Absolutely agree. Should have compared the Si to the GTI S and or Jetta GLI. I was lucky enough to find a GTI S manual. I keep hearing a similar theme with the Si. It sounds like the younger crowd would enjoy it most. I loved the luxurious feel while still fun drive of the GTI. Si’s are presold everywhere and waitlisted, so no chance for a drive. Price, price, price.
@@Stclairm1 At any trim the GTI/GLI are better cars overall than the SI.... BUT.... in fun/$$$ ratio the SI win. So yeah , the SI is a win for youngers buyers.
As a GTI fan there's no denying they're getting too pricy, but I've only seen higher-specced Mk8s reviewed and my experience for 20 years is the most simple, base GTI you can get is often the best one. The diff and the brakes are must haves in the Mk7+ cars IMO but once you have those, skip the interior trimmings and save $8k.
Have to agree. Of course, yesterday I bought a 2019 White GTI S, 6MT with plaid interior. 14,900 miles for $24.5k. Steal of a deal. Loving the big brakes and LSD so far.
I am not sure why they keep saying the Civic is 10K cheaper, should they not be comparing base spec to base spec? In that case the price difference would be 3k. IF the price difference really was 10K then of course Honda would win hands down
Was really cool to meet you Paul and Todd out there while filming. You really picked the right road to test these, Little Tujunga Canyon is so good for feeling out a suspension too. Hope to see you in CA again - Parker (black Carrera T)
This is high quality stuff right here! Love the little shots spliced in of the slightly shaky camera shooting from a little behind the shoulder of Paul when he’s driving the GTI in the first minute of the piece. And those chase/follow shots…. You guys have those DOWN! 👏🏼
I compared both and went with the si. Something about the driving position was better for me. Probably gonna tune and throw some bolt ons in and call it a day. Great mpg and it's smooth. Perfect commuter for sure. I highly recommend the si if you're looking for a commuter biased sporty car. (Edit) I'm coming from owning 2 gti's. I had a 2000 gti and a 2008 gti. This is my first honda.
@@bluester02 I'm not him, but I purchased a '23 Si myself and was neck-deep in the buying market for a Mk8 GTI or Golf R, until I gave up after combatting dealer ADM and slow inventory. Managed to find an Si with zero ADM and pulled the trigger after a short test drive. I can't say enough good things about the car and it fit exactly what I wanted: a car that was just large enough to comfortable seat four (and not a hair larger), a ride that was on the firmer side of comfortable, a manual gearbox (and it has a great one at that), great fuel economy (averaging 30mpg with 10,000 miles of *enthusiastic* driving), good looks (it's extremely germanic for a Honda, in a way that reminds me of 2010s era models), and decent cost. If you're shopping for an efficient, economical commuter and think "damn, I wish I could buy a reliable, fuel-efficient Civic, but make it fun by adding a great suspension and manual" then that's exactly what you're getting. Also added a Ktuner and TSP tune and it increased power to the perfect level (approx 240whp) and got rid of the rev hang.
@@oppos727 I'm still searching for one without ADM but everywhere here in southern cali, its going for at least $34K + fees. I found a used 2022 Si with 3K mileage at $34K, gonna take a look at it on monday.
@@jongjong Good luck dude. I've purchased cars out of state and paid the nominal shipping fee to skirt local ADM before. You might want to expand your search to 500 miles. Who knows, you might find a new example at MSRP with a ship fee between $500-2000. That's what I did for a GT350.
I still don't know how I feel about all digitial instrument clusters.. I know some others hold the same opinion but there's just something about analog gauge faces that are satisfying to look at, with a 3D depth to the cluster. The current digitial clusters do offer far more information and usefulness but it just always seems bland to me, whether its the GTI, 400z or the GR86.
All those screens and digital everything, make me seriously question what the long term reliability will be for those systems. Vehicles have gotten so complex in a very short time period.
I know what you mean. That and push button start is just alien to me. Never owned a car remotely modern enough to have them, nor do they appeal to me. My 94' Camry has a fancy new touch screen stereo and even that thing is pushing it for me. I vastly prefer real dials and buttons that actually directly do something. Also the cost and reliability factor...I'm just not sure how you handle these cars when something goes wrong or how long they will really last a few decades from now.
I concur. Back in the 90's a friend had a Chrysler New Yorker that was digital dash. When the instrument panel went out, the only thing that worked was the gas gauge. The cost was over $4,000 to replace... and that was early 90's. Like you, I like analog better as a result.
