The Honda Civic stands as a testament to automotive evolution, a compact sedan that has consistently redefined its segment for over five decades. From its humble beginnings as a fuel-efficient subcompact, the Civic has blossomed into a global icon, renowned for its reliability, practicality, and adaptability. For American drivers, the Honda Civic Sedan has been a mainstay since 1980, navigating fluctuating market trends and consistently ranking among the best-selling sedans. Let’s delve into the journey of the Honda Civic Sedan generations in the US market, charting its growth, facelifts, and enduring appeal.
11th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (FE): 2022 – Present
The latest iteration, the 11th generation Civic, launched in 2022, showcasing Honda’s commitment to refinement and modernity. While retaining the powertrains from its predecessor, Honda enhanced the 1.5L turbocharged engine, boosting its output to 180 horsepower in standard models and an even more impressive 200 hp in the sporty Si variant. This generation emphasizes a sophisticated design language, improved technology integration, and a continued focus on fuel efficiency and driving pleasure.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable (CVT) | Front-Wheel Drive |
| 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Automatic (CVT) | Front-Wheel Drive |
Eleventh Generation Civic Sedan Production Years:
- 2024 Honda Civic Sedan Review
- 2023 Honda Civic Sedan Review
- 2022 Honda Civic Sedan Review
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| FE LX Sedan | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD |
| FE Sport Sedan | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD |
| FE EX Sedan | 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD |
| FE Touring Sedan | 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD |
10th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (FC1/FC2/FC5) Facelift: 2019-2021
The mid-cycle refresh of the 10th generation Civic Sedan in 2019 brought subtle yet impactful styling updates. The facelift refined the front fascia with a revised grille and bumper, giving it a more mature and upscale appearance. Powertrains remained consistent, ensuring the Civic’s reputation for efficient and reliable performance continued. This generation solidified the Civic’s place as a leader in the compact sedan segment, offering a blend of practicality, technology, and driving dynamics.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Manual / CVT Automatic | Front-Wheel Drive |
| 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | Front-Wheel Drive |
Tenth Generation Civic Sedan Production Years (Facelift):
- 2021 Honda Civic Sedan Review
- 2020 Honda Civic Sedan Review
- 2019 Honda Civic Sedan Review
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| FC1/FC2/FC5 LX Sedan | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Manual / Continuously Variable (CVT) | FWD |
| FC1/FC2/FC5 Sport Sedan | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Manual / Continuously Variable (CVT) | FWD |
| FC1/FC2/FC5 EX Sedan | 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD |
| FC1/FC2/FC5 EX-L Sedan | 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD |
| FC1/FC2/FC5 Touring Sedan | 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD |
10th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (FC1/FC2/FC5): 2016-2018
The 2016 model year marked a significant leap forward with the introduction of the 10th generation Honda Civic Sedan. This generation boasted a complete redesign, characterized by a more aggressive and sporty fastback-inspired silhouette. Under the hood, new inline-four-cylinder engines debuted, including a 158-hp 2.0L naturally aspirated engine and a 174-hp 1.5L turbocharged unit. The availability of both manual and CVT transmissions catered to a broader range of driving preferences. The 10th generation Civic was lauded for its improved driving dynamics, spacious interior, and advanced technology features, setting a new benchmark in the compact sedan class.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Manual / CVT Automatic | Front-Wheel Drive |
| 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | Front-Wheel Drive |
Tenth Generation Civic Sedan Production Years (Pre-Facelift):
- 2018 Honda Civic Sedan Review
- 2017 Honda Civic Sedan Review
- 2016 Honda Civic Sedan Review
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| FC1/FC2/FC5 LX Sedan | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Manual / Continuously Variable (CVT) | FWD |
| FC1/FC2/FC5 EX Sedan | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD |
| FC1/FC2/FC5 EX-T Sedan | 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Manual / Continuously Variable (CVT) | FWD |
| FC1/FC2/FC5 EX-L Sedan | 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD |
| FC1/FC2/FC5 Touring Sedan | 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD |
9th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (FB) Facelift: 2013-2015
Honda addressed criticisms of the initial 9th generation design with a substantial facelift for the 2013 model year. This refresh focused on improving the aesthetics, particularly the front and rear styling, which were considered bland in the pre-facelift model. While the 1.8L powertrains remained, the facelift aimed to enhance the Civic’s appeal and competitiveness in the market. This period saw Honda refine the Civic’s formula, balancing fuel efficiency with improved design and features.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic / 5-Speed Manual / CVT Automatic | Front-Wheel Drive |
| 1.8L Inline-4 Natural Gas | 5-Speed Manual / CVT Automatic | Front-Wheel Drive |
