2025 Honda Accord Review: Complete Analysis

Executive Summary

The 2025 Honda Accord continues to set the standard for midsize sedan excellence, delivering a masterful combination of refinement, efficiency, and advanced technology that positions it as the most well-rounded choice in its competitive segment. This eleventh-generation Accord builds upon Honda's decades of sedan expertise while incorporating cutting-edge features and design elements that keep it relevant in an SUV-dominated market.

Our extensive testing reveals a sedan that excels across virtually every metric important to buyers, from interior space and comfort to fuel economy and driving dynamics. The Accord's sophisticated engineering, premium materials, and attention to detail create an ownership experience that rivals many luxury vehicles while maintaining Honda's reputation for reliability and value.

Design and Exterior Excellence

The 2025 Accord showcases Honda's most sophisticated design language to date, with clean lines and purposeful proportions that create an elegant and timeless appearance. The front fascia features a bold yet refined grille design that integrates seamlessly with the LED headlight units, creating a cohesive and premium appearance that commands attention without appearing ostentatious.

Body proportions are perfectly balanced, with a long hood, short overhangs, and a roofline that flows gracefully into the rear deck. The side profile demonstrates excellent attention to detail, with character lines that add visual interest while maintaining the clean, uncluttered aesthetic that makes the Accord appear larger and more substantial than its actual dimensions suggest.

The rear design is particularly well-executed, featuring distinctive LED taillights that span the width of the vehicle and create a sophisticated lighting signature. The integrated spoiler and dual exhaust outlets on higher trim levels add subtle sporting touches without compromising the overall refined appearance.

Build Quality and Materials

External build quality is exemplary, with tight panel gaps, excellent paint finish, and durable trim pieces that maintain their appearance over time. The available alloy wheels range from 17 to 19 inches and feature attractive designs that complement the Accord's sophisticated styling while providing good tire protection and brake cooling.

Interior Space and Luxury

The Accord's interior represents one of the most impressive achievements in the midsize sedan class, offering genuinely spacious accommodations for five adults along with thoughtful design details that enhance both comfort and functionality. Front seats provide exceptional support and adjustability, with available power lumbar support and memory settings that ensure optimal driving positions for different drivers.

Rear passenger space is outstanding, with 40.4 inches of legroom that exceeds many full-size sedans and provides genuine comfort for adult passengers on extended journeys. The rear seat design features proper contouring and support, while the low floor tunnel allows the center passenger to sit comfortably when needed.

Material quality throughout the cabin is impressive, with soft-touch surfaces on all frequently contacted areas and attractive trim pieces that add visual interest. The available leather upholstery features excellent grain patterns and durability, while heated and ventilated seats provide year-round comfort in various climates.

Storage and Convenience Features

The Accord excels in practical storage solutions with numerous compartments and clever design features throughout the cabin. The center console provides substantial storage space with multiple levels and organizers, while the door pockets are sized to accommodate water bottles and other essential items.

Trunk space measures an impressive 16.7 cubic feet, which is among the largest in the midsize sedan class and easily accommodates multiple large suitcases or extensive grocery shopping. The trunk opening is wide and the load floor is conveniently positioned for easy loading and unloading.

Performance and Engineering

The 2025 Accord offers two highly refined powertrain options, each engineered to deliver distinct performance characteristics while maintaining Honda's reputation for efficiency and reliability. The standard 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 192 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque, providing smooth and responsive acceleration that feels more powerful than the specifications suggest.

The available 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine generates 252 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, transforming the Accord into a genuinely quick sedan capable of 0-60 mph acceleration in just 6.7 seconds. This engine is paired with Honda's excellent 10-speed automatic transmission that provides smooth shifts and intelligent gear selection.

The hybrid powertrain combines a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine with two electric motors to produce a total system output of 204 horsepower. This configuration delivers exceptional fuel economy while providing smooth, linear acceleration that feels refined and effortless in all driving conditions.

Driving Experience

The Accord's driving dynamics represent a perfect balance between comfort and engagement, offering a refined ride quality that absorbs road imperfections effectively while maintaining excellent body control during spirited driving. The suspension tuning is sophisticated and well-calibrated, providing confidence-inspiring handling without compromising passenger comfort.

Steering precision is excellent, with good on-center feel and progressive weighting that provides clear feedback about road conditions and vehicle dynamics. The electric power steering system offers different modes that adjust effort levels to suit various driving preferences and conditions.

Brake performance is outstanding, with strong stopping power, excellent pedal feel, and consistent performance even during aggressive driving. The hybrid model's regenerative braking system is seamlessly integrated and provides natural feel without the artificial sensation common in some hybrid vehicles.

Technology and Innovation

The 2025 Accord features Honda's most advanced infotainment system, centered around a 12.3-inch touchscreen that provides crisp graphics, intuitive operation, and comprehensive connectivity options. The interface is logically organized with clearly labeled functions and minimal learning curve for new users.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration comes standard, providing seamless smartphone connectivity without the need for cables. The system supports multiple device connections and remembers preferences for different users, making it ideal for households with multiple drivers.

The available premium Bose audio system delivers exceptional sound quality with carefully tuned acoustics that take advantage of the Accord's quiet cabin environment. The 12-speaker configuration provides excellent sound staging and clarity across all frequency ranges.

Advanced Driver Assistance

Honda Sensing comes standard on all Accord models, providing a comprehensive suite of active safety and convenience features including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, collision mitigation braking, and traffic sign recognition. These systems work together seamlessly to reduce driver fatigue and enhance safety in various driving conditions.

The Traffic Jam Assist feature provides semi-autonomous driving capability in low-speed traffic situations, maintaining lane position and following distance automatically while requiring periodic steering input from the driver. This feature significantly reduces stress during stop-and-go commuting.

Safety and Protection

Safety performance is exemplary, with the Accord earning top ratings from both NHTSA (5-star overall) and IIHS (Top Safety Pick+). The advanced body structure incorporates high-strength steel in critical areas while maintaining efficient crumple zones that protect occupants in various crash scenarios.

The comprehensive airbag system includes front, side, and curtain airbags along with a driver's knee airbag that provides additional protection in frontal impacts. The seat belt system features pretensioners and load limiters that optimize restraint forces for different occupant sizes.

Honda's reputation for long-term reliability extends to the Accord, which consistently ranks among the most dependable vehicles in its class. The combination of proven engineering, quality materials, and extensive testing ensures that Accord owners can expect years of trouble-free operation.

Fuel Economy and Environmental Impact

Fuel efficiency is a major strength of the Accord lineup, with all variants delivering excellent real-world fuel economy that translates to significant savings at the pump. The base 1.5-liter turbo engine achieves EPA ratings of 32/42 mpg city/highway, which we consistently matched or exceeded in our real-world testing.

The hybrid model's exceptional 48/47 mpg ratings make it one of the most efficient non-plug-in vehicles available, with real-world fuel economy that regularly exceeds 45 mpg in mixed driving conditions. This efficiency is achieved without compromising performance or driving enjoyment.

The 2.0-liter turbo engine, despite its performance focus, still delivers respectable fuel economy at 22/32 mpg, making it a viable option for buyers who want both performance and reasonable efficiency.

Pricing and Value Analysis

The 2025 Accord represents exceptional value in the midsize sedan segment, starting at $27,295 for the well-equipped LX model and extending to approximately $38,000 for the fully loaded Touring trim. This pricing structure provides excellent value at every level while offering meaningful feature upgrades between trim levels.

Standard equipment on base models includes Honda Sensing safety suite, 8-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration, automatic climate control, and LED lighting. Higher trim levels add premium features like leather seating, wireless charging, premium audio, and advanced driver assistance features.

The hybrid models command a premium of approximately $2,000 over equivalent gasoline models, but this cost difference is quickly recovered through fuel savings, particularly for drivers with higher annual mileage or longer commutes.

Trim Level Comparison

Competitive Landscape

The Accord competes in one of the most challenging automotive segments, facing strong competition from the Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, and Hyundai Sonata. Each competitor offers distinct advantages, but the Accord's combination of space, refinement, and efficiency gives it a clear competitive edge.

Compared to the Toyota Camry, the Accord offers more interior space, particularly for rear passengers, and a more refined driving experience. While the Camry may have a slight edge in predicted reliability, the Accord's superior interior accommodations and more advanced technology features make it the better choice for many buyers.

