Story & photos by Randy S. Peregrino
VEHICLE generational changes create opportunities for manufacturers to further develop their respective models. The ninth-generation Honda Accord 3.5 SV is one of those incarnations of a successful evolution that has taken place over the years. It is more sophisticated, elegant, yet engaging to drive, proving that midsize sedans are not boring.
If you look at the Accord 3.5 SV, it exudes refinement in every detail with character lines and contours denoting aerodynamics. But that’s not all, since the full exterior enhancements from modulo accessories even supplemented the well-balanced aura of sportiness and flair. Up front, the LED dual projector headlamps with daylight driving lights (DRL) complimented well with the chromed grille, along with other chrome accents around the side profile all the way to the rear.
Step inside the cockpit and you’ll find yourself surrounded with luxuriousness from the blend of premium materials, ergonomic layout plus all the bells and whistles.
With vivid and well-illuminated instrumentation that sits perfectly visible behind the steering wheel with embedded controls and paddle shifters. Giving visual feedback is the 8-inch i-MID display that is somehow a little unintuitive to figure out albeit for just a short while. Nevertheless, once accustomed to them in conjunction with the touchscreen audio display, it becomes informative and useful.
What’s lacking is the cruise control, which this writer believes was traded off for more necessary features, such as active cornering lights that instinctively illuminate obscure spots as you turn the steering wheel; wide-angle view mode of the reverse camera, which is crucial for exiting parallel parking or dealing with blind spots when backing up; concealed power and auxiliary outlets; doors that automatically unlock as soon as they senses that your hand is near the door handle; rear window sunshade; and motorized rear shade, to name a few.
Unless the expressways—depending on what time of the day—are part of your daily route, cruise control won’t even cross your mind. Not only that. The Accord 3.5 SV is driver-oriented with its spacious rear cabin, which offers indulgence to passengers. Aside from the expansive passenger compartment, there are rear aircon vents, arm rest with controls and access to the rear compartment, which explains why the rear seat is not the split-type.
Taking the Accord 3.5 SV out on the road is where the fun begins. The V6 engine bearing the “Earth Dreams Technology” can be restrained via the Econ switch, which enabled this writer to feel the variable cylinder management, which promotes fuel efficiency. On the other hand, when the Econ switch is off while cruising, the once tamed engine suddenly becomes responsive—firing up all six cylinders. Furthermore, put the shifter in sports mode and you’re up for spirited driving, giving you control over gear selection of the six-speed automatic transmission. Providing the impression that you’re driving a sports car is the sporty leather-wrapped seats with 10-way power control and steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
The engine was so forceful that it made constant passing seamless and ascents somewhat negligible. Reaching high-speed limits became the norm; even with constant decrements, getting back up was effortless for the 277 ponies—something not to be taken lightly. Noise, vibration and harshness were imperceptible. The engine produced a distinct tune from 3,000 rpm and up.
Clearly, the combination of front strut bar-reinforced MacPherson struts and rear multi-link suspension produced stable and more responsive handling. However, the 225/50 R17 tires and relatively low ground clearance, exhibited minimal rebound on uneven pavements but ran comfortably and smooth on level roads. Pairing electronic power steering with the vehicle stability assist made turns and entering corners a walk in the park. The brakes bit well and force was dispensed among the four rotors by the electronic brake force distribution.
Standard safety features are six air bags (dual front, sides and curtains), seat belt reminder and proximity sensors among others.
The latest generation of Accord 3.5 SV is built for drivers looking for the comfort and elegance of an executive sedan, at the same time, the satisfaction from spirited driving and performance of a sports car. Well suited in the urban jungle and for navigating smooth highways requiring uncompromised engine delivery. Opt to be the passenger? Well, the splendid cabin with indispensable amenities will definitely pamper every occupant.
Image credits: Randy S. Peregrino