Whats the difference between Honda Civic EX and EX T?
In a nutshell, the EX-T is the turbocharged version of the Civic, delivering more power than the EX, which uses a naturally aspirated engine. The exact specs and features vary by model year and market.
Across the late-2010s Civics, Honda used the EX-T badge mainly to denote the turbocharged variant before phasing out the name in favor of the turbo engine across higher trims. This article explains the core differences buyers typically encounter, how they feel behind the wheel, and what to look for when shopping.
Powertrain and performance
Engine and horsepower
The primary difference is under the hood. EX-T models typically use a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4, producing around 174 horsepower and about 162 lb-ft of torque. The EX, by contrast, relied on a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine with roughly 158 horsepower and about 138 lb-ft of torque. Exact figures can vary slightly by model year and market.
- EX-T: 1.5L turbocharged engine, higher output (roughly 174 hp / 162 lb-ft)
- EX: Naturally aspirated 2.0L engine, lower output (roughly 158 hp / 138 lb-ft)
In everyday driving, the turbocharged EX-T generally feels quicker off the line and in mid-range acceleration, while the EX emphasizes steady, efficient performance with a smoother, quieter idle.
Transmission and driving dynamics
Transmission choices and how the power is delivered have also differed. In typical configurations for the era when EX-T existed, the turbo engine was paired primarily with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The EX, depending on year, could also use a CVT and, in some cases, offered a manual option on certain non-turbo configurations—though the manual was rarely tied to the turbo-tuned EX-T itself. Availability varies by year and market.
- EX-T: most often CVT only (not commonly offered with a manual)
- EX: CVT in many years; some markets/years offered a manual on certain trims
For buyers focused on performance, the EX-T’s turbo setup tends to feel more responsive in everyday driving, while the EX can deliver excellent efficiency with simpler maintenance expectations.
Features and equipment
Standard features and options
Both trims shared much of the mid-level Civic equipment, but the EX-T often carried additional or upgraded features tied to its sportier positioning and turbo engine. What’s included could shift by year and region.
- Infotainment: Both trims typically offered a touchscreen with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto in later years) and Bluetooth connectivity; availability depends on model year.
- Comfort and wheels: EX-T commonly featured larger wheels and sportier styling cues compared with the base EX in some years.
- Safety tech: Honda Sensing features were introduced across Civics in a rolling fashion; depending on year, EX-T could have Sensing as standard or option, with variations by market.
- Interior materials: EX-T could include upgraded upholstery or a leather-wrapped steering wheel in certain markets/years; EX focused on mid-level trim comfort.
As with many mid-trim lines, the exact feature set depends heavily on the model year and the region where the car was sold.
Safety tech and interior comforts
Safety and interior comfort package availability evolved over the Civic’s generations. Some years offered more advanced driver-assistance features as standard on higher trims, and the EX-T's positioning often aligned with those inclusions, though not universally across all markets.
- Driver-assist options: Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and forward-collision mitigation were variably standard or optional depending on year and market.
- Infotainment upgrades: Higher trims could include larger displays, premium sound systems, and more extensive smartphone integration; availability was year-dependent.
Ultimately, EX-T buyers could expect a more feature-rich package in some years compared with the EX, but the exact lineup should be verified for the specific model year being considered.
Pricing and availability
Pricing and trim naming shifts occurred over the Civic’s lifecycle. In North America, the EX-T badge appeared on a limited run during the mid-to-late 2010s, with Honda gradually aligning turbo capability with the EX/EX-L/Touring lines and eventually phasing out the EX-T name in favor of standard turbo-equipped trims.
- Model-year nuance: EX-T appeared mainly around 2016–2017/2018 in some regions; later years shifted to turbo-equipped EX/EX-L/Touring without the EX-T label.
- Market differences: Some regions used the EX-T designation, while others sold turbo Civics under the EX or other trim names.
If shopping today, buyers should verify the exact engine and equipment for the specific year and market to avoid confusion over trim names.
Choosing between EX and EX-T
Consider driving priorities and total ownership costs. If you value stronger acceleration and a sportier driving character, the turbocharged EX-T (when available for the year) is typically appealing. If your priority is simplicity, potentially lower purchase price, and solid efficiency, the EX with the NA engine can be a compelling choice. Always confirm the precise engine, transmission, and feature set for the exact model year you’re evaluating.
Summary
The essential distinction between Honda Civic EX and EX-T centers on powertrain and tuning: EX-T brings a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine with higher performance output, while the EX uses a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine with a different balance of power and efficiency. Transmission options, wheels, and feature packages varied by year and market, and Honda gradually integrated turbo capability across higher trims, sometimes retiring the EX-T badge altogether. For buyers, the key is to check the specific model year’s brochure or dealer sheet to confirm engine, transmission, and standard features.
Bottom line: Turbocharged capability typically means more power and mid-range torque on the EX-T, versus the straightforward efficiency and steady performance of the EX. Your choice should reflect how you plan to use the car, plus the exact year’s equipment sheet and any local market nuances.
