Is the Honda Accord Better Than the Toyota Camry for High School Drivers?
When it comes to purchasing a vehicle for high school students, parents often wonder if the Honda Accord or the Toyota Camry is a better choice. This article delves into the pros and cons of both models to help you make an informed decision.
Reliability and Maintenance
The Toyota Camry tends to be more reliable over the long term and generally requires less maintenance. This is due to Toyota's strong reputation for building durable and efficient vehicles. On the other hand, Honda has encountered issues with transmissions and CVTs in recent years, which can lead to additional repair costs. In recent years, Toyota has consistently been seen as more traditional, sticking to naturally aspirated engines rather than turbocharged ones.
Consumer Reports
According to Consumer Reports, the Toyota Camry received a grade of 86 for the 2019 model year, while the Honda Accord scored 82. Additionally, the Subaru Legacy received the highest rating with an 88. For those interested in more detailed evaluations, it is recommended to obtain the Consumer Reports subscription or physical magazine. These tests provide valuable insights into the performance, reliability, and overall value of the vehicles.
New Features and Safety
For high school drivers, it is crucial to consider the latest safety features. Newer models, especially those from the past few years, come equipped with advanced safety technology that can significantly improve ride safety. The Honda Accord and Toyota Camry both offer a range of safety features, but new features in the Accord may edge out the Camry.
Transmission and Comfort
Manual transmissions have been a hallmark of Honda vehicles, but both the Accord and Camry offer excellent automatic transmissions. For high school drivers, an automatic transmission is generally a better choice due to the ease of use and reduced maintenance.
Resale Value and Leasing
In terms of resale value, the Honda Accord has been gaining ground on the Toyota Camry. This is partly due to Toyota's aggressive leasing campaign. However, both vehicles are considered excellent first cars for high school students, given their similarities in build and quality.
Safety and Durability
Toyota generally gets the edge for durability, as its vehicles are known for efficient and crashworthy designs. The Accord, while still a reliable choice, requires slightly more maintenance and repair costs compared to the Camry. However, Honda has strong reliability and longevity, with impressive engine and transmission designs that are built for long life.
Preferences and Perceptions
The choice between Honda and Toyota can also come down to personal preference and perception. The Honda Accord is generally considered sportier to drive, but some, especially younger drivers, might find the lower seating position 'cool' and laid-back. On the other hand, Toyota is often favored for its traditional, efficient, and reliable design, which results in very reasonable repair and parts costs. Parents and students with 6 Toyotas noted that these vehicles only need service twice a year, emphasizing Toyota's reliability.
Ultimately, the decision between the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry for high school drivers is subjective, but both are solid choices. Careful consideration of personal preferences, budget, and safety features can help you make an informed decision.