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What is the difference between the Honda Civic and Honda Civic Sport?

The Honda Civic and Honda Civic Sport are two distinct models within the Civic lineup, each offering unique features and capabilities. While they share the Civic nameplate, there are several key differences between the two that prospective buyers should consider.


Engine and Performance


The standard Honda Civic is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque. In contrast, the Civic Sport model is equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 180 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. This increased power output gives the Civic Sport a more spirited and responsive driving experience.


Exterior Design


The Civic Sport features a more aggressive and sporty exterior design compared to the standard Civic. It includes unique front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and a rear spoiler, which give it a more dynamic and athletic appearance. The Civic Sport also comes with larger 18-inch alloy wheels, further enhancing its sporty aesthetic.


Interior and Features


While both the Civic and Civic Sport share a similar interior layout, the Civic Sport offers some additional features and upgrades. These include sport-inspired seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and paddle shifters for the available continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Civic Sport also comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, whereas the base Civic may have a smaller display.


Pricing and Fuel Economy


Due to its additional features and performance upgrades, the Civic Sport typically carries a higher price tag than the standard Civic. However, the Civic Sport still maintains impressive fuel economy ratings, with an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway.


In summary, the Honda Civic and Civic Sport offer distinct driving experiences and feature sets, catering to different customer preferences. The Civic Sport's turbocharged engine, sportier design, and enhanced interior amenities make it a more performance-oriented choice, while the standard Civic provides a more affordable and efficient option for those seeking a practical and well-rounded compact car.

What does sport mean in Honda Civic?


With Sport Mode engaged, you'll instantly notice that your Honda will prioritize certain characteristics. Suspension settings will be adjusted and models equipped with the adaptive damper system will become more firm to improve handling. Both throttle and engine response will be sharpened to boost acceleration.



What makes a Honda Civic Sport different?


Appearance. The 2023 Civic Sport rides on 18-inch alloy wheels and sports sleek LED headlights. Keyless entry and ignition are standard, making it effortless to hop in and start driving. The EX trim, meanwhile, comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, heated side mirrors, and a sunroof.



What is the difference between normal and sport mode Honda Civic?


The 3-mode drive system has an effect on several functions: In Normal mode, the powertrain, steering, instrument panel and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) are calibrated to provide a pleasing balance of comfort, performance and efficiency. Sport mode makes for more immediate responsiveness to the driver's input.



Does sport mode use more gas?


Does Sport Mode Burn More Gas? By switching to more performance-oriented throttle and transmission settings, your vehicle's engine will rev higher and longer than it would during normal operation. This requires more fuel, and over a long drive, it can negatively impact fuel economy.



Is the Civic Sport fast?


The 2025 Civic Sport sedan we tested was 0.1 second slower than the nearly identical 2022 Civic Sport sedan we tested, getting to 60 mph in a lackadaisical 8.9 seconds. That's hardly a noticeable drop from the seat-of-your-pants perspective, but many competitors are quicker.



What is the top of the line Honda Civic?


Civic Touring
The top-trim Civic Touring adds chrome-colored door handles, LED headlights with auto on/off, rain-sensing intermittent wipers, integrated LED turn indicators on side mirrors, heated rear outboard seats, a 450-watt premium audio system with 10 speakers including subwoofer, satellite-linked navigation with voice ...



Is a Honda Civic Sport a fast car?


The 2025 Civic Sport sedan we tested was 0.1 second slower than the nearly identical 2022 Civic Sport sedan we tested, getting to 60 mph in a lackadaisical 8.9 seconds.



Is Civic Sport a turbo?


The Feature: The Civic Hatchback makes available a turbocharged powerplant that offers both exhilarating performance and excellent efficiency. In addition to the intercooled turbo, this powerplant features direct injection, Variable Timing Control™ (VTC™) on both camshafts and a dual-exhaust system.



Is it better to drive in sport mode or regular?


When to Use Sport Mode. Sport mode is most useful when you want to explore your automobile's full performance capabilities. Since this setting will likely make the throttle response sharper, the steering heavier, and the suspension not quite as comfortable, you'll want to avoid using it while commuting.



Which Honda Civic is the most expensive?


Honda Civic Type R #01 (2017) – $200,000
It has a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine that delivers 306 horsepower. The Honda Civic Type R sprints from 0-60 mph in 5.0 seconds and reaches a top speed of 169 mph.


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.