2008 Honda Accord EXL- V6
At first glance at the new 2008 Honda Accord, I thought it was something other than a Honda. For a minute it reminded me of a Lexus or Mercedes sedan. For 2008, the Honda Accord adds more power, room, and safety features from the previous model. The 2008 Accord is big on efficiency, be it getting the most power and range from a gallon of gas with the least emissions, making the largest interior available given the exterior space it takes up, or providing the smoothest, quietest ride possible in the lightest weight. Whether moving four people comfortably at 30 mpg or enjoying the long way home, the Accord does a great job. As I traveled back from a three hour ride from Eastern Colorado on a business trip, I was pleasantly surprised at the excellent gas mileage (30mpg) and the comfort and ease of the drive home.
The EXL model I tested came with active noise cancellation and an in-dash CD changer, power moonroof, heated mirrors, an interface dial with scrolling, illuminated switch power windows, premium interior accents, driver power lumbar adjust, and 17-inch alloy wheels with P225/50 Michelin tires. EX-L stands for leather on the seats and steering wheel, but the EX-L Sedan also gets dual-zone automatic climate control, a 270-watt sound system with subwoofer, heated front seats, auto-dimming rearview mirror, compass and outside temperature display. The EX-L V6 Sedan I tested ($28,060) adds four-way power adjust for the front passenger seat. Honda's navigation system is available with voice-activation and steering wheel controls.
The EXL V6 model comes with the new 3.5-liter engine which brings 268 hp with a five-speed automatic, matching the Camry V6 and just a shade behind the Altima's Z-car-based engine and continuously variable transmission. It's a smooth engine and uses the latest version of Honda's Variable Cylinder Management (VCM). Like GM and Chrysler systems designed to save gas on big V8s, VCM changes the number of engine cylinders working at any given time and load to save fuel. The previous engine switched off three cylinders (half the V6) when they weren't needed, but this new one changes between six, four, and three cylinders for more fuel-saving options. The system is completely automatic and unknown to the driver except for two things: The ECO light illuminates on the dash when the system is on, and there's a slight hunting sensation as it switches back-and-forth between four and three cylinders at certain speeds, but you' don't even notice unless you are paying attention. TheV6 sedan is rated 19 mpg city/29 mpg highway. Accord EX models receive very slightly firmer suspension calibrations but most of what you'll notice comes from the lower profile tires on 17-inch wheels. Apart from slightly quicker response to steering and braking, the EX is essentially the same easy-going Accord.
Anyone interested in a four-door sedan should consider the Accord, unless you have a very modest budget or you are seeking substantial luxury and high performance. The Accord is a great choice for someone looking for comfort, economy and reliability.
Denis and his wife Jeanie, live in Evergreen and own the Mountain Man Nut & Fruit store in Evergreen.