Sedans might not be as popular as they used to be, but Honda is still doing well in this market. The 2020 Honda Accord and the 2020 Honda Civic models both perform well in their respective classes. But how would you pick between the Acord and the Civic?

The Honda Accord is the bigger of the two

Both the Accord and the Civic are fun and family-friendly options, but there are significant distinctions between the two. The Civic is a compact car, and the Accord is a midsize car. The Accord’s larger body style makes it more spacious than the Civic. 

On the other hand, the Civic features more body style options. This Honda is available as a sedan, coupe, and hatchback. Like the Accord, the Civic sedan can seat up to five people. But even though the Accord is larger than the Civic, the Civic has more convenient cargo storage spaces.

For a sportier look and feel, you’ll want to consider the Civic coupe or hatchback variations. In fact, 2020 is that model year where you can buy the coupe version brand-new. Sadly, Honda decided to sunset the Civic coupe. 

The Honda Civic has more powertrain options

There are several engines available for the Civic, all of which make this Honda enjoyable to drive. The sedan and coupe models come with a 158-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder. You can also go up to the optional 174-hp, 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The turbo-four on the  Civic Si generates 174-hp. 

Civic hatchbacks come with a 174-hp engine. And for the most power available on the Civic, you’ll want to go with the Civic Type R. The Type R features a 306-hp turbo-four. With the Civic, you have plenty of performance flavors to choose from, but no matter which one you get, find that the Civic is a sporty and smooth ride.

The Accord is also known for its sporty performance and smooth handling. It comes with a standard 192-hp 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and a continuously variable automatic transmission. A manual transmission is also an option on this model, but it won’t be available on the upcoming 2021 version. The higher Accord trims have a 252-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder.

The Accord has a grander cabin

Both the Accord and Civic are handsome on the inside, but the Accord’s cabin is more luxury-focused. The Accord is excellently detailed and well-padded. The Civic’s interior is also well-built, it’s just a little heavier on the plastics.

There are also more in-car electronics available in the Accord. The Accord comes with a 7-inch display screen, and the Civic has a 5-inch one. You can upgrade both models with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. But optional features such as a wifi hotspot aren’t available in the Civic. As far as advanced safety goes, both models come standard with a Honda Sensing driver-assist package. 

So, how do I pick?

You really can’t go wrong with the Accord or the Civic. Both are reliable and pleasant to drive. But if value and fuel economy are your priorities, you’ll probably want to go with the Civic. If you want something more upscale, go with the Accord.