2008 Honda Accord Euro First Steer
23 Jun, 2008
93 Comments 
Honda’s all-new Accord Euro has sharp looks and a classy interior that go with the Euro part of it moniker but a price tag that’s more closely allied to the bargain end of the market.
-David Twomey
Honda has made no bones about the fact that this car is meant to maintain its strong sales position for the company and also take on rivals Mazda6, Subaru Liberty and Volkswagen Jetta head-on.
This is a car with a starting price of $32,990 for the six-speed manual that offers a host of standard features including front, side and curtain airbags, active front head restraints, ESP, dual zone air-conditioning, and a host of other convenience and usually luxury features.
The five-speed automatic gearbox adds $2000 to all three models, which include a leather upholstered Luxury at $39,990 and a rather curiously named Luxury Navi that throws in satellite navigation and a reversing camera for $42,990.
At the recent launch of the Honda Accord Euro in Adelaide the assistant project leader on the Accord Euro project, Toshiro Morita, said the benchmark car for the Euro was BMW, because its cars had outstanding features.
He also said the new Accord Euro set out to address criticisms of the previous car by adding more character and making the car both smart and agile.
Honda has sold more than 45,000 Accord Euros in Australia since the model was first introduced in 2003 and the car has helped the company lower the average age of its buyer to 40+ years, in fact most buyers of the Accord Euro are in the 35-50 years-old bracket, married, with a high income and are generally very tech savvy, according to Honda Australia senior director, Lindsay Smalley.
According to Honda the Euro is significantly wider, slightly lower and longer, the styling adopts a more chiselled design, with pronounced muscular wheel-arches that emphasise the car’s wider track and gives the Euro a distinctive, strong stance with a solid, planted feel.
It adds that the distinctive nose and more flowing lines deliver a tauter, more athletic shape.
In our opinion none of this is untrue, the only criticism would be that the new design is a little too derivative of the previous car.
That said the new Accord Euro has real presence – especially from the front, where the aggressive headlights and wide stance give a far more muscular appearance than the previous model.
Climb inside, and things look even better. The front seats – upholstered in leather on the Luxury version, fabric on the base model – are supportive and supremely comfortable. We can’t think of a better place to sit on a long journey.
The 2.4-litre engine, which is described as Euro Four compliant but in fact meets the Euro Five standards that do not come into effect for another two years, is more powerful, delivering 148 kilowatts (up from 140kW) at 7000rpm and peak torque of 234Nm (up from 223Nm) at 4400rpm (manual transmission).
Its sporty performance is all the more remarkable given the improved fuel economy – now just 8.9l/100km (down from 9.1l/100km manual transmission and 9.4l/100km automatic transmission).
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June 23rd, 2008 at 7:12 am
One body shape compared to Mazda’s three? Where’s the wagon?
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 7:52 am
I like this along with the new mazda 6.
Vote:Is anyone going to complain though that this new accord looks too similar to the outgoing model?
Just like everyone has about the new FG falcon…
June 23rd, 2008 at 9:44 am
wow that is cheap compared to the v6 accord especially when this looks way better.the mazda 6 seems a little overpriced now.Also where is the wagon?
And also noones complaining about it looking liekt eh previous because it has still evolved and although looks the same has taken ona new presence the fg didnt do this they jsut smoothed out the edges
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 9:47 am
What is the service interval on these..? is it still the 10K 6 months or like the jetta 15K or 12 monhts?
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 9:56 am
The dash area is an ergonomic mess. The rear is also ungainly.
Apart from that though, looks like a fine car.
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 10:13 am
So how does this compete with a Jetta 2.0 FSI Turbo with DSG exactly?
Not with the ugly dash, that’s for sure.
Not with the engine either – 148kw at 7000 and 234nm at 4400 vs 147kw @5100 and 280nm from 2200
Not with the availability of a super thrifty diesel, in manual or auto, either.
Sorry, guys, it’s the Jetta for mine.
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 10:29 am
Spec-on-spec this car is cheaper the older one. Looks great, definitely a hard time choosing which is better out of this or the 6.
Honda stated that the wagon and a diesel engine may come next year. Last time they didn’t bring the wagon, as it may have hurt Odyssey sales.
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 10:30 am
O…
You have just proved my point…
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 10:50 am
Interestingly enough the anti-spam word for this post was ‘faster’.
