The Honda N22A1 is a 2,199 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2009 and 2014. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 16 valves, and Honda's i — VTEC system for variable valve timing and lift. This engine delivered 110 kW (150 PS) and 206 Nm of torque, with i — VTEC enabling a broad powerband for responsive highway cruising.
Fitted primarily to the third — generation Honda CR — V (RE), the N22A1 was engineered for dependable, smooth perfor…
Honda
Production from 2009–2014 meets Euro 5 emissions standards (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007, as amended).
The Honda N22A1 is a 2,199 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact SUVs (2009-2014). It combines SOHC architecture with i-VTEC variable valve timing to deliver smooth, linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it prioritizes reliability and refinement for daily driving.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,199 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 87.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) | |
Torque | 206 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain-driven | |
Oil type | Honda 5W-30 (spec. HTO-06) | |
Dry weight | 137 kg |
The Honda N22A1 was developed for Honda's Global SUV platform with transverse mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations or facelift revisions during its production run. All applications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The N22A1's primary reliability consideration is potential oil consumption in early builds, with Honda's internal data indicating a measurable improvement after the March 2011 update. UK DVSA MOT statistics show no significant pattern of engine-related failures for this model, suggesting overall robustness. Adherence to the correct oil specification and change intervals is critical for long-term health.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (2009-2014) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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Yes, the N22A1 is generally considered a reliable and robust engine. Its main known issue, excessive oil consumption, was addressed by Honda in 2011. With proper maintenance, including using the correct 5W-30 oil and regular changes, these engines can easily exceed 200,000 km without major issues.
The most common problem is excessive oil consumption, but this primarily affects engines built before March 2011. Other potential issues include VTEC system faults (solenoid/switch), timing chain tensioner wear at very high mileage, and coolant leaks from the thermostat housing or water pump. These are well-documented in Honda service information.
The N22A1 engine was used exclusively in the third-generation Honda CR-V (chassis codes RE3 and RE4) from 2009 to 2014. It was offered as the 2.2-litre i-VTEC petrol option in various global markets, including Europe.
The N22A1 has limited tuning potential due to its SOHC design and focus on reliability over performance. Basic ECU remaps might yield minor gains of 5-10 kW, but significant power increases would require forced induction, which is complex and not commonly supported. Most owners prioritize its dependable nature.
Official combined fuel economy for the CR-V 2.2 i-VTEC is approximately 8.5 L/100km (33 mpg UK). Real-world driving typically results in figures between 9-11 L/100km (26-31 mpg UK), depending on driving style and conditions. It is not considered a particularly economical engine by modern standards.
Yes. The N22A1 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail or jump, the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing severe internal engine damage. Fortunately, the timing chain is very durable and designed to last the engine's lifetime with proper maintenance.
Honda specifies 5W-30 engine oil meeting their HTO-06 specification. Using the correct oil is crucial for the proper operation of the i-VTEC system and to minimize wear. Always refer to your owner's manual and change the oil at the recommended intervals, especially if you have an early-build engine.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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