The Honda Civic Si has long been celebrated as a fun, practical, and reliable sports compact. For enthusiasts and daily drivers alike, the Si badge represents a sweet spot of performance and usability. In this review, we delve into the perspectives of two seasoned automotive experts from Grassroots Motorsports, David S. Wallens and Tom Suddard, as they share their experiences and opinions on the newest Honda Civic Si. With a rich history with the Civic Si spanning generations, their insights offer a comprehensive look at whether this latest iteration lives up to the esteemed legacy.
David S. Wallens’ Perspective: A Long-Time Fan’s Approval
David S. Wallens, Editorial Director at Grassroots Motorsports, doesn’t mince words: “I’d buy one. Like, take my money.” This immediate endorsement stems from a deep-rooted connection with the Civic Si. Wallens recounts owning multiple Civic Si models across different generations – from a classic ’86 to a 2014 sedan, not to mention their project cars and even CRX Si models. This history provides a solid foundation for his review, highlighting the enduring appeal of the Civic Si in his household.
David S. Wallens' positive impression of the new Civic Si
Wallens emphasizes the consistent strengths of the Civic Si: fun driving dynamics, everyday practicality, unwavering reliability, and a reasonable price point. He notes the versatility of the car, equally capable on an autocross course, a race track, or a daily commute. His personal experience with a 2014 Civic Si, requiring only basic maintenance like tires and a battery, speaks volumes about the car’s dependability.
He views the newest Civic Si as a refined evolution, an “update on the previous model,” drawing parallels to the incremental improvements seen throughout the Civic’s lineage. Key improvements that appeal to Wallens include the more conventional dashboard design and the return to traditional side windows, features he found less appealing in the previous generation. He also appreciates the new model’s lower stance and quieter cabin, enhancing the driving experience and overall comfort, especially on the track.
Side view of the new Honda Civic Si highlighting its lower stance
While acknowledging a slight nostalgic longing for the VTEC engine of older models, Wallens recognizes the merits of the current turbocharged engine, particularly its torque delivery, which he experienced firsthand in their 2019 Civic Si project car. He concludes that the newer model is undeniably faster and expresses strong interest in owning one, especially in today’s market.
Front view of the Honda Civic Si showcasing its sporty design
Close-up of the Honda Civic Si wheel and tire
Tom Suddard’s Perspective: A Cautious but Appreciative Take
Tom Suddard, Director of Marketing & Digital Assets at Grassroots Motorsports, approaches the 11th-generation Civic Si with a touch of caution, informed by his experience reviewing the previous generation. He recalls his initial review of the 10th generation model, where he humorously recommended the sedan over the coupe, underestimating its track potential. The 10th gen Civic Si went on to prove him wrong by winning its class at the SCCA Solo Nationals, demonstrating Honda’s ability to blend daily usability with surprising performance.
Tom Suddard approaching the new Honda Civic Si with a cautious yet open mind
Suddard immediately praises the updated aesthetics of the new Civic Si, noting it’s “not nearly as ugly as the outgoing car” and even calling it “pretty.” He appreciates the more conventional and refined styling, both exterior and interior. The interior receives high marks for soft-touch materials, a standard sunroof, comfortable seats, and the inclusion of wireless Apple CarPlay, enhancing the overall user experience.
Interior view of the Honda Civic Si highlighting its modern and comfortable design
However, Suddard’s driving impressions are more nuanced. He finds the engine performance “a little boring,” criticizing the lack of excitement at the higher end of the RPM range and a flywheel that feels heavy. He states that it “drives like a normal Civic, only slightly faster,” lacking the immediate thrill he expected from the Si badge.
Honda Civic Si navigating a corner showcasing its handling capabilities
Despite this, Suddard acknowledges the chassis brilliance when cornering. He describes the car feeling significantly lighter and praises the precise steering, easy handling, and effective limited-slip differential. This highlights a dichotomy in his review: while straight-line excitement might be lacking, the Civic Si retains its cornering prowess.
Honda Civic Si on a track emphasizing its sporty nature
Ultimately, Suddard recognizes the new Civic Si as a “perfect car to do it all” and “the best daily driver I’ve tested in a while,” echoing Wallens’ sentiment about practicality and usability. However, personally, he admits he wouldn’t buy one, preferring the more visceral VTEC experience of older generations, even if it means sacrificing some of the newer model’s refinement and competence.
Conclusion: A Refined and Capable Sports Compact
The Honda Civic Si Review from these two experts paints a picture of a highly capable and refined sports compact. David S. Wallens, a long-time Civic Si enthusiast, wholeheartedly endorses the new model, appreciating its evolution and consistent strengths. Tom Suddard, while slightly less enthusiastic about the engine’s character, still acknowledges the car’s exceptional handling, daily driver qualities, and overall competence.
The 2022 Honda Civic Si appears to be a mature and well-rounded vehicle, carrying forward the legacy of the Si badge by offering a compelling blend of fun, practicality, and reliability. Whether it fully captures the raw excitement of previous generations might be a matter of personal preference, but as a modern sports compact, the new Civic Si undoubtedly holds its own as a top contender in its class.
