The Honda Accord VI, specifically the 2.3-liter 16-valve variant producing 154 horsepower, represented a significant step forward for Honda in the mid-size sedan segment. Produced from 2001 to 2002, this generation (chassis codes CE and CF) built upon the success of its predecessors, offering a blend of reliability, comfort, and a more refined driving experience. Within the Accord VI lineup, the 2.3L 16V automatic served as a mid-range offering, positioned above the base 2.0-liter models and below the more performance-oriented V6 options. It aimed to provide a balance between affordability and a more engaging driving experience than the entry-level trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Honda |
| Model | Accord |
| Generation | Accord VI (CE,CF) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.3 16V (154 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2001 |
| End of production | 2002 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.9 l/100 km (19.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 207 km/h (128.62 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 154 Hp @ 5700 rpm |
| Torque | 206 Nm @ 4700 rpm (151.94 lb.-ft. @ 4700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | F23 |
| Engine displacement | 2254 cm3 (137.55 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 97 mm (3.82 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1380 kg (3042.38 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1890 kg (4166.74 lbs.) |
| Max load | 510 kg (1124.36 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 430 l (15.19 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4595 mm (180.91 in.) |
| Width | 1750 mm (68.9 in.) |
| Height | 1430 mm (56.3 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2670 mm (105.12 in.) |
| Front track | 1495 mm (58.86 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1504 mm (59.21 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Several levers and rods |
| 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 | 195/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Accord VI 2.3 was the F23A engine, a 2.3-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine utilized a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with 16 valves (four per cylinder). The F23A featured multi-point fuel injection, delivering fuel directly to each cylinder for improved efficiency and responsiveness. The engine’s design prioritized smooth operation and reliability over outright performance. Paired with this engine was a four-speed automatic transmission, offering convenient shifting for everyday driving. This transmission was designed for smooth transitions and fuel efficiency, but lacked the sporty responsiveness of a manual gearbox or more modern automatic transmissions.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.3-liter Accord with the four-speed automatic delivered a comfortable and predictable driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 9.6 seconds, which was adequate for the time but not particularly sporty. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did exhibit some noticeable gear hunting, especially during highway cruising or when encountering inclines. Compared to the five-speed manual transmission available on other Accord trims, the automatic felt less engaging and slightly less efficient. The power delivery was linear, with peak torque arriving at 4700 rpm. This meant that the engine felt reasonably responsive in everyday driving situations, but lacked the punch of the V6 models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.3-liter automatic Accord typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player, and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels, often denoted by the “LX” or “EX” designation, added features like a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, alloy wheels, and cruise control. Optional extras included leather upholstery, a navigation system (a relatively new feature at the time), and side airbags. The interior design was functional and well-built, prioritizing ergonomics and ease of use. The dashboard layout was straightforward, with clearly labeled controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Accord VI utilized a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout. The suspension consisted of a double wishbone setup at the front and a multi-link arrangement at the rear, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The steering was rack-and-pinion with hydraulic power assistance, offering a light and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Accord VI 2.3L automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its reliability, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission detracted from the driving experience and that the engine lacked the power of the V6 options. Fuel economy was considered respectable for its class, averaging around 27 mpg in combined driving. Compared to competitors like the Toyota Camry and Nissan Altima, the Accord offered a similar level of refinement and reliability, but often at a slightly higher price point.
Legacy
The Honda Accord VI 2.3L 16V automatic has proven to be a remarkably durable and reliable vehicle. Many examples are still on the road today, a testament to Honda’s engineering prowess. The F23A engine is known for its longevity and relatively low maintenance costs. While not a particularly sought-after model by enthusiasts, the 2.3L automatic Accord remains a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a dependable and practical mid-size sedan. Its reputation for reliability and affordability continues to make it a viable option in the used car market.