@@blazonbyrd5996 Ironically my 88' Supra had the option for an all digital dash. They look pretty sweet, but it's no replacement for how good the normal gauges look in that particular car. Back in the 80's I think a digital number for your speed is OK, but what blows my mind is completely digital replacements for analogue gauges these days. Just seems completely backwards.
As previous owner of a MK6 GTI I like this new one. Release of the new Si really grabbed my attention and was a serious contender. However, the GR86 checked all the boxes for me and that was my choice. I don’t think one could go wrong with the GTI or Si.
The gas in the oil engine issue will continue with Honda. I think they are quiet about the situation and extended the warranty and offered software explanations for the root cause. I think that engine is too high pressurized and gets too hot. I cannot see buying this Honda if it starts developing issues at 60,000 miles. More oil changes does not quell this issue in my book either. As for the GR easily marks all the boxes for me except the high octane gas....and 93 gas is going to skyrocket still. The GR86 may be a very hot collectors item in 10 years. Almost S2000 worthy.....okay almost almost at least.
@@tamasbogdan9493 I was shopping fun and price point rather than package. Function over form but I do miss the utility on occasion. But for that we have a VW Alltrack, an old Rabbit 4D, and a 2011 CRV. So my case isn’t likely the same as others.
@@aroundomaha i understand your point,I just saying that those are practical but i saw alot of video with gr86 and vezi and they are really nice drivers car
Love my 23 Si. Wouldn’t buy a car without watching your review first. Love everything about this car. Coming from a coyote mustang, you think I’d miss the power. But the handling, gas mileage, and practicality are amazing. Plus it’s a blast to drive. Flawless manual transmission! Was on the fence with the new gti, but so glad I went with the si
As someone coming from more powerful RWDers myself and thinking of an Si as a second car, could you go into more depth on how the Si compares to your old Mustang (mainly on the subject of driving dynamics). I'd love to hear what you prefer about the Civic or miss about the Mustang.
@@elenchus great question. The things I miss most from my mustang is: RWD, the sound, and the straight line power / speed. With the civic you won’t be winning any races or anything like that. Also not much engine or exhaust sound at all. But I find myself never missing my mustang. Speaking on driving dynamics, I honestly have more fun driving my civic than my old mustang. The reason for that is how refined the civic is. The handling is unlike any car I’ve personally driven. Feels like it’s on rails. The transmission is amazing. Won’t find anything better at this price point. Rolling through the gears is super satisfying and feels mechanical. Just feel so connected to the car. Auto rev mach is flawless. I wouldn’t call the civic underpowered either. When you throw in how well it handles, how nice the transmission and gearing is, I never find myself wishing it had more power. It’ so much fun driving the canyon/ mountain roads we have out here in Arizona. Even around town it’s a blast to drive. Does great on highway too. The fuel economy is also a huge perk. This is the first 4 cylinder car I’ve ever owned. All my previous cars were manual RWD V8’s , and Turbo 6 cylinders. Use to laugh at civics to be honest.. never would have ever considered a FWD either. The LSD is amazing on this car. Can send it into corners full throttle and it takes it no problem. The space, practicality of it all and how fun it is to drive make it all worth it. After doing tons of research, and watching hundreds of reviews I landed on the civic si and couldn’t be happier. I don’t think you’ll regret getting the civic si. It’s a great car. If you can find one a MSRP I’d suggest it 100 percent.
Great review, and both excellent cars for every reason you pointed out. I was stuck between the two. However, its ironic that in this day and age, the civic is the more expensive car (36K in my area) so I picked up the less expensive GTI S 6sp for 31.5K, and Im very pleased. Im curious why reviewers always choose the most expensive trim GTI, especially when comparing it to Civic.
Having owned a 4th gen Prelude, 9th Gen Si, and Mk6 Golf TDI (and a NC Miata and an e46 currently), I can say I do not have strong brand loyalty, but based on your great review and others elsewhere I think I would go for the Civic for the more analog feel (of the driving) and to avoid all the touchscreen stuff!
I'd definitely cross-shop these two cars. I have a Mk6 GTI and love it, but as my dad is looking for a new car, I'm hoping he chooses the SI, mostly for the shifter feel and interior control.
It’s so funny that you guys mentioned that someone shopping for a GTI won’t also be shopping for an Si. I’m doing exactly that! Ive owned a MK 5, ,6, and 7 GTI as well as an 8th gen Si and have such fond memories of all of them for different reasons. Similarly, these two new cars are very appealing. I’ve driven them both and am not sure yet which I prefer. I think they are both pretty special
I was actually cross-shopping these two exact cars. I ended with the GTI though since markups on the Si were insane. The Si would have been maybe 2k cheaper, and it didn't make sense to get the Si at that price point. The GTI in SE trim just has so much more features.
