We tested the Civic Si sedan, which again represents the sporty 11th-generation Civic version. It comes only as a sedan with a six-speed manual transmission and a 200-hp turbo engine. Despite the engine's extra boost, the Si's 0-60 mph time didn't improve upon the previous version. In true Honda fashion, the crisp and precise shifter is a delight to operate. Fuel economy of 32 mpg overall is commendable. A high performance version called the Civic Type R has more horspower and more expensive.
Handling is nimble, with quick steering and little body roll. The Civic was super-capable and secure around our road-course test track, making it one of the sportiest in the compact segment. But the stiff and choppy ride can send big jolts into the cabin on rougher roads. Road noise also gets so elevated at highway speeds that occupants have to raise their voices during a conversation, which is tiring on long drives.
The low-slung cabin is difficult to get in and out of, requiring lots of ducking on the way in, and the need to pull yourself up to get back out. Once in, there’s plenty of headroom and the front seats are comfortable and supportive, in spite of their limited adjustability. We don’t like that the plastic center console intrudes into the driver’s right knee space, or that the armrests are light on padding. On the plus side, the rear seat is reasonably roomy for the compact class. The cushions are comfortable, though the bottom portion would benefit from more leg support. The Si's seats are a bit more bolstered.
The standard 9-inch infotainment touch screen sits prominently on the center of the dashboard. We found it easy to use, and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility come standard. The honeycomb dashboard vents look cool, and we love the distinct “click-click” when you turn the high-quality climate-control knobs.
Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assistance are standard, blind spot warning, and rear cross traffic warning are standard on the Si.