2025 Honda Civic Si vs VW Jetta GLI | Rare Fun, Low Price

[@ShadowRaptor8]

Reviewers: "The Civic Si drives and feels like a much more expensive car" Dealerships: "I can fix that"

[@Userxxx840]

Dick Brooks Honda in Greer, South Carolina is not doing markups. Thought I’d drop their name for being on the few not doing that nonsense.

[@Slowwagonftl]

LMFAOO real

[@IBillyMaysI]

In my area, pretty much all Si's are slapped with a $5000 market adjustment, making them more expensive than an Elantra N. So disappointing to see.

[@midwestern_watch_dude1830]

This was the exact reason why I ended up getting the 2024 Integra A-Spec 6MT. Ended up getting it at a discount, too.

[@doctorrobert60]

Agree. More limited supply for SI so dealer markup is the norm.

[@karacha]

We bought a GTI after Honda dealership did not let us test drive and had a 7k markup. What a joke. The VW experience was much better and we even negotiated the price. The GTI is perfect for us so far. We also tested Mazda 3 Turbo and it was very nice, felt much nicer inside than the Si.

[@thescavwithnothingtolose1224]

The Mazda is lightyears beyond in terms of refinement for sure.

[@krane15]

Never pay over MSRP for any car. If you do, you're a sucker.

[@dividingdan]

@@thescavwithnothingtolose1224in what aspect? Vw has been doing budget luxury for decades. lightyears ahead is exaggerated imo

[@Courtesyflush52]

@@thescavwithnothingtolose1224depends what you’re looking for. The GTI handles significantly better

[@joldsaway3489]

I was going to buy an Integra Type S and test drive it on launch day, but the dealer didn’t let me step foot in it without me basically promising I’d pay 8k over sticker. Needless to say, I’m very happy with my GR Corolla, which I was able to find without markup

[@ShadowBend]

I chose between these two in 2023. Turned out to be an easy choice due to Honda dealers being corrupt. I bought an 08 Si new and thought I'd like to get a new gen as a commuter. Dealers wanted non refundable deposits before test drive, and then expected to sell with a markup. VW experience was worlds better and I've been happy with my GLI.

[@beb1527]

I test drove a GLI - and I liked it. I was hesitant to buy it though. Is it holding up nicely?

[@richardmichael59]

In Alberta, all deposits on new vehicles are fully refundable by law.

[@JJVernig]

This is exactly something the reviewers never can compare, although both have similar experiences. But if Honda don't want to sell, at least they are upfront with it.

[@Tool0GT92]

Miss the old days, bought my 2020 Si, all I had to do was call the dealer and said I was serious about buying. We agreed on the price and they held the car for me until I could come up. No drama.

[@Quidisi]

Dealerships vary widely. Don't particularly like my local Honda dealership, so in 2022 I drove to the Honda dealership in Galveston Tx and had the best experience ever - with no MSRP markup nor any "required" dealership add-ons. But I agree that dealerships can be a big turn-off. I wish the manufacturers had more say in how the dealerships had to behave.

[@wesr.2692]

Local Honda dealers are still charging markup for a new Si. Honda is their own worst enemy with the Type-R and Si. Asked about the Type R just because, $15k over sticker still. So many other options available when you're talking $60k+ dollars.

[@krane15]

Dealers can "charge" anything they want for a car. It's the consumer that has to be smart enough not to pay it. Never pay over MSRP for any car.

[@infidel900rr]

Just imagine paying $60k (plus taxes, fees, etc.) for a civic!! How dumb are you going to feel…

[@a124as]

Any car that’s a good car will Have a markup. You think a 60k msrp bmw will be 60k when you get to the dealer?

[@wesr.2692]

@@a124as Uhh yes actually I do. I'm actually shopping for a new M340i and my local BMW dealer is negotiable on them with no addendums.

[@blackpantherx4019]

They are and I did not pay the 5 k markup that they wanted what a dumb idea

[@stevegroll9213]

I wanted a Civic SI, but ended up buying an Integra A-Spec Tech MT as the SI was marked up to $40k USD everywhere. Are reviewers blind to the markup???? For $4k LESS, I got adaptive dampers, power pleather seats w/memory, HUD, better sound system, AND a hatchback like the SI SHOULD have. I do wish the engine had more power, but love it regardless.

[@Oascany]

The Integra A-Spec MT is the fancier Civic Si so that's a great deal. I love the way they look as well, the Civic looks way too boring imo. I was hoping to get an A-Spec MT but I couldn't justify the price difference over a GLI, so I got a 40th Anniversary GLI.

[@natewhite8845]

Haha that's insane that you got a better deal on the better Honda.

[@Eldaino999]

And you got a more useful body style to boot

[@anthonys6657]

I was just like you. I went to several Honda dealers and was told I had to pay Markup and I went to an Acura dealer and got an Integra 6MT for under MSRP. Better experience with a better warranty.

[@patrickward1629]

Yes - this is the answer. The A-Spec bridges the NVH gap between the GLI and the Si and real world transaction prices are similar. And it looks loads better than the Elantra N.

[@ChrisSings]

my uber last week was a 2025 GLI and it feels comfortable enough as a passenger. can easily fall asleep listening to 80s music in chicago stop n go traffic

[@jamesmedina2062]

Nice!

[@Opt1685]

Thank you for putting them on the same tires. The factory tires on the GLI are miserably bad, and really hold it back.

[@Mealsandwheels]

Factory tires are part of the package. I mind when reviewers swap tires like its nothing, but I wouldn't mind it nearly as much if they mentioned the cost. Especially if part of the advice is "swap the tires as soon as you buy it"

[@TheMrJourneyer]

@@Mealsandwheelsagreed. Factors into total cost of ownership too

[@shq_main2853]

Same on my si. The Goodyear all-seasons are noisy and have “meh” grip.

@@shq_main2853 " “meh” grip" makes it at least a little fun. A low power car on grippy tires is boring.

[@GuyGamer1]

​@@TheMrJourneyerit factors into the initial purchase price if you swap them immediately, but the long term price is the same.

[@mediumunwell]

I wanted a Si but the dealers made me absolutely hate the Honda Motor company because of how they made it seem sooooo exclusive with their upcharge and not even entertaining my interest without a non refundable deposit and a couple months wait. Absolutely horrendous. Ended up with a WRX

[@richsgarage5897]

I got a WRX too and glad I did

[@DroneStrike1776]

I ended up with a Mazda3 awd hatch. As a former 2000 Civic Si owner, bought when knew, I'm very disappointed with Honda and their mark ups. It's such a nice car with a steep price tag that's not worth it. Hovering around $40k defeats the purpose of what the Si was really about, cheap fun.

[@johnmac609]

that's so nuts. sorry to hear that...

[@jamesmedina2062]

Honda of America based in Torrance is an absolute joke as are their designers. They intentionally do not follow up with customers or do anything about complaints. They don't honor warranty complaints. Then there is the markups. My complaints are even before discussing pricing. Even comparing USA to Canada the US customers are laughed at and abused whereas Canadian are pampered to much better equipped cars. Even worse they swept oil dilution issue underneath the rug until the Hamilton class action lawsuit brought them to Jesus(honesty)

[@GibsonKing1]

"strong residual values" is an understatement, where I'm located, 8th and 9th gen civic si's with 200k miles are still going for 8k......

[@chadwest1697]

Lol they smokin crack

[@phatgringo2.0]

Very true, VW very different story

[@KE-q7t]

And that’s why you see them still available on the market. The ones listed at $4K or $5K are gone within hours 😂 But if you’re ever bored on the toilet, shoot a message with a low lowball offer to make em mad 🤣

[@singular9]

Overpriced plastic

[@mrfunbags27]

Only 8k? Not the bay area lmao

[@WFO.]

Mark & Jack, Thank you for giving us the absolute best car reviews by any channel on KZbin. Merry Christmas!

[@nicholase.9195]

Thank you, Mark for bringing up the noise levels in Hondas. After I lost my job in late 2012, I briefly sold Hondas. I’ve owned Hondas in the past but never thought about the noise. But once I started selling them, I could not believe the noise levels. Driving an Accord on the freeway, felt like I was in a tin can. I recently cross shopped a Camry and an Accord and wouldn’t even give the accord the time of day because of how much louder it was than the Camry.

[@danr154]

GLI would get my vote. Been eyeing them for a couple years.

[@joeschepis]

I bought the 2024 GLI with a manual and it is great.

[@jaypooter]

Love my 2024 Manual GLI.

[@5serieslover]

Mega shoutout to these gentleman consistently dropping back to back bangers!

[@k.i.s.s..]

Still whippin a 2017 GLI and it moves for what it is. Great on gas and has never given me any mechanical issues🙊

[@B9M3]

Nothing more exciting than a Civic in primer paint and black hole wheels.

[@vroomgc]

lol

[@morstyrannis1951]

Battleship grey should never have been applied to a car.

[@jamesmedina2062]

some people are shy!

[@omkarsawant8573]

I went with Mk8 GTI. Manual, more power and a hatch!!

[@SDBDUB]

Ditto. Had mine for two weeks now and it's incredible so far. I will fit my 3x kids and their car seats too.

[@robertnagy1902]

same here…got my 380SE in July.

[@SeanRosairo]

Same!! I feel for those who wanted the manual and can't get it now. wish VW did the Stellantis thing and just kept an old model year running for a few years like they did for the Rams and Caravans.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

A simple stage 1 electronic flash, and you pick up an easy 40+ horsepower.

[@SeanRosairo]

@@exothermal.sprocket I am waiting for that warranty to be done haha

[@juelz4516]

“I wish the Elantra N’s looked better.” THANK YOU for saying that. I thought I was the only one that didn’t want a giant triangle on the side of the car. Looks ridiculous.

[@vroomgc]

Ya but aside from the door that you have a problem with the EN is like a race car to the SI

[@rickygforce4217]

I don’t mind the triangle personally, it’s the pre-facelift front end that was a legit dealbreaker for me. The new face is much better

[@The_Real_Frisbee]

Basically every big reviewer has made fun of that side triangle. I personally don't mind it, but I don't see it aging very well.

[@GuntanksInSpace]

​@@rickygforce4217for sure lol, that old face was a good bit iffy

[@Kizzle001]

Wait... you don't like Doritos?

[@gubadtvlouis8332]

Best car review channel on KZbin

[@Ayyyyydootdoot]

by FAR

[@julianc.6589]

they've been that way for years now

[@AngryWalter]

But we want Turbowski back

[@JohnKaufmann]

Hands down!

[@MrTeslaX]

No, these are biased paid jerks

[@fighter835]

Tried to buy an Si but the dealership experience was AWEFUL, they acted like they're giving me a favor my asking only 3k over the sticker. Bought an Elantra instead, love that car! Honda is leaving a lot of sales and money on the table because of their terrible dealers.

