Sports teams have legendary rivalries like the Boston Red Sox versus the New York Yankees or the Chicago Bears versus the Green Bay Packers. This competitiveness exists in the car world, too.
One of the greatest examples is the contest between the Honda Accord and the Toyota Camry; it’s a match-up that’s been running for four decades in the U.S. These automakers have other challenges, like the Honda Pilot against the Toyota Highlander.
And while many car shoppers are focused on SUVs and trucks, there’s still a substantial market for midsized sedans such as the Accord and Camry. In reality, both are excellent cars. But each has distinct characteristics. For instance, Accords tend to offer more engaging driving, while Camrys usually have a softer ride quality. Data also shows that Accords hold their value better than the Camry, making these Toyotas cheaper to buy as used cars.
Keep reading for a detailed look at how the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry stack up against each other. We’ll dive into the details of the 2023 model year and also examine earlier examples so you can make an informed used car purchase decision.
| Income Bracket | Monthly Financing Cost Range | Cash Purchase Price Range | Honda Accord Years | Toyota Camry Years | Best Model Year: | Why? |
| $5k -$10k | $83 – $125 | $3,000 – $4,500 | 2006 | n/a | 2006 Honda Accord | Good engine reliability scores |
| $10k – $15k | $125 – $187 | $4,500 – $6,750 | 2010 | 2009 | 2010 Honda Accord | Good engine and owner reliability ratings |
| $15k – $25k | $187 – $312 | $6,750 – $11,250 | 2011 | 2014 | 2014 Toyota Camry | Strong engine and owner reliability scores |
| $25k – $35k | $312 – $437 | $11,250 – $15,750 | 2014 | 2017 | 2017 Toyota Camry | Excellent engine reliability and good pricing |
| $35k – $50k | $437 – $625 | $15,750 – $22,500 | 2019 | 2020 | Tie | Perfect engine and owner reliability scores |
See the methodology for the table above.
Before you respond to the “For Sale” ad, check out this How to Buy a Used Car article for a step-by-step checklist.
Price History Comparison | Honda Accord vs Toyota Camry
Average Market Value – Based on Owners’ Self-Reported Mileages | Honda Accord vs Toyota Camry
Used car buyers are always concerned with price, whether out of budgetary necessity or frugality. The graph details costs for used Honda Accords and Toyota Camrys, based on Kelley Blue Book (KBB) data from 2001-2021 model years. These numbers reflect average private-party transactions. If you go the retail route, expect to pay 10%-40% more at a dealer. If you can’t deviate from a specific budget limit, shop for an older example.
Many factors influence resale value, including mileage, with is reflected in the data. Typically, a car with lower miles has a higher selling price than a matching vehicle with fewer miles. And assuming no unusual characteristics (like high mileage), the market value increases with each newer model year. We see that the chart compares Accord (green) and Camry (gray) market values.
However, a closer look reveals something intriguing. The Accord has a higher resale value than the Camry for most model years. Some of this can be explained by below-average mileage for the Accord or above-average mileage for the Camry.
But this isn’t always the case. For instance, FIXD owner surveys show that the 2018 model years of the Accord and Camry have similar average mileage (58,000 vs. 61,000). For 2013, the average Accord had 113,000 miles, while the typical Camry had 110,000 miles. Again, comparable usage. Yet, the Honda Accord has a higher market value in both instances.
What does this mean? In simple terms, the Honda Accord is worth more than the Toyota Camry, given equal conditions. So, you’ll likely spend less on a Camry than an Accord.
Be sure to read our Best and Worst Years series of articles that highlight the winners and losers of the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.
Depreciation vs Maintenance Expenses
With few exceptions, depreciation is a reality with buying and owning a new car. Drive off the dealer’s lot, and that new ride loses value. After five years, that can mean a drop of 40%–50% during usual market conditions (and the car market has been anything but usual these past few years).
With the current state of affairs, depreciation has effectively been cut in half. But that’s still a drain on value, which is why buying used still make sense. However, the secret is being selective about which used Accord or Camry to buy. Smart shoppers look for a car that sits in a “sweet spot” of reasonable repair history and modest depreciation (depreciation tends to lessen with age).
This magic formula uncovers that the 2002-2011 model years are the used Accords with the best value. Meanwhile, this applies to the 2005-2014 model years of the Camry. Reiterated by what we’ve seen about depreciation from the previous section, it’s no surprise that you’ll get more bang for your buck with a Toyota Camry. In other words, the sweet spot for the Camry covers more recent model years than the Accord.
Learn more by reviewing the best and worst years of the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.
Reliability Comparison | Honda Accord vs Toyota Camry
Two ratings are at the core of our look at the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.
- The FIXD Reliability Score measures the number of check engine lights recorded for a particular model year by installed FIXD sensors. Think of it as an engine reliability score. While every check engine light doesn’t directly translate into reliability concerns (such as a dead battery or loose gas cap), these indicators still provide insight into a car’s dependability.
- The second rating is the Owner Reliability Score. This is a subjective ranking of how surveyed owners feel about their respective vehicle’s dependability. Each owner estimates how capable their car is for trips of different lengths. A vehicle that can handle a cross-country adventure receives the highest score, while a car only suitable for a quick point A to point B trip gets the lowest score.
Both rankings are based on 1 being the lowest, 10 being the highest, and 5 being the average score.
