The Honda U09A is a 988 cc, inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine produced from 2023 to present. It features direct injection, a single-scroll turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with VTEC. This compact powerplant delivers 91 kW (124 PS) and 175 Nm of torque, with VTEC technology enabling a responsive powerband for urban agility and highway overtaking.
Fitted primarily to the fourth-generation HR-V (RV) and the second-generation ZR-V (RZ) across global markets, the U09A was engineered for efficiency, low emissions, and peppy performance in subcompact SUVs. Emissions compliance was achieved through gasoline particulate filtration (GPF) and advanced engine management, allowing it to meet stringent Euro 6d and EPA Tier 3 standards.
One documented concern is potential oil dilution under frequent short-trip, cold-climate operation, which can trigger oil life monitoring warnings. This issue, referenced in Honda Service Bulletin 24-003, is linked to fuel condensation in the crankcase and is mitigated by periodic highway driving. Honda recommends monitoring oil level and quality under these conditions.
All production years (2023–Present) meet Euro 6d or EPA Tier 3 standards depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/HON/9012, EPA Cert. #A-HON-23-002).
The Honda U09A is a 988 cc inline‑three turbocharged petrol engineered for subcompact SUVs (2023-Present). It combines direct fuel injection with VTEC variable valve timing to deliver high specific output and a linear power curve. Designed to meet Euro 6d/EPA Tier 3 emissions standards, it balances efficiency with spirited performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 988 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Gasoline) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (Single-scroll) | |
| Bore × stroke | 73.0 mm × 62.5 mm | |
| Power output | 91 kW (124 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 175 Nm @ 2,000–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct Injection (DI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d / EPA Tier 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Mitsubishi TD025 single-scroll turbo | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Honda 0W-20 | |
| Dry weight | Approx. 106 kg |
The VTEC system provides strong low-end torque ideal for city driving but demands strict adherence to 0W-20 oil specifications and 10,000 km service intervals to prevent oil dilution in cold climates. Extended short-trip driving can cause fuel condensation in the oil, triggering warnings per Honda SIB 24-003. The engine requires 95 RON fuel for optimal performance. The GPF mandates occasional highway driving for regeneration to prevent warning lights.
Oil Specs: Requires Honda 0W-20 specification (Honda SM U09A-SM). No alternative viscosities are approved for this engine.
Emissions: Euro 6d / EPA Tier 3 certification applies to all models (VCA #VCA/HON/9012, EPA #A-HON-23-002).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Peak output requires 95 RON fuel (Honda TSB 24-003).
Honda Technical Information System: Docs H-U09A-001, SM U09A-SM, TSB 24-003
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/HON/9012)
US EPA Certification Database (Cert. #A-HON-23-002)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Honda U09A was developed for Honda's latest RV/RZ platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations, but software calibrations were optimized for each model's weight and drivetrain. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block, near the alternator (Honda SM U09A-SM). The 8th VIN digit for HR-V is typically 'R'; for ZR-V, it is 'Z'. Visually, the U09A is identifiable by its black plastic valve cover and the compact turbocharger mounted at the rear of the engine. Critical differentiation from the P10A series: U09A is part of Honda's new global small engine family with updated ECU and emissions hardware. Software and some sensors are not interchangeable with older P10A engines (Honda TSB 24-003).
The U09A's primary reliability consideration is potential oil dilution under specific operating conditions, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips in cold climates. Honda service data indicates this is a known characteristic rather than a defect, but owner reports frequently cite oil level warnings. Extended short-trip driving without periodic highway runs increases risk, making adherence to Honda's operational guidance critical.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (2023-Present) and aggregated service data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA U09A.
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