2020 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2021 Honda Accord
Overview | |
MSRP$21,500 | MSRP$24,970 |
Listings164 | Listings1289 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews7.8 out of 10 | Expert reviews9.2 out of 10 |
Pros
Cons
| Pros
Cons
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2020 Mazda MAZDA3 Reviews SummaryMazda redesigned the Mazda3 in 2019, taking what was already one of the best-looking compact cars on the market, and attempting to dress it up even further. The goal was to elevate the brand into near-luxury territory. While the 2020 Mazda3 may not compete on the same plane as a Mercedes-Benz CLA-class or a BMW 2 Series, it feels undeniably premium when benchmarked against more mass-market competitors. | |
2021 Honda Accord Reviews SummaryFor 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 | |
Engine2.5L 186 hp I4 | Engine1.5L 192 hp I4 |
Drive TrainFWD | Drive TrainFWD |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity5 |
Horsepower186 hp @ 6000 rpm | Horsepower192 hp @ 5500 rpm |
MPG City27 | MPG City30 |
MPG Highway36 | MPG Highway38 |
Engine | |
Engine Name2.5L 186 hp I4 | Engine Name1.5L 192 hp I4 |
Torque186 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm | Torque192 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm |
Horsepower186 hp @ 6000 rpm | Horsepower192 hp @ 5500 rpm |
DrivetrainFWD | DrivetrainFWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City27 | MPG City30 |
MPG Highway36 | MPG Highway38 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity5 |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall5 | Front Crash Overall5 |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space13.2 cu ft | Cargo Space16.7 cu ft |
Curb Weight3071 lbs | Curb Weight3150 lbs |
Height56.9 in | Height57.1 in |
Length183.5 in | Length196.1 in |
Width70.7 in | Width73.3 in |
Wheelbase107.3 in | Wheelbase111.4 in |
Maximum Payload1008 lbs | Maximum Payload1149 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Overview | ||
MSRP | $21,500 | $24,970 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | ||
Expert reviews | 7.8 out of 10Read full review | 9.2 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
Cons
| Pros
Cons
|
Summary | Mazda redesigned the Mazda3 in 2019, taking what was already one of the best-looking compact cars on the market, and attempting to dress it up even further. The goal was to elevate the brand into near-luxury territory. While the 2020 Mazda3 may not compete on the same plane as a Mercedes-Benz CLA-class or a BMW 2 Series, it feels undeniably premium when benchmarked against more mass-market competitors. | 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 | 2.5L 186 hp I4 | 1.5L 192 hp I4 |
Drive Train | FWD | FWD |
Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Horsepower | 186 hp @ 6000 rpm | 192 hp @ 5500 rpm |
MPG City | 27 | 30 |
MPG Highway | 36 | 38 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 2.5L 186 hp I4 | 1.5L 192 hp I4 |
Torque | 186 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm | 192 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm |
Horsepower | 186 hp @ 6000 rpm | 192 hp @ 5500 rpm |
Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 27 | 30 |
MPG Highway | 36 | 38 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 13.2 cu ft | 16.7 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 3071 lbs | 3150 lbs |
Height | 56.9 in | 57.1 in |
Length | 183.5 in | 196.1 in |
Width | 70.7 in | 73.3 in |
Wheelbase | 107.3 in | 111.4 in |
Maximum Payload | 1008 lbs | 1149 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
Look and feel
CarGurus experts have given both the 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 and the 2021 Honda Accord a high rating of 9 out of 10 for their look and feel, indicating both vehicles offer a premium aesthetic and driving experience. The Mazda3, available in sedan and hatchback body styles, is praised for its special design, particularly the hatchback's unique silhouette and curves. The sedan's Premium Package features an all-wheel-drive option, 18-inch alloy wheels, a stunning blacked-out mesh front grille, and beautiful round running lamps, though its rear dimensions can appear slightly disproportionate. Inside, the Mazda3 showcases a minimalist, premium design with high-quality materials and a driver-focused layout, though the sheet metal feels less robust compared to more expensive luxury sedans.
In contrast, the 2021 Honda Accord, part of a classic rivalry, received a mid-generation refresh for a more contemporary and sculpted appearance. Available in six trim levels, it offers fresh styling with a wider, restyled grille, better-disguised Honda Sensing safety system radar, and new alloy wheel designs across almost all trims. The Accord's interior boasts sophistication even in lower trim levels, with high-quality materials and a more premium feel than some competitors. New for 2021 is the Sonic Gray Pearl paint, adding a unique touch to the car's appearance.
