The EPA rates the 2016 Honda Accord EX at 30 MPG combined, showing why this sedan appeals to practical car buyers. It’s neither a hybrid with exceptional mileage nor a sports sedan that ignores fuel economy. Instead, the Accord EX balances efficiency, reliability, and comfort, a combination valued by families and commuters who want dependable, long-term value. They want reasonable fuel consumption from their everyday car, and that’s what they get.

City and highway performance

The Accord EX’s 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and smooth six-speed automatic transmission provide enough power for daily driving. EPA estimates are 27 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway. The highway number is particularly important for those who frequently drive long distances. The city number reflects typical stop-and-go conditions, and the highway rating shows the engine’s efficiency at cruising speeds. This engine isn’t turbocharged or a hybrid, so the gas mileage reflects Honda’s expertise in naturally aspirated engine design and driveline calibration.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Honda Accord EX at $1,750. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% city and 45% highway driving, using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, fuel type, and local gas prices. More aggressive driving or more city driving will increase fuel consumption and annual fuel cost.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a useful guide, but real-world fuel economy varies. Several Accord EX owners report mileage close to EPA estimates, although individual results depend on driving style, traffic, and car maintenance. Those who follow Honda’s maintenance schedule, use quality fuel, and drive carefully often match or exceed the official EPA numbers.

How it compares

The 2016 Honda Accord EX is in a competitive market. The Toyota Camry LE, a long-time competitor, has similar fuel economy, with EPA ratings of 25 MPG city and 35 MPG highway. The Nissan Altima 2.5 S gets an EPA-estimated 27 MPG city and 39 MPG highway, a slightly better result on the highway. The Mazda 6 i Grand Touring, known for sporty handling, gets an EPA-estimated 28 MPG city and 40 MPG highway. The Altima and Mazda 6 get slightly better highway mileage, but the Accord EX balances fuel efficiency, practicality, and Honda’s reliable reputation, which matters to its typical buyer. See all Honda fuel economy data or view ACCORD MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Accelerate gently and brake smoothly to maximize fuel economy in the Accord EX. Avoid fast starts and hard stops. Predict traffic and drive at a consistent speed when possible. This engine responds well to a light foot, rewarding drivers who avoid unnecessary power.

Regular maintenance is important for good fuel mileage. Keep your Accord EX properly tuned, with clean air and fuel filters, and properly inflated tires. See the owner’s manual for Honda’s maintenance schedule. Tire pressure, often ignored, greatly affects fuel economy. Always set your car’s tires to the pressure stated on the sticker on the driver’s side door.

Reduce weight in the car. Extra cargo increases the car’s weight and reduces fuel economy. Remove unneeded items from the trunk or passenger area. The 2.4-liter engine is calibrated for efficiency when carrying a normal load.

Minimize idling. Idling wastes fuel without covering distance. If you’ll be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines restart quickly, and the fuel saved by turning off the engine will add up. The Accord EX doesn’t have auto stop start, so this is particularly valuable recommendation.