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2022 Honda Civic Si Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

2022 Honda Civic Si Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons: Base vs HPT
Reviewed & fact checked by
James Murdoch

Compare the 2022 Honda Civic Si Trims - Base vs HPT. What is the difference between them?

As a high-performance sedan with four doors and lightweight architecture, the 2022 Honda Civic Si Sedan is packed with an assortment of exclusive mechanical components. A six-speed manual transmission, turbocharged engine block and helical limited-slip differential emphasize the tremendous capabilities of this compact car. Constructed on an 11th-generation platform from a legendary Japanese auto company, this car is more capable, versatile and stylish than ever before.

Available in two trim levels, the 2022 Honda Civic Si has lots of racing-type elements. From the front sport seats and three sport pedals to the aluminum short-throw shifter and leather-wrapped steering wheel, this athletic car flaunts lots of premium interior appointments. Red accents are appropriately integrated into the sport seats, sleek dashboard outlines and instrument gauges. This nimble sedan is sold in stunning body colors that command attention on the streets, such as the all-new Blazing Orange Pearl finish.

Fitted with 10 air bags, the 2022 Civic Si is arguably one of the safest sport sedans on American roads. Activated at the assembly facility, the Honda Sensing technologies instill plenty of confidence in the driver. Some class-leading features from the updated safety suite include the Traffic Sign Recognition and Adaptive Cruise Control. Additionally, the Multi-Angle Rearview Camera is added to the vehicle as an independent technology without any direct affiliation with the Honda Sensing branding.

Compare the Base vs HPT Trims. What is the difference?

Generating up to 200 total horsepower, a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine block propels the 2022 Civic Si base model. Utilizing direct fuel injection, the four-cylinder powertrain cranks out a maximum of 192 pound-feet of torque. Adopting the proprietary VTEC design, this I-4 powerplant provides a superb blend of power and efficiency. A single-mass flywheel significantly reduces the total weight of the turbo engine compared to previous editions. Therefore, the updated powerplant is more responsive than before because of the reduction in inertia.

Based on the latest EPA guidelines, the 2022 Civic Si gets up to 37 mpg on the highway when burning unleaded gasoline. This compact sport sedan is rated at 27 mpg in the city. A combined fuel economy of 31 mpg has been recorded and verified by the EPA and the manufacturer. Honda strongly recommends the use of premium-quality fuel for optimum performance on the road. The full 12.39-gallon fuel tank ensures an estimated driving range of 385 miles.

Using an electronic switch on the center console, the driver could calibrate some of the mechanics of the turbo engine and six-speed manual transmission system. For example, the Normal Mode optimizes fuel economy in regular driving conditions on paved roads. The Sport Mode activates the Rev-Matching technology from the manual gearbox. This performance-optimizing mode also increases the response from the throttle system. As the name suggests, the Individual Mode allows the driver to create a personalized driving setting based on the local weather, terrain and other factors.

The 2022 Civic Si runs on a helical limited-slip differential that enables tremendous corner-carving capabilities on pavement. This exclusive mechanical component precisely routes power from the manual transmission to the front wheels. Of course, a sport-tuned suspension system further optimizes the athletic skills of this compact Honda sedan. MacPherson struts bolster the front suspension system for consistent and crisp articulation. A multi-link rear suspension system shields the chassis from high-amplitude shocks and vibrations.

Measuring 12.3 inches in diameter, sport-tuned front rotors are installed on the 2022 Civic Si base model. The rear braking system incorporates 11.1-inch rotors for superior stopping power on any paved surface. Power-assisted mechanisms ensure instant responses from the performance-tuned brakes on this agile Honda car. Measuring 18 inches in diameter, all-season tires or summer tires can also reduce the stopping distance on dry and wet pavement. This entry-level Honda model comes standard with the Tire Repair Kit (TRK) and access to 24-hour roadside assistance from a trusted provider.

