Most 2018 Honda Civics sold in the United States use a continuously variable transmission (CVT) automatic, paired with the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine. The Civic Si and Civic Type R are the exceptions, and they use a 6-speed manual transmission.
Transmission options in the 2018 Civic lineup
The following breakdown describes the primary transmission choices across the 2018 Civic range for U.S. models. Note that market differences may exist outside the United States.
- Civic Si — 6-speed manual transmission.
- Civic Type R — 6-speed manual transmission.
- Other trims (LX, EX, EX-L, Touring) — Continuously variable transmission (CVT) automatic. These trims typically pair with the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine; manual transmission is not offered on these models.
Before accepting a listing or purchasing a used car, it's wise to confirm the exact transmission by checking the window sticker, owner's manual, or the VIN with the dealer, since configurations can vary by month or region.
How to verify your specific Civic's transmission
To be certain, inspect the transmission details on the vehicle’s VIN or the original window sticker. Honda's documentation for model-year 2018 notes CVT as the automatic transmission for most trims and a 6-speed manual for the Si and Type R. If you're buying used, request the service history or a pre-purchase inspection to verify the actual unit installed.
Summary
In short, the 2018 Honda Civic's transmission approach centers on CVT automatics for the standard trims, with the performance-focused Si and Type R models sticking to a 6-speed manual. Always verify the specific car's configuration, as exceptions can occur depending on market or production date.