The Honda Accord Euro first hit the Aussie scene five years ago and was a hit right from the start despite the larger and more powerful ‘U.S. Accord’ selling alongside it. The original car was praised for its sharp and agile handling, and benefited from quality levels that matched some luxury brands.
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Honda has now introduced its second generation Euro, which Honda continues to sell along the ‘US Accord’, competing against strong players in the midsize sedan segment such as the newly designed Mazda6, Ford Mondeo, Subaru Liberty and Volkswagen Passat.
Not wanting to mess with the successful formula of the original, Honda set about redesigning the car with only minimal changes both inside and out. The most noticeable differences between it and its predecessor are the wider and more muscular haunches and the more aggressive front-end.
The new model is slightly bigger than the one it replaces. The extra dimensions help increase interior space and have the added benefit of improved dynamics and handling. Despite the increases, shoulder room is still tight and taller people will find it cramped in the back, but for a midsize car it’s not bad.
New to the car is a redesigned centre console with a multi-function steering wheel with audio, cruise control, and telephone functions all integrated. Interior trim and materials choices have a high quality feel and Honda’s new ‘slush moulding’ design ensures panel gaps are kept to a minimum.
The second-gen Euro retains the previous model’s 2.4-litre four-cylinder but features a slightly higher output. There are rumours that the 2.2-litre i-DTEC diesel will be landing here early 2009. The current engine is available with either a slick six-speed manual or a slightly less engaging five-speed auto. Manual models come with a shift indicator light to assist economy, while the auto is fitted with new paddle shifters to allow you to change gears yourself.
Although the new Euro has been widened and lowered primarily to give it more room and a sportier appearance, the driving characteristics also benefit. The ride is supple over both highways and uneven road surfaces, and its handling is accurate with good balance through corners. The car’s new electric steering system feels precise and offers plenty of feedback except when torque steer starts to raise its ugly head such as in the wet or on rough surfaces.
Starting from $32,990 – $1000 less than the predecessor – the Japanese built Accord Euro is a dead set steal for the money and given the function, application, appearance and purpose, it’s pretty hard to pass up.
AUTO SPECS
- Price: $32,990 – $45,385
- Engine: 2.4-litre 4-cyl petrol
- Power: 148kW, 234Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed manual, 5-speed automatic
- Fuel: 8.9-litres / 100kms
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New Honda Insight Enhances Fuel Economy
Honda has announced a new Ecological Drive Assist System to help drivers achieve better fuel economy in real world driving conditions. The technology will feature on the new Insight family hybrid car, which goes on sale in the Northern Hemisphere Spring 2009.
It will be the world’s first system to combine three different functions to enhance fuel economy: an ECON Mode which controls engine, transmission and other power-train components to support more fuel-efficient driving; a guidance function that helps drivers become more fuel-efficient behind the wheel using the colour of the speedometer display; and a scoring function that provides instant and long term feedback on driving techniques, after each journey.
Honda developed the Ecological Drive Assist System to help its customers improve their fuel economy in real world conditions. The scoring function provides cumulative, long-term feedback through graphic ‘leaves’, which grow over time as drivers learn and then implement a smooth driving style that boosts fuel economy. The visual nature of the scoring function display makes it easy and enjoyable for drivers to improve the efficiency of their driving skills over time.
