The Honda Civic X Sedan (facelift, 2018) 1.6 i-VTEC with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) represents a significant iteration within the tenth generation of Honda’s globally successful Civic line. Introduced for the 2019 model year and continuing through 2021, this variant was positioned as an entry-level to mid-range offering in the North American market, balancing fuel efficiency with everyday usability. It built upon the foundation of the 2016 Civic X redesign, incorporating styling updates and refinements from the 2018 facelift. This specific configuration aimed to appeal to buyers prioritizing affordability and fuel economy without sacrificing the Civic’s reputation for reliability and practicality.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Honda |
| Model | Civic |
| Generation | Civic X Sedan (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 i-VTEC (125 Hp) CVT |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 144 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 197 km/h (122.41 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.9 kg/Hp, 101.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.1 kg/Nm, 122.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 125 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 78.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 152 Nm @ 4300 rpm (112.11 lb.-ft. @ 4300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | R16B |
| Engine displacement | 1597 cm3 (97.45 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 77.5 mm (3.05 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC, i-VTEC |
| Kerb Weight | 1237 kg (2727.12 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 | 4662 mm (183.54 in.) |
| Width | 1799 mm (70.83 in.) |
| Height | 1416 mm (55.75 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1547 mm (60.91 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1563-1575 mm (61.54 – 62.01 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 133 mm (5.24 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.6 m (34.78 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 | automatic transmission CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| 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 | 7J x 16; 7J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Civic variant lies the R16B 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is a member of Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology series, designed for improved efficiency and reduced emissions. The R16B utilizes a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) configuration coupled with Honda’s intelligent Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (i-VTEC) system. This system allows for variable valve timing and lift, optimizing engine performance across a wider RPM range. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-point fuel injection system. The engine produces 125 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 152 Nm (112 lb-ft) of torque at 4,300 rpm. The engine is transversely mounted, driving the front wheels. Paired with the engine is a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Honda’s G-Design Shift logic within the CVT aims to mimic traditional automatic gear changes, providing a more natural driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6L i-VTEC CVT combination delivers adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 11.1 seconds, and the car has a top speed of 197 km/h (122.41 mph). The CVT prioritizes fuel efficiency over outright acceleration. The transmission tends to hold lower “gears” for longer during moderate acceleration, keeping the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the more powerful 1.5L Turbo or the Si trims, this variant feels noticeably less responsive. However, it offers a smoother and more relaxed driving experience, particularly in city traffic. The CVT’s seamless operation contributes to a comfortable ride, but it lacks the engaging feel of a manual transmission.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 i-VTEC CVT trim typically served as the base or near-base model in the Civic X Sedan lineup. Standard features generally included automatic climate control, a multi-angle rearview camera, a 5-inch color LCD screen, Bluetooth connectivity, and Honda Sensing suite of safety features (including collision mitigation braking system, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control). Higher trim levels added features like a larger touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration, upgraded audio systems, and leather upholstery. Optional extras for the 1.6L variant often included alloy wheels, a sunroof, and heated front seats.
Chassis & Braking
The Civic X Sedan utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The 1.6L variant typically featured ventilated front discs and solid rear discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. Stabilizer bars were included both front and rear, contributing to reduced body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning was generally softer compared to the sportier trims, prioritizing comfort over aggressive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6L i-VTEC CVT Civic was generally well-received by critics as a practical and fuel-efficient option. It was praised for its reliability, spacious interior, and comprehensive safety features. However, some reviewers noted its lack of performance compared to the turbocharged engine options. Fuel economy was a strong point, achieving around 37.3 US mpg in combined driving. Compared to the 1.5L Turbo, the 1.6L offered lower initial cost but sacrificed performance. The 1.5L Turbo also offered a more refined driving experience. In terms of reliability, the R16B engine has proven to be quite durable, with few widespread issues reported.
Legacy
The Honda Civic X Sedan 1.6 i-VTEC CVT has established itself as a dependable and affordable used car option. Its reputation for reliability and fuel efficiency continues to attract buyers. While not the most exciting Civic variant, it represents a solid choice for those seeking a practical and economical daily driver. The R16B engine, while not as technologically advanced as the newer turbocharged engines, is known for its longevity and relatively low maintenance costs. Parts availability remains good, and the Civic’s widespread popularity ensures that qualified mechanics are readily available for servicing.
