The current iteration Honda Accord was launched about a year ago, and when we tested it in 2.4-litre guise in CarBuyer issue 213, we were hugely impressed with its dynamic drive and innovative tech. It seems though that not many buyers agree with us, judging from the number of units we’ve seen thus far on our roads.

READ MORE: Honda Accord 2.4 review

Perhaps that could be down to the fact that the Accord then was only available with a 2.4-litre engine, which, while excellent, probably turned more than a few punters away thanks to the extra outlay in terms of road tax and other relevant costs.

Honda has thus, a bit belatedly, moved to rectify this problem, by introducing the 2.0-litre engined version of the Accord. It only makes sense, because 2.0-litre is the ‘default’ engine size for this segment of car, and offering consumers more choice, as most of its key rivals do, can only help the Accord’s cause further.

While the 2.4-litre unit was remarkably refined and offers plenty of smooth pulling power for swift motorway sprints, this 2.0-litre engine feels a touch more lively and energetic. There’s a somewhat excitable nature to it, always feeling like its ready to go, and its responsiveness makes the Accord feel like a hot hatch to drive, rather than a large cumbersome sedan, especially in urban driving situations.

No wonder, for the smaller engine loses only 20bhp from the bigger one (155bhp to 175bhp), and thus there isn’t really a significant difference when it comes to performance. There’s not quite as much puff at the top end as the bigger engine, but in most driving situations here in Singapore, one is quite unlikely to notice anyway. And somehow, the five-speed automatic gearbox seems better suited to this powerplant too, with a ‘just right’ feel to the overall combination.

Like the 2.4, the smaller-engined Accord retains the remarkable balance and poise that has made it such a favourite among those in the know. The car handles with a steady assurance, while at the same time offering to indulge you in a bit of enthusiastic driving should you want to push on. It’s scarcely believable that a car this big can feel so nimble to drive, but you simply have to experience it for yourself, because it feels nothing short of magical sorcery.

Similarly, downsizing doesn’t mean that you lose out on the good stuff too, for the base Accord is still fairly well-equipped for the money. The one we liked the most is the blind spot system, which incorporates a camera in the left wing mirror, and shows you what’s in your blind spot on the 8-inch multimedia screen whenever you flick on your left indicator, a really handy feature for overtaking manoeuvres.

Other goodies you get on the Accord 2.0 include front and rear parking sensors, electric seats for front driver and passenger, keyless entry, hill start assist, LED daytime running lights, and audio controls on the steering wheel. The only notable absentees from the 2.4 are luxury items, such as memory function for the driver’s seat, rear window blinds, paddle shifters, and automatic dimming rear view mirror.

Otherwise, the Accord 2.0 proves to be excellent value for your money, with its sweet mix of driving ability, energetic engine and plentiful equipment. We certainly hope that the availability of a more palatable powerplant will help the Accord attract a greater audience, because even in downsized form, the Accord remains one of the best mid-sized sedans you can buy right now.

NEED TO KNOW
Engine 1,997cc, 16V, in-line 4
Power 155bhp at 6500rpm
Torque 190Nm at 4300rpm
Gearbox 5-speed automatic
Top Speed 209km/h
0-100kmh 11.9 seconds
Fuel efficiency 8.1L/100km
CO2 192g/km

Price $157,999 with COE
Availability Now

Also Consider: Mazda 6 2.0, Nissan Teana 2.0, Toyota Camry 2.0

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