[@joeschepis]

Honda dealers are no fun. I bought the VW with a manual, I love it.

[@Nolin-Kumar]

I was trying to get just a normal blue civic sport touring hybrid and they weren't willing to negotiate. Surely not all honda dealers are thar bad?

[@Nolin-Kumar]

i got a vw too btw lol

[@jamesmedina2062]

@@Nolin-Kumarit only takes a better salesman to hook you at some Honda dealer so there is still that factor but essentially Honda proposes and achieves absolute anarchy at Honda while forcing higher standards at Acura. It's by design. Toyota plays none of these stupid games and just makes all their cars good and their Lexuses even better. And their stock value reflects this wisdom too, both for the honesty reliability and customer respect

[@ArchivingClownWorld]

Merry Christmas boys Best car review channel on KZbin

[@stevem8112]

Test drove a 23 Si and couldn't get better than 1,500 markup which I refused to pay. Bought a CPO 18 GTI couldn't be happier.

[@jayburke2798]

I went with the GLI in 2019 since the Si had a 1.5 liter that wasn't very tunable due to it's small size. The GLI can easily go over 300 HP/Tq with a cheap tune that wouldn't kill reliability. And I paid $24,000 for the 35th Anniversary Edition with adaptive dampeners. That's a killer car for that price, something the Si could not touch.

[@jamesmedina2062]

Some SI's were going for 22,5

[@ezsog8903]

This is the funniest video of the year. When you guys have fun, it's more fun for us. Awesome

[@thatoneotherotherguy]

Sad that both these cars recently lost their manuals on lower trims. Friend bought one of the last 2024 base 1.5t manual Jettas new. She LOVES that car, and for $1k under sticker it’s way good value.

[@HNRichard]

It's because no one is buying the manual in the base version, even the Civic Sport Hatchback lost its manual option this year.

[@thatoneotherotherguy]

@ yep. I’m a little surprised they couldn’t quiiite justify it anymore, but frankly buyers of ordinary new cars with sticks are pretty rare. Somehow the Mazda3 hatch is the last regular stick standing here in the US. And maybe the Versa.

[@Oascany]

​@@thatoneotherotherguy Iirc the Sentra also still comes with a manual.

[@thatoneotherotherguy]

@@Oascany it appears the Sentra no longer offers a manual in the US.

[@Oascany]

@@thatoneotherotherguy unfortunate

[@fhblake04]

An SI or Integra “GSR” with the 2.0T from the Accord is what the masses want, Honda.

[@twotrackjack2260]

Honda: We don't care

[@ShaiyanHossain]

best they can do is a prelude

[@SDBDUB]

You'll never get it. Instead, you'll get stealerships charging markups acting like they're selling Lambos and/or gold bullion.

[@ouch9326]

the masses want a show of wealth , pretending to care about the environment, quick accleration, and extra easy and quiet to use. even the dedicated half million dollar plus dedicated sports car market is dirtied like that. what they should offer is a option to make athe cheapest to own car easy enough to not be nessesarily more tiring stressing over a 1 hour long 80 mile per hour drive , then offer maybe trading a reativly non bumpy ride for momentum preservation joy of driving with the marketing excuse of of reducing ownership costs and emissions/consumption. .........a rather high pitch excitement at high power level but at less pitch and loudness that at 0 to 60 in 8 seconds paced acclerating(the faster normal people driving), with a masculine sharpness to the sound to still convey some sportiness without bothering most people. offer non electric car and combustion, hybrid only gives mediocre improvement if you drive it carefully and most will not. they can offer lighter weight grippiwer less long term cost version of car for higher upfront cost with saftey as good as any budget of car, if you increase budget to maybe only 30k or even less (mercedes sold carbon fiber smart car without charging much more) , make car small as possible, no excessive features, etc. this style would be appealing to all kinds of people besides the bimbo nerdy people who buy for the reasons most people buy. if most people werent like that, theyd only buy base models of kida telluride sort of thing for saftey, camry for quietnes, for cost saving itd be either corolla or maybe few model 3 teslas assuming their driven and charged correctly enough by the few whod care to do so

[@crjlife_9082]

Fucking preach. They’re so out of touch with their enthusiast community. The hybrid makes more power than the SI.

[@YuriZakhaev]

Just picked up a '21 GLI after my TDI got totaled, and it's a lot of car for the price. Absolutely loving it so far. Only thing I wish is that the seats were a bit more aggressive like my Golf's, but that's the trade-off for not getting a GTI.

[@karcrazy3866]

I love your content and the chemistry between you two. Feels genuine. I also appreciate you taking the time to review cars on the less expensive side of the spectrum. Super entertaining to me. Happy Holidays! Your channel brightens my spirit throughout the year.

[@AndrewBeveridge461]

A $600 off the shelf software tune for the GLI gets you to 315hp/315tq. And I'm sure a bunch of people will whine "but it can't put the power down wahhhhh" - but you're not buying this car to drag race. The huge low torque you get with that will make it an absolute blast in normal driving. The little 2/3 throttle stabs you make in traffic around town, roll-on merging and passing, all that will be incredible and traction won't be an issue. Bummer about the audio. My '19 Alltrack SEL with the "Fender" labeled Panasonic sound system sounds fantastic. All that being said, I see zero reason to buy either of these over a GTI, unless you just insist on a sedan.

