2021 Honda Accord vs. 2021 Nissan Altima: Which Midsize Sedan Is Best?
Comparing two of the most popular mid-size sedans is no easy task. Both the Nissan Altima and Honda Accord are Japanese born and bred. Both are definitive models of their respective automotive brands. With that said, there is always room for a little competition.
Normally, I would attest consumer preference or safety to the reasoning behind a customer’s car buying decision. But in this case, both the Honda Accord and Nissan Altima maintain a loyal following. I know those die-hard Honda fans still exist. (That was once me). And I know Nissan upholds its rank by offering some of the best cars under $25k.
Before this analysis, I would say either model would be a good choice. But after breaking down the price, safety, performance, and comfort of the 2021 Honda Accord and 2021 Nissan Altima, it’s clear a true winner drives among this class.
Pricing for the 2021 Nissan Altima & Honda Accord
The 2021 Honda Accord MSRP is $24,770. With a range of trim options, including four hybrid variants, the Honda Accord delivers quality at a competitive price. The most expensive trim, Touring 2.0T, starts at $36,700. I think it’s fair to say the expense of the Accord can rise up quickly when higher-end amenities are added on.
The 2021 Nissan Altima MSRP is $24,300. The most expensive trim is the AWD Platinum, starting at a price of $34,100. Offering both FWD and AWD options at an affordable price makes the Nissan Altima an attractive buy.
And the winner is: 2021 Nissan Altima. When it comes down to economics, the Nissan Altima takes all. Almost every trim option falls below the MSRP of the Honda Accord. For this reason, I find the Nissan Altima the better economical choice.
Safety
Honda engineering rarely fails its consumers. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration awarded the 2021 Honda Accord with an overall 5 star rating across the board, including frontal crash, side crash and rollover.
The Nissan Altima is a close competitor. The NHTSA gave both the 2021 Nissan Altima FWD and 2021 Nissan Altima AWD an overall 5 star rating. However, this model did receive 4 out of 5 stars for its frontal crash rating.
Both competitors come standard with premium safety and driver assistance, including:
- Automatic braking
- Blind spot warning
- Lane departure warning
Based on the safety features and overall 5 star ratings, I’d highly recommend either of these mid-size sedans. So let’s call it a tie.
Performance & fuel efficiency
For Nissan lovers, the base model Altima uses a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with 188-hp. An upgrade to the SR trim will get you a 2.0-liter turbo with 236 horsepower.
Fuel Economy: 32 mpg (28 city/39 hwy)
The 2021 Honda Accord exhibits superior driving dynamics. The 192-hp 1.5-liter engine and available 252-hp 2.0 liter with 10 speed automatic offer drivers a mid-size sedan with an added punch. Even better, the fuel efficiency will make any driver happy.
Fuel Economy: 33 mpg (30 city/38 hwy)
The winner: 2021 Honda Accord.
Interior
The 2021 Nissan Altima boosts wood-tone trim and chrome matte finishes, available Bose audio, and dual zone temperature control. It’s interior lacks finesse but its seats are known for their comfort, which could be an important feature for long-distance drivers.
The Accord has Active Noise Cancellation™, high-quality interior finishes, and an overall spacious feel throughout its interior. One of the most notable upgrades to the 2021 Accord is the inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Overall, the Accord presents a sportier feel, but doesn’t jeopardize the spaciousness of the interior.
Both the 2021 Accord and 2021 Altima include standard features like an infotainment system, navigation upgrades, and varied seating materials.
The winner: 2021 Honda Accord. Each year Honda finds a way to improve the comfort and luxury of the Accord. Although, it does cost a pretty penny.
The verdict is in: 2021 Honda Accord
The 2021 Nissan Altima is a fair competitor. Its available AWD and good safety rank this mid-size sedan high in its class. Yet, it’s hard to beat the performance and sophistication of the 2021 Honda Accord. Although this 2021 model comes at a higher price, the extra amenities are worth the cost.
Check out a quick overview of the latest additions to the new 2021 Honda Accord:
Whether you’re a Nissan fan or Accord enthusiast, it comes down to reliability. The 2021 Honda Accord has impressed consumers once again. I think most would agree that this model has outdone itself year after year, offering luxury at an equitable price. So, who’s ready for a test drive?
If you are a Honda driver, check out Headlights Depot’s recommendation for the best headlights for Honda vehicles.
What is your reaction?
