Honda: Civic News
#922
Senior Moderator
IMHO, the IS went from being a NON-consideration in the sports sedan market (at this price point) to being @/near the top. And this is a segment that has become EXTREMELY competitive over that last few years. (The TL forum alone is a testament to that.)
While the Civic is vastly improved, I take into account that a) most of it's competition is pretty long in the tooth (Heck! The current Nissan B15 debuted while the 6G Civic was in mid production) and b) the 7G Civic (while very competent) was terribly ho-hum. So just about any change would be significant right about now.
While the Civic is vastly improved, I take into account that a) most of it's competition is pretty long in the tooth (Heck! The current Nissan B15 debuted while the 6G Civic was in mid production) and b) the 7G Civic (while very competent) was terribly ho-hum. So just about any change would be significant right about now.
#923
Senior Moderator
But Congratulation to Honda!! They're definitely making up for that last gen.
#924
Safety Car
Value
Value is probably where the new IS lost a lot of points ...
#925
Senior Moderator
Originally Posted by TSX69
Value is probably where the new IS lost a lot of points ...
#926
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Wow, what a good honor for the Civic!
Has the Accord ever been MT's Car of the Year ever?
Even with all that I still prefer to buy an Accord/TL/TSX over a Civic.
Has the Accord ever been MT's Car of the Year ever?
Even with all that I still prefer to buy an Accord/TL/TSX over a Civic.
#927
The sizzle in the Steak
Originally Posted by 04EuroAccordTsx
Wow, what a good honor for the Civic!
Has the Accord ever been MT's Car of the Year ever?
Has the Accord ever been MT's Car of the Year ever?
Motor Trend Car of the Year Complete Winners List
The complete list of every car that has ever won the award
Motor Trend
2006 Honda Civic
2005 Chrysler 300
2004 Toyota Prius
2003 Infiniti G35 Coupe / Sedan
2002 Ford Thunderbird
2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
2000 Lincoln LS
1999 Chrysler 300M
1998 Chevrolet Corvette
1997 Chevrolet Malibu
1996 Dodge Caravan
1995 Chrysler Cirrus
1994 Ford Mustang
1993 Ford Probe GT
1992 Cadillac Seville Touring Sedan
1991 Chevrolet Caprice Classic LTZ
1990 Lincoln Town Car
1989 Ford Thunderbird SC
1988 Pontiac Grand Prix
1987 Ford Thunderbird
1986 Ford Taurus LX
1985 Volkswagen GTI
1984 Chevrolet Corvette
1983 American Motors Renault Alliance
1982 Chevrolet Camaro Z28
1981 Chrysler K-cars, Dodge Aries/Plymouth Reliant
1980 Chevrolet Citation
1979 Buick Riviera S
1978 Chrysler, Dodge Omni/Plymouth Horizon
1977 Chevrolet Caprice
1976 Chrysler, Dodge Aspen/Plymouth Volare
1975 Chevrolet Monza 2+2 V-8
1974 Ford Mustang II
1973 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
1972 Citroen SM
1971 Chevrolet Vega
1970 Ford Torino
1969 Plymouth Road Runner
1968 Pontiac GTO
1967 Mercury Cougar
1966 Oldsmobile Toronado
1965 Pontiac Motor Division
1964 Ford Motor Company
1963 American Motors Rambler
1962 Buick Special
1961 Pontiac Tempest
