2022 Honda Civic Review: MPG, Trims, Si Performance

The 2022 Honda Civic marks a significant evolution in the compact car segment, blending sporty dynamics, practical space, and efficient powertrains into an appealing package for daily drivers and enthusiasts alike. Priced from around $14,450 to $30,998, it offers broad appeal across sedans and hatchbacks, with standout handling and fuel efficiency that set it apart from rivals.

Design and Exterior Highlights

The eleventh-generation Civic introduces a more mature, streamlined silhouette compared to its predecessor, shedding the angular lines for smoother contours that enhance aerodynamics and visual poise. Front fascias feature bold grilles and slim LED headlights, while the sedan and hatchback variants provide distinct profiles—the hatch offering greater cargo versatility. Wider rear tracks on select models improve stability, contributing to a planted stance on the road.

• Sleek, aerodynamic body reduces drag for better efficiency.
• Modern LED lighting across trims for enhanced visibility.
• Hatchback option expands practicality with a larger cargo area.

Wheel sizes range from 16 to 18 inches, shod in low-rolling-resistance tires that balance grip and economy. The Sport trim, for instance, adds visual flair with unique alloy wheels and blacked-out accents, appealing to younger buyers seeking style without excess.

Powertrains and Performance

Honda equips the 2022 Civic with two primary engine options: a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 158 horsepower and a turbocharged 1.5-liter unit delivering 180 horsepower in standard trims, peaking at 200 horsepower in the Si model. Both pair exclusively with front-wheel drive, and while sedans use a continuously variable transmission (CVT), hatchbacks retain a six-speed manual option on select variants.

The turbo 1.5-liter stands out for its smooth, linear power delivery—192 lb-ft of torque arrives early at 1,800 rpm, enabling brisk acceleration without turbo lag. In testing, a Touring sedan reached 60 mph in 7.5 seconds, competitive for the class despite a slight dip from prior years. The CVT has been refined to mimic gear shifts seamlessly, avoiding the droning typical of older units, with paddle shifters and a Sport mode sharpening throttle response.

Si-specific upgrades include larger brakes (12.3-inch front rotors), a helical limited-slip differential, and retuned suspension for cornering prowess. Reviewers praise the quick steering and firm ride, with the Sport model outperforming pricier trims in skidpad and braking tests.

Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs

Efficiency is a Civic hallmark, with EPA ratings topping out at 33 city/42 highway/36 combined mpg for the EX trim. Real-world tests confirm this, as a Sport hatchback achieved 36 mpg on a 75-mph highway loop. Contributors include low-drag brakes, efficient CVT tuning, and an improved stop/start system. Low-friction bearings and a freer-flowing catalytic converter further boost economy without sacrificing performance.

• EX trim: 33/42/36 mpg (city/hwy/combined).
• Sport hatch: Up to 36 mpg observed highway.
• Si model: Slightly lower at 27/37/31 mpg due to sportier tuning.

Maintenance remains affordable, with Honda’s reputation for reliability keeping ownership costs low. The 14.8-cubic-foot trunk in sedans rivals the Toyota Corolla’s 13.1 cubic feet, while hatchbacks offer even more flexibility.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Cabin refinements define the 2022 model, featuring a driver-focused dashboard with a honeycomb mesh concealing vents for a clean aesthetic. A wider center console includes deep storage bins, and materials exhibit solid build quality—though some hard plastics persist in base trims. Rear seating accommodates four adults comfortably, with improved legroom over the tenth generation.

Tech highlights include a 7-inch touchscreen (9-inch on higher trims) with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Honda’s Sensing suite: adaptive cruise, lane-keeping, blind-spot monitoring, and collision mitigation. The Bose audio in Si and Touring models delivers class-leading sound, complemented by supportive, Si-specific seats.

Climate control is dual-zone automatic, and visibility benefits from a low dash line. Drawbacks include the inability to permanently disable auto stop/start in some units and occasional road noise on highways.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Standard Honda Sensing earns top marks from IIHS and NHTSA, with features like traffic-jam assist and auto high-beams. Responsive brakes and precise steering enhance confidence, particularly in the Sport and Si. No all-wheel drive is offered, limiting appeal in snowy regions.

Trim Levels and Pricing Comparison

Trims range from LX to Touring, with the Si as a performance pinnacle. Base LX prioritizes value, while EX adds efficiency and tech. Sport injects style, and Touring brings luxury touches like leather and a larger display.

(Prices approximate as of 2022 launch.)

Driving Experience Across Scenarios

Daily commutes shine with intuitive controls and quiet operation—engine smoothness rivals pricier sedans. On twisty roads, steering precision and balanced chassis evoke sports car poise, outperforming many segment peers. Highway runs reveal minor wind/road noise but exemplary stability from widened tracks and refined bushings.

The Si elevates this with torque-vectoring and rev-matching, ideal for enthusiasts. Even the base 2.0L feels peppy, aided by Sport mode’s throttle sharpening.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Exceptional handling, top fuel economy, spacious and practical, robust tech suite, Si performance value.
• Cons: Road noise on highways, no AWD or sedan manual, some hard plastics, stop/start annoyances.

Who Should Buy the 2022 Honda Civic?

Ideal for budget-conscious families, first-time buyers, or hot-hatch fans. It counters SUV dominance with sedan/hatch efficiency and fun. Rivals like Corolla or Golf match in parts, but Civic’s dynamics edge ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the 2022 Honda Civic reliable?

Yes, Honda’s track record ensures strong longevity, with minimal reported issues in early reviews.

What’s the best trim for fuel economy?

The EX with its 1.5L turbo achieves 36 mpg combined.

Does the Civic Si have a manual transmission?

Hatchback Si models do; sedans use CVT exclusively.

How does it compare to the Toyota Corolla?

Civic offers superior handling and space; Corolla edges in predicted reliability.

Is the interior quiet?

Improved over prior gens, but highway noise is noticeable.

Final Verdict

The 2022 Honda Civic redefines compact excellence, prioritizing driver engagement and practicality. Whether base or Si, it delivers value that endures.