2017 Honda Accord Hybrid: A Detailed Overview
The 2017 Honda Accord Hybrid continues Honda's legacy of combining excellent fuel efficiency with a refined driving experience and a wealth of modern features. This mid-size sedan offers a compelling package for those seeking a practical, comfortable, and environmentally conscious vehicle without sacrificing performance or everyday usability.
Highlights
- Powertrain: The heart of the 2017 Accord Hybrid is its sophisticated two-motor hybrid system. It pairs a 2.0-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder engine with two electric motors. This system seamlessly blends gasoline and electric power to deliver a robust 212 horsepower and exceptional fuel economy. The intelligent power unit manages power delivery for optimal efficiency and responsiveness, often allowing the Accord Hybrid to operate on electric power alone at lower speeds.
- Safety Features: Honda is renowned for its commitment to safety, and the 2017 Accord Hybrid is no exception. It received top safety ratings from independent organizations. Key safety features include:
- Honda Sensing®: This suite of advanced driver-assist technologies is a major highlight. It often comes standard or is available on higher trims. Features within Honda Sensing® include:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™): Helps brake the vehicle if it detects a potential frontal collision.
- Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM): Can alert you and potentially steer the vehicle back into its lane if it detects you're about to leave the road.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Allows the Accord Hybrid to maintain a set speed and following distance from the vehicle ahead, easing highway driving.
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): Helps keep the Accord Hybrid centered in its lane.
- Multi-Angle Rearview Camera: Provides different viewing angles of the area behind the vehicle for enhanced parking and maneuvering safety.
- Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) Body Structure: Honda's innovative body design helps distribute crash forces more evenly, improving occupant protection.
- Standard Airbags: Comprehensive airbag system including front, side-impact, and side-curtain airbags.
- Trim Levels: The 2017 Accord Hybrid was primarily offered in three well-equipped trim levels:
- EX: This entry-level trim already offers a significant amount of technology and comfort, often including features like a 7.7-inch touchscreen display, dual-zone automatic climate control, and push-button start.
- EX-L: The EX-L builds upon the EX with the addition of leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, and a premium audio system, offering a more luxurious feel.
- Touring: The top-tier Touring trim elevates the Accord Hybrid with a more premium experience, typically including features like Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™, LED headlights, and the comprehensive Honda Sensing® suite as standard.
- Driving Dynamics: Beyond its fuel efficiency, the Accord Hybrid offers a surprisingly engaging driving experience. The hybrid system provides instant torque, making acceleration feel responsive. The chassis is well-tuned, offering a comfortable ride that absorbs road imperfections while still providing confident handling. The cabin is also well-insulated, contributing to a quiet and refined interior.
- Interior Comfort and Technology: Honda interiors are known for their thoughtful design and user-friendliness. The 2017 Accord Hybrid boasts a spacious cabin with high-quality materials. Depending on the trim, you can find features like Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ integration, Bluetooth® connectivity, and a user-friendly infotainment system.
What to Expect
Owning a 2017 Honda Accord Hybrid typically translates to a very positive and low-stress ownership experience. Honda vehicles are renowned for their reliability and longevity, and the Accord Hybrid is no exception.
- Maintenance: Routine maintenance will involve oil changes, tire rotations, and checking fluid levels, similar to any gasoline-powered vehicle. However, due to the hybrid system, it's advisable to have your hybrid system components inspected periodically by a qualified technician. Battery replacement is generally not a concern within the typical lifespan of the vehicle, as hybrid batteries are designed to last many years and miles, and often come with extended warranties. Following the recommended maintenance schedule in your owner's manual is key to ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
- Insurance: Insurance costs for the 2017 Accord Hybrid will vary depending on your individual factors (age, driving record, location, coverage choices). However, as a reliable and safe mid-size sedan, it's generally considered to be reasonably priced to insure compared to sports cars or luxury vehicles. Some insurance providers may offer discounts for hybrid vehicles due to their fuel efficiency and reduced environmental impact.
- Fuel Economy: The primary benefit of the Accord Hybrid is its exceptional fuel economy. You can expect to see impressive MPG figures, significantly reducing your fuel costs compared to a conventional gasoline-powered sedan. This makes it an excellent choice for daily commuting and long road trips.
- Resale Value: Honda vehicles, including the Accord Hybrid, typically hold their value very well. This means that when it comes time to sell or trade in your 2017 Accord Hybrid, you can expect a strong return on your investment.
Potential Considerations
While the 2017 Honda Accord Hybrid is a highly competent vehicle, there are a few aspects potential buyers should be aware of:
- Trunk Space: As with many hybrid vehicles that house their battery pack in the trunk, the 2017 Accord Hybrid may have slightly less trunk space compared to its non-hybrid counterpart. While still practical for most everyday needs, larger items or significant cargo hauling might require more planning.
- Infotainment System Responsiveness: While generally good, some reviews from the time of its release noted that the infotainment system's touchscreen could occasionally feel a bit less responsive than some competitors. This is a minor point and may have been improved with software updates.
- Limited Availability of the Full Honda Sensing® Suite on Lower Trims: While Honda Sensing® is a significant advantage, it's important to note that not all features might have been standard on the base EX trim. Buyers looking for the complete suite of safety aids should specifically seek out EX-L or Touring models, or vehicles where these options were added.
Overall Summary
The 2017 Honda Accord Hybrid stands out as an excellent choice for a fuel-efficient, safe, and reliable mid-size sedan. Its sophisticated hybrid powertrain delivers impressive MPG without compromising on performance or driving enjoyment. The well-appointed interior, advanced safety features (especially with Honda Sensing®), and Honda's legendary reliability make it a practical and smart investment. Despite a slight compromise in trunk space and potential for less responsive infotainment on lower trims, the Accord Hybrid offers a compelling package that continues to make it a highly desirable used car option.
