Is Honda’s 1.8‑Liter Engine VTEC?

Mostly yes: the vast majority of Honda’s 1.8-liter gasoline engines—especially the R18 series found in 2006–2015 Civic models and 2016–2022 HR-V—use i-VTEC. However, some older 1.8-liter engines (notably certain B18 variants like the B18A and B18B) are non‑VTEC, while performance B18C versions are DOHC VTEC. The definitive answer depends on your exact engine code.

What “the 1.8L Honda engine” actually refers to

Honda has produced several distinct 1.8-liter engine families over the years. While many people associate “the 1.8” with the modern Civic/HR-V motor, earlier 1.8s from the Integra era used different architectures and cam systems.

The following list breaks down the major 1.8-liter Honda gasoline engines and whether they use VTEC or i-VTEC.

• R18 series (R18A/R18Z, 2006–2015 Civic in many markets; 2016–2022 HR-V in North America and others): SOHC i-VTEC. This system is economy-focused, blending VTEC with variable cam phasing (VTC).
• B18C series (Integra GS-R/Type R and JDM variants, 1990s–early 2000s): DOHC VTEC. Performance-oriented high-lift cam engagement at higher RPM.
• B18A/B18B series (Integra LS/RS and others, 1990s): Non‑VTEC. DOHC without VTEC.

In short, modern 1.8-liter Civics and HR-Vs are i-VTEC, while 1990s Integras could be either VTEC (B18C) or non‑VTEC (B18A/B18B).

How VTEC and i-VTEC apply to Honda’s 1.8s

VTEC is Honda’s variable valve timing and lift system that switches between cam profiles. i-VTEC adds continuously variable cam phasing (VTC) for smoother torque and efficiency control. The way these systems behave differs by engine family.

R18 (Civic, HR-V): SOHC i-VTEC for efficiency

The R18 uses an economy‑focused i‑VTEC. At light loads, one intake valve per cylinder operates at reduced lift (a VTEC‑E style mode) to improve swirl and fuel efficiency; at higher loads, the system switches to conventional two‑intake‑valve operation and uses VTC to optimize cam phasing across the rev range. This setup emphasizes drivability and MPG rather than a high‑RPM “VTEC kick.”

B18C (Integra GS-R/Type R): DOHC VTEC for performance

The B18C employs classic performance VTEC on both intake and exhaust cams, switching to high‑lift, long‑duration lobes at elevated RPM. This yields the hallmark top‑end surge and higher redlines compared with non‑VTEC B18A/B18B engines.

How to confirm whether your 1.8 is VTEC

If you’re unsure which 1.8 you have, these checks will quickly tell you whether it’s VTEC/i-VTEC or not.

• Engine code: Look for the stamped code on the engine block. R18A/R18Z = i‑VTEC; B18C = DOHC VTEC; B18A/B18B = non‑VTEC.
• Model and year:
  – 2006–2015 Civic (market-dependent) and 2016–2022 HR-V use the R18 i‑VTEC.
  – 1990s–early 2000s Integra: GS-R/Type R are VTEC (B18C); LS/RS models are non‑VTEC (B18A/B18B).
• Visual cues: Many VTEC engines have a VTEC solenoid housing near the cam area and often “i‑VTEC” or “VTEC” badging on the valve cover (though covers and badges can be swapped).

Between the engine code and the vehicle’s model/year, you can reliably determine whether your 1.8 uses VTEC or i‑VTEC.

Why it matters

Knowing whether your 1.8 is VTEC affects expectations for power delivery, fuel economy, and maintenance. R18 i‑VTEC engines prioritize efficiency and low‑to‑midrange response, while B18C VTEC engines deliver stronger high‑RPM performance. Parts, oil specs, and tuning approaches also vary between these families.

Where things stand today

As of 2025, Honda’s mainstream lineup in many markets has moved away from the 1.8 toward 2.0‑liter naturally aspirated, 1.5‑liter turbo, and hybrid powertrains. Still, the 1.8‑liter R18 i‑VTEC remains common in used Civics and 2016–2022 HR‑Vs, and the 1990s B‑series 1.8s remain popular among enthusiasts.

Summary

Yes—most modern Honda 1.8‑liter gasoline engines, notably the R18 in Civic and HR‑V, are i‑VTEC. Older 1.8s split: the B18C is DOHC VTEC, while B18A/B18B are non‑VTEC. Check your engine code (R18 = i‑VTEC; B18C = VTEC; B18A/B18B = non‑VTEC) to know exactly what you have.

Is the Honda Civic 1.8 i-VTEC a good engine?

Use of the valve timing control system results in off-the-line acceleration performance equivalent to a 2.0-litre engine, fuel economy better than the current 1.6-litre Civic engine, making it one of the world’s most efficient 1.8-litre engine designs.

Which Honda engines are VTEC?

The first type is for performance engines like the K20A2 or K20Z3 used in the 2002-2006 RSX Type S or the 2006-2011 Civic Si and the second type is for economy engines like the K20A3 or K24A4 used in the 2002-2005 Civic Si or 2003-2007 Accord.

What is the name of the Honda 1.8 L engine?

R18. The R18 engines have a bore and stroke of 81 mm × 87.3 mm (3.19 in × 3.44 in), for an overall displacement of 1.8 L (1,799 cc; 109.8 cu in).

Does the Honda 1.8 have VTEC?

The Ciimo 1.8 differs from the previously sold Civic by adopting a front and rear end inspired by the Japanese market model, as a result, it is slightly longer. It comes with a 1.8-litre i-VTEC engine, with either a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission.