2016 Honda Accord: Features, MPG, and Resale Value Analysis
There’s a specific kind of confidence that comes from sliding into a used Honda Accord and knowing you’ve made one of the smartest used-car purchases on the market.
The 2016 Accord represents a sweet spot in the midsize sedan world—it’s modern enough to feel current, reliable enough to trust for years, and priced attractively on the used market. Whether you’re a longtime Honda owner looking to upgrade from an older Civic or a first-time buyer searching for value, the 2016 Accord deserves a serious look.
Let’s break down what makes this generation special, how the fuel economy stacks up, and what you can expect to pay for one today.
TL;DR
The 2016 Honda Accord is a dependable, spacious midsize sedan with excellent fuel economy from its four-cylinder engine (up to 31 mpg combined) and a strong V6 option (278 horsepower) for those wanting more power. It was the first Honda to offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Today, used examples sell for roughly $9,000 to $14,000, depending on trim and condition. The most common complaint involves infotainment system glitches, particularly with Apple CarPlay, while the core mechanical components remain solid and reliable.
Key Takeaways
- Four-cylinder models achieve excellent fuel economy, with EPA ratings of 27 city / 37 highway / 31 combined mpg
- V6 models are quick but thirstier, delivering 278 horsepower but dropping to 21 city / 34 highway / 26 combined mpg
- Technology was a major update for 2016—this was the first Accord with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
- Honda Sensing safety features became available across all trims for the first time in 2016
- Current used prices range from about $8,700 to $14,000, with Touring models commanding a premium
- Reliability is generally excellent, but watch for infotainment system glitches—a common owner complaint
Understanding the 2016 Honda Accord Lineup
The 2016 Accord continues the ninth generation, which debuted in 2013, but received significant updates that make it stand out. Available as both a sedan and a coupe, the Accord offers something for everyone—from fuel-conscious commuters to performance-minded drivers.
Trim Levels Explained
Honda offered the Accord in several trims, each adding features and capability:
| Trim | Engine | Key Features | Starting Price (2016) |
|---|---|---|---|
| LX | 2.4L 4-cyl (185 hp) | 16-inch alloys, backup camera, dual-zone climate control, 7.7-inch screen | $22,205 |
| Sport | 2.4L 4-cyl (189 hp) | 19-inch wheels, fog lights, leather-wrapped wheel, paddle shifters, sport exhaust | $24,265 |
| EX | 2.4L 4-cyl (185 hp) | Adds moonroof, push-button start, LaneWatch camera, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | $25,580 |
| EX-L | 2.4L 4-cyl or 3.5L V6 (278 hp) | Leather seats, heated front seats, memory driver’s seat, auto-dimming mirror | $28,670 (4-cyl) / $30,745 (V6) |
| Touring | 3.5L V6 (278 hp) | LED headlights, Honda Sensing standard, navigation, heated rear seats, 19-inch wheels | $34,680 |
Prices include destination charges
What Made 2016 Special
The 2016 model year was significant because it introduced several major updates :
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto made their Honda debut, bringing smartphone integration to the Accord before many competitors
- Honda Sensing—a suite of safety features including collision mitigation braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control—became available on all trims (standard on Touring)
- LED lighting expanded across the lineup, with LED fog lights on Sport trims and above and LED headlights on Touring
- A stiffer body and refined suspension improved ride quality and handling
Fuel Economy: The Numbers That Matter
One of the 2016 Accord’s strongest selling points is its fuel efficiency. The four-cylinder engine paired with the CVT delivers impressive numbers that still hold up well today.
Four-Cylinder Fuel Economy
The 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine is the fuel-efficiency champion:
- EPA Combined: 31 mpg
- City: 27 mpg
- Highway: 37 mpg
The Sport trim, with its larger 19-inch wheels and sport-tuned exhaust, gets slightly lower figures: 26 city / 35 highway / 30 combined .
V6 Fuel Economy
If you opt for the 3.5-liter V6 (available on EX-L and Touring trims), be prepared for a trade-off:
- EPA Combined: 26 mpg (sedan automatic)
- City: 21 mpg
- Highway: 34 mpg
In real-world testing, the Touring V6 averaged around 21.4 mpg in mixed driving—respectable for a V6 but noticeably thirstier than its four-cylinder sibling .
“The V6’s added power and smoothness come at a cost at the gas pump. It is rated by the EPA at 21 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the open road.”
