On the safety front, like all Civics the Si gets dual stage, dual threshold front driver and passenger airbags, front occupant side
airbags, as well as side curtain airbags for front and rear outside passengers; in total eight standard airbags. Dual seatbelt pretensioners and active front head restraints are also part of the package, as is Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) Body Structure. The Si's combination of safety features helps it attain top marks in the NHTSA NCAP crash safety tests.
Despite its top-tier performance and thrifty expected fuel economy, I have to knock it a bit for needing premium unleaded in the tank. My guess is that it can work on either regular or premium unleaded, which is normally the case, but that going the cheaper, regular route will decrease the engine's output
slightly. I'd opt for the latter unless on the way to the track, being that the pump price of premium has become a very real issue.
Such is a small issue, mind you, when weighing the Civic Si's overall goodness. From its daring exterior shape, filled with complex curves and radical angles, to its unorthodox dash and console design, the little sports compact is a real treat for those previously bored with conventional Japanese styling. Without doubt the car's long-term reliability will once again be a strong suit, bolstering its future resale value into top-of-class territory.
So, if you're in the market for something reliable that backs up its racy styling with smile-a-mile driving dynamics, the Civic Si is a sure bet.
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| From its daring exterior shape, filled with complex curves and radical angles, to its unorthodox dash and console design, the little sports compact is a real treat for those previously bored with conventional Japanese styling. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
Despite its top-tier performance and thrifty expected fuel economy, I have to knock it a bit for needing premium unleaded in the tank. My guess is that it can work on either regular or premium unleaded, which is normally the case, but that going the cheaper, regular route will decrease the engine's output
 |
| If you're in the market for something reliable that backs up its racy styling with smile-a-mile driving dynamics, the Civic Si is a sure bet. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
Such is a small issue, mind you, when weighing the Civic Si's overall goodness. From its daring exterior shape, filled with complex curves and radical angles, to its unorthodox dash and console design, the little sports compact is a real treat for those previously bored with conventional Japanese styling. Without doubt the car's long-term reliability will once again be a strong suit, bolstering its future resale value into top-of-class territory.
So, if you're in the market for something reliable that backs up its racy styling with smile-a-mile driving dynamics, the Civic Si is a sure bet.