2016 Honda Accord Overview
The 2016 Honda Accord represents a significant mid-cycle refresh for Honda's perennial best-seller, solidifying its reputation for reliability, efficiency, and an engaging driving experience. This iteration saw a host of updates, including exterior styling enhancements, improved interior features, and the introduction of new technology and safety advancements, making it a compelling choice in the mid-size sedan segment.
Highlights
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Powertrain Options:
- 2.4L Inline-4: This efficient and capable engine, standard on most trims, produces 185 horsepower and is paired with either a smooth-shifting Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) or a 6-speed manual transmission (available on select sportier trims). It offers excellent fuel economy for daily commuting.
- 3.5L V6: For those seeking more power, the optional 3.5L V6 engine delivers a robust 278 horsepower and is exclusively mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain provides strong acceleration and a more spirited driving feel.
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Advanced Safety Features: The 2016 Accord was a pioneer in bringing advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) to the mainstream. Honda's Honda Sensing® suite, available on many trims, offers a comprehensive package of safety technologies:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™): Can automatically apply brake pressure to help stop a vehicle if it detects an imminent frontal collision.
- Road Departure Mitigation (RDM): Uses a camera to monitor road markings and can provide steering assistance or brake intervention to keep the vehicle within its lane if it detects unintended departure.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Automatically adjusts the vehicle's speed to maintain a pre-set distance from the vehicle ahead, reducing driver fatigue on highways.
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): Helps to center the vehicle in its lane by making subtle steering corrections.
- Forward Collision Warning (FCW): Alerts the driver if it detects a potential frontal collision.
- Blind Spot Information System (BSI): Uses radar sensors to detect vehicles in the driver's blind spots, alerting them via a warning light on the side mirrors.
- Multi-Angle Rearview Camera: Provides a clear view of what's behind the vehicle, with selectable angles for enhanced parking and maneuvering.
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Trim Lineup: The 2016 Accord offered a well-structured trim hierarchy to suit various needs and budgets:
- LX: The entry-level trim, providing a solid foundation of comfort, convenience, and essential features.
- Sport: Adds a more athletic flair with unique interior and exterior styling cues, larger wheels, and paddle shifters on CVT models.
- EX: Steps up with enhanced technology and convenience features, often including a touchscreen infotainment system and push-button start.
- EX-L: Builds upon the EX with premium touches like leather-trimmed seating, heated front seats, and an upgraded audio system.
- V6-powered trims (EX-L V6, Touring V6): These trims come equipped with the more powerful V6 engine, often bundled with additional luxury and technology features.
- Touring: The top-tier trim, offering the most comprehensive package of features, including navigation, LED headlights, and the full suite of Honda Sensing® technologies.
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Improved Infotainment: The 2016 Accord saw an upgrade to its infotainment system, featuring a larger 7.7-inch touchscreen on most trims, offering more intuitive control over audio, climate, and connectivity features like Bluetooth and Pandora® compatibility. Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ were also introduced on select higher trims, further enhancing smartphone integration.
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Refined Driving Dynamics: Honda engineers made subtle tweaks to the suspension and steering, resulting in a more responsive and engaging driving experience. The ride remains comfortable and composed, making the Accord a pleasure to drive in various conditions.
What to Expect
Owning a 2016 Honda Accord is generally a predictable and positive experience, largely due to Honda's reputation for reliability and longevity. Owners can typically expect:
- Low Maintenance Costs: Honda vehicles are known for their affordable and straightforward maintenance. Routine services like oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements are typically well within budget. The 2.4L inline-4 engine, in particular, is renowned for its durability.
- Excellent Fuel Economy: With the standard 2.4L engine and CVT, the Accord delivers impressive fuel efficiency, making it an economical choice for daily driving and long-distance travel.
- High Resale Value: Accords consistently hold their value well in the used car market, reflecting their desirability and proven track record.
- Insurance Costs: Insurance premiums for the 2016 Accord are generally competitive within its segment, though specific costs will vary based on your location, driving history, and chosen coverage. The advanced safety features can sometimes lead to slightly lower premiums.
- Comfortable and Quiet Interior: The cabin is well-insulated, offering a quiet and comfortable environment for occupants. The seats are supportive, making it a good choice for commuting and longer journeys.
Potential Considerations
While the 2016 Honda Accord is a highly competent vehicle, there are a few potential considerations buyers should be aware of:
- CVT Behavior: While generally smooth, some drivers may find the CVT's acceleration characteristics less engaging than a traditional automatic transmission. Under hard acceleration, the engine note can become somewhat buzzy.
- Touchscreen Responsiveness: Early versions of Honda's touchscreen infotainment system, while improved for 2016, could occasionally be less responsive or intuitive compared to some competitors' systems of the era.
- Road Noise: While the cabin is generally quiet, some owners have noted that road noise can become noticeable at higher speeds, particularly on rougher pavement.
- Limited Manual Transmission Availability: The manual transmission option was only available on select trims (primarily the Sport and some LX models), limiting choices for those who prefer a manual gearbox.
- V6 Engine Fuel Economy: While the V6 offers significant power, its fuel economy is understandably lower than the 4-cylinder option.
Overall Summary
The 2016 Honda Accord stands as a testament to Honda's ability to consistently deliver a well-rounded and highly desirable mid-size sedan. Its mid-cycle refresh injected it with modern technology, advanced safety features, and subtle yet impactful styling and driving enhancements. Whether opting for the fuel-efficient four-cylinder or the powerful V6, owners are rewarded with a reliable, comfortable, and engaging vehicle that continues to be a benchmark for the segment. Its combination of practicality, advanced features, and Honda's legendary dependability makes the 2016 Accord an excellent choice for a wide range of buyers seeking a competent and long-lasting daily driver.