2017 Honda Accord Sport: A Solid Mid-Size Sedan

Hey car enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the 2017 Honda Accord Sport, a car that’s been a staple in the mid-size sedan segment for years. If you're in the market for a reliable, practical, and surprisingly fun-to-drive car, this might just be the ride for you. We're going to break down what makes the Accord Sport tick, from its performance chops to its interior comfort and tech features. So, buckle up, guys, because we're about to give you the lowdown on whether the 2017 Accord Sport is still a worthy contender in today's automotive landscape. It's not just about getting from point A to point B; it's about doing it with a bit of style and confidence, and the Accord Sport definitely aims to deliver on that front. We'll explore its engine options, handling characteristics, fuel efficiency, and what sets the 'Sport' trim apart from the rest of the Accord lineup. Let's get started and see if this sedan still holds its own against newer models!

Performance and Powertrain: More Than Just a Grocery Getter

When you see the 'Sport' badge on a Honda Accord, you naturally expect a little more pep in its step, right? Well, the 2017 Honda Accord Sport largely delivers on that promise. Under the hood, you’ll find a peppy 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that pumps out a respectable 189 horsepower. Now, that might not sound earth-shattering compared to some V6 rivals, but trust me, Honda knows how to make a four-cylinder feel potent. The Sport trim gets a slight horsepower bump over the base LX model, making it a bit more engaging for everyday driving. What really sets it apart, though, is the transmission. While a continuously variable transmission (CVT) was available and offered excellent fuel economy, the Accord Sport also offered a 6-speed manual transmission. Yes, you heard that right! In a segment where manuals are becoming rarer than hen's teeth, Honda kept offering a stick shift for the purists who love to feel connected to the road. This manual gearbox is smooth, precise, and makes the Accord Sport genuinely fun to drive, especially on winding roads. For those who prefer an automatic, the CVT is well-tuned and mimics traditional gear shifts, avoiding that sometimes-droning feel that older CVTs were known for. The engine itself is responsive, and the Accord Sport feels nimble thanks to its well-balanced chassis and responsive steering. It’s a car that doesn’t shy away from a spirited drive, offering a good blend of comfort for your daily commute and agility when you want to have a little fun. The acceleration is more than adequate for merging onto highways and passing slower traffic, providing a sense of confidence behind the wheel. It’s not a sports car by any stretch, but for a mid-size sedan, it punches above its weight in terms of driving dynamics. The suspension is tuned to be firm enough to reduce body roll in corners but compliant enough to absorb road imperfections, striking a nice balance that appeals to a broad range of drivers. You get a car that feels planted and stable, even at higher speeds, making highway cruising a breeze. This combination of a capable engine, a refined transmission (whether manual or auto), and a well-sorted chassis makes the 2017 Accord Sport a compelling option for those who appreciate a car that’s engaging to drive without sacrificing everyday practicality. It’s a testament to Honda’s engineering prowess that they can make a mainstream sedan feel this competent and enjoyable.

Interior and Comfort: A Sophisticated Space for Your Travels

Step inside the 2017 Honda Accord Sport, and you’ll quickly realize that 'Sport' doesn't mean sacrificing comfort or refinement. Honda has always been known for its practical and well-thought-out interiors, and the 2017 Accord is no exception. The cabin is spacious, offering ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. This is a car that can comfortably accommodate a family or a group of friends on a road trip without anyone feeling cramped. The seats are supportive and comfortable, especially for longer journeys. The Sport trim often comes with unique cloth upholstery that adds a touch of sporty flair and holds you in place during spirited driving. The dashboard layout is intuitive and driver-focused, with all the essential controls within easy reach. Honda uses high-quality materials throughout the cabin, giving it a more premium feel than you might expect from a car in this price range. You’ll find soft-touch plastics, well-fitting panels, and a general sense of solid construction that speaks to Honda's attention to detail. The infotainment system, while perhaps not as cutting-edge as some newer models, is user-friendly. It features a touchscreen display that controls audio, climate, and connectivity options. Bluetooth connectivity is standard, allowing for hands-free calling and audio streaming. Higher trims might include features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though these were still relatively new in 2017 and might not be on all Sport models. The sound system is also quite capable, providing clear audio for your music and podcasts. Storage is plentiful, with a large center console, door pockets, and a generous glove compartment. The trunk is also capacious, offering plenty of space for luggage, groceries, or sports equipment. This practicality extends to the car's usability; everything just makes sense. The visibility from the driver's seat is excellent, thanks to the large windows and well-placed pillars. This makes maneuvering in tight spaces and parking much easier. The overall ambiance inside the Accord Sport is one of quiet competence. Road and wind noise are well-managed, contributing to a relaxed driving experience. Even on the highway, the cabin remains relatively serene, allowing for easy conversation or enjoyment of your audio. It’s a space that feels designed to make your daily commute or long road trips as comfortable and stress-free as possible. The ergonomics are spot-on, with the pedals, steering wheel, and shifter all falling naturally to hand. This thoughtful design ensures that drivers of all sizes can find a comfortable and commanding driving position. In essence, the 2017 Accord Sport offers an interior that successfully blends sportiness with practicality, making it a delightful place to spend time.