1960 Chevrolet Corvair
1959 Pontiac Motor Division
1958 Ford Thunderbird
1957 Chrysler Corporation
1956 Ford Motor Company
1955 No Award
1954 No Award
1953 No Award
1952 Cadillac Motor Car Division
1951 Chrysler Corporation
1950 No award
1949 Cadillac Motor Car Division
The complete list of every car that has ever won the award
Motor Trend
2006 Honda Civic
2005 Chrysler 300
2004 Toyota Prius
2003 Infiniti G35 Coupe / Sedan
2002 Ford Thunderbird
2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
2000 Lincoln LS
1999 Chrysler 300M
1998 Chevrolet Corvette
1997 Chevrolet Malibu
1996 Dodge Caravan
1995 Chrysler Cirrus
1994 Ford Mustang
1993 Ford Probe GT
1992 Cadillac Seville Touring Sedan
1991 Chevrolet Caprice Classic LTZ
1990 Lincoln Town Car
1989 Ford Thunderbird SC
1988 Pontiac Grand Prix
1987 Ford Thunderbird
1986 Ford Taurus LX
1985 Volkswagen GTI
1984 Chevrolet Corvette
1983 American Motors Renault Alliance
1982 Chevrolet Camaro Z28
1981 Chrysler K-cars, Dodge Aries/Plymouth Reliant
1980 Chevrolet Citation
1979 Buick Riviera S
1978 Chrysler, Dodge Omni/Plymouth Horizon
1977 Chevrolet Caprice
1976 Chrysler, Dodge Aspen/Plymouth Volare
1975 Chevrolet Monza 2+2 V-8
1974 Ford Mustang II
1973 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
1972 Citroen SM
1971 Chevrolet Vega
1970 Ford Torino
1969 Plymouth Road Runner
1968 Pontiac GTO
1967 Mercury Cougar
1966 Oldsmobile Toronado
1965 Pontiac Motor Division
1964 Ford Motor Company
1963 American Motors Rambler
1962 Buick Special
1961 Pontiac Tempest
1960 Chevrolet Corvair
1959 Pontiac Motor Division
1958 Ford Thunderbird
1957 Chrysler Corporation
1956 Ford Motor Company
1955 No Award
1954 No Award
1953 No Award
1952 Cadillac Motor Car Division
1951 Chrysler Corporation
1950 No award
1949 Cadillac Motor Car Division
#930
Originally Posted by 04EuroAccordTsx
Wow, what a good honor for the Civic!
Has the Accord ever been MT's Car of the Year ever?
Even with all that I still prefer to buy an Accord/TL/TSX over a Civic.
Has the Accord ever been MT's Car of the Year ever?
Even with all that I still prefer to buy an Accord/TL/TSX over a Civic.
#931
Drifting
Originally Posted by Moog-Type-S
Nope. This is Honda's first time on the list
i remember the Ford Thunderbird winning back in 2002. really hilarious how they stopped production on that car shortly after it being rewarded the COY
#933
GEEZER
what? no leather?
#935
Senior Moderator
Originally Posted by aaronnn
funny how MT's list consists of only three japanese cars..
i remember the Ford Thunderbird winning back in 2002. really hilarious how they stopped production on that car shortly after it being rewarded the COY
i remember the Ford Thunderbird winning back in 2002. really hilarious how they stopped production on that car shortly after it being rewarded the COY
They only starting including Imports for the COY a few years ago. There was a seperate import Car of the year award.
#936
Drifting
Originally Posted by dom
They only starting including Imports for the COY a few years ago. There was a seperate import Car of the year award.
