The 2021 Toyota Camry and 2021 Honda Accord, both titans in the midsize sedan segment, have undergone significant changes in recent years. While the Camry has evolved from its reputation as a reliable but uninspiring choice, the Accord has continued to set new standards for its class. In this comprehensive comparison, we'll dive deep into these two popular models, examining their design, performance, and functionality.
2021 Toyota Camry vs 2021 Honda Accord: Midsize Sedans Compared
Look and Feel
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Toyota Camry at 6 out of 10 for its design. This generation of Camry sought to break away from its mundane image, embracing a more exciting and daring styling approach. The result is a sedan that features flared wheel arches, thin headlights, and taillights, creating a visually wider stance. However, on certain trim levels like the SE, XSE, or TRD, excessive fake vents add some visual clutter. The interior, while chaotic in styling, offers plenty of choices and comes with various trim elements, though some materials may feel less premium.
In contrast, the 2021 Honda Accord shines in the design department, earning a commendable 9 out of 10 rating from CarGurus experts. Honda's midsize sedan underwent a mid-generation refresh, featuring a wider and more sculpted grille that imparts a sophisticated look. The Accord boasts LED headlights and lowlights flanking the grille, providing excellent visibility at night. The 2021 model also introduced new alloy wheel designs, with 19-inch wheels available on most trim levels. Honda even offers an attractive Sonic Gray Pearl paint job for select models. The interior of the Accord is praised for its sophistication, even in lower trim levels. Cloth and leather-trimmed seats, along with high-quality materials, contribute to a premium feel.
Performance
CarGurus experts reward both the 2021 Toyota Camry and the 2021 Honda Accord with a score of 9 out of 10 for performance. The Camry offers a range of powertrain options, starting with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 203 horsepower (202 hp with AWD) and 184 lb-ft of torque (182 lb-ft with AWD). The sportier XSE models get a slight bump to 206 hp (205 hp with AWD). Additionally, a 3.5-liter V6, producing a robust 301 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque, is available. The Camry Hybrid combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric assist, delivering a total system output of 208 hp.
The 2021 Honda Accord offers two engine options. The base engine is a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 192 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The more potent 2.0-liter turbo-four generates 252 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Both engines run on regular unleaded fuel. The Accord's 1.5-liter engine provides impressive fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 30 mpg city, 38 mpg highway, and 33 mpg combined. On the other hand, the 2.0-liter engine offers a more engaging driving experience.
Form and Function
When it comes to form and function, the 2021 Toyota Camry scores well with an 8 out of 10 rating. For interior space, the Camry offers generous rear headroom and legroom. However, front headroom and legroom are slightly below average, though still comfortable for most drivers. The seats are supportive and comfortable, and visibility from the driver's seat is excellent. Cargo space in the Camry is about average for its class at 15.1 cubic feet, lagging behind the Accord's 16.7 cubic feet. In-cabin storage is limited, with small cupholders and door bottle holders.
The Honda Accord also excels in practicality and comfort, with a 9 out of 10 rating. It provides ample head-, hip-, and legroom in both the front and rear seats, accommodating larger occupants with ease. Standard features include dual-zone automatic climate control, auto up/down power windows, push-button start, and front and rear 12-volt power outlets. The Accord's trunk space stands out with a generous 16.7 cubic feet, surpassing most competitors in the midsize sedan segment. The interior is thoughtfully designed, with essential controls within easy reach and an accessible infotainment system.
Technology
CarGurus experts have rated the 2021 Toyota Camry with a solid 7 out of 10 for technology. The Camry comes equipped with an infotainment system that includes a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto connectivity, Amazon Alexa compatibility, Bluetooth, Siri Eyes Free voice control, and SiriusXM satellite radio (with a three-month free trial). Higher trim levels step it up with a 9-inch touchscreen, Wi-Fi supporting up to five devices, built-in navigation, and a nine-speaker JBL audio system. Additionally, the XSE and XLE trim levels offer a 10-inch head-up display (HUD) for added convenience.
A standard single USB media port, along with two USB charge ports and a 12-volt outlet, are all located conveniently in the cubby hole ahead of the shifter. While the Camry's infotainment system is functional and easy to navigate, the graphics could be more eye-catching.
The 2021 Honda Accord doesn't compromise on technology either. CarGurus experts have rated it a stellar 9 out of 10 in this department. Every Accord is equipped with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, featuring physical volume and tuning knobs on either side. The touchscreen is highly responsive and boasts an attractive operating system.
