Both the 2013 Honda Accord and Nissan Altima rank at the top of the mid-sized sedan class. When it comes down to making the commitment of buying a new car, you might ask which is better: Accord or Altima?
Better Selection and Pricing
The 2013 Honda Accord is more reasonably priced and provides buyers with a wider array of options than the Altima line-up. The 2013 Accord coupe is almost $2,000 less expensive than the Altima and offers six variations which includes two trims levels with V6 options, whereas the Altima coupe only comes in one four-cylinder engine trim.
More Power
The 2013 Accord packs more power than the Altima, with the four-cylinder engine achieving 185-hp and 181 lb-ft of torque to the Altima’s 182-hp, 180 lb-ft match up. Take a step up to the Accord Sport’s sport-tuned suspension and not only can you expect a more engaging drive, but it gets 189-hp and 182 lb-ft of torque to boot.
Improved Safety
The 2013 Honda Accord received the highest honor from the IIHS of Top Safety Pick+ for both the sedan and coupe models. The Nissan Altima coupe has yet to be reviewed by the IIHS. The Accord improves safety with intensive accident prevention measures like the blind-spot monitoring LaneWatch that comes standard on the Accord EX and above. LaneWatch uses the Accord’s center stack mounted LCD screen to display footage of the passenger side blind-spot when the right turn signal is engaged. Also available on select Accord’s trims are forward-collision and lane-departure warning systems, as well as adaptive cruise control. The Altima’s blind-spot monitoring, cross-traffic alert and lane-departure warning systems are only offered with the pricey Technology Package, which requires the purchase of all other packages.
Comfort and Amenities
Although the Altima has received a significant interior upgrade, it’s not enough to match up to the roomier Accord. The interior of the Accord is akin to that of a luxury car. The premium, Honda quality materials, sophisticated design, and understated layout of the center stack out shine the Altima’s lackluster design. The Altima also lacks sufficient leg-room for comfortable rear seating. This deficiency in space extends into the Altima’s truck where the sedan has .4 cubic feet less than the Accord. A meager 8.2 cubic feet of truck space can be found in the Altima coupe to the 13.4 cubic feet of cargo space in the Accord coupe.
The Accord comes with more standard features than the Altima, which requires you to purchase packages that add up quickly. The 8-inch LCD screen in the Accord is double the size of the Altima’s. The Accord LX base trim comes equipped with dual-zone automatic climate control and a rearview camera, auxiliary audio input, iPod/USB interface and Pandora connectivity. If you want these in the Altima, they all require an upgrade in trim or the purchase of packages.
The 2.5S sport version of the Altima necessitates opting-in for the V6 engine just to receive the sport mode with paddle shifters for the continuously variable transmission (CVT). This comes standard on the Accord Sport PLUS a leather-wrapped steering wheel and eight-way power driver’s seat!
Accord or Altima?
The Accord provides a better selection, more power, improved safety, as well as luxurious comfort and amenities all at a better price than the Altima. So it only makes sense when asked “Accord or Altima,” the answer is the 2013 Honda Accord: the best pick for those in the market for a mid-sized sedan.
Test Drive the 2013 Honda Accord at Brannon Honda
Now that you’ve read about it, come experience the 2013 Honda Accord for yourself with a test drive today! At Brannon Honda, our professional representatives are here to answer any questions you may have. We have the latest Accords in stock, and with our extensive inventory of new Hondas and quality used vehicles, you can be sure to find the right one for you!
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