For the 2021 model year, Honda has given the new Accord a refresh that includes updates to styling, technology, drivability and safety features. In addition, unique upgrades were made to performance and design for the Accord Hybrid.
“The new Honda Accord Hybrid is really the Accord to buy, offering customers more of everything they like about Accord — more power, refinement and, of course, excellent fuel economy ratings,” said Dave Gardner, executive vice president of National Operations at American Honda.
For the 2021 model year, all Accords boast a wider, restyled grille, along with improved integration of the Honda Sensing system’s radar unit. Flanking the new grille on Sport and above trims (EX and above on Hybrid) are new LED high- and low-beam headlights with longer and wider down-the-road illumination. Also new are smaller openings for the fog lights. Additionally, LX, EX-L and Touring trims all receive new alloy wheel designs, while a new color is available for Sport, Sport Special Edition (SE) and Touring trims: Sonic Gray Pearl.
Inside, further enhancements to the Accord’s cabin include an 8-inch Display Audio touchscreen entertainment system now standard on all trims (previously, EX and above). Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration also are now standard (previously EX and above), and EX-L and Touring trims (EX and above on Hybrid models) get new wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, in addition to wireless charging and wireless smartphone integration. Front USB ports on all grades have been moved to the front of the center console for easier access, and Sport and higher trims (EX and higher trims for Accord Hybrid) now include dual 2.5-volt USB ports for rear-seat passengers. All Accords also receive a new Rear Seat Reminder, while upper grades gain a new Low-Speed Braking Control system.
The 2021 Accord Hybrid benefits from updates to the Honda two-motor hybrid system for a more direct and immediate throttle response with a more natural acceleration feeling, Honda says. The Accord has a peak total system output of 212 horsepower and peak torque delivery of 232 lb.-ft. with a top fuel economy rating of 48 mpg.
The hybrid powertrain control system manages the power delivery between each component and can switch between EV Drive, Hybrid Drive and Engine Drive for maximum efficiency with no input from the driver. Accord Hybrid drivers can further maximize fuel efficiency, or power, by selecting between Sport, EV and ECON modes using the three buttons behind the push-button gear selector.
Visually, Accord Hybrid adds its own unique touches to the styling updates made to the entire 2021 Accord lineup, including a blue H-mark on the grille and Hybrid badges on the front fenders and trunk lid. This year, Accord Hybrid Touring grade features 19-inch wheels.
The Accord Sport SE is new to the lineup for 2021, replacing Accord EX 1.5T and expands on the Sport trim with additional features. The new Sport SE adds leather seats, heated front seats, a four-way power passenger seat to complement the addition of 12-way power driver’s seat, heated mirrors, Smart Entry and remote engine start to the Accord Sport 1.5T trim. This is in addition to the equipment on the Sport 1.5T, which includes dual rear USB ports, leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters, leather-wrapped shift knob and an 8-speaker audio system. Visually, Accord Sport and Sport SE are distinguished from the other trims by a rear trunk lid spoiler, trim-specific 19-inch wheel design, LED fog lights, dark-chrome grille and chrome exhaust finishers.
