2008 Honda Accord
While the entry level VTi and VTi Luxury models are powered by a 2.4-litre i-VTEC four-cylinder engine, it is the new V6 engine that deserves attention. The new V6 has grown from 3.0-litres to 3.5-litres, but importantly is equipped with variable cylinder management. Now while this isn't the first engine that effectively shuts down several cylinders when not required (eg. Chrysler 300C), it takes the principle to the next step by allowing the engine to run on six, four or three cylinders, depending on driving conditions. How this benefits the driver is best explained by looking at how the engine performs. When acceleration is needed, or when driven hard up a hill, the engine delivers maximum power (202kWs at 6200rpm). Once cruising speed is reached it will run on four cylinders, with two cylinders switching off.
Reach the top of a hill and coast down the other side and the Accord becomes a three cylinder, with three cylinders effectively idle. This intelligent engine can save 8 percent in fuel over a standard V6 engine and Honda say it will use a miserly 10L/100kms. The new V6 is mated with a sequential sport shifting five speed automatic transmission with paddle shifts. The Honda Accord has a substantial pedigree, having sold more than 16 million around the world since 1976. The Accord and Accord Euro have been sold in Australia and now the sedan is offered with two engines and in two specification levels. The base model VTi is priced at $29,990 and comes standard with dual zone climate control, reach adjustable steering wheel, front and front side airbags, stability and traction control, ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist.
The VTi Luxury model ups the price by $6,500, but adds eight-way electric driver's seat adjust, heated front seats, rain sensing wipers, front fog lights, sunroof, 17-inch alloys, side curtain airbags and leather seat upholstery. The V6 is priced at $38,490 and the V6 Luxury $46,990. The V6 model has most of the gear found in the VTi Luxury model (minus sunroof, heated front seats and leather trim). The V6 Luxury adds driver's seat three-way memory function, satellite navigation, a trip computer, improved audio system and reversing camera. Honda are pitching the latest Accord at the large car market, with increased interior space to accommodate passengers in comfort.
In brief: 2008 Honda Accord
Models & price: VTi - $29,990, VTi Luxury - $36,490, V6 - $38,490, V6 Luxury - $46,990
Engines: 2.4-litre DOHC i-VTEC four cylinder, 3.5-litre V6 i-VTEC V6
Power: 132kW @ 6500 rpm (2.4), 202kW @ 6200 rpm (V6)
Torque: 222Nm @ 4300rpm (2.4), 339Nm @ 5000 rpm (V6)
Transmission: Five-speed automatic
Economy: 8.8L/100km (2.4), 10L/100km (V6)
The launch of the 2008 Accord represents many firsts for the Accord model range.
Accord Firsts in Australia
- 3-stage Variable Cylinder Management on V6 engine
- Dual chamber driver's and passenger's front side airbags
- Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure
- Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)
- Active front seat head restraints
- Most powerful V6 3.5-litre engine (202kW)
- Most powerful 4-cylinder engine (133kW)
- Steering wheel audio controls on all models
- Variable Gear Ratio (VGR) steering
- Driver's seat power lumbar support (available on VTi-Luxury, V6 and V6-Luxury only)
- Flat-blade windshield wipers
