Is Civic Si a turbo?
The Civic Si's current form is powered by a turbocharged engine, marking a shift from earlier Si generations that used naturally aspirated powerplants. This article explains the engine setup across generations and what it means for buyers today.
Current generation: turbo power and performance
Here are the key specs and features that define the Si today:
- Turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-4 engine helping deliver strong midrange torque
- Approximately 200 horsepower and around 192 lb-ft of torque
- Six-speed manual transmission as standard; no automatic option for the Si
- Front-wheel drive with a focused, driver-centric chassis
- Sport-oriented features like rev-happy character and sporty exhaust tone
With this turbocharged setup, the Si aims to provide punchier performance and engaging driving dynamics in a compact, affordable package.
Historical timeline: when turbochargers appeared in the Civic Si
The following overview shows how the Si engine evolved across generations, highlighting when turbo power arrived and when it did not.
- 8th generation Civic Si (2006–2011): 2.0-liter naturally aspirated K-series engine, about 197 horsepower and roughly 139 lb-ft of torque; standard 6-speed manual; front-wheel drive.
- 9th generation Civic Si (2012–2015): 2.4-liter naturally aspirated engine, around 201 horsepower and ~172 lb-ft of torque; 6-speed manual; front-wheel drive.
- 10th generation Civic Si (2016–2021): Introducing a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine, approximately 205 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque; 6-speed manual; front-wheel drive.
- 11th generation Civic Si (2022–present): Retains the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, with around 200 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque; 6-speed manual; front-wheel drive.
Across these generations, turbocharging became a defining feature starting with the 10th generation and continuing into the current model year, while the earlier Si variants relied on naturally aspirated powertrains.
What this means for buyers
If you’re shopping for a Civic Si, know which generation you’re considering, since engine setup and power delivery differ significantly between NA-era models (8th and 9th generations) and the turbo-era models (10th and 11th generations). The modern Si emphasizes turbocharged performance paired with a manual transmission for an engaging drive, whereas older Si versions offered a different character with naturally aspirated power.
For most enthusiasts, the current turbocharged Si represents a balance of accessible turbo power, sporty handling, and the tactile engagement of a manual gearbox.
Summary
The Civic Si is turbocharged in its current generation, providing about 200 horsepower from a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with a standard six-speed manual. Earlier Si models (8th and 9th generations) used naturally aspirated engines, marking a clear shift in the Si lineup starting with the 10th generation. Understanding the generation you’re looking at is key to knowing the engine setup and driving experience you can expect.
