Despite the overall slow sales of the new Accord and sedan, Honda is still insisting on delivering the new Accord to Australia customers, so what exactly does it bring?
Our passion
- Ultra-tranquil cabin
- Google-powered quick infotainment system
- Low cost of ownership
We don't like it
- A price tag close to the premium price
- Infotainment relies on an internet connection
- Where exactly are the heated seats?
2024 款本田雅阁 e:HEV RS
Chances are, if you're under a certain age, models like the Honda Accord won't appeal to you, as this midsize sedan seems to be only aimed at customers over the age of 50 who want to downsize after years of using a family SUV.
But sedans also have their advantages, and the Honda Accord wants to show its best with high-end hybrid models, surpassing models like the Toyota Camry, Hyundai Sonata and even the Mazda6.
This means that the 11th-generation Accord series is now only available in a single high-spec variant and is only equipped with a petrol-electric hybrid system, but will the latest Honda sedan still be attractive after the market shifts to dual-cab pickups and SUVs?
How much does a Honda Accord cost?
The new 11th Gen Accord series, well, it's not a series at all, as it only has a single e:HEV RS rating.
Under Honda's agent sales model, the Accord is priced at $64,900 nationwide, which isn't cheap.
In fact, it's more expensive than competitors like the Toyota Camry, Mazda6, and Hyundai Sonata, and even more expensive than the more practical CR-V midsize SUV.
For reference, the Camry Hybrid, which will be replaced, starts at $37,917 (excluding on-the-road fees) and goes up to A$51,417, while the Sonata is priced at A$55,500 and the Mazda6 sedan is priced between A$36,290 and A$54,385 – all of which do not include on-the-road fees.
Even taking into account the on-road costs of the three competitors mentioned above, the Accord is still more expensive. Keep in mind, though, that the Sonata and Mazda 6 don't offer hybrid engines, and the next-generation Camry, which will be launched later this year, is likely to increase in price.
At least Honda tried to justify this exorbitant price with an attractive list of gear.
The car comes with the usual keyless entry, one-button start, dual-zone climate control, 18-inch wheels, LED exterior lighting, leather upholstery, a fully digital instrument cluster, a head-up display, a digital radio, electronically adjustable front seats with memory, and a panoramic sunroof, which are the features that a car in this price range should have.
But there is one big omission.
That is, where exactly are the heated seats?
Even a car that's half the price of an Accord has this feature, so a flagship sedan like this doesn't have this feature, well, it's a bit puzzling, isn't it, Honda?
Isn't it a bit expensive to spend $65,000 on a Japan car? Yes, and the list of configurations isn't complete enough, which makes it feel like a bit of a loss.
What's especially strange is that in Honda's own showroom, you can get the top-of-the-line CR-V midsize SUV for $5,000 cheaper, and it also has the same engine.
There's no doubt that the CR-V will give you a better feel, but the Accord's sleek sedan body style may be enough to appeal to those who haven't yet made the switch to a high-chassis car in a rapidly shrinking market.
However, when comparing the Accord to entry-level premium models such as the Audi A4 (without tolls, starting at A$71,900) and the Lexus ES (without tolls, starting at A$62,140), the equation starts to make more sense, as the Honda sedan does feel comfortable and quiet enough to compete with – but the driving experience is discussed more below.
| Key details | 2024 款本田雅阁 e:HEV RS |
| Price | AUD 64,900 |
| Test car color | Platinum white |
| Options | None |
| Opening price | Nationally, it's $64,900 |
| competitor | Toyota Camry, Mazda 6, Hyundai Sonata |
What is the size of the Honda Accord?
With a length, width and height of 4975 mm, 1862 mm, 1449 mm and a wheelbase of 2830 mm, the Accord has about the same footprint as the Hyundai Shengda.
However, as a sedan, the Accord doesn't feel as heavy or shocking.
But that doesn't mean it can't accommodate the whole family, because for a week I've been driving this car, there are two child seats in the back to transport the kids to and from the nursery, as well as to and from work.
As with most cars, the best seats in the car are always at the front, and the Accord is no exception.
The electronically controlled front seats have a wide range of adjustments, especially when the seat base is moved forward and backward, and the steering wheel is also retractable so that you can get into the perfect driving position.