#937
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Here's the list of Motor Trend Import Car of the Year winners:
The Import Car of the Year award was no longer awarded after 1999
1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
1998 Lexus GS series
1997 BMW 5-Series
1996 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
1995 Nissan Maxima
1994 Honda Accord
1993 Mazda RX-7
1992 Lexus SC400
1991 Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4
1990 Nissan 300ZX Turbo
1989 Mitsubishi Galant GS
1988 Honda CRX Si
1987 Acura Legend Coupe
1986 Mazda RX-7
1985 Toyota MR2
1984 Honda Civic CRX
1983 Mazda 626
1982 Toyota Celica Supra
1981 Mercedes-Benz 300SD
1980 Honda Civic
1979 Datsun 280ZX
1978 Toyota Celica
1977 Mercedes-Benz 280E
1976 Toyota Celica Liftback
1971- 1975 No award
1970 Porsche 914
http://motortrend.com/oftheyear/car/icotywinners/
The Import Car of the Year award was no longer awarded after 1999
1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
1998 Lexus GS series
1997 BMW 5-Series
1996 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
1995 Nissan Maxima
1994 Honda Accord
1993 Mazda RX-7
1992 Lexus SC400
1991 Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4
1990 Nissan 300ZX Turbo
1989 Mitsubishi Galant GS
1988 Honda CRX Si
1987 Acura Legend Coupe
1986 Mazda RX-7
1985 Toyota MR2
1984 Honda Civic CRX
1983 Mazda 626
1982 Toyota Celica Supra
1981 Mercedes-Benz 300SD
1980 Honda Civic
1979 Datsun 280ZX
1978 Toyota Celica
1977 Mercedes-Benz 280E
1976 Toyota Celica Liftback
1971- 1975 No award
1970 Porsche 914
http://motortrend.com/oftheyear/car/icotywinners/
#939
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2006 Civic SI Pricing (Released to Honda Dealers)
FG2156JW
2D 2.0 Si - 6-Speed Manual Transmission
$19,990.00
FG2156JXW
2D 2.0 Si - 6-Speed Manual Transmission w/Summer Tires
$20,190.00
FG2156KW
2D 2.0 Si - 6-Speed Manual Transmission w/Navi
$21,740.00
FG2156KXW
2D 2.0 Si - 6-Speed Manual Transmission w/Navi & Summer Tires
$21,940.00
Destination & Handling: $550
So, 22,490 for an SI with Navi + Summer + Tires+ Destination
Link: http://www.vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=452502
FG2156JW
2D 2.0 Si - 6-Speed Manual Transmission
$19,990.00
FG2156JXW
2D 2.0 Si - 6-Speed Manual Transmission w/Summer Tires
$20,190.00
FG2156KW
2D 2.0 Si - 6-Speed Manual Transmission w/Navi
$21,740.00
FG2156KXW
2D 2.0 Si - 6-Speed Manual Transmission w/Navi & Summer Tires
$21,940.00
Destination & Handling: $550
So, 22,490 for an SI with Navi + Summer + Tires+ Destination
Link: http://www.vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=452502
#940
how handsome I am
Originally Posted by corey415
2006 Civic SI Pricing (Released to Honda Dealers)
FG2156JW
2D 2.0 Si - 6-Speed Manual Transmission
$19,990.00
FG2156JXW
2D 2.0 Si - 6-Speed Manual Transmission w/Summer Tires
$20,190.00
FG2156KW
2D 2.0 Si - 6-Speed Manual Transmission w/Navi
$21,740.00
FG2156KXW
2D 2.0 Si - 6-Speed Manual Transmission w/Navi & Summer Tires
$21,940.00
Destination & Handling: $550
So, 22,490 for an SI with Navi + Summer + Tires+ Destination
Link: http://www.vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=452502
FG2156JW
2D 2.0 Si - 6-Speed Manual Transmission
$19,990.00
FG2156JXW
2D 2.0 Si - 6-Speed Manual Transmission w/Summer Tires
$20,190.00
FG2156KW
2D 2.0 Si - 6-Speed Manual Transmission w/Navi
$21,740.00
FG2156KXW
2D 2.0 Si - 6-Speed Manual Transmission w/Navi & Summer Tires
$21,940.00
Destination & Handling: $550
So, 22,490 for an SI with Navi + Summer + Tires+ Destination
Link: http://www.vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=452502
So much for the SRT-4. If people want that turbo package, they'll go for it. But this Civic is just too good looking and has way too much potential to be badass and sick.
-Alex
#941
Registered Abuser of VTEC
Originally Posted by agranado
So much for the SRT-4. If people want that turbo package, they'll go for it. But this Civic is just too good looking and has way too much potential to be badass and sick.
-Alex
The supercharged Cobalt is very close in 1/4 mile time to the Civic Si. In fact at Edmunds, the Civic was faster (but slower to 60mph because of having to shift to 3rd gear). Although I don't know how far to trust their tests. The cars are nearly the same price too, except that the Cobalt SS supercharged has leather seating (which feels like rubber, but it still has it; heated seats are NOT available on either car though, so I'd rather have the cloth Civic).
