The Honda Inspire V (CP3) 3.5 V6 ECT, produced between December 2007 and July 2010, was a premium offering in Honda’s lineup, primarily aimed at the Japanese domestic market (JDM). Positioned as a more upscale and spacious alternative to the Honda Accord, the Inspire V sought to deliver a comfortable and refined driving experience with a focus on technology and performance. This variant, equipped with the J35A 3.5-liter V6 engine and a 5-speed automatic transmission, represented the top-tier trim level within the CP3 Inspire range, offering the highest level of performance and features. It was built on Honda’s dedicated platform for larger sedans.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Honda |
| Model | Inspire |
| Generation | Inspire V (CP3) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 V6 (280 Hp) ECT |
| Start of production | December, 2007 |
| End of production | July, 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.7 kg/Hp, 175 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 213.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 280 Hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 342 Nm @ 5000 rpm (252.25 lb.-ft. @ 5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | J35A |
| Engine displacement | 3471 cm3 (211.81 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1600-1620 kg (3527.4 – 3571.49 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4940 mm (194.49 in.) |
| Width | 1845 mm (72.64 in.) |
| Height | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2800 mm (110.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1580 mm (62.2 in.) |
| Rear track | 1580 mm (62.2 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 145 mm (5.71 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine (ICE) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission ECT |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The core of the Inspire V 3.5 V6 ECT is the J35A engine, a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6. This engine belongs to Honda’s J-series family, renowned for its reliability and smooth power delivery. The J35A features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain and multi-port fuel injection. The engine’s design emphasizes a broad torque curve, making it responsive in everyday driving scenarios. The 5-speed automatic transmission, labeled “ECT” (Electronically Controlled Transmission), was specifically calibrated to complement the engine’s characteristics. ECT offered smooth shifts and adaptive learning capabilities, adjusting shift points based on driving style and conditions. While not geared towards sporty performance, it provided sufficient performance for the Inspire’s intended purpose.
Driving Characteristics
The 280 horsepower and 252 lb-ft of torque generated by the J35A engine, combined with the 5-speed automatic, gave the Inspire V brisk acceleration. While not as quick as some contemporary sports sedans, it offered a comfortable and confident driving experience. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly swift to downshift, meaning overtaking required some foresight. Compared to the lower-spec Inspire models with smaller engines, the V6 delivered a significantly more refined and powerful driving experience. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided good traction in most conditions, but could exhibit some torque steer during hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Inspire V 3.5 V6 ECT came standard with a comprehensive array of features, reflecting its status as the flagship model. These included leather upholstery, woodgrain interior trim, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and power-adjustable front seats. Optional extras frequently included a navigation system, sunroof, and advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control. The interior design prioritized comfort and spaciousness, with generous legroom for both front and rear occupants. The dashboard layout was functional and well-organized, emphasizing ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The Inspire V featured a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, engineered to provide a comfortable ride and stable handling. The suspension was tuned for comfort rather than outright sportiness, effectively absorbing bumps and road imperfections. Braking was handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, assisted by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The steering was power-assisted via an electric system, providing light and precise control. The 225/50 R17 tires offered a good balance of grip and ride comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Honda Inspire V 3.5 V6 ECT was generally well-received by Japanese automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and refined engine. However, some critics noted that the automatic transmission could occasionally feel sluggish. Compared to other large sedans in the JDM market, such as the Toyota Crown and Nissan Cima, the Inspire V offered a more modern and technologically advanced package. Fuel economy, at 10.2 l/100km, was typical for a V6-powered sedan of its size and class. Reliability was also a strong suit, consistent with Honda’s reputation.
Legacy
The Honda Inspire V 3.5 V6 ECT remains a relatively rare sight outside of Japan, due to its limited export market. However, within Japan, it’s regarded as a comfortable and reliable luxury sedan. The J35A engine is known for its durability and longevity, and well-maintained examples of the Inspire V continue to provide years of service. In the used car market, these vehicles are sought after by enthusiasts who appreciate their blend of comfort, performance, and Honda reliability. The Inspire V represents a high point in Honda’s sedan offerings, showcasing the company’s engineering expertise and commitment to quality.
