a 2002 Camry V6 and been getting 28 MPG average!(mostly freeway) Just traded it in for the 2009 Camry Hybrid. Very impressed with Toyota's Hybrid technology! Very quiet, a lot of torque and acceleration power when needed and almost 'seemless' transition between the electric/ICE switching on and off.

A lot of our friends have purchased the Prius and love it, but those of you considering a roomy 'family' sedan with 35-40 MPG performance should test drive the Camry Hybrid. Go to Camry Hybrid thread and read comments.

Coincidently, the current issue of Consumer Reports has a nice article comparing
Hybrid vs. Gas models for projected 5 year cost savings of ownership. The Camry Hybrid vs. Camry 4-cyl. had the highest savings at $4,250 over 5 years!

Availability may be the only downside. Well worth any wait, I think!

sttkailua

Correction: "2 or 3 cylinders . . "

effers

I was hoping the 09 Accord would at least have one or few of the following: HID xenons/push button start/keyless entry... but sadly nothing! It would be great to have these features... anyone think the 2010 model will come with these loaded? I think I would regret it if I purchased the 2009 only to find these changes on the 2010 model.

keitha3

I don't miss those things on my '09, but I can see how many would. I really could use memory seats and built in bluetooth on non-navigation models if I had my way.

Still, all these things would up the cost I suppose.

thegraduate

Few if any changes will come before the 2011 mid cycle update.

bvdj84

Yes, I too wished they had offered the HID lights, or atleast a the type of lights the accord coupe has. The push start would be really cool, but would simply be a copy cat of everyone else. Not a big deal in my book. I would rather have a manual shift mode for the automatic as a standard feature, that to me would be very nice to have. I am not sure it would be more of an expense since the acura line has had it for quite awhile. Now isnt a big deal, and wouldn't keep me from not buying the car, but it would certainly add more appeal.

I have noticed people are buying more of the loaded 08 Accords more so than the lower trimmed models. Or atleast getting the EX/EX-L 4cyl. I too, would probably get the loaded 4cyl EX-L. Although, I have my eye on a new TSX for in about a year to lease.

paeataa

I can afford a 2009 Honda Accord up to trim EX, but am sure if the EX is worthier than LX-P.

The EX has moon roof, 6-CD changer, 17" wheels in stead of 16" in LX-P, and a bit more horsepower than LX-P. The price is about $1,700 different.

In terms of the worth of those additional features and the value both hold in next 4-5 years, which one would be better? This will be my first car in the US, So, I was hoping to make a right decision on it.

I'd appreciate any suggestions. Thanks,

elroy5

I nor anyone else can tell you which car is right for you. IMO the EX is worth the extra cost. When I bought my first Accord, in 91, I was reluctant to buy the EX, because I was afraid the moonroof would leak later on, but I bought the EX mainly because of the extra power, and added features. I grew to love the moonroof, and never had a problem with it leaking for 12 years (it's not made like the old sunroofs of the past, and will not leak). I know in the past even things like cloth, for the seats and door trim, were upgraded from the LX to EX trims, including better floor mats. Go over the equipment list for each model. Only you can decide if the extra features and improved materials are worth the extra cost to you. The EX will cost more now, but will also be worth more at resale time. Good luck with your decision, and happy Hondaing.

paeataa

Could you or anyone please tell me if the EX (not EX-L) has separated temp. control for driver and front passenger?

Is this picture in LX-P or EX? http://cars.about.com/od/honda/ig/2008-Honda-Accord-photos/2008-Honda-Accord-LX-- interior.htm

Yesterday I test drove the LX-P coz the dealer did not have an EX for me. I did not quite like the console and dash of the LX-P. But if the EX has the same dash LX-P rather than the EX-L, I would have to make up my mind again. :confuse:

I could not find the real pictures of EX and LX-P interior, therefore still have no idea what the EX looks like.

Thanks,

thegraduate

The EX with cloth interior has the same climate controls that the LX and LX-P have, meaning single-zone manual controls. Leather models are the ones with Dual Automatic Climate Control.

I'd suggest using Honda's own website for information.

Honda's website

paeataa

Thanks, the graduate. I looked at the Honda website before asking, but what I found on the site is only the picture of EX-L interior. I wanted to see the difference between LX-P and EX, not EX-L.

