2006 Honda Accord 3.0 V6 VTEC: Full Specifications and Key Details
The 2006 Honda Accord 3.0 V6 VTEC is powered by a 3.0-liter SOHC VTEC V6 (J30 series) producing 244 hp and 211 lb-ft in North America, and roughly 240 PS and 293 Nm in many Asia–Oceania markets. It’s front-wheel drive, paired primarily with a 5‑speed automatic (a 6‑speed manual was offered on the EX V6 coupe in North America), and returns around 20/29 mpg city/highway (original 2006 EPA rating) with the automatic. Below is a detailed, market-aware breakdown of specs, features, and performance context.
Contents
Powertrain
Engine
Honda’s J-series 3.0-liter V6 in the 2006 Accord emphasizes smoothness and mid-range punch, using a single overhead cam with VTEC and an aluminum block/heads. Ratings vary slightly by region and trim after a mild 2006 refresh.
The key engine specifications are summarized here to clarify the core hardware and factory power ratings you can expect for the 2006 model year.
- Engine family/code: J30A5 (North America, 2006 refresh); J30A4 (common in Asia–Oceania)
- Configuration: 3.0-liter SOHC 24-valve V6 with VTEC
- Displacement: 2,997 cc (86.0 mm bore x 86.0 mm stroke)
- Compression ratio: ~10.0:1
- Power (North America, SAE net): 244 hp at ~6,250 rpm
- Torque (North America): 211 lb-ft at ~5,000 rpm
- Power (Asia–Oceania, typical): ~240 PS (177 kW) at ~6,250 rpm
- Torque (Asia–Oceania, typical): ~293 Nm at ~5,000 rpm
- Fuel system: Honda PGM-FI (multi-point electronic fuel injection)
- Redline: ~6,500 rpm
- Emissions: LEV-II ULEV in most U.S. states; market-dependent elsewhere
These figures reflect factory ratings for the 2006 model year; minor regional variances are normal due to certification protocols and equipment.
Transmissions and Driveline
Most 2006 Accord V6 models use a 5-speed automatic tuned for smooth responses; a 6-speed manual is a noteworthy performance option on the EX V6 coupe in North America. All trims are front-wheel drive.
Below are the primary driveline choices and their availability by body style/market.
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD)
- 5-speed automatic: Widely available across V6 sedans and coupes; includes Grade Logic control
- 6-speed manual: Offered on EX V6 coupe (North America); not common in other markets
- Limited-slip differential: Not factory-equipped; stability control availability varies by trim/market
The automatic is the mainstream fitment for daily use, while the rare 6MT coupe targets drivers seeking greater engagement and quicker acceleration.
Fuel Economy, Fuel, and Emissions
Real-world economy depends on driving and climate, but EPA ratings provide a reliable baseline. Honda calibrated the V6 to run on regular unleaded in North America.
To set expectations, here are the representative economy figures and fuel/emissions details for 2006.
- Original 2006 EPA (U.S.) mpg:
- V6 automatic: ~20 city / 29 highway
- V6 6MT (coupe): ~21 city / 30 highway
- 2008+ adjusted EPA equivalents (approx.):
- V6 automatic: ~19 city / 28 highway
- V6 6MT (coupe): ~19 city / 28 highway
- Fuel tank: 17.1 gallons (64.7 liters)
- Recommended fuel: Regular unleaded (87 AKI) in North America; check owner’s manual for regional guidance
- Emissions rating (U.S.): Typically LEV-II ULEV
Expect slight variations by body style, tire fitment, and market test cycles; the Accord’s V6 remains notably efficient for its class and era.
Chassis, Suspension, and Brakes
The seventh-generation Accord (2003–2007) is known for balanced dynamics. The 2006 update retained a compliant yet controlled ride, with uprated wheels/tires on some V6 trims.
These are the core chassis and braking features applicable to most 2006 V6 models.
- Front suspension: Double-wishbone with coil springs and stabilizer bar
- Rear suspension: Multi-link (five-link/double-wishbone layout) with stabilizer bar
- Steering: Rack-and-pinion with power assist
- Brakes: 4-wheel disc with ABS and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD)
- Stability control: Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) availability varies; commonly standard on EX V6 in North America, optional or market-dependent elsewhere
- Wheels/tires (typical):
- LX V6 sedan: 16-inch alloys, ~205/60R16 tires
- EX V6 (sedan/coupe): 17-inch alloys, ~215/50R17 tires
While exact rotor sizes and tire brands vary by trim and market, V6 models generally benefit from larger wheels and stronger braking hardware than four-cylinder trims.
Dimensions and Capacities
The Accord V6 was offered as both a sedan and a coupe in North America; many Asia–Oceania markets focused on the sedan. Dimensions below are representative for the 2006 facelift.
Review the size and weight ranges to understand how body style and equipment influence packaging and performance.
- Wheelbase: 107.9 in (2,741 mm)
- Overall length:
- Sedan: ~191.1 in (4,855 mm)
- Coupe: ~188.8 in (4,796 mm)
- Width: ~71.6 in (1,819 mm)
- Height:
- Sedan: ~57.2 in (1,453 mm)
- Coupe: ~56.4 in (1,433 mm)
- Curb weight (typical ranges):
- Sedan V6 automatic: ~3,380–3,500 lb (1,534–1,588 kg)
- Coupe V6 6MT: ~3,250–3,300 lb (1,475–1,497 kg)
- Seating capacity: 5
- Trunk volume:
- Sedan: ~14.0 cu ft (396 L)
- Coupe: ~12.8 cu ft (362 L)
- Towing (where permitted): typically up to 1,000 lb (454 kg)
Exact figures can shift slightly with market equipment, moonroof fitment, audio/navigation systems, and wheel/tire packages.
