2026 Honda Accord Sport vs. EX-L

New Honda Accord Inventory Why Buy from Heather Cannon Honda Honda Accord Research Hub

For 2026, the Honda Accord lineup has streamlined its best features into the Hybrid powertrain. However, Ponca City buyers are often torn between the two most popular trims: the Sport Hybrid and the EX-L Hybrid.

On the surface, they share the same engine and chassis. But beneath the metal, they are engineered for two different types of drivers. The Sport prioritizes aesthetic aggression and handling response, while the EX-L maximizes pure efficiency and comfort.

At Heather Cannon Honda, we believe the choice comes down to one critical question: Are you willing to trade 5 MPG for a better set of wheels?

The Critical Difference: Wheels & MPG

Spec	Accord Sport Hybrid	Accord EX-L Hybrid	The Gap
Wheel Size	19-Inch	17-Inch	Sport looks better; EX-L rides softer.
EPA City MPG	46 MPG	51 MPG	+5 MPG for EX-L
EPA Highway MPG	41 MPG	44 MPG	+3 MPG for EX-L
Combined MPG	44 MPG	48 MPG	EX-L wins on pure efficiency.
Range (12.8 gal tank)	~563 Miles	~614 Miles	EX-L goes ~50 miles further per tank.

Interior: Cockpit vs. Lounge

	2026 Accord Sport Hybrid Seating: Unique black cloth upholstery Interior Details: Aluminum pedals and a leather-wrapped steering wheel Passenger Seat: Manual adjustment Vibe: Dark, modern, and youthful — purposeful and driver-focused 2026 Accord EX-L Hybrid Seating: Genuine leather-trimmed seats Passenger Seat: 4-way power-adjustable passenger seat Vibe: Upscale, easy to clean, and built for long-distance comfort Bonus Features: Front and rear parking sensors Heated side mirrors Not included on the standard Sport trim

2026 Accord Sport Hybrid

Seating: Unique black cloth upholstery
Interior Details: Aluminum pedals and a leather-wrapped steering wheel
Passenger Seat: Manual adjustment
Vibe: Dark, modern, and youthful — purposeful and driver-focused

2026 Accord EX-L Hybrid

Seating: Genuine leather-trimmed seats
Passenger Seat: 4-way power-adjustable passenger seat
Vibe: Upscale, easy to clean, and built for long-distance comfort
Bonus Features:
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Heated side mirrors
- Not included on the standard Sport trim

Price vs. Value

Typically, the EX-L commands a slightly higher price tag than the Sport, but the value proposition is strong. Choose Sport if: You love the "blacked-out" look, don't mind cloth seats, and want the sharpest handling Accord available. Choose EX-L if: You want leather, you maximize every drop of fuel (51 MPG is class-leading), and you want the extra safety of parking sensors.

Typically, the EX-L commands a slightly higher price tag than the Sport, but the value proposition is strong.

Choose Sport if: You love the "blacked-out" look, don't mind cloth seats, and want the sharpest handling Accord available.
Choose EX-L if: You want leather, you maximize every drop of fuel (51 MPG is class-leading), and you want the extra safety of parking sensors.

See the Difference in Person

Pictures don't convey the difference in ride quality between 19-inch and 17-inch wheels. We recommend driving them back-to-back on North 14th Street.

Come to Heather Cannon Honda and see if you are Team Sport or Team EX-L.

May not represent actual vehicle. (Options, colors, trim and body style may vary)

*Any MPG listed is based on model year EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, battery pack age/condition (hybrid only) and other factors. For additional information about EPA ratings, visit http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/label/learn-more-PHEV-label.shtml .