The 2021 Honda Civic EX uses a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine (the 1.5L VTEC Turbo), delivering about 174 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque.
Under the hood, the EX trims rely on Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology with a 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder. This engine is paired with a CVT automatic transmission in most EX configurations, emphasizing fuel efficiency while still providing confident acceleration for daily driving. The more performance-focused Si and some Sport trims use different setups, but the EX centers on the 1.5L turbo as its core powerplant.
Engine specifications
Key figures and features of the engine in the 2021 Civic EX are summarized below.
- Displacement: 1.5 liters
- Configuration: Inline-4
- Induction: Turbocharged with direct injection
- Power: 174 horsepower
- Torque: 162 lb-ft
- Valvetrain: i-VTEC
- Transmission: CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) standard on EX
- Note on transmission availability: A traditional 6-speed manual is not offered on the EX trim
The engine is designed to balance efficiency with a responsive throttle, making the EX a practical choice for daily driving and highway merging while delivering solid performance for its class.
Summary
The 2021 Honda Civic EX is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine (1.5L VTEC Turbo) delivering 174 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a CVT in most configurations, offering a good blend of efficiency and everyday performance. The EX sits between the base 2.0L engine and the more performance-oriented Si, providing a practical yet peppy driving experience.