The Civic sounds better (according to my ears from the video at TOV and from comments from reviewers), and it drives more like a serious sports coupe. The Honda engine is also much smoother and more fun to rev (I mean come on, who can argue with being able to rev up to 8000, actually 8500 before the computer cuts you off?)
#942
Drifting
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Originally Posted by youngTL
Well, the SRT-4 is significantly more money and is significantly faster (WRX STi territory). A more suitable comparison is between the Civic and the Cobalt SS.
SI:
MSRP with dest. $20,540
SRT-4:
MSRP with dest. $21,295
#943
Originally Posted by youngTL
Well, the SRT-4 is significantly more money and is significantly faster (WRX STi territory). A more suitable comparison is between the Civic and the Cobalt SS.
The supercharged Cobalt is very close in 1/4 mile time to the Civic Si. In fact at Edmunds, the Civic was faster (but slower to 60mph because of having to shift to 3rd gear). Although I don't know how far to trust their tests. The cars are nearly the same price too, except that the Cobalt SS supercharged has leather seating (which feels like rubber, but it still has it; heated seats are NOT available on either car though, so I'd rather have the cloth Civic).
The Civic sounds better (according to my ears from the video at TOV and from comments from reviewers), and it drives more like a serious sports coupe. The Honda engine is also much smoother and more fun to rev (I mean come on, who can argue with being able to rev up to 8000, actually 8500 before the computer cuts you off?)
The supercharged Cobalt is very close in 1/4 mile time to the Civic Si. In fact at Edmunds, the Civic was faster (but slower to 60mph because of having to shift to 3rd gear). Although I don't know how far to trust their tests. The cars are nearly the same price too, except that the Cobalt SS supercharged has leather seating (which feels like rubber, but it still has it; heated seats are NOT available on either car though, so I'd rather have the cloth Civic).
The Civic sounds better (according to my ears from the video at TOV and from comments from reviewers), and it drives more like a serious sports coupe. The Honda engine is also much smoother and more fun to rev (I mean come on, who can argue with being able to rev up to 8000, actually 8500 before the computer cuts you off?)
In the Us the Srt-4 is right in that price range with the SS also, 21k msrp. In Motortrends comparo of those two cars they had 14.4s 1/4 mile for both, SS had a 99.3mph trap and srt had a 100.8mph trap.
Its all a matter a preference, if I had to chose a sportcompact in the range based off the features/looks/performance I'd probably start looking with the new GTI w/ DSG.
#946
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Honda Civic One of Ten Safest Cars:
http://www.cnn.com/2005/AUTOS/12/04/...ety/index.html
Two Honda 06 Civic SIs complete 25 hour thunderhill race. "The two-car team finished fourth and sixth overall, and first and second in class, logging 1935 and 1923 miles, respectively".
http://www.caranddriver.com/article....ticle_id=10380
Speed channel segment featuring Tommy Kendall, Danica Patrick, and modified SIs:
http://www.personal.psu.edu/dnm138/06_Si_Speed.wmv
Thanks to DaWolfman and VdoManZ for hosting and ripping the video; both members of vtec.net.
http://www.cnn.com/2005/AUTOS/12/04/...ety/index.html
Two Honda 06 Civic SIs complete 25 hour thunderhill race. "The two-car team finished fourth and sixth overall, and first and second in class, logging 1935 and 1923 miles, respectively".
http://www.caranddriver.com/article....ticle_id=10380
Speed channel segment featuring Tommy Kendall, Danica Patrick, and modified SIs:
http://www.personal.psu.edu/dnm138/06_Si_Speed.wmv
Thanks to DaWolfman and VdoManZ for hosting and ripping the video; both members of vtec.net.
#947
I missed the Speed Channel review on TV, was decent. The car almost seemed too refined, think Honda and others could benefit in maybe making a performance model like this a little more raw.
