Honda Accord 2024: The Perfect Sedan

Buying a new car has almost become a euphemism, as the majority of new models are SUVs or trucks. Fortunately, there are still a few sedans that are thriving and have everything to offer, just like the Honda Accord.

The Japanese manufacturer's sedan has been on the market since 1976, making it one of the oldest cars in its category still in production today. I wouldn't go so far as to call it a true icon, but it's pretty close. So, this is the 11th generation for the model, and the latest one arrived in the market last year.

Lineup and Prices

The Honda Accord saw a slight price increase between 2023 and 2024, mainly due to minor improvements in some areas. However, it's only a $500 increase, which remains quite reasonable. Thus, the starting price for the 2024 Accord remains below $40,000, at $39,453 for the EX version, which also serves as the base model. Next is the Sport Hybrid version with a starting price of $43,453. Finally, the Touring Hybrid version tops the range with a price of $46,953.

EX - $39,453

Sport Hybrid - $43,453

Touring Hybrid - $46,953

Category and Competition

Midsize sedans are becoming increasingly rare. Some models have transitioned to electric cars, and even there, success is not guaranteed. In short, all of this to say that it's a challenging segment to conquer, but Honda remains a true reference in this category, thanks to the Accord.

Rivals: Chevrolet Malibu, Hyundai Sonata, Kia K5, Nissan Altima, Subaru Legacy, Toyota Camry.

Design and Technologies

Honda has taken a more serious direction with the new Accord. The Japanese manufacturer's sedan features a square silhouette and a simpler and cleaner exterior finish. For some reason, it still turns heads even more today. Its design closely resembles that of large German luxury cars. In short, Honda has once again done an excellent job with its midsize sedan.

The praise continues in the interior, which is spacious and especially elegant. The Japanese manufacturer has also seriously considered ergonomics, as all controls are easily accessible. Moreover, if there's one thing I really like about the Accord, it's that it uses a real gear lever, not a button selector, as is the case with some Honda and Acura models. The interior finish is well executed, and the dashboard design is visually interesting.

The Honda Accord benefits from some of the best technologies found in the Honda lineup. Its adaptive cruise control is one of the most effective on the market. Although the multimedia system of the Japanese sedan has improved significantly, I find that some functions are more challenging to locate.

Performance

The 2024 Honda Accord offers two mechanical options, starting with a small 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. Despite its size, this engine is quite vigorous, producing 192 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque, figures very close to those of the Honda Civic SI, which uses a very similar engine. This small powerplant is paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission that sends power to the front wheels. Its average fuel consumption stands at 8.1 L/100 km in the city and 6.4 L/100 km on the highway, which is highly competitive for a vehicle of this size.

Honda has played its cards well when it comes to its mechanical offerings, as the 1.5-liter engine is only available on the base model. As soon as you move up to the Sport or Touring versions, you get a hybrid powertrain consisting of a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and an electric motor. This combination offers a total power output of 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. It may not seem very different from the 1.5-liter engine, but I promise you that the way the hybrid powertrain delivers its power is entirely different. In fact, you feel like you're driving a completely different car. As for average fuel consumption, unsurprisingly, this powertrain is even more efficient, with 5.0 L/100 km in the city and 5.7 L/100 km on the highway.

Weak Points

The Honda Accord doesn't have much to reproach itself for. In fact, the only thing the Japanese manufacturer could do to make it even more competitive is to add all-wheel drive to its lineup.

Strengths

The Japanese manufacturer's sedan leaves nothing to be desired in terms of equipment. Its technologies are simple and effective. In terms of looks, it attracts attention without being overly flashy. It's an elegant and modern car. Its ride comfort is impressive, especially thanks to its well-insulated cabin. The Honda Accord is a very enjoyable car to drive, and its hybrid version boasts one of the lowest average fuel consumption ratings on the market.

Signature Feature

It's cars like the Accord that have allowed Honda to build such a strong reputation. The Japanese manufacturer's sedan remains today an example to follow in terms of reliability, design, and technology.

Final Word

This year, I had the chance to test drive the Honda Accord in its top version (Touring) as well as in its base version (EX). Let me tell you that I was not disappointed in either case. This proves how remarkable a job Honda has done with the Accord. It's one of the few cars that make us want to love sedans and say no to SUVs, which is quite rare these days. In my opinion, the 2024 Honda Accord is simply the best generic car currently available on the market. It's a safe bet and a true reference.