2021 Lexus ES vs 2021 Honda Accord

The 2021 Lexus ES expanded its lineup with the introduction of the ES 250, featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel drive, priced similarly to the ES 350 with a 3.5-litre V6 and front-wheel drive. The ES 300h hybrid variant offered improved fuel efficiency at a premium. Lexus made blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert standard on most trims, and introduced a limited-production Black Line Edition. The ES's design, especially in F Sport trim, was striking with its dramatic grille and artful details, while the interior boasted quality materials and a dramatic cabin design.

The 2021 Honda Accord received a mid-generation refresh, offering six trim levels, including the Canada-exclusive SE trim. The Accord's styling updates included a wider, restyled grille and new alloy wheel designs. The interior was praised for its sophistication, even in lower trims, with features like dual-zone climate control and a power moonroof. The Accord's cabin was well-designed, with all essential controls within easy reach, and offered a spacious trunk with 473 litres of cargo space. The Accord's interior was noted for its practicality and comfort, making it a strong contender in the midsize sedan segment.

The 2021 Lexus ES 350 was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 302 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered Normal, Eco, and Sport driving modes, with Sport+ and Custom modes available with the adaptive damping suspension. The ES 350 accelerated to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, with a fuel efficiency rating of 9.4 litres per 100 kilometres. The ES 350 Black Line Edition was noted for its firm ride quality and athleticism, though it was not an outright sports sedan.

The 2021 Honda Accord offered two engine options: a 192-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine and a 252-horsepower 2.0-litre turbo-four. The 1.5-litre engine was paired with a CVT, while the 2.0-litre engine came with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Accord's fuel economy varied between the two engines, with the 1.5-litre engine rated at 7.2 to 7.5 litres per 100 kilometres combined, and the 2.0-litre engine at 9.1 litres per 100 kilometres combined. The Accord's driving dynamics were engaging, with paddle shifters available on Sport and Touring trims.

The 2021 Lexus ES featured a daring interior layout with sport-bolstered front seats offering 10-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. The rear seats provided good foot and legroom, with rear air conditioning vents and an available power rear window sunshade. The trunk offered 394 litres of space, with a hands-free power trunk available. The ES's interior was noted for its quality materials and comfort, though storage was oddly configured.

The 2021 Honda Accord was designed for daily drivability, with seating for five and ample head-, hip-, and legroom. Standard features included dual-zone climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and push-button start. The rear seats featured a 60/40 split and centre armrest, with a spacious trunk offering 473 litres of cargo space. The Accord's cabin was well-designed, with all essential controls within easy reach, and offered better small-item storage than some sedans.

The 2021 Lexus ES featured a touchpad interface that required attention to operate, though dynamic voice command technology was excellent. The optional 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment display was visually appealing, with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio standard. A 10-speaker premium sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system available.

The 2021 Honda Accord came with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with physical volume and tuning knobs. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and two USB ports. Higher trims added satellite radio, a wireless phone charger, and a 10-speaker premium audio system. The Accord Touring trims featured an on-board navigation system, rain-sensing wipers, and a head-up display.

The 2021 Lexus ES included Lexus Safety System 2.0, with features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on most trims. The ES received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2021 Honda Accord came standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including vehicle stability assist, brake assist, and a rearview camera. The Honda Sensing suite included lane-keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Accord received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.