We’ll also point out that both scores seldom align. The FIXD Reliability Score is determined by a definitive number, the frequency of check engine lights. On the other hand, the Owner Reliability Score is opinion-based. And owners tend to have pride in their automobiles, with higher ratings as a result. At a minimum, those with older vehicles are more accepting of check engine lights. For many, it’s the price of owning an aging car
The first chart compares the FIXD Reliability Scores of the Accord and Camry. Frankly, the results are stunning. For 16 out of 21 years, the Accord is shown to have fewer check engine lights than the Camry. Toyota only received the top ranking for one year (2020). These family sedans are tied for four years (about 20% of the covered model years).
Admittedly, check engine lights don’t always indicate a catastrophe. Sometimes, something as simple as a loose gas cap or faulty battery can cause a dashboard light to come on. Nonetheless, the contrast between the two cars is remarkable, especially because of Toyota’s reputation for reliability.
Yet, equally as shocking is owner perceptions about dependability. The second chart highlights the Owner Reliability Scores reported from FIXD surveys of those with an Accord or Camry. Here, we see Toyota turning the tables on the Honda. For 13 out of 21 model years, Camry owners ranked their rides as better able to handle long journeys than owners with Accords from the corresponding years. The Accord was only able to pull out a win for 2019. The two vehicles tied for seven years.
For many, it appears that their Camrys can do no wrong, no matter how many check engine lights they have to deal with.
Review the Best and Worst Years articles on the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry to learn more about these vehicles’ FIXD Reliability and Owner Reliability Scores.
Longevity Comparison | Honda Accord vs Toyota Camry
The contrasts between the Accord and Camry fade when we look at mileage and longevity. FIXD surveys show that both vehicles have histories of reaching 150,000 miles and more. Sure, some model years of the Accord have more mileage than the comparable years of the Camry, and vice-versa. Yet, these cars are reasonably similar.
It’s important to realize that hitting a high-use milestone comes from a combination of vehicle quality, maintenance, and good driving (no accidents).
Review the individual articles on the best and worst years of the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry for a more thorough look at longevity.
2023 Honda Accord vs Toyota Camry| A Guide to Trim Levels & Optional Features
Trim Levels: Starting Prices
When it comes to trim levels and pricing for their bread-and-butter sedans, Honda and Toyota take two very different approaches. The Accord is offered with a “less is more philosophy” via six trims with an emphasis on hybrids. In contrast, the Camry provides something for everybody with nine trims, including V6, performance-oriented (TRD), and hybrid versions.
Part of this disparity comes from the Accord and Camry being at different stages in their respective lifecycles. 2023 marks the first year of the 11th-generation Accord, while the eighth generation of Camry is winding down (the ninth generation will likely debut for the 2025 model year). Why does this matter? Because manufacturers will often introduce new trim levels as a model matures. So, expect more versions of the Honda Accord in the coming years.
With that said, let’s focus on the here-and-now of Accord and Camry pricing. For those hyper-focused on a new sedan at the lowest cost, the $26,320 starting price for the Camry LE beats the entry-level Accord LX’s $27,295. That almost $1,000 difference may not seem like much. However, that adds another $20 to the monthly payment for a typical car loan.
Those wanting leather upholstery have to step up to the Camry XLE with a $31,070 price tag. However, Accord shoppers wanting the same have to buy the Accord EX-L Hybrid. Which, while more expensive at $32,990, also includes a hybrid engine. If you want a Camry with leather seating and a hybrid, you’ll need to shell out $33,545 for an XLE Hybrid. Want a moonroof (which is standard on the Accord EX-L Hybrid) with the Toyota? Add another $860. Now the Accord is the better buy.
We could go on and on. Yet, we’re highlighting that drilling into features and optional equipment helps determine which car is the better buy. Don’t just look at trim names and prices.
At the same time, some Camry trims have no equivalent (or anything close) in the Accord lineup. This centers on the Camry’s available V6. We’ll get into more details later on about engines, but it’s worth mentioning how unique the V6 is in this class.
The TRD is a performance-oriented Camry with a V6, a sport-tuned suspension, and other features designed to make driving more engaging. The XLE V6 and XSE V6 have softer suspensions but still provide snappy acceleration.
| 2023 Honda Accord Model | Starting Price |
| LX | $27,295 |
| EX | $29,060 |
| Sport Hybrid | $31,345 |
| EX-L Hybrid | $32,990 |
| Sport-L Hybrid | $33,325 |
| Touring Hybrid | $37,340 |
| 2023 Toyota Camry Model | Starting Price |
| LE | $26,320 |
| SE | $27,860 |
| SE Nightshade | $28,860 |
| XLE | $31,070 |
| XSE | $31,620 |
| TRD | $33,385 |
| VLE V6 | $36,196 |
| XSE V6 | $36,745 |
| LE Hybrid | $28,655 |
| XLE Hybrid | $33,545 |
| XSE Hybrid | $34,095 |
2023 | Honda Accord vs Toyota Camry| Specifications | Safety, Interior and Exterior Features
While price is fundamental with every car purchase, reviewing the varying specifications is equally essential. Here are some factors to consider.
Vehicle Class & Body Style:
The Accord and Camry are classified as mid-size sedans by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This categorization is based on interior passenger volume and trunk space.
Interior space for these cars is fairly matched, although the Accord comes out slightly ahead. There are 102.8 cubic feet of passenger volume for the Accord (105.7 cubic feet for the Accord LX) compared to 100 cubic feet for the Camry. The Accord also has a slightly larger trunk (16.7 cubic feet vs. 15.0 cubic feet).
