Is the Honda Civic SI stick shift?
The Honda Civic Si is a manual-transmission model and uses a six-speed stick shift; there is no automatic option for the Si in the current generation as of 2025. This article explains what that implies for buyers and how the Si compares to other Civic variants.
In the 11th-generation Civic lineup, the Si is positioned as the driver-focused performance variant. Its defining feature is the standard manual gearbox, paired with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine to deliver lively acceleration and engaging shifting. The following sections break down what this means in practice, what you get with the manual, and how it stacks up against other Civics.
Manual-only by design
The key detail most readers want is whether you can buy the Si with an automatic. Here’s what you should know about the transmission choice and how it shapes the driving experience:
- Six-speed manual transmission as standard (no factory automatic option for the Si)
- Short-throw, precise shifter tuned for quick, confident gear changes
- Front-wheel-drive platform pairing that emphasizes driver involvement and sporty handling
- Turbocharged 1.5-liter engine paired with the manual gearbox, producing around 200 horsepower
Conclusion: The Civic Si remains the manual-only choice for enthusiasts who want direct control over gear selection and a more involved driving experience.
What engine and performance define the Si?
Understanding the mechanical core helps explain why the Si sticks to a manual. The Si uses a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a chassis tuned for spirited driving. The combination aims to deliver strong low- and mid-range torque with responsive throttle feel, complemented by the six-speed manual to maximize engagement during corners and on-ramps.
Key specifications at a glance
Before listing specifics, note that these figures are representative of the current-generation Si and are subject to model-year updates.
- Engine: Turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-four
- Horsepower: Around 200 hp
- Torque: Roughly 192 lb-ft
- Transmission: 6-speed manual (no automatic option for the Si)
Conclusion: The manual gearbox is integrated with a turbocharged powertrain to deliver accessible power and an engaging driving experience, which is the core appeal of the Si.
Si versus other Civic trims: transmission choices
Readers often wonder how the Si compares to other Civic variants in terms of transmission. The Si sticks with a manual gearbox as its defining feature, while other trims in the Civic lineup have offered automatic transmissions (including CVT) or different manual availability depending on year and market. For buyers who insist on a stick shift, the Si remains the benchmark within the current-generation Civic lineup.
What this means for daily driving
Choosing the Si with a manual transmission influences daily usability, especially in heavy traffic or frequent stop-and-go driving. The six-speed manual provides a more engaging experience on open roads and track days, but it requires clutch operation and more frequent gear changes in city conditions. Enthusiasts typically favor the Si for weekend fun and performance driving, whereas those needing effortless commuting might prefer other Civic trims with automatic options.
Summary
In short, the Honda Civic Si is a manual-only model in the current generation, featuring a six-speed stick shift paired with a turbocharged engine to deliver a performance-oriented driving experience. If automatic transmission is a priority, other Civic trims offer that option, but the Si remains the go-to choice for drivers seeking direct manual involvement and sporty characterization.
