This is the Honda Accord, a car that we all seem to know much too well. Having undergone a mild facelift, let us take a look at everything that has changed, but more importantly, let us find out if the Accord is still one of the best options to purchase amongst cars like the Mazda 6, Nissan Altima, and Toyota Camry. Let’s get started!
Drive
Now credit where credit is due, and Honda was the first and only Japanese manufacturer in this segment brave enough to completely phase out its naturally aspirated engines and replace them with turbocharged units. The 2.0-liter turbo model that we are reviewing is a replacement for the 3.5-liter V6 and it is plenty powerful with 247 horsepower and 370 Nm of torque.
While it is a debatable topic, I for one have always felt that the Accord is one of the nicest cars to drive in this segment and that is for multiple reasons. When driven calmly, it is quiet, fuel-efficient, and extremely comfortable, but put your foot down and there is enough power to throw you into the back of your seat and accelerate from 0-100km/h in just 6 seconds, which is an extremely impressive number for a family sedan.
Since this is the 2.0-liter model, it comes fitted with a 10-speed automatic transmission that can be controlled through paddle shifters behind the steering wheel, and it also comes with a choice of 3 drive modes: Eco, Normal, Sport. However, the really impressive thing about the Accord is its suite of safety and self-driving tech.
Grouped under the label of Honda Sensing, the Accord boasts one of the best self-driving technologies at such an affordable price. The combination of adaptive cruise control, low speed follow, collision mitigation, and road departure mitigation, not only mean that the Accord does a fabulous job of driving down a highway, but that it can handle traffic, stay right in the center of the lane, and even take small turns in the road without any intervention from the driver, it’s fantastic.
Interior
When it comes to the interior, the Accord does have one of the nicest designed cabins in its class. It is truly spacious and that is made possible by things like a sleek dashboard and gear buttons instead of a physical lever. Since this is the Sport model, it gets metal accelerator and brake pedals and carbon fiber like trim along the dashboard and door panels.
In the back, there is plenty of space even though it may not seem so from the outside because of the sloping roof. The legroom is absolutely spectacular and in addition to rear AC vents, there are also two cupholders and two USB charging outlets.
Features
Since this is the full-option Accord, it does come with a long list of features. You’re looking at a remote engine starter, sunroof, heads-up display, memory seats with heating and cooling, Honda’s Lane Watch safety system, and a wireless charger.
The infotainment screen is 8-inches in size and while it does have buttons and knobs to control main functions like volume, tuning, etc, what makes it special is that it has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity options and that the maps installed aren’t from just any company but from Garmin!
Exterior
New for 2021 is this stunning Sonic Grey color and it really does turn a lot of heads. Part of the facelift also includes a redesigned bumper and grille for an even sharper appearance and a new set of 18-inch alloy wheels. Since this is the Sport model it also gets black exterior accents on things like the mirrors, and spoiler which really helps it stand out.
Verdict
At 139,900 Dirhams the Honda Accord is the most expensive amongst its Japanese rivals, but there is good reason for that. It is newer than the Mazda 6. It is better to drive than the Nissan Altima. It is nicer to be in than the Toyota Camry. So, what do you think? Is it worth its 139,900 Dirham price tag? Let us know in the comments down below.
