The emergence of the latest 2022 Civic Si is important for a few reasons. One, the Si has always represented a sweet spot in the Civic lineup. If the regular Civic is too mundane for you, and the Type R is too…outlandish, then the Si is a great pick. The last generation Si was quite good, so we expect this 11th generation Civic-based version to be even more impressive. Oh right, back to my reasons. And B, I’m speculating that we are looking at what will basically be the base Acura Integra. On to the details we have so far.
Press-release hotness inbound:
What’s New:
- Updated 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with broader power curves and a lighter flywheel for quicker response and improved drivability
- Improved short-throw 6-speed manual transmission with standard rev-matching system from the Civic Type R
- Retuned suspension improves ride quality and takes Si handling to the next level
- 60-percent stiffer steering system torsion bar improves feel and response
- Drive Mode system features a new Individual mode for a customized driving experience
- Sporty Si-specific design cues add attitude and improve aerodynamic performance
- An available new and vibrant Blazing Orange Pearl exterior color is also exclusive to Civic Si
- The driver-focused interior features Si-specific body stabilizing sport seats with dynamic red accents and red contrast stitching
Unsurprisingly, the 2022 Si uses an updated high-output VTEC 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. I know you are skimming for power numbers, so here they are:
- 200-horsepower power peak at 6000 rpm (SAE net) and a 6500 rpm redline
- 192 lb.-ft. of torque at 1800-5000 rpm (SAE net) which arrives 300 rpm sooner than the last version
You’ll notice that that is technically five horsepower less than the 2020 Civic Si. However, the notion that it hits earlier due to a 26% lighter flywheel, which should help with off-the-line get up and go, plus better giddy-up out of the corners. Honda added a new dual-coil silencer exhaust system with an improved Active Sound Control system. So hopefully the Si will make some good noises as well.
Out on the road, a standard helical limited-slip differential should help with the power delivery and I’m excited to check out the standard rev-matching system from the Type R. Naturally Honda tweaked the suspension and geometry with more rigidity across the chassis. Even though it weighs less than 3,000 pounds (just, at 2,952) the new Si is actually wider and longer than the previous generation version which Honda claims will make it ride a bit better as well.
Bigger brakes, plus 18-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels and 235/40R18 all-season performance tires join the mix and like some recent performance-focused cars, the Si will only be available with a 6-speed manual. Honda says it has improved shift feel and the box has 10% shorter throws compared to the last Si. It is likely the same manual that’ll be available on the new Integra, inshallah.
The inside looks pretty impressive as well with new Si-exclusive body stabilizing sport seats that look to be bolstered in all the right places. There is nine-inch screen with the latest wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration that you would expect.
Pricing isn’t available quite yet, but the last Si came in at just under $26,000. We are excited to have our first go in the new 2022 Civic Si, so stay tuned!
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