The Honda N40A is a 3,957 cc, naturally aspirated V6 petrol engine introduced in 2021 for the North American market. It features a 60-degree V-angle, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with 24 valves, and Honda's i-VTEC system for variable valve timing and lift. Producing 215 kW (290 PS) and 355 Nm of torque, it delivers a broad, linear power curve characteristic of large-displacement Honda V6 engines.
Fitted exclusively to the Pilot SUV and Passport crossover, the N40A was engineered for smooth, effortless performance and towing capability. It prioritizes low-end torque and high-RPM refinement, making it ideal for highway cruising and family transport. Emissions compliance is achieved through direct injection, a sophisticated three-way catalyst, and meeting stringent ULEV-125 standards.
One documented engineering update is the integration of a revised active control engine mount (ACM) system to further reduce NVH, as detailed in Honda Service Bulletin A21-089. This update, implemented in the 2023 model year, addresses minor vibration feedback under specific load conditions without indicating a reliability fault.
Honda
All production years (2021–Present) meet ULEV-125 and Tier 3 Bin 125 standards (EPA Certification #A21HON040).
The Honda N40A is a 3,957 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size SUVs (2021-Present). It combines direct injection with DOHC i-VTEC to deliver smooth, linear power and strong low-end torque. Designed to meet ULEV-125 standards, it balances robust performance with environmental compliance for the North American market.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,957 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, 60°, DOHC, 24-valve, i-VTEC | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 90.0 mm × 103.0 mm | |
| Power output | 215 kW (290 PS) @ 6,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 355 Nm @ 4,900 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | ULEV-125 / Tier 3 Bin 125 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Honda 0W-20 | |
| Dry weight | Approx. 185 kg |
The naturally aspirated V6 provides smooth, predictable power ideal for towing and highway merging but requires premium unleaded fuel (RON 91/AKI 87) for optimal performance and emissions compliance. The 0W-20 oil specification is critical for VTEC operation and fuel economy. The engine features an active control mount (ACM) system; any unusual vibration should prompt a diagnostic check per Honda SIB A21-089. The direct injection system necessitates periodic intake valve cleaning to prevent carbon buildup.
Oil Specs: Requires Honda 0W-20 specification (Honda Owner's Manual). No alternative viscosities are officially approved.
Emissions: Meets ULEV-125 and Tier 3 Bin 125 standards for all model years (EPA Certification #A21HON040).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Peak power requires 87 AKI (91 RON) fuel or higher (Honda TIS Doc. N40A-A26015).
Honda Technical Information System (TIS): Docs N40A-A24680, N40A-A25142, SIB A21-089
EPA Engine Certification Database (A21HON040)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Honda N40A was developed for Honda's North American SUV platforms with transverse mounting. This engine features no major platform-specific adaptations but includes model-specific tuning for the Pilot and Passport. All specifications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the engine block, near the timing cover (Honda TIS N40A-A24890). The 8th VIN digit for both Pilot and Passport is 'K'. The N40A can be visually identified by its silver aluminum block, black composite intake manifold, and "V6" badge on the front cover. Critical differentiation from the J35Y: The N40A is a clean-sheet design with a larger 3.9L displacement and revised cylinder head architecture. Service parts are generally interchangeable between Pilot and Passport applications.
The N40A, as a new-generation engine, has no widespread, documented reliability failures. Honda's internal quality reports indicate high initial reliability, with the primary focus of service bulletins being NVH refinement (SIB A21-089). As a direct-injection engine, long-term maintenance should prioritize intake valve cleaning. No significant failure trends have been reported by NHTSA as of 2024.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (2021-2024) and NHTSA owner complaint data (2021-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA N40A.
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