First introduced in 1976, the Honda Accord has been a dominant member of the family sedan segment for decades.
The ninth generation of the popular nameplate was unveiled right after the Accord Coupe Concept was revealed at the 2012 North American International Auto Show.
While the new Accord was launched locally last year with only a 2.4-litre variant, local distributor Kah Motor has introduced the car in 2.0-litre guise which you see here.
Most of the other 2.0-litre family sedans such as the Mazda6, the Nissan Teana and the Toyota Camry also converge nicely around this zone, hovering around the $120k - $160k range, serving up decent quality and good value.
Up close and Personal
Looking at the ninth iteration of the Accord, there is indeed some resemblance between the new car and its predecessor, keeping to the basic conservative shape that is very pleasing to the eye. But after the elimination of the ungainly overhangs of the outgoing model, the Accord looks more cohesive now.
Compared to its predecessor, the new Accord has only grown wider (5mm to be exact). In other words the new Accord has shrinked - 55mm shorter and 10mm lower than the outgoing model. That said, interior space has not been compromised a single bit.
And although its wheelbase also shrunk by 25mm, Honda has made clever adjustments to the rear seats to ensure that passengers are not shortchanged on room. In addition, a huge cargo capacity that Honda claims is fit for four golf bags will see to the groceries.
More importantly, the cabin is decked out in high-quality materials that feel like they will ultimately receive a long-term service award.
And although its wheelbase also shrunk by 25mm, Honda has made clever adjustments to the rear seats to ensure that passengers are not shortchanged on room. In addition, a huge cargo capacity that Honda claims is fit for four golf bags will see to the groceries.
More importantly, the cabin is decked out in high-quality materials that feel like they will ultimately receive a long-term service award.
The Drive
Powering the new Accord is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine carried over from its predecessor. Although the engine isn't new, it was a highly enjoyable motor in the previous model and it hasn't failed this time round too.
Following the engine's footsteps is Honda's tried-and-trusted five-speed automatic gearbox, which continues its proven partnership with the powerplant, delivering smooth and linear power to the front wheels.
The Accord will not shrink your bank account either. Although Honda claims a 13.2km/L fuel economy figure, we only managed 11.4km/L during our test drive. That's not bad, considering our heavy right foot and our disregard for fuel efficiency assistants such as Eco Assist and ECON mode.
Thanks in part to an Active Noise Control (ANC) system that eliminates unwanted noise, the latest Accord is noticeably quieter on the go, something that makes it more relaxing on longer journeys.
In corners, the family sedan's body movements are well-controlled. Its grip and the general composure and compliance of its chassis are surprisingly top notch too.
Powering the new Accord is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine carried over from its predecessor. Although the engine isn't new, it was a highly enjoyable motor in the previous model and it hasn't failed this time round too.
Following the engine's footsteps is Honda's tried-and-trusted five-speed automatic gearbox, which continues its proven partnership with the powerplant, delivering smooth and linear power to the front wheels.
The Accord will not shrink your bank account either. Although Honda claims a 13.2km/L fuel economy figure, we only managed 11.4km/L during our test drive. That's not bad, considering our heavy right foot and our disregard for fuel efficiency assistants such as Eco Assist and ECON mode.
Thanks in part to an Active Noise Control (ANC) system that eliminates unwanted noise, the latest Accord is noticeably quieter on the go, something that makes it more relaxing on longer journeys.
In corners, the family sedan's body movements are well-controlled. Its grip and the general composure and compliance of its chassis are surprisingly top notch too.
However, we found the new electric power steering to be a bit light and a little lacking in feedback but that's just a small quibble because the Accord fulfills most tasks of a family family sedan well, including riding pliantly across bumps and ruts.
Other notable tech features that have the common aim of assisting the driver include the LaneWatch Blind Spot Display that was first seen on its 2.4-litre brethren as well as a Multi-angle Rear View Camera system.
Conclusion
Fast closing in on its 40th anniversary, the Honda Accord has a proven track record as a high-quality, well-engineered family sedan. The ninth generation continues that achievement, taking the nameplate to the edge of the prestige class.
And despite being one of the pricier ($162,999 as of 4th September 2014) cars among its close rivals, the Accord remains to be an excellent value.
