2020 Honda Accord Hybrid vs 2021 BMW 5 Series

The 2020 Honda Accord Hybrid was visually indistinguishable from its non-hybrid counterparts, save for subtle "Hybrid" badges and aerodynamic 17-inch aluminum wheels. This design choice was strategic, avoiding the off-putting aesthetics often associated with hybrid models. The Accord Hybrid maintained the sleek, modern look of the standard Accord, appealing to those who appreciated the existing design. Available in four trims—Hybrid, Hybrid EX, Hybrid EX-L, and Hybrid Touring—the Accord Hybrid offered a range of features at competitive prices, starting at $25,620. The Hybrid EX trim, priced at $29,520, was particularly recommended for its comprehensive driver-assistance and infotainment technologies, along with heated front seats and mirrors. The interior, especially with leather and matte-finish wood trim, exuded an upscale feel, though the floor mats were notably difficult to clean of pet hair.

In contrast, the 2021 BMW 5 Series boasted a restrained design, lacking the flamboyance of other BMW models. The 5 Series received a minor styling refresh, enhancing its sleekness with streamlined LED headlights and a larger, yet tastefully sized, twin-kidney grille. Additional updates included trapezoidal tailpipes and new bumpers for the M Sport Package. The interior retained the classic BMW layout, with distinctive design elements that reinforced the brand's identity. While the base models featured standard SensaTec upholstery, higher trims offered luxurious Dakota and Nappa leather options. The 540i xDrive test car, with its Nappa leather and aluminum trim, provided a high-end feel, though the sporty steering wheel seemed out of place in the otherwise luxurious interior.

The 2020 Honda Accord Hybrid excelled in fuel efficiency, achieving an EPA estimate of 48 mpg in combined driving. During testing, it delivered 42.6 mpg in real-world conditions, with city and suburban driving yielding 44.1 mpg. The hybrid powertrain, consisting of a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and two electric motors, produced 212 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque. Despite a 200-pound weight penalty, the Accord Hybrid was quick off the line, especially in Sport mode, though the eCVT transmission emitted a noticeable drone under hard acceleration. The car's handling was generally predictable and composed, though it occasionally struggled on uneven surfaces.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series offered a diverse range of powertrains. The base 530i featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 248 horsepower, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.9 seconds. The 540i, with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six and a 48-volt mild hybrid system, delivered 335 horsepower and 362 lb-ft of torque, reaching 60 mph in 4.9 seconds. The 540i xDrive test car impressed with its precise handling and smooth engine, though it lacked the visceral driving experience of past BMWs. For those seeking more power, the M550i and M5 offered V8 engines with up to 617 horsepower. Additionally, the 530e plug-in hybrid provided an eco-friendly option with a 21-mile electric range.

The 2020 Honda Accord Hybrid offered a spacious interior and trunk, matching the standard Accord's family-friendly design. The rear seat provided excellent thigh support and amenities like air-conditioning vents and USB ports. However, front-seat track travel was limited, potentially causing discomfort for taller drivers. The trunk, at 16.7 cubic feet, was larger than competitors, accommodating multiple suitcases and other items. The 60/40 split-folding rear seatback added versatility, though a hatchback design would have enhanced utility.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series, available only as a sedan in the U.S., provided ample space for passengers and cargo. The front seats were competitive, while the rear seats, though slightly smaller on paper, offered sufficient room. The 540i's trunk, at 14.0 cubic feet, surpassed rivals like the Audi A6 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The test car featured 16-way power front seats with various adjustments, though forward visibility was hindered by the long hood. A surround-view camera system aided parking maneuvers.

The 2020 Honda Accord Hybrid, in EX trim or higher, featured a user-friendly Display Audio infotainment system with intuitive controls and vibrant graphics. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various radio options. Higher trims added premium sound, navigation, and advanced connectivity features like a WiFi hotspot and HondaLink services. While voice recognition needed improvement, the system integrated well with daily driving, and the Touring trim's head-up display was a practical addition.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series came equipped with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and digital instrument cluster, both offering excellent graphics. The iDrive 7 system, controlled via a rotary knob, was intuitive and complemented by voice and gesture controls. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. However, the instrument cluster's layout could be confusing, with a power meter replacing the tachometer in non-sport modes.

The 2020 Honda Accord Hybrid included Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The system was refined, offering smooth operation. Additional safety features included automatic high beams and a multi-angle reversing camera. The Accord earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, though only Touring trims with LED headlights received a Top Safety Pick designation.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series, while not yet tested by the IIHS for 2021, received a Top Safety Pick+ award for the 2020 model. Standard safety features included lane-departure warning and blind-spot monitoring. The Driving Assistance Plus Package added adaptive cruise control and other advanced features. BMW's driver-assist tech was noted for its sophistication and smooth operation, particularly in traffic-jam situations.