European Accord Sixth Generation Honda Accord

The European Honda Accord, also made in Swindon, became very different from its cousins in terms of styling, and was also shorter than the JDM and American-market Accords. It was available as a sedan and a 5-door hatchback (liftback), with the US-imported Coupe completing the range.

The standard trim (and quality of interior) of the Honda Accord was above the standard of similar cars (Ford Mondeo,Peugeot 406, Vauxhall Vectra etc.) in its class. The basic S came with ABS, alarm, immobiliser, and air-con as standard, with SE giving the option of metallic paint, cruise control, climate control and later, sat-nav. The 1998 - 1999 ES came with everything (except sat-nav still optional) and with a full walnut and leather interior with heated front seats. This was replaced by the SE Executive in late 1999.

The EU version had a minor facelift in 2001 including changed grill, alloys, bumper and both rear and front lights. In 2001 the trim range was expanded with a Type-V; coming fully loaded with leather trim, sat-nav and (normally) tiptronic auto gear-box as standard and the 'Sport' which was as the SE with adjusted styling, spoiler, colour coded side skirt (as opposed to black plastic).

Performance Models

The Accord Type-R (CH1) model was sold in European markets. The 2,156 cc (2.156 L; 131.6 cu in) I4 H22A7 VTEC engine was rated 220 PS (160 kW; 220 hp)@7200rpm and 221 N·m (163 lb·ft) @ 6700rpm. Recaro seats, LSD (Limited Slip Differential) and stiffer suspension came standard. Other engines in this model included a 1.8L F18B VTEC engine rated at 136 hp and a 2L F20B6 VTEC engine rated at 145 hp.

The Type-V model (2001-) included the F23Z5 VTEC engine.

The Type-R, Type-V, and Sport can be recognized by a badge on the front grill and boot lid. The top of the range SE Executive only became identified as such in 2000 with a badge 'SE EXECUTIVE' on the boot lid. Walnut trim interior was also dropped for the SE Executive during the facelift, and a more intuitive Climate Control system added.