2021 Honda Accord Review

Name: 2021 Honda Accord
Brand: Honda

Price Range: $17,000 - $34,998

Great

8.3

out of 10

edmunds TESTED

The 2021 Accord is a class leader. It's an undeniably compelling package, and it's enjoyable to drive. Some rival sedans might best the Accord in a few areas, but no other sedan puts it all together as well as this one.

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Average price: $24,650

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Appraise My 2021 Honda Accord

Honda Accord model years

Honda Accord for Sale

Pros

Engines are both powerful and fuel-efficient
Interior is cavernous and uses upscale materials
Sporty handling makes it fun to drive
Many advanced driver safety aids come standard

Cons

Not as quiet as some rival sedans
Low seating position slightly hampers entry and exit

What's new

Updated front-end styling
Revised trim level lineup
Newly available wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
Manual transmission no longer available
Part of the 10th Accord generation introduced for 2018

Overview

Written by automotive expert Cameron Rogers

11/23/2020

For a few decades now, the Honda Accord has been a paradigm for a midsize family sedan. Whether you've been looking for safety, fuel economy, performance or a reputation for reliability, the Accord has had something to offer. This continues to hold true for the 2021 Accord. This year's car gets a few updates, including a face-lift and the introduction of wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, which means you don't need to use a USB cord to integrate your phone's apps with the touchscreen.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

For sale near Ashburn, VA

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2021 Honda Accord
Touring Sedan
$22,496
good price
$1,291 below market
- 100,753 miles
- 22 City / 32 Hwy MPG
- 16 mi away
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
Close
Located in Fairfax, VA
2021 HONDA ACCORD TOURING – SEDAN • FRONT WHEEL DRIVE • AUTOMATIC • 2.0T I-4 DOHC 16-VALVE TURBOCHARGED VTEC • GASOLINE • 22-32 est.VIN: 1HGCV2F95MA00...
Features and Specs:
26 Combined MPG (22 City/32 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
1HGCV2F95MA009066
Stock:
CU8098
Certified Pre-Owned:
No
New Listing
2021 Honda Accord
Sport Sedan
$30,998
- 20,715 miles
- 22 City / 32 Hwy MPG
- 3 mi away
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Keyless Entry/Start
- Upgraded Headlights
Close
Located in Sterling, VA
Wanna drive? CarMax puts you in the driver's seat-and that includes transparency and pricing without document or processing fees. Certain cars may hav...
Features and Specs:
26 Combined MPG (22 City/32 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
1HGCV2F35MA008110
Stock:
28984200
Certified Pre-Owned:
No

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The Accord has been our top pick for a midsize sedan the past few years, but a new rival has managed to just barely edge the praiseworthy Honda out of first place. The Kia K5 does almost everything as well as — or better than — the Accord, but at a lower price and with a bit more style. It's a very close battle between the two, and other contenders including the Mazda 6 and Hyundai Sonata aren't far behind. As close as all of these vehicles are, it may very well come down to personal preference and which dealer can cut you a better deal.

What's it like to live with?

The current 10th-generation Honda Accord has been a hit with Edmunds editors since it debuted in 2018. As a result, we added an Accord EX-L with the 1.5-liter engine to the Edmunds long-term test fleet and logged over 13,000 miles in a year. Check out our long-term Accord test, where we cover our real-world ownership experiences. Note that while we tested a 2018 Accord, most of our observations still apply to the 2021 model.

Edmunds Expert Rating

edmunds TESTED

by the Edmunds Experts

Great

8.3

out of 10

We drove the 2021 Honda Accord on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.

Performance

8.5/10

How does the Accord drive? We like how the Accord's engine and transmission respond quickly and provide sufficient power. The raw numbers aren't special — our as-tested 0-60 mph time of 8 seconds is average for a base engine in this segment — but the rapid response to driver input is. Honda's CVT automatic will lower engine rpm as much as possible to improve fuel economy, but it responds quickly and smoothly to provide more power when you need it.

The car corners well, sticking to the road with no drama, and the brakes are easy to control for smooth stops. Our panic-stop braking test from 60 mph resulted in an average stopping distance for a midsize sedan, and the Accord's brakes instill confidence thanks to arrow-straight stops. The steering, though accurate and easy, doesn't give you much feel for the road.

Comfort

8/10

How comfortable is the Accord? The Accord is quiet and comfortable in most situations. The front seats have well-placed headrests and comfortable back support, but the seat cushions don't have a lot of padding. Finding the right adjustment is important to staying comfortable on long drives. All climate settings can be adjusted with straightforward and clearly labeled manual controls, and the system's automatic setting regulates cabin temperature well.

