The Honda Accord VIII facelift wagon, specifically the 2.2 i-DTEC (150 hp) Automatic variant, was produced for a limited time between 2011 and 2012. This model represented a niche offering within the broader Accord range, primarily aimed at the European market where wagons (estate cars) held significant popularity. It combined the practicality of a station wagon with Honda’s reputation for reliability and a fuel-efficient diesel powertrain. This variant sat in the mid-range of the Accord lineup, offering a balance between performance, economy, and equipment levels. It was positioned above the lower-powered petrol models but below the more expensive and performance-oriented trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Honda |
| Model | Accord |
| Generation | Accord VIII (facelift 2011) Wagon |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 i-DTEC (150 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.2-8.3 l/100 km (28.7 – 28.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2-5.3 l/100 km (45.2 – 44.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.3-6.4 l/100 km (37.3 – 36.8 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 164-167 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.4-10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.4-10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 202 km/h (125.52 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 2000-2750 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 2000-2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | N22B1 |
| Engine displacement | 2199 cm3 (134.19 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 16.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.9 l (7.29 US qt | 6.07 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1766 kg (3893.36 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 406 l (14.34 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1183 l (41.78 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4750 mm (187.01 in.) |
| Width | 1840 mm (72.44 in.) |
| Height | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2705 mm (106.5 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.72 m (38.45 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 215/60 R16; 225/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Accord variant is the N22B1 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a member of Honda’s i-DTEC family, known for its efficiency and relatively quiet operation. The N22B1 utilizes a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output and improve torque across a wider rev range. The engine features four valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 16.3:1, contributing to its thermal efficiency. The five-speed automatic transmission was a conventional torque converter type, chosen for its smoothness and ease of use, although it wasn’t as fuel-efficient or responsive as some newer automatic designs.
Driving Characteristics
The 150 hp and 350 Nm of torque provided by the 2.2 i-DTEC engine delivered adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 9.9 seconds, which was respectable for a diesel wagon of this size. However, it wasn’t a particularly sporty vehicle. The automatic transmission, while smooth, could feel somewhat sluggish during quick acceleration or overtaking maneuvers. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy rather than outright performance. Compared to the petrol-powered Accord variants, the diesel offered significantly more torque at lower engine speeds, making it easier to carry a full load or navigate hilly terrain. It also provided superior fuel economy, a key selling point for many buyers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.2 i-DTEC Automatic typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, a CD player with auxiliary input, and alloy wheels. Safety features such as ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), and multiple airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels offered options like leather upholstery, a sunroof, a navigation system, and parking sensors. The interior design was functional and well-built, reflecting Honda’s commitment to quality. The wagon body style provided a generous amount of cargo space, making it ideal for families or those who frequently needed to transport large items.
Chassis & Braking
The Accord VIII wagon featured a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort over sporty handling. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS was standard, providing enhanced braking performance in emergency situations. The steering was a rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive control. The wagon’s increased weight compared to the sedan version meant that the suspension and brakes were slightly uprated to maintain similar handling and stopping performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.2 i-DTEC Automatic Accord wagon received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some critics noted that the automatic transmission could feel a bit slow and that the engine lacked the refinement of some of its European competitors. Compared to the petrol-powered Accord variants, the diesel offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a more economical choice for high-mileage drivers. Compared to other diesel wagons in its class, such as the Volkswagen Passat and Ford Mondeo, the Accord offered a competitive combination of features, performance, and reliability.
Legacy
The Honda Accord VIII 2.2 i-DTEC Automatic has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The N22B1 engine is known for its longevity, and the automatic transmission, while not the most advanced, is generally dependable. In the used car market, these Accords are often sought after for their fuel efficiency and practicality. While not a particularly rare or collectible model, they represent a well-rounded and dependable choice for buyers looking for a spacious and economical wagon. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and timing belt replacements, is crucial to ensure the continued reliability of this powertrain.
