Driven: 2010 Honda Accord Coupe V-6

Six cylinders, six speeds
In the Accord Coupe, Honda reserves its V-6 engine for the top-spec EX-L. The engine is a 3.5-liter unit, that sends 271 hp and 251 lb-ft of torque to the front wheels. The V-6 doesn't provide neck-snapping acceleration, but it has plenty of get-up-and-go. The V-6 is an upgrade over the base 2.4-liter four-cylinder, which makes 177 hp and 161 lb-ft of torque. Our test car was equipped with a six-speed manual transmission (a no-cost upgrade over the five-speed automatic). As is typical for Hondas, the gearbox feels solid and has fairly short throws, and the clutch is very easy to adapt to. One thing we wouldn't mind seeing, however, is a more upscale knob and a leather boot to better match the otherwise snazzy interior. Impressive on the road
There's no avoiding the mess of potholes here in Michigan, but the Accord Coupe does a good job at making our battered pavement seem better than it is. With a double-wishbone suspension setup in the front and independent rear, the Accord is well behaved on the roughest of roads. A front strut-tower bar and beefy antiroll bars help this car handle twisty back roads with ease. Road noise is at a minimum, and the engine sound is almost totally muffled. One slick coupe
With ample power, a quiet ride, and a luxurious interior, the Accord EX-L V-6 Coupe would make a pretty convincing Acura. Lots of standard goodies, comfortable seats, and an excellent navigation system all serve it well on the daily commute. The slick-shifting gearbox and excellent handling make the Accord Coupe a great weekend driver too. The low and sleek Accord stands tall among midsize coupes. 2010 Honda Accord Coupe EX-L with Navigation
Base Price: $23,305
As-Tested: $32,055 Powertrain
Engine: 3.5-liter SOHC 24-Valve V-6
Horsepower: 271 hp @ 6200 rpm
Torque: 251 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Drive: Front-wheel Measurements
L x W x H: 190.9 in x 72.8 in x 56.4 in
Legroom F/R: 42.2 in x 33.1
Headroom F/R: 37.4 in x 35.1 in
Cargo capacity: 11.9 cu ft
Curb Weight: 3401 lb
EPA Rating (city/highway): 17/25 mpg