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Chevrolet Malibu vs. Toyota Camry vs. Honda Accord

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Comments

  • deerlake7deerlake7 Member Posts: 176
    Everyone is different, but for me, I found the low roof line encroached too much on the interior space and the narrowness of the Malibu made me feel cramped. It was the only vehicle I drove where I found my left leg continually brushing up against the door. Others may find the Malibu "intimate."
  • bug4bug4 Member Posts: 370
    Just interested to know what things you didn't like about the Accord. My guess is that you didn't like the ride! I've put about 6k on my 08 Accord and, while I like the ride, it likely is a little firm and abrupt for people who drive on lots of rough roads. The Camry should meet your needs much better in that regard . . .its smoooooth!
  • deerlake7deerlake7 Member Posts: 176
    You've got it, the ride over our rough roads was a significant issue. For better, or worse, I drive much more on rough roads than I do curvy ones to get the extra enjoyment of the better cornering on the Accord. Where the Accord shined for me was the steering. It was quick with good feedback and seemed improved over my '05 Accord. Good luck with yours.
  • dave8697dave8697 Member Posts: 1,498
    GM sales for Jan up 2.6% but Toyota sales were down 2.7%
    Are people waking up to the fact that we are headed into a period where GM quality meets or beats any of the competition and people are willing to change their perceptions to those based more on reality than during the last couple years? Or do they still think GM needs to lose more jobs?
    The loss of 17,000 US jobs this month is another wake up call.
    Lost jobs that get replaced by lower paying jobs are more common I keep hearing. Is that like being an engineering co-op for GM one summer and then a burger flipper the following summer as you work your way through college?
    Foreign investment buying depressed American industry should be a wake up call. Is it? Or are we going to keep giving away our country by buying foreign cars and tv's?, etc,
    Recession
    Unemployment
    Foreclosure
    Our country now thinks we can revive our economy with food stamps increases and gas money for the poor working class. Isn't that a wonderful place to be? What are we willing to reduce ourselves to before we will finally provide Americans car sales to support America's economy? I hope every neighborhood where foreign cars outnumber American ones has enough foreclosures to drop all that neighborhood's home prices by $7000 each. That will help this all sink in.
  • thegraduatethegraduate Member Posts: 9,731
    Foreign investment buying depressed American industry should be a wake up call. Is it? Or are we going to keep giving away our country by buying foreign cars and tv's?, etc,
    Recession
    Unemployment
    Foreclosure
    Our country now thinks we can revive our economy with food stamps increases and gas money for the poor working class. Isn't that a wonderful place to be? What are we willing to reduce ourselves to before we will finally provide Americans car sales to support America's economy? I hope every neighborhood where foreign cars outnumber American ones has enough foreclosures to drop all that neighborhood's home prices by $7000 each. That will help this all sink in.

    And this has what to do with comparing attributes of the Camry, Malibu, and Accord?

    I'm sure a host would be happy to link you to the News and Views board.
  • dave8697dave8697 Member Posts: 1,498
    These are the unintended effects of buying non-US. One of the attributes of a car purchase is it's effect on our nation's strength. Regardless of how the comparison comes out, the purchase of a nissan, toyota or honda results in the sending of 65-85% of the purchase price to Japan, even if it was made in Ohio. That eventually leads to the loss of american jobs and american real estate to the Japanese. With the lost jobs comes foreclosure of your neighbor from his house. With that comes a hard hit to your 401K and a foreclosure sign not too far from your house. With that comes a $7000 drop in your house value to add to your 401k drop. With that you might still find reason to smile because CR says you made a great choice by picking your car purchase from their reccommended list, made up of 90% foreign cars that result in all our American earnings being sent overseas. I personally find it easier to swallow a lesser rating from a B.S., innacurate, CR type entity for my car that I purchased than to deal with the 401k hit and the friend out of work and a foreclosed home in my neighborhood taking $7k off the value of my house. I could have the american car for free by comparison when these other unintended effects are added in.
  • elroy5elroy5 Member Posts: 3,735
    I refuse to bail out a company, by buying inferior products. Is that what business is about? No one is bailing me out. I have to perform to get my pay. Sorry, but I expect the same from GM. GM is not a charity, so I am not giving them anything. Just like me, they're going to have to earn it.
  • Karen_SKaren_S Member Posts: 5,092
    This direction of topic is more appropriate for this discussion in Auto News. Please go there to continue.
  • beach15beach15 Member Posts: 1,305
    We fit very comfortably in the Malibu, and are all tall, but I understand the claustrophobic mention. At first, it can seem a little bit that way with the high up and short side windows, mainly.

