2021 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3, following its 2019 redesign, continued to impress with its award-winning design. Its bodywork exuded a blend of drama and sophistication, making it a standout in its class. The sedan version, while more conservative, still offered a visually engaging experience. The 2.5 Turbo model, available in both sedan and hatchback forms, came with all-wheel drive and a range of interior options, including luxurious leather finishes. The interior design focused on the driver, with a high-contrast two-tone setup and attention to detail, although it did incorporate some hard plastics.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid presented a spacious and upscale cabin, with a focus on comfort and practicality. The Accord's design was praised for its proportion and style, with minor updates enhancing its appearance. The Touring trim featured 19-inch wheels and a refined interior with simulated wood trim and polished metallic accents. The Accord Hybrid's cabin was roomy, offering generous leg support and heated and ventilated seats in the Touring trim. Interior storage was ample, and the trunk space was notably large, accommodating full-size suitcases with ease.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 2.5 Turbo was a performance-oriented vehicle, featuring a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine. When using 93-octane fuel, it delivered 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque, while 87-octane fuel resulted in slightly lower figures. The car's six-speed automatic transmission, paired with Mazda's i-Activ AWD system, provided a smooth and predictable driving experience. The Mazda3 Turbo's suspension and steering enhancements contributed to its sporty character, making it a joy to drive on twisty roads. However, its fuel efficiency fell short of expectations during testing, averaging 11.5 litres per 100 kilometres.

The 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid, on the other hand, utilized a two-motor hybrid system with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing a combined 212 horsepower and 232 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid system offered three operational modes, optimizing performance and efficiency. The Accord Hybrid excelled in fuel economy, achieving 5.0 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. Its suspension and handling were tuned for a balance of athleticism and comfort, and the brake-by-wire regenerative braking system provided excellent feel and response. The Accord Hybrid was a fun and efficient vehicle to drive, with only minor drawbacks in terms of noise during full-throttle acceleration.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 2.5 Turbo offered a luxurious interior with leather upholstery and heated front seats. However, it lacked certain premium features, such as ventilated seats and rear-seat amenities like air conditioning vents and USB ports. The cabin was driver-focused, with a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, but the front passenger seat lacked similar adjustability. Trunk space was competitive for a compact sedan, with 374 litres available, while the hatchback version provided significantly more utility with up to 1,334 litres of cargo space.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid impressed with its spacious interior, offering a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat and a roomy back seat. The Touring trim added heated and ventilated front seats, as well as heated rear seats. Interior storage was generous, with a large centre console bin and hidden compartments. The Accord Hybrid's trunk was notably large, measuring 473 litres, and featured 60/40 split-folding rear seats for added versatility. This made the Accord Hybrid a practical choice for those seeking ample space and utility.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 featured the Mazda Connect infotainment system with an 8.8-inch display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. However, the lack of a touchscreen and subpar voice-recognition technology were notable drawbacks. The system relied on a control knob and had limited functionality, causing frustration for users. The Premium Package included a 12-speaker Bose audio system and a head-up display, enhancing the overall experience, but the infotainment system remained a weak point.

The 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid, on the other hand, came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Touring trim added a head-up display and navigation with voice recognition, although the system required specific prompts for successful operation. The Accord Hybrid also featured improved USB port access and wireless smartphone charging, making it a more user-friendly option in terms of technology.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 prioritized driver engagement with its advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS). The car featured adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, an Adaptive Front Lighting System, and a high-definition surround-view camera. The Mazda3 excelled in safety ratings, earning top marks from both the NHTSA and IIHS, making it a safe choice for drivers.

The 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid aimed to improve its safety credentials by redesigning its LED headlights to meet IIHS standards. The car included blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and low-speed braking control. The Honda Sensing suite of ADAS offered refinements for smoother operation, although some features, like lane departure warning, could be improved. The Accord Hybrid's safety features were effective, but there was room for further enhancement.