2007 SEMA - Honda Accord Coupe HF-S and HFP

The Honda booth featured numerous aftermarket enhanced models, with the most notable being a pair of Accord coupes. This dramatic Accord HF-S Concept showcases both performance-oriented technology and detailed aerodynamic body work. Addressing the concept of customizing performance, the HF-S features electronic control for body throttle response, suspension stiffness, and steering effort. It has a dual-toned exhaust: a quieter exhaust sound for the city and a louder, sportier exhaust note for the highway.

The HF-S rides on 20-inch wheels in two-tone brushed aluminum with Brembo performance brakes behind them. The trunk spoiler is a carbon-fiber wing that Honda says provides optimum downforce at high speed--not that a front-drive car needs much rear downforce on the street. The interior appearance is rich, with brushed aluminum treatments throughout it.

This design exercise by the Honda Factory Performance group is nicely executed. Obviously, Honda isn't content with the "Plain Jane" reputation of its flagship vehicle and wants to change that in a dramatic way, or at least inspire others to do so.

Of greater importance to consumers is a new high-end Honda Accord HFP performance coupe. The HFP (which stands for Honda Factory Performance) coupe has a new, sporty suspension kit and 19-inch wheels that ride on Dunlop SP Sportsmaxx ultra-high performance tires. An aero body kit dresses up the front, sides, and rear appearance.

All HFP components except the suspension kit, which will be available in Spring 2008, are already available as dealer-installed accessories. Honda says all HFP components are engineered to be totally compatible with the Accord and will be covered by Honda's 3-year/36,000 mile warranty. HFP upgrades are also available for the Civic and Fit.

We'll post a First Look at the Accord LX and EX sedan on ConsumerReports.org soon.

—Cliff Weathers

Discuss the Accord concepts in our Auto Show and Honda forums.