The 2018 Honda Accord now enters its 10th generation and still remains one of Honda’s top sellers in the mid-size sedan category. However, its age-old status really only applies to its name because the 2018 Accord is completely revamped with future forward looks and technology that leaves most of its competition in the dust. Specifically, a 10-speed automatic transmission and Honda’s third-generation two-motor hybrid system that shares some of the advanced technology from Acura’s Super-Handling AWD system (SHAWD).
REIMAGINED DESIGN
The 2018 Honda Accord has been completely redesigned from a clean slate and built with a foundation of lessons learned over time. What you can expect is an overall lighter and stronger car thanks to a larger use high-strength steel, improved manufacturing methods using structural adhesion and an aluminum constructed suspension system. Adaptive Damper suspension systems normally only found in the luxury class now makes its way into the Accord Touring model as well this year.
Proportions have also been tweaked to give the 2018 Accord a more aggressive and sporty look without compromising cabin space. More specifically, the wheelbase is extended by 2.16” and body width by 0.39”. Seating has also been lowered by as much as 1 inch in the front and 0.79 in the back to give the driver a more performance-oriented driving position.
LUXURY AT A BARGAIN
Most notably in the luxury department is the cabin space which continues to dress to impress. The interior of the 2018 Accord offers a premium feel with front leather heated seats and solid acoustic paneling delivering a whisper quiet drive. Standard across all models now include a rear view back-up camera, 60/40 folding rear seats for added cargo space and proximity key-entry with push-button engine start system.
PERFORMANCE AND DRIVE
The smaller 1.5L four cylinder turbocharged engine included in the base LX, Sport EX-L, and Touring model produces 192hp and 192 lb.ft of torque with the choice of a 6-speed manual or an available CVT transmission. Opting for the larger 2.0L four cylinder turbo with i-VTEC will cost you an additional $6,400 to upgrade to the Sport 2.0 trim, but it also comes with 252hp and 273 lb.ft of torque. The highest Touring 2.0 trim includes Adaptive Damper System that controls the suspension valve dampers in real time to provide an optimal balance of comfort and performance based on driving conditions.
Greener initiatives are made possible with the 2018 Honda Accord hybrid model, powered by a 2.0L four cylinder Atkinson Cycle engine utilizing two motors that can operate without the need of a conventional automatic transmission. Honda calls this the Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive system, which results with an estimated combined EPA rating of 47 mpg as opposed to 28 and 33 mpg for the 2.0L and 1.5L engines.
Modifications to the body proportions and reduced weight becomes prominent with a fairly low and aggressive front row seating position as opposed to a more neutral fit compared with previous Accord models. This also translates well to road dynamics, since the lower center of gravity and wider body stance promotes driving confidence with minimal body roll and more accurate steering.
Our Hybrid Touring tester model comes standard with Adaptive Damping System that worked fairly well in adjusting the suspension damping based on driving conditions with a comfortable ride under normal city driving and the ability to stiffen up under harsher maneuvers. Though the 2018 Accord’s performance doesn’t quite stack up to what some luxury brands offer, it’s still leaps and bounds ahead of the non-luxury brand comparables!
FINAL THOUGHTS
The entry level 2018 Honda Accord hybrid starts at $33,090, while the upgraded Touring model equipped with adaptive damping suspensions and upgraded leather interior with 4-way adjustable seats, heads up display, leather wrapped steering wheel and Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation system comes in at $39,790. Whichever model of the 2018 Accord you decide to go with, you can rest easy knowing that you’re getting an economically priced sedan that delivers on all the main factors – performance, quality, comfort, reliability and efficiency.
