The standard 2008 Honda Civic uses a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, while the sport-oriented Civic Si uses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder. There was also a Civic Hybrid variant in some markets with a different powertrain.
Engine options by trim
Below is a concise look at the two main gasoline engine configurations that powered most 2008 Civics in the United States.
- 1.8-liter inline-four i-VTEC engine (found in DX, LX, EX, and EX-L trims): about 140 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque; typically paired with a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission.
- 2.0-liter inline-four i-VTEC engine (Civic Si): about 197 horsepower and 139 lb-ft of torque; paired exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission.
In summary, the majority of 2008 Civics rely on the 1.8L engine, while the high-performance Si uses the 2.0L engine with a manual gearbox for a sportier driving experience.
Hybrid variant and regional notes
For markets outside the standard gasoline trims, a Civic Hybrid was offered in 2008. This variant pairs a 1.3-liter i-VTEC engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of roughly 110 horsepower and using a CVT-type automatic transmission for efficiency.
Across regions, the core takeaway is that the 2008 Civic lineup centers on two gasoline engine options (1.8L for most trims and 2.0L for the Si), with the hybrid variant operating on a separate powertrain in markets where it was available.
Summary
The 2008 Honda Civic predominantly used a 1.8-liter inline-four for most trims, delivering about 140 hp, with a 5-speed manual or automatic transmission. The performance-focused Civic Si employed a 2.0-liter inline-four delivering around 197 hp and a 6-speed manual. A Civic Hybrid version, where offered, used a 1.3-liter engine paired with an electric motor for a combined output of about 110 hp and a CVT-type transmission.