Getting the latest and greatest of anything has become the ultimate goal for many shoppers. Pop culture practically engrains this notion in many consumers, pushing the idea that new things are automatically superior. If it’s shiny and new, you better believe people are going to clammer for it. Many times, the sleek and sporty option outsells a more sensible vehicle simply based on its packaging. When pitting the popular 2021 Honda Accord against the sportier 2021 Mazda6, the Accord’s lack of pizzaz certainly hurts its image. However, this might be a mistake. 

Mazda has built a successful lineup of cars that are sporty, sleek, and fun to drive. But there is more to consider when purchasing a vehicle than whether it gives you an adrenaline rush behind the wheel. The 2021 Mazda6 has a luxurious exterior, but is it the financially responsible choice? Does it hold value over time? Is it even the frontrunner when it comes to amenities and spaciousness? 

The Honda Accord has been a household name for years. Honda has done well by making this vehicle a keystone in its lineup, and it has seemingly always done well. However, 2021 might be the year the Honda Accord breaks away from the pack to become the frontrunner in the midsize sedan class. Critics have already weighed in, and they say there isn’t much wrong with the 2021 Honda Accord. 

So this begs the question. Is the 2021 Honda Accord better than the flashy 2021 Mazda6? We think so, and here are three reasons why. 

Honda has the long game in mind

Buying a new car isn’t exactly an investment, as these vehicles tend to depreciate quickly. However, some models don’t lose value as soon as others.

According to Kelley Blue Book, the Honda Accord has traditionally had better resale value than the Mazda6. Meanwhile, Honda refreshed the Accord for 2021, strengthening the midsize sedan’s long-term value. 

The 2021 Honda Accord now has upgraded standard LED headlights and a rear-seat reminder system. These updates came with a slight increase to the car’s starting MSRP, which is now 25,725. And while the 2021 Mazda6 is cheaper, as it starts at $24,325, the Accord may be the better choice for those who plan on reselling it in the future.

The 2021 Honda Accord turns fuel-efficiency into a top priority

Performance is top-of-mind for many shoppers, but many people forget to factor fuel economy into the equation. The 2021 Honda Accord’s standard 192-hp 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine will take you quite far on a single tank of gas. It achieves an EPA-estimated 33 MPG city/highway combined. In comparison, the 2021 Mazda6’s 187-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder only gets 29 MPG combined.

Of course, the 2021 Mazda6 is known more for its crisp driving dynamics. However, the 2021 Honda Accord can be quite fun to drive as well. Its available 252-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged engine isn’t as fuel-efficient as the standard engine, but it gives the car some extra oomph. Although, some purists may be disappointed that the Accord no longer offers a manual transmission.

A roomy cabin makes for a happy driver

Nothing is more important than being relaxed on your commute to work. Thankfully, the 2021 Honda Accord is equipped to give you all the space and comfort you need. It has more than 105 cubic feet of passenger volume, compared to the 2021 Mazda6’s 99.8 cubic feet. This includes more hip, shoulder, and headroom in the front seats. Plus, its trunk is two cubic feet larger, so you can fit another extra bag or two on your next shopping trip.

Both of these midsize sedans offer upscale interiors that feature available leather seats with heating and cooling functions. However, this little bit of extra space could be the difference that turns every drive into a completely relaxing experience.