Car buyers often feel overwhelmed when choosing between different trim levels of the same model. Selecting the right Honda Civic trim can feel daunting, especially when each offers something unique.
The 2022 Honda Civic lineup offers several options, with the Sport trim being popular. Many drivers struggle to determine which trim best suits their needs and budget.
This review aims to clear up any confusion by comparing the Honda Civic Sport to other trims in the lineup.
We’ll examine each trim level’s key features, performance, and value, focusing on how the Sport compares to its siblings.
By the end of this article, you’ll clearly understand what sets the Civic Sport apart and whether it’s the right choice for you.
The 2022 Honda Civic Sport Overview
The 2022 Honda Civic’s Sport trim has some standout features, making it a favorite among drivers. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this car special.
First up, the wheels. The Sport trim comes with 18-inch gloss black alloy wheels.
The paddle shifters are a nice touch for those who enjoy a more hands-on driving experience. They let you control gear shifts without taking your hands off the wheel.
A cool feature is the Smart Entry with Walk-Away Auto Lock. Under the hood, you’ll find a 2.0L engine with 158 horsepower. This gives the Sport Trim plenty of pep for city driving and highway cruising.
Plus, with the 3-Mode Drive System, you can choose between Sport, Normal, and ECON modes to match your driving style or road conditions.
Inside, the leather-wrapped steering wheel adds a touch of class. The 7-inch color touch-screen keeps you connected and entertained on the road.
Now, let’s talk about value. The Civic Sport starts at $23,750, which puts it in the middle of the Civic lineup.
Comparison with Other Honda Civic Trims
When shopping for a Honda Civic, it’s helpful to compare different trims. Each trim offers unique features and benefits. Let’s see how the Sport compares to other options.
1. Honda Civic LX vs. Sport
- Engine Performance: LX and Sport share the same 2.0L engine with 158 hp. However, Sport adds a 3-Mode Drive System with Normal, ECON, and Sport modes.
- Interior Features: LX has a standard steering wheel and shift knob. Sport upgrades to the leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and adds sport pedals.
- Exterior Design: The LX has 16-inch steel wheels. Sport upgrades to 18-inch gloss black alloy wheels and adds a chrome exhaust finisher.
- Added Benefits of Sport: Sport trim offers a more stylish appearance and a slightly sportier feel without a big price jump. The 3-Mode Drive System adds versatility to daily driving.
- Price Comparison: LX starts at $22,350, while Sport is priced at $23,750, a difference of $1,400.
- Value Analysis: For $1,400 more, the Sport trim offers noticeable upgrades in style and driving experience. Many buyers find this a worthwhile step up from the base model.
2. Honda Civic EX vs. Sport
- Feature Comparison: Sport has a 2.0L engine with 158 hp. EX upgrades to a 1.5L turbo engine with 180 hp. Fuel Economy: Sport achieves 30 mpg city / 33 mpg highway. EX improves to 33 mpg city / 36 mpg highway.
- Technology Differences: Sport has a 7-inch touchscreen. EX upgrades to an 8-inch touchscreen and adds a blind spot information system.
- Comfort Features: Sport has manual seats and single-zone climate control. EX adds heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a one-touch power moonroof.
- Safety Features: Both have the Honda Sensing suite, but EX adds blind spot information.
- Price Comparison: Sport costs $23,750, while EX costs $25,350, a difference of $1,600.
- Value Justification: The $1,600 jump to EX brings more power, better fuel economy, and several luxury touches. For those who value these extras, the price increase may be justified.
3. Honda Civic Touring vs. Sport
- Premium Features in Touring: The touring version has a 1.5L turbo (180 hp) compared to the Sport version’s 2.0L (158 hp). It also offers a Bose premium sound system with 12 speakers versus the Sport’s 4-speaker system. The touring version has a 9-inch touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay, while the Sport version has a 7-inch screen with wired connectivity.
- Price Comparison: Sport costs $23,750 while touring costs $28,950, a difference of $5,200.
- Target User Evaluation: The significant price increase for the Touring brings many luxury and tech features. For many, the Sport trim offers a better balance of features and value.
- Luxury and Tech Enhancements: The Touring trim upgrades the Sport’s features with leather seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and advanced safety techs like low-speed braking and parking sensors. These additions make the Touring more luxurious and secure than the Sport trim.
Performance Analysis Across Trims
The Honda Civic’s performance varies across trim levels, offering different driving experiences. Let’s look at how the Sport trim compares to others regarding power, handling, and overall performance.
1. Engine and Transmission Comparison
The 2022 Honda Civic lineup offers two engine options across its trims.
The LX and Sport trims share a 2.0L four-cylinder engine that produces 158 horsepower. This engine provides good power for everyday driving and highway cruising.
In contrast, the EX and Touring trims become a 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This smaller engine packs more punch, delivering 180 horsepower.
The turbocharger helps provide better acceleration and passing power. All Civic trims use a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
However, the Sport trim adds paddle shifters, giving drivers more control over gear selection and a sporty driving experience.
2. Transmission and Drive Mode Differences
While all trims use a CVT, the Sport, EX, and Touring trims offer a 3-Mode Drive System. This system includes ECON, Normal, and Sport modes. Each mode adjusts the car’s performance characteristics:
- ECON: Focuses on maximizing fuel efficiency
- Normal: Balances performance and efficiency for everyday driving
- Sport: Sharpens throttle response for a more engaging drive
- LX: It doesn’t have this feature, offering a more straightforward driving experience.
3. Handling and Ride Quality
Wheel sizes vary across the Civic lineup, affecting looks and ride quality.
