The Suzuki H20A 2.0-liter V6 engine was produced by a Japanese company from 1994 to 1998 and was installed only on the popular Escudo SUV, also known as the Vitara. This power unit has a number of common parts on the block with Mazda KF and Toyota 1VZ-FE engines.
As part of a consortium of Suzuki, Toyota, Mazda designed a line of V6 engines with a 60° camber angle, so the H20A shares many similarities with the Mazda KF and Toyota 1VZ-FE. The design was progressive for that time: an aluminum block with cast-iron sleeves, a pair of DOHC cylinder heads with hydraulic lifters, and a rather sophisticated timing chain drive. This unit existed in the only modification with distributed fuel injection.
H-series family: H20A, H25A, H27A.
Specifications
| Production years | 1994-1998 |
| Displacement, cc | 1998 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 136 – 145 |
| Torque output, Nm | 172 – 183 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum V6 |
| Block head | aluminum 24v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 78 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 69.7 |
| Compression ratio | 9.5 |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30, 5W-40 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 6.2 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 2 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Suzuki Escudo 1997) — city — highway — combined |
12.9 8.2 10.6 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~350 000 |
| Weight, kg | 160 |
The engine was installed on:
- Suzuki Escudo 1 (ET) in 1994 – 1998;
- Suzuki Vitara 1 (ET) in 1994 – 1998.
Disadvantages of the Suzuki H20A engine
- The gas distribution mechanism here consists of three chains and three hydraulic tensioners, which are very demanding on the quality of the oil and, in particular, on the procedure for replacing it. Saving often leads to a tensioner wedge, chain jump and motor failure.
- For the same reason, the oil catcher labyrinth of the valve covers quickly clogs up, and here it serves as part of the crankcase ventilation system. This is the main culprit of the oil burner. An excellent marker of severe grease contamination is the knocking of hydraulic lifters.
- Separately, it is worth highlighting regular oil leaks, since here they are a real disaster. The weak points include the front cover of the engine, the front-rear crankshaft oil seals and the sealing rings of the oil channel at the junction of the block with the crankcase and the crankcase with the sump.
- Also, the mass air flow and throttle position sensors often fail here, and the EGR valve clogs up quite quickly or its supply pipe cracks.
Frequently asked questions about the Suzuki H20A
How much power does the Suzuki H20A make?
The Suzuki H20A develops 136 - 145 hp and 172 - 183 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Suzuki H20A take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 6.2 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30, 5W-40.
Does the Suzuki H20A have a timing belt or chain?
The Suzuki H20A uses a timing chain.
Is the Suzuki H20A turbocharged?
No, the Suzuki H20A is naturally aspirated.
Does the Suzuki H20A need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Suzuki H20A has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Suzuki H20A last?
The typical lifespan of the Suzuki H20A is ~350 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Suzuki H20A?
Suzuki Escudo 1997: city 12.9, highway 8.2, combined 10.6 L/100 km.
What cars was the Suzuki H20A installed on?
Suzuki Escudo 1 (ET) in 1994 - 1998; Suzuki Vitara 1 (ET) in 1994 - 1998.
What are the common problems of the Suzuki H20A?
The gas distribution mechanism here consists of three chains and three hydraulic tensioners, which are very demanding on the quality of the oil and, in particular, on the procedure for replacing it. Saving often leads to a tensioner wedge, chain jump and motor failure. For the same reason, the oil catcher labyrinth of the valve covers quickly clogs up, and here it serves as part of the crankcase ventilation system. This is the main culprit of the oil burner. An excellent marker of severe grease contamination is the knocking of hydraulic lifters. All known problems.
