2014 Honda Accord Hybrid Review and Road Test
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 21 ก.ค. 2024
- Now and then you run into a car that just "fits". It's like finding a perfect shoe, or a comfy smoking jacket. Until now I have been keeping my secret love on the down-low for several reasons. First off, I've always thought having a "favorite car" tends to color one's judgment when comparing cars, so I try to avoid such statements. Secondly, my dalliance with my automotive flame was fleeting. As most of us know, one-night-stands rarely hold up to the scrutiny of a long-term relationship. And lastly, coming out as a hybrid-lover has been difficult. When folks ask me "what was the best car you drove in 2013?" and my answer is "the 2014 Accord Hybrid," they stare at me like I have three eyeballs.
The Accord is the mid-size sedan least likely to offend. While some call the tall greenhouse and upright proportions boring, I found them to be elegant and restrained. Indeed the Accord's side profile reminds me a great deal of former Lexus products, a similarity that was shared by passengers during the week. Several passers by even confused the Accord with a Lexus ES. This is good news for Honda but bad news for Lexus.
In many ways the Accord Hybrid shares more design themes with the Fisker Karma than a Toyota Prius. Up till now, mainstream hybrids used one of two systems, either an electro/mechanical power split device designed around a planetary gearset like the Ford, Toyota and GM Voltec hybrids, or they sandwich an electric motor between the engine and transmission (Honda, Kia/Hyundai, Mercedes, VW and everyone else). Honda went back to the drawing board and designed a true serial hybrid -- as long as you stay under 44 mph. Things start out on the drawing above with a 2.0L, 141 horsepower engine mated directly to a motor/generator that is capable of generating approximately 141 horsepower (Honda won't release details on certain drivetrain internals so that's an educated guess). Honda says this is the most thermodynamically efficient four-cylinder engine in production, a title I have no reason to doubt. Next we have a 166 horsepower, 226 lb-ft motor connected to the front wheels via a fixed gear ratio. Under 44 miles per hour, this is all you need to know about the system. The 166 horsepower motor powers the car alone, drawing power from either a 1.3 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, or the engine via the generator and the power control circuitry. Over 44 miles per hour, the system chooses one of two modes depending on which is most efficient at the time. The system can engage a clutch pack to directly connect the motor and generator units together allowing engine power to flow directly to the wheels via that fixed gear ratio, or it can keep operating in serial mode.
With all the numbers tallied the Accord Hybrid is an easy winner. It is more expensive than the competition but that delta shrinks when you account for feature content. The delta becomes immaterial however when you look at our average fuel economy numbers of 47.8 MPG in the Accord and 30 to mid-30s in all of the competition (including that 47 MPG Fusion.) Honda's hybrid has the best road manners in the pack, the most composed ride, a comfy back seat and a quiet cabin. On my tally list, the Accord's driving dynamics, fuel economy, performance and comfort more than outweigh my complaints about the cruise control and dual-screen infotainment system.
Being on the down-low, my former last word on the Accord was "The Accord may not be the best looking hybrid on sale, (for me that's still the Ford Fusion) but the Accord's simple lines and unexpectedly high fuel economy make the Honda a solid option. Being the gadget hound I am, I think I would still buy the Fusion, but only in the more expensive Titanium trim. If you're not looking that high up the food chain, the Accord Hybrid is quite simply the best fuel sipping mid-size anything. Prius included." But now I've decided it's time to come clean. I'd take the Hybrid Accord period. No exceptions, no hair splitting.
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Still getting about 40-45 MPG on my 2015 Accord Hybrid. Still drives smoothly, too. Best car purchase I've ever made.
How many miles have you driven it?
@@chewbacag914 It has a little over 144,000 miles.
@@theharvestqueen4444has there been any performance decline in it? Looking to buy a 2015 hybrid touring that has 106,000 miles in it. How long do you think I can get it to run before it dumps on me?
im getting 50.8mpg the past 800 miles in my 2014 accord hybrid ex-L , i got it with 52k miles a week ago
He is extremely knowledgeable and professional. Well done.
Congratulations Alex you are one of the first reviewers to get all the engineering of the car right and teach me some things I did not know. You have a new fan.
We have the touring trim line and get 900 KM in city driving, 1200-1300 KM on a full tank of mixed driving, fill up every 2-3 weeks depends on weekend plans too.
Such a great car.
Hands down the best review on the Honda Accord hybrid.
I have to say this is the first thorough and detailed car review I have come across on You Tube. Excellent review and this is the third review I have watch and the most informative. I'll have to check out your other reviews now since you filled out an informative gap I tend to get from other auto reviews.
