Roseville, Calif.- If you missed seeing the 2016 Honda Accord Hybrid, no worries because there wasn't one. Honda switched the production to Japan a year ago and took a year off from manufacturing its popular hybrid model.
The Honda Accord Hybrid is back for 2017 and frankly better than ever. Among the changes for the gasoline-electric powertrain, midsize sedan is increased horsepower and a smaller battery pack. Additional changes were adopted from the revised 2016 Accord that include styling, suspension tuning, smartphone integration and interior trim.
Once again if you're considering purchasing a Honda Accord, the dilemma one could face is one of its primary competitors is conceivably the Accord Hybrid.
The two Accords are midsize sedans that share many things, including appearance and interior dimensions. Outside of price, the major difference is the Accord Hybrid version gets a whopping estimated 47-49 mpg.
When shopping and looking to save a little money the Accord sedan gets the nod, starting at just over $22,000 as opposed to approximately $29,600 for the Hybrid. The regular Accord is no slouch on gas mileage, but the 28-37 range falls way short of the Hybrid.
In its 40th year of production in 2017, the Accord remains an icon among sedans. What's not to like? All Accords share the same enviable qualities – reliability, safe, efficient, stylish, and value oriented.
Although it almost unanimously earns high praise, the Accord Hybrid does have competition from other manufacturers. Its primary rivals include hybrid models the Ford Fusion, Toyota Camry, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, and the revised Chevrolet Malibu.
The Honda Accord Hybrid is available in three trim models (base, EX-L, Touring). One additional option to consider is the Accord Hybrid Plug-In.
2017 Honda Accord Hybrid
* Performance: 2.0-liter, four-cylinder, 212 horsepower
* Mileage estimate range: 47-49 mpg
* Price: $29,600 to $35,950
* Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles; drivetrain 5 years/60,000 miles; roadside assistance 3 years/36,000; corrosion 5 years/unlimited
For all Accord models, the major attributes continue to be superior fuel economy, roomy interior, strong acceleration, and good handling. Like most Hondas, the Accord Hybrid shouldn't require a lot of visits to the shop and the resale value is high.
There's only one engine offered with the Accord Hybrid, but it's a good one. Acceleration is a major plus with the performance-laden 2.0-liter, four-cylinder that provides 212 horsepower (an increase of 16 HP) and 226 pounds-feet of torque. It's been clocked going 0-60 mph in 7.5 seconds.
The Accord is one of the fastest non-luxury hybrids. It gets going rather quickly from a standing start and really excels on the freeway where its passing power makes one forget that this is a hybrid.
As expected, the Accord Hybrid's continuously variable automatic transmission doesn't operate as smoothly as the six-speed automatic that comes with the Accord. The one thing you will notice is while trying to accelerate there is an annoying engine whine at lower speeds.
On a more positive note, the Accord Hybrid handles well and gives the driver a good confidence level. The braking is solid as well.
The Accord Hybrid provides a comfortable ride for up to five people. Both front and back seat occupants will experience lots of head and leg room. The trunk space of 13.5 cubic feet is larger than the 2015 model due to the smaller battery.
There's a high quality feel to the interior, which features good intuitiveness and some high tech qualities, yet isn't difficult to master. The dash display (7.7 inches) is very helpful and the materials are of good quality – there's nothing cheap.
Thanks to the high gas mileage numbers and its terrific performance, the 2017 Honda Accord Hybrid is among the best of the best in this class.