Ninth Generation Civic Sedan Production Years (Facelift):
- 2015 Honda Civic Sedan Review
- 2014 Honda Civic Sedan Review
- 2013 Honda Civic Sedan Review
- Honda Civic 9th Generation (FB/FG)
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| FB LX Sedan | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic / 5-Speed Manual / CVT Automatic | FWD |
| FB HF Sedan | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic / CVT Automatic | FWD |
| FB SE Sedan | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD |
| FB EX Sedan | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic / CVT Automatic | FWD |
| FB EX-L Sedan | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic / CVT Automatic | FWD |
| FB CNG (Natural Gas) Sedan | 1.8L Inline-4 Natural Gas | 5-Speed Automatic | FWD |
9th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (FB): 2012
The 9th generation Honda Civic Sedan debuted in 2012, representing a full redesign. While maintaining similar powertrains to its predecessor, Honda introduced a new 1.5L hybrid variant, expanding the Civic’s fuel-efficient offerings. A 2.4L engine was also available, albeit exclusively for the hatchback Si model, not the sedan. The 9th generation aimed for improved fuel economy and a more spacious interior, though it received mixed reviews initially, prompting the quicker-than-usual facelift in the subsequent model year.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic / 5-Speed Manual | Front-Wheel Drive |
| 1.8L Inline-4 Natural Gas | 5-Speed Manual | Front-Wheel Drive |
Ninth Generation Civic Sedan Production Years (Pre-Facelift):
- 2012 Honda Civic Sedan Review
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| FB DX Sedan | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic / 5-Speed Manual | FWD |
| FB LX Sedan | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic / 5-Speed Manual | FWD |
| FB HF Sedan | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic | FWD |
| FB EX Sedan | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic | FWD |
| FB EX-L Sedan | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic | FWD |
| FB CNG (Natural Gas) Sedan | 1.8L Inline-4 Natural Gas | 5-Speed Automatic | FWD |
8th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (FA1) Facelift: 2009-2011
The 2009 model year brought a mid-cycle refresh to the 8th generation Civic Sedan. This facelift included subtle exterior styling tweaks, mainly focusing on the front and rear fascias, and added features to enhance its appeal. However, the powertrains remained unchanged, continuing with the reliable 1.8L engine options. The 8th generation Civic, even in its facelifted form, maintained its popularity due to its futuristic design and fuel efficiency.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic / 5-Speed Manual | Front-Wheel Drive |
| 1.8L Inline-4 Natural Gas | 5-Speed Manual | Front-Wheel Drive |
Eighth Generation Civic Sedan Production Years (Facelift):
- 2011 Honda Civic Sedan Review
- 2010 Honda Civic Sedan Review
- 2009 Honda Civic Sedan Review
- Honda Civic 8th Generation (FA1/FA3/FG1)
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| FA1 DX Sedan | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic / 5-Speed Manual | FWD |
| FA1 DX-VP Sedan | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic / 5-Speed Manual | FWD |
| FA1 LX Sedan | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic / 5-Speed Manual | FWD |
| FA1 LX-S Sedan | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic / 5-Speed Manual | FWD |
| FA1 EX Sedan | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic / 5-Speed Manual | FWD |
| FA1 EX-L Sedan | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic / 5-Speed Manual | FWD |
| FA1 GX Sedan | 1.8L Inline-4 Natural Gas | 5-Speed Automatic | FWD |
8th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (FA1): 2006-2008
The 8th generation Honda Civic Sedan, introduced in 2006, was a bold departure in terms of design. It featured a futuristic and polarizing aesthetic, with a sharply raked windshield and a two-tiered instrument panel. The standard engine was a 140-hp 1.8L four-cylinder, paired with either a five-speed manual or automatic transmission. Honda also offered a 1.3L hybrid powertrain, further emphasizing fuel efficiency. The 8th generation Civic was praised for its fuel economy, spaciousness, and innovative design, although its styling was not universally loved.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic / 5-Speed Manual | Front-Wheel Drive |
| 1.8L Inline-4 Natural Gas | 5-Speed Manual | Front-Wheel Drive |
Eighth Generation Civic Sedan Production Years (Pre-Facelift):
- 2008 Honda Civic Sedan Review
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| FA1 DX Sedan | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic / 5-Speed Manual | FWD |
| FA1 LX Sedan | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic / 5-Speed Manual | FWD |
| FA1 EX Sedan | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic / 5-Speed Manual | FWD |
| FA1 EX-L Sedan | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic / 5-Speed Manual | FWD |
| FA1 GX Sedan | 1.8L Inline-4 Natural Gas | 5-Speed Automatic | FWD |
7th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (ES/EN) Facelift: 2004-2005
The 7th generation Civic Sedan received a facelift for the 2004 and 2005 model years. This refresh brought subtle changes to the front and rear styling, including updated headlights, taillights, and bumpers, aiming to freshen the design and maintain its market appeal. Mechanically, the Civic remained largely unchanged, continuing to offer reliable and fuel-efficient transportation.
