My tester was equipped with a five-speed stick. Although this isn't the six-speed short-throw box affixed to Honda's V6 engine, it serves its purpose very well. Shifting is a cinch thanks to the ease in which the stick finds its target and the gentleness of the Accord's light-effort clutch. (For those less shifty, a five-speed autobox is available). Overall, the civility and grace in the SE's drivetrain enhances the vehicle's driving pleasure. But a healthy heart is nothing without a spirited soul in which to beat.

The 2007 Accord Coupe received a mild sharpening of the rear deck lid drop-off.

Coupe'ing with spirit
Driving the Accord SE is rewarding. Not in all-out acceleration or pavement-searing cornering but in nimble, competent and composed handling. The vehicle's fully-independent suspension performs admirably in soaking-up road distortion while managing to remain lively and taut in twists and turns. Credit a very rigid body structure for much of the Coupe's ability to excel at both ride and handling. The integral solidity helps isolate shake and shudder from the cabin when potholes are encountered.

When the need for braking is nigh, it's easy to over-respond. After adjusting to the sensitivity, or should I say "over-sensitivity" of the Coupe's four-wheel antilock disc brake arrangement, I found myself looking forward to rapid braking opportunities. These binders did the job and more. Emergency stops were performed with brevity and dexterity. Regardless of speed, vehicular control was never in question as the Accord Coupe dug deep for immediate cessation.

Relaxing ride
In addition to spirit, the Accord Coupe SE has a way of imparting relaxation. A short time behind the wheel seems to melt away the day's anguish. Contributing to the solace is the SE's quiet ride and its general ease of use and operational silkiness. There's simply nothing to aggravate- and I like that. This isn't a high-strung whippet of a coupe that viscerally communicates every pebble on the road. No, it's a delightful vehicle mannered well beyond its respectable mid-20-something price tag.

The Accord's interior is well crafted, comfortable and moderately appealing.