Finance Roll

Just when you think the midsize sedan market could not get any more competitive, Honda has released a fantastic new Honda Accord. Honda's hottest selling car makes large strides to keep it on top of the volume leader boards with head turning style, comfort, and the reliability like nothing else out there. I'm eagerly anticipating the drive, so I take the 4-cyl Accord for a ride and give consumers the 411.

I've driven my fair share of the previous models in rental car form, so that would be an outstanding comparison to base off of. The one most striking difference is how well designed the Accord is, in its segment, it was easily a couple years ahead of its time. I personally thought the cutting edge shapes and panels to be true-blue Honda and was a welcome look in comparison to it's rounder rivals. Fit and finish is what I expected in this car, and there were no surprises. Additionally, the Accord is a little bit bigger car, not exactly a negative, consumers can all use the extra room. Wheels were designed nicely, paint quality outstanding, and feature all of the top of the line safety and security hot spots. A definite winner!

Secondly, the treasure trove of options going into the inside never stops. Great quality in all of the dash panels and seating fabrics, they will most certainly sustain many years of abuse. Buttons and controls were easy to reach, albeit more buttons to get used to than other cars, it was no problem. This just meant there is more to be desired from the new Accord. Safety further enhances with a full assortment of airbags, remote keyless entry for base models, and a factory alarm system. The radio sounded good with no distortion and comes with iPod hookups. The overall interior ambiance was a little monotone, but the quality far exceeded any opinions on color. I felt comfortable in the front buckets and the rear is huge. Passengers can literally do jumping jacks back there, lots and lots of room. Moreover, the ride was quiet and there was very little wind noise. I was impressed further.

Driving dynamics was exactly what I expected with quick witted transmission and fantastic power from the four banger I drove. California freeways were no match for the Honda ingenuity! Again ride was compliant, however, there was a little bit more body roll with the larger size and weight. That's a fair tradeoff for extra comfort and room. Gas mileage is still among the best, I averaged about 27-28 mpg's, very efficient. Price of my test model was just over $22k, worth every penny, and market competitive with the rest. Expect about $800-1,800 between invoice and MSRP when you decide to go one on one with the salesman. A true value, best bang for the buck!

And so we close with some endearing news, if consumers thought the sedan is a marvelous car, the 2-door coupe is absolutely stunning. I'll soon take that bad boy for a spin as well, believe me, I leave no stone unturned. The new 2008 Honda Accord will be a perennial fave with families for generations to come, there's no stopping the success gauntlet! A truly inspiring stepping stone to further sales success.