Photos: 2009 Honda Civic Si
A perennial favorite due to its speedy performance and excellent handling, the Civic Si gets some small updates for 2009, including a USB/iPod connector for the audio system, and a new grille.
2009 Honda Civic Si
The 2009 Honda Civic Si is the sport model of the Civic line-up. Where the base Civic is bland, the Si version is very exciting, combining excellent handling and a high-revving engine.
New Grille
Honda made some minor style updates for the 2009 model year, giving it a new tiered diamond grille inset, a cue that is becoming standard for Honda.
Engine
The engine is the same as in the two previous model years, being a 2-liter four cylinder. With an 8,000 rpm redline, it produces 197 horsepower.
Coupe body
This Si is the coupe model. Honda released a sedan version last year, and is expected to again this year. The couple has an excellent shape, with a spoiler unique to the Si.
Limited slip differential
The steering is very precise, and the car's handling is enhanced by a limited slip differential on the front wheels. The ride is sports car firm.
Sport seats
These seats are well bolstered, doing a good job of keeping you in place during hard cornering.
Inteiror design
The interior design and materials are the same as in the other Civic models, including the two tier instrument cluster, but the Si gets a few unique styling cues, such as the Si-logo tachometer dial.
Steering wheel
The steering wheel feels a little thin and cheap. We would like to see one with a thicker wheel.
Instrument cluster
The tachometer sits in the usual place for an instrument cluster, but the speedometer is a digital read-out in a display just below the windshield.
Gearbox
This close ratio six speed manual gearbox feels great, with precise gear shifts.
Navigation system
One thing that makes the Si a real value in this class of cars is its available tech, which includes this navigation system. The system works well, but is a little crude by today's standards.
Destination entry
This on-screen keyboard can be used for destination entry, and the Civic Si also has a really good voice command system.
CD and PC Card slot
The screen on the navigation unit motors down to reveal a CD slot and PC Card slot, the latter a strange accommodation for digital music.
USB port
New for 2009 is this USB port in the console, which works with iPods and USB drives. This is our preferred method for digital music.
CD screen
The MP3 CD interface, like the other screens on this system, is ugly, although the functionality is good.
Honda fits the Civic Si with a seven speaker system, which includes this subwoofer on the rear deck. 350 watts of power make the music loud.
More Galleries
My Favorite Shots From the Galaxy S24 Ultra's Camera
My Favorite Shots From the Galaxy S24 Ultra's Camera
20 Photos
Honor's Magic V2 Foldable Is Lighter Than Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra
Honor's Magic V2 Foldable Is Lighter Than Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra
10 Photos
The Samsung Galaxy S24 and S24 Plus Looks Sweet in Aluminum
The Samsung Galaxy S24 and S24 Plus Looks Sweet in Aluminum
23 Photos
Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra Now Has a Titanium Design
Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra Now Has a Titanium Design
23 Photos
I Took 600+ Photos With the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. Look at My Favorites
I Took 600+ Photos With the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. Look at My Favorites
34 Photos
17 Hidden iOS 17 Features You Should Definitely Know About
17 Hidden iOS 17 Features You Should Definitely Know About
18 Photos
AI or Not AI: Can You Spot the Real Photos?