Honda has also tweaked and revised the steering system and suspension system on the 2022 Civic Si base edition. The all-new torsion bar is now 60% stiffer for enhanced handling, especially on curved roads and ramps. The lower B-arms and upper arms in the suspension system have been thoroughly stiffened for better stability and responsiveness on the road. All-new dampers properly balance and stabilize the lightweight chassis of this nimble sport sedan. Additionally, the rear track has been widened by 0.5 inches for a slightly more stable stance on the ground at fast speeds.

Covered in the signature Matte Black finish, 18-inch alloy wheels are standard on the 2022 Civic Si. Such an aesthetic color also covers the car's decklid spoiler for aggressive styling. Hidden under the vehicle, another spoiler with downward force-inducting mechanics optimizes aerodynamics at various speeds. This entry-level edition comes in several hot exterior colors, including Blazing Orange Pearl, Rallye Red and Aegean Blue Metallic. Two oval-shaped exhaust tips with chrome applications certainly emphasize the racing-inspired theme of this cool Honda car.

The base model also has several premium exterior utilities, such as heated outside mirrors with Gloss Black treatment. Entering the cockpit is simplified by the Smart Entry and Remote Entry functions. With the push of a button inside the cabin, the driver could release the fuel filler door. Likewise, a single touch opens the power moonroof on this athletic Honda sedan. Featuring automatic on and off calibrations, LED headlights are installed by default on the entry-level trim.

As a true sport sedan, the 2022 Civic Si has a driver-centric cockpit with lots of premium amenities. For example, the standard sport pedals are brushed in metallic components for styling and performance purposes. Made of aluminum, the short-throw shifting handle makes it easy to engage the manual transmission system. A leather-wrapped steering wheel enhances the ergonomics for a thrilling drive in this athletic Honda sedan.

Furnished with signature sport seats, the 2022 Civic Si base offers a truly comfortable drive for any type of ride. Elongated head restraints and side bolsters cushion the entire upper body for a safe and smooth drive. These signature seats have a red/black theme that's clearly inspired by racing styling. Red contrast stitches further accentuate the contemporary flair of the unique seats. This compact sedan comes standard with a 60-40, split fold-down seating system in the second row. Adjustable head restraints are also integrated into the comfortable rear seats.

Besides having a styling cabin, the 2022 Civic Si includes a variety of modern conveniences. The car's automatic climate control system is linked to vintage-style air vents on the honeycomb-shaped dashboard. A red outline around the dashboard surely accentuates the athletic interior design of this compact Honda sedan. Illuminated door locks, one-touch turn indicators and headlights-on reminders provide an enhanced level of utility behind the steering wheel. Cargo area lighting and illuminated steering-mounted controls provide great convenience for driving at night.

For its highly competitive price, the entry-level Civic Si edition offers phenomenal value in digital technology. This athletic sedan comes standard with a color touch screen that measures exactly 9 inches wide. An electronic knob controls the volume settings of the audio system. Several hard electronic buttons quickly engage the main menu of the infotainment system. With just a few taps or swipes of the high-resolution display on the center stack, the driver could control the wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay or other mobile-friendly applications.

Having a field of view of exactly 7 inches, the multi-infotainment display includes a conventional speedometer dial in a bright red color and a virtual tachometer. Using the signature HandsFreeLink technology from Bluetooth, it's possible to connect a make hands-free phone call during a drive. Of course, the exclusive HondaLink technology is at the driver's fingertips for enhanced connectivity inside and outside of the cockpit. Designed to prevent distractions, the SMS Text Message Function is integrated into the multimedia console.

Designed by the world-renowned Bose company, a dozen speakers blast music inside the 2022 Civic Si base. Featuring the exclusive Centerpoint 2 branding, the premium sound system is connected to SiriusXM Satellite Radio and HD Radio. Using the proprietary SurroundStage technology, the advanced audio system produces crystal-clear acoustics throughout the sporty cabin. In fact, this is the most sophisticated sound system ever installed in any Civic Si model worldwide. Rated at 2.5 amps for charging, the USB port on the center console can also import audio content from compatible devices.

