A combined fuel economy rating of 26 MPG for the 2021 Honda Accord Sport or Touring with the 2.0L engine isn’t going to win any efficiency awards, but it’s perfectly acceptable. This car is a refined, spacious, and surprisingly engaging family sedan with a healthy dose of performance. This isn’t a Prius competitor; it’s a slightly sporty, premium-feeling Accord meant for drivers who prioritize a good driving experience alongside practicality.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 22 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway paint a clear picture of where this particular Accord variant excels. The lower city figure is typical for turbocharged engines, which can be thirstier in stop-and-go traffic. On the open road, however, the 2.0L turbo shines, delivering respectable fuel economy while offering ample power for comfortable cruising and confident passing maneuvers.

This makes it a solid choice for longer commutes and road trips, where the highway MPG helps to offset the lower city rating. People who live predominantly in urban areas may want to carefully consider their driving habits before prioritizing the 2.0L over the Accord’s more efficient 1.5L turbo.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Honda Accord Sport/Touring 2.0L at $1,700. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel you use. While $1,700 might seem reasonable, it’s important to factor this cost into your overall car ownership budget. Drivers looking to minimize fuel expenses should explore other Accord trims or consider hybrid alternatives.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and carrying extra weight can all negatively impact MPG. However, drivers who adopt a more moderate driving style and prioritize smooth acceleration can often achieve figures closer to, or even slightly above, the EPA estimates. The Accord’s smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission also plays a role, helping to keep the engine in its most efficient operating range.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2021 Accord Sport/Touring 2.0L lands in the middle of the pack for fuel economy. For example, the Toyota Camry XSE V6 achieves around 25 MPG combined, a bit less than the Accord, while offering a more powerful engine but with a more traditional powertrain. The Mazda 6 with its turbocharged engine gets around 26 MPG combined as well, but has a more premium interior. A Hyundai Sonata Limited 1.6T gets 31 MPG combined, offering a significant fuel economy improvement, but buyers accept the Sonata’s less sporty character. These are the trade-offs drivers consider. Compare all Honda fuel economy data to get a sense of how Accord fits in the Honda family.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Smooth and steady acceleration is key to maximizing fuel economy in the Accord 2.0L. Avoid sudden bursts of speed and try to maintain a consistent pace. The turbocharged engine is responsive, but it’s best to tap into that power judiciously to avoid unnecessary fuel consumption.

Regular maintenance, particularly tire inflation, can have a noticeable impact on fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and ensure that your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb. This reduces rolling resistance and helps the engine work less.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Carrying extra cargo adds to the vehicle’s overall weight, which reduces fuel efficiency. Remove any items from the trunk or backseat that you don’t need on a regular basis.

The Accord 2.0T offers spirited performance, so try to avoid using the Sport mode unless you truly need the extra responsiveness. The normal driving mode provides a good balance of performance and efficiency for most situations. You can see ACCORD MPG across all years to give yourself a baseline understanding of what is possible.

Plan your trips efficiently. Combining multiple errands into a single trip can help you avoid cold starts, which are typically less fuel-efficient. Also, consider using navigation apps to find the most direct route and avoid traffic congestion.