Honda Just Made the Accord a Much Better Deal for 2026

Audio By Carbonatix

To boost its competitiveness in the segment, Honda’s iconic midsize sedan has entered the 2026 model year with a meaningful refresh. The updated Honda Accord is now arriving at dealerships across the United States with a host of updates that go beyond looks. These include upgraded technology features and a more aggressive design that are now standard on more trims than ever before. Auto shoppers might just find the new Accord a stronger value proposition in terms of tech, comfort, and style in a sedan package.

It's offering a broadened list of standard features on entry-level trims while also sharpening its design language. A standout update is the inclusion of a larger nine-inch touchscreen display with wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto on the base LX and SE models.

These tech upgrades were previously reserved for higher trim levels, but for 2026 they come standard, giving all Accord buyers access to modern connectivity and infotainment features without having to step up to premium versions. The SE model also gains 19-inch wheels, a design cue that visually elevates the Accord and aligns it more closely with sportier variants.

The refreshed Accord still offers the dependable 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 192 horsepower and driving the front wheels through a continuously variable automatic transmission. This engine continues to power the LX and SE trims, providing a familiar balance of performance and fuel efficiency.

Above these trims, Honda’s hybrid powertrain remains available and unchanged for 2026. That setup combines a 2.0-liter engine with dual electric motors, producing a combined 204 horsepower for brisk acceleration and excellent everyday efficiency.

Inside the cabin, in addition to the bigger touchscreen, the Accord now comes with wireless phone charging. Higher trims continue to expand on the tech suite with features like Google built-in navigation and voice assistant for hands-free control, a customizable digital instrument cluster, and an available head-up display that keeps key information in the driver’s line of sight. Every trim level now supports wireless smartphone mirroring so occupants can connect effortlessly without cables.

From a styling perspective, the 2026 Accord refresh gives the sedan a more athletic stance. The front fascia has been refined with updated lighting elements and a sleeker grille that create a stronger road presence. Subtle but purposeful redesigns around the bumpers and wheel arches signal Honda’s intent to keep the Accord feeling modern and relevant in a crowded field of competitors that includes models such as the Toyota Camry and Nissan Altima.

Honda did not stop at simply reshaping the exterior. The Accord’s interior has also benefitted from quality enhancements, including improved materials and ergonomic improvements to seating for enhanced comfort on long drives. Rear legroom and headroom remain generous, preserving the Accord’s reputation as a practical choice for families and commuters. Higher trim levels also offer amenities like leather-trimmed seats and a premium Bose audio system for an elevated experience.

On the safety front, Honda continues to equip the Accord with its Honda Sensing suite of driver-assist technologies. This package includes features such as forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and traffic sign recognition, all intended to help prevent accidents and reduce driver stress in busy traffic. These features remain standard across the lineup.

So, how much is the refreshed 2026 Accord? With these updates comes modest price increases from the previous year. Lower-tier models remain competitively priced with the LX starting just under $30,000, while the hybrid Touring trim can reach into the low $40,000 range. Despite small price changes, the Accord delivers stronger value thanks to the expanded list of standard technology and updated styling cues that enhance the sedan’s look and feel.