Road tests are part of the daily routine for automotive journalists, and as you can imagine, we get behind the wheel of many cars throughout the year. Well, all that to say that we can’t try out all the versions of the new models, and the manufacturers know that perfectly well. That’s why they offer us the versions that are likely to be the most popular or simply the best equipped.
So, I can consider myself lucky because Honda allowed me to test a second variant of the 2023 Accord this year. After the Honda Accord Touring Hybrid, I was able to go from one extreme to the other by taking the wheel of the base model. In this case, it’s the only one that is not powered by an electrified engine.
Since the Honda Accord range essentially consists of three models, I can now tell you that I am well positioned to advise you on this car. Nevertheless, what I appreciated the most was being able to see the contrast between the two extremes, and let me tell you that the base model also has its qualities. In fact, I may have even preferred the base model to the Touring Hybrid version simply because it has fewer technologies. It’s certain that the manufacturers lend us the high-end models so that we recommend them to you. It’s also logical to focus on the best-equipped versions in order to try out as many gadgets as possible. Driving a base model allowed me to appreciate the simplicity of a well-built car without any frills, which is becoming increasingly rare today.
Range and engines
Honda has simplified the Accord range with the arrival of the new generation. The Japanese manufacturer’s sedan is now only available in three different configurations. The version that serves as the base model is anything but a basic car, and I believe it’s important to mention that. It’s simply the only gasoline model in the lineup, and Honda has decided to offer a car with a certain level of equipment. If you’re familiar with the Honda brand, you know that historically, the EX versions have always been near the top of a model’s range. Honda has decided to place the Sport version at the top of the range with a more spirited engine. Finally, the more luxurious version reigns at the top of the range. Thus, there’s something for everyone, and that’s what makes the Honda Accord still so interesting today.
EX – $38,945
Sport Hybrid – $42,945
Touring Hybrid – $46,445
In terms of engines, the Japanese manufacturer’s sedan offers two options for 2023. The EX version, on its part, is equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that delivers 192 horsepower. Honda announces an average fuel consumption of 8.1L/100 km in the city and 6.4L/100 km on the highway with this engine. Somehow, I managed to maintain a consumption below 6.0L/100 km during my test, without paying too much attention. It’s clear that it all depends on your driving style and especially the type of road you’re on, but I believe the manufacturer’s figures are quite accurate.
As for the hybrid version, it is powered by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine that produces 146 horsepower and an electric motor with 181 horsepower. Despite all this power, the car manages to maintain an average fuel consumption of 5.0L/100 km in the city and 5.7L/100 km on the highway. Personally, I managed to maintain an average consumption of 5.6L/100 km. It should be noted that for both of my tests, I mainly drove on the highway. If you primarily drive in the city, the hybrid system will be much more fuel-efficient than the gasoline engine alone. However, if that’s not the case, don’t choose the hybrid for fuel savings, as you might be disappointed.
Driving experience
Country road – The Honda Accord EX is equally enjoyable to drive on small country roads. It’s a very agile car, and its low center of gravity makes it pleasant to maneuver on winding roads.
Highway – It’s a very comfortable car that feels at ease on the highway. If your work requires a lot of commuting, the Honda Accord is a reliable choice.
City – Despite its length, the Honda Accord knows how to navigate city streets. Its CVT transmission is particularly smooth, and its accelerations are progressive, making it very pleasant to drive in the city.
Technology and functionality
I love the Honda brand, but it tends to make me raise an eyebrow when it comes to entertainment technologies. The engineers at the company make things more complicated than necessary. In the Accord EX, there are more buttons and more direct access to certain menus. As a result, I had a completely different experience compared to the Accord Touring Hybrid. To be honest, I believe the new models have too many technologies, and more manufacturers should follow Honda’s lead and offer more affordable and simpler versions.
The tested version
As you could read in the previous paragraphs, I had the opportunity to test the Honda Accord EX after testing the Touring Hybrid version. Of course, there is a significant difference between the two models in terms of finishing and technologies. However, I adapted much more quickly to the base model, especially in terms of the multimedia system. The Honda Accord EX is attractive and well-equipped despite its position in the lineup.
Recommendations
There is a difference of less than $8,000 between the base model and the fully equipped version of the 2023 Accord. I would tend to say that the Hybrid Touring version offers the most value for your money. Nevertheless, I really liked the simplicity of the Accord EX. It’s a car that I recommend if you want a comfortable vehicle that is easy to understand and known for its reliability. With an MSRP below $40,000, we can say that the Japanese manufacturer’s sedan is an affordable car considering that the average price of a new vehicle is close to $60,000 today. The Accord EX is an excellent alternative if you need more space than a Honda Civic can offer and if you are looking for a certain level of comfort.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier