2014 Honda Accord Sport Review

Is the 2014 Honda Accord Sport Still a Champion? A Comprehensive Review

Are you in the market for a reliable, fun-to-drive, and stylish used sedan that won't break the bank? Perhaps you've heard whispers about the 2014 Honda Accord Sport and are wondering if it lives up to its name. With so many options out there, sifting through information can be overwhelming. Don't worry, you've come to the right place! This comprehensive 2014 Honda Accord Sport review will dive deep into what makes this particular model stand out, helping you decide if it's the perfect fit for your garage.

We'll cover everything from its performance on the road to its interior comfort, safety features, and long-term value, giving you all the insights you need to make an informed decision.

Unpacking the 2014 Honda Accord Sport: What Sets It Apart?

The ninth-generation Honda Accord, launched in 2013, brought a fresh design and refined driving dynamics. The "Sport" trim, specifically introduced in this generation, aimed to bridge the gap between the standard Accord and a more engaging driving experience without jumping into the V6 territory. It's designed for drivers who appreciate a bit more zest and visual flair in their daily commute.

What exactly does "Sport" mean for the 2014 Accord? It's not just about badges. This trim level typically includes unique exterior styling cues, larger wheels, and a slightly firmer suspension tuning compared to the base models. But does it deliver on the "sport" promise? Let's find out.

Performance: Does the 2014 Accord Sport Live Up to Its Name?

When considering a 2014 Honda Accord Sport review, performance is often at the top of the list. Honda is known for its refined engines, and the Accord Sport is no exception.

Engine Specs & Powertrain

Under the hood, the 2014 Honda Accord Sport typically features a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder i-VTEC engine. This powerplant delivers a healthy 189 horsepower and 182 lb-ft of torque, which is a slight bump over the standard 185 horsepower in other four-cylinder trims. It's paired with either a smooth Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) or, for those who prefer more engagement, a rare but delightful 6-speed manual transmission.

• 2.4L i-VTEC 4-Cylinder Engine: 189 hp, 182 lb-ft torque.
• Transmission Options: CVT (standard) or 6-speed manual (available).

Handling & Ride Quality

The "Sport" designation isn't just for show. The 2014 Accord Sport benefits from a slightly stiffer suspension setup and 18-inch alloy wheels, which contribute to a more connected and agile feel on the road. While it's certainly not a track-day car, it offers a commendable balance between comfortable cruising and confident cornering. Steering is precise and responsive, making it an enjoyable car for both city driving and highway stretches. How does it handle those winding back roads? Surprisingly well for a mid-size sedan.

Fuel Economy

Despite its sportier aspirations, the 2014 Accord Sport remains remarkably fuel-efficient, especially with the CVT. EPA estimates for the 2.4L engine with the CVT generally hover around 26 MPG city / 35 MPG highway / 30 MPG combined. The manual transmission version sees slightly lower figures, but still very respectable for its class. This makes it an economical choice for daily commutes and longer trips.

Interior & Features: Comfort Meets Practicality

Beyond performance, a good 2014 Honda Accord Sport review must address the interior. Honda is renowned for its practical and well-designed cabins, and the 2014 Accord Sport continues this tradition.

Cabin Design & Comfort

Step inside the 2014 Accord Sport, and you'll find a spacious and thoughtfully laid-out cabin. The materials are of good quality, and the fit and finish are excellent. The front seats are supportive and comfortable, making long journeys a breeze. Rear-seat passengers will also appreciate the generous legroom, which is competitive within its class. The overall design is clean and intuitive, with controls easily within reach.

Infotainment & Tech

The 2014 Accord Sport typically comes equipped with Honda's intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID), which includes an 8-inch screen. Standard features for the Sport trim often include:

• Bluetooth connectivity
• USB audio interface
• Pandora compatibility
• Rearview camera

While it might not have the cutting-edge touchscreens of today's vehicles, the system is user-friendly and gets the job done for essential functions.

Practicality & Cargo Space

The Accord has always been a champion of practicality, and the 2014 model is no different. The trunk offers a generous 15.8 cubic feet of cargo space, which is ample for groceries, luggage, or sports gear. The rear seats also fold down to accommodate longer items, further enhancing its versatility.

Exterior Design: Sporty Accents

The "Sport" trim adds several visual enhancements that give the 2014 Accord a more aggressive and dynamic stance. These include:

• 18-inch alloy wheels
• Integrated fog lights
• A rear decklid spoiler
• Chrome exhaust finishers

These elements combine to give the 2014 Honda Accord Sport a distinct look that sets it apart from the more subdued LX and EX trims. It strikes a nice balance between sporty aggression and sophisticated elegance.

