The 2024 Honda Accord has arrived, and its most significant version is the new E-HEV model. So, is the New Honda Accord E-HEV the best Honda of 2024? It makes a very strong case for itself. This isn’t just a mild refresh; it’s a focused evolution that doubles down on efficiency, technology, and the refined driving experience the Accord is known for. If you’re looking for a midsize sedan that masterfully blends familiar comfort with a very modern powertrain, this is a compelling place to start.
Let’s look at what makes this car tick and whether it deserves the top spot in Honda’s lineup this year.
New Honda Accord E-HEV
The heart of the new Accord is its fourth-generation two-motor hybrid system, now branded E-HEV. This setup is more powerful and efficient than the hybrid system it replaces. It operates mostly like an electric vehicle in daily driving, using the gasoline engine primarily as a generator to charge the battery or to provide direct power at highway speeds.
You get a smooth, quiet, and surprisingly responsive drive from this system. The transition between electric and gas power is seamless, making for a very relaxed commuting experience.
Under the Hood: The Fourth-Generation Hybrid Powertrain
The technical details are impressive. The system pairs a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine with two electric motors. Combined net horsepower sits at 204. The real story is the torque—247 lb-ft available instantly from the electric motors. This gives the Accord E-HEV a confident feel when accelerating from a stop or passing on the highway.
Key improvements include:
* A new lithium-ion battery pack that is more power-dense and lighter.
* The electric motors are now more powerful and efficient.
* Engineered to run on electric power more often and at higher speeds than before.
Design & Styling: Sophisticated and Understated
Honda has taken a clean, sophisticated approach with the 2024 Accord’s design. It’s less aggressive than before, favoring a more mature and aerodynamic look. The front end features a simple black grille and slim LED headlights. The profile is sleek, with a coupe-like roofline that flows into a short trunk lid.
It’s a design that will age gracefully. The E-HEV model gets some subtle blue accents and unique wheel designs to distinguish it from the standard turbo model. Overall, the aesthetic prioritizes elegance over sportiness, which fits the car’s character perfectly.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Step inside, and you’re greeted with a cabin that feels like a step up. Materials quality is excellent for the class, with soft-touch surfaces and thoughtful details. The front seats are supremely comfortable, even on long journeys. Rear seat space is still a strong point, offering plenty of legroom for adults.
The tech interface is centered around a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen (on EX-L and Touring trims) that is responsive and clear. It runs Honda’s latest interface, which is a big improvement.
Standard interior features include:
* A 7-inch or 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
* Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
* Wireless phone charging pad.
* Multiple USB-C ports throughout the cabin.
* Available heated and ventilated front seats.
The Driving Experience: Serene and Efficient
Driving the Accord E-HEV is a lesson in serenity. The initial acceleration is quiet and smooth, thanks to the electric motors. The cabin remains hushed even when the gasoline engine kicks in. The ride quality is superb, soaking up road imperfections with ease while maintaining composed handling.
You won’t find sport-sedan sharpness here, and that’s the point. The steering is light and accurate, making it easy to maneuver in the city. It’s a car designed to reduce stress, not increase adrenaline. You’ll appreciate this calm demeanor during your daily commute or on a long road trip.
Fuel Economy: Where It Shines
This is the Accord E-HEV’s party piece. The EPA estimates are outstanding:
* 51 MPG City
* 44 MPG Highway
* 48 MPG Combined
In real-world mixed driving, consistently achieving mid-to-high 40s is very achievable. For a spacious, comfortable sedan with no plug-in requirement, these numbers are class-leading. The fuel savings over time compared to a conventional sedan are substantial, which is a major part of its appeal.
Safety & Driver-Assist Features
Every 2024 Honda Accord comes standard with the Honda Sensing® suite of safety and driver-assist technologies. The system has been updated with new hardware and software for better performance.
Standard Honda Sensing® features include:
1. Collision Mitigation Braking System™
2. Road Departure Mitigation System
3. Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow
4. Lane Keeping Assist System
5. Traffic Sign Recognition
The system works smoothly and unobtrusively, making highway driving less fatiguing. The blind spot information system is also now standard across all trims, which is a welcome addition.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The Accord E-HEV is available in three well-equipped trim levels. Each offers a strong value proposition.
* EX-L: This is the starting point for the E-HEV and it’s generously equipped. You get leather-trimmed seats, the 12.3-inch touchscreen, a sunroof, and all the standard safety tech. It represents the best value for most buyers.
* Touring: This top trim adds everything. You’ll find a head-up display, premium audio system, perforated leather seats, and additional driver-assist features like a blind spot camera. The ambient interior lighting is a nice touch as well.
