From the time I learned how to drive, I never imagined myself getting a class-leading model for a car. I consider myself a practical person. But I have been always curious about what makes expensive vehicles a lot pricier than the regular ones. I mean, the basic goal is to get from point A to point B, right? And if comfort is a big deal, I don't know any car models today that are not air-conditioned. Comfort can be found throughout the range. 

But then, I learned more about vehicles and how they are priced. The more the features, the higher the market value for one. But how about a car's powertrain? Does it also mean that a premium car should have a better and fancier engine along with the other components that go with it under the hood?

For example, Honda offers the Honda City sedan at around Php 938,000 in the Philippine market. At the same time, it also offers the Honda Accord, which is more than double the price of the City. What makes the Accord different and more expensive? Does it perform twice as great as the City?

Under the hood of the Honda Accord is a 1.5-L Earth Dreams Technology DOHC 16-valve VTEC Turbo gasoline engine that makes up to 190 ps at 5,500 rpm and 260 Nm of torque at 1,600 rpm. This is mated to a CVT and mounted as a front-wheel drive. Granted, the Accord sports a turbocharged engine and the City does not. 

Honda says the Honda Accord's engine also delivers performance with fuel efficiency in mind. It also promises that emissions will be less in the 2022 version of the Accord. Something the environmentally conscious would appreciate. 

Even though this executive car has a calming appearance and a cabin vibe fit for professionals, the engine does not disappoint for power users who are in a rush. The CVT also works well to deliver the power to the wheels as smoothly as possible.

The Honda Accord's more refined and powerful drivetrain is there for a reason.  It is there to accommodate higher expectations and fulfill a raft of promises that buyers of lower-classed sedans do not even bother with.  If you are after power while maintaining a calm and composed ride around town, then the Honda Accord delivers both with enhanced confidence and unassailable quality. And that's where the extra money you'll let go of actually goes.