The car made its official debut in January 2013 at the Detroit Auto Show, with U.S. sales beginning shortly after. It arrived on the American market as a mainstream midsize sedan sold through Honda dealerships nationwide, with strong sales from the start.
The Accord rides on the updated Honda Global Midsize Platform, engineered for midsize vehicles with transverse engine layout and front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available in select later markets but rare for this generation in the U.S.
In Honda's lineup, the ninth-gen Accord sits as a midsize sedan between the compact Civic and the more upscale (though discontinued) Acura TL/Legend equivalents. It targets buyers seeking a comfortable, feature-packed daily driver with strong reliability. Standout traits include sharp, aerodynamic styling, available hybrid powertrains in some regions, refined suspension tuning for excellent ride/handling balance, and a comprehensive suite of safety features.
What’s New Compared to the Previous Generation
The eighth-generation Accord (2008–2012) earned praise for its dependability and engaging drive, but the ninth generation brought meaningful evolution. Exterior design became sleeker and more modern: overall length grew slightly to about 191 inches, LED accents appeared in headlights, a bolder chrome grille was added, and the drag coefficient improved to 0.27.
The platform was stiffened by around 55% while shedding roughly 55 pounds thanks to advanced high-strength steels. Engine lineup refreshed with Earth Dreams technology: 2.4L four-cylinder (185 hp), 3.5L V6 (278 hp in U.S. spec), plus a 2.0L hybrid system (around 196 hp combined) available in certain trims. CVT replaced traditional automatic in most four-cylinder models for better efficiency. Suspension (MacPherson strut front, multi-link rear) was retuned for superior comfort without sacrificing composure.
Interior space increased thanks to a longer wheelbase (109.3 inches), higher-grade materials (leather, wood trim in upper trims), and noticeably better sound insulation. Safety jumped forward with standard multi-angle rearview camera, six airbags, stability control, and available LaneWatch side camera; it earned a 5-star NHTSA rating and Top Safety Pick from IIHS. Overall, the ninth-gen Accord became more refined, efficient, and globally competitive, with strong emphasis on fuel economy in hybrid variants.
Current Market Status
The final model years offered the sedan with 2.4L (185 hp) and 3.5L V6 (278 hp) gasoline engines, plus the 2.0L hybrid (196 hp combined) in select trims. Transmissions included 6-speed manual (early models), CVT (most four-cylinders), or 6-speed automatic (V6), all with front-wheel drive.
Major milestones: production began in 2012, mid-cycle refresh in 2015 (updated front fascia, LED headlights standard on higher trims, revised interior tech, improved infotainment, refined suspension). Production ended in 2017 with the arrival of the tenth generation.
Best buys on the used market today: 2.4L with CVT for strong balance of efficiency and performance, hybrids for ultra-low fuel costs (though less common), and 2015–2017 refreshed models for updated electronics and styling. These configurations typically deliver the best value and condition balance.
U.S. Used Market
The ninth-generation Honda Accord remains highly popular in the American used-car market. As of early 2026, thousands of examples are listed on major platforms like Cars.com, Autotrader, and CarGurus, mostly sedans from 2013–2017.
Market condition is solid: most vehicles are 2013–2017 models with 100,000–200,000 miles, varying in condition based on maintenance history. Approximate price ranges (depending on mileage, condition, trim, and location; figures reflect realistic current market levels):
| Model Year | Trim / Engine | Approximate Market Price (USD) |
| 2013–2014 | 2.4L / LX–EX | $9,000 – $13,000 |
| 2015–2016 (facelift) | 2.4L / EX–Touring | $11,000 – $15,000 |
| 2015–2017 | 3.5L V6 / Touring | $12,000 – $17,000 |
| 2014–2017 (hybrid, imported or domestic) | Hybrid / EX-L–Touring | $10,500 – $14,500 |
Most sought-after configurations are the 2.4L with CVT in EX or Touring trim, plus facelifted 2015–2017 models with under 150,000 miles.
Common Trims and Features in the U.S. Market
Typical U.S. trims for this generation include LX (base), Sport, EX, EX-L, and Touring.
Base LX: cloth seats, basic audio with CD/MP3, single-zone climate control, standard safety suite (ABS, stability control, six airbags), 16-inch wheels.
EX/Sport: upgraded cloth or partial leather, alloy wheels (17-inch), touchscreen audio, rearview camera, keyless entry, moonroof option.
EX-L/Touring: leather upholstery, premium audio, heated front seats, dual-zone climate, navigation option, Honda Sensing suite on later models, 18-inch wheels on top trims, full LED headlights post-2015. V6 models often came in EX-L or Touring guise with extra power and features.
Final Thoughts and Relevance Today
The ninth-generation Honda Accord remains an excellent choice on the used market for anyone seeking a dependable midsize sedan for family duties or commuting. It stands out for bulletproof Japanese engineering, low running costs, and strong resale value.
Even in 2026, this generation holds up well thanks to proven engines, good parts availability, and solid liquidity compared to rivals like the Toyota Camry or Nissan Altima from the same era.
Top recommendations: 2.4L CVT models for everyday efficiency and driving enjoyment, facelifted 2015–2017 examples for modern tech, or hybrids for exceptional fuel economy (where available).
When shopping used, focus on:
- complete service records (timing belt on V6 if applicable, regular maintenance);
- CVT and suspension condition (leaks, noises);
- verified mileage and clean accident history (Carfax, inspection tools);
- body/undercarriage rust in northern states;
- electronics and engine performance during test drive.
This Honda Accord generation review shows why it continues to be a smart, reliable pick in the used market in 2026.
