2026 Honda Accord EX-L vs 2025 Honda Civic Sport
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
Civic Sport starts at $27,600, $6,860 less. Civic Sport leads with 33 MPG. Accord EX-L makes 192 hp (+42).
| Spec | 2026 Honda Accord EX-L | 2025 Honda Civic Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $34,460 +$6,860 | $27,600 Save $6,860 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L Turbo | 2.0L I4 |
| Horsepower | 192 hp +42 hp | 150 hp 42 hp less |
| Torque | 192 lb-ft | 133 lb-ft |
| Transmission | CVT | CVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 29 1 less | 30 +1 |
| Hwy MPG | 37 1 less | 38 +1 |
| Combined MPG | 32 1 less | 33 +1 |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 16.7 cu ft | 14.8 cu ft |
| Screen | 12.3" | 9.0" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | No |
| Heated Seats | Yes | No |
| Moonroof | Yes | No |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,310 lbs | 2,952 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 111.4" | 107.7" |
| Length | 193.1" | 184.0" |
| Wheels | 17" Alloy | 18" Black |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | Honda Sensing | Honda Sensing |
Accord EX-L or Civic Sport?
Both are competitive. Civic Sport has a lower entry price, Civic Sport leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Honda Accord EX-L and 2025 Honda Civic Sport?
Which gets better gas mileage, the Accord EX-L or Civic Sport?
Should I buy a 2026 Honda Accord or Honda Civic?
Which is more reliable, the Honda Accord or Honda Civic?
Is the Honda Accord bigger than the Honda Civic?
What is the cost of insurance for the Accord EX-L vs Civic Sport?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Honda Accord EX-L?
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 Sport
The 2025 Honda Civic Sport is the better fit for buyers who want a lower entry price. Superior fuel economy at 33 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 Sport deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $6,860 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 42 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, wireless CarPlay, heated seats 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. A 42 hp difference is noticeable during merging, passing, and hill climbs. 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.