2020 Honda Accord vs 2021 Honda Accord

When new, the 2020 Honda Accord Touring emerged as a near-perfect family sedan. It boasts rakish good looks, delightful driving dynamics, a spacious back seat, a large trunk, and an array of tech features including Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and adaptive cruise control. It exemplified Honda's prowess in creating a vehicle that nearly perfects the balance between performance, comfort, and technology. For the 2021 model year, Honda refined the Accord with enhanced features, a new trim level, and competitive pricing, while prioritizing safety to earn high praise. The evolution represents Honda's commitment to maintaining the Accord's status as a top contender in the highly competitive midsize sedan market, adapting and improving to meet consumer demands and expectations.

Performance ratings from CarGurus reveal a slight edge for the 2021 model, with the 2020 Accord earning an 8 out of 10 and the 2021 model a 9 out of 10. The 2020 Accord's performance is highlighted by its standard turbocharged 1.5-liter engine and the more powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged option, offering a blend of efficiency and power. The hybrid powertrain option underscores Honda's focus on fuel economy without sacrificing performance. The adaptive dampers in the Touring trim enhance handling, providing a dynamic driving experience that balances fun and functionality. For 2021, Honda continues to offer two engine options, focusing on improving the idle stop performance for the 1.5-liter engine and maintaining the robust 2.0-liter turbocharged engine for those seeking more power. Despite the absence of all-wheel drive, the 2021 Accord's performance is characterized by its engaging drive dynamics and improved braking system, offering a balanced and enjoyable driving experience.

Both the 2020 and 2021 Honda Accord models score a 9 out of 10 in form and function, emphasizing Honda's commitment to practicality and comfort. The 2020 Accord excels in offering ample rear-seat legroom and cargo space, making it an ideal choice for families. Comfort features like the 12-way power driver's seat and heated outboard rear seats in the Touring trim contribute to its appeal. However, the absence of a seat height adjuster for the front passenger seat is a noted drawback. The 2021 Accord maintains its focus on daily drivability, with generous seating space, practical convenience features, and thoughtful interior appointments. The addition of features like a leather-wrapped steering wheel and heated seats in higher trims enhances the cabin's comfort and luxury.

CarGurus rates both models a 9 out of 10 for technology, highlighting Honda's investment in integrating advanced tech features into the Accord. The 2020 Accord features an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that stands out for its user-friendliness, connectivity options, and premium sound system in higher trims. However, the system's lack of natural voice recognition is a notable limitation. The 2021 model builds on the previous year's technology offerings, maintaining the 8-inch touchscreen while adding wireless connectivity options for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, among other tech upgrades. The Accord Touring 2.0T's inclusion of a head-up display and HomeLink Remote further enhance the technological sophistication of the 2021 Accord.

Safety ratings improve from an 8 out of 10 for the 2020 model to a 9 out of 10 for the 2021 model, reflecting Honda's ongoing efforts to enhance safety features. The 2020 Accord is highly rated by safety organizations, thanks to its comprehensive Honda Sensing suite of advanced driving assistance systems. While its safety features are commendable, there is room for refinement in systems like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. The 2021 Accord emphasizes safety with standard features across all trims and additional technologies in higher trims. Its top safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA, combined with improvements in standard and available safety features, reinforce the Accord's status as a safe family vehicle.

CarGurus rates the 2020 Accord a 7 out of 10 and the 2021 Accord a perfect 10 out of 10 in cost-effectiveness, indicating significant improvements in value for the newer model. Despite its higher initial cost and average warranty coverage, the 2020 Accord's long-term value lies in its durability, design, and driving experience. It's a vehicle that promises to be a reliable and enjoyable companion over the years. When new, the 2021 Accord's pricing structure was competitive within its segment, offering a range of trim levels and options to suit different budgets and preferences. As a used buy, its balance of features, performance, and technology presents a compelling value proposition, especially when considering the potential savings with the Accord Hybrid.