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When it comes to midsize sedans, the 2020 Accord ranks among the top vehicles in the segment. Also included in the midsize sedan segment? The 2021 Malibu. But how do these two sedans stack up to one another? While they may be similar in price, there are many reasons to choose the 2020 Accord over its Chevy competition. 

2020 Honda Accord displayed outdoors
2020 Honda Accord Touring 2.0T Outdoors | Honda

2020 Accord is a natural people pleaser

The 2020 Accord makes for a formidable pick among the midsize sedan segment. It’s modestly priced, well-designed, and offers plenty of creature comforts to choose from. 

Standard with a 1.5-liter turbo I4 engine under its hood, the 2020 Accord can also be had with a 2.0-liter turbo engine. For a more engaging ride, opt for the Honda Accord Sport with a 6-speed manual transmission.

And when it comes to the 2020 Accord’s interior? This year’s model has room for up to five passengers, is available with leather-trimmed seating, and is available with a 10-speaker premium audio system. Add in connectivity features like Apple CarPlay, and it’s no wonder the 2020 Accord is a natural people pleaser. 

Those aren’t the only reasons the 2020 Accord makes for a great pick either. According to Kelley Blue Book, the 2020 Accord is the “quintessential family car.” Not only that, but Kelley Blue Book has also recognized this year’s model as a ‘Best Buy’ among midsize sedans. Kelley Blue Book recognized the Accord for its resale value too.

2021 Malibu has plenty of tech features

The 2021 Malibu is a sleek sedan with a high-end interior and tech-savvy infotainment system. This year’s model is also available in several trim levels, making it easy to discern which Malibu is the best for satisfying all of your unique automotive needs.

Driven by a 163-horsepower 1.5-liter turbo I4 engine, the 2020 Malibu also comes standard with front-wheel drive and a continuously variable transmission. For added power, opt for a Malibu with the available 2.0-liter turbo I4 engine under its hood.

And when it comes to the interior of the new Malibu? You can expect it to have plenty of tech-savvy features. Standard with an 8-inch infotainment screen with Bluetooth audio streaming, this year’s model is also compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot, wireless charging, and Teen Driver technology are also available in the 2021 Malibu.

2020 Accord vs. 2021 Malibu

Both the 2020 Accord and the 2021 Malibu offer similar engines to choose from. However, the Accord’s 192-horsepower engine easily outpaces the Malibu’s 163-horsepower engine when it comes to horsepower. Unlike the Malibu, the 2020 Accord is also available with a six-speed manual transmission.

Climb into either of these vehicles, and you will find that they are very similar in size. The 2020 Accord does offer more front and rear legroom, making it a more comfortable choice for drivers on the taller side. Though, the 2021 Malibu does offer more rear shoulder room. And when it comes to cargo space? The Accord wins again.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also awarded the 2020 Accord with a 5-star safety rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named it a Top Safety Pick too. As for the 2021 Malibu? The NHTSA gave it a 4-star overall safety rating. 

Which sedan is right for you?

When it comes down to it, the 2020 Accord is the clear winner. While the 2021 Malibu does have a lot to offer, the Accord has proven itself as a leader among its segment. Not only has it been recognized by Kelley Blue Book as the best car to buy in its segment, but it also earned Car and Driver’s 10Best award more than 30 times, which is nothing to scoff at.

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