2023 Honda Accord Hybrid – First Drive
The Honda Accord is Still our Favorite
While crossovers continue to roam the roads with its practicality, there’s still full-size sedan still shows much love thanks to its added comfort. As a matter of fact, the same amount of comfort in a cross-over would cost drastically more.
The Honda Accord ticks the comfort and luxury boxes. And with the hybrid option available, the Accord gets up to a whopping 51 mpg.
Model 2023 receives a complete redesign with updated styling inside out and more standard features available. Our tester model is a Touring Hybrid with a starting price of $39,985. The hybrid model also comes in a lower Sport-L hybrid trim at $35,970
Powertrain
Under test is the hybrid variant equipped with a 1.5L four cylinder engine working discretely in tandem with two electric motors. The result is a respectable 204 horsepower. Just like most hybrid powertrains, the Accord Hybrid comes equipped with a Continuous Variable Transmission rather than a 6 speed automatic top optimal fuel efficiency.
Fuel economy is phenomenal on the Accord Hybrid with EPA ratings of up to 51 mpg on the city and 48 on the highway. During our test drive, we got an average of 49 mpg in both mixed city and highway driving.
Interior
Interior features a clean and contemporary cabin with an all-LCD instrument display, a unique honey-comb heat vents and triple-dial climate controls digital display. Above all, both the looks and feel are sublime to with the quality of construction materials in our highest Touring Hybrid trim.
Tech Features
Standard infotainment setup gets a smaller 7.0″ touchscreen while higher trims including our Hybrid Touring gets a larger 12.3″ display. Both Android Auto and Apple Carplay are included with wireless smartphone connectivity. Honda also manages to squeeze in a booming 12-speaker Bose stereo sound system.
Road Test
Perhaps considered to be the best feature of the Honda Accord (regardless of trim) is the ride quality. The Accord does a phenomenal job in road comfort while minimizing road noise within the cabin space, offering a luxury-like driving experience. It’s roomy and practical as well with plenty of leg space in the rear seats thanks to its full-size sedan class and the front center console offers plenty of storage with two cup holders, an available smartphone charger, and a center console glovebox.
While the Accord is front-wheel drive, steering felt nimble and predictable across all road occasions.
The Honda Accord (especially the hybrid) remains one of our top choices with its attractive contemporary styling, quality interior and road comfort. Those seeking a family-oriented sedan will surely enjoy exceptional road manner, excellent fuel economy all within a value-oriented package.