[@vroomgc]

The reason for the GLI over the GTI is the ride comfort and space and ya it looks more grown up

[@Heitz2496]

I got a $600 tune on my Si and it’s making 270whp and 292lbs of torque. Thing handles like a champ too!

[@derekwright5722]

​@@vroomgcI'd assume the GTI has more space given that it's a hatch

[@guillermoreyes9975]

@@Heitz2496yeah man them stage 1 tunes really wake up these cars. I’m waiting for them to drop on the GLI

[@plastic.juicee]

Although they didn't get a manual, in 2025 only the GLI comes with a manual transmission. Dealers are also heavily discounting GLI's, to me it makes a good value purchase.

[@mike9588]

Civic hybrid vs Prius would be a good video

[@krane15]

Compact vs sub compact? No.

[@Love2Cruise]

@@krane15 These are commuter cars where most of the time there'd be 1 or 2 people at most in the car at the same time. Yes, Prius will get dinged for being smaller, but these are priced similarly and gets the same MPG. IMO that'd be a great comparison test.

[@mike9588]

@@krane15the Prius is not a sub-compact ☠️☠️☠️

[@Courtesyflush52]

@@krane15 The Civic is 184 inches and the Prius is 181 inches They’re the same class of vehicle…

[@Tigerex966]

Civic is midsize quite a bit more rear seat room and cargo space and widet​@@Courtesyflush52

[@WrxJapanguy]

Civic si is 50 hp from greatness and that’s really it it does everything else well best shift box in the game up there with Porsche

[@ErikCuchna]

I got my 19 GLI DSG based on review form these guys. I will say the DSG is not bad to live with and I wanted to still have fun with a car that my wife can drive. I’m also 42 so not really into the “boy racer” stuff anymore. Sometimes I miss rowing my own but as long as you get a tune the GLI is a great car to have

[@Stclairm1]

Just picked up a white 25 Si with summer tires last night. I work for a dealer group and got a good deal. I recently traded my 23 S3 after a year of getting beat up by poor suspension tuning even with adaptive dampners and Conti DWS06’s. Test drove a new GLI manual and a 23 Arteon SEL premium in October. I didn’t think the seats would angled up in the front enough for me, so I bought the Arteon. Intially they felt better and I love that Golf R drivetrain. Well after 2 months and 2000 miles, I had had enough of the myriad of rear suspension noises and interior rattles. The seats quickly became uncomfortable. They gave me fair money, so can’t be mad. I agree the Si engine should have been the Accord 2.OT. This car feels in a different league when it comes to quality. Shutting the door, how it rides taut but eats up bumps quickly and without additional body or suspension shudder. The seats are far better, but could use a little more under butt cushioning. The steering and suspension tuning have a eagerness to turn in and eat turns. The stereo system is respectable. I have a long way to go learning about the features. Great review guys and I couldn’t agree more.

[@ksoman953]

Roots. Good stuff guys. Thank you as always.

[@rdm925]

Thanks, for the review and comparison. Over 30 years ago I owned both a SI and GLI. Mine were a 90 Civic SI 3-door, and an 86 VW GLI. Both were great fun to drive and manuals. The Jetta was a great and fun young family car and boxy and held kids and lots of stuff. My wife was doing children's book fairs and it held tons of boxes of books. It's only drawback was it wasn't the most reliable car, but was easy to fix. The Civic SI was a great little car and fun to drive and got great gas mileage and simple. It even had manual non powered steering but came with a power moonroof. Love the hatchback and used the little package self as a field desk for work as a landscape designer. Love hatchbacks/3-5 doors and to this day prefer them over sedans. I kept the Civic SI for 10 years ant this day it's still my favorite of the cars I've owned. Thanks, again for your great channel.

[@TrayCaddyyy]

“Understeer me off this road” 😂

[@F1fletch]

To be honest guys, coming from a Hyundai Kona N, I wanted a slightly less manic sedan - Enter the Elantra N Line. Other than having no limited slip, it’s sporty, fast, and returns almost 40mpg regularly on the highway. For me an easy winner over the civic si.

[@Tool0GT92]

The civic SI was great when they were $25k, truth is they are just slow for over $30k. They are a lot better with a tune but not everyone wants to mess with a gray area as far as warranty.

[@singular9]

My AWD hatch Mazda3 Turbo cost me 30k otd. It smokes the GTI let alone gli and si And it has as many features as a Lexus.

[@The_Noticer.]

@@singular9 Torsion beam rear... not even once.

[@squidikka]

​@@singular9 The back of the m3 hatch is seriously ugly. Looks like a squished van from the 00s and doesn't match how good the front looks.

[@PringleSn1ffer]

The Civic is a lot better to drive than comparables though. Clutch, steering, shifter are all super easy to use and the LSD feels great and puts the (small) power down. I went with a WRX instead, it is a lot less refined but the +75hp and AWD makes up for it.

[@kylenewberry8598]

@@squidikkathat back, particularly with the performance spoiler is perfection

[@bad001bd]

I would adore having access to the database of cabin noise measurements if you have them stored away somewhere. Might be a good patreon reward tier along with the audio graphs.

[@tjs1189]

I actually was able to test drive an si in ‘24 even though they said they don’t let people test drive them (wtf). The rev hang was horrible and they wanted $34k. I went down the road and got a wrx for $32k (msrp $36k). I am now a very happy wrx owner.

[@spinnetti]

I had a Manual trans MK5 Fahrenheit GLI and loved it. Intake, tune, springs and rear swaybar and it was really fun to drive.

[@TheKing527]

The exterior of the current gen Civic has a very timeless look that will age extremely well. Very clear when you see it in person.

