2021 Honda Accord vs 2022 Lexus ES

CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Honda Accord a solid 9 out of 10 for its look and feel, while the 2022 Lexus ES receives a 7 out of 10. The Honda Accord's mid-generation refresh for 2021 brings a wider, restyled grille and a more sculpted face, alongside improvements to the Honda Sensing safety system's radar unit integration. LED headlights and new alloy wheel designs enhance its appearance, along with the introduction of the Sonic Gray Pearl paint option. Inside, the Accord offers high-quality materials even in lower trims, with the Sport SE adding upscale touches like leather-trimmed seats and a variety of convenient features. The Lexus ES, despite its elegance and sleek roofline, struggles with a design that may not appeal to everyone. Its spindle grille and assertive headlamp shapes are distinctive, yet the interior layout appears asymmetrical and somewhat cluttered. The F Sport model attempts to inject sportiness with two-tone leather seating, but the overall effect might feel mismatched to some.

On performance, the 2021 Honda Accord is rated 9 out of 10, surpassing the 2022 Lexus ES, which scores a 6 out of 10. The Accord offers two engine choices: a 192-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder and a more potent 252-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo-four. Despite lacking an all-wheel-drive option, the Accord impresses with its fuel efficiency and engaging driving dynamics. The Lexus ES provides three powertrain options, including the base ES 250 AWD's 203-horsepower four-cylinder engine, the ES 350's 307-horsepower V6, and the ES 300h hybrid variant. While the V6 and hybrid models offer more compelling performance and fuel economy figures, the base ES 250's acceleration feels underwhelming for its class.

When it comes to practicality and comfort, both vehicles have their strengths, but they approach form and function differently. The 2021 Honda Accord stands out with a spacious cargo area offering 16.7 cubic feet for luggage, which is among the best in its segment. Its cabin is thoughtfully designed, emphasizing ease of use and passenger comfort, from the intuitively placed controls to the generous legroom in both rows. On the other hand, the 2022 Lexus ES features a trunk with 13.9 cubic feet of space for luggage, making it slightly less accommodating for cargo compared to the Accord. However, the Lexus compensates with its meticulously crafted interior that offers practical storage solutions and a focus on luxury. Its design prioritizes a lower center of gravity and refined handling, making it a joy to drive despite the smaller cargo capacity. In summary, while the Honda Accord takes the lead in cargo space and ergonomic design, the Lexus ES excels in delivering a premium driving experience with a touch of luxury, balancing form with function in its unique way.

In technology, the 2021 Honda Accord scores a 9 out of 10, while the 2022 Lexus ES receives a 7 out of 10. The Accord's infotainment system is intuitive and feature-rich, even in its base form. Upgraded trims add luxurious tech amenities, maintaining Honda's reputation for integrating advanced technology seamlessly. The Lexus ES's infotainment setup includes a base 8-inch touchscreen, with options for a larger display and premium audio systems. However, the Lexus infotainment system's reliance on a touchpad interface may detract from its overall usability, especially on rough roads.

Safety ratings are a strong suit for both models, with the 2021 Honda Accord and the 2022 Lexus ES each scoring a 9 out of 10. The Accord and ES boast impressive arrays of standard safety features and have earned top marks from both the IIHS and NHTSA. Each vehicle incorporates advanced driver-assistance technologies to enhance occupant safety effectively.

The 2021 Honda Accord outshines the 2022 Lexus ES in cost-effectiveness, scoring a perfect 10 out of 10 against the ES's 6 out of 10. The Accord offers a range of trims at competitive prices, along with impressive fuel economy figures that appeal to budget-conscious buyers. Conversely, the Lexus ES starts at a higher price point, and while it offers luxury and brand prestige, its value proposition is challenged by similarly equipped yet more affordable alternatives.