It's been suggested that Honda's specifying 87 octane fuel for their engines is being done to help spur sales as most people looking for a family sedan aren't inclined to purchase one that requires premium fuel.
I'm not sure who suggested that, but most people will be drawn to higher HP ratings than lower (for that, see: Nissan). And gasoline grade isn't usually a conversation piece until it is time to fill up. Honda clearly hasn't cared to advertise or suggest anything with premium grade, so gains (or losses) is pure speculation by those who care. Most buyers don't.
"I'm not sure who suggested that, but most people will be drawn to higher HP ratings than lower (for that, see: Nissan)."
Yeah thsts true Nissan;s sales gains in the US since 1999 year over year started because they started to lead in HP numbers in each car segment that they(Nissan) competed in.
I work in a town that has a Hnoda dealer. Last night as I was walking around the lot I saw an 08 coupe in black in the showroom. My reaction was "Holy @#$, they have a new Bently in there" Actually from the 1:00 position I saw it from the thing was darn near beautiful. It does have a hint of small Bently Continental but obviously its not. How much more room is there in an 08 coupe compared to an 07-earlier sedan? I have 2 kids and they're old enough to get in on their own, no car seats only boosters.
Now that everyone has had a chance to check out the new model, and considering performance wise they seem almost identical, minus a few tech improvements (like MP3, bluetooth etc), what are your thoughts as to the advantages of a new Accord over the previous generation?
The 2008s are bigger and have new styling inside and out, plus you get stability control on all models instead of just V6. No more VP and no more SE V6. Not much else of importance. If you can't fit in the back of a 2007, you should get a 2008 since it has a bigger back seat.
"Brands made by Toyota Motor Co. and Honda Motor Co. still dominate the rankings: Scion is Toyota's low-priced car brand and Acura is Honda's luxury car brand."
"Consumer Reports said it no longer recommends V6 versions of Toyota's Camry or four-wheel-drive V8 versions of its Tundra pick-up because of poor reliability." Could be because early 2007 production of Camry V6 had transmission problems not uncommon with Honda. And also the Tundra had a cam problem in early 5.7L V8 models. Do you think that maybe this is what they are talking about? For a company that has 44 percent of their cars in the "Most reliable" category is quite an accomplishment if you ask me. Mackabee
There was a glitch with a batch of transmissions, but I would assume to be history. Besides, the transmission design itself was revised to make it more sturdy. It is now a 4-shaft design.
Are you talking about V6 AT transmissions here getting the 4 shaft design?
It must have been more than a few issues to drop the V6 Camry all the way into the much below average reliability category. Actually it is rated only average for transmission, audio, and brakes, but much below average in the rattles and squeaks area.
The Tundra problem appears to be a 4wd problem as the 2wd is the most reliable truck of any full size, and the Tundra 4wd version is next to worst just ahead of only the Cadillac EXT (20 out of 21).
Could be because early 2007 production of Camry V6 had transmission problems not uncommon with Honda. And also the Tundra had a cam problem in early 5.7L V8 models. Do you think that maybe this is what they are talking about?
I don't think CR is editorializing. They simply compile the data from their annual readers surveys and report it.
Looks like I'll stick with 87 octane and use top tier stations on a regular basis. When considering this purchase, running on 87 oct was on my checklist. I've been surprised by all the people that have shown an interest in my Accord and almost across the board, when they were done checking the car out, the type of fuel it ran on was a question they asked.
I have not driven the new Accords, so can’t comment on driving impressions. But, like always, the changes are evolutionary. This generation of Accord seems designed for those who went for 1998-2002. The changes, going from 2007 to 2008 are similar to those that were implemented going from 1997 to 1998: slightly larger and more power, while maintaining or improving fuel economy, emissions and safety. The biggest change, probably, is in a more aggressive approach to exterior design.
I've seen quite a few on the road now and the sedan looks really good and has a presence. Haven't seen the coupe yet.
I gave my 2000 EX-L V6 Coupe to my daughter with 196K miles when I got the 2008 EX-L V6 Coupe Oct4. The car has way surpassed my expectations and is still getting better. I paid MSRP, but got splash guards and wheel locks free. I never thought I would buy a car sight unseen with no test drive, but the 7 yr-old coupe was hands-down the best car I have ever owned. I'd hop in it and drive FL to CA tomorrow without fear of not making it. I was most apprehensive on the new polished metal metallic color with black and the VCM. My first two tanks of 87 gas mileage were 26.2 and 26.7 mpg with about 70% Hwy miles. The VCM basically kicks in if I'm not accellerating. I'm assuming it's using 4 cylinders at 78 mph, but I was most surprised by the ride and feel. The 3.0 engine would turn 2500 at 78, while the 3.5 engine runs at 2700 rpm. The car has a very nimble feel and there is unbelievable room to burst around something if you want. I thought the VCM would be more like a sleeper feel to get better mileage, but it sort of has me thinking about combustion/fuel efficiency.
This generation of Accord seems designed for those who went for 1998-2002. The changes, going from 2007 to 2008 are similar to those that were implemented going from 1997 to 1998: slightly larger and more power, while maintaining or improving fuel economy, emissions and safety. The biggest change, probably, is in a more aggressive approach to exterior design.
THANKYOU for finally enlightening Edmunds and the rest of Honda world especailly those disillusioned 2008 owners, both current and future, just what is going on here.. Nothing fantastic, just more of the same
As far as the exterior being more aggresive, I like to think of the "non Honda-like" lines as a sloppy and cheesily delivered next "evolution" but not much else! I mean, after all, I've had VSA since 2005 on a LX trim no less. "What's in it for me" is all I keep asking myself when I see the new Accord both sedan and now more and more each day, the coupe. (and I'm not getting any answers reverberating back either)
Glad to hear you are enjoying your car. I saw a coupe in your color and it is Very Nice. I'm currently waiting for a EXLV6 auto coupe in San Marino Red....just like my 99 coupe. Your mileage seems good considering it's new.I too was a little leery but your post has helped me breath a little easier. I would guess that 30MPG on the highway will be very possible.
06nighthawkv6: You obviously don't like the new Accord design. But, whether you personally like it or not, it appears to be both progressive and very consistent with the general direction in which all new body styles are being designed. So, I'd be interested in two things: 1) Do you think Honda really should have stuck with a body style that was very similar to the 07? 2) What vehicle body style do you like?
One more thing - check out how much the 08 Accord looks like an 08 5 series BMW. Subjectively, I think the 5 series is one of the best looking sedans in the world --I'm happy my $26k car looks very similar.
To my eyes, the 06-07 looks good but in darker colors. But outside of LEDs for brake lamps, I won't compare its appeal to the new Accord which looks more "complete", and classy.
What do you think of the Chambers trade? I hate to see him go, but we need draft picks, and lots of them.
Their doing what they have to do. Don't be surprised if Taylor goes the same way in the off season. However, don't think the host will appreciate this so nuff said.
The reason for my question is after seeing the new model I wish I'd pulled the trigger on an '07. Not because there's anything wrong with the '08 but the deals being made on the '07's were so good. The '08 looks better (IMO), has more power but performance is pretty much identical, I guess it's increased size offset the power gain. The one thing I'd really like is that audio aux input, and I could have had one of those installed for around $150 in an '07.
Couldn't make up my mind because I was also interested in the upcoming diesel. Oh well.
ok ok dare I say it, I am mildly flabbergasted. Yes the Accord looks like the 5 series in that picture but that *also* means it looks less Japanese..intrinsically speaking. Good one. You *got* me. Ok, I upgraded its looks to mentionable status..a change from the previous abysmal now that I realize it may very well be a BMW 5 series fighter.(incognito ofcourse :shades:) good eye!
Yes the Accord looks like the 5 series in that picture but that *also* means it looks less Japanese..
Interestingly enough, a friend of mine who drive a 3-series/6MT said just that. He likes Audi styling but detests the cars, won't drive a Mercedes (no MT to begin with). He thinks the new bimmers look more Japanese than German. And he said that Accord looks more German than Japanese. He has told me that Accord V6 will get a serious consideration if Honda puts 6MT in the sedan.
