The top model is the Honda Civic Si, the sportier, high-performance trim in the 2009 Civic lineup.
In the 2009 model year, Honda offered LX, EX, EX-L, Civic Hybrid, and the performance-oriented Si. The Si is the flagship for performance, featuring a more powerful engine, a manual transmission, and sport-focused tuning that set it apart from the standard trims.
Overview of the 2009 Honda Civic lineup
Below is a summary of the main trims available in the United States for the 2009 Civic, with the Si highlighted as the performance flagship.
- Civic LX — 1.8L i-VTEC inline-4 engine with about 140 horsepower; base features focused on value and efficiency.
- Civic EX — same 1.8L engine with additional features such as upgraded wheels, a sunroof, and enhanced interior appointments.
- Civic EX-L — higher level of luxury for those who want leather seating and more premium amenities, still with the 1.8L engine.
- Civic Hybrid — separate powertrain aimed at maximizing fuel economy, appealing to efficiency-minded buyers.
- Civic Si — 2.0L i-VTEC inline-4 engine producing about 197 horsepower; 6-speed manual transmission; sport-tuned suspension and distinctive styling for performance-oriented buyers.
In summary, the Si stands as the top model for performance in the 2009 Civic lineup, while EX-L represents the luxury-focused top trim and the Hybrid targets efficiency. The LX and EX cater to everyday practicality with incremental feature upgrades, and the Si delivers the highest power and the sportiest driving experience.
Civic Si: Performance at a glance
The Civic Si is the performance flagship of the 2009 lineup, powered by a 2.0-liter i-VTEC engine delivering about 197 horsepower and 139 lb-ft of torque. It comes with a 6-speed manual transmission, a sport-tuned suspension, and styling cues that differentiate it from the rest of the Civic range.
- Engine: 2.0L i-VTEC, approximately 197 hp
- Transmission: 6-speed manual
- Drivetrain: front-wheel drive with sport-oriented tuning
- Styling and interior: unique Si badges, sport seats, and exterior cues that emphasize performance readiness
For buyers prioritizing performance, the Si is widely regarded as the top model of the 2009 Civic lineup, with other trims prioritizing comfort, efficiency, or luxury rather than outright performance.
Summary
The 2009 Honda Civic lineup centers the Civic Si as the performance flagship, offering a more powerful engine, manual transmission, and sport-oriented handling. Other trims (LX, EX, EX-L) cater to comfort and efficiency, while the Civic Hybrid targets fuel economy. Together, they define a balanced lineup for that model year, with the Si at the top for driving enthusiasts.