2021 Honda Accord gets new style and tech; now on sale in the US

KUALA LUMPUR: Launched in 2018, the tenth-generation Honda Accord gets a light refresh for 2021 in the US market, which includes upgraded design, technology, drivability, and safety features. Along with these, Honda also added a new Sport Special Edition trim to the sedan’s lineup. Let’s check out what’s all new in the 2021 Accord.

Starting with the styling mods, the midsize sedan gets a new, wider front grille that incorporates three chrome slats to emphasize width. Although it is not a big change, it aids the Honda Sensing safety suite to work better, according to Honda. Flanking the restyled grille are new LED high- and low-beam headlamps, which now features wider and longer down-the-road illumination. The sedan’s lower fascia now has smaller openings for the fog lamps and on the sides, there are new alloy wheels. Moreover, a new exterior shade is also added to the existing colour palette, i.e., Sonic Gray Pearl.

Heading inside, the already well-equipped cabin now features an 8.0-inch touchscreen display along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility as standard. The higher trims also get new wireless integration for that connectivity. Other cockpit changes include a new positioning of the front USB ports for more convenient access and dual 2.5-volt USB ports for the second row. A new rear-seat reminder has also been added to the Accord standard equipment list.

Coming to the mechanical bits, the lower-spec Accord continues to get power from a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-pot engine churning out 192 horsepower and 260 Nm of peak torque, and this is mated to a CVT. A bigger 2.0-litre mill is also on offer for higher-spec versions that generates 252 hp and 370 Nm torque, along with a 10-speed automatic gearbox. Neither engine gets a power increase for 2021 but received a new management software providing a more linear and responsive throttle response. 

The new safety bits include a low-speed braking control, and improved versions of adaptive cruise control, and lane keeping assist system.

And last but not the least, the Accord Sport Special Edition trim now joins the lineup by replacing the EX version. The key highlights of this sporty Accord comprise dark-chrome grille, LED fog lights, distinct 19-inch wheels, chrome exhaust finishers, and rear trunk lid spoiler. Interior additions include leather seats, 12-way power driver’s seat, 4-way power passenger seat, heated front seats, smart entry, and remote engine start. 

The new Honda Accord is now on sale in the US showrooms at a starting price of $24,770 (RM 102,764).

Also read: Honda Ridgeline gets tougher looks for 2021