2020 Honda Accord US 2.0L 10AT (252 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Honda refreshed the tenth generation of the Accord in 2020 for the 2021 model year, and besides some aesthetic changes, it also brought improved infotainment units and safety features.

Despite the world pandemic, Honda followed its schedule of updating and improving its vehicles, and the Accord was on the list. Its sales from 2019 were good but not as stellar as they used to be in the past. As a result, these updates came at the right time. Furthermore, the automaker also provided vehicles with better features and amenities, even from the lower grades. One of the most significant updates was the deletion of the six-speed manual gearbox from the list, so all of the Accord’s grades came fitted with a two-pedal setup. Also, for those looking for a more spirited driving experience, the car manufacturer provided the mid-size sedan with adaptive dampers that allowed the vehicle to corner faster than before. Last but not least, the hybrid version was improved significantly.

The car’s front kept the same design language as its non-facelifted sibling but had different styling. It featured a broader grille, and the chromed horizontal slat that sat on top of it was extended above the headlights. Furthermore, all versions besides the EX were fitted as standard with LED headlights. On the lower bumper, the automaker installed a new set of round LED foglamps, unlike the previous version, which featured horizontal ones.

With a profile that already looked sporty, the 2021 Honda Accord came to improve that image, especially for the lower grades. The automaker added a Sport SE grade to the lineup. This included 19-inch alloy wheels, dark chromed trim on the grille, and exhaust tips. It replaced the previous 1.5-liter EX version. The vehicle’s long greenhouse, sloped at the back, created the image of a four-door coupe, even though that wasn’t a request for family sedans. For the hybrid version, Honda installed a blue badge up front, on the grille, instead of the chromed one like in the rest of the range. In addition, it added the “hybrid” emblem on the front fenders so customers could brag about it.

Inside, the 2021 Honda Accord benefited from multiple enhancements, including the infotainment system. All versions featured Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, only the Touring grade was fitted with a wireless system, while the rest of the range could connect to smartphones via wires. The new infotainment unit had an eight-inch touchscreen across the range. Furthermore, there were two USB ports for front passengers on all grades, while only vehicles from the EX grade and up benefitted from two additional ports for those seated in the back. The rear bench seat was split-folding (60/40) and could expand the already generous trunk area of 16.7 cu-ft (473 liters). In terms of safety, the automaker improved the Honda Sensing safety system to give it a more natural feeling.

While the 1.5 and the 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engines received some updates for quicker acceleration response, the car’s performance didn’t improve. At the same time, the hybrid version provided the same power figures as its predecessor, rewarding its customers with an EPA rating of up to 48 mpg (4.9 l/100 km).