
The 9.5 generation Accord was launched in 2016, making it a 2016 model year vehicle. Back in the 1980s, the Accord became one of the best-selling four-door sedans in North America. Since then, the Accord has undergone continuous updates and iterations, consistently ranking among the top-selling models in its class. The 9th generation Accord was equipped with two types of engines: a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine and a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated engine. The 2.4-liter naturally aspirated engine in the 9th generation Accord delivers a maximum torque of 186 horsepower and 243 Nm. This engine reaches its peak power at 6,400 rpm and achieves maximum torque at 3,900 rpm. It features i-VTEC technology and direct fuel injection, with an aluminum alloy cylinder head and block. The engine is paired with a CVT transmission. The 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine produces a maximum torque of 155 horsepower and 190 Nm. This engine attains peak power at 6,500 rpm and maximum torque at 4,300 rpm. It is equipped with i-VTEC technology and multi-point fuel injection, also featuring an aluminum alloy cylinder head and block.

The 9.5th-generation Accord is essentially the mid-cycle facelift model produced between 2016 and 2017. I specifically went to the dealership to see the actual car when it was launched in early 2016. Its biggest differences from the regular 9th-gen model are the notably thicker front grille chrome trim and the LED light strip tail lamps that look particularly eye-catching at night. The hybrid version was also introduced domestically for the first time during this period, featuring blue-accented emblems and a slightly smaller trunk, but with impressively low fuel consumption. Just a reminder that the 10th-generation model directly replaced it in 2018, so be careful not to mistakenly purchase a 2018 model thinking it's a 9.5th-gen, as both the chassis and engine underwent major upgrades.

As a long-time Honda fan, the easiest way to identify the 2016 to 2017 ninth-and-a-half generation models is by the front bumper, which was redesigned with large chrome 'buck teeth,' making it look like it's grinning from a distance. The base models come with 16-inch five-spoke petal-style wheels, while the higher trims feature glossy 18-inch wheels. One of the most practical upgrades is the addition of turn signals on the side mirrors across all trims, and the mirrors automatically fold when the car is locked. The key detail to check is the 10th digit of the VIN: 'G' indicates a 2016 model, while 'H' means it's a 2017 model—this is much more accurate than checking the vehicle registration. In the used car market, you can currently find well-maintained examples for around 80,000 RMB.

Last time when helping a friend inspect a 2016 Accord, I noticed several key points: The front edge of the hood has two additional crease lines compared to the older model, and the position lights have changed from granular bulbs to light guide strips. For hybrid versions produced after March 2016, the rear emblem features blue 'HYBRID' lettering, while the regular versions use red letters. Pay special attention to vehicles registered at the end of 2015, as they might be leftover ninth-generation models posing as ninth-and-a-half generations. Checking the configuration sheet is the most reliable method—the ninth-and-a-half generation comes standard with an electronic parking brake and tire pressure monitoring system across all trims, whereas the ninth generation only has a mechanical handbrake.


