The Honda N64B is a 3,496 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced from 2018 to present. It features i — VTEC variable valve timing, a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design, and direct fuel injection (DI). This powerplant delivers 215 kW (290 PS) and 350 Nm of torque, with i — VTEC enabling a broad, flat torque curve for responsive performance.
Fitted primarily to the second — generation Honda NSX (NC1) supercar, the N64B was engineered as part of a hybrid powertrain fo…
Honda
Production years 2018–Present meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards for all applicable markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876).
The Honda N64B is a 3,496 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for high-performance hybrid applications (2018-Present). It combines DOHC i-VTEC with direct injection to deliver a high-revving, linear power band and exceptional throttle response. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards, it balances extreme performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,496 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 93.0 mm | |
Power output | 215 kW (290 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
Torque | 350 Nm @ 5,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct Injection (DI) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6d-TEMP | |
Compression ratio | 11.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain-driven | |
Oil type | Honda 0W-20 (API SP/RC) | |
Dry weight | 202 kg |
The Honda N64B was used exclusively in Honda's flagship hybrid supercar platform with longitudinal, mid-mounted installation. This engine is part of a complex Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system and received no platform-specific adaptations for other models, creating absolute interchange limits. All technical specifications are documented in OEM engineering bulletins.
The N64B's primary engineering focus is managing thermal loads, with no widespread reliability failures documented in OEM service data. Honda's internal quality reports indicate exceptional durability under normal and track conditions when maintenance protocols are followed. Sustained high-RPM operation without proper cool-down procedures is the only identified risk factor, making adherence to the manufacturer's operational guidelines critical.
Analysis derived from Honda engineering reports (2018-2024) and aggregated service data (2018-2025). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The N64B is engineered for exceptional long-term reliability, even under track conditions, provided strict maintenance schedules are followed. Key requirements include using only Honda 0W-20 oil, premium fuel, and adhering to the post-drive cool-down procedure. There are no known widespread mechanical failures for this engine.
Documented issues are rare and typically relate to wear items under extreme use: potential thermal stress on exhaust manifolds (mitigated by cool-down procedures), VTC actuator drift after high mileage, and high-pressure fuel pump wear. These are addressed in Honda's scheduled maintenance protocols, not as unexpected failures.
The N64B is used exclusively in the second-generation Honda NSX (NC1, 2018-Present). It is not found in any other Honda or Acura model. It is a bespoke engine designed specifically for the NSX's hybrid powertrain and mid-engine layout.
Tuning potential is extremely limited and not recommended. The engine is part of a tightly integrated hybrid system where power output is managed by complex software. Unauthorized ECU modifications can destabilize the entire powertrain and void the warranty. Honda does not offer official performance upgrades for this engine.
As expected for a high-performance hybrid supercar, fuel economy is not its primary focus. Official figures are ~11.5 L/100km (combined), or about 24 mpg UK. Real-world consumption can easily exceed 20 L/100km (14 mpg UK) during spirited driving. The hybrid system aids efficiency primarily in low-speed urban scenarios.
Yes. The N64B is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail (an event not documented in service history), the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal damage. The timing chain is designed for the engine's lifetime with proper maintenance.
Honda mandates the use of 0W-20 synthetic oil meeting API SP/RC specifications. This is critical for protecting the engine's high-precision components, ensuring optimal hybrid system function, and maintaining fuel economy. Oil changes must be performed every 10,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first.
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