Against the Nissan Altima, the Accord provides superior build quality, better long-term reliability, and more sophisticated engineering throughout. The Accord's safety ratings and resale values are also significantly better than the Altima's.

Long-Term Ownership

Honda's reputation for reliability and durability translates to excellent long-term ownership experience with the Accord. Many Accord owners report trouble-free operation well beyond 150,000 miles with proper maintenance, making it an excellent choice for buyers who plan to keep their vehicles for many years.

Maintenance costs are reasonable and predictable, with Honda's extensive dealer network ensuring convenient service availability nationwide. Parts availability is excellent and pricing is competitive, contributing to lower total ownership costs compared to many premium competitors.

The Accord's strong resale value helps protect owners' investments, with three-year residual values consistently ranking among the best in the midsize sedan class.

Real-World Performance Testing

Our comprehensive testing program included over 1,200 miles of driving in various conditions, from urban commuting to extended highway travel. The results consistently demonstrate the Accord's excellence in real-world driving scenarios that matter most to sedan buyers.

Fuel economy in actual driving conditions met or exceeded EPA estimates across all powertrain options. The hybrid model was particularly impressive, achieving over 46 mpg in mixed driving conditions while providing smooth, refined acceleration that never felt underpowered.

Comfort levels remained consistently high throughout extended driving sessions, with excellent seat support, effective climate control, and low noise levels that create a serene driving environment. The ride quality successfully isolates passengers from road imperfections while maintaining good handling characteristics.

Target Buyer Profile

The 2025 Honda Accord is perfectly suited for buyers who appreciate sophisticated engineering, premium comfort, and advanced technology in a practical sedan package. It's an ideal choice for professionals who want to make a good impression, families who need reliable transportation with generous space, and anyone who values refinement and efficiency over flashy styling or luxury badges.

The Accord particularly appeals to buyers who prioritize interior space and comfort, as its rear passenger accommodations are genuinely superior to most competitors. The hybrid model is especially attractive for environmentally conscious buyers who don't want to compromise on performance or features.

Technology-focused buyers will appreciate the Accord's advanced infotainment system, comprehensive connectivity options, and sophisticated driver assistance features that enhance both convenience and safety.

Detailed Performance and Driving Dynamics

The 2025 Honda Accord's performance characteristics demonstrate Honda's commitment to delivering a refined, engaging driving experience that balances efficiency with dynamic capability. The available powertrains provide distinct personalities that cater to different buyer preferences while maintaining the reliability and refinement that define the Accord experience.

The base 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers 192 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque, providing adequate performance for most driving situations while achieving excellent fuel economy. The engine's character emphasizes smooth power delivery and efficiency, with the turbocharger providing good low-end torque that makes city driving effortless and highway merging confident.

The available 2.0-liter turbocharged engine represents the performance-oriented choice, producing 252 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque that transforms the Accord into a genuinely quick sedan. This engine provides strong acceleration with a more engaging sound character, while the 10-speed automatic transmission delivers smooth, well-timed shifts that enhance both performance and efficiency.

Hybrid Powertrain Excellence

The Accord Hybrid's two-motor system represents Honda's most sophisticated hybrid technology, combining a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with electric motors to produce 204 total system horsepower. The hybrid system operates seamlessly, with transitions between electric and gasoline power that are virtually imperceptible to the driver.

The hybrid system's intelligent operation prioritizes electric driving during low-speed conditions while seamlessly engaging the gasoline engine for highway driving and acceleration demands. This approach maximizes fuel efficiency while maintaining the responsive performance that drivers expect from a midsize sedan.

Chassis Tuning and Handling

Suspension tuning reflects Honda's philosophy of balancing comfort with engaging handling characteristics. The MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension provides controlled body motions and confident handling without compromising ride comfort over various road surfaces. The Accord feels composed and stable during highway driving while remaining comfortable over urban road imperfections.

Steering calibration provides good feedback and precise response without being overly heavy or artificial. The electric power steering system adjusts assist levels based on vehicle speed, providing light effort for parking maneuvers while gaining appropriate weight at highway speeds. The steering response is linear and predictable, contributing to driver confidence in various conditions.