Something the Accord Euro in typical Honda fashion hasn’t managed to gain.
Were is the VW like drivetrain development? Its a brilliant car, but the days of wanting a traditional 4 cylinder engine are over. Give us a small turbo diesel or something with actual performance to match its economy.
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 11:02 am
Good work Honda.
Vote:I am however more partial to the Jetta as well, but it still looks like a good quality evolution for the Euro.
June 23rd, 2008 at 11:07 am
More competitive pricing than the Mazda 6 and more equipment on the top end model (GPS sat. nav. and reverse camera). Engine also has more power than the Mazda 6 and can use regular unleaded against the Mazda’s premium fuel requirement. This Honda should encourage Mazda to improve the ‘6′ at the mid term update. Buyers wanting a hatch would go for the Mazda but between the two sedans, some would choose either one.
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 11:13 am
Id go the Mondeo Zetec or TDCi personally. Over in Europe the jounos everywhere prefer the Mondeo of any mid sizer bar 3-Series and C-Class, which is a testamate to Fords superb road manners, shame it doesnt translate well on aussie roads though.
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 11:53 am
Quote: “The dash area is an ergonomic mess….”
Are you kidding? It’s one of the very best dashboard designs I’ve seen in ages, and that’s a major factor why I’m preparing my finances for this car. It may not have the impeccable quality of an Audi or BMW, but its layout is absolutely fantastic, with the right materials in the right places.
Also, I read in a newspaper that the reason why the wagon won’t come here is that there’s something in it that doesn’t comply with Australian design rules. About the diesel, I’m not sure if it makes for a good argument over the petrol version, as Honda diesel is still at a ripe age and the revvy nature of their gasoline engines is really something to savour.
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 12:05 pm
And also no ones complaining about it looking like the previous because it has still evolved and although looks the same it has taken on a new presence the FG didnt do this they just smoothed out the edges over bf
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 12:13 pm
Doesn’t look too good on the outside. Headlights are a bit weird, overall shape not as elegant as previous model.
Interior looks great, Honda really seems to be the masters of interior design.
Mondeo is still the best looking mid-sized car. Mazda 6 and Accord Euro reflect different design philosophies. One advantage of the Honda is that you can get it with Sat-Nav and Reserving Camera, features absent on the Ford and Mazda.
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 12:26 pm
It will be interesting to see what mazda will do with the price of mazda6. They should cut their price (especially the luxury & luxury sport) significantly. After all the new euro has more power, more torque, more goodies/features, bigger and CHEAPER.
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 12:51 pm
Took the Auto for a hit this morning, looks nice, build quality is good, front seating and space were good, rear seating is tight, yer the front dash is a little odd..
Its a smooth, very refined ride, but its heavy(1550 -1625kgs), and floor the accel it is just sluggish tbh, 148kw, yer but at 7000rpm. I dont get it tbh, They already have the big accord that does this, I owned a 2005 ero(loved it) and handling/performance was, well…more enjoyable, more of a drivers combo, have the jetta turbo now(petrol) and it eats this for breakfast(ok turbo, so it should) but it is lighter at 1380 kgs and just a better handling/performance combo.
I dont get it, the bigger accord does this already.
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 12:56 pm
Jerry, the euro is a nice car, but I dont see this worrying the 6 tbh. Numbers sold will stay the same I reckon. The euro like the 6 is smooth and refined, but sluggish when asked the question. Its to bloody heavy, throw 2 adults in there and its nearly pulling 1800kgs..
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 1:23 pm
The only one that interests me is the diesel, only if it comes to Australia. It’s clear that cars that have to rev hard to achieve their best are just not what we need. The diesel with 340Nm at 2200rpm sounds great.
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 1:24 pm
Look like my decision to buy a Mondeo TDCi has been the correct decision I stand to be corrected but one of Hondas service cost is in the 1000’s!
laurie
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 1:31 pm
I think you made the right choice Laurie, the euro is okay but I imo Honda have lost the plot a little here, its really no longer a drivers car, and sadly, it struggles a little engine wise, once you are over the fact that it is new and shiny, this is no longer a real drivers car, more like a better handling luxo barge :(
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 1:32 pm
and the back is too small, even tho its bigger and heavier, WTF!
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 1:36 pm
Just out of curiosity, what happened to the Volvo V70 review I read this morning?
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 2:00 pm
Just take the Mazda 6 over this, close call that!
Back to back test would be nice
Cheers
F-0
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 2:01 pm
Mitchell, It will be back up tomorrow.
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 2:07 pm
Silky, did you have the chance to test the manual? No doubt that the auto version will be sluggish.
Vote:I like the exterior of the mazda6 (especially lux sport) but the asking price is ridiculous.
June 23rd, 2008 at 2:09 pm
although more expensive (and apparently overpriced in Au), the BMW 320d seems to be the best choice of mid-sized sedan.
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 2:45 pm
All I can say that this class is now offering the best value in cars that we have never seen in the past, between those $16,999 drive away prices to those in the Luxury Tax bracket this segment offer what we desire in a car its up to you to choose what best suits your pocket,me Leather- Bluetooth and Voice Control was a no brainier he,he,he, love talking to my car,misses thought I was talking to myself in the garage the other day
laurie
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 2:54 pm
No manual available at the dealer yet, could be the go, the paddle shift in the auto was okay but….its too heavy, with myself and the sales guy prolly pulling almost 1780 kgs, once its moving its smooth, no problem, but hit the pedal..and be patient, much the same as the six. For me, handling and performance go hand in hand, the euro just lost it, at least in auto guise, its no worse than the 6, maybe, maybe a little better, I was disappointed tbh. Be interested in reading any 6 speed manual comments though. Hey, the big accord and the Euro are supposed to be different packages and they still are, but only just..agree on the 6 lux sport, lets be honest though, Im never going to buy brand new again, wait 2 years and your luxo 6 will be good buying at 27k or so…
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 3:45 pm
Nice car for the ask. Impressive economy figures for a car this size/performance.
Got to laugh at the drivel that comes out of the Honda Sales execs mouth about the attributes of the buyers demographic.
Just as well Head office pulls the strings. Ha Ha Ha.
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 4:02 pm
it is interesting how in other countires the mondeo and accord are priced in comparison to the c class and 3 sereis.Yet in australia the modeo and accord are way cheaper while the 3 class and c call are priced much more.
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 4:20 pm
O, Same goes for any premium brand in a ‘3rd world market’ – and by 3rd world market i mean we in australia are treated as if we dont know what it costs to build a Beamer or Merc, in America and Europe they pay 40% less on ANY model across ANY range..
we as aussies (and kiwis) get reemed when it comes to luxury euros..
M3 in US = $90k AUD
M3 in AUS = $150AUD
REEMED.
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 4:23 pm
No one shot of the rear end …what’s wrong with you people???
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 4:37 pm
car comes with a whole load of gadgets more than the 6. And besides, the 6 doesn’t look very flash until its in sports lux form. The sedan is hideous IMO…
But anyway, I think the new Euro looks better, more aggressive in my eyes anyway. good to see honda finally adding all airbags as standard as it should be doing with all its current models.
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 5:11 pm
I think this car is excellent – drove the lux auto and it was a fine ride. Not everyone needs more and more power, this is a sedan not a sports car. It is beautifully equipped and the interior was superb. I like the “fussy” dash! Where this car distinguishes itself from the Jetta imho is that it has so many standard inclusions that are add-ons to the Jetta – the price of a Jetta spec’d to the same level as a Euro Lux would be much higher. Just my 2 cents.
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 5:45 pm
Very good of Honda to drop the price by $1,000 across the range. This takes the competition in this segment to a more competitive level, especially against the Mazda 6 “Luxury”, which is now over-priced by around $2,000 and still lacking sat. navi. and reverse camera, with a less powerful engine. However, the power in both cars (Accord Euro and Mazda 6) are adequate for most people, because most cars have only a driver or 2/3 people in them (just look anywhere on the roads). Also, previous models had less power and still sold very well. I would consider buying between the two, but would never even look at Volkswagen Jetta (that’s just my preference – it’s my money and I can buy whatever I want).
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 6:21 pm
I had a look at the Accord tonight and was very impressed. I think it is a very good looking car and comes with a lot of features standard. I am looking at the Accord Euro, Mondeo XR5 and the Mazda 6 at the moment. As others mentioned, I just can’t see the value in the Mazda as the Sports Luxury still misses out on a few features, so it is off my list. Just comes down to pricing between the Mondeo and Accord.
