The Honda Civic Sedan has been a mainstay in the American automotive market for over four decades, consistently ranking among the top-selling sedans. In a market segment that has seen considerable shrinkage, the Civic, alongside competitors like the Toyota Corolla and larger models such as the Camry and Accord, has proven its enduring appeal. The journey of the Honda Civic Sedan in the US began in 1980, marking the start of what would become a series of Honda Civic Generations, each building upon the last with advancements in size, technology, and design. Initially, model cycles were brief, but they have since evolved to approximately six years, allowing for substantial updates and improvements with each iteration. This continuous refinement ensures the Honda Civic Sedan remains a relevant and desirable option for modern drivers. Positioned as the more pragmatic sibling to the hatchback, the sedan variant of the Civic prioritizes traditional sedan values, appealing to a broad spectrum of buyers seeking reliability and value. While it forgoes the sport-tuned excitement of a Type R model, the Civic Sedan excels in its class, delivering everything Americans expect from a compact sedan at a competitive price point. This article delves into the fascinating history of civic generations, exploring each facelift and model evolution.
2022-Present: 11th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (FE)
The 11th generation Honda Civic Sedan, launched in 2022, represents a significant redesign, continuing the legacy of civic generations with familiar yet enhanced powertrains. The 1.5L turbocharged engine received a notable power bump, delivering 180 horsepower in standard models and an even more potent 200 horsepower in the Si trim. This generation maintains a focus on efficient and responsive performance, a hallmark of the Civic lineage.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable | Front-Wheel Drive |
| 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Automatic (CVT) |
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 |
2019-2021: 10th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (FC1/FC2/FC5) Facelift
The facelifted 10th generation Honda Civic Sedan arrived for the 2019 model year, continuing the evolution of civic generations with subtle styling updates and feature enhancements while retaining the established powertrain options. This mid-cycle refresh ensured the Civic remained competitive within its segment, appealing to buyers seeking modern aesthetics and reliable performance.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Manual | Front-Wheel Drive |
| 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) |
Tenth Generation Civic Sedan Production Years:
- 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 Automatic (CVT) | FWD |
| FC1/FC2/FC5 Sport Sedan | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Manual Continuously Variable Automatic (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 |
2016-2018: 10th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (FC1/FC2/FC5)
The fully redesigned 10th generation Honda Civic Sedan marked a significant leap in the civic generations timeline, introducing all-new inline four-cylinder powertrains. The engine lineup started with a 158-horsepower naturally aspirated 2.0L engine, paired with either a six-speed manual or CVT automatic transmission. A more powerful 174-horsepower turbocharged 1.5L engine was also available, initially offered exclusively with the CVT but later expanded to include a manual transmission option, catering to driving enthusiasts and broadening the Civic’s appeal.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Manual | Front-Wheel Drive |
| 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) |
Tenth Generation Civic Sedan Production Years:
- 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 Automatic (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 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 |
2013-2015: 9th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (FB) Facelift
The 9th generation Honda Civic Sedan received a facelift for its final three model years, demonstrating Honda’s commitment to continuous improvement throughout civic generations. While the facelift brought cosmetic updates, the powertrain options remained consistent with the pre-facelift models, focusing on efficiency and reliability that the Civic is known for.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic | Front-Wheel Drive |
| 1.8L Inline-4 Natural Gas | 5-Speed Manual Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) |
Honda Civic 9th Generation (FB/FG)
Ninth Generation Civic Sedan Production Years:
- 2015 Honda Civic Sedan Review
- 2014 Honda Civic Sedan Review
- 2013 Honda Civic Sedan Review
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| FB LX Sedan | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic 5-Speed Manual Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD |
| FB HF Sedan | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | 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 Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD |
| FB EX-L Sedan | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD |
| FB CNG (Natural Gas) Sedan | 1.8L Inline-4 Natural Gas | 5-Speed Automatic | FWD |
2012: 9th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (FB)
The 2012 model year marked the introduction of a completely redesigned 9th generation Honda Civic Sedan, a pivotal moment in civic generations. While retaining the powertrains from the previous generation, this redesign brought a fresh aesthetic and interior refinement. Additionally, the 9th generation saw the introduction of a new 1.5L hybrid variant, expanding the Civic’s fuel-efficient options. A larger 2.4L engine was also made available, although exclusively for the hatchback Si model, highlighting the subtle differences in market positioning between the sedan and hatchback within the Civic family.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic | Front-Wheel Drive |
| 1.8L Inline-4 Natural Gas | 5-Speed Manual |
Ninth Generation Civic Sedan Production Years:
- 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 |
2009-2011: 8th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (FA1) Facelift
The 2009 model year Honda Civic Sedan underwent a facelift, part of the continuous evolution seen throughout civic generations. This refresh included visual updates and an expanded list of features, enhancing the appeal of the 8th generation model without altering the proven powertrain configurations. This approach allowed Honda to keep the Civic fresh and desirable in a competitive market.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic | Front-Wheel Drive |
| 1.8L Inline-4 Natural Gas | 5-Speed Manual |
Honda Civic 8th Generation (FA1/FA3/FG1)
Eighth Generation Civic Sedan Production Years:
- 2011 Honda Civic Sedan Review
- 2010 Honda Civic Sedan Review
- 2009 Honda Civic Sedan Review
| 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 |
2006-2008: 8th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (FA1)
The 8th generation Honda Civic Sedan, designated FA1, debuted for the 2006 model year, continuing the progression of civic generations with a focus on enhanced performance and efficiency. This generation featured a 140-horsepower 1.8L four-cylinder engine, coupled with a choice of a five-speed manual or automatic transmission, driving the front wheels. Additionally, a fuel-efficient 110-horsepower 1.3L hybrid powertrain was also available, catering to environmentally conscious buyers and showcasing Honda’s commitment to diverse powertrain options within the Civic lineup.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic | Front-Wheel Drive |
| 1.8L Inline-4 Natural Gas | 5-Speed Manual |
Eighth Generation Civic Sedan Production Years:
- 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 |
2004-2005: 7th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (ES/EN) Facelift
The 7th generation Honda Civic Sedan received a facelift for the 2004 and 2005 model years, marking another step in the civic generations journey. This refresh included exterior and interior styling updates, keeping the Civic visually aligned with contemporary design trends and enhancing its market appeal.
Related: 2001-2005 Honda Civic Sedan (ES/EN) & Coupe (EM2) 7th Generation Review: All Trims, Facelift Included – Everything You Need To Know Before Buying A Used 7th-Gen Civic.
2001-2003: 7th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (ES/EN)
1999-2000: 6th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (EJ/EK/EN) Facelift
Honda Civic Sedan 6th Gen Facelift
1996-1998: 6th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (EJ/EK/EN)
1994-1995: 5th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (EG) Facelift
1992-1993: 5th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (EG)
1993 Honda Civic Sedan 1990-1991: 4th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (EC/ED/EE/EF/EX) Facelift
1988-1989: 4th Generation Honda Civic Sedan (EC/ED/EE/EF/EX)
1986-1987: 3rd Generation Honda Civic Sedan (AG/AH/AJ/AK/AT/AU) Facelift
1987 Honda Civic Sedan 1984-1985: 3rd Generation Honda Civic Sedan (AG/AH/AJ/AK/AT/AU)
1985 Honda Civic Sedan 1982-1983: 2nd Generation Honda Civic Sedan (SL/SS/SR/ST/VC/WD) Facelift
1981: 2nd Generation Honda Civic Sedan (SL/SS/SR/ST/VC/WD)
Conclusion:
From its introduction to the US market to the present day, the Honda Civic Sedan has consistently evolved through numerous civic generations, adapting to changing consumer needs and technological advancements. Each generation has brought refinements in design, performance, and features, contributing to the Civic’s enduring popularity and solidifying its position as a leader in the compact sedan segment. The Honda Civic Sedan’s history is a testament to Honda’s commitment to quality, reliability, and continuous improvement, ensuring its relevance for generations to come.
