When it debuted as a small hatchback economy car in 1976, few could have guessed that the Honda Accord would become one of the best-selling mid-size models on the market. Now, after 32 years on the market, the Accord is once again completely redesigned and, as has become customary, this eighth-generation model is larger than ever before, inside and out. The new Accord is available in coupe and sedan format, distinctly different models serving unique purposes. For that reason, this review covers only the far more popular sedan version.

Here is a summary of the major changes for the 2008 Honda Accord:
• Completely redesigned inside and out
• More powerful four- and six-cylinder engines
• New Variable Cylinder Management fuel-saving technology for V-6 models
• Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle rating for both engines in specific regions of the country
• Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering safety structure
• Larger interior for greater comfort; meets EPA large car classification
• Stability control standard on all models
• Active Noise Cancellation technology
• Available Bluetooth HandsFreeLink
• Optional navigation system includes Zagat survey restaurant reviews
• New auxiliary audio input jack

The 2008 Honda Accord is sold in LX, LX-P, EX and EX-L trim levels, with either a four-cylinder or V-6 engine. The LX-P adds features such as 16-inch alloy wheels, a security system, power windows, 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat, and a chrome exhaust finisher. The EX includes a more powerful version of the four-cylinder engine as well as Active Noise Cancellation, a front shock tower bar, 17-inch alloy wheels, a power moonroof, heated outside mirrors, upgraded interior trim, blue ambient console lighting, power lumbar support for the driver, and a six-disc CD changer. The EX-L is equipped with leather upholstery, heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, automatic headlights, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a premium audio system with XM satellite radio, and an outside temperature display. Choosing the EX V-6 version adds hood struts, fog lights, chrome door handles, and dual exhaust outlets, while the EX-L V-6 includes a Homelink universal transmitter and a 4-way power front passenger’s seat.

Honda packages the Accord with options at the trim level, unlike most other auto manufacturers. Thus, an automatic transmission on the four-cylinder models is defined as a separate trim level, as is the available V-6 engine, the model with the leather seats, and the navigation system that is offered on the model with the leather seats. Additional accessories for the Accord are available through Honda dealerships.

The 2008 Honda Accord is powered by one of three available engines. The Accord LX and LX-P models have a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine making 177 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 161 lb.-ft. of torque at 4300 rpm. The Accord EX and EX-L also have a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, but in this model it makes 190 horsepower at 7000 rpm and 162 lb.-ft. of torque at 4400 rpm. A 3.5-liter V-6 engine is available on the EX and EX-L. It makes 268 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 248 lb.-ft. of torque at 5000 rpm. A five-speed manual transmission is standard with the four-cylinder model, with a five-speed automatic optional. The automatic is standard with the V-6, and all powertrains drive the Accord’s front wheels. Notably, all Accord sedans equipped with an automatic transmission, regardless of engine choice, meet Partial Zero Emission Vehicle standards in California and New England states.

Standard safety features on the 2008 Honda Accord sedan include Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure, which is designed to manage crash energy and keep it away from the passenger compartment in the event of an accident. Additionally, the Accord is equipped with six airbags: dual front airbags, side impact airbags for the front seat occupants, and side curtain airbags for both rows of seats. Antilock brakes with brake assist, traction control and stability control are standard on every Accord sedan.

Honda says the Accord sedan appeals to young couples, families and empty nesters, and claims the Accord accounts for 20 percent of all midsize sedans sold in the U.S. Honda says the Accord is aimed primarily at the Nissan Altima, Nissan Maxima, Toyota Avalon, and Toyota Camry. Additionally, J.D. Power and Associates compares the Honda Accord to other mid-size cars such as the Chevrolet Malibu, Dodge Avenger, Ford Fusion, Mitsubishi Galant, Saturn Aura, and Volkswagen Passat, among others.

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