Subdued styling or not, sales of the Accord are strong in Canada and abroad. It might cost a little more than some of its competitors in the initial stages of purchase but factor in the high resale value and the cost of full-term ownership goes way down. If you're the type who keeps a car for longer than the warranty period, then the Accord's low running costs due to excellent reliability and superior fuel economy are a bonus. Any way you stack it, the Accord offers excellent value.

Specifications:

• Price: $24,000 - $31,100
• Body Type: 4-door sedan, 2-door coupe
• Layout: Front engine, FWD
• Base Engine: 150 hp, 152 lb-ft, 2.3-L, 16-valve, SOHC I-4
• Optional Engine: 200 hp, 195 lb-ft, 3.0-L, 24-valve, SOHC V6
• Transmission: 5-spd manual or 4-spd automatic
• Brakes (front/rear): Disc/drum (opt ABS, rear discs)
• Curb Weight: 1,382 kg (3,047 lbs)
• Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 11.4 / 7.7 L/100 Km
• Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
• Direct Competitors: Chevrolet Impala, Chrysler Sebring, Daewoo Leganza, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Magentis, Mazda 626, Nissan Altima, Pontiac Grand Am, Saturn L Series, Subaru Legacy, Toyota Camry
• Web Site: www.honda.ca