The Honda R20K2 is a 1,997 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2022. It features i-VTEC (intelligent Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) on the intake camshaft, along with a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design. In standard form, it delivers 113 kW (154 PS) and 190 Nm of torque, balancing efficiency with accessible low-to-mid range power for everyday drivability.
Fitted primarily to the tenth-generation Civic (FC) for European and global markets, the R20K2 was engineered for smooth, predictable performance and excellent fuel economy. It offers a linear power delivery characteristic of Honda, prioritizing refinement and low running costs over high-RPM excitement. Emissions compliance was achieved through direct injection and a close-coupled catalytic converter, meeting Euro 6 standards across its production run.
One documented engineering refinement is the introduction of a revised piston ring design in 2018 to further reduce oil consumption, as detailed in Honda Service Bulletin A18-031. This update improved long-term sealing without indicating a reliability fault, continuing Honda's incremental improvements to the R-series architecture.
Honda
Production years 2015–2022 meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/HON-R20K2).
The Honda R20K2 is a 1,997 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact sedans and hatchbacks (2015-2022). It combines SOHC i-VTEC with direct fuel injection to deliver smooth, predictable power and exceptional fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances urban agility with low-cost ownership.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,997 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 16‑valve, i-VTEC (intake only) | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 97.0 mm | |
| Power output | 113 kW (154 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 4,300 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Honda 0W-20 | |
| Dry weight | Approx. 120 kg |
The SOHC i-VTEC design provides smooth, predictable power ideal for daily commuting but requires regular oil changes with the specified 0W-20 viscosity to ensure optimal VTEC operation and fuel economy. The direct injection system necessitates periodic intake valve cleaning to prevent carbon buildup. The engine features a chain-driven timing system designed for longevity; no scheduled replacement is required. The 2018 piston ring update (per Honda SIB A18-031) further enhances long-term reliability.
Oil Specs: Requires Honda 0W-20 specification (Honda Owner's Manual). No alternative viscosities are officially approved for this variant.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all 2015–2022 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/HON-R20K2).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Peak power requires 95 RON fuel or higher (Honda TIS Doc. R20K2-A26015).
Honda Technical Information System (TIS): Docs R20K2-A24680, R20K2-A25142, SIB A18-031
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/HON-R20K2)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Honda R20K2 was used exclusively in Honda's FC Civic platform with transverse mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations. All specifications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the engine block, near the exhaust manifold (Honda TIS R20K2-A24890). The 8th VIN digit for FC Civic is 'R'. The R20K2 can be visually identified by its silver valve cover with "i-VTEC" branding and the absence of a turbocharger. Critical differentiation from the R18Z1: The R20K2 is a 2.0L engine with direct injection, while the R18Z1 is a 1.8L with port injection. Service parts are not interchangeable between these variants.
The R20K2 is renowned for its exceptional reliability, with no widespread, critical failures documented. Honda's internal quality reports indicate very high initial reliability. The primary service focus, as per bulletin A18-031, is optimizing long-term oil consumption. No significant failure trends have been reported by VCA or owner groups as of 2024.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (2015-2022) and VCA owner complaint data (2016-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA R20K2.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with HONDA or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
HONDA Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialHONDA documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
