The two engines offered in the 2002 Integra incorporate a host of innovative features designed to deliver a cutting-edge combination of performance, efficiency, and low emissions. Most important is the first local application of Hondas latest i-VTEC 'intelligent' valve control system, a technology that combines VTC (Variable Timing Control) - which continuously adjusts inlet camshaft timing - with Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC), which changes valve lift, timing and duration. The result is impressive horsepower and high torque with outstanding fuel economy and low exhaust emissions. In addition, the engine has been rotated 180 degrees, bringing the exhaust manifold closer to the catalyst for improved light-off and reduced emissions at start-up.

The Integra VTi's engine is an all-aluminium, 2.0 litre design that uses 16 valves, a dual-stage intake manifold, and the i-VTEC system (VTC on intake camshaft only) to deliver 118kW (160 horsepower) at 6500 rpm and 191Nm of torque at 4000 rpm. (New Zealand power specs, 10% more for Japan's)

The Type R's engine builds upon this heady foundation by adding a high-performance version of the new i-VTEC system and a fixed, high-efficiency intake manifold. These features boost output to 147kW (200 horsepower) at 7400 rpm and 193 Nm of torque at 6000rpm. (New Zealand power specs, 10% more for Japan's)

In keeping with Honda's proven commitment to the environment, both engines meet the strict Low Emission Vehicle-II (LEV-II) standards due for implementation in the USA in 2004.

i-VTEC VALVE CONTROL SYSTEM
The all-new 2002 Integra unveils the latest version of the remarkable VTEC system: i-VTEC. The 'intelligent' i-VTEC system adds new VTC (Variable Timing Control) to VTEC to provide continuously variable camshaft timing - taking the concept of variable valve timing to new heights. In short, VTEC + VTC. Not only does i-VTEC provide a substantial performance increase across a broad power band, it boosts fuel economy while also reducing exhaust emissions.

VTEC (Variable Timing and Lift Electronic Control)
The innovative VTEC system is able to adjust the lift and opening duration of the valves to help the engine produce both abundant low-rpm torque and excellent high-rpm power. At low rpm, VTEC adjusts valve timing and lift for optimum cylinder filling and fuel efficiency. In addition, the timing of the intake valves is staggered and their lift asymmetric - creating a swirl effect within the combustion chamber. The result is increased burn speed with improved combustion stability. As engine rpm builds, VTEC transitions to a high-lift, long-duration cam profile for improved high-rpm engine output.

The new Integra uses two variations of VTEC - a new extra-efficient version for the VTi, and a high-performance version for the Type R.

The 118 kW VTi employs a new version of VTEC to boost performance and reduce emissions that applies variable timing and lift to the intake valves only. Additionally, the system is further simplified by using only two roller arms per pair of intake valves (instead of the usual three). During low-rpm operation, intake air is drawn almost exclusively through the primary intake valve, thereby creating a very strong swirl effect to maximize combustion. At higher rpm, the secondary rocker arm engages the primary roller causing both intake valves to open for the same lift and duration, substantially increasing airflow into the cylinder and boosting performance.

The 147kw Integra Type R uses the same high-performance VTEC design as the NSX, a three rocker arm system that varies the lift and duration of both the intake and exhaust valves for maximum power output. At low rpm, the valves follow low lift, short duration camshaft profiles to help boost low-end torque. At higher rpm, the intake and exhaust valves are operated by high-lift, long-duration cam profiles, for maximum high-rpm horsepower.

VTC (Variable Timing Control)
The new i-VTEC system adds a new camshaft VTC (Variable Timing Control) system to VTEC for continuously variable camshaft phasing across the engine's entire power band. As engine rpm builds, a VTC actuator - controlled by an engine-control unit that monitors cam position, ignition timing, exhaust emissions and throttle position - advances or retards the intake cam throughout a 50 degree range, optimising engine output and reducing emissions.

VTC camshaft adjustment mid way through retarding motion.
Solenoid open to release pressure and intake cam pulley rotating anticlockwise

During typical operation, the intake camshaft timing is almost fully retarded at idle to help provide more stable idling while reducing the exhaust emissions (Nox). As rpm increases, the intake camshaft is advanced, opening the intake valve sooner and providing additional valve overlap. This results in increased fuel economy (by reducing pumping losses) and a further reduction in exhaust emissions (by creating a large internal exhaust gas re-circulation effect).

Also, to generate additional power throughout the rev range, the intake camshaft is continuously varying the amount of advance or retard, instantly adjusting to provide additional power as required by the driver.