What kind of engine is in the Honda Accord?
The Honda Accord uses multiple engines depending on the model year and trim, including a 1.5-liter turbocharged gas engine, a 2.0-liter turbocharged gas engine, and a hybrid powertrain that combines a gas engine with electric motors. In the U.S. market, you’ll typically find two gasoline options and one hybrid option across recent generations.
In current Accord models, Honda distributes powertrains to balance efficiency and performance. The base trims generally rely on a smaller turbo engine with a lightweight, fuel-sipping setup, while higher trims offer more power with a larger turbo. The hybrid variant pairs the gas engine with electric motors to maximize efficiency without sacrificing overall capability. Transmission choices also vary by powertrain, with the smaller engine paired to a CVT and the larger turbo to a 10-speed automatic. The hybrid uses an electronic continuously variable transmission (e-CVT) to coordinate power delivery between the engine and electric motors.
Engine options by powertrain
Below are the primary engine configurations offered in recent Honda Accord models in the U.S. market.
Gasoline engines
Two turbocharged gasoline options are available, depending on trim level and model year. Each is coupled with a specific transmission to optimize performance and efficiency.
- 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 (1.5L VTEC Turbo) producing up to about 192 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
- 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 (2.0L Turbo) producing up to about 252 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
In everyday driving, the 1.5T emphasizes fuel economy and smoothness, while the 2.0T delivers stronger acceleration and higher-performance character for enthusiasts.
Hybrid powertrain
The Accord Hybrid combines a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle inline-4 gasoline engine with two electric motors, creating a total system output around 204 horsepower. It uses an electronic CVT (e-CVT) to blend power from the gasoline engine and electric motors for seamless progress, improved efficiency, and a near-silent start in electric mode when conditions permit.
- 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine
- Two electric motors (propulsion and generator) as part of a two-motor hybrid system
- Electronic CVT (e-CVT) to coordinate power delivery
The hybrid configuration is designed for excellent real-world fuel economy while maintaining adequate acceleration for everyday driving.
Summary
The Honda Accord today offers a trio of powertrains: a 1.5L turbocharged gasoline engine with a CVT for efficiency, a 2.0L turbocharged gasoline engine with a 10-speed automatic for higher performance, and a hybrid system that pairs a 2.0L Atkinson-cycle engine with electric motors and an e-CVT for efficiency and smooth operation. Engine choice varies by trim, market, and model year, but these are the core configurations widely available in recent Accord releases.
Which Honda Accord to stay away from?
Honda Accord models to avoid include the 1998-2005, 2008-2010, 2013-2014, and 2018 model years due to issues like transmission failures, excessive oil consumption, and problems with newer turbocharged engines and infotainment systems. Specifically, 2003 models had high transmission complaint rates, 2008-2010 models suffered from oil consumption, and 2018 models saw engine and tech issues.
Years to avoid and their issues
- 1998–2005: This generation (especially the 2003 model) is known for significant automatic transmission failures. Interior trim and rattles are also common complaints.
- 2008–2010: These models frequently experience excessive oil consumption, often due to piston ring issues. The 2008 model also saw premature brake wear.
- 2013–2014: Both years had reliability concerns, with the 2014 model in particular experiencing issues with its CVT transmission, such as shuddering and stalling. Both years also had problems with their early infotainment systems.
- 2018: This was the first year for the new turbocharged engines, and many owners reported engine problems. Infotainment and safety system issues (including driver-assist malfunctions) were also reported.
Other considerations
- Transmission issues: Beyond the specific years listed, Honda Accords have had a history of transmission problems, so it's crucial to have any used model's transmission checked thoroughly, especially those with automatic transmissions.
- Maintenance: A lack of proper maintenance can lead to major engine and transmission problems in many Accord models, regardless of the specific year.
Which engine is better, 1.5 or 2.0 Honda Accord?
Most people prefer the 2.0t for tuning and power, plus head gasket issues are minimal compared to the 1.5t. I'm happy with my 1.5 and it I had extra money at the time I would have bought the 2.0, but the gas mileage is definitely better with the 1.5.
Are Honda Accords V6 or V8?
The North American Accord uses the CP2 chassis code for the 2.4-liter 4-cylinder sedan and CS1 for the 4-cylinder coupe. CP3 is for the V6 sedan and CS2 is for the V6 coupe.
Which engine is used in Honda Accord?
The modern Honda Accord has two primary powertrain options: a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (192 hp) and a 2.0-liter hybrid system (204 hp). The specific engine depends on the trim level, with the gas engine usually in the base LX and SE models, and the hybrid system in the Sport Hybrid, Sport-L Hybrid, and Touring Hybrid trims.
Standard gas engine
- Engine: 1.5-liter, turbocharged, inline 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 192 hp
- Torque: 192 lb.-ft.
- Available in: LX and SE trims
Hybrid powertrain
- Engine: 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle 4-cylinder engine combined with a two-motor hybrid system
- Horsepower: 204 hp (system total)
- Torque: 247 lb.-ft.
- Available in: Sport Hybrid, Sport-L Hybrid, and Touring Hybrid trims
