2020 Nissan Sentra vs 2021 Honda Accord

CarGurus rates the 2020 Nissan Sentra at 8 out of 10 for its look and feel, acknowledging the car's significant improvement over its predecessors. The 2020 model sheds the Sentra's historically dowdy appearance for a sleeker, more refined look. It borrows the poised stance of a rear-wheel-drive car and presents a memorable shape accentuated by detailed stampings and a mature, very recognizable V-shaped grille. The interior of the Sentra rivals those of much pricier cars, with quality materials like white-stitched leatherette across the dash and quilted leather on the seats available in the SV Premium Package. The 2021 Honda Accord, rated 9 out of 10, stands out with its mid-generation refresh, sporting a wider, restyled grille and more cohesive front-end design. LED headlights and lowlights enhance night visibility, while new alloy wheel designs and the Sonic Gray Pearl paint option add to its appeal. Inside, the Accord offers a sophisticated ambiance, with high-quality materials and thoughtful designs that enhance comfort and usability, from cloth seats in lower trims to full leather trim in higher models.

Performance ratings from CarGurus show a stark contrast: the 2020 Sentra scores 6 out of 10, while the 2021 Accord hits 9 out of 10. The Sentra's 2.0-liter engine and CVT provide decent acceleration and fuel efficiency, but it lacks the sportiness some drivers crave. The Accord, on the other hand, offers a choice between a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine and a more powerful 2.0-liter turbo-four, providing a balance between fuel efficiency and driving enjoyment.

## Form and Function Comparing the 2020 Nissan Sentra and the 2021 Honda Accord in terms of form and function reveals distinctive qualities that cater to varying preferences. Both vehicles demonstrate thoughtful design tailored to enhance daily usability and comfort, yet they serve their purposes with unique flair. The 2020 Nissan Sentra impresses with its unexpectedly spacious backseat, accommodating passengers comfortably without the cramped feeling often associated with compact sedans. This attribute is a testament to its design philosophy, prioritizing passenger comfort over mere aesthetics. The Sentra's front seats, featuring Nissan’s Zero Gravity cushioning, are designed to reduce muscle pressure and minimize fatigue, an advantage for long drives. Notably, the Sentra’s approach to visibility—with low windowsills enhancing side views, despite the challenge presented by a steeply raked rear window—underscores a commitment to functional design, even if it involves compromises. The vehicle's user-friendly control layout, with simple, intuitive knobs for audio and climate adjustments, echoes a bygone era's design sensibilities, appreciated for their straightforwardness. The Sentra's trunk space is generous for its class, measuring 14.3 cubic feet, offering ample storage for luggage and shopping hauls. The Sentra’s focus on functional essentials combined with a touch of modernity in its design makes it a compelling choice for those valuing practicality and ease of use. In contrast, the 2021 Honda Accord presents a blend of style and practicality, creating an ambiance that leans towards the upscale. It is designed with daily drivability in mind, ensuring that both driver and passengers experience comfort and convenience. The Accord excels in passenger space, with ample room for adults in both front and rear seats, supported by thoughtful features such as dual-zone automatic climate control and push-button start. The differentiation in trim levels brings variety in interior appointments and technology, enhancing the vehicle's appeal across a wider audience. The Accord's cargo space stands out, boasting 16.7 cubic feet in the trunk, surpassing many rivals and providing a substantial area for luggage and other items. This capacity, coupled with the rear 60/40 split seats, accentuates the Accord’s versatility, catering to various user needs from daily commutes to family road trips. The thoughtful cabin design, prioritizing accessibility and user-friendliness, alongside ample small-item storage solutions, further cements the Accord’s status as a top contender in its segment. The contrast in form and function between the Sentra and Accord illustrates their respective approaches to meeting driver and passenger needs. The Sentra focuses on basic comfort and usability, making it a straightforward, reliable choice. Meanwhile, the Accord elevates the driving experience with a blend of sophistication, space, and practicality, appealing to those seeking a more refined and versatile sedan.

Technology ratings again favor the Accord, scoring 9 out of 10 against the Sentra's 6. While the Sentra offers standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a suite of driver-assist features, it lacks some of the more advanced options available in competitors. The Accord steps up with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, additional USB ports, wireless connectivity options, and a premium audio system in higher trims.

Both vehicles score 9 out of 10 for safety, with comprehensive suites of driver-assist technologies. The 2020 Sentra includes advanced safety features as standard across all trims, anticipating top ratings from safety organizations. The Accord's safety credentials are bolstered by top ratings from IIHS and NHTSA, alongside a standard Honda Sensing suite of safety and driver-assist technologies.

The Sentra's affordability is highlighted by its 9 out of 10 rating, with a fully loaded model still costing thousands less than many competitors. The Accord, rated 10 out of 10, offers fair pricing across its trim levels, with options to suit different priorities, including power and fuel efficiency.