Later, we’ll explore how passenger volume relates to interior dimensions (headroom, legroom, etc.).
| 2023 Honda Accord | 2023 Toyota Camry | |
| Class | Mid-Size Sedan | Mid-Size Sedan |
| 4-Door Sedan | LX, EX, Sport Hybrid, EX-L Hybrid, Sport-L Hybrid, Touring Hybrid | LE, XLE, XLE V6, SE, SE Nightshade, XSE, XSE V6, TRD, LE Hybrid, SE Hybrid, SE Nightshade Hybrid, XLE Hybrid, Xse Hybrid |
Powertrain:
Engine Options & Specifications:
While the Accord and Camry may seem similar in terms of basic form, what’s under the hood makes these sedans very different.
For base power, the Accord relies on a smaller turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine. It’s a high-tech wonder designed to maximize output from a small displacement. This compares to the much larger (non-turbo) 2.5-liter four-cylinder in the Camry. Most interestingly, both engines come pretty close in performance, even with the different approaches.
The Accord makes 192 horsepower against 203 horsepower for the Camry (206 for the XSE). At the same time, the Honda hits 0-60 MPH in 7.2 seconds versus 7.5 seconds for the Toyota. EPA-estimated combined fuel economy for the base trims is tied at 32 MPG. As a result, there’s no clear winner in this area.
Things start to diverge with the hybrid engines. And picking which one is better comes down to buyer preferences. Honda uses a larger (non-turbo) 2.0-liter four-cylinder as the foundation for its hybrid system. At its best, an Accord Hybrid delivers 48 MPG for combined fuel economy and a 6.6-second time for the 0-60 MPH dash.
On the other hand, Toyota relies on the familiar 2.5-liter engine to form the basis for the Camry Hybrid. This setup can deliver up to 52 MPG while reaching 60 MPH from a standstill in a sluggish 7.8 seconds.
If zippy performance is a priority, then the Accord Hybrid is the clear choice. However, if acceleration gives way to fuel economy, then the Camry Hybrid is the way to go. Of course, if straight-line performance is the ultimate goal, then the Camry V6’s 5.6 seconds to reach the 60 MPH benchmark is unmatched.
We’ll continue the fuel economy discussion later on.
Transmission Options & Specifications:
The transmissions used in the Accord and Camry further highlight the different approaches that Honda and Toyota take with engineering (like the base engines).
Honda isn’t afraid to use more advanced automotive technology to achieve its goals. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) is a newer system that balances fuel economy and performance. It’s the only gearbox available with the Accord. The Accord Hybrid uses an eCVT. Confused about CVTs and eCVTs? See the “Tech Talk” section below the charts.
Toyota prefers to stick with tried-and-true technology for the Camry. Its eight-speed automatic transmission is far from cutting-edge, but the automaker is willing to sacrifice fuel economy for greater dependability. Toyota does use a CVT in other cars, like the Corolla.
TECH TALK: CVTs
A continuously variable transmission (CVT) does not use gears like a typical automatic transmission. Instead, it has two pulleys connected by a belt. One pulley connects to the engine, and the other connects to the wheels. The belt transfers the power between the pulleys. This setup allows the pulleys to continuously change positions as needed. The CVT automatically adjusts the pulleys as required, providing smooth and efficient power delivery.
An electronic continuously variable transmission (eCVT) uses electronic controls and electric motors to vary gear ratios instead of a belt and pulley system. Unlike a regular CVT, an eCVT has no physical pulleys or belts—the gear ratio is adjusted seamlessly by controlling the speeds of electric motors and generators. This electronic control allows faster, smoother gear ratio changes compared to a traditional CVT. An eCVT also provides more flexibility, needing less space and having fewer moving parts.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) is a common drivetrain in modern passenger cars. It’s cheaper to manufacture, provides better fuel economy, and offers reasonably good handly in inclement weather. So, seeing this setup in the Accord and Camry is unsurprising.
But what’s unusual is that you can get the Camry with all-wheel drive (AWD). The Accord isn’t available with this drivetrain. Inspired by European automakers, Toyota dabbled with an AWD Camry during the late 1980s but axed the system after 1991. The onslaught of SUVs caused Toyota to bring back an AWD-equipped Camry in 2021. AWD availability is somewhat limited in the Camry. It only comes with the base engine. V6 or hybrid power only moves the front wheels.
| 2023 Honda Accord Wheel Drive | FWD | AWD | RWD |
| LX | S | ||
| EX | S | ||
| Sport Hybrid | S | ||
| EX-L Hybrid | S | ||
| Sport-L Hybrid | S | ||
| Touring Hybrid | S |
| 2023 Toyota Camry Wheel Drive | FWD | AWD | RWD |
| LE | S | U | |
| LE Hybrid | S | ||
| SE | S | U | |
| SE Nightshade | S | U | |
| SE Hybrid | S | ||
| Hybrid Night Shade | S | ||
| XLE | S | U | |
| XLE Hybrid | S | ||
| XSE | S | U | |
| XSE Hybrid | S | ||
| TRD | S | ||
| XLE V6 | S | ||
| XSE V6 | S |
Key: S = Standard, U = Upgrade
Safety:
NHTSA Safety Ratings
Safety also plays a major role in selecting a car. This comes from people using vehicles like the Accord and Camry for family duties and for significant time behind the wheel (commuting and traveling).