Storage options are plentiful, with door pockets that can almost fit a large bottle, two wide cup holders, a tray for wireless chargers and keys, and a deep underarm locker.
The cabin of the Accord has a black leather upholstery with contrasting red stitching, which looks stylish but not ostentatious.
The cabin of the Accord feels sturdy and completely noise-free, with everything from the satisfying crash of the doors closing to the resistance of the vent adjustment knobs, which feels just right.
Moving to the rear, the Accord's length and wide wheelbase mean there's plenty of room for passengers, but there are some limiting factors.
Behind my driving position, there's very ample legroom, and there's also plenty of shoulder room in the second row for three adults – depending on how much they value personal space.
The biggest downside here though, is that the roof is a bit too low for my six-foot-tall (183 cm) stature, and when I sit up straight, my head hits the ceiling.
Will this affect the transaction? If you're planning to buy an Accord for carpooling, then maybe you can, but for children, car seats, or occasional use, it's okay.
In terms of child seats, there is a top tether point in each of the three positions, while the two outboard seats are equipped with ISOFIX sockets.
I would say that there is plenty of room for a child seat in the Accord due to the wide seats, although the middle seat has a higher seat base and the transmission tunnel encroaches on footroom.
Keep in mind that if you want to use the Accord for your family, its lower ride height means you'll have to bend more when positioning and tying up your child compared to an SUV.
Rear seat amenities include a rear seat map pocket, bottle holder inside the door, vents, retractable sun blinds, and USB-C charging ports.
There is also a foldable central armrest, but it is very cumbersome to pull down because the leather is too slippery and there are no armrests.
When you manage to put it down, you'll have access to two cup holders, as well as a large cushion that fits on your forearms.
Once the trunk is opened, a cavity large enough to hold 570 litres of space is revealed, and deep and spacious enough to accommodate a full-size stroller, golf clubs, and even a large suitcase.
Keep in mind, though, that the height of the boot isn't too high, so taller, bulky items will be difficult to fit.
When the rear seats are folded down, the storage space increases, but Honda did not disclose the extent of the increase, reminding that height is the biggest obstacle to transporting larger items.
| 2024 款本田雅阁 e:HEV RS | |
| seat | Five |
| Boot the volume | The 570L seat is raised |
| length | 4975 mm |
| width | 1862 mm |
| height | 1449 mm |
| wheelbase | 2830 mm |
Does the Honda Accord have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
The 2024 Honda Accord features a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, both of which are wirelessly connected.
A wireless smartphone charger helps with wireless connectivity, which means you can charge your phone while connected.
Thanks to the ultra-responsive touchscreen and built-in Google software, the system is a pleasure to use. This means that the built-in sat nav is Google Maps, which is just as fast, smooth, and hassle-free as it is on your phone.
有 Google Assistant 可以设置提醒，还有 Google Play Store 可让您下载精选应用程序，例如 Spotify 和 YouTube Music。
However, the infotainment software relies on an active internet connection, and Honda offers a SIM card through a partnership with Telstra that provides a free connection for the first five years of owning the car, but the cost thereafter is currently unknown.
Without an internet connection, it means that even searching for destinations on satnav won't work – unfortunately, we all know how poor the stability of internet connectivity can be in some parts of Australia.
This will undoubtedly make some area buyers abandon the Accord, but if you're staying in the city center or traveling in a high-traffic area, it shouldn't be a big deal.
In addition to Google's content, the infotainment menu itself is intuitive and easy to understand, with every button you press getting the most satisfying click, mimicking the aural sensation of pressing a physical button.
There is audible feedback even when scrolling to the bottom of the list, enhancing the infotainment experience.
There's a huge knob in the middle of the center stack, which doesn't control the volume, but Honda calls it an experience select dial.
In fact, it opens up a customizable shortcut menu that lets you jump to features you might want quick access, such as making the cabin warmer or changing the driver's profile.
To be honest, it's a bit less good, and I've found that I never need to use it because the infotainment touchscreen has been so user-friendly.
Google-based software and online connectivity facilitate connected services on the Accord, which the brand calls "Honda Connect". This allows users to remotely monitor vehicle data and control certain functions via a smartphone app.
These features include remote climate control, locking/unlocking, engine start, digital key, geo-fencing alerts, and an emergency call button that can notify authorities and emergency services in the event of a serious collision.
