The Honda Accord is one of the most popular midsize sedans and a favorite among critics. It also offers a variety of engine options and athletic handling. But does that carry over to the hybrid version? Typically, drivers anticipate sacrificing speed for overall efficiency when switching to hybrid cars.

However, according to U.S. News, the Honda Accord Hybrid is one of the quickest cars you can buy under $30,000. At $26,370, it’s cheaper than many of its popular rivals, like the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. So, is the Honda Accord Hybrid worth buying from a performance standpoint?

How fast is the 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid?

The Honda Accord Hybrid packs a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors, producing 212 hp. It’s paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and is exclusively front-wheel drive. The Accord Hybrid is surprisingly quicker than the standard gas-operated hybrid. According to MotorTrend, it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in only 6.7 seconds, faster than the Toyota Camry Hybrid.

Unfortunately, that quick acceleration results in complaints from the engine, plus the CVT’s usual buzz. However, the Honda Accord Hybrid redeems itself with its efficiency and ride quality. 

The EPA rates the standard model for 48 mpg on both highway and city roads. Exterior noise is kept to a minimum, even on long stretches of highway. The suspension absorbs most hard bumps, and the Accord Hybrid’s fun handling impresses MT’s reviewers.

What else is included in the base Honda Accord Hybrid?

At first glance, you might mistake the Honda Accord Hybrid’s interior for a luxury sedan’s. Hand-stitched seating accents, faux wood trim on the dash, and other soft surfaces make the interior shine. However, cloth upholstery is standard, and the seats are manually adjustable.

The backseat provides lots of legroom for all passengers, but headroom is more restrictive. Pleasantly enough, the Honda Accord Hybrid doesn’t lose any cargo space with the battery pack.

Technology features include smartphone integration, two USB ports, and Bluetooth. The eight-inch touchscreen displays crisp graphics, though some menus can be confusing. Consumer Reports says you can mitigate this issue by rearranging apps on the home screen.

The Honda Accord Hybrid also comes standard with a good lineup of advanced safety features. It has automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, forward-collision warning, road sign recognition, and automatic high-beams. A multi-angle backup camera and push-button start are also included.

Options for higher trims

Moving up to the Honda Accord Hybrid EX bumps the price to just over $30,000. However, it’s still a good deal for the added convenience tech, including wireless smartphone integration and device charging. Riders can also enjoy heated front seats, a moonroof, and an upgraded sound system. The Accord Hybrid EX also comes with extra safety tech, such as blind-spot monitors and fog lights.

Another trim level up, the Accord Hybrid EX-L costs $32,690 and comes with parking sensors. It also upgrades the seats from cloth to leather and adds power-adjustability for the driver’s seat.

The Honda Accord Hybrid Touring is the top trim, retailing for $36,240. It comes with larger wheels, low-speed braking control, and adaptive dampers for better performance. It also boasts even more convenience tech, like built-in navigation, a Wi-Fi hotspot, ventilated seats, and a head-up display.

Sure, the Honda Accord Hybrid isn’t sports-car material, but it’s still one of the most engaging hybrids you can drive. Aside from light steering and below-average predicted reliability, critics struggled to find problems with it. Regardless of trim, the Accord Hybrid offers an excellent mix of style, performance, and affordability.