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 en…
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 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.
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.
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Based on its design lineage and early data, the N40A is expected to be highly reliable. It inherits the robust architecture of Honda's V6 engines with modern updates. The primary long-term consideration is managing intake valve carbon buildup, a common trait of direct-injection engines. With proper maintenance, it should provide excellent longevity.
As a new engine, there are no widespread mechanical failures. Documented service actions focus on refining NVH via the ACM system (SIB A21-089). Owners should be aware of potential long-term intake valve carbon buildup and, in very cold climates, monitor for oil dilution. These are manageable with standard maintenance.
The N40A is currently used in the fourth-generation Honda Pilot (2023–Present) and the second-generation Honda Passport (2021–Present) for the North American market. It is not used in any other Honda or Acura models globally, making it specific to these two SUVs.
Significant power gains are unlikely without major hardware changes. The N40A is a large, naturally aspirated engine tuned for torque and smoothness. Basic ECU flashes might yield minor gains (5-10 kW), but the engine's character is not focused on high-strung performance. Bolt-on modifications offer limited returns.
Fuel economy is typical for a 3.9L V6 SUV. Expect around 12.4 L/100km in the city and 9.0 L/100km on the highway for the Pilot, translating to roughly 23 mpg UK combined. The lighter Passport achieves slightly better figures, around 11.8 L/100km combined. Real-world figures vary with driving style and conditions.
Yes. Like all modern DOHC engines, the N40A is an interference design. If the timing chain were to fail (which is highly unlikely given its robust design), the pistons would collide with the valves, causing severe engine damage. The timing chain is designed to last the life of the engine.
Honda mandates 0W-20 synthetic oil for the N40A. This specific viscosity is crucial for optimal fuel economy, VTEC operation, and cold-start protection. Using any other oil type or viscosity can void the warranty and potentially cause damage. Change intervals should follow the vehicle's maintenance minder system.
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