Honda is preparing to usher in a new era of the Civic “Sport Injection” following the recent reveal of the 2022 model. This redesigned version features all of the 11th generation updates, packs an updated turbocharged engine and stays true to its roots being offered in manual transmission only.
One major change of the contemporary Si is it will be shedding the former two-door version meaning it will be sold solely as a sedan for the first time in its history. At least the vehicle still looks the part boasting a black mesh grille, sleeker front bumper with matching integrated front lip spoiler, rear deck lid wing and dual exhaust.
The exterior is given a contrasting dark gloss treatment all over, including the side mirrors and window surround, complemented by exclusive matte black 18-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels shod in all-season performance tires. The proverbial cherry on top is a coat of model-exclusive Blazing Orange Pearl paint.
Si’s have always been known for their sporty interiors and the 2022 continues the trend. Signature red stitching is found on the door panels, steering wheel, arm rest, shift boot and shift knob, and more red is splashed onto the bucket seats as well as the metal honeycomb dash panel that conceals a set of air vents underneath.
Occupants are treated to the most advanced interior yet: there’s a 10-inch fully digital instrument cluster and adjacent nine-inch high-definition infotainment touchscreen display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. In addition, a 12-speaker Bose premium sound system is equipped, representing the most premium audio ever installed from the factory.
And now onto the really good stuff — a revised turbo VTEC 1.5-litre four-cylinder mill producing 200 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque powers the Si, which, though five horsepower less than the outgoing car, has peak torque arriving 300 rpm sooner for quicker acceleration off the line and out of corners.
The improved exhaust system increases flow by 18 per cent, and a new lighter single-mass flywheel provides better throttle response. A helical limited-slip differential remains standard minimizing front wheel slip.
Throughout the badge’s history drivers have always praised the tactile gear shifts, and the 11th gen is expected to keep the accolades coming with a six-speed transmission featuring 10 per cent shorter throws. Automatic rev-matching technology has been borrowed from the previous Civic Type R helping to deliver perfectly synchronized downshifts every time.
Thanks to the latest Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure, this is the stiffest variant of the vehicle yet. At the same time, a 12-millimetre wider rear track and 35 millimetre longer wheel base yields extra stability and a smoother ride.
Specially-tuned springs and dampers and thicker stabilizer bars all around sharpen handling and minimize body roll through the turns. Other Type R adapted parts include front and rear compliance bushings and upper B-arms. And, wearing oversized brake rotors, it’s not slouch in the stopping department either.
To further enhance the motoring experience, those behind the wheel can now customize performance dynamics via an Individual mode allowing users to choose the level of engine response and steering effort to suit their personal driving preference and environment.
The 2022 Honda Civic Si is built in Canada at the automaker’s Alliston, Ontario plant and expected on showroom floors later this year.