Advanced Technology and Connectivity

The 2025 Accord's technology suite represents Honda's commitment to providing comprehensive connectivity and convenience features that enhance the daily driving experience. The Honda SENSING suite of safety and driver assistance technologies comes standard across all trim levels, providing comprehensive protection and convenience features that were once exclusive to luxury vehicles.

The infotainment system centers around either an 8-inch or available 12.3-inch touchscreen that provides intuitive control over audio, navigation, and vehicle settings. The system includes standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, providing seamless smartphone connectivity and access to familiar apps and services.

Digital Instrument Cluster and Display Technology

Higher trim levels feature a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster that provides customizable displays and comprehensive vehicle information. The digital cluster can be configured to show different information layouts based on driving mode and user preferences, while maintaining clear visibility in various lighting conditions.

The Head-Up Display available on higher trims projects key information onto the windshield, including navigation directions, speed, and safety system alerts. This technology reduces the need to look away from the road while providing convenient access to important driving information.

Connectivity and Smartphone Integration

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto eliminate cable management concerns while providing reliable connectivity to smartphone apps and services. The system supports multiple device connections and can remember frequently used devices for automatic connection when entering the vehicle.

Available HondaLink services provide remote vehicle control and monitoring capabilities through a smartphone app. Features include remote engine start, door lock/unlock, vehicle location tracking, and maintenance reminders that enhance convenience and security for daily use.

Interior Design and Comfort Excellence

The 2025 Accord's interior design represents a masterclass in space utilization and ergonomic design, creating an environment that feels more spacious and luxurious than the vehicle's exterior dimensions would suggest. The cabin design emphasizes horizontal lines and premium materials that create an upscale atmosphere while maintaining the practical functionality that defines the Accord experience.

Seating comfort ranks among the best in the midsize sedan segment, with front seats that provide excellent support for various body types and driving preferences. The seats feature sophisticated contouring that reduces fatigue during extended driving while providing adequate bolstering for spirited driving situations.

Material quality throughout the cabin demonstrates Honda's attention to detail and commitment to durability. Soft-touch surfaces cover most areas that occupants regularly contact, while the available leather-appointed seating feels genuinely premium and features attractive stitching patterns that enhance visual appeal.

Space and Practicality

Interior space represents one of the Accord's greatest strengths, with rear seat accommodations that rival many full-size sedans. Rear passengers enjoy generous legroom, headroom, and shoulder room that makes the Accord suitable for adult passengers on extended trips. The rear seats also fold down to expand cargo capacity when needed.

Cargo space measures 16.7 cubic feet, which is competitive within the midsize sedan segment and provides adequate room for luggage, groceries, and daily cargo needs. The trunk opening is wide and the load floor is reasonably low, facilitating easy loading of larger items.

Climate Control and Comfort Features

The available tri-zone automatic climate control system operates quietly and effectively, with rear passengers receiving dedicated controls for temperature and fan speed. The system includes air filtration that helps maintain cabin air quality, while the available heated and ventilated front seats enhance comfort during extreme weather conditions.

Ambient lighting available on higher trim levels creates an upscale atmosphere during evening driving while providing practical illumination for interior controls and storage areas. The lighting can be customized to different colors and brightness levels based on personal preferences.

Safety Technology and Protection

The 2025 Accord's safety systems provide comprehensive protection that addresses both crash protection and accident prevention through Honda's advanced engineering and technology integration. The vehicle's structure incorporates high-strength steel construction with strategically positioned crumple zones designed to manage crash energy effectively while protecting occupants.

Honda SENSING comes standard on all Accord models, providing a comprehensive suite of active safety technologies that includes Collision Mitigation Braking System, Road Departure Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Keeping Assist. These systems work together to provide multiple layers of protection and assistance during daily driving.

The Collision Mitigation Braking System can detect vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists in the vehicle's path and provide automatic braking intervention if the driver doesn't respond to warnings. The system operates effectively in various conditions and can help prevent or mitigate the severity of frontal collisions.

Advanced Driver Assistance Features

Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow maintains set speeds and following distances on highways while providing stop-and-go capability in traffic situations. The system operates smoothly and maintains appropriate following distances while reducing driver fatigue during extended highway driving.

Lane Keeping Assist and Road Departure Mitigation work together to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane and prevent unintended departures from the roadway. These systems provide gentle steering corrections and warnings to help maintain proper lane position without being intrusive during normal driving.

