Shopping for a 2024 Honda Accord but finding it hard to choose between the traditional gas model and a modern hybrid? That’s a fair problem, as both options can be great depending on your needs. Let’s discuss the differences between the standard Accord and the hybrid Accord to see which one would fit your needs better.
Shopping for a new Honda should be fun, so relax, and let’s check out what each model has to offer drivers for the 2024 model year.
Get The Best Performance
Let’s discuss the traditional gas-powered engine. First, though, a little context on the 2024 Honda Accord. For this model year, the Accord offers six trims in total. The LX and EX are the two trims that come equipped with the traditional gas-powered engine. The Sport Hybrid, EX-L Hybrid, Sport-L Hybrid, and Touring Hybrid have the hybrid powertrain.
Coming standard on the LX and EX trims is a 192 horsepower 1.5L turbocharged engine that yields 192 lb-ft of torque. With this model, drivers can get an EPA-estimated 29 MPG in the city and 37 MPG on the highway. This is comparable to many sedans in its class, and will get drivers pretty far. Drivers looking to save while getting into a great car can depend on the traditional gas-powered Accord to put a few dollars back in their pockets.
Next up, we have the hybrid engine: a 204-horsepower 2.0L engine that was designed to take you further for less. If you opt for the Sport Hybrid or Touring Hybrid, the 2024 Accord has an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 46 MPG in the city and 41 MPG on the highway. The other hybrid trims have an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 51 MPG in the city and 44 MPG on the highway. This means that all hybrid Accord trims will help you save at the pump.
Altogether, this means that the traditional gas-powered model has a range of 474 miles on a full tank of gas. The hybrid models have an EPA-estimated range of up to 614 miles. Choosing the hybrid model could save you an average of $550 a year on fuel costs. While the Accord hybrid models will save you in one place, the downside here is the hybrid models have a higher overall sticker cost. What it really saves you is time until you’ve completely paid off the vehicle. You will go much longer between stops at the gas station when you opt for the hybrid model. That additional 140 miles is a lot depending on your daily commute.
The combination of a motor and battery on the hybrid Accord makes it possible to switch off the gas completely and operate off only the battery if needed. The 4-Mode drive system available on the Hybrid trims lets drivers switch between useful modes like ECON to get the most from their fuel economy or Sport mode for an extra bit of power when desired. The hybrid powertrain utilizes regenerative braking, which is the process of storing kinetic energy that might have otherwise been lost in your battery. No plug-in or power station is needed.
When it comes to handling, whether you go traditional or hybrid, the Accord features a Motion Management System that provides responsive and nimble steering. So whether you’re facing curves ahead or a long highway, the Motion Management System helps to adjust deceleration while improving front wheel traction for a smooth and balanced performance.
The recently improved powertrains across all trims are quieter than ever thanks to Honda’s thoughtful engineering combined with increased insulation for a calm cabin that allows drivers to focus on the road without all the noise.
Are There Other Differences?
When it comes to the traditional gas engine trims, the LX and EX both come with standard cloth seating. However, the EX is the high end of the two and offers heated front seats plus a one-touch power moonroof. With the EX trim, dual-zone climate control keeps you comfortable, while the speaker system is upgraded from a four-speaker system in the LX to an eight-speaker system for the EX.
As for the hybrid trims, the mid-level Sport Hybrid has cloth seats but is missing the heated seat option that is standard on the EX trim. The Sport Hybrid has a moonroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a 10-way power driver’s seat.
If you want standard leather seating to match your tastes, the upper-level hybrid models are where to look. Opt for the EX-L Hybrid, Sport-L Hybrid, or Touring Hybrid for leather-trimmed seats.
When it comes to interior tech, you’ll find that all Accord trims are well-appointed. Amazon Alexa Built-In is only available on the hybrid Accord trims. This feature is great while you are driving as it allows you to speak to Alexa as you would at home; ask it to play music, answer questions, and even control Alexa-enabled devices at home. When you are home (or at work), you can use the Alexa app or an Alexa device to remote start your vehicle or lock your doors.
The high-end Touring Hybrid model is the only trim level that offers additional features like standard Google Built-In and standard wireless charging. An HD radio and a Bose Premium sound system with 12-speakers and a subwoofer are only standard on the Touring Hybrid. Also standard is a 6-inch head-up display that can show you turn-by-turn directions, speed, and more. If you want all the creature comforts the Accord has to offer, you can’t go wrong with the Touring Hybrid trim level.
As for the infotainment screen, when you go for the LX or EX trims, you get a standard 7-inch color touchscreen. The mid-level Sport Hybrid sees the jump to a larger 12.3-inch color touchscreen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard for all Accord trims; however, only the hybrid models allow for wireless connectivity.
How Do They Compare With Driver Assist Features?
The Honda Accord’s starting trim, the LX, does not include a blind spot information system, low-speed braking control, or parking sensors. You can level up to the EX to get the blind spot information system, but the parking sensors only come standard on the mid-level EX-L Hybrid and the Touring Hybrid. The low-speed braking control is only available on the Touring hybrid trim.
Regardless of the trim you choose, your Accord gets the following features:
- Forward collision warning
- Lane departure warning
- Collision Mitigation Braking System
- Road departure mitigation system
- Traffic jam assist
- Adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow
- Traffic sign recognition
- Auto high-beam headlights
- Driver attention monitor
All trims of the Honda Accord have an excellent selection of driver assist and safety features. It really comes down to a few select features that you need to decide whether you want them or not.
Pick the Accord Best for You
No matter which Accord trim you choose, you are bound to get a great assortment of standard features, from a full range of safety and driver-assist technology to interior creature comforts like comfortable seating and a well-appointed cabin. The quiet technology turns the interior into an oasis of calm where a driver can relax at the end of the day as they head home from a long day at work.
Now, it’s up to you to decide which Honda Accord best suits your needs.
