Overview:
This week we’re being economical with the 2002 Honda Accord 4-door sedan Special Edition. Honda continues to be a solid and popular car for any age. It’s pretty basic but it does it all in the midsize segment of the market.
I think it’s a nice little car and find first impressions are indeed lasting. Young and old alike gravitate to this car because it has such a good reputation over many years in this country. I appreciate the nice touches and quality attention to detail the Japanese car makers take in everything they do. I like the Burl wood accents and notice the sun visors that have slide extensions. This model had a sunroof, which I place little value on, because I find they are overrated and offer little utility or practical use.
The spacious rear seat and all the cubbyholes in the cabin and a center console do offer useful utility. I also look for a roomy trunk that is thoughtful about not having protrusions to argue with cargo you try to load. More expensive cars do a great job in this area and most Japanese cars show thoughtful design as well.
Handling & Performance:
Your first impression will be that it’s a little underpowered for a 200 hp V6 but it is adequate for normal drivers not wanting to burn the tires off at every stop. I doubt the young buyer will warm up to a sedan but it handles well in the typical Honda fashion. They are more convenient and as fun to zip around town in as the smaller coupe.
Styling:
Cookie cutter styling, which continues to be so common today. Boring is a better word to describe the unimaginative styles over the past several years, with precious few exceptions like the Prowler and PT Cruiser that offer some distinction and unique character.
Fit and Finish:
Very good. American companies are getting better but the Japanese still present a product that appears to be more conscientiously assembled, even when they are assembled in the U.S. as this Honda is. You can thank the folks in Marysville, Ohio. When the Navy seaplanes in our squadron needed to be refurbished Kobe Japan got the job. I got to know the people and learned to appreciate their extraordinary work ethic. Thus it is no surprise quality control is tops no matter where they are assembled.
Conveniences:
The list of features that come standard is good but so is the competition noted below.
Cost:
The good news for Honda is that they are priced well; the bad news is that the competition also offers a lot.
Recommendation:
You have a lot to choose from, but you know how perplexing a long restaurant menu can be. I’ve driven all and hopefully the ranking will help you determine which you want to test drive first.
The competition (Order of Preference**):
(1)Hyundai Sonata $15,499-18,324, (2)Kia Optima $15,299-20,000, (3)Saturn LS $16,400-20,400, (4)VW Jetta $16,800-24,700, (5)Mazda 626 $18,700-22,935, (6)Chevrolet Malibu $17-19,740,(6)Nissan Altima $16,349-22,349, (7)Mitsubishi Galant $17,707-24,200, (8)Ford Taurus $18,750-23,000, (8)Mercury Sable $19,745-22,000, (9)Nissan Maxima $24,700-27,100, (10)Honda Accord $22,600, (10)Oldsmobile Intrigue $22,800-27,900, (11)Subaru Legacy $19,300-24,700, (12)Toyota Camry Solara $19,400-30,500, (13)Pontiac Grand Prix $21-25,800, (14)Dodge Intrepid $20,370-26,615, (15)Chrysler Sebring $17,700-28,795.
Good News:
Average pricing, well-equipped, good family sedan, and good mileage.
Bad News:
Cookie cutter design, unexciting.
Standard Equipment:
3.0 liter 200 hp V6 engine, 4-speed automatic trans, 4-wheel ABS power assist disc braking system with traction control, power steering, dual front and side air bags, (LATCH) Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children, anti Theft system, air conditioning, Stereo with CD, driver’s 8-way power seat, power windows and locks, cruise control, fold down rear seat with pass through, power mirrors, and more.
Gas Stats:
20 City and 28 Highway MPG.
Pricing:
MSRP $22,600.
** – Order of Preference is based on a formula of price relationship to dimensions, standard features, best overall warranty and mileage.
Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com
