The 2009 Civic lineup offered multiple transmission options depending on the model: most gasoline Civics used either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic; the performance-oriented Civic Si used a 6-speed manual; and the Civic Hybrid used a CVT paired with Honda's IMA hybrid system. This article explains which transmissions were tied to each trim.
Overview of transmission options by model
Below is a concise breakdown of the main transmission types used across the 2009 Civic lineup, with notes on which trims they appeared in.
- Gasoline Civics (LX, EX, EX-L): 5-speed manual (5MT) or 5-speed automatic (5AT), depending on trim and options.
- Civic Si: 6-speed manual (6MT) only.
- Civic Hybrid: continuously variable transmission (CVT) paired with Honda's Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive (IMA) hybrid system.
In short, if you’re looking at a 2009 Civic, expect one of these configurations: 5MT or 5AT on most gas models, 6MT on the Si, and CVT with IMA on the Hybrid.
Gasoline Civics: LX/EX/EX-L details
Gasoline trims such as the LX, EX, and EX-L were offered with two transmission options: a traditional 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic. The availability of each option varied by market and specific trim configuration, with automatics generally favored for convenience and manual transmissions often chosen by enthusiasts or buyers seeking greater control.
Civic Si specifics
The Civic Si was designed as the performance-oriented variant and came exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission. There was no automatic option for the Si in 2009, aligning with its sport-tier positioning and emphasis on engaged driving dynamics.
Civic Hybrid details
The Civic Hybrid paired a CVT with Honda’s IMA (Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive) hybrid system. This setup emphasizes smooth, efficient acceleration rather than sport-oriented shifting, and there was no manual transmission available for the hybrid model.
How to identify the transmission in a used 2009 Civic
To determine the transmission type on a used 2009 Civic, check the model and trim badge, review the door sticker for the transmission code, or look at the shift lever and the instrument cluster behavior. Manual transmissions will have a clutch pedal and a short-throw stick, while automatics show a traditional PRNDL gear selector. The Si will always have a 6-speed manual, whereas hybrids will have a CVT indicator and IMA badges rather than a traditional automatic shifter.
Summary
The 2009 Honda Civic offered a mix of transmissions: 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic on most gas models, a 6-speed manual on the Civic Si, and a CVT paired with IMA on the Civic Hybrid. Your pickup’s exact setup depends on the specific trim and market.