Compact performance cars icons, the Honda Civic Si and Civic Type R are better than ever

Honda Civic Si

Few compact cars in the world awake the same kind of enthusiasm as does the Honda Civic Si. For many, it features prominently in the fabric of the sport compact car and the world of tuning. The new Civic Si is every bit that car except that it is now more refined, powerful and sophisticated.

The Si, as it is known to real aficionados, is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre 4-cylinder that produces 205-horsepower and 192 lb.-ft. of torque from 2,100-5,000 rpm. Mated exclusively to the driving fanatic’s weapon of choice, a 6-speed manual transmission, the Civic Si is ready to tango.

As always, this car is engineered to perform. This is why the Si features a helical limited-slip differential and a Sport mode button. No matter if you select the smart sedan Si or the racy coupe Si, part of the package includes a rear spoiler, adaptive dampers, larger sway bars and a unique look.

Honda Civic Type R

Speaking of looks, the Honda Civic Type R is one car that will never go unnoticed. We won’t apologize for the Type R’s styling and here’s why: All of the aerodynamic add-ons are 100% functional. And they are quite necessary when you consider the car’s power and speeds it can reach.

The Honda Civic Type R is the ultimate compact sports car, and it sports red Honda logos. In fact, some members of the Canadian automotive media have said that it is the Porsche 911 GT3 RS of its segment. We’re ok with that. How can a Civic earn such high praise?

It is power by a turbocharged 2.0-litre 4-cylinder that produces no less than 306-horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque from 2,500-4,500 rpm. Here too, the only offered transmission is a 6-speed manual transmission with a built-in helical limited-slip differential.

The combination of high-performance 20-inch tires and wheels, adaptive dampers, a Sport and +R drive modes, and Brembo brakes means that there is no other sport-compact car better equipped and prepared to take on weekend track events.

Even though both of these cars are bonified driver-focused driving machines, they are also loaded with all the latest infotainment and safety technologies. When you’re not aiming for the next apex, they are very civilized and comfortable daily drivers.