2007 Honda Accord Hybrid Review
The Accord has long been a mainstay on American roads. Originally debuting as a compact car in 1976, the Accord has literally grown up throughout the years. In 1998, it was revamped as a midsize sedan, available in DX, LX, and EX trims, while the smaller coupes were available in LX and EX trims. In 1999, the LX and EX gained folding side mirrors. The SE trim was introduced for that year, which was basically a nicer looking LX. Side airbags became standard on the V6 models in 2000, and were available on all models by 2001. The SE trim made a return in 2002, the last year of that generation of Accord. The SE was once again an upgraded LX, but this time added keyless entry, powered driver seat, and a better audio system. The current Accord generation debuted in 2003. The Accord has won an incredible array of awards, including a spot on Car and Driver’s top ten list for 21 of the past 25 years. The hybrid version was released in 2005.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Honda Accord Hybrid proves that luxury and environmentalism aren’t polar opposites. With its 250-hp engine, the Accord Hybrid has enough juice to get you there, while still being more fuel efficient than most cars in its class. Basically, the Accord Hybrid gives you the performance of a V6 Accord with the gas consumption of a 4-cylinder. It may be a bit expensive, but you get a lot of car for your money.
What’s New For 2007:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power and Associates gives the Accord four and a half out of five stars in initial quality. The 2004 model, which is the same generation as the 2007, received five out of five stars in reliability from Automotive Information Systems. Reviewers and drivers alike speak very highly of the Accord. Regardless, there have been some serious reported issues over the years. The previous generation, dating from 1998 to 2002, had issues with failing transmissions, warning lights that come on for no reason, noise, and oil leaks. Early versions of the current generation (2003-04) had the same warning light issues, along with drift attributed to faulty engine mounts and malfunctioning moonroofs. There have been two reliability-specific recalls for the current generation Accord: The 2003-04 models were recalled due to chipping transmission teeth, while the 2005 was recalled due to an electrical problem that could lead to fuel pump failure. However, with the Accord’s reputation for quality, and considering the maturity of the model, expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The Accord earned five out of five stars in government frontal crash tests, and four stars in side impact testing. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the Accord its best “Good” rating for both frontal and side impacts, but its worst “Poor” rating for rear collisions. The hybrid comes with both front-seat and full curtain side airbags, as well as anti-lock brakes, and stability and traction control. The 2004-05 Accords were recalled due to possible airbag tearing.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Safe
+ Reliable
+ Extremely low maintenance
Cons
– Bland
– More expensive than competitors
– Small interior with poor materials
Head-To-Head Competition:
There are a number of regular gasoline models that compare very closely to the Accord Hybrid. The Mazda RX-8 Touring costs $1,500 less and has the same gas mileage, but lacks leather seats, an automatic transmission, and standard sunroof. The Nissan Altima SL provides many of the same features, but costs $2,600 less. However, it gets six fewer miles to the gallon. The Toyota Avalon Touring gets similar fuel efficiency for $2,000 less, but lacks the Accord’s traction control, leather seats, CD changer, and sunroof.
What Others Are Saying:
“In 25 years, it has accumulated 21 trophies, despite platoons of attractive challengers every year. What’s the secret? This question comes up at every 10Best evaluation, and every time we reach the same conclusion: all-around excellence. It’s the family-sedan equivalent of a utility infielder who makes the all-star squad. In a given year, the Accord may not be the fastest or most agile or roomiest or sexiest. But when it’s not first in a particular category, it’s most likely second, and it is always at the top of the charts in fit and finish, ergonomics, road manners, reliability, and resale value.” – Car and Driver
“…the Accord is a proficient automobile that will leave its owners with few complaints, except that maybe their driving experience lacks a certain je ne sais quoi.” – U.S. News & World Report
“In every situation, the test car was nearly flawless. Its well muffled engine was ready and eager to pick up the pace when required. Its transmission moved unobtrusively from gear to gear to maximize the engine’s potential.” – Family Car
Read more about the 2007 Honda Accord Hybrid at the Honda manufacturer web site.
