Honda Debuts 'Variable Cylinder Management' V6 3.0-liter i-VTEC Engine

Tokyo, Japan, June. 18, 2003 - (JCN Newswire) - Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
today introduced a new V6 engine featuring the latest version of its
i-VTEC ('intelligent' VTEC) technology. Through new 'Variable Cylinder
Management' technology, the V6 3.0-liter i-VTEC engine runs on all six
cylinders during acceleration and when high output is required, yet
employs only three cylinders during cruising and at low engine loads.
The new engine thus combines the effortless performance of a 3.0-liter
V6 engine, while offering superior fuel economy of 11.6 km/liter*1 -
comparable to that of a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine*2. This new
powertrain will debut in the new Inspire model scheduled for release in
Japan June 19, 2003. 

In addition to its low fuel consumption, this V6 3.0-liter i-VTEC engine
also significantly reduces exhaust emissions, helping the Inspire meet
Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transportation
requirements for Ultra-Low Emissions and 2010 fuel consumption
standards, and making it eligible for preferential 'Green Tax'
treatment. The new engine achieves this by combining high-density
catalytic converters located directly below each cylinder head for
further improved exhaust gas processing at low engine temperatures with
exceptionally fine air / fuel ratio control. 

The adoption of a variable intake system, over-sized intake valves, and
low back-pressure catalytic converters further improve engine
respiration efficiency, helping deliver class-leading performance, with
maximum output of 184 kW (250 PS) and maximum torque of 296 N/m (30.2
kg/m)*3, all on unleaded regular gasoline. 

*1 Inspire 10-15-mode fuel consumption, Ministry of Land,
Infrastructure, and Transportation test values 
*2 Vehicle in the same weight class as the Inspire: Accord Sedan 2.4
liter (10-15-mode fuel consumption of 12.0km / liter) 
*3 Inspire model net figures