#948
^ I think they're almost afraid to do that. plenty of reviews for the now departed Integra Type-R hammered it for being unrefined and raw. Even the S2K suffered the same criticisms before the slight make-over and bump in displacement.
#950
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First Drive: 2006 Honda Civic Si - - By Allyson Harwood - - Motor Trend, October 2005 - - Source: MotorTrend.com
The Si has always been the heart-stopper of the Civic line, the one that attracts would-be tuners and thrill-seekers alike. For the past 20 years, it's been part of Honda's performance arsenal, combining the light weight and low price of standard models, with VTEC technology and unique styling cues.
But not all were enamored with the 2002-2005 hatchback. Honda fans were disappointed with a low-revving engine (redline at 6750 rpm)--aimed more at fuel economy than the strong end of the tach--the 15-inch all-season tires, and a rear suspension that lacked confidence in the corners. Generation six is now coming for 2006. Does the Si have its groove back?
The new Si is once again offered only in trunked coupe form. At its core is a 2.0-liter, 197-horse i-VTEC four (the "i" stands for intelligent, referring to its continuously variable camshaft timing), up 37 horses from last year. Redline is 8000 rpm--yes!--peak power comes at 7800, and peak torque, though just 139 pound-feet, is at 6200 revs. There's a wonderful high-pitched growl at low rpm that sounds like the car's already received aftermarket intake and exhaust systems, but the real fun is between 5900 and 6400 rpm, when the VTEC kicks in, creating an audible boost that let's you know it's ready to play. Backing the four is a short-throw, six-speed manual (exclusive in the Civic line to the Si) that combines confident snick-snick-snick shifts with surprising smoothness.
Starting with the base MacPherson strut front and multilink rear Civic suspension, Honda's engineers made significant changes for the Si: increasing spring rate, upping damper force by up to 45 percent, and installing larger front and rear anti-roll bars. The changes increase overall roll stiffness by 30 percent. To better harness the extra power, and respond to complaints of so-so handling in the 2002-2005 model, the Si now has a helical-type limited-slip differential as standard equipment. This upgrade gives the car confidence in corners and allows higher speeds entering turns, providing predictable, repeatable performance. Electric power steering returns for 2006 and provides more feel than expected.
Stock wheels, designed specifically for the Si, are 17x7.0-inch alloys, wrapped in all-season 215/45R17 Michelin Pilot HX MXM4s. Those who crave more traction and aren't as concerned about driving in winter can step up to the asymmetrical-tread WRC-inspired Michelin Pilot Exalto PE2 summer tires. We're told 18-inch wheels and 215/40R18 warm-weather Yokohama rubber also will be offered through Honda's accessories group--a step up from those puny Gen-Five 15s.
While the Si benefits from new safety features, including updated body structure for improved collision safety, high-strength-steel side-impact protection in the doors, a structurally enhanced front subframe, standard front, side, and side-curtain airbags, and four-channel ABS with EBD, the trade-off is added heft. The Si weighs 95 pounds more than the outgoing model and up to 250 more than the regular 2006 coupe.
It's clear the Si design study shown at the 2005 Chicago auto show wasn't far from the production model. The spoiler got smaller, the greenhouse taller, wheels and tires more rational, and it gained some door handles; otherwise, Honda's preview was accurate. Race-inspired details give the cabin a distinctly Si feel. New for 2006, the entire Civic line's IP has been split into two sections, divided by the steering wheel; the upper shows digital speed and fuel and temperature gauges; the lower houses everything else. While this makes everything easy for the driver to see, the cyclops-eye tach takes some getting used to. The dual-density-foam sport seats are a big plus; softer padding is used in the middle, with harder bolsters on both sides for more support during spirited driving. A 350-watt XM-ready audio system and navigation also are available.
Honda heard from enthusiasts and got the message: The high-performance Civic needs to be extra fun to drive. Let the standard sedan, coupe, and hybrid handle commuting chores and max fuel efficiency--a true Si requires 'tude. This new one does the Si badge justice, and, if it comes in at just under $20,000 as planned, it will be one sweet deal.
