Honda launches 2008 Accord sedan and coupe

Following the sightings of numerous Accord sedans and coupes testing around North America, Honda has finally released official details and images of the new 2008 model. Now in its eighth generation, the Accord is now larger and more powerful than any model before it and is categorized as a large car by the US EPA.

Powering the range is either a 3.5L V6 with 273hp (204kW) and 339Nm (250lb-ft) of torque or a 2.4L four-cylinder with 200hp (149kW) and 230Nm (170lb-ft) of torque in the coupe and 180hp (134kW) and 225Nm (166lb-ft) of torque in the sedan. The four-cylinder is available with either a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic, while the V6 comes with a five-speed auto or a six-speed manual for the coupe.

The new 3.5L V6 engine uses Honda's latest i-VTEC valvetrain system that incorporates Variable Cylinder Management (VCM), which allows the engine to run in 6, 4 and 3 cylinder modes to improve fuel economy.

Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and Electronic Brake-force Distribution are now standard across the range and four-cylinder models now get 17in alloys as well (18in wheels are available for V6 models). Inside, the cars get auto-dimming mirrors, MP3 CD player, and an auxiliary-input jack.

Gallery after the jump.