2020 Honda Insight vs Accord

Powered by a hybrid system, the 2020 Honda Insight offers great fuel economy for urban trips. Starting at slightly less than $23,000, this efficient sedan comes in three trims. Available in six editions, the 2020 Honda Accord also offers a hybrid powertrain with even stronger capabilities. This sedan has a starting retail price of just more than $24,000.

Both midsize models have several driving aides and accident-mitigation features with the Honda Sensing nameplate. Some of the most notable active safety highlights in these vehicles include the Traffic Sign Recognition and Collision Mitigation Braking. These cars have multiple sensors that monitor traffic ahead and in adjacent lanes. The Insight earns some of the highest safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS.

These sedans also offer lots of exclusive applications and services in the HondaLink portal. Security and concierge packages can be purchased as annual subscriptions. Roadside assistance can also be requested with the push of an electronic button that's labeled with the LINK logo. Additionally, both Honda models offer superb smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

Size and Styling

Some key exterior dimensions of the 2020 Insight include a 106.3-inch wheelbase and 183.6-inch length. This hybrid Honda sedan has a width of 71.6 inches and height of 55.6 inches. The LX base trim has a net curb weight of 2,987 pounds, but the EX and Touring editions are slightly heavier. All models have an approximate weight distribution ratio of 61/39 for optimum balance.

The 2020 Insight offers up to 39.3 inches of headroom in the front row and 36.9 inches of headroom in the second row. The driver and front passenger have 42.3 inches of legroom and 56.9 inches of shoulder room. Some notable dimensions in the second row include 37.4 inches of legroom and 55.0 inches of shoulder room. Up to 97.6 cubic feet of passenger volume is available in this hybrid sedan, which offers a cargo capacity of 15.1 cubic feet.

The 2020 Accord has a standard length of 192.2 inches and wheelbase of 111.4 inches. This midsize sedan stands 57.1 inches tall relative to the ground. A 73.3-inch width naturally provides extra stability on the road. The Accord's curb weight ranges from 3,131 pounds to 3,428 pounds. There is also some variation in the vehicle's weight distribution due to the different powertrain configurations on the lineup.

Up to 39.5 inches of headroom and 42.3 inches of legroom are available in the 2020 Accord's front row. The Rear passengers may enjoy up to 37.3 inches of headroom and 40.4 inches of legroom. The trunk in this premium sedan has a storage capacity of 16.7 cubic feet. Additionally, the passenger volume capacity ranges from 102.7 cubic feet to 105.6 cubic feet.

The standard driver's seat in the 2020 Insight has a manual adjustment for the height. Adjustable head restraints also improve the comfort levels of occupants in the front row. This hybrid sedan is furnished with a rear seatback that includes a fold-down design. Eight positions are available for the Touring's power driver's seat, which also has a lumbar support with four different configurations.

Thanks to LED ambient console lights, the driver will clearly see the cabin at night. Map lights and illuminated steering-mounted controls further enhance the visibility of important accessories in the cabin. This hybrid sedan comes standard with an automatic climate control system and heating ducts for the rear passengers. Sliding sun visors and a sliding armrest above the center console provide additional convenience in the front row.

The 2020 Accord is also packed with an array of standard amenities, like an HVAC system with dual zones and a rear window defroster. A lockable glove compartment is another convenient feature inside the cockpit. Consumers seeking the most comfortable ride may choose a model that's equipped with leather-trimmed front seats with cooling and heating. Several trims also offer a 12-way driver's seat with a memory system that recalls two preferred positions.

Some of the 2020 Insight's exterior paint options have strong European inspirations, such as Crimson Red and Aegean Blue. It's possible to select a finish with a natural theme, like Lunar Silver or Cosmic Blue. Clients who prefer an industrial motif for this hybrid sedan may choose Crystal Black or Modern Steel.

The 2020 Accord may be painted in elegant colors, such as Champagne Frost Pearl or Platinum White Pearl. Drivers seeking a sporty design could select Radiant Red Metallic or San Marino Red. This Honda model also comes in the signature Obsidian Blue and Still Night finishes. All colors on the menu look awesome with 19-inch alloy wheels, which make a captivating expression of modern style on the road.

This Honda model has a fastback-style body that's heavily inspired by much more luxurious vehicles. Dual chrome exhaust tips make a great combination with the aerodynamic body that's chiseled and contoured. An aluminum hood significantly decreases the drag forces on the highway. This sporty sedan also has a decklid spoiler that matches the body's paint color. An active grille shutter is another accessory that boosts the car's athletic character.

Several exclusive amenities distinguish the Accord Touring model from other lower trim levels. Ambient lights illuminate the door pulls in this high-end sedan. Courtesy lights provide a pleasant experience for entering the cabin at night. The Touring edition also boasts LED headlights and LED fog lights. Additionally, this premium Accord version has front and rear parking sensors that match the body's color.

Drivability

Engineered to generate 107 net horsepower at 6,000 RPM, the 2020 Insight's standard engine block displaces 1,498 cc. When spinning at 5,000 RPM, the four-cylinder powertrain spits out 99 pound-feet of torque. All valves in this I-4 engine are governed by the i-VTEC technology. Regular unleaded gasoline flows into the combustion chamber through port fuel injection.

This Honda model also extracts electrical power from dual AC motors, which operate on a conventional permanent magnet mechanism. Electricity is stored and distributed by a lithium-ion battery pack. The Insight model achieves maximum fuel efficiency with a boost from the Econ Drive Mode. Important contributions are also made by the Eco Assist function. When the EV Mode is fully engaged, the engine block doesn't burn any fuel.

The 2020 Insight can also accelerate smoothly with some leverage from the Sport Mode. Conveniently mounted on the steering wheel, deceleration selectors guarantee a smooth reduction in speed on the freeway. These driver-controlled installations essentially activate the regenerative braking function, which recharges the Li-ion battery.

Boasting a fuel economy of up to 55 MPG in the city, the Insight appeals greatly to urban consumers. Also tuned for a suburban lifestyle, this hybrid sedan offers a gas mileage of 49 MPG on the highway. Pressurized for optimum performance, the car's fuel tank holds up to 10.6 gallons of regular unleaded gasoline.

Displacing 1,498 cc, the 2020 Accord's turbocharged engine block yields 192 hp at 5,500 RPM. When the tachometer hits the 1,600-RPM mark, this Honda extracts up to 192 lb-ft of torque. The valvetrain in this sporty sedan carries the latest VTEC nameplate. Direct fuel injection manages the flow of air and gas into the DOHC valves.

This Honda model may be equipped with a 2.0 L turbo powertrain, which offers a peak output of 252 hp at 6,500 RPM. The I-4 propulsion unit must revolve at 1,500 RPM to spit out 273 lb-ft. Both engines in this midsize sedan are controlled by the Eco Assist System.

A hybrid powertrain makes the 2020 Accord one of the most versatile models in its class in terms of power and efficiency. The peak ratings of the hybrid system are 232 hp and 212 lb-ft. Three different driving modes optimize this Honda model for desirable performance. For instance, the Econ Mode creates a perfect balance of powerful output without sacrificing fuel economy.

When running on the E-CVT, the Accord offers a gas mileage of 48 MPG in the city and 47 MPG on the highway. This transmission system is only compatible with the hybrid powertrain. When fitted with the regular CVT, the vehicle gets up to 38 MPG on the highway and 30 MPG in the city. Peak ratings for the 10-speed automatic transmission system include 34 MPG on the highway and 23 MPG in the city. The six-speed manual transmission has a maximum fuel economy of 35 MPG on the highway and 26 MPG on urban roads.

Standard on the Accord, wheel resonators create awesome styling and acoustic effects. Exclusively configured in the Touring trim, the all-new Adaptive Damper System neutralizes vibrations from the road. This high-end model also rolls on 19.0-inch wheels that are optimized to work with all-season tires. All Accord trims have an electric power steering system with variable ratios and dual pinions for precise handling.

