I've learned quite a bit from driving the vehicle since it was new. In the beginning I had an interest in what was a newly designed engine; I was all excited to have VTEC power! But in reality, I had bought an economy VTEC engine. Oh well, I'm no Speed Racer and it turned out to be a blessing anyway.
For anyone out there trying to figure out how the K-series engine works;
VTEC kicks in at 2200rpm and opens the second intake valve. Under 2200, and only one intake valve is in operation. I have already tried to disable VTEC by removing the plug connected to the VTEC solenoid. It immediately throws a code when you go over 2200rpm
VTC (variable cam timing) on the intake valves is always operating depending upon several factors and probably something I'm not going to mess with.
The "boost" everyone feels around 4500rpm is usually mistaken for VTEC. It's actually the switchover point between the long intake and the short intake. Why would I ever get to 4500rpm...
Those features apply to 02+ CR-Vs, Element, RSX base model, and the 03 Civic SI hatchback. Maybe there are others?
So the big secret to get good mpg's in the CR-V? Not a secret at all; Driving slow on the highway
My trip was a little over an hour each way heading to and from Wachusett Mountain. I hit 30 on the way up to Wachusett, but no pic. I understand that I didn't do A-B-A. Seemed like the longer I could drive between 55-58mph, the more my average mpg's would creep up. 30mpg appears to be the magic number most people are shooting for with the compact SUVs.
That average number was with an auto trans, roof racks installed, a small grille guard and tires at 35psi. I think I can do better with more tire pressure and aero mods, but I'll be searching for a new vehicle next year, so I think the aero mods are out. I'm mostly a "city" driver anyway.
One last thing I learned from reading here; My decel fuel cutoff (DFCO) appears to happen anytime the vehicle can coast the engine up past 2000rpm. Very cool! and I wouldn't have noticed it without you guys mentioning to check instant mpg's when they go to 9999 on the scangauge.