Is the Accord faster than the civic?
Yes. In typical configurations, the Honda Accord accelerates faster than the Honda Civic, especially when you opt for the Accord’s 2.0-liter turbo engine. The Civic Si is brisk, but the top Accord generally remains quicker in straight-line tests.
Speed by engine: how the numbers stack up
Key performance figures for the current Honda lineup help illustrate how acceleration varies across models and trims. The following snapshots focus on the main configurations buyers encounter in recent years (2023–2025):
- Accord 1.5L turbo (about 192 hp) — 0-60 mph roughly 7.5–7.7 seconds.
- Accord 2.0L turbo (about 252 hp) — 0-60 mph roughly 5.7–5.9 seconds.
- Accord Hybrid (about 212 hp combined) — 0-60 mph roughly 7.5–8.0 seconds.
In short, the fastest Accord on sale today is the 2.0L turbo model, and even the Hybrid is competitive but typically trails the non-hybrid 2.0T in straight-line acceleration. The base 1.5T sits fastest among the non-turbo base options, but it remains slower than the 2.0T.
Speed by Civic variants: where the Civic stands
Key performance figures for the most commonly bought Civics show how acceleration compares to the Accord, with emphasis on the main trims and the sportier Si variant. Times are approximate and depend on the drivetrain (front-wheel drive vs. all-wheel drive in some markets) and testing conditions.
- Civic 1.5L turbo (about 180 hp) — 0-60 mph roughly 7.0–7.5 seconds.
- Civic Si (1.5L turbo, about 200 hp) — 0-60 mph roughly 6.0–6.5 seconds.
- Civic Hybrid (1.5L plus electric motors, around 212 hp total) — 0-60 mph roughly 7.5–8.0 seconds.
Compared with the Accord, the Civic Si is the quickest Civic model, but even it usually remains slower than the Accord 2.0T in straight-line speed. The base Civic models with the 1.5L turbo are generally in the same neighborhood as the Accord 1.5T, with variations based on transmission and tire setup.
What independent testing suggests
Automotive reviewers consistently find the Accord’s 2.0L turbo to be the standout in acceleration among the mainstream Honda lineup. The Civic Si delivers lively performance and feels sportier than the base Civics, but it rarely matches the 2.0T Accord in 0-60 times. Real-world tests also show that while the Accord’s larger footprint and weight matter for handling and ride comfort, the power advantage of the 2.0T engine translates into noticeably quicker launches compared with the Civics outside of the Si variant.
Bottom line for shoppers
If speed is the primary criterion, the Accord 2.0T is the fastest mainstream option between these two models, delivering a stronger sprint off the line than any Civic non-Si variant. The Civic Si remains a strong performer and is the quickest Civic overall, but it typically does not beat the Accord 2.0T in standard 0-60 tests. Other Civics (1.5T and Hybrid) sit closer to the Accord 1.5T in acceleration, with variances based on tires, transmission, and drivetrain.
Summary
Across recent model years, the Honda Accord generally outpaces the Honda Civic in straight-line acceleration when equipped with the 2.0-liter turbo engine. The Civic Si is notably quick for a Civic, but the top Accord remains the faster option in most head-to-head tests. For buyers prioritizing speed, the 2.0T Accord is the clear standout; for those who want a sportier Civic, the Si offers lively performance, while the base Civics and the Civic Hybrid emphasize efficiency and practical daily driving. Always check the exact model year, trim, and drivetrain, as times can vary with tires, weather, and testing conditions.
