There was a time when midsize sedans dominated the market. Today, things are different, with pickups and sport utility vehicles more popular than ever. However, cars like the Honda Accord are no less appealing than before—in fact, I'd argue the opposite. It's hard to beat in terms of comfort, and its value for money is far superior to any equivalent SUV or truck. Sure, driving a sedan may not seem as glamorous, but the truth is, the Honda Accord is probably the best vehicle you can buy. And that says something coming from someone with no particular affinity for the brand.
Honda has always played its cards well with the Accord, which remains an excellent car on all fronts. It doesn't offer all-wheel drive, there's no performance version, and color and wheel choices are limited. Still, the Japanese automaker's sedan excels through its simplicity.
Lineup and Pricing
For 2025, the Honda Accord lineup consists of three versions, starting with the SE model, which serves as the entry-level trim. That said, this is far from a bare-bones car—it comes well equipped with a comprehensive list of standard features. Pricing starts at $41,153. Next up is the Sport-L Hybrid version at $45,848, offering more color choices, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and—as the name suggests—a hybrid powertrain. Finally, the Touring Hybrid tops the lineup at $48,348. It includes a head-up display, leather seats, and a premium Bose sound system. Given the price difference, I strongly recommend considering one of the hybrid versions.
Segment and Competition
Setting luxury models aside, you can count the number of midsize sedans still available on one hand. Fortunately, those that remain are solid options, and the Honda Accord is arguably the benchmark in its segment.
Rivals: Hyundai Sonata, Nissan Altima, Toyota Camry, Toyota Crown
Design and Technology
I must say, I really like the design direction Honda has taken in recent years. The Honda Accord is a serious-looking and elegant car despite its simplicity—something that's not easy to achieve on the drawing board. Its color palette is fairly muted, with the exception of red and blue. Honda could have made more of an effort in this area. There are some great-looking optional wheels, but at $3,880 a set, they're certainly not cheap.
The 2025 Honda Accord's cabin is spacious and very comfortable. It's the kind of car you can drive for hours without ever feeling tired or uncomfortable. The dashboard is stylish, and everything is right where it should be. As for driver-assist technologies, they work very well. On top of that, Honda has significantly improved its infotainment system, which used to be a major drawback.
Performance
As you may have gathered from the trim breakdown, the 2025 Honda Accord offers two powertrain options. First is a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 192 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque. It's paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that sends power to the front wheels. The hybrid version features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor, for a total output of 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. Here again, the CVT and front-wheel drive layout are used. In terms of fuel economy, the Japanese sedan averages 5.0 L/100 km in the city and 5.7 L/100 km on the highway, making it one of the most fuel-efficient cars on the market.
Weak Points
All-wheel drive is a notable absence from the lineup. Some options are ridiculously expensive, and we wouldn't mind a couple more color choices for the exterior.
Strong Points
It's a comfortable and pleasant car to drive. The hybrid version's fuel economy is outstanding. The 2025 Honda Accord offers an excellent value for money.
Signature Trait
The Honda Accord is a safe bet. It's a classic, no-nonsense sedan that's easy to appreciate.
Final Thoughts
It may not be the car you dream of when you're 18, but the Honda Accord is definitely the kind of model that makes life easier and more enjoyable when you're seeking wisdom and stability.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
