2014 Honda Accord Coupe EX-L Navi V6

The Honda Accord is one of the very few mainstream models that has always honoured its coupe version and now, the latest generation coupe is here.

For 2014, the Accord Coupe is available in three trim choices, including two 4-cylinder engine editions (EX, EX-L) and one 6-cylinder. As standard, all versions come mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. Optionally, there is a CVT transmission available for the first two and a 6-speed automatic for the third. Prices start at $26,455 for the EX, the EX-L NAVI will cost you $30,155 and finally the more powerful V6 EX-L NAVI will set you back $35,555.

Standard features on the V6 are an ECON button for greener operation, bi-lingual hands-free Bluetooth interface, an 8” i-MID information display, heated front seats, a really good 7-speaker audio system, leather seats, keyless entry with start button, dual zone climate control, satellite navigation, LED headlights, 18” alloy wheels, LaneWatch blind spot display, dual exhausts, multi-angle rear view camera, Forward Collision (FCW) and Lane Departure Warnings, fog lights, stability control and six airbags.

Being a coupe, aerodynamic streamlining is important and as such the roof has a steeper angle leading to the raised bum and the body sits closer to earth keeping its centre of gravity low. The result is a much wider and angrier looking car that is both inviting and exciting.

The interior design is mostly identical to the sedan version, quality wise that means good news, but emotionally it falls a bit short to fall in love with. Fit and finish are well done and the soft to the touch materials are very nice, but the aesthetics expected in a coupe are missing. The right angle joint between the dashboard and door panels could’ve been curved to create a more cocoon style cockpit.

Ergonomically there is little to complain about, perhaps the trip computer button could’ve been placed on the steering wheel instead, but other than that, the layout is simple, intuitive and everything is well in reach. The driving position has a wide range of adjustments and visibility is exceptionally good for a coupe. The lane watch system is an awesome idea and may have more uses than indented, like looking out for pedestrians or bikers at intersections.

The seats are big, comfortable and provide all the necessary support. They are also wrapped in high quality leather that matches the steering wheel and shifter. Keeping the sedan’s interior inherited the roominess; if that matters in a coupe. Passengers in the front can easily dance to the beats of the sweet sounding stereo while surprisingly, two passengers in the back can do the exact same thing since legroom is amazing.

The trunk is a very generous 379L and even though the multilink rear suspension eats up quite some of the space, the overall usability is not really compromised. The rear seats can be folded to create even more space in case you decide to take your sporty coupe for the Home Depot run.

Under the hood, the 3.5L i-VTEC SOHC V6 engine delivers power, high levels of refinement, reasonable fuel economy and a great soundtrack. It is not the 278 HP that impress, nor the 252 lb-ft of torque; it is the way they are delivered that does. It’s the instant throttle response, the endless power reserves and the fact that is always remains as smooth as Belgian chocolate. The 6-speed manual gearbox is the perfect match to it as it allows that instant interaction with its spirited temperament. Rev-matching technology done the traditional way really satisfies the ears as the exhaust note sounds pretty darn good. 0-100km/h comes in 7.1” but I bet the number could’ve been better if it wasn’t so dependent on my launching skills. When you are done clowning around fuel economy will drop to about 11.5lt/100km combined, a very descent number given the power, the sporty nature and my heavy foot.

The all-round independent suspension works really well keeping the long body under control at all times. Being comfortable over bumps you’d expect more body roll in the corners but in-fact, the car levels itself out quickly demonstrating poise and high levels of grip. Perhaps a complaint could be that it is not as playful as a coupe should be; if that is a fault. The steering is light and quick but sits too high up if you want to view the instrument cluster properly. The brakes on the other hand feel like they bite very well and the pedal is crisp. On the other hand, from 100km/h it came to a complete stop in 44m, which is only average. The clutch is light and travels long, but only about 30% is effective. Addictive is the shifter that feels good and all gears snap in firmly.

Honda has once again done almost everything right and most importantly has put a fair price tag on alluring product. Well put together and without any need to oversell itself, the 2014 Honda Accord coupe is coupe to seriously consider.