In Japan, the base version received a 1.3 L SOHC single carbureted engine with 82 PS (60 kW), thus equipped it was called either 23L or 23U.

In late 1989, a new trim package was added called the SiR which came equipped with a 1.6-litre DOHC VTEC 16-valve 4-cylinder B16A engine producing 160 PS (118 kW; 158 hp) at 7,600 rpm.

This first B series engine, marked the introduction of Honda's variable valve timing and electronic lift control technology (VTEC).

It's easily identifiable by the hood with a raised, rather than lowered center, and turn signals that wrap around the front bumper.

All fourth-generation Civics have true all independent suspension and power steering is standard on all LX sedans and 4WD wagons and included on some other models when equipped with an automatic transmission.

In 1990, the Civic received a minor refresh which included a redesigned front bumper, a revised shaped gauge cluster, updated tail lights and thinner side moldings.

The sedan and wagon featured powered automatic shoulder belts that retracted from the B-pillar to a position halfway down the A-pillar when the door was open, while the hatchback received a standard style shoulder and lap belt mechanism that was attached to the door and was intended to remain buckled at all times.

All DX Civics featured a 1.5-liter SOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder D15B2 engine producing 75–92 bhp (56–69 kW; 76–93 PS) and came standard with a 4-speed manual transmission.

The LX Civic was equipped with a 1.5 litre SOHC 16-valve D15B2 engine producing 75–92 bhp (56–69 kW; 76–93 PS) with a 5-speed manual transmission.

It includes all LX standard features as well as the more powerful 1.6-litre SOHC 16-valve D16A6 engine, making 108 bhp (81 kW; 109 PS) and 100 lb⋅ft (136 N⋅m) of torque.

[5] The Si model adds features such as a power sunroof/moonroof, tachometer, dual manual side mirrors, an upgraded interior, color-matched bumpers, dashboard clock, larger exhaust, front and rear anti-roll bars and 14-inch steel wheels with covers mounted with 185/60/R14 tires.

Additional dealer-installed options were air conditioning and fog lights as well as other Honda accessories such as wheels, nose masks, and audio components.

The FWD versions received a 1.5-liter SOHC 16-valve D15B2 engine producing 92 bhp (69 kW; 93 PS), paired with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.

[6] Next was a 1.4 L SOHC 4-cylinder dual-carbureted engine with 90 PS (66 kW; 89 bhp) which was available from 1988 until 1991, followed by the fuel injected 1.5i GL and GLX models.

Due to the difference in engine output and modification potential between the American and JDM models, the fourth-generation Civic Si[b] sparked a popular trend of engine swapping, where tuners would replace the Honda D-series power plant with a more powerful Honda DOHC B-series motor.