ACTON, Mass. — WheelsTV unveiled its inaugural Pre-Owned Vehicle of the Year Award, and taking the honors was the seventh-generation Honda Accord (2003-2007).

Officials praised the model-year 2003 to 2007 Accord for its "peppy" response, strong fuel economy and for receiving "virtually no major consumer complaints." The model was also lauded for its smooth ride and top safety ratings from the Institute for Highway Safety for its front and side impact protection.

"With pre-owned vehicles outselling new by as much as four to one, we at WheelsTV feel that it's essential to recognize automotive excellence that extends beyond the new car showroom to where the rubber literally meets the road," stated Jim Barisano, chief executive officer of WheelsTV. "Every new car ultimately has to prove its worth through thousands of miles of driving and years of service.

"After careful consumer research, testing and deliberation, the WheelsTV panel of automotive writers and analysts are pleased to name the seventh-generation Honda Accord the 2010 WheelsTV POV of the Year," he added.

Writers and analysts from WheelsTV conduct test-drives on hundreds of vehicles each year as well as consumer research. The WheelsTV judging panel then studies the research in evaluating vehicles for the award.

Each vehicle is evaluated by the following criteria:

—Dependability

—Performance

—Safety

—Fuel Economy

—Overall Build Quality

Continuing on, officials acknowledged that the Accord's competition for the award was 2010 WheelsTV POV of the Year Award was "fierce," and praised entries from Ford, BMW, Nissan and Kia for their abilities to withstand "years of wear and tear."

Though a Japanese brand took top honors this year, WheelsTV noted that Big 3 and European automakers have "constantly" enhanced their vehicles.

"The automobile is an essential element in the day-to-day lives of most Americans," stated Lehel Reeves, president of WheelsTV. "With Americans so reliant upon the automobile, we at WheelsTV are pleased to recognize the vehicle that our research and experience has shown provides the most dependable, enjoyable and trouble-free service.

"Our congratulations to American Honda for winning the 2010 WheelsTV POV of the Year Award with the 2003-2007 Honda Accord," Reeves concluded.