In 1987, the Honda Civic underwent a major redesign in preparation for model year 1988. This update brought a "double-wishbone suspension" to all four corners, a larger wheelbase of 98.4 inches (250 cm), and a more aerodynamic body with a lowered hood. This rear suspension is actually a multi-link trailing arm system, as only one upper control arm is present and there is toe control of the main trailing arm.
Japan
In Japan, the base version used a 1.3 L SOHC single carbureted engine, which was designated either 23L or 23U. Meanwhile, the 1.5 L SOHC powerplant was available in a variety of models, which were dual-point injection, single carbureted, and dual carbureted. These engines were featured in the 25X and 25XT Japanese-market Civics. And for those seeking even sportier performance, the Honda Civic Si had a ZC 1.6 L DOHC 16V VTEC engine, delivering 160 PS (118 kW; 158 hp) at 7,600 rpm. This engine utilized two different camshaft profiles to provide both fuel economy and performance, setting the standard for the VTEC range. Thanks to its party tricks, light weight, independent suspension, and powerful engine, the Honda Civic Si was highly praised, receiving a "Golden Steering Wheel Award" from the German newspaper Bild am Sonntag and coming top in France's l'Automobile magazine 1989 car quality and reliability survey. Meanwhile, the European models of the Honda Civic Si, which were identified as "1.6i-VT", used a slightly less powerful B16A1 engine that had a 8,200 rpm redline and produced 150 hp (112 kW). In Japan, the 1.6L engine was used for the automatic-equipped SiR Civics.
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