We tested the top-trim Accord Hybrid Touring, which comes with an adaptive suspension as well as big 19-inch wheels. While we appreciate the extra features of the Touring (ventilated front seats, for example), we haven't found that the adaptive shock absorbers contribute much to the ride quality. In fact, we'd go so far as to recommend either the EX or EX-L trim level if comfort is a priority for you. They cost thousands less than the similarly equipped Touring trim and still have a smooth ride thanks to their smaller 17-inch wheels that have cushier tire sidewalls. The Accord's cabin is nicely insulated against wind noise, though tire noise is noticeable on the highway.

Interior

8/10

How’s the interior? The interior of the Accord offers modern design, quality soft-touch materials, lots of room, and a user-friendly infotainment system and control layout. Basic functions are easy to navigate thanks to physical buttons, but the controls on the wheel aren't intuitively laid out and take getting used to.

The cabin is airy and open, but taller drivers will want to test the seating position since their knees might rub on a piece of hard plastic trim. The doorsills are high and wide, meaning other sedans are a little easier to get in and out of. Rear legroom is excellent, though taller passengers will run out of headroom and will have to duck while exiting the back seat.

Technology

8/10

How’s the tech? The available navigation system's graphics look crisp, and instructions are easy to follow. Honda also did a nice job integrating the infotainment system with the gauge cluster screen and optional head-up display. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay work well, and the near-field Bluetooth pairing is a neat trick. However, the standard pairing method is easy enough that it's mostly a novelty. The premium audio system produces a lot of volume without distortion, but sound quality is unexceptional for an upgraded system.

Many active safety and driver aids come standard on the Accord, but blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert aren't standard on lower trims. The adaptive cruise control system mostly works well, but it sometimes picks up neighboring lanes in curves. Forward collision alert doesn't deliver false warnings but is very sensitive.

Storage

9/10

How’s the storage? The Accord offers about as much utility as possible for a sedan. It has excellent trunk volume. The opening is wide, if a little narrow, and it's easy to maneuver objects in and out. The 60/40-split folding rear seats open up even more room for long objects. The cabin offers plenty of spots for small items. The center console armrest bin is generously sized, and the front charging ports and wireless charging pad (if equipped) are in a cubby with room for more than one phone.

For family duty, the Accord has car seat anchors that are located under clearly marked flaps and are close to the surface with no seating material impinging on access. Even bulky car seats shouldn't pose a problem.

Fuel Economy

7/10

How’s the fuel economy? The EPA estimate of 32-33 mpg combined with the base engine is excellent for a midsize sedan. But we only managed to average 28.5 mpg on our evaluation route. Other vehicles we test do a better job of matching the EPA estimates. The Accord's small turbocharged engine seems to get thirsty when driven in the real world.

Value

7.5/10

Is the Accord a good value? You get a lot of car for your money. The Accord's interior design is modern and upscale. The touch points are covered in soft-touch materials, and the panels are fit tightly together. Only a few of the textured surfaces reveal themselves to be somewhat tacky-feeling hard plastics. Equipment scales well through the trim levels, so you don't feel like you're being shorted for opting for a lower trim. Dollar for dollar, the Accord feels like it's in a different league.

Wildcard

9/10

You feel good getting in the Accord. It reminds you that you chose wisely as you settle into the low seat. You can sit low and back, ensconced in the vehicle, and it imparts a sensation of being in a much more expensive car. If the steering was sharper, this Honda could even be a sport sedan. As it is, the Accord is a sporty and competent sedan that's actually a lot of fun to whip through corners thanks to its stability.

2021 Honda Accord trim level differences

The 2021 Honda Accord is a midsize sedan available in six trim levels: LX, Sport, Sport Special Edition (or simply SE), EX-L, Sport 2.0T and Touring. Most Accords come with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine (192 horsepower) and a continuously variable automatic transmission that powers the front wheels. The Sport 2.0T and Touring receive a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder (252 hp) and a traditional 10-speed automatic transmission. There's also an Accord Hybrid model that is reviewed separately. Compare the 2021 Honda Accord trim levels in-depth.

Which Accord trim does Edmunds recommend?

The new Sport SE trim replaces the previous EX trim, which got our recommendation last year. Just like its predecessor, it delivers plenty of features for the money. In particular, the keyless entry, leather upholstery and heated seats are worth the price premium over the Sport trim. You also get a handful of other convenience items.

Cost to Drive

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$142/mo

$207/mo

Avg. Midsize Car

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Model

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Reliability

The 2021 Honda Accord has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 4 recalls. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5, ranks it #5 out of 28 among Midsize Cars. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.

Reliability Rating by RepairPal

4.5 out of 5 stars4.5/5Excellent

#5 out of 28 among Midsize Cars

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.

