The Honda Civic IX Tourer, specifically the 1.8 i-VTEC (142 hp) Automatic variant produced from 2014 to 2017, represents a practical and fuel-efficient offering within the ninth-generation Civic lineup. Introduced as part of the facelifted IX series, this model combined the versatility of a station wagon (estate) body style with Honda’s renowned i-VTEC engine technology and a five-speed automatic transmission. Positioned as a mid-range trim, it aimed to provide a balance between affordability, comfort, and reasonable performance for family-oriented buyers in the European market and other regions where station wagons remained popular.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Honda |
| Model | Civic |
| Generation | Civic IX Tourer (facelift 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 i-VTEC (142 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg, 31.7 UK mpg, 11.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 153 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.8 kg/Hp, 102.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8 kg/Nm, 125.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 142 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 79 Hp/l |
| Torque | 174 Nm @ 4300 rpm (128.34 lb.-ft. @ 4300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | R18Z4 |
| Engine displacement | 1798 cm3 (109.72 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 87.3 mm (3.44 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.7 l (3.91 US qt | 3.26 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.57 l (5.89 US qt | 4.9 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1388 kg (3060.02 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1830 kg (4034.46 lbs.) |
| Max load | 442 kg (974.44 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4590 mm (180.71 in.) |
| Width | 1770 mm (69.69 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2065 mm (81.3 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2595 mm (102.17 in.) |
| Front track | 1530 mm (60.24 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1530 mm (60.24 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 145 mm (5.71 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.28 m (37.01 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/55R16 88V |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Civic Tourer variant is the R18Z4 engine, a 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Honda’s R-series, known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. The R18Z4 utilizes Honda’s i-VTEC (intelligent Variable valve Timing and lift Electronic Control) system, which optimizes valve timing and lift based on engine speed and load, improving both performance and economy. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-point fuel injection system. The engine produces 142 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 174 Nm (128.34 lb-ft) of torque at 4300 rpm. The engine is transversely mounted, driving the front wheels. Paired with the engine is a five-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth shifts but lacking the responsiveness of a manual gearbox. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency rather than outright acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.8 i-VTEC Automatic Civic Tourer delivers a comfortable and predictable driving experience. Acceleration is adequate for everyday driving, with a 0-60 mph time of around 10.5 seconds, but it doesn’t offer the briskness of higher-powered Civic variants like the 1.6 i-DTEC diesel. The automatic transmission, while convenient, can feel somewhat sluggish during quick overtaking maneuvers. The gear ratios prioritize fuel economy, meaning the engine often operates at lower RPMs. Compared to the manual transmission version, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness. The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a smooth ride over most road surfaces, but it doesn’t offer the sporty handling of some competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.8 i-VTEC Automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels offered options like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. The dashboard layout was straightforward and user-friendly, prioritizing practicality over luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Civic Tourer utilizes a McPherson strut independent suspension at the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension at the rear. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering is a rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.8 i-VTEC Automatic Civic Tourer was generally well-received by critics as a practical and fuel-efficient family car. It offered a good amount of space for passengers and luggage, making it a suitable choice for long journeys. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could feel slow and that the engine lacked the punch of some competitors. Compared to the 1.6 i-DTEC diesel variant, the 1.8 i-VTEC offered less fuel economy but a smoother and quieter driving experience. The petrol engine also generally required less frequent and less expensive maintenance than the diesel.
Legacy
The Honda Civic IX Tourer 1.8 i-VTEC Automatic has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The R18Z4 engine is known for its longevity, and the automatic transmission, while not the most exciting, is generally dependable. In the used car market, these models are often sought after by buyers looking for a practical, affordable, and fuel-efficient station wagon. Maintenance costs are typically reasonable, and parts availability is good. While not a performance icon, the 1.8 i-VTEC Automatic Civic Tourer remains a sensible and well-rounded choice for those prioritizing practicality and reliability.
