2007 Honda Civic Si

The Civic Si will forever be a tuner hero, but the new version has grown up a little, too. So while this car still provides a fast-and-furious dose, options such as DVD navigation and satellite radio make you feel like an accomplished adult. The sedan is also way subtler than the coupe, and doesn’t scream, “Race me!” But for those who still like to do a bit of stoplight romping, the limited-slip diff will be a smoky wheel delight.

Brian Scotto

Interior The dash, which is longer than a ‘Lac’s, is one part utilitarian and two parts space alien. It works but takes some time to get used to. The seats hug you like your Aunt Betty—occasionally too tight—but the suede and fabric upholstery do the trick, and the steering wheel emphasizes the Star Trek-style helm.

Exterior Sometimes trunk spoilers spoil good-looking cars, but the Si’s subtle wing, 17-inch rims, clean grille and Si badging make this four-door stand out from its base-model brethren.

Floss Factor Vrooooom! The Si’s 2.0L VTEC engine revs forever and will have you thinking you are piloting an F1 racer by its howl—even if it’s not really that fast.

Flaw Factor Hops like a bunny when you mash the throttle. Even with the TC on, the Si spits more power than the FWD system can handle.

Specs

Rating 4 /// Damage $22,595

Power /// 197hp, 139 lb.-ft.

0-60 /// 7.3 seconds

Top Speed /// 136mph

Gas Cash /// 22 city, 31 hwy

Miles Driven /// 163

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