Honda Accord Euro, 2003 - 2007

Like cream rising to the top, the Accord Euro sedan has achieved a well-deserved position of eminence in the popular and competitive mid-size car class. Since release in mid 2003, and against tough adversaries, the Euro has always finished within the top three spots in its class in the Australia’s Best Car Awards, grabbing gold as a winner in 2005.

What you get

The Euro badges are a good indicator of what discerning buyers can expect – think sedan of relatively compact dimensions with European styling and delightful road manners. With specifications, it’s a choice between the well-equipped base model or the more highly specified Accord Euro Luxury.

Standard safety features on both models included side and dual front airbags, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake distribution, brake assist, traction control and vehicle stability control. Climate control, alloys, CD stacker, leather-wrapped steering wheel and security alarm are amongst the standard niceties.

Luxury buyers score extra booty, including leather trim, curtain airbags, heated power seats, sunroof and xenon headlamps.

A January 2005 upgrade brought a full-size spare instead of a space-saver and, on Luxury versions, 17 inch alloys in lieu of sixteens. There was a further revamp in 2006.

How it drives

The Euro’s 2.4-litre, iVTEC four-cylinder, double overhead cam (DOHC) engine offers enthusiastic and polished performance through the rev range, with claimed outputs of 140 kW and 223 Nm. Transmission options are a six-speed manual or five-speed sequential auto to smoothly harness engine and front axles.

Beneath the Euro’s skin there’s a chassis offering sure-footed grip, fine balance and a driving experience well past its price point. This is complimented by well-weighted, responsive steering.

The Honda’s suspension has a European firmness but manages to retain sufficient suppleness to cope with local road imperfections. Seats are well shaped and supportive too.

A good-sized boot, a split-fold rear seat and useful rear cabin space add a practical dimension to an otherwise sporty package. And there’s a quality look and feel throughout, including the user-friendly interior.

There’s little to dislike about the Euro and that trend seems to continue on the reliability front as well. However, a careful pre-purchase check, including service history is advised.

Under the pump

Accord Euro will use between 8.6 litres and 11.5 litres of fuel (min. 95 RON) every 100 km, depending on model and driving conditions.

How much are parts?

For a 2005 Accord Euro Luxury:

Tyres (each): from $195.00

Oil filter:  $19.80

Air filter:  $52.00

Front brake pads:  $162.10

Headlight:  $547.80

Tail light:  $210.05

What will it cost?

From $20,900 to $37,400 depending on year and model.

Competitors

Subaru Liberty

Sedan and wagon, 2003 to 2007, 2.5-litre 4-cyl., from $22,700 to $42,600 (non-turbo models).

Toyota Camry

Sedan, 2002 to 2007, 2.4-litre 4-cyl., from $12,100 to $34,000.

Mazda 6

Sedan and wagon, 2002 to 2007, 2.3-litre 4-cyl., from $13,800 to $39,500 (not including 6MPS).