The Honda Accord has long been a staple in the American automotive landscape. Known for its reliability, spaciousness, and efficiency, the Accord has garnered a loyal following over the decades. However, with the rise of SUVs and crossovers, the sedan market has seen a decline in popularity. The 2023 Honda Accord aims to reinvigorate interest in this iconic model. In this review, we’ll explore its specifications, features, performance, and overall value in today’s market.
Overview of the Honda Accord
The Accord has historically been a top seller in the United States, with sales peaking in the late 1990s and early 2000s when over 400,000 units were sold annually. However, recent trends show a significant decline, with only 150,000 units sold last year. This drop in sales has been attributed to the growing preference for SUVs, as evidenced by the Subaru Crosstrek outselling the Accord in recent times. Nevertheless, Honda continues to produce the Accord, maintaining a commitment to the sedan segment of the market.
| Dimensions | points |
|---|---|
| Overall Length(mm) | 4,901 |
| Overall Width (mm) | 1,862 |
| Overall Height (mm) | 1,450 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2,830 |
| Tread(mm) | Front / Rear – 1,590 / 1,603.2 |
| Minimum Turning Radius at Wheel Center (m) | 5.7 |
Powertrain Options
One of the most significant changes in the 2023 Honda Accord is the expanded availability of hybrid powertrains. The base LX and EX trims still offer a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with around 190 horsepower. However, higher trims, starting from the Sport model, come exclusively with a hybrid powertrain that delivers 204 horsepower. This hybrid engine is essentially the same as that found in the Honda CR-V hybrid, but the Accord does not offer all-wheel drive, which is a downside for some consumers.
| Engine | points |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 1.5 L DOHC inline 4 Cylinders, 16 Valves , VTEC Turbo |
| Bore x Stroke (mm) | 73 x 89.5 |
| Fuel Supply System | PGM -FI (Direct Injection) |
| Fuel Type (Minimum Recommended) | Unleaded (RON91) |
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is a critical factor for many buyers, and the 2023 Accord delivers impressive numbers. The gasoline engine achieves an EPA rating of 32 miles per gallon combined. However, the hybrid version takes the lead with a remarkable 48 miles per gallon combined rating. This makes the hybrid model a compelling choice for those looking to save on fuel costs.
Exterior Design
The exterior design of the 2023 Honda Accord is best described as simple. While it is aesthetically pleasing, it lacks the bold and daring lines that some competitors offer. The design is smart, but it wouldn’t necessarily scream, ‘Notice me’ in a sea of similar products. That is why there are no special premake accents in the external body and this car can be characterized as classic but rather typical.
| Exterior | points |
|---|---|
| Auto Headlight Adjuster | O |
| Head Lamps Types | Full LED |
| Auto Off Timer | O |
| LED Rear Combination Tall Lights | O |
| Fog Lights | LED |
| Outer Door Handles | Chrome + Body Color |
| Sunroof | Electric |
| Chrome Exhaust Pipe Finisher | Dual |
Interior Features and Comfort
Stepping inside the Accord, you’ll find a spacious and functional interior. The materials used are of decent quality, although not luxurious. The layout is intuitive, and everything is where you would expect it to be. The dashboard has a new appearance thanks to a large climate vent that runs across it. However, this vent is more of a design feature than anything else and is quite unnecessary.
| Interior Styling | points |
|---|---|
| Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel & Shift Knob | O |
| Wood-grain Look Interior Finishes | O |
Technology and Infotainment
The 2023 Accord comes equipped with Honda’s latest infotainment system, featuring a 12-inch touchscreen on higher trims. The system is user-friendly and responsive, with Google Maps integration, allowing for seamless navigation. A physical volume knob and manual climate controls remain, which many users will appreciate for their ease of use.
Driver Assist Technology
The Accord is also equipped with advanced driver-assist technologies. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist work well, providing a comfortable driving experience. However, the lane change assist feature has been noted to be somewhat confusing, requiring the driver to take over steering during lane changes.
Rear Seating and Cargo Space
One of the highlights of the new Accord is its rear seating area, which is spacious and comfortable. Passengers will find ample legroom and headroom, making it an excellent choice for families or rideshare drivers. Additionally, the rear seats come equipped with USB-C charging ports and climate vents, enhancing passenger comfort.
| Seating | points |
|---|---|
| Seat Trim | Leather (Black) |
| Driver’s Seat | – Power 8-way Adjustment- Lumbar Support (4-way Power) |
| Passenger Seat | Power- 4-way Adjustment |
| Rear Seats | Fold-down (One Piece) |
| Memory Function | O |
Cargo Capacity
The trunk space in the Accord is generous, offering practicality for everyday use. The trunk features hooks for grocery bags and a compartment for smaller items, ensuring that everything remains organized. The rear seats can also be folded down from the trunk, adding to the vehicle’s versatility.
Driving Experience
When it comes to driving, the 2023 Honda Accord excels in comfort and efficiency rather than excitement. The ride quality is smooth, and the cabin remains relatively quiet, although the engine can be a bit noisy at higher RPMs. The Accord is designed for those who prioritize reliability and practicality over sporty performance.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Impressive fuel economy, especially with the hybrid model.
- Spacious and comfortable interior, with ample rear seating space.
- User-friendly infotainment system with Google Maps integration.
- Advanced driver-assist features to enhance safety and convenience.
Cons
- Bland exterior design that lacks standout features.
- No all-wheel drive option is available.
- Driving experience may be considered dull by enthusiasts.
- The lane change assist feature needs improvement.
Pricing and Value
The pricing for the 2023 Honda Accord starts at around $30,000 for the base LX and EX trims, with the hybrid models starting at around $32,000. The top-tier Touring model can reach up to $38,000. Considering the features, reliability, and fuel economy, the Accord remains a strong contender in the mid-size sedan market, especially for those who prioritize practicality and value.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the 2023 Honda Accord is a well-rounded vehicle that continues to deliver on its promises of reliability, efficiency, and comfort. While it may not be the most exciting car on the road, it fulfills the needs of many consumers looking for a practical sedan. As the market shifts towards SUVs, the Accord’s success will depend on its ability to adapt and attract buyers who may still prefer traditional sedans.
In the new Accord, Honda proves that they are still very much interested in the sedans market despite the dynamic shift in the consumers’ market trends. So, if you are looking for a solid and dependable car for driving, perhaps, the 2023 Honda Accord will catch your attention.
FAQs
Is the Honda Accord fuel-efficient?
Yes, the 2023 Honda Accord is very fuel-efficient, especially the hybrid model, which offers around 48 mpg in the city and 47 mpg on the highway.
Does the Honda Accord come with an all-wheel drive (AWD)?
No, the 2023 Honda Accord does not offer all-wheel drive; it comes with front-wheel drive (FWD) only.
How much horsepower does the Honda Accord have?
The base 1.5L turbo engine offers 192 horsepower, while the 2.0L turbo engine provides 252 horsepower. The hybrid model has a combined output of 204 horsepower.
What safety features does the Honda Accord offer?
The 2023 Honda Accord’s Honda Sensing® suite includes features like Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, and a Collision Mitigation Braking System.
Is the Honda Accord a good family car?
Yes, the Honda Accord is known for its spacious interior, large trunk space, and high safety ratings, making it an excellent choice for families.
Does the 2023 Honda Accord have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes, all trims of the 2023 Honda Accord come standard with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration.
How reliable is the Honda Accord?
The Honda Accord is consistently rated as one of the most reliable midsize sedans on the market, with a reputation for longevity and low maintenance costs.
What are the trim levels for the 2023 Honda Accord?
The 2023 Honda Accord comes in several trims, including the LX, EX, Sport, and Touring trims, as well as Hybrid versions.
What is the warranty coverage for the Honda Accord?
The 2023 Honda Accord comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile limited warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