For comparison, a manual transmission V6 Accord coupe drops to 18 city / 28 highway / 22 combined—the least efficient configuration .
Which Engine Should You Choose?
The fuel economy gap is significant. If you drive 12,000 miles per year, the four-cylinder Accord will save you roughly $300-$400 annually in fuel compared to the V6. However, the V6 offers 278 horsepower—a 50% increase over the four-cylinder’s 185—along with noticeably smoother acceleration .
Features and Technology
The Infotainment System: Double the Screens
The 2016 Accord features a dual-screen infotainment system on EX trims and above. The upper 7.7-inch screen displays vehicle information, while the lower 7-inch touchscreen handles audio, navigation, and smartphone integration .
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were major selling points in 2016, and they remain highly desirable today. This was the first Accord model to offer this feature, making it feel more current than many competitors from the same era .
However, this is where the 2016 Accord has its biggest weakness. Owner complaints about infotainment glitches are widespread . Here’s what owners report:
- CarPlay freezes during navigation use, especially when paired with music
- Backup cameras fail or display no image
- Head units freeze and need rebooting
- The system becomes “underpowered” and struggles to keep up with newer phone updates
Consumer Reports notes that in-car electronics are the most common trouble spot for the 2016 Accord . One owner summed it up: “The screen freezes when using the Maps feature of Apple CarPlay, especially when there is a bump in the road.”
One owner found a workaround: a wireless adapter that reduces freeze-ups significantly . If you’re shopping for a 2016 Accord, test the infotainment system thoroughly before buying.
Honda Sensing Safety
For 2016, Honda Sensing became available across all trim levels for the first time . The package includes :
- Collision Mitigation Braking System (auto-braking)
- Forward Collision Warning
- Lane Departure Warning
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Road Departure Mitigation
- Adaptive Cruise Control
On the Touring trim, Honda Sensing was standard equipment. On other trims, it was a $1,000-$2,000 option (bundled with navigation on EX-L) .
Other Notable Features
- LaneWatch camera on passenger-side mirror (EX and above)—displays a live feed on the upper screen when the right turn signal is activated
- Remote engine start on automatic transmission models (EX and above)
- Heated rear seats on Touring
- 60/40 split-folding rear seat on Sport and above (LX has single-piece folding)
Resale Value: What You’ll Pay Today
The 2016 Honda Accord holds its value well, as you’d expect from a Honda. However, depreciation has taken its toll over the years, making these cars very affordable today.
Current Market Prices
Based on Kelley Blue Book data, here’s what you can expect to pay :
| Trim | Trade-In Range | Private Party Range | Fair Purchase Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| LX | ~$8,700 – $10,900 | ~$9,400 – $11,700 | ~$11,000 |
| EX | ~$8,700 – $10,900 | ~$9,400 – $11,700 | ~$11,950 |
| Sport | ~$9,900 – $11,900 | ~$11,900 – $13,800 | ~$13,000 |
| EX-L | ~$9,900 – $12,100 | ~$10,900 – $13,800 | ~$13,500 |
| Touring | ~$10,100 – $13,200 | ~$13,700 – $15,200 | ~$14,000 |
Prices reflect good condition vehicles with typical mileage. Actual prices vary by location, condition, and mileage.
Depreciation Breakdown
The 2016 Accord has depreciated approximately 29-30% in the last three years, losing about $4,900 to $5,300 in value during that period . Today, the average resale value sits around $11,650-$13,700, depending on trim .
What Affects Resale Value
- Mileage—Accords with under 60,000 miles command a premium
- Condition—clean interior and exterior significantly boost value
- Trim level—Touring and EX-L hold value better than base trims
- V6 engine—adds value for enthusiasts but may limit buyer pool
- Service history—documented maintenance boosts buyer confidence
Reliability: What Owners Say
The 2016 Accord enjoys strong overall reliability ratings. Consumer Reports notes it is “more reliable than other cars from the same model year” . Owner reviews on Kelley Blue Book give it 4.4 out of 5 stars, with reliability scoring 4.7 out of 5 .
The Good News
- 83% of owners recommend the vehicle
- Engine and transmission are widely praised as robust and dependable
- Many owners report trouble-free ownership well beyond 100,000 miles
- One owner shared: “I have not had to fix anything besides basic wear items like brakes, battery, belts (not until 85k). She is now at 95k and still treating me well.”
