What is the difference between Honda Accord Touring and EX-L?
In brief, the Honda Accord Touring is the top-end trim with the more powerful engine and premium features, while the EX-L emphasizes luxury with leather and comfort and relies on a smaller engine. The two trims share core safety tech and many conveniences, but Touring typically adds performance hardware, navigation, and higher-end audio and styling cues.
The distinction between Touring and EX-L extends beyond just badges. Buyers should weigh engine power, technology, and interior luxuries against cost and daily driving needs. Below is a detailed, spoiler-free guide to help compare these two well-equipped options in Honda’s midsize lineup.
Performance and powertrain
Before examining the lists, note that performance and propulsion are often the biggest differentiators between Touring and EX-L. The following points highlight how they differ in this area.
- Engine and power output: Touring is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 that delivers around 252 horsepower and substantial torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic. EX-L typically uses a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with about 192 horsepower, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
- Transmission feel and responsiveness: Touring’s 10-speed automatic tends to provide quicker response and a more traditional shifting feel, especially at higher speeds, while EX-L’s CVT emphasizes smooth, efficient cruising.
- Driving dynamics: The Touring’s more powerful engine generally offers stronger acceleration and confident passing power, particularly on highways and when carrying passengers or cargo. EX-L emphasizes a refined and economical daily drive with strong mid-range torque from the 1.5T.
- All-wheel drive availability: Honda Accord is front-wheel drive across trims; neither Touring nor EX-L offers AWD.
In short, Touring focuses on performance and powertrain sophistication, while EX-L concentrates on luxury-grade comfort with a more economical engine option.
Notes on year-to-year changes
Engine tuning, standard features, and available options can shift slightly from model year to model year. Always verify the exact specs for the specific vehicle you’re considering, as trims and options can vary by year and market.
Interior, technology and comfort
Beyond power, the interior and tech package often tip the balance between these trims. The following points compare what you get inside the cabin and with the car’s tech stack.
- Leather and seating comfort: Both trims feature leather-trimmed seating, but Touring is positioned as the more upscale option with additional premium touches in the cabin, including features like a heated steering wheel in many years and configurations. EX-L also offers leather and heated front seats, focusing on comfort and premium feel.
- Infotainment and navigation: EX-L provides a solid touchscreen interface with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto) and standard features. Touring upgrades typically include a larger display and, on many model years, built-in navigation, plus a premium audio system.
- Audio system: EX-L generally employs a robust standard audio setup, while Touring upgrades to a premium system (often described as a Bose setup in Honda’s literature) with more speakers and richer sound.
- Convenience features: Touring commonly adds features such as a heated steering wheel and, in some years, wireless charging, along with larger wheels and certain exterior luxuries. EX-L emphasizes driver and passenger comfort with a sunroof, multi-zone climate control, and leather seating.
- Wheels and lighting: Touring typically rides on larger wheels (18- or 19-inch, depending on year) and may include enhanced lighting and exterior accents; EX-L remains well-equipped with good wheel options (often 17- or 18-inch) and standard lighting.
Overall, Touring leans into premium technology and a more upscale acoustic environment, while EX-L centers on leather, comfort, and a highly capable but more modest tech package.
Feature highlights by year
Specific features such as navigation, premium audio, and wireless charging can vary by model year. If you’re choosing between these trims, list the features you value most (navigation, Bose audio, wireless charging, heated wheel, etc.) and confirm their presence on the exact vehicle you’re evaluating.
Pricing, availability and value
Price and value are practical considerations that influence the choice between Touring and EX-L. The following points summarize how pricing typically differs and what to expect in terms of value.
- Pricing gap: Touring is the premium tier and generally commands a higher price than EX-L, reflecting the stronger powertrain, larger wheels, and upgraded tech and comfort features.
- Value proposition: EX-L provides a strong balance of luxury and practicality with leather seating and a well-appointed cabin at a lower price point than Touring, making it a compelling option for buyers who don’t require the top-tier performance and tech.
- Availability by year and market: Both trims remain part of Honda’s Accord lineup, but exact standard features and optional packages can change with each model year and regional markets. Check the specific build sheet for your region.
- Resale and ownership costs: Higher trims like Touring can command stronger resale value for buyers who prioritize features and performance, but maintenance and insurance costs may be higher as well.
In summary, Touring sits at the top of the Accord ladder with enhanced power and premium equipment, while EX-L delivers refined leather and comfort at a more accessible price point. Your choice hinges on how much you value performance and premium tech versus luxury features and cost.
What to consider when choosing
If you drive primarily for commuting with a focus on comfort and connectivity, EX-L may be the better value. If you want enthusiastic acceleration, navigation as standard, a premium audio setup, and extra luxury touches, Touring is the stronger pick.
Bottom line and takeaway
For most buyers, the key difference between the Honda Accord Touring and EX-L is a blend of power, premium features, and price. Touring offers a more potent 2.0-liter turbo engine, sportier performance credentials, and a richer tech and luxury package, while EX-L emphasizes leather comfort, practical comforts, and a strong feature set at a lower price point. Always verify the exact equipment list for the model year you’re considering, since features can shift with updates.
Summary
The Honda Accord Touring is the higher-performance, feature-rich top trim with the 2.0L turbo and premium tech, including built-in navigation and enhanced audio. The EX-L is a leather-focused, comfortable alternative with the 1.5L turbo and a strong, well-equipped cabin. Your decision should balance desired performance against interior luxury and budget, noting that exact features can vary by model year and market.
