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Honda Accord: VII and VIII generations, engines and trims
The Honda Accord is a mid-size sedan and estate car, valued in Lithuania for its reliability and great handling. The last models sold in Europe were the VII and VIII generations, so we're focusing on them: how they differ, which engines are most popular, how the trims vary, and what to check before buying.
Accord in brief
For a long time in Europe, Honda sold a separate Accord version tailored to this market—more compact and sportier than the one sold in the US under the same name. It was produced in sedan and estate (Tourer) body styles. The Accord left the European market in 2015, so all cars sold in Lithuania are used.
The Accord is praised for its reliable i-VTEC petrol engines, precise handling, and well-equipped interior. In the used market, it often undercuts similarly aged German rivals, but the supply of well-maintained cars with a clean history is dwindling.
VII and VIII generation — how they differ
The VII generation (2002–2008) is a compact, well-built sedan or estate with clear, straightforward controls. It's the most affordable way to get an Accord, but most cars now have high mileage, so the key factors are the technical condition and bodywork, not the trim level.
The eighth generation (2008–2015) is larger, quieter, and better equipped. It's the most popular in the used market: more safety and comfort features, and pricier versions often come with adaptive cruise control and collision warning systems. The 2011 facelift brought a slightly refreshed exterior and an improved interior.
Both generations of the Tourer estate have a practical, if not the largest in class, boot. If space is key, compare it with rivals, but if driving pleasure is your priority, the Accord often tops the list of enjoyable choices.
Engines and gearboxes
Petrol engines include the 2.0 i-VTEC (around 155 hp) and 2.4 i-VTEC (around 190–200 hp). They're considered among the most reliable in this class, but they consume more fuel in the city than diesels.
Diesels are the 2.2 i-CTDi (seventh generation, around 140 hp) and 2.2 i-DTEC (eighth generation, around 150 hp, with sportier versions around 180 hp). They're economical and torquey, making them the go-to choice for high-mileage drivers.
The most common gearbox is a 6-speed manual. The automatic (5-speed) is more often paired with petrol engines. All European Accords come with front-wheel drive.
What to check when buying a used Accord
Check diesel cars for two-mass flywheel issues (vibration and judder when moving or turning off the engine) and the clutch. Seventh-gen 2.2 i-CTDi engines were prone to faulty exhaust manifolds, while high-mileage eighth-gen 2.2 i-DTEC cars driven mostly in the city can have issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF).
For petrol engines, ask about oil change intervals and check if the engine isn't consuming too much oil. For all cars, inspect the body for rust (especially in the sills and wheel arches) and painted parts.
Check the service history. In older cars, test the air conditioning, suspension components, and if present, the operation of safety systems (radar).
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the most common trims found in Europe.
Elegance
Eighth generationThe base eighth-gen trim comes with a decent level of standard equipment.
- Light-alloy wheels
- Automatic climate control
- Often includes cruise control
Lifestyle
Eighth generationA popular mid-range option with more comfort features.
- Larger alloy wheels
- Often includes parking sensors and heated seats
- More luxurious interior trim
Executive
Seventh and eighth generationThe top-of-the-range trim, common in the used market.
- Single-tone interior, electrically adjustable seats
- Often comes with xenon headlights and navigation
- Often features adaptive cruise control (8th generation)
Type S
Seventh and eighth generationA sportier look and feel version.
- Sport bumpers and larger alloy wheels
- Sport seats
- Often comes with more powerful engines
Comparison of 8th generation trims
| Elegance | Lifestyle | Executive | Type S | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For daily driving | Comfort at a sensible price | For those who want plenty of kit | Sporty looks |
| Alloy wheels (often) | 16–17 model year | 17 model year | 17–18 model year | 18 model year |
| Interior | Fabric | Fabric or partial leather | Leather, electrically adjustable seats | Sport seats |
| Front headlights | Halogen | Often halogen | Often xenon | Often xenon |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Budget | Mid-range | €€€ | €€€ |
For most buyers, the best choice is an eighth-generation Lifestyle or Executive with a 2.0 i-VTEC or 2.2 i-DTEC engine. The Type S is worth considering for its looks and feel, rather than practicality.
Pros
- Reliable i-VTEC petrol engines
- Precise, comfortable driving
- Well-equipped, high-quality interior
- Often cheaper than German rivals
Cons
- Production for Europe ended in 2015 — only used cars available
- Diesels need to have the timing belt and DPF thoroughly checked
- Petrol engines consume a fair amount of fuel in the city
Frequently asked questions
Which Accord generation is best to buy used?
For many buyers, the best choice is the eighth generation, especially after the 2011 refresh: it's roomier, quieter, and better equipped. The seventh generation suits a smaller budget, but then the technical condition and history are particularly important.
Should you choose a petrol or diesel Accord?
If you mostly drive in the city and for short distances, it makes more sense to choose the petrol 2.0 i-VTEC — it's simpler and usually cheaper to maintain. The diesel 2.2 is better for those who drive a lot outside the city.
What's the difference between the Accord and Accord Tourer?
The Accord Tourer is an estate with a larger boot and more practical rear. The engines and trims are essentially the same as the saloon.
Is the Accord a reliable car?
The Accord is considered one of the most reliable cars in its class, especially with petrol engines. However, most of these cars are over a decade old, so reliability depends more on previous maintenance than the model itself.
Updated 2026-10-09 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