The LX uses 16-inch steel wheels, while the Sport and Touring trims roll on larger 18-inch alloy wheels. The EX splits the difference with 17-inch alloy wheels.
Larger wheels often provide better handling and a sportier look but can make the ride slightly firmer.
The Sport trim’s 18-inch wheels and sport-tuned suspension give it a more athletic feel than the LX.
4. Impact of Sport Trim’s 3-Mode Drive System
The Sport Trim’s 3-Mode Drive System adds versatility to daily driving.
ECON mode helps drivers maximize fuel efficiency for long commutes or road trips, while normal mode provides a balanced experience for everyday use.
This trim, however, shines in sport mode. It adjusts the throttle response and transmission behavior for a more engaging drive.
This can be especially fun on winding roads or when you want a more spirited drive.
Interior Comfort and Technology
The 2022 Honda Civic lineup offers a range of interior features across its trims. Let’s explore how the Sport trim compares to others regarding comfort and tech.
1. Infotainment Systems
The Civic’s infotainment setup varies across trims, with screen size being a key difference:
- LX and Sport: Both feature a 7-inch color touchscreen display. This system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing easy smartphone integration.
- EX: It is upgraded to an 8-inch touchscreen, which provides a bit more screen real estate for easier viewing and operation.
- Touring: Boasts the largest screen at 9 inches. This high-resolution display offers a more premium look and feel.
2. Audio Systems
The audio experience also differs between trims:
- LX and Sport: Come with a 4-speaker, 160-watt audio system. It’s a basic but functional setup for everyday listening.
- EX: Steps up to an 8-speaker, 180-watt system, providing richer sound with better clarity.
- Touring: This model features a premium Bose sound system with 12 speakers, including a subwoofer. This setup delivers the best audio quality in the Civic lineup.
3. User Experience
While all trims offer a user-friendly interface, the larger screens in higher trims make guiding easier.
The Touring trim adds wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, eliminating the need for cables.
4. Seating and Interior Features
Seating comfort and materials improve as you move up the trim levels:
- LX and Sport: Feature cloth seats with manual adjustments. The Sport trim adds a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob for a more upscale feel.
- EX: Introduces heated front seats, adding comfort in colder weather. It also includes a one-touch power moonroof, bringing more light into the cabin.
- Touring: Offers the most luxurious seating with leather-trimmed seats. The driver’s seat is power-adjustable, making finding the perfect driving position easy.
5. Added Conveniences
Higher trims bring additional comfort features:
- LX and Sport: Offer manual climate control.
- EX and Touring: Upgrade to dual-zone automatic climate control, allowing different temperature settings for driver and passenger.
- Touring: Adds a wireless phone charger, eliminating the need for charging cables.
2022 Honda Civic Trim Showdown: Which Model Fits Your Needs?
Deciding between the various Honda Civic trims can be a challenge. This comprehensive comparison will help you find the perfect balance of features, safety, and value for your lifestyle and budget.
| Aspect | Honda Civic LX | Honda Civic Sport | Honda Civic EX | Honda Civic Touring |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Satisfaction | Basic, reliable, and affordable; appreciated for its value. | Positive feedback on style and driving experience; good value for money. | Well-received for additional comfort and tech features. | Highly praised for luxury features but noted for higher cost. |
| Safety | Standard Honda Sensing® suite, basic safety features. | It adds Smart Entry with Walk Away Auto Lock and is praised for convenience. | Adds Blind Spot Information System (BSI); appreciated for enhanced safety. | It adds low-speed braking control and parking sensors, with the highest safety ratings among trims. |
| Costs | Starting MSRP: $22,350 | Starting MSRP: $23,750 | Starting MSRP: $25,350 | Starting MSRP: $28,950 |
| Sales Trends | Steady sales are due to affordability; they are a base option for budget buyers. | Strong sales; popular for its balance of features and price. | High sales; chosen for its power and comfort features. | Niche market: chosen by buyers willing to pay for luxury features. |
| Market Impact | It helps Honda attract entry-level buyers looking for a reliable vehicle. | Contributes significantly to Honda’s market presence in the compact car segment. | Strengthens Honda’s appeal to buyers looking for extra comfort and power. | Reinforces Honda’s position in the luxury compact car market. |
| Value Proposition | It is best for budget-conscious buyers needing a reliable car. | Appeals to those wanting more features without a big price increase. | It is ideal for those who value performance and comfort at a moderate price increase. | It is suited for buyers who want all available features and are willing to pay for them. |
Conclusion
The 2022 Honda Civic Sport offers a great balance of features, performance, and value within the Civic lineup.
Its sporty styling, 3-Mode Drive System, and upgraded interior touches, such as the leather-wrapped steering wheel, stand out.
While it may not have all the bells and whistles of the higher trims, it provides a noticeable step up from the base LX model without a big price jump.
The EX and Touring trims are worth considering for those seeking more power, tech features, or luxury. However, they come with steeper price tags. Ultimately, your choice depends on your priorities and budget.
The Sport trim hits a sweet spot for many buyers, offering an engaging driving experience and attractive design at a reasonable price point.
Whether you’re commuting, running errands, or enjoying a weekend drive, the Civic Sport is a versatile and stylish companion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does the Honda Civic Sport Have a Sunroof?
No, the Sport trim doesn’t include a sunroof. This feature is available on the EX and Touring trims as a one-touch power moonroof.
How Does the Honda Civic Sport’s Fuel Economy Compare to Other Trims?
The Civic Sport gets 30 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. It’s slightly less efficient than the EX and Touring trims, which have a different engine.
What’s the Cargo Space Like in The Honda Civic Sport?
The Civic Sport sedan offers 14.8 cubic feet of trunk space, which is generous for its class and identical across all Civic sedan trims.