Technology and Safety: Staying Connected and Protected

In the 2017 Honda Accord Sport, Honda aimed to strike a balance between engaging driving dynamics and the essential tech and safety features that modern drivers expect. While it might not have every single bells and whistles of a brand-new car, it certainly holds its own. The infotainment system is centered around a 7-inch touchscreen display. This unit handles your audio, phone connectivity via Bluetooth, and rearview camera display. For 2017, Honda made significant updates to the Accord's tech offerings, including the introduction of available Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on certain trims. While the Sport trim may not have come standard with these, it's worth checking if a particular vehicle is equipped with them, as they are game-changers for smartphone integration. Even without those, the standard Bluetooth, USB ports, and Pandora compatibility provide plenty of ways to stay entertained and connected. The audio system is generally well-regarded, delivering clear sound for music and calls. Beyond entertainment, Honda prioritized safety, equipping the 2017 Accord with a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, particularly on higher trims. While the Sport trim might not have had all the cutting-edge safety tech available, it still offered a strong foundation. Standard safety features include antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, a rearview camera, and a comprehensive set of airbags. Available safety features on other trims, which you might find on a well-optioned Sport, included forward collision warning, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. These systems, when present, provide an extra layer of confidence and security, acting as vigilant co-pilots on the road. Honda's commitment to safety is evident in the Accord's strong crash test ratings, consistently earning top marks from organizations like the IIHS and NHTSA. This robust safety structure is a hallmark of the Honda brand and a significant selling point for the Accord. The driver's information display in the instrument cluster provides useful data, and controls on the steering wheel allow you to manage audio, cruise control, and phone functions without taking your hands off the wheel. The ease of use of these systems is a key Honda trait; they're designed to be functional and intuitive, not overly complicated. For a 2017 model, the Accord Sport offered a compelling package of technology and safety, ensuring that drivers were connected, entertained, and, most importantly, protected. It’s a pragmatic approach to automotive technology, focusing on features that genuinely enhance the driving experience and provide peace of mind.

Fuel Economy and Value: Smart Choices for Your Wallet

One of the perennial strengths of the Honda Accord lineup, and the 2017 Honda Accord Sport is no exception, is its impressive fuel economy combined with a strong sense of value. This car is designed to be a smart choice for your wallet, both in terms of running costs and its long-term resale value. Let's talk numbers: the 2017 Accord Sport, when equipped with the CVT, achieves an EPA-estimated 35 miles per gallon on the highway and 26 mpg in the city, for a combined rating of around 30 mpg. Those are fantastic figures for a mid-size sedan, especially one that offers this much space, comfort, and driving enjoyment. Even if you opt for the 6-speed manual transmission, which many enthusiasts prefer, you're still looking at very respectable numbers, typically around 23 mpg city and 34 mpg highway. This means fewer stops at the gas station and more money in your pocket over the life of the vehicle. But the value proposition of the Accord Sport extends beyond just fuel efficiency. Honda vehicles are renowned for their reliability and durability. The 2017 Accord is built to last, meaning lower maintenance costs over the years compared to some competitors. Its reputation for dependability translates directly into excellent resale value. When it comes time to sell or trade in your Accord, you'll likely find that it holds its value better than many other cars in its class. This makes the initial purchase price, which was already competitive, an even more attractive long-term investment. Furthermore, the Sport trim often strikes a sweet spot in the Accord lineup. It offers desirable upgrades like larger alloy wheels, sportier exterior styling, paddle shifters (with the CVT), and a more powerful engine tune compared to the base LX, all without venturing into the higher price brackets of the EX-L or Touring trims. This means you get a more engaging and visually appealing car without breaking the bank. The combination of affordable pricing (especially on the used market today), excellent fuel economy, low running costs due to reliability, and strong resale value makes the 2017 Honda Accord Sport an incredibly smart financial decision for a wide range of buyers. It's a car that provides a premium feel and enjoyable driving experience without the premium price tag or running costs, proving that you don't need to compromise to get a great sedan.

Conclusion: Still a Strong Contender

So, what's the final verdict on the 2017 Honda Accord Sport? Guys, if you're looking for a used mid-size sedan that offers a fantastic blend of sporty driving dynamics, everyday practicality, a comfortable and well-appointed interior, and excellent fuel economy, this car absolutely deserves your attention. Honda really hit it out of the park with this generation of the Accord. The Sport trim, in particular, provides that extra bit of flair and engagement that elevates it beyond a mere appliance on wheels. Whether you're a fan of rowing your own gears with the available manual transmission or prefer the efficiency of the CVT, the Accord Sport delivers a driving experience that is both satisfying and confidence-inspiring. Its reliability is legendary, its safety features are robust, and its value proposition, considering its fuel efficiency and strong resale value, is undeniable. While newer models might offer more advanced tech and slightly refined powertrains, the 2017 Accord Sport remains a highly competent and enjoyable vehicle that holds up remarkably well. It’s a testament to Honda's engineering philosophy: build cars that are reliable, efficient, fun to drive, and practical. The Accord Sport checks all those boxes with flying colors. If you're in the market for a dependable sedan that won't bore you to tears every time you get behind the wheel, do yourself a favor and check out a 2017 Honda Accord Sport. You might just find your perfect match!