33 MPG combined is a solid achievement for the 2022 Honda Accord 1.5L, and it underscores exactly why so many choose it: practicality. This isn’t a hybrid chasing headline numbers, nor is it trying to be a sports sedan. The Accord 1.5L is a dependable, spacious, and comfortable family car that sips fuel, further minimizing its running costs. It’s a blend that resonates with value-conscious buyers who prioritize long-term ownership over fleeting thrills.

City and highway performance

The 2022 Accord 1.5L’s EPA ratings break down to 30 MPG in the city and 38 MPG on the highway. The city figure is commendable, reflecting the engine’s efficiency and the smooth operation of its continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT is programmed to keep the engine operating in its most efficient range, constantly adjusting its ratios for optimal fuel consumption. The 38 MPG highway rating speaks to the Accord’s aerodynamic design, reducing drag and maximizing efficiency at cruising speeds. These figures are repeatable in real-world driving, provided excessive acceleration is avoided, and the car is maintained according to schedule.

Annual fuel cost

The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Honda Accord 1.5L is precisely $1,350. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time the EPA testing was performed. Consider that this is an estimate, and your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, location, and fluctuating fuel prices. However, $1,350 provides a useful benchmark for comparing the Accord’s running costs to other vehicles in its class.

Real-world expectations

While EPA ratings provide a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy always varies. With the Accord 1.5L, most owners will find that hitting the EPA numbers is easily achievable with mindful driving. Commuters who encounter frequent stop-and-go traffic may see figures closer to the 30 MPG city rating, while those who primarily drive on highways can realistically expect to match or even exceed the 38 MPG highway rating. A driver with a heavier foot or who frequently carries passengers and cargo may see slightly lower numbers. Observe the “miles per gallon” indicator on the dash to understand your own driving style. Overall, buyers seeking the ACCORD MPG across all years can be confident that this model delivers consistent fuel efficiency in everyday use.

How it compares

The Accord 1.5L’s fuel economy stacks up well against its key competitors. The Toyota Camry LE, for example, achieves 28 MPG city and 39 MPG highway, putting its combined rating roughly in the same ballpark. The Nissan Altima SR with the 2.5L engine is rated at 28 MPG city and 39 MPG highway, highlighting a competitive landscape. However, the Accord’s reputation for reliability and overall driving refinement further elevates its appeal alongside its fuel efficiency. The Hyundai Sonata SE comes in at 28 City/38 Highway, but lacks the Accord’s long-standing reputation for quality and refinement. Owners choose this model because they are looking for fuel economy without sacrificing the qualities that have made the Accord a perennial favorite.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and braking significantly improve fuel economy in the 1.5L Accord. Avoid aggressive starts and hard stops, which force the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Instead, anticipate traffic flow and maintain a smooth, steady pace.

Tire pressure plays a critical role in fuel efficiency. Ensure the tires are inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, decreasing MPG. Regularly check and adjust tire pressure, especially during temperature fluctuations.

Minimize unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Extra cargo adds strain on the engine, reducing fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need, such as sports equipment, heavy tools, or infrequently used items. A lighter vehicle requires less energy to move, improving efficiency.

Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed. This helps avoid speed fluctuations that waste fuel. Cruise control optimizes throttle input, resulting in more consistent and efficient fuel consumption. On long trips, this can add up to noticeable savings. Consider exploring all Honda fuel economy data before buying to ensure you get the right model to fit your driving style to maximize fuel economy.