A uniquely laid-out instrument panel places a digital speed readout and the fuel and engine temperature gauges in a cluster situated above the tachometer, much closer to the windscreen that normal. The odd locale actually improves functionality by minimizing the need to look down from the road in order to view the data. Aesthetically though, I don't find the arrangement appealing.

The interior is quite different from what the competition has to offer.

Interior build quality is on par with other Honda products. Materials in use are attractive for this class of vehicle and cabin room is more than adequate up front. Rear seating is what you'd expect from a slender bodied coupe.

The ride
The Civic Si puts plenty of "fun" back into driving, provided one's definition of driving fun includes a sport-tuned exhaust note and a ride slightly firmer than experienced in the conventional Civic. For the over-forty crowd, these things may grow wearisome. The less sedate among us will likely find the perfect blend of comfort and sport in the Civic Si. I must admit, the ride was more compliant than I had anticipated however the exhaust feature was too omni-present for me.

The real zeal in "Si" presents itself in the corners, where the car exercises impressive tenacity while remaining secure and composed. The absence of both traction control and a vehicle stability program means that pure driving skill must be relied upon to keep the Civic Si reined in. That said, I was very impressed with how forgiving and predictable the vehicle's handling is. This is an enjoyable ride to toss about when circumstances safely permit.

The safety
And when circumstances don't permit, powerful four-wheel antilock disc brakes instantly blow off steam with only a slight tap of the pedal. In the event of a collision, front and side airbags will protect front seat occupants, and side-curtain airbags will protect everyone. At $26,380 for starters, the Civic Si Coupe is not an inexpensive econo-box.

The wrap
For under 30K buyers land themselves a refined, Honda quality "boy racer," that needs no after-market effects to deliver "Si-zzle." I have no doubt that 2007 Honda Civic Si Coupes will fly from dealers' lots as quickly as they arrive. This is a fun, capable sports coupe- too bad the demonic power burn waits until 6,000-rpm to raise a little purgatory.


Sporty, youthful styling
Demonically possessed from 6-8,000-rpm
Tenacious, predictable handling



Purgatory power comes on too late
Exhaust note and ride can cause weariness in the over-40 crowd



No side curtain airbags available
No traction control or stability program available


Photo Credit : Rob Rothwell