The Accord — simplified

Combining the nimbleness experienced only behind the wheel of a go-kart and the beefiness of a heavy-weight would make for either the best ninja of all time or the 2012 Honda Accord Coupe.

Long a favourite of auto journalists and consumers alike, the 2012 Accord Coupe has simplified its offering from past years where it used to offer several trim levels in different combinations of engine types to just three options.

The entry-level Accord, priced at $26,790 (add $1,200 for automatic) includes a 190-hp, 2.4-litre four-cylinder comes in two trim levels: the EX and the EX-L Navi. The EX is favourably equipped with a  270-watt, 7-speaker audio system and all the usual trimmings including remote locks, Bluetooth and chrome exhaust finishes. The EX-L Navi adds heated front seats, power adjustable driver’s seat and leather on the seats, wheel and manual shifter knob.

The four-cylinder drives and handles superbly and it achieves fuel economy of 9.2 L/100 kms in the city and 6.2 L/100 kms on the highway. There was a time a four-cylinder car would be lucky to have 140-hp and break the 10 L/100 kms mark but the fact that the Accord Coupe can produce almost 200 ponies for such reasonable fuel economy begs the question why anyone would consider the V-6.

Not that the V-6 is horrible at the pumps. City fuel economy is rated at 10.6 L/100 kms with the city rating hovering around the mid 9s. Unlike past years there is only one trim level with a V-6 engine for the Accord Coupe: the EX-L V6 with Navi. Priced at $35,890 in addition to an increase of 101-horsepower over the four-cylinder you’re also getting a voice recognition navigation system, 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, dual exhausts, fog lights and a spoiler.

Priced at $35,890, about $4,500 over the four-cylinder, the value play is still with the entry-level EX model. For about a $10,000 savings you’re not sacrificing an incredible amount of power and you still have a vehicle that looks slick when put up against others in its category and will save you some dollars at the pump every month.