The 2008 Honda Civic Si makes 197 horsepower (147 kW) at 7,000 rpm, with 139 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm. It came with a 6-speed manual transmission in the US.
In more detail, the 2008 Civic Si is part of the eighth-generation Civic lineup and uses Honda’s 2.0-liter i-VTEC engine (K20Z3). This variant is known for its high-revving character and sport-tuned styling relative to the standard Civic models. The horsepower figure is the SAE net rating commonly cited for US-market vehicles of this year.
Key performance figures
Here are the core numbers drivers cite when discussing the 2008 Civic Si’s performance, along with related drivetrain notes.
- Engine: 2.0 L i-VTEC inline-4 (K20Z3)
- Horsepower: 197 hp (147 kW) at 7,000 rpm
- Torque: 139 lb-ft (188 Nm) at 6,500 rpm
- Redline: 8,000 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed manual (US specification)
Note: Some markets may show minor variations due to testing standards, but the US-spec 2008 Civic Si is widely listed at 197 hp and 139 lb-ft of torque.
Engine and handling details
The K20Z3 engine features variable valve timing and lift electronic control (i-VTEC) and is tuned for higher-rev performance. The Si model also offered a sport-oriented suspension and handling characteristics that aimed at a more engaged driving experience compared with the non-Si Civic models.
Market variations
While the US-spec figure is 197 hp, horsepower numbers can differ slightly by market or measurement method (SAE net vs. other standards). In most cases, the widely cited specification for the 2008 Civic Si remains 197 hp.
Summary
In summary, the 2008 Honda Civic Si produces 197 horsepower (147 kW) at 7,000 rpm and 139 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. This places it among the stronger sport-oriented variants of the eighth-generation Civic for that year.


