2020 BMW 3 Series vs 2021 Honda Accord

2020 BMW 3 Series
2020 BMW 3 Series
$40,750MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2021 Honda Accord
2021 Honda Accord
$24,970MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 BMW 3 Series
$40,750MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Honda Accord
$24,970MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2020 BMW 3 Series is 8.2 out of 10, while the 2021 Honda Accord scores 9.2 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the Honda Accord is the more highly recommended vehicle for most consumers, offering a superior balance of style, practicality, technology, safety, and value.

Overview

MSRP

$40,750

MSRP

$24,970

Average price

$28,158

Average price

$24,899

Listings

434

Listings

2076
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

8.2 out of 10

Expert reviews

9.2 out of 10
Pros
  • Fun to drive
  • Comfortable
  • Powerful engine
Cons
  • Potentially polarizing design
  • Poor value for money
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Great handling
  • Spacious
Cons
  • All-wheel drive not available
  • Outdated technology

2020 BMW 3 Series Reviews Summary

Does BMW still use “The Ultimate Driving Machine” as its advertising tagline? Yes, it does. And with the arrival of the 2020 BMW M340i, which slots between the existing 330i and the forthcoming M3, the company proves there is substance behind the slogan.

2021 Honda Accord Reviews Summary

For the 2021 model year, Honda is taking the Accord in a more elevated direction. The company has refined the Accord’s features list, added a trim level, and priced it right to compete against other heavyweights in the industry. Honda has made safety a priority in the 2021 Accord, helping this fresh version earn high praise.
No video found
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.0L 255 hp I4

Engine

1.5L 192 hp I4

Drive Train

RWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

255 hp @ 5000 rpm

Horsepower

192 hp @ 5500 rpm

MPG City

26

MPG City

30

MPG Highway

36

MPG Highway

38
2020 BMW 3 Series
2020 BMW 3 Series
$40,750MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Honda Accord
2021 Honda Accord
$24,970MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 BMW 3 Series
$40,750MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Honda Accord
$24,970MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2020 BMW 3 Series is 8.2 out of 10, while the 2021 Honda Accord scores 9.2 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the Honda Accord is the more highly recommended vehicle for most consumers, offering a superior balance of style, practicality, technology, safety, and value.

Overview
MSRP
$40,750
$24,970
Average price
$28,158
$24,899
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.8
4.8
Expert reviews

8.2 out of 10

Read full review

9.2 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Fun to drive
  • Comfortable
  • Powerful engine
Cons
  • Potentially polarizing design
  • Poor value for money
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Great handling
  • Spacious
Cons
  • All-wheel drive not available
  • Outdated technology
Summary
Does BMW still use “The Ultimate Driving Machine” as its advertising tagline? Yes, it does. And with the arrival of the 2020 BMW M340i, which slots between the existing 330i and the forthcoming M3, the company proves there is substance behind the slogan.
For the 2021 model year, Honda is taking the Accord in a more elevated direction. The company has refined the Accord’s features list, added a trim level, and priced it right to compete against other heavyweights in the industry. Honda has made safety a priority in the 2021 Accord, helping this fresh version earn high praise.
Video
No video found
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
2.0L 255 hp I4
1.5L 192 hp I4
Drive Train
RWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
5
5
Horsepower
255 hp @ 5000 rpm
192 hp @ 5500 rpm
MPG City
26
30
MPG Highway
36
38
Look and feel
2020 BMW 3 Series
8/10
2021 Honda Accord
8/10
The 2020 BMW 3 Series continued to live up to its longstanding slogan, "The Ultimate Driving Machine," especially with the introduction of the M340i, bridging the gap between the standard 330i and the high-performance M3. This iteration not only reinforces BMW's commitment to driving excellence but also showcases substantial improvements in design and functionality, making it a compelling choice for enthusiasts. On the other side, the 2021 Honda Accord took a step forward in sophistication and safety, offering a refined features list, a new trim level, and competitive pricing. Honda's focus on enhancing the Accord's safety features further elevates its status in the midsize sedan segment, making it a top pick for families and safety-conscious buyers.
Performance
2020 BMW 3 Series
10/10
2021 Honda Accord
9/10
CarGurus experts give the 2020 BMW 3 Series a perfect 10 out of 10 for performance, highlighting its superior driving dynamics and powerful turbocharged engine. The M340i's 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, combined with BMW's xDrive system and various high-performance components, deliver an exhilarating driving experience. Despite the absence of a manual transmission, the M340i's automatic transmission and driving modes are highly praised for their efficiency and responsiveness. The 2021 Honda Accord receives a 9 out of 10 for performance, with its choice of two turbocharged engines offering a balance between power and efficiency. The 1.5-liter engine provides respectable fuel economy, while the more potent 2.0-liter engine offers 252 horsepower and more engaging drive dynamics. Honda's focus on smooth braking and maneuverability ensures that the Accord remains a satisfying choice for both daily commutes and more spirited driving.
Form and function
2020 BMW 3 Series
7/10
2021 Honda Accord
9/10
In terms of form and function, the 2020 BMW 3 Series is rated 7 out of 10, with its front seats offering both support and comfort for enthusiastic driving and long journeys. However, the 3 Series faces criticism for its limited rear-seat accessibility and a trunk space that appears smaller than some family sedans, despite officially offering 17 cubic feet. Conversely, the 2021 Honda Accord scores a 9 out of 10, showcasing its design for daily drivability with ample room for adults in both rows and a generous trunk capacity of 16.7 cubic feet. The Accord's interior is thoughtfully designed, with easy-to-reach controls and standard convenience features across all trims, highlighting its practical and user-friendly nature.
Technology
2020 BMW 3 Series
9/10
2021 Honda Accord
9/10
Both the 2020 BMW 3 Series and the 2021 Honda Accord are rated 9 out of 10 for technology. BMW's iDrive system has evolved into a user-friendly interface with multiple interaction methods, including touch, voice recognition, and gesture control. The system's intuitive design and advanced features like the head-up display exemplify BMW's commitment to technological innovation. The Honda Accord matches this score with its own array of tech features, including a responsive 8-inch touchscreen, standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and additional amenities in higher trims such as a wireless phone charger and a premium audio system. The Accord's technology package ensures that drivers do not need to compromise on connectivity or entertainment.
Safety
2020 BMW 3 Series
9/10
2021 Honda Accord
9/10
Safety ratings for both vehicles are impressive, with the 2020 BMW 3 Series and the 2021 Honda Accord each scoring 9 out of 10. The 3 Series offers advanced driving assistance systems through optional packages, though its fun-to-drive nature might make drivers prefer manual control. It also boasts a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS when equipped with adaptive full LED headlights. The Accord emphasizes safety across all trims, with the Honda Sensing suite of technologies standard, and achieves top ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA. Its comprehensive safety features and superior crash test performance affirm Honda's dedication to safety.
Cost Effectiveness
2020 BMW 3 Series
6/10
2021 Honda Accord
10/10
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By: CarGurus + AI

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