
Over the past several years we’ve seen mainstream sedans splitting, quite clearly, into two different factions: Those that appear to prioritize form over function, and those that prioritize function over form.
Honda clearly takes the function over form route, but it's a more attractive effort than the Camry, which goes the same route.
Compared to the Camry, the Accord looks like it will have more personality, and the Honda's feature set looks more impressive from the outset.
The Accord's design is more adventurous than the Camry's, but relative to the radical new Ford Fusion, and even the still-daring Hyundai Sonata, it plays it safe.
Of course compared to either of those models that may prove an advantage when it comes to backseat space.
Somewhere in the middle is the Chevrolet Malibu, which has been redesigned for 2013 but is neither as large nor as roomy in back as the model it replaces.
The new Malibu is a small step up in interior refinement and fuel economy, however.
The model in this class that arguably walks the line between function and form the best is the Volkswagen Passat; the VW manages to pack a lot of space into an exterior that isn't at all daring but is classy and cohesive—and it's a good value for the money.
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Quick Specs | |||||
The 2013 Honda Accord is one of America's best, most sensible sedans, even if it hasn't changed radically. |
Thinking small makes the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu a more sporty sedan, but doesn't help its rear-seat space at all. |
The 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid makes an extraordinary leap forward in fuel economy--but also, in its appealing looks and handling. |
With a standout design; perky performance; great gas mileage; and exceptional value for the money, the 2013 Hyundai Sonata is one of the best buys among mid-size sedans. |
The 2013 Toyota Camry is no standout for design, but it's more than ever the sensible pick for those who value comfort, value, and frugality above all else. |
The Jetta draws drivers looking for a taut driving feel and delivers superior interior space; we'd pass on the low-cost base models, and aim for the standout TDI and GLI editions. |
MSRP From | |||||
$21,680 | $21,995 | $21,900 | $20,895 | $22,235 | $15,545 |
Gas Mileage | |||||
18 MPG City / 36 MPG Hwy | 21 MPG City / 37 MPG Hwy | 22 MPG City / 41 MPG Hwy | 22 MPG City / 40 MPG Hwy | 21 MPG City / 39 MPG Hwy | 23 MPG City / 48 MPG Hwy |
Engine | |||||
Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 |
EPA Class | |||||
Midsize Cars | Midsize Cars | Mid-Size Sedan | Large Cars | Midsize | Compact Cars |
Style Name | |||||
4-Door I4 Manual LX | 4-Door Sedan LS w/1LS | 4-Door Sedan SE FWD | 4-Door Sedan 2.4L Automatic GLS *Ltd Avail* | 4-Door Sedan I4 Automatic L (GS) | 4-Door Manual Base |
Drivetrain | |||||
Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
Passenger Capacity | |||||
5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Passenger Doors | |||||
4 | 4 | N/A | N/A | N/A | 4 |
Body Style | |||||
4 Door Sedan | Sedan | Sedan | Sedan | Sedan | 4 Door Sedan |
Transmission | |||||
Manual | Automatic | Automatic w/Manual Shift | Automatic w/Manual Shift | Automatic w/Manual Shift | Manual |
Detailed Spec Comparison | |||||
2013 Honda Accord vs. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu | 2013 Honda Accord vs. 2013 Ford Fusion | 2013 Honda Accord vs. 2013 Hyundai Sonata | 2013 Honda Accord vs. 2013 Toyota Camry | 2013 Honda Accord vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta |