2020 Dodge Charger vs 2021 Honda Accord

The Dodge Charger and the Honda Accord don’t often come up in the same conversation, but both are household names for a reason, and the comparison is worthwhile for shoppers. The 2020 Dodge Charger embodied a unique blend of modern performance and practicality, offering a sedan format that contrasts with its more traditional muscle car relatives. It combined a range of powerful engines, the availability of all-wheel drive, and modern tech features, making it a standout in the sedan market. Its versatility meant it competed across a spectrum, from family sedans to sports cars, depending on the trim. The 2021 Honda Accord took a refined approach, with enhancements across the board to compete in a tough segment. Safety was a priority, earning it high praise, and it introduced a new trim level and competitive pricing to stay ahead in the race. It's a testament to Honda's commitment to balancing premium features with affordability.

Both the 2020 Dodge Charger and the 2021 Honda Accord receive a 9 out of 10 rating from CarGurus experts in performance. The Charger offers a variety of engines, from a competent V6 to the high-powered Hellcat V8, delivering a spectrum of performance options. Its rear-wheel-drive layout and available widebody variants enhance its driving dynamics, making it a thrilling choice for enthusiasts. The Accord provides two turbocharged engine options, focusing on a balance of efficiency and power. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) and 10-speed automatic transmission options cater to different driving preferences, with the larger engine offering more engaging performance. Despite its more conservative approach compared to the Charger, the Accord's handling and braking systems deliver a refined driving experience.

CarGurus experts rate both the 2020 Dodge Charger and the 2021 Honda Accord 9 out of 10 for form and function, highlighting their practicality alongside their distinct styles. The Dodge Charger distinguishes itself with ample space, providing a comfortable environment for both front and rear passengers. Its design ensures that rear seats are more than an afterthought, offering plenty of legroom. The Charger's trunk is notably spacious, offering 16.5 cubic feet of luggage capacity, which is impressive for performance-oriented sedans and above average for the large family sedan category. It features a standard 60/40 split-fold rear bench, enhancing its utility by allowing for even more storage space. The Honda Accord was crafted with daily usability in mind, blending style and practicality seamlessly. It accommodates five adults comfortably, ensuring ample head-, hip-, and legroom across both rows. The Accord shines in its thoughtful design, equipped with standard convenience features like dual-zone automatic climate control and push-button start. It also excels in cargo capacity, boasting 16.7 cubic feet in the trunk, slightly edging out the Charger. This makes the Accord exceptionally competitive in the midsize sedan segment, offering one of the largest trunks available. Both vehicles provide a commendable balance of form and function, but the Accord's slight advantage in trunk space may appeal to those prioritizing cargo capacity.

Technology ratings stand at 9 out of 10 for both the Charger and the Accord. The Charger's Uconnect system is user-friendly, offering seamless integration with smartphones and a variety of customizable settings. The Accord's infotainment system is equally impressive, with a responsive touchscreen and a comprehensive suite of standard and available tech features, including wireless connectivity options for higher trims.

Safety ratings from CarGurus experts are 8 out of 10 for the Charger and 9 out of 10 for the Accord. The Charger offers a solid array of standard and available safety features, with high marks from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for its crash-prevention technology. The Accord, however, sets a high standard with its comprehensive Honda Sensing suite, earning top ratings from both the IIHS and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), reflecting Honda's commitment to safety.

The 2020 Dodge Charger scores an 8 out of 10, while the 2021 Honda Accord earns a perfect 10 out of 10 for cost effectiveness from CarGurus experts. The Charger's fuel economy lags behind more efficient sedans, but its range of performance options offers value for enthusiasts. The Accord's competitive pricing, efficient engines, and high resale value make it an appealing choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a blend of performance and practicality.