Besides offering a thrilling drive on the road, the 2022 Civic Si base prioritizes safety and security. This compact sport sedan adopts the highly acclaimed Honda Sensing technology. Using a single-camera system to monitor the surroundings, the updated safety suite is more responsive and capable than before. In previous years, a radar system was heavily integrated into the overall active safety architecture. A more powerful processor also ensures a quicker response from the Honda Sensing bundle.

This entry-level Civic Si trim includes the standard Collision Mitigation Braking System that could prevent an impact with a detected automobile or pedestrian on the road ahead. If the driver does not quickly respond to the alerts in the dashboard, the CMBS will adjust the brakes and steering system immediately. Similarly, steering and braking adjustments will be done by the Road Departure Mitigation System. This default driving aide instantly detects unintentional motion into an adjacent lane without the corresponding use of the turn-signal indicator.

The 2022 Civic Si also includes the factory-installed Adaptive Cruise Control, which closely monitors the real-time speed of another vehicle that's in front. If this Honda is driven faster than the car that's ahead, the ACC will make the proper adjustments. This compact Honda car has the default Lane Keeping Assist System that ensures proper lane-centering motion on the highway. With alerts from the Lane Departure Alert, the driver will be encouraged to retain a proper position on an individual lane. The Forward Collision Warning is another standard accident-prevention function on this agile sport sedan.

This base trim boasts several other driver-assistance technologies beyond the Honda Sensing package. The Blind Spot Information System heightens the driver's awareness of cars that creep into the blind zones in real time. With supplemental cues from the Cross Traffic Monitor, the driver will confidently merge into another lane. Equipped with the Auto High-Beam Headlamps, the entry-level Civic Si model should be easy to drive during the night. LED daytime running lights make this sporty car more visible to other motorists during the day.

For its thrill-seeking design, the 2022 Civic Si has an impressive portfolio in passive safety. For example, the driver and front occupant are protected by knee air bags and front air bags. Side-curtain air bags with rollover-sensing devices protect the rear outboard seating positions from harsh damages during lateral crashes. Every seating position inside this Honda sport sedan comes with a three-point seat belt and an automatic tensioning mechanism. Additionally, the patented Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) frame resists dents and other deformations from high-speed collisions involving moving or stationary obstacles.

The 2022 Civic Si HPT distinguishes itself with high-performance tires that enhance traction and overall handling. In addition to delivering a better grip on asphalt, the advanced tires improve cornering at designated speeds. Linear acceleration is also enhanced with the HPT. Otherwise, the base trim and HPT model virtually have identical features in the mechanical, technology, safety and styling categories.

Both Honda models are available with a handful of optional accessories for enhanced exterior styling. For example, these agile vehicles could be equipped with the HPD Package that includes front, side and rear underbody spoilers. This optional bundle also adds the distinctive HPD emblem to the lower section of the trunk. Both models offer the Protection Package I with splash guards, a trunk tray and wheel locks. All-season floor mats are included with the purchase of the All-Season Protection Package I.

Final Thoughts

Fine-tuned for spirited driving on the highway, the 2022 Honda Civic Si appeals to buyers seeking sporty capabilities at an affordable price. This compact sedan has been revamped and updated to deliver better performance, technologies and comfort than in previous years. The 11th-generation architecture brings plenty of excitement to a well-established nameplate on the American marketplace.

Packed with an array of premium standard features, the 2022 Civic Si base provides superb value to thrill-seeking drivers. This entry-level model shares the same mechanical, interior and exterior design as the HPT edition. Adding the high-performance tires (HPT) won't do anything to increase the horsepower and torque output from the turbo engine. The special tires are mainly tuned for aggressive maneuvers on the streets and highways. Commutes and daily drives won't be enhanced by the performance-tuned tires.