Is the 2016 Honda Accord the Best Value in Used Midsize Sedans?
The 2016 Honda Accord makes a very strong case for being the best value in used midsize sedans, but it’s not a slam dunk. It excels in key areas like reliability, a spacious cabin, and strong resale value, but potential buyers need to be aware of some recurring issues, especially with the infotainment system. To see if it truly is the best value, you have to weigh its strengths against its weaknesses and compare it to top rivals.
The Accord’s Strengths: Why It’s a Top Contender
When you start looking at used family sedans, the 2016 Accord consistently checks the right boxes. It’s built on Honda’s reputation for reliability and offers a driving experience that feels more engaging than many competitors.
- Strong Reliability and Resale: For many buyers, this is the most important factor. The 2016 Accord has a reputation for being a very reliable car , and this is backed up by excellent owner reviews. On Kelley Blue Book, it scores a stellar 4.7 out of 5 for reliability, with an impressive 83% of owners recommending it . Its reliability is so well-regarded that guides for buying used cars under $15,000 specifically recommend the 2014-2017 Accord as a “smart buy” for families and highway commuters . This strong reliability directly supports its high resale value. In the Middle East, for example, it’s rated a perfect 5.0 out of 5 for resale value .
- Pleasant Driving Experience: The Accord has long been praised for being one of the more enjoyable cars to drive in its class. Car and Driver, in a 2016 comparison test, noted its “delightful steering” and “BMW-like body control,” which is high praise for a family sedan . While the continuously variable transmission (CVT) in the four-cylinder model can create a “labored moan” when pushed hard , the car’s overall handling and ride quality are considered a cut above.
- Excellent Safety and Space: The 2016 Accord is a safe vehicle, earning a 5.0 out of 5 star safety rating from the NHTSA . Inside, it offers a roomy and comfortable cabin, especially for rear-seat passengers, and a large trunk . Some trims also offer a 60/40 split-folding rear seat for added cargo flexibility, a practical touch for a sedan.
The Accord’s Weaknesses: What to Watch Out For
While the Accord is a great car, it’s not perfect. To make a smart purchase, you need to know about its common issues. The most frequently reported problem is with the electronics.
- Infotainment and Electronics Gremlins: The 2016 Accord was one of the first to offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which was a huge selling point . However, many owners report that the system is prone to freezing, crashing, and having connectivity issues, especially when using Apple CarPlay for navigation . One owner described the head unit as “under powered,” reporting it freezes and blanks both displays .
- Common complaints include the screen going blank, the GPS freezing, and the system needing a full car restart to function again .
- Some owners have opted for aftermarket fixes or simply stopped using the built-in system altogether .
- Other electronic issues reported include failing backup cameras and problems with the alternator .
How the Accord Stacks Up: The Competition
To decide if the Accord is the best value, let’s look at its two main rivals: the Toyota Camry and the Mazda6.
- Versus the Toyota Camry: The Camry is the sensible choice. It’s comfortable, quiet, and reliable. However, in a direct comparison, Car and Driver found the Camry to be the “boringest of the boring to drive” . It prioritizes comfort over driving engagement. So, while it’s a solid car, the Accord offers a more satisfying driving experience without sacrificing much practicality.
- Versus the Mazda6: This is where it gets interesting. The Mazda6 is often considered the most stylish and fun-to-drive sedan in the class. One owner review even called it “one of the best values you can get in today’s used car market” . It also comes with a traditional six-speed automatic or manual transmission, avoiding the CVT that some drivers dislike .
- Why choose the Accord? The Honda has a slight edge in overall reliability ratings and is often cited for having a more comfortable and quieter ride than the Mazda6, which can have noticeable tire noise .
- Why choose the Mazda6? If you prioritize styling, driving dynamics, and a traditional automatic transmission over outright cabin quietness and slight reliability edge, the Mazda6 is a compelling alternative.
Real-World Value: What’s the Price?
The 2016 Accord represents a strong value proposition, often found in the budget-friendly sweet spot. A well-maintained 2016 Accord with just over 100,000 miles has a CARFAX Value of around $14,620 , and many examples can be found for under $15,000. The four-cylinder model with the CVT also achieves excellent fuel economy, with ratings as high as 26 mpg city and 35 mpg highway .
The Verdict
So, is the 2016 Honda Accord the best value? It is, for many people.
It offers the fantastic mix of reliability, resale value, driving enjoyment, and practicality that most family sedan shoppers are looking for. Its high owner satisfaction scores and strong reputation are hard to beat.
However, you need to be a smart shopper. The key takeaway is to be aware of the potential infotainment issues.
- When looking at a 2016 Accord, test the infotainment system thoroughly. Plug in your phone, use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto (if equipped), and see if it lags, freezes, or disconnects.
- You could also use the potential for these issues as a negotiation point.
If you can accept or work around the electronic quirks, you’ll get one of the most well-rounded, dependable sedans available. If a flawless infotainment experience is non-negotiable, or if you want to avoid a CVT entirely, the Mazda6 is an excellent alternative that might be an even better “value” for you .
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