A reporter seeks to talk with owners and serious shoppers of the 2008 Honda Accord who are also parents. If you are interested in commenting on your experience, please reply to jfallon@edmunds.com no later than Thursday, November 15, 2007 and include your city and state of residence as well as the age of your child/ren.
If i was interested in 0-60 times i would agree. I never raced my 99 and don't plan on racing my new one. I just don't care to be shifting all the time. Yes, i'm aware that the V6 Camry easily beats the new V6AT Honda... in case you were thinking it, but i don't really care.
Those cheap skate">s at Honda decided NOT to place a felt like lining in the inside of the trunk lid. Even the Toyota corolla has a lining in the trunk.
My 03 EX V6 has the trunk lid liner, and I couldn't care less. No one has been impressed by it yet, and I doubt it ever will impress anyone. If that's the biggest gripe you have about a car, I think you're grasping at straws.
There is nothing wrong with the current accord key fob, but why didn't they change it though? I took a test drive in the 08, and noticed, its the same key fob. I would have thought they would change it a bit. I wish they made it like the VW's and audi's. Oh well, just my observation. Its not a big deal at all.
First my background: I love Hondas, always have. I currently drive an 05 Pilot and my wife still has her 03 Ody (that I bought from Jay Honda that I found mentioned on these forums years ago). Between us and our immediate families, we have owned about 15 Honda/Acura products. Anyway, I finally drove the 08 Accord V6EXL today and I'm sorry to report that I was not impressed. Not to say I didn't like it, especially in the dark red with tan leather interior --- gorgeous, but the engine certainly didn't have the oomph I was expecting. My Pilot feels stronger. Gearing perhaps? VCM? Who knows. Also, the interior if the doors are extremely thin and cheap feeling. You can press the whole thing in with one finger, why? Again, my Pilot's doors are solid feeling material and don't move at all when pressed. There is no excuse for not offering bluetooth connectivity and an mp3 aux jack as standard on all models. With the growth in sheer size, it seems to have lost the "fun" feeling that I got when driving my 94 Accord EXL sedan (4cyl). I loved driving that car, it got great mileage and kept me out of trouble with the law. And the insurance was lower than the V6. So what did I like? Certainly the styling inside and out, and I have to give them kudos for stepping up the stereo system. The automatic volume adjuster feature (as speed increases or decreases) is something I used to really enjoy about my mom's Maxima back in 86. To sum it up, it's a nicely done evolution of the brand, but not enough to get me to seriously consider jumping out of my Pilot yet. I have 3 kids, but 95% of the time it's just me in the car, so I may consider a coupe with the manual tranny. My real dilemma is whether I want to step out of the "family" car mold and get into something I'll really love spending time in for work and the weekend, like maybe the G8 GT or a new Camaro instead of another Honda. I just don't know yet. Thoughts on your test drives appreciated in return.
You see, your review doesn't surprise and I've been crowing that very essence you shared with everyone here almost like one of those "bell ringers" during the holiday season except I don't want anything from anyone but their undivided and unbiased attention in listening. Honda's next "big bang" is gonna be with their diesel stuff not anything NA unless they finally make a V8 for the RL!
I am wondering the same things. It's hard not to feel a little pain over the recent departure of three top Toyota execs, and now this. :sick: At least they are offering a limited lifetime warranty on drivetrain now. It's just unusual to hear bad things associated with Toyota. I have been planning to buy a new car next year - either new Camry, Accord, or...ahem...Tundra (if my head wins over my heart). Kinda feel like some of the wind just got let out of my sails... The new Accord EX V6 sure is a nice looking car, I just like Toyota's engines better - more low end "ooomph."
I hate to say this, especially since the two GM's I have owned have been positively the worst engineered cars I've ever had (one was "inherited" as the result of a brothers divorce, the other was purchased after much arm twisting by my wife), but the new G8 looks really good, except for the air intakes on the hood are a little too Pontiacky... but other than that, it kicks A**!
