Honda answers arch-rival Toyota and its 2002 Camry redesign with a redesigned 2003 Accord. Dimensions and weight change little, but there's fresh styling, more power, and some first-time features. Returning are 4-cyl and V6 sedans and coupes in LX and upscale EX trim, plus a price-leader 4-cyl DX sedan. The 4 cyl gains as much as 25 hp, while a revised V6 gains 40 hp. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard for 4-cyl models. Optional with the 4 cyl and included with the V6 is a 5-speed automatic, replacing a 4 speed. Also new for '03 is a sportier EX V6 coupe with 6-speed manual--Accord's first--plus 17-inch wheels vs. 16s or 15s on other Accords.

Also for '03, ABS becomes standard for all Accords, not just high-line models. V6s and 4-cyl EXs continue with 4-wheel disc brakes. Traction control is exclusive to V6 models, where it's standard. Front side airbags are standard on V6 models and the 4-cyl EX, and are available on LX models. Head-protecting curtain side airbags are exclusive to EX V6s, where they're standard.

EXs offer an optional navigation system with voice control for navigation, audio, and climate functions. All models get a tilt/telescope steering column, and all but the base DX include remote keyless entry. Joining leather upholstery as standard on EX V6s are dual-zone automatic climate control and heated seats; these are also available in the leather-upholstered 4-cyl versions, priced as EX-L models. V6s and 4-cyl EXs include an in-dash CD changer.