2022 Honda Accord Horsepower - A Closer Look at the Powerhouse
The 2022 Honda Accord stands out as a benchmark in the midsize sedan segment. With a blend of style comfort and power the Accord has long been a favorite among drivers who are looking for a balance between practicality and performance. And when it comes to horsepower the 2022 model doesn’t disappoint.
If you're considering purchasing the 2022 Honda Accord you're probably wondering how it performs under the hood. How much horsepower does it pack and what does that mean for your driving experience? In this review I'll dive into the details of the 2022 Honda Accord's horsepower specifications trim levels driving performance and a few pros and cons.
So let’s break down what makes the 2022 Honda Accord horsepower a talking point for car enthusiasts.
Engine Options & Horsepower: Exploring the Lineup
The 2022 Honda Accord is available in different trims each offering unique features and performance. Let’s look at the engine options available:
1.5L Turbocharged Inline-4 Engine
The base models of the Accord are powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine which is a great blend of fuel efficiency and solid power. This engine produces:
- Horsepower: 192 hp @ 5500 rpm
- Torque: 192 lb-ft @ 1600-5000 rpm
The engine pairs with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that makes for smooth acceleration. For most daily commutes this engine performs admirably delivering enough power without compromising on fuel efficiency.
2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 Engine
If you're looking for more power the Accord offers a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine which really kicks things up a notch. This more powerful engine is available in the Sport and Touring trims. It delivers:
- Horsepower: 252 hp @ 6500 rpm
- Torque: 273 lb-ft @ 1500-4000 rpm
This engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission which enhances the driving experience allowing for sportier performance. It provides that extra punch when you hit the gas pedal making it great for highway merging or just having a little fun on the open road.
Accord Hybrid
Don’t forget the eco-conscious option: the Accord Hybrid which features a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle inline-4 engine paired with an electric motor. Together they produce:
- Horsepower: 212 hp (combined)
- Torque: 232 lb-ft (combined)
The hybrid’s power is solid enough for daily driving but it’s designed more for fuel efficiency than spirited driving.
Trim Levels & Horsepower Impacts
Each trim level comes with a different engine configuration so your choice will directly impact the Accord's horsepower and performance. Here's a quick breakdown:
LX and EX-L
These trims come with the 1.5L turbocharged inline-4 engine (192 hp). They’re excellent for drivers who want fuel efficiency without sacrificing too much on power. You'll find these trims to be very capable in city driving but might feel a little underwhelming on highways or when overtaking other cars.
Sport and Touring
For drivers seeking a more dynamic experience the Sport and Touring trims with the 2.0L turbocharged engine (252 hp) offer that added power and fun. The acceleration is notably quicker and the car feels much more responsive. Plus the 10-speed automatic transmission makes shifting smoother and enhances the driving dynamics.
Driving Experience & Performance Review
When it comes to performance the 2022 Honda Accord aims to strike a balance between comfort and excitement. Here’s how each engine option feels on the road:
Acceleration & Power Delivery
The 1.5L turbocharged engine delivers respectable acceleration making it more than adequate for city driving and light highway use. You can expect a smooth but modest power delivery from this engine. However when fully loaded with passengers and cargo you may notice it struggles a bit on inclines or during overtakes.
The 2.0L engine transforms the driving experience into a much sportier feel. The Accord becomes more responsive with a noticeable power boost. Its 252 hp makes it one of the most powerful engines in its class. The 10-speed automatic transmission is a real gem providing seamless shifts and enhancing the sporty character of the car.
Handling & Steering
The 2022 Accord is well-balanced in its handling. It corners confidently without much body roll and offers precise steering that makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces or during spirited driving. The suspension setup leans towards the comfortable side ensuring a smooth ride on most road surfaces.
Fuel Efficiency
Here’s where the 1.5L turbo engine shines providing up to 30 mpg city / 38 mpg highway. On the other hand the 2.0L turbocharged engine while more powerful is slightly thirstier with 22 mpg city / 32 mpg highway.
If you want the most efficient option the Accord Hybrid delivers around 48 mpg in both city and highway driving making it the ideal choice for those looking to save on fuel costs.
Pros and Cons of the 2022 Honda Accord Horsepower
Every car has its pros and cons even one as highly praised as the Accord. Here’s a rundown:
Pros
-
Choice of Engines: The availability of two turbocharged engines gives drivers the option to choose based on their preference for performance or fuel efficiency.
-
Smooth Driving Experience: The Accord is designed for comfort with smooth and refined power delivery and responsive steering.
-
Great Fuel Economy: The 1.5L engine offers impressive mpg making it economical for long commutes while the Hybrid is ideal for those looking to maximize fuel efficiency.
-
Sporty Option Available: The 2.0L turbo engine in the Sport and Touring trims transforms the Accord into a more performance-oriented car.
Cons
-
Modest Base Power: While the 1.5L engine is efficient it's not exactly thrilling. Some drivers may find its power output lacking especially during highway acceleration.
-
2.0L Fuel Efficiency: The more powerful 2.0L engine sacrifices some fuel economy for performance which may not be ideal for those looking to save on gas.
-
No AWD Option: While many competitors in the segment offer All-Wheel Drive (AWD) the Accord only comes with Front-Wheel Drive (FWD). This might be a downside for drivers living in areas with harsh weather conditions.
Alex Collantes’ Perspective
According to Alex Collantes, a car enthusiast who recently test-drove the 2022 Accord Sport 2.0T, “The Accord offers an incredible mix of power and comfort for the price. I drove the Sport trim and the horsepower is really noticeable when you put your foot down on the highway. It's not a muscle car but it feels quick enough to make you smile every time.”
Alex adds “One thing I wish they added was an AWD option. While I personally don’t need it where I live I know some drivers will miss having the added traction especially in winter conditions.”
Competitors in Horsepower - How Does It Stack Up?
While the 2022 Honda Accord offers strong performance it’s always good to know how it compares to competitors in the segment:
Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry is a big rival to the Accord. Its 2.5L 4-cylinder engine produces 203 hp in the base model but also offers a V6 option with 301 hp. While the V6 Camry has more power it also comes with higher fuel consumption.
Nissan Altima
The Nissan Altima features a 2.5L engine producing 188 hp or a 2.0L turbocharged engine with 236 hp. The Altima’s engines are comparable to the Accord but some drivers find its CVT transmission to be less engaging than the Accord’s options.
Mazda6
The Mazda6 aims for a sportier feel with its 2.5L turbocharged engine delivering up to 250 hp. While the Mazda6 offers a more dynamic driving experience the interior isn’t as spacious or refined as the Accord’s.
Is the 2022 Honda Accord Right for You?
The 2022 Honda Accord offers versatile engine options catering to a range of driver preferences from fuel efficiency to sportier performance. With its 192 hp base engine it provides a comfortable everyday driving experience while the 252 hp option will appeal to those who want a bit more thrill behind the wheel.
Prospective buyers should weigh their priorities—whether it’s horsepower fuel efficiency or additional features like an AWD option. But as Alex Collantes puts it “The Accord is a solid all-rounder that doesn’t really make any compromises. It’s one of those cars you feel good driving every day.”
Final Verdict
For those who prioritize reliability comfort and a well-rounded driving experience the 2022 Honda Accord stands as a compelling choice. It may not be the most powerful in its class but its mix of performance and practicality makes it an appealing option in the midsize sedan segment.