Standard tech features in the Accord include Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, hands-free text messaging, and two USB ports. As you move up in trim levels, you'll enjoy additional perks such as satellite radio, HD radio, a wireless phone charger, a 10-speaker premium audio system, an extra USB port, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Wi-Fi hotspot, and Near Field Communication. The Accord Touring 2.0T even offers a head-up display and HomeLink Remote, displaying essential information like cruise control, compass, gear position, tachometer, lane keep assist system, traffic sign recognition, and turn-by-turn directions data.
Safety
Safety is a top priority for the 2021 Toyota Camry, as evidenced by its impressive 9 out of 10 rating from CarGurus experts. The Camry has earned the coveted "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the highest safety accolade the organization bestows. Additionally, it received a five-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), with five-star ratings in front, side, and rollover crash tests.
For the 2021 model year, Toyota introduced the TSS 2.5+ package of safety features as standard equipment. This includes adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning (with pedestrian detection), lane-departure warning, automatic high beams, and traffic-sign recognition. Notably, many of these safety systems have been enhanced for improved functionality.
New for 2021 is Toyota's Rear Seat Reminder, standard on all trim levels, designed to prevent children or pets from being left unattended in the back seats. Optional blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert enhance safety further.
Honda takes safety seriously, and the 2021 Accord reflects this commitment. CarGurus experts have rated the Accord with an impressive 9 out of 10 for safety. Every Accord comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including vehicle stability assist with traction control, brake assists, a rearview camera, LED daytime running lights, and automatic high beams. It also boasts the Honda Sensing suite, featuring lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, and automatic high beams.
Moving up in trim levels adds even more safety features, such as rear-seat reminders, low-speed braking control, and blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert. The Accord's front crash prevention system earned the IIHS's highest Superior rating for vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-pedestrian crash avoidance. The NHTSA gave the Accord a five-star overall safety rating, with top scores in all crash testing scenarios.
Cost Effectiveness
CarGurus experts have rated the 2021 Toyota Camry 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The Camry offers varying fuel economy depending on the drivetrain and trim level. Four-cylinder LE and SE models deliver 32 mpg combined (28 mpg city, 39 mpg highway) with front-wheel drive (FWD) and slightly lower with all-wheel drive (AWD). The higher-level XLE and XSE trims have a minor gas-mileage penalty.
The V6 engine option, available in the XLE trim, delivers 26 mpg combined (22 mpg city, 33 mpg highway). However, the XSE and TRD models have slightly lower fuel efficiency in at least one category. Overall, the Camry offers competitive, though not class-leading, gas mileage. It's worth noting that Toyota also offers the Camry Hybrid, boasting a remarkable 52 mpg combined.
Toyota provides a three-year, 36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year, 60,000-mile powertrain warranty. While these are average terms for the segment, Toyota's reputation for reliability remains a compelling selling point.
Honda's pricing for the 2021 Accord is competitive and deemed highly cost-effective by CarGurus experts. The Accord LX starts at $24,970, with prices increasing as you move up through the trim levels, capping at $36,900 for the fully equipped Touring trim. Adding the 2.0-liter engine to non-traditional models adds $4,530 to the cost. Honda does not offer the Accord with AWD.
Comparatively, the Accord's pricing aligns well with rivals like the Toyota Camry and Camry Hybrid. The Kia K5, though more powerful, is similarly priced but lacks some of the Accord's tech features. The Mazda6 follows a similar pricing structure to the Camry and Accord but falls slightly below the Accord's top-end pricing. However, it's worth noting that the Mazda's infotainment system has room for improvement.
If you're interested in an AWD sedan, also consider the Nissan Altima, which offers impressive fuel economy, a well-appointed interior, and AWD. Additionally, the Subaru Legacy comes standard with AWD and boasts a larger infotainment touchscreen than the Accord.
Verdict
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Toyota Camry is 7.8 out of 10, while the 2021 Honda Accord scores an impressive 9.2 out of 10. Based on these ratings:
Choose a 2021 Toyota Camry if:
- You prioritize a well-rounded product that offers competitive interior space, fuel efficiency, and standard driver aids.
- You are drawn to Toyota's reputation for reliability and want a dependable midsize sedan.
- You appreciate the availability of all-wheel drive (AWD) in a sedan, which is especially useful in challenging weather conditions.
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Choose a 2021 Honda Accord if:
- Safety is a top concern for you, and you want a vehicle with excellent safety ratings and advanced safety features.
- You seek a midsize sedan with a comprehensive suite of tech features, including a responsive infotainment system.
- You value a competitive and cost-effective pricing structure, making the Accord an appealing choice in terms of overall value.
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In conclusion, while both the 2021 Toyota Camry and 2021 Honda Accord are excellent choices, the Honda Accord stands out with its superior safety features and overall value, making it a compelling option in the competitive midsize sedan segment.
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