2000 Honda Accord 1.8 VTEC SE Sport review from UK and Ireland

Rear twin exhaust pipes corroded. Dealer tried to clean up before collection, then ordered chrome sleeves which as yet haven't been received, two months later, although supplying Honda franchise very good generally.

Someone (whilst valeting?) shut the driver's door on the seatbelt buckle, causing small rip on door trim. Repaired using super glue.

Some small rattles from the rear seat/parcel shelf.

A superb car. Not the best driver's tool as quite big and heavy for the engine/transmission combo, but comfortable, easy to drive and (above all) known to be reliable.

VTEC engine very smooth, and transmission shifts are imperceptible. Economy is average at around 30mpg in mixed conditions. More autos from other manufacturers should follow Honda's lead and put a gear indicator on the instrument panel.

The Tiptronic-style manual shifting option is a gimmick, but a well-thought-out one; it won't let you over-rev the engine by trying to select a lower gear at too high an engine speed.

Thoughtful touches mark out this car - from the clear, legible instruments to the hook on the bootfloor that you connect to the hatchback, to hinge up the bootfloor for when you need to change a wheel. Nice.

Chock-full of goodies, as expected - full electrics and air-con, but also an electric sunroof (largely superfluous with a/c) and cruise control. Sport model also comes with 16" alloys and rear spoiler, and the first owner added side skirts. Not really neccessary, but does make it look nice!

Ride can be a jiggly at times, but handles well. Excellent room in the front, although rear legroom is not huge, but the boot space is voluminous.