Home » FAQ » Honda » How much horsepower does a Honda Accord 3.0 V6 VTEC have?

How much horsepower does a Honda Accord 3.0 V6 VTEC have?

Depending on model year and market, the Honda Accord 3.0-liter V6 VTEC is rated between about 200 hp and 244 hp, with the U.S.-market cars most commonly at 200 hp (1998–2002) and 240–244 hp (2003–2007); the 2005–2007 Accord Hybrid, which pairs the 3.0 V6 with an electric motor, is rated at 255 hp combined. These differences stem from engine revisions (J30A variants), emissions calibrations, and rating standards that changed mid-decade.

Why the horsepower varies

The “3.0 V6 VTEC” label covers several J30A engine variants used across different generations and regions. Honda updated the engine and engine management over time, and in 2006 the industry moved to a revised SAE J1349 horsepower rating method in the U.S., which reshuffled published numbers. Outside the U.S., different testing standards (kW, PS) and local emissions rules also influence the stated output.

U.S.-market horsepower by generation/year

The following breakdown lists factory horsepower ratings for U.S.-spec Honda Accords equipped with the 3.0-liter V6 VTEC, organized by generation and model year to help you identify the figure that applies to a specific car.

  • 1998–2002 (6th generation, J30A1): 200 hp
  • 2003–2005 (7th generation, J30A4): 240 hp
  • 2006–2007 (7th generation refresh, J30A5 under revised SAE rating): 244 hp
  • 2005–2007 Accord Hybrid (3.0 V6 i-VTEC with IMA electric assist): 255 hp combined system output

In short, if you’re looking at a standard U.S. Accord with the 3.0 V6, expect 200 hp in the 1998–2002 cars and roughly 240–244 hp in the 2003–2007 models, while the hybrid variant is more powerful thanks to its electric motor assist.

Selected figures outside the U.S.

Outputs for 3.0-liter V6 Accords sold in other regions varied due to local tuning and rating standards. The examples below provide typical published figures to give a sense of the range you might see in non-U.S. markets.

  • Australia (early-to-mid 2000s): approximately 177 kW (about 237 hp)
  • Japan/Asia (J30A variants in related models): around 200 PS (about 197 hp)
  • Europe (limited availability depending on market and year): typically near 200 hp

Because non-U.S. figures may be quoted in kilowatts (kW) or metric horsepower (PS), and because trims and emissions packages differ, always verify the exact rating for the specific market and model year.

How to verify the figure for your specific car

To pinpoint the correct horsepower for a particular Accord: check the owner’s manual and the original sales brochure for the model year; look up the engine code (e.g., J30A1, J30A4, J30A5) via the VIN; and note whether the car is a standard V6 or the Hybrid. Also be aware of rating standards—U.S. figures are SAE net, while other regions may use DIN or JIS/PS—and that the Accord Hybrid’s rating is a combined engine-and-motor output.

About VTEC, i-VTEC, and VCM

The 3.0-liter Accord V6 uses a single overhead cam (SOHC) VTEC system for variable valve timing and lift. Later iterations introduced i-VTEC and, in the Hybrid, cylinder deactivation (VCM) alongside electric assist. These technologies influenced both drivability and rated output, contributing to the differences noted above.

Summary

The Honda Accord 3.0 V6 VTEC is typically rated at 200 hp (1998–2002) and 240–244 hp (2003–2007) in the U.S., with the 2005–2007 Accord Hybrid delivering 255 hp combined. Outside the U.S., figures vary by market and standard, commonly landing near 200 hp to about 237 hp. For an exact number, confirm the engine code, model year, and market-specific rating standard.

How much horsepower does a 3.0 V6 VTEC have?

The horsepower of a 3.0L VTEC engine varies depending on the specific engine model and application, but common outputs include around 200-240 horsepower for earlier naturally aspirated V6s like the J30A series in cars such as the Honda Accord, and up to 255 horsepower for hybrid models or those with more advanced i-VTEC technology and Variable Cylinder Management. 
Specific 3.0L VTEC Examples

  • J30A1 (early 3.0L V6): . Opens in new tabThis engine, found in models like the 1996-2002 Accord, produced around 200 to 210 horsepower. 
  • J30A4/J30A5 (later 3.0L V6s): . Opens in new tabThese engines, used in 2003-2007 Accords, offered increased horsepower, with the J30A4 producing 242 hp and the J30A5 producing 244 hp. 
  • J30A (i-VTEC V6 Hybrid): . Opens in new tabThe hybrid version, found in the 2005 Accord Hybrid, generated 255 horsepower. 
  • Other VTEC Engines: . Opens in new tabIn other applications, like the 1991 Acura NSX, a 3.0L V6 engine with VTEC (though DOHC, not SOHC) produced 270 horsepower. 

The horsepower figure depends on the specific generation of the 3.0L engine, the integration of technologies like Variable Cylinder Management and i-VTEC, and whether it’s part of a hybrid system.

How much horsepower does a 2005 Honda Accord 3.0 V6 VTEC have?

Along with excellent fuel efficiency, the combination of this Accord’s 3.0L i-VTEC V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management and Honda’s 3rd generation IMA system produces 255 horsepower (+6.3% over an Accord EX V-6) and 232 lb. -ft. of torque (+9.4%).

How much horsepower does a 2007 Honda Accord 3.0 V6 VTEC have?

244 hp @ 6,250 rpm
Engine

Horsepower 244 hp @ 6,250 rpm
Torque 211 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm
Valves 24
Cam type Single overhead cam (SOHC)
Valve timing Variable

How much HP can a 3.0 V6 handle?

So this little 3 L. She can pack a punch i really think this is a cool upgrade normally it’s about 850 bucks. But right now at this dealership.

T P Auto Repair

Serving San Diego since 1984, T P Auto Repair is an ASE-certified NAPA AutoCare Center and Star Smog Check Station. Known for honest service and quality repairs, we help drivers with everything from routine maintenance to advanced diagnostics.

Leave a Comment