Cost

$377/yr

vs. $415/yr
for Average Midsize Car

Frequency

0.75x/yr

vs. 0.87x/yr
for Average Midsize Car

Severity

8.3%

vs. 10.2%
for Average Midsize Car

Recalls

4 recalls found

Checking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.

If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).

Recall Number:: 26V332000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: Refer to C
Manufactured from:: 2016-06-29 to
Number of vehicles affected:: 98892
Defect Description:: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2021, 2023 Acura TLX, 2019-2024 RDX, 2017-2020, 2022-2026 MDX, 2017-2021, 2023, 2025 Honda Ridgeline, 2017-2022 Pilot, 2019-2021 Passport, 2018-2026 Odyssey, 2019-2022 Insight, 2019-2021 HR-V, 2018-2020 Fit, 2020-2022 CR-V Hybrid, 2017-2022 CR-V, 2017-2018, 2021 Civic Type R, 2017-2021 Civic hatchback, 2016-2020 Civic coupe, 2016-2022 Civic, 2017-2022 Accord Hybrid, and 2016-2022 Accord vehicles. The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, which can cause the air bags to deploy unintentionally during a crash.
Defect Consequence:: Air bags that deploy unintentionally during a crash increase the risk of injury.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will replace the seat weight sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed July 6, 2026. Owners may contact Honda's customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are BOL, WO9, OOA, WOM, XOH, NOC, POD, BOE, UOF, POB, EOG, AOI, QO8, TOJ, DO7, and SOK. This recall expands previous NHTSA recall number 24V064. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning May 29, 2026.

Recall Number:: 24V064000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: XHP, VHQ
Number of vehicles affected:: 750114
Defect Description:: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Pilot, Accord, Civic sedan, HR-V, Odyssey, 2020 Civic coupe, Fit, 2021-2022 Civic hatchback, 2021 Civic Type R, Insight, 2020-2021 CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline, Accord Hybrid, 2020 Acura MDX, 2022 Acura MDX, 2020-2022 Acura RDX, and 2020-2021 Acura TLX vehicles. The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, failing to suppress the air bag as intended.
Defect Consequence:: An air bag that deploys unintentionally during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will replace the seat weight sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2024, and October 18, 2024. This is a phased recall. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for these recalls are XHP and VHQ.

Recall Number:: 23V858000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: KGC, KGD
Number of vehicles affected:: 2490460
Defect Description:: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2013-2023 Honda Accord, Civic Coupe, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R, CR-V, HR-V, Ridgeline, Odyssey, Acura ILX, MDX, MDX Hybrid, RDX, RLX, TLX, 2019-2022 Honda Insight, Passport, 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda Clarity PHEV, Fit, and 2015-2020 Honda Accord Hybrid, Pilot, Acura NSX vehicles. The fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
Defect Consequence:: Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will replace the fuel pump module, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed September 6, 2024. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are KGC and KGD. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall numbers 21V-215 and 20V-314.

Recall Number:: 21V900000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: ABS, BBT,
Number of vehicles affected:: 4346
Defect Description:: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2021 Accord Sedan, Accord Hybrid, CR-V, Ridgeline, 2022 Insight and CR-V Hybrid vehicles. The automatic locking retractor on the second-row center seat belt assembly may deactivate improperly, which can result in an unsecured child restraint system. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Defect Consequence:: An unsecured child restraint system can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will replace the second-row center seat belt assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 14, 2022. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138.

Warranty

3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 5 years / unlimited miles
Roadside assistance Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles

Honda Accord Reviews

Owner Reviews

4.4

74 reviews

5(77%)

4(5%)

3(4%)

2(3%)

1(11%)

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Most Helpful Owner Reviews

2021 Honda Accord video

Honda Accord Sport vs. Kia K5 GT Comparison Test | Which Sport Sedan Is Best? | Price, Specs & More

In this video, Mark Takahashi takes these two popular midsize family sedans to our test track. But we didn't take just any old Accord or K5. Since this is a "sport" sedan comparison test, we have the sporty versions of the two top midsize sedans: the Kia K5 GT and the Honda Accord Sport. These sport versions have more performance, power and speed. Can the Kia K5 GT…

2021 Accord Features & Specs

Trim:

Est. Market Value	$21,439
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	33 MPG
Cost to Drive	$142/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	16.7 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

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Safety

Our experts like the Accord models:

Collision Mitigation Braking System: Alerts the driver when the system senses a front collision is likely. Applies the brakes automatically to lessen the force of an impact.
Blind-Spot Information System: Warns the driver that another vehicle is in a blind spot. Illuminates a light in the mirror and beeps if the turn signal is activated.
Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a driver-selected distance to a vehicle ahead in traffic. Automatically brakes and accelerates to maintain the gap.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat5 / 5
Rollover
Rollover5 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover9.3%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Marginal
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good

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