SECOND HAND SENSE:SUCH IS the refinement of the Honda Accord diesel that it has tended to overshadow the petrol version of Honda's competitors in the medium-car class.
The outgoing 2.0-litre 155hp petrol version first produced in 2003 has been the most popular available, and was a very modern car for its time: edgy styling and a very well-finished interior combine to give it lots of appeal.
While it may not be as roomy as some competitors, it is a comfortable car to drive and be driven in. The sporty interior finish belies the basic car's less- than-sporty pedigree, although there is a sports version.
The standard car has a rather light feel to the steering and its ride and handling are more basic than we would have hoped. That said, it's a premium package for most driving needs. The interior is among the most impressive in its class.
You will find all Honda's strengths - engineering, reliability and finish - with the Accord, and consistently low costs in the UK's reliability index show that faults are few and far between.
The petrol version is refined, with low road noise - especially agreeable on long journeys. It is a compact car to drive and park.
However, at 459 litres the boot area is smaller than in the VW Passat, for instance, and the loading sill higher than necessary. The Honda Accord is well built and feels secure. It scored four out of five in the Euro NCAP crash-test programme, being faulted for potential knee injuries. Passive and active safety features are good for a car produced as early as 2003, with six airbags, ABS and brakeforce distribution as standard.
There has been a recall because of a sealing fault on the left-hand headlight, with sporadic complaints over minor electrical faults and ABS systems.
A 2005 petrol 2.0-litre model with leather upholstery, metallic paint, a generous package of equipment and 49,000km on the clock is on offer for €25,995. A 2006 equivalent, with 56,000km, is €27,500. However, there is a glut of second-hand cars, and most asking prices are way off the mark.
Bargain hard and you could do very well on a car that is likely to last a long time and still look smart.
STAR RATING:7/10