7th Generation Honda Accord

A larger car than its predecessor, the North American Accord was given a new level of refinement with chrome interior accents and higher grade materials.The lineup still included the DX, LX, EX, LX-V6 and EX-V6 like the previous generation.Mechanically, the 4-cylinder engine was the new K-series, and the 6-cylinder was the same J-series V6 as the sixth generation's, but revisions to the intake and exhaust contributed to a 40 hp (240 hp) increase. One of these revisions was that the exhaust manifolds became part of the cylinder head casting. A 5-speed automatic transmission was also new for 2003. For the first time, Honda offered an "enthusiast" version of the Accord in the US, adding a sports suspension and mating the 6-speed manual transmission from the Acura CL to the V6 Accord Coupe. A specific 4-cylinder model was the first production car in the world to meet California's Super Ultra Low Emission standards.

The 2003 model year also debuted Honda's GPS assisted Navigation system as an option for the Accord. Prior to 2003, it was only available on the higher end Acura line as well as the Honda Odyssey. The first 2003 Honda Accord rolled off the Marysville, Ohio assembly line on September 26, 2002. In 2004 Honda also first offered XM Satellite Radio as a factory installed option.

For 2005, the Accord received several updates, including standard side curtain and front seat side impact airbags for a total of six airbags, revised taillights (all red), more chrome on the grille, and new wheel designs. The Accord became Canada's top-selling mid-size car.

Coupe

The Honda Accord Coupe was previewed as a performance concept, unveiled at the 2002 SEMA show.Powertrain/chassis modifications included a high-flow intake and exhaust, 300 bhp (220 kW) 3.2L V-6 engine, limited slip differential, semi-manual 6-speed transmission, prototype 8-piston Brembo brakes, and a lowered racing suspension and widened track. Exterior modifications included a carbon fiber body kit (includes bumpers, side sills, grill and underbody diffuser), dual aluminum integrated exhaust ports, aluminum/carbon fiber rear wing, black chrome finish headlights and taillights, 20-inch black chrome wheels, Bridgestone Potenza S03 235/45 ZR20 tires, and fender flares and NSX Spa Yellow paint. Interior Modifications included an F1-style paddle shifter on the steering wheel, prototype multifunction meter display with on-board diagnostics, Sparco carbon/Kevlar backed bucket seats covered in Alcantera suede, 4-point front seat harnesses, three-spoke racing steering wheel, and aluminum sport pedals.

The Factory Performance Package was a dealer option based on the SEMA concept car, available for 2003 Accord V-6 Coupe LX and EX with either manual or automatic transmissions. Chassis/Exterior changes included Factory Performance suspension (shock absorbers, springs) underbody aero kit, 17-inch alloy wheels, 215/50VR-17 high performance tires, rear wing spoiler. Interior Accessories include Factory Performance shift knob, FP trim.

Honda Accord Forums:

www.V6performance.net
www.DriveAccord.net
www.EliteCM.net