Test Drive: 2009 Honda Accord 4-cylinder EX-L Navi

2009 Honda Accord EX-L Navi four-cylinder. Click image to enlarge

The Accord’s folding rear seat falls forward only as a single unit, which means you can’t carry cargo on one side and a passenger on the other, as you could with a split-folding seat. Should your freight be long and narrow, such as a pair of skis, there’s a pass-through. But while many other automakers have gone to prop rods to hold up the deck lid, the Accord still uses gooseneck hinges, which protrude into the trunk and limit just how full you can pack it.

Even the LX comes with a full range of safety features, including anti-lock brakes with four discs, electronic brake distribution and brake assist, side and curtain airbags, active front head restraints, stability control and a tire pressure monitoring system; also included are air conditioning, power windows, keyless entry, cruise control, and an auxiliary jack on the stereo.

The EX adds a six-CD stereo, sunroof and power driver’s seat, while the EX-L upgrades the stereo wattage, and adds dual-zone automatic a/c, auto-dimming rearview mirror, Bluetooth, the leather seats and satellite radio, with the navigation system as an add-on to that.

All of that adds up to a nice package on a smaller engine, allowing buyers to load up on treats without having to opt for an extra two cylinders. Sure, a steering wheel and a seat will get you where you want to go, but being able to throw in the extras can make the drive all that much better.