One of America’s favorite cars is changing: the Honda Accord. For 2018, Honda is revamping its classic sedan. With 20 years of proven reliability and an all-new family-friendly design, here’s why the 2018 Accord remains on top:
Not only does the all-new Accord boast improved fuel economy, but it also benefits from a roomier interior. Longtime Honda fans will immediately notice the new Accord’s seductive exterior styling, which is reminiscent of the Audi A5 Sportback. An eye-catching pair of “Jewel Eye” LED headlamps give the redesigned model an especially sophisticated appearance.
Car reviewers from across the country have already touted the new Accord as being a class leader. In fact, it received KBB’s “Best Value” award in the midsize sedan segment. Prices start at a reasonable $24,445 for the well-equipped base model.
Let’s break down everything the 2018 Honda Accord brings to the table.
Performance Specs
A completely new engine lineup arrives for 2018. The base power source is a turbocharged 1.5-liter, four-cylinder engine. Honda tuned it to develop a healthy 192 horsepower and 192 pound-feet of torque. Test drivers rave about the base engine’s elevated level of performance. While a CVT automatic comes standard, the Sport trim can be equipped with a six-speed manual transmission. If you are the type of driver who craves more excitement, step up to the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. It develops a gutsy 252 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This upgraded engine can be mated to either a 10-speed automatic transmission or a traditional stick-shift gearbox. Although Honda no longer offers a V6-powered Accord, you won’t notice a lack of muscle under the hood. A 0-60 time of 5.8 seconds puts the 2.0L Accord among the quickest family sedans on the market.
On the road, the new Accord proves to be more engaging than ever before. It feels more like a sports sedan opposed to a regular family car. This is especially true for the models that feature a manual transmission. All versions of the 2018 Honda Accord offer excellent ride comfort. It is the perfect sedan for taking out-of-town road trips. Handling is yet another strong point for the new Accord. Equipped with adaptive suspension dampers, the Accord Touring inspires drivers plenty of confidence on twisty roads.
Fuel Efficiency
Every driver can take advantage of the 2018 Honda Accord’s fuel-efficient design. The standard engine is rated to return an EPA-estimated 30 mpg in town and 38 mpg on the highway. Meanwhile, you can expect the larger turbocharged engine to return an equally as impressive 23 mpg in the city and up to 34 mpg on the open road. The manual-equipped Accord Sport is only slightly less efficient. Fortunately, you won’t need to purchase premium fuel. Honda designed every trim in the lineup to develop full power using regular unleaded gas.
Safety and Entertainment Features
When it comes to passenger safety, the 2018 Honda Accord ranks among the class leaders. Even the base Accord benefits from several convenient driving aids. The standard multi-angle backup camera dramatically enhances the driver’s rearward visibility. Meanwhile, Brake Assist technology helps ensure the optimum stopping power during emergency situations. This year, a Honda Sensing safety package comes standard as well. It includes a number of active safety technologies, including automatic braking and lane departure prevention. Rear cross-traffic alert and blind-spot detection are also offered on the higher trim levels.
The 2018 Honda Accord proves to be a solid overall value. Bluetooth connectivity, seven-inch display screen, and push-button start all come standard. You also have access to a number of other exciting features. Honda’s new Display Audio infotainment system is far easier to use than the previous unit. Actual tuning knobs enable drivers to easily adjust the system while on the road. Meanwhile, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will keep smartphone users happy. For the folks who desire a captivating music-listening experience, Honda offers a 450-watt sound system. To experience a top-notch degree of luxury, check out the upscale Accord Touring. It provides niceties such as ventilated leather seats and a head-up display.
How It Stacks Up Against Competition in the Same Class
As always, the Toyota Camry remains one of the Accord’s closest competitors. While the new 2018 Toyota Camry delivers ample performance, it fails to offer buyers a manual transmission. You may also consider test driving the new Ford Fusion. The Fusion Sport’s 325-horsepower engine enables it to accelerate quicker than any other sedan in the segment. However, your rear-seat passengers will have more room when riding in the Accord.
Pros / Cons
The 2018 Honda Accord excels in a lot of important categories. It is stylish, efficient, and remarkably fun to drive. A lengthy list of standard safety technologies instills drivers with an extra peace of mind. The Accord’s high-quality interior gives you yet another reason to take it home.
While the redesigned Accord is impressive, it does have a few potential drawbacks. Some drivers will miss the old V6 engine, which was known for its smooth power delivery. Honda also chose to discontinue the coupe body style. When driving models equipped with 19-inch performance wheels, expect to hear a bit more road noise from inside the cabin. Keep in mind that the 2018 Honda Accord costs more money than before. Last year, the Accord’s starting MSRP was roughly $1,445 less expensive. If you need all-wheel-drive traction during the winter time, you will be out of luck with the new Accord.