The Mazda6 and Honda Accord are two popular models that are worth checking out if you’re shopping for a midsize sedan.

For those who continue to hold out against the SUV and crossover craze, the selection of sedans is going down at an alarming rate. If you’re searching for an affordable new sedan, your list is probably pretty short.

Let’s see how they compare.

Price and Quality

The Mazda6 already offers a better starting price than the Honda Accord, but that difference will be even more pronounced when you compare the 2021 Mazda6 vs Honda Accord. In terms of what you get for that price, the Mazda6 wins out over the Honda Accord in terms of interior quality. It has an upscale feel and appearance that bests most of the other vehicles in its class. The Accord’s interior has a bit too many hard plastics to feel particularly luxurious.

Cargo Space and Interior Features

Both the Accord and Mazda6 have competitive cargo space. The Accord offers a bit more at 16.7 cubic feet versus the Mazda’s 14.7 cubic foot trunk. However, the narrow opening to the Accord’s trunk can make it hard to load large items. The Mazda6’s trunk has a generous wide opening that makes it much easier to load.

If a premium audio system is one of your preferences, then the Mazda6 wins out with an available Bose 11-speaker system. The Mazda6 also has a full 360-degree camera system, which the Accord does not have.

Performance and Fuel Economy

The Mazda6 features a standard 2.5-liter engine that makes 187 horsepower. A more energetic turbo four-cylinder is available. The base Honda Accord engine makes about 192 horsepower, which is a bit more than the Mazda6. However, the base Accord engine is paired with a CVT while the Mazda offers a standard automatic transmission.

In terms of ride and handling, the Mazda6 features amazing driving dynamics that the brand is known for. Handling is sharp and agile, and the ride is smooth and quiet. The Accord has civilized road manners, but it can’t match the fun factor of the Mazda6.

Both the Mazda and Honda models offer good fuel economy, but Accord is just a little bit better at 38 MPG on the highway versus the Mazda6’s 35 MPG on the highway with the base engines.

Verdict: These two midsize stalwarts are very closely matched. But, if you’re looking for a more premium feel and better driving dynamics, then the Mazda6 wins the day.

As mentioned earlier, the available selection of sedans continues to go down. The Mazda6 is one of several midsize sedans that will not be returning for the 2022 model year. Nevertheless, it will remain a solid choice on the used market for years to come.