2021 Honda Accord vs 2021 Nissan Sentra

The 2021 Honda Accord takes a more elevated direction with refined features, added safety, and competitive pricing, earning high praise across the board. On the other side, the 2021 Nissan Sentra emerges as a top choice in the compact sedan class with its blend of safety, technology, and appealing design following its recent makeover, signaling its maturity into a smart choice for buyers.

Experts give the 2021 Honda Accord a 9 out of 10 and the 2021 Nissan Sentra a 6 out of 10 for performance. The Accord offers two engines: a 192-horsepower 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and a 252-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo-four, both with impressive fuel economy and engaging driving dynamics. Meanwhile, the Sentra is powered by a 149-horsepower 2.0-liter engine, providing adequate performance and fuel economy for its class, along with a well-tuned CVT and tidy road manners.

The 2021 Honda Accord was meticulously designed with daily drivability in mind, showcasing a harmonious blend of style and practicality. It comfortably seats five adults, with ample head-, hip-, and legroom in both the front and rear seats, ensuring a comfortable ride for all passengers. The Accord distinguishes itself with a host of standard convenience features, such as dual-zone automatic climate control and push-button start, across all trim levels. The higher trims, including Accord Sport and up, come standard with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, with the higher-end models also featuring two-position seating memory and heated seats. The rear seats offer a 60/40 split and center armrest, folding down to facilitate pass-through from the trunk, which boasts an impressive 16.7 cubic feet of cargo space, outmatching most midsize sedans in its class. The 2021 Nissan Sentra shines in its execution of functional design, from the well-placed infotainment touchscreen display to the neatly arranged controls within the driver's reach. Nissan sticks to a traditional layout, enhancing the user experience with straightforward accessibility and comfort. The Sentra's interior is thoughtfully arranged to maximize passenger comfort, including Nissan's renowned Zero Gravity front seats for long-distance comfort. Additionally, the Sentra features a practical cargo solution with a trunk capacity of up to 14.3 cubic feet, accommodating a reasonable amount of luggage for its class. This, combined with the Sentra's focus on comfort and ergonomics, positions it as a highly functional vehicle in the compact sedan market. Both vehicles excel in their respective classes, with the Honda Accord offering slightly more in terms of cargo space and passenger comfort, appealing to those who prioritize spaciousness and practicality. Meanwhile, the Nissan Sentra provides a competitive package with ample room and an emphasis on ergonomic design, making it an attractive option for those seeking functionality and comfort in a more compact form.

Technology ratings are 9 out of 10 for the Accord and 7 out of 10 for the Sentra. The Accord features an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen with comprehensive connectivity options across all grades. The Nissan Sentra provides solid technology offerings, including an 8-inch touchscreen for higher trims, but lacks some of the more advanced features available in the Accord.

Safety ratings are 9 out of 10 for the Accord and 8 out of 10 for the Sentra. The Accord boasts an impressive array of standard safety features, earning top ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Sentra also comes well-equipped with safety features, receiving high ratings from safety organizations, highlighting its commitment to passenger protection.

CarGurus experts rate the Accord's cost-effectiveness at 10 out of 10 and the Sentra's at 8 out of 10. The Accord's pricing is competitive, with a range of trims to suit various budgets, while offering excellent fuel economy and features for the price. The Sentra presents a strong value proposition, with a straightforward trim lineup and competitive pricing, especially appealing for first-time buyers or those seeking a reliable and attractive compact sedan.