Typically, the EX-L uses a turbocharged four‑cylinder engine. In recent years that has meant a 1.5-liter turbo with a CVT, with a 2.0-liter turbo and a 10‑speed automatic available on certain model years. In older generations, the EX-L could be equipped with a V6 engine.
Engine options by generation
Below is a concise overview of the engines you may find in the Accord EX-L across its major generations and markets. The exact choice depends on the model year and region.
- 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 (1.5T) paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) — the standard setup for the modern 10th‑generation Accord EX-L (approximately 2018–present) in many markets.
- 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 (2.0T) paired with a 10-speed automatic — available on EX-L in certain years/markets, offering higher performance and power.
- 3.5-liter V6 (J35) — offered on the 9th-generation Accord EX-L (roughly 2013–2017) as a higher‑end option before the 2.0T became the focus in later generations.
Engine availability varies by model year and market. For the current generation, you’re most likely to encounter either the 1.5T with CVT or the 2.0T with a 10‑speed automatic on EX-L models. Older EX-L examples could include the V6 option.
Older generations and alternative powertrains
In earlier generations (notably the 9th generation), the EX-L trim was commonly available with a 3.5-liter V6, delivering stronger performance before Honda shifted emphasis to turbocharged four-cylinders in later years. Some markets also offered other four‑cylinder configurations in base trims, but EX-L typically sat above those with more power options.
When assessing a specific vehicle, verify the exact engine by checking the model year brochure or the vehicle identification label, since engine availability shifted as Honda redesigned the Accord across generations.
Summary
For the current Honda Accord EX-L, the engine generally comes down to two turbocharged four-cylinder options: the 1.5L turbo with CVT and the 2.0L turbo with a 10-speed automatic. In earlier generations, the EX-L could also be equipped with a 3.5L V6. Always confirm the exact engine on a given car by checking the VIN or official spec for that model year.