2026 Toyota Corolla XSE vs 2025 Honda Accord Sport Touring
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
Corolla XSE starts at $28,900, $9,260 less. Accord Sport Touring leads with 44 MPG. Accord Sport Touring makes 204 hp (+35).
| Spec | 2026 Toyota Corolla XSE | 2025 Honda Accord Sport Touring |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $28,900 Save $9,260 | $38,160 +$9,260 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 2.0L Hybrid |
| Horsepower | 169 hp 35 hp less | 204 hp +35 hp |
| Torque | 151 lb-ft | 247 lb-ft |
| Transmission | CVT | eCVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 31 15 less | 46 +15 |
| Hwy MPG | 40 1 less | 41 +1 |
| Combined MPG | 34 10 less | 44 +10 |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 13.1 cu ft | 16.7 cu ft |
| Screen | 12.3" | 12.3" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | Avail. | Yes |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,130 lbs | 3,530 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.3" | 111.4" |
| Length | 183.9" | 193.1" |
| Wheels | 18" Black | 19" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | TSS 3.0 | Honda Sensing |
Corolla XSE or Accord Sport Touring?
Both are competitive. Corolla XSE has a lower entry price, Accord Sport Touring leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Toyota Corolla XSE and 2025 Honda Accord Sport Touring?
Which gets better gas mileage, the Corolla XSE or Accord Sport Touring?
Should I buy a 2026 Toyota Corolla or Honda Accord?
Which is more reliable, the Toyota Corolla or Honda Accord?
Is the Toyota Corolla bigger than the Honda Accord?
What is the cost of insurance for the Corolla XSE vs Accord Sport Touring?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Toyota Corolla XSE?
Who Should Choose the Corolla XSE
The 2026 Toyota Corolla XSE appeals to buyers who want strong value without overspending. At $28,900, it undercuts the Accord Sport Touring by $9,260.
Toyota ownership comes with industry-leading reliability and resale value. Compare more: Corolla LE vs Corolla SE, Corolla LE vs Corolla SE Hybrid, Corolla LE vs Corolla XSE.
Who Should Choose the Accord Sport Touring
The 2025 Honda Accord Sport Touring is the better fit for buyers who value what the Honda Accord brings to the table. Superior fuel economy at 44 combined MPG is a genuine running-cost advantage. With 204 hp, it also delivers stronger performance.
Honda's approach to this sedan emphasizes driving engagement and interior space efficiency. If that aligns with your priorities, the Accord Sport Touring deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $9,260 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Accord Sport Touring carries a premium, which is driven by significant differences in standard equipment, powertrain, or brand positioning.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the Accord Sport Touring makes 35 more hp. Feature differences like 35 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. A 35 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 Toyota 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.