Is the Honda Accord a safe car?
The 2024 Honda Accord has not been crash tested by ANCAP, so there is no official Australia safety rating.
Similarly, the Accord has not yet undergone crash tests in Europe and has not received a Euro NCAP score.
| 2024 款本田雅阁 e:HEV RS | |
| ANCAP rating | Not tested |
What safety technologies does the Honda Accord have?
Despite not having an official safety rating, the 2024 Honda Accord still comes with an enviable list of safety equipment.
The Honda Sensing safety package includes Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition, Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Adaptive Cruise Control, and Automatic High Beam.
In my experience with this car, I particularly like the adaptive cruise control, which makes my daily commute much easier, even in traffic jams, and the system stays smooth even when the car cuts into my braking zone.
However, the adaptive high beams were a bit too insensitive, and they remained on even when there was a car coming from the opposite side, so I had to turn the feature off.
This may be because the streets near my house are dimly lit, but I feel that this feature needs to be further refined and tweaked.
In addition to the features in the Honda Sensing Package, the Accord is equipped with Blind Spot Monitoring, Hill Start Assist, Driver Attention Monitoring, Front and Rear Parking Sensors, Surround View Monitor, and Tire Pressure Monitor.
| Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) | yes | Including cyclists, intersections, night awareness |
| Adaptive cruise control | yes | Includes Traffic Jam Assist |
| Blind spot alerts | yes | Alerts only |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | yes | Alerts and accessibility |
| Lane Assist | yes | Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Centering |
| Road Sign Recognition | yes | Alerts only |
| Driver Attention Warning | yes | Fatigue monitoring |
| Cameras and sensors | yes | Front and rear sensors, surround view monitor |
How much does a Honda Accord cost to run?
Like all new Honda models sold in Australia, the 2024 Accord comes with a five-year/unlimited kilometers warranty.
This is on par with car brands such as Toyota, Hyundai, Mazda, and Ford, but is lower than the seven-year and ten-year-long guarantee periods for Kia and Mitsubishi, respectively.
Accord has scheduled maintenance intervals every 12 months or 10,000 km, whichever comes first.
Honda's limited-price service means maintenance for the first five years is just $199, for a total of $995, but keep in mind that service intervals are shorter than the standard 15,000km cycle.
This makes the Accord cost less to use over five years than the Toyota Camry Hybrid rooftop ($1,275), Mazda6 ($2,576) or Hyundai Sonata ($1,975).
It's worth noting that the Camry and Mazda 6 have a service interval of every 15,000 km, while the Sonata has the same service interval as the Accord's 10,000 km.
As for insurance, according to a comparative offer from a 35-year-old male driver living in Chatswood, New South Wales, the cost of insurance for the Accord is AU$2225 per year. Insurance estimates may vary depending on your location, driving history, and personal circumstances.
For reference, the Camry, Mazda 6 and Sonata based on the same parameters are priced at $2365, $1678 and $1686 respectively.
| At first glance | 2024 款本田雅阁 e:HEV RS |
| Warranty | Five years, unlimited kilometers |
| Battery warranty | 8 years |
| Service intervals | 12 months or 10,000 km |
| Cost of Services | AUD 597 (3 years) AUD 995 (5 years) |
Is the Honda Accord fuel efficient?
The official statistic is that the Accord consumes only 4.3 litres of 91 petrol per 100 km, and in the week I drove the car, fuel consumption was very close to that figure. After handing over the keys, after mixed driving in the city and on the highway, the trip computer shows a fuel consumption of 4.5 l/100 km.
However, I suspect that the reason for my slightly higher fuel consumption figures is the different levels of regenerative braking and various driving modes tested.
Hard-working owners may achieve better fuel usage figures if they keep the Accord in Eco mode with maximum regenerative braking.
When it comes to regenerative braking, the Accord does it differently because pulling the left paddle to increase drag doesn't actually set it to that level indefinitely.
Instead, the braking intensity returns to its default setting after a short period of time, so the braking level is more appropriate when you want to increase resistance when decelerating or stopping.
| Fuel efficiency | 2024 款本田雅阁 e:HEV RS |
| Fuel Disadvantages (Claimed) | 4.3 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (under testing) | 4.5 l/100 km |
| Types of gasoline | 91 Octane unleaded gasoline |
| Fuel tank size | 48 liters |
本田雅阁 (Honda Accord) 驾驶起来感觉如何?
