The 2021 Honda Accord remains one of the most popular and well-rounded midsize sedans you can buy. If you’re considering this model, here is 2021 Honda Accord – All You Need to Know to make an informed decision.
This guide covers everything from its powerful yet efficient engines to its spacious interior and advanced safety tech. We’ll look at the different trim levels, what features you get, and how it drives. Whether you want a reliable family car or a comfortable commuter, the Accord deserves your attention.
2021 Honda Accord – All You Need to Know
The 2021 Honda Accord sits at the sweet spot of the sedan market. It offers a compelling mix of style, practicality, and value that few competitors can match. For this model year, Honda made some key updates to keep it fresh and competitive.
You’ll find new standard features, refreshed styling, and the same dependable performance. Let’s break down all the details.
What’s New for the 2021 Model Year?
Honda didn’t reinvent the wheel for 2021, but the updates are meaningful. The changes improve the car’s look, tech, and overall appeal.
* Refreshed Exterior Styling: The front and rear bumpers have been redesigned for a sharper, more modern appearance. New wheel designs are available across the range.
* Updated Infotainment: The base LX trim now gets a much-improved 8-inch touchscreen, replacing the older 7-inch display. This system is faster and easier to use.
New Standard Features: Honda Sensing, the suite of driver-assistance features, is now standard on every trim, including the LX. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard on EX-L and Touring trims.
* New Sport Special Edition Trim: Slotting between the Sport and EX-L, this trim adds unique features like blacked-out accents and upgraded audio.
2021 Honda Accord Trim Levels Explained
The Accord is offered in several trims, each building on the last. Choosing the right one depends on your budget and desired features.
1. LX: The base model, but it’s far from bare-bones. It includes the 1.5L turbo engine, Honda Sensing, an 8-inch display, and dual-zone automatic climate control.
2. Sport: Adds more aggressive styling, 19-inch wheels, a power driver’s seat, paddle shifters, and a blind-spot information system.
3. Sport Special Edition: Based on the Sport, it includes leather-trimmed seats, a 10-speaker audio system, and unique black exterior elements.
4. EX-L: Adds leather seating surfaces, a power passenger seat, a moonroof, and those wireless smartphone connectivity features.
5. Touring: The top-of-the-line model with the 2.0L turbo engine, adaptive dampers, a head-up display, ventilated front seats, and a premium sound system.
Engine Options and Performance
The 2021 Accord gives you two excellent engine choices. Both are turbocharged for a great blend of power and efficiency.
1.5-liter Turbocharged 4-Cylinder (Standard on LX, Sport, EX-L)
* Horsepower: 192 hp
* Torque: 192 lb-ft
* Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
* Fuel Economy (Est.): 30 mpg city / 38 mpg highway
* Summary: This engine is the workhorse. It provides plenty of power for daily driving and achieves impressive fuel economy. The CVT is smooth and unobtrusive in most situations.
2.0-liter Turbocharged 4-Cylinder (Standard on Touring, Optional on Sport)
* Horsepower: 252 hp
* Torque: 273 lb-ft
* Transmission: 10-speed automatic
* Fuel Economy (Est.): 22 mpg city / 32 mpg highway
* Summary: This is the performance option. It’s quick, responsive, and paired with a superb 10-speed automatic that makes driving genuinely engaging. The fuel economy drop is noticeable but expected for the extra power.
Hybrid Model:
The Accord Hybrid uses a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine combined with two electric motors. It produces a net 212 horsepower and achieves an outstanding 48 mpg city / 48 mpg highway / 48 mpg combined. It’s a fantastic choice for maximizing efficiency without sacraficing too much performance.
Interior Comfort and Space
Step inside the Accord, and you’ll immediately appreciate its thoughtful design. The cabin is a highlight, offering quality materials and exceptional space.
* Front Seats: Supportive and comfortable for long journeys. Higher trims add power adjustment and lumbar support.
* Rear Seats: The Accord is famous for its rear legroom. Adults can sit behind other adults in complete comfort, which isn’t true for all sedans.
* Cargo Space: The trunk offers 16.7 cubic feet of space, which is generous for the class. The rear seats fold down in a 60/40 split to carry longer items.
* Build Quality: Soft-touch materials are used in key areas, and everything feels solidly put together. It’s a quiet and refined place to spend time.
Technology and Infotainment Features
Honda’s infotainment system has improved greatly. The 2021 model benefits from these upgrades, making tech a strong point.
* Standard 8-Inch Touchscreen: This display is responsive and features physical volume and tuning knobs—a welcome addition.
* Apple CarPlay & Android Auto: Standard on all trims. Connects seamlessly to mirror your phone’s key apps on the dashboard display.
* Available Features: Higher trims offer a 10-speaker premium audio system, a wireless phone charger, and a head-up display that projects speed and navigation onto the windshield.
* Instrument Cluster: A clear digital display behind the steering wheel shows your speed, fuel level, and trip information. It’s easy to read at a glance.
Honda Sensing Safety Suite
Every 2021 Accord comes with the full Honda Sensing suite as standard equipment. This is a huge value and safety advantage. The system includes:
* Collision Mitigation Braking System: Can detect vehicles and pedestrians, applying the brakes if a collision seems likely.
* Road Departure Mitigation: Helps steer you back into your lane if you start to drift off the road.
* Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set following distance from the car ahead, even in stop-and-go traffic.
