Civic Si Priced at $19,000

TORRANCE, Calif., March 15 -- The Honda Civic Si Hatchback, the car that launched the sport compact performance car craze, will carry a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $19,000 with a standard 5-speed manual transmission when it reaches dealer showrooms this week, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. announced today. Models equipped with side airbags cost $19,250.

Features for the 2003 Civic Si include: -- A new high-output, DOHC, 2.0-liter i-VTEC engine (160-horsepower, 132-lb-ft of torque) -- Close-ratio, 5-speed manual transmission -- Rally-style shifter mounted on center instrument panel -- Electrical Power Steering -- Variable assist steering -- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) -- Electronic Brake Distribution -- Large-diameter (195/60R 15) tires on alloy wheels -- Advanced, dual-stage front airbags -- European hatchback styling -- Rear roof spoiler -- Premium AM/FM stereo system with CD player and high performance speakers -- Power Moonroof -- Air-conditioning

Consumer information is available at www.honda.com .