The 2010 Honda Civic offered multiple engine choices depending on the trim: a 1.8-liter inline-4 for most models, a 2.0-liter inline-4 for the Civic Si, and a 1.3-liter hybrid with Honda's Integrated Motor Assist for the Civic Hybrid.
Standard Civics (DX, LX, EX)
Powertrain overview
The non-Si, non-hybrid Civics were powered by Honda's 1.8-liter i-VTEC SOHC inline-4. This engine delivered about 140 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque and was offered with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission.
- 1.8-liter i-VTEC SOHC inline-4 (R18A1) — 140 hp, 128 lb-ft; paired with 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmissions.
In everyday driving, the 1.8L engine provided a balance of responsive performance and fuel efficiency, and it powered the majority of the 2010 Civic lineup outside the Si and Hybrid.
Civic Si
Performance powerplant
The high-performance Civic Si used a larger, high-output engine to deliver sportier acceleration and driving dynamics. It features a 2.0-liter i-VTEC inline-4 with a 6-speed manual gearbox and front-wheel drive.
- 2.0-liter i-VTEC inline-4 (K20Z3) — 197 hp, 139 lb-ft; 6-speed manual transmission.
The Si’s engine and gearbox combination was designed for enthusiasts, offering stronger acceleration and a more engaging driving experience compared with the standard Civics.
Civic Hybrid
Hybrid powertrain
The Civic Hybrid paired a smaller gasoline engine with Honda’s Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system. This setup yields a total system output of about 110 horsepower and uses a CVT-style e-CVT for seamless operation and better fuel economy.
- 1.3-liter inline-4 engine with IMA; approximately 110 hp combined; CVT-style e-CVT; front-wheel drive.
The Hybrid focus was efficiency and low emissions, leveraging electric assist to improve mileage without sacrificing everyday usability.
Market variations and notes
Across markets, there were minor variations in specifications and available equipment. However, the three-engine family described above covers the major 2010 Civic variants in North America and many other regions: 1.8L for standard models, 2.0L for the Si, and a 1.3L hybrid with IMA for the Hybrid.
Summary
The 2010 Honda Civic offered three main engine options: the 1.8-liter inline-4 (R18A1) for most trims, the 2.0-liter inline-4 (K20Z3) for the Civic Si, and the 1.3-liter hybrid engine with Integrated Motor Assist for the Civic Hybrid. Transmission choices ranged from 5-speed manuals and automatics on standard trims, to a 6-speed manual for the Si, and a CVT-style e-CVT for the Hybrid.
What motor is K20Z3?
2006-2011 Honda Civic Si 2.0L I-VTEC DOHC USDM Engine K20Z3 MOTOR | Genuine OEM | 4 Cylinders | 2.0L | Gasoline | 1 Month Manufacturer Warranty.
Which is better, city or Civic?
If you need an efficient and affordable vehicle, the City makes a lot of sense. If you want a sedan that's fun to drive and loaded with features, the Civic is worth the upgrade. If you want a sedan that's fun to drive and loaded with features, the Civic is worth the upgrade.
What kind of motor does a 2010 Honda Civic have?
2010 Honda Civic Specs, Features & Options
| Save 1 of 9 Civic GX Sedan 4D | Save 2 of 9 Civic DX Sedan 4D |
|---|---|
| See Pricing See Cars in Stock | See Pricing See Cars in Stock |
| 113 @ 6300 RPM | 140 @ 6300 RPM |
| Engine | |
| 4-Cyl, NGV, 1.8 Liter | 4-Cyl, VTEC, 1.8 Liter |
What are the most common Civic repairs?
In a nutshell: The Honda Civic is generally a very reliable family car, with newer models performing especially well in owner surveys. Common problems include brake wear, minor electrical faults and, on some 2017-2022 1.0 VTEC Turbo models, wet belt-related engine issues that can become expensive if ignored.