Those seats look amazing in the GTI. And the metallic chartreuse is a great change of pace. Very European looking. But I think for the money I’d take the Si in red or black. That transmission is excellent and MPGs are really good.
Love both cars and your channel. The base Gti has a different infotainment with a volume button and is only 31k. Not to mention the Jetta Gli which is also a sedan, with dual exhaust, adaptive suspension and the older infotainment and climate control interface with actual buttons and knobs. One trim that’s fully equipped for 32k. That may be the better comparison. The autobahn price is in the Type R territory and that’s a different animal. Can Honda USA please give us the Canadian Civic SI? Canada gets the better features for a cheaper price.
This makes me very interested in what new typeR will be. If Honda keeps with the low key attributes and styling of the 11th gen SI I might be a buyer. Hopefully they aren't unattainable when it arrives.
I'm in the same boat as you, I love the Type R, it's the perfect do it all car for me but I just cant get myself to drive one that looks like a racecar like the current one. Pictures of next Type R proto are promising but undoubtedly the pricing will be astronomical.
Expect about 15K markup. Unrelated, but I went to check out the new Mazda CX-50 last month..the only one they had on the lot they were marking it up 10k over MSRP. Ridiculous
In Europe we do not know SI so it"s not ICON for us. UE Compatitors for GTI are Peugeot GTi, Astra GSi, Megane RS, Focus RS, Type r. On streets it has to run like S3 a45 which we have a lot . GTI is better looking car - Si looks just like some car with Honda bedge - cheap styling. Gti is too expensive - its better to buy used S3/Rs3 od RWD BMW. Great shots - good job Guys!
@@oemj7147 rev hand is fine and you can turn it off. Interior is leagues above the gti. That touch screen is absolutely horrible and the worst thing about the gti. Not to mention the gti has been in the shop 3 times with issues in less than 3000 miles.
I am the weird guy that owned both. First was the mk6 Gti, then mk7 golf R, a 9th gen Si and now own a 11th gen Si. Yes the civic lacked some power, but the interior is really good, huge upgrade from the last car. The handling and driver focused controls are fantastic. After downpipe, tune, springs, wheel/tire upgrade and a larger rear sway bar I'll tell you it's a weapon now.
@@michaelfreestone8184 oh yeah.. custom tune for pump /E30 with flex fuel sensor and had to upgrade clutch to handle the power/tq lol. What I did is not ideal for someone that needs the car to last. It's just a toy for me.
This makes me think the Integra really is perfectly positioned. An Si, in a hatch, with all the goodies like adaptive suspension and good interior, splitting the difference in price perfectly between these two at $35k.
yeah it makes no sense. Before, the sedans were made in North America and hatches in Swindon but now Swindon is closed so they should offer SI in hatch or both.
Ive always loved the GTI but this gen interior ruined it. I never thought as a GTI fan I would pick a Honda but I prefer the Civic. The interior is the deal breaker for me. Also for the price of the GTI a loaded Acura Integra A spec 6 spd will absolutely obliterate the GTI in terms of value.
It also totally obliterates the GTI in terms of its manual trans. That 6spd and clutch action is just so damn good and puts my previous GTIs manual to shame. Which should be no surprise to anyone. That's why I went DCT on my mk7 Golf R back in 2015. I'd love to get the mk8 but like you said, the interior just kills it. Got to go into the fricking infotainment just to scratch my nuts in the mk8 lol. Forget that!
Honestly I'd skip both, the new civic is just a mini accord now, it's a good allarounder but it lost it's personality from the 10th gen. The new Golf interior is just bad. I'd go with a GR corolla or a Elantra N to be honest.
@@Toymonkeyjr performance wise, yeah for sure the Elantra N. It's near the top of my list even though I don't find it looks good. But the GR Corolla is gon start around 10K more than the GTI and civic. It's also going to have more PWR/TQ, and that trick AWD system with front and rear diffs etc. GR Corolla is in a different segment and those two cars can't compete with it like the MK8 golf R, 2017 Focus RS, and the type R (even if it is FWD). Got to say I am incredibly excited to see this GR Corolla. Not excited to see what the dealers are going to be marking it up to 😒
Yeah the fact that the mk8 GTI/R is completely void of any hard buttons killed it for me too. People say you get used to it.. but I can't imagine myself having to go into the infotainment system for every little damn adjustment. Really is a shame cuz the mk8 cars are really great performance cars. No idea what VW was thinking with all that touch capacitive nonsense.