You even made a hybrid review pleasant to watch, great work! I'm always amazed at how much information and detail you convey in a single test.
You are the best auto reviewer I have ever witness, and I read a lot of reviews! Not only your able to explain the system in layman terms, but also you go into details that really matter in a lot of people's lives and really educate the consumer what to look out for when buying any car!
Keep doing what you do Alex! No wonder you got your own channel!
Wow! Outstanding review, Alex. It's almost 2018, and I'm referencing this article to buy a used Honda Accord hybrid. This is probably the only car review that I've watched twice.
Alex - Your reviews are the most informative (orally and visually) of any that I have viewed over many months. Every sentence is worth listening to at least once. I am going to send this link to a local Honda sales representative who, when I last spoke with him, knew less about his product than I. Thank you for the professionalism that you bring to your reviews.
Thanks for the feedback!
dear Alex,
your car shows are the most complete, most accurate, most precise. after all you mentioned about the 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid, i'm ready to get me one.
keep up the good work. the accord hybrid beats out every other hybrid mid-size sedan. there will come a time when the Honda accord will top and surpass the top selling midsize sedan which is the Toyota Camry.
thank you for the review Alex.
So did you get one ? :)
Alex is the best reviewer period despite the relatively long reviews. Worth every minute.
Thank you.
Alex, I Truly enjoy watching your video's ( Automotive Reviews ) Mostly because You drive the vehicles upon Normal Conditions and Streets. Not like other Reviewers who drive the vehicles upon Test Tracks. I mean "Let's be Serious" how many of us normally, really visit a test track during our daily commute. Also, the scenery within the reviews is quite normal and reflects what we generally see everyday. Keep Up the Good Work.
Great review! I especially liked your explanation on what it does with the extra regeneration with the batter is full. I've owned my 2014 Accord Hybrid for almost two months and I am very satisfied. I'm getting about 42 MPG so far even with the brutally cold winter we've been having.
Best reviews from a normal person perspective - good work and keep it up - you have almost sold me on this ( and I was shopping for a CUV...)...
One of the most useful reviews out there, looking to buy a Honda Accord Hybrid and you my friend were even better than Hondas website. You broke down how the hybrid motor worked and it's what I needed. Thanks
Great review, Alex. I love your technical explanations and hope you can add a new video to summarize the similarities and differences among all of the big contenders of the day. Keep up the great work.
Outstanding review, as usual, unbelievable complete and clear, great job, please keep it up.
Great review and I really appreciate the graphics how you describe the powertrain. It makes it so much easier to understand. Even the infotainment video is enjoyable to watch. Keep us the good work and thank you for taking the time.
Thanks Alex for another great review. I was able to find and purchase one. They are very hard to find right now. I do notice the transition from hybrid mode to gas mode on the hi way. Not terribly apparent but noticeable. Over all I love this car. Thank you Honda. Finally!!! I'm averaging 45mpg!!!
Honda has hit a home-run with the new Accord hybrid! Class leading 50mpg city, and a sharp looking car that is actually fun to drive. I hope Honda expands its new hybrid system across all of its models in the near future.
I would be interested in a video comparing different hybrid systems. You make it easy to understand!
Thanks Alex...I bought a 2015 accord hybrid base model a month ago and love it. My main concern was always battery life, electric motor and complex electronics of the car. I traded in my 13+ yr old 15mpg truck to get into this so when I'm averaging 50.3mpg's on all of my driving upto this point it's hard not to be excited about the fuel economy. The ride overall is pretty nice and compared to my truck feels like a 100,000 dollar car. I had almost 250,000 miles on my truck and since this is a hybrid I guess there's no way to do something like this in this type of car. I hope she lasts at least 8 to 10 years before having any serious problems. I loved your review and thought it was the best one overall I've seen.
Alex, since you live in the Bay Area, you know the roads around here are far from perfect. I am glad you mentioned how much stiffer and bouncier Accord's suspension than Camry's. That's what struck me when I tested both. A drive around through city streets in the Accord made me feel like I was going to lose my fillings.
It depends on which Accord you drove. The Hybrid actually has a better-dampened suspension (thanks to Acura parts) giving it a smoother ride than the standard Accord.
Tom Eisenmenger Thanks for the info. I did not drive test Accord Hybrid.
Alex thanks for your response. Here is the problem with all the car companies doing away with a spare tire. The air pump has a slime like product in it to seal the tire. It can only seal holes smaller than 1/4 inch such as a nail hole. If the tire comes off the bead you need a tow truck. So here are my choices buy a spare or put run-flat tires on the car or invest in a tow truck. Because a spare tire should be a safety issue. Thanks
You're basically just left with the tow truck.
