What I liked about the Honda Civic:
- Lots of space for a family and their stuff
- Excellent fuel economy
- Nifty split-level dash
- Available hybrid and alternative fuel versions
What I didn't like:
- Electronic stability control isn't offered on mainstream models
- A bit dull to drive
Anyone looking for sensible, economical family transport
Who should not buy the Honda Civic:
Those who want the added security of electronic stability control
Details and Specs
- Body style: 2-door coupe, 4-door sedan
- Seating capacity: 5
- Trim levels: DX, LX, EX, EX-L, Si, MUGEN Si, Hybrid, GX
- Price range (including options): $15,445 - $30,135
- Test car model/price: Civic EX-L Automatic Sedan with Navigation, $23,095
- Base engine: 1.8 liter inline 4-cylinder, 140 hp @ 6300 RPM, 128 lb-ft @ 4300 RPM
- Optional engines: 2.0 liter inline 4-cylinder, 197 hp @ 7800 RPM, 139 lb-ft @ 6100 RPM (Civic Si); 1.4 liter inline 4-cylinder + electric motor, 110 hp @ 6000 RPM, 123 lb-ft @ 1000-2500 RPM (Civic Hybrid); 1.8 liter CNG-fueled 4-cylinder, 113 hp @ 6300 RPM, 109 lb-ft @ 4300 RPM(Civic GX)
- Premium fuel required? Si only
- Transmission: 5-speed manual, 5-speed automatic, 6-speed manual (Si only), continuously variable automatic (Hybrid only)
- Driveline: Front engine, front-wheel-drive
- EPA fuel economy estimates: 26 MPG city/34 MPG highway (1.8 manual), 25/36 (1.8 automatic), 21/29 (Si), 40/45 (Hybrid), 24/36 (GX)
- Where built: United States, Canada, Japan
- Standard safety equipment: Front airbags, front-seat-mounted side (torso) airbags, two-row side curtain airbags, antilock brakes, electronic stability control (Si only)
- Optional safety equipment: None
- Major standard features: Power windows, height-adjustable driver's seat
- Major options: Power locks, stereo, air conditioning, navigation system, leather interior
- Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles bumper-to-bumper, 5 years/60,000 miles powertrain, 5 years/unlimited mileage outer body rust-through
- Roadside assistance/free maintenance: None