* Lane Keeping Assist: Gives gentle steering input to help keep you centered in your lane.
These systems work well and are not overly intrusive. They provide a real sense of security on every drive.
Driving Impressions and Handling
The Accord is more than just a comfortable cruiser; it’s surprisingly enjoyable to drive. The chassis is tuned for a balanced feel.
* Ride Comfort: The suspension absorbs bumps and road imperfections effectively. The Touring trim’s adaptive dampers make the ride even more refined.
* Handling: Steering is precise and offers good feedback. The Accord feels agile and confident around corners, especially with the 2.0L engine and its sportier tuning.
* Overall Feel: It strikes a near-perfect balance between comfort and composure. You’ll arrive feeling relaxed, but you can also have a bit of fun on a winding road if you want to.
Fuel Efficiency and Real-World MPG
The Accord’s efficiency is a major selling point. Here’s what you can realistically expect:
* 1.5L Turbo: In mixed driving, most owners report getting 33-35 mpg. It’s very efficient for a non-hybrid.
* 2.0L Turbo: Expect around 26-28 mpg in real-world use. The power comes with a trade-off at the pump.
* Hybrid: This is the champion. Many drivers achieve the advertised 48 mpg or very close to it, especially in city driving.
Your driving style and conditions will affect these numbers, but the Accord consistently ranks near the top of its class for fuel economy.
Pros and Cons of the 2021 Accord
Before you decide, consider these key advantages and potential drawbacks.
Pros:
* Spacious and well-built interior with excellent rear seat room.
* Smooth and efficient standard 1.5L engine; powerful optional 2.0L.
* Honda Sensing safety suite is standard on every model.
* User-friendly infotainment with standard smartphone integration.
* Strong reputation for reliability and high resale value.
Cons:
* The base engine’s CVT can get noisy under hard acceleration.
* Some rivals offer more luxurious interior materials.
* All-wheel drive is not available (front-wheel drive only).
* The hybrid model’s brake pedal feel can be a bit unnatural at first.
Common Competitors to Consider
It’s smart to cross-shop. The Accord’s main rivals include:
* Toyota Camry: Also very reliable, with a available V6 engine and a sharp hybrid. Its styling is more aggressive.
* Hyundai Sonata: Offers bold styling, a great warranty, and a ton of standard tech features for the money.
* Kia K5: The Sonata’s sibling, with sportier looks and a compelling price point.
* Nissan Altima: Features available all-wheel drive, which the Accord does not.
The Accord often wins for its overall balance, but test driving competitors is the best way to know for sure.
Buying Tips: New vs. Used & Pricing
The 2021 Accord is now a popular used car. Here’s how to approach your purchase.
* New (If Still Available): You would have gotten the full factory warranty and the ability to custom-order your exact trim. This is unlikely now but check dealer inventories.
* Used/Certified Pre-Owned (CPO): This is the most common route. A Honda CPO car comes with a extended warranty, providing extra peace of mind. Always get a vehicle history report.
* Expected Pricing: As a used vehicle, prices vary by trim and mileage. Expect to pay more for low-mileage EX-L and Touring models, and especially for the Hybrid. The 2.0T engine also commands a premium.
Maintenance and Reliability
Hondas are known for longevity. The 2021 Accord is expected to follow this tradition.
* Schedule: Follow the Maintenance Minder system in the car. It will tell you when oil changes, tire rotations, and other services are due based on your actual driving.
* Common Issues: There are no widespread major problems reported for the 2021 model year. Some owners note minor infotainment glitches or early brake wear, but these are not systemic.
* Long-Term Value: The Accord consistently retains its value better than most rivals. Its reliability reputation is a key reason why.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the difference between the 2020 and 2021 Honda Accord?
A: The 2021 model got a subtle exterior refresh, a new standard 8-inch touchscreen on the LX, and wireless smartphone connectivity on higher trims. Honda Sensing became standard on all trims for 2021.
Q: Is the 2021 Honda Accord a good car?
A: Absolutely. It is widely regarded as one of the best midsize sedans for its combination of space, efficiency, safety, and driving dynamics. It’s a top recommendation.
Q: What does the 2021 Honda Accord get for gas mileage?
A: It varies: The 1.5T gets about 30/38 mpg (city/hwy), the 2.0T gets about 22/32 mpg, and the Hybrid gets an impressive 48/48/48 mpg.
Q: How much horsepower does the 2021 Accord have?
A: The 1.5-liter turbo has 192 horsepower, and the available 2.0-liter turbo has 252 horsepower. The Hybrid system produces a net 212 horsepower.
Q: Is the Honda Accord 2021 worth buying used?
A: Yes, a used 2021 Accord is an excellent buy. Look for a Certified Pre-Owned model from a Honda dealer for the best warranty protection. Be sure to check its service history.
Final Thoughts
The 2021 Honda Accord continues to set the standard in the midsize sedan segment. It doesn’t have one flashy trick; instead, it does almost everything very well. From its comfortable and huge interior to its efficient engines and comprehensive safety features, it’s a car that makes sense for a wide range of buyers.
Whether you choose the sensible 1.5T, the fun 2.0T, or the ultra-efficient Hybrid, you’re getting a vehicle built with quality and thoughtfulness. It’s a decision you’re unlikely to regret, offering years of dependable and enjoyable transportation. Take one for a test drive—you’ll quickly understand why it remains a perennial favorite.