The 2.4-liter in-line four-cylinder produces 205hp
and a modest 174lb-ft torque which is mated to a slick shifting six-speed
manual gearbox. Around town the Si feels smooth and the gearbox isn’t a pain to
live with. Take it on the highway and you’ll want to keep those revs high
because that’s where most of the momentum happens. This is mainly due to the
small amount of available torque and it is only kicks at 4,000rpm which means
you’ll either keep the revs high to keep things moving quickly or you’ll run
out of steam.
The Civic Si doesn’t feel as sharp to drive as the
Volkswagen GTI. The chassis often feels flustered quickly if you want to drive
spiritedly. The steering has decent feel and feedback but it isn’t great
neither encouraging when you do want to push it through corners and bends. At least
the manual gearbox shifts are crisp and smooth. Wind won’t be much of a problem
but there will be some road noise from the larger alloys and depending on which
tires you option for.
In the cabin you’ll be greeted by the same two
dashboard design which some will love and others will loath. The futuristic
design isn’t for everyone. At least the seven-inch display and touch screen infotainment
system has a simplex design and is somewhat user friendly. There are controls for
climate control too which aren’t fiddly to operate and clearly labeled. Front seats
are comfortable and the rear seats are somewhat comfortable. There’s plenty of
legroom but taller drivers may struggle to get comfortable because headroom is
a bit cramped. Boot space is pretty good too but the trunk hinges eats into
cargo space.
Bluetooth, rearview camera, USB audio interface and
push button ignition system are all standard on the Si. There’s even a 7-inch
touch screen infotainment system and Sequential Rev-limit indicator. You’ll
have to pay extra for the navigation system.
The Si is overall cheaper than the GTI, but we’d
pick the GTI because it’s much more fun to drive than the Si and the turbo
engine gives more torque at low revs while you’ll be forced to keep the revs
high in the Si. Running costs with the Si will be low and of course you can’t
forget about Honda legendary reliability record which is much more appealing
than Volkswagen. There plenty of safety aids to help you avoid a collision and
if you do get in one Honda track record with safety is spot on good.
Overall: It’s a pocket rocket that’s cheap to buy
and has low running costs. Not to mention excellent quality. If only it had
more torque and better driving experience to match its keen rival the GTI.
Likes: The engine sweet spot is when the torque
kicks in. Honda build quality and pocket rocket pace at an affordable price.
Dislikes: There’s virtually no torque unless you
keep revs in 4,000rpm. The driving experience isn’t even close to that of a GTI
and its rivals.
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