well i dont know about the new vtech's but i had a 1995 civic vtech and if they are still using the same concept then it goes like this....the vtech is different from regular honda motors in that it has a more powerful cam that allows the engine to be driven at a higher rpm before shifting gears (manual or automatic). In my opinion the dealer is being false. Most people who have vtech's really dont know what to do with them because it is really not activated unless you floor the gas pedal. To be put more simply, vtech allows you to accelerate faster than non vtech cars (i.e. if you were racing against a vtech motor and you had a non vtech engine you would probably reach 60 mph in fourth or fifth gear whereas the vtech would reach this speed in 3rd gear in some cases maybe 2nd (souped up))...........The moral of the story is vtech adds acceleration not top speed. Parts are more expensive and if it's not a manual transmission you won't get the full effect and probably burn up the tranny.P.S. Not a mechanic but a honda enthusiast. I'm pretty sure that this is 100% factual info. HOPE I HELPED!!!!