2017 HONDA CIVIC SI
Type: Two- /four-door, front-wheel-drive compact coupe/sedan Engine (h.p.): 1.5-litre DOHC I-4, turbocharged (205) Transmission: Six-speed manual Market position: The Si two- and four-door models are more geared to performance-loving drivers than garden-variety Civics are. Somewhat unusual these days, they demand proficiency in the use of a manual transmission. Points: Visual clues are subtle but let Honda aficionados know what you’re packing. • Can’t drive a stick? Go out and learn or else shop for competing hot compact. • The turbo 1.5 makes decent power, but it’s the suspension and other components that make for the complete package. • List price is right on the money, but why isn’t active safety tech available? Active safety: Blind-spot warning (std.); cross-traffic alert (n.a.); active cruise control (n.a.); emergency braking (n.a.); pedestrian detection (n.a.). Fuel economy: L/100 km (city/hwy) 8.4/6.2; Base price (incl. destination) $30,300
Specific to the Si is an information screen that shows turbo boost, rev limit, cornering/braking G-force, percentage throttle and brake-pedal pressure, and lap times for track events.
The boost display shows how hard the 1.5-litre four-cylinder is working. Although identical in displacement to the base Civic’s turbo powerplant, the Si’s output is 205 horsepower and 192 pound-feet of torque, up from 174/167.
Credit goes to a larger turbocharger that creates more boost pressure.
A six-speed manual transmission with a shortthrow shift linkage is your only choice. That will certainly discourage — or inspire — buyers who prefer not to stir their own gears.
Fuel economy is rated at 8.4 l/100 km in the city and 6.2 on the highway.
Many of the Si’s suspension pieces are also fitted to the Type R and contribute to a slightly increased distance between the left and right tires (track) and a stance that’s also a touch lower. The Si has a throatier exhaust and beefier brake components.
Driving the road course at Honda’s Mojave Desert proving grounds showed just how competent the Si sedan and coupe are. The torque is plentiful, especially in second and third gears, the steering is dead-on precise and the ride isn’t unduly harsh. Additionally, the shifter is one of the best around.
Switching to the sport setting on the console firms up the dampers, increases steering effort and sharpens throttle response. For most enthusiasts, this will likely be the standard setting.
Si pricing starts at $30,300 sedan, or $30,700 for the coupe, including destination charges. Included is a full range of content such as a power moonroof, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, 450-watt Mini Cooper S Base price: $29,250. Fun to drive, but options are costly. Four-door model is also available. sound system. Also standard is Honda LaneWatch that uses a camera to give the driver a view of road behind when changing lanes.
Unfortunately, none of the active safety systems — such as emergency braking or lanekeeping assist — that are either standard or available on similar vehicles can be had with the Si.
The Si’s predominantly male demographic likely won’t be disappointed with the car’s style, content or pedal-to-the-metal behavior. If snicking through the gears on a twisty country road is in your blood, this Honda will definitely keep your heart pumping.