    Was particularly odd to my father at first and it made him think it was a much smaller car than it was, but after a week he adjusted (it's not his anyway), and fits fine and thinks it's extremely comfortable. For the look to be the way it is, that's the side effect.
  • roar02ramroar02ram Member Posts: 12
    My quick 2 cents - the Accord or the Altima are the best compromises out there. I don't like the new Accord, but there's no denying its value. It drives well, it's roomy, its 4-cylinder engine is one of the best performing (along with Nissan's), and it really is priced well for what you get. The Altima I feel is the more straightforward choice, with less offensive styling inside & out, cleaner controls, and arguably more appropriate sizing for the class. Plus, you can't beat the deals that Nissan's been running on that car. In terms of 4-cylinders, either car is a great buy. The V-6 story is similar, although I'd say the Accord's V-6 is disappointing enough to make the Altima the clear victor here. The Camry simply doesn't cut it: the interior doesn't feel as solid as the other two's, 4-cylinder engine performance lags (the V-6 is GREAT, though), and handling is awful by comparison (for a ride that isn't hugely better). As for the Malibu - it's a great car, but the feature combos are a bit weird, and where the 4-cylinder's a bit slow, the V-6 is a gas guzzler. Great if it's what you're lookin' for, but arguably not the best overall.

    Personally, I think the ideal car would put the Accord's interior space in the Altima's exterior size with the Camry's ride, the Altima or VW Passat's handling, the Altima's controls, the Hyundai Sonata's warranty, the Malibu's styling swagger, and the Sonata's pricing. Engine? Gotta side with Nissan's. Victor for me? Altima.
  • jerrywimerjerrywimer Member Posts: 588
    The V6 in the Malibu is a gas guzzler? Which one? We had a 2004 with the 3.5l / 4 speed auto that was consistently achieving 32+ highway, and never went below 24 mpg in the whole time we owned it. As of last Thursday I'm the proud owner of a 2008 LTZ (3.6l w/6 speed auto). Because I drive my new cars according to the 'break-in' guidance in the owner's manuals I'm staying off the highway, which results in lots of stops, 20 - 55 mph speed zones, etc. each way on my ~30 mi. drive to work. The first tank of gas, driven in these conditions, has already earned me 25 mpg. I anticipate 30+ from this car, despite the greater weight and power.

    And comparing V6's, just based on Edmunds' long-term testers, the Malibu's fuel economy is just as competitive, maybe even a bit better than the new Accord's 'ACM' V6, while being both quicker and more responsive. Speaking strictly of the 3.6 / 6 speed auto, of course. I haven't seen or read anything about the 3.5 (it's mentioned in the owner's manuals maintenance section, so I assume someone'll buy a car with that engine and the 4 speed). ;-)
  • dave8697dave8697 Member Posts: 1,498
    Considering my current newest GM car is a V6 supercharged 3800 4sp auto weighing 3650 pounds empty that got me 31mpg on the 2 trips I took with it when it was 9 years old, I'd find it hard to believe it a little Malibu 3600 engine couldn't at least match the 31mpg of the huge Rivy with early '90's tech (15 years ago). My most recent GM purchase (last year) is a '99 S-15 p/u that got 25.5mpg on a trip and lately gets 23.8mpg commuting to work in 15 degree weather. It isn't the 4cyl, it is the 4.3 L V6 with extended cab, weighing 3850 lbs empty. GM and gas guzzler need to be in different sentences for me.

    As far as styling goes, my vote goes to the Malibu by a long way vs the Altima or Accord.
  • cgmax2kcgmax2k Member Posts: 27
  • vietviet Member Posts: 847
    Agreed 99.99% with Elroy5. We perform our big butts up straight in the air for so long for less pays. We should have not been obligated to buy inferior cars.

    The strategies concerning trade between America & Japan and US economy are responsibilities of the US President and the Congress. They get pays to do their jobs. They & GM have to perform.
  • pernaperna Member Posts: 521
    As the current owner of an '03 Maxima, I think the Malibu is a much more desireable car than the Accord or Camry.

    Interior:

    The Camry's interior is horrendously cheap. I can't believe what Toyota did to this car. Mouse fur crap everywhere, it reminded me of my 1989 Ford Escort Pony.

    The Accord's interior seemed solid, but the setup was bizarre to say the least. I had a visceral reaction when I sat down in the driver's seat, and it wasn't positive.

