Honda Accord VIII (CU) (2008 – 2015)

Reliability score : 8.2/10

The Honda Accord VIII (CU for the sedan, CW for the Tourer/estate) represents the pinnacle of Honda's European D-segment offerings before the model was discontinued in the region. Positioned as a premium alternative to the VW Passat and Ford Mondeo, it boasts exceptional build quality, a sophisticated double-wishbone front suspension, and a driver-focused cockpit. In North America, this exact vehicle was sold as the Acura TSX (the US 'Honda Accord' was a completely different, larger chassis), while in China it was marketed as the Honda Spirior. A mid-cycle facelift in 2011 brought subtle exterior tweaks, improved NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) insulation, and optimized emissions for the diesel engines. While the petrol engines are legendary for their reliability, the 2.2 i-DTEC diesel (

✅ Strengths

Exceptional chassis dynamics and precise steering (double wishbone front suspension)
High-quality interior materials that resist wear very well
Bulletproof petrol engines (2.0 and 2.4 i-VTEC)
Excellent manual gearbox (short, precise throws)
High level of standard equipment and premium audio systems

⚠️ Weaknesses

Diesel engine (i-DTEC) is intolerant of short city trips (DPF/EGR issues)
Small boot capacity, especially on the Tourer/Estate version due to suspension intrusion
Rear legroom is cramped compared to rivals like the VW Passat or Ford Mondeo
Expensive OEM replacement parts (especially DPF and Dual Mass Flywheel)
Outdated infotainment and navigation system by modern standards

🎯 Verdict

The Honda Accord VIII is an outstanding, highly reliable D-segment car, provided you choose the right engine for your needs. If you are looking at the 2.2 i-DTEC diesel, you must ensure your driving profile includes regular, long highway journeys to keep the DPF clear. If you buy the diesel for city driving, you will face expensive repair bills for the DPF, EGR, and potentially the Dual Mass Flywheel. For the vast majority of buyers, the 2.0 or 2.4 i-VTEC petrol engines are the much smarter choice, offering near-bulletproof reliability and lower long-term maintenance costs, despite the higher fuel consumption.