The EX nomenclature has always been Honda's top Accord trim level, and the new car is no exception. Additional features found on the 4-cylinder EX-L include a dual-zone automatic climate control system, a 6-speaker anti-theft AM/FM audio system with a 6-disc in-dash CD player, outside temperature display, a sunshade equipped power glass sunroof, an 8-way power driver's seat with adjustable lumbar support, plus leather seats, steering wheel and shift knob.

Move up to the LX V6 and all of the goodies the LX-G features are present as well as 8-way power driver's seat, traction control system and of course the 3.0-L V6 engine. The EX V6 adds the V6 engine and a 4-way power front passenger's seat as well as traction control to the EX-L package.

All this and I haven't even mentioned the best part. The Accord's interior represents such a breakthrough in design and quality workmanship that the old car seems paltry in comparison. The plastics are first rate, soft to the touch, with quality textures and wonderful fitment. The optional wood grain is also well executed, a previous sore point with Honda products. As good as it is the optional metallic trim would be my choice. The design itself is stimulating, with an artistically inspired center stack as functional as it is attractive. The LED-illuminated gauge cluster looks great and is easy to see in any lighting condition. The premium-quality audio and climate controls meld into one another - either a positive or negative depending on your point of view - taking a bit of time to become oriented. The seats are among the most comfortable I've ever tested with superb side bolsters and adequate lumbar support in standard trim - an adjustable lumbar support feature comes standard in the EX-L. Interior room is capacious front and rear while a fairly large 399 L (14.0 cu ft) trunk makes loading easy due to a low lift-over height and standard lockable single-piece folding rear seatback. While it doesn't split 60/40 like most of its competitors, the Accord does offer a lockable trunk pass-through behind the center armrest as well. Altogether the new Accord provides an upscale atmosphere even in base trim.