- The Si version of the 11th-generation Honda Civic will arrive later this year.
- Power once again comes from a 1.5-liter turbo, now with a broader powerband.
- Honda is helping to #SavetheManuals by only offering the 2022 Civic Si with a six-speed manual transmission.
Honda’s 11th-generation Civic gains another version with the arrival of the performance-oriented Civic Si. Debuting solely in sedan form, the 2022 Civic Si once again features a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder mated exclusively to a six-speed manual transmission. It’s now wrapped in a handsome-looking package that’s slightly lower, longer, and wider than before.
The 1.5-liter gains a lighter single-mass flywheel that’s 26 percent lighter than the dual-mass unit found in the previous-gen Civic Si. While power is down 5 horsepower to an even 200, it’s now more usable, reaching that figure at a heady 6000 rpm and dipping only slightly until the 6500-rpm redline. Peak torque now arrives at 1800 rpm—300 revs earlier than the old mill—and holds steady at 192 pound-feet until 5000 rpm. The front wheels convert the power into momentum, aided by a standard helical limited-slip differential. The six-speed features 10-percent-shorter throws and Honda promises improved shift feel, too. A standard rev-matching mode is pilfered from the current Civic Type R
The engine now exhales through a new exhaust system, which we hope will rectify our complaints about the sound. The Si’s exhaust system flow is increased 27 percent over that of the 2022 Civic sedan, Honda says. Both tailpipes loop right before the tips, allowing the exhaust to bang around a little longer and louder before exiting into the atmosphere. The Civic Si’s drive mode now includes a programmable individual setting, enabling the driver to adjust things like throttle response, rev matching, and steering effort.
With a wider track and longer wheelbase compared to the previous generation, the Civic Si promises greater stability at high speeds. Front and rear compliance bushings are also sourced from the Type R. Steering feel should be improved, facilitated by a stiffer torsion bar connected to the rack. Standard 18-inch wheels feature all-season rubber, with summer tires optional. The Civic Si also features larger brakes and thicker stabilizer bars compared to the standard Civic.
In terms of appearance, the Civic Si differentiates itself with a more aggressive front bumper, exposed exhaust tips, and a gloss-black trunk-mounted spoiler. Gloss black trim also covers the mirrors and window surrounds. The well-bolstered front seats offer additional thigh and shoulder support, along with a longer lower cushion and integrated headrests. Red contrasting trim is used everywhere, brightening up the door panels, steering wheel, and shift boot, and also accentuates the trick honeycomb panel across the dash.
Pricing has yet to be announced, but given that Honda has mainly held the line on increases with the rest of the new Civic lineup, we’re hoping that the Civic Si follows suit. If anything, we expect it to cost only slightly more than the previous model, which stickered at $26,195. Look for the 2022 Honda Civic Si at dealerships later this fall.
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