I finally drove the 08 Accord V6EXL today and I'm sorry to report that I was not impressed. Not to say I didn't like it, especially in the dark red with tan leather interior --- gorgeous, but the engine certainly didn't have the oomph I was expecting. My Pilot feels stronger. Gearing perhaps? VCM? Who knows. Also, the interior if the doors are extremely thin and cheap feeling. You can press the whole thing in with one finger, why? Again, my Pilot's doors are solid feeling material and don't move at all when pressed.
Roger that.
Haven't driven the 08 yet, but these are the same gripes I have with the Hondas I have owned/driven/been a passenger in, so it sounds like I don't need to drive the 08. It sure is a looker, though.
So, I guess what everyone is saying is that Honda copied the BMW 5-series. What ever happened to Honda's originality in exterior design - I thought copying was a trademark of the South Korean manufacturers!
at most, the profile evokes the 5 series a little bit. It is far from some kind of blatant copy!
The front end also does not look like a copy of a Sonata. Similar shapes at most?
To me, the test is, when you see one, do you immediately know it is a Honda (like the new Civic) or do you mistake it for something else? That's a lot different than just looking similar to some other cars.
Besides, IMO, the prior design 5 series is one of the best looking 4 doors made.
And, how many different ways can you package a 4 door sedan, unless you want to pull a Chrysler and sacrifice packaging and visibility!
at most, the profile evokes the 5 series a little bit. It is far from some kind of blatant copy!
The front end also does not look like a copy of a Sonata. Similar shapes at most?
It certainly isn't a bad thing to evoke BMW like sense of styling...but if we're being totally honest, it's a near carbon copy from the side. If you want to see a design that merely evokes a sense of BMW style, think Scion Tc. This? Everything from the front side marker lights that squint as they go back to the kink in the rear quarter window, to the shape of the tail lights practically could've been cut/pasted from the 5 series. To my eyes, it's a 5 with a bigger greenhouse, and a few little tweaks here and there. The front is pure Honda, and to suggest a likeness with the Snotta is just bassackwards, considering that Hyundai copied the Accord in the first place and threw in a little bit of Audi A6 on the side profile, minus all the sexiness. I love the design of this new Accord, but it's far from a mere resemblance to the 5. BMW should be flattered...or very angry :surprise: But the design is both bold enough to please a lot of enthusiasts, and conservative enough not to turn off the mainstream. I'm sure this latest iteration will put the Accord in a stronger market position than ever before. With the added size thrown in, it just might dethrone the Camry for #1 selling car.
there is just no need to feed the trolls. Those who are saying it copies another car, especially one of a perceived lower caliber, are just being stereotypical haters. If you ignore them, they'll go away.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
brunna: You had an interesting experience with your 08 test drive. There are a couple of things that I can offer. First, my 08 EX-L definitely does not have doors that are so thin you can press them in with one finger. They're not Bentley doors, but they are of standard Honda quality. Perhaps you test drove a car where the door panel had become separated?? Second, although bluetooth is only offered with the nav. system, the mp3 aux. jack is standard on all models (its in the center armrest storage). Finally, I have never driven a 94 Accord like yours. But, I just traded in my 98 Accord and, IMHO, there is no comparison between the handling of the 98 and 08. My 08, although bigger, feels more nimble and the steering response and precision is MUCH better. When combined with an excellent throttle response and considerably more horse power (150 vs. 190), I can't imagine preferring my 98 over my 08. Perhaps the 94's were better performers than my 98? If your considering buying a new car, I wouldn't write off the 08 Accord just yet. Perhaps you just need to test drive a different car?
