Powered by Honda’s so-called K-Series engine, the 2006 Honda Civic Si has a 2.0-liter, DOHC, i-VTEC motor under the hood that makes 197 horsepower at 7,800 rpm and 139 lb.-ft. of torque at 6,200 rpm. Redline is 8,000 rpm, and a warning light flashes in the gauge cluster when that limit is approaching. Meeting LEV2-LEV emissions in the U.S., this engine is estimated to deliver 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. Premium fuel is required.

For the first time in North America, Honda installs a six-speed manual transmission in the 2006 Civic Si. Power flows to the front wheels, where, in tight turns, a helical limited-slip differential transmits torque to the outside wheel to decrease the tendency for the inside wheel to spin and break traction. An automatic transmission is not available on the 2006 Honda Civic Si.

An electric drive-by-wire steering system, with improved response and more natural feel, guides the 2006 Honda Civic Si’s front wheels. Standard tires are P215/45R17 Michelin Pilot HX MXM4 all-season treads, with same-sized Michelin Pilot Exalto PE2 performance tires available as an option. With this optional tire, Honda says the Civic Si’s traction in the wet is equivalent to the standard rubber’s grip in the dry. Your Honda dealer can bolt on a set of six-spoke 18-inch rims and tires at extra cost.

Keeping the 2006 Honda Civic Si glued to the ground is a MacPherson strut front and double wishbone rear suspension, fortified by a 28mm front and 17mm rear stabilizer bar, boosted spring rates, and less compliant dampers for a roll stiffness improvement of 30 percent. A capable four-wheel, vented-front, solid-rear, antilock disc braking system brings the Civic Si to a stop – thanks in part to front discs that are more than an inch larger than last year.