Honda’s Accord a tried and true favorite

This car has consistently won praise from consumers and auto journalists for its roomy, well-appointed interior, solid styling, and consistent performance. Some recent drives in the 2010 Honda Accord EX-L underscore that the three decades of kudos have been well earned.

Honda knows what they have with the Accord sedan, which is why they are now offering it with three different engines and three different transmissions. It’s almost as if the automaker is saying — you know we offer reliability, safety and performance — tell us how you want to use it.

Now that auto journalists and enthusiasts are gushing about all of the new models coming on the market this year — not to mention the concept cars displayed at the upcoming auto shows in D.C. and around the country — consumers owe it to themselves to take a step back. Sure, the newer models might be just what is needed — but don’t discount the tried-and-true either.

Just like its older siblings, the 2010 Accord Sedan EX-L I drove is pleasing to the eye but no gee-whiz knockout.

The model has strong lines that incorporate some benefits that target consumers — the middle-age crowd or even busy moms — will likely love. Larger doors open wide so you don’t feel like a contortionist squeezing in or out and 17-inch wheels, a brilliantly finished exhaust and chrome door handles add just enough modern flair to give the car a contemporary look without taking it over the top.

Inside the car is just what the aching back and overworked memory bank of a boomer or busy mom ordered.

The driver’s seat has 10-way power adjustment including power lumbar support that fits almost like that glove everyone mentions.

But this is not grandpa’s Accord. The 2010 feature a host of high-tech audio, navigation and other gadgetry is fairly intuitive to use and within easy reach of the driver.

Buyers will likely love the Bluetooth capabilities and voice recognition that wins points for such extras as allowing the drivers to ask for restaurant recommendations. What a time saver.

The cabin is fairly posh — some have compared it with a Lexus — with leather-trimmed, thickly padded, roomy seats for both front and back passengers, knob-based system for navigation and bold dashboard displays. Rear seating areas are also comfy and have extras — including a fold-down center armrest and rear HVAC vent — that help lessen the chance that adults will be uncomfortable during lengthy jaunts.

Of course all of this wouldn’t mean much if the Honda Accord wasn’t safe, powerful or fuel-efficient. Honda is justifiably proud that the V-6 automatic models, such as the one I drove, have earned ratings of 19 mpg city/29 mpg highway, according to the automaker’s specifications.

Although the safety ratings for 2010 models aren’t out yet, the 2009 received “Top Pick” ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

The Honda Accord is a classic car that just keeps getting better.