High-Flying Hybrid: Honda Prices 50-mpg 2014 Accord Hybrid from $29,945

In the mid-size sedan segment, Honda's hybridized Accord boasts one very important "most": It is the most-efficient, with an EPA city fuel-economy rating of 50 mpg. Now that Honda has released pricing for its regular, non-plug-in Accord hybrid, however, the efficient sedan claims yet another segment "most," this time regarding price. The 2014 Honda Accord hybrid starts at $29,945, making it the most-expensive mid-size, non-plug-in hybrid. Whereas the heavier, more complex, and more-expensive Accord Plug-In hybrid—which features a longer electric-only operating range—starts at $40,570 and comes one way, the regular Accord hybrid is available in three trim levels. Buyers looking for increased levels of safety and luxury features over the base car can step up to the Accord hybrid EX-L or top-dog Accord hybrid Touring models. Still, the base car's list of standard features is impressive, and includes Honda's LaneWatch blind-spot camera, a backup camera, LED running lights, dual-zone automatic climate control, 10-way power driver's seat, and a 160-watt audio system. Full pricing, model-by-model, below: Accord hybrid ($29,945) Accord hybrid EX-L ($32,695); EX-L adds forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, leather seats, heated front seats, HondaLink cloud-based connectivity system, memory function for power driver's seat, 4-way power passenger seat, and a moonroof. Accord hybrid Touring ($35,695); Touring adds navigation, full-LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, and a hard drive for storing audio files. Comparison Test: 2014 Honda Accord Plug-In Hybrid vs. 2013 Ford Fusion Energi Instrumented Test: 2014 Honda Accord Plug-In Hybrid Instrumented Test: 2013 Honda Civic Hybrid Compared to its hybrid-sedan competition, the Honda is noticeably pricier—like, nearly $4000 pricier. The least-expensive Ford Fusion, Chevy Malibu Eco, Toyota Camry, Hyundai Sonata, and Kia Optima hybrids all ring in between $26,445 and $26, 995. The gap doesn't really come down to equipment, either; the base Accord hybrid carries a similar level of kit to its hybridized competitors. Chalk up the difference to the Accord's complex and unique hybrid powertrain, which probably isn't cheap, and to Honda's ability to charge more for its take-all-comers fuel economy. Only Ford's Fusion comes close, with its 47-mpg city and highway EPA rating; the Accord is rated for an almost absurd 50/47. Buyers will need to decide whether the Accord hybrid's "most-efficient" claim is worth its most-expensiveness, but you can bet Honda hopes its 3-mpg-plus edge in city fuel economy will sway the eco-conscious masses. from Car and Driver Blog http://blog.caranddriver.com

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