The 2012 Civic EX uses a 1.8-liter inline-four gasoline engine with Honda’s i-VTEC system, delivering about 140 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque.
Engine specifications
Under the hood, the EX relies on a straightforward, reliable 1.8-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder. This engine is designed for everyday efficiency and smooth performance, rather than high-performance sport tuning.
- Displacement: 1.8 L (1819 cc)
- Configuration: inline-4
- Valvetrain: DOHC with i-VTEC
- Power: 140 hp (104 kW) at roughly 6,300–6,500 rpm
- Torque: 128 lb-ft (174 Nm) at roughly 4,000–4,400 rpm
- Fuel system: multi-point fuel injection
- Transmission options: 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic (availability varies by market)
In short, the EX’s engine is a conventional, efficient 1.8-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder that prioritizes reliability and everyday performance.
Context within the 2012 Civic lineup
Within the 2012 Civic family, the EX shares the 1.8-liter engine with most non-Si trims (such as DX and LX). The Civic Si is equipped with a different, more powerful 2.4-liter engine, while the Civic Hybrid uses a 1.5-liter inline-four paired with an electric motor as part of its hybrid system.
Other engines in the 2012 Civic lineup
The 2012 line also included the high-performance Si variant with a 2.4-liter i-VTEC engine producing significantly more horsepower, and the Hybrid model combining a smaller gasoline engine with electric motor assist. These powertrains illustrate Honda’s separation of economy, sport, and eco-focused options within the Civic family.
Summary
For a 2012 Honda Civic EX, expect a 1.8-liter inline-four with i-VTEC that delivers about 140 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission depending on the market. This engine emphasizes balanced performance and fuel efficiency suitable for everyday driving.
Is Civic EX a VTEC?
The EX trim (Canadian Si trim) came equipped with the 1.6-liter SOHC VTEC 16-valve D16Y8 4-cylinder engine.
Does a 2012 Honda Civic have a VTEC engine?
For 2012, all Civic Sedan and Civic Coupe models, plus the HF (High Fuel Economy) and Natural Gas (Compressed Natural Gas) sedans are powered by a Single Overhead Cam (SOHC) 1.8-liter inline 4-cylinder design with 16 valves, i-VTEC, and a dual-stage intake manifold.
What engine is in the 2012 Civic EX?
Another familiar element of the new Civic line lies under its sloping hood: the 1.8-liter SOHC 16-valve i-VTEC four, bolted to a five-speed automatic transmission. If you want a manual transmission—a five-speed—you have to go for one of the lesser trim levels (the EX was available with a manual last year).
What are common problems with the 2012 Civic EX?
Owner Reported Trouble Spots
- Climate System. AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.
- Paint/Trim.
- Exhaust.
- Suspension/Steering.
- Noises/Leaks.
- Engine Minor.
- Electrical Accessories.
- Brakes.