Like Ireland butter on the bottom or top of a baby, there's only one word to describe the Accord driving experience, and that's smooth.
This hybrid powertrain is simply pleasant, delivering power and torque in a linear, effortless manner that delights both the driver and passengers.
Open the hood of the Accord, and like most modern cars, it's all plastic, but buried underneath is a 2.0-liter petrol engine, paired with not just one electric motor, but two.
With a combined output of 152kW and 335Nm of torque, the new Accord certainly won't make a great escape car, but it's powerful enough that you won't feel underpowered.
Mating to the Accord engine is Honda's so-called E-CVT, which drives the front wheels.
There are paddles behind the steering wheel that do not switch to the preset gears on the CVT, but instead adjust the level of regenerative braking. Honda's transmission is not a traditional continuously variable automatic transmission, but rather serves as a power divider between the electric system and the internal combustion engine system, so this naming is a bit out of place for it.
One of the main attractions of this engine is the seamless switching between electric and petrol power. The system doesn't experience a drop in power when switching, nor does it emit the harsh engine noise that some of the Accord's competitors, the Toyota Camry.
Before you ask, yes, it's true that the Camry's hybrid powertrain is more dynamic, but then again, Toyota's technology is starting to look outdated compared to Honda's smoother, quieter engine.
It also has enough performance to accelerate quickly under the lights and even overtake on the highway, but if you take your eyes off the speedometer a little, it won't go into the speeding zone.
The brilliant 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster controls all systems, and it's customizable for at-a-glance understanding.
Car brands tend to cram as much information as possible into their digital displays, so Honda deserves credit for showing a little restraint here.
Its steering feel strikes a delicate balance, both light enough to make the Accord feel light and agile, and heavy enough to provide some feedback and feel when cornering. Again, I would use the word "smooth". The Accord turns smoothly and effortlessly returns to the center.
The suspension is very soft and absorbs bumps and road surface imperfections like a leavened loaf of bread.
The smaller-than-expected 18-inch wheels also play a role, making the sidewalls thicker, which increases cushioning and reduces road noise. The result is an extremely supple ride that I think is more comfortable than most SUVs, but without any of the sacrifices that those high-chassis models endure.
The Accord has a lower center of gravity than SUVs, and there are no bumps or wobble. This Honda car is both comfortable and confident on the road.
The driving modes offered will change a little bit, but to be honest, there isn't much difference between them.
Eco mode is the smoothest, smoothest mode for throttle response and steering, making driving the Accord effortlessly around town. Sport mode takes the speed up a notch, speeding up inputs, but in no way turning the Accord into a sports sedan, only making it more agile.
Normal mode is somewhere in between and is the one I use most of the time, providing a good balance of comfort. There's also a personalization mode that you can adjust to your liking, but the Accord doesn't really need those options.
There's only one trick to this Honda car on the road, but that trick happens to be a clever balance of comfort and engagement.
| Key details | 2024 款本田雅阁 e:HEV RS |
| engine | 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol-electric hybrid |
| strength | 152kW combined 135kW electric 108kW gasoline |
| Torque | 335Nm electric 182Nm gasoline |
| Drive type | Front-wheel drive |
| disseminate | Electric continuously variable transmission |
| Power-to-weight ratio | 94.5 kW/t |
| Weight (curb weight) | 1609 kg |
| Spare tire type | Tire patch kits |
| payload | 491 kg |
| Radius of slewing | 11.4m |
Can the Honda Accord be towed?
The 2024 Honda Accord doesn't have an official towing rating, which means buyers shouldn't hook a trailer to a hybrid sedan.
However, it has a payload rating of 491 kg, which is enough for five average adults, while the gross mass of the vehicle (GVM) is 2100 kg.
Should I buy a Honda Accord?
Let's face it, the 2024 Honda Accord is expensive as a mainstream sedan, but its sophistication, comfort, and even luxury are not found in its standard competitors.
There should definitely be more equipment here, but the super-smooth and frugal hybrid engine does alleviate a bit of stinging.
If you're looking to buy an entry-level premium car from a brand like Audi or Lexus and don't care about brand credibility, then honestly, you can test drive this Honda because it really impresses me.