Rep Power: 0

I am interested in a newer Civic hatch, manual transmission. I was hoping to get a sport trim with the 1.5 turbo. The used ones, 2018-2021, cost as much as, and often several thousand more, than a new one, with very few manuals available. Usually no warranty is remaining. Finding or ordering a new one seems possible, but now in 2022, they are only available with the 2.0 NA engine. I was wondering if anyone with experience with both of these engines could comment on the driving difference. Not sure why Honda got rid of the 1.5 T in the "Sport" trim?

 
Rep Power: 126

From what I've read, the 1.5 is a much peppier engine than the 2.0 NA. I suspect they put the 1.5 in the more expensive trim models because that's likely the more sought-after engine, as demonstrated here.

As someone who had a higher output version of that 2.0, they're very good engines. Perhaps a bit underpowered but they're very reliable. If it's simply a commuter, that engine is more than adequate.

 
Rep Power: 0

I currently drive an 09 EX but I’m looking to buy a 2020-2022 Civic. I want to like the Sport trim but the engine HP is stopping me.
I have two questions:
is the HP difference significantly noticeable?
and is the 2.0 non turbo more reliable!
thanks for any comments
Jim

 
Rep Power: 126

Yes to both questions.

 
Rep Power: 0

I’m trying to convince myself to go with the sport over the ex for the engine reliability. But it’s tough to get past the HP difference. I’m hoping since I have an 09, the 2.0 will still accelerate faster etc.
thanks

 
Rep Power: 225

The low end torque from the 1.5 turbo will make it feel drastically faster.

According to zeroto60times.com, the 2016 EX with the 2.0L will do 0-60 MPH in 8.2 seconds and a quarter mile in 16.4 seconds. The EX-L with the 1.5L turbo takes 6.6 seconds and 15.1 seconds respectively. For comparison, your 09 EX is listed at 9.4 and 17.1.

The 1.5 turbo engines definitely aren't unreliable, just maybe not as reliable as the 2.0L.

 
Rep Power: 0

Thanks for the input. I’m still torn. I usually keep my cars for a long time, so I want the most reliable, least amount of trouble for the long term.

 
Rep Power: 126

Sounds to me like you should just keep the '09, then.