Buyers who were wooed by the Accord’s 2011 mid-cycle refresh will curse their early adoption, as a USB interface has been made standard across the trim lineup for 2012. Otherwise, the Accord remains unchanged as it anticipates a full redesign for 2013. The Accord has managed to remain competitive despite being slightly behind competitor offerings, but a redesign is indeed warranted. Until then, USB will have to carry the day amidst some complaints that center on the technological offerings of this midsize chameleon.

And chameleon it is, for the Accord can be set up as a sporty coupe, economical roundabout or luxury cruiser, depending on engine and options. With three trim levels – LX-S, EX and EX-L – the Accord Coupe can suit a variety of needs. All trims come standard with a 190-hp, 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that is perky but can get a bit rough when pushed. Testers and owners alike have complained of vibrations traveling through body and steering wheel with the 2.4, even at idle. The 3.5-liter, 271-hp V6 optional in the EX and EX-L trims is a much more refined affair, with power in excess for passing and climbing maneuvers. While the 2.4 can feel a bit strained with a full load of passengers and cargo, the 3.5 is never taxed. All trims have an available 5-speed automatic transmission, with the LX-S having the option for a 5-speed manual and the EX-L available with a 6-speed manual as well. The manual transmissions quicken both engines noticeably, and have been noted for their precise operation and smooth clutch. Cylinder deactivation is standard on any V6 Accord with the 5-speed automatic, and accounts for the 19 city/30 highway mpg rating over the 6-speed manual’s 17/25. The 2.4-liter does even better, scoring a 22/31 with the 5-speed manual and 23/34 with the automatic.

As the Accord Coupe utilizes the same suspension setup regardless of trim, there is little difference in ride quality across the lineup. The extra weight of the V6 makes little difference, although some have noted an increase in harshness with the larger, 18-inch wheels of the EX and EX-L trims. More noticeable is an increase in tire noise at speed from these larger wheels, while some have commented on a more nimble feel from the same.

LX-S Accord Coupes come standard with daytime running lights, 4-wheel antilock discs, traction and stability control and comfort and convenience features like air conditioning, cruise, a multi-function tilt and telescoping steering wheel, 6-CD/MP3 changer, full power package and 17-inch alloys. Moving up to the EX trim, you’ll be rewarded with heated power mirrors, a power sunroof, Bluetooth and automatic headlights, while the EX-L is truly decked out. There you’ll find leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate controls, heated seats, a memory system, satellite radio and more. So equipped, the Accord Coupe truly skirts the edges of what could be called “luxury GT,” especially with the 6-speed manual and V6 setup.

With a redesign slated for 2013, moving 2012 Accord Coupes won’t be an easy task. Even fresh off a mid-cycle refresh in 2011, it still falls behind competitors with regard to fuel economy, styling and even performance. Still, the Accord has never had a problem with critics or consumers, winning accolades and setting sales records throughout its long history. While not the freshest apple in the orchard, the Accord Coupe still hangs brightly on its branch, ready for picking.