All About Japan Autos

In the highly-competitive class of affordable midsize cars, remaining unchanged means being left behind. While the Accord is already a great car, Honda plans on making it even better. For 2011, it will feature a few styling changes and better fuel economy.

According to Autoblog: “Styling updates are mostly limited to the front fascias, which now appear to be more in line with the blocky look of the Accord Crosstour… for better or for worse. Brake lights and bumpers also get slight revisions, and new wheels are optional on V6 models.”

Regarding fuel economy, Cars.com reports: “Mileage is now 23/34 mpg city/highway, up from 21/31 mpg, putting the Accord back at the top of the pack in terms of mileage. … The V-6 engine remains relatively unchanged but manages to get one additional mpg in highway driving.”

That’s not all: Honda has also updated the Accord’s interior to keep pace with rivals. “Accord coupes with the V6 get steering wheel shift paddles while all coupes and some sedans get a standard USB port,” reports Edmunds. “Revised climate controls and some new seats materials are also part of this year’s upgrades.” Other new interior features include a rear-view camera on sedans equipped with an optional navigation system and two-position driver-seat memory.

The 2011 Honda Accord is slated to hit dealer lots in August of 2011.

If you’re in the market for a new car, check out the U.S. News rankings of this year’s best cars as well as this month’s best car deals.