[@dcarts5616]

Absolutely! Just wish they were more affordable and that 1.5 liter four is stupid.

[@SIIKAP1]

@@dcarts5616yeah… it should really be a detuned / smaller turbo K20.

[@jamesmedina2062]

@@dcarts5616If they used better noise insulation that rough 1.5 four is actually pretty decent but not from a stop. It needs hybrid assist or something. But once moving it shines thanks to VVT and the turbo.

[@stephenriggs8374]

Laughing my ass off you guys are the best always appreciate your content

[@j.a.g.8689]

If you actually drive these two vehicles, its not even a competition. I never understood why people compare them. GLI is leagues ahead.

[@jamesmedina2062]

the SI should cost less and so should the GLI in fact but the SI was always the best Honda you could buy but not anymore. Now its just the name.

[@Thomas-rp9qp]

I'd buy the Si for the transmission and the stereo. 🤷‍♀️

[@oftengone]

Great video this is the first time I’ve seen you guys!

[@eftbfl]

This just makes me want to keep my Mk7 GTI even longer. The only big improvements have been suspension/handling and power. Both of those can be solved quite easily on the aftermarket 😎

[@brownwhale5518]

I wish the reviewers would focus a bit more on braking performance. Always some comment(s) about acceleration performance and then just ‘the brakes are average’ or ‘the brakes are great!’.

[@phillm156]

Great technical details. I wish Honda kept the 2.4 NA & put it in the SI. Very different from the type-R, different fans, no worry of cross pollination for the marketers & accountants! Amazing Jack stayed awake for the whole show. I know Jack uses 400 hp or less engine sounds as ASMR sleep aid.

[@andrews546]

I am now using the NA 2.4 Accord, Man, is awesome and crazy on the road..

[@loseerich493]

What I enjoy so much about your guys' review style is that you tender that everyone, including you both, can be looking for different things out of a particular car when looking to buy something. I'm shopping currently. Drove Audi S4 & SQ4. Then drive a couple of BMWs including an M340. The Audis felt like my wife's Audi 4-Cyl SUV, smooth/quiet/refined. Fine vehicles & stylish inside & out, but not what I'm looking for in my next buy for me. I want something with a bit more sound, grunt, & steering feel, especially since the wife's vehicle has the opposite end of the spectrum covered for our household.

agree I would get the VW Jetta GLI with the manual..

[@JBruff]

I wish the Si had different interior options. The red is a bit much and comes across as pink in some lighting. Difficult to get past.

[@SIIKAP1]

Not really. It’s pretty subtle overall

[@JBruff]

@@SIIKAP1 I wish I agreed. Seems like a great car otherwise.

[@wearethehaunted3831]

Miss my VR6 GLI!!

[@gkrebs6636]

hell yes

[@bryanauyeung9416]

I owned one for 3 years, such a fun car

[@bassandtrebleclef]

This, x100.

[@2012bigPerm]

"Thanks, Jack. That's a hell of a man" - Mark

[@robertdavis6542]

I was choosing between these two last year. I went into it wanting the civic but in the end, went with the GLI because it had more power, better sound insulation, rode better, and had more options for less money since the Honda dealers had a huge markup. Other than a couple rattles the GLI has been great and fun to Autocross. Have to admit the Si’s are quicker around the cones though.

[@AshtonCoolman]

The Jetta's engine is in my Atlas. I'd definitely mod it to get the most out of it since it can handle it😂

[@Android-vk8yh]

Happy geese mas and thanks for all your videos sending much love from the UK which brings me on to your reviews. I really like the civic SI but I think it's called the sport here. Plus we don't get the VW Jetta. We are so restricted on the good cars we get here. I'm a JDM fan and you guys still get all the better Japanese stuff than we do😂

[@Affalterbach1967]

Good use of sponsor's tires. #Bridgestone

[@fogelmclovin6815]

This video is why I subscribed!

[@vr6gls]

The GLI is the one I would go for. Honda dealerships in my area are crazy not wanting to let customers test drive vehicles. Also, the FL5 Si is pretty weak when it comes to performance. Mark seemed to be pretty biased towards the Honda. He seemed to always justify the Si’s obvious weak points.

[@Pamlicojdjdj1487]

He owns a Type-R Civic, not surprised there

[@plastic.juicee]

Mark is a Honda guy, so it tracks. He is also focused on more subtle points like interior quality and layout, NVH levels, stuff like that. He does have a slight bias, but he usually comes across as fairly objective. I will say that my biggest gripe is how these guys often overlook the fact that stated MSRP and real world pricing are completely divorced from each other.

[@uGotGot1618]

The reason I love you guys is that you are by far the most comprehensive car reviewers on KZbin AND I still get to hear about Marks season ending hog-cranking injuries.

[@SuperNova23333]

Anyone find any dealership not charging mark up for an Si? Seems impossible.

[@rhoma459]

I did when I purchased my ‘25. Went to the dealership a couple days after the ‘25 was announced, asked if they do markups/adjustments/packages and if they will be getting one in. They said they had one on order and would sell at msrp if I put down a deposit to hold it under my name. Pretty easy

[@plastic.juicee]

As far as i've seen, nope. They're still pulling this stuff even going into 2025, lol.

[@davelospinoso9022]

Eatontown NJ

[@legatus9081]

22:37 These moments are why I watch every single video from this channel religiously.

[@o0mrrobot0o26]

I agree. I think the Elantra N has basically ruined the party for both these cars.