As for the Jetta, isn’t that a smaller car?
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 6:28 pm
Silky you seem to be infactuated by weight. Most decent Euro designed motors are round the 1600Kg mark.
Vote:Folks, am I correct in saying the previous Euro accord outsold the local version?
Awwww what a shame no Auto for the diesel, someone needs to learn to drive a “propper car”.
I’ve considered the wagon but its over-priced here (UK) considering they are expensive to repair.
June 23rd, 2008 at 7:04 pm
still at lesast we get a great bargain on mondeo and accord here in the uk the base model accord starts a t 20k pounds and the modeo 16kpounds
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 7:14 pm
No Name I was bemused by the fact that its heavier, bigger and yet rear occupants have no more room, finally in auto guise, its a bit of slug. This is a Euro, the sportier model apparently, that pretty much now does the same job as the bigger accord, just saying, dont see the point..
Bill the jetta comes with a turbo and dsg, if you prefer a sun roof then knock yourself out, its purely each to their own, performance vs nice bibs and bobs :) and I agree, power isnt an essential, but isnt that what the 4 cylinder large accord is for?
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 8:18 pm
Having just driven the new 6 (which one of my relative such bought) through the Adelaide Hills, I have to say it is a very impressive car and (from initial reports),is better than the Euro in terms of handling and driver enjoyment. (I have heard reports that the Euro handling is a bit vague and not as good as the 6). Although there is a small jump in power over the previous 6, it has much more torque (I drive a SP23 which is a similar engine and you can tell the difference when going up hills etc). This IMO is what counts – as one person said, not everyone needs a powerful car. I think people need to be educated better.
However, Mazda really needs:
1) A luxury Pack (similiar to the one on the SP23) which adds electric seats bose, etc etc… over the Classic (who neeeds a sunroof, xeon lights etc….). My relatives ended up going for the Classic because of this. They liked the luxury but as echoed here, the Luxury and really there was no real benefit over the Classic.
2) The Luxury sedan needs the 18′ wheels (like that on the LSH). The Luxury Sedan looks like the Classic sedan – again overpriced (Mazda, are you listening…)
3) Luxury models need some feature found in European models (like adaptive headlights, bi-xeon etc. etc..) – no hand me downs later.
4) More colour choice – hardly any colour choice. The Mazda3 colour chart is much, much more vast.
5) More storage space – my Mazda3 has heaps more space compared to the 6.
If these were done along with realignign price to be more competative to the Euro, the Mazda is definately the winner, even if it is the less powerful of the two. Even the previous 6 was a better car compared to the Euro (and again similar power differences with the 6 having less power)
Also
1) The build quality of both cars (especially the Mazda) is definately up there with the best from Europe or actually on par. And the dash on both cars are good
2) European competitors to both cars are definatley no better (usually European superiorsity Myth).
3) To those who made the comments on Unleaded, how many of you would run your Euro on PULP because it is better for the car.
However, both are very good cars which takes the fight right up to the doorsteps of Barvaria. And yeah, those cars are way overpriced and offer absoultely no benefit when compared to these two unless you like fishtailing etc……
BTW – I didn’t influce my relatives decision because I drive an SP23 – just before conclusions are made.
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 8:38 pm
It definitely looks like they are reliving the previous model, and just had to do something different.
Vote:June 24th, 2008 at 12:07 am
I find the Accord side on has taken some of Mazda’s styling eg wheelarch lines and a prominent side crease !
Vote:June 24th, 2008 at 12:17 am
Good looking car but bluetooth is missing again.
Vote:June 24th, 2008 at 9:21 am
Good looking?
Vote:UGLY IMO
That grille bites.
June 24th, 2008 at 10:17 am
What is it with carmakers constantly increasing the size of their cars with every new model??
Vote:June 24th, 2008 at 11:38 am
Mike
that’s true just look at the Civic,Corolla
laurie
Vote:June 24th, 2008 at 12:58 pm
I don’t have a problem with the look of it. An evolution more than revolution, which in this case seems to work well. Sadly however, it is heavier with too little gain in engine performance for it to be an improvement in that area, but everywhere else it looks to have improved. In comparison to the Mazda6 it has much more standard kit & is cheaper so a big win there. Maybe at the moment it is a 6.5/10 car. Could be so much better with a better engine. Unfortunately, a bigger engine will never happen in the Euro as it will then eat into sales of the bigger Accord.
