The powertrains will remain unchanged for the new model except for a slight bump in power for the 1.5L turbo models from 174 to 180 hp, and a similar bump in torque that makes the output 177 lb-ft. Unfortunately, there are still no plans for a Hybrid model like some of its competitors, but the base 2.0L engine offers excellent efficiency figures paired to a CVT transmission.
Much to the disappointment of enthusiasts, the manual transmission will be discontinued for 2022 and will be available only on the upcoming Civic Si and Type-R models, leaving only the CVT transmission. Honda CVT transmissions have always stood above the rest with excellent performance and reliability, and the new model will be no different. EPA estimates for the 2022 Civic equipped with the base 2.0 engine have seen an increase of 1 MPG in the city and 2 MPG on the highway.
Models
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2022 Honda Civic Hatchback (Expected)
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2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback
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2021 Mazda 3 Hatchback
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2021 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback
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Base MSRP
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$23,000
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$21,815
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$22,650
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$23,995
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Engine
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1.5 L Inline-4
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2.0-liter I4
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2.5-liter I4
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1.4-liter
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Transmission
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CVT
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CVT
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6-speed shiftable automatic
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8-speed automatic w/Tiptronic
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Horsepower
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180 hp
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168 hp @ 6,600 rpm
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186 hp @ 6,000 rpm
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147 hp @ 5,000 rpm
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Torque
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177 lb.-ft.
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151 lb.-ft. @ 4,800 rpm
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186 lb.-ft. @ 4,000 rpm
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184 lb.-ft. @ 1,600 rpm
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0-60 (Sec)
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7.3
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8.5
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7.2
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7.6
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Quarter Mile (Sec)
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16.0
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16.5
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15.6
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15.9
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2021 Data used for reference
The base model equipped with the 2.0L engine is capable of reaching 60 MPH in 8 seconds and crosses the quarter-mile in 16.2 seconds. Performance is expected to be similar for the new generation. The sport models equipped with the 1.5L turbocharged engine cut down the 0-60 MPH times by 1 second and a slight improvement in quarter-mile times also.
With no significant upgrades to performance, the 2022 Honda Civic will continue to be an average performer and falls behind more powerful rivals like the Mazda 3 and Volkswagen Golf which are capable of reaching 60 MPH in 7.2 and 7.6 seconds respectively. The Toyota Corolla is the slowest performer here despite having more power than the Honda Civic.
How does the 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback Handle?
The Honda Civic has always been a good handler, but the 2022 model further improves on that front with a stiffer platform. Both the front and rear suspension has been tweaked for better ride comfort and steering feel. The power steering system has also been returned to offer more feedback compared to the outgoing model. The updated platform is expected to refine the driving dynamics also.
All these upgrades combined with the stiffer chassis should make the new Civic an excellent handler. The improved ride comfort will make the new Civic more appealing to a wider range of customers, which will undoubtedly improve sales. The redesigned platform along with improved power outputs from the returned engines are expected to deliver an improved handling experience and driving dynamics.