Honda Civic Review

The Civic is Honda's small family car and it's been on sale in various forms since 1972. The more recent models are known for their reliability and great VTEC engines. Reviewers have generally praised the latest Civic, which is new for the 2006 model year. It has picked up major automotive awards, including the North American Car of the Year award as well as the Motor Trend Car of the Year honor.

See also the main fact sheets for the Honda Civic.

High Points

 * Acceleration
 * Fuel economy
 * Roomy Interior
 * Digital speedometer

Low Points

 * Front and minor visibility
 * Speaker placement

Performance and Handling
Performance and handling are improved over the previous generation. The variable valve i-VTEC engine is now standard across the board with an increase to 140 horsepower. A 5-speed automatic transmission replaces the 4-speed.

Gas Mileage
As seen on Autos.com, in the compact car MPG rankings, the 2006 Honda Civic is in 4th place with 30/38 MPG, while the Civic Hybrid is in 3rd place with 49/51 MPG.

Safety
All Civic models come standard with the following features:
 * ABS 4-wheel anti-lock brakes
 * Daytime running lights
 * Front impact airbags for driver and passenger
 * Front side airbags
 * Side curtain airbags
 * Occupancy sensor
 * Side impact bars

Interior and Comforts
The Civic interior is stylish and functional. A two-tier instrument panel gives it a futuristic look. On EX and Hybrid Civic trims, a satellite-linked navigation system with voice recognition is available.

Exterior
The Honda Civic has a fresh, attractive exterior that moves away from its typically conservative styling of the recent past.

Styles and Options
The Honda Civic is available as a sedan or a two-door coupe. There are three main trim levels available: DX, LX and EX.

DX
The DX offers the following features:
 * Tilt steering wheel
 * Height-adjustable driver seat

LX
The LX comes with:
 * 16-inch wheels
 * CD player with MP3/WMA playback
 * Air-conditioning
 * Full power accessories
 * Keyless Entry
 * Cruise Control

EX
The EX adds the following to the LX:
 * Alloy wheels
 * Moonroof
 * 60/40-split rear seatback
 * 2 extra speakers
 * Steering Wheel-Mounted Audio Controls and a portable music player jack.

In addition, there are two specialty models: the Civic Hybrid sedan and the Civic Si coupe. Both are equipped to a level similar to the EX trim, though the Si also comes with a sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch wheels and special interior trim, while the Civic Hybrid has automatic climate control but no sunroof. For the EX, Hybrid and Si, satellite radio and a navigation system are optional.

Main Competitors

 * Mazda Mazda3: side-by-side comparison


 * Pontiac Vibe: side-by-side comparison


 * Ford Focus: side-by-side comparison


 * Toyota Corolla: side-by-side comparison