2019 Honda Civic Turbo: Horsepower And Performance Specs

by Alex Braham 57 views

The 2019 Honda Civic is a popular choice for drivers looking for a reliable, fuel-efficient, and fun-to-drive compact car. A key factor in its appeal is the availability of a turbocharged engine, which offers a compelling blend of power and efficiency. Let's dive into the specifics of the 2019 Honda Civic turbo horsepower and other performance-related aspects.

Horsepower and Engine Options

The 2019 Honda Civic offers two engine choices, and one of them is a turbocharged engine.

Standard Engine

First, the base engine is a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine produces 158 horsepower and 138 pound-feet of torque. While it provides adequate power for daily commuting, the available turbocharged engine offers a noticeable performance boost.

Turbocharged Engine

The star of the show for performance enthusiasts is the available 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This engine delivers a more exciting driving experience, producing 174 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque in most trims. However, the Civic Si, which also uses a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine, is tuned to produce 205 horsepower and 192 pound-feet of torque. This engine provides quicker acceleration and a more responsive feel, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a more engaging driving experience. The 1.5-liter turbo engine is available in several trims, including the EX, EX-L, and Touring models. The availability of the turbo engine across multiple trims makes it accessible to a wider range of buyers.

Performance Specs and Driving Experience

Beyond just horsepower, other factors contribute to the overall performance and driving experience of the 2019 Honda Civic with the turbocharged engine.

Acceleration

The turbocharged engine significantly improves the Civic's acceleration. The 2019 Honda Civic with the 1.5-liter turbo engine can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 6.8 to 7.0 seconds, depending on the trim and transmission. This is a respectable figure for a compact car and makes the Civic feel lively and responsive in various driving situations. For comparison, the base 2.0-liter engine typically achieves 0 to 60 mph in around 8.5 to 9.0 seconds.

Transmission

The 2019 Honda Civic offers both a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and a 6-speed manual transmission, depending on the trim level and engine. The CVT is the more common choice and is designed to maximize fuel efficiency. However, the 6-speed manual transmission, available on some trims with the turbocharged engine, provides a more engaging and sporty driving experience. Enthusiasts often prefer the manual transmission for its greater control and connection to the engine. The CVT, while prioritizing efficiency, still offers decent performance and simulates gear changes to provide a more natural driving feel.

Fuel Efficiency

One of the great things about the 2019 Honda Civic with the turbo engine is that it doesn't sacrifice fuel efficiency for performance. In fact, the turbocharged engine often delivers better fuel economy than the base engine. The EPA estimates for the 2019 Honda Civic with the 1.5-liter turbo engine and CVT are around 31 mpg in the city and 42 mpg on the highway. These figures are impressive for a compact car and make the Civic an excellent choice for those who want both performance and fuel efficiency. Real-world fuel economy may vary depending on driving conditions and habits, but the Civic generally lives up to its EPA estimates.

Handling and Ride Quality

The 2019 Honda Civic is known for its balanced handling and comfortable ride quality. The Civic's chassis is well-tuned to provide a stable and confident feel on the road. The steering is precise and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and enjoyable to drive on winding roads. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers. The Civic strikes a good balance between sporty handling and comfortable ride quality, making it a versatile choice for various driving conditions. The availability of features like Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) and Traction Control further enhance the Civic's handling and safety.

Trims with Turbo Engine

As mentioned earlier, the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine is available on several trims of the 2019 Honda Civic. Here's a quick rundown of some of the trims that offer the turbo engine:

  • EX: The EX trim is a popular choice for its combination of features and value. It includes the 1.5-liter turbo engine, alloy wheels, a sunroof, Honda Sensing suite of safety features, and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
  • EX-L: The EX-L trim adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, and an upgraded audio system to the features of the EX trim.
  • Touring: The Touring trim is the top-of-the-line trim and includes features such as LED headlights, rain-sensing wipers, a premium audio system, and navigation. It also comes standard with the 1.5-liter turbo engine.
  • Si: The Si trim is the sport-oriented version of the Civic and features a more powerful version of the 1.5-liter turbo engine, sport suspension, and other performance-enhancing features. The Civic Si is designed for driving enthusiasts who want a more engaging and sporty driving experience.

Comparing to Competitors

When considering the 2019 Honda Civic with the turbo engine, it's helpful to compare it to its competitors in the compact car segment. Some of the Civic's main competitors include the Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Hyundai Elantra, and Volkswagen Jetta.

Horsepower Comparison

  • Honda Civic (1.5-liter Turbo): 174 horsepower (205 hp in Si trim)
  • Toyota Corolla (2.0-liter): 169 horsepower
  • Mazda3 (2.5-liter): 186 horsepower
  • Hyundai Elantra (1.6-liter Turbo): 201 horsepower
  • Volkswagen Jetta (1.4-liter Turbo): 147 horsepower

As you can see, the 2019 Honda Civic with the 1.5-liter turbo engine offers competitive horsepower figures compared to its rivals. The Civic Si, with its higher-output turbo engine, stands out as one of the more powerful options in the segment. The Mazda3 offers slightly more horsepower with its 2.5-liter engine, while the Hyundai Elantra's 1.6-liter turbo engine also boasts a strong 201 horsepower. The Volkswagen Jetta, with its 1.4-liter turbo engine, offers a more modest horsepower output but prioritizes fuel efficiency.

Overall Value

In addition to horsepower, it's important to consider other factors such as fuel efficiency, features, reliability, and price when comparing the 2019 Honda Civic to its competitors. The Civic generally scores well in these areas, making it a well-rounded and attractive option. Honda's reputation for reliability and resale value further adds to the Civic's appeal. The availability of the Honda Sensing suite of safety features on many trims is also a significant advantage.

Is the Turbo Engine Worth It?

For many buyers, the question comes down to whether the turbocharged engine is worth the extra cost. Here are some factors to consider:

Performance Benefits

The turbocharged engine provides a noticeable improvement in performance compared to the base engine. If you value quicker acceleration, a more responsive feel, and a more engaging driving experience, the turbo engine is definitely worth considering.

Fuel Efficiency

The turbocharged engine often delivers better fuel economy than the base engine, which can save you money on gas in the long run.

Trim Levels

The turbocharged engine is available on several well-equipped trim levels, such as the EX, EX-L, and Touring, which offer a range of desirable features.

Driving Preferences

Ultimately, the decision of whether to opt for the turbocharged engine depends on your individual driving preferences and priorities. If you prioritize performance and enjoy a more engaging driving experience, the turbo engine is a great choice. If you're primarily concerned with fuel efficiency and don't mind sacrificing some performance, the base engine may be sufficient.

Conclusion

The 2019 Honda Civic with the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine offers a compelling combination of performance, fuel efficiency, and features. With 174 horsepower (205 hp in the Si trim), the turbo engine provides quicker acceleration and a more responsive feel compared to the base engine. The Civic's balanced handling, comfortable ride quality, and available 6-speed manual transmission further enhance the driving experience. If you're looking for a compact car that's fun to drive and fuel-efficient, the 2019 Honda Civic with the turbo engine is definitely worth considering. Guys, remember to weigh your options and choose the trim and engine that best suits your needs and driving style!