Honda Reveals new Turbocharged VTEC Engine Lineup

There’s a light at the end of the tunnel for Honda faithfuls hoping for a high-performance powerplant.

The Japanese brand just unveiled a new line of turbocharged engines based on its Earth Dreams technology. The current line includes a 2.0- and 1.5- and 1.0-liter versions, the largest of which is bound for Honda’s new Civic Type R.

By moving to turbocharging, Honda is following the industry trend of downsizing its engines while maintaining output. Honda didn’t specify which models are first in line to benefit from its VTEC Turbo engines, but plans include spreading the forced induction technology across its global portfolio. The size variation will allow Honda to tailor its product offering according to market demand, ranging from placing an emphasis on fuel efficiency to performance.

Historically, Honda has built high-revving four-cylinder engines that took advantage of its VTEC variable valve timing to offer substantial horsepower in a small, naturally aspirated package. Unfortunately, that also left Honda’s four-cylinder engines with very little torque. Modern turbochargers eliminate most of that by offering peak torque at very low rpm and Honda vehicles will finally catch up with the curve. Weight savings and decreased displacement will also likely help Honda achieve considerably improved fuel economy in vehicles that use its new engines.

GALLERY: Honda Civic Type-R

Discuss this story at our Honda forum.