@@Daveyboy_GolfR The corolla will be the same price as the GTI believe it or not. 29k nets you the gti base trim, 30k will net you the core trim GR. It definitely competes with both. Why it's a better price is because it's toyota and not vw, so it's a lot less expensive in the US In Europe it'd probably be cheaper to go VW. It's basically going to ruin the hot hatch market. So if you can get one before they're sold out since they're in limited production (because toyota thought that would be cool) then go ahead.
I just like to wonder if reliability really is a big concern for car enthusiasts. If you really concerned about reliability, you shouldn't get a performance car at all. You should be looking at a base corolla or camry lmao Car enthusiasts typically follow maintenance religiously anyways or they'll be forced to because they want to keep driving their fun car
@@WitchYuki22 Unless you're in a short duration race, then yes. Reliability is a concern for enthusiasts. At least of a certain age. Where do you think all those jokes about British or Italian sports cars came from? I've had Japanese and German cars... holy crap just fan belts on a 1999.5 A4 1.8T was going to be over $300 because you have to remove the front bumper cover, disconnect the bumper struts, then slide the entire lock-carrier forward half a foot to be in "service position" just so you could remove one of the two alternator bolts. [Not loosen; you could do that. You just couldn't slide it out.] It's nuts. German engineering my a... That's an annuity for mechanics. Cost of parts/fluids for my '01 5-series... doing the labor myself... still so much more expensive than my non-German cars.
@EdwoodCA so if I treat a type R just like a base civic and only change its oil every 2 years, the type R will still be running like a base civic would? Don't buy a performance car if you're not willing to do maintenance on it 😂
Car makers need to understand - minimalist does not equal functional. Somewhere a while back, everyone got obsessed with how Tesla put everything in a screen (imo it's obnoxious, all-show one-trick pony, just like the car itself), and it's not the minimalism or futurism that got them interested, it's the cost. Honda only needed to remove the volume knob to get chewed out, and VW just went HAM. Pretty certain VW will pull the same move as Honda on the next generation and put actual buttons back on.
I had a 2014 Accord EX that had gobs of interior rattles. On top of that I had two batteries die within the first two years. Honda replaced them both times but really soured me on Honda. I now have a 2024 GTI and absolutely love it. It's a total gem of a car. Yes the controls take a bit of orientation but there's really a ton of great features packed into a simple, clean interface. It takes some mental memory-mapping to know just where to touch to get what, but we also used to memorize phone numbers...if you're old enough to remember those days.
I don't know why the are pretending a GTI is 10k over a si. Auto journalists are so japanese obsessed it's tragic. a GTI is so much nicer, and what a better DD.
I test drove both. Ended up buying the MK8 GTI. My wife hated the looks of the Civic. Plus we have dogs and a hatchback works well so there is that. I got the base model S. Plaid seats, manual, and you get knobs for the interface. The interface still sucks but the knobs at least give you the most all important volume control. Gonna' get the APR tune in the future, but dang... off the lot this thing is quick and i felt more involved with the engine then the civic SI - but this is subjective of course to our own personal taste. Both great values if you shop the right spec.
You guys are just knocking it out of the park. Incredible content. Keep up the great work. And if you’re ever in Kentucky, I’d like to tag along down KY-22 about 25 miles south of Cincinnati.
If you compare base trim GTI to the SI, in Canada, the GTI actually comes out cheaper than the SI. With taxes and all fees included, the GTI S comes to about 38k vs the Civic SI which comes to 40k. For whatever reason, Honda vehicles seem to be extra expensive up in the north compared to down south, which makes the GTI imo the no brainer choice for Canadians.
@@Tigerex966 true, but i don't know if i think those 2 features justify a 2k difference, especially considering that the GTI is noticeably more powerful and comes in a hatch. Id understand if the civic si was just flat out better, but it really isn't. When you consider that the Civic Si is under 2k in difference from the GTI Autobahn, idk I can't help but think the Civic Si is overpriced for what you get. Not to mention the Si is made in Canada whereas the GTI is imported from Germany, so there are various import taxes on the GTI that the Si doesn't have either. It feels like the GTI is priced on value whereas the Civic Si is priced with what they can get away charging people. Just my opinion though, I'm gonna test drive the Civic Si and compare it to the mk8 gti, could be the civic just feels 10 times better to drive than the gti, i just have my doubts
@@AK-ZL1 GTI is faster no doubt in a straight line, and the hatch has a bigger opening and you can fill it to block the back window, but the SI actually has more real world actual cargo room just a smaller opening, so bulky items are harder to load, and less rear head room. The rev match shifter clutch lsd have been said by almost every reviewer to be better and more precise and fun in the SI, sharper handling. Let's not talk infotainment. Obviously the GTI has a more powerful engine and is faster in a straight line, better brakes and more comfortable ride. You gain some features and lose some in the base form, some would love heated seats fog lamps heated steering wheel rear vents USB mirror signals led interior lighting better looking full digital dash over a sunroof and Bose sound system. Canadian SI is much better equipped. Having said that the SI is still $3-4k less. Is 1 second 0-60 worth that? Not to mention reliability service maintenance costs, and resale value. Mpgs. Both are great, I love both, it's a great choice to have to make, my current SI is from 2007 still going strong besides the paint fade and some rust, and I still see a lot of 8th gen going strong. Not that vws are unreliable, just that Honda have a better overall record on that, and if something goes wrong it should be less were cost to fix because they sell so many, and Honda is much more lenient with warranty claims even if you do your own oil filter etc they don't deny as much as VW.
