2008 Honda Accord EX-L

At 15,000 miles, the Accord visited Culver City Honda for its second scheduled service stop, a $96.71 oil change, full inspection, and tire rotation. The crew alerted us to the Honda's worn rear brakes, which required $241.92 worth of new pads and resurfaced rotors.

With fresh oil and binders, online associate editor Rory Jurnecka drove down to San Diego. "As my Accord experience was limited to my very first car, a 1989 Accord LX, this car is a revelation. The new Accord (at least this topline version) has become a luxury sedan for those on a budget, with a high-quality leather and soft-touch plastic interior." Jurnecka, however, isn't enamored with the transmission. "I wish it had a manual mode; it seems a little behind the times without one."