    The Malibu's interior was very nice. Some of the materials weren't as nice as those used in the Accord, but the presentation overall was the best of the three cars. I loved the controls and center stack in this car, everything was logically laid out and easy to reach.

    Exterior:

    I've always kind of liked the way the new Camry looks, if only they'd flatten the nose a bit it would be perfect. It doesn't really do anything for me, but at least it isn't offensive like...

    The new Accord is just butt ugly. The front end looks like a Sonata mated with a Volvo, and the rear end is just nasty. Ugly, ugly car. It's not boring like the older Accords, but Honda went in the wrong direction. The Japanese manufacturers seem to like ripping each other off, well, they need to look at what Nissan did with the Altima and what they're doing with the new Maxima.

    The Malibu's side profile is very, very good. It perpetuates the overall opinion I have of the car, which is that it looks and feels like a much more expensive vehicle. The nose is good IF the fascia is chromed-out and not black plastic, and the rear end is nice if not just a bit boring.

    I could easily see myself replacing my Maxima with a Malibu. The Camry is a four wheeled symptom of a company that has cut costs just a bit too much, and the Accord is made for people who are more into resale value than the cars themselves.
  • bwiabwia Member Posts: 2,913
    perna, your observations are on target and my sentiments exactly. When we were shopping for a new mid-sized car and would mention to the salesmen selling foreign name plates that we were considering the Malibu they all went mute. They knew deep down they couldn’t compete on product much less price. We looked at the Camry/Accord and walked away disappointed. These cars are competing on past laurels not on present day reality.

    Although we were impressed with the Acura TSX’s interior styling, the exterior just cannot compare to the Malibu. Furthermore, the price differential over the Malibu cannot be justified.

    In the car biz the name of the game is product and finally GM has the product in the Malibu to kick the butt of the Accord/Camry/Fusion, et al.
  • thegraduatethegraduate Member Posts: 9,731
    Does the Malibu have better interior materials than the Aura on the lower-end models (Aura XE/Malibu LS/LT1)?

    I sat in an Aura Hybrid at the auto-show and was thoroughly disappointed with the cheap feel of everything, including the steering wheel. If the Malibu is no better than the Aura, then I'll be passing on it next time.
  • texasestexases Member Posts: 10,708
    "GM has the product in the Malibu to kick the butt of the Accord/Camry/Fusion, et al. "

    Even the NY Times agrees:
    NYT Likes Malibu
  • pernaperna Member Posts: 521
    Does the Malibu have better interior materials than the Aura on the lower-end models (Aura XE/Malibu LS/LT1)?

    Honestly, I can't comment on Malibu LS. I only drove the LTZ.

    I've only seen the base model Aura's interior (I wonder if we went to the same auto show, lol), and I agree it wasn't very good. I *hate* grey interiors, even on luxury cars. It makes the whole thing seem cheap. If I do buy an LTZ, I'll go with the brick and black, it looks pretty sharp, and would be a nice changeup from the all-black interior Maxima I've been driving for the past 5 years.
  • thegraduatethegraduate Member Posts: 9,731
    Thanks for the honest reply.

    I'm a 4-cylinder guy for the most part (sure 250+ hp is fun, but unnecessary), and wouldn't look at a Malibu with the 3.6L because of the higher cost of fuel as well as the cost of entry. I currently am very happy with my 2006 Accord EX (cloth) 4-cyl, and don't plan to change soon, but I like to keep abreast of the market should something happen to my car, that way I know right where to go test drive and what to look for. Plus, this stuff is sorta fun to me! :)

    Take care.
  • personatechpersonatech Member Posts: 105
    Sorry, but I can't agree. I just went through the process of comparing the Camry, Accord, Altima, and Malibu, focusing on 4-cylinders for their better fuel economy.

    Most everyone's comments on the Camry are spot-on: looks a bit like a manatee, drives like a sofa, its 4-cylinder engine was anemic compared to the Accord, and it had less interior space than the Accord. I was particularly interested in the Hybrid but got in the game too late - had I purchased my vehicle two months prior I could have gotten a decent discounted price. Gas hit $4 per gallon about the time I started shopping seriously and the hybrid feeding frenzy was on! - I was quoted $32,000 for a TCH comparable to an Accord EX-L that most dealers were selling at $24000. $8K will buy a LOT of gasoline! I also found the hybrid "light show" distracting - why can't they design hybrid cars that don't scream the fact to you?

