5th Gen Honda Civic

Introduced in 1992 the redesigned Civic featured the usual increased dimensions as well as more aerodynamic styling. The wagon variant was now only available in the Japanese market where the previous generation wagon was carried over until 1995. The old HF model was brought back and renamed VX which was Honda's most fuel efficient model sold at the time. In North America the Si featured a SOHC VTEC valve train where as the VX featured VTEC-E and the Japanese Si featured a DOHC non-VTEC valve train D16A9. Continuing in the sporty tradition of the original Civic SiR, Honda sold several similarly equipped variants of the fifth generation car, still referred to as the Civic SiR, in Japan, Asia and Europe. The range of models encapsulated by the SiR nameplate grew to include the hatchback, sedan and CR-X Del Sol, all of which used a slightly evolved form of the Honda's 1.6 liter B16A DOHC VTEC engine, now yielding 160 horsepower (120 kW).

The most striking feature of the fifth-generation Civic was it futuristic aerodynamic form, with flexible interior space to suit the specific requirements of young people. The new series also heralded the arrival of new VTEC engine variations to provide an excellent mix of driving performance and high fuel efficiency. These included the 170-horsepower DOHC VTEC, the ultrahigh fuel efficiency VTEC-E and a high-balance VTEC. The new cars represented a major advancement in human and environmental friendliness, with enhanced safety features and a high proportion of recyclable components. The fifth-generation Civic received “Car of the Year Japan” awards in 1991 and 1992.