Vote:June 24th, 2008 at 1:57 pm
Is this new Euro essembled in Japan like the old model or moved to Thailand like most Hondas? Considering the price drop of the new model and yet it has more standard kit than the old model.
Vote:June 24th, 2008 at 2:22 pm
Amusing people comparing Mazda 6 and Honda Euro to BMW.
Vote:June 24th, 2008 at 2:25 pm
A Honda that doesn’t bang and crash over sharp surfaces is a nice change. How is the road noise over course bitumen?
Vote:June 24th, 2008 at 2:39 pm
yeah Laurie, I remember when the RAV4 was a small recreational vehicle. The current version is massive!
Vote:This new Accord is creeping into the Falcon/Commodore category when what we really need are more medium cars.
June 24th, 2008 at 4:27 pm
well at least he next gen corrola and civic will be the new mid sizers
Vote:June 24th, 2008 at 6:13 pm
Mazda3SP25 – The article is about Hondas not Mazdas matey. Uh :(
Vote:June 24th, 2008 at 10:06 pm
Would be nice to have a comparison review of this model against Mazda 6..Caradvice plz do this……
Vote:June 25th, 2008 at 12:02 am
The headlights look like a Mitsubishi Outlander! Not saying its bad – just appear to have the same Daddy.
Vote:June 25th, 2008 at 2:35 am
diesel would be good with this. I like the style (well atleast its much better than the old euro with its hideous back), but underpowered. Mazda 6, ugh so overhyped. Ugly and underpowered compare to accord v6
Vote:June 25th, 2008 at 6:09 am
Maxda3SP25 do you know when this will be on the market I want one now,Mazda are saying nothing at the moment.Mazda 3 still the best looking car on the road(Espically the SP23) yes I know this article is about some peice of crap honda.
Vote:June 25th, 2008 at 10:56 am
Other posters have said European journalists still give the Mondeo the edge ofver the Honda Accord. I have yet to find any evidence of this (all the articles I have read where that was the case were based on the outgoing Honda Accord). The new Accord has only been out since around 1 June in the UK. Newer articles seem to suggest they are much closer. But I HATE Mondeo’s Australian interior options. The somewhat improved UK Mondeo equivalent to a Luxury or Luxury Nav Accord (the Ttanium X) is not available here. So at the moment I think the Accord has the edge. Particularly when it is one of teh few cars that we pay aorund the same price for as a UK buyer. A Lux Nax Auto lists for around 25,000 pounds. When you think an equivalently spec’ed BMW 3 series with Sat Nav lists for around 27,000 pounds (say $63,000 PLUS dealer delivery etc here), I know where the value for our Australian dollars lies in the executive medium car segment.
Vote:June 25th, 2008 at 10:57 am
Looks like there are some Mazda car salesmen posting crap on this blog. Honda’s price drop of $1,000 and adding more equipment to the Accord Euro, must be causing Mazda salesmen a bit of worry. What’s the matter boys, too much free time on your hands doing nothing?
Vote:June 25th, 2008 at 11:21 am
The Accord’s 2nd generation diesel 2.2 i-DTEC is rated in the UK at 50.4mpg (combined). That’s around 5.6l/100km. Even with the frequent 20 to 26c/l gap between petrol and diesel prices, I think I’ll wait till next year to see how that engine handles.
Vote:June 25th, 2008 at 12:05 pm
Yep, I think the 2.2 diesel could be well worth waiting for.
Vote:June 25th, 2008 at 12:36 pm
Ha, ha, good point Tony.
At the current specs, here is what I think the price of mazda6 should be
Limited Sedan M $27,000
Limited Sedan A $29,000
Classic Sedan M $30,000
Classic Sedan A $32,000
Classic Hatch M $31,000
Classic Hatch A $33,000
Luxury Sedan A $35,000
Luxury Hatch A $36,000
Luxury Sport Hatch M $36,000
Luxury Sport Hatch A $38,000
Remember, for the comparable level, the mazda6 has less feature than the euro.
Vote:June 25th, 2008 at 1:04 pm
The frustrating thing about the missing Mazda6 features is that they’re standard in the UK and NZ markets – namely automatic headlights and wipers!