This is the advantage of buying a car in the mid-level of its Trims. You'll never see the real picture of the trim level you are looking for.

csr67

"I looked at the Honda website before asking, but what I found on the site is only the picture of EX-L interior. I wanted to see the difference between LX-P and EX, not EX-L. "

Go to Honda's website, select the Accord, then "specifications". You'll then get a side-by-side comparison of every feature and option sorted by trim level. That way you can easily see what you get when going from LXP to EX trims.

thegraduate

"I looked at the Honda website before asking, but what I found on the site is only the picture of EX-L interior. I wanted to see the difference between LX-P and EX, not EX-L. "

Go to Honda's website, select the Accord, then "specifications". You'll then get a side-by-side comparison of every feature and option sorted by trim level. That way you can easily see what you get when going from LXP to EX trims.

Sorry, I should've specified; that's exactly what I'm talking about.

perez5249

You said sedan right? Reason I ask is because I think the Maxima "sedans" are sportier than the Accord "sedans. If you were going by looks alone, I'de say the Maxima. But I read you want safety, value and a smooth ride. The 09 accords incorporate side curtain air bags and rate 5 star safety in four of five safety categories, which beats the Maxima. Honda also beats Nissan's resale value. As far as ride, it's like buying stereo speakers, they sound different to everyone else, so take them both for a test drive. You're also a current Honda owner so you should be a fan of their excellent reliability, fit and finish. 4 bangers are not for everyone. I think once you drive the six in the Honda you'll make up you mind immediately. Good luck. :shades:

iwantone

Can anyone tell me which month I could possibly get a deal on a 2009 sedan EXL V6? I am looking to purchase in about 5 months and just wondering if I should expect a salesperson to even offer me a decent deal. By the way I am still seeking some honda dealership advice for the Columbia, South Carolina area.

kingpcgeek

2008 G35 over both of those cars Much better value then a 09 Maxima since you can get them at about invoice and if you are buying .9% financing for up to 60 months and much better lease rates if leasing. Comparing an Accord to a G35 isn't even close. I know I was ready to get a Accord EXL V6 coupe to replace my 05 G35, but decided for the extra $40 a month it was well worth it to go with the G. I have never looked back, so much more car. Get into a high horsepower rear wheel drive car and you will never drive a front drive again.

thegraduate

Get into a high horsepower rear wheel drive car and you will never drive a front drive again.

Unless you need a back seat that can carry adult-size people (I'm 6'5"), don't want the pricey service costs for a premium-make car, or the higher insurance rates that typically go with a high-performance car, or the....

I'm glad you like your ride (I love the looks), but maybe there should be a thread created to comparing these cars instead of doing so here. I'd be happy to participate there!

keitha3

I bought an EX-L, but have a family so appreciate the room of the Accord.

But, the fun factor of the G35 is unreal!!! That car put a huge smile on my face, so I know where kingpcgeek is coming from. It is just such a blast to drive.

The only part I'd disagree with is the cost. We can all argue how much more gas or things like maintenance will be between the cars, but there is one cost that is hidden.

I just won't get too many speeding tickets in my Accord. With the Infiniti, however, I'd have a very difficult time resisting temptation. Still, I'd have a smile on my face when the officer asked for my signature.

arizbob

Hi I'm new here and along time Accord owner. We got a new 2009 about 10 days ago and have had a steering wheel shimmy since day one. We have had the front tires rebalanced twice and the car is in the shop today. The dealer says the only fix is to replace the 17" wheels with 16" wheels and Dunlop tires. Any one have a simular experience? thanks

tallman1

The dealer says the only fix is to replace the 17" wheels with 16" wheels and Dunlop tires.

Sounds fishy to me. Why on earth would you need to replace wheels and tires on a brand new car? Did it do this on the test drive? Stick to your guns and make them fix it right. Check into the lemon laws for your state as well.

keitha3

I tend to think that's bogus too. Is Honda recalling all their vehicles to replace the wheels and tires? Uh, no....

It's a new car. It should be expected to perform as such. Personally, with so many Accords on the road performing fine with those tires/wheels, yours should as well.

I get angry when I read about customer service like this.

kingpcgeek

Just chiming in that when someone is looking at a 09 Maxima they should take a serious look at a G35. Same engine, but they squeeze a few more HP out of it and no torque steer.

higher insurance rates that typically go with a high-performance car

An FYI with regards to car insurance. My insurance quotes before I leased the new G.

08 G35 : $1,111 annually
08 Accord Sedan: $1,071 annually

perez5249

I agree, very different car classes. How much was your 08 G35 out the door? What trim level was it? I thought he was looking at coupes, not sedans, sorry.

arizbob

Thanks for your input. I thought it was totally off base that is why I was looking for other owners with the same problem. They put 16" wheels on the Accord yesterday and test drove the car. Still shakes between 60 and 70 MPH. Today they are swapping out the CV joints from another new Accord that is a LX 4 cyl that does not have the shake problem. Thanks

keitha3

Hey, happy that at least they're doing something.

bug4

You used an interesting phrase: "swapping out the CV joints from another new Accord. . . ." If you buy a new Accord that has problems, the dealership shouldn't "swap out" parts from one new car to another. It is a very simple warranty issue -- that the dealership doesn't have to pay for. Unless they are trying to get your car fixed more quickly by swapping out parts that are already on hand, I think your in a very strange situation.

