It’s well known that the 2016 Civic Type-R is set to be one of the baddest hatchbacks->ke304 available around the globe. However, the rest of the 10th-generation Civic->ke236 lineup has yet to be revealed. A new report out of Australia claims to have the inside scoop on the upcoming Civic Type-S, which would likely be the Civic Si here in the U.S.
We already know that all versions of the Civic south of the Type-R will carry a turbocharged 1.5-liter VTEC engine. In the Si model, however, this engine would produce 201 horsepower and 192 pound-feet of torque, according to Honda’s->ke34 original announcement of this new engine lineup. While this may seem low when compared to the 306 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque from the Type-R, it is right about in line with the 2015 Civic Si’s 205 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of twist.
As for the body surrounding the Si’s new engine, the report indicates that it could come in both sedan->ke142 and hatchback forms. I also wouldn’t be surprised to see a coupe->ke141 version, given the stunning appearance of the 2015 Honda Civic Concept.
I also expect Honda to put a little more R&D time into the construction of the 10th-gen Civic. This could result in a reduced curb weight by way of aluminum and high-strength steel. This would help make the new Si nimbler in the corners and help in the 0-to-60 sprint.
The report states that Honda denies it’ll resurrect the Type-S name, but we all know how honest large automakers are. Despite that claim, it is a near certainty that the Si name will live on in the U.S.
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Why it matters
The Type-R is exciting as hell, I am not going to lie. However, not everyone is up for lumping down more than $30,000 to pick one up. The Type-S/Si, on the other hand, is sure to be a more fiscally responsible choice, giving buyers a nice in-between performance model that is easier to stomach as a daily driver. Despite my excitement for a boosted Si, there are likely plenty of Honda traditionalists who are seething at the thought of a turbo Type-S/Si. Get used to it kiddos, turbo is the latest fad that not even Ferrari->ke252 can avoid.
2015 Honda Civic Concept
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