But aside from being the hero that tens of thousands of Canadians

'Tail-lifted' Accord continues to set the standard, even with considerable newcomers. (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press)

have called their own for three decades, the Accord is a benchmark that many automakers model their own midsize vehicles on. In more recent times, particularly over the past three years, it managed to stay strong against an onslaught of new and improved American, Japanese, German and a truly impressive effort from Korea, yet, the Accord has yet to be knocked off balance: not pricing incentives, nor extended warrantees, nor clever and witty advertisements from the opposition have withered its trade secret or appeal, and with this facelift, it will continue to set the standard.

Specifications (Honda Accord SE):

• Price Range (Accord SE MSRP): $26,300 - $27,500
• Price as Tested (MSRP): $26,300
• Body Type: 4-door sedan
• Layout: front engine, FWD
• Engine: 166 hp, 160 lb-ft of torque, 2.4L, 16-valve DOHC I-4
• Transmission: 5-spd manual
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
• Dimensions (L/W/H/WB): 4,854 / 1,820 / 1,453 / 2,740 mm (191.1 / 71.7 / 57.2 / 107.9 in)
• Curb Weight: 1440 kg (3174 lbs)
• Tires: 205/60R16
• Capacity (trunk only): 396 L (14.0 cu ft)
• Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 9.1 / 6.4 L/100 km (26 / 37 mpg)
• Observed Fuel Economy: 8.7 L/100 km (27 mpg)
• Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive; 60/100,000 powertrain
• Competitors: Chevrolet Malibu/Impala, Chrysler Sebring/300, Dodge Charger, Ford Fusion/Five Hundred, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Magentis, Mazda6, Mitsubishi Galant, Nissan Altima, Toyota Camry, Volkswagen Passat, Volvo S60
• Website: www.honda.ca