I always like your review, very professional. You describe so well the vehicule.
Continue please your good work. I have a Honda Accord Hybrid 2014 and I like a lot.
Excellent detailed explanation of the hybrid/motor technology. I am comparing the Camry vs the Accord as we speak for my wife's commute. 2014 Accord has the notch so far
As always, great review Alex. I brought this car used because of this review.
Hi Alex:
I really appreciate how thorough and detailed you are in your reviews, and want to echo my thanks for that just as other reviewers have done below. Since I've discovered your channel, you are pretty much my go-to source for unbiased and thoughtful commentary on the vehicles I would likely consider to purchase...
The Accord Hybrid has caught my fancy as of late, and I'm hoping to do a test drive of it very soon. :-)
Another thorough, comparison-loads and clearly presented review. My wife & I watched it together before heading out to the Jax new car show...but we learned far more about Hondas here. Please tally another vote for a video showing block diagrams of the competitive hybrid systems, Alex. And you might pair up each example with its pro's & con's, which do exist. One quibble: Like most reviews, the cost comparisons presume consistent battery efficiency over the length of ownership being compared. In reality, these battery banks begin losing efficiency on the drive home from the dealer. For longer ownership periods - like yours and like ours - this will clearly be reflected in the mileage obtained.
PERFECT!!! That's All I needed to know, this car Will be an Absolute Jewel; a Dream come true. Thank You, Sir for ALL of your Help.
Excellent review Alex.. you touched about everything I could think of.....thanks
Fantastic review. Well done Alex.
Hi,
Firstly, thanks for all the detailed video reviews, not only are they detailed and very informative, I find that your reviews look at things from a very practical view relevant for car owners, which a lot of other reviewers often don't.
I am currently looking to buy my first car, and I was wondering if you would consider doing a video for someone like myself. I am looking for a 4-door sedan, and am considering the new crop of luxury sedans currently on offer, such as the Audi A3 (coming soon, I think), Mercedes CLS and the Buick Verano. If possible, I would love to see a video review that offers a comparison of cars in this segment, and some of the key things we buyers should consider when making our choices.
Wow! What a great review! I'm going to go buy one of these now!
Thanks Alex. Made my choice easy. Proud owner of a 2014 HAH
This Honda Accord Hybrid is very convincing technology. I like the understated sedan look as well and appreciate the long distance cruising values.
The only comparison I would make at the dealer is against the Sport + 6 SPD.
Thanks for the review Alex
#honda #hybrid
Best Car Review ever! LOL. Keep it up Alex. I really like your reviews.
The 2017 HAH is hitting the lots - when can we expect a video (yours are always the best!) ?
Great thorough review. Seems like I have watched quite a few of your videos, and you do a better job than anyone else in the review world.
I am deciding between an Accord Hybrid Touring sedan and a VW Passat Tdi SEL. The miles per tank is important to me, as is the sound system, and I think the VW wins both of those categories. But gas vs diesel, fit and finish and resale are better in the Accord. Any insight to help me out.
hi Alex , I really like your in-depth coverage especially when you talk about seats. I have a 9th gen accord touring and i’m not liking the seat comfort. You chose to give it a 8-9 in one your reviews!-however , I’ll have to disagree. which japanese car in your opinion offers superior seat comfort for longer drives? thank Alex.
Absolutely excellent review.
Great review! very informative.
Excellent review!
Alex, simply another outstanding review. Very much appreciated. I bought a 2014 Mazda6 with the GT package (regenerative breaking) back in early Sept. So far, it's been a real pleasure to drive -- am averaging 34.8 mpg and that includes 2+ months of sub-zero in-town driving. Best tank was 40.8 mpg. My only complaint is the somewhat snug interior dimensions, which leads to my question -- how much more room does the Accord Hybrid truly have than my Mazda6? Thanks again for your excellent review.
Up front the Accord has about an inch more headroom but other than that the dimensions aren't vastly different. The Accord does have more shoulder room by about 1.5 inches front and rear but the difference is largely seating position. The Accord has a more upright rear seat which makes it feel roomier. This is possible because of the very upright profile of the Accord and it is also why the rear headroom numbers are about the same. The measurement is taken at the seat back angle so in general the more reclined the rear seat is the more "head room" you have in the car. No matter how you slice it however this is a mid-sized segment so for more room you'd need to jump up to a full-sized car like a Chrysler 300, Chevy Impala, Kia Cadenza, etc. for more room.
good job love your videos
your voice is so relaxing :D
Thank you very much, I'm down to a coin toss between the Fusion and the Accord now.
Thanks for the super details
Great review, lol Trunk comfort. I'm shopping for a new used hybrid, coming from a Prius.
I thought this was an excellent review. It was quite informative and I learned that there was no spare tire. My insurance can cover the problems with flats (which I've only had two in my life), so I don't think the lack of a spare is a deal-breaker.
The car sounds pretty quiet as you drove. I know one cannot go by the sensitivity of the microphone and so when watching car review videos, you really cannot go by what you hear. The fact you added an actual dB reading gives me a very good idea of the noise level in the car. What was the most noisy factor in this car? Was it tire roar, rattles, engine/CVT, or some other source?
I got this car 2 days ago it amazing to say the least . I got 52 mpg on a 64 mile trip, on small hwy , with stop an go sometimes 4 way stop signs
I posted a 2 minute video, you can watch it in my link . I also have an old video of my 2007 hybrid accord v6 which is inherited by my daughter still running good with the original battery at 135 ,000 miles. The system is very smart. An you car run on ev mode when the battery is full in city. This trip on hilly roads.
Is there any problems in battery or hybrid system that I would be worried about on the Accord hybrid 2014 long run? I'm about to buy a used one.
Always LIKE and already Subscribed and commenting. I have to agree Alex from a sensible prospective this is a good buy. I have to wonder in 8 years is the depreciation of the HYBRID more, the same, or less then the 4 cyl. version? As of now the Hybrids are not getting the cars to grab in the used car market.
Yes best to do full comparison and include depreciation as well (TCO). It's unlikely that you'd lose 100% of the hybrid premium after few years and according to KBB the TCO is equal after 5 years (15K/yr) comparing Hybrid Touring model with EX-L Nav (4 cyl).
But there's no data for 8 years and even 5 years is a guess (plus future gas prices will have an effect). But seems unlikely you lose more than hybrid premium after 5 years. Closer to 10 years certainly there will be cost worries about battery replacement (but cost is dropping as well for that and certainly in 8-10 years).
If you look at 'older' hybrid models like Toyota Camry Hybrid the residual value is pretty good so not something I'd worry about with Honda/Toyota models.
hello Alex. Im about to buy a new a car (hybrid honda accord as my first option) and I gotta say your review is the BEST SO FAR IN THE TH-cam channel or any media so thank you for share your review with us.. Now with a hybrid, I wonder about whats next about maintenance with car. Does it has special maintenance because is a hybrid? how about the battery? in future years will cost even more to maintenance this car than a regular car?. hope you can help me with these questions.....
There are no real changes in regular maintenance for a hybrid. In the long term you do have the potential for a battery replacement, but that is quite rare and the battery does have a long warranty.
I am having a very hard time location the Hybrid Touring in dealerships in the NYC area. Anyone else experiencing that problem too? Also the best with destination I got is $33,702 any one get a better deal?
All the dealerships are saying its in short supply. Only 3 of the 14 dealerships even have the Touring in stock and even then just one each.
Any idea why?
Alex on Autos In regard to length I thought the previous generation was actually 2-3 inches longer than this current generation? The previous generation was considered a full size car as well? They have actually shrunken this generation as to what I have heard. I have researched the last generation accords a lot because I currently have one. If you have been counting or caring I currently have a 2006 toyota sienna, 2012 honda accord, and a 2014 nissan versa note.
like your video, give me much more info than other videos on youtube
I really enjoyed your explanation on the hybrid system(and I would like to hear more about the other systems), I didn't realize that this hybrid is a series hybrid at low speed! Nice tidbit on the regen braking part when the battery is full as well.
Does it mean that the PHEV Accord has the same drivetrain and that the only difference between it and the Hybrid is (obviously) the SAE plug and a larger battery pack?
Yep, that is exactly right. Other than that the plug-in gets a unique nose which I really don't care for.
Hi Alex,
Your reviews are truly the best; you really cover the real questions every buyer would have and leave room for little to ask.
In this review you compared the Accord to the Prius but there was no reference to the Camry Hybrid. I understand that from a fuel economy perspective but what are your thoughts when you compare the Accord from a sedan-to-sedan with the Camry Hybrid (apart from the fact that the Accord has better fuel economy)?
Would also love to hear your perspective on the Li-Ion battery on the Accord versus the Ni-Mh on the Camry.
Thanks!
NSNQST I prefer the Accord to the Camry, it handles better, the fuel economy is considerably higher as well.
