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Nothing says 'me' like the wallpaper on your computer. Now you can do the same in your Civic. Load an image of your pet, your mom, or even one of yourself. We won't judge.

Info

The i-MID is your go-to for every important tidbit of drive-related information. See current song playing, current mpg, text messages[1] and even turn-by-turn directions if you opt for the available navigation system[2].

Bluetooth^® Capability

The list of advanced i-MID functions is a long one, including Bluetooth^® HandsFreeLink^®[3] for hands-free phone calls. The system pairs easily with your compatible phone, and is also ready for Bluetooth^® Audio, so you can stream your music too. Learn more at handsfreelink.honda.com.

Crystal Clear

Not only is the i-MID helpful and customizable, it's pretty, thanks to its high-resolution color TFT LCD display—the same kind of technology found on LCD monitors and the latest smartphones.

Look Behind You

New for 2013, the Civic Coupe features a rearview camera with guidelines. Civic models with navigation come with a multi-angle rearview camera with guidelines. Both cameras make it incredibly easy to get in and out of tight spaces.

Pandora^® Compatibility

With the i-MID and Pandora^® compatibility[4], you’re riding with your own personal DJ. iPhone^®[5] users can connect their devices via the USB Audio Interface[6] and stream Pandora through the Civic’s audio system.

[1] Compatible with select phones with Bluetooth^®. Your wireless carrier's rate plans apply. State or local laws may limit use of texting feature. Only use texting feature when conditions allow you to do so safely.
[2] The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ is available on EX and EX-L models in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. (FM Traffic service only available in the United States, except Alaska). Please see your Honda dealer for details.
[3] The Bluetooth^® word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and any use of such marks by Honda Motor Co., Ltd., is under license.
[4] Pandora, the Pandora logo and the Pandora trade dress are trademarks or registered trademarks of Pandora Media, Inc. Used with permission. Compatible with select smartphones. See: www.pandora.com/everywhere/mobile. Not all devices compatible with USB connection. Your wireless carrier's rate plans apply.
[5] iPhone^® is not included. iPhone is a registered trademark of Apple Inc.
[6] The USB Audio Interface is used for direct connection to and control of some current digital audio players and other USB devices that contain MP3, WMA or AAC music files. Some USB devices with security software and digital rights-protected files may not work. Please see your Honda dealer for details.

It’s hard to review Honda’s ninth-generation Civic Si without referencing the eighth-generation model. That car, sold from 2006 to 2011, was a master class in small, affordable, thrifty performance. The quick steering rack, taut suspension, and revvy, 197-horsepower VTEC engine were things of beauty. Even the Si’s lack of torque (it came to market with just 139 pound-feet) was a benefit, thanks to the unique traits of its engine.

That low torque, coupled with a tenacious ability to climb the tachometer made for a challenging driving experience, as the driver had to work to keep the Civic going hard. We hate to use this term, but when the VTEC kicked in (yo!), it was accompanied by a sweet, audible changeover that became downright addicting the more we triggered it. With these combination of characteristics, the Si practically begged its driver to push harder and harder.

That’s not the case with the ninth-generation Si, which arrived to mixed reviews in 2012. Part of this was down to the new, 2.4-liter four-cylinder, which featured a significant jump in torque, up to 170 pound-feet. This newfound torque came at a cost, though, with the redline dropping from the stratospheric (and giggle-inducing) 8000 rpm to a more sane 7100 rpm. Moreover, the action of the VTEC is far subtler, lacking the two-staged nature of the old car.

Not surprisingly, the new Civic isn’t quite as good a companion as the eighth-generation car. Where the 2013 improves, especially over the 2012, is in its refinement. The interior is quieter, cutting down on wind and tire noise. The only engine noise that enters the cabin is of the “good” variety.

The choice of cabin materials is a significant improvement, as it now feels befitting of a $25,000 car. The materials are softer to the touch, and look better in general. There are still niggles, though, like the navigation and infotainment system. The graphics of the touchscreen display are subpar, and surrounding the screen with small, difficult-to-read-and-manipulate buttons is as bad of a call now as it was when the system arrived in the mid 2000s.

As usual, Honda has done just fine with the driver’s primary interfaces. A pair of meaty sports seats keeps the driver and passenger snug during hard cornering, and the small, flat-bottomed steering wheel is finished in a grippy, perforated leather. The shifter, a tiny knob, has the beautiful action that Honda is known for. It’s smooth and easy to use, although the gates aren’t quite as distinct as we remember.

Overall, while this new Civic isn’t the engaging drive that the eighth-generation model is, we’d argue that the improvements in refinement and comfort are enough to take a look at one.

Output: 201 hp/170 lb-ft

Top Speed: 136 mph

Base Price: $24,215