FIXD surveys show that an average of 52% of Accord and Camry owners use their cars to transport kin. Meanwhile, 40% of those with an Accord rely on their Honda for “lots of driving,” compared to 36% for the Camry.
Looking at crash test data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is one to determine vehicle safety.
The 2023 Honda Accord is an all-new design, so NHTSA crash test results are not yet available. However, given Honda’s strong history of safety and its engineering expertise, the new Accord is expected to perform similarly to previous generations, at least matching its arch-rival, the Toyota Camry, in most areas. Automakers aim to improve safety with each new generation, so the latest Accord should build on its already solid reputation for crashworthiness.
Yet, the new Accord has its work cut out regarding NHTSA crash tests. The 2023 Camry aces the government’s assessments, scoring a perfect 5 out of 5 in all its trials.
IIHS Awards:
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) takes a somewhat different approach to safety testing. In particular, it focuses on its small frontal overlap crash test, which the organization feels represents a more real-world scenario (a single car running into a fixed object). IIHS also looks at side impact crashes, roof strength, headlight effectiveness, and advanced driver safety technologies (like automatic emergency braking).
While tested vehicles receive a Good, Acceptable, Marginal, or Poor grade, the true measure comes if a car gets a Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ designation. If “Good” is a “B” grade, Top Safety Pick notches things up to an “A-,” and the Top Safety Pick+ signifies an “A+”
Both the 2023 Honda Accord and 2023 Toyota Camry scored Top Safety Pick+ wins from IIHS.
| IIHS Award | Tested Vehicle | ||
| 2023 Honda Accord | MidSIZE CAR / 4-DOOR SEDAN | 2023 TOP SAFETY PICK + | 2023 Honda Accord EX 4-door |
| 2023 Toyota Camry | MIDSIZE CAR / 4-DOOR SEDAN | 2023 TOP SAFETY PICK + | 2018 Toyota Camry LE 4-door |
Airbags & Head Restraints:
According to NHTSA, airbags have saved over 50,000 lives over three decades. So, it comes as no surprise that the family-oriented Accord and Camry have their share of these devices. Beyond the standard front and front-seat-sided airbags, the Accord and Camry have knee airbags that help better position front-row passengers during an accident.
Side curtain airbags are common in crossovers and SUVs to protect occupants during a rollover or side impact. These units typically aren’t used in passenger cars, but some high-end vehicles have side-impact airbags that protect second-row occupants. Active head restraints are usually found in specialty and high-end vehicles to minimize whiplash injuries. Mainstream cars like the Accord and Camry don’t usually come equipped with this feature.
Semi-Autonomous Driving:
Although the 2023 model year represents the most advanced Accords and Camrys ever produced by their respective manufacturers, neither vehicle has the hands-free driving technology in cars from Tesla, Mercedes-Benz, Ford, General Motors, and other brands.
However, even the base Accord and Camry trims have adaptive cruise control (ACC)—Toyota calls it Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. ACC provides a major convenience for drivers stuck in stop-and-go traffic on highways. The system automatically slows or stops your car when it senses slower or stationary vehicles ahead. Once the road clears, ACC will accelerate your car back to a preset cruising speed. But drivers must still keep their hands on the wheel because ACC is not autonomous.
The Accord and Camry have corrective steering systems, albeit with different names. This technology alerts the driver and provides subtle steering corrections if the car drifts out of its lane. The feature uses sensors that can detect road markings. Related technology is “continuous assistive steering,” which does exactly what it says it does, providing ongoing lane-keeping support. The Accord delivers this during all driving operations (assuming there are detectable road markings), while the Camry’s system only operates while cruise control is in use.
Driver Warning Systems & Telematics:
Modern vehicles, like the Accord and Camry, come equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) to promote safe operation. Two of these key safety features are forward collision warning (FCW) and lane departure warning (LDW). FCW monitors the road ahead and alerts the driver if the system detects a potential frontal collision risk. LDW sends an alert if the car is not driven within its lane. Another technology not highlighted in the chart below is automatic emergency braking (AEB), which can automatically trigger the brakes if an imminent collision is detected, helping to avoid or mitigate the impact.
Blind-spot monitoring (BSM) and rear cross-traffic alert (RCTA) are other helpful advanced driver aids. However, they’re not standard across the Accord and Camry lineups. BSM/RCTA is optional on all Accords (and isn’t available on the base trim). These technologies are standard on higher-end versions of the Camry and optional on all lower trims. These upgrades are a worthwhile investment for safer driving.
Safety tech comes in other forms. The Accord and Camry have a rear occupant alert that reminds the driver if there’s someone in the back seat (to prevent a child from being locked accidentally in the car). Another technology shared by both vehicles is traffic sign recognition which displays a reminder about the speed limit and command signs (like stop or do not enter) information. An Accord-only feature is a driver attention monitor, which signals if the person behind the wheel is paying to the road ahead.
