A perennial bestseller and award winner, the Accord is to sedans what Coke is to soda. And this 2021 Honda Accord, part of the 10th generation introduced in 2018, does what Honda does best – constant improvement. Refreshed styling on the outside, more standard tech options and additional safety systems round out the upgrades. Let’s take a closer look.

Though 3 years old, the 2021 Accord still looks fresh with its low-slung, almost fastback roofline. This year, the front grille is broader and available LED headlamps give drivers longer and wider road illumination. The Sport SE edition comes with a trunk lid spoiler and chrome exhaust tips. Pair this with the latest color, Sonic Gray Pearl, and a set of factory-issue 19″ bronze accented wheels. Then prepare for some extra attention from passersby.

Honda has devoted extra attention to the Hybrid Accord for 2021. They say the throttle response is now more direct thanks to electric motor updates. Noteworthy is the lack of heavy rare earth metals being used, a nice tip of the hat to folks keeping track of environmental issues. You can also opt for 19″ wheels on the Hybrid Touring trim, which helps move the “Hybrid Looks Needle” from dowdy to sporty. Plus, the Hybrid makes the most power and torque in its class at 212 horsepower and 232 lb-ft, while still achieving an impressive 48 mpg rating.

Inside, the 8″ touchscreen infotainment interface is now standard across all Accord models along with Apple Car Play and Android Auto integration. On higher trims, those Apple and Android features can be had with wireless capability. Those sitting up front can be treated to heated and ventilated leather seats while those relegated to the back may find heated cushions. Base trims come with a 4-speaker stereo system with a 10-speaker setup and Heads Up Display optional as you move up the trim ladder.

On the powertrain front, the 6-speed manual is gone for good and will be missed. However, the 10-speed automatic is known for being buttery smooth so not all is lost. There is also the CVT, which is standard with the 1.5-liter turbo four on LX, Sport, Sport SE and EX-L models. This smaller of the two available turbocharged 4-cylinder motors puts out 192 horsepower and a matching amount of torque. If you’re looking for more juice, tick the 2.0-liter box for 252 horses and 273 lb-ft. The larger power plant comes with the 10-speed auto and is standard issue in Touring models.

Honda Sensing, the standard package of safety systems, is expanded with Rear Seat Reminder. Using an audible chime and dashboard notification, drivers are reminded to verify the back seats are empty before leaving the vehicle. A new available feature is Low Speed Braking Control. Ideal for parking lots, this system identifies solid objects via sonar-based sensors. It will warn the driver and can apply the brakes if deemed necessary. Last but certainly not least, the 2021 Honda Accord has a 5 Star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration.

Sedans don’t get much glory these days as consumers continue to favor SUVs. But they’re worth looking at, especially the 2021 Honda Accord. Versus any SUV, you get a huge trunk, better driving dynamics thanks to a lower center of gravity and improved fuel efficiency due to lower weight. And Honda has not skimped on their flagship sedan. If anything, the 2021 Accord has gotten better every year including this one. Drivers Only scores the 2021 Honda Accord. Please check out the video above for more of George’s thoughts on this vehicle and to see where it ranks amongst its peers, please click here: Best Cars for 2020 & 2021.

VEHICLE TYPE
Front-engine, front-wheel drive, 5-passenger, 4-door seda

BASE PRICE
$25,725-$37,195

ENGINE

  • 16-valve DOHC 1.5-liter, turbocharged inline-4: 192 hp, 192 lb-ft
  • 16-valve DOHC 2.0 liter, turbocharged inline-4: 252 hp, 273 lb-ft
  • 16-valve DOHC 2.0 liter, inline-4 + electric motor: 212 hp, 232 lb-ft

TRANSMISSION

  • 10-speed automatic
  • Continuously variable automatic

DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 111.4 in
L/W/H: 192.2/73.3/57.1 in
Curb Weight: 3298 lb

PERFORMANCE
0-60 mph: 5.5 sec
1/4 mile: 14.1 sec @ 102 mph
Top Speed: 126 mph
*2018 2.0 liter engine

EPA FUEL ECONOMY
City/Highway/Combined: 30/38/33 mpg