The 2018 Honda Accord Sport: A Refined Mid-Sized Sedan with a Performance Edge

The 2018 Honda Accord Sport marked a significant evolution for the long-standing mid-sized sedan. This completely redesigned iteration offered a more sophisticated aesthetic, a feature-rich cabin, and a choice of two turbocharged engines. This combination established the Accord Sport as a compelling choice for drivers seeking a balance between comfort, fuel efficiency, and spirited performance.

A Sharper Presence

The 2018 Accord Sport departed from the previous generation’s somewhat conservative design, embracing a sleeker and more athletic stance. The prominent front grille, flanked by standard LED headlights, imparted a bolder and more assertive character. The sloping roofline and a character line running along the side created a dynamic profile, while the 19-inch alloy wheels (standard on the Sport trim) accentuated the car’s sporting persona.

A Driver-Centric Interior with Technological Prowess

The interior of the 2018 Accord Sport represented a significant upgrade. The cabin provided a spacious and refined environment for both the driver and passengers. High-quality materials throughout the interior elevated the overall ambiance.

The Sport trim featured heated, fabric sports seats with contrasting stitching, offering excellent bolstering and support during spirited driving. A leather-wrapped steering wheel and aluminum pedals further reinforced the sporty character.

Technology played a central role in the Accord Sport’s interior. An 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration was standard. The system provided a user-friendly interface and offered features such as navigation, a premium sound system, and Honda’s suite of connected services.

Turbocharged Performance for Discerning Drivers

Unlike previous Accord models that offered a V6 engine option, the 2018 Accord Sport came standard with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine generating a respectable 192 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque. This engine struck a commendable balance between power and fuel efficiency, achieving an EPA-estimated 33 mpg combined with the CVT transmission.

For drivers seeking an even more exhilarating experience, the Accord Sport offered an optional 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine boasting a muscular 252 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a responsive 10-speed automatic transmission. While fuel economy dipped slightly to an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city and 32 mpg highway, the significant power increase transformed the Accord Sport into a genuinely thrilling performer.

Enhanced Handling Characteristics

The Accord Sport came equipped with a sport-tuned suspension featuring stiffer shock absorbers and a thicker stabilizer bar compared to the base LX and EX trims. This suspension configuration resulted in sharper handling and minimized body roll during cornering maneuvers.

While the ride quality remained comfortable, it was firmer than the base trims, especially with the standard 19-inch wheels. Drivers prioritizing a smoother ride might gravitate towards the Touring trim, which offers adaptive dampers for a more customizable ride experience.

A Commitment to Safety

The 2018 Accord Sport boasted a comprehensive suite of safety features as standard equipment. These included:

• Honda Sensing Suite: This suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies encompassed features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, road departure mitigation, and adaptive cruise control.
• Blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert: This system warned drivers of vehicles in their blind spot and approaching from behind when reversing.
• Rearview camera: A standard rearview camera provided a clear view of what was behind the car while backing up.

Conclusion:

The 2018 Honda Accord Sport delivered a compelling package for drivers seeking a stylish, well-equipped, and enjoyable-to-drive mid-sized sedan. It offered an exceptional balance between performance, comfort, and fuel efficiency, solidifying its position as a strong contender within a highly competitive segment.

Additional Considerations:

• Available Trim Levels: The 2018 Accord Sport occupied a mid-range position within the Accord lineup, situated above the LX and EX trims and below the top-of-the-line Touring trim.
• Cargo Space: The trunk offered 17 cubic feet of cargo space, which was on par with other mid-sized sedans in its class.
• Reliability: The 2018 Accord has consistently received high marks for reliability from various sources, making it a compelling choice for those prioritizing long-term ownership.