The 2018 Honda Accord Sport 2.0T didn’t just redefine what a mid-size sedan could be—it delivered a genuine punch of performance wrapped in a sophisticated, supremely practical package. As the tenth generation of the Accord launched, it faced a rapidly changing automotive landscape, where SUVs were king and the sedan was fighting for relevance. Honda’s response wasn’t a meek retreat; it was a bold, enthusiast-oriented offering that successfully blended everyday sensibility with a surprising dose of speed. This car quickly became a standout, a true ‘sleeper’ in the segment, and remains one of the most compelling used-car buys for those who want family-car utility without sacrificing a fun-to-drive character. It’s a machine that successfully marries Honda’s legendary reliability with a turbocharged heart eager to play.

Feature	Specification (Automatic Transmission)	Note
Engine Type	2.0L Turbocharged DOHC I-4 VTEC	Derivative of the Civic Type R engine.
Horsepower	252 hp @ 6,500 rpm	Strong output for the mid-size sedan class.
Torque	273 lb-ft @ 1,500 – 4,000 rpm	Peak torque arrives very early for excellent low-end pull.
Transmission	10-Speed Automatic (Standard)	Also available with a 6-Speed Manual.
Drivetrain	Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)	Standard for all Accord models.
0-60 mph Time	Approx. 5.5 – 5.7 seconds (Automatic)	Very quick for a family sedan.
EPA Combined MPG	26 MPG (Automatic)	Excellent balance of power and efficiency.
Wheel Size	19-inch Alloy Wheels	Part of the Sport trim aesthetic.
Suspension	Sport-Tuned Suspension	Firmer than base or Touring models.
Key Standard Tech	Honda Sensing Safety Suite, 8-inch Display Audio	High level of standard safety and connectivity features.

The Engine of Excitement: Why the 2.0T Matters

At the core of the appeal of the 2018 Honda Accord Sport 2.0T is its engine. This wasn’t just a minor upgrade; it was a seismic shift. Honda wisely retired the venerable, but aging, naturally aspirated V6 that had powered previous top-trim Accords, replacing it with a detuned version of the engine found in the high-performance Civic Type R. Specifically, we’re talking about a turbocharged 2.0-liter DOHC VTEC four-cylinder engine.

This power plant churns out a robust 252 horsepower and a significant 273 lb-ft of torque. Now, compare that to the outgoing V6’s 278 horsepower. While the peak horsepower is slightly down, the turbo engine’s peak torque arrives much earlier in the rev band—starting at a low 1,500 rpm—which is where you spend most of your daily driving time. This translates into felt performance that often outperforms the V6 in real-world scenarios, particularly off the line. Anecdotally, the pull is immediate and satisfying, making mundane tasks like merging onto a highway or executing a quick pass feel effortless and even exhilarating. It’s a smooth, refined power delivery that doesn’t suffer from the lag that plagued some early turbo engines.

A major part of the Sport 2.0T’s unique identity was the optional transmission: a sweet-shifting, six-speed manual gearbox. This was a direct nod to driving purists and an almost unheard-of option in the family sedan segment at the time, particularly with the most potent engine. For those opting for the automatic, the 2018 Honda Accord Sport 2.0T came paired with a sophisticated 10-speed automatic transmission, which is silky smooth and remarkably quick to shift, optimizing the engine’s power band efficiently. This combination of a powerful, modern engine and transmission choice cemented the 2.0T as the enthusiast’s choice within the Accord lineup.

Design and Aesthetics: Sporty Edge without the Fluff

The tenth-generation Accord, introduced in 2018, adopted a sleek, fastback-like profile, moving away from the more conservative, boxy look of its predecessors. It was longer, lower, and wider, giving it an undeniably premium and athletic stance. The Sport trim level took this already handsome design and added just enough aggression to make it stand out.

The exterior of the 2018 Honda Accord Sport 2.0T features several key visual differentiators. These include unique 19-inch alloy wheels that fill the wheel wells nicely, a subtle rear lip spoiler, LED fog lights, and chrome exhaust finishers (some trims had a quasi-dual exhaust setup). The overall aesthetic manages to strike a difficult balance: it’s sporty enough to turn heads but remains mature and tasteful enough to fit in at any professional setting. It avoids the boy-racer look entirely, opting instead for a subtle, confident presence. This visual distinction is important, as it signals that this is the version of the Accord that drivers want to drive, not just one they have to drive.

Inside, the Accord was completely redesigned, finally ditching the frustrating dual-screen infotainment system of the previous generation. The 2018 model brought back physical knobs and buttons for climate and stereo controls, a move that was universally praised for its intuitive, user-friendly nature. The Sport trim typically includes a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and stylish sport pedals. The cabin feels expansive, particularly the rear seat, which offers near-limousine levels of legroom, making it a genuinely comfortable vehicle for long trips, proving that practicality and performance can coexist.

The Driving Experience: Cornering and Confidence

One area where the 2018 Honda Accord Sport 2.0T truly shines is in its on-road dynamics. Honda engineered the 2018 chassis to be more rigid and lighter than the outgoing model, which is the foundational secret to its excellent handling.

The Sport trim receives a sport-tuned suspension with firmer settings compared to the more luxury-focused Touring or base models. Paired with the low-profile tires on those 19-inch wheels, this setup provides excellent body control through corners. The steering is direct, precise, and well-weighted, offering a communicative feel that encourages the driver to engage with the road. While it’s certainly not a dedicated sports car, for a front-wheel-drive mid-size sedan, the Accord tackles twisty roads with an unexpected verve. It stays flat and composed, resisting the excessive body roll common in many competitors. The suspension is firm, which is part of the ‘Sport’ experience, but it avoids being overly harsh, successfully soaking up most road imperfections.

Real-life scenarios often highlight this balance. Imagine driving home after a long day; the smooth 10-speed automatic handles traffic seamlessly. But on a weekend drive through a scenic, winding route, the same car transforms, the turbo engine eagerly pulling out of corners, and the chassis instilling confidence as you navigate turns. This dual personality is a massive selling point and a key reason why the 2018 Honda Accord Sport 2.0T continues to be sought after in the secondary market.

Safety and Technology: A Complete Package

Honda didn’t skimp on safety or technology, even on the enthusiast-focused Sport trim. The 2018 Honda Accord Sport 2.0T came standard with the comprehensive Honda Sensing suite of driver-assistance features. This includes:

• Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)
• Road Departure Mitigation (RDM)
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow
• Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
• Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR)

This extensive set of features was a major advantage in 2018, offering a level of standard safety tech that often cost extra in rival vehicles. It contributed to the Accord’s excellent crash-test ratings from institutions like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) (More information on safety ratings can be found on the.

In terms of infotainment, the Sport trim upgraded to the 8-inch Display Audio system, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration—essential features for modern connectivity. The inclusion of a proper volume knob, a feature sorely missed in previous generations, made the system incredibly easy to use while driving. The system is quick, responsive, and positioned well on the dash for easy viewing, completing the picture of a thoroughly modern and capable sedan.

The Verdict: A True Driver’s Mid-Size Sedan

The 2018 Honda Accord Sport 2.0T represents a high-water mark for the mid-size sedan segment. It’s a car that refuses to accept the notion that a practical, spacious family vehicle must be dull. With its potent, yet refined, turbocharged engine, engaging chassis dynamics, and practical, technology-rich cabin, it delivers on every front. The availability of a rare manual transmission in a powerful family sedan makes this particular model year a future classic for enthusiasts. It’s not just a reliable A-to-B transporter; it’s a car that reminds you to take the long way home, offering a blend of performance and practicality that few rivals have ever matched.

FAQs about the 2018 Honda Accord Sport 2.0T

Q: Is the 2018 Honda Accord Sport 2.0T reliable?

A: Generally, yes. The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, being a derivative of the Civic Type R engine, is known for its robust construction. Honda’s reputation for reliability is well-earned, and the 2018 Accord has been praised for its overall durability. However, as with any turbocharged engine, proper, timely maintenance, including oil changes and using the correct fuel grade, is crucial for long-term health. The 10-speed automatic transmission has also proven to be a solid unit.

Q: What is the fuel economy like for the 2.0T engine?

A: The EPA-estimated fuel economy for the 2018 Honda Accord Sport 2.0T is quite respectable, considering its performance. With the 10-speed automatic transmission, it is rated at approximately 22 MPG city, 32 MPG highway, and 26 MPG combined. The manual transmission version has slightly different figures, reflecting a good balance between power and efficiency that the old V6 couldn’t match.

Q: Does the 2018 Honda Accord Sport 2.0T require premium fuel?

A: Yes, Honda recommends premium unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher) to achieve the published horsepower and torque figures. While the engine can run on regular unleaded fuel, doing so may result in slightly reduced performance due to the engine computer adjusting timing to prevent knocking. For maximum performance and engine health, premium fuel is the advised choice.

Q: What is the difference between the Sport 2.0T and the Touring 2.0T?

A: Both share the same powerful 2.0T engine, but the trims differ in features and suspension. The Sport 2.0T focuses on a more engaging, slightly firmer ride with its sport-tuned suspension and comes with less luxury-focused features (e.g., cloth/leatherette seats). The Touring 2.0T is the top-tier luxury trim, featuring leather seats, ventilated front seats, a head-up display, and an adaptive damper system for a more comfortable, customizable ride.