In the current generation, the Civic Sport is equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) in most markets, including the United States. There is no manual option for the Sport in these models.
Current transmission setup for the Civic Sport
The Civic Sport, part of Honda’s 11th-generation lineup that debuted for the 2022 model year, pairs the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with a CVT in U.S.-spec models. Honda has kept a manual transmission reserved for higher-performance or dedicated sport models (such as the Civic Si and the Civic Type R) rather than the Sport trim.
Before diving into specifics, note that transmission offerings can vary by region and market. The following summary reflects the common configuration in the United States and similar markets for the current generation.
- The Sport trim uses a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine paired exclusively with a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) in the US-spec Civic lineup.
- A six-speed manual transmission is not offered on the Civic Sport in the current generation; it remains available on the Civic Si and Civic Type R for buyers who want a traditional manual shift.
- Hybrid versions of the Civic (where available) use an e-CVT setup, while the non-hybrid Sport remains non-manual with its turbocharged engine.
- Across regions where different trims exist, some markets may have distinct packaging or transmission options, but the US Sport configuration remains CVT-only.
In practice, this means drivers choosing the Civic Sport seeking a hands-on manual experience will need to consider the Civic Si or the high-performance Type R, rather than the Sport trim. The CVT is designed to optimize fuel efficiency and smooth acceleration, aligning with Honda’s current transmission strategy for the 11th-generation Civic.
Context and how it fits with the rest of the Civic lineup
The Civic lineup in the 11th generation emphasizes a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine across most trims, with the Sport positioned as a sportier look and feel without stepping up to a manual gearbox. The Civic Si remains the performance-oriented model that offers a manual transmission, while the Civic Type R is the top-tier variant with a high-performance manual gearbox. This structure reflects Honda’s broader strategy of reserving manual transmissions for its most performance-focused models while offering efficient automatics on trims that prioritize everyday driving comfort.
Regional variations
Transmission choices can differ outside the United States. Some markets may offer different engine-tuning, transmissions, or trim names. If you’re shopping outside the U.S., always check the local spec sheet for the exact transmission option on the Civic Sport in your country.
What this means for buyers and drivers
For most buyers interested in the Honda Civic Sport today, the choice is a turbocharged engine paired with a CVT, delivering smooth, efficient acceleration without a manual transmission option. If a driver wants a manual, the Civic Si or Type R remains the route to a conventional six-speed stick.
Summary
The Honda Civic Sport in the current generation uses a CVT rather than a manual transmission in the United States and many other markets. The sportier manual options are found on the Civic Si and Civic Type R, with regional variations possible. For buyers prioritizing sporty styling and efficiency, the Sport offers a turbocharged engine with CVT geared toward everyday driving, while enthusiasts seeking a hands-on shifting experience are directed toward the Si or Type R.
Bottom line
Transmission type: CVT (no manual option on the Civic Sport in the current generation in the US). For a manual transmission, consider the Civic Si or Civic Type R. Always verify the exact specifications for your market, as regional offerings can vary.