A creaking noise appeared from what sounds to be rear, maybe rear driver side. It happens when accelerating normally from a stop for the first 2 or 3 seconds. I pushed down on each end of the car and there is no noise anywhere. It only happens when accelerating from stop. Never heard it during cornering or braking.

Could brake pads be causing this?

 

I’d probably apply some silicone lube to the rear arm, lateral link and shock bushings.

I’d do these one at a time, then drive for a bit, to see if I could isolate which bushing (if any) is the cause of the issue.

If you’re successful, you might, at some point, want/need to replace some rear suspension bushings.

 

If what TB suggested above doesn't solve the problem, maybe look at the lower radiator support and/or the motor mounts. If any or all of these have problems, the motor moves enough to extend through the exhaust, and that moves too, all the way back.