2008 Honda Accord Coupe

Completely redesigned for 2008, the Honda Accord coupe (also available as a sedan) earns universal praise from reviewers for its sleek and attractive new styling. While based on the new Accord sedan, the coupe rides on a 107.9-inch wheelbase, about two inches shorter than the sedan. Consequently, the rear seat and trunk are a bit smaller. Still, reviews say the Accord coupe has a roomy and comfortable cabin, and there are very few complaints about the backseat.

Fit and finish, as well as the quality of interior materials, receive compliments from critics, though they say the profusion of buttons on the center stack can be intimidating. Two engines are available with the Honda Accord coupe: a 190-horsepower four-cylinder and a 268-horsepower V-6. Both are called smooth, adequately powerful and fuel efficient. While the new Honda Accord is quieter than the previous model, some still complain about noticeable road noise in the cabin. Eighteen-inch tires and a stiffer suspension result in a ride that is firmer than the sedan's, but still nicely compliant, according to most reviews. The Accord coupe competes with the new-for-2008 Nissan Altima coupe (*est. $20,950 to $25,850), but comparison tests give the nod to the Accord.

Three well-written comparison tests involving the Accord are available from Motor Trend, Edmunds.com and Automobile.com. ConsumerGuide.com names the Accord as a "Best Buy," and gives driving impressions based on four different sedan and coupe models. TheCarConnection.com and Kelley Blue Book have coupe-specific reviews, complete with summary of pros and cons and driving impressions. Edmunds.com names the Accord coupe among its top picks and provides an informative road-test review. In addition to providing a review, Cars.com names the Accord a "Best Buy" and includes additional opinions from several newspaper auto writers.