    I really wanted to like the Malibu LTZ: great interior design, a new take on exterior styling, great fit and finish. However, the 4-cyl engine was also anemic compared to the Accord (even with the 6-speed tranny) and its cockpit was the tightest of the three - I had to lower my seat all the way just to have enough headroom clearance and I felt like I was sitting ON the seat bolsters rather than having them hold me in my seat. Lastly, the trunk is cavernous BUT the trunk hatch is so small that only smallish items can go in the trunk. I play bass and fashioned a cardboard box the size of my 2x10 cab - it fit easily in both the Camry and Accord but wouldn't in the Malibu, either from the back or from the front after folding down the rear seat.

    Since the topic didn't include the Altima, I'll just say that the 2.5SL seemed cheap compared to the other three we test-drove and the CVT's whine was a bit annoying. Nice car, but not as nice as the Malibu or Accord.

    As you might have guessed by now, I went with the Accord EX-L. Some don't like its looks but I personally think it's a very handsome automobile (the front end straight on in particular) and many have complimented me on its looks. Add the ivory (tan) leather interior with wood trim and it compares favorably with the Malibu's interior. The seats are more comfortable than the Malibu's and I have plenty of headroom and shoulder room. The center stack is a bit more intimidating than the Malibu's but is easy enough to understand once you get used to it. The trunk is very spacious; I can fit my entire bass rig in it with room to spare. Lastly, I have no doubts of the Honda's reliability and resale value, while GM still needs to prove themselves to me. The Honda does lack some amenities I liked in the Malibu: the rear power package, 60/40 split rear seats, and the trip computer come to mind, but these were minor items in the great scheme of things.

    Had you suggested two years ago that I would even consider a Malibu, I'd have laughed in your face. Today, I am impressed - if GM can keep this up AND prove to consumers that their products are of a consistently high quality, then they'll do well. In fact, in six or seven years when it's time for something new, I'll give GM another opportunity; it was very close this time - maybe the 2015 Malibu will be a winner!
  • mazda6dudemazda6dude Member Posts: 283
    I have driven the altima 2.5S, altima hybrid, camry 2.4L automatic and there is no comparison to the Honda Accord. I bought a 2008 Honda Accord LX automatic. Even though the exterior design is up for debate and discussion, the engineering, handling, ride, quality far surpasses the camry, altima. I cannot comment on the Malibu since I have not driven one, but a awesome track record for over 32 years for the Honda Accord will be hard to match.
  • jakeinswitzjakeinswitz Member Posts: 7
    From 1984-1987 I drove a 1970 Ford Mustang Mach 1 (why, oh why did I sell it?!). It was beautiful, but handled like a yam wagon, and burned fuel like the gas tank was on fire. Leaking exhaust fumes inside the interior had earned it the nickname of "The Gas Chamber" from my wife. This fact, coupled with the birth of my daughter, spelled the end of my days with the 'stang. So I got me one a dem rice mobiles! An 87 Maxima.

    Since then we have owned another Nissan, 3 Toyota's, a Mitsu 3000gt, and 2 Acura's. With no real justification for my wife's Acura MDX, we traded it for an 08 Miata. Yes, I know. Big departure, but she put her foot down and refused to be the grocery hauler. I drive a BMW 328 coupe myself so I had no right to force her into another barge. This left us with no way of moving more than 2 people in one vehicle unless punishing someone was the purpose of the ride.

    I decided we needed an economical family hauler for when the kids come for a visit from college, or if the bat comes to drain my life from me (code for Mother in law visit). I drove all 3 of these cars, as well as the Altima. I had my doubts about the Malibu, but I had to see what the hype was about.

    The Altima felt cheap and I really disliked the CVT. The Camry was just unloveable. Such an appliance. This really broke my heart because in my younger years I loved Toyota's. The Accord may have gotten the pick if it was my absolute only means of transportation, but I am sorry Honda fans, it is uglier than the back end of a bulldog with worms. That grill! My god, what were they thinking?

    I am one of those guys that likes to look down on his driveway from his bedroom window, and like what he sees. The Malibu fits right in with the Miata and my BMW as far as looks go, but beauty isn't everything, and the Malibu is doing just fine in all other departments.

    The Malibu is a Black LTZ 4 cylinder, with the brick/ebony interior. The interior just felt more upscale to me compared to the Honda and others. Although I am 6'1", I didn't feel the claustrophobia. I have always driven sporty cars, and don't like cavernous autos. The ride feels as good as anything Japan has put out, and we are averaging 27 MPG. Is it as fast as the Honda? No. But if you are looking for a fast sporty car, I can make some recommendations. None of which are 4 cylinder family cars.

