In 2020, the turbocharged 1.5-liter engine available in most Honda Civics produced 174 horsepower, while the high-performance Civic Si delivered 205 horsepower.
That turbo setup is standard on most sedans and hatchbacks in the lineup (LX, Sport, EX, EX-L, Touring), offering a balance of efficiency and oomph. The Civic Si, by contrast, uses a tuned version of the same 1.5-liter engine to reach 205 horsepower, delivering a noticeably quicker acceleration feel. Below is a concise breakdown of horsepower by model.
Turbo power by model and trim
The following breakdown summarizes the horsepower figures for turbocharged Civics in the 2020 lineup.
- Turbocharged 1.5-liter engine in most trims (LX, Sport, EX, EX-L, Touring): 174 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque.
- Civic Si: 205 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque. This model uses a higher-output tune of the same displacement engine for a sportier character.
Note: Horsepower figures can vary slightly by market and transmission choice, but these are the commonly cited ratings for the 2020 model year.
Performance implications
For typical buyers, the 174-horsepower turbo in standard Civics offers brisk daily performance, smooth highway passing power, and competitive fuel economy for a small family car. The Civic Si, with 205 hp, is aimed at enthusiasts and delivers a significantly more responsive feel, quicker throttle response, and stronger acceleration, especially when paired with the manual transmission designed for sportier driving.
Notes on trim and drivetrain
Most turbo Civics use a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or a 6-speed manual depending on the trim, but the horsepower rating itself remains as listed above. The Si is the exception, pairing the higher-output turbo with a 6-speed manual for precise gear changes.
Summary
For the 2020 Honda Civic, turbocharged performance centers on two figures: 174 horsepower for the standard turbo engine across LX, Sport, EX, EX-L, and Touring trims, and 205 horsepower for the Civic Si, which uses a higher-tuned version of the same 1.5-liter engine. In short, most Civics offer solid, practical power, while the Si stocks up substantially for sporty driving.