Engineered to improve performance in hazardous driving conditions, power-assisted front brakes are standard on the 2020 Insight and Accord. Measuring more than 11 inches in diameter, these reliable disc brakes include vented holes for optimum thermal properties. Both Honda sedans are fitted with solid rear disc brakes that resist fading and abrasions.

Safety

The Collision Mitigation Braking System is a default active safety technology in the 2020 Insight and Accord. Powered by the Honda Sensing platform, this function maximizes the braking pressure if a forward crash seems imminent. Both midsize sedans have the Road Departure Mitigation System that calibrates the steering system and brakes. This standard accident-avoidance feature can help the driver recover from a sudden drift or sway.

The Adaptive Cruise Control makes a typical commute much safer and more predictable. Depending on the speeds of other automobiles that are ahead, the ACC will accelerate or decelerate these Honda models. The Low-Speed Follow reduces frustrations that are associated with stop-and-go traffic in major cities.

Both sedans boast the Traffic Sign Recognition, which utilizes high-resolution optical sensors to quickly scan posted text and graphics. With cues from the TSR, the driver will navigate unfamiliar roads with more reassurance. These models also offer the Lane Keeping Assist System for a safer drive on busy freeways with dense traffic. Designed to override the steering system, the LKAS keeps the chassis centered in a single lane.

Available in the 2020 Accord, the Blind Spot Information System makes the driver more aware of potential conflicts in the blind zones. This sedan also offers the Cross Traffic Monitor, which identifies other cars that suddenly sneak up from behind. Similarly, the Insight's LaneWatch technology makes the driver aware of speeding vehicles in neighboring lanes.

The Multi-Angle Rearview Camera is a standard visual technology in both Honda sedans. Capturing nearly 180 degrees of views behind the rear bumper, the signature camera includes the Dynamic Guidelines. The driver can check the images on the infotainment touch screen, which has a maximum screen size of 8.0 inches. Additionally, a head-up display reduces visual distractions in the Accord Touring edition.

Both Honda sedans are built on the Advanced Compatibility Engineering platform. The ACE chassis is remarkably strong and resilient when exposed to high-speed crashes with vehicles and static obstacles. These efficient cars have front air bags that operate on the proprietary SmartVent technology. A rollover sensor adjusts the inflation of the side curtain air bags in the front and rear rows.

Knee air bags for the driver and front passenger are standard inside the 2020 Accord. All five seats in this sedan have three-point seat belts for optimum protection. Families will especially appreciate the tether anchors and LATCH system in the car's second row. Additionally, this Honda car has child-proof door locks that are controlled by the driver.

The signature HondaLink technology adds several security features to the Accord. For instance, the Automatic Collision Notification is triggered by a crash of a certain severity. By pressing the LINK button inside the cabin, the driver or any other occupant can request the Enhanced Roadside Assistance that covers mechanical repairs and towing. The Emergency Call function establishes a reliable connection with a live agent who can precisely identify the location of a crash.

This Honda sedan is compatible with a handful of remote services that are powered by the HondaLink suite. For example, the Geofence Alert and Speed Alert are ideal for families that have inexperienced drivers. The Stolen Vehicle Locator and Find My Car give Accord owners extra peace of mind. Additionally, the Key by Amazon technology is compatible with this premium Honda model.

Many of the HondaLink features mentioned above are readily available in the 2020 Insight Touring edition. Drivers will have to pay for the annual subscriptions to the security, remote and concierge services. However, the Basic and Link packages are complimentary in this hybrid sedan.

Which Model to Choose?

When it comes to power, the 2020 Accord is surely a better choice because consumers can select a turbocharged engine block. Urban drivers who want class-leading efficiency should buy the 2020 Insight, which easily gets up to 55 MPG in the city. Given their similar retail prices, both Honda sedans offer comparable value in active safety thanks to the standard Honda Sensing installation. However, the slightly more expensive Accord naturally boasts better digital technologies, like a head-up display, Wi-Fi and near field communication.