The Honda Civic EX is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine in the current generation; earlier generations used different engines. This article outlines how the EX’s engine options have evolved across generations and markets.
Engine options by generation
11th generation (2022–present)
Key specifications for the 11th-generation Civic EX engine are summarized below.
- Engine: 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4
- Power: about 180 horsepower
- Torque: about 177 lb-ft
- Transmission: continuously variable transmission (CVT) is standard
In the 11th generation, the EX typically pairs the 1.5L turbo with a CVT, and a manual transmission is not offered on EX in most markets.
10th generation (2016–2021)
Key specifications for the 10th-generation Civic EX engine are summarized below.
- Engine: 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4
- Power: roughly 174–180 horsepower depending on year and market
- Torque: roughly 162–177 lb-ft
- Transmission: CVT is standard; a 6-speed manual was not offered on EX in the U.S. (Sport trim sometimes used different configurations)
During the 10th generation, Honda consistently used the 1.5L turbo for EX, with the CVT as the common pairing and no traditional manual option on that trim in most regions.
9th generation (2012–2015)
Key specifications for the 9th-generation Civic EX engine are summarized below.
- Engine: 1.8-liter inline-4 i-VTEC
- Power: about 140–143 horsepower
- Torque: about 128 lb-ft
- Transmission: available with 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic
In the 9th generation, the EX used a naturally aspirated 1.8L engine, with traditional manual or automatic transmissions depending on the model year and market.
Global variations
Engine options for the Civic EX can vary by region. In North America, recent EX trims have centered on the 1.5-liter turbo, while earlier generations used non-turbo 1.8-liter engines. Some markets outside North America offer different powertrains and trim naming, so it’s wise to check the specific model year and country for precise figures.
Summary
Across its recent generations, the Honda Civic EX has been powered primarily by the 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine in the current lineup, delivering around 180 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque with a CVT. The 9th generation used a 1.8-liter naturally aspirated engine, while the 10th generation continued with the 1.5L turbo but with variations in horsepower/torque depending on year and market. Always verify the exact engine and transmission for the specific model year you’re considering.