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In today’s world, there is no such thing as a bad car – there are good cars and then there are great cars – and then you have cars like the new Honda Accord. As the mid-size sedan segment continues to grow and lure in prospective buyers with sporty styling, crazy amounts of tech, and safety features – it carmakers, like Honda, that take their cars to the next step – growing out of their senior commuter ways and into the world of energetic driving with a family friendly demeanor.

Strapping on its jockstrap, the Honda Accord plays hardball against its competition. With a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, it’s a happy sedan that meets the requirements for most of its consumers. Where it starts to play defense is with its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. Dropping the V-6 and moving toward the turbocharged craze was a big step for Honda and a lot of their fans weren’t happy. Have not fear though, the turbo-four is a touchdown.

The 2.0T is only available on three trim options, SPORT at a $4530 upgrade, EX-L and Touring (as seen here) at a $2000 option. With 252-horsepower on tap, the Accord is one quick cookie and with its new 10-speed automatic, it makes it not only the fastest mid-size family sedan on the market but also much quicker than its old V-6 ways getting to 60 mph in about 5.5 seconds. A tall order is tasked upon the front wheels with 273lb-ft of torque; however, Honda did some very cleaver engineering that allows the Accord to lay down all of its power without having any faults. In a straight line, it’ll leave to sets of tire treads as it continues to burn out in second gear without providing any of that aggressive turbo steer.

Surprisingly enough, we haven’t even gotten to the good part, its SPORT Mode button. Changing the display on the TFT instrument cluster, once sport mode is engaged, its like the whole car hunkers down and becomes this street fighter ready to attack. The transmissions becomes eagerly crisp as we shuffle through the gears using the steering wheel paddle shifters, the adaptive dampering suspension system takes over and keeps everything composed and in line for a sportier driving experience without the unwanted harsh discomfort.

Under normal driving conditions, the Accord contains a well in-tuned tight chassis that’s both comfortable and enjoyable regardless of what road it’s traveling on. It provides a balance of calm handling with an energetic side that both an enthusiastic or uncaring driver can appreciate.

With over 1200 miles clocked on the odometer, the Accord became our home away from home for seven days. Traveling through 3 states of open highways – we managed to see an average of 30 mpg’s, just two shy of the EPA 32 mpg rating. However, we exceed the EPA 26 mpg mixed city/highway combined fuel economy with 380 miles of range.

All-inclusive to the $35,800, the Accord Touring came with some extensive posh features that made it one premium ride. With rich and inviting leather and wood contrasts, the Accord was a very nice place to be. It minimalistic design is very pleasing compared to other brands. Offering ventilated front seats, heated rear seats and a power adjustable passenger seat – there wasn’t a bad seat in the house.

One will find plenty of technology and comfort features too. The large touch screen interface is very user friendly and incorporates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The TFT instrument cluster is customizable to show different information. There’s two USB outlets and two A/C adaptors for constant connectivity

With safety constantly being the buzz word, Honda has taken drastic measures to ensure its drivers are well protected. Regardless of trim level, all Accord’s comes standard with Honda Safety Sense. This includes Forward Collision Braking with Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keeping Assist, and Automatic High Beams. Our Touring came with additional features like Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear-Cross Traffic Alert with Parking Sensors and Automatic Wipers.

The Honda Accord isn’t just an ordinary family sedan. It’s playing in a field that other car markers are having difficulty competing in. The 2.0T here is playing professional ball while the others are still stuck in high school.