The 2001 Honda Civic EX coupe is powered by a 1.7-liter inline-4 engine with Honda’s i-VTEC variable valve timing, delivering about 127 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. This engine is part of Honda’s D-series family and marked a step up from base models in terms of performance.
Engine type and technology
In the United States, the Civic EX coupe from this era uses a 1.7-liter inline-4 with dual overhead cams (DOHC) and Honda’s i-VTEC system, which optimizes performance and efficiency across the RPM range. This combination provides a balance of everyday usability and spirited acceleration for a compact car.
Key specifications
Core technical details for the US-market 2001 Civic EX coupe engine are listed below.
- Displacement: 1.7 liters
- Configuration: inline-4
- Valvetrain: DOHC with i-VTEC
- Output: approximately 127 horsepower
- Torque: approximately 114 lb-ft
- Fuel system: multi-point fuel injection
- Compression ratio: around 9.6:1 (varies by market)
Transmission options for the EX included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic, depending on the chosen trim and package.
Notes on market variations and maintenance
While the 2001 Civic EX coupe in North America shares the 1.7-liter i-VTEC engine, other markets occasionally used closely related D-series 1.7L variants with small tuning differences. Regular maintenance—oil and filter changes, timing belt/chain checks, and proper cooling system service—helps preserve performance and longevity for this engine family.
Summary
The 2001 Honda Civic EX coupe uses a 1.7-liter inline-4 with i-VTEC, producing about 127 hp and 114 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic. It sits in Honda’s D-series family and emphasizes a blend of practicality and upgraded performance for the era.


