2023 Honda Accord Hybrid Sedan

Performance is a bit too far-fetched a word for the 2023 Accord Hybrid, unsurprisingly comfortable is more like it. The new Accord hybrid borrows its drivetrain as it is from the mighty CR-V. It consists of a 2.0-liter four-pot running on a gas-friendly Atkinson cycle.

 It has 146 hp/134 lb-ft on its own but when combined with an AC motor and a 1.1-kWh lithium-ion battery pack it churns our barely adequate 181 hp-247 lb-ft sending power to the front wheels via an e-CVT transmission.

0-60 is beyond the point here but in any case, I managed a consistent high 6 seconds and mid 7s on any given day, although I will admit that I only launched it 4-5 odd times using the good old brake hold. 

The real reason you would buy the 2023 Accord Hybrid is due to its frugality and practicality, both of which are pretty much available in spades here. The CVT is an excellent gearbox for this kind of vehicle and does its job without any drone or dreaded rubber band effect, thanks to the urgent way the EV torque makes itself available from zero RPM. 

Though, mind you, that after 50 mph or slower the 2023 Accord becomes increasingly lethargic in both Eco and Sport modes and requires a cool head and a heavy foot to get to highway speeds. Honda did us dirty by dropping the 250 hp unit for 11 gen, but it is what it is. 

Ride Quality 

The 11-generation Accord rides just like its predecessor. I mean that in a very positive sense. The large wheelbase and pliant suspension setup mean bumps and potholes are glided over without the driver even noticing, in this case, It was my friend Joshua who had nothing but praise when it came to the 2023 Accord’s ride quality.

If you have previously driven a gas-only Accord, while braking you would notice the extra 300 pounds the Hybrid version of Accord is carrying but not in a way you would call problematic.

One problem or a suggestion is Honda should have provided a 17-inch wheel option for the 2023 Hybrid Accord as it would have made it possible to go 50 MPG all day long, considering how it can manage 45 MPG on 19-inch rollers our review unit came with. NVH would have been improved too, from good to excellent. 

The moment you step inside the 2023 Accord, you know that Honda has done its due diligence albeit with very high-quality plastic and leather, the latter is trim-dependent. The large single-piece honeycomb grille adds flair while the 12-inch infotainment screen is standard across all hybrid variants. My unit came with cloth seats but black leather ones are standard with Touring and EX-L trims.

The driver-side seats can be adjusted manually in Sport trim but powerseats along with heating and ventilation are available from EX-L onwards. Honda says they have redesigned the seats for more lumbar support. I found them supportive enough for both short and long journeys and during mid-corners, not that it's built for hunting apexes, lol.

The 12-inch touchscreen is zippy and responsive and comes with Google Maps and stuff. The wireless Car Play and Android Auto work very well without any lag whatsoever. Base speakers are okay in terms of call clarity and occasion headbanging but go for touring if you care about music as it comes with 8 speaker Bose setup along with HUD and Wireless Charger.

The best part about the 2023 Accord is its analog buttons and excellent ergonomics for daily controls like AC and Volume. Honda’s decision to stick with physical buttons will be remembered for years to come.

Unlike its Snoopy Droopy predecessor, the new 2023 Accord looks like a fresh start that just might last for years to come. The sleek and bold lines make it seem larger than it is. You'll notice its wide grille, sharp LED headlights, and sculpted side profile that gives it a modern, sophisticated feel. The rear showcases slim, aerodynamic taillights that emphasize its refined design.

If you opt for the Sport trim, you'll enjoy additional flair, such as a gloss black grille and 19-inch alloy wheels, which elevate its athletic stance. The Sport trim also adds a more aggressive rear diffuser and sporty accents

The only other car that takes the 2023 Accord Hybrid head-on is its age-old enemy, the Camry Hybrid. They are toe to toe in every department, be it comfort, mileage, or practicality. Looks are the sole exception, but those are subjective.

The Accord Hybrid stands out with its 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and electric motor, producing a combined 212 horsepower. It also offers a spacious and refined interior, with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and premium materials that elevate the driving experience. Fuel efficiency is impressive, with the Accord Hybrid achieving 48 mpg city and 47 mpg highway

Camry Hybrid shines in terms of fuel efficiency, with an outstanding 51 mpg city and 53 mpg highway. Its 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and electric motor produce 208 horsepower, which is slightly less than the Accord’s output. The Camry Hybrid offers a smooth and comfortable ride, with a quiet, well-insulated cabin. Starting at approximately $27,500, it provides excellent value.