If ADAS technology appears like alphabet soup, check out an effort from AAA, Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, and other groups working to standardize the terminology for these systems.
| 2023 Honda Accord | Driver Warning Systems | Telematics | |||||||||
| Intersection Turn Assistance (ITA) | Lane Departure Warning (LDW) | Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) | Forward Collision Warning (FCW) | Pedestrian Detection | Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA) | Blind-Spot Monitoring (BSM) | Driver Attention Monitor | Safe Exit | Rear Occupant Alert | ||
| LX | N/A | Lane Departure Warning (LDW) | Traffic Sign Recognition System (TSR) | Forward Collision Warning (FCW) | Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) | N/A | N/A | TRUE | N/A | Rear Seat Reminder (RSR) | HondaLink |
| EX | N/A | Lane Departure Warning (LDW) | Traffic Sign Recognition System (TSR) | Forward Collision Warning (FCW) | Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) | Cross Traffic Monitor (Available with BSI) | Blind Spot Information System (BSI) Available as upgrade | TRUE | N/A | Rear Seat Reminder (RSR) | HondaLink |
| Sport Hybrid | N/A | Lane Departure Warning (LDW) | Traffic Sign Recognition System (TSR) | Forward Collision Warning (FCW) | Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) | Cross Traffic Monitor (Available with BSI) | Blind Spot Information System (BSI) Available as upgrade | TRUE | N/A | Rear Seat Reminder (RSR) | HondaLink |
| EX-L Hybrid | N/A | Lane Departure Warning (LDW) | Traffic Sign Recognition System (TSR) | Forward Collision Warning (FCW) | Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) | Cross Traffic Monitor (Available with BSI) | Blind Spot Information System (BSI) Available as upgrade | TRUE | N/A | Rear Seat Reminder (RSR) | HondaLink |
| Sport-L Hybrid | N/A | Lane Departure Warning (LDW) | Traffic Sign Recognition System (TSR) | Forward Collision Warning (FCW) | Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) | Cross Traffic Monitor (Available with BSI) | Blind Spot Information System (BSI) Available as upgrade | TRUE | N/A | Rear Seat Reminder (RSR) | HondaLink |
| Touring Hybrid | N/A | Lane Departure Warning (LDW) | Traffic Sign Recognition System (TSR) | Forward Collision Warning (FCW) | Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) | Cross Traffic Monitor (Available with BSI) | Blind Spot Information System (BSI) Available as upgrade | TRUE | N/A | Rear Seat Reminder (RSR) | HondaLink |
| 2023 Toyota Camry | Driver Warning Systems | Telematics | |||||||||
| Intersection Turn Assistance (ITA) | Lane Departure Warning (LDW) | Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) | Forward Collision Warning (FCW) | Pedestrian Detection | Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA) | Blind-Spot Monitoring (BSM) | Driver Attention Monitor | Safe Exit | Rear Occupant Alert | ||
| LE | N/A | Lane Departure Alert (LDA) | Road Sign Assist (RSA) | Pre-Collision System (PCS) | Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection (PD) | Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA), only Available as upgrade | Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) Available as upgrade | N/A | N/A | Rear Seat Reminder | N/A |
| LE Hybrid | N/A | Lane Departure Alert (LDA) | Road Sign Assist (RSA) | Pre-Collision System (PCS) | Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection (PD) | Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA), only Available as upgrade | Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) Available as upgrade | N/A | N/A | Rear Seat Reminder | N/A |
| SE | N/A | Lane Departure Alert (LDA) | Road Sign Assist (RSA) | Pre-Collision System (PCS) | Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection (PD) | Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA), only Available as upgrade | Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) Available as upgrade | N/A | N/A | Rear Seat Reminder | N/A |
| SE Nightshade | N/A | Lane Departure Alert (LDA) | Road Sign Assist (RSA) | Pre-Collision System (PCS) | Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection (PD) | Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA), only Available as upgrade | Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) Available as upgrade | N/A | N/A | Rear Seat Reminder | N/A |
| SE Hybrid | N/A | Lane Departure Alert (LDA) | Road Sign Assist (RSA) | Pre-Collision System (PCS) | Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection (PD) | Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA), only Available as upgrade | Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) Available as upgrade | N/A | N/A | Rear Seat Reminder | N/A |
| SE Hybrid Nightshade | N/A | Lane Departure Alert (LDA) | Road Sign Assist (RSA) | Pre-Collision System (PCS) | Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection (PD) | Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA), only Available as upgrade | Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) Available as upgrade | N/A | N/A | Rear Seat Reminder | N/A |
| XLE | N/A | Lane Departure Alert (LDA) | Road Sign Assist (RSA) | Pre-Collision System (PCS) | Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection (PD) | Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA) | Blind-Spot Monitoring (BSM) | N/A | N/A | Rear Seat Reminder | N/A |
| XLE Hybrid | N/A | Lane Departure Alert (LDA) | Road Sign Assist (RSA) | Pre-Collision System (PCS) | Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection (PD) | Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA) | Blind-Spot Monitoring (BSM) | N/A | N/A | Rear Seat Reminder | N/A |
| XSE | N/A | Lane Departure Alert (LDA) | Road Sign Assist (RSA) | Pre-Collision System (PCS) | Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection (PD) | Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA) | Blind-Spot Monitoring (BSM) | N/A | N/A | Rear Seat Reminder | N/A |
| XSE Hybrid | N/A | Lane Departure Alert (LDA) | Road Sign Assist (RSA) | Pre-Collision System (PCS) | Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection (PD) | Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA) | Blind-Spot Monitoring (BSM) | N/A | N/A | Rear Seat Reminder | N/A |
| TRD | N/A | Lane Departure Alert (LDA) | Road Sign Assist (RSA) | Pre-Collision System (PCS) | Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection (PD) | Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA) | Blind-Spot Monitoring (BSM) | N/A | N/A | Rear Seat Reminder | N/A |
| XLE V6 | N/A | Lane Departure Alert (LDA) | Road Sign Assist (RSA) | Pre-Collision System (PCS) | Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection (PD) | Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA) | Blind-Spot Monitoring (BSM) | N/A | N/A | Rear Seat Reminder | N/A |
| XSE V6 | N/A | Lane Departure Alert (LDA) | Road Sign Assist (RSA) | Pre-Collision System (PCS) | Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection (PD) | Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA) | Blind-Spot Monitoring (BSM) | N/A | N/A | Rear Seat Reminder | N/A |
Road Visibility Features:
While the Accord and Camry share some common visibility features like a backup camera (which is required by law) and automatic high beams, the Accord comes out a bit ahead in the lighting department because every trim has LED headlights. Only upper-tier Camrys get this feature. Toyota makes adaptive headlights (which turn in sync with the front wheels), but this is an option only for the XLE Hybrid. Adaptive headlights aren’t available with the Accord.
