With the advance of technology, our automobiles have become increasingly well equipped with safety, comfort and technical features. My test drive for the week was a Honda Accord, and it had no additional packages on the list of features. Thanks, Honda, for an attractive coupe with everything I needed for the week's drive.
As I drove around, I did not think of anything really important that was missing. The engine and transmission delivered the power and handling that made driving easy. The safety features gave me the sense of security that allowed me worry-free enjoyment of my trips. The interior features provided enough comfort and technology for me to experiment with and enjoy; and it was intuitive enough that I didn’t need to consult the instruction book.
My test model was an Alabaster Silver color with a black interior. The streamlined profile suggested performance drivability The 278-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 Earth Dreams engine was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and was in no way disappointing. Much of my regular driving is around my country home on rural and back roads. I did make a drive northwest towards Dallas, up IH 45 where the speed limit is 75 miles per hour for about 30 miles north of Fairfield. As expected, this sporty coupe took to the freeway as if it had been eagerly awaiting the opportunity. It was challenging to keep from breaking that generous speed limit, as many other drivers were doing!
Comfort is important to me, and I wouldn’t rate the Accord’s seats a 10, but the 10-way power driver’s seat and the tilt and telescopic steering wheel were both appreciated. On one chilly morning, I much enjoyed the heated seat! Honda navigation system, rear multi-view camera, steering wheel-mounted controls and Honda’s LaneWatch added to the sense of safety and security, which enhances comfort. LaneWatch is a terrific new feature that puts a rear view camera on the right side mirror. When the right turn signal is activated, a view of the lane to the right and behind the vehicle shows in the mirror, eliminating the dangerous blind spot. This is so simple and intuitive that you don’t have to think about it; it just appears and shows just what you need to see right where you would look for it.
With today’s need to be constantly “plugged in”, Honda keeps up with the demands by providing XM satellite radio, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink, USB audio interface and the HomeLink system.
This 2013 Honda Accord had many more attractive standard features, making it a very appealing package. The MSRP is $32,350. There are optional packages that allow you to customize your car, which would add to the bottom line. The estimated fuel economy is 21 miles per gallon in the city, 32 on the highway.
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