The 2008 Honda Civic Mugen Si stands as a testament to Honda’s performance heritage and the exclusive touch of Mugen, their renowned tuning division. Limited to just 1,000 units for the North American market in 2008, this special edition Civic Si offers a unique blend of enhanced aesthetics and performance upgrades straight from the factory. Dressed in the distinctive Fiji Blue Pearl and boasting a suite of Mugen enhancements, this model has become a sought-after gem for Honda enthusiasts and collectors alike. This article delves into what makes the 08 Mugen Civic Si a standout vehicle, exploring its exclusive features, performance aspects, and overall appeal.
Front profile of a 2008 Mugen Civic Si in Fiji Blue Pearl showcasing the Mugen body kit and forged wheels.
Exclusive Mugen Styling and Aerodynamics
One of the most immediately noticeable aspects of the 08 Mugen Civic Si is its comprehensive Mugen aero package. Honda collaborated with Mugen to equip these limited edition models with a distinctive body kit that not only enhances the car’s visual appeal but also contributes to aerodynamic performance. This kit includes a striking front spoiler, aerodynamic side skirts, an adjustable rear wing, and a rear diffuser, all designed to give the Civic Si a more aggressive and sporty stance. Beyond the body kit, the Mugen Si is easily identifiable by its unique Mugen badging and a single exhaust outlet finished with a polished tip, further setting it apart from the standard Civic Si models. Additional exterior features include eye-catching yellow-lens fog lights and power-adjustable side mirrors, rounding out the exclusive exterior enhancements.
Side view of a 2008 Honda Civic Mugen Si highlighting the Mugen 18-inch forged wheels and lowered suspension.
Upgraded Wheels, Suspension, and Braking
The performance enhancements of the 2008 Mugen Civic Si extend beyond aesthetics, with notable upgrades to the car’s handling and braking systems. These models were equipped with lightweight 18-inch forged Mugen wheels, a significant upgrade that reduces unsprung weight and improves handling responsiveness. The wheels are paired with a Mugen-tuned lowered suspension system, featuring increased spring and shock rates compared to the standard Civic Si. This revised suspension geometry not only lowers the car’s center of gravity for improved cornering but also provides a firmer, more engaging driving experience. Braking remains robust with four-wheel disc brakes, ensuring confident stopping power to match the car’s enhanced performance capabilities.
Close-up of Mugen 18-inch forged wheels on a 2008 Honda Civic Si, showing Falken Ziex tires and wheel details.
Interior Sportiness and Mugen Touches
Inside the 08 Mugen Civic Si, the sporty theme continues with unique Mugen and Si-specific appointments. The bolstered front bucket seats and rear bench are upholstered in black microsuede with breathable mesh inserts, complemented by vibrant red stitching and embroidered “Si” logos on the front seatbacks. A key interior highlight is the inclusion of a Mugen aluminum shift knob, enhancing the tactile connection with the six-speed manual transaxle. Aluminum and rubber pedal covers add a sporty touch to the driver’s footwell, while Si-branded floor mats further reinforce the special edition status. For in-car entertainment, a factory CD stereo system is integrated with a seven-speaker sound system, including a subwoofer discreetly housed in the rear deck, providing a well-rounded audio experience.
Interior view of a 2008 Mugen Civic Si showcasing black microsuede seats with red stitching, Mugen shift knob, and Si badging.
Performance Powertrain and Drivetrain
Under the hood, the 2008 Mugen Civic Si retains the high-revving 2.0-liter K20Z3 i-VTEC inline-four engine, factory rated at 197 horsepower and 139 lb-ft of torque. This engine is renowned for its spirited performance and VTEC engagement, providing an exhilarating driving experience, especially in the upper rev range. Power is delivered to the front wheels through a slick-shifting six-speed manual transaxle and a limited-slip differential, enhancing traction and cornering prowess. This powertrain combination is central to the engaging and fun-to-drive nature of the Mugen Civic Si, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
Dashboard and instrument cluster of a 2008 Honda Civic Mugen Si featuring Si tachometer, digital speedometer, and leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Engine bay of a 2008 Honda Civic Mugen Si showing the 2.0-liter K20Z3 i-VTEC inline-four engine.
A Collectible and Desirable 08 Civic Si
The 2008 Mugen Civic Si represents a unique moment in Honda’s history, blending factory performance enhancements with limited edition exclusivity. With only 1,000 units produced for North America, these models are increasingly sought after by collectors and Honda aficionados. While some examples may show signs of wear and tear consistent with age and use, such as minor cosmetic blemishes or past repairs, the core appeal of the 08 Mugen Civic Si remains strong. Its combination of Mugen upgrades, engaging driving dynamics, and limited production numbers solidify its place as a collectible and desirable Honda performance icon. For those seeking a special edition Civic Si with enhanced performance and unique styling, the 2008 Mugen Civic Si is an excellent choice.