Other visibility aids are present (or optional) on more premium versions of the Accord and Camry. A head-up display (which shows speed and additional key information on the windshield) is reserved only for the Accord Touring Hybrid but is standard or optional on higher Camry editions. Rain-sensing windshield wipers come only with Accord Touring Hybrid; they are unavailable on other Accords or any Camrys at all.
Interior:
Interior Features:
People who can’t live without their smartphones can take comfort in knowing that Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on every 2023 Accord and 2023 Camry.
The need for heated front seats, however, could be more problematic. Honda includes this feature on most trims but not the base editions (LX and Sport Hybrid). Heated seats are standard or optional on most Camrys (including the base trims). However, this upgrade is excluded from the SE Nightshade (gas or hybrid) and the TRD.
And speaking of heated seats, some automakers offer this feature through a subscription service. This hasn’t yet happened in the U.S., but in certain countries, BMW is offering heated seats for a monthly fee. The advantage is you can shut off the service during warm months, but you’ll need to keep paying (or pay a one-time upfront fee) to activate the heated seats.
One industry study shows mixed results for consumer acceptance of features on demand (FoD), with about one-fifth not even being aware of the concept.
Interior Dimensions:
Legroom is often the greatest determiner of ride comfort. For front-row passengers, there’s not much difference in legroom. The Accord offers 42.3 inches against 42.0 inches for the Camry. However, this changes for those in the back. The Accord’s 40.8 inches of rear legroom beats the 38.0 inches in the Camry’s second row.
The match-up for headroom champion goes to the Camry but by a slim margin. The Toyota has 38 inches of vertical space in either row. This compares to the Accord’s 37.5 inches in the front and 37.2 inches in the back (the Accord LX has 39.5 inches of front headroom).
The charts also show very modest differences between the front and rear shoulder room and the front and rear hip room.
In short, the only true winner in this category is the Accord’s rear legroom.
Exterior:
Exterior Features:
Wheels may also be an afterthought for many car buyers. But wheel size can impact ride quality. Larger rims can translate into better traction and cornering but may result in a bumpier ride. Bigger wheels also offer better aesthetics by filling out the wheel wells more completely. This is why the higher the trim, the larger the wheel. Different materials (steel or alloy) and finishes also help separate the wheels among the various trim levels.
The Accord and Camry are family sedans, so the lack of bright colors won’t surprise anyone. If the abundance of white, black, gray, and silver paints doesn’t suit your fancy, then you’ll have to settle for red or blue. That’s as exciting as it gets with these cars.
Exterior Dimensions:
Shoppers often overlook the wheelbase. Yet this vital measurement can affect comfort (the longer the wheelbase, the smoother the ride). And a greater wheelbase often translates into more interior space. But, just like other dimensions, the wheelbases for the Accord (111.4 inches) and Camry (111.0 inches) are almost even.
However, overall, the Accord is a larger car than the Camry. The Accord is 195.7 inches long and 73.3 inches wide. In comparison, the Camry has a 192.0-inch length and a 72-inch width. This difference could matter if you regularly have to deal with tight parking spaces.
Warranty:
The Accord and Camry come with comparable warranty coverage from their respective manufacturers. Both offer a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty as well as a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, covering the engine, transmission, and drive axles.
Where the Accord has a slight edge is in additional warranty protection. Honda provides roadside assistance for four years rather than three with Toyota. The Accord also uniquely offers an extra year of warranty coverage for the air conditioning system, including recharging the A/C, which is not often needed on newer vehicles.
| 2023 Honda Accord Factory Warranty Coverage: | 2023 Toyota Camry Factory Warranty Coverage: | |
| Basic warranty: | 36 months/36,000 miles | 36 months/36,000 miles |
| Powertrain warranty: | 60 months/60,000 miles | 60 months/60,000 miles |
| Corrosion perforation warranty: | 60 months/unlimited miles | 60 months/unlimited miles |
| Air conditioning warranty: | 24 months/24,000 miles (A/C refrigerant) | 12 months/12,000 miles (AC recharge) |
| Battery warranty: | 36 months/36,000 miles | 120 months or 150,000 miles (Hybrid HV Battery) |
| Emissions warranty: | Federal: 36 months/36,000 miles California: 36 months/50,000 miles | Federal: 36 months/36,000 miles (defects) California: 36 months/50,000 miles |
| Roadside assistance coverage: | 36 months/36,000 miles | 24 months/25,000 miles (ToyotaCare) |
| Total unique recalls: | 0 | 1 (recall no. 23V432000) |
Driver Experience | A Summary of The Top 10 Honda Accord vs Toyota Camry Reddit Posts:
Here’s a look at recent Reddit comments (Reddit: r/whatcarshouldIbuy) comparing the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.
