The 2017 Honda Accord EX-L represents a significant moment in the sedan’s evolution, blending refined performance with a cabin focused on comfort and technology. As a mid-level trim within the Accord lineup, it targets buyers who desire a balance of efficiency, power, and premium features without venturing into the top-tier pricing. This model year continued Honda’s reputation for reliability, offering a driving experience that feels engaging yet accessible for daily commutes and long road trips alike.
Design and Exterior Sophistication
The 2017 Accord EX-L benefits from the sport-biased exterior styling introduced with the ninth-generation model, giving it a more assertive stance than its predecessors. Sharp LED headlights and a bold front grille create a confident presence, while the sculpted hood and wheel arches hint at the performance beneath. The choice of slightly larger 18-inch alloy wheels on the EX-L trim adds to the aggressive aesthetic, setting it apart from the more conservative LX and Sport trims.
Interior Comfort and Premium Materials
Inside, the EX-L moves firmly into luxury territory with a cabin that emphasizes quietness and tactile quality. Soft-touch materials cover the dashboard, doors, and center console, replacing the hard plastics found in lower trims. Heated front and rear seats are a standout feature, providing exceptional comfort during colder months, while the power-adjustable front driver’s seat offers multiple memory settings for personalized convenience.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Under the hood, the 2017 Honda Accord EX-L is typically equipped with a 185-horsepower 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This powertrain delivers a smooth power curve that excels in highway merging and overtaking. The standard continuously variable transmission ensures excellent fuel efficiency, while the optional HondaSport transmission provides paddle shifters for a more direct driving feel.
Fuel Efficiency and Practicality
One of the Accord’s core strengths remains its efficiency, and the EX-L trim is no exception. EPA-estimated ratings of up to 30 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway make it a practical choice for commuters and road-trippers alike. The combination of the efficient engine, aerodynamic design, and low rolling resistance tires contributes to a driving range that minimizes frequent stops at gas stations.
Technology and Infotainment Features
The EX-L trim comes well-equipped with Honda’s latest information and entertainment systems for its model year. The 7-inch touchscreen display supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless integration with smartphones for navigation, messaging, and media. A premium sound system, often sourced by Bose, fills the cabin with clear audio, enhancing the experience of hands-free calling and music playback.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety is a cornerstone of the Accord’s philosophy, and the 2017 EX-L includes a comprehensive suite of Honda Sensing safety technologies. This package typically encompasses collision mitigation braking, road departure mitigation, adaptive cruise control, and lane keeping assist systems. These features work together to provide an extra layer of security, helping to prevent accidents before they occur.
