The H22A is Honda’s 2.2-liter DOHC VTEC engine used in several Honda Prelude models, most notably the 4th-generation Prelude SiR (1992–1996) in Japan and the 5th-generation Prelude variants such as Type S/Type SH (1997–2001) in various markets.
Overview of the H22A in the Prelude lineup
The H22A belongs to Honda’s H-series family and is a high-revving 2.2L inline-four with VTEC. In the Prelude, it represented a performance upgrade over earlier F- and B-series powerplants and became a defining feature for enthusiasts seeking factory VTEC in a front-wheel-drive coupe.
Which Prelude models used the H22A
Below are the main Prelude generations and trims commonly associated with the H22A, noting that exact engine codes can vary by market and year.
- 4th generation Prelude (1992–1996): Japan/Asia-market SiR variants were equipped with the 2.2L DOHC VTEC H22A engine.
- 5th generation Prelude (1997–2001): Higher-end trims in several markets, such as the US-market Prelude Type S/SH and related regional variants, used H22A-based powerplants.
In practice, if you encounter a Prelude marketed as SiR (4th gen) or Type S/SH (5th gen) in the appropriate market, it is highly likely to be powered by an H22A family engine, though exact code designations can differ by year and market.
Summary
The H22A is most closely linked with the Honda Prelude’s 4th-generation SiR and the 5th-generation higher-end trims (Type S/SH) across various markets. For collectors and enthusiasts, these models represent the era when Honda offered a factory 2.2L VTEC engine in the Prelude lineup.