Turbo Time! Honda Reveals All New 2017 Civic Si
While much attention has been thrown toward to the new Honda Civic Type R, which will hit American shores for the first time later this year, it's not the only variant of the Civic that enthusiasts have been waiting for. Joining the Type R at your local Honda dealership will also be the less aggressive but much more affordable 2017 Civic Si, which Honda officially revealed today ahead of the New York International Auto Show.
While the British-built Type R will be sold strictly in the five-door hatchback body style, the Canadian-built Si will be available as either a two-door coupe or a four-sedan. And unlike the high winding naturally aspirated variants of the past, the new Si has turbocharged power under its hood.
Based on the engine that already powers many 10th generation Civics, the Si's 1.5-liter turbocharged four cylinder has been upgraded to produce 205 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque. And most importantly, those numbers come at a much lower RPM range when compared to the previous Si.
However, horsepower and torque are not the whole story with the Si. The engine will be mated to a six-speed manual transmission with a mechanical limited slip differential, the tightened up suspension will feature adaptive shocks with more aggressive spring rates and the front brakes have been enlarged as well.
The body also gets a unique treatment with new front and rear bumpers similar to those found on the Civic hatchback, larger 18-inch wheels with 235-width tires, center-exit exhaust and a prominent rear spoiler.
The interior, meanwhile, gets a new set of Si-specific sport seats with unique upholstery along with red and carbon fiber accents throughout. Aside from that, you also get all of the same standard convenience items found in the Civic EX-T models.
As for pricing, Honda says the Si will have an MSRP in the mid $20,000 range when it goes on sale next month, making it approximately $10,000 cheaper than the Type R. While it will certainly be a big departure from the screaming NA VTEC cars of the past, we can't wait to get some seat time in the new turbocharged Si.
