The Honda R20K3 is a 1,997 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2017 and 2022. It features Honda's i-VTEC system on both intake and exhaust camshafts and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design, delivering a balance of high-RPM power and mid-range torque for dynamic driving. In standard form it delivered 155 kW (210 PS), with torque figures peaking at 192 Nm.
Fitted primarily to the tenth-generation Civic Type R (FK8) for the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM), the R20K3 was engineered for spirited performance and high-revving character, distinct from the global turbocharged L15BF. Emissions compliance was met through advanced direct injection and precise VTEC control, achieving Euro 6 standards.
One documented engineering focus was optimizing the high-lift cam profiles for the JDM Type R's unique power band. Honda addressed NVH and valvetrain durability through specific hydraulic lash adjuster tuning, detailed in Technical Service Bulletin J19-055. No major generational updates were issued during its production run.
Honda
All production years 2017–2022 meet Euro 6 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
The Honda R20K3 is a 1,997 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for high-performance hatchbacks (2017-2022). It combines DOHC i-VTEC technology with direct fuel injection to deliver a linear, high-revving power curve. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it prioritizes driver engagement and mechanical feedback over outright low-end torque.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,997 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.0 mm × 84.0 mm | |
| Power output | 155 kW (210 PS) @ 7,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 192 Nm @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (Honda DI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Honda 0W-20 | |
| Dry weight | Approx. 130 kg |
The high-revving DOHC i-VTEC design provides exhilarating performance above 5,000 rpm but requires strict adherence to 0W-20 oil and 10,000 km service intervals for valvetrain and chain longevity. The direct injection system is prone to intake valve carbon buildup; periodic walnut blasting is advised. Unlike the turbocharged L15BF, the R20K3 has no turbo or intercooler to maintain, simplifying ownership but demanding higher RPMs for peak power.
Oil Specs: Requires Honda 0W-20 specification for warranty and optimal high-RPM protection (Honda Owner's Manual FK8 JDM).
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all model years 2017-2022 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards for the JDM Civic Type R (Honda TIS Doc. R20K3-005).
Honda Technical Information System (TIS): Docs R20K3-001, R20K3-002, R20K3-003, R20K3-005
Honda Service Information Bulletin (SIB): J19-055
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8901)
The Honda R20K3 was used exclusively in the Honda Civic Type R (FK8 JDM) with transverse mounting. This engine received no significant platform-specific adaptations beyond the standard FK8, as it was designed specifically for the Japanese Domestic Market variant. 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 R20K3-001). The 8th VIN digit for R20K3-equipped JDM Type Rs is 'K'. Visual identification: The engine features a distinctive red valve cover with "Type R" branding. Critical differentiation: The R20K3 is naturally aspirated and lacks the turbocharger, intercooler, and associated plumbing found on the global FK8 Type R's L15BF engine. It is not interchangeable with other Civic engines.
The R20K3's primary reliability focus is long-term valvetrain and timing chain maintenance, with elevated incidence in high-RPM, track use. Honda TSB J19-055 addresses hydraulic lash adjuster optimization, while owner reports frequently cite carbon buildup leading to rough idle if neglected. Adherence to service schedules and using correct oil viscosity is critical for high-RPM durability.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (2017-2022) and aggregated owner-reported data (2018-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA R20K3.
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