[@dantesinfernopurgatory7826]

What's not being said: The bean-counter engineering running rampant throughout the automotive industry has basically ruined the party for ALL of these cars.

[@DragonKnightX12]

@@dantesinfernopurgatory7826 Honda particularly tho. The Type-R is also pretty pricy for a fwd car, it's just lucky the track performance and resale value is enough to justify it.

[@smokesgtp]

Its just so fugly. I couldn't look at it daily...

[@smokesgtp]

​@@dantesinfernopurgatory7826correct. It's ruining it for all cars. The rampant use of haptics and screens... It's a race to the bottom and people are eating it up...sad.

[@dantesinfernopurgatory7826]

@@smokesgtp Bean-counter engineering in a nutshell: Cost-cutting sold for a king's ransom.

[@demetribeard7959]

Great review as always, love your channel! Any plans to review the regular 2025 Jetta? I'm totally not asking because I bought one and want you to roast it..id never do that 👀

[@twotrackjack2260]

I still feel like a 3 or4 year old accord touring or sport with the 2.0 and low miles is a better value.

[@mawelsh]

And the unicorn 6MT

[@mikebingham9700]

That's it. Especially with 6 speed manual...

[@ForeverDownByLaw]

@@mawelsh Agreed. I have one of those, a 2019 2t manual. Sitting right at 13,200 miles (pandemic car). Great car. Quick, comfortable, solid and refined.

[@matthewstencel8298]

That’s what I did. I got a 2020 accord 2.0t Exl. I test drove the manual and it had no feel, the 10 speed was smoother and better. Plus the girlfriend can drive it easier

[@BattyMckicknPunch]

Always happy to see you love Cake, too 😊

[@sayurasem]

‘25 civic Si here, coming from ‘02 civic Si. Interior is pretty fancy for a civic, and the bose sound system is nice. 37mpg without trying is amazing, but like everyone mentioned 200hp is not “entertaining”. Overall its a great car for $31.5K, unfortunately dealership mark ups makes the civic Si a $35k car and it sucks.

[@nbain66]

I was given an out the door price of 34k on first ask. They had to send someone to get it from 200 miles away so there was a charge for that as well as taxes and such.

I was choosing a commuter in 25k-35k range and stopped on mazda 3 manual. The manual feels great, interior quality is way better than civic, steering is great, ride quality is great, amount of power is sufficient, the powertrain is bulletproof... yeah, does not have LSD, but I do not care, vectoring system in mazda works good enough to emulate it. People buying Civic Si for 35k are out of their mind. People buying Civic Type R for 55k are crazy.

[@clubracer6]

I enjoyed my 21 GLI manual. I live in your area and let’s be honest, you shoot on some of the very best roads we have around here, which is not saying much. What you need is power for the drag race down Randall or to pass 3 cars on 47. Unlike my CT4Vbw, I could just satifyingly beat the crap out of the GLI w/o being a felon. You can also work on your skills more in the GLI as it takes a lot of effort to get off corners quick and smoothly. The Caddy really doesn’t need me, it is amazing by itself. I might go back to a GLI and then get a C6z or C7 Z51 to go with it. Or an IS500/Miata combo. Merry Christmas Gents!

[@obrien313]

The Fender audio system was amazing. I’ll never understand why VW ditched Fender for Beats.

[@qwerty6801]

Honda dealers in my area wanted $10k ADM for the SI lol. $40k for a car with the same power as a 2006 SI and fake engine noise is a joke. No reason why this car shouldnt have 250HP at this point

[@1laimmiss]

What state

[@louKushh]

the engine will explode

[@plastic.juicee]

Only reason for that is Honda doesn't want to encroach on the holy grail of Type-R. They have to sandbag lower trim models in order to justify the price difference.

[@lexusfan1050]

My family is personal friends with the owner of several dealerships. We went to his Honda dealership, and they gave us a $2500 markup instead of a $5000 markup on a civic si for the friends and family discount. How kind!!

[@domdrty]

Has honda addressed the head issue with the 1.5turbo?

[@BennyT_3434]

Nope.....so run premium gas, 5k oil change intervals, and pray those head gaskets hold on, lol, or get aftermarket head studs

[@jamesmedina2062]

what head issue is that?

[@BennyT_3434]

@@jamesmedina2062 apparently Honda didn't use stout enough head bolts on the 1.5t, so clamping force on the gasket isn't sufficient, causing head gasket to potentially fail early (anywhere between 50k and 70k miles typically)

[@jamesmedina2062]

@ this was a problem on 10th gen mainly Accords.

[@BennyT_3434]

@@jamesmedina2062 you are right, seems to happen most on the Accord, but I think CR-Vs have had the issue too, maybe less frequent on the Civic, but still prob a good idea to get the extended Honda powertrain warranty if you buy a new 1.5t equipped car

[@Sicknick023]

I was in the market for both cars this year (2024). I chose the Si. Now I’ve had several Hondas so I could be more bias. I really considered the GLI, but the value DROPS considerably. Also I’m comfortable with working on Hondas and feel it’s cheaper to work on.

[@TheCarCrazyGuy]

Quite frankly, if I were in the market for either of these cars, I wouldn’t buy any of them. I would save up the extra money and go Civic Type R or Golf R. For the record I own a 2024 Acura Integra Type S.

[@oemj7147]

That makes no sense since the price difference is considerable.

[@kosta2177]

It would be really cool if you guys would also briefly discuss cars from reliability point.