@@Tigerex966 honestly after taking a good solid look at the two, I think its really just that I don't value comforts that much. My first car was a tiny econobox with not a single feature (not even AC), so honestly to me as long as I have AC I'm fine and comfortable. If I had the choice, I'd buy the US Spec and save money on things I don't really value, in that case I'd lean definitely more towards the Si hands down. I feel like once you toss in those features I don't really care for, you start to lose me with the cost im paying for the performance I'm getting. To each their own though, the Si is still a great car, and truth be told, I'll probably end up getting one over the GTI anyways due to the reliability trainwreck the GTI mk8 has been.
I've always wished VW would sell the Polo GTI in North America, even as a niche offering. It's probably a flawed comparison to put it up against the Civic but if they could modernize it and make it cost competitive, they'd at least have something to offer at a lower price point. Of course, VW's future product portfolio basically just consists of electric crossovers and the way things are headed, we'll be lucky if the GTI even makes it to a tenth generation in the United States. Meanwhile, Honda makes the Integra into a premium hatchback right as VW quietly prepares to exit that segment. They probably won't admit to it, but they're certainly signaling it.
Speed doesn't make a car. Is your car fun to drive, is what matters. When you are not in your car for a few hours, do you get excited about it when you know you are about to drive it? Do you get excited about driving it because you know how much fun it is to drive? With this in mind, Honda proudly presents to you, the all new 2022 Honda Civic Si.
I'm gonna have to give the edge to the Si because I prefer the styling more but the GTI is also a good choice for someone who wants that extra practicality.
Key considerations 1: Overall Horsepower less important than Horsepower per pound. The SI is Lighter 2: Handling: changing direction means changing momentum. Si is lighter and therefore switches direction easier 3: considering A manual? Honda on par with. BMW re “shift feel”. Add Rev matching and you’re in heaven. 4: They said: “VW is faster to 60…..but SI feels faster” given the above its not surprising 5/ Add reliability / gas mileage and the SI Should win? IRonY : i might still choose the GTi 🤔
I have a mk8 and I almost didn’t buy it because of all these car reviews bagging on the infotainment system. I got a chance to test drive one and fell in love. The BS that all these car reviews are spewing about the infotainment system being terrible is all over exaggerated. I think they are all just mad because everything is going digital. The infotainment system is much better than the old version and it’s very smooth and simple to use. Don’t listen to these old school car reviewers hating on the infotainment system. Go to a dealer and try one out for yourself.
The base model GTI has a volume knob and it s a much better buy. The infotainment and ac controls are bad compared to the previous generation. But you can get used to them. Just not while drive Ng.
To be fair the GTI you guys tested is a top level Autobahn with all of the boxes checked. An S will be equipped similarly to the SI and only a little more expensive. Both great cars no doubt. I choose a MK7 GTI because I wanted the refinement during the day-to-day, but enough fun when I wanted it, and I couldn't be happier with the decision.
@@layne4376 Wrong. Per the manufacturers' websites here is everything you get with a $40k GTI that you don't get with a $30k SI. I've gone ahead and * the expensive stuff....: *Leather Seats *Heated Front Seats *Heated Rear Seats *Ventilated Front Seats *Heated Steering wheel Power Seats Memory Seats/Mirrors 19” Wheels *Limited Slip Differential Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers *Heads Up Display VW logo puddle lights **Adaptive Suspension LED Fog Lights Auto Dimming Rearview Mirror 3-zone Climate Control 30 color interior ambient lighting SI is more comparably equipped with a GTI S trim which starts at $29k....
