The Honda Accord has long been recognized for its reliability, efficiency, and diverse model range. Understanding the different trim levels is crucial for anyone looking to purchase or service this popular vehicle. This article provides a detailed comparison of Honda Accord specifications, focusing on the distinctions between various trims such as LX, LX-P, SE, EX, EX-L, and LX-S, to help you understand what each model offers under the hood and beyond.
Engine and Performance Variations
The engineering of the Honda Accord showcases a range of engine options tailored to different driving preferences and needs. Across the sedan and coupe models, Honda utilized both In-Line 4-Cylinder and V-6 engines, each built with an Aluminum-Alloy block and cylinder head for optimized weight and performance.
For the LX, LX-P, and SE sedan trims, the engine is an In-Line 4-Cylinder 2.4L i-VTEC®, delivering 177 horsepower at 6500 rpm in the LX and LX-P, and a slightly higher 190 horsepower at 7000 rpm in the SE trim. Torque figures are closely matched at 161 lb-ft at 4300 rpm for LX and LX-P, and 162 lb-ft at 4400 rpm for the SE.
The EX and EX-L sedan models also feature a 2.4L In-Line 4-Cylinder engine, but tuned to produce 190 horsepower at 7000 rpm and 162 lb-ft of torque at 4400 rpm, aligning them with the SE in performance output.
Stepping up in power, the EX V-6 and EX-L V-6 trims boast a 3.5L V-6 engine, significantly increasing output to 271 horsepower at 6000-6200 rpm. This V-6 engine delivers a robust 254 lb-ft of torque at 5000 rpm, providing a more dynamic driving experience.
The LX-S, EX, and EX-L coupe models mirror the sedan’s engine choices, with the 2.4L In-Line 4-Cylinder engine producing 190 horsepower. The EX-L V-6 coupe also shares the same potent 3.5L V-6 engine as its sedan counterpart, ensuring consistent performance across body styles.
Key engine features across most trims include 16-Valve DOHC i-VTEC® valvetrain, Multi-Point Fuel Injection, and Drive-by-Wire™ Throttle System. The V-6 engines in EX V-6 and EX-L V-6 models incorporate 24-Valve SOHC i-VTEC®, and notably, Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®) is present in 5-speed automatic versions of these V-6 models for enhanced fuel efficiency.
Transmission and Drivetrain Specs
Transmission options for the Honda Accord vary by trim and engine type, offering both manual and automatic choices to cater to different driver preferences.
The base LX sedan comes standard with a 5-Speed Manual Transmission, with a 5-Speed Automatic available as an option. The LX-P and SE sedans upgrade to a standard 5-Speed Automatic Transmission. For the EX and EX-L sedans, both 5-Speed Manual and 5-Speed Automatic transmissions are available, providing flexibility in choosing a preferred driving style.
The V-6 powered EX V-6 and EX-L V-6 sedan trims are exclusively equipped with a 5-Speed Automatic Transmission, tailored to manage the higher power output.
In the coupe range, the LX-S comes standard with a 5-Speed Manual Transmission and offers a 5-Speed Automatic as an option. The EX and EX-L coupes offer both a 5-Speed Manual and a 5-Speed Automatic, while also introducing an available Close-Ratio 6-Speed Manual Transmission for enthusiasts seeking a more engaging driving experience. The EX-L V-6 coupe is available with either a 5-Speed Automatic Transmission with Paddle Shifters or a Close-Ratio 6-Speed Manual Transmission, offering a sporty edge.
Chassis, Suspension, and Brakes
The Honda Accord’s body and chassis are engineered for a balance of comfort and handling. All trims feature Unit-Body Construction, Double Wishbone Front Suspension, and Independent Multi-Link Rear Suspension, contributing to the Accord’s renowned ride quality.
Stabilizer bar diameters vary slightly across trims, with front bars at 26.5mm for most models, and rear bars ranging from 13.0mm to 15.0mm depending on the specific trim and model year. The EX-L V-6 Coupe features a slightly thicker 27.2mm front stabilizer bar for enhanced handling. A Front Shock Tower Bar is standard across all trims, improving structural rigidity and steering response.
Steering across the range is Variable Gear Ratio (VGR) Power-Assisted Rack-and-Pinion, except for the EX-L V-6 coupe which has a slightly quicker steering ratio. Braking systems are Power-Assisted Ventilated Front Disc/Solid Rear Disc Brakes, with sizes varying between 11.1/11.1 inches and 11.8/11.1 inches depending on the trim, reflecting performance and weight considerations.
Wheel sizes range from 16-inch on base LX models to 18-inch Alloy wheels on the EX-L V-6 coupe, with various alloy and steel wheel designs available across the trim levels. Tire sizes are also trim-specific, ranging from P215/60 R16 to P235/45 R18 all-season tires, optimized for each model’s performance and intended use.
Dimensions and Capacities
Exterior dimensions show slight variations between sedan and coupe models. Sedan models generally have a longer wheelbase and overall length compared to coupes, providing more interior space. For example, sedan wheelbase is 110.2 inches versus 107.9 inches for coupes, and sedan length is 194.9 inches versus 191.0 inches for coupes. Width and height also vary slightly, with sedans being a bit taller in some trims.
Curb weight varies significantly based on engine and transmission choices, ranging from approximately 3184 lbs for a manual LX-S coupe to over 3600 lbs for a fully equipped EX-L V-6 sedan. Weight distribution is typically around 60/40 front/rear for automatic transmissions and slightly more front-biased for manual transmissions.
Interior measurements reflect the body style differences. Sedans offer more headroom and legroom, particularly in the rear, and larger cargo volume (14.7 cu ft) compared to coupes (11.9 cu ft). Passenger volume is also greater in sedans, accommodating up to 5 passengers comfortably in both body styles.
Fuel capacity is consistent at 18.5 gallons across all trims, and all models are designed to run on Regular Unleaded fuel. EPA mileage estimates vary by engine and transmission, with 4-cylinder models generally achieving higher fuel economy than V-6 models, and manual transmissions sometimes offering slightly different figures compared to automatics.
Safety and Features
Safety is a priority in all Honda Accord models, featuring standard equipment such as 3-Point Seat Belts at all positions, multiple airbags, and Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with Traction Control. Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), and Brake Assist are also standard across the range.
Exterior features vary by trim, with higher trims like EX and EX-L offering alloy wheels, moonroofs, and upgraded lighting systems such as projector-beam headlights and fog lights. Comfort and convenience features also increase with trim level, with EX-L models adding leather-trimmed seats, dual-zone climate control, premium audio systems, and available navigation.
Conclusion
The Honda Accord trim levels offer a spectrum of choices, from the well-equipped LX to the luxurious EX-L V-6. Whether prioritizing fuel efficiency, performance, or premium features, the Accord range provides options to meet diverse needs and preferences in the midsize car market. Understanding these specifications is key to selecting the Honda Accord that best fits your driving requirements.
