The Honda Civic continues to build on its reputation for reliability, efficiency, and driving enjoyment with a range of transmission options tailored to different driver preferences across its trim lineup. Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency, driving engagement, or performance, the Civic’s transmission offerings complement each trim’s unique character.
2025 Red Honda Civic
LX Trim: The Efficient Foundation
The entry-level LX sedan comes exclusively with Honda’s Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). This transmission prioritizes fuel efficiency without sacrificing responsiveness in daily driving situations. The CVT in the LX trim reduces the “rubber band” effect often associated with this transmission type, providing more natural acceleration feel.
The LX CVT works in harmony with the 2.0-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, helping the vehicle achieve impressive fuel economy figures of approximately 7.7 L/100 km in city driving and 6.0 L/100 km on the highway. The transmission features a Sport mode that adjusts shift points and throttle response for a more engaging driving experience when desired.
Sport Trim: Options for Enthusiasts
The Sport trim offers more choice for driving enthusiasts. The sedan version comes standard with the CVT, but includes paddle shifters that simulate gear changes through pre-programmed ratios. This allows drivers to have more control over the driving experience without sacrificing the efficiency benefits of the CVT.
The Sport Hatchback offers both the CVT and a 6-speed manual transmission option. The manual transmission features short, precise throws and a light clutch, creating an engaging driving experience that appeals to purists. The manual-equipped Sport Hatchback has become increasingly rare in a segment where manual transmissions are disappearing, making it a noteworthy option for enthusiasts.
Sport Hybrid: Specialized Transmission Technology
The Sport Hybrid trim introduces Honda’s advanced two-motor hybrid system paired with an electronic Continuously Variable Transmission (eCVT). Unlike traditional CVTs, the eCVT in hybrid models uses a different operating principle that eliminates the need for a torque converter, planetary gear set, or belt and pulleys.
This specialized transmission works with the hybrid system’s two electric motors and 2.0-litre Atkinson-cycle engine to deliver responsive performance and exceptional fuel efficiency. The system can provide regenerative braking with four selectable levels controlled via steering wheel-mounted paddles, allowing drivers to customize the driving feel.
Sport Touring: Premium Experience with Options
The Sport Touring trim offers the same transmission options as the Sport trim. The sedan version features the CVT with paddle shifters, while the hatchback provides the choice between the CVT and the 6-speed manual transmission.
The CVT in the Sport Touring trim benefits from additional refinement to match the premium nature of this top-tier trim. Noise insulation and vibration damping help create a more luxurious driving experience while maintaining the efficiency advantages of the CVT technology.
Sport Touring Hybrid: Refined Electrified Performance
Like the Sport Hybrid, the Sport Touring Hybrid features the specialized eCVT transmission that works with the two-motor hybrid system. In this premium trim, additional sound insulation and calibration refinements create an even smoother driving experience that emphasizes comfort without sacrificing responsiveness.
The Sport Touring Hybrid’s transmission system optimally uses the combined 200 horsepower and 232 Nm of torque, achieving a remarkably low fuel consumption rating of approximately 4.9 L/100 km combined.
Si: Manual-Only Performance
The performance-oriented Si trim continues Honda’s tradition of offering this driver-focused model exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission. The Si manual transmission has been significantly revised with improved shift feel, a lighter clutch, and the addition of a rev-matching system borrowed from the Civic Type R.
This rev-matching feature automatically blips the throttle during downshifts, ensuring smooth transitions between gears and allowing drivers to focus more on braking and cornering during spirited driving. The system can be turned off for drivers who prefer to heel-and-toe shift themselves.
Facts About the 2025 Honda Civic Transmissions
- The Civic Si manual transmission features a shorter final drive ratio than the standard manual, resulting in quicker acceleration but slightly higher engine speeds at highway cruising.
- Honda engineers spent over 10,000 hours testing and refining the feel of the 6-speed manual shift mechanism to achieve the perfect balance of precision and smoothness.
- The Civic Hybrid’s innovative eCVT can operate in various modes, including one that allows the electric motor to drive the wheels without the gasoline engine running.
- The CVT in the Civic features an “artificial intelligence” shift control that learns the driver’s habits and adjusts shift patterns accordingly for a more personalized driving experience.
- Unlike many competitors, Honda continues to offer a manual transmission option in the Civic lineup despite industry trends moving toward automatic-only options in compact cars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 2025 Honda Civic still offer a manual transmission?
- Yes, this car continues to offer a 6-speed manual transmission in the Sport and Sport Touring hatchback models and exclusively in the performance-oriented Si model.
What is the difference between the CVT and eCVT in the 2025 Civic lineup?
- The standard CVT uses a belt and pulley system to provide infinite gear ratios, while the eCVT in hybrid models uses electric motors to transfer power without traditional mechanical components, resulting in different driving characteristics and improved efficiency.
Which 2025 Civic trim offers the best fuel efficiency with its transmission?
- The Sport Hybrid and Sport Touring Hybrid models with their specialized eCVT transmissions offer the best fuel efficiency in the lineup, with approximately 4.8-4.9 L/100 km combined ratings.
Does the CVT in the 2025 Civic have a manual mode?
- The CVT in Sport and Sport Touring trims features paddle shifters that simulate gear changes through pre-programmed ratios, providing a more engaging driving experience when desired.
Has Honda improved the manual transmission in the 2025 Civic Si?
- Yes, the new Si features a revised 6-speed manual with improved shift feel, a lighter clutch, and the addition of a rev-matching system borrowed from the Type R.
Are there any differences in acceleration between the transmission options?
- The manual transmission typically offers slightly quicker acceleration in the Sport and Sport Touring models, while the Si’s manual is specifically tuned for performance. The hybrid models with eCVT provide strong initial acceleration due to electric motor torque.
Can the regenerative braking level be adjusted in hybrid models?
- Yes, the Hybrid models feature steering wheel-mounted paddles that allow the driver to select from four different levels of regenerative braking.
Does the 2025 Civic offer an automatic transmission option for the Si trim?
- No, the Si trim continues Honda’s tradition of being offered exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission to maintain its driver-focused character.
How does the CVT in the 2025 Civic compare to previous generations?
- Engineers refined this vehicle’s CVT to reduce the “rubber band” effect often linked with CVTs, delivering more natural-feeling acceleration and improved responsiveness over earlier generations.
Which transmission option is recommended for city driving?
- For pure city driving, the hybrid models with eCVT offer the best combination of fuel efficiency and smooth operation. However, the standard CVT also performs well in urban environments with stop-and-go traffic.