The Honda Accord VIII Coupe 2.4 i-VTEC Automatic, produced from August 2007 to August 2011, represented a significant iteration of Honda’s popular mid-size offering in the North American market. Falling within the eighth generation (2008-2012) of the Accord, the Coupe variant aimed for a more sporty aesthetic and driving experience compared to the sedan. This particular configuration – the 2.4-liter i-VTEC engine paired with a five-speed automatic transmission – served as a popular mid-range option, balancing performance with fuel efficiency and affordability. It was positioned above the base 2.0-liter models and below the more performance-oriented V6 options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Honda |
| Model | Accord |
| Generation | Accord VIII Coupe |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 i-VTEC (190 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | August, 2007 |
| End of production | August, 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.7-11.2 l/100 km (22 – 21 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.1-7.8 l/100 km (33.1 – 30.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9-9.8 l/100 km (26.1 – 24 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | PZEV |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 190 Hp @ 7000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 4400 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 7100 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | K24Z3 |
| 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, i-VTEC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1476-1527 kg (3254.02 – 3366.46 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Max load | 473-524 kg (1042.79 – 1155.22 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space | 337 l (11.9 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4849 mm (190.91 in.) |
| Width | 1848 mm (72.76 in.) |
| Height | 1432 mm (56.38 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2740 mm (107.87 in.) |
| Front track | 1580 mm (62.2 in.) |
| Rear track | 1580 mm (62.2 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.3 m (37.07 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 300 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 282 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/50 R17; 235/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Accord Coupe 2.4 i-VTEC Automatic lay the K24Z3 engine, a 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine was a member of Honda’s renowned K-series family, known for its robust construction and efficient design. The “i-VTEC” system (intelligent Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) was a key feature, allowing the engine to optimize valve timing and lift based on driving conditions, improving both fuel economy and performance. The K24Z3 utilized multi-point fuel injection and a naturally aspirated intake, delivering a respectable 190 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. The five-speed automatic transmission was chosen for its smooth operation and ease of use, catering to drivers prioritizing comfort over outright performance. This transmission featured Honda’s Grade Logic Control, which adjusted shift points based on throttle input and road conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.4-liter i-VTEC Automatic Accord Coupe offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not as quick as the V6 models, the 190 hp engine provided adequate power for everyday driving and highway merging. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly sporty, with gear changes prioritizing fuel efficiency over aggressive downshifts. The gear ratios were tuned for relaxed cruising, and the transmission lacked a manual shift mode. Compared to the six-speed manual transmission available on some 2.4L models, the automatic resulted in slightly slower acceleration times. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided predictable handling, but lacked the all-weather capability of an all-wheel-drive system.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.4 i-VTEC Automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player with auxiliary input, and cruise control. Higher trim levels, such as the EX-L, added features like leather upholstery, a sunroof, and a premium audio system. Optional extras included navigation, upgraded wheels, and a rear spoiler. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on the base models, with leather available on the EX-L. The dashboard layout was functional and well-designed, with easy-to-read gauges and intuitive controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Accord Coupe featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and competent handling. A transverse stabilizer bar was included at both ends to reduce body roll. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs up front and solid discs in the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort, resulting in a slightly softer ride compared to more performance-focused coupes. The steering was precise and responsive, thanks to the electric power steering system.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Accord Coupe 2.4 i-VTEC Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission lacked the responsiveness of the manual gearbox and that the engine wasn’t as powerful as some of its competitors. Compared to the V6 Accord Coupe, the 2.4L model offered a significant fuel economy advantage, but at the expense of performance. Against rivals like the Toyota Camry Coupe and the Nissan Altima Coupe, the Accord Coupe offered a compelling blend of features, reliability, and value.
Legacy
The K24Z3 engine, when properly maintained, proved to be a remarkably reliable powerplant. The five-speed automatic transmission also demonstrated good durability. Today, used Accord Coupes with this powertrain are considered relatively dependable and affordable transportation. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, timing belt replacement (typically around 100,000 miles), and inspection of the cooling system. While not a collector’s item, the Accord Coupe 2.4 i-VTEC Automatic remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a practical and reliable used coupe.
