11 Best & Worst Honda Accord Hybrid Years (Facts & Stats)

The Honda Accord Hybrid is an award-winning, mid-size sedan that made its US debut for the 2005 model year.

It’s a solid performer overall and offers all the positives of the regular Accord, just with better gas mileage.

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the Accord Hybrids’ best and worst years…

2022 Honda Accord Hybrid

Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Honda Accord Hybrid Are:

The best Honda Accord Hybrid model years are 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2007, and 2006. The worst model years of the Accord Hybrid are 2018, 2017, 2015, 2014 and 2005 This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.

What Are The Best Years For The Honda Accord Hybrid?

Listed below are the best-performing Accord Hybrid models.

2022 Honda Accord Hybrid

If it’s within your budget the 2022 Accord Hybrid should be your first pick, it offers the most advanced iteration of the innovative two-motor hybrid powertrain as well as the most up-to-date tech and safety features.

This model won numerous awards including Kelley Blue Book’s “Best Buy Award” and “Best Midsize Car for the Money” by U.S. News & World Report.

For 2022, the Accord Hybrid adds a new Sport variant (which replaces the EX trim).

  • Edmunds: 4.2 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0
  • Car and Driver: 10/10

2022 Accord Hybrid, Kelley Blue Book review:

“Great features, one of the best cars I’ve owned. Drives very smooth. The engine doesn’t make much noise. Also a gas saver”

2021 Honda Accord Hybrid

The 2021 Accord is another top-pick thanks to its nimble handling, excellent fuel economy and roomy cabin.

There were some minor styling updates for this model year, and the engine was modified to reduce noise whilst accelerating.

Also, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system became standard, as did wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

  • Edmunds: 4.7 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0
  • Car and Driver: 10/10

2021 Accord Hybrid, Kelley Blue Book review:

“This is my first Honda, ever. What originally attracted me to this car was it’s looks. With the larger wheels that come standard with the touring packing, there simply is not a better-looking, 4-door sedan in the price point I paid in my viewpoint. Next I was attracted to how quiet the car is. As there is little to no noise at all when driving at lower speeds when it is using mostly battery power. And when you accelerate in it, the noise is still fairly quiet. And yes, the gas mileage is great as well. I gave it less than 5 stars for its comfort because it is a small bit of a challenge to enter into the driver’s seat. But once you get used to holding onto the steering wheel as you drop yourself into the seat, it’s not that bad. And I fully expect not to ever be disappointed with its reliability.”

2020 Honda Accord Hybrid

The 2020 Accord Hybrid is another safe bet when looking for a top-rated family sedan.

It’s one of the best-equipped models in its class and is genuinely fun to drive – it also won Car and Drivers “Editors Choice Award”.

This model year was relatively unchanged bar an audible exterior alert chimes when the car is in electric-only mode.

  • Edmunds: 4.4 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0
  • Car and Driver: 10/10

2020 Accord Hybrid, Edmunds review:

“I gave up a 2013 Honda Accord EX-L Nav for this edition and have not been let down. I love the upgrades and improvements Honda has made over the last few years. From the Honda Sensing to the safety features added I have really enjoyed the time driving and look forward to the miles on the road. Very smooth and comfortable ride. Would definitely recommend to anyone searching for a new car.”

2019 Honda Accord Hybrid

The 2019 Accord Hybrid grabs your attention with distinctive styling, a big trunk and a considerable number of advanced safety features as standard.

There were no remarkable changes or upgrades for this model and it was essentially a carryover year, however it received far fewer complaints than the 2018 model.

  • Edmunds: 3.9 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0
  • Car and Driver: 10/10

2019 Accord Hybrid, Edmunds review:

“Upon start, it’s so quiet, I don’t know for sure it’s on. 46.6 miles per gallon on a 250 mile trip. Roomier than my 2010 Accord with more trunk space. Very nice exterior lines.”

2006 and 2007 Honda Accord Hybrid

The 2006 and 2007 Accord Hybrids wouldn’t be our first choice as hybrid technology has advanced significantly since they were released, however there’s no denying these models have impressive reliability and have received only a few complaints.

Feedback from owners and critics alike was overwhelmingly positive, with most crediting these models for high fuel economy, handling, and acceleration. 

Be wary of purchasing models as old as these, it would be wise to have a mechanic who is familiar with hybrid cars take a look and give a second opinion.

2006 Honda Accord Hybrid

Consumer Scores For Best Honda Accord Hybrid Years

Below is a table that shows the ratings of the best Accord Hybrid model years from reputable vehicle websites:

Model YearEdmunds 
Consumer Rating
Kelley Blue Book
Consumer Rating
Car & Driver
Rating
2022 Honda Accord Hybrid4.2 / 5.04.3 / 5.010/10
2021 Honda Accord Hybrid4.7 / 5.04.3 / 5.010/10
2020 Honda Accord Hybrid4.4 / 5.04.3 / 5.010/10
2019 Honda Accord Hybrid3.9 / 5.04.3 / 5.010/10
2007 Honda Accord HybridNANANA
2006 Honda Accord HybridNANANA

Related: How Long Do Honda Accord Hybrids Last? (12 Important Facts)

What Are The Worst Years For The Honda Accord Hybrid?

The Honda Accord Hybrid is widely praised for being one of the best family sedans on the market, however some years have been more problematic than others.

2018 Honda Accord Hybrid

The 2018 Accord Hybrid isn’t a clunker by any stretch of the imagination however there was a spike in complaints for this model year.

A number of owners have reported that the car’s collision mitigation system caused the car to brake despite there not being any obstacles in front of the vehicle.

Other owners have reported a buzzing noise from the battery, here’s what they had to say:

“Repeatedly at random intervals during hot weather I hear a loud buzzing vibration sound coming from area housing high voltage lithium-ion battery. Always happens while parked after driving. I fear overheating or fire from high voltage lithium-ion battery.”

“New 2018 Honda Accord Hybrid makes low frequency “buzzing” noise while parked in garage several hours after 30 minutes or more ride. Buzzing noise not heard immediately after engine shut off.”

The 2018 Accord Hybrid had a total of 20 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 33 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.

Common problems:

  • Windshield cracked easily
  • Buzzing noise
  • Air conditioning evaporator failure
  • Road departure mitigation faulty warnings

2017 Honda Accord Hybrid

The 2017 Accord Hybrid received a number of complaints from owners who experienced failure of the brakes.

One owner stated that whilst driving approximately 65 mph, the brakes failed to slow the vehicle down, even when the brake pedal was fully depressed to the floor.

This was accompanied by the illumination of several warning indicators.

Here’s another owner’s testimony:

“The brake system failed while driving. Fortunately, I was sitting at a drive-thru and when I advanced and tried to stop all the system failure lights came on and the car was unable to stop. Had to use the E-brake to stop the car. This is a life-threatening issue with the Accord that needs to be addressed.”

The 2017 Accord Hybrid had a total of 13 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 28 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.

Common problems:

  • Windshield cracked
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Brakes problems
  • Road departure mitigation faulty warnings

2015 Honda Accord Hybrid

The 2015 Accord Hybrid saw a spike in electronic-related complaints, including warning signs illuminating on the dash followed by the car losing speed.

Here’s what the owners had to say:

“While driving on highway all warning lights came on (in the dashboard with an exclamation point) and the car speed dropped to less than 40 mph.”

“I was driving on a highway at 70mph when signs such as “engine cooling system problem”, “emissions system problem” started displaying on dashboard and speed was decreasing and I couldn’t speed up. I pulled over to the shoulder and turned off the car and turned it back on and signs were gone.”

The 2015 Accord Hybrid had a total of 20 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 42 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.

Common problems:

  • Rodents ate through soy-based wiring insulation
  • Electronic power steering failure
  • Speed control related problems
2015 Honda Accord Hybrid

2014 Honda Accord Hybrid

The 2014 Accord Hybrid had a number of complaints about its fuel economy. According to Consumer Reports, in tests the 2014 Accord Hybrid averaged 40 mpg, not the stated 47 mpg.

Here’s what the owners had to say:

“First reported the problem of not getting 50 mpg to the mechanic at our first oil change. We were told that it takes a bit for the battery to break in, etc… Well now we have about 44,000 miles and we still cant seem to get more than 36-38 mpg. Most driving is done in the City and this is the same mileage that we get when we travel on Interstate 5. I really feel like we were lied to. I just heard about a possible class action lawsuit.”

“Bought 2014 Honda Hybrid brand new. I always get 36/38 mpg no matter what I do. I took it to Honda they said change my gas from Costco to Chevy, Mobil etc, I have tried everything different gas, driving slower you name it nothing changes.” 

The 2014 Accord Hybrid had a total of 20 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 21 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.