Safety Features: Honda's Commitment to Protection

Safety is a paramount concern for any vehicle review. The 2014 Honda Accord, including the Sport trim, received excellent safety ratings. It was awarded a "Top Safety Pick+" by the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration).

Standard safety features include:

• Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
• Stability control
• Traction control
• Front, side, and side curtain airbags
• Rearview camera

While advanced driver-assist systems like adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist were available on higher trims, the Sport trim provides a solid foundation of passive and active safety features.

Reliability & Value: A Smart Investment?

One of the strongest arguments for purchasing a used Honda is its reputation for reliability and strong resale value.

Honda's Reputation

Honda consistently ranks high in reliability surveys, and the Accord is often cited as one of its most dependable models. The 2014 Accord Sport is generally considered a robust and well-built vehicle, capable of many years and miles of trouble-free service with proper maintenance.

Common Issues (or Lack Thereof)

While no car is entirely without potential issues, the 2014 Honda Accord Sport doesn't have any widespread, major mechanical flaws that are commonly reported. Owners typically praise its durability. As with any used car, it's always wise to get a pre-purchase inspection.

Resale Value

Thanks to Honda's strong brand image and the Accord's reputation for reliability, the 2014 Honda Accord Sport tends to hold its value well over time. This makes it a smart investment, as you're likely to recoup a good portion of your initial purchase price when it's time to sell.

Pros and Cons of the 2014 Honda Accord Sport

To summarize our 2014 Honda Accord Sport review, here's a quick rundown of its strengths and weaknesses:

Pros:

• Engaging Driving Dynamics: Sporty handling and responsive steering for its class.
• Fuel Efficiency: Excellent MPG, especially with the CVT.
• Spacious & Comfortable Interior: Ample room for passengers and cargo.
• Strong Reliability Record: Known for long-term durability.
• High Safety Ratings: Top marks from leading safety organizations.
• Attractive Styling: Sporty exterior accents give it a distinct look.
• Good Resale Value: Holds its value well over time.

Cons:

• CVT Noise: Some drivers find the CVT can be noisy under hard acceleration.
• Limited Advanced Tech: Lacks some of the more advanced driver-assist features found in newer cars or higher trims.
• No V6 Option: The Sport trim is only available with the four-cylinder engine.

Conclusion: Is the 2014 Honda Accord Sport Right for You?

After this deep dive into the 2014 Honda Accord Sport review, it's clear that this sedan offers a compelling package. It successfully blends Honda's renowned reliability and practicality with a genuinely engaging driving experience and a touch of sporty flair. Whether you're a daily commuter looking for efficiency and comfort, or someone who appreciates a bit more responsiveness from their family sedan, the 2014 Accord Sport delivers.

It stands as a testament to Honda's engineering prowess, offering a durable, safe, and enjoyable ride for years to come. If you're considering a used mid-size sedan, the 2014 Honda Accord Sport should undoubtedly be on your shortlist.

What are your thoughts on the 2014 Honda Accord Sport? Share your experiences or questions in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is the 2014 Honda Accord Sport a reliable car?

Yes, the 2014 Honda Accord Sport is widely regarded as a very reliable car. Honda has an excellent reputation for building dependable vehicles, and the Accord consistently ranks high in reliability studies. With proper maintenance, it's known to last for many years and high mileage.

Q2: What is the difference between the 2014 Honda Accord LX and Sport?

The main differences lie in styling, wheels, and suspension tuning. The 2014 Accord Sport typically features 18-inch alloy wheels, a rear decklid spoiler, integrated fog lights, and a slightly firmer suspension compared to the LX. It also gets a slight bump in horsepower (189 hp vs. 185 hp) from the same 2.4L engine.

Q3: Does the 2014 Honda Accord Sport have a V6 engine option?

No, the 2014 Honda Accord Sport trim exclusively comes with the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. If you're looking for a V6 engine in a 2014 Accord, you would need to consider higher trim levels like the EX-L V6 or Touring.

Q4: What is the typical fuel economy for the 2014 Honda Accord Sport?

With the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), the 2014 Honda Accord Sport typically achieves an EPA-estimated 26 MPG in the city, 35 MPG on the highway, and 30 MPG combined. Manual transmission models have slightly lower, but still respectable, fuel economy figures.

Citations:

• Information regarding specific Sport trim features and engine specs is commonly found in automotive reviews and manufacturer specifications for the 2014 Honda Accord Sport.
• EPA fuel economy estimates for the 2014 Honda Accord Sport can be found on official EPA websites or reputable automotive review sites.
• Cargo space figures are standard specifications for the 2014 Honda Accord sedan.
• IIHS safety ratings for the 2014 Honda Accord are publicly available on the IIHS website.
• NHTSA safety ratings for the 2014 Honda Accord are publicly available on the NHTSA website.