2016 Honda Accord Coupe

Apr 20, 2024, 10:21am ET

While dwindling demand has led most automakers to abandon the mainstream midsize coupe market, Honda continues to affirm its commitment to the segment with the Accord Coupe. Like the more practical Accord sedan, the two-door features a pair of fuel-sipping powertrains along with a refined interior, capable handling and ample standard equipment.

Recent Changes

Honda has made comprehensive changes to the Accord for the latest model year. The updates include a new look, more tech features (such as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity), and additional standard equipment.

Overview

Despite being just under an inch shorter than the last-gen model, the latest Accord Coupe actually packs an additional 3.5 cubic feet of passenger space thanks to improved packing. Trunk space is also up by nearly 2 cubic feet.

Clothing the larger interior is more stylish sheetmetal characterized by abbreviated front and rear overhangs and a deep character line running along the flanks that reduces the appearance of heft. All of the sleek styling aft of front wheels is specific to the coupe, while the hood, grille and lower front fascia are also unique and a bit sportier than their sedan counterparts.

Life Aboard

Inside, in place of the last-gen model's somewhat cluttered dash is a simple and elegant design with an intuitive control layout. The button count is way down, thanks in part to a standard high-resolution screen in the center stack that includes a display for the standard rearview camera as well as Pandora internet radio compatibility and SMS text message functionality. Upmarket models include Honda's HondaLink infotainment interface and a second, smaller display in the center of the dashboard.

Uniquely, Honda's available "LaneWatch" system uses a camera mounted on the passenger-side mirror to transmit an image of the blind spot to the infotainment screen on certain higher-specification Accords.

Powertrain Lineup

The base engine is a direct-injected 2.4-liter "Earth Dreams" four-cylinder that pairs with either a six-speed manual or a CVT. With dual overhead cams and Honda's i-VTEC system, the engine puts out 185 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 181 lb-ft. of torque at 3,900 rpm. An available dual-exhaust system bumps output up by 4 ponies and 1 lb-ft. With the CVT, the Accord is rated at 26/35 mpg (30 mpg combined), while the six-speed manual dents those figures to 23/34 mpg (27 mpg combined).

A 3.5-liter V6 is optional on higher-spec Accord Coupes. Fitted with Honda's i-VTEC variable valve timing system, the engine is rated at 278 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 252 lb-ft. of torque at 4,900 rpm. The six spins the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. Gas mileage checks in at 21/32 mpg (25 mpg combined) thanks to variable cylinder management that cuts half of the cylinders for highway cruising.

Although not a dedicated sports car, the Accord Coupe nonetheless features responsive driving dynamics thanks to a well-tuned MacPherson strut suspension and a precise electric power steering system.

Trim Level Breakdown

The Accord Coupe lineup is broken down into five trims called LX-S, EX, EX-L, EX-L V6, and Touring, respectively.

LX-S models come with body-colored mirrors, remote keyless entry, automatic headlights, one-touch turn signals, chromed door handles, chromed exhaust tips, power windows, a one-touch up/down driver's side window, cruise control, a tilt and telescoping steering column, dual-zone A/C, a multi-function steering wheel, a rear-view camera, a 160-watt sound system with six speakers, and Bluetooth connectivity, AUX/MP3 input jacks.

EX models come with keyless entry, a moonroof, heated mirrors, illuminated power window switches, a push-button ignition, a HomeLink transceiver, one-touch up/down front windows, a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, a 360-watt sound system with seven speakers, a seven-inch screen that runs Honda's HondaLink infotainment system, SiriusXM radio, and Honda's LaneWatch technology.

EX-L models gain an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather upholstery, heated seats, and a compass.

EX-L V6 models swap the four-cylinder engine for the more powerful V6.

Finally, Touring trims boast rain-sensing wipers, automatic LED headlights, parking sensors on both ends, and navigation.

Occupant Safety

All Accords come standard with dual front, front side and full-length side-curtain airbags in addition to traction and stability control systems, brake assist, electronic brakeforce distribution and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

Available on certain trim levels (detailed above) are a blind spot display system, lane departure warning system and forward collision alert system.

Key Competitors

As a front-wheel-drive sedan-based coupe, the Accord Coupe is unique on the market.

The Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ are in the same price range but are much smaller and more driver-focused, while the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro represent powerful, retro-flavored alternatives.