When it comes to sedans, the Honda Accord stands out as a frontrunner. The Accord has ruled the roads since the late 1970s and continues to do so despite an increasingly competitive landscape. But which year Honda accord stands out as the best?

This Japanese marvel has catered to the needs of both new and used car buyers for over four decades. It’s no surprise that the Honda Accord’s legacy is defined by dependability, dependability, longevity, and value retention. As the market is flooded with various Accord models, the question of what is the best year Honda accord arises.

Best Year Honda Accord – A Quick Glance

The Most Reliable Honda Accord Years

The Honda Accord’s reputation as a trustworthy, value-packed sedan is no accident. Certain models have stood out from the crowd over the years, demonstrating their dependability and performance. Let’s take a closer look at these standout models and see why they’re often regarded as the pinnacle of Accord’s offerings.

1998-2002 Honda Accord – The Transition Phase

Sixth Generation Evolution

The 1998-2002 Accord is the brand’s sixth generation, and the Accord underwent significant changes during these years. It increased interior space in response to consumer demand for larger sedans. The goal was to make the ride more comfortable for both the driver and the passengers.

Why Isn’t This The Best Year?

Despite the evolutionary steps, these models faced challenges. Consumer Reports gave this generation a mediocre reliability rating due to issues such as transmission failures and body integrity issues. CarComplaints.com, an automotive complaint website, even labeled this era as “Avoid Like the Plague.” As a result, while the sixth generation’s ambition was high, its reliability suffered, making it less desirable as the best year Honda accord.

2003-2007 Honda Accord – Power Meets Practicality

Seventh Generation Surge

The seventh generation models from 2003 to 2007 were a significant step forward in many ways. Honda introduced more powerful powertrains, and for those looking for a thrill, a 240-horsepower V6 engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission became available, especially in the coupe version.

Why Might These Be The Best Years?

These models provided more than just raw power; they also provided functionality. Their dependability improved significantly over the previous generation, particularly the 2006 and 2007 models.

These two years saw the resolution of widespread transmission issues that plagued early models of this generation, earning CarComplaints’ “Pretty Good” seal of approval. If one had to choose from this generation, the 2006 and 2007 models would undoubtedly compete for the title of best year Honda accord.

2008-2012 Honda Accord – The Expansion Era

Eighth Generation Growth

The eighth generation Honda Accord models, which were available from 2008 to 2012, marked another significant evolution for the brand. The Accord was now classified as a “large” car due to its increased size, resulting in a more spacious interior, particularly in the rear seats.

Why Are The Latter Years The Best?

Unfortunately, the first years of this generation, particularly the 2008 and 2009 models, had several issues such as excessive oil consumption, uncomfortable seats, and weak brakes. However, as the generation grew older, so did its dependability. The 2011 and 2012 models emerged as the most reliable of the eighth generation, making them strong contenders for the best Honda accord years.

Honda Accord Years To Tread Lightly

While the Honda Accord has had many commendable models over the years, it has also had its share of rocky releases. Some years, while appealing in terms of features and design, fell short in terms of dependability. Let’s explore these less-trustworthy terrains and learn why the warning labels are there.

2013-2017 Honda Accord – The Promise And The Perils

The Ninth Generation’s Mixed Bag

The Honda Accord’s ninth generation debuted from 2013 to 2017. This era was marked by a significant redesign: the Accord, despite being slightly smaller in size, maintained its spaciousness. Honda also lavished these models with safety features such as backup cameras, lane departure warnings, and front-collision detection.

Why Caution Is Advised?

The ninth generation’s prospects were not all rosy. Electrical issues plagued the 2013 and 2014 models in particular. Many users reported problems after the 36K mile warranty expired, making these years a bit risky in the long run. These models bear the “Beware of the Clunker” label, according to CarComplaints.com.

One notable issue was the OEM battery’s inability to start the Accord’s V6 engine consistently. As a result, while the 2015, 2016, and 2017 models demonstrated increased dependability, the 2013 and 2014 models should be approached with caution if they are considered the best year Honda accord.

