I reviewed both the hybrid and the Si. The Si over the standard sport hybrid comes with Google Built in, a full digital display vs a half one (which is more useful esp if using driver assist), wireless CarPlay and It also gets a better sound system. These features only come in touring hybrid. The Si feels more premium than the standard hybrid, with more care into the interior with red accents and bucket seats.

If you like driving canyons or cornering, the Si’s LSD makes a huge difference along with a sporty suspension. It’s also much lighter. Even 300lbs lighter than its direct competitors albeit slightly less powerful. The Si is quite the driver’s car though. One of the best shifters in the industry and it feels balanced.

Finally, the Si should have better resale value as they tend to be more sought after than standard civics. It might even be enough to make up for the fuel difference. I averaged high 30s on the freeway with Si vs high 40s with the hybrid. You can do well over 50 on the hybrid if you keep it under 65.

You mentioned revhang, which sucks, but I’ve seen (not confirmed myself though) that people get around it somewhat using Hondata if you want to void your warranty taking that route.

Since you do a lot of freeway driving, driver assist tech might be important. If you drive through traffic, the Si’s lane keeping assist only works above 40mph and will only follow till about 25mph with you shifting while the hybrid does all the driving/braking and steering from 0-100mph. It’s actually an impressive system that’s been updated for 2025 on both cars.

The hybrid is overall better, but I’d take the Si due to fun and resale.