2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid vs 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid carried over the bold design introduced in the previous model year, making it a standout in the sedan market. Its exterior, with a matte gray paint scheme and aerodynamic features, was designed to catch the eye, though some found the styling reminiscent of a catfish. Inside, the cabin was more conventional, offering a refined and comfortable environment with soft-touch surfaces and a modern infotainment system. The Sonata Hybrid was available in three trims: Blue, SEL, and Limited, each offering a range of features from basic comforts to high-tech amenities like a solar panel roof and a head-up display.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid was praised for its proportionate and stylish design, with minor updates to the front styling and new wheel options for the Touring trim. The Lunar Silver paint on the test model added a sophisticated touch, though the wheels required extra maintenance to keep clean. The Accord's interior was spacious and upscale, with high-quality materials and logically arranged controls. The cabin offered excellent visibility and a comfortable driving experience, with a focus on practicality and user-friendly features.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid featured a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined 192 horsepower through a six-speed automatic transmission. The Limited trim's solar panel roof added a unique touch, contributing to the vehicle's overall driving range. The Sonata Hybrid offered solid acceleration and a smooth transition between electric and gas power, with multiple drive modes to suit different driving styles. The steering was light yet precise, and the brakes provided a refined feel, making for an enjoyable driving experience.

The 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid, on the other hand, boasted a more powerful two-motor hybrid system, combining a 2.0-liter engine with an electric drive motor to produce 212 horsepower and 232 pound-feet of torque. This setup allowed for quick acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of 6.5 seconds. The Accord Hybrid offered three operational modes and additional driver-selectable modes for tailored performance. Despite some droning under full-throttle acceleration, the powertrain was refined, and the Touring trim's larger wheels provided enhanced handling. The Accord Hybrid achieved impressive fuel economy, with the Touring trim averaging 42.8 mpg.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid offered 16 cubic feet of trunk space, matching its non-hybrid counterpart and providing ample room for a midsize sedan. The cabin was spacious, with comfortable seating for four adults, though the sloping roofline made rear entry slightly challenging. Interior storage included door pockets and a center console, with a wireless charging pad available in higher trims.

The 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid excelled in interior space, offering a full-size sedan experience with a roomy cabin and a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat. The Touring trim added heated and ventilated front seats and heated rear seats. Storage options were generous, with a large center console and door bins. The Accord Hybrid's trunk was the largest in its class at 16.7 cubic feet, with 60/40 split-folding rear seats for added versatility.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with the Limited trim upgrading to a 10.25-inch screen with navigation. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though CarPlay only occupied part of the larger screen. The system featured intuitive controls, a volume knob, and haptic buttons, with a wireless charging pad and head-up display available in higher trims.

The 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid made its 8-inch touchscreen standard across all trims, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto included. The EX trim added wireless connectivity and quick-charge USB ports. The EX-L trim offered a premium sound system, while the Touring trim included navigation and a WiFi hotspot. The system required specific voice commands, which could be a limitation for some users.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid was equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Limited trim added a head-up display and parking sensors. The Sonata Hybrid earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick.

The 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid aimed to improve its safety ratings with redesigned LED headlights and standard driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The Touring trim added low-speed braking control. While the Honda Sensing system was effective, some features could be more refined. The Accord Hybrid did not achieve a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS due to headlight issues.