The 2023 Honda Civic SI is no longer just a compact sedan—it’s a blend of fun and functionality that’s grown in size and stature over the years. In fact, you could mistake it for an Accord at first glance! But make no mistake, the Civic SI brings its own punch, thanks to modern upgrades and impressive performance features. So, what makes this car stand out in an increasingly competitive market? Let’s take it for a drive and find out!
Turbocharged Power with a Familiar Punch
Gone are the days of the high-revving VTEC engines that we once associated with the Civic SI. Today’s model houses a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, delivering a satisfying 200 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque. While the spec sheet numbers are impressive, several tests have shown that the car often delivers a little more than expected—sometimes 10 to 15 extra horsepower.
Even though I can’t personally verify those extra horses, one thing is clear: the Civic SI has plenty of power to keep you entertained. The short-ratio six-speed manual transmission helps make the most of that power, offering smooth shifts and the kind of engaging driving experience that makes you want to push the car a little harder around every corner.
Driving Experience: Fun with a Hint of Challenge
Driving the 2023 Civic SI feels lively, especially with the boost building up at low RPMs. Unlike older models, you don’t have to wring the engine out to get a solid response. However, you’ll need to shift into third gear to hit 62 mph (100 km/h), which just adds to the fun of driving a stick-shift.
The shifter itself offers a satisfying, mechanical feel, but the clutch may take some getting used to. It’s light, which makes daily commuting easier, but it lacks the precise bite point you’d find in cars like the GR Corolla or Toyota Supra. This can lead to over-revving, especially on hills, where I found myself slipping the clutch a bit more than usual.
On the plus side, Honda includes an active rev match feature for downshifting, which makes you feel like a pro, even on those tricky shifts.
Handling and Suspension: A Playful Ride
The 2023 Civic SI really comes alive on twisty roads. Its limited-slip differential makes exiting corners feel controlled and responsive, even with the winter tires limiting overall grip. The steering is precise, and you can toggle between Sport and Normal modes, adjusting the steering weight to suit your style.
Interior: Practical Yet Sporty
When you step inside, the Civic SI’s cabin feels familiar, sharing much with the standard Civic. However, the sporty SI seats and red accents set it apart. The seats are comfortable, offering plenty of padding for long trips, but they’re also supportive enough to keep you in place during spirited drives. While there’s no power adjustment, the driver’s seat offers manual height adjustment, giving you just enough control over your driving position.
One standout feature of the Canadian-spec Civic SI is the heated steering wheel, alongside other great features like a fully digital driver display and a larger 9-inch touchscreen—luxuries not found in the U.S. version. There’s also wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a **wireless charging pad for added convenience. These features make the Civic SI feel like a much more premium package compared to its American counterpart.
Back Seat and Cargo Space: More Room for Everyone
While the Civic has grown in size over the years, the SI’s back seats do feel a bit tighter compared to the standard version. The bulkier seats in the SI reduce legroom slightly, but for someone of average height, there shouldn’t be too much of an issue. At 6’4”, I found it a little snug, with my head brushing the roof.
Cargo space is ample, with 408 liters of trunk space, making it practical for road trips or daily commuting. And if you need more room, you can always fold down the rear seats for additional cargo volume.
Fuel Efficiency: Surprising for a Sports Sedan
Despite its sporty nature, the 2023 Honda Civic SI is surprisingly fuel-efficient. Rated at 8.7 L/100 km in the city and 6.4 L/100 km on the highway, it’s more than reasonable for a car that’s this fun to drive. I averaged around 7 L/100 km during my time with it, which is impressive given the spirited nature of my test drives.
Pricing and Features
In Canada, the 2023 Honda Civic SI is priced at $33,630 CAD—and re$30,000 USD. Given the rising prices of new cars, the Civic SI is still a relatively affordable option that offers plenty of value for the money.
Final Thoughts: Is the Civic SI the Right Choice?
The 2023 Honda Civic SI is a well-rounded package, offering playful driving dynamics, a comfortable interior, and plenty of tech features—all at a price that doesn’t break the bank. It’s no longer the small, compact sedan it once was, but it’s grown in all the right ways.
Could it be my car of the year? You’ll have to wait for my year-end review to find out. But if you’re in the market for a fun, practical, and reasonably priced sports sedan, the 2023 Honda Civic SI deserves serious consideration.
For a full review and to see the 2023 Civic SI in action, check out our video! You’ll get a detailed look at everything this car has to offer, and see why it’s generating so much buzz among car enthusiasts.