The Honda R20Z3 is a 1,997 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2022. It features i-VTEC variable valve timing, a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), and PGM-FI fuel injection. This engine delivers 113 kW (154 PS) and 190 Nm of torque, with i-VTEC enabling a broad, flat torque curve for responsive everyday drivability.
Fitted primarily to the tenth-generation Honda Civic (FC) for European and global markets, the R20Z3 was engineered for balanced performance, refinement, and fuel efficiency in a compact sedan. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise fuel metering and exhaust aftertreatment, meeting Euro 6 standards across its production run.
One documented engineering update is the revised piston ring design to reduce oil consumption, implemented from 2018 onwards. This change, referenced in Honda Engineering Report #ENG-R20-03, addressed minor oil usage complaints in early production engines by optimizing ring tension and groove geometry for improved sealing under varied thermal conditions.
Production years 2015–2022 meet Euro 6 standards for all applicable markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9032).
The Honda R20Z3 is a 1,997 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact sedans (2015-2022). It combines i-VTEC variable valve timing with PGM-FI fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear power delivery and strong low-end torque. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances urban agility with highway cruising capability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,997 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 16‑valve | |
| 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 | PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Honda 0W-20 or 5W-30 (API SN/RC) | |
| Dry weight | 126 kg |
The i-VTEC system provides strong low-end torque ideal for urban and highway driving but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km or 12-month oil change intervals to prevent valve train wear. Honda 0W-20 synthetic oil is recommended for optimal fuel economy and cold-start protection. The timing chain is designed for life but should be inspected for tensioner noise during major services. Vehicles exhibiting oil consumption should have the piston rings inspected per Honda Engineering Report #ENG-R20-03, which details the updated ring design for engines produced after 2018.
Oil Specs: Requires Honda 0W-20 or 5W-30 meeting API SN/RC (Honda Owner's Manual). ACEA A5/B5 is acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all 2015–2022 R20Z3 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9032).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across global markets (Honda TIS Doc. R20Z3-010).
Honda Technical Information System (TIS): Docs R20Z3-001, R20Z3-005, R20Z3-010
Honda Engineering Report: #ENG-R20-03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9032)
The Honda R20Z3 was used across Honda's Global Compact platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-unique engine mounts for the Civic-creating minor service part variations. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block, near the alternator (Honda TIS R20Z3-002). The 8th VIN digit for R20Z3-equipped Civic is 'R'. The engine is visually identified by its compact four-cylinder layout and single cam cover. Critical differentiation from the R20A2: The R20Z3 uses a revised piston and ring design from 2018 onwards. Service parts for the piston assembly are specific to engines produced before and after January 2018 due to this update (Honda Eng. Rep. #ENG-R20-03).
The R20Z3's primary documented update is the piston ring revision to address minor oil consumption, with no widespread reliability failures reported in OEM service data. Honda's internal quality reports indicate high durability under normal conditions. Extended oil change intervals are the only identified risk factor, making adherence to the manufacturer's maintenance schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Honda engineering reports (2015-2022) and aggregated service data (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA R20Z3.
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