2006 Honda Civic Si
Base price $20,000 (est)
Vehicle layout Front engine, FWD, 5-pass, 2-door coupe
Engine 2.0L/197-hp/139 lb-ft DOHC 16-valve I-4
Transmission 6-speed manual
Curb weight 2900 lb (mfr)
Wheelbase 104.3 in
Length x Width x Height 174.8 x 68.9 x 53.5 in
0-60 mph 7.3 sec (est)
EPA city/hwy fuel econ 22 / 31 mpg
On sale in U.S. December 2005
--------------------------------------------------
Civic Hybrid
The hybrid powertrain has received a notable update. The gas-powered 1.3-liter four, now a three-stage i-VTEC, puts out 93 horsepower and 89 pound-feet of torque. Combined output, including the electric motor's power output, totals are 110 and 123, respectively, up from the 2005's combined 93 and 105. Behind the engine is a CVT; the five-speed manual is no longer available.
The new AT-PZEV hybrid has a feature not seen in the 2005: the addition of a motor-only drive mode, making it a true hybrid. At start and when accelerating, the electric motor assists the engine at different levels. Gentle acceleration and high-speed cruising sees the engine work alone. At low-speed cruising, between 10 and 30 mph, the motor goes solo, and, at idle, the engine is off and the brakes enter regeneration mode.
Thanks to the advancements in the fourth generation of Honda's IMA hybrid technology, fuel economy is estimated at greater than 50-mpg combined city/highway, an improvement that comes despite the Civic line's weight gain. And, yes, the A/C will work even when the car's running just on the electric motor. Expect to see the hybrid in showrooms this month; a natural-gas Civic will follow in early calendar-year 2006.
Civic Sedan
Better bread, tastier butter
Redesigned from the ground up, the Civic sedan and coupe receive a new engine: a 1.8-liter, 140-horsepower i-VTEC single-overhead-cam four. A five-speed manual is standard; a five-speed automatic, new to the line, is optional.
This model is 1.4 inches longer and wider overall than the one it replaces, the wheelbase has increased by 3.2 inches, and front and rear track are wider by more than an inch. Like all cars in the line, its frame is made from 50-percent high-strength steel for a torsional-rigidity increase of 35 percent. The fully independent suspension was reengineered for improved ride and handling. The speed-sensitive hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering system is now placed lower in the vehicle, improving input geometry and steering feel. All Civics receive the same safety equipment as the Si.
The sedan's new exterior design hints at Saturn up front (the coupe has a slightly different face), but is clearly Honda throughout. In the cabin, fit and finish remain a high priority for Honda, as expected, and everything along the dash is new. In addition, a tilt/telescoping wheel is standard. To the right of the new two-section IP, the center stack also was redesigned for a cleaner, more modern look and now can accommodate optional nav. With the changes to the car's layout, overall passenger room has decreased slightly, but most interior dimensions have gone up. Cargo volume, though, is down: There's now 12.0 cubic feet of trunk space, compared with the 2005's 12.9.
With all of the improvements made to a car that was already best in its class, Honda's managed to raise the compact's value--expected to start around $14,000--as well as its luxury and has once again made life difficult for others in the compact-car category.
But not all were enamored with the 2002-2005 hatchback. Honda fans were disappointed with a low-revving engine (redline at 6750 rpm)--aimed more at fuel economy than the strong end of the tach--the 15-inch all-season tires, and a rear suspension that lacked confidence in the corners. Generation six is now coming for 2006. Does the Si have its groove back?
The new Si is once again offered only in trunked coupe form. At its core is a 2.0-liter, 197-horse i-VTEC four (the "i" stands for intelligent, referring to its continuously variable camshaft timing), up 37 horses from last year. Redline is 8000 rpm--yes!--peak power comes at 7800, and peak torque, though just 139 pound-feet, is at 6200 revs. There's a wonderful high-pitched growl at low rpm that sounds like the car's already received aftermarket intake and exhaust systems, but the real fun is between 5900 and 6400 rpm, when the VTEC kicks in, creating an audible boost that let's you know it's ready to play. Backing the four is a short-throw, six-speed manual (exclusive in the Civic line to the Si) that combines confident snick-snick-snick shifts with surprising smoothness.