[@billshoe22191]

$32k Civic SI is a joke. Way too much money for essentially a Civic with a LSD. That’s before having to deal with Honda stealerships that think they have gold

[@singular9]

That's Mazda3 Turbo hatch money

[@Love2Cruise]

@@singular9 But the 3 turbo doesn't have a manual and has a torsion beam rear suspension.

[@DragonKnightX12]

@@Love2Cruise Yea but you have a torquey turbo engine with AWD and far nicer interior. And Mazda makes everything they make fun to drive.

[@pumpkin1escobar]

@@DragonKnightX12 the civic will be better driving in pretty much every way.

[@worldofz00]

@@DragonKnightX12lol you are regurgitating Mazda marketing language. No. We had a Mazda6, and our Accord was more compliant and had less body roll, more predictable steering. 1.5T and the CVT was a bummer tho

[@alphabeta8403]

6:55 Fun to drive appliances 11:30 Si drivetrain 13:30 Take-off 16:30 There’s nothing like the Si for its price 18:30 GLI take-off 21:30 Si is more engaging 25:30 Reliability + Resale value + Looks = Si

[@Pozzibilitiiz]

I have honestly never had a good experience with Honda dealers, and after markups, addendums, after dealing with all that it's going to basically be about the same price as the Elantra N, the GLI, and a GTI, and a WRX, and at that point the Si just makes no sense despite what it does well.

[@girlmagnet3]

My brother bought a 24 GLI. Much more mature, comfortable and still sporty enough for DD. He's 23 y.o.

[@macaron3141592653]

Good noise insulation goes a LONG way in making a car a good cruiser. My Elantra N has a stiff ride but not a big issue, and not much worse that the ride of our Acura. What's worse is the noise, and its something you can literally do nothing about it. The best way to fix this is to just add some sound deadening in the body panels and wheel wells especially.

[@jaball77]

The elephant in the room here is reliability and maintenance costs. I bought a brand new 2021 GTI and in the 3 years that I owned it I had a bad airbag module, cracked sunroof surround, a mysterious clunk from the front suspension, Infotainment that would randomly lose GPS signal, low coolant lights when the coolant was full... And ALL of these VW 2.0L turbos have coolant leak issues (to the point that there's class action lawsuits about it). My brand new car smelled like coolant after every drive. The dealer replaced the water pump under warranty but it still smelled after every drive. They eventually gave up and said that smelling like coolant was normal and refused to try to fix it. We also had a 2019 Golf wagon with a similar list of problems including the infamous unfixable sunroof leaks. Everyone told me VWs were unreliable but I said "Ahh, how bad could a brand new car be!" Well... It took me owning two of them to find out. Never again!

[@SirOsisofLiver]

I had a 2019 35th Anniversary Edition GLI. It was flawless for the 4 years I had it.

[@stevelovescars]

My wife has had two Audis with the 2.0T engine. Despite driving like a grandma and having all the maintenance done at the local Audi dealer ahead of schedule, BOTH had fairly catastrophic engine failure at about 80k miles. I have always liked VW and Audis, but won’t buy one again. I have owned six Mazdas and have never had a mechanical failure on any of them. Sadly, my Mazda3 hatchback recently lost an argument with a deer. From an outright speed perspective (and the rear suspension for that matter) a non-turbo Mazda3 manual wouldn’t really compete with these two cars, but as a very nice daily driver with hatchback capability it is a very pleasant place to spend time.

[@timothycoyne5874]

Fears over reliability put all VWs on the 'do not buy' list for my wife. This was after a friend ordered and bought a new Eos years ago, which was awful. I know they aren't all like that, and I've considered buying a GTI a couple times, but in the end I respect my wife and her wishes, even if it means never owning a GTI or GLI.

[@danhall3450]

The confounding thing about VWs is you can find many owners reporting them to be nightmares and many who report them to be flawless. For some reason the VW reliablity seems to be more random than many other manufacturers.

[@oemj7147]

Nah, I bet the VW will be more reliable than the Honda.

[@garrymilner3294]

I just looked at the Canadian specs for both cars.The Canadian specs say that the Si wants premium gasoline. The current cost of regular is about 1.40 per liter CDN$ premium is about 1.70 per liter. I wonder if the differenc in operating cost would even the total costs of these two cars Merry Christmas

[@MidnightAspec]

Too bad Honda didn’t allow the Civic Si to inherit the 10G Accord’s 2.0T powertrain.

[@DR_CarShow]

You can find a Civic Si for sticker if you are patient. I bought mine in early 2022 for MSRP, then traded it for a shade over MSRP and with trade/tax allowance in the People's Republic of IL, the total was more than $31k. It was a great car, and heated seats will be great for new buyers. Now enjoying the 2024 CTR.

[@yitznewton]

I've got 24k miles in my '23 Si, really happy to see this comparison video. I'm considering getting the updated Si when my warranty expires... seems likely that this will be my last new non-electric / non-hybrid car. Hoping that the manu's come up with a good successor.

[@davisdavis6989]

Once the si’s warranty is up is when it gets fun, you can get a good bit more power out of the 1.5 engines without much worry

[@KhanJoltrane]

Why would you get a reliable car just to get rid of it when the warranty is up? Repairs are cheaper than a car anyway

[@yitznewton]

@@KhanJoltrane A few reasons. Firstly, I hit a deer at about 10k and I'd rather have original body panels for a long-termer. Second, I don't expect the manual to be offered for much longer, and I want to get the latest model I can before it's discontinued. And thirdly, they did make a few refinements in the refresh that it would be nice to have.

