What is the difference between Honda Accord LX and SE?
The Honda Accord is a popular midsize sedan that comes in various trim levels, each with its own set of features and specifications. Two of the most common trims are the Accord LX and Accord SE. While they share the same underlying platform, there are several key differences between these two models that buyers should consider.
Exterior and Interior Features
The Accord LX is the base model, featuring a more basic exterior design with 17-inch steel wheels, halogen headlights, and body-colored door handles and mirrors. The Accord SE, on the other hand, has a slightly more premium look with 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, and chrome exterior accents.
Inside the cabin, the LX comes with cloth upholstery, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a basic audio setup. The SE upgrades to leatherette-trimmed seats, an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation, and a premium audio system with more speakers.
Performance and Fuel Economy
Both the Accord LX and SE are powered by the same 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 192 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque. The key difference is the transmission: the LX comes standard with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while the SE offers the choice between the CVT or a 6-speed manual transmission.
Fuel economy ratings are similar, with the LX CVT achieving an EPA-estimated 30 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway, and the SE CVT getting 29 mpg city and 35 mpg highway. The SE manual transmission model has slightly lower ratings at 26 mpg city and 36 mpg highway.
Safety and Technology Features
In terms of safety, both the Accord LX and SE come standard with a suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. However, the SE adds blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as additional safety features.
The infotainment systems also differ, with the SE offering more connectivity options, such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Pricing and Value
The Accord LX has a starting MSRP of around $25,000, while the Accord SE starts at approximately $27,000. The SE's additional features and more premium interior materials justify the higher price tag, but the LX still offers excellent value for those on a tighter budget.
Ultimately, the choice between the Honda Accord LX and SE will depend on your specific needs and preferences. The LX provides a solid, well-equipped base model, while the SE offers more luxury and technology features for a slightly higher price.
