The 2022 Honda Civic EX and Touring trim such as in our test vehicle features a turbocharged 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 180 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque on regular fuel and rated at 31 / 38 / 34 mpg combined.
New for 2022 are a new high-efficiency turbocharger, redesigned turbocharger plumbing and a head featuring a revised 4-2 exhaust manifold integrated into the aluminum head. Also new for 2022 is the addition of the well known VTEC variable timing to the exhaust cam. In the sedan it comes mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
The aluminum engine block and structure as well as its internal rotating components are significantly upgraded for more strength, rigidity and reduction of noise, vibration and harshness over the previous generation.
Following the airflow, the intake charge starts at the front of the engine compartment at a snorkel which leads into a compact size air-filter box. From there it travels across the engine bay into the turbocharger clearly seen at the front of the engine.
From there it travels down below to an air-to-air intercooler mounted below the bumper. After cooling the intake charge comes back up to a throttle body and composite plastic intake manifold at the top rear of the engine.
With 16.5 psi of maximum boost the air is mixed in the combustion chambers with fuel via direct-injection. Most of the fuel system is hidden underneath the valve cover but the four spark plug coil packs are clearly seen and accessible at the top of the engine.
Exhaust exits at the turbocharger and is managed by an electronically controlled wastegate before exiting directly into the catalyst.
Doing your own maintenance as with most Honda vehicles is very much straight forward. Windshield washer fluid is at the passenger side fender well. The oil filler cap is found at the top passenger side of the engine and the oil level dipstick just ahead of it notable with the bright orange handle.
The white plastic coolant reservoir is found but not so clearly marked at the front passenger side of the engine compartment. Checking the brake fluid is done at the driver side firewall at the reservoir clearly seen and accessible. To the right of it is the 12-volt battery.
The main fuse panel is found at the driver side fender well just ahead of the battery, and to the side of it is the main engine ECU. Changing the air-filter is easily done at the front of the driver side engine bay by simply removing a few clips – no tools required.
