The i-VTEC Variable Cylinder Management™ system enables the engine to switch between six, four and three cylinder operation.

While the engine is under light load such as moderate acceleration or steady cruising, it deactivates cylinders #3 and #4 in both front and rear banks, running the engine with the remaining four cylinders.

And during low speed cruising and descending, the #'s 1, 2 and 3 cylinders in the rear bank are deactivated maintaining 3 cylinders running the engine.

This 6-4-3 process improves the overall fuel economy while maintaining the high power output expected from a V6 engine.