Hi everyone, hope we're all great!

I've recently imported a Japanese Civic EK3 VTi that has a D15B, 3 stage vtec engine. I know its 3 stage vtec because the rocker cover just has 'Honda' written on it and it has 2 vtec solenoids.
I should also point out that this is my first Honda so forgive me if I don't know all the quirks that come with them. But I really want to learn, so advice is appreciated!

One thing I was surprised by was how smooth the vtec engages on my car... Is this normal? I've driven many other vtec cars - K20, B18.. But never a D-series SOHC. The power is there, I definitely notice car pick up pace around 6k RPM, but no 'kick' like I've felt before.

The car is fairly standard (I think.. I haven't had a chance to look into everything yet), here are the specs:
Standard intake, air box
Exhaust header looks standard
Still has cat
2" 5zigen cat-back exhaust

I believe this engine is labelled as D15z7 outside of Japan, if that is any help..

Thanks!

 

When vtec engages its actually supposed to be a smooth transition

 

That's correct. d15z7 vtec transition is quite smooth.