The Honda Civic Type R and Acura Integra Type S have been stealing the spotlight as Honda’s top-performing models this year. However, it’s important not to overlook the 2023 Honda Civic Si.
We had some reservations about Honda’s decisions when engineering the new Si. The removal of adaptive dampers, a reduction in horsepower, and the absence of previously-standard heated seats seemed like steps backward. However, these changes were made to ensure that the Si doesn’t encroach on the Acura Integra A-Spec’s territory.
Interior
The new Civic boasts an upscale interior, red accents enhance its best features, such as the honeycomb air vents. The orange/red and black seats instantly convey a sense of performance with their supportive bolstering and comfortable cushions. Since they are cloth seats, they won’t freeze in the winter, which helps mitigate the absence of heated seats. They not only look good but also feel great. The rest of the interior upholds the same elevated standards.
The visibility from the driver’s seat is excellent, which reduces the stress of long trips. Honda’s full suite of driver assistance features comes standard, and I rely on adaptive cruise control and lane-centering throughout the highway portion of the drive. Combined with the impressive Bose audio system, I am able to enjoy a happy and tranquil journey in this budget performance car.
Suspension & Brakes
During long drives we felt that removing the Si’s adaptive dampers is a significant loss. The Integra benefits greatly from the enhanced ride quality offered by the “Comfort” damper mode. In comparison, the Si falls somewhere in the middle. It performs well on backroads, but it doesn’t offer the same level of comfort as the Integra during long highway drives. If you can tolerate a stiffer suspension, then this might not be an issue for you. However, knowing that Honda has the capability to create a car that excels in both areas is disappointing and may push potential buyers toward the Acura dealer instead.
The brakes, though visually similar to those on a standard Civic, deliver fantastic feel and remain fade-free even after continuous heavy use. The optional Goodyear Eagle F1 summer tires on my test car are highly recommended, as they provide excellent grip, especially on the challenging terrain.
Engine & Transmission
While many sports cars nowadays have excessive power that can get you into trouble with law enforcement or simply exceed legal speed limits, the Si’s 200 horsepower from its 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is just right for these demanding roads. We can fully explore the car’s potential without breaking any laws. The engine doesn’t produce the iconic high-rpm Honda sound, still satisfying and revs smoothly up to its 6,500 rpm redline. The close-ratio gearing and excellent manual transmission enable seamless shifts. The Si also offers the option to match revs on downshifts manually or have the car do it for you. The pedals are well-positioned for heel-toe action, but the car’s capabilities shine even without extensive driver input.
The Si’s limited-slip differential comes into play during low-speed corners, providing stability and minimizing understeer. The chassis is well-suited for all types of handling, thanks to various Type R components from previous generations. The stiffer dampers, springs, and revised steering give the Si the perfect balance between performance and enjoyment on the road. The chassis’ rigidity and well-calibrated damping ensure control and composure through fast bends, the Si doesn’t suffer from jarring impacts.
Chassis
The 2023 Honda Civic Si’s lightweight nature gives it a sense of agility and a willingness to change direction. The steering, with its perfect weight, enhances the overall driving experience. It provides feedback without feeling artificial, making each corner a joy to navigate. The sticky tires transmit their grip levels through the highly bolstered seat and the steering wheel. Speaking of the steering wheel, it is a pleasure to hold, with its comfortable size and soft leather wrapping.
However we did find one drawback of the Si’s interior, the absence of a coolant temperature gauge. For a performance vehicle like this, a display showing fluid and temperature information would be beneficial. At the very least, gauges for coolant and oil temperature would be appreciated. Besides this omission, the cabin is perfectly suited for spirited driving. The thin A-pillars instill confidence when navigating unfamiliar roads, and the ergonomics of the seats and positioning of the shifter are exemplary. The abundance of secure cupholders ensures that I stay hydrated without any inconvenience.
In conclusion, the 2023 Honda Civic Si retains its position as a performance bargain, despite some notable changes compared to its predecessors. While the removal of adaptive dampers and the reduction in horsepower might disappoint some enthusiasts, the Si still delivers an enjoyable and engaging driving experience.
Although some enhancements, such as a coolant temperature gauge, would be appreciated, the Si’s overall package is well-rounded and deserving of recognition. Whether you’re driving to Makro Supermarket or exploring challenging roads, the 2023 Honda Civic Si will not disappoint.