What is the Honda Civic EX-T?
The Honda Civic EX-T was a turbocharged mid-range trim of the Civic offered in North America during the late 2010s, distinguished by a 1.5-liter turbo engine and extra equipment above the base trims.
During its run, the EX-T sat near the middle of the ninth-generation Civic lineup, typically positioned between the EX and Touring. The badge appeared on several sedan and hatchback versions and varied by year and market. As Honda updated trim naming in newer generations, the EX-T designation was phased out and folded into other trims, but the model remains a noted part of Civic history for its turbocharged performance and added features compared with introductory variants.
Position in the Civic lineup
The EX-T designation signified a turbocharged variant that stood between the EX and Touring trims, offering enhanced performance and technology without reaching the top-tier equipment of the Touring in most years.
Engine and performance
Key specifications typically associated with the EX-T across model years include the following:
- 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine (Earth Dreams) producing around 174 horsepower and about 162 lb-ft of torque
- Front-wheel drive, with transmission options that varied by body style and year (CVT as standard, with a 6-speed manual offered on some hatchback configurations in select markets)
- Responsive turbocharged performance designed for everyday driving and confident highway merging
Exact figures and availability can vary by year and region, so checking the specific brochure or VIN is recommended for precise specs.
Features and equipment
Below is a typical snapshot of features that were commonly associated with the EX-T during its production window. Keep in mind variations by year and body style.
- Infotainment with touchscreen display and smartphone integration (CarPlay/Android Auto) in many years and trims
- Comfort and convenience upgrades over base LX/EX, such as upgraded audio, alloy wheels, and enhanced styling cues
- Safety and driver-assistance features that could include Honda Sensing in later years or as an option depending on the package and market
As with the engine specs, feature availability depended on the model year and body style; buyers should verify the exact equipment on their vehicle or the window sticker.
Trim history and discontinuation
Honda used the EX-T badge during the late 2010s as part of the ninth-generation Civic lineup. In later years, Honda adjusted trim naming, and the turbocharged variant was folded into other trims as the lineup evolved for newer generations. The EX-T designation is not commonly used on current Civic models.
How to verify your Civic EX-T
If you own a Civic and want to confirm whether your trim is EX-T, try these steps:
- Check the vehicle's window sticker or brochure for the EX-T designation
- Inspect the trunk or rear badge area for an EX-T badge (some markets omitted badges)
- Review the owner’s manual or contact a Honda dealer with the VIN to confirm the trim
Knowing the exact year and market helps because the EX-T designation and equipment varied over time and location.
Summary
The Honda Civic EX-T was a turbocharged, mid-range trim of the Civic that offered more performance and features than the base models while sitting below the top-tier Touring in the ninth-generation lineup of the late 2010s. Its badge is less common in newer Civic generations, as Honda reorganized trim names in subsequent years. If you’re shopping, verify the exact year, body style, and brochure to understand the precise engine, transmission, and features for that specific EX-T model.
Conclusion
For readers considering a used Civic from the EX-T era, the key takeaway is that it combines a turbocharged engine with additional equipment relative to entry-level trims, but exact specs depend on year and market. A careful check of the vehicle’s documentation will clarify what you’re getting.
