2009 Honda Accord Sedan - Review

The Basics:

The Honda Accord was completely redesigned for 2008, and in 2009, the new model remains largely unchanged. The popular mid-size sedan accommodates its passengers with a roomy, comfortable cabin and bold styling both inside and out.

The 2009 front-wheel-drive Accord is powered by either a four- or six-cylinder engine. Both engines come standard with a five-speed automatic transmission, but the four-cylinder model can be ordered with a five-speed manual.

The V-6 engine incorporates Variable Cylinder Management (VCM), which helps improve fuel economy, but the difference between it and the four-cylinder is negligible, with the four delivering up to 21 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, and the V-6 at 2 mpg less with both. The V-6 is the preferred engine for hauling lots of people or cargo or when driving in higher elevations. It is a refined engine that gives the Accord a luxurious feel. Honda Accord LX and EX models get a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, the former producing 177 horsepower and the latter 190 horsepower. Both versions are smooth operators, but while the EX version brings a little more pep to passing, it doesn't have additional oomph off the line.

The 2009 Honda Accord features competent handling manners. The ride is very settled, and its suspension absorbs all but the biggest bumps. The steering can be a bit heavy, but there's a sporty element to the Accord when pushing hard into corners.

Honda's reputation for exceptional build quality remains intact with the 2009 Accord. There are no strange creaks or rattles, and the swooping, dual-cockpit instrument panel is in a class above. The supportive front seats are comfortable, and there's ample legroom for backseat passengers, although headroom might be limited for some.

The 2009 Honda Accord is an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick for 2009. The Accord performs very well, with top ratings in most crash tests, except for one; in the federal government's side-impact test, an Accord sedan receives only three out of five stars—typically the lowest score awarded in the testing program. Standard safety-minded features on the 2009 Honda Accord include electronic stability control, front side airbags, side curtain bags, and anti-lock brakes.

Top EX-L models of the 2009 Accord pack in the luxury features, including dual-zone climate control, leather upholstery, and a sound system with active noise cancellation; a navigation system is also available.