The 2012 Civic EX uses a 1.8-liter inline-four gasoline engine with Honda’s i-VTEC system, delivering about 140 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque.
Engine specifications
Under the hood, the EX relies on a straightforward, reliable 1.8-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder. This engine is designed for everyday efficiency and smooth performance, rather than high-performance sport tuning.
- Displacement: 1.8 L (1819 cc)
- Configuration: inline-4
- Valvetrain: DOHC with i-VTEC
- Power: 140 hp (104 kW) at roughly 6,300–6,500 rpm
- Torque: 128 lb-ft (174 Nm) at roughly 4,000–4,400 rpm
- Fuel system: multi-point fuel injection
- Transmission options: 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic (availability varies by market)
In short, the EX’s engine is a conventional, efficient 1.8-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder that prioritizes reliability and everyday performance.
Context within the 2012 Civic lineup
Within the 2012 Civic family, the EX shares the 1.8-liter engine with most non-Si trims (such as DX and LX). The Civic Si is equipped with a different, more powerful 2.4-liter engine, while the Civic Hybrid uses a 1.5-liter inline-four paired with an electric motor as part of its hybrid system.
Other engines in the 2012 Civic lineup
The 2012 line also included the high-performance Si variant with a 2.4-liter i-VTEC engine producing significantly more horsepower, and the Hybrid model combining a smaller gasoline engine with electric motor assist. These powertrains illustrate Honda’s separation of economy, sport, and eco-focused options within the Civic family.
Summary
For a 2012 Honda Civic EX, expect a 1.8-liter inline-four with i-VTEC that delivers about 140 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission depending on the market. This engine emphasizes balanced performance and fuel efficiency suitable for everyday driving.
What engine is in the 2012 Civic EX?
Another familiar element of the new Civic line lies under its sloping hood: the 1.8-liter SOHC 16-valve i-VTEC four, bolted to a five-speed automatic transmission. If you want a manual transmission—a five-speed—you have to go for one of the lesser trim levels (the EX was available with a manual last year).
Does a 2012 Honda Civic have a VTEC engine?
For 2012, all Civic Sedan and Civic Coupe models, plus the HF (High Fuel Economy) and Natural Gas (Compressed Natural Gas) sedans are powered by a Single Overhead Cam (SOHC) 1.8-liter inline 4-cylinder design with 16 valves, i-VTEC, and a dual-stage intake manifold.
What are common problems with the 2012 Civic EX?
Owner Reported Trouble Spots
- Climate System. AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.
- Paint/Trim.
- Exhaust.
- Suspension/Steering.
- Noises/Leaks.
- Engine Minor.
- Electrical Accessories.
- Brakes.
Is Civic EX a VTEC?
The EX trim (Canadian Si trim) came equipped with the 1.6-liter SOHC VTEC 16-valve D16Y8 4-cylinder engine.