Sure the Honda Accord is up against some fierce competition. Even so, the Accord can still outshine and outrank many of its peers in the midsize sedan class. The regular Accord is enjoyable for everyday driving. But if you want to venture toward the luxury realm, the Accord Touring 2.0T is a compelling option.

The 2021 Honda Accord Touring 2.0T hits with the quickness 

Honda fans love how engaging and efficient the Accord is. Naturally, the top-level Touring trim only improves upon these elements. Touring models deliver a more dynamic experience that rivals actual entry-level luxury cars like the Volkswagen Arteon or even what Honda’s Acura brand currently offers. 

The 2.0T powertrain features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 252-hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. Honda pairs this turbo-four with a 10-speed automatic that earns praise for its satisfyingly smooth shifts. Paddle shifters are standard, too. The 2.0T can go from 0-60 mph in under six seconds. Plus, the 2021 model has an EPA rating of 26 mpg overall, which is pretty good for the segment.  

We like that the 2021 Accord lineup has a fresher look. The Touring trim benefits from a refreshed grille, which boosts the suaveness. The chrome exhaust finishers are also a nice touch. 

The Accord Touring’s cabin can put real luxury cars to shame

You probably know already that the Accord is one of the family-friendliest sedans. It has comfortable seats for up to five people, and it provides plenty of cargo space. Parents will also appreciate that it’s relatively easy to install child seats in this Honda.

In addition to its practicalness, the Touring impresses with its lavish amenities. It comes with ambient lighting, leather trimmings, ventilated front seats and heated outboard seats. The faux wood looks pretty realistic too. You could even say that Accord Touring models provide more refinement than a base Cadillac CT4. 

New in-car tech is also impressive 

The grandest news for 2021 is that the Accord is the first Honda model available with wireless smartphone integration. This means you get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity without having to use a cable. An 8-inch touchscreen display is now standard for the lineup. Touring models have wifi hotspot capability and wireless device charging. 

Another Touring perk is all the advanced safety features you get. Touring models come with a heads-up display that projects incoming calls as well as navigation directions on your windshield. There are many other standard active safety features to make driving easier. These include low-speed braking control, road departure mitigation, and adaptive cruise control. 

Is the Accord Touring worth it? 

The Accord’s badge may not be as prestigious as a Mercedes but offers plenty of extravagances. Touring models start at $36,900, which is about the same price as many entry-level luxury cars. Furthermore, the Accord’s long-term quality and innovative features are why it’s a consistent Car and Driver 10Best Car award winner.