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Which Civic has the most HP?

The Honda Civic Type R has the most horsepower, delivering 315 hp.


The question invites a quick containment of power figures across Honda’s Civic lineup and how the top model compares with the rest of the range. Below is a detailed look at the current production Civics and where horsepower sits within the family, from the entry level to the high-performance variant.


Current Civic lineup and power figures


To understand where the horsepower sits, it helps to know the power output across the main Civic trims available in the United States as of the 2023–2024 model years. The lineup spans from base efficiency-focused models to a sport-oriented Si and the top-tier Type R.


The following list provides a quick comparison of horsepower by model to illustrate the ranking within the lineup.



  • Civic LX: 158 hp

  • Civic Sport: 180 hp

  • Civic EX: 180 hp

  • Civic Touring: 180 hp

  • Civic Si: 200 hp

  • Civic Type R: 315 hp


The Type R sits at the peak of the hierarchy with a substantial gap over the Si and the turbocharged 1.5-liter Civics (which are around 180 hp), while the base LX sits at a much lower 158 hp. This spread highlights how Honda situates daily usability and high-performance capability within the same family.


What these numbers mean for buyers


Power output affects acceleration, driving feel, and the target audience for each model. For daily commuting and cruising, the LX, Sport, EX, and Touring variants offer a balance of efficiency and enough pep for everyday driving. The Si adds a noticeable performance uplift with 200 hp, improved handling, and sport-tuned dynamics. The Civic Type R, with 315 hp, is engineered for enthusiasts seeking track-ready performance straight from the showroom.


Notes on context and scope


The figures above reflect the modern, mass-produced Civics available in recent model years. Differences can exist between markets and model years, particularly around optional transmissions and tuning. Always check the official Honda specs for your region and the exact configuration you’re considering (e.g., manual vs. CVT or drivetrain nuances) to confirm horsepower figures at the time of purchase.


Why horsepower isn’t the only measure


While horsepower is a straightforward metric, overall performance depends on multiple factors, including torque, weight, gearing, aerodynamics, and chassis tuning. The Type R’s 315 hp is complemented by a chassis designed for high-speed stability and cornering precision, whereas the Si emphasizes driver engagement and balanced performance. For practical purposes, prospective buyers should also consider fuel economy, insurance costs, and the intended use of the car when evaluating choices across the Civic lineup.


Summary


In short, the Civic that has the most horsepower is the Civic Type R with 315 hp. Following it are the Civic Si at 200 hp and the turbocharged 1.5-liter Civics at about 180 hp, with the base LX at 158 hp. The power ladder within the Civic family clearly places the Type R at the top, while other trims offer progressively more approachable performance levels suited to different driving needs.


The Honda Civic lineup continues to balance everyday practicality with performance options, culminating in a top-tier model that prioritizes pure power for enthusiasts while maintaining a broad range for ordinary use.

Which Civic has the highest HP?


2023 Honda Civic Type R
The Most Powerful Honda Civic Ever: the 2023 Honda Civic Type R.



What's better, civic ex or LX?


The main differences between the Honda Civic LX and EX are the EX's enhanced comfort and convenience features, such as a one-touch power moonroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, and heated front seats. The EX also comes with a more powerful turbocharged engine and upgraded wheels (17-inch alloy vs. 16-inch steel covers on the LX). 
You can watch this video to see a comparison of the 2020 Honda Civic LX and EX models: 1mCoach ChadYouTube · Mar 30, 2016

Feature Honda Civic LX Honda Civic EX
Engine 2.0L 4-cylinder (158 hp) 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder (180 hp)
Wheels 16-inch steel with full covers 17-inch gloss black alloy
Moonroof No Yes, one-touch power moonroof
Climate Control Standard Yes, dual-zone automatic climate control
Heated Front Seats No (as of 2024 model) Yes
Blind Spot Monitoring No Yes, the Honda LaneWatch™ system
Steering Wheel Standard Yes, leather-wrapped
Audio System Standard Yes, 8-speaker audio system
Remote Start No Yes
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Is the Civic SI or Type R faster?


The Civic Type R isn't just a more powerful Si—it's a completely different beast. It features a larger, more powerful turbocharged engine, a track-tuned suspension, and a more aggressive aerodynamic package designed for high-speed stability.



Is the 1.5 or 2.0 Honda better?


The 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine leads in both power and fuel efficiency. This is because turbocharged engines feature an internal fan and cooling system that keeps the engine at an optimal temperature during peak performance. It gives the engine that added boost while reducing the risk of overheating.


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.