torque

Torque is a measure of rotational or twisting force, expressed in the United States as pound-feet (lb-ft) and internationally as Newton-meters (Nm). In a vehicle, torque is the force the engine (or electric motor) applies to turn the crankshaft, which ultimately rotates the wheels. While horsepower describes how quickly work is done, torque describes the muscle behind that work—the force that gets a vehicle moving from a stop, hauls a trailer up a grade, or accelerates briskly when passing.

Manufacturers publish a peak torque figure along with the engine speed (RPM) at which it occurs. For example, a 2018 Honda Accord 1.5L turbo produces 192 lb-ft from about 1,600 RPM, while a 2020 Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 generates 470 lb-ft. Electric vehicles like the Chevrolet Bolt deliver maximum torque (266 lb-ft) almost instantly from 0 RPM, which is why EVs feel so quick off the line.

Why used car shoppers should care about torque:

• Towing and hauling: If you plan to tow a boat, camper, or utility trailer, torque (especially low-end torque) matters more than horsepower. Check the manufacturer’s tow rating alongside the torque figure.
• Driving feel: Higher low-RPM torque means the vehicle feels responsive without needing to rev the engine. Turbocharged and diesel engines typically produce torque earlier in the RPM band than naturally aspirated gas engines.
• Fuel economy trade-offs: High-torque engines often consume more fuel. Compare EPA fuel economy ratings on FuelEconomy.gov for the specific engine and transmission combination, since two trims of the same model can vary significantly.
• Reliability of torque-related components: High torque stresses transmissions, axles, and clutches. Before buying, search NHTSA recall and complaint databases at NHTSA.gov for issues like transmission failures, driveshaft problems, or torque converter shudder—common complaints on certain dual-clutch and CVT-equipped vehicles.
• Safety context: Powerful, high-torque vehicles can be more difficult to control in poor weather. Review NHTSA’s New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) crash ratings for the model year you’re considering.

When test driving, pay attention to how the vehicle pulls from low speeds and during merging—real-world torque delivery matters more than spec-sheet peaks.

Sources: U.S. EPA and U.S. Department of Energy Fuel Economy data (FuelEconomy.gov); NHTSA Recalls, Complaints, and Investigations database; NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) safety ratings.

Reviewed by the CarCabin editorial team.