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Sedans Honda Accord 2008 Accord Sedan Could Be Everyman's Acura RL
56 messages, Last post on Nov 10, 2008 at 6:15 AM
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Has anybody else out there noticed that the 2008 Honda Accord sedan has the same chassis as the Acura RL? It looks like Honda created the 2008 Accord sedan by taking an RL, slightly changing the exterior sheet metal, improving the interior use of passenger space (can't believe the RL has less interior space than a TL), and getting rid of SH-AWD. And the RL is a $45k car. I think the new Accord should substantially outsell the Camry. The big question in my mind: could this be the first Accord where it might conceivably make sense to purchase the v-6? I'll stake my vote that until now, the weight/handling trade-off made an Accord V-6 a less desireable choice. So here's how I see it: Honda has the Acura TSX/European Accord to compete with BMW 3 series, Audi A4 and Volvo S40 small sedans; the Acura RL/2008 Accord to compete with the Audi A6, BMW 5 series and Volvo S60 (compare length, wheelbase & hp of the RL to the BMW 5). I'd like to see Honda -- and Car & Driver -- making these comparisons more pointedly. And for Honda to put the BMW 5 series more in its cross-hairs for the RL/Accord. Much as I love Honda/Acura, I know its not quite BMW, but the value equation makes it my choice. Honda already made the MDX a clone of the BMW X5 -- from my perspective, losing a good bit of the prior gen MDX's family friendliness in the process. This leaves the extremely popular TL, based on the prior generation Accord, somewhat of an orphan. And I'd like to see the 2008 Accord Coupe get an Acura RL coupe treatment -- an everyman's Audi A5. Look forward to hearing comments!! 08-28-2007 03:27 PM |
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I used to want a Legend or RL, at least in a fantasy world. An 08 Accord EXL should be pretty close to what a 40k RL was in c. 2003. It'll be a very good deal, but it looks like they may steal some sales from Acura. Perhaps Acura will be the first to get A-Vtec? |
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And it seems that Honda keeps taking this car farther and farther from what it used to be. Each succeeding generation gets bigger than its predecessors. Come to think of it, the same is true of the Civic. Regarding the V-6, I almost think it makes less sense this time around, given that the EX will have a higher output 4 cylinder than the base models.
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| I doubt if the 08 Accord will be as refined as the current RL. Size and horsepower isn't everything about a car, as other refinements (available in the RL) are important. Honda/Acura is not going to kill off the more prestigious (and probably more profitable) Acura line by selling Acura look-a-likes at Honda prices. | |
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Replying to: kennyg8 (Sep 02, 2007 11:45 am)
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Replying to: fxguy (Sep 02, 2007 12:42 pm) Backup camera is a dealer installed accessory. You have to choose which color. It works just like the RL's camera. |
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Just test drove one. Just as some background I currently drive a 2003 BMW 530i - one of the best BMWs ever built IMO - but I have also owned 3 Accords and a 91 and 95 Acura Legend. The new Accord is impressive - from driving position - seats - interior - features - to ride and handling. After driving BMWs for the last 8 years I have gotten used to how a BMW can balance a luxury feel with outstanding handling - they can effortlessly take repeated harsh bumps and dispense with them in comfort while giving the driver a great deal of confidence even at high speeds (and not just in a straight line). I was amazed to see how the Accord comes the closest to this BMW feel of all the cars I have ever driven - especially at its price level. The harshest bumps get absorbed gracefully. Torque steer is pretty much non-existent. Tranny and engine are silky smooth. It definitely brought a smile to my face. I did test drive an RL when they came out and found that at the low-end there was just not enough torque for me. Also, I think the Accords new suspension bits do a better job of providing road feel (similar to a BMW). So go out and test drive one and share your thoughts. I am a confirmed car-aholic and may have to buy one of these 
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Replying to: turner433 (Aug 28, 2007 1:33 pm) |
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