Common problems:

  • Poor fuel economy
  • Extremely uncomfortable seats
  • Whining engine noise during slight acceleration

Related: 7 Most Common Honda Accord Hybrid Problems (Explained)

2005 Honda Accord Hybrid

The 2005 Accord Hybrid was the debut model, and although it wasn’t overly problematic it did have its share of teething issues (which is common for any new vehicle).

Some owners who had been involved in a crash reported that the airbags failed to deploy.

A number of owners also complained about problems with the brakes, stating that they failed to work when it’s cold.

Here’s what they had to say:

“I own a 2005 Honda Accord Hybrid and every winter, at least 6 -10 times a year the power braking system simply doesn’t work. It takes every bit of strength in my legs to apply the brakes, and it is still quite hard to come to a complete stop. Seems as if the colder it is, the worse and more frequent this happens.”

“It always happens in the winter time, I get in my car to leave and I have no brakes. The pedal is very hard/stiff and you have to pull the emergency brake in order to actually stop.”

The 2005 Accord Hybrid had a total of 9 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 59 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.

Common problems:

  • Peeling paint on right front fender
  • Low rumble noise
  • Breaks don’t work when its cold outside

What Years Have The Most Complaints?

The Honda Accord Hybrid is a brilliant model but not one without fault. There have been a few patterns worth noting, as mentioned above, and it is important to keep a record of how many complaints and problems each model year has actually had. 

Listed below are the number of reported complaints and problems for each model year of the Accord Hybrid. 

Model YearComplaints (CarComplaints.com)Problems (CarProblemZoo.com)
2022 Honda Accord HybridNA1
2021 Honda Accord HybridNANA
2020 Honda Accord Hybrid12
2019 Honda Accord Hybrid104
2018 Honda Accord Hybrid2033
2017 Honda Accord Hybrid1328
2016 Honda Accord HybridNA1
2015 Honda Accord Hybrid2042
2014 Honda Accord Hybrid2021
2007 Honda Accord Hybrid122
2006 Honda Accord Hybrid515
2005 Honda Accord Hybrid959

What Problems Do Honda Accord Hybrids Have?

  • Windshield cracked
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Rodents ate through soy-based wiring insulation
  • Air conditioning evaporator failure
  • Road departure mitigation faulty warnings
  • Electronic power steering failure
  • Extremely uncomfortable seats
  • Whining engine noise during slight acceleration

What Are The Best Alternatives To The Honda Accord Hybrid?

The Accord Hybrid is one of the most highly decorated Hybrids around.

Take a look at how it fares against direct competitors in terms of fuel economy, pricing, and overall score. 

Make & ModelScoreMSRPFuel Economy (MPG)
Hyundai Sonata Hybrid8.8$27,200 – $35,550City: 45 – 50 /Highway: 51 – 54
Honda Accord Hybrid8.7$27,320 – $37,190City: 44 – 48 /Highway: 41 – 48
Toyota Avalon Hybrid8.5$37,350 – $43,650City: 43 /Highway: 44
Honda Insight8.4$25,760 – $29,790City: 51 – 55 /Highway: 45 – 49
Hyundai Elantra Hybrid8.3$24,400 – $29,000City: 49 – 53 /Highway: 52 – 56
Toyota Camry Hybrid8.1$28,080 – $33,520City: 44 – 51 /Highway: 47 – 53
Toyota Prius7.8$25,075 – $33,370City: 51 – 58 /Highway: 47 – 53
Toyota Corolla Hybrid7.7$23,750City: 53 /Highway: 52
Toyota Prius Prime7.7$28,220 – $34,000City: 54 /Highway: 54
Hyundai IoniqNA$23,600 – $33,250City: 58 /Highway: 60

Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com

Related: 22 Best & Worst Honda Accord Years (With Facts & Stats)

References

https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a34622538/2021-honda-accord-hybrid-by-the-numbers/

https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/honda/accord-hybrid/

https://www.carcomplaints.com/Honda/Accord_Hybrid/

https://www.carproblemzoo.com/honda/accordhybrid/

https://www.edmunds.com/honda/accord-hybrid/

https://www.kbb.com/honda/accord-hybrid/

https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2022/honda/accord-hybrid

Author:

  • Ian Sawyer

    Growing up with a father who was a mechanic I had an appreciation for cars and motorcycles from an early age. I shared my first bike with my brother that had little more than a 40cc engine but it opened up a world of excitement for me, I was hooked. As I grew older I progressed onto bigger bikes and...