An informal review of this feedback shows that more Redditors had nicer things to say about the Accord or were less favorable towards the Camry. However, no one trashed the Toyota. In fact, the conversations were more about expressing preferences. Several comments mentioned something like, “The Camry is good, but the Accord is better.”
Camry fans are still well-represented. One Redditor remarked, “I love the Honda Accord’s interior design and materials. It feels more upscale compared to the Camry. However, the Camry has a better reputation for reliability.”
Here are some of the highlights.
Usability
Many users found the Accord to have a more intuitive and user-friendly infotainment system than the Camry (we’ve heard this before with other Honda vs. Toyota comparisons). Some described the Camry’s arrangement as confusing and difficult to navigate. However, others felt the Camry had better interior space, especially in the backseat and trunk.
Ride Quality
In terms of ride quality, reviews were mixed. One person said, “I recently test-drove both the Accord and Camry, and I preferred the Camry’s smooth ride and quiet cabin. The Accord had a more responsive engine though.” This contrasts with, “I found the Honda Accord to have better handling and agility on the road. The Camry felt a bit floaty and less connected to the driver.”
Comfort
Some gave the nod to Toyota for a more comfortable interior. One Redditor reflected, “Both the Accord and Camry are reliable choices, but I found the Camry to have a more spacious backseat and trunk. The Accord felt a bit cramped in comparison.” Yet, someone else mentioned, “…I found the Accord to have a more comfortable and supportive driver’s seat.”
Design
The feedback indicates the Accord has a more stylish, sporty exterior design that looks more upscale, while the Camry has a more conservative, understated look. The Camry’s design was seen as reliable but less exciting.
Who Should Buy These Cars: The Legacy of The Honda Accord and Toyota Camry
Looking at how owners use their Accords and Camrys won’t help a would-be buyer distinguish between these cars. FIXD surveys show that both are primarily family vehicles, and Honda and Toyota know this, too. That’s why equipment is geared towards safety and moderate performance. The designs aren’t outrageous, and the colors are muted.
The Accord and Camry also see “Lots of Driving,” which means time behind the wheel for long-distance travel and commuting. This is a key reason why both automakers also emphasize excellent fuel economy, including making hybrid options available.
The survey data proves that both cars can hit 150,000 miles (or more). This is associated with the many miles (often on the highway) reported by surveyed owners.
| Frequent Use Categories: | Honda Accord | How Useful? (Out of 5 Stars) | Toyota Camry | How Useful? (Out of 5 Stars) |
| Family Vehicle | ***** | ***** |
| Lots of Driving (travel/long commute) | **** | **** |
| Hauling/Towing | * | * |
| Office on Wheels | * | * |
| Sport/Fast Driving | * | * |
| Luxurious Driving | * | * |
| Outdoor/Off-Road | * | * |
Best & Worst Years | Honda Accord vs Toyota Camry | 2001-2024
Just as with every car to hit the road, there are good and bad years for the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. As is typical, the worst offenders tend to be older examples. Age takes a toll on machines, and earlier Accords and Camrys are just as vulnerable.
For shoppers with limited budgets, Accords from 2004-2007 are your go-to vehicles. However, the best older Camrys are more recent (2008-2009). You’ll notice that the Accord has its “good” streaks interrupted by some “bad” years. On the other hand, the Camry enjoys an impressive ten-year “good” run from 2012-2021, which makes shopping easier (you don’t have to worry about which years to avoid).
Nothing may be wrong with a car from an “undecided” year. There’s not enough information available yet to pass judgment on these newest versions.
Important Features Timeline | Honda Accord vs Toyota Camry
The decades-long duel between the Accord and Camry continues with a look at when key features were introduced. While not an exhaustive list, here are some highlights and dates for when features were introduced.
The chart reveals that Honda appears to beat Toyota to the punch on several occasions. The Accord received Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, lane departing warning, and parking sensors (among other things) before the Camry. But Toyota wasn’t totally off its game, outfitting the Camry first with blind-spot monitoring, heated front seats, remote start, and a rearview camera.
There are also some intriguing feature gaps. Notably, that all-wheel drive never reached the Accord (we covered this earlier). But, what’s particularly head-scratching is that the Camry never received a memory system for the driver’s seat. Perhaps the ninth-generation Camry will finally catch up to Accord in this area.
Maintenance Costs (Year-by-Year Average) | Honda Accord vs Toyota Camry
A swing in maintenance costs between different model years is nothing unusual. This data reflects an average of what surveyed owners spent in 2022. And because each person drives differently and has distinct upkeep needs, the numbers can fluctuate significantly.
That’s not to say that extreme maintenance and repair costs should be ignored (sometimes this can point to a problem that multiple owners faced). Some model years have upkeep expenses that are well above average ($638 for the Accord and $591 for the Camry).
Fortunately, most of these situations occur with older model years (that’s no surprise). The 2021 Honda has a high average maintenance and repair bill, but a data dive reveals this is due to high-mileage examples in the survey.
