2022 BMW 2 Series vs 2021 Honda Accord

The 2021 Honda Accord was a staple in the midsize sedan market, competing fiercely with rivals like the Toyota Camry, Mazda6, and Hyundai Sonata. For 2021, Honda refreshed the Accord with a wider, restyled grille that gave it a more sculpted appearance. The Honda Sensing safety system's radar unit was better integrated, enhancing the vehicle's aesthetic appeal. The Accord lineup included six trim levels, with the Sport 2.0T being a standout for its sporty design and features. The Accord's exterior was further enhanced with LED headlights and new alloy wheel designs, while the interior offered a mix of cloth and leather-trimmed seats, depending on the trim. The new Sonic Gray Pearl paint added a unique touch to the Sport, Sport SE, and Touring models.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW 2 Series Coupe presented a fresh exterior design, avoiding the aggressive front fascia seen in other BMW models. The 2 Series was available in two main trims: the RWD 230i Coupe and the AWD M240i xDrive Coupe. The vehicle's dimensions were expanded, offering a longer, wider, and lower stance than its predecessor. The signature kidney grille was wider, and the front air curtains were redesigned for a more aerodynamic look. The M240i xDrive featured performance-oriented styling with shadowy M-type accents. The interior was driver-focused, with standard perforated SensaTec upholstery and optional Vernasca leather. The 2 Series offered a straightforward yet high-end vibe, though some materials felt less premium upon closer inspection.

The 2021 Honda Accord offered two engine options. The standard 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produced 192 horsepower and 192 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT. This engine was available on the LX, Sport, Sport SE, and EX-L trims. The more powerful 2.0-liter turbo-four engine, available on the Sport 2.0T and Touring trims, delivered 252 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Accord was FWD only, with the 1.5-liter engine achieving an EPA-estimated 30 mpg city and 38 mpg highway, while the 2.0-liter engine managed 22 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. The Accord's driving dynamics were engaging, with smooth braking and paddle shifters for a sportier feel.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series Coupe packed impressive performance for its size. The 230i Coupe featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, while the M240i xDrive boasted a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The 230i Coupe accelerated to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds, while the M240i xDrive achieved it in just 4.1 seconds. Both models had a top speed of either 130 mph or 155 mph, depending on specifications. The 2 Series came with an eight-speed Sport automatic transmission, with paddle shifters for quicker shifts. The M240i xDrive included performance features like an adaptive M suspension and M Sport brakes, offering balanced handling and dynamics.

The 2021 Honda Accord was designed for practicality and comfort, with seating for five and ample head-, hip-, and legroom. Standard features included dual-zone automatic climate control and push-button start. Higher trims offered leather-wrapped steering wheels, heated seats, and a two-position seating memory. The Accord's trunk provided 16.7 cubic feet of cargo space, with 60/40 split rear seats for added versatility. The cabin layout was intuitive, with easy access to controls and a well-placed infotainment system.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series, while stylish, was compact, with limited rear seat space suitable for children or short trips. The front seats were relatively spacious, but the slanted roofline reduced rear headroom. The trunk offered 10 cubic feet of cargo space, with 40/20/40-split fold-down rear seats for flexibility. The interior featured soft touchpoints and improved ergonomics, with multifunction buttons on the leather-wrapped sport steering wheel.

The 2021 Honda Accord came equipped with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and two USB ports. Higher trims added features like a wireless phone charger, premium audio system, and WiFi hotspot. The Touring 2.0T trim included a head-up display and HomeLink Remote, offering advanced connectivity and convenience.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series featured an 8.8-inch touchscreen and a 5.1-inch driver information display, with the iDrive 7 operating system and cloud-based navigation. Standard connectivity included a WiFi hotspot, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The optional Live Cockpit Professional upgraded the infotainment to a 10.25-inch touchscreen and added a head-up display. The 2 Series also offered remote features like the BMW Digital Key and a premium Harman Kardon sound system.

The 2021 Honda Accord was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including vehicle stability assist, brake assist, and a rearview camera. The Honda Sensing suite added lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and traffic sign recognition. The Accord received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, with a five-star overall safety rating and a Top Safety Pick+ designation.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series included the Active Driving Assistant suite, with features like blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, and lane departure warning. Optional safety features included adaptive LED headlights and a 360-degree surround view. The BMW Drive Recorder allowed for recording driving footage, enhancing safety and security. The 2 Series had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA.