Honda says the gas/electric Accord Hybrid delivers both performance and fuel economy. It is the most powerful Accord in the lineup, and does have the highest EPA ratings. We were curious to see how it delivered in the real world.

Our 2005-model test example feels faster off the line than the gas-only V6 Accord, and it has exceptional passing power. Despite some demanding city driving and longer highway trips, we've experienced no mechanical problems over its fist 17,559 miles. The 27.5 mpg test average is about what we get with 4-cyl Accords, which have 87 hp less. However, the hybrid's power delivery isn't as smooth or linear as the conventional V6's. Testers note a drivetrain shudder when slowing to a stop as the gasoline engine shuts off, and the powertrain sometimes lags and surges on the highway.

On a wholly positive note, this is an Accord. That means ample room for four adults, outstanding ergonomics, and quality materials and workmanship. As a rule, Accords ride and handle with more athletic poise than most rivals, but the Hybrid is the heaviest Accord and has rather modest tires, which compromises the ride quality and agility we've come to expect from these sedans.

As for overall value, our editors are mixed. Some suggest that with a 4-cyl/hybrid powertrain instead of a V6 hybrid, this car could easily top 35 mpg in routine driving. Though it is powerful, it could take years to recoup the Hybrid's roughly $3000 price premium over comparably equipped gas-only V6 Accords. Still, the beauty of the Accord Hybrid isn't that it is fast or efficient, it is that it is both. Note that the Hybrid's horsepower is recalculated to 253 for 2006, and that it now comes with a sunroof and split folding rear seatbacks.

Editors' Comments

Tom Appel: It is in heavy traffic that the regenerative braking really rears its ugly head. In most other conditions, Accord Hybrid makes for a better Accord. I don't think that I would ever learn to completely ignore this drivetrain's idiosyncrasies, but for some extra power and a little better mileage, I could learn to live with them.

Rick Cotta: At roughly a $3300 premium over a regular EX V6, it's difficult to recommend the Hybrid from a value standpoint. It does, however, fulfill its promise of "4-cylinder economy with V6 performance."

Chuck Giametta: What other roomy, well-built, good-performing 255-hp sedan could average nearly 30 mpg? This is a premium-powerplant adventure, not just a gas-saving vs. base-price exercise. That said, the way this Accord Hybrid actually goes about delivering power is not as transparent as it ought to be. But I would never discourage anyone from buying one. The list of less-laudable ways to spend $31,000 on transportation is, sadly, a long one.

2005 Honda Accord Hybrid
2005 Honda Accord
Bodystyle: 4-door sedan
Model: Hybrid
Engine: 255-hp 3.0-liter V6
Transmission: 5-speed automatic
Total Miles: 17,559
CG Observed Fuel Economy: 27.5 mpg
Problems During Test: None
Base Price: $30,140
Price as Tested: $30,655
Major Options:

None