    Good for you GM! I might even have to check out a Cadillac CTS when it comes time to say goodbye to the BMW.
  • bvdj84bvdj84 Member Posts: 1,724
    Yes, I went to the dealer yesterday, while no one was there, I closely looked at the Malibu, and I am really impressed with it! The overall design is very classy, and makes you wonder why they are just now taking design seriously. I truly love the interior as well, the leather with the suede inserts are very nice. I am not sure it looks any more upscale than the Accord, rather the malibu just really worked more on interior details that pertain to the look of it. The Accord has a very nice interior, its just they didn't go crazy on the colors, suede inserts. The cost of the Malibu is quite good as well. You seem to get a lot for the money. But, would I buy one? If I did not love Honda and VW so much, I would. GM is going in the right direction with the Malibu, now if they can downsize some of its lower quality units, they could, perhaps have a set of really nice cars.
  • malmouzamalmouza Member Posts: 141
    I agree with the lot of comments that have been said about the Malibu and the Accord. But there is one place that people they need to understand, manufacturer will never please all people by the exterior design they choose for a specific model, I read a lot of comments about the 08 accord exterior design, some of it good some of it bad. I am one of those people that like the new design, the back of the car is like the BMW 525i, the front there is no similarity with the Sonata like heard before. My only negative comment about the 08 Accord is the manufacturer made the car so big that it did kill the gas mileage and diminishes some of the crisp handling it use to have, I am not saying it does not handle well now, but there is a little over steering and under steering and some body roll in turns compare to the previous generation. Honda should have shortened the car by 1” compare to the 2007 Accord instead of enlarging it. That would have lead to an amazing handling and good fuel economy in the range of 34 MPG. Whoever wants more space than a regular sedan he need to go check out a minivan or CUV. But as far as the design is concern, at first I did not warm up to it, but after couple days I can see the aggressive front fascia, and the smooth rounded rear deck of improve aerodynamic, that is why the Accord has 0.31 cd. This is the lowest in the industry for a large sedan. Again, Honda approach is trying to please its old customers (baby boomers) that they are over 50 of age now; but in the process lost younger people that they are looking for sport/spacious/practical/economic transportation. Honda always considered US market as filled with fat people that likes big cars more powerful engines to race on street. They were wrong this time and that is why they are not meeting the sells numbers they predicted for the Accord. Now, they cannot change the size of the Accord after one year in the market, what they are trying to do, is to put diesel engine in the Accord, and since they already selling the accord in Europe (TSX) with the same engine, it won’t cost them a lot to just slap the newly developed by Honda catalytic converter in the new Accord and it will pass the emission in the 50 states. Very smart thing to do, isn’t it? The diesel get a good gas mileage but here in USA the diesel is $1 more than the gasoline, and by crunching the numbers I do not think the diesel will help that much….
  • ctlctl Member Posts: 129
    Not a big deal, but that CD is nowhere close to the lowest. e.g., Accord 0.31, Altima 0.31, Camry 0.28, Camry Hybrid 0.27.

    CD basically has nothing to do with how large (length) the car is too. 2008 Benz S-class has it at 0.26 :)

    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automobile_drag_coefficients

    I can see the aggressive front fascia, and the smooth rounded rear deck of improve aerodynamic, that is why the Accord has 0.31 cd. This is the lowest in the industry for a large sedan
  • ctlctl Member Posts: 129
    Another funny thing. I agree with the comment below. But if you read consumer report, that great 2008 Accord I-4 engine drives slower (0-60) than both Altima and Camry (yes, that slow camry) and has worse average MPG (-3, -2) too. I guess a sporty handling together with louder road/engine noise make it feel faster? :) I was just surprised when I read that, from other sources too.

    Most everyone's comments on the Camry are spot-on: looks a bit like a manatee, drives like a sofa, its 4-cylinder engine was anemic compared to the Accord, and it had less interior space than the Accord
  • csr67csr67 Member Posts: 58
    Being a frequent business traveler, I've had multiple opportunities to drive the new Malibu from rental fleets. All the Malibu's I've driven are the v6 LTZ trim. At first I was quite impressed on the overall car, being that it is made by GM. After driving a few, I started seeing the same old GM pattern, especially on rentals that had over 10k miles... Worn interior plastics, squeeks, rattles emerged on several of them. Overall, the Malibu did not hold up well and quickly lost its' luster in my eyes.

