HomeCompare › Accord EX-L vs Civic EX

2026 Honda Accord EX-L vs 2024 Honda Civic EX

Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.

2026 Honda Accord
EX-L
$34,460
VS
2024 Honda Civic
EX
$28,300
💰
Best Value
The Civic EX saves you $6,160 — the biggest difference here.
$6,160
Price Gap
3 MPG
MPG Diff
12 HP
HP Diff

Full Spec Comparison

Civic EX starts at $28,300, $6,160 less. Civic EX leads with 35 MPG. Accord EX-L makes 192 hp (+12).

Spec2026 Honda Accord EX-L2024 Honda Civic EX
Pricing
MSRP$34,460 +$6,160$28,300 Save $6,160
Powertrain
Engine1.5L Turbo 1.5L Turbo
Horsepower192 hp +12 hp180 hp 12 hp less
Torque192 lb-ft 177 lb-ft
TransmissionCVT CVT
DrivetrainFWD FWD
Fuel Economy
City MPG29 2 less31 +2
Hwy MPG37 3 less40 +3
Combined MPG32 3 less35 +3
Interior & Tech
Seats5 5
Cargo16.7 cu ft 14.8 cu ft
Screen12.3" 9.0"
Wireless CarPlayYes Yes
Heated SeatsYes Yes
MoonroofYes Yes
Dimensions
Curb Weight3,310 lbs 2,950 lbs
Wheelbase111.4" 107.7"
Length193.1" 184.0"
Wheels17" Alloy 18" Alloy
Safety
Safety SuiteHonda Sensing Honda Sensing

Accord EX-L or Civic EX?

Both are competitive. Civic EX has a lower entry price, Civic EX leads on efficiency.Test drive both.

FAQ

What is the price difference between the 2026 Honda Accord EX-L and 2024 Honda Civic EX?
The Civic EX starts at $28,300, which is $6,160 less than the Accord EX-L at $34,460. Both prices are manufacturer MSRP before destination, taxes, and dealer fees.
Which gets better gas mileage, the Accord EX-L or Civic EX?
The Civic EX achieves 35 combined MPG, 3 MPG more than the other. Over 15,000 miles per year at $3.50/gallon, that could save roughly $141 annually.
Should I buy a 2026 Honda Accord or Honda Civic?
Both are strong choices. The Accord EX-L offers Honda's reputation for quality. The Civic EX has a lower entry price and delivers Honda's take on the modern sedan. Test drive both — the right choice often comes down to which one feels better to you.
Which is more reliable, the Honda Accord or Honda Civic?
Both Honda and Honda have strong reliability records. Honda ranks near the top in long-term dependability studies. Honda is known for vehicles that go the distance. Both are safe bets for long-term ownership.
Is the Honda Accord bigger than the Honda Civic?
The Accord EX-L measures 193.1" long with a 111.4" wheelbase and 16.7 cu ft of cargo space. The Civic EX is 184.0" long with a 107.7" wheelbase and 14.8 cu ft of cargo. The Accord offers more cargo room.
What is the cost of insurance for the Accord EX-L vs Civic EX?
Insurance costs vary by driver, location, and coverage level, but both the Accord EX-L and Civic EX fall within a similar insurance bracket as sedans in the $28,300–$34,460 range. The Accord EX-L may cost slightly more to insure due to its higher MSRP. Get quotes for both before making your decision.
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Honda Accord EX-L?
Beyond the $34,460 MSRP, factor in estimated fuel costs ($1,641/year at $3.50/gal), insurance ($1,200–$2,400/year varies), and maintenance. Honda vehicles are generally affordable to maintain, and the Honda Sensing safety suite can help reduce insurance premiums.

Who Should Choose the Accord EX-L

The 2026 Honda Accord EX-L appeals to buyers who prioritize what Honda does best: refinement and reliability. At $34,460, it positions itself as the more powerful option.

Honda ownership comes with strong reliability and excellent driving dynamics. Compare more: Accord LX vs Accord EX-L, Accord LX vs Accord Sport Touring, Accord EX-L vs Accord Sport Touring.

Who Should Choose the Civic EX

The 2024 Honda Civic EX is the better fit for buyers who want a lower entry price. Superior fuel economy at 35 combined MPG is a genuine running-cost advantage.

Honda's approach to this sedan emphasizes driving engagement and interior space efficiency. If that aligns with your priorities, the Civic EX deserves serious consideration.

Why the Price Difference Exists

The $6,160 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Accord EX-L is positioned higher, which is driven by significant differences in standard equipment, powertrain, or brand positioning.

Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the Accord EX-L makes 12 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, 12 more horsepower, larger wheels also contribute. Both are competitive within the sedan market, and neither represents a poor value at their respective price points.

What Kind of Buyer Notices the Difference

Enthusiast drivers will feel the differences immediately if there's a powertrain gap. The horsepower difference here is modest enough that most commuters won't notice it. Interior differences become apparent on longer trips where seat comfort, noise levels, and tech features matter more.

For buyers who primarily drive in urban and suburban settings under 40 mph, both of these sedans will feel remarkably similar in daily use. The differences surface on road trips, in extreme weather (where heated seats and AWD matter), and during technology-heavy interactions like navigation and phone integration.

When Both Sedans Feel the Same

In a parking lot, at a stoplight, or cruising in light traffic, these two vehicles deliver very similar experiences. Both are modern, safe sedans with contemporary safety suites, decent infotainment, and comfortable cabins. Neither will leave you feeling shortchanged in everyday scenarios.

The choice between Honda and Honda often comes down to brand loyalty, dealer experience, and which vehicle simply feels right during a test drive. We recommend driving both back-to-back on the same day — the subtle differences in steering feel, seat position, and visibility are more informative than any spec sheet.

Important Notice: All specifications, pricing (MSRP), fuel economy (EPA estimates), and feature information presented on TrimAtlas are compiled from publicly available manufacturer data and are provided for informational and comparison purposes only. This information may not reflect final production specifications, regional variations, available packages, dealer-installed options, or current pricing at your local dealership. Actual transaction prices, fuel economy, and equipment may vary. TrimAtlas is an independent automotive information resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by, or connected to any vehicle manufacturer, dealer, dealer group, or automotive brand mentioned on this site. All trademarks, model names, and brand names are the property of their respective owners and are used here solely for identification and comparison purposes. TrimAtlas does not sell vehicles, arrange financing, or provide warranties. Always verify all information directly with an authorized dealer before making any purchase decision. This content does not constitute professional advice of any kind — financial, legal, mechanical, or otherwise. Use this information at your own risk. See our full terms and disclaimers.
🤖 TrimAtlas AI
Hi! Try asking me things like:

• "Camry vs Accord"
• "best mpg suv"
• "cheapest truck"
• "hybrid options"