Honda Accord vs. Mazda Mazda6

Automakers weren't worried about the design of their mid-size sedans in the past, as the vehicles were all about usability. That's not true for today's four-door vehicles, as automakers have started to incorporate dramatic designs into their sedans. The Mazda6 and Honda Accord are two of the newest sedans on the road and both of them have an exterior design that make them look radically different from their humble beginnings.

The Mazda6 has always been known for being the sportiest mid-size sedan on the market, but is its athletic character enough to take on the longtime champion, the Accord?

See a side-by-side comparison of the Mazda6 & Accord »

What the Mazda6 Gets Right

The Mazda6 is the better-looking sedan of the two. Mazda's team penned a gorgeous design that makes the sedan look like a luxury vehicle and it's the same thing on the inside. Despite its more handsome exterior, the Mazda6 is the more affordable choice. The Mazda6 carries a price tag of $22,845, while the Accord is $1,620 more with a starting price of $24,465 (both prices include destination).

When it comes to luxury, which is also something that mid-size sedans haven't been known for, the Mazda6 shines. The new sedan is available in a range-topping Signature trim that comes with Nappa leather-trimmed sport seats, Sen Wood trim, Ultrasuede door and dashboard trim, a surround-view monitor, an adaptive front-lighting system, and an 11-speaker Bose audio system as standard.

What the Accord Gets Right

The Mazda6 may be the sportier vehicle to drive, but the Accord has the more powerful engine. The base motor for the Accord is a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 192 horsepower and 192 pound-feet of torque. The Accord's base engine makes five more hp and six more lb-ft of torque than the Mazda6's 2.5-liter inline-four. Both sedans have more powerful turbocharged engines, but it's the Accord's that has more hp. The Accord's 2.0-liter turbo inline-four makes 252 hp, while the Mazda6's turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-four generates 250 hp.

In addition to making more power than the Mazda6, the Accord is the more fuel-efficient option. The Accord is rated to get up to 30 miles per gallon city, 38 mpg highway, and 33 combined, according to the EPA. The Mazda6 is rated to get up to 26/35/29 mpg (city/highway/combined).

For consumers that want a spacious cabin, the Accord is the winner. The model has more front and rear head room, front and rear leg room, front and rear shoulder room, and more trunk space than the Mazda6.

What Comprises Are You Willing to Make?

The Mazda6 is a compelling option in the mid-size sedan segment, but the vehicle's sleek styling and luxurious interior require compromise. The Mazda6 doesn't have the same interior space, lacks a hybrid variant, and isn't as efficient as the Accord. Consumers willing to make some comprise with the Mazda6 are treated to a sedan that feels and looks like a much more expensive luxury car.

Our Verdict: Honda Accord

The Honda Accord may lack the striking interior and exterior design that the Mazda6 has, but the sedan is still the leader in the segment as it manages to do everything well.

Take a closer look at the Mazda Mazda6 »

Take a closer look at the Honda Accord »

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