(Stereo: It is interesting that you mention the stereo as a positive item. Although not hugely important to me, I am not impressed with the stereo systems offered in the 08 Accords. The base-level stereo in my 98 was much better than the stereo I listened to in the 08 LX-P. And, the "upgraded" stereo I got in my new EX-L is acceptable, but it seriously lacks mid range at higher volumes. Despite adding a separate subwoofer, it doesn't sound like Honda used cross-over filters to help the performance of the door and deck speakers by limiting their low-frequency output. It is as if they simply added a subwoofer with a 100watt amp to an otherwise average stereo (not a very high-tech way of doing things). The sound imaging is sub-par and the stereo simply does not produce a well balanced acoustic range at volume. Unlike the 440 watt system in the Camry, the 270watt system in my Accord just doesn't have the reserve to produce convincingly great sound and bass. If the in-dash unit weren't so damn odd shaped, I think you could buy an after-market system that would seriously out perform the factory system for $400.
Comments
I'm not sure who suggested that, but most people will be drawn to higher HP ratings than lower (for that, see: Nissan). And gasoline grade isn't usually a conversation piece until it is time to fill up. Honda clearly hasn't cared to advertise or suggest anything with premium grade, so gains (or losses) is pure speculation by those who care. Most buyers don't.
http://money.cnn.com/2007/10/16/autos/cr_reliability/index.htm?cnn=yes
Yeah thsts true Nissan;s sales gains in the US since 1999 year over year started because they started to lead in HP numbers in each car segment that they(Nissan) competed in.
How much more room is there in an 08 coupe compared to an 07-earlier sedan? I have 2 kids and they're old enough to get in on their own, no car seats only boosters.
No more VP and no more SE V6.
Not much else of importance.
If you can't fit in the back of a 2007, you should get a 2008 since it has a bigger back seat.
Dolfan1,
What do you think of the Chambers trade? I hate to see him go, but we need draft picks, and lots of them.
nope.
"Brands made by Toyota Motor Co. and Honda Motor Co. still dominate the rankings: Scion is Toyota's low-priced car brand and Acura is Honda's luxury car brand."
"Consumer Reports said it no longer recommends V6 versions of Toyota's Camry or four-wheel-drive V8 versions of its Tundra pick-up because of poor reliability."
Could be because early 2007 production of Camry V6 had transmission problems not uncommon with Honda. And also the Tundra had a cam problem in early 5.7L V8 models. Do you think that maybe this is what they are talking about?
Mackabee
Are you talking about V6 AT transmissions here getting the 4 shaft design?
Who doesn't? :P
The Tundra problem appears to be a 4wd problem as the 2wd is the most reliable truck of any full size, and the Tundra 4wd version is next to worst just ahead of only the Cadillac EXT (20 out of 21).
I have an 08 EX-L V6 coupe, with nav, black on black on order.
I have seen the lower trim model coupes in black on black. I agree- pretty sweet.
Could be because early 2007 production of Camry V6 had transmission problems not uncommon with Honda. And also the Tundra had a cam problem in early 5.7L V8 models. Do you think that maybe this is what they are talking about?
I don't think CR is editorializing. They simply compile the data from their annual readers surveys and report it.
I've seen quite a few on the road now and the sedan looks really good and has a presence. Haven't seen the coupe yet.
THANKYOU for finally enlightening Edmunds and the rest of Honda world especailly those disillusioned 2008 owners, both current and future, just what is going on here.. Nothing fantastic, just more of the same
As far as the exterior being more aggresive, I like to think of the "non Honda-like" lines as a sloppy and cheesily delivered next "evolution" but not much else! I mean, after all, I've had VSA since 2005 on a LX trim no less. "What's in it for me" is all I keep asking myself when I see the new Accord both sedan and now more and more each day, the coupe. (and I'm not getting any answers reverberating back either)
One more thing - check out how much the 08 Accord looks like an 08 5 series BMW. Subjectively, I think the 5 series is one of the best looking sedans in the world --I'm happy my $26k car looks very similar.
<img src="http://a332.g.akamai.net/f/332/936/12h/www.edmunds.com//pictures/VEHICLE/2008/BMW/2008.bmw.5 series.20117319-E.jpg"
<img src="http://a332.g.akamai.net/f/332/936/12h/www.edmunds.com//media/roadtests/roadtest/08.honda.accord.ex.v6/08.honda.accord.act.prf.500.jpg"
Their doing what they have to do. Don't be surprised if Taylor goes the same way in the off season.
