The Honda Civic X Sedan 1.6 i-DTEC (120 hp) was a diesel-powered variant of the tenth-generation Civic sedan, produced for a limited time between 2018 and 2019. Primarily aimed at the European market, this model offered a fuel-efficient option within the Civic X lineup, focusing on low running costs and reduced emissions. It occupied a middle ground in the range, positioned below the higher-powered petrol variants and above the base-level trims. The 1.6 i-DTEC was designed to appeal to drivers prioritizing economy and practicality, particularly those covering high annual mileages.
| Brand | Honda |
| Model | Civic |
| Generation | Civic X Sedan |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 i-DTEC (120 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 4.7-4.8 l/100 km (50 – 49 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 4.2-4.4 l/100 km (56 – 53.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 4.1-4.2 l/100 km (57.4 – 56 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 4.4-4.6 l/100 km (53.5 – 51.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 91 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 3.5 l/100 km (67.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 3.4 l/100 km (69.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 3.4 l/100 km (69.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Maximum speed | 201 km/h (124.9 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp, 91.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 228.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 2000 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | N16A1 |
| Engine displacement | 1597 cm3 (97.45 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76 mm (2.99 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.18 l (5.47 US qt | 4.56 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1314-1366 kg (2896.87 – 3011.51 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Max load | 434-486 kg (956.81 – 1071.45 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 519 l (18.33 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 46 l (12.15 US gal | 10.12 UK gal) |
| Length | 4648 mm (182.99 in.) |
| Width | 1799 mm (70.83 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2076 mm (81.73 in.) |
| Height | 1416 mm (55.75 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2697 mm (106.18 in.) |
| Front track | 1547 mm (60.91 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1575 mm (62.01 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.3 m (37.07 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 | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/55 R16; 215/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Civic X 1.6 i-DTEC is the N16A1 engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is part of Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology series, designed for high efficiency and low emissions. It features a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and torque, and a common-rail direct fuel injection system. The common-rail system, operating at extremely high pressures, ensures precise fuel delivery for optimal combustion. The engine boasts a high compression ratio of 16:1, contributing to its thermal efficiency. The engine produces 120 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque at 2,000 rpm. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The 1.6 i-DTEC was paired exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission in most markets, prioritizing fuel economy over convenience.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 i-DTEC Civic X offered a comfortable and refined driving experience, prioritizing fuel efficiency over outright performance. While 120 hp isn’t a substantial amount of power, the 300 Nm of torque available from 2,000 rpm provided adequate acceleration for everyday driving. The six-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal torque band, resulting in responsive performance. Compared to the 1.0-liter petrol engine, the 1.6 i-DTEC offered significantly more torque, making it better suited for carrying passengers and luggage, or for tackling hilly terrain. However, it lacked the punch of the higher-powered 1.5-liter petrol variants. The gear ratios were tuned for economy, meaning the engine didn’t rev as freely as some competitors. Overall, the driving experience was geared towards practicality and efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 i-DTEC trim level typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system. Safety features included ABS, stability control, and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and climate control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. The dashboard layout was consistent across the Civic X range, featuring a clean and modern design. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and advanced driver-assistance systems.
Chassis & Braking
The Civic X Sedan featured an independent suspension system, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. This configuration provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The steering was an electric power-assisted rack and pinion system, offering light and precise steering feel. The chassis was designed to be lightweight, contributing to the car’s overall efficiency. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Honda Civic X 1.6 i-DTEC was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency and low emissions. It was praised for its comfortable ride and refined engine. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the performance of its petrol counterparts. Compared to other diesel-powered cars in its class, the Civic 1.6 i-DTEC offered competitive fuel economy and a spacious interior. Its reliability was also a strong point, as Honda has a reputation for building durable and dependable vehicles. The main competitors included the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Peugeot 308, all of which offered diesel engine options.
Legacy
The 1.6 i-DTEC engine proved to be a reliable and durable powertrain. While the Civic X Sedan was discontinued relatively quickly, the 1.6 i-DTEC engine continued to be used in other Honda models. On the used car market, the 1.6 i-DTEC Civic X represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and reliable compact sedan. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and filter replacements, is crucial for ensuring the long-term health of the engine. The diesel particulate filter (DPF) requires periodic regeneration, and owners should be aware of the potential for DPF-related issues if the car is primarily used for short trips. Overall, the Civic X 1.6 i-DTEC remains a practical and economical choice for those seeking a dependable used car.