Vote:June 25th, 2008 at 2:16 pm
Have to retract one of my previous remarks – AutoExpress UK does put the Mondeo ahead of the NEW Accord in a group test (I thought there were only comparisons of the older model Accord on the net). BUT even so, their review is based on the highly spec’ed Mondeo Titanium X diesel, which specification is not available here and the Accord manual diesel 2.2i_DTEC, which engine is not available here yet. Comparing available top of the range Accord Euro against the Mondeo, I still prefer the Luxury Nav. Mazda6 came third (and again their top of the range Mazda6 has more options than ours). Of course if you want diesel and you want it now and not in 6 to 12 months, the Accord doesn’t figure.
Vote:June 25th, 2008 at 3:44 pm
Come on guys… mazda is mazda… you cant compare it with honda. In Japan people most likely only to buy either Toyota Nissan or Honda… but not Mazda except for the RX8. It is like you compare Hyundai and Kia in Korea. And the worst part the resell value for Mazda even more Ford & VW (except Golf) are like crap! You can’t compare them with Honda!
Vote:June 25th, 2008 at 4:51 pm
^What the hell are you talking about?
Vote:Mazda’s resale value is on par with its rivals, if not better. We are not talking about Japanese market choice but here (in Australia) Mazda is the best selling fully imported brand above Nissan or Honda.
I don’t know what your talking about, but the Accord Euro’s direct rival would be the Mazda 6.
June 25th, 2008 at 7:12 pm
In my opinion, if you could get the interior fit out of the Accord, combined with the space, looks and peformance of the Mondeo XR5, I would buy it in a flash. Unfortunately, it seems like all of the mid size cars are missing some little thing.
Vote:June 26th, 2008 at 7:26 pm
Not incredibalbly different to last model, but it looks better. But CarAdvice will (I say) do a test on this against the Mazda 6! ;)
Will be a close one, probably a tie!
By the way, for some people think the New Mazda 6 is/has the same platform as the Mondeo (share the same one) is wrong, they are both completely different!
Vote:June 26th, 2008 at 8:24 pm
We should say thank you to Mazda 6. The reason that Honda reduces the price of new Accord Euro by A$1,000 across the range because of Mazda 6. If there is no Mazda 6, Honda wouldn’t reduce the price of new Accord Euro. Look at the new CRV. It is made in Thailand and there is no import duty, price should be cheaper than priovious model which was made in Japan. Honda jacked up its price by A$1,000 across the range when it was released. Why? Because there was no competition, Nissan X-Trial, Subaru Forester, RAV4 were too old.
Vote:June 29th, 2008 at 8:21 pm
Honda has released the Accord Euro wagon in NZ but Australia only gets Sedan :/
Vote:July 2nd, 2008 at 1:56 am
Boys, I am interested in both new Honda euro and 6.
Vote:Which one should i buy?
I am just not sure
Honda euro has better interior.
6 looks better.
Very difficult to choose.
plz post your advice.
July 2nd, 2008 at 5:34 pm
Bob, if you can wait, then wait to see what Mazda do.
They must do something. After all, Mazda is becoming too greedy IMHO.
If you have to buy now, I would choose Euro. It’s better value. I don’t like the Euro front grille. Ugly I think. But, you can put the sport grille. Looks much better I think.
Vote:July 3rd, 2008 at 12:55 am
Thx Jerry.
Vote:I think new euro looks like the transformer. lol
I just had test drive of both euro and m6. I found they were basically the same, but euro seemed more powerful. I will ask Mazda’s saleman about what they would do to their car.
July 3rd, 2008 at 12:20 pm
Bob, I would like to tell you what I think of the Accord, but no Honda dealer seems to want to help me. One dealer valued my car at a low trade in value, so I basically told them where to go. I have been to another dealer twice, first time they were busy, so I can sort of understand, but second time I went in with my 8 and a half month pregnant wife, sat in the cars and had a good look around and still got no help. I prefer the look and feel of the Accord, but I can’t get over the poor attitude of Honda’s sales staff.
Vote:July 3rd, 2008 at 2:07 pm
where do you live SteveH? Are you in Melbourne? I guess it’s a matter of timing. This happened to me before.