Thank you, Alex. Are there any negatives to Ni-Mh battery on the Camry?
NSNQST The only real downside is that the battery is larger and heavier.
Thank you, Alex.
What do you think of this over the new Prius? I was far more impressed with the 2016 Prius over the previous models...
Solid review `
Alex, I liked your review but you missed showing the non-existent spare tire. That air pump they give you is a joke. I purchased a 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid EX-L and then threw out that foam liner and behold there was room for a compact spare and tools that I ordered through the Honda parts store and everything fit. Now I'm happier. The HAH is a GREAT car now even with the spare tire in the trunk I still average way over 55mpg's all around. I do love being able to challenge myself to getting the best mileage. So far 76mgp on a 128 mile trip which included 60mph freeway for about 60 miles.Take the ECO button off and you have a real sports car with unbelievable power. Love it.
That somehow got lost in editing. I did comment on it in the plug-in review and, as you say I even noted that you can stuff a spare in there if you like. Sadly the spare tire is going the way of the Do Do bird, most new cars I test don't have one. At least Honda still made a well where a spare could be stored, the last few new car designs this year haven't even had a place to put one.
Hey Alex, by far one of the most thorough reviews I've ever seen. I am thinking of buying this car for my next car mainly because your review alone has swayed me. Three questions:
1. So despite consumer reports problems reaching 50MPG city, you are able to reach it by driving normally? Not babying it nor riding it hard?
2. Does heat affect the car's performance in any way? I know heat saps the power on turbos, I am curious if it has any effect here.
3. How do the LED headlights compare to HID's in terms of output, range and clarity?
Thanks again, look forward to your new reviews.
In reverse order: the LEDs are good, they are quite comparable to HIDs but consume less power. Heat does cause MPGs to drop and with Consumer Reports the bigger issue is cold, that causes your MPGs to drop farther in any car but the higher the MPG score the more obvious the reduction is.On my commute my MPGs were on CA 17, CA 85 and US 101. The speed limit is 50 on CA 17 and 65 on the others my maximum speed was 70. I drove it as I assumed most owners would, which is to say not aggressively.
Alex on Autos Thanks for the reply, it cleared alot up. I wish Consumer Reports would have been more explicit. I dont listen to them really anymore, if I need a car review I come to this channel.
I was driving back from Tennessee to Indiana today and another question popped into my head; how is the adaptive cruise control from Honda? I know Nissan/Infiniti's is finicky and wont take you down to 0 MPH, Hyundai/Kia will take you down to 0 MPH as will most of the Germans. How is the transition between someone cutting in front of you and the Honda adaptive cruise control reacting to that? Does it slam on the brakes or is it gradual? Is there a delay when someone moves out of the way and the system resumes the set speed?
Garden of Harmony
Personally I dislike the Honda adaptive system. When you use your foot to accelerate beyond the cruise control and then you let off, the car drops well below the set speed and then picks up again. It also isn't as good at interacting with traffic when it enters/exits your lane. Still I'd rather have it than not, but it isn't as good as the Volvo/Mercedes/Audi systems
What do you like better, the Accord Hybrid or the Chevy Volt? Obviously there are some large differences, but the Volt is the one that got me looking at these types of cars, and to be honest I am disappointed that Honda is not offering the plug in in Canada, so I could take advantage of the EV mode on my relatively short commute. Something the Volt has no issue with. I feel I can trust Honda to have a well made and trouble free car ( I have owned 6) but am worried about buying the Chevy...only personal experience through a work fleet of old Malibus (complete garbage) and now Cruzes and the Chev SUV, and while not complete junk like older chevs, they seem riddled with recalls and issues of early wear and tear...
So...would you say the Accord is the better executed vehicle?
Billis DeWillis Personally, I'd take the Accord over the Volt or the Prius. The fuel economy is excellent and its a much nicer and more comfortable car than either.
The Voltec platform proves to be right. We're seeing that technology pop up in Toyotas, Hondas, BMWs.....
but 4 years later came the 2018 Camry hybrid XLE...oooowee baby!
Alex
Have you heard if Apple CarPlay coming to the Honda Accord Hybrid or any of Honda Vehicles soon ?
Thanks
Joe
It should happen soon as Honda is a regular Apple partner but I would not expect it until the 2015 calendar year at the earliest.
Alex, I have a Final Question and need your Advice? As Stated earlier, I live in a snowbelt region in Boston, MA. and I would like to know IF ( you believe ) there is enough Ground clearance on the 14 Accord Hybrid (base model).
