Car Statistics: Honda - Accord Series 08 (3 stars)

Styling (3 stars)

The Accord does have a purposeful looking presence, but you have to concentrate to really notice the thing. Unfortunately it's exactly the same brand of handsome anonymity which has plagued the Japanese saloons for decades.

Handling (3 stars)

While competent enough, the Accord doesn't control its bodyweight well enough at speed to be considered particularly good. There's a bit too much lean when you're pushing on, which isn't helped by sloppy steering feel.

Comfort (3 stars)

Apparently Honda's Japanese engineers liaised directly with their European counterparts to find a better setup for the Accord, and, without living up to the class benchmark, they have succeeded in making the car a slightly more comfortable prospect for Britain's roads.

Quality (4 stars)

This is still one of Honda's undeniable strengths. The Accord's dash resists flex like a granite cliff face. Nothing bound for a lifetime of mistreatment should be this well made. Bulletproof mechanicals are another reason for continued customer loyalty.

Performance (3 stars)

Anyone looking for petrol engine-style performance in an oil burner need look no further. Few other diesel engines rev harder than Honda's 2.2-litre unit, but getting the best from it is not exactly conducive to returning decent fuel consumption.

Roominess (3 stars)

Not the biggest of interiors by segment standards. The Tourer has one of the smallest boots in its class, whilst both the saloon and estate suffer with poor rear leg room due to those huge front seats. It's not uncomfortable, but buyers might reasonably expect a little more.

Costs (3 stars)

Efforts to improve emissions and fuel consumption are admirable, but Honda is still lagging behind the best in the business. The diesel Accord's quoted 50mpg figure will be difficult to achieve and the car is not cheap to buy in the first place.

Value (3 stars)

The Accord is well-made, decently equipped and good enough to slip unnoticed into the background once you've begun the commute. Twenty years ago that would have been enough, but this is now the most cutthroat market in the industry and others are doing mid-sized saloons better, for less.

Stereo (4 stars)

The stereo is functional enough, but Honda's sat nav is pretty woeful. A poor display, bad interface and downright lack of intuition in the controls make it a headache to use.