The secret lies under the hoodThe beauty of this sporty sedan is obviously found under the hood. The 2.0-liter, 16-valve, DOHC, i-VTEC 4-cylinder generates 197 horsepower and 139 pounds-feet of torque. As you may have guessed, it's the same engine that powers the coupe, not to mention the CSX Type S.
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| With 197 horsepower on tap, the Civic Si sedan is a small family hot rod. |
Power is sent to the front wheels through a close-ratio, 6-speed manual transmission that almost handles like a joystick. A standard limited-slip differential helps prevent a loss of grip and reduce torque steer. Do I have to tell you how much I liked it on rain-soaked roads?
This 2.0L mill gives a whole new identity to Canada's best-selling car. With 57 additional horsepower, the extra 100 kilos of the Si model are virtually unnoticed. The engine simply loves to rev and it allows 0-100 accelerations in 7 short seconds. (Other Civic sedans take more than 9 seconds.) Of course, such performance comes at a price: you have to fill the tank with premium gasoline.
Perfectible steeringThe variable-assist power steering feels light at low speed, which makes parking maneuvers easier. However, at high speeds, it could be heavier and more precise.
Like the
Civic EX-L, the Si gets four-wheel disc brakes, whereas other trim levels make do with rear drum brakes. While these are not high-performance units, they work progressively and predictably, which is great since most owners have a family to carry.
The firmer suspension is still very compliant and the ride is not jarring at all. Driving in rush-hour traffic on a daily basis is not uncomfortable either. And when you get out of town, on small, winding country roads, the Civic Si showcases all its skills. It proves delightfully sporty, agile and stable.
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| The Civic Si sedan's performance comes at a price: the engine requires premium. |
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