2008 Honda Civic Si Sedan

Handling

Compared to ordinary Civics, the Civic Si gets stiffer suspension springs and anti-roll bars front and rear and a limited slip differential to reduce wheelspin when accelerating hard while turning. Standard electronic stability control is like an understanding older brother who lets you have all the fun you want but will rescue you before you get in serious trouble. In this case, the trouble is usually the front sliding wide of your intended path or the tail starting to spin out.


Here’s a critical tip for those considering buying a Civic Si: Demand it come on the available Michelin Pilot Exalto 2 ultra-high performance summer tires. When fitted, like our test car, with the low-grip all-season alternates you might as well drive a regular Civic. While taking the first modestly assertive left turn on a rainy day, I said “Either the right front tire is almost flat or these are not the tires that were on the last Civic Si I drove.” (To be rigorously honest, I first said “Oh” followed by an expletive.) The summer tires will provide better traction both wet and dry. If you’re going to drive a Civic Si in the snow, get a set of winter tires.

Safety

Inside, the Si is subtly changed from other Civics. The main differences are seats with more side support so the driver and passengers aren’t tossed around during hard cornering. Those who know Civics will notice the red backlit gauges and leather-trimmed steering wheel and the 350-watt, seven-speaker sound system. Like uplevel Civics, the Si has four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes and side curtain airbags. Civic Si options are limited, with a satellite navigation system topping the short list.


The Civic Si Sedan starts around $22,000, slightly more than a Civic EX-L with an automatic transmission. For a few hundred more than a grown-up’s car, you revisit your youth. Tell those who ask that the rear spoiler improves fuel economy. (www.hondacars.com)

About the Author
Mac Demere is an auto journalist, vehicle tester and race driver who competed in the NASCAR Southwest Tour and Rolex 24 Hours at Daytona.