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on owner reports and Consumer Reports data, here are the most frequently reported problems :
| Problem Area | Frequency | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment system glitches | Common | $60-$4,000 |
| Backup camera failure | Moderate | ~$600 |
| LED daytime running lights failure | Moderate | Covered by extended warranty (some) |
| Brake caliper issues | Low-Moderate | ~$300-$500 |
| Starter failure | Low-Moderate | ~$800 |
| Transmission issues | Low | Potentially $2,000+ |
“The head unit is under powered and freezes, and blanks both displays. Only with full screen CarPlay.” — Anonymous owner
A Note on the V6
The 278-horsepower V6 is generally reliable, but it does come with one trade-off besides fuel economy: some owners report the V6 engine can consume oil at higher mileages . This isn’t universal, but it’s worth checking the oil level regularly if you choose a V6 model.
Pros and Cons Summary
Pros
✅ Excellent fuel economy from the four-cylinder (up to 37 mpg highway)
✅ Spacious and comfortable interior with room for five adults
✅ Strong reliability reputation with many trouble-free years of ownership
✅ Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard on EX and above
✅ Honda Sensing safety features available across the lineup
✅ V6 option offers great power (278 hp) for those who want it
✅ Comfortable ride with responsive handling
✅ Strong resale value compared to competitors
Cons
❌ Infotainment system can be glitchy—CarPlay freezes are common
❌ Backup cameras sometimes fail—replacement costs ~$600
❌ V6 fuel economy is significantly worse than the four-cylinder
❌ Head unit replacement is expensive—some owners report $4,000 costs
❌ Trunk space is good but not best in class—gooseneck hinges intrude
❌ Some features require high trims—heated rear seats only on Touring
Is the 2016 Honda Accord Right for You?
Buy It If:
- You want a reliable used sedan that will last for years
- Fuel economy matters but you don’t want a hybrid
- You appreciate modern tech like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- You need space for passengers in the back seat
- You’re looking for excellent value in the $10,000-$14,000 range
- You prefer a comfortable ride over sporty handling
Consider Alternatives If:
- You want the most modern infotainment experience without glitches
- You need AWD or SUV cargo space
- You prioritize sporty handling above all else
- You want the latest safety tech (the 2016 system is good but not cutting-edge)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 2016 Honda Accord reliable?
A: Yes, overall reliability is excellent. Consumer Reports rates it above average for its model year, and most owners report trouble-free ownership. The most common complaints involve the infotainment system rather than mechanical components .
Q: What is the fuel economy of the 2016 Honda Accord?
A: The four-cylinder models achieve 27 city / 37 highway / 31 combined mpg. The V6 models get 21 city / 34 highway / 26 combined mpg. The Sport trim is slightly less efficient due to larger wheels .
Q: Does the 2016 Honda Accord have Apple CarPlay?
A: Yes, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available on EX trims and above. This was the first Accord model to offer this feature .
Q: How much is a used 2016 Honda Accord worth?
A: Current prices range from about $8,700 for a base LX with higher mileage to $14,000 for a well-maintained Touring. Most Accords sell in the $10,000-$13,000 range .
Q: What are common problems with the 2016 Accord?
A: The most common issues are infotainment system glitches (especially with CarPlay), backup camera failures, and occasional LED running light failures. Mechanical components are generally very reliable .
Q: Should I buy the 4-cylinder or V6?
A: Choose the 4-cylinder if you prioritize fuel economy and lower running costs. Choose the V6 if you want significantly more power and a smoother driving experience, and you’re willing to accept lower fuel economy .
Final Thoughts
The 2016 Honda Accord is a smart buy for used-car shoppers who value reliability, fuel economy, and practical space. It offers an appealing mix of modern technology, comfortable ride quality, and proven Honda durability.
However, the infotainment system is a legitimate concern. If you can live with occasional CarPlay glitches—or if you’re comfortable using Bluetooth instead of the screen—the 2016 Accord remains one of the best used midsize sedans on the market.
The V6 models offer real driving enjoyment for enthusiasts, while the four-cylinder models deliver outstanding fuel economy. Either way, you’re getting a car that’s likely to serve you well for many years—provided you test that infotainment system first.
References
For further reading and data verification:
- Consumer Reports: 2016 Honda Accord Reliability
- Kelley Blue Book: 2016 Honda Accord Values
- Cars.com: 2016 Honda Accord Trim Level Guide
- Edmunds: 2016 Honda Accord MPG Data
What’s your experience with the 2016 Accord? Drop your thoughts in the comments below—we’d love to hear your ownership story!