Vote:I bet you want to have a test drive, don’t you. If you want a test drive, it’s good if you tell them straight away that you want to test drive. Give impression that you know what you want and you’re ready to make a deal straight away (even if you’re not prepared. There is always a way/excuse to cancel if you’re not ready).
Tell them “I want this Accord. I’m ready to make a deal today if the price is right”. You’ll get attention straight away. If you want to ask a lot of questions, get the salesman into the car while you test drive and ask him/her during the test drive.
Best of luck with your hunting and your coming baby.
July 3rd, 2008 at 7:56 pm
Hi Jerry. I am in Melbourne. I can’t even get hold of a salesman to ask for a test drive at the moment as I must not fit some sort of pre-determined demographic that they have. Plus I am after a manual transmission, so they seem to be pretty thin on the ground. Seems like a really nice car to sit in at least.
Vote:July 5th, 2008 at 12:52 am
SteveH I have the same experience with the Honda sales rep. in Melbourne. I rang for a test drive and make a time for Sat morning, on arrival got a call from the rep saying they are too busy better come back weekdays. Like Jerry said if they know you are just testing around they are not interested. Wait till the car sales drop then these sales rep will come running. It is like most arrogant sales rep too busy dont care.
Vote:July 7th, 2008 at 1:33 pm
SteveH & John, what dealer did you go? The trick “I want to test drive this model. I’ll make a deal today if I like the car & the price is right” always work for me.
Vote:May be I’ll pay a visit to that dealer. See how I go. I too want to test drive the new euro.
July 7th, 2008 at 1:33 pm
Honda Australia is now out of touch. Honda Australia believes that customer will come and beg. In Sydney, Honda Australia shuts down one of the oldest Honda dealer because this dealer does not fit to Honda’s image (big showroom and located on the main road). Good luck in the future Honda.
Vote:July 7th, 2008 at 2:42 pm
I would rather the Ford Mondeo and Mazda 6 thanks more desirable and better looking. Honda for some reason has a toyoda image problem, selling to the ageing masses wearing bowler hats, cardigan’s with no sense of where right or left is, Honda drivers are the worst in the world for it, I have stopped in the middle of Sydney Rd Melbourne for nearly a minute until this idiot made up his mind holding up a tram and about 50 cars, I guess that is where road rage starts….
Honda drivers licence come from weet bix box’s
Vote:July 7th, 2008 at 7:17 pm
Finally had a test drive of the Accord from New World Honda in Berwick. Very good car and better than the Mondeo XR5 and Mazda 6 in my opinion.
Didn’t need to claim I was going to buy the car there and then. Just said I was comparing it to a couple of others and wanted to get an idea of how the Accord Euro stacked up.
Vote:July 11th, 2008 at 6:25 pm
Don
You are “spot on” Honda has lost the plot, well as far as customer service goes at least.
I have owned several new Hondas since 1995 and have found that, warranty coverage is nowhere near as good as it used to be for one thing.
The fact I am a tall bloke exempted me from buying a Accord Euro in ‘05. So I found myself a second hand Lexus.
It is time to change again for me, but Honda Sales staff attitudes at some franchises leave an awful lot to be desired. (Adelaide) That coupled with Hondas warranty attitude to its buyers in recent years, leaves me cold frankly!
I think this new Euro looks & seems to have the goods this time (for me at least). I wonder if the leg room has improved from last Euro?
Vote:But Toyota and Mazda have some fine products to compare as well. This segment of the market has plenty of choice for consumers.
July 11th, 2008 at 7:12 pm
My worry is that the power increase doesnt match the size and Im assuming weight increase. The one American review I watched noted that it seemed more sluggish then the outgoing model. Also, pricing seems quite high… thats in the league of the big Aussie sixes where it cant compete for performance and features wise aint that much better.
Vote:July 12th, 2008 at 10:40 pm
gentlemen
I have driven 6, jetta tfsi, 2009 accord euro amongst others. Interior of honda is quality at base level compared to ALL. I agree with comments about honda sales staff being unhelpful, seemingly believing their car sells itself compared to others (adelaide). With that said, nice drive, more controlled but yes, seemingly less squirt than the old. I have never felt 148kw doing less, for a 4cyl, the jetta hammers, for the honda it revs, and revs but it does not launch. The 6 is again a nice drive but to claim ’sports’ pretensions is marketing brief conquering actual delivery.
