What is the difference between a Honda Civic 1.8 and 1.5 turbo?
The Honda Civic is a popular compact car known for its reliability, efficiency, and performance. Among its various engine options, the 1.8-liter naturally aspirated engine and the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine are two of the most commonly discussed. While both engines are excellent in their own right, they cater to different driving preferences and needs. In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between these two engine types to help you make an informed decision.
1. Engine Performance
The most significant difference between the two engines lies in their performance capabilities:
- 1.8-Liter Engine: This naturally aspirated engine produces around 140-143 horsepower and 174 Nm of torque. It offers smooth and predictable power delivery, making it ideal for daily commuting and relaxed driving.
- 1.5-Liter Turbocharged Engine: The turbocharged engine delivers a more spirited performance with approximately 174-180 horsepower and 220-240 Nm of torque, depending on the model year and trim. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in acceleration and responsiveness, especially at lower RPMs.
In summary, the 1.8-liter engine is better suited for those who prioritize simplicity and reliability, while the 1.5-liter turbo is perfect for drivers seeking a more dynamic and engaging driving experience.
2. Fuel Efficiency
Fuel economy is another area where these engines differ:
- 1.8-Liter Engine: This engine is known for its consistent and reliable fuel efficiency, averaging around 28-30 mpg in the city and 36-39 mpg on the highway.
- 1.5-Liter Turbocharged Engine: Despite its higher performance, the turbocharged engine is often more fuel-efficient, with averages of 31-33 mpg in the city and 40-42 mpg on the highway, thanks to its smaller displacement and advanced engineering.
For those who prioritize fuel savings, the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine may be the better choice, especially for highway driving.
3. Maintenance and Longevity
When it comes to maintenance, there are some considerations to keep in mind:
- 1.8-Liter Engine: This engine is simpler in design and has fewer components that could potentially fail. It is generally easier and less expensive to maintain over the long term.
- 1.5-Liter Turbocharged Engine: Turbocharged engines require more attention, particularly when it comes to oil changes and ensuring the turbocharger remains in good condition. Additionally, some early models of the 1.5 turbo engine experienced issues with oil dilution, though Honda has addressed this in newer models.
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance option, the 1.8-liter engine is a safer bet. However, with proper care, the 1.5-liter turbo can also provide years of reliable service.
4. Driving Experience
The driving experience offered by these engines is quite different:
- 1.8-Liter Engine: The naturally aspirated engine provides a smooth and linear power delivery, making it ideal for relaxed and predictable driving.
- 1.5-Liter Turbocharged Engine: The turbocharged engine offers a more exciting and responsive driving experience, with quicker acceleration and better performance at higher speeds.
For enthusiasts or those who enjoy spirited driving, the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine is the clear winner. However, for those who prefer a more laid-back driving style, the 1.8-liter engine is perfectly adequate.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Honda Civic 1.8 and 1.5 turbo ultimately depends on your priorities. If you value simplicity, reliability, and ease of maintenance, the 1.8-liter engine is a great choice. On the other hand, if you’re looking for better performance, fuel efficiency, and a more engaging driving experience, the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine is the way to go. Both engines are excellent options, and either one will serve you well depending on your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Honda fixed the 1.5 turbo engine problems?
The Honda 1.5 Turbo engine is generally reliable, especially in post-2019 models where oil dilution and other early issues were addressed.
Which year was the best to buy a Honda Civic?
We can confidently say that, beginning 2012 to current models, it is among the best years to buy a used Honda Civic. The Honda Civic holds its value better than any other compact car. Civics boast an almost unblemished record of reliability.
What is the difference between Honda 1.5 and 1.8 turbo?
The 1.5L engine has an output of 173 PS with a maximum torque of 220Nm from 1,700 to 5,500 rpm, which is actually equal to the performance of a 2.4 liter engine. The Civic 1.5L is able to go from 0 to 100km/h in 8.2 seconds. On the other hand, the 1.8L has a 141 PS output and a torque of 174Nm @ 4,300 rpm.
What is the fuel economy of a 1.5 vs 1.8 engine?
Ordinarily, the smaller 1.5litre petrol engine should give you a superior fuel economy of about 16-18 kilometres per litre while the bigger 1.8litre engine will give you about 14-16 kilometres per litre.
Is the Honda Civic 1.8 any good?
It's a great car and is indeed exceptionally reliable and reasonably light on petrol. The i-VTEC marketing claims to give the power of a 2L with the efficiency of a 1.4L, which is a stretch but it's plenty powerful TBH. I'm used to the rear visibility but the rear doors are pretty small.
Does the Honda 1.5 L turbo require premium gas?
Like the naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine, the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine requires regular unleaded fuel—premium unleaded fuel is no longer recommended.
How many miles can Honda Civic 1.8 last?
around 200,000 miles
You can expect the Honda Civic to last around 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. Many drivers report their Civics surpassing this milestone, reaching up to 300,000 miles or more. The key to achieving such high mileage lies in regular maintenance and timely repairs.
Is it OK to use regular gas in a turbo engine?
By 2019, more than one-third of all cars, SUVs and pickups were equipped with a turbocharger, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Those turbocharged engines are more likely to require high-octane gas than a non-turbo engine.
Is the Honda Civic 1.5 Turbo fast?
The 1.5 is more effective, hitting 62mph in 8.2sec. The diesel also fails to duck below the 10 second mark to 62mph, taking 10.2sec. Unlike Honda engines of old, the turbocharged range gives the Civic effortless torque in the mid-range, making the screaming VTEC engines Honda is known for a thing of the past.
What is a Honda Civic 1.5 turbo?
The 1.5-liter DOHC 16-valve VTEC® Turbo engine uses a high-efficiency high-response turbocharger, an electrically actuated wastegate and an advanced valve control system to combine high power output with high fuel efficiency and low emissions.