However, don't think the host will appreciate this so nuff said.
The reason for my question is after seeing the new model I wish I'd pulled the trigger on an '07. Not because there's anything wrong with the '08 but the deals being made on the '07's were so good. The '08 looks better (IMO), has more power but performance is pretty much identical, I guess it's increased size offset the power gain. The one thing I'd really like is that audio aux input, and I could have had one of those installed for around $150 in an '07.
Couldn't make up my mind because I was also interested in the upcoming diesel. Oh well.
Interestingly enough, a friend of mine who drive a 3-series/6MT said just that. He likes Audi styling but detests the cars, won't drive a Mercedes (no MT to begin with). He thinks the new bimmers look more Japanese than German. And he said that Accord looks more German than Japanese. He has told me that Accord V6 will get a serious consideration if Honda puts 6MT in the sedan.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
You see, your review doesn't surprise and I've been crowing that very essence you shared with everyone here almost like one of those "bell ringers" during the holiday season except I don't want anything from anyone but their undivided and unbiased attention in listening. Honda's next "big bang" is gonna be with their diesel stuff not anything NA unless they finally make a V8 for the RL!
Roger that.
Haven't driven the 08 yet, but these are the same gripes I have with the Hondas I have owned/driven/been a passenger in, so it sounds like I don't need to drive the 08. It sure is a looker, though.
I'm starting the shopping around process and many of the dealers don't share their email addresses on their web sites. Thanks.
My address: hondaShopper@gmail.com
The front end also does not look like a copy of a Sonata. Similar shapes at most?
To me, the test is, when you see one, do you immediately know it is a Honda (like the new Civic) or do you mistake it for something else? That's a lot different than just looking similar to some other cars.
Besides, IMO, the prior design 5 series is one of the best looking 4 doors made.
And, how many different ways can you package a 4 door sedan, unless you want to pull a Chrysler and sacrifice packaging and visibility!
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Overall I agree, but I was struck by the rear door/greenhouse similarity between the two.
The front end also does not look like a copy of a Sonata. Similar shapes at most?
It certainly isn't a bad thing to evoke BMW like sense of styling...but if we're being totally honest, it's a near carbon copy from the side. If you want to see a design that merely evokes a sense of BMW style, think Scion Tc. This? Everything from the front side marker lights that squint as they go back to the kink in the rear quarter window, to the shape of the tail lights practically could've been cut/pasted from the 5 series. To my eyes, it's a 5 with a bigger greenhouse, and a few little tweaks here and there. The front is pure Honda, and to suggest a likeness with the Snotta is just bassackwards, considering that Hyundai copied the Accord in the first place and threw in a little bit of Audi A6 on the side profile, minus all the sexiness. I love the design of this new Accord, but it's far from a mere resemblance to the 5. BMW should be flattered...or very angry :surprise: But the design is both bold enough to please a lot of enthusiasts, and conservative enough not to turn off the mainstream. I'm sure this latest iteration will put the Accord in a stronger market position than ever before. With the added size thrown in, it just might dethrone the Camry for #1 selling car.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
Can only hope...
(Stereo: It is interesting that you mention the stereo as a positive item. Although not hugely important to me, I am not impressed with the stereo systems offered in the 08 Accords. The base-level stereo in my 98 was much better than the stereo I listened to in the 08 LX-P. And, the "upgraded" stereo I got in my new EX-L is acceptable, but it seriously lacks mid range at higher volumes. Despite adding a separate subwoofer, it doesn't sound like Honda used cross-over filters to help the performance of the door and deck speakers by limiting their low-frequency output. It is as if they simply added a subwoofer with a 100watt amp to an otherwise average stereo (not a very high-tech way of doing things). The sound imaging is sub-par and the stereo simply does not produce a well balanced acoustic range at volume. Unlike the 440 watt system in the Camry, the 270watt system in my Accord just doesn't have the reserve to produce convincingly great sound and bass. If the in-dash unit weren't so damn odd shaped, I think you could buy an after-market system that would seriously out perform the factory system for $400.