2018-Present Honda Accord – The Current Generation’s Growing Pains

The Tenth Generation’s Learning Curve

The latest era, starting from 2018, saw the Honda Accord undergo another major redesign. With a more coupe-like silhouette and a grounded stance, the design was certainly striking. The ride, as many reviews noted, was comfortable with responsive handling. The standard safety features list was commendable, aligning with Honda’s commitment to safety.

Why Are Some Years Tricky?

The 2018 and 2019 models, although packed with features, had their share of issues. Complaints ranged from minor annoyances like rattling in the dashboard and cracked windshields to more pressing concerns like faulty ABS. 

Consumer Reports, a trusted name in product reviews, gave these two models a middling score of 3 out of 5 in both Reliability and Owner Satisfaction categories. Therefore, while the 2020 and 2021 models have shone brighter in reviews, the 2018 and 2019 releases might not be the ideal choices for those seeking the best Honda accord year.

Is the Honda Accord the Most Reliable Car?

The Honda Accord has earned a well-deserved reputation as one of the most dependable vehicles in its class. When compared to other cars, it has an impressive overall reliability rating of 70.45, which puts it well above the average overall rating of 57. 

This high rating attests to the Accord’s long-lasting quality and dependability, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a dependable and low-maintenance vehicle. The Accord consistently proves to be a dependable and dependable option among midsize sedans, which contributes significantly to its popularity and positive consumer reviews.

What is the Top-of-the-Line Honda Accord?

The Touring Hybrid trim is the top-of-the-line model in the Honda Accord lineup for 2023. Within the Accord lineup, this trim level is the pinnacle of luxury and performance. It differs from the EX-L Hybrid and other lower trims with notable features such as 19-inch alloy wheels and a distinctive black decklid spoiler. 

The Touring Hybrid trim is intended for those looking for the highest level of style, technology, and performance in their midsize sedan, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a top-tier driving experience.

Is the Accord Better Than the Civic?

When comparing the Honda Accord and Honda Civic, the choice is largely determined by personal preferences and priorities. The Accord is known for having more advanced features and technology, such as advanced safety systems, larger infotainment screens, and more sophisticated audio systems. As a result, it is an excellent choice for those who value technology and comfort in their vehicle. 

The Honda Civic, on the other hand, frequently outperforms the Accord in terms of fuel economy, making it a viable option for those looking for a more fuel-efficient vehicle. The choice between the Accord and Civic is ultimately determined by your specific requirements and the features that are most important to you.

Why Are Honda Accords Considered the Best?

Honda Accords are frequently regarded as among the best midsize sedans for a variety of compelling reasons. The Accord’s refined driving manners are one of its standout features. You’ll notice its crisp steering, well-damped suspension, and predictable handling the moment you get behind the wheel. 

These characteristics contribute to overall driving enjoyment and driver confidence. The Accord is an appealing choice for a wide range of drivers due to its harmonious blend of dependability, performance, and comfort. Its reputation for quality and well-rounded attributes are important factors in its ranking as one of the best vehicles in its class.

FAQs

Which Honda Accord Year Should I Avoid?

It’s advisable to tread carefully with the 1998-2002, 2008-2009, and 2013-2014 Honda Accord models.

What Is The Most Recommended Year In Recent Honda Accord History?

The 2015, 2020, and 2021 models have been particularly appreciated for their reliability and user satisfaction.

Why Is The Honda Accord Considered A Good Investment For Used Car Buyers?

The Honda Accord is synonymous with dependability, longevity, and strong value retention, making it an ideal pick for many used car purchasers.

Conclusion

The Honda Accord has etched an indomitable legacy over the decades. While the sedan has seen both highs and lows, its commitment to innovation and reliability remains unwavering. To crown a single best year Honda accord is challenging, given the sedan’s illustrious history. 

However, the 2015, 2020, and 2021 models have showcased exceptional prowess, offering both new and used car buyers a blend of performance, luxury, and reliability. As always, potential buyers should conduct thorough research, considering their unique preferences and requirements, before settling on their best Honda accord year.

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