What's new for the 2023 Honda Accord (2023)

The 2023 Honda Accord is technically the iconic nameplate's 11th generation, but it shares much more with its predecessor than past generational changes. The platform and base turbo engine are carried over with minor changes, and the dimensions are broadly the same. There are key differences, changes and upgrades, however. More Accords will be hybrids now, and the hybrid powertrain is greatly improved in terms of drivability. The interior sees tremendous improvement, with a clean, modern design and upgraded technology that includes Google Built-in on the range-topping Touring trim level.

- This is the new 2023 Honda Accord. Now, you can't really call it all new because it does share the old car's platform. The dimensions are broadly the same. And, frankly, you can just see the resemblance when you look at the two. But that doesn't mean that there's lots that's new and noteworthy.

First, if it's not an LX or an EX trim, which carry over the 1.5-liter turbo and CVT combination, it's a hybrid, and it's a new and greatly improved hybrid. It's shared with the new CR-V, and although it is a bit more powerful with 204 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque, it's the improved drivability that really makes the biggest difference. Specifically, it now simulates gears, even though the electric motor continues to be directly connected to the wheels in most instances.

It is a bit too complicated to explain here, but the end result is a car that just drives more normal but also sounds more normal. It now sounds like a sweet-revving Honda engine instead of a blender.

The interior sees the other most significant improvement. Quite frankly, just cooler. It's more modern. Large thanks to this metal latticework across here that's similar in concept to the CR-V and the Civic and the CR-V, but it is a different pattern.

Another key element over here is revised all-digital instruments that are configurable. And then here, this touchscreen is now more upright. It is closer to you and is easier to reach as a result. It also measures 12.3 inches on the hybrids, and then specifically as this is the touring model-- Google Assistant, Google Maps. That means that this has Google built in. So you don't have to plug in your phone in order to get Google Maps and other Google-related apps. You can just download them from the Play Store right there and have them directly integrated into the car.

These seats are new. They're more supportive.

Visibility has also been improved. You know, and it still has these really thin pillars for a modern car. And there's more sound-deadening materials, including thicker glass here on the Touring.

In terms of safety, the pillars and the sills were strengthened for better crash protection. And front knee airbags and then rear-side airbags, as indicated right there, are standard. And the new Accord gets Honda's latest and greatly improved driver assistance suite as standard.

All told, the outgoing Accord was still a class leader and arguably the class leader. So this only improves its standing. And after seeing it in person, I'd say it looks better too.