2017 Honda Accord Review: A Top Contender in the D-Segment

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The Honda Accord, a D-segment offering that has been a part of the Japanese manufacturer’s line-up since 1976, is a global top seller for the brand. The Accord competes with the likes of the Hyundai Sonata, Nissan Altima, and Toyota Camry. Equipped with the right tools, the mid-life refresh of the 2017 model elevates the Accord to a level unattained by its rivals.

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Exterior

The ninth-generation Honda Accord is a handsome offering with a distinct aesthetic advantage over its rivals. Crisp creases along the bodywork complement the dashes of chrome, lending the Japanese sedan an intimidating presence.

The revised countenance of the 2017 Accord features an intricately styled fascia and an all-new chrome grill that prominently showcases the brand’s insignia. Seated on 18-inch ten-spoke alloy wheels and embellished with a flush spoiler, the new Accord presents an assertively lower and wider stance.

Interior

With great attention to quality, the cabin of the Honda Accord surpasses what is found in rival offerings. Measuring 2,775mm in wheelbase, there’s ample head and legroom for all five occupants, along with an additional 439 liters of cargo space.

Hard plastics are offset by stitched, supple leather and glossy black and silver trim. The Sport variant introduces faux carbon fiber trim and aluminum pedals, subtly enhancing the design’s flamboyance.

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Safety and Features

The 2017 Honda Accord emphasizes safety, achieving a remarkable 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating. Standard features include six airbags and Honda Sensing Technology, offering Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, Collision Mitigation Braking, and Road Departure Mitigation.

Convenience features on the Accord include a Remote Engine Starter, Smart Entry, Push Button Ignition, Auto-Dimming Rear View Mirror, and Honda Lane Watch. Additionally, a premium sound system and a 7-inch Touchscreen infotainment system with inbuilt navigation enhance the driving experience.

Drive

Powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, the 2017 Honda Accord delivers 278 horsepower and 338 Nm of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission to the front wheels. The Accord weighs in at 1,655 kg, slightly heavier than the Nissan Altima (1,547kg).

The Accord provides a sublime driving experience while maintaining an efficient fuel consumption of 7.6 liters per 100 km. The Sport variant features paddle shifters, a sports transmission setting, carbon fiber inlays, and aluminum pedals, reinforcing its sporty character.

The steering offers a well-weighted feel, providing adequate feedback for a D-segment sedan. While the Accord maintains a smooth ride and minimizes road and wind noise, the overly sensitive Lane Keeping system makes frequent adjustments to keep the vehicle centered in the lane.

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Verdict

Despite a decline in overall automotive sales, the D-segment market has grown from 16% to 19% in the last two years, with the Honda Accord playing a significant role in this success. Being the most fuel-efficient in its class, the American-built 2017 Accord is a truly impressive offering, marking the model's best iteration to date.

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