The Honda Accord is an icon among practical midsize sedans. This trusted nameplate has a well-earned reputation for rock-solid reliability, good safety scores, and all-around practicality that’s hard to match. The current-generation Accord has modern technology, sharp styling, and an available hybrid powertrain.

Rather than treating it like its own model, the hybrid variant of the Accord has been integrated with the non-hybrid Accord, creating one cohesive model range. Let’s look at the Accord model range and zoom in on the most popular model.

What is the most popular trim of the 2024 Honda Accord?

According to Edmunds, the most popular trim of the 2024 Honda Accord is the EX-L Hybrid model. The Accord EX-L Hybrid starts at around $33,840.

It is well-equipped with standard features like a power sunroof, leather seats (heated in front), a memory driver’s seat, parking sensors, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay. A long list of standard safety tech features includes automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and traffic sign recognition.

It’s not hard to see why the EX-L Hybrid trim is so popular. It sits in the middle of the Accord model range as the second most affordable hybrid variant, but cheaper than the Sport-L and loaded Touring trims.

It’s also the trim recommended by many critics. Car and Driver praises its balance of premium features, excellent fuel economy, and reasonable pricing. The Car Connection points out that the 17-inch wheels give the EX-L trim better fuel economy than the other three hybrid trims of the Accord, adding to its practical appeal.

Why the hybrid version?

The hybrid powertrain has more horsepower and better fuel economy than the turbo engine in the non-hybrid models. The standard engine in the Accord is a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, making 192 horsepower and returning up to 32 combined mpg.

The hybrid powertrain uses a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder with a total output of 204 horsepower and returns up to 48 combined mpg. On paper, the hybrid is just better than the base engine. According to EPA estimates, the hybrid saves about $50 per month in fuel costs. That takes the sting out of the modest price premium for the hybrid, which starts at $32,195.

The base engine is good if you’re looking to spend under $30k, but the hybrid powertrain is a no-brainer if it fits your budget.

Other options for the 2024 Honda Accord

The Honda Accord is a consistent class leader, but a few other midsize sedans with hybrid options are worth considering. The Toyota Camry Hybrid starts at $28,855 and returns up to 52 mpg. Another good choice is the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The Hyundai also returns up to 52 combined mpg, and the 2023 model begins at $28,450.

While EVs might get all the attention, humble hybrid sedans, like the Honda Accord and others, could point to a more realistic future. For drivers who want a normal, affordable sedan and get around 50 mpg, it’s an excellent time to be shopping for a new car.