What’s especially interesting is that despite having a lower overall average ($591), most Camry owners (2015 and older) spent more to maintain their cars than those with same-year Accords. This trend mostly flips to the Camry’s favor starting with the 2016 model year.
Review the best and worst years of the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry to learn more about maintenance and repair costs for these vehicles.
Safety Rating Comparison | Honda Accord vs Toyota Camry
We covered the family-focused mission of the Accord and Camry, which means that strong safety scores are a minimum expectation for most buyers. And for the most part, Honda and Toyota deliver. Keep in mind that any score of at least a 4 (out of 5) is commendable.
The Accord scores better in its early years, but the Camry catches up by 2007. The Camry’s drop for 2011 is due to more stringent testing by NHTSA, but this got resolved with the launch of a new and improved model for 2012.
More details about crash test safety scores are covered in articles about the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.
Fuel Efficiency Comparison | Honda Accord vs Toyota Camry
The battle for midsize sedan supremacy concludes with a look at fuel economy. But, in truth, there’s no clear victor. The Accord and Camry battle but produce similar fuel economy ratings when equipped with standard gasoline engines (graph on the left). The Accord may win one year, but the Camry does better later. And vice-versa. Regardless, these cars average between 22-30 MPG, which is respectable for a vehicle of this size with a conventional engine under the hood.
The fuel economy discussion gets more interesting and impressive by discussing hybrids for the Accord and Camry. Strikingly, even though Toyota boasts about its hybrid credentials, the Accord Hybrid was launched before the Camry Hybrid. Equally as fascinating is that Honda didn’t even field an Accord Hybrid for several years.
However, for most years with head-to-head competition, the fuel economy results are similar (at least 40 MPG). Recent model years of the base Camry Hybrid LE have crossed the 50 MPG threshold, but the other trims average close to the Accord Hybrids (mid-40s MPG). In other words, it’s another toss-up.
Methodology
Compare two vehicles, Honda Accord and Toyota Camry , and provide a comprehensive analysis.
- Gather relevant information and data on both vehicles from reliable sources, such as manufacturer specifications, expert reviews, customer feedback, industry reports, and data sources like manufacturer websites, FIXD App, Kelley Blue Book, FuelEconomy.gov, and NHTSA.
- Collect data on various aspects, including performance, safety features, fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, reliability, owner satisfaction, and market value.
- Identify the key criteria that will be used to evaluate and compare the two vehicles.
- Ensure the criteria cover both objective factors (such as performance metrics, safety ratings, and fuel efficiency) and subjective factors (such as owner satisfaction, comfort, and features).
- Assess the performance of both vehicles based on factors such as acceleration, handling, braking, and overall driving experience.
- Compare engine options, horsepower, torque, transmission options, and any unique performance features.
- Examine the safety features and ratings of both vehicles.
- Evaluate crash test ratings, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), active and passive safety features, and any notable recalls or known issues related to safety.
- Consider both NHTSA safety ratings and IIHS awards for a comprehensive safety assessment.
- Analyze the fuel economy of both vehicles based on EPA mileage estimates.
- Compare their MPG ratings, average full-tank range, and any significant differences in fuel efficiency.
- Assess the average annual maintenance and repair costs for both vehicles.
- Consider data from surveyed owners and other reliable sources, such as FIXD App owner surveys, to determine the overall cost of ownership over time.
- Evaluate the reliability of both vehicles based on owner reports, FIXD App data, and any known issues or recalls.
- Consider factors such as engine reliability, common problems by model year, long-term durability, and owner reliability scores gathered from surveys.
- Consider owner satisfaction by gathering information from forums, online communities (Reddit: r/whatcarshouldIbuy), customer reviews, and owner reliability scores.
- Summarize key factors that owners appreciate and any common complaints or drawbacks mentioned by owners.
- Compare the features and technologies offered by both vehicles.
- Highlight any notable differences in terms of infotainment systems, connectivity options, driver assistance features, interior quality, and available upgrades.
- Assess the market value and depreciation of both vehicles.
- Compare average prices, resale value, and how the vehicles hold their value over time.
- Consider average private-seller valuations from Kelley Blue Book (KBB) for a comprehensive assessment.
- Summarize the findings of the comparison, highlighting the positives and negatives of each vehicle.
- Provide a fair and balanced recommendation based on the comparison, considering factors such as budget, personal preferences, specific needs of the buyer, and the comprehensive analysis conducted.
Sources:
- KBB Values: Average private-seller valuations as supplied by Kelley Blue Book (KBB), based on a Chevrolet Equinox with typical mileage for that respective model year.
- Fuel Economy: Mileage-per-gallon estimates according to the EPA MPG on Fueleconomy.gov.
- Annual Maintenance/Repairs: Upkeep expenses as reported by surveyed Chevrolet Equinox owners.
- Safety Ratings: Crash test data collected and reported by NHTSA. We average all ratings for each year to come up with a simplified, average safety score. This makes it easier to look at on a graph. We also collected IIHS Awards for this article.
- Vehicle Features: Most or all information gathered on vehicle features were from the manufacturer websites, in this case, Hondacars.com and Toyota.com.
Dave Goldberg is an automotive journalist and lifelong car fanatic. He writes for numerous enthusiast and business outlets and is an ongoing contributor to HotCars.com, one of the most popular car culture websites. When he’s not writing or driving, Dave is either under a hood or asleep. His credentials include a BA in Journalism from The George Washington University.
