Why is the Honda Accord so good?
The Honda Accord remains outstanding because it pairs reliability, efficiency, and practicality with solid performance and safety, making it a compelling choice in a crowded segment.
In the current market, the Accord stands out not just for a long-standing reputation, but for a well-rounded balance of comfortable ride quality, roomy interior, strong resale value, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance features. This article examines what explains its enduring appeal and how it stacks up against rivals in 2024 and beyond.
Reliability, value, and ownership experience
One of the Accord’s core strengths is its consistency in reliability and ownership costs. For decades, Honda has built a reputation for durable engines and straightforward maintenance, which translates into strong resale values and favorable total-cost-of-ownership figures for the Accord. Buyers often cite peace of mind, predictable maintenance needs, and broad dealer support as major reasons to choose the model year after year.
Honda’s approach to design and parts availability contributes to a perception of long-term value, while the Accord’s practical design—ample interior space, good cargo capacity, and simple, intuitive controls—helps keep ownership hassle-free for families, commuters, and fleet users alike.
Performance and efficiency options
Powertrain choices
The Accord offers a range of powertrains to suit different driving styles and priorities, from efficiency-focused daily driving to more spirited performance.
- 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 with a continuously variable transmission (CVT): balanced performance with strong fuel economy for everyday driving.
- 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 with a 10-speed automatic transmission: higher horsepower for quicker acceleration and a more engaging driving experience.
- Accord Hybrid (2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine paired with electric motors and an electronic continuously variable transmission): maximum efficiency with ample power for highway and city driving.
In practice, most buyers will find the 1.5T suits daily commuting and long trips with impressive efficiency, while the 2.0T offers a more dynamic, confident feel for those who want stronger highway overtakes. The hybrid earns top marks for fuel economy without sacrificing real-world everyday usability.
Comfort, interior space, and daily practicality
Inside, the Accord emphasizes comfort, quietness, and usability. The cabin is spacious for front and rear passengers, with supportive seating and a straightforward control layout. Trunk space remains competitive for the segment, and the overall ride quality prioritizes a smooth, composed experience on varied road surfaces. Recent updates have also improved interior materials and touchpoints, elevating perceived quality without sacrificing practicality.
Safety technology and driver-assistance
Standard and available safety features
Honda Sensing, the brand’s suite of safety and driver-assistance technologies, is a central pillar of the Accord’s appeal. Across most trims, the system combines a broad set of features designed to reduce collision risk and assist with highway driving and lane management. The latest models continue to refine these tools and expand their availability.
- Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) to help prevent or mitigate frontal collisions
- Road Departure Mitigation System (RDMS) for edging back onto the road
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow for highway driving and stop-and-go traffic
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) and related lane-primate features to help with staying centered
- Traffic Sign Recognition to inform drivers of posted speed limits and other signs
These features contribute to top-tier safety ratings and provide a reassuring driving experience for families and daily commuters alike, with optional or higher-trim enhancements expanding the suite further on discretion and convenience.
Updates, model status, and how it compares
The Accord has undergone targeted updates in recent years, including mid-cycle refreshes that improved styling, interior quality, and technology integration. In 2023 and 2024, Honda refreshed several elements—upgrading infotainment usability, refining materials, and expanding standard tech—while preserving the Accord’s familiar footprint and reliability. In comparison with rivals like the Toyota Camry, Hyundai Sonata, and Kia K5, the Accord’s steady refinement and emphasis on a balanced ride have helped it remain a compelling option in the midsize sedan field.
Despite changes in the market toward SUVs, the Accord continues to attract buyers who want a traditional sedan with strong packaging, efficient powertrains, and a high level of standard safety gear. Its blend of comfort, space, and predictable ownership costs keeps it competitive against both long-running rivals and newer entrants.
Pros and cons at a glance
Before diving into ownership considerations, here is a quick look at the key positives and the few caveats some buyers may weigh.
- Pro: Broad range of powertrains, including a highly efficient hybrid option
- Pro: Comfortable ride and roomy, well-laid-out interior
- Pro: Strong safety and driver-assistance features, with good crash-test results
- Con: Not as sporty as some performance-focused rivals in the segment
- Con: Sedan-centric lineup in an SUV-dominant market
Overall, the Accord’s strengths—reliability, efficiency, space, safety, and value—outweigh the notable caveats for most buyers seeking a practical midsize sedan.
Bottom line
The Honda Accord remains a standout choice in the midsize sedan class thanks to its enduring reliability, versatile powertrain lineup, ample interior space, and a strong safety package. While it faces stiff competition and market shifts toward SUVs, the Accord’s balanced package continues to attract shoppers who want a comfortable, economical, and safe family sedan that can handle daily driving with ease.
Summary
In sum, the Honda Accord endures as a top pick because it delivers dependable performance, efficient options, spacious practicality, and thoughtful safety tech. Its steady updates keep it current, and its reputation for long-term value remains a key reason buyers keep choosing the Accord year after year.