Crash Test Performance

The Accord has earned excellent safety ratings from both NHTSA and IIHS, demonstrating Honda's commitment to occupant protection. The vehicle received a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and earned IIHS Top Safety Pick designation, with good or superior ratings in most test categories.

The vehicle's airbag system includes dual-stage frontal airbags, side-impact airbags for front passengers, and side curtain airbags that extend across both rows. The airbag system includes sophisticated sensors that can adjust deployment based on occupant size and position for optimal protection.

Ownership Experience and Long-term Value

The 2025 Accord's ownership experience reflects Honda's reputation for reliability, durability, and customer satisfaction. The vehicle's combination of proven engineering, comprehensive warranty coverage, and strong resale value creates a compelling ownership proposition that extends well beyond the initial purchase decision.

Honda's warranty coverage includes a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, which is competitive within the segment. The hybrid system receives 8 years/100,000 miles coverage on major components, providing additional peace of mind for hybrid buyers.

Reliability and Maintenance

Honda's reliability record for the Accord spans decades of consistent performance, with the current generation benefiting from mature, proven powertrains and simplified electronic systems. The vehicle's design emphasizes durability and ease of maintenance, with service requirements that are straightforward and cost-effective.

Maintenance costs are generally lower than luxury competitors while remaining competitive with other mainstream midsize sedans. The widespread availability of Honda service centers and parts ensures convenient maintenance and repair services throughout the ownership period.

Resale Value and Depreciation

The Accord's strong resale value performance reflects Honda's reputation for quality and the vehicle's broad appeal to used car buyers. Depreciation rates are among the best in the midsize sedan segment, with the Accord typically retaining value better than most competitors over typical ownership periods.

The hybrid models may show even stronger resale value performance as fuel efficiency becomes increasingly important to buyers. The proven reliability of Honda's hybrid technology and the growing acceptance of hybrid powertrains contribute to strong used market demand.

Environmental Impact and Efficiency

The 2025 Accord's environmental impact reflects Honda's commitment to sustainable transportation through efficient powertrains and responsible manufacturing practices. The vehicle's fuel economy ratings across all powertrains represent excellent performance within the midsize sedan segment.

The Accord Hybrid achieves EPA ratings of up to 48 mpg city and 47 mpg highway, figures that approach dedicated hybrid vehicles while maintaining the space and capability of a traditional midsize sedan. The hybrid system's sophisticated operation maximizes efficiency during all driving conditions while providing responsive performance when needed.

Sustainable Manufacturing and Materials

Honda's manufacturing processes incorporate sustainable practices and materials where possible, while the Accord's efficient design reduces environmental impact during both production and operation. The vehicle's lightweight construction and aerodynamic efficiency contribute to reduced fuel consumption throughout its lifecycle.

Interior materials include recycled content where appropriate, while the manufacturing process emphasizes waste reduction and energy efficiency. These efforts contribute to reduced environmental impact beyond the vehicle's operational efficiency advantages.

Future-Proofing and Technology Evolution

The Accord's design incorporates technology and engineering approaches that will remain relevant as environmental regulations become more stringent and consumer preferences continue to evolve toward efficiency and sustainability. The hybrid powertrain provides a foundation for future electrification while delivering immediate benefits to current owners.

Honda's commitment to sustainable transportation includes ongoing development of more efficient powertrains and alternative fuel technologies that will benefit future Accord generations while providing current owners with vehicles that remain competitive and desirable throughout their ownership period.

Final Verdict and Recommendation

The 2025 Honda Accord stands as the definitive choice for buyers seeking the best overall midsize sedan experience available today. Its combination of exceptional interior space, advanced technology, outstanding fuel economy, and Honda's legendary reliability creates a compelling package that's difficult to match in any price range.

While the sedan market continues to face challenges from SUVs and crossovers, the Accord proves that the traditional sedan format still has significant advantages for buyers who prioritize efficiency, comfort, and value. Its sophisticated engineering and attention to detail create an ownership experience that consistently exceeds expectations.

Our Rating: 4.7/5.0 - The 2025 Honda Accord earns our highest recommendation as the best overall choice in the midsize sedan segment, delivering luxury-level refinement and features at a price point that represents exceptional value.