Technical Specifications
| Brand | Honda |
| Model | Accord |
| Generation | Accord VII |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 i-VTEC 16V (190 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2002 |
| End of production | 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.7 l/100 km (17.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 227 km/h (141.05 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 190 Hp @ 6800 rpm |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 4500 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | K24 |
| Engine displacement | 2354 cm3 (143.65 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87 mm (3.43 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 99 mm (3.9 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.1 l (5.39 US qt | 4.49 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1390 kg (3064.43 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1920 kg (4232.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 530 kg (1168.45 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 459 l (16.21 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4665 mm (183.66 in.) |
| Width | 1760 mm (69.29 in.) |
| Height | 1445 mm (56.89 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2670 mm (105.12 in.) |
| Front track | 1515 mm (59.65 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual 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 | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The 2.4 i-VTEC variant of the Honda Accord VII, launched in 2002, was a key model in solidifying the Accord’s reputation for reliability and practicality. It represented a move towards more sophisticated engine technology within the Accord range. The seventh generation (2002-2007) Accord, internally designated as the CL7/CN2 for the European market, was a significant redesign, offering increased interior space and a more refined driving experience compared to its predecessor. This 2.4L engine option was positioned as a sweet spot in the lineup, offering more performance than the base 2.0L engine, but without the higher price tag and sometimes more complex maintenance requirements of the V6 models.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Accord 2.4 i-VTEC lies the K24 engine, a 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine is a member of Honda’s renowned K-series engine family, known for its robust construction, high revving nature, and efficient design. The “i-VTEC” designation stands for “intelligent Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control,” a system that optimizes valve timing and lift based on engine speed and load. This technology allows for both low-end torque and high-end horsepower. The K24 utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The engine’s valvetrain features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) design, further enhancing its breathing efficiency. The six-speed manual transmission paired with this engine offered precise shifts and contributed to the car’s engaging driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.4 i-VTEC Accord delivered a noticeably more spirited driving experience than the base 2.0L models. With 190 horsepower and 220 Nm of torque, acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 7.5 seconds, making it competitive within its class. The six-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to fully exploit the engine’s powerband, while the gear ratios were well-chosen for both everyday driving and more enthusiastic pursuits. Compared to the automatic transmission options available on other Accord trims, the manual version offered a more direct connection to the engine and a greater sense of control. While not as overtly sporty as some of its rivals, the Accord 2.4 i-VTEC provided a comfortable and capable driving experience, with responsive steering and predictable handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Accord 2.4 i-VTEC typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These generally included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels added features such as a sunroof, upgraded audio system, and leather upholstery. Interior materials were generally of good quality, providing a comfortable and refined cabin environment. Optional extras often included navigation systems, heated seats, and a premium sound system. The dashboard layout was functional and user-friendly, with logically placed controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Accord VII utilized a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout. The suspension system consisted of a double wishbone setup at the front and a multi-link arrangement at the rear, providing a good balance of ride comfort and handling precision. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard. The steering system employed a rack-and-pinion setup with hydraulic power assistance, offering responsive and accurate steering feel. The car’s relatively lightweight construction contributed to its agile handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Honda Accord 2.4 i-VTEC was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined engine, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. Compared to the base 2.0L Accord, the 2.4L model offered a significant performance upgrade without a substantial increase in price. Against competitors like the Toyota Camry and Nissan Altima, the Accord 2.4 i-VTEC often stood out for its more engaging driving dynamics and sophisticated engine technology. Fuel economy was respectable for its class, averaging around 25.8 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability was also a strong point, with the K24 engine proving to be exceptionally durable.
Legacy
The Honda Accord VII 2.4 i-VTEC has proven to be a remarkably reliable vehicle, with many examples still on the road today. The K24 engine is known for its longevity and relatively low maintenance costs. In the used car market, these Accords are often sought after for their combination of practicality, reliability, and affordability. While older examples may require some routine maintenance, the K24 engine’s inherent durability makes it a relatively worry-free powerplant. The Accord VII 2.4 i-VTEC remains a testament to Honda’s engineering prowess and a popular choice for buyers seeking a dependable and well-rounded mid-size sedan.
