Honda Accord VTi 2013 review

The Honda Accord VTi marks the entry point to the larger Accord lineup, with its $31,490 list price sitting more than twenty thousand dollars under the top-spec $51,990 V6L.

Design

Not to be confused with the slightly smaller and more dynamic Accord Euro, the Accord VTi promises a bit more comfort to go with its more sedate styling.

The big Accord’s boot is slightly smaller than the Euro’s because of its full-size spare wheel, which is accessed through a cleverly designed boot floor that holds itself in position – just when you need it to.

Value

The VTi’s relatively low price does come at some cost – if you will – as the VTi is the only Accord that doesn’t come with a leather steering wheel, and it misses out on many features available further up the range like LED headlights, adaptive cruise, and a suite of collision avoidance technologies.

It still gets a few modern must haves like dual-zone climate control, LED running lights, Bluetooth phone and audio, and two big multimedia screens in the dash.

Without satnav, Honda has spread the functions of these screens across both of them, which can be confusing, but their generous size makes them easy to read.

One surprise feature is the three-mode reversing camera, offering the choice between normal, wide, and top down views, but if you want parking sensors, you’ll have to go for one of the dearer variants. 

Engine/transmission 

Despite sharing its capacity with the 2.4 litre engine in the smaller and lighter Accord Euro, the Accord VTi’s 129kW/225Nm engine is a new Earth Dreams design, with reduced internal friction helping to deliver a combined fuel figure of 7.9L/100km – a full litre better than the Euro.

Safety

Despite the Accord Euro being rated at five stars since 2008, the big Accord only scored a four star ANCAP rating when it launched in mid-2013.

Nonetheless, it comes with dual front, side and full-length curtain airbags, ABS, EBD and stability control as standard.

Driving

The 2.4-litre has no trouble moving the 1510kg VTi, and it’s only with a full boot and five aboard that you notice the lack of a V6.

Despite being one ratio short of the norm, the five speed auto does a great job, delivering smooth and refined shifting, and making the most of the engine.

The Accord’s drive experience is perhaps its greatest strength, delivering refinement and comfort levels to rival far more expensive models.

The VTi spreads soft cloth fabric across many of its touch points, and the cabin uses noise cancelling technology to neutralise ambient sounds.

It really is quiet to drive, and the ride comfort is also excellent, thanks in part to the tall sidewalls of the 16 inch tyres.

Verdict

The Honda Accord VTi is a sensible, good value sedan, that offers a surprising level of comfort for all aboard.