Here I am afraid my knowledge is limited. I live in Costal California in a temperature rainforest that absolutely does not get snow. However I do know that the Hybrid Accord is essentially the same height as the standard Accord.
Hi Alex - great review.... I know you really like the new Accord Hybrid. I've read some other reviews talk about the buzzy CVT, and somewhat noisy cabin. What's your take on the Hybrid's overall NVH? Is it pretty serene in there? Or course I need to drive one, just havent gotten around to it yet. :)
It is very good with some exceptions. When the engine is revving at the higher RPMs you do get more noise than expected and of course the engine does not have a linear relationship with the wheels.
Alex on Autos can you do a Genesis Sedan review?
Great review. How about doing a review on the Lincoln MKZ and Hybrid?
I am working on getting one.
Great. Thanks
Hello Alex. What are your thoughts about the Honda Insight and CR-Z? Also, why do you have two Review & Road Test video reviews on the 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid, aside from the fact that it's really that good?
Well, the first one was based on a few hours in the car at a launch event, the second one was based on a week with the Accord. While I'm still in love with the Accord hybrid, the Insight and CR-Z just don't seem like compelling vehicles to me. The Insight lags behind the Prius in fuel economy and the CR-Z lacks the performance you'd think should come with the looks.
Hi Alex first great review but I'm curious if you have info and whats your thoughts on the battery life of this car? How long can a car like this last? I have faith a regular accord can run 2 or 3 hundred thousand miles but what about the hybrid version?
The DOE's tests on hybrid batteries implies that they have at least 1/2 their capacity at around 160,000 miles. Personally I think that 200,000 or 300,000 is asking a great deal of the battery and I would say it may take at least one replacement to get to 300K
the batter last about 6 years, is it?
so once at half or so capacity on battery life than i guess mpg goes down alot but car still rides fine? i guess entire battery pack has to be replaced and you can't do it any other way? thanks
It is hard to say since I doubt any Accord Hybrids have exceeded their warranty and needed a battery replacement yet. The battery is covered by an 8-year/100,000-mile or 10-year/150,000 mile warranty, depending on the state of purchase/registration.
I might be wrong here, but didn't you review the 2014 accord hybrid a while ago?
I had a video that was shot at the launch event in Texas so I only had a few hours in a pre-production car. This time I has the car for a full week and it was a 100% production vehicle.
Alex,. Great analysis! From fuel economy would you by a 2014 Accord Hybrid or a TDI VW Passat?
I'd get the Accord Hybrid.
What kind of car do you drive?
Hi Alex,
I am on the market seeking for an Accord Hybrid EX-L. Its current supply is really tight in the bay area and the price is firmly at MSRP. On the other hand, one can get a Fusion hybrid with a pretty good price. I just test drove both today. I should say that I cannot name any specific reason why one is superior to the other given the limited experience I had during the brief tests. With the price difference, my preference is now toward Fusion. A second opinion from you would definitely be helpful. Thanks!
I have heard that it is hard to find one around here (Bay Area as well). I really, really like the Fusion. I think it is the better looking sedan and I like the way it drives. Unfortunately the Fusion's real-world mileage was 8-10 MPG lower than the Accord for me and I found the rear seats a bit too cramped (especially in terms of headroom) to be a family car. Although I would miss the Fusion's folding rear seat backs and trunk pass-through, the Accord Hybrid would be my first choice. The Fusion would be a very close second and the less you need rear seat headroom the closer it would be for me.
It would be awesome to see your comparison of the Accord Hybrid, Fusion Hybrid and Prius/Camry Hybrid powertrain design. There's lots of great info on PriusChat.com and FordFusionHybridForum.com about those two vehicles, but I haven't been able to find much about the new Accord Hybrid and haven't been able to drive one yet.
Alex, I have an Odd question?? IF I was to remove the compartment (Not the Trunk Floor Cover) where the inflatable temp spare tire is located; would there be enough room for an "Actual Spare Tire" and keep the inflatable spare tire as a back-up??
There probably isn't enough room for both, but you could fit a full-size tire in there.
THANK YOU, SIR.
Most excellent!
Alex, do you have any plans to review a new BMW 328d? I'd love to get hour take on it.
Yes, but I'm not totally sure when that will be. Maybe this fall.
Nice review, very good details. Some things came to mind and would like your thoughts. Heard you mentioned that the AC was linked electrically as opposed to mechanically like the older hybrids did so the AC won't abruptly shut off when engine off. Do you know if this is also the case for the heaters in very cold winters? How big of impact does this have on MPG?