    I took delivery of a new 2008 Accord v6 EXL Sedan last week. Loaded with everything but Nav., it was actually a little cheaper than I could have bought a Malibu LTZ using my GM vendor pricing and incentives. Hands down, the Accord beats the Malibu at everything. Much better interior quality, ride, and power delivery.
  • bvdj84bvdj84 Member Posts: 1,724
    Yes, though the new Malibu is a good step in the right direction, I really like it! But, the Accord takes all of that a step further. The engine in the Accord is much better as well. Though you see they have recycled many parts from other models in there line up. Just look and you will see them, but that is not saying that is bad, it is just showing nothing new. Just look at the interior of the Malibu and you will see it took many parts from the Pontiac G6, like seating, switches. That is okay, but I feel when I look at GM across the board, you have all these cars that are all basically the same, but with a different name. Its almost getting way out of hand with their duplicate cars. GM is making a better, quality products now, but when compared head to head with Accord, the Accord seems to offer a well rounded product, that simply takes it much further than the Malibu. And, the Accord cannot be found on some rental lot.

    IF GM downsizes to smaller line up, and ditch the duplicate named cars, than perhaps money could be used to create a better product. Creating a better 4cyl engine!! Using better parts within the car.

    With this said, the Malibu is nice, I really like it! The Accord Wins with its overall value and attention to detail.
  • butch100butch100 Member Posts: 28
    I own an '05 'Bu w/3.5 and it gets awesome gas mileage but you can't realistically expect the newer 3.6 to come close to the older 3.5's. The reason is the newer 3.6 is a multi-valve dual OHC design, so it breathes better and generates more HP. Chevy did this to make the new 'Bu competitive with the Accord/Altima/Camry and succeeded as the new 'Bu is more than a match for all, but you can't get extra power without burning more fuel so there is somewhat of a trade off involved. The 3.5 pushrod is not offered in the newer (08 and up) 'Bu's..
  • bvdj84bvdj84 Member Posts: 1,724
    I would like anyone to share, the differences in the new malibu 4cyl engine, and the Accord 4cyl engine. For those that have driven both. I would like to hear what people feel the differences are, including power, refinement, quality.

    Thanks. :)
  • vanman1vanman1 Member Posts: 1,397
    I ended up with a 2008 Malibu 2LT with performance package that includes the 3.6L and 6-speed auto. I never had any intention of buying a Malibu but I was shocked after 2 tests as to how much I liked it. The interior is beautiful and unique features like XM Radio, OnStar and remote start made it stand out even more. I also couldn't believe how fast it was and how smooth the transmission shifts, smoother than any other car I drove.

    There are a lot of good midsize sedans out there but no one shopping should skip over the new Malibu. The other great thing at least around my area, there aren't many around yet so I actually get some stares. Nice!
  • vanman1vanman1 Member Posts: 1,397
    I have only tried an 09 Malibu with a 6-speed auto. The Malibu is very quiet and the engine is quite isolated so I am not sure if it's worse than a Honda like some people have mentioned. I found it to be comparable and the transmission to be smooth.

    Try them yourself back to back if you can. I don't think you will go wrong with either.
  • ashwinkumar96ashwinkumar96 Member Posts: 21
    I am planning to purchase a new car and I am sort of confused either to choose camry or accord. Both have got the same features , price etc. I am looking at Accord EX Vs Camry SE. I have heard that seats in Accord are very uncomfortable, how far is it true? Is it very very uncomfortable. Also comapring the HP, its 155 for camry Vs 192 for Accord. I am planning to add in the package which includes moonroof etc in camry and inspite of that the price comes almost the same. Kindly help me in arriving at a decision.
  • lucky_777lucky_777 Member Posts: 205
    I'd say it is not entirely correct to say that Accord's seats very uncomfortable although it proved to be the case with my wife's 99 Accord. 09 Camry LE seats made a huge difference for her back. Everybody's body shape is different and what's comfortable for one person is a back killer for another. Worst part, that it is really hard to judge on seat comfort from the short test drive. If seat's comfort is very important for you then either arrange full day test drive with a dealer or rent same car and take it for a trip. From what I was reading I4 Camry with 155 HP is quicker then Accord 2008 LX (0-60). I don't believe that EX is much quicker then LX given that both have same basic torque and peak at same rpm (LX/EX, 161@4300/162@4400 ).
  • bibo2bibo2 Member Posts: 9
    I totally agree. I was looking for buying Camry or Accord but ended up buying Malibu 08 2LT. The drive is so comfortable and smooth. With acoustic windows and soundproofed body panels, the bu is almost mute on the drive! I like its exterior better than Camry and Accord. Transmission is very smooth. First time drove it, I had to keep watching the speedometer to avoid police tickets as you will not notice its acceleration.
    The exterior is Europe style and really stand out from the crowds! The interior is very nice and luxury with the suede leather. I bought it from carmax for 19,6K + TTL. Can beat this price for such many nice features.
    BTW, I have been owner of Camries, Accords for 13 years. But I am sold to Chevrolet on this Bu!
  • beach15beach15 Member Posts: 1,305
    Welcome, welcome to this quiet, solid, smooth, refined, and stylish side of the sedan fence bibo2 ;)