Performance
Performance ratings from CarGurus show a divergence between the two models, with the 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 scoring 7 out of 10 and the 2021 Honda Accord a higher 9 out of 10. The Mazda3's redesign in 2019 introduced a cheaper torsion beam rear suspension, which, while cost-effective, slightly compromises the car's sporty feel compared to a multi-link suspension. Nevertheless, its precise steering and minimal roll through corners provide a solid driving experience. The Mazda3 uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, offering 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, with a manual transmission option limited to specific configurations.
The Honda Accord provides two engine options: a 192-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine for most trims, and a more powerful 252-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo-four available in higher trims. The Accord does not offer all-wheel drive, differentiating its fuel economy between engine types. The 1.5-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 30 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway, while the 2.0-liter engine offers a more engaging drive at the cost of fuel efficiency.
Form and function
In the realm of form and function, the 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 presents a compact yet refined space that comfortably accommodates its occupants. The sedan's overall length stretches to 183.5 inches, resting on a 107.3-inch wheelbase, with the hatchback being even more compact at 175.6 inches. Despite these dimensions, the vehicle offers ample room inside, ensuring driver comfort with plenty of headroom. However, rear legroom can be tight, though the soft front seatbacks mitigate this discomfort slightly. One notable drawback is the large transmission hump that intrudes into the cabin space, potentially inconveniencing middle-seat passengers in both the front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations. When it comes to cargo, the MAZDA3's trunk capacity stands at 13.2 cubic feet for the sedan and expands to 20.1 cubic feet for the hatchback version, offering flexibility but falling on the smaller side for its class.
On the other hand, the 2021 Honda Accord emphasizes daily functionality with a design that marries style and practicality. It comfortably seats five adults, with ample head-, hip-, and legroom for both front and rear occupants. The Accord enhances practicality with a bevy of standard convenience features across all trim levels. Cargo capacity is a strong point for the Accord, boasting 16.7 cubic feet in the trunk, which surpasses many competitors in the midsize sedan segment, providing a more accommodating space for luggage and other items. This focus on space and convenience underlines the Accord's suitability for a wide range of driving needs, from daily commutes to family road trips, solidifying its standing in form and function comparison.
Technology
In technology, the 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 is rated 8 out of 10, while the 2021 Honda Accord receives a 9 out of 10 from CarGurus. The Mazda3 features an 8.8-inch infotainment display controlled by a rotary dial, eliminating touch functionality for safety reasons. The system includes standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Honda Accord's technology suite is anchored by an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, responsive to touch commands, and supplemented by physical volume and tuning knobs. Standard features across all trims include Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with higher trims adding more advanced features.
Safety
Safety ratings highlight a key strength for both vehicles, with the 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 scoring a perfect 10 out of 10 and the 2021 Honda Accord receiving a 9 out of 10. The Mazda3 is recognized for its top safety ratings from both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and includes a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. Similarly, the Honda Accord comes equipped with a robust array of safety features, including the Honda Sensing suite, achieving top safety ratings and offering peace of mind for families.
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 is 7.8 out of 10, while the 2021 Honda Accord scores 9.2 out of 10. Given the higher overall rating, the 2021 Honda Accord is the recommended choice for most consumers, offering superior performance, form and function, technology, and cost-effectiveness.
Choose the 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 if:
- You appreciate unique and eye-catching design in both sedan and hatchback forms.
- Interior quality and a premium feel are high priorities for you.
- You prefer a more engaging driving experience with available manual transmission.
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Choose the 2021 Honda Accord if:
- You value a balance of performance, comfort, and technology in a midsize sedan.
- Practicality and spaciousness for passengers and cargo are important.
- You seek a vehicle with high safety ratings and a comprehensive suite of standard features.
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CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 is 7.8 out of 10, while the 2021 Honda Accord scores 9.2 out of 10. Given the higher overall rating, the 2021 Honda Accord is the recommended choice for most consumers, offering superior performance, form and function, technology, and cost-effectiveness.
Choose the 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 if:
Shop Now- You appreciate unique and eye-catching design in both sedan and hatchback forms.
- Interior quality and a premium feel are high priorities for you.
- You prefer a more engaging driving experience with available manual transmission.
163 results
Choose the 2021 Honda Accord if:
Shop Now- You value a balance of performance, comfort, and technology in a midsize sedan.
- Practicality and spaciousness for passengers and cargo are important.
- You seek a vehicle with high safety ratings and a comprehensive suite of standard features.
1290 results
By: CarGurus + AI
At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.
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