***** No, the heat is generated by the engine so if heat is needed the engine will have to run dropping fuel economy.
+Alex on Autos SORRY I don't agree that the hybrid would save $$$ versus the 4-cylinder Accord. The MSRP is about $7500 difference, and the gasoline cost when you made this review was approximately 8.51 cents/mile versus 10.53 c/mile (a net savings of 2.02 c/mile driven) . That means you would have to drive almost 400,000 miles to recoup the extra $7500 spent on the hybrid!
.
Add the $3000 that Honda charged me to replace my hybrid's battery & the hybrid doesn't save you any cash versus the normal 4-cylinder car
.
+electrictroy2010 Yeah i agree, cost on gas from standard 4 cylinder vs hybrid is essentially no savings at epa rating. Especially right now where gas in US is roughly $2.10 per gallon, which essentially means 600k miles before we see anything. Could imagine down to 200k miles once gas hits $5.00 a gallon. I got this car mostly because 90 percent of the time I drive in cities where speed limit is 20 to 30 mph. You gotta really keep the speed below 44mph (when the engine engage the wheels) to hit that city epa ratings. This is first time I drove this car in the winter, if you turn on air condition heaters, my mpg essentially gets shot down to standard accord city (20 to 25 mpg) because the engine essentially is always on.
Question though, how many miles did you put on this car before you had to replace the battery? These are lithium-ion batteries, which is why you had to pay $3000 for them correct?
+electrictroy2010 In California at the time of this review gasoline was $4.20, that made the break even vs the 4-cylinder accord under 100,000 miles at the time.
+Alex on Autos EVEN at $4.10 per gallon it is still 8.5 cents/mile (hybrid fuel) versus 10.5 cents/mile (4-cylinder fuel cost). That hybrid is still only saving 2 cents for every mile driven, so you'd have to go almost 400,000 miles to breakeven. ("$7500 spread" divided by 0.02 c/mile == 375,000 miles to cover the hybrid premium)
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Completely awesome
Thanks Alex. Any guess re: how "repairable" the core powertrain or other hybrid-related bits would be outside of a dealership? Initially, I'd worry about getting stuck in a road trip situation where a local shop couldn't help me.
I really couldn't make any guesses at this point, but on the whole electric motors are very efficient so I would expect reliability to be similar or better than the Prius due to the design.
Alex on Autos Great point, thanks. I suppose "time will tell".
my prius has been used as a taxi, got into an accident, sold to me, and to this day it has 320,000 km with the original battery. Just maintenance and recalls my friend! Yes it is a 2004 model so it was a 1st year of a new model (2nd generation prius, we in the 3rd gen now with the 2010-2014 models).
I still average 45-50 mpgUS depending on weather conditions yes city driving, highway drops it around 40-45 depending on how fast I am driving.
So hybrid technology has proved its worth IMO, although Honda's previous system IMA not so much... but this new type is promising from what I've read and seen thanks to Alex!
Vap3 oh I forgot since Toyota has sold way too many priuses the junkyard is flooded with salvageable parts! So a new high voltage battery can cost me less than 500$ if I shop hard enough! The engine eats around 25% of the dipstick after 8000 km from an oil change. So who knows how far it will go! I hope to break 500,000km to be happy with my risky investment back in 2006!
You would think every Acura would already have had this technology already.
Sadly I asked the Acura folks point blank if the TL or TLX would get it and they said they didn't feel it fit the brand so expect a higher HP, lower MPG hybrid in the Acura.
Alex on Autos Let's hope not. Plans change but end of last year Automotive news reported that the TLX hybrid would be available several months later with combined 45 mpg. Not sure what latest is but they do have a 4 cylinder engine now so I don't see reason they couldn't do it (plus this also replaces the TSX).
Hello everyone, My brother likes the new accord coupe (V6) but would also like to know what he would achieve city/hwy (50/50) mpg.'s (real world average driving). We live in the Greater New England Area, Can anyone Help me and my little brother?? Also, I am slightly curious about the mpg.'s (real world, mostly city driving) city/hwy 80% / 20% in the Accord Hybrid?
If you keep your speeds to 65 and below and drive it gently in the city you should get the 47 MPG claimed.
It sounds as though functionally the hybrid system works most similar to the Chevy Volt, albeit with less battery capacity?
For all practical purposes the Volt's drivetrain is the same as a Ford or Toyota hybrid. It uses a single planetary gearset as a mechanical power split device. The main difference between the Volt and the Ford/Toyota system is in the programming and the addition of an automatic transmission style clutch unit that can "lock out" the engine allowing both motors to power the Volt. (The Ford/Toyota system lacks this so only one motor/generator unit can power the car in EV mode.) This two-motor mode in the Volt increases EV only mode efficiency at higher speeds vs the Ford/Toyota system.
