2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid vs 2021 Honda Accord

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, while the interior offered a more conventional and refined experience. The cabin was equipped with soft-touch surfaces and a modern infotainment system, providing comfort and support for both front and rear passengers. The Sonata Hybrid was available in three trims: Blue, SEL, and Limited, each offering a range of features from basic amenities to high-end options like a solar panel roof and leather upholstery.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda Accord received a mid-generation refresh, enhancing its already sophisticated appearance. The Accord's styling updates included a wider grille and new wheel designs, contributing to a more cohesive look. The interior was spacious and well-appointed, with high-quality materials and a range of convenience features. The Accord was available in six trims, with the Sport SE being a new addition for 2021. This model offered leather-trimmed seats and other premium features, while the top-tier Touring trim provided a more luxurious experience with ventilated seats and a power moonroof.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid was powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined 192 horsepower. This powertrain provided solid acceleration and a smooth driving experience, with multiple drive modes to suit different driving styles. The Limited trim featured a solar panel roof, adding a small boost to the vehicle's range. The Sonata Hybrid's steering was precise, and its brakes offered a refined pedal feel, making it a pleasant car to drive.

The 2021 Honda Accord offered two engine options: a 192-horsepower 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and a more powerful 252-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo-four. The smaller engine was paired with a CVT, while the larger one came with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Accord's driving dynamics were engaging, with smooth acceleration and precise steering. The 1.5-liter engine provided excellent fuel economy, while the 2.0-liter engine offered a more spirited driving experience. The Accord's braking system was upgraded for 2021, providing smooth and measured performance.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid offered 16 cubic feet of trunk space, making it one of the larger options among midsize hybrid sedans. The cabin provided ample legroom for front passengers and decent rear-seat space, although the sloping roofline could make entry and exit slightly challenging. The interior featured convenient storage options, including door pockets and a center console.

The 2021 Honda Accord boasted a spacious interior with comfortable seating for five adults. The trunk offered 16.7 cubic feet of cargo space, surpassing most midsize sedans. The cabin was thoughtfully designed, with all controls within easy reach of the driver. The rear seats featured a 60/40 split, allowing for additional cargo flexibility. While small-item storage was not exceptional, it was adequate for everyday use.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while the Limited trim featured a larger 10.25-inch screen with navigation. The system was intuitive, with crisp graphics and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Limited trim also included a wireless charging pad and a head-up display, although the latter had limited adjustability for taller drivers.

The 2021 Honda Accord featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen with physical volume and tuning knobs. Standard technology included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and two USB ports. Higher trims added features like a wireless phone charger, premium audio system, and a head-up display. The Accord's infotainment system was responsive and user-friendly, providing a seamless tech experience.

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 a 360-degree parking monitor. The Sonata Hybrid earned top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, making it a reliable choice for safety-conscious buyers.

The 2021 Honda Accord also prioritized safety, with standard features like vehicle stability assist, brake assist, and a rearview camera. The Honda Sensing suite included lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and traffic sign recognition. Higher trims offered additional features like blind-spot monitoring and parking sensors. The Accord received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers.