Accord Proves First Impressions Aren’t Everything

2008 Honda Accord 2.4 EX

model as tested $23,730

Test Drove 9/08/2008 – 9/15/2008
reviewed by Sherrice Gilsbach

If I’d rated the Honda Accord based on my first impression alone, I’d have given it a 10 — or at least a 9. After more than a week of driving it, I’m really reaching to try and give it a 7.

I enjoyed the space in this car, including all its cubbies and compartments. When I first got in, it felt like Christmas — I was opening this door and that and finding lots of convenient nooks and crannies for my myriad mommy things. There was a spot for the sunglasses, the phone, the coffee and even for my purse (you know this never happens). The trunk space was amazing: You literally have to peer into it to see the whole thing. However, as the whole getting-to-know-you phase ended, so did my admiration for the Accord.

When it was time to pick up my son from school, I noticed right away that the Accord had a high-pitched whining sound to it — it almost sounded electric. As faint as it was, it was there. I also noticed another sound at higher speeds: You know that horrible pounding noise some cars make when only one window is open, or the sound you hear when you’re driving with a flat tire? The Accord makes this noise. Again, it’s not very loud, but it was there threatening to make my ears pop the entire ride. But these problems could have been exclusive to my test car; make sure to listen for any noises during your test drive.

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