Looking to buy a 2017/2018 or maybe even a 2019 Camry or Accord. Which year and model do you suggest pursuing?
Is pursuing certified used worth it?
2017/2019 for the Camry as the 2018 had transmission issues. The Accord I'd stick to the 2.0T from 2019 because you might as well avoid the first year they were made as every manufacturer needs time to fix kinks, in Honda and Toyotas case, usually 1 or 2 years. @mod_man could add to the Accord info.
Generally Camrys are more reliable especially now that the Accord is a turbo and what a 10 speed auto or CVT the absolute best would be a 2.0T manual. Camry is more comfort than sporty, but its no slouch especially with the V6.
CPO is not bad but only if you get a good deal I wouldn't pay a large premium just to get the small warranty either way even with CPO have a mechanic check it out to make sure the car is in good shape even if its only 2 3 years old.
Most generations I prefer Accord over Camry. Heck I have a 99 Accord.
But this latest generation, I much prefer Camry.
If going for pure longevity, then go with the 2017 or 2019 Camry over the Accord, since it comes with NA engine with both port and direct injection. Keep in mind these are 2 different generations! (2018 MY being first year of current Gen). Meanwhile the Accord comes with direct injection-only turbocharged engine, which won’t last as long as a NA engine (in general) and also you will have to deal with carbon buildup issues over time (due to being direct injection only). Also the 10-speed AT on the Accord is not true and tried yet, and has 2 more gears than the current Camry’s, which means it is more complex (and potential issues down the line). It can be said that both models are too new to know if they will last a long time, but I’d bet on the Camry. Now having said all that, the Accord might be a little more fun to drive (although the current Gen Camry is no slouch!) and if you don’t plan to keep for a long time then you may consider that too.
As for pursuing certified, for these vehicles you don’t need it. It’s the reason you pick a good, reliable car in the first place. Also, the dealers that certify don’t always do a good job making sure it meets all the requirements and you end up paying a little more (for what?) - you still want to have a good mechanic check out before you buy!
Let me start by saying I do own a 2020 Accord Sport 2.0T 10-speed. And it has been a great car for me.
However, for longevity I would go with the Camry. I went Accord because the 2.0T in Sport mode is seriously quick, noticeably quicker than the TRD Camry I was also considering. I have a speed addiction really bad so that swayed me.
But like I said, for longevity I would go Camry. I never keep my cars past 100k so oil dilution doesn't bug me much.