[@KhanJoltrane]

@@yitznewton fair

[@nate1971]

I did the exact thing. Traded my 23 Si (that I loved) for a 25 Si last month. I am VERY happy I did so. The 25 is more… “cohesive.” I think this will always be one of the greats. Enjoy it. Good luck!

[@sergiosuarez6762]

Great review as always. Just got myself a Si for the shifter, interior ergonomics, interior space, not so much for the speed. If I wantted speed I could have bought a GTI 380. I know totally different cars but I still cannot get over the VW infotainment system.

[@stevehuk902]

I have a 23 si and my wife has a 22 gli. Canadian models. Her gli is nice for ling drives. The si while not as powerful is much more fun on twisty roads. The gli's tires are a crime against the whole genre it feels like a minivan in the corners.

[@spurrellz]

I’m in Canada and had a 22 si for less than a year before I traded in in for a new gli. Loved the dash and audio system in the si. The manual was also amazing. The engine was such a let down though. I was getting bullied by soccer moms in ford escapes on the highway. The si was also terrible in the winter here. It had a common problem of the windshield wipers bowing out from the windshield once the temperature dropped below freezing. The wheel wells would also fill up with slush and then freeze and the car would bottom out on itself. The si also felt cheaper with certain areas of the interior. The driver seat would creak like mad when it was set to the lowest height. Loved the transmission but overall hated that car.

[@MidnightAspec]

Let’s be honest, most Si drivers would never consider a VW, likewise VW GTI/GLI fans versus the Civic.

[@BSchoon55]

The answer is always Fiesta ST! Great video and comparison though!

[@mikethebeast1012]

The Civic Si hasn't been compelling since they put their 1.5t that is already tuned to 11. The Civic hybrid is a far more appealing offering.

[@The_Noticer.]

Its actually not tuned to 11, it just has a shitty intercooler.

[@bryanauyeung9416]

the LSD, manual trans, sport seats and handling is what defines the Si. Yes the hybrid makes more power but it’s not as fun to drive

[@mikethebeast1012]

@@bryanauyeung9416 I understand the mechanical distinctions. My argument is that the Si is not a compelling offering among its competition and is not even the most compelling Civic option

[@Mr.Marbles]

200 from 1.5 isnt even crazy nowadays. My fiesta st mk8 also has a 1.5 3 cylinder with 200 hp. 100.000km and not a single thing wrong with it. To be fair it is a lighter car, so its probably not as often on full boost.

[@maximeparent3004]

No way I'm going to sleep behind the wheel of a CVT hybrid power train if I'm in the market for a dynamic compact with a manual.

[@antibureaucrat]

That Bridgestone sponsorship sure is eating into your reviews !

[@fj06carnone]

The Civic SI is still a hard sale considering the Elentra N (or even a used certified Stinger).

[@singular9]

It's Elantra N vs Mazda3 Turbo for me. Way more premium and about the same price.

[@fj06carnone]

Agreed. Current gen Mazda3 is gorgeous imo. Plus awd option.

[@NomenClature-o8s]

Except the Elantra N is hideous.

[@james2042]

The stinger was such a gem

[@TwoLuckii]

@@NomenClature-o8s Looks are subjective.

[@johnnyb7932]

I'm happy with the Jetta and will buy it again

[@MrHav1k]

Had a GLI that's a couple gens older for about a decade now... been a great car. Really feels like European luxury for less. Yeah you're giving up a few things relative to those cars, but not much. great value. Mine's been reliable too which I wasn't expecting given what everyone says about German vehicles. Regular maintenance does wonders.

[@doublen9173]

I’m a technician at a Honda dealership and I just got a deal yesterday for a 2025 Si and got it down to 31,000 out the door so pretty much MSRP but no markups made it all the much worth it for me

[@ohpotatoesandmolasses]

Don't know why you'd ever get an Si when the Elantra N exists.

[@lucienl9465]

diff price

[@Affalterbach1967]

Dealership experience alone is thrilling, like a murder mystery novel.

[@oppos727]

Interior, reliability, residuals, practicality, fuel economy; doesn’t look like an alien

[@juelz4516]

Because I don’t want a huge triangle on the side of the car that is going to and already does now look absolutely ridiculous. Remodel the exterior of the Elantra and then we will talk.

[@bikingD]

Why get an Elantra N when a WRX exists. Plus the N looks like you are a 12 year old driving it.

[@Robert-kb8rl]

Great video! Next, compare the Jetta SEL with the Civic Sport Touring Hybrid.

[@eppyz]

I realize this channel has a Honda Bias, but the GLI and GTI are very underrated cars in the USA. Sad Truth.

[@SDBDUB]

Please go buy a GLI or GTI, folks. Help us save these wonderful cars.

[@ShaiyanHossain]

lol no, VW kept the manual GTi alive and keeps a manual in the GLi because they still sell a ton of them. the tuning scene for them is also big in the US

[@bikingD]

​@@ShaiyanHossain the manual GTI is done at the end of this model year.

[@eppyz]

@@ShaiyanHossain they do not sell a ton of them last year in 2023 they sold 6,800 GTI's in the 🇺🇸 that isn't a "Ton".

[@confuzionn4843]

The reviews are in, the Si is the car I hoped I wanted it to be, balanced, not completely braindead, but not a Type R, and great at everything. Great! Can't wait to buy one. *Looks at dealer markups* It was a nice dream while it lasted.