2021 Toyota Camry vs 2021 Honda Accord

The 2021 Toyota Camry aimed to break away from its traditionally bland image by incorporating more dynamic styling elements. The design featured flared wheel arches and sleek headlights and taillights, which helped to give the car a wider appearance. However, the SE and XSE trims were criticized for their excessive use of fake vents, adding unnecessary visual clutter. The LE and XLE trims offered a slightly cleaner look with a different grille design. The interior mirrored the exterior's chaotic styling, with a mix of contrasting materials and elements that lacked a cohesive design theme. Despite the attempt to create a more exciting look, the materials used in the Camry's interior were perceived as low-quality.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda Accord received a mid-generation refresh that enhanced its already sophisticated appearance. The Accord's styling updates included a wider, restyled grille that gave the car a more sculpted and cohesive look. The LED headlights and smaller fog light openings contributed to a more refined aesthetic. Inside, the Accord's cabin was praised for its high-quality materials and thoughtful design. The interior offered a more sophisticated feel, even in lower trim levels, with features like cloth seats that didn't feel like a compromise. The Accord's design was both stylish and practical, providing a comfortable and spacious environment for passengers.

The 2021 Toyota Camry offered a range of powertrains, starting with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine that delivered 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque in most FWD trims, and slightly less in AWD configurations. The XSE trim featured a dual-exhaust system that increased output to 206 hp and 186 lb-ft with FWD. For those seeking more power, a 3.5-litre V6 engine was available, producing 301 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque. The Camry Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre engine with electric assist for a total output of 208 hp. The Camry's chassis tuning provided a good balance between handling and ride quality, making it enjoyable to drive, though not as sharp as the Honda Accord.

The 2021 Honda Accord offered two engine options: a 192-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine and a more powerful 2.0-litre turbo-four producing 252 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. The smaller engine was paired with a CVT, while the larger engine came with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Accord's driving dynamics were engaging, with pointed steering and easy maneuverability. The 2.0-litre engine provided a more spirited driving experience, while the 1.5-litre engine was efficient and suitable for daily driving. The Accord's braking system was upgraded for smoother engagement, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2021 Toyota Camry offered generous rear headroom and legroom, but front headroom and legroom were below average. The front seats were adjustable and comfortable, providing good outward visibility. Cargo space was 428 litres, which was average for the segment but less than the Honda Accord's 473 litres. In-cabin storage was limited, with small cupholders and door bottle holders. The Camry featured analog controls for important functions, improving ease of use, though some controls were a long reach from the driver's seat.

The 2021 Honda Accord excelled in interior space and practicality, with ample head-, hip-, and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The Accord's cabin was well-designed, with all essential controls within easy reach. The rear seats featured a 60/40 split and centre armrest, allowing for pass-through from the trunk. The Accord's 473 litres of cargo space was among the best in the segment. Small-item storage was better than average, with a convenient cubby at the front of the centre console.

The 2021 Toyota Camry came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and Bluetooth. Higher trims featured a 9-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a nine-speaker JBL audio system. A 10-inch head-up display was available on the XSE and XLE trims. The system was functional but lacked standout features, with plain graphics and limited USB ports.

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

The 2021 Toyota Camry earned a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The Camry came standard with the TSS 2.5+ package, which included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, automatic high beams, and traffic-sign recognition. New features for 2021 included enhanced adaptive cruise control and forward-collision warning capabilities, as well as a Rear Seat Reminder.

The 2021 Honda Accord also received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The Accord's standard safety features included vehicle stability assist, brake assists, a rearview camera, traffic sign recognition, and automatic high beams. The Honda Sensing suite added lane-keeping assist, road departure mitigation, blind spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Accord's front crash prevention system earned a top Superior rating.