Are all Civic Si stick shift?
The Honda Civic Si has long been celebrated among car enthusiasts for its sporty performance and engaging driving experience. One of the defining features of the Civic Si has been its transmission options. In this article, we will explore whether all Civic Si models come equipped with a stick shift and what that means for drivers.
Understanding the Civic Si Transmission Options
The Honda Civic Si has traditionally been known for its manual transmission, which appeals to driving purists who enjoy the control and connection that comes with shifting gears themselves. However, it's important to note that not all Civic Si models are exclusively stick shift.
Transmission Variants Over the Years
Throughout its history, the Civic Si has undergone various changes, including its transmission options. Here’s a breakdown of the transmission types available in different Civic Si generations:
- Early Generations (1986-2000): Most models featured a 5-speed manual transmission, with some offering an automatic option.
- 2002-2005 Civic Si: This generation was equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission, enhancing the sporty feel.
- 2006-2011 Civic Si: Continued the trend with a 6-speed manual, but also offered a 5-speed automatic in some trims.
- 2012-2015 Civic Si: Maintained the 6-speed manual as standard, with an automatic option available.
- 2017-Present Civic Si: The latest models have returned to a 6-speed manual as the sole transmission option, emphasizing the brand's commitment to driving enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In summary, while the Honda Civic Si is predominantly known for its stick shift, particularly in recent generations, there have been variations in transmission options throughout its history. If you're considering a Civic Si, it's essential to check the specific model year and trim to understand the available transmission choices. Whether you prefer the thrill of a manual or the convenience of an automatic, the Civic Si offers a driving experience that is hard to match.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is type R only manual?
Type R versions of the Civic typically feature a lightened and stiffened body, specially tuned engine, and upgraded brakes and chassis, and are offered only in five- or six-speed manual transmission. Like other Type R models, red is used in the background of the Honda badge to distinguish it from other models.
What does Civic Si stand for?
Sport Injected
"Si" is a trim level offered by Honda on some of its models. It stands for "Sport Injected." Honda vehicles that carry the Si badge usually have more performance-oriented features than the standard models, such as a more powerful engine, sport-tuned suspension, and upgraded brakes.
Is the Civic Si fast?
In our testing, the Honda Civic Si's 0–60 mph time was 6.6 seconds, 0.7 second quicker than the standard Civic hatchback we also tested with the six-speed manual transmission.
What does SI mean in Honda?
sport injection
Short for "sport injection" but really just a marketing term for fuel injection, the moniker first emerged in the mid-1980s when most Hondas were still carbureted. Enhanced with fuel injection, the Si's tiny engines had the extra power needed to set them apart.
Is the Honda Civic Si stick shift?
The updated and upgraded 2025 Honda Civic Si still has a manual transmission, and it's still the only available transmission on the sporty sedan.
Are any Civic Si automatic?
Although, the six-speed manual transmission might seem a limitation to many drivers. However, the catch is that there are two driving modes made available. It includes a normal mode and sports mode. Thus, there is no Honda Civic Si Automatic Transmission model available as of now.
How to shift Civic Si?
Shift Lever Operation
Fully depress the clutch pedal to operate the shift lever and change gears, then slowly release the pedal. Depress the clutch pedal, and pause for a few seconds before shifting into R, or shift into one of the forward gears for a moment. This stops the gears so they do not “grind.”
Does the Civic Si have a clutch?
It's light but you have feedback now when it engages. You can let the clutch out slowly and it'll move the car forward just like any other manual car I've driven. It doesn't have a ton of torque like a wrx where it'll move quickly by just letting the clutch out without any gas but you get the point.
Do all si come in manual?
The manual transmission-only Civic Si is catered to the driving enthusiast. It's an oddity in the marketplace and one of just a handful of sport compact cars left.
Is the Civic Si fun to drive?
The engine doesn't deliver jaw-dropping power, but it all works out. With max torque kicking in before 2,000 rpm, the Si feels responsive from the get-go, and the six-speed gearbox ensures you can wring out every bit of performance. The result is a sedan that's simply fun to drive.
