And the 4-cylinder Accord isn’t exactly slow, either. We measured a 0-100 km/h time of 8.9 seconds, which isn’t blindingly fast but sufficient for the everyday commute. In addition, this engine and 5-speed automatic transmission combo is an example of smoothness.

The Accord’s silent and comfortable ride is another highlight. While not quite as soft as a Camry, a couple of competitors offer a more dynamic driving experience, such as the Mazda6 and Volkswagen Passat.

Ironically, the Accord’s size doesn’t follow suit when it comes to trunk size; its 397-litre capacity is bested by many mid-size sedans including the Fusion and the Camry.

We measured a 0-100 km/h time of 8.9 seconds, which isn’t blindingly fast but sufficient for the everyday commute.(Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com)

And every time Honda comes out with a new car, it seems as though we need some time to get used to its styling. Same goes for the Accord, which is really different from the previous-gen car with its massive headlights, curvaceous posterior and elegant stance. We’ll need a lot more time for the Crosstour…

At $32,790, the Accord EX-L NAVI isn’t exactly cheap, but certain competitors with a 4-cylinder engine, leather upholstery and a navigation system are priced as followed: Fusion SEL ($29,924), Altima 2.5 SL ($33,698), Camry XLE ($33,165), Mazda6 GT-I4 ($34,985), Legacy 2.5i Limited ($34,295), Passat 2.0T Comfortline ($35,400) and Sonata Limited ($30,999). I guess the Accord isn’t that expensive after all.

For all its qualities, though, the Accord just isn’t that involving to drive. It seems to soften up with every redesign, as if it is trying as hard as it can to Americanize itself. Well that’s not a surprise, really, since the Accord we get in North America isn’t the Accord that Europe and Japan gets.

But that’s probably being mean. What’s important is that the Accord is a top choice for those in need of a roomy sedan that offers a comfortable and quiet ride, solid fit and finish and that’s good on gas. It may be too big for our tastes, but it remains one of the best.