Starting with the base MacPherson strut front and multilink rear Civic suspension, Honda's engineers made significant changes for the Si: increasing spring rate, upping damper force by up to 45 percent, and installing larger front and rear anti-roll bars. The changes increase overall roll stiffness by 30 percent. To better harness the extra power, and respond to complaints of so-so handling in the 2002-2005 model, the Si now has a helical-type limited-slip differential as standard equipment. This upgrade gives the car confidence in corners and allows higher speeds entering turns, providing predictable, repeatable performance. Electric power steering returns for 2006 and provides more feel than expected.
Stock wheels, designed specifically for the Si, are 17x7.0-inch alloys, wrapped in all-season 215/45R17 Michelin Pilot HX MXM4s. Those who crave more traction and aren't as concerned about driving in winter can step up to the asymmetrical-tread WRC-inspired Michelin Pilot Exalto PE2 summer tires. We're told 18-inch wheels and 215/40R18 warm-weather Yokohama rubber also will be offered through Honda's accessories group--a step up from those puny Gen-Five 15s.
While the Si benefits from new safety features, including updated body structure for improved collision safety, high-strength-steel side-impact protection in the doors, a structurally enhanced front subframe, standard front, side, and side-curtain airbags, and four-channel ABS with EBD, the trade-off is added heft. The Si weighs 95 pounds more than the outgoing model and up to 250 more than the regular 2006 coupe.
It's clear the Si design study shown at the 2005 Chicago auto show wasn't far from the production model. The spoiler got smaller, the greenhouse taller, wheels and tires more rational, and it gained some door handles; otherwise, Honda's preview was accurate. Race-inspired details give the cabin a distinctly Si feel. New for 2006, the entire Civic line's IP has been split into two sections, divided by the steering wheel; the upper shows digital speed and fuel and temperature gauges; the lower houses everything else. While this makes everything easy for the driver to see, the cyclops-eye tach takes some getting used to. The dual-density-foam sport seats are a big plus; softer padding is used in the middle, with harder bolsters on both sides for more support during spirited driving. A 350-watt XM-ready audio system and navigation also are available.
Honda heard from enthusiasts and got the message: The high-performance Civic needs to be extra fun to drive. Let the standard sedan, coupe, and hybrid handle commuting chores and max fuel efficiency--a true Si requires 'tude. This new one does the Si badge justice, and, if it comes in at just under $20,000 as planned, it will be one sweet deal.
2006 Honda Civic Si
Base price $20,000 (est)
Vehicle layout Front engine, FWD, 5-pass, 2-door coupe
Engine 2.0L/197-hp/139 lb-ft DOHC 16-valve I-4
Transmission 6-speed manual
Curb weight 2900 lb (mfr)
Wheelbase 104.3 in
Length x Width x Height 174.8 x 68.9 x 53.5 in
0-60 mph 7.3 sec (est)
EPA city/hwy fuel econ 22 / 31 mpg
On sale in U.S. December 2005
--------------------------------------------------
Civic Hybrid
The hybrid powertrain has received a notable update. The gas-powered 1.3-liter four, now a three-stage i-VTEC, puts out 93 horsepower and 89 pound-feet of torque. Combined output, including the electric motor's power output, totals are 110 and 123, respectively, up from the 2005's combined 93 and 105. Behind the engine is a CVT; the five-speed manual is no longer available.
The new AT-PZEV hybrid has a feature not seen in the 2005: the addition of a motor-only drive mode, making it a true hybrid. At start and when accelerating, the electric motor assists the engine at different levels. Gentle acceleration and high-speed cruising sees the engine work alone. At low-speed cruising, between 10 and 30 mph, the motor goes solo, and, at idle, the engine is off and the brakes enter regeneration mode.