Also, switching with 16" wheels is a VERY odd way to try to fix a shaking problem in a car that is made for 17" wheels and has a suspension, a braking system and vehicle stability control all tuned for 17" wheels.

If I were you, and if you are getting this treatment at a true Honda dealership, I would switch dealerships ASAP. Any Honda dealership can do warranty work for you. Good luck. . . . :confuse:

elroy5

Actually, changing the wheels and tires from another car (that doesn't exhibit the problem), is an easy way to eliminate wheels and tires as the cause. Also, if parts (cv joints) are not available, and the dealership is willing to do the extra work of removing parts from another car, to remedy the situation, that would be fine with me. Whatever it takes to solve the problem. It's much better than the usual "We haven't been able to duplicate the problem" :mad: or "All these cars do that, and there is nothing we can do about it". Anything is better than that.

keitha3

Yeah, but, if the OP is reporting things accurately, which I believe, the dealer said that switching the wheels/tires to 16's was the "only fix". Unless that is the only thing that could cause the problem, that can't be true. It simply can't. Also, why not try another set of 17's? That's what I have without that problem.

elroy5

Any different wheels and tires will work. If the car still had the shimmy with the 16" wheels and tires, that still eliminates wheels and tires from the list. Now saying the 17" wheels are all defective makes no sense, but at least they are doing something. That remark would go in one ear, and out the other, as long as they eventually solve the issue at hand. IMO, it sounds like this dealership is trying to solve the problem. That is always better than when they tell you "everything is fine", only to find out it's not on the way home.

parviz

I would make sure that they put back my 17" wheels even if the new CV joints fix the problem, the problem should be fixed with the right size wheels/tires.

arizbob

It is good too hear everyone's opinion. The shop foreman with 20 years experience with Honda is the one who told me every EX-L V6 on their lot would shimmy between 60 and 70 MPH. Also that the Honda engineers had been here (Scottsdale) last year and could not solve the problem. To change parts from new car to the other car in the mechanics idea is to put known good parts on till the shake goes away. Like a test lab.

hold31

O.k i went to Honda and they are offering me this:Car is a 4 dr sedan w/ navi. Auto, not v6. Black with black leather. Thanks all who respond
26,500 for car
4,000 trade on my semi ,o.k 02 altima 78,200 miles with a dent on side
---------------
22,500
1,828 sales tax at 8.125%
45 dealers optional fee for processing
74.50 registration fee
10 inspection fee
12.50 nys waste tire
----------------
$24,470.13
4,000 cash down
------------
20,470.13
I am finacing through my bank at 6.5% for 60 months. Is this their final offer on the car? I signed vechile cash agreement form but did not leave a deposit or anything. Middletown ny,

tallman1

You may get more responses and read what others are paying here: Accord Prices Paid Forum

pat

Tallman has given you great advice - do click on his link and follow up there.

Good luck!

iwantone

Can anyone give me advise on the 2009 honda accord exl v6 sedan vs 2009 acura tsx? There too many new hondas in my area. I like the look of the 09 acura tsx base model but does it have any kick to it. I am steering toward the v6 accord and I can't afford a TL. The reviews on the 09 tsx aren't that great it seems. I could really use some suggestions.

golfrski

thoroughly test drive the accord highway and side streets.. get comfortable with the VCM engine and be sure your feel NO vibration in the wheel , seat etc at highway speeds.. if its is fine.. go for it,, but the new TSX is awesome, no VCM surging/lurching and is roomy inside and out... you sacrifice the v6 but gain peace of mind ,,IMO

bvdj84

You may want to visit the Acura forums, see what they think.

go_mdx1

With the new 2009 TLs now hitting the showroom floor this week, the 2008 TLs will be DEEPLY DISCOUNTED. This may put a non-NAVI TL nuch closer to a price of a 2009 V6 Accord.

keitha3

That's a great observation, go mdx1. A couple of months ago, I almost bought one at $28,400 w/o navigation. For some reason, my family didn't like the seats in the rear of the TL, but I sat back there and liked them. I suppose it had something to do with individual tastes, but I was kind of sad to not get it.

On the other hand, I'm really loving my "09 Accord.

You could probably get a new TL for under $28,000 now. I think they'll a great balance of things in a single car.