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Is the Civic Si fast?


The Honda Civic Si has long been a favorite among car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike, thanks to its blend of affordability, reliability, and sporty performance. But when it comes to speed, how does the Civic Si stack up? Let’s dive into the details to determine whether this compact sports sedan deserves its reputation as a fast car.


Performance Specifications of the Civic Si


The Civic Si is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-four engine, which delivers 200 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a six-speed manual transmission, this setup provides a thrilling driving experience. While it may not boast the raw power of high-performance sports cars, the Civic Si is designed to offer a balance of speed, handling, and everyday usability.


Acceleration and Top Speed


When it comes to acceleration, the Civic Si can go from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6.8 seconds. This is a respectable time for a car in its class, making it quick enough to satisfy most drivers looking for a sporty feel. The top speed of the Civic Si is around 137 mph, which is more than sufficient for highway driving and spirited runs on backroads.


Why the Civic Si Feels Fast


Beyond raw numbers, the Civic Si feels fast for several reasons:



  • Turbocharged Engine: The turbocharger provides a surge of power, especially in the mid-range RPMs, giving the car a lively and responsive feel.

  • Lightweight Design: The Civic Si’s relatively low curb weight enhances its acceleration and agility.

  • Sport-Tuned Suspension: The suspension setup allows for sharp handling, making the car feel more dynamic and engaging.

  • Manual Transmission: The six-speed manual transmission gives drivers more control over the car’s performance, adding to the sense of speed and connection to the road.


How Does It Compare to Other Cars?


In its price range, the Civic Si competes with models like the Volkswagen GTI and Hyundai Elantra N Line. While the GTI offers slightly more power, the Civic Si holds its own with its engaging driving dynamics and lower price point. It’s not the fastest car in its segment, but it delivers a well-rounded performance that makes it a joy to drive.


Conclusion: Is the Civic Si Fast?


The Honda Civic Si may not be the fastest car on the market, but it offers a compelling mix of speed, handling, and practicality. For drivers who want a sporty car that’s also affordable and reliable, the Civic Si is an excellent choice. Its turbocharged engine, lightweight design, and manual transmission make it feel fast and fun, even if it doesn’t break any speed records.


Frequently Asked Questions

How fast is a Honda Civic SI?


Honda Civic 0-60 Through the Years

Fastest Trim0-60 mph Time
2023Honda Civic Type R4.9 s4
2022Honda Civic Si6.8 s5
2021Honda Civic Type R4.8 s6
2020Honda Civic Type R4.9 s7



What makes the SI different?


Compared with the regular Civic, the Si has larger brake rotors. Plus, the Si's firmer suspension gives it an edge in the handling department.



Which Civic is the fastest?


Type R
The fastest Honda Civic is the Type R, thanks to a 2.0-liter turbo-4 outputting 306 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Which Honda Civic has VTEC? The EX and LX trims have a 16-valve DOHC i-VTEC engine.



Which is faster, Accord or Civic?


Performance: The Honda Accord generally has more powerful engine options than the Honda Civic. Some generations of the Accord are available with a V6 engine, while the Civic's most powerful engine option is a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine.



Is a Honda Civic SI or Type R faster?


Is the Civic Si Faster Than the Type R? At the end of the day, speed is a key differentiator between the two vehicles. The Civic Si accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 6.9 seconds, but the Civic Type R is generally faster, reaching the same speed in just 5 seconds.



What is the fastest Honda?


10 Fastest Honda Sports Cars Ever, Ranked By Top Speed

  • 8 1997 Honda NSX.
  • 7 1990 Honda NSX.
  • 6 2017 Honda Civic Type R.
  • 5 2023 Honda Civic Type R. Top Speed: 171 mph.
  • 4 2002 Honda NSX-R. Top Speed: 175 mph.
  • 3 2005 Honda NSX-R GT. Top Speed: 180 mph.
  • 2 2017 Honda NSX. Top Speed: 191 mph.
  • 1 2022 Honda NSX Type S. Top Speed: 191 mph.



Is the Civic Sport faster than the SI?


The SI is more powerful, but the Sport has more room and a better price point.



Which Civic is faster?


The Honda Civic Type R is the highest-performing Civic with a turbocharged 2.0-liter VTEC engine, 6-speed manual transmission, and triple-outlet exhaust.



Why is civic si special?


They give it a limited-slip differential (which most cars at this price point don't have). They give us 2'' bigger brakes off the Accord. They stiffened the Si's chassis to be almost twice as stiff as a regular Civic. They added some of the heaviest, most precise steering I've ever felt in a car.



Is the Civic Si a performance car?


Performance. With brisk acceleration and a 200-horsepower engine* chomping at the bit, this sports car packs plenty of excitement under the hood. Whether you're accelerating from a standstill or passing at speed, the 1.5-liter, turbocharged 4-cylinder engine delivers a forceful response.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.