It’s the most powerful Civic one can buy in the U.S. until the Type R arrives
Honda has pulled the wraps off the all-new 2017 Civic Si Coupe and Civic Si Sedan ahead of their formal debut at the New York Auto Show.
Traditionally, the Si (Sport Injected) designation has been used in the U.S. on sporty-flavored Civics, and we're glad to say the new Civic Si carries on the tradition. However, we were expecting a bit more power from the new Civic Si, but Honda has decided to give it the same amount with that of its predecessor: 205 hp.
There's a catch, though. The new Civic Si is the first one with a turbocharged engine, a 1.5-liter, directed-injected and turbocharged four-cylinder engine with dual variable cam timing (dual VTC) that delivers more torque at a broader rev range than the previous 2.4-liter naturally aspirated mill.
The peak torque of 192 lb-ft (260 Nm) accounts for a gain of 18 lb-ft (24 Nm) but more important is the fact that it's produced 2,300 rpm earlier than before and sustained over 70 percent of the rev range (from 2,100 rpm to 5,000 rpm).
Naturally, drivability stands to gain from that, also thanks to the standard short-throw, six-speed manual transmission.
Honda says the new Civic Si is significantly lighter than its predecessor and features a more rigid body including a highly upgraded chassis and drive components. The highlight is the sport-tuned suspension with stiffer spring rates, more rigid stabilizer bars, and Type R-sourced ultra-rigid front upper control arms. The list also includes an adaptive damper system, a helical limited-slip differential, bigger brakes and tires, and an adaptive electric power system with variable ratios.
Styling-wise, 2017 Civic Si models can be recognized thanks to the aggressive black "wing" front fascia with larger air intakes, exclusive two-tone 18-inch alloys, a center polygonal exhaust pipe, larger side vents, and a deck lid spoiler. As with its predecessor, the Si Coupe continues to wear a full-width light bar and a massive raised spoiler.
Inside, Si models get exclusive bolstered front sport seats, red stitching throughout the cabin, aluminum sport pedals, Dry Metal Carbon instrument panel trim, and red TFT meter and audio system illumination.
Based on the EX-T trim level, 2017 Honda Civic Si Sedan and Coupe models will go on sale in May with a base price in the mid-$20,000 range.