The current Honda Accord debuted as an all-new model in 2013. So, to keep up with its competitors in the heavily contested family sedan segment in the U.S., Honda engineers are giving their popular mid-size entry a mid-cycle refresh for 2016.
First Impression
As may have been expected, the refresh is more of an evolution rather than a revolution of the current Accord’s design.
For 2016, the Honda Accord sedan and coupe (last of its kind), get the customary redesigned front and rear bumpers, new rims, minor interior tweaks, and reshuffling of the option packages.
Since the current Honda Accord is already a popular choice amongst Honda enthusiasts, the engineers have focused their attention on adding more tech and safety features.
Performance
For 2016, the Honda Accord sedan and coupe remain unchanged under the hood.
The base engine is a 2.4 L naturally aspirated four-cylinder unit, which produces 185 horsepower and 181 lb. ft. torque. In the Accord Sport trim, the engine produces 189 horsepower and 182 lb.ft. torque.
The four-cylinder Accord offers two transmission choices. The standard transmission is a six-speed manual gearbox, and the optional one is a CVT transmission. The optional engine is a 3.5 L naturally aspirated six-cylinder motor, which produces 278 horsepower and 252 lb.ft. torque.
The V6 equipped sedan comes standard with a six-speed automatic transmission. However, owners of the V6 equipped coupe have the option to choose between the six-speed automatic or a manual transmission.
What’s New
For 2016, Honda Accord debuts Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. These features will be available on EX and higher trim levels which feature the 7-inch Honda Display Audio System. Unfortunately, these features will not be available on the base LX and Sport trim levels.
The Honda Display Audio System can become a bit inconvenient for first-time Honda customers due to the complete lack of physical buttons and knobs.
For example, it does not even feature a dial for the volume control.
The center console of the 2016 Honda Accord features an additional 7.7 inch screen which displays images from the backup or lane watch cameras. It also displays turn-by-turn directions, the trip computer, audio information, phone calls, and text messages.
On the safety front for 2016, Honda is adding automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and road-departure mitigation to the current list of adaptive cruise control, forward collision and lane departure warnings.
The safety package, known as Honda Sensing, is a standard feature on the top-of-the-range Touring specs but can be optioned on all the lesser trim levels.
Additionally for 2016, multi-angle backup camera is standard on all Accord models, along with satellite radio. Homelink Integration is now standard on EX trim and above, and 60/40 split-folding rear bench is now standard on all trim levels, except the base LX.
For consumers who want to have it all, the 2016 Honda Accord Touring features automatic high beams, heated rear seats, rain-sensing wipers, front and rear parking sensors, and the Honda Sensing system.
For 2016, the front fascia of the Accord sedan and coupe feature a thick chrome bar, which dominates the slimmer grille and the squint headlights.
The redesigned lower fascia incorporates LED fog lights, which are available on all trim levels except the base LX.
LEDs are also used on the Accord Touring coupe’s headlights, taillights, and for the daytime running lights.
The 2016 Honda Accord also features new rim designs. The Touring, coupe, and the Sport now roll on 19 inch alloy rims.
Availability
The mid-cycle refreshed 2016 Honda Accord sedan and coupe will arrive at dealerships next month.
The Accord hybrid will return after a year long break as a 2017 model, with a completely reworked powertrain. Unfortunately, the plug-in hybrid Accord has been discontinued for the North American market. The oddly designed Accord Crosstour hatchback is discontinued too.
Pricing for the 2016 Accord models could be slightly higher across the range compared to the 2015 models due to the added tech, safety, and convenience features. Those looking for something a little smaller than the Accord may want to consider the Fit.
Information and Image Source: Honda Motorcars