7th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (ES/EN): 2001-2003
The 7th generation Honda Civic Sedan, launched in 2001, prioritized interior space and ride comfort. This generation saw a shift to a MacPherson strut front suspension for improved ride quality. Engine options remained similar to the previous generation, focusing on fuel efficiency and reliability. While perhaps less visually striking than some generations, the 7th gen Civic was a practical and dependable choice for compact sedan buyers.
6th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (EJ/EK/EN) Facelift: 1999-2000
The late 90s facelift of the 6th generation Honda Civic Sedan brought a refreshed front-end design, featuring a new grille, headlights, and bumper. These changes gave the Civic a more contemporary look as it entered the new millennium. The 6th generation Civic is often remembered for its balanced handling, fuel efficiency, and the introduction of the sporty Si trim in the coupe body style (though not the sedan in the US market during this facelift period).
6th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (EJ/EK/EN): 1996-1998
The 6th generation Honda Civic Sedan, debuting in 1996, continued the model’s trajectory of refinement and practicality. It offered a slightly larger and more refined package compared to its predecessor. Engine choices included fuel-efficient four-cylinder options, and the Civic maintained its reputation for reliability and affordability, solidifying its popularity amongst a wide range of buyers.
5th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (EG) Facelift: 1994-1995
The 5th generation Civic Sedan received a minor facelift in the mid-90s, characterized by subtle styling updates to keep it fresh in the market. The 5th generation is highly regarded by enthusiasts for its lightweight design and excellent handling, particularly in hatchback and coupe forms. The sedan also benefited from these characteristics, offering a fun-to-drive and economical compact car.
5th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (EG): 1992-1993
The 5th generation Honda Civic Sedan, launched in 1992, marked a significant step forward in terms of design and technology. It featured a more aerodynamic and modern exterior, and improvements to the chassis and suspension enhanced its handling and ride quality. This generation is considered a classic by many, representing a sweet spot in the Civic’s history, blending efficiency, fun-to-drive character, and iconic 90s styling.
4th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (EC/ED/EE/EF/EX) Facelift: 1990-1991
The late 80s/early 90s facelift of the 4th generation Civic Sedan brought subtle styling revisions, including minor changes to the grille and lighting elements. The 4th generation Civic was known for its increased size compared to earlier models, offering more interior space and improved refinement. It continued to build upon the Civic’s reputation for fuel efficiency and reliability.
4th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (EC/ED/EE/EF/EX): 1988-1989
The 4th generation Honda Civic Sedan, introduced in 1988, was a larger and more sophisticated car than its predecessors. It featured a more mature design and offered advancements in technology and comfort. This generation cemented the Civic’s position as a serious contender in the compact car market, appealing to a broader audience with its increased practicality and refinement.
3rd Generation Honda Civic Sedan (AG/AH/AJ/AK/AT/AU) Facelift: 1986-1987
The mid-cycle update for the 3rd generation Civic Sedan in the mid-80s included minor cosmetic tweaks, refining the boxy styling that was characteristic of the era. The 3rd generation Civic was praised for its fuel efficiency, practicality, and surprisingly spacious interior for its compact size. It further established the Civic as a smart and economical choice for car buyers.
3rd Generation Honda Civic Sedan (AG/AH/AJ/AK/AT/AU): 1984-1985
The 3rd generation Honda Civic Sedan, launched in 1984, adopted a boxier and more upright design language, reflecting the styling trends of the 1980s. Despite its compact footprint, it offered impressive interior space and fuel economy, key attributes that contributed to the Civic’s growing popularity in the US market.
2nd Generation Honda Civic Sedan (SL/SS/SR/ST/VC/WD) Facelift: 1982-1983
The 2nd generation Honda Civic Sedan received a facelift in the early 80s, bringing minor styling updates to the front and rear. The 2nd generation represented the Civic’s entry into the US sedan market, building upon the success of the hatchback and showcasing Honda’s commitment to fuel-efficient and reliable vehicles.
2nd Generation Honda Civic Sedan (SL/SS/SR/ST/VC/WD): 1981
The 2nd generation Honda Civic marked the introduction of the sedan body style to the US market in 1981. Building on the foundation of the original Civic, it offered improved fuel economy and practicality in a slightly larger package. This generation laid the groundwork for the Civic Sedan’s enduring success in America, appealing to buyers seeking efficient and dependable transportation.
Conclusion:
From its arrival in the US, the Honda Civic Sedan has consistently evolved, adapting to changing consumer needs and technological advancements. Each generation has brought refinements in design, performance, technology, and safety, while staying true to the core values of reliability and fuel efficiency that have defined the Civic legacy. Exploring the Honda Civic Generations reveals not just the history of a car, but also a reflection of automotive progress and the enduring appeal of a well-engineered and thoughtfully designed compact sedan.
