2011 Honda Accord Ex-L
With great Honda sports cars like the Prelude, NSX, S2000 and CRX all retired to that great big sports-car graveyard in the sky, it's now the sedan-based Honda Accord V6 Coupe that stands as the brand's ultimate performance offering.
For a brand keen on maintaining a sensible, focused and level-headed product line-up, it's appropriate for the times.
Sad, in a way, ain't it?
The two-door version of Honda's elemental family sedan has recently been updated in the cosmetic department, and now looks more alert, sharp and aggressive than ever. Chrome accents, large alloy wheels and simple, focused fascia suggest a serious and sophisticated demeanor, while dual exhaust hints at the machine's sportiness.
The Accord V6 Coupe pulls off the same impactful yet modest looks as other discreetly potent machines like the BMW M5 and Nissan Skyline - which is perhaps fitting for a Japanese performance car with family sedan blood running through its veins.
Room to burn
As a four-door wearing a two-door's body, the tester offered up a surprisingly generous back seat, easy entry and exit, a massive trunk, and a great forward view of the road. No issue with space on board for a four-person road trip, and up front, driver and passenger could easily forget they aren't simply in a sedan.
Typical coupe-related compromises are largely eliminated, here. Toss some adults in the back seat, and surprised comments on available space are likely.
At-hand storage facilities were generous, two large cupholders were fitted, and things are all nicely equipped and set up for day-to-day life. Bluetooth, premium audio, automatic climate control and heated leather seats were all on board, too.
The cabin boasts a clean and tidy overall look, though nothing particularly exciting. Most will find the cabin styling modest and plain. This attribute is embodied most heavily in the graphics of the infotainment system, which are on par with the average gas station ATM machine. This part of the Accord is in dire need of an update.
VTEC V6 Power
Performance buffs are more likely to be looking at the tachometer anyhow. Under the tester's hood, a 3.5-litre, SOHC V6 engine dispenses 271 horsepower to the front wheels, thanks in part to the automaker's proven VTEC variable valve timing system.
Among other things, VTEC ramps up engine output and sound effects at higher revs, creating a delightfully peaky power curve. Honda's proven J35 Z3 powerplant sounds fantastic, loves to work and moves the Accord Coupe along like absolute heck. Even pushed hard, it never feels stressed or overwhelmed. The strong, smooth and eager character of this engine, coupled with its high-revving sound effects, convey natural athleticism.
A six-speed manual transmission took centre stage in the drivetrain department. It offered up a fairly slick shift action despite a longer throw, as well as a light and easygoing clutch. It's not the world's sportiest shifter, but it is easy to bang some gears and get this rocket coupe blasting along so quickly the tires can barely keep up. Ideal pedal placement makes heel and toe shifting a breeze, too.
Torque steer is present though well managed, and in all, it's an entertaining and delightful drivetrain to put through its paces. Heavy-footed drivers can expect real-world mileage figures to land around 10.9 L/100km or better with a blend of city and highway driving.
Family sedan handling
Handling is tidy overall, though enthusiast drivers will likely wish for a little less body roll and a little quicker steering. Accord Coupe isn't a handling monster first and foremost, but it's entertaining to push hard - not to mention comfortable, compliant and relatively quiet during cruising.
Hammer it out of a corner, and the Accord Coupe holds its line nicely with a hint of tire scrubbing and understeer as the engine attempts to overpower the front wheels. More aggressive rubber would work wonders, here.
A problem from Korea
Shopping? Be sure to check out the Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8 GT, too. For a few dollars more than the loaded Accord V6 tester, it offers up a limited-slip differential, Brembo brakes and more dramatic looks. It also sends more than 30 additional horsepower to the driving enthusiasts' favorite wheels - the rear ones.
2011 Honda Accord Ex-L
The Genesis Coupe isn't as sensible, roomy or comfortable as the Accord Coupe, but as a higher-performing, more hardcore alternative with rear-wheel drive, it puts up a serious argument for your $36,000.
End of the day, Accord Coupe's surprising sensibility, as well as Honda's reputation for reliability, quality and residual value will be big draws here. Shoppers after a muscular sports coupe that's nearly as rational and level-headed as a family sedan won't likely be disappointed.