@@f181234 I’m well aware of that. The previous commenter (layne) was just saying that the Autobahn that is tested here is comparably equipped to the SI tested here which is just not factually accurate…
@@brianfloster2609 yeah but base gti s doesent have a sunroof, wireless carplay and a premium sound system, so still more expensive for a comparable trim and still less fun with the worse infotainment
I still miss my 08 Si coupe and I’ve owned a 15 Si coupe. I feel the 08 was more analog and fun. Now I have a 17 accord v6 coupe but still miss the nimbleness of the Si’s.
The Mazda 3 hatchback is a more compelling choice for me. All around in terms of styling, performance and interior quality, it just ticks more boxes for a one car solution.
@@layne4376 again, an all around performer for every day use, the Mazda 3 is hard to beat Now if you want a stiff uncomfortable ride for track days, then of course, you have other options. Most Mazdas handle quite well, and are praised for their driving dynamics by most automotive reviews . Watch Everyday Driver's review of the Mazda 3 Turbo AWD.
@@layne4376 You're right! I should have mentioned that i have a 2016 2 5L NA hatch . I drove the new one and i was not convinced. it seems since Mazda is going up market, they compromised the handling for comfort ,hence the beam axle. Also, everyone seems to be going to small displacement turbos. Partly due to CAFE requirements and how easy it is to boost power. I personally prefer NA engines, not as strained. Plus I can't imagine the repair bills once the warranty expires . Lastly, i think about 200 BHP is the sweet spot for FWD cars. Less torque steer and traction problems.
Didn't know wanting to shift your own gears, and feeling more connected to a performance car, made one a fanboy. Most of these you tubers, dont even own a manual car. They are just saying whatever it takes to get people attention, rehashing everyone else's comments. Car guys don't even call themselves "enthusiasts". They just love cars..period.
Personally I’d take the GTI. I like the Si especially in its new generation, it looks much better than the last one. But, I love that the GTI is a hatch, the design overall looks better than the Si imo, and it comes with features not even available on the Si (like heated seats, for whatever reason). I can deal with the infotainment system, every actual owner I’ve talked to doesn’t find it to be too bad. Also, I know the model you tested was 40k, but you didn’t really mention it’s available in a trim that’s around the same price as the Si with 80% of the content as the top trim.
I think the appropriate comparison would have been with the GTI "S" model...that's much closer in price. Then, the comparison is really about whether or not you want a more "mature" hot hatch or a slightly watered down "boy racer". The GTI "S" wins for me...and give me the DSG. I'm getting older and my clutch leg gets tired in traffic! Besides, thanks to Paul I have a 6 speed Boxster S for that kind of driving! Great review and cheers guys!
@@Tigerex966 I owned a 2017 GTI Sport 6-speed model, so the content was different then versus now. I really enjoyed the car and carried my mountain bike in the back constantly. I sold it only because I wanted something a bit more upscale and RWD based, so I bought a used Alfa Romeo Giulia Ti Sport AWD. I lost some carrying capacity (my bike still fits though) and a couple MPGs, but I gained in features, vehicle dynamics and styling (IMO). The best way to compare cars is to go to the manufacturer's website and "build your own". They will list all the model base equipment, options and pricing.
@@rlsedition nice to hear, I also love the gulia and gti as well. We have great choices before they force self driving electrics on everyone. I did test drive the 2018 golf r manual and loved it
I've owned previous versions of both cars. The biggest difference is that the Honda will not break and requires minimal maintenance. If i was looking now, I'd take the Honda especially at the price.
The last time the Civic Si was available in a hatchback in the US was 2003. There was a "Sport" model with a manual available in the 10th generation, but not an Si.
@@oemj7147 new civic has a much better interior than the golf, it's not even sujective, theres soft touch on the dash and on the door panels, and more premium haptic buttons and knurled metal finishes, gti is more hard touch plastic all around and worse sound system
I'm looking for a replacement for a Focus ST. I've yet to drive an Si (Honda dealer is being stingy with test drives), but I had the chance to drive the GTI. I can't agree more with Todd's assessment of the car. It's great, extremely capable, and fast. I just didn't find it fun. It is a precision crafted instument that gets the job done, no more, no less. I was missing the drama, theatrics, and sensations that make my current car so much fun. Would it be slower if it had those things? Possibly. But I wouldn't care. It's like what they used to say on Top Gear... It would be better if it were worse.
@@genericasian the Elantra N might be a good pick for you then. Although it's not the best looking, and it has more refinement, so it might not be as fun
@@jamesluna162 I really like the elantra N, but the corners Hyundai cut on the interior bothered me. No split fold rear seat, no cup holders in the back, hard touch plastics everywhere, and no sunroof if you went with the manual. Yup, I'm picky. Though I do have money put towards the new Integra...
