The Honda N64A is a 3,498 cc, naturally aspirated V6 petrol engine introduced in 2018 for the North American market Odyssey minivan. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) per bank, 24 valves, and Honda's i — VTEC system for variable valve timing and lift. This engine delivers 280 PS and 355 Nm of torque, with i — VTEC optimizing valve overlap for a broad, flat torque curve ideal for family vehicle responsiveness.
Fitted exclusively to the fifth — generation Odyssey (RC…
Honda
Production from 2018 meets U.S. EPA Tier 3 Bin 30 and California ULEV2 emissions standards (EPA Certificate of Conformity #A-HON-18-N64).
The Honda N64A is a 3,498 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for minivans (2018-Present). It combines SOHC architecture with i-VTEC variable valve timing to deliver smooth, linear power for effortless towing and highway cruising. Designed to meet U.S. Tier 3 Bin 30 and ULEV2 standards, it prioritizes refinement and low emissions for family use.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,498 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V6, SOHC, 24‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 93.0 mm | |
Power output | 206 kW (280 PS) | |
Torque | 355 Nm @ 4,700 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct Injection (DI) | |
Emissions standard | Tier 3 Bin 30, ULEV2 | |
Compression ratio | 11.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain-driven | |
Oil type | Honda 0W-20 (spec. HTO-06) | |
Dry weight | 178 kg |
The Honda N64A was developed for Honda's Minivan 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 N64A's primary design focus is long-term reliability for family use, with minimal standalone mechanical issues reported. Honda's internal quality metrics from 2018-2024 show very low warranty claims for the powertrain. As a relatively new engine, long-term data is still accumulating, but its design inherits proven elements from the J-series. Consistent use of the correct 0W-20 oil and top-tier fuel is paramount for longevity.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (2018-2024) and initial EPA certification data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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As a relatively new engine (introduced in 2018), definitive long-term data is still being gathered. However, it is based on Honda's proven V6 architecture and has shown excellent initial reliability with very low warranty claims. Proper maintenance, including using the correct 0W-20 oil and top-tier fuel, is key to ensuring long-term durability.
Being a newer engine, widespread common problems are not yet established. Potential areas to monitor, based on its design, include carbon buildup on intake valves (common to DI engines), ensuring the VTEC system has clean, correct oil, and managing oil dilution in extreme cold climates via software updates. Most 'issues' are often related to the VCM system rather than the core engine.
The N64A engine is used exclusively in the fifth-generation (RC chassis) Honda Odyssey minivan for the North American market, from the 2018 model year to present. It is not used in any other Honda or Acura models globally.
Tuning the N64A is possible but complex. Basic ECU remaps can yield minor power gains. However, significant power increases are limited by the engine's focus on refinement and emissions compliance. Honda has not released official performance upgrades, and tuning may impact the VCM system and warranty.
Official EPA combined fuel economy for the Odyssey with the N64A is approximately 22 mpg (10.7 L/100km). Real-world results typically range from 19-24 mpg (12.4-9.8 L/100km), heavily influenced by driving style, load, and the frequency of VCM system engagement. It prioritizes power and smoothness over ultimate fuel efficiency.
Yes. Like virtually all modern Honda engines, the N64A is an interference design. If the timing chain were to fail (an extremely rare event in Honda engines), significant internal engine damage would occur. The chain is designed to last the engine's lifetime with proper oil maintenance.
Honda mandates the use of 0W-20 engine oil meeting their HTO-06 specification. This low-viscosity oil is critical for the proper operation of the VTEC and VCM systems, fuel efficiency, and overall engine protection. Using the wrong oil can cause damage and impair system function.
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