Honda Accord V6 Car of the Year

The Honda Accord V6 wins DRIVE’S 2008 CAR OF THE YEAR Award against a field of 41 competitors across 13 categories.

After six days and 20,000 kilometres of rigorous testing, the judging panel comprising nine of Australia’s leading motoring experts overwhelmingly voted the Accord V6 the best new car in Australia for 2008.

The Honda Accord V6 also outclassed the new Ford Falcon, Commodore Sport Wagon and Toyota Aurion to capture DRIVE’S 2008 LARGE CAR OF THE YEAR Award.

There were many elements of the Accord V6 that impressed the experts, including the advanced engine design incorporating Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) that seamlessly allows the 3.5-litre engine to run on either three, four or six cylinders to save fuel and limit CO2 emissions.

The comprehensive safety package, five-speed auto transmission (with paddle shifts), the quality of the well-appointed, spacious interior and overall value also drew top marks.

Several of the experts remarked the Accord V6 was the only vehicle in the class that didn’t feel like a fleet car. The presentation of the interior and the materials used were considered much classier and better finished.

The Accord also received praise for the way it drove, thanks in no small part to the 17-inch Michelin tyres.

Drive Car of the Year judge and National Drive Editor Toby Hagon said, “The Accord was a clear winner in the large car category, where it beat the three locally manufactured cars at their own game. It best met the Drive Car of the Year criteria and is a worthy winner.”

Honda Australia Manging Director & CEO Mr Yasuhide was delighted with the result and paid tribute to the judging panel.

“When we launched the Accord in February, we knew we could compete with the long-established local rivals in the class. I am delighted that this award recognises the Accord’s strengths of driving enjoyment, quality, safety and engineering excellence,” he said.

The Accord V6 recommended retail price is $38,490.