2005 Honda Accord Sedan

People often ask me what my favorite car is.
I disappoint them by saying I have many. It depends on price, body type, priorities. They expect my answer to be some $100,000 exotic, and, in some ways, they’re right. But even though I marvel at the luxury and performance that comes from sky-high budgets, I am most delighted when I find an economical treasure that satisfies well beyond its price. Such a gem is the 2005 Honda Accord LX sedan with a 4-cylinder engine and a 5-speed transmission. It’s one of those little jewels that sneaks in under the radar and proves itself far more delightful than I ever expected.

The good news
The Accord sedan has garnered more accolades than Titanic has Oscars. Among the most recent is CarAndDriver’s coveted 10Best list for 2005 as “Best Family Sedan.”

To rehash its virtues of vibration-free ride, easy handling, quality construction, trouble-free maintenance, roominess, comfort, style, generous equipment (6 airbags, CD audio, power accessories, etc.) and overall top-of-the-satisfaction-meter all around would probably be repeating information you already know.

But what you may not know is, when equipped with this thrifty 2.4-liter, 160 horsepower, twin cam, 16-valve 4-cylinder engine and a five-speed manual shifter, this Accord is also quick, responsive and – dare I say it? – fun to drive.

For all its assets, this is not something I’ve been inclined to apply to other Accord sedans. Sensible, yes. Fun, no.

What makes this little 4-cylinder/5-speed LX so appealing -- besides the price point, fuel economy and all those other renowned Accord characteristics – is it packs perk. Let out the easy, but not wimpy, clutch and let her rev. She steps out into traffic, merges confidently, never for a minute makes you feel you’re missing anything by not having paid extra for the V6.

Pat yourself on the back for extra fuel economy, too. At 26 mpg city/34 highway, it passes not only slower traffic, but gas stations, too.

The bad news
Do not confuse this Accord with the 4-cylinder/automatic transmission model. That model may qualify in many of the same categories but under “fun factor,” there is no checkmark.

Also do not confuse it with true sports sedans or otherwise performance-tuned four-doors. This Accord is not a racer. Instead, it’s an economy sedan that doesn’t act like one.

Is it worth it?
A lot of people turn their noses up at manual transmissions these days. I understand. It’s hard to shift while talking on your cell phone, sipping a hot latte, penning appointments into your Palm Pilot and swatting at your kids in the back seat.

But if you are one of those people who appreciates the fine art of driving (preferably without such distractions), this Accord proves you can have a nice family sedan, fuel economy and a little fun at the same time.

Although the Honda Accord is a terrific car, predictability is its hallmark. That’s a great thing for the family sedan consumer, but does little to get attention from the automotive press.

In this case, however, Honda throws a little spice on the family recipe. The result is nice. Congratulations, Honda. You surprised me.

Particulars
Front-engine, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan
Price
Base: $19,675;
As tested: $20,190
Engine
Type: 2.4L DOHC 16V i-VTEC (inline) 4-cylinder
Power: 160 hp@ 5500 rpm;
161 lb-ft torque @ 4500 rpm
Drivetrain
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Front-wheel-drive
Dimensions
Wheelbase: 107.9 in.
Overall length: 189.5 in.
Curb weight: 3109 lbs.
Gas mileage
EPA rated at 26 mpg city/34 highway

Website: http://automobiles.honda.com

During her 16 years reviewing new vehicles, Beth Stein has written for Nashville's dailies (circ. 185,000), national magazines and BestStuff.com. She appeared coast-to-coast on-air for Road Test Magazine, Car And Driver Television and Motor Trend Television.