Honda has launched its UK-built Civic Si 5-door hatch in Australia, expanding the local Civic lineup to include everything from three to five doors.
Priced from $38,990 AUD for the six-speed manual and $41,290 for the five-speed automatic, the new Si sits at the top of the Civic range, with the auto costing just $700 less than the hi-po FN2 Type R.
So it’s a little expensive, but aside from two extra doors what do you get for your cash?
The key differences are in the styling department. The Civic Si rides on the FK chassis, which has more in common with the FN2 Civic Type R’s underpinnings than it does the FD-series floorpan of the Civic sedan. As a consequence the Civic Si boasts the same edgy style as the Type R, which certainly has its merits.
The triangular theme certainly draws in the eye while the Si’s profile isn’t that far removed from its three-doored cousin. However, that plasti-chrome grille is no match for the Type R’s handsome face.
That being said, it’s still an attention-getter. With its attractive-yet-polarising looks and top-shelf pricing we’d wager the Civic Si will find more favour as a fashion statement than just a basic mode of transport.
With just 103kW and 174Nm emnating from its 1.8 litre VTEC engine though, it probably won’t be bought for its performance credentials.
The 114kW Civic Sport sedan bests it in the power and torque stakes, while its double-wishbone rear suspension is a good deal more sophisticated than the Si’s space-saving torsion beam rear end. Not only that, but the Civic Sport is also $8.5k cheaper.
But the sedan can’t match the Si for spec. The Civic Si comes with leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, rear parking sensors, flat-folding rear seats, heated front seats, rain-sensing wipers, auto headlamps, cruise control, keyless entry, push-button starter, a trip computer, fog lamps, and 17-inch alloys.
An MP3-compatible CD/tuner with USB and iPod connectivity is also included. Dual front, side and curtain airbags, as well as ABS, ESP, EBA, EBD and traction control are all standard. Bluetooth and an eight-disc stacker are optional extras.
Fuel consumption is another Civic Si high point, with the manual slurping just 6.9 litres of petrol per 100km on the combined cycle. The auto drinks 7.2 l/100km, which is still an admirable figure.
Think the Civic Si is your cup of tea? You’d better be quick. Honda Australia only plans on selling 420 of these, so head on over to your local Honda dealer while they’re still fresh.
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That’s a lotta money for a lotta nothing in my opinion.
But as usual, the Honda fans will lap this up in no time at all.
Is that price a typo or something? A 103kw econobox for 40 grand? You’ve got to be joking…
Tony D, you can cancel that optometrists appointment for your eyes do not deceive you. The prices are correct!
..yeah, that price is a bit whack, my Lancer RA has grunt, tech and all those luxuries the civic does ..ok no leather, but who wants leather!
For 40 grand you can get a whole lot a lovin from the likes of Mazda, Toyota, Holden, Ford and even Subaru. I know for one, I’d rather buckle up with a brand new 08 plate Suuub WRX hatch for 38 hard ones drive away and with 190kW and mid 300’s Nm torque, 5 star ncap, and AWD.
With that in mind, Honda - go screw your self.. er.. ha ha, looks like they already did!!
who are Honda Australia kidding here? clearly they’re only fooling themselves
who in their right mind would spend $40k on an under powered and under optioned car modelled on a wedge of cheese?
for $40k you can get yourself a Golf Mk VI drive away
Honda Australia needs to think hard and serious about which direction they’re headed
I am in my right mind, and have also purchased one of the civic hatchs.
Judging by your names, comments have so far been made by males. This in mind power is indeed important to you.
However as a female it is not. What is important is comfort, reliability, room (and doors) for kids, saftey, and running costs.
I loved the typeR, but with two seats and only 4 passenger capacity it was not suitable, never mind the cost of fuel running the kids around.
This car is perfect for the family, whilst still looking impressive, instead of the normal boring hatch look WRX included
Here we have yet another Honda model released in Australia.
Honda is a compnay that treats Australian buyers and owners with contempt. Models are changing all the time, sometimes with a period less that 2 years after release. Remember the Prelude and Integra etal. Resale prices are stripped by this endless supply of types and models. Honda Australia is tardy with its service and aftersales, if its out the door, they dont give a stuff.
My advice, forget these dreamers!
October,2009 8pm
Having owned an accord for 14yrs i expected better quality for the price. Should have been more careful this time.This english made
model does not compare very favorably with the accord Japanese
built accord.