2013 Honda Accord Review: Specs, MPG & Reliability

The 2013 Honda Accord marked a major comeback for Honda’s midsize sedan, earning widespread acclaim as a refined, efficient, and fun-to-drive family hauler right out of the gate. This ninth-generation redesign introduced Earth Dreams technology with direct injection, a slick CVT, and impressive fuel savings that helped it top expert lists like Car and Driver’s 10Best and MotorTrend comparisons. With strong acceleration, upscale interior quality, and top safety honors, it set a high bar that many rivals struggled to match.

Have you ever wondered what made this Accord feel like a step up from previous generations? It combined everyday practicality with genuine driving enjoyment.

Elegant Yet Athletic Styling

The 2013 Accord arrives with clean, sophisticated lines, a longer hood, slim LED accents on higher trims, and a lower, wider stance for a more premium appearance. It ditches the busy details of older models for something sleek and confident that still looks modern today.

Coupe versions add a rakish roofline and bolder attitude, while sedans prioritize a balanced, family-friendly profile.

Upscale Cabin: Spacious and Thoughtfully Designed

Open the doors to a remarkably roomy interior with generous legroom front and rear, plus supportive seats that feel comfortable on long drives. Trunk space measures a generous 15.8 cubic feet, ideal for groceries, luggage, or weekend gear.

Higher trims bring leather upholstery, heated seats, and a premium audio system that elevates the experience. Controls stay intuitive with physical buttons and a clear layout that avoids gimmicks.

Refined Powertrains with Impressive Punch

The base 2.4-liter four-cylinder delivers 185 horsepower (189 in Sport models) with crisp response and smooth delivery through a CVT that mimics traditional shifts well. It feels lively for merging and passing without drama.

Step up to the 3.5-liter V6, and 278 horsepower propels the sedan to 60 mph in around 5.6 seconds, according to Car and Driver tests. Handling shines with precise steering, controlled body motions, and a compliant ride that soaks up imperfections while staying composed on curves.

Class-Leading Fuel Economy

Four-cylinder models achieve EPA estimates of 27 mpg city and 36 mpg highway (30 combined) with the CVT, with real-world drivers often reporting 29-32 mpg in mixed conditions. The V6 impresses with 21/34 mpg city/highway, matching or beating many competitors’ four-cylinders from prior years.

It’s efficient enough for daily commuting while running on regular unleaded, keeping ownership costs low.

Outstanding Safety Credentials

The 2013 Accord earned a five-star overall NHTSA rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick+ status, including top marks in the challenging small overlap front test. Standard features include stability control, multiple airbags, and available rearview camera.

Higher trims add lane departure warning and forward collision alerts, enhancing peace of mind on highways or in traffic.

Trim Levels and Strong Value

Pricing originally started around $21,680 for the LX, rising to the low $30,000s for loaded EX-L or Touring models. LX offers essentials like air conditioning and power accessories, while Sport adds styling and suspension tweaks.

EX and EX-L bring conveniences like a moonroof, leather, and upgraded tech, with V6 options for extra power. Used examples deliver exceptional bang for the buck today.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Pros:

• Engaging handling and smooth, refined ride
• Spacious, high-quality interior with durable materials
• Excellent fuel economy, especially in four-cylinder models
• Potent V6 performance when equipped
• Top-tier safety ratings and Honda reliability reputation

Cons:

• Infotainment feels basic by today’s standards
• Some wind and road noise at highway speeds
• Blind-spot monitoring placement can create awkward views
• No hybrid option until later years

How It Stacks Up Against Rivals

The 2013 Accord often outperformed the Toyota Camry in driving dynamics and interior refinement, though the Camry held a slight edge in perceived softness. Versus the Hyundai Sonata, it countered with superior long-term dependability perceptions and better fuel efficiency in four-cylinder form, while the Sonata offered bolder looks.

In expert head-to-heads, the Accord frequently ranked near or at the top for its well-rounded appeal.

For a more modern take on the formula, explore the tech-forward 2024 Honda Accord or revisit the solid 2012 Honda Accord predecessor.

Who Should Seek Out This Used Accord?

This Accord suits families needing reliable space and safety, commuters prioritizing fuel savings and low maintenance, and drivers who want a sedan that’s engaging without being demanding. Four-cylinder buyers love the efficiency, while V6 enthusiasts appreciate the extra thrust.

It’s a smart used-market choice for practical ownership with minimal headaches.

Final Verdict: The 2013 Honda Accord Remains a Benchmark Buy

The 2013 Honda Accord excels with its balanced performance, spacious and refined cabin, standout fuel economy, and exceptional safety credentials. Honda’s proven reliability and strong resale value make it a standout even as a used option.

Minor drawbacks like dated tech pale against its strengths as a dependable midsize sedan. If you’re shopping used family cars, find a well-kept 2013 Accord and rediscover why it earned so much praise.

For a classic road test perspective, check out MotorWeek’s 2013 Honda Accord review.