Honda Accord has long been one of North America's best-selling cars; the 2013 is no exception. Honda has finally decided to give this car the power drivers have been wanting, making 2013 models more popular than ever. Most models get a lively yet fuel-efficient 2.4-liter inline-4 that offers 185 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. Paired with the continuously variable transmission, Accord can sprint to 60 mph in a quick 7.5 seconds and return 27 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. Those opting for the Sport trim see performance boosted just a tad and fuel economy drop 1 mpg. The newly upgraded 3.5-liter V6 generates 278 horsepower and 252 pound-feet of torque. It accelerates to 60 mph in only 6.1 seconds yet still manages to yield 21 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. These are impressive fuel economy numbers for all that power. There is really not much to complain about regarding handling and ride quality. The new electric-assist power steering is precise and the ride is smooth, but a little on the firm side. Those cringing at the thought of a CVT need not worry. This transmission shifts so smoothly you will think you have a regular six-speed automatic.
• Audio - The base 160-watt four-speaker system is not going to blow you away, but it does include a CD, iPod interface, auxiliary, and Pandora® radio interface. The available 360-watt seven-speaker system is a much better option and includes XM® radio and Aha™ by Harmon.
• Navigation - The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System recognizes more than 1500 voice commands while providing you with real-time road closures and slow downs.
• I-MID - The Intelligent Multi-Information Display uses an eight-inch screen to display Pandora® and USB information, text messages, and more.
• Push-Button Start - As long as you have your key fob on you, Accord will recognize you and start with the push of a button.
Accord is definitely consistent when it comes to safety. Once again, it receives top safety scores in roof, front, and side-impact protection from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Braking is not quite up to par with some of the competition though, taking 128 feet to stop from 60 mph. Higher trims now offer forward-collision, lane-departure, and blind-spot monitoring. Additional safety features include:
• Turn signal mirrors
• Traction control
• Tire pressure monitoring
• Electronic brakeforce distribution
• Stability control
• Engine immobilizer
• Rear door safety locks
• Emergency braking assist
• Child seat anchors
• Stability control
• Daytime running lamps
• Remote anti-theft alarm
• Dusk sensing headlamps
• Emergency interior trunk release
The 2013 Honda Accord has been fully redesigned to offer a more modern and sophisticated body. With its sleek profile, new front grille, and available alloy wheels, it appeals to a diverse driver. This midsize vehicle is available as coupe and sedan and five different trims. The base model is attractive with 16-inch wheels, but the Sport trim is a really popular pick thanks to a rear spoiler and 18-inch wheels.
The new cabin in Accord definitely does not disappoint. Quite honestly, the design and material quality is elegant enough to compete with some luxury models. The three-tier layout of the center stack has been thoughtfully designed with the driver in mind. The cabin is surprisingly spacious, offering ample leg and headroom in both rows. The 2013 model has also been given slimmer roof pillars for improved outward visibility. The biggest complaint with Honda is typically regarding road noise in the cabin, but two noise-cancellation systems have been added to hush the interior space.
The size of Accord's trunk space may surprise you. Sedan is even larger than before, offering 15.8 cubic feet while coupe is still generous at 13.4 cubes.