Are Honda Civics manual or automatic?
Most Honda Civics today are automatic (CVT). Manual transmissions are limited to the performance-focused Civic Si and Civic Type R in the United States.
For readers weighing a shopping decision, the question often comes down to whether you want the smooth, fuel-efficient operation of a CVT or the traditional engagement of a manual gearbox. Here is how the current lineup breaks down and what that means for buyers.
Transmission options in the Civic lineup
Before listing the options, here is how the current Civic lineup is configured in the United States.
- Civic LX, Sport, EX, EX-L, and Touring: typically paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) automatic, with no manual option.
- Civic Si: 6-speed manual transmission
- Civic Type R: 6-speed manual transmission
In practice, this means the vast majority of Civics are CVT automatics. Manual gearboxes are reserved for the two higher-performance variants that emphasize driver engagement.
Why Honda leans on CVTs for most Civics
The shift toward CVTs across most Civics is driven by efficiency targets, smoother daily driving, and cost considerations. The 1.5-liter turbo engine (used on most trims) pairs well with a CVT for best fuel economy, emissions reduction, and refined acceleration, which appeals to mainstream buyers. Meanwhile, the Si and Type R prioritize direct gear engagement and precise gear ratios, which is why they stick to manual transmissions.
Which Civic should you buy if you want a manual?
If you insist on a manual gearbox, your options in the Civic lineup are the Si and the Type R. The Si delivers sporty handling and a rev-happy engine, while the Type R offers a high-performance, track-oriented experience with a more aggressive setup and styling. Other Civics still deliver smooth, confident performance with CVT automatic transmissions and are favored for daily driving.
Si vs Type R: key differences
The Civic Si targets enthusiasts who want a sporty, engaging drive without the extreme setup of a race-focused car. It uses a 6-speed manual with tuned suspension and sport settings. The Civic Type R, by contrast, is Honda’s flagship performance model, with more horsepower, aggressive aerodynamics, and a race-bred setup, also paired exclusively with a 6-speed manual. Availability and price vary by model year and market.
Summary
In short, Honda Civics are primarily automatic, with CVTs on most trims. Manual transmissions are specifically offered on the Civic Si and Civic Type R, catering to drivers who value a traditional, hands-on shifting experience. For everyday commuting, the CVT-equipped Civics provide efficiency and ease; for enthusiasts, the Si and Type R offer a more engaging, manual-driven experience.
Is Civic available in manual?
Honda Civic is a 5 seater Sedan with the last recorded price of Rs. 17.95 - 22.36 Lakh. It is available in 10 variants, 1597 to 1799 cc engine options and 2 transmission options : Automatic and Manual.
Does Honda still sell manual Civics?
Yes, but only in the sportier Civic Si and Civic Type R models, as Honda has discontinued manual transmissions for the standard 2025 Civic sedan and hatchback. The regular Civic sedan and Sport/Sport Touring hatchback models are no longer available with a manual transmission as of the 2025 model year.
- Civic Si: This model continues to be offered with a manual transmission.
- Civic Type R: This performance-oriented model also remains available with a manual gearbox.
- Standard Civic sedan and hatchback: The manual transmission has been removed from these models for the 2025 model year.
Is the Honda Civic RS manual or auto?
manual gearbox
Honda has announced an exceedingly cool addition to its hatchback line-up called the Civic RS. More Good News! Said RS gets a six-speed manual gearbox and sportier suspension.
Is the Honda Civic manual or automatic?
In the current 2024 Civic, Honda offered a six-speed manual and a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine on some trim levels. This engine will carry on into the 2025 model year unchanged, still making 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque. The only difference is the now-mandatory continuously variable transmission.
