The Accord Hybrid remains a sensible midsized sedan that’s roomy, fuel-efficient, and blessed with super-easy controls. The hybrid version scored better in our testing than the conventional Accord, aided by its superior fuel economy and much more pleasant power delivery. We think it’s one of the best cars on the market.
The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and electric drive combine to make an ample 204 horsepower. We enjoy the way Honda’s two-motor hybrid system mimics the upshifts of a regular automatic transmission, rather than allowing the engine revs to soar during acceleration as with the continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) found in many hybrids—including the CVT in the regular Accord. The hybrid version switches seamlessly back and forth between electric and gas propulsion, and the powertrain is both more responsive yet also more refined than the regular Accord’s turbocharged four-cylinder. By our numbers, outright acceleration is identical between the two, both registering 0 to 60 mph in 8 seconds flat.
When it comes to numbers, the Sport Hybrid’s 40 mpg overall in our testing is a pretty good one. The only caveat is that it’s actually a 7-mpg downgrade over the previous Accord Hybrid, and 8 mpg less than our tested 2025 Toyota Camry, which is only offered as a hybrid. Of note: The slightly more expensive EX-L Hybrid, which comes with 17-inch wheels (vs. our tested car’s 19s) gets an additional 4 mpg combined, according to the EPA. Also: The Accord only comes with front-wheel drive, without an all-wheel-drive option like the Nissan Altima, Subaru Legacy, and Toyota Camry.
We like the Accord Hybrid’s eager handling feel through corners, with finely weighted steering and minimal body roll. It proved plenty capable through our accident-avoidance maneuver test, registering an impressive 56.5 mph. The suspension shrugs off most bumps effectively, but the Sport Hybrid’s large tires with relatively short sidewalls do allow pronounced bumps to punch through into the cabin in a noticeably firm fashion.
The front seats are the car’s biggest letdown: The bottom cushion’s shape makes it feel like you’re sitting in a hole, and the thin padding loses support quickly, compromising comfort on even moderately long drives. It’s also disappointing that the Sport Hybrid—which is the base hybrid model, although the third-tier Accord trim—doesn’t come with heated front seats. On the other hand, our drivers appreciated the Accord’s ample headroom, well-placed armrests, and clear view of the gauges within the instrument cluster. The rear seat feels more plush than up front, and there’s plenty of knee room and good foot space underneath the front seats; taller folks may wish for more headroom. The trunk is also quite large among midsized sedans.
When it comes to the simplicity and ease-of-use of the interior controls, the Accord Hybrid is our new favorite vehicle. Its minimalist aesthetic is a breath of fresh air compared with the touchscreen-mania much of the auto industry has adopted. There’s a straightforward infotainment screen, lots of physical buttons, and large, easy-to-grasp climate knobs that turn with a satisfying “click,” like a rotating bezel on a high-end watch. We also appreciate the conventional and intuitive gear-selector lever. The almost comically small volume knob is the rare oddity here—its diminutive size makes it difficult to grab.
The Accord Hybrid’s interior isn’t flashy, but it’s a solid effort in terms of materials and build quality. Nicer details include the honeycomb-mesh trim across the mid-dash that encompasses the smooth-operating air vents, while the piano-black plastic trim on the center console spruces things up. Some rough-feeling plastic mold lines here and there remind you that this is a mainstream sedan, not a luxury model.
All Accord Hybrids come standard with the “Honda Sensing” suite of active safety and driver assistance systems. Standard features include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking that operates at highway speed, lane centering assistance, lane departure warning, lane keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Blind spot warning and rear cross traffic warning are standard.