2020 Honda Accord Hybrid vs 2021 Toyota Prius

The 2020 Honda Accord Hybrid was nearly indistinguishable from its non-hybrid counterparts, with subtle "Hybrid" badges and aerodynamic 17-inch aluminum wheels as the only visual differentiators. Honda's decision to maintain the Accord's familiar design was a strategic move, avoiding the polarizing aesthetics often associated with hybrid models. The Accord Hybrid was available in four trims: Hybrid, Hybrid EX, Hybrid EX-L, and Hybrid Touring, with prices starting at $25,620. The Hybrid EX trim, priced at $29,520, was recommended for its comprehensive driver-assistance and infotainment features, including a 12-way power driver's seat and heated front seats. The interior, especially with leather and matte-finish wood trim, exuded an upscale feel, though the floor mats were notorious for attracting pet hair.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Prius retained its iconic boomerang-shaped design, a hallmark since the 2004 model. Despite advancements in aerodynamic vehicle design, the Prius's styling remained a defining feature, though not universally admired. The interior was unconventional, with a central dashboard display and unique transmission controls. The Prius was offered in L Eco, LE, XLE, 2020 Edition, and Limited trims, with an optional AWD-e system for LE and XLE. Prices ranged from $24,525 to $32,650. The Prius 2020 Edition, tested at $31,295, featured a five-door hatchback design, offering significant utility akin to a crossover SUV, albeit without the rugged aesthetics.

The 2020 Honda Accord Hybrid delivered impressive fuel efficiency, achieving 42.6 mpg in real-world testing, slightly below the EPA's 48 mpg estimate. Its 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, paired with a two-motor hybrid powertrain, produced 212 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque, outperforming the standard 1.5-liter turbocharged engine. Despite a 200-pound weight penalty, the Accord Hybrid was quick off the line, especially in Sport mode, though the eCVT's drone was noticeable during hard acceleration. The car's handling was generally composed, with predictable ride motions and natural-feeling regenerative brakes, though it occasionally lost composure on uneven roads.

The 2021 Toyota Prius prioritized fuel economy, with the L Eco trim achieving 56 mpg according to the EPA. Other FWD models were rated at 52 mpg, while AWD-e versions managed 49 mpg. The Prius 2020 Edition averaged 47.5 mpg in testing. Its 1.8-liter engine and 53-kilowatt electric motor produced a modest 121 horsepower, but the electric motor's torque provided a lively feel at low speeds. The Prius excelled in urban environments, where its efficiency shone. On twisty roads, the TNGA platform offered a lower center of gravity and a slot-car feel, though the steering lacked feedback, and the powertrain drone was prominent during acceleration.

The 2020 Honda Accord Hybrid offered a spacious interior and trunk, matching the standard Accord's family-friendly design. The backseat provided excellent thigh support and rear air-conditioning vents, though front-seat track travel was limited. The seats were comfortable, with heating and ventilation available in Touring trim. The 16.7-cubic-foot trunk was larger than competitors, accommodating four full-size suitcases and additional items. A 60/40 split-folding rear seatback added versatility, though a hatchback design would have enhanced utility.

The 2021 Toyota Prius, often perceived as small, surprised with its roomy interior, accommodating up to five passengers. The SofTex synthetic leather seats were comfortable but tended to trap sweat. The rear seats offered adequate space, though lacked air-conditioning vents. Cargo capacity varied by trim, with 24.6 to 27.4 cubic feet available behind the rear seats and up to 50.7 cubic feet with the seats folded. The hatchback design provided significant utility, though the low seating position made entry and exit challenging.

The 2020 Honda Accord Hybrid, in EX trim or higher, featured a user-friendly Display Audio infotainment system with intuitive controls and clear graphics. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and quick-charge USB ports. The EX-L trim added a premium sound system, while Touring offered navigation, a wireless charger, NFC, and a WiFi hotspot. HondaLink services included Amazon package delivery, a stolen-vehicle locator, and remote vehicle access. The voice-recognition system needed improvement, but the head-up display was a useful addition.

The 2021 Toyota Prius came with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth, SiriusXM, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The Limited trim featured a 10-speaker JBL sound system and an 11.6-inch touchscreen, though it lacked Android Auto. The digital instrumentation was dated, with basic graphics. Safety Connect services were standard, providing emergency assistance and a stolen vehicle locator.

The 2020 Honda Accord Hybrid included Honda Sensing, a suite of ADAS features such as adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The system was refined, with smooth adaptive cruise control. EX trim and higher added blind-spot monitoring. The Accord received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, though only Touring trims with LED headlights earned a Top Safety Pick.

The 2021 Toyota Prius featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, standard across all trims, with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The system worked well, though the lane-keeping assist added artificiality to the steering. Safety Connect services were free for three years. The IIHS rated the Prius favorably, though it lacked a Top Safety Pick designation due to headlight and front-passenger protection issues. The NHTSA did not rate the 2021 model.