Honda Accord Review: Reliable Used Family Sedan

With decades of proven reliability, strong owner satisfaction, solid safety credentials and impressive resale value, the Honda Accord comfortably belongs among the top used cars to consider in Canada. Owners and industry experts praise the Accord for its fuss-free ownership experience. Recent years have seen the addition of turbocharged engines and advanced hybrid systems, boosting the model’s appeal with better fuel economy and stronger performance.

The 2023 model year introduced the all-new 11th-generation Accord, which means the previous, 10th-generation model (sold for model years 2018–2022) is firmly in the used-car market. That generation represents a modern balance of comfort, technology, efficiency and driving engagement.

Honda built this generation of the Accord around the world under its “build where you sell” approach; North American Accords are assembled in Marysville, Ohio. The 2018 redesign replaced the previous car with a new, lighter and stiffer platform that lowered and widened the silhouette for a more assertive stance. The chassis and suspension tuning improved ride and handling, and the lineup offered three main powertrain choices: a new turbocharged 1.5-litre, a detuned 2.0-litre turbo derived from Honda’s performance engines, and a third-generation hybrid system.

Designers repositioned the cabin for a sportier, more commanding seating posture while increasing interior space without significantly enlarging the overall footprint. Buyers also benefited from Honda making advanced safety systems standard across the range: the Honda Sensing suite includes collision mitigation braking, lane departure warning, road departure mitigation, adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, and traffic sign recognition. Many models also include blind-spot monitoring, front and rear parking sensors, rear cross-traffic alert and driver attention monitoring.

Is the Honda Accord a good car?

Yes — especially for 2021 and newer examples. Honda applied a number of useful updates that year to styling, technology and equipment packaging, and made the top infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard across the range rather than reserving it for the top trims. Wireless phone charging also became available on more models.

The 2021 Accord Hybrid received tuning that improved responsiveness while delivering class-leading power and excellent fuel economy. Buying a used hybrid Accord can be a smart financial move: hybrids typically retain value well, and they reduce fuel costs from the moment you take ownership.

Across multiple model years the Accord has frequently appeared on “best of” lists and industry award rosters, reflecting Honda’s consistent approach to refinement with each generation. For example, the 2022 Accord earned Canada’s Best Large Car recognition from the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada after extensive testing by Canadian automotive writers and road-test experts.

The Honda Accord engine: What’s inside these used models?

Depending on trim and model year, the 10th-generation Accord offers one of three powertrains: a 2.0-litre turbo four (a detuned version of the unit used in Honda’s sport models) producing about 252 horsepower; a 1.5-litre turbo four producing around 192 horsepower; or a 2.0-litre hybrid system that produces about 212 horsepower combined.

Most turbo models channel power through a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission with advanced shift logic that can skip gears for rapid, refined responses. A six-speed manual was also offered on select trims, appealing to driving enthusiasts who prefer greater connection and control.

Honda Accord issues to know about

One limitation to consider: the Accord is front-wheel drive only. Buyers who want all-wheel drive will need to consider alternatives such as the Subaru Legacy, Nissan Altima or Toyota Camry in markets where AWD is offered.

The lower, sportier seating position improves handling feel but can make entry and exit slightly more difficult for some occupants. While the infotainment system is functional and capable, several owners find the graphics and user interface fall behind more modern, more visually polished systems offered by competitors. Other common owner complaints include below-average audio performance and some seat discomfort on longer journeys.

This generation of Accord has had a number of safety recalls over the years; prospective buyers should check the vehicle identification number (VIN) with a dealer or through official recall lookup tools to confirm all recall items have been completed before purchase.

What to look for when buying a used Honda Accord

When inspecting a used Accord, check the windshield and both bumpers for signs of damage or poor repairs that could have affected sensors or safety equipment mounted behind those areas. Test the backup camera and parking sensors multiple times during a test drive.

Open the hood and check for any fuel smells; there should be no noticeable gasoline odor. If fuel smells are present, have a qualified technician inspect the vehicle for potential leaks before proceeding with a purchase.

Inside, check the navigation or infotainment system’s destination history; a long list of airport terminals, hotels or transit stations may indicate prior use as a shuttle or taxi, which could mean higher wear. This generation uses direct-injection engines, so it’s wise to fuel at reputable stations and adhere to timely oil changes and spark-plug intervals to preserve long-term engine health.

Should I buy a Honda Accord?

If you want a roomy, comfortable family sedan with engaging driving manners, the Accord is an excellent choice. Sedans are becoming less common as many buyers prefer SUVs, so desirable used Accords can be snapped up quickly. For enthusiasts, the availability of a manual transmission on some trims is a welcome nod to driving enjoyment. Overall, the Accord offers a strong mix of practicality, efficiency and driving pleasure.

Example: 2019 Honda Accord 2.0 Touring specifications

Price as tested (when new): $40,226
Body type: 4-door, 5-passenger sedan
Powertrain layout: Front engine, front-wheel drive
Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four, DOHC
Horsepower: 252
Torque (lb-ft): 273
Transmission: 10-speed automatic
Curb weight: 1,562 kg (3,444 lb)
NRCan fuel economy (combined): 9.1 L / 100 km
EPA fuel economy (combined): 27 MPG

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How much is insurance for a used Honda Accord?

Auto insurance premiums depend on many factors including driver age, location and driving history. As an example, estimated monthly costs to insure a 2019 Honda Accord 2.0 Touring for typical driver profiles in Toronto might be roughly:

Female, age 35, clean driving record: $233
Male, age 35, clean driving record: $234
Gender X, age 35, clean driving record: $233

These figures are illustrative; actual rates vary by insurer, coverage limits and discounts available. When shopping for insurance, compare multiple personalized quotes to find the best coverage and price for your situation.