2021 Lexus ES vs 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid

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. It was priced similarly to the ES 350, which came with a 3.5-litre V6 and front-wheel drive. The ES 300h hybrid version offered improved fuel efficiency at a premium. The Black Line Edition of the ES 350 debuted with unique styling elements, including black wheels and a striking black and white interior. The ES was praised for its dramatic design, highlighted by the F Sport trim's sporty enhancements.

The 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid was available in base and Touring trims, with prices ranging from $36,105 to $42,805. It featured a stylish design with minor front styling updates, including a new grille and headlights. The Touring trim boasted new 19-inch wheels. The interior was noted for its upscale appearance, with quality materials and logical controls. The Accord Hybrid's cabin offered excellent visibility and a spacious feel, making it a standout in its 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 additional Sport+ and Custom modes available with the adaptive suspension. The ES 350 accelerated to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds and had a fuel efficiency rating of 9.4 L/100 km. The Black Line Edition provided a sporty driving experience, though it was not a true sports sedan.

The 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid featured a two-motor hybrid system with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing a combined 212 horsepower and 232 pound-feet of torque. It achieved a fuel efficiency rating of 5.0 L/100 km. The powertrain offered three operational modes: EV Drive, Hybrid Drive, and Engine Drive, with additional driver-selectable modes. The Accord Hybrid was praised for its refined throttle response and athletic handling, making it enjoyable to drive.

The Lexus ES offered a daring interior layout with sport-bolstered front seats and ample rear-seat comfort. It provided good visibility and storage, though the trunk space was limited to 394 litres. The wireless smartphone charger was cleverly hidden under the centre armrest.

The Honda Accord Hybrid impressed with its spacious interior, featuring a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat and heated and ventilated front seats. It offered generous storage and a large 473-litre trunk, accommodating full-size suitcases. The 60/40 split-folding rear seats added to its utility.

The Lexus ES came with a challenging touchpad interface but offered separate climate and stereo controls. It featured a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment display with dynamic voice command technology. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 10-speaker sound system, with an optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson system.

The Honda Accord Hybrid included an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Touring trim added a head-up display and navigation with voice recognition. The system required specific prompts for voice commands, and wireless charging was standard.

The 2021 Lexus ES included Lexus Safety System 2.0, featuring forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control. It received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.

The 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid aimed for a Top Safety Pick+ rating with redesigned LED headlights. It included blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Honda Sensing ADAS. The system was effective but could be intrusive, and low-speed automatic braking needed recalibration.