Feeling the heat from Nissan's new Altima coupe, the Honda Accord Coupe gets revamped for 2008, receiving styling updates to set it apart from its sedan sibling. In the process, the eighth-generation coupe moves from bland to somewhat sexy, with a profile and body lines more in keeping with a sports coupe image. Changes include a steeper, longer nose, more slit-like front lights, sculpted sides, and a sporty rear spoiler.

Though smaller in size and lower to the ground than the sedan, the 2008 Accord Coupe actually gains inches in length, width, and height, improving passenger legroom and comfort in the two-door four-seater. Other changes this year include increased power. Both LX and EX trims can be had with either a 2.4-liter inline-four engine rated at 190 horsepower, or a larger 3.5-liter, 268-hp V6. While the four-cylinder engines are matched to either a 5-speed manual or automatic, the V6 is also available with a new 6-speed manual and comes with larger 18-inch wheels. Once standard only on V6 trims, traction and stability control and wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls are now standard across the line. Active head restraints and improved dual-chamber front-side curtain airbags boost safety, though the previous Accord Coupe rated highly with four and five star crash-test ratings.

All trims feature ABS brakes, full power features, air conditioning, and a 6-CD player, while the V6 adds leather seats and a sunroof. The navigation system has been altered, with a central control knob replacing the previous touchscreen version. Front seats flip and slide easily for access to the rear seats, and the interior can be outfitted with either alloy or faux wood trim. In general, the style changes seem to be a big improvement to the look of the 2008 Accord Coupe, according to new owners. The extra horsepower helps too, and drivers have always praised the car's handling, reliability, and fuel economy. Some find the 6-speed somewhat notchy, but so far there are few other complaints.