Chassis Code: FB6 (Sedan) / FG4 (Coupe)
The Dharma: "Displacement."
The 9th Generation Civic (2012–2015) had a rocky deployment. The 2012 launch version was criticized for cost-cutting (interior materials and sound deadening), leading to an unprecedented "Emergency Refresh" in 2013 where Honda frantically upgraded the suspension, steering, and interior quality.
Despite the corporate drama, the mechanicals were solid. This generation represents the "Big Block" era of the Civic Si lineage.
"The Rigid Update"
The chassis was an evolution of the Gen 8 but used more high-strength steel to increase rigidity while slightly reducing weight.
Suspension: MacPherson Strut (Front) / Multi-Link (Rear).
The 2014-2015 Tune: The later years received stiffer spring rates (+4% front, +3% rear) and a thicker rear sway bar (20mm), making the handling sharper than the soft 2012 launch.
Steering: Motion Adaptive Electric Power Steering (EPS). It could detect instability and automatically initiate steering inputs to correct the line, a step toward modern driver assists.
"The Replacement for Displacement"
Engine Code: K24Z7 Type: Inline-4 DOHC i-VTEC Displacement: 2354cc
Honda dropped the 2.0L engine and installed a massive 2.4L unit derived from the Acura TSX.
The Trade-Off: We lost the 8,000 RPM redline (now limited to 7,000 RPM).
The Gain: Torque. Massive torque.
Torque: 174 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm (up from 139 lb-ft).
Horsepower: 205 hp @ 7,000 rpm.
The VTEC Change: Unlike the Gen 8 (which had VTEC on both cams), the K24Z7 only had VTEC on the intake side. It wasn't about screaming at the top; it was about midrange punch. You didn't have to downshift to pass on the highway anymore.
"The Refinement"
The 6-Speed Manual returned, but with improved carbon-lined synchronizers to fix the "grind" issues of the previous generation.
LSD: The Helical Limited-Slip Differential remained standard, ensuring the extra torque actually reached the ground.
The i-MID: This generation introduced the Intelligent Multi-Information Display. It was the first time the Si gave you a "Power Monitor" screen showing engine output percentage in real-time—a feature appealing to the data-minded driver.
"The End of an Era"
History looks back kindly on the Gen 9 because it holds a specific title: The Last Naturally Aspirated Si.
Simplicity: No turbo lag. No intercooler heat soak. Just instant, linear throttle response.
Reliability: The K24 is bulletproof. It is common to see these engines hit 200,000 miles with zero issues beyond basic maintenance.
[POWERTRAIN]
Engine Code: K24Z7
Displacement: 2354 cc
Induction: PGM-FI + i-VTEC (Intake only)
VTEC Crossover: 5,000 rpm
Redline: 7,000 rpm
[CHASSIS_DYNAMICS]
Curb Weight: ~3,002 lbs
Differential: Helical LSD (Standard)
Brakes (Front): 11.8-inch Vented Disc
Brakes (Rear): 10.2-inch Solid Disc
[ROLLING_STOCK]
Wheels: 17-inch (2012-13) or 18-inch (2014-15) Alloy
Tires: 215/45R17 or 225/40R18
Bolt Pattern: 5 x 114.3