2016 Honda Accord
New for 2016
The Accord gets a substantial update for 2016, including revised styling and the addition of more technology features.
Lead, Don't Follow
The midsize sedan segment is one of the most competitive in the car industry, and the Honda Accord has led that segment more often than not. Honda isn’t resting on its laurels, though. The 2016 Honda Accord maintains the character of older models, but adds the latest technology to keep things up to date.
Powertrains and Performance
Many things about the 2016 Honda Accord have changed, but Honda’s ability to balance efficiency and sportiness has not. The Accord is once again offered with four-cylinder and V6 engine options with front-wheel drive, and the package is sharper than ever.
The 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine features direct injection and Honda’s i-VTEC variable-valve timing system. It produces 185 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque in most models, but gets bumped to 189 hp and 182 lb-ft in the Accord Sport Sedan, thanks to a freer-flowing exhaust system. Transmission choices include a six-speed manual, a six-speed automatic, or a CVT, depending on the model. The V6 also features Variable Cylinder Management, which can shut down up to three cylinders under light loads, to save fuel.
Equipped with the four-cylinder engine and six-speed manual, all 2016 Accord sedan models are rated at 27 mpg combined (23 mpg city, 34 mpg highway) by the EPA.* With the CVT, standard models are rated at 31 mpg combined (27 mpg city, 37 mpg highway),* while the Accord Sport Sedan is rated at 30 mpg combined (26 mpg city, 35 mpg highway).* The six-speed automatic is mandatory on V6 sedans, and in that configuration the Accord is rated at 26 mpg combined (21 mpg city, 34 mpg highway).*
Four-cylinder Accord coupe models are rated at 27 mpg combined (23 mpg city, 34 mpg highway) with the six-speed manual.* CVT-equipped four-cylinder coupes are rated at 30 mpg combined (26 mpg city, 35 mpg highway).* With the V6, the Accord coupe is rated at 22 mpg combined (18 mpg city, 22 mpg highway) when equipped with the six-speed manual,* while six-speed automatic models are rated at 25 mpg combined (21 mpg city, 32 mpg highway).*
Features and Trims
The 2016 Honda Accord is offered as either a four-door, five-seat sedan, or a two-door, four-seat coupe. Between the two body styles, it’s available in five trim levels. Pricing start at $22,105.**
The base model is the LX (LX-S for coupes), and it represents a pretty good value. Standard equipment includes chrome door handles, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth®, Pandora capability, a tilt and telescoping steering column, a chrome exhaust tip, and more.
The sedan-only Sport trim level includes all of the applicable standard features from the LX, and adds LED daytime running lights and fog lights, a body-color rear spoiler and side sills, leather-wrapped steering wheel, aluminum pedals, 60/40 split-folding rear seatback, and a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat.
Available as either a coupe or sedan, the EX adds Smart Entry, a power moonroof, heated side mirrors with integrated turn signals, pushbutton start, HD Radio®, Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto (for compatible devices), and other features. The EX-L adds still more features, including an auto-dimming rearview mirror, two-position memory for the driver’s seat, heated front seats, and a compass.
The top Accord model is the Touring, which incorporates all of the applicable standard features from the other models, but also adds standard navigation, automatic LED headlights, rain sensing wipers, and more.
Design
The pre-facelift ninth-generation Accord was a handsome car, but the 2016 model adds some visual flourishes to make the design more dynamic and interesting. The front fascia is now more intricate, with a more pronounced grille that joins with the headlights, and a front bumper that’s more separated from the lower grille opening and air intakes. The sedan also gets a sculpted aluminum hood, and all models make greater use of LED lighting.
On the inside, the Accord gets a serious technology update. There’s now an available 7.0-inch touchscreen display for infotainment functions, and available Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto. These systems allow iOS® and Android™ users to access content and features from their smartphones using the car’s built-in controls.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2016 Honda Accord includes anti-lock brakes, Vehicle Stability Assist with Traction Control, a rearview camera, and a full array of airbags. Optional features include a number of electronic driver aids, such as Road Departure Mitigation, Collision Mitigation Braking System, lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and forward-collision warning.
Bottom Line
The Honda Accord has been the standard for midsize sedans for years, and the refreshed 2016 model keeps it ahead of the pack.
Be sure to contact us online or visit us at our Hall Honda Virginia Beach to schedule a test drive.
*Based on 2016 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions and other factors.
**MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, $820.00 destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary.
Image: Honda