Pricing is competitive within the hybrid sedan segment, positioning it as a smart choice for those prioritizing total cost of ownership.
Pros and Cons of the 2024 Accord E-HEV
Let’s break down the key advantages and a few considerations.
Pros:
* Exceptional fuel economy without plugging in.
* Very smooth, quiet, and refined driving experience.
* Spacious, high-quality, and comfortable interior.
* Standard safety technology suite is comprehensive.
* Strong predicted reliability and resale value.
Cons:
* Driving dynamics are focused on comfort, not sportiness.
* Some rivals offer plug-in hybrid options for all-electric commuting.
* The styling may be too conservative for some buyers.
* The infotainment system, while improved, still relies heavily on the touchscreen.
How It Compares to Key Rivals
The midsize sedan segment is full of strong competitors. Here’s a quick comparison.
vs. Toyota Camry Hybrid: The Camry is the arch-rival. The Camry might feel a bit more engaging to drive for some, but the Accord’s interior is more refined and its hybrid system feels smoother in everyday use. Fuel economy is very close between the two.
vs. Hyundai Sonata Hybrid: The Sonata offers bold styling and a great warranty. The Accord generally has a perception of higher build quality and a more premium ride.
vs. Ford Fusion Hybrid (Discontinued): For the used market, the Accord E-HEV’s newer technology and design give it a significant edge over the departed Fusion.
Is It the Best Honda of 2024?
This is the core question. To answer it, you have to consider what “best” means.
If “best” means the most significant, well-rounded, and technologically advanced passenger car in Honda’s lineup, then the Accord E-HEV is a top contender. It perfectly executes the sedan formula with a modern, efficient twist. It has no major flaws and excels in its core mission.
However, Honda also sells the versatile CR-V Hybrid, the fun Civic, and the adventure-ready Pilot. The “best” Honda depends on your needs:
* Need maximum space and AWD? The CR-V Hybrid might be best.
* Want sporty dynamics on a budget? The Civic Si is calling.
* Require three rows? The Pilot is your only choice.
But for the singular achievement of refining the traditional family sedan into a paragon of efficiency and comfort, the Accord E-HEV stands out. It represents the pinnacle of Honda’s mainstream sedan engineering in 2024.
Final Verdict and Who Should Buy It
The 2024 Honda Accord E-HEV is a superb automobile. It masterfully combines stellar fuel economy, a serene driving experience, and a premium interior into a practical package. It’s easy to recommend to a wide range of buyers.
You should seriously consider the Accord E-HEV if:
* You have a long daily commute and want to minimize fuel costs.
* You value a quiet, comfortable, and stress-free driving experience.
* You need a spacious sedan for family duties but want modern efficiency.
* You prefer the simplicity of a hybrid that doesn’t need to be plugged in.
It might not be the right choice if you prioritize sporty handling above all else, or if you need all-wheel drive (it’s only offered in front-wheel drive). Also, if your daily commute is short and you can charge at home, a plug-in hybrid or electric vehicle might make more sense for maximizing electric-only miles.
Overall, the New Honda Accord E-HEV isn’t just a great hybrid; it’s one of the best all-around cars you can buy in 2024. It sets a very high standard for what a midsize sedan should be.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What does E-HEV stand for?
A: E-HEV stands for Electric Hybrid Electric Vehicle. It emphasizes that Honda’s hybrid system is designed to prioritize electric motor drive as much as possible.
Q: How is the E-HEV different from the old Accord Hybrid?
A: The new E-HEV system is the fourth generation. It has more power, more torque, a new battery, and is engineered to operate on electric power more frequently and at higher speeds than the previous system.
Q: What is the real-world MPG I can expect?
A: Most drivers report easily achieving 46-50 MPG in mixed real-world driving, which is very close to the EPA estimates. Your results will vary based on driving style and conditions.
Q: Does the Accord E-HEV qualify for any tax credits?
A: No, the Honda Accord E-HEV does not currently qualify for any federal electric vehicle tax credits, as it is not a plug-in hybrid. Some states may offer local incentives for hybrid vehicles.
Q: What’s the difference between the Accord hybrid and the Accord E-HEV?
A: For the 2024 model year, “E-HEV” is simply Honda’s new branding for its advanced hybrid system. All hybrid Accords are now called Accord E-HEV. There is no separate “hybrid” model anymore.
Q: How much does the 2024 Honda Accord hybrid cost?
A: Pricing for the 2024 Accord E-HEV starts at a competitive point for the EX-L trim. The top Touring trim carries a higher price but includes nearly every feature. It’s best to check with local dealers for exact pricing and availability, as it can vary.