The Honda Civic EX currently relies on a turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-4 engine. Across its history, the EX trim has shifted between naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines depending on the generation, so the exact displacement and setup varies by model year.
Current-generation Civic EX (11th generation, 2022–present)
In the 11th generation, the EX trim uses Honda's turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-4 engine (Earth Dreams). This engine is most commonly paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) in North American markets, delivering a balance of performance and efficiency. Some markets or earlier model years may show variations in tuning, but the 1.5L turbo is the standard for EX in recent years.
Earlier generations
10th generation (2016–2021)
The 2016–2021 Civic EX continued with the 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 (L15B7) in most markets, producing roughly 174 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. Transmission was typically CVT in the EX; the 6-speed manual was not offered on EX models in the United States.
9th generation (2012–2015)
In the 9th generation, EX trims used a naturally aspirated 1.8-liter i-VTEC inline-4 engine, producing around 140 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual or a 4- or 5-speed automatic depending on market and trim.
8th generation (2006–2011)
The 8th-generation Civic EX was powered by a 1.8-liter i-VTEC engine (R18A1), delivering about 140 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque. A 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission was typically available; there was no turbocharged engine in EX trims for this generation.
Summary
In short, the engine in a Honda Civic EX has evolved from a naturally aspirated 1.8-liter (and earlier 2.0-liter variants in higher trims) in older generations to a turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-4 in the latest generation. If you’re shopping, check the model year to confirm the exact engine and transmission pairing for that specific Civic EX.