Accord gets tweaked fascia and performance refinements for 2021
The ninth-generation Honda Accord is getting a mid-cycle enhancement three years after its debut. The suite of subtle upgrades touches on exterior styling, safety, comfort, and technology but (as expected) confirms the departure of the Accord’s six-speed manual transmission.
Honda’s Accord is consistently among the most popular mid-size/large sedans on the market, and a host of tweaks and upgrades for 2021 are sure to keep it that way. You’ll be forgiven if the changes fly under your radar, as the most noticeable change comes with a new grille that does a better job of camouflaging the adaptive cruise control sensor. Most of the upgrades won’t be apparent until you’re behind the wheel, as Honda has put its efforts into subtle drivability adjustments.
For example, the Accord’s brakes are now tuned for better feel, especially at low speeds, and the adaptive cruise control has been adjusted to provide smoother brake application to maintain following distance. Honda also says its Accord Hybrid has been updated with improved throttle response for more linear acceleration. The Accord Hybrid starts at $27,325 and brings a combined 212 total horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque. Accord Hybrids can be identified by their blue Honda emblem up front and the “Hybrid” emblem on the decklid. The powertrain tweaks didn’t hurt the Hybrid’s fuel economy, however, as it still maintains its combined EPA rating of 48 mpg. Fuel economy remains fairly constant across the Accord lineup, with most models keeping their 2020 EPA ratings. The Accord Sport and the new Sport SE are able to eke out one more mpg from the EPA combined rating compared to 2020. It’s now rated at 29 mpg city, 35 mph highway, and 32 mpg combined.
Honda has made its 8-inch touchscreen audio system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard across all Accords for 2021, allowing drivers to use their phones for navigation and music. The EX-L and Touring trims add wireless smartphone charging in a center console storage tray that allows for even easier Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration. Entirely new for 2021 is the new Sport Special Edition (SE) trim that includes the 1.5-liter turbo powertrain and adds heated leather seats, remote start, heated mirrors, and keyless entry. The Accord Touring, the most luxurious trim level, now comes with a low-speed braking system that uses the parking sensors to detect an impending collision and apply the brakes if necessary.
Accords start at $25,725, including destination, and are due to go on sale beginning October 13.
