The Honda Accord Inspire (CB5) AX-i 2.0, produced between October 1989 and December 1991, represented a significant step in Honda’s luxury sedan offerings, primarily targeted at the Japanese domestic market (JDM). Positioned above the standard Accord, the Inspire aimed to provide a more refined and spacious experience. The CB5 generation, built on the Accord platform (though with distinct styling and features), offered a blend of comfort, technology, and performance. The AX-i 2.0 variant, equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-five engine and a four-speed automatic transmission, occupied a mid-range position within the Inspire lineup, offering a balance between power and fuel efficiency. It was a popular choice for buyers seeking a comfortable and reliable executive car.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Honda |
| Model | Inspire |
| Generation | Accord Inspire (CB5) |
| Type | AX-i 2.0 (160 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | October, 1989 |
| End of production | December, 1991 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.3 kg/Hp, 120.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm, 139.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 6700 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 186 Nm @ 4000 rpm (137.19 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | G20A |
| Engine displacement | 1996 cm3 (121.8 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.6 mm (2.98 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1330 kg (2932.15 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4690 mm (184.65 in.) |
| Width | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Height | 1355 mm (53.35 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2805 mm (110.43 in.) |
| Front track | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Rear track | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 155 mm (6.1 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Inspire AX-i 2.0 was the G20A engine, a 1996cc inline-five cylinder powerplant. This engine was notable for its relatively smooth operation and decent power output for its displacement. The G20A featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain operating four valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system, contributing to improved efficiency and responsiveness compared to earlier carbureted designs. The engine’s longitudinal mounting allowed for a front-engine, front-wheel-drive configuration. Paired with the G20A was a four-speed automatic transmission, designed for smooth and comfortable shifts. This transmission wasn’t known for its sportiness, prioritizing ease of use over aggressive downshifts. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy and relaxed cruising, rather than outright acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 160 horsepower and 186 Nm (137 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the G20A engine provided adequate performance for everyday driving. While not a sports car, the Inspire AX-i 2.0 offered respectable acceleration and cruising ability. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the Inspire, the automatic variant sacrificed some responsiveness. The automatic transmission’s shift points were programmed for comfort, sometimes resulting in the engine feeling slightly strained during overtaking maneuvers. The inline-five engine provided a unique exhaust note, distinct from the more common inline-four configurations. The front-wheel-drive layout offered predictable handling, but lacked the dynamic capabilities of rear-wheel-drive alternatives.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The AX-i 2.0 trim level offered a good level of standard equipment. Interior features typically included comfortable cloth upholstery, power windows, power locks, and an AM/FM stereo. Air conditioning was standard. The dashboard layout was functional and well-organized, with easy-to-read gauges. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and alloy wheels. The Inspire generally featured a more luxurious interior than the contemporary Accord, with higher-quality materials and more attention to detail.
Chassis & Braking
The Inspire CB5 utilized a double wishbone suspension system at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. The suspension was tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface effectively. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was included as standard equipment, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The steering system employed a rack and pinion setup with hydraulic power assistance, providing light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Honda Inspire CB5, and specifically the AX-i 2.0 variant, was well-received in the Japanese market as a comfortable and reliable executive sedan. Critics praised its spacious interior, smooth ride, and refined engine. Compared to other trims in the Inspire lineup, such as those equipped with the larger 2.2-liter engine, the AX-i 2.0 offered a more affordable entry point. Fuel economy was generally considered good for a vehicle of its size and class, averaging around 10.7 l/100km. The automatic transmission, while convenient, was sometimes criticized for its lack of sportiness compared to the available manual gearbox.
Legacy
The Honda Inspire CB5, including the AX-i 2.0, has developed a following among enthusiasts of Japanese classic cars. The G20A engine is known for its durability and relatively simple maintenance requirements. While not as highly sought after as some of Honda’s more iconic performance models, the Inspire CB5 remains a reliable and comfortable classic. Finding well-maintained examples today can be challenging, but the car’s reputation for longevity ensures that it continues to be appreciated by those seeking a refined and spacious Japanese sedan from the late 1980s and early 1990s. Parts availability can be a concern, but many components are still available through Honda dealerships or aftermarket suppliers.