Performance Context
While not a dedicated performance sedan, the V6 Accord is brisk, especially with the manual transmission coupe. Independent instrumented tests from the era provide the following ballpark results.
Use these ranges for realistic expectations based on transmission, body style, and tire fitment.
- 0–60 mph:
- V6 coupe 6MT: ~6.0–6.4 seconds
- V6 sedan automatic: ~6.5–7.0 seconds
- Quarter-mile: ~14.5–15.3 seconds (94–98 mph trap), test-dependent
- 60–0 mph braking: roughly 120–130 ft, tire-dependent
Results vary with conditions and tires; the 6MT coupe is the quickest variant, while the V6 automatic sedan emphasizes smooth, effortless acceleration.
Notable 2006 Features and Equipment
The 2006 refresh brought subtle styling, equipment, and wheel upgrades. V6 trims typically sat near the top of the range for comfort and safety tech.
These features were commonly associated with V6 trims, though availability can vary by market and package.
- Updated exterior styling and lighting (mid-cycle refresh)
- Standard front, side, and side-curtain airbags in many markets
- ABS with EBD; VSA stability control widely available on V6 trims
- Leather-trimmed interior (EX V6), power moonroof, heated seats (market/trim dependent)
- Dual-zone automatic climate control (often EX V6)
- Premium audio; available factory navigation (North America)
- 17-inch alloy wheels on EX V6 (North America), improving grip and stance
Specification levels differ by trim (LX V6 vs EX V6) and by region; consult the specific market brochure for precise equipment.
Regional Variations to Know
Honda tailored the 2006 Accord to local regulations and preferences. Power ratings, safety equipment, and wheels are the most common points of difference.
Here are the most notable market-based distinctions you may encounter.
- Power/torque ratings: ~244 hp/211 lb-ft (North America) vs ~240 PS/293 Nm (Asia–Oceania)
- Transmission availability: 6MT largely limited to North American EX V6 coupe
- Safety equipment: Airbag and VSA standardization timelines differ by country
- Wheel/tire fitment: 16-inch (lower V6 trims) vs 17-inch (upper trims) varies by market
- Emissions certification: LEV-II ULEV (U.S.); local standards elsewhere
Always verify with the VIN or a regional brochure if you need exact specifications for a specific car in a specific country.
Maintenance Highlights (Owner Reference)
Regular maintenance is key to longevity; the J30 V6 is robust when serviced on schedule.
The following factory-style service points are commonly cited for the 2006 V6.
- Engine oil: 5W-20 (Honda spec; many owners now use 0W-20 where appropriate)
- Timing belt: Replace around 105,000 miles or 7 years (inspect local schedule); replace water pump with belt
- Spark plugs: Long-life iridium/platinum, ~105,000-mile interval
- Automatic transmission fluid: Use Honda ATF (DW-1 supersedes older Z1); observe severe-duty intervals if applicable
- Coolant: Honda Type 2 (blue); follow interval in owner’s manual
Intervals can vary by region and operating conditions; consult the owner’s manual for the exact service schedule and fluids.
Summary
The 2006 Honda Accord 3.0 V6 VTEC pairs a smooth, durable 3.0-liter V6 with front-wheel drive and either a refined 5-speed automatic or a rare, quick-shifting 6-speed manual (coupe). Expect around 244 hp/211 lb-ft in North America (about 240 PS/293 Nm in several Asia–Oceania markets), 20/29 mpg (auto, original EPA), and balanced handling via a double-wishbone-based chassis. Trim and market influence exact equipment, but across regions the 2006 V6 Accord stands out for its blend of reliability, comfort, and strong real-world performance.
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.
Does a 2006 Honda Accord V6 have a timing belt or chain?
The 2006 Honda Accord V6 utilizes a timing belt, not a chain. While 4-cylinder models from 2003-2007 use a timing chain, the V6 engine is equipped with a timing belt. Timing belts typically need replacement every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, according to Wesley Chapel Honda and AutoZone.com.
This video demonstrates the process of installing a timing belt kit on a Honda Accord V6: 1mP2R Power Rev RacingYouTube · Aug 8, 2022
Key points about the 2006 Accord V6 timing belt:
- Replacement Interval: The timing belt should be replaced every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or after 7-10 years, according to AutoZone.com.
- Signs of Wear: Look for signs like the engine not starting, rough idling, ticking noises, excessive smoke or fumes, and misfires.
- Water Pump: The water pump, driven by the drive belt, may also need replacement during timing belt service, especially if there are signs of leaks.
- Not a Chain: The 2006 Accord V6 uses a timing belt, not a timing chain, despite some other Accord models using chains.
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.
How much horsepower does a 2006 Honda Accord V6 make?
The 2006 Honda Accord V6 produces 244 horsepower (hp) at 6,250 rpm. The V6 engine was updated for 2006, receiving improvements to its intake and exhaust systems, which increased its power output by 4 hp compared to the previous model year.
This video reviews the 2006 Honda Accord V6 6-speed model: 46sRedline ReviewsYouTube · Jun 25, 2013
Key Details:
- Horsepower: 244 hp @ 6,250 rpm
- Torque: 211 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm
- Engine Type: 3.0L V6, SOHC VTEC
- Transmission: Available with a 5-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual
- Updates for 2006: Power gains were achieved through extensive improvements to the intake and exhaust airflow.