    The 2LT 4-cyl is an awesome choice, and what our first Malibu purchase is. Love the silence, the quality, the drivetrain silkiness and spunk, the seats with UltraLux, and of course the "wow" look outside and in. Terrific car, through and through, and one that you not only enjoy driving but also looking at daily.
  • bvdj84bvdj84 Member Posts: 1,724
    See, I have the 08 G6 with the 4cyl, which has the same engine, and I do not feel it is refined at all. But, I came from an 06 Accord 4cyl. It could be that the G6 4cyl, has only a 4spd transmission. This day in age, a 5 should be standard. Too jumpy, torque is in the wrong place, all in the upper range. You can feel the first shift of the gear quite well. The car is nice, but I am really disappointed with the engine. :(.
    I will not keep the car for the full lease. You certainly don't see people comparing a G6 to an Accord or Camry. But, I am impressed with it though with the exception of the engine! the leather, roof, sound. Great bang for the buck, but only if that bang held its value better, and it didn't feel like I put money in a sink hole. I don't think I would cry if they got rid of the Pontiac name, but then again, they'll just rename it, then again I think most GM cars are the same, just another car, another title. lol Oh well. But, I love the new Malibu. Its sleek.

    My Honda is waiting for me.
  • vanman1vanman1 Member Posts: 1,397
    The G6 and Malibu are nothing alike. The level of refinement in the Malibu is miles ahead. Further, most Malibus now have a 6-speed / 2.4L which gets best in class performance/mileage.

    Honda has nothing on the Malibu though it is a bit bigger.
  • thegraduatethegraduate Member Posts: 9,731
    Honda has nothing on the Malibu though it is a bit bigger.

    Tha'ts quite a blanket statement. Both cars offer features the other doesn't have, such as OnStar in the Malibu, and a real navigation system, or much better V6 economy in the Honda
  • vanman1vanman1 Member Posts: 1,397
    What I meant was they were very competitive (Accord / Malibu).

    Accord is a bit slower but yes, better V6 mileage.
  • bwiabwia Member Posts: 2,913
    Perhaps this sounds like buyers remorse but here goes…

    My 08 Malibu is in the shop for body work as a result of a hit and run. In its place I have a 2009 Accord LX rental with only 2300 miles on it. On second thought I should have bought the Accord as it is a damn nice driving car only if I could have gotten pass the dowdy exterior and generic interior styling.

    Nonetheless, guys I have to give the Accord its props and I can see why this car outsells the Malibu 4-to-1. On the highway the car got to 80 within a few sweet heart beats. The handling was precise to the point that the car felt like an extension of your body. The ride was balanced and firm but not harsh and the road manners are close to that of the entry level sport sedans a la G37, TL and 09 Maxima.

    I opened the bonnet (hood), and there it was, an engine so well arranged in its bay that it makes the Malibu’s engine look like a rumpled suit. Turn it on, and a sweet note emanates as if seductively inviting the driver to lets do something naughty.

    On the down side, road noise from tires and windows are too loud for my taste and the cloth seats look and feels cheap. Moreover, the seats are short with little or no thigh support for us six footers.