Vote:July 26th, 2008 at 3:55 pm
Well I drove Euro and Mazda 6 both horrible cramped, very noisy little buzz-boxes…I’ll stick with my Maxima which costs no more that either of these “applauded and lauded” vehicles.
Vote:July 30th, 2008 at 5:11 am
Hi
Vote:i was just on this website randomly and realised that there is no honda accord diesel in australia i live in england and own a accord diesel its very smooth and powerful will it go to australia? In England accords are also much more expensive mine was £25,000 and its not even top spec i think thats around $50,000 is that alot? the diesel is well worth waiting for. i would have prefered a BMW but they are even more expensive for the 320d its about $70,000.
August 1st, 2008 at 9:49 am
I saw the car in the flesh today and it looks even better. But I am confused, this car seems bigger than the new Accord 6. So why make two cars (accord-soft/ accord euro-hard) when the Euro is not that sporty anymore. And still don’t know why they persist with the Accord name for both cars. Regarding the wagon, big mistake not to sell it here. Odyssey argument doesn’t stack up, unless euro wagon is a seven seater. I think the Mazda 6 has always been more feminine in the style department, whilst the Euro is opposite.
Vote:August 3rd, 2008 at 3:59 pm
Despite the parity of Aussie Dollar to US Dollar in recent times, the Euros prices dropped by a mere 1K. The equivalent Luxury version with Navi is around USD34K in US (from memory), versus AUD44K downunder.
Aussie car buyers are fleeced – BIG TIME.
Vote:September 17th, 2008 at 11:23 pm
Does anyone know when the diesel Auto will hit the market in Australia?
I drove the 2008 Accord Euro Auto on the weekend and was underwhelmed by the noisy high reving low torque petrol motor.
Vote:October 13th, 2008 at 11:50 am
looks great when you see one out on the road, even in boring silver. the guards and overall profile is perfect. the old one was bland bland bland.
interier on this one is a bit messy though, would have prefered something more elegant
engines… well 4 cylinder’s are ordinary, but atleast its not unreliable like the aweful Mexico built Jetta
Vote:October 20th, 2008 at 1:53 pm
I have just bought the latest Accord Euro. Now 2400 km. And I want to trade it !!!!!!
Had a 2003 model (purchased Jan 2004) as ex-demo car. Really onlu one problem that I put up with for 4 1/2 years. Otherwise the Honda experience was good. Problem – a completely inaccurate speedo reading. Had the RAA (Adelaide South Australia) check it out. The variation was around 6% under correct reading. Honda Australia refused to do anything – the dealers said their hands were tied as HA did not give them the capabilities to make adjustments.
When the new model was to be released I waited for the deal to happen. What I have found is the new instrumentation is out by 8%. UNACCEPTABLE. Again, nobody wants to try to do anything
For heavens sake, Honda run an F1 team – you cannot tell me they wioll accept an 8% error in instrumentation readings !!!!
Holden Commodores are tested by RAA before delivery to SA Police – if speedo error more than 2% the car is rejected !! So if it is good enough and possible for a little Australian carmaker to get it right, it should be mandatory for a global carmaker like Honda to do it just as well – and even better !!!
I expect better for the amount of money outlayed.
Anybody else had a similar experience??
Vote:November 12th, 2008 at 11:32 pm
From my records, I have had the following customer service experience at these Mazda & Honda sites:
Good (Staff were attentive, respectful, informative, not pushy)
- Honda Heidelburg (Victoria) 2002-2006
- Honda Austral (Qld) 2006-2008
Bad (Staff unattentive, arrogant, lack of helpful product info, rush you to make decisions)
- Honda Brighton (Victoria) 2002
- Mazda Austral (Qld) 2008
Hope this info is useful for others… as for me, I tend to only stick to GOOD customer service providers, as evident from my loyalty of a number of years staying with them.
But on a realist point of view, the customer service can be controlled/managed by head office through policy and training, etc. But Dealers can also employ GOOD staff and avoid terrible sales people. Heck i even had good experience with a trainee at Honda Austral; informative, enthusiastic and attentive.
(FYI, I’m thinkiing of getting the prev Honda Accord Euro, most likely 2005-2008 model, rather than new 2009 model, mainly coz global economy is bad shape and also I still like the sharper looking older model, which is cheaper to buy!)
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