While the Si is fun to drive, I'll stick with the GTI. For a daily driver it just offers so much more. Heated and ventilated seats, heated steering, plus vents for the rear passengers. The Honda missed the mark by not offering these features in the US Si (while they do in Canada, minus ventilated seats).
I actually heavily cross shopped both of these. Ended up going with the gti. In love with it. Infotainment is overblown completely. Car is on rails and I prefer it over the gti. And my biggest issue is comparing a GTI autobahn to the si. My gti s was under 30k and it’s a perfect comparison to the si.
How about an apples-to-apples comparison? Civic Si ~vs.~ Base S trim GTI. Now the prices are comparable. And _Oh look. . ._ The base S trim of the GTI gives you all of the performance features of the version you guys tested, but at approximately $10K less.
I honestly feel like the mk7 gti was the better car. More balanced, less electronics and now a price closer to the civic si. I wouldn't even consider an mk8
40k is insane for a small hatch. Just a few years ago a brand new loaded 273 hp 3.5 liter Acura RDX was 40k. Civic SI is amazing value, it is cheaper than Civic Touring while being loaded with almost the same features. New Acura Integra is also better than GTI for a slightly cheaper price.
I had a sub-$300 GTI lease and loved it so much I went to lease another one. Until 5 different dealerships told me "forget about it, this car had its lease deal ruined". So I got a Stinger GT instead. Thank you Volkswagen for bumping me up and away from your overpriced cars.
A better comparison would be the Integra vs the GTI. The GTI is way too premium compared to the Si. The Si is a sweet spot for value compared to the GTI because Honda keeps pushing the SI down the trim levels. If you look at the older Si's, they were the top trim levels. So you got all the goodies of a fully load civic plus the performance. but over time, even before the Type R in the recent years, Honda started not including features and options found in the regular civic. For the same amount of money you are paying for an Si now, you can get another civic with a better interior, more refinement with more features while still getting 90% of the performance. The Si is not much faster than the turbo civic engine and the suspension tune is not much better than the regular civic. Maybe the Si is just being neuetered for the Type R or the Integra?
I thought I read that they did take out things from the civic so the integra could have them. I may be wrong but I think they took heated seats out of the civic and put it in the integra. Not sure what else tho.
@@jt_st7608 what I really want is the Canadian Spec Si. It's near the same price, but has a ton more equipment: heated seats front AND rear, fog lamps, turn signals on mirror, full digital gauge cluster, heated steering wheel. It blows my mind that Honda made 2 different specs for North America.
@@genericasian yeah I heard about that. I wonder if the price up there is similar to here since they get more I would assume they charge more but idk how pricing and all that works. I’m always bummed when other countries get cooler stuff then us
@@jt_st7608 it's actually near the same price if you do the currency conversion. Which made some people wonder if they should just try to import one...
The Honda Civic Si is pretty nice for $27,000. Maybe in the future they will add a Hatchback Si, an option for the automatic 10 speed, or 250hp from a turbo 2.0L engine.
the 2.0 turbo from the accord would be amazing. I'm seeing Si for 29,500 vs GTI S model for 32k right now... tough decision to make, especially when I can't find a GTI to test drive
Wonderfully shot video guys. Im a Honda guy thru & thru BUT “Si is a genuine sports car” is something I just can’t get behind. You guys should have paired these two with your Brz to see if that sentiment plays out. Safe travels out east guys!!
Brz/86 is handles better is why they and savage geese, and Topher bought one, not the si even though it's the same price but credit to the si, it genuinely like a sports car of the past albeit a 4 door sports car of the past but its still better than the gti/gli cousins, the previous gen si didn't have alot of things going for it other than coupe form factor, this one is like a type r lite
Why does Paul keep saying the GTI has eighty more horsepower than the Civic Si? 241 vs 200 is not eighty, plus, as we now know, Honda is sandbagging on that 200 horsepower number. The GTI has more power than the Civic, but the difference is nothing like eighty hp. It's not even the claimed forty-one hp. In the real world, it's closer to twenty.
Well the 2.0 will hit harder no matter what and the Honda tuning rolls the torque in gently for longevity unless you get tuned. The new 1.5 should rev nicely once at speed on the road.
Loving my Civic Si! With some mods, I'm sure they can compete in power with the GTI. Just reflashing the ECU, the car feels way better and more fun. Great video!
The last real Si was 8 th gen civic, 2.0l 200 hp real VTEC engine, such a masterpiece, screaming 8300 RPM, then civic's become more and more heavier, bigger and underpowered, loosing the charm
@Gurgen Makaryan 200hp with less than 140lbs torque Vs. 200hp with almost 200lbs torque :) Also, Hondata claims that 11th gen Si has 222 wheel horsepower. I have 8th gen and 11th, and let me tell you that my 11th gen is way faster and more fun to drive.
I wish the Elantra N-Line was included in this comparison. Almost identical specs to the Si (with no LSD unfortunately), but loads of tech and an extraordinary purchase price. Still waiting to see a review for one on EDriver!
The competition for the Civic Si isn't the GTI. It's the GLI, and that car is wonderful. If BMW still cared about making fun cars at an attainable price, it would be the GLI. I'm an E91 owner and going from my car to the GLI felt really good. It has mid-range punch that ye old inline 6's have a bit of, but modern turbos have more of. Yeah, GLI is cheap on the inside, but go sit in an E90 and tell me what you see.
My biggest problem with the GTi is the all seasons tires... They miss on this one! Hopefully my dealer accept the tires trade Michelin PS 4S and it's amazing!!!
How does the SI compare to the Golf S? To me that's it's true competition. Base prices are now only 3k apart and the VW loses it's adaptive suspension. Thoughts?
Adaptive suspension is great, unless you plan on after market suspension down the road. Also the base model GTI has volume knobs. For the price the S is the best bang-for-buck out of all the GTI trims!
@@Jakalwarrior do vws have any problems with the DCC? I haven't heard any horror stories about it yet.. the base model doesn't have it anyway so it won't matter in this case ig
@@lmc333 its standard Korean car crap. A bit of shiny features that'll fall apart before it's competitors. Only people impressed by that sort, people who also can't afford the competitors, will be buying it. Hopefully it won't be plagued by LSPI like many of their previous DI turbo cars, I guess.
@@noneyabizz8337 clearly you have not stepped out of your house the past 5 years... Sarcastically great Arm chair judgement there man... Too poor? Living the same decades old dreams... Check out the Koreans they Are crushing the competition for years now... You don't have to take my words for it.
It's too bad you can't find a Si for MSRP. I had to pay 33k for mine. I love it, but I wish I could have found one for less money. That was actually the cheapest I could find. Btw, it really is a blast to drive. Driving the civic never gets old. Awesome car.
The GTI has looked the same to me since the MK6 was introduced - I can't tell the difference. I think this new Si looks incredible. It's all grown up now - I really like it.
I own a MK6 GTI and love it. I've been considering buying another or something in the same class. The 23 Civic Si got my attention, especially for under 30K. I would like to point out that the GTI can be had in "S" trim for just 3K over the price of the Civic Si. You will give up a Sun Roof, improved sound system and a few other subtle features. The biggest difference for me given just a 3K spread in price is the how much faster the GTI is. With just 40HP more, it rails through the quarter mile in 13.6 seconds at 105mph! The Civic Si is much slower at 15.2 seconds. That is a massive difference know matter how fun the Civic feels. If I were to lean toward the Civic it would have to be for it's value and easier to use controls. While Honda has an amazing rep for quality, I've gotta say, I've had virtually no issues with my MK6 and I'm nearing 200K miles. Tough choice!
@@ytsux9259 I meant you can't find an Si for less than $37k. Honda dealers are the worst and markup their cars so that all the value you wanted from buying a Honda is basically gone. You can get a lot more car for $37k.
Great review! In Canada the price of GTI and Civic Si is almost the same - start at about $37K. I'm not sure why they are getting $10K price difference in the video...
They are being very subjective here! They are comparing the price of a fully loaded gti to a base civic si 🙄 😒. The base price of a gti is actually only about 30 grands
Previous generations of GTI did people dirty on the base trim by excluding LSD. However, the MK8 GTI has LSD on the base S trim. And guess what, it has buttons. The base S DSG is the best bang in the industry.
I bought the mk8 GTI, it was 31k for the S trim. The price comparison you guys give is “as driven” but not as available. I do like the civic as well. However for my money the GTI is leaps and bounds better.
@@H8HotWeather No it won’t, for 2 reasons. That’s because the new gen 4 ea888 engine has an entirely new design for that component. Also, I have a 4 year warranty and in 4 years I will buy something new.
@@H8HotWeather It's a new car with a warranty so things like that aren't really that relevant in this instance. When these cars are used then reliability swings in favour of the Honda but reliability isn't really a massive concern on a brand new car.
@@joespittle1 reliability is always relevant, not always the single most important feature, but always relevant. I don't know anyone that likes spending time taking their new car in to be fixed and waiting to get it back, even if it's covered under warranty, and even if you're going to trade it in before the warranty expires. Even if you get luck and get a trouble free example, you're going to pay for the inferior reliability in the hit you take at trade in.