Alex, Looking into buying this car also. Great review. I have not test drove one yet. You said your 6', I am 6'4". do you think ths would be comfortable to drive with my height? Going from a Dodge 1500 hemi. 14 mpg :) Thanks.
It kind of depends on your overall body type. If you have a long torso then you'll have a problem in most mid-sized sedans but the Accord is going to be one of the better bets.
Alex on Autos Thank you for your reply.
How's NVH in the hybrid Alex?
It is very good with some exceptions. When the engine is revving at the higher RPMs you do get more noise than expected and of course the engine does not have a linear relationship with the wheels.
I respect Honda for all of the engineering and design work behind this very sophisticated and complex hybrid power train. However, this electrical & mechanical complexity makes me wonder about repair cost and reliability. I think this is a transition to an all-electric plug-in Accord in the future with no gas engine, because in places like California, the day is coming when only the rich will be able to register and drive a gasoline-powered vehicle.
The ARB's ZEV program mandates will continue, but the Sacto legislature will also not be able to keep its hands off of the gasoline pump---The temptation to add a hefty additional tax on every gallon of gas sold is too great.
Imagine this exact model came out 10 years ago
To: Alex Dykes: If you plan to get wonky about the accord hybrid engine, please compare it to the Nissan Leaf. It works differently but the arrangement is very similar. I'd like to know why it works differently. (And great video! Thanks!)
Well the big difference of course is the the Leaf is a pure EV so there is no gasoline engine involved.
Alex on Autos Leaf?! Sorry. I meant the Volt. It doesn't have a transmission. It has an engine and 2 motors. Similar I think. Maybe it's more like the Accord plugin.
Chuck Newman
Well, it's tricky of course, the Volt does have a transmission, I suppose we could call it that since it does have clutches and a planetary gearset. The Volt is functionally similar to the Ford and Toyota hybrids, the Accord Hybrid is very different.
Alex on Autos In that case, I must investigate further. Thanks!
Alex on Autos I now see your point. I've found a few hybrids with either a transmission, a planetary gear or extra clutches. And that's what makes the Accord Hybrid unique: no transmission, no CVT, no planetary, one clutch. (The Volt has 3 clutches.) PS: Watched a bunch of your videos now. Very nice! Thanks.
Have you ever reviewed an Azera?
It has been some time but I do have a review on it's close cousin, the Kia Cadenza.
In comparison to Avalon Hybrid and Lexus ES 300h, would you still choose Accord hybrid? What tires would you recommend in places like New York? Thanks
I would buy the Accord over the ES300h any day of the week. I was very disappointed by the ES300h especially after driving the Avalon and the ES back to back. My preference would be the Accord first, Avalon a close second and the ES a distant third.
Thanks!
I drove both Accord Hybrid/PHEV and Avalon and they all have their strengths/weaknesses. I wouldn't include ES since lot more expensive and not such great value compared to these. To me the Avalon also felt more confined due to lower roofline and higher beltline. You do get little bit more cargo space with Avalon (and seats don't fold there either).
Biggest issue I had with Avalon is the ride and that's something Consumer reports also complained: it's pretty harsh over uneven pavement and steering feel is just not as good. I also didn't quite get same mpg either. If you drive Accord carefully with slow acceleration/braking you can easily get 50+ mpg (cleanmpg shows speed to mpg graph with 70 mpg at 50mph and then drops 10% each 10mph). Most though will probably get in the 40's which is still excellent.
Lucien E Typo I meant 5 mph rather. See speed graph here: //www.cleanmpg.com/forums/showthread.php?t=46383&page=7
Lucien E Thanks
can you use flex fuel the accord hybrid?
According to Honda, no.
*your take... Thanks for the response on the Accord by the way.
Alex, it seems the hybrid can't come with fog lights. That seems odd, especially since the exterior grille still has the place where fog lights are installed in the regular Accord. Any idea why?
dajolaw My guess is cost reduction, but Honda has not said specifically.
Alex on Autos Considering the overall cost and all the other options, I wouldn't think fog lights would be that much of a deal-breaker, but oh well. Thanks for the reply. Your reviews are seriously the best on TH-cam.
It is my understanding that the '14-15 HAH had a small air intake in the spot where the right fog light would have been to help cool the electrical motors housed on that side. With LED foglights, there's room for both in 2017.