Peter Lyon
May 21, 2023
- The new Accord is available in two engine specs, a turbo and a hybrid
- The new model is the best-looking Accord ever
- Pricing for the base LX trim starts from $27,295
All-new for 2023, the latest Honda Accord is, without a doubt, the prettiest, best-proportioned version we’ve ever seen from the Japanese manufacturer. On the market for over 40 years, the Accord has won more Car and Driver 10Best awards than any other model.
Known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, driver-friendliness, spacious interior, and superb build quality, the Accord is one of Honda’s biggest sellers, with over 300,000 units sold yearly on average from 2012-2017, that number dropping to around 150,000 in 2022 due to the pandemic and supply issues. The 2023 Accord is available in a variety of trim levels, including LX, Sport, EX, EX-L, Touring, and Hybrid. The base trim LX starts from $27,295 while the entry-level hybrid “Sport Hybrid” starts at $31,345.
The new model comes with two powertrains: a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 192 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque, or the 2.0-liter hybrid with two electric motors that pumps out 204 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque. Both are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that delivers an EPA-estimated 30 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway (for turbo model). The hybrid meanwhile can achieve 51 mpg in the city and 44 on the highway, and Honda expects to sell many more hybrids than turbos. Even with the 204 hp output the hybrid’s response off the line will feel a little sluggish, and will require some semi-heavy pedal action to get the car really moving.
The Honda’s electric power steering provides decent feedback, and it corners sharply. While it’s no sport sedan, the Accord’s suspension keeps the car well-balanced through the twisties, while the weight transfer is predictable. If you want up the pace, it’s always ready, and will always let you know what’s happening underfoot.
Honda’s designers have complimented the aesthetically pleasing exterior styling with some inspired work inside the car too. This time they’ve added certain design elements to the spacious cabin borrowed from the latest Civic and CR-V. These include honeycomb-pattern dash trim plus a host of updated tech, featuring a new standard digital gauge display and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, and the rear seats have plenty of legroom and headroom. The Accord also has a large trunk that can hold up to 16.7 cubic feet of cargo.
The new model comes standard with several features including a rearview camera, Bluetooth, and a six-speaker sound system, which only offers mediocre sound reproduction. If you want a better sound system to opt for the 10-speaker audio in higher-trim models that also get leather seats.
As one of the safest cars on the road, the Accord comes standard with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Accord also earned a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The 2023 Honda Accord starts at $25,270. It is a well-rounded car that offers a comfortable ride, plenty of features, and excellent fuel economy. It is a good choice for anyone looking for a reliable and fuel-efficient midsize sedan.
OUR THOUGHTS
While both the turbo and hybrid versions are exceptionally well put together, the hybrid’s marginally sluggish response may lead those buyers looking for more sporty performance to opt for the turbo. And while that’s understandable, you will be giving up a lot in fuel economy with 51 mpg vs 30 mpg. The new Accord is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and fuel-efficient midsize sedan. It offers a comfortable ride, plenty of features, great build quality and excellent safety ratings.