    Overall, the Honda is a hell of a car and if I were in the market for a replacement for my Malibu, the Accord would be on my short list.
  • iwant12iwant12 Member Posts: 269
    As far as the seats go, would you say the Malibu's are more comfortable (and supportive) than the Honda's?
  • mazda6dudemazda6dude Member Posts: 283
    I have a 2008 Accord LX automatic with almost 15k miles. I really wanted the 2008 Malibu and even now when I see the new Malibu, I still want it, but I still believe I made the right decision. The reason being, the accord has over 32 years of a proven track record. I agree the Malibu has a superior styling, but when it comes to engineering, relability and all around quality sedan, the accord is the best. 5 speed automatic should be a standard in the car industry since it gets better fuel efficiency and smoother ride. I do like the fact that the 6 speed automatic is available on the malibu, aura and G6.
  • vanman1vanman1 Member Posts: 1,397
    I could say the Malibu has 44 years of history, meaningless since the first Accord has nothing to do with the current just like the first Malibu has nothing to do with the current.

    The 2.4L, 3.6L are all proven. GM has proven it's automatics are about the best in the business. Smoothness is a toss up and though Honda quality/reliability over the years has been better I agree, the difference narrows every year and isn't all that significant.

    I always say these days, there are very few bad cars, buy what you want.
  • vanman1vanman1 Member Posts: 1,397
    Not sure which Malibu you have and which Accord you drove but my 3.6L looks amazing under the hood and the power / engine note is sweet.
  • bvdj84bvdj84 Member Posts: 1,724
    I am not sure if GM can make an engine like the Accord. I have driven both the 2006 Accord 4cyl, and an 08 G6 4cyl, which is the same engine as the 4cyl Malibu, it is not as smooth, jumpy. If the GM 4cyl engine had a 5spd transmission, it would make a world of difference. Then, it could be claimed smooth. The 4cyl, almost jumps to rev up high, when sometimes you want to let it accelerate more slowly up to speed. So compared to the power the 2006 4cyl Accord I had, no way, does it compare. That engine was strong. But, now I am finding the GM engine to be better as I put more miles on it, but its that darn stubborn transmission that just really bugs me! It can't make up its mind, it'll a change a gear when I least expect it, I am like "wow, okay"Its weird. Other than its querky engine, I find the G6 appealing in its features, but the engine lowers its score big time. I could only imagine this same engine in the Malibu, which is bigger, with a 4spd transmission, boy wouldn't that be a fun ride. It would really throw the transmission for a loop. I am not just making all of this up, because I have driven both. Its how I feel about them. Its too bad, GM cars depreciate so badly, might as well put your money in a sink hole.

    But, now days, yes, you can be pretty safe with about any car,
  • vanman1vanman1 Member Posts: 1,397
    6-speed now available on G6, Aura and Malibu on the 2.4L. Apparently it makes a big difference on smoothness and fuel economy which is now best in class on these models. Refinement is a step above in Malibus. the G6 is pretty old now and a bit dated.

    That said, the Accord 4 banger is a nice one, probably about the best. I went for a V6 Malibu though, I will never be happy with 170 hp.

    ;-)
  • djm2djm2 Member Posts: 712
    Good morning all:
    Prior to owning my 2007 V6 XLE Camry, I owned a 2003 Honda 4 cylinder Accord, which I purchase from an estate sale with a full 100,000 mile Honda extended warranty! --------- I drove that vehicle till it reached about 90,000 miles, and I traded it for the 2007 Camry. I enjoyed the vehicle, but I had problems with the comfort of the front driver's seat. The wings on the back rest of the seat would catch my shoulders before my spine touched the back seat. On a long highway trip, I needed a Chiropractor to get out of the seat. The Toyota Camry has a wider backrest, and I no longer have this problem. I love the Camry, but I miss the four cylinder Honda Accord! The performance was GREAT!

    Yesterday, I had an occasion to visit a Honda dealership, and while I was there, I made it a point to sit in the front seat of a 2008 four door Honda Accord. The back rest of the driver's seat is wider than the 2003 Accord, and it is much more comfortable, but the bottom of the seat is STILL very hard! --- It is much harder than my Camry, and both vehicles have leather. When the 2009 Accords come into the dealership, I will try the driver's seat again as I really like the 4 cylinder Accord!
    (I will be in the market for a new car next year! I will also look at an Impala and a 4 & 6 cylinder Camry.)

    The 2003 Accord was trouble free till it reached 50,000 miles. Thank God for the extended warranty. Honda put in about $3,300.00 dollars worth of repairs from 50,000 miles to 90,000 miles! I believe in extended warranties! The warranty cost the original owner $895.00!

    Best regards to all! ------------ Dwayne :shades: ;):)
  • dmathews3dmathews3 Member Posts: 1,739
    What, I have been led on all these forums that Honda's and Toyota's were perfect and GM vehilces were the pits. Finally an honest person. :shades:
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