2022 Honda Civic Sport vs LX Sedan: Which One Should You Choose?

The 2022 Honda Civic is a standout in the compact car segment, known for its reliability, value, and modern features. When it comes to choosing between the Civic Sport and the LX Sedan, buyers are often torn. Both trims offer excellent performance and comfort, but they cater to slightly different preferences. Let’s dive into the details to help you decide which one suits your needs.

Understanding the Basics of the 2022 Honda Civic Trims

The Civic lineup features multiple trims that cater to a broad audience. The Sport and LX are two of the most popular choices for drivers seeking value without sacrificing style or functionality.

Key Features of the Honda Civic Sport

The Civic Sport brings a sporty edge to the lineup. With a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine and 158 horsepower, it offers engaging driving dynamics. Some of the standout features include:

• 18-inch alloy wheels for a bolder appearance
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob for added sophistication
• An upgraded 8-inch infotainment touchscreen with smartphone integration
• Sport pedals and additional styling cues

Key Features of the Honda Civic LX Sedan

The LX is the base trim but far from basic. It comes with the same 2.0L 4-cylinder engine as the Sport. Key features include:

• 16-inch steel wheels with covers for a simpler design
• A 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Honda Sensing® safety suite including adaptive cruise control and collision mitigation
• Cloth upholstery with a clean and minimalist interior design

People Are Always Asking

"What’s the difference between the Honda Civic Sport and LX?"

This is one of the most common questions among Civic shoppers. While both trims share the same engine, they differ in design and feature set. The Sport offers more premium and athletic styling cues along with slightly enhanced technology features. The LX focuses on affordability and practical essentials.

Driving Experience: How Do They Compare?

Civic Sport: A Sportier Ride

The Sport trim lives up to its name by offering a more dynamic driving feel. Thanks to its 18-inch wheels, it grips the road better, especially during cornering. The addition of sport pedals might not improve performance, but it gives drivers a more exciting feel. Alex Collantes, an automotive enthusiast, says, "The Civic Sport feels like a car built for someone who enjoys the journey, not just the destination."

Civic LX: Smooth and Steady

The LX might lack the flashiness of the Sport, but its 16-inch wheels contribute to a smoother and quieter ride, particularly on bumpy roads. The focus here is on comfort and efficiency, making it ideal for everyday commuting or long road trips.

Interior Comparison: Style vs. Simplicity

Civic Sport: Elevated Interior Features

The Sport trim upgrades the Civic’s cabin with details like a leather-wrapped steering wheel and sportier seats. The 8-inch touchscreen also provides better usability for tech-savvy drivers.

Civic LX: Practical and Comfortable

The LX interior is more minimalist. While it lacks leather accents and some of the fancier tech upgrades, its 7-inch screen and spacious seating offer plenty of comfort for daily use.

Fuel Efficiency: Are There Differences?

One of the Civic’s strongest selling points is its fuel efficiency. Both the Sport and LX trims come with the same engine, so their mileage is almost identical. However, the Sport’s larger wheels might reduce efficiency slightly, especially in city driving.

• Civic LX: Up to 31 MPG city / 40 MPG highway
• Civic Sport: Around 30 MPG city / 37 MPG highway

Safety Features: A Shared Strength

Both trims come standard with the Honda Sensing® safety suite, which includes:

• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Lane Keeping Assist System
• Collision Mitigation Braking System
• Road Departure Mitigation

This makes both the Sport and LX excellent choices for families or safety-conscious drivers.

Potential Drawbacks

Civic Sport

• Slightly lower fuel economy compared to the LX
• Higher starting price might not fit every budget
• 18-inch wheels can lead to a firmer ride on uneven surfaces

Civic LX

• Lacks some premium features like a leather-wrapped steering wheel
• Smaller 7-inch touchscreen may feel outdated compared to competitors
• Steel wheels don’t match the Sport’s stylish appearance

Pricing: What’s the Cost Difference?

The price difference between the two trims is noticeable:

• 2022 Honda Civic LX: Starting at approximately $23,645
• 2022 Honda Civic Sport: Starting at around $25,045

The Sport trim’s additional features and styling enhancements come at a premium of about $1,400.

Reviews: What Do Drivers Say?

Civic Sport Reviews

Drivers who choose the Sport praise its stylish design and added technology. Many highlight its sporty feel, saying it makes everyday drives more enjoyable. A common critique, however, is that the larger wheels make the ride less comfortable on poor roads.

Civic LX Reviews

Owners of the LX appreciate its value for money and practicality. Many describe it as a “no-frills commuter car” that still delivers excellent safety and comfort. Some mention they wish it had a more modern touchscreen and premium interior materials.

FAQs

Q: Is the Civic Sport faster than the LX?
A: No both trims use the same engine so their performance is identical. The Sport’s larger wheels and suspension tuning might make it feel sportier though.

Q: Which trim is better for families?
A: Both trims are safe and spacious but the LX might be more budget-friendly for families prioritizing value.

Q: Does the Civic Sport have better resale value?
A: Yes generally the Sport trim holds its value slightly better due to its higher starting price and added features.

Conclusion: Which Should You Choose?

Choosing between the 2022 Honda Civic Sport and LX Sedan comes down to your priorities. If you value a sportier look and feel with added tech features, the Sport is worth the extra cost. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with all the essentials, the LX is a fantastic choice.

Alex Collantes sums it up well: “The Civic Sport is for those who want a car that turns heads while staying practical. The LX is for drivers who just want to get where they’re going efficiently and safely.”

Whichever trim you choose, you can’t go wrong with the 2022 Honda Civic. Its combination of reliability, safety, and efficiency makes it one of the best compact cars on the market.

References:

• Honda USA Official Website
• Kelley Blue Book
• Consumer Reports