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Car Review: 2017 Honda Accord Hybrid EX-L Review


2017 Honda Accord Hybrid EX-L (select to view enlarged photo)
2017 Honda Accord Hybrid EX-L

By Bob Gordon
Auto Central
Louisville Bureau
The Auto Channel


Over the past 20 years I have tested many different cars, some practical, some luxurious, some thrifty, some extravagant, some too small, some too big, some gas guzzlers, others gas sippers. Some I couldn't remember without my notes, while others were seared into my great car memory.

The 2017 Honda Accord Hybrid EX-L I tested scored highly on all of the necessary points that allow me to highly recommend adding it to your short list (except for one ).


2017 Honda Accord Hybrid EX-L (select to view enlarged photo)

First of all the Accord Hybrid had the ride, attitude and interior room of a luxury sedan, ok so it didn't have real wood trim and you will need to step up to the Touring trim level to get all of the top of the line safety features.


2017 Honda Accord Hybrid EX-L (select to view enlarged photo)

Memorable positive attributes include an average of about 46 MPG attained despite a big car feel, ultra quiet and luxurious comfort on my trip from the flatland's of Denver up and I mean up to the 10,000 ft above sea level Breckenridge resort area and then on to wonderful Vail (at 8100 ft.).

The most memorable negative was the engine RPM it needed to cruise “up the hill” although it had the power to comfortably make it, the engine RPM was screaming and without a tachometer in the hybrid version I had no idea just how fast the engine was turning.

Speaking of turning...where ever we parked the Accord Hybrid got lots of head turns...the beautiful Blue Sky - Metallic exterior matched the blue Colorado sky.


2017 Honda Accord Hybrid EX-L (select to view enlarged photo)


2017 Honda Accord Hybrid EX-L (select to view enlarged photo)

The cargo area, even with battery allocation was big enough to easily store two 29” pieces of luggage and assorted and miscellaneous totes, gifts and food. but apparently not large enough for an emergency tire (even a temporary), Honda did include a Tire Repair Kit and roadside assistance if you had a minor repairable tire incident. The experience I had in the past with canned tire repairs were awful and frankly the lack of a spare is a big enough gig for me to eliminate a vehicle from my purchase decision list no matter what else it offered.


2017 Honda Accord Hybrid EX-L (select to view enlarged photo)

Both front and rear seats were comfortable and held us firmly, the dashboard was easy to read with a pleasant layout, but I must admit we did miss the NAV and resorted to Google's WAZE to help us navigate the side roads and alternate routes.

The EX-L carries a 3 year 36,000 warranty term, and has been given a 5 Star Safety Rating.70% of the cars parts are sourced from USA and Canada 15% from Japan and the balance including the engine and transmission made in Japan, with final assembly in Sayama, Saitama Japan.

The MSRP of the tested vehicle is $33,740, You can find Hybrid Sedans from all manufacturers HERE


2017 Honda Accord Hybrid EX-L (select to view enlarged photo)

Final thoughts...as the owner of a 2003 Honda Accord I continue to be impressed with Honda quality and long lasting functionality, design and 33 plus highway MPG. If I was in the market to replace my old steed I would have as much of a problem as you will, the family sedan segment competition is fierce and lots of serious research and test driving will be necessary to help you make an intelligent long lasting decision …good luck.

More Unbiased "Tell not Sell" Independent Honda Vehicle Research Information Than Anywhere!



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