Thanks to the advancements in the fourth generation of Honda's IMA hybrid technology, fuel economy is estimated at greater than 50-mpg combined city/highway, an improvement that comes despite the Civic line's weight gain. And, yes, the A/C will work even when the car's running just on the electric motor. Expect to see the hybrid in showrooms this month; a natural-gas Civic will follow in early calendar-year 2006.
Civic Sedan
Better bread, tastier butter
Redesigned from the ground up, the Civic sedan and coupe receive a new engine: a 1.8-liter, 140-horsepower i-VTEC single-overhead-cam four. A five-speed manual is standard; a five-speed automatic, new to the line, is optional.
This model is 1.4 inches longer and wider overall than the one it replaces, the wheelbase has increased by 3.2 inches, and front and rear track are wider by more than an inch. Like all cars in the line, its frame is made from 50-percent high-strength steel for a torsional-rigidity increase of 35 percent. The fully independent suspension was reengineered for improved ride and handling. The speed-sensitive hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering system is now placed lower in the vehicle, improving input geometry and steering feel. All Civics receive the same safety equipment as the Si.
The sedan's new exterior design hints at Saturn up front (the coupe has a slightly different face), but is clearly Honda throughout. In the cabin, fit and finish remain a high priority for Honda, as expected, and everything along the dash is new. In addition, a tilt/telescoping wheel is standard. To the right of the new two-section IP, the center stack also was redesigned for a cleaner, more modern look and now can accommodate optional nav. With the changes to the car's layout, overall passenger room has decreased slightly, but most interior dimensions have gone up. Cargo volume, though, is down: There's now 12.0 cubic feet of trunk space, compared with the 2005's 12.9.
With all of the improvements made to a car that was already best in its class, Honda's managed to raise the compact's value--expected to start around $14,000--as well as its luxury and has once again made life difficult for others in the compact-car category.
#951
What's with Motor Trend suddenly referring to the instrument panel as the IP? I noticed in the Lexus IS review as well.
#952
Walked through the Honda dealer today, took a look at the SI for a minute, $20,500k. Nice looking car, silver. Everything looks pretty small inside, found the diameter of the steering wheel was tiny, not that its a prob. Nice seats, dash was tight to the seat etc, small car.
#953
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#955
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Originally Posted by Yumchah
#957
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Originally Posted by 04EuroAccordTsx
Has anyone test driven the SI yet? How does it compare to the RSX-type S and the Scion Tc?
Power is about the same as the RSX Type S overall. I did notice a broader torque curve in the Si. Handling was much better than the Type S as well.
The Scion Tc is whole different car and not in the same category. Its a fun to drive car but I wouldnt call it sporty nor fast. A TRD supercharger changes things but it doesnt have the razor sharp reflexes you expect in a true sport coupe.
#958
The sizzle in the Steak
Originally Posted by Yumchah
#959
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I love to read the magazine articles where people bish about the Civic Si no longer being a hatchback. HELLO PEOPLE NO ONE BOUGHT IT BECAUSE IT WAS A HATCHBACK!
...
HONDA IS IN THE BUSINESS TO MAKE A PROFIT!!! HELLO!!!
This letter to the editor was dedicated to Dipshit McDumbass in Somewheresville, Iowa.
<= would not post any letters from any Mr Dumbass in Iowa if he was an Automobile magazine editor.
...
HONDA IS IN THE BUSINESS TO MAKE A PROFIT!!! HELLO!!!
This letter to the editor was dedicated to Dipshit McDumbass in Somewheresville, Iowa.
<= would not post any letters from any Mr Dumbass in Iowa if he was an Automobile magazine editor.
#960
I think that's partly the reason, but also, it was an ugly hatchback. I think the new hatchback has its bad sides, but overall it's a better looking one than the short-minivan bug eye headlights of the last gen Si.
I would also like the 5-door hatcback brought to the U.S.
I would also like the 5-door hatcback brought to the U.S.