Yes, Honda still makes K-series engines, but primarily for limited high-performance applications; most new Hondas now rely on the Earth Dreams engine family.
Background: what is the K-series?
The K-series is a family of inline-four engines that Honda introduced in the early 2000s. It includes variants such as K20 and K24 that adopted i-VTEC and offered strong high-revving performance. They powered popular models like the Civic Si, RSX/Integra, and various Acura lineups. In recent years, Honda shifted its mainstream focus to Earth Dreams technology, but the K-series remains in limited use for performance-focused models and certain regional variants.
Key characteristics
Most K-series engines are compact, high-revving, and designed for efficient power delivery with advanced valvetrain technology. Their tuning potential has made them favorites among enthusiasts and tuners.
Current status in Honda's lineup
Here is where K-series engines are still in use today, emphasizing the positions where the family remains active.
- Civic Type R variants use a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four that carries the K-series lineage, representing the modern continuity of the family in Honda's performance lineup.
Beyond the Type R, Honda's mainstream models are powered by the Earth Dreams engine family, including 1.5L and 2.0L turbocharged variants. The K-series presence is therefore restricted to performance-focused variants and certain regional or special editions rather than broad, ongoing production across the lineup.
What this means for buyers and fans
Enthusiasts seeking new K-series-powered vehicles should focus on performance-oriented offerings like the Civic Type R, while general shoppers will encounter Earth Dreams engines in most other models. Always verify the specific engine in the model year and market you’re considering.
Summary
Honda’s K-series engines survive primarily in its performance-focused catalog, notably the Civic Type R. For most new Honda vehicles, the Earth Dreams engine family is now the standard, signaling a narrowed but enduring presence for K-series among fans and collectors.