A voice-command function is included and proved a helpful companion during zero-visibility driving, allowing control over many vehicle operations with a press of a single, centralized button followed by a simple, spoken command. No need to take your eyes off the road here.

Interesting that amidst all the high-tech stuff, Honda still uses the same door-chime beeper as it has for the last several generations.

Grunt to the front
If you've never thought your Accord could use more horsepower, this new V6 engine will blow you away. Its 3.5 litres of displacement breathe through a set of multi-valve , VTEC-actuated heads that help net 268 horsepower.

This new V6 engine will blow you away.

Most of this begins rushing for the road only as the tachometer passes 4,500 RPM, and the resulting high-revving power is very entertaining. Passing grunt is furious when the car isn't loaded up with people and gear.

Drive gently, and the mill operates in silence and can shut down selected cylinders to save fuel, indicated by a green "ECO" light in the tachometer. Mileage on my watch averaged about 12 L / 100km, which is respectable.

Power is handled by a five-speed automatic transmission that delivers fast gearshifts and a quick response to throttle inputs. No manual mode can be had, and there's no manual gearbox available with the V6 in the sedan.

Four-season safety
The standard Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system is perfectly tuned for slippery winter driving, jumping all over tiny slides to prevent them from becoming major problems. The system can be completely disengaged if desired.

Side and curtain airbags are also standard across the Accord lineup- but if you install some snow tires